Wednesday, September 23, 2009

October 4, 2009
Ladies and Gentlemen, Welcome to Autumn! I think you may have to take my word for it though, considering the winter wonderland we have outside. Only in Central Oregon can we see 6 inches of snow on October 4th. But my calander says it's Autumn and calenders don't lie so that's my story and I'm sticking to it.
~~I hope you all had a wonderful and safe summer. It certainly went by way too fast! We had a few camping trips, a great visit from my parents as well as the usual summer fun. Now that school's back in session for Devan, I feel like I should do some homework too, hence the newsletter.
~~I love sharing information with you and this newsletter is going to be full of good stuff. I recently attended another continuing education seminar through YonKa Paris on the aging process and age-intervention treatments, procedures and products. I'm really jazzed about this class and the new "Advanced Optimizer Programme". YonKa has reformulated the Optimizer products and enhanced the protocol for the Optimizer Facial and you will absolutely love the incredible results. Let me tell you all about it:
---> We all know that as we age, we lose elasticity, hydration, plumpness, and tone in our skin. The 'epidermis' is the protective, moisture-regulating outer tissue. The 'dermis' is the thick connective tissue underneath that nourishes, protects and promotes elasticity. It's the internal structure of skin and is made up of collagen, elastin, glycoprotiens and water. Don't worry - you won't be tested on this stuff; it's just basic information on how your skin works so that you can better understand how we accomplish age-intervention. Cellular renewal occurs anywhere between 28-60 days. We shed the dead skin cells so that healthy skin cells can rise to the surface. The process is affected by diet, environment, hydration, circulation as well as your skin care techniques and products. We have to boost the skin's natural reconstruction process, slow the destruction of the support tissue and repair and protect the epidermis. As your aesthetician, I can help you with skin care through facials and products as well as guidance for your home care. All of this is leading to the introduction of the "Advanced Optimizer Programme". The Optimizer Fluid is now a serum with the addition of flower and plant peptides (specifically hibiscus) that promote the firming & tightening effect by increasing collagen by 23%. The Optimizer Creme' now contains white lupine peptides and COQ10 that promote cellular turnover. The Serum & Cream are formulated to work together. The combination of these 2 products deeply firm and lift the epidermis while rebuilding and repairing the dermis with clinically proven results. The 'Advanced Optimizer Facial' is the first key step and prepares your skin by deep exfoliation and lifting techniques. It is about 75-90 minutes and is not a super relaxing facial because it's all about stimulation. The masque used in this facial tightens, redefines contours, smoothes wrinkles and lines and delivers the lifting effect with Marine collagen, Hyaluronic acid and Spirulin micro seaweed . It is the calming and relaxing step in this facial protocol. The Advanced Optimizer Facial followed by a 30 day intensive home treatment with the Serum/Creme' duo applied twice daily will produce the most incredible results your skin has ever seen or felt. There is a slight increase in the cost from the old "Optimizer Facial" ($115.00) to the "Advanced Optimizer Facial" ($120.00) due to the addition of the intense lifting masque. The cost of the Optimizer Serum/Creme duo is $140.00. To introduce you to the Advanced Optimizer Programme, I am offering an introductory special package until November 30, 2009:
The Optimizer Facial + Serum/Creme' for $230.00 (regularly $260.00) So schedule your appointment for visibly younger-looking, firmer and smoother skin!
~~Did you know that 98% of the population suffers from dehydration? I know I sound like a broken record when I keep talking about hydration. But if you're not well hydrated on the inside you're slowing that cellular renewal process. So if you're dehydrated, it's like applying duct tape over duct tape. So take a break right now and go grab a glass of water!
