Is it Enough???

"I don't have to apply any extra sunscreen, because it's in my makeup."

"I use sunscreen every day because it's in my makeup."

"There is no need for additional sunscreen, because it's in my makeup."

I hear this said to me several times every single day in Spa 131. But, is the sunscreen in your makeup good enough for adequate protection?  I decided to do some research on my own and here's what I found . . . probably, absolutely, maybe . . . No.   Hahaha.   So you're clear on that?  

The short answer is that you should be applying an additional, broad-spectrum sunscreen underneath your makeup.  I'm providing info from Web MD . . . it's really good info.  Please do take a minute to read the entire article:

Many foundations and powders contain sunscreen, but is it enough for daily protection?

By Susan P. Clark

Reviewed by Emmy M. Graber, MD

WebMD Feature

WebMD Feature Archive

Sunscreen and Your Makeup Routine

You want to prevent wrinkles and skin cancer, so you are dedicated to wearing sunscreen. But coverage looks shiny or chalky, especially under makeup.

Many foundations and other makeup products offer a built-in sun protection factor (SPF). Is that your smartestbeauty solution? Dermatologist Leslie Baumann, MD, says giving in to that temptation would be a mistake.

"Makeup does not provide enough coverage," she says. "You need seven times the normal amount of foundation and 14 times the normal amount of powder to get the sun protection factor on the label. No one does this."

So can you marry makeup and sunscreen in your routine and still look good? Yes, if you follow these steps.

1. Select the proper sunscreen.

Before you step in front of the bathroom mirror, find a sunscreen that offers enough protection. The Skin Cancer Foundation advises people to use a moisturizer containing broad-spectrum sunscreen (which means it blocks both UVA and UVB rays) with an SPF rating of at least 15. Ingredients such as zinc oxide, avobenzone (Parsol 1789) or ecamsule (Mexoryl), combined with octocrylene and avobenzone work best with makeup and provide broad spectrum sun protection.

EXPERT TIPS

• Baumann says to layer a physical sunscreen, such as Aveeno Ultra-Calming Daily Moisturizer SPF 15, with a chemical sunscreen (either Topix Glycolix Elite Sunscreen SPF 30 or Blue Lizard Australian Sunscreen Sensitive Skin SPF 30), to block most of the sun’s rays.
• Tina Turnbow, makeup artist, advises using a natural moisturizer, such as Pur-lisse pur-protect SPF 30, which is light and smooth and good for dewy skin. She also says Arcona Reozone SPF 20 is a little richer but has more of a matte finish.
• Patti Bell, makeup artist, says DDF Matte Finish Photo-Age Protection SPF 30 is oil-free.
• Karen Houpt, dermatologist, says that If you’re concerned about an unflattering white pall, avoid products with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide.

2. Apply sunscreen liberally.

"Apply a thin, even coat, approximately one teaspoon for face, neck, and ears," Houpt says. ""Let the sunscreen soak into the skin and dab the excess with tissue. After you finish applying sunscreen, wash the residue off your hands before applying makeup.

3.

If necessary, use 

SPF eye cream.

If sunscreen irritates the delicate area around your eyes, the Skin Cancer Foundation suggests using an SPF 15 eye cream.

4. Apply a foundation or tinted moisturizer 

with 15 or more SPF.

If you use makeup foundation or tinted moisturizer -- a light foundation with sheer coverage -- remember that you cannot rely on these products alone; they must be used in conjunction with sunscreen. Although sunscreen is the most important element to shield skin from the sun, foundation or tinted moisturizer with SPF can help. Check labels, and purchase products with SPF 15 or higher.

EXPERT TIPS

• Turnbow recommends Prescriptives 1 Oil Free Matte Finish MakeUp SPF 15 for a foundation. She suggests Alison Raffaele Tinted Moisturizer SPF 15 because it provides sheer coverage, good moisture, and natural ingredients. When using a primer (a base for heavier makeup), she uses Smashbox Photo Finish Primer SPF 15 with Dermaxyl Complex.
• Bell likes Laura Mercier Oil-Free Tinted Moisturizer SPF 20.

