Hydrafacial at NOVA Plastic Surgery

Remember that time I made 1/2 of you angry because I said I don't like cats?

When I dropped my kids off with a friend so I could go get a Hydrafacial at NOVA Plastic Surgery, her cat decided to rub against me and I broke out in full-on hives.  Yay eczema.

You can't get a Hydrafacial when you have eczema.

Sigh.

Luckily, despite my stance on cats, I do have a few friends kicking around, and my friend Stacey was more than happy to go and check out the Hydrafacial situation for me! For Stacey, like for most of us moms, she doesn't really need full-on plastic surgery (like a face lift) and she wants to keep it that way for as long as possible.  NOVA Plastic Surgery actually offers several fantastic services to help keep your skin and face in great shape so that you can look and feel your best without surgery.  I tried their BBL machine two years ago (great for sun damage!), and I know their offices are almost like going to the spa, so I was more than comfortable sending a good friend.  I didn't really know what to tell her to expect, but I knew it would be great.

So Stacey drove up (it's in Ashburn, so it took me about 40 minutes from Manassas and her a similar time from Bristow) and texted me when she got there that she'd let me know how it went.  About 30 minutes later (the procedure only takes about 20 minutes) I got this text:

There you have it.  The Hydrafacial is amazing, simple, easy, quick, and feels good.  Easy peasy lemon squeezy.

Later, Stacey and I chatted and she explained a little more.  They use a special machine (pictured above) to apply a special serum "with a spongey thing" and then the same machine applies gentle suction to exfoliate and remove dead skin cells and impurities.  She walked out feeling like her skin was tighter (in that young way- not uncomfortable) and better moisturized, and there was no need to wait to go out- although Stacey doesn't like pictures without her makeup on (silly because she's gorgeous!) she did send me this "right after" pic, which I will temper with one of her all dolled up because I want to stay friends :)

If you're feeling like you could use a little pick me up, definitely consider checking out NOVA Plastic Surgery's Hydrafacial treatment! It's painless, quick, and easy (and they're giving one away on their website right now- you should definitely enter to win!) Stacey's only complaint was that it didn't last longer- she enjoyed it and wished the pampering could have gone on! Stacey also said I should make sure to mention that her PA, Michele, was awesome.
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Disclosure: NOVA Plastic Surgery was kind enough to provide a Hydrafacial free of charge to my reviewer.  All opinions are our own, and believe me, we'd tell you.  We keep it real like that.

Congrats to Rebecca and GMS Gymnastics!

We have been loving gymnastics this year.  Savannah started at GMS before they started advertising with PwcMoms (which is my favorite way for this to work- then I already know I love the business before I start telling you guys about them!) and it's been great for her coordination and flexibility.  I don't expect we'll have anything like this happen, but it's such an incredible story that I have to share!

Congratulations to GMS and to Level 10 Gymnast Rebecca Chong, who trains there, on Rebecca signing with Yale!

What?

Her parents have GOT to be freaking out.  I know I would be! Way to go Rebecca!

Try Hockey Free 2016

Try Hockey For Free Day!

On Saturday, February 20th, USA Hockey and 300 local associations across the country will host Try Hockey For Free Day, presented by Kraft Heinz! Participating locations encourage kids, ages 4 to 9, to come try youth hockey as part of Hockey Weekend Across America. All locations will have limited equipment available for use.

To find the nearest participating rink, click here.

If you're a PwcMom, I recommend Prince William Ice Arena or Haymarket Iceplex, depending on your side of the county.

Our family has really loved ice hockey.  It's early, and it's not cheap, but the coaches are (generally) amazing and the kids have a ton of fun.  I can't speak for the Haymarket programs, but PW Ice offers Learn to Play Hockey classes, as well as homeschool hockey, if you're not quite ready to take the plunge for house.  Also, it's good to note that spring season of hockey is much, much shorter so it's a good season to start on.  :) Not sponsored, just a note because we really do love hockey! 

Fun in the Snow

Helloooooo readers who clicked over here from Good Morning Washington! My name is Kristina, and if you look back at my previous appearances, you can play the "how many times does Kristina say "absolutely"" game.  It's a good time.

I made a really big effort not to do that this time.

Anyhow, we want to have fun in the snow with our kids.  Right?

Wrong.  We want to sit inside and drink Riesling and be left alone.  #TheStruggle

But we're good mommas, so we can do this!

Here's a rundown of my tips and tricks from News Channel 8!

1. Dress for Success

The worst part is getting your kids DRESSED! By the time you wrangle everyone and get them dressed, you're already exhausted.  Save yourself by making it easy-

1- Keep a basket of stuff for each child so that it's already sorted.

2- POTTY BREAK FIRST! There is nothing worse than thinking you're done and hearing "I have to go potty"

3- Layer- you definitely want a base layer, and if you have something wicking like smart wool or under armor, that's a great idea. Next go for your insulating layers, like sweaters or wool, and finally your outwear, which is ideal if it's water resistant and...