~~ATTENTION: LeBaum users. YonKa has decided to discontinue the LeBaum product line. LeBaum's formulation was based on many ingredients that were very hard to come by with quality control even harder to regulate. So if you're interested, I have 2 LeBaum Body Balms, 1 LeBaum Facial Baum and 2 LeBaum Lip Baums remaining on my shelves. After these are gone, there will be no more so please call me ASAP if you want what I have left in stock. They will not last.
~~My partner, Kathi Cullen and I are offering an incredible Facial/Massage package right now. How about a 1 hour European Facial + a 1 hour massage for $130.00. We ran this special in the 'Source' and the response was overwhelming. So if you didn't see our 'Source' ad, here's your chance to to book some wonderful pampering time for yourself or maybe your sweetheart or a parent or even someone who just needs an indulgent yet totally affordable time out! Call me to book the package!
~~Hyperpigmentation and St. John's Wort: Do you take St. John's Wort for depression? Then you may be interested to know that this herbal suppliment can make you susceptible to hyperpigmentation, a discoloration of the skin. Hyperpigmentation can be caused by sun damamge, aging, scarring from injuries or inflamation. If you find that this applies to you, check with your doctor or naturalpath and see if there may be an alternative to St. John's Wort. Hyperpigmentation can be treated a number of ways such as laser, glycolic treatments and bleaching.
~~October is "Breast Cancer Awareness Month". Please, ladies, make sure you've had your annual check-up and if you're over 45 schedule that mammogram. And gentlemen, remind her to do it if she hasn't. It will speak volumes to her in how much you care for her health and your future together.
~~"MANSCAPING" I just love that word.The definition: grooming, waxing, shaving and strategic dehairying of the male body. Who cares, you ask? Ladies who want their guy a little less furry, guys who just want smoother skin, athletes who want a edge with the sleekness of bare skin, etc. And you've all seen or at least heard of the chest waxing scene with Steve Carrell in the "40 Year Old Virgin". Well lots of guys do that and more on a very regular basis. Eyebrows, back, chest and leg waxing are extremely popular with the 'New Urban Guy' as well as waxing for the excess hair in the ears and nose. Guys even have Brazilian waxing. Since I've had a few inquiries about these services, I wanted to tell you that I do accept male waxing clients with the exception of the "Brazilian". If you have any questions, please feel free to call me. And speaking of Men's services, don't forget about the "Skin Fitness for Men" Facial and YonKa's incredible men's skin care line. Age-Intervention and good healthy skin is not only for the ladies.
~~New Product!: The newest addition to the YonKa Paris skin care line is a fabulous moisturizer named Bonne Mine which translates to "Good Glow". It can be used by all skin types. This moisturizer produces a progressive color radiance in a tinted cream. How about a little summer glow without the summer sun's harsh rays all year round? That's what this moisturizer delivers and without the icky self-tanning product smell.
~~Remember that Gift Certificates are always a fabulous gift idea. Everyone loves a facial, no matter your age, gender or even skin type. And the wonderfully therapeutic YonKa Skin Care products are used in every facial. If you'd like to purchase a gift certificate, please call me!
~~~~Bend Skin CO. 'Shout Outs"~~~~:
____Congratulations to Devan Simpkins on reaching Tenderfoot Rank in Boy Scouts.
____Welcome Coco Pixie Helen "The Baby" Lansing, Lucy's new kitten.
____Happy 3RD Birthday to Gus Tobias.
____Conrgtaulations to Karen Halstead on her recent engagement.
____Good Luck to Tracy Penwell, CEO/FIC 'Dressed Up Cat' in the "People's Design Awards. You can vote for "The Last Trophy Bag" at www.peoplesdesignaward.cooperhewitt.org I happen to be the proud owner of The Last Trophy Bag! Also, check out www.dressedupcat.com to see all of Tracy's designs!
~~~As always, thank you for chosing Bend Skin CO. I appreciate each and every one of you. If you have any questions or concerns about your skin care, please never hesitate to call me: 541-390-3338
Fondly,
Debra Simpkins
www.bendskinco.com