5. Apply powder.

The Skin Cancer Foundation recommends applying compressed powder with a sponge because the powder's particles provide some sun protection, and powder will help keep sunscreen and moisturizer in place.

• Turnbow recommends Peter Thomas Roth Instant Mineral SPF 30 -- especially for keeping skin matte. It’s a talc-free, transparent matte SPF 30 mineral powder with a brush applicator.
• Bell likes Clinique Almost Powder Make-Up SPF 15 because it’s lightweight. YSL’s Matt Touch Compact Foundation SPF 20 is a new matte powder that hydrates, soothes pores, and absorbs oil.

6. Don’t forget the lips.

Protect your lips with an SPF 15 or higher lipstick or lip balm. Covergirl Triple Lipstick, SPF 15 offers broad-spectrum UVA/UVB sun protection for lips, as does Mary Kay Sun Essentials Lip Protector Sunscreen SPF 15. If you wear lipstick for sun protection, use an opaque shade rather than a high-gloss lipstick with little pigmentation.

7. Reapply

Bauman recommends reapplying sunscreen once during the day regardless of indoor or outdoor activity. "UVA goes through glass," she says.

If you're spending ample time outdoors, the Skin Cancer Foundation recommends reapplying sunscreen on the face and lips every two hours.

How can you manage that with your makeup routine? Turnbow suggests dusting on an SPF translucent powder after you reapply sunscreen to keep shine down. If you're spending time outdoors and want a less complicated routine, keep it simple with lip color, mascara, and maybe a long-lasting eyeliner. She says cheek stains are also good for light, natural-looking color.

There are a lot of name-brands in the above and I am, in no way, advocating for them.  Just find what you like and USE it.  Here's a great myth-buster . . . Don't think that combining products gives you greater protection . Example:  Using a SPF of 15 in your makeup and a SPF of 20 in your daily moisturizer doesn't add up to equal 35.  You still only have the protection of the highest number . . . in this case a 20 SPF.  

Also bear in mind that 2 hour window of protection.   ARE you going to reapply every two hours . . . That is an absolute NO WAY.   No one is going to re-do their makeup application in order to get better sun protection.No one is that dedicated. The powder sunscreen is your BFF for this!   Just dust and go.

Don't forget your neck, chest, decollete, and backs of hands.   These places are definite agers.  Liberally applying sunscreen to these often-neglected spots in the morning and dusting a powder sunscreen when you go out to lunch, on the way home (remember your hands on the steering wheel), sitting out at the ballfield and where ever you spend your time, goes a long way to taking care of yourself and aging well.  No one wants to be speckled,now  do they?

This week, Spa 131 does have opening for Spray Tanning.  It is the ONLY way to safely get just-off-the-beach color.  it is $30 for a single session or $100 for 4, weekly, sessions. Book your appointment by visiting http://www.spa131.com.

Also, we do have a $69 Swedish Massage Special going on throughout May. Plus you may add a Spray after for only $25.

I hope you did take the time to read and learned a little something .  Now book a spa appointment and let me see your beautiful face!

Marci Delaney
Spa 131
131 State Street
West Columbia, SC  29169
803-251-9400
www.spa131.com

February for (Spa 131 ) Lovers . . .

It's February!   February isn't just for lovers at Spa 131, although we sure are experts in couples treats.   We have Champagne & Roses Massage for Two, Chocolate Massage for Two, and simple Massage Renewal for Two and these services stay on our menu all year long - not just a once-per-year offering. Right now, we have only SIX spots left, so if you want to reserve your spot for Valentin's Day, you'll need to call right away.  We started with 20 reserved spots between February 12 and February 20 and that's all that's remaining . . . 6 spots.

So what's new at Spa 131?  A few exciting things that's for sure.  I'll begin with my personal favorite and something that I have been budgeting for for quite a while.  Introducing CELLUMA.    What is Celluma?

