Archive of Previous Dear Donna Questions
If you have questions, and don't see anything similar here, please feel free to use our Ask Donna form to send me your question and I'll respond personally. I can also keep your question confidential if you'd prefer.
Dear Donna,
I’ve been looking into mineral cosmetics and have come across some that I like; however are you aware of any that are in liquid form? I like the feel of the liquid and old habits are hard to change. Thanks.
--- Sandra S.
Hi Sandra,
There are a lot of good cosmetic lines out there and more and more are coming into the main stream as minerals are becoming more popular and the benefits are amazing. I like a few different companies as I like to use different products vs. one line, especially because of what I do. One that I use is a liquid by Jane Iredale (www.janeiredale.com) which you can purchase online if you can't find it at your local stores, although most Ulta locations do carry it. I’ve been purchasing mine through Changes Spa in Norfolk.
Their Liquid Minerals product has beads (spheres) in a gel of aloe vera, lavender flower water and vegetable glycerin and is in an airless pump. The minerals within the product include mica, titanium dioxide, boron nitride and iron oxides as well as other ingredients and are encapsulated by seaweed lipids. There is quite a bit more information on their site about this product and I’ve been using it for over a year and am happy with it. All of the cosmetic products I currently use are mineral-based and I’ve been pleased with the results as well as the quality of new products that continue to hit the market. One word of advice is to be sure that the mineral products you use are used correctly, especially the liquid, so you’ll notice the best results.
Enjoy!
Dear Donna,
I would like to plan a spa vacation for myself and my partner. I want it to be a surprise so I need help in picking the ideal location. I want to have her pampered and still have time to spend alone with her relaxing and enjoying her company. I want to re-create the distraction-free intimacy we had when we first were together.
James L.
Dear James,
Great question! I’m including two ideas for you, one towards the west, in Tucson and the other that has just recently opened in Eastern Pennsylvania. I’m sure your partner will be pleased with either one of these options.
First, Miraval – Life in Balance, is located in Tucson, AZ. Their philosophy is focused on mindfulness – living in the moment. Miraval is also about choice and basically doing what you need and want to do. They offer a plethora of fitness classes and activities, the cuisine is healthy and delicious and the spa offers many different services that are sure to please both of you. You may also want to consider a couple’s massage to add to your special time away. Spending time at Miraval is a moving experience and I think you would find it relaxing, energizing and intimate.
The other location is called The Lodge at Woodloch and it is in the lake region of Pennsylvania in Hawley. It just opened in late June and is a destination spa offering an array of fitness classes, pampering spa services, golf and tennis, creativity classes and healthy cuisine. If you’re looking for an east coast destination, this is one to consider. More information can be found on their site: www.thelodgeatwoodloch.com
I hope that wherever you go, you’ll have a great time together.
Dear Donna,
With fall arriving I’m interested in a northeastern location to enjoy the changing of the leaves. I live in Norfolk, however I’ll be in the New York and Connecticut area in October. Do you have any specific ideas?
Carlie M.
Hi Carlie,
I love autumn with the beauty of the changing leaves, crisp mornings and warmer afternoons.
Although one of our smaller states Connecticut has a lot to offer year round from colonial villages, to forests to cityscapes. And in the fall consider one of their Fall Foliage Driving Loops. One of my favorite drives is the Traditional New England Loop as it offers a natural setting for hiking, walking, rolling green hills and deep forests as well as offering unbelievable photography opportunities. On any one of the drives offered you may want to stop at a roadside farm stand, cider mills, antique shops and more. The Scenic Fairfield driving loop is another good option if you’d like to stay closer to New York. For more information, visit: www.tourism.state.ct.us/driving_loops
If you’re looking for a rejuvenating weekend getaway, a stay at the Mayflower Inn & Spa may be one to consider.
Wherever you may travel to this fall, enjoy the ride!
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