Sunday, April 19, 2009

MRSA bacteria, Clarisonic and more

Dear Clients,
Finally, pollen....uh.....I mean spring is in the air! Hopefully by the time I get all the winter clothes packed away, the cold weather and snow will also be gone for another year! If you have those wretched allergies like my poor friend Linda, my heart goes out to you. Remember to increase your water intake when using antihistamines and other allergy relief medications as these tend to have a diuretic effect. Also, it's important for allergy sufferers to boost your immune system. I came across a website that may be of interest: http://www.allergyescape.com/ that has some suggestions for alternative allergy relief methods.

The MRSA Bacteria:

There' s been an emergence of a bacterium called methicillin-resistant staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) that is spreading with alarming frequency, causing 94,000 life-threatening infections and nearly 19,000 deaths in 2005. While there are still antibiotics that treat MRSA, if it spreads to the blood, lungs or organs, they may not be enough. It used to be that MRSA was found mostly in hospitals and threatened mainly the weak and elderly, but as life forms do, it evolved into something more resistant to drugs. MRSA is primarily transmitted by skin-to-skin contact when an open sore is present. An infection may look like a pimple, boil, bump or bug bite. It's often red and swollen. If it looks infected it should be covered and seen by a doctor. MRSA often lives harmlessly on people's skin or in their noses and can be transmitted fairly readily to a nick or wound on the skin. CAREFUL HAND WASHING is one of the biggest ways to cut the risk of many kinds of infection. Skin care facilities, spas, health clubs and nail salons must be diligent in infection control. I want to reassure my clients that Bend Skin CO. complies with all OSHA specified infection control standards. These include using disposables whenever possible, the use of a registered U.S. EPA high-level disinfectant, washing all linens in 125 degree water with detergent and bleach and cleaning all surfaces after each client with an EPA recommended disinfectant. My 20+ years as a dental surgical assistant has ingrained in me the critical importance of infection control and I bring that to my skin care practice. If you have any questions about this please don't hesitate to call me.

The Clarisonic Pro Skin Care System and Spot Therapy Kits are in! The essential first step to any skin care ritual is a thorough yet gentle cleansing. The makers of the Sonicare toothbrush have produced the same efficacy in a skin care cleansing tool. The Clarisonic is a professional-caliber brush that uses a gentle sonic micro-massage action to deeply cleanse pores without harsh abrasion or chemicals. Clinical results include 6x more make-up removed than manual cleansing, reduced appearance of pores, fine lines and wrinkles and improved skin tone. Thoroughly cleansed skin allows for better absorption of serums and moisturizers. This little machine is truly incredible! I've been using it myself and see a huge difference in my skin tone. My 10 year old son now has the cleanest skin in all of the Bend-LaPine School District! And it's also gentle enough for the most sensitive skin types such as rosacea and acne. For chronic acne clients, the Clarisonic is one of the most effective tools you can use in deep pore cleansing. This system has 4 speeds; 3 gentle enough for cleansing the face and a fourth, higher speed plus Spot Therapy mode for the decollete', neck and arms. The Spot Therapy Brush Head also gently exfoliates elbows, knees and feet for smoother, firmer skin that allows your moisturizer optimal penetration. This particular system is only available through a Licensed Aesthetician. It is a higher grade machine than is sold through a very few retailers. It's completely waterproof and can be used in the shower. It also comes with a two year unconditional guarantee. Bend Skin CO. is an authorized distributor of the Clarisonic Pro which retails for $225.00. Please let me know if you'd like to come in for a 5 minutes demonstration. And just to give you an idea how effective the Clarisonic is......I started out with 15 units last Monday and now have only 6 left.


Mother's Day is just around the corner and you know your Mom or Grandmother has her fingers and toes crossed that you'll pamper her with a Spa Facial! Most women I know 'burn the candle at both ends' as they say, because we all try to be SuperMom. We work inside and outside the home, we carpool, do homework, take the dog to the Vet, get the kids activities accomplished with style and the list doesn't end! The gift of "me" time, relaxation and having someone pamper us is one op the most appreciated gifts you can give. I'll have gift bags made up with gift certificates and some extra goodies like product samples, herbal teas or chocolates for a lovely treat! Look at the service menu at http://www.bendskinco.com/ to see what's available. Call me if you're not sure what to buy. Also, for you Mom's and Grammy's........ you could just forward this newsletter to the kids or hubby as a hint! And if you purchase a Mother's Day gift certificate for Mom, I'll give you 10% off any one service on your next visit.

My new location at Touchmark, Mt. Bachelor Village, is incredible! I can't tell you how lovely the facility is and hope you'll make an appointment soon to come check out my new 'home away from home'! There are a few things I want to tell you about my new spot. When you come in for an appointment, there is a parking space reserved for Bend Skin CO. in front of the Cliff Lodge. Just be sure not to park in the spot reserved for Massage by Kathi, unless you have an appointment with both of us. (which, by the way, is a fabulous idea!) Secondly, I am still accepting Visa, MasterCard and Debit cards, however the charges have to be processed at the end of each business day. If you use your credit card and for some reason it's denied, I'll call you immediately to make alternate payment arrangements. Also, here's something for you to keep in mind when using your credit card. If you would like to express your appreciation for the value of my services with tips, may I encourage you to do so with cash or check? Tips are an incredibly generous gesture and let me know the value of my services to you while also allowing me to manage my treatment costs. I'd also like to take a moment to remind everyone that when you need to change an appointment, 24 hours notice is a true courtesy to me. I understand that there are times when this is not possible, but I appreciate as much notice as you can give me. And finally a word about samples. YonKa products are among the world's finest skin care lines. There is no more affordable, higher quality product available. However, it is a little known fact that YonKa charges it's partners (i.e. me) for samples that I provide to my clients; they believe this is acceptable, regardless of the perspective we generally have towards product samples in the U.S.A. I am happy to provide samples to my clients so that they may try YonKa and appreciate the many benefits to your skin. I ask only that my clients not take unfair advantage of the availability of samples. As always, thank you for being part of Bend Skin CO. My clients are the lifeblood of my business. It is my topmost objective to provide the best service and obtain the most desirable results for my clients of any skin care facility anywhere. I love what I do......................may you enjoy!