 Based on scientific research pioneered by NASA, the Celluma, triggers a cascade of metabolic processes which restores compromised cellular function, creating a path to revitalized health.  Celluma is an FDA approved, light-weight, pulsed LED panel, designed to easily contour to the face and body, a unique feature which facilitates absorption and dramatically increases performance.   What does it do? Celluma Blue LED calms Inflammatory Acne Vulgaris and keeps lesions from spreading. Each 30 minute BLUE session decreases acne lesions and helps to heals them quickly. Celluma Red LED calms the effects of Rosacea and it’s accompanying redness, pimples and lesions. Calms the appearance of broken blood vessels. Celluma RED fades brown spots and softens the appearance of fine lines & wrinkles. Each 30 minute RED session increases collagen production by 200%. I am beyond THRILLED to finally be able to offer this service to you.   During the month of February EVERY MD Facial will receive a complimentary Celluma LED treatment at the conclusion of your service.  

How to best benefit from Celluma LED treatments?   6, twice weekly treatments are recommended to see the full benefit.  LED treatments are cumulative.  After your 6 treatments you'll see younger looking, glowey, refreshed skin WITHOUT needles!

Did I mention the FAR INFRARED benefits?  No matter the age we all strive to be healthy, pain free and to look and feel our very best. The Celluma from BioPhotas, Inc. is a specialized light emitting diode (LED) device designed to treat arthritis, muscle spasm, muscle and joint pain, muscle tissue tension, joint and muscle stiffness, diminished local circulation and inflammation. Over time, we all experience an inevitable loss of cellular health through illness, trauma, aging, or poor lifestyle choices. Celluma's innovative design and technology helps to restore your body's natural cell function and brings new meaning to "illuminating vitality." 

Our Celluma Package is 6, twice weekly sessions for $450 - that's only $75 per session.  Far cheaper than a face-lift, right?  Try just one and you'll see the difference!

February also provides a delicious Cherry Cordial Facial - btw, we hear that this is Cupid's absolute favorite. Cherry Enzyme for exfoliation and brightening, paired with Dark Chocolate Mint Mask.  Can't you already just taste this?    You would love this February Facial all by it's self, but up until February 20 we are also giving a complimentary Celluma LED treatment, too!   

Another skincare treat for February is our Champagne and Cocoa Facial - not to drink, Darling, but to allow your skin to drink up pure oxygen and hydration.   This is like nothing you've ever had before.  Your skin is treated to a bubbling sensation, leaving your complexion dewy, glowing and rejuvenated - good for everyone, but especially beneficial to troubled and rosacea skin types.

Let me remind you about our special VIP days - Thursday and Friday evenings we are staying open late to accommodate our busy working professionals.   From 6 till 9 are VIP hours available for any 60 to 90 minute services only.

Spa 131 has just celebrated our THIRD BIRTHDAY!

 Woo Hoo!  We hate if you missed our birthday party.  Our special guest was Marley D'Lynn Stokes, Miss South Carolina Teen.   She was a jewel to pose with our guests for pics, chatted with us "regular folks" and even enjoyed her own massage treatment with Derek.  We love any opportunity to celebrate and THIS FRIDAY EVENING, February 5, will be open and participating with the First State Street Friday Art Crawl from 6-8.   Stop in the spa and take a look at our original art work on our walls and enjoy a glass of wine with us.  We have gorgeous paintings by Columbia's Artist, Lisa Puryear-Gibson, as well as our owners colorful paintings.  We will also be offering FREE 10 minute chair massages.

So here's a recap of February's Spa Specials:

Cellulma LED trx are complimentary with all MD Facials and free the following  through February 20 -

Cherry Cordial Facial - $79 (reg. $89)

Champagne & Cocoa Facial - $99 (reg. $110)

Couples Massage Treat Packages - including Chocolates & Roses, Champagne & Roses OR Renewal for Two includes Massage & Facial.  You'll need to call for prices and to schedule. Only 6 already reserved spots left for Valentine's Day booking.

Garden Mint Wrapassage - is a full body wrap for detox and hydration, combined with a 60 minute relaxing Swedish Style Massage - $99

That's all for this month.  We hope Cupid's arrow finds it's target for you and that you have love and joy all month long.

