Boston, You're My Home.

 

I moved to this city over six years ago on a whim. And in those six years I've grown to feel an immense sense of pride for Boston. That pride is stronger than ever today. While my faith in humanity has wavered a bit, I do believe that there is far more good than evil out there -- and that good will prevail. 

A strange twist of fate kept me in the office yesterday and away from the finish line so I thankfully didn't witness yesterday's tragic and senseless events firsthand. But the horrific images are seared into my brain forever. Luckily, so are the images and stories of the heroes who ran toward the carnage instead of away. Like this man, who had experienced enough sadness for three lifetimes prior to yesterday, but ran to the aid of one of the seriously injured. And these people, who selflessly offered up their homes to displaced runners. It's hard to process exactly what went on yesterday and why. And how something like this could hit so close to my home away from home. But it's messages like these, that remind us that we are all Americans, united against darkness.

For those looking to help in any way they can, friends of mine have set up a donation fund for the victims. May we pray for those affected and hug our family and friends a little tighter today.

City Living: MiniLuxe Wellesley

MiniLuxe Wellesley is located at 96 Central Street

I have a confession to make. Up until recently, my skincare routine involved removing my makeup before bed and (occasionally...okay maybe more like once in a blue moon) slathering on some nighttime cream. I've been lucky that I've never had any real problems with acne and for being a late 20-something female who was a lifeguard for many years, I tend to get that I look young for my age. Next confession: before this past Saturday, I was a facial virgin. I never realized what I was missing and how beneficial they are.

The lovely folks at MiniLuxe invited me into their Wellesley location to experience their Flash Trio mini facial. Not only was it relaxing and rejuvenating, but I left with a glowing face that was dewy and softer than I'd ever felt it before. Just what the doctor ordered to cure my pasty winter skin. Donna, my esthetician, was friendly and knowledgeable. She explained every step in detail and even recommended some great skincare products for me to take home.

You can also read about my Warm Oil Mani/Pedi at the Newbury Street location here. 

What's your skincare routine? Do you swear by facials?

xoxo,
L

**I received complimentary services for this post. All opinions are 100% my own.**

City Living: MiniLuxe Newbury Street

MiniLuxe Boston -- located at 296 Newbury Street, Boston, MA 02115 (call for an appt 857-362-7444)

I love being pampered just as much as the next girl. Especially this time of year when the weather is miserable and my skin is super dry. So when MiniLuxe invited me into their Newbury Street location for a warm oil mani and pedi, I nearly screamed with happiness. 

As soon as I walked in I was warmly greeted by the receptionist. The ultra clean and trendy salon was bustling with Saturday afternoon activity but I was promptly approached by the sweetest technician I've ever encountered. The warm oil mani and pedi are like your typical manicure and pedicure but instead of getting a quick slap of lotion massaged into your skin, you are treated to an extended massage with warm, soothing oil that leaves your skin feeling soft and luxurious. I could have easily fallen asleep I was so relaxed -- especially during the pedicure. And for someone who is as tightly wound as I am, that's saying a lot.

MiniLuxe also offers facials (at the Wellesley location only) and waxing, as well as an entire wall full of their wonderful products and the cutest gifts. I am kicking myself for not picking up some of the Creme Brulee lip scrub -- it's heavenly and does wonders for cracked winter lips.

I loved their huge selection of my favorites -- OPI, Essie, & Zoya to name a few.

I ended up with Essie "Bobbing for Baubles" on my fingers and "Over the Top" on my tootsies

 If you're in need of a mid-winter treat, definitely head to MiniLuxe. A quick mani/pedi or facial is just what the doctor ordered to fight cold weather depression. You won't be disappointed!

xoxo,

L

**I received services for this post -- all opinions are 100% my own**