In the last newsletter I shared some of YonKa's prestigious product awards. YonKa is now promoting several of these products with special pricing. YonKa's "Prolongateur De Bronzage" received a "Best Beauty Award" by Image Magazine because of its hydration, anti-oxidant properties and its ability to illuminate the skin with an iridescent golden glow. Regularly $55.00 it's now on special for $46.00. The "Optimizer Fluid" is one of the film industry's favorites because of its 'lift effect' and ability to diminish fine lines. It is one of YonKa's most effective age-intervention moisturizers and can be used for both daytime and nighttime hydration. Normally $69.0o, it's now on special for $52.00. Finally, Masque N1, a time-release, intensive hydration treatment mask, normally priced at $58.00 is now $49.00. Please take advantage of these incredible specials while supplies last and don't forget to view http://www.yonka.com/ for more information on the entire product line.

This 'n That: *Welcome Gracie Schuler! Gracie is a 3 month old Labradoodle that is keeping her mom, Sheila, in lots of smiles these days! *Thanks to everyone who voted for Baker Simpkins in the Bend Bulletin Pet Pal contest. He made it to the final 12 but ultimately didn't place. He consoled himself by stealing cat food and some Cheetos. *Congratulations to Staci Sawyer and Jeremy Cox on their recent wedding! *Congratulations to Ben and Lehua Parker on the birth of their new baby boy, Tristan! *Congratulations to my sister, Amy Burke, on her promotion and relocation with Mars/Pedigree.

In closing.....The easiest and quickest happiness enhancer I know is to take a deep breath and think of three things you are grateful for, right in this moment. Try it and see is works for you! Remember to call me if you have any questions or concerns with your skincare and to schedule your next appointment. 541-390-3338

Fondly, Debra

Tuesday, March 10, 2009

Marching Into Spring

Greetings, Dear Clients,

It's so hard to believe that the first day of spring, March 20, is just around the corner. Especially with the nippy weather we've been having! I do believe the Leprechaun will be wearing long underwear this St. Patrick's Day! I hope you and your families are staying warm and healthy!

I have lots of things to share with you! The first and probably biggest news is that Bend Skin CO. will be relocating. The move was prompted by a few things, first and foremost is our current economic craziness. I want to do as much as possible to keep my treatment fees at or below other skin care facilities while still providing better quality and quantity of service. Moving to this new location will allow me to retain my current fees. The new location will also be a safer facility for myself as well as my clients, since I have evening and Saturday hours. Bend Skin CO. will now be located at Touchmark @Mt. Bachelor Village in the "Cliff Lodge". This is a really convenient location, adjacent to the Athletic Club of Bend. From Rt. 97, take the Reed Market exit and go west. At the forth traffic circle, go 3/4 around and head up the hill towards Mt. Bachelor Village. Make a left through the black iron gates, then an immediate left. The road will split and you'll go to the right and down a hill. The Cliff Lodge will be on the left and there will parking marked for Bend Skin CO. I will only be renting my space in Touchmark, not employed by Touchmark. Bend Skin CO. is and will remain open to the public. I will be sharing my 'suite' with a very dear and 'sweet' friend of mine, Kathi Cullen, one of the most incredible massage therapists in Central Oregon. You'll want to take advantage of the convenience this will offer you by booking both your skin care treatments and massage for the same day! I'll be reminding you of the new address when you make your next appointment. I know you'll find this facility as beautiful as I do!