See you soon?

Cheers from all of us at Spa 131

Amy, Derek, Kandace, Kayla & Marci

Spa 131

131 State Street, West Columbia, SC  29169

803-251-9400

www.spa131.com

Resolution Solutions 2016

The Holidays are over and, if you're anything like me, you are pooped.   Typically, after an overindulgent holiday season, we make New Year's Resolutions to get healthier, lose weight, get back in shape and start treating our bodies better.  With the stress of the season, excess eating and drinking, lack of sleeping (who has time to sleep?) and holiday travel, our bodies and our skin (remember that it's the largest organ of our body) definitely need some renewal.

The negative effects of winter (we know it's coming), less than stellar diet and some end-of-year chaos takes it's toll and shows all over our face.  There is a solution to lackluster complexion, dehydrated, tired, droopy skin and baggy, tired eyes. Our Oxygen Illuminating Facial is just what you need.  January Skincare Special provides The Oxygen Illuminating Facial every two weeks in January and February for only $350.   This is on our menu for $110 EACH.

For the entire body's restoration, we are giving you The Garden Mint Algae Body Masque and Massage.  We will begin with a full bod, dry brush, then brush on a highly potent herbal masque filled with rich emollients, minerals, and vitamins to restore moisture and add a glow. Ivy, pellitory, cucumber, elder, and arnica extracts are combined with garden mint essential oil and are infused into a glycerin, kelp, and marine algae. The algae body masques are formulated to stimulate circulation and cell regeneration. You will be wrapped in this aromamatic, warm blend, masque removed with warm towels, and then receive an amazing relaxing swedish massage.  This service will only be available while supply lasts.  Complete and thorough restoration for only $99.

New Year Resolution for nail care is in the bag with this package of 3 luxury mani/pedi services for only $60 each. NO Acrylic.  NO Get.  Just honest, clean and healthy treatment with the BEST Products available.   They say it takes 3 times to make something a habit.  Healthy, beautiful nails begin with the habit of taking care of your feet, hands and nails.  We have heard people say that Spa 131 is habit forming!

2016 brings a few other awesome things.  We are opening up the Spa for late hours in Thursday and Friday evenings for our VIP Working Professionals.

 We will be offering 90 minute services at 6pm and 7:30.  Now there is no excuse for you anymore.  You've asked and we are delivering.

We have also had requests for Student Packages.  Several students have visited us during exam times.  As stressful as that is for them, they said visits to us for massages makes a ton of difference.  I even had a mom call and ask if she could purchase a package. I was sorry to tell her that we didn't have that on our menu . . .So . . . introducing our Student Massage Package - good for a semester of relaxation.  Please call if you have a student here at USC or at one of Columbia's other fine schools.  Our regular massage packages are still available to you, as well.  Regular Monthly Massage really can make a difference to you and to your students. 

Did you know that a whopping 45% of us actually make New Year's Resolutions?  Do you? Interestingly, I just read a Forbes article that said only 24% keep them.  Here's a link to that article that will provide your 6 Ways to Keep Your 2016 Resolutions. http://www.forbes.com/sites/nancyanderson/2015/12/26/six-ways-to-make-your-new-years-resolutions-stick-in-2016/  I hope you'll read it and let me know how it goes for you in the coming months.   Don't be a RESOLUTION DUMPER.

I want to share with you interesting news about Tumeric - the herb I'm absolutely crazy about. Forgive me for "linking" you up in this newsletter/blog, but this is just too good not to share.

When you have a little extra time, come back to this and click here and read this awesome article.  You can find tons of information on this great little herb, but this is a really good read:  http://www.stopagingnow.com/cmax766/utm_source=google&utm_medium=ppc&utm_term=generic_tc&utm_content=curcumin2k&utm_campaign=article&gclid=CNHH84ix-skCFYIaHwodU7UCnA

That's all we have for this issue.  I just want to say that I hope 2016 is the absolute best and most amazing year for you, for your family, for your prosperity, health and happiness.  I am claiming that for me and mine.  This past year has been a challenge for me personally and professionally, but we got through it fairly unscaithed and all in one piece.  When you come to visit us this month, share your 2016 goals with me.  You need an accountability partner anyway, right?  I will encourage you, along with your great spa treat and provide encouragement,  a smile and hug which is all absolutely 100%  FREE.