4- Tuck your edges! Anything you can tuck in (snowpants to boots, mittens to coat sleeves) is going to help prevent snow from getting into your child's fingers and toes, which are super vulnerable to cold.

2. Have Fun Outside!

When you go outside, you have lots of options. Of course you can sled or build a snowman, but you can also spray snow with water bottles of food color and water for a fun effect.  If it's under 32 degrees, bubbles will freeze once they're blown (just do it quickly!), and making your favorite sidewalk game (think hopscotch) into a snow game makes it extra challenging.  You can even freeze colored water into molds and hide it in deep snow for a fun "egg hunt" kind of game. 

3. Know When to Say When

Small children have a hard time knowing when they're too cold, and big children are stubborn as heck once they're having a good time.  Watch for red cheecks that look like they've been smacked or chattering teeth- they're a good indicator that your child needs some cocoa.  Also, if you're not using waterproof gloves, once they're wet, they're done. When you get inside, don't forget to hydrate- the cold can make people forget they're thirsty. Finally, know what the wind chill index is-20 to 0 degrees, not that I think most NOVA residents can handle it, is a significant frostbite risk.

Washington Auto Show

Last week I was able to go and check out the Washington Auto Show which is at the Washington Convention Center (opening Tuesday 1/26 due to snow through 1/31).  I was able to sit in on lots of talks about new technology that will offer greener options and cooler features, but what I really want to feature for you guys is what your kids might like at the Auto Show, because, well, that's what you come here for, isn't it?

Tickets start at $12 for adults and $5 for children (VIP options are also available) and you can (and in my opinion should) take the yellow line metro to the convention center- you walk right out of the metro station into the convention center.  There is parking, as well, but metro was easy and for one person was cheaper than parking.  Your call :)

There are a number of special guest appearances including Kirk Cousins of the Washington Redskins, the Redskins Cheerleaders, WWE superstar Roman Reigns, Gaby Espino (telenovela star), Military Tribute Day guest Alek Skarlatos, musical guests Darcy Dawn and the US Army Downrange Band, Lego Shaggy and Scooby Doo, and PBS Characters including Daniel Tiger, Super Why, and more.

On display are lots of luxury cars, concept cars, and historic vehicles that I think kids would really enjoy.  On the bottom floor, there's an electric "Hello Kitty" car, as well as Camp Jeep, which you can ride in if you're 44 inches or taller.  I was able to snag some video of that, which you can re-watch on periscope here:
https://katch.me/PwcMoms/v/c756b942-5e56-3fbf-8b9e-1808c0eb0c55

There's also a kids area downstairs.  It wasn't ready to go when I was there, but it looks like they'll definitely have some space for them to sit and chill, it's near Kia and the bathrooms, so well played there :) I heard rumors of a moon bounce, but I can neither confirm nor deny that. There is a classic cars section downstairs, too, which my kids really like looking at.

Actual Model T they used to recreate Henry Ford's Trek from Detroit to California (upper level)

Upstairs there were some neat concept cars and some "cool" cars that I think kids would really like.  "Race cars" like Alfa Romeo, Corvettes, and more, as well as a Hydrogen concept Delorean from Back to the Future, and a Toyota simulator where you get to wear goggles and be driven around by a test dummy.

At the end of the day, if you have a car enthusiast, there's a lot for them to look at.  If the adults in your family want to go, you can definitely bring the kids along and keep them busy.  If you're going specifically for the kids, I would say 5+ because there is a TON of walking, and I would imagine on a Saturday or Sunday when most of you would go that there would be some waiting in line involved.  If you're bringing younger kids, I would definitely bring the stroller or backpack so that they can take a break if they need to.  If you're off during the snow and looking for something to do, you might be able to hit the show without a crowd and just enjoy your favorite cars!

Of course there's also a lot for grown ups to check out, too, and if you're in the market for a new car or you're interested in the advances in technology, especially where fuel alternatives are concerned, you'll enjoy the show.

Check out my walk around on Periscope looking for kid-friendly finds for more of an idea what the Auto Show is like! ktch.tv/6kKZ 
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Disclosure: SheBuysCars.com was gracious enough to invite me as part of their blogger group to visit the Washington Auto Show.  I was compensated for my time, but all opinions are my own.

Introducing 100 WWC Gainesville Area Chapter

100 Women Who Care is trying to open a Gainesville Area Chapter.  Read more about this organization and learn how you can get involved below. 
 

It’s a very simple concept: We gather 100 women who care to make a $100 donation during a 1 hour meeting.  

The impact: $10,000 to a local charity, four times a year!  

Formation of a Gainesville chapter of 100 WWC is in the works. Please join us for our first meeting, held in partnership with the NOVA chapter of 100 WWC, on February 4th, 2016 at 7:30 p.m. at the Centreville Regional Library, located at 14200 St. Germain Dr., Centreville, 20121). A good turnout from our area means all future meetings will be held in Gainesville! For more information, check out our Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/groups/1013008238756383/, or contact Julie Beal at julesnd02@yahoo.com or Hasna Ridwan at hasridwan@yahoo.com.