Next on my aganda to share with you are some exciting awards that Yon-Ka Paris recently received. Anyone who has ever used the YonKa product line knows its tremendous results. The science in the ingredient formulation combined with the rich botanicals delivers pure skin wellness.
** "Best Toner": YonKa's Lotion PS.......IMAGE Beauty Awards 2008 and 2009
** "Best Mask": YonKa's Masque N*1....Marie Claire Magazine
** "Best Mask": YonKa's Masque N*1....Ireland's Tatler Magazine
** "Best Color for Fair Skin": YonKa's Prolongateur De Bronzage (gives skin aradiant glow & used as a sun tan prolonger).....Image Beauty Awards 2008 and Ireland's Tatler Magazine
** "Best Creamy Cleanser": YonKa's Lait Nettoyant...Cosmopolitan Magazine
** "Best Facial Serum": YonKa Serum.....Elle Beauty Awards 2008
YonKa's Alpha Contour Eye Gel was also touted by DAYSPA magazine because of it's hydrating effects and how it increases cellular activity.


YonKa's Facial Treatments have also been winning awards. All YonKa partners like myself, receive extensive training in the 'art' of facials. "Madame Figaro", a French Women's Magazine described a YonKa Facial as ......"The gestural elegance resembling ballerinas of the school of ballet of the Opera de Paris dancing with their hands". And "Men's Health", Germany, describes the Men's Fitness Facial Treatment as....."The best spa treatment to look like a sexy devil".
I am very proud to offer this product line and provide the Skin Care treatments in which YonKa Paris has received well deserved world-wide acclaim.


Now another award that is 'tres' exciting to share.....my beautiful, goofy Bernese Mountain dog, Baker, has made it into the "Top 12" in the Bend Bulletin's Pet Pals contest! Thanks to all of you who voted! Here's the next step: Baker will have a short video for this next round. On March 18, go to www.bendbulletin.com/petpals and vote for Baker! Those of you who have met Baker, know I need all the help I can get when it comes to food and we're hoping for that gift card to Pet Express!

The Eyelash Extensions treatment is a huge success! I know those of you who have gotten them are thrilled by how wonderful they make you look. The comment I hear over and over is that it's so great to wake up looking like you have mascara on.

This is a short newsletter for now. The move is keeping me quite busy! I will look forward to seeing you all in the new location.
FYI: Bend Skin CO. will be closed from March 20 through March 30 for spring break......................ALOHA!

Don't forget to view the website for a complete menu of services.
Happy Spring!
Fondly,
Debra
541-390-3338
www.bendskinco.com

Wednesday, January 07, 2009

Happy 2009!

Dear Client, Friend and Family,
HAPPY NEW YEAR! I wish you all great hope, good health and fabulous skin for 2009! I also want to thank you for making Bend Skin CO. your choice for skin care. In our less than perfect economic environment, I truly appreciate your continued loyality.

Paris Hilton and Lindsay Lohan have them. Nicole Kidman prefers the J-curl while Eva Longoria likes the C-Curl. J.Lo's are made of mink. Naomi Campbell says she can't live without them and Madonna's cost $10,000 and are studded with diamonds. Hollywood 'buzz' says they're the new "boob job" for image enhancement! So here's the BIG NEWS for Bend Skin CO. (drumroll, please...................) EYE LASH EXTENSIONS!      My training and certification are complete and I am now ready to do my part in world beautification one lash at a time! Eyelash extensions give you fuller and longer lashes with the appearance of wearing a really great mascara without the clumpy look. Traditional false eyelashes only last about a day, are applied in a strip and can sometimes make you look like one of the cast members of "La Cage Aux Follies". But this semi-permanent procedure adheres individual synthetic lashes to your own individual lashes and the end result is a totally gorgeous and natural look! You can enhance sparse lash lines and make them them look thicker, add length to short lashes, and have consistant color for blond lashes. You can look totally natural or go for a dramatic look. The Extensions come in 6 different lengths, 3 levels of thickness and 7 colors: black, brown, blue, purple, green, red and wine. After a great deal of research into the many different companies offering this product, I am using the "Shavasana Eyelash Extension" system, one of the very first companies to introduce eyelash extensions (www.Eyelash-Extensions.com). Shavasana uses the best and most carefully tested products and top medical grade adhesives. So here's how it works: The synthetic lashes are attached to your own lashes, not the eyelid itself. As you can imagine this process is a bit time-consuming and the initial visit for the full set can take 2-3 hours depending on the condition of your natural lashes. The maintenance for your new lashes is a return visit every 2-3 weeks for a 'fill' appointment since your natural lashes shed and need to be replaced. That appointment takes about 1 1/2-2 hours depending on how many lashes we have to add. The average life cycle of an eyelash is 60-90 days so there are varying stages of losing lashes just like the hair on your head. This procedure is painless! Your eyes are closed and you could even nod off while I'm hard at work making you look GLAM! You can shower, swim and even hot tub with the extensions, you just have to wait 24 hours after the initial appointment. The cost in Central Oregon ranges from $150.00 to $300.00. Currently I am offering an introductory special until April 1, 2009 of $150.00 for a full set with a complimentary fill visit after 7 days. The regular price for the initial application will be $160.00 and $10.00 for the first fill after 7 days. This offer will save you $20.00. Regular 2 week fills are $30.00 and 3week intervals are $45.00. Still have questions? CALL ME! 