Cheers!

Marci Delaney and the entire Spa 131 Team:  

              Amy, Derek, Kandace, Kayla and Jenny

Book your appointment NOW:  www.spa131.com

131 State Street

West Columbia,  SC  29169

803-251-9400

It's always merry and bright inside Spa 131 and this year, every one is on Santa's good list. Be on the look out for your Christmas postcard from us in the next few days.  It holds a total of $50 toward services -- $25 for December and then another $25 for your January spa treat.  If you don't get yours, just give us a call and we'll hold one for you.  We would hate for anyone to miss out on our Christmas gift to our friends and family.

We always have our coveted gift certificates available, but now through

December 10th, purchase a gift certificate for $150 - good for any Spa 131

service of an hour or longer - and receive a bonus $50 gift certificate to use for

yourself OR give as another christmas present. Now that's a good deal, my friends.  Remind people why you are everyone's favorite!

Exciting new inside Spa 131 - What's the latest gadget we've brought onboard? If you have spots on your face, you're gonna want to listen up.  We now have CryoClear.  

REPAIR. RENEW. REJOICE.

CryoClear is a cutting edge way to treat age spots, sun spots and skin tags.

You'll be amazed at the reduction in treatment time and drastically improved results.  CryoClear® freezes at – 79° C to a depth that does not penetrate the epidermal layer, delivering a very safe and clinically effective treatment. CryoClear’s high efficacy – over 95% – combined with less destruction of healthy tissue makes it perfect for treating age spots, sun spots and skin tags.

Whether used as a stand-alone treatment, or in addition to a chemical peel or microdermabrasion treatment to treat stubborn dark spots on the hands, face and neck, CryoClear offers a better, faster cryotherapy solution with significant benefits.  

On Friday, December 11, Spa 131 is bringing our first FREEZE IT FRIDAY.  Here are the dets:   From 10-1, the Rep for CyroClear, Liz Munn, will be with us offering a super duper Spa 131 ONLY special.   Regular price for a CryoClear session is $75 for the first treated spot, then $50 for every other spot.  On FREEZE IT FRIDAY, Liz is paying the first $5 for every spot she treats.  Even MORE exciting is that the first 3 participants will get their first spot treated for FREE.  You'll need to call to get on the list - remember that the first 3 responders get their first spot treated with no charge.  

Christmas Season brings with it so many opportunities to party and celebrate. This is surely not the time we want to have to deal with under eye circles and faulty, cakey makeup.  Let Miss Kandace get you ready for your close up with your makeup.   I truly believe that she is one the the best makeup artists in Columbia.  I came across this Huffington Post article on the subject and hope you'll enjoy it.  Click on this link and read when you have a minute or two:

 http://www.huffingtonpost.com/entry/the-truth-about-dark-circles_564cc92ae4b031745cef3f7c   In the mean time, save your used tea bags.  The old tried and true remedy of used cold tea bags is good for a quick refresher.  Keep them in a closed tight ziplock in your freezer.  Pop two out, plop on your tired peepers and just lie down and take 10.  You'll feel much better and your baby blues will thank you.

That's all for this edition.  Each of us here want to wish each of YOU a very blessed and joyous Holiday Season.  

On behalf of the Spa 131 team - Amy Belle Isle, Derek Brasington, Kandace Wilson, Kayla Harris and Yolanda Carson - this is Marci Delaney saying, "Merry Christmas"

We hope to see you soon!

