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.

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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