No doubt that winter is here! Don't you just want to scream after about the 10 person asks, "Cold enough for ya?" You just want to say, "Do I look like a penguin to you?" But I digress..... So we can agree it's cold enough for some gentle reminders in skincare. Are you spending time outdoors skiing, snowboarding or competing in a snow-person building competition? Don't forget the sunscreen! YonKa's "Ultra Protection" will keep your skin moisturized and protected from the winter sun's intensity. And don't forget the lips. YonKa's "LeBaum" for Lips will help prevent dry, cracked lips and keep them kissable!

YonKa is currently offering a wonderful "Heal & Repair" promotion. When your skin is subjected to constant temperature changes from the outside cold to the inside forced heat, it is especially important to rehydrate and renourish it. This package includes 2 of the best products to help you. YonKa Serum--a healing and nourishing elixir made with essential oils and cereal oils--and a mini version of the Phyto 58--a deep therapuetic night-time balm that detoxifies the skin and corrects capillary fragility. The price for this combination is $52.00 (a $65.00 value).

**SILICA**
Trace minerals have an important role in healthy skin, specifically in the strengthening and repair of collagen which is the most abundant protein in your body and gives structure to the skin. Silica is a trace mineral responsible for strengthening bone, hair and muscle and is fundamental for healthy skin. A deficiancy in Silica may result in poor wound healing and reduced skin elasticity. And as we age our natural silica becomes depleted. This is why our skin begins to lack luster and exhibit premature aging in the form of increased wrinkling. Studies have shown that supplementing silica improves hair, nails and skin. One study reported a significant increase in the skin's thickness and appearance and a decrease in wrinkles with silica suppliments. The same study showed an improvement in minor skin problems like blackheads and whiteheads. Since silica is a water-soluable mineral, it doesn't accumulate in the body so there's no risk of building up too much in your system. The recommended dosage is 25-50 milligrams daily in capsule form. Another option is horsetail tea, 2 cups per day, using 2-4 teaspoons per cup of water. Foods known to be rich in silica are alfalfa sprouts, asparagus, beets, bell peppers, brocoli, brown rice, celery, kale, leafy green veggies, mango, rapini, root veggies, strawberries, swiss chard, dried beans and peas, and whole grain breads and cereals. Silica is usually found in the skin or outer layers of foods, so supplementation is recommended. If you want healthy skin, beautiful hair and strong nails, silica just may be the true Fountain of Youth!

I'm sure you've heard the expression "Imitation is the sincerest form of flattery." In my business, it's "Referral is the sincerest form of flattery." But unlike imitation, referrals get you 10% off your next visit! I feel as if I have the best clients in town and would be thrilled to have more clients just like you.

Our current economic climate is tough on everyone and small business are struggling everyday. To service-based businesses like Bend Skin CO. (or your dentist, hair stylist, attorney, etc.) our time is one of the most important parts of our 'product'. When an appointment time is reserved for you and you don't keep it, it has a tremendous financial impact. So that is why as of January 1, 2009, I am implimenting a 24-hour cancellation notice. If an appointment is missed without a 24 notice, you may be charged for that appointment. Believe me when I tell you I understand that sometimes changing an appoinment can't be avoided. Sickness, inclement weather are certainly understandable. I, myself, have had to reschedule appointments. But as a courtesy, a 24 hour notice helps to fill that time or condense my schedule. "No Show's" are the most difficult since there is no way to recover that time or the expense if I've arranged for child care for my son. I really appreciate your consideration in this.