Spa 131

131 State Street, West Columbia,  SC  29169

803-251-9400

www.spa131.com

Season of Thanks

Happy November, my friends.  The Season of Thanksgiving is upon us and I am indeed thankful for so much.  Here's just a partial list:  My family.  I love them so very much and am blessed beyond measure because of them.  And here's news  - - - I'm going to get that Grandbaby I've wanted . . . and here's the BEST part . . . It's a GIRL!   For those of you that know my family, know that I'm the only girl from WAAAY back.  I have brothers and we all have only had boys.  Now those boys are having babies and they are all boys, so you can see how thrilled and thankful this girlie-girl is and can't hardly wait to meet the new Delaney Princess.

I'm so very thankful to have a business that I love, with clients that I love and with a team of talented professionals that I love.  Wow . . the work trifecta.

I am thankful for chosen family - my dear, dear friends.  I am thankful for business associates that I have a blessed relationship with.  I have food to eat, clothes to wear, and a comfortable, warm bed to sleep in.   Everything else is such a bonus,

We at Spa 131 every day feel blessed and honored to have you as a part of our lives and pledge to continue to give you 100% every time.  There are changes afoot in the Spa - some exciting and good, some disappointing and sad.

1st - We are thrilled to offer Massage Cupping Bodywork Therapy by Licensed Massage Therapist, Yolanda Carson.  Cupping achieves powerful results in:  *  Cellulite Reduction  *  Pain Reduction * Joint Mobilization  *  Lymph Drainage  *  Scar Reduction  *  Skin Toning and Firming  *  Detoxication  *  Releasing Tight, Contracted Muscle Tissue,  *  Assisting with Weight Loss Programs  *  Pre and Post Operative Therapy to shorten Recovery Time *  Athletic Performance Enhancement.  If you have "Issues in your Tissues"  You REALLY should give this Massage Cupping Bodywork Therapy a try.

In addition to Yolanda, Derek, and Amy, we are looking to add to our team of SC Licensed Massage Therapists.  If you know an excellent therapist that would make a good full-time addition to our team, please send them our way.  I would really be thankful for that.

Exciting November Specials are something to make you feel thankful.  Let's start with some awesome facials.

Choose from:

  Apple Pie Facial  

  Blueberry Enzyme Facial   

Pumpkin Exfoliating Facial

All of these Fall Delights are designed to get your skin glowing, and in November you can take advantage of a very special $69 price for one of these fall-themed facial treats.

Our Massage Therapist are offering you a little something awesome this month.  Lookie!  Buy any hour massage or longer and get your December massage at 1/2 price.

Our sad news is that our nail provider, Amy, is no longer a part of our team, however, that is good news for you.  Ms. Kandace is stepping up to the plate and will be providing nail services for you.   While Kandace is dually licensed with both Cosmetology and Esthetics, her focus has been on skin care so she has been out of practice with nail services. That means ALL nail services will be 1/2 off all November so that she can sharpen her skills- - - now that's great news for our guests.  Please take advantage of this offer.  It would be of benefit for you AND benefit for us.

By Rachel Pomerance Berl for U.S. News

It's T minus just days, where T equals the most anticipated home-cooked meal in the country's collective consciousness. But that doesn't mean you have that long to morph into Martha Stewart and host a holiday party that would put a pilgrim to shame. Do everyone a favor and dial down the pressure on the whole shebang.

You've heard the expression, "If Mama ain't happy, ain't nobody happy." Well, the same might be said of a hostess and her party. If you're feeling stressed and flustered, that's the vibe you give your gathering. And let's face it, there's enough drama around the holidays without party performance anxiety. With that in mind, here are five tips to keep you and your guests feeling -- what's that? -- thankful for this occasion.

1. Prepare as much as you can ahead of time.

"Thanksgiving dinner is a meal that is very well suited to making ahead," says Faith Durand, executive editor of the home cooking website The Kitchn, which published aseries of guides for Thanksgiving. The roasted and baked foods at the heart of the meal often taste better when they're heated up a day after cooking them, she says. "I talk about aggressively minimizing your work on Thanksgiving day because you want to enjoy people," she says. "You don't want to be sweating and running around stressed."