"Let's Try Politics"

Now before y'all go getting riled up, I am not trying to get up in here and tell you who to vote for.  I mean, if you want me to, you can email me and I will happily tell you how to copy my ballot, but I'm not going to issue PwcMoms endorsements.  So, read on without worrying that you'll have to read my feelings on Donald or Hillary, because you won't have to do that here.  I'm sharing this now because with the presidential campaigns heating up, it's a good time to get involved, and because the candidate I'm talking about is not currently in an election cycle, so it's not me pushing a candidate on you guys!
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In Richmond- Riley is holding a picture of himself and Delegate Anderson from their first election. 

Once upon a time, I had a 5 year old, a 2.5 year old, and a 6 month old.

Those were good times.

And the soon-to-be Kindergartner came up to me one day and said "Momma, I want to do politics."

And, because I am probably certifiably insane, I said "Alright, let's do that."

So, we called our local political branch office (you can figure out which one if you want to by googling in a second, or remain blissfully ignorant and don't, I'm not here to judge), and they informed us that they had a brand new candidate for delegate, and he didn't have any volunteers yet since he'd just opened his campaign, and so he'd take what he could get, including a five year old.

So, at the appointed time on the appointed day, we showed up at said party's office.  The 5 year old lead the way in his JC Penney suit from Easter.

Because you know, he likes to have a good time, but he wants to be taken seriously, too.

And the 2 year old asleep in the stroller.

Because it was nap time, y'all.

And the 6 month old tied securely to me in my blue Moby wrap, because with three kids, you need your hands free, CAN I GET A WITNESS?

So, this motley crew marched into the office and a very friendly Rich Anderson looked up at us and smiled before asking "Can I help you?" even though I'm sure he wanted to ask "Lady, are you lost?"

Riley (captain kindergarten) informed him that we were his volunteers and we were there to help.  Rather than laugh us out of the office, Rich put us to work knocking on doors and folding brochures.

Savannah, Delegate Anderson, Mike May, and his son at the Occoquan Halloween Parade

Now, I tell you this story because I think that working on a political campaign is REALLY good for kids! I thought Riley would get sick of it, but he didn't, and 4 elections later, he's still an Anderson volunteer.  Even when I was in treatment,  Riley went out and knocked doors anyway!

So, why should you let your child volunteer for a political campaign?

Riley and Delegate Anderson- Riley was in 3rd Grade so this would be his 2nd term

1- It's Good To Know Where You Stand.  Do they have an issue they're particularly passionate about? What better way to work towards a solution than to promote a candidate that likes green cars or higher teacher salaries or homeschooling or veterans issues!

2- It's Good to Be Friendly.  Now, we all know stranger danger, but within the confines of having a safe adult with you, you learn a lot from knocking on doors! Riley has learned to shake hands, look people in the eye, and have a conversation with people a lot older than him who he wants to take him seriously.

3. It's Good to Get Told No.  Frequently.  Riley has also learned to have the door slammed in his face.  Now, most people are really good in our county- he's never been cussed at or anything like that, because people have always been on their best behavior when a kid comes with a candidate to the door, but he has definitely been told "go away" or listened to people share their concerns or grievances, and that's a really important thing to be able to do with grace.

4. It's Good to Know How to Treat People You Disagree With. Facebook teaches us dangerous lessons about how we can yell at people who disagree with our opinions behind the safety of a screen.  Learning to listen to someone dissent from your opinion, treat them with respect anyway, and not just scream and flood them with emojiis will serve him SO well in the future when he is in the workplace.

5. It's Good to Win.  There is nothing quite like working hard with someone from start to finish and feeling like a part of something.  It's even better when that something that started out as a dream comes to fruition.

6.  It's Also Good to Lose. And as Riley has learned he likes political work, we've been on the losing side of some campaigns, too. Sometimes, you have to brush yourself off and move on, even when you really believed in what you were doing and who you were working for.

7.  It's Good to Make Connections. While we've branched into some national-level campaign work, there is nothing like working with a local candidate and developing relationships in our community.  When your child works hard and later needs a recommendation or an evaluation or help with a merit badge or Gold Award or whatever thing it is, those relationships are great things to have.

Not all politicians are bad guys. Logan gives Delegate Anderson hugs, and not everybody gets one from him! 

Delegate Anderson, I should mention, is running unopposed this election cycle and didn't ask me to write this, or need me to, for that matter :)

If you'd like to get your child working, you can contact:
PW Democratic Committee
Prince William County Republican Party
PW Libertarians are running one candidate this cycle

School board members technically run unaffiliated.....although you don't have to look very hard to find out which party they're a member of, if that's important to you.

You can always contact individual candidates (just google them!) and tell them you'd like to be put to work.  Even if you don't particularly care for politics, the experience that you gain working a campaign can be great for you, and your kid!