Did you make any New Year's Resolutions? The top 2009 resolutions are: Lose weight, Become more organized, Get out of a bad relationship, Exercise, Quit drinking/smoking/biting nails/cursing, Save more & Spend less and Get a new job. I think resolutions are commendable as long as you're realistic in your approach. Like most people, I do better with guidance than left to my own devices. If that sounds like you too, here are some experts who could help you:

* JULIE MULLER and Peace of Mind. Julie and her staff will organize your home or your office and set systems in place to make your life easier. Julie is also a certified "Life Coach" and will help you with time management, goal setting etc. Check out the website: www.peaceofmindbend.com for a complete list of services or phone: 541-390-9873
* JESSIE MACPHERSON, Personal Trainer. Jessie is another friend and client who is an outstanding personal trainer. You can read more about Jessie in the Winter 2008-2009Cascade East Magazine! She works at the Athletic Club of Bend but call her at 541-771-4034 or email at macpherson.jess@gmail.com (and Jessie, I promise to make an appoinment!)
* NELLI MILLARD, Alterations. Nelli is the most amazing seamstress! She's located at 345 Greenwood Ave. and can be reached at 541-977-2031. You'll need Nelli's services after Jessie brings you down a size or two!
* CINDY ABERCROMBIE, Cleaning services. Cindy will make your home or business shine! Call her at 541-382-6907
* DRS. RICK & MARIE HEBERT, Deschutes Alternative Health Care. Marie and Rick are a husband and wife Chiropractic Team that sees the 'whole' picture. Marie has helped me with various issues and I find her professional and extremely talented. And even though she's a Steeler Turn Coat (born and raised in Pittsburgh, like myself, married a New England Patriots Fan, like myself, switched loyalties and is now a Patriot's Fan, UNLIKE myself) I still wholeheartedly recommend her. Call them at 514-382-9595.
***FYI: Steelers won their division, will play the Ravens this Sunday with a home field advantage and you can look for them February 1st in Tampa for
Super Bowl XLIII***
* Dave Smith, Bend Tech Support. Dave is THE computer guru! He really knows his stuff and is about the best service price in town! 541-388-2401
*Lastly, for all you dog lovers---check out this website: www.MaggiesDogMunchies.com. This is something really cool that you can do for your dog. This product is endorsed and recommended by Baker Simpkins, Bernese Mountain Dog Extrordinaire.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
I want to wish my dear friend, Vivian Nosler, a speedy recouperation from a very bad spiral fracture of her leg. Seems Vivian and John, her "spice", decided to enjoy lunch out on one of our most frosty and frigid days of the year a few weeks ago and Vivian took a very dangerous fall. Our thoughts are with her during her rehabilitation.

Congratulations to Nikki Walker and Ryan Hudman on their recent engagement! Ryan surprised Nikki with an incredibly gorgeous ring (that he designed) while out in the woods looking for a Christmas tree! Ah....romance...young love!

Congratulations to our nephew, Jason Simpkins, on his acceptance into the Corps of Cadets and the Program of Criminal Justice at Norwich University for the Fall 2009!

Congratulations to Marianne and Chris Cox on the birth of their baby boy, Colton Michael!

Congratulations to Julie and Dave Smith on the birth of their baby girl, Jamie Allison!

Congratulations to Ranger Bell for completing his 14 long weeks of Agility Class. And congratulations to Mom, Cyndie Bell, for her patience in this endeavor with Ranger. Seems Ranger almost pushed Cydie over the edge! Fortunately for Ranger, he's cute!

Congratulations to Staci and Adam Nofzinger on their new puppy! 'Abby Colleen' is a beautiful baby beagle puppy. Staci was sweet enough to bring her in so that I could make a fool of myself over her. She's absolutely adorable!


Believe it or not, Valentine's Day is just around the corner. Ladies, now's the time to start dropping hints for facials, eyelash extensions or just a gift certificate for a $$ amount to chose what you want. And remember that your guy wants to be pampered as well. There are 2 different Men's Facial Treatments and of course, the fabulous Men's products from YonKa. And guys, you know she'll love a gift certificate for pampering! Add a massage with Jennifer Bogle for a nice little Spa Package!

Don't forget to log on to the website: www.bendskinco.com for a complete menu of all that's offered at Bend Skin Co.

This past Saturday, I attended a wonderful celebration for my sweet friend, Elizabeth. She recently acheived a tremendous milestone and had many friends there to applaud her. I kept seeing these little slips of paper everwhere with phrases on them. One has stuck in my mind and I shall close the newsletter by sharing it with you. "Since we cannot change reality, let us change the eyes that see reality."

Happy 2009 to you and those you love!
Fondly,
Debra
541-390-3338