Durand makes as much as possible ahead of time, even the gravy, which she fixes the night before with stock from roasted turkey wings she'll cook for dinner. Cranberry sauce, for example, can be made ahead and stay fresh for a long time in the fridge, Durand says. She also suggests warming up your mashed potatoes in a slow cooker for four to five hours. "You won't suffer any loss in quality."

In addition to making sure you have all the ingredients for your menu, remember to also consider the dishes and equipment you'll need such as a roasting pan or a masher.

2. Know your limits -- and don't be afraid to ask for help.
"Don't take on too much on your own unless you really feel like you can prepare things in advance," says Lizzie Post, co-author of the 18th edition of "Emily Post's Etiquette" and great-great-granddaugher of the guru of graciousness. At her mother's Thanksgiving dinner, every member of the family is charged with bringing a dish and handling a chore, leaving her mother in charge of the turkey and two stuffings. "We do it as a way of thanking my mother and helping her and making it easier on her," she says.

Along the same line, Post says Thanksgiving dinner is not the time for hosts to try out new dishes or equipment. "At some point, everyone has their first turkey, and everyone has to try it, but have a Chinese take-out menu on backup," she says.

3. Set the tone to suit your style.
Durand loves to assemble a beautiful table. To make it feel welcoming, she drapes the table in a bright runner instead of a white tablecloth; the former is cheaper and easier to launder, and the latter can make guests tense up over anticipated spills.

To keep a festive mood flowing, she suggests serving a dry cider, a "very classic American drink" that's usually low in alcohol and less expensive than wine. After dinner, you can offer a hot after-dinner drink, which "feels very swanky and very kind of high entertaining," but is actually fairly easy, Durand says Consider a simple mulled cider or wine, a spiced chai or spiked cranberry punch, and leave your concoction on the stove throughout the meal. "Warm it up and then serve it in little cups," she says, "and then everyone has a reason to linger around the table with you."

Post advises that you can always close the bar if someone has had too much to drink, and make sure your guests don't drink and drive. You can also opt to collect car keys from your guests upon arrival and avoid a potentially awkward -- or tragic -- situation later.

4. Honor your guests.
The dinner itself is a gift to your guests, but you can make them feel welcome and treated through a variety of thoughtful touches. Take, for example, seating arrangements, which can be a useful tool for separating those who don't mix well and connecting those who do.

You know those guests who always end up in a heated political debate? Don't seat them together, Post says, noting the age-old etiquette standard to steer clear of subjects such as sex, money, politics and religion. These topics can make people uncomfortable. Also, separate couples, she says, to encourage and diversify conversation among all your guests. And nix the kids' tables. Integrate children with the adults, but just be sure they are near an adult they feel comfortable with in case they need help.

Also, while it's great to engage your guests in a group tradition like going around the table and saying what you're thankful for, don't force anyone into making a public statement, Post says, adding that the shy guest will be hoping for an invitation to someone else's Thanksgiving dinner next year.

5. Remember, it's a learning opportunity.
"Step away from it, and stop thinking of it as Thanksgiving with a capital T," says Durand, who considers the meal "a homey weeknight dinner, just amped up." You could also think of it as a crash course in learning how to cook by planning and preparing meals. As she says, "You're kind of like running a marathon, and it trains you to run every day as a cook."

That's all for this month.  I want to leave you with a November challenge that I think will provide peace, happiness and begin an attitude of gratitude in your life.  It's so simple.  Every single night before your go to sleep, think back over your day and find JUST ONE THING to be grateful for - One Thing!  No matter who you are and no matter what you are going through, you can always find at least one thing.  Every morning, before your feet hit the floor, say a prayer of thanks.  Thanks for rest.  Thanks for the opportunity of a brand new day and opportunities ahead.  I know it sounds simplistic and it is . . . but it is life changing.  I would love to hear from you if you do accept my challenge - - - I really would love to.

Blessings to you all, my friends, our friends from Spa 131.  On behalf of our team, we want to wish you a very blessed Thanksgiving Season.

Marci Delaney

Amy Belle Isle

Derek Brasington

Kandace Wilson

Yolanda Carson

131 State Street

West Columbia,  SC  29169

803-251-9400

www.spa131.com