This year, more than 10 wineries and wine shops will be pouring at Wine Knot 2013. Wine partners include:

• The Other Guys
• Pear Valley
• Thompkin Cellars
• Gamble Family Vineyards
• Huneeus Vintners
• Ste. Michelle Estate Wines
• Treasury Wine Estates
• Constellation Brands
• San Antonio Winery
• Trinitas Cellars

So, I have gone back to getting prodded for a purpose. And, I have to admit that I really enjoy my visits to my acupuncture specialist. In just a short time, I have noticed both physical and emotional changes that I can only attribute to acupuncture.
* My skin is so clear (huge plus!)
* I am definitely less stressed (huge plus for all those around me!)
* My circulation is much better (no more cold feet!)
* And I am very hopeful that pregnancy is right around the corner!!!

I have known many people who have turned to acupuncture to cure different ailments including infertility, carpal tunnel, migraines, back and joint pain, heart disease and more. Everyone who I have talked to who has done acupuncture before is a firm believer in its healing powers and I guess I am now one of these believers.

What is Acupuncture?
At the core of this ancient form of medicine is the philosophy that Qi (pronounced chee) — or vital energy — flows throughout the body. A person’s overall well being and health is influenced by the quality, quantity and balance of Qi. Qi flows through pathways in our bodies called meridians. Blockage of the flow of Qi can cause imbalance leading to many different health problems. Once imbalances are detected, an acupuncture doctor can place fine needles at specific points along meridian lines to unblock obstruction and return the body to a balanced state.

Now, I know that acupuncture is not for everyone, but, if you have battled with weight issues, pain from an injury, infertility, stress, anxiety, heart problems or skin problems and feel like you have tried everything — maybe it’s time to give acupuncture a try.

I personally recommend my acupuncture specialist Hannah Jeon who specializes in infertility, weight loss and anti-aging facial rejuvenation acupuncture treatments. Her office is located near Hoag Hospital in Newport Beach and she does accept some insurance plans. Her info is below. PLUS, if you schedule an appointment with her and mention SAVVY MOM, you get your first appointment and consultation free — a $150 value.
Email: omusa153@gmail.com
Phone: (949) 616-2339

This year’s fair theme is “Home Sweet Home” and the fair opens on July 13th and runs through August 12th (open Wednesday-Sunday). In addition to the great food, animals, agriculture, rides, exhibits and contests, there is also an amazing line-up of concerts at the Pacific Amphitheatre during Fair. My family has been to plenty of shows at the fairgrounds and what a venue – right under the stars after a great day at the fair! See the complete lineup of 2012 summer shows.

GIVEAWAY: Comment on this post about what you love most about the OC Fair and win a four pack of tickets to the fair including admission to the Hot Chelle Rae/All Star Weekend concert at the Pacific Amphitheatre on Thursday, July 26th. The concert begins at 7:45 p.m. and the fair is open from noon – midnight on Thursdays. Winner will be selected at random and will be contacted via email by June 19th to have tickets mailed to them. Good Luck!!

Hot Chelle Rae is a pop rock band from Nashville, TN that gained widespread recognition for their 2011 double platinum single, Tonight Tonight. Allstar Weekend is another pop band from Poway, California that gained popularity from the Disney Channel. If you have not heard of these bands, just ask your teenage daughter, niece or neighbor.

The new, chic salon in Huntington Beach has pulled out all the stops to make your “me time” absolutely perfect. Porcelain offers numerous services and an on-site boutique so while you are getting your hair styled you can pick up a little sassy number, get your makeup and nails done, a wax treatment and even a spray tan. Yeap, Porcelain offers it all in one place, at one time.

The Ladies of Porcelain

Porcelain offers any and all hair services – you name it, the stylists at Porcelain do it. From cuts to color, extensions and smoothing treatments…check out the complete menu of hair services. Additional services include nail services (including gels), makeup, waxing and spray tanning.

Traci and the team at Porcelain love parties, so get the ladies together for a perfect Girls Night Out! And, if you are looking for a salon to host a special event or maybe a fundraiser, give Traci a shout.

Porcelain Specials
- Happy Hour Blowout Monday – Friday 3 to 6 p.m. Enjoy a little cocktail while you get a luxurious blowout for only $28!
- Get $5 off a brow-shaping service with Tracy Biddle.*
- Purchase a pedicure with Carmen and get a manicure FREE.*
- $35 off any hair service at Porcelain Hair Salon.**
- Spray tanning services at Porcelain – buy a package of 4 for only $35 per spray tan session.
*(first-time clients only)
** (first-time clients only with certificate below – can be printed out or show image capture on smartphone)

Don’t forget to LIKE Porcelain Hair Salon on Facebook for special deals, details on special events, new product and boutique announcements and more.

M.O.M SERIES GIVEAWAY: Comment on this post by sharing which celebrity hair style you wish you could rock. One lucky winner will be selected at random to receive a mini weave and cut (value $135). Comment by May 29th. Winner will be contacted via email. Good luck.

Porcelain Hair Studio
611 6th Street in downtown Huntington Beach, CA 92648
714-969-8722

Okay, we all know I have a problem when it comes to wine. I can’t get enough of it. Growing up near the vineyards of Sonoma County, I think that my body needs wine – it’s in my blood. I plan many of my days around wine and many of my vacations around where I can find and experience new varietals, new blends. Wine has become something of a hobby (some may call it an obsession) for my husband and I. We are passionate about learning when it comes to all things wine. Truly understanding the process, the time and the art that goes into wine making makes you appreciate wines that much more. And while our collection of wine is a little absurd, we enjoy sharing our finds with friends, because good friends+good wine=good times. Enter SeaLegs Wine Bar.

When I found out about a new wine bar opening only miles from my house I was more than giddy…I was down-right anxious. I would stop by almost weekly, put my face up to the glass doors and pound with my fists while repeating, “open, open, open.” Well, after passing inspections and putting on all the final touches, SeaLegs Wine Bar is set to open on May 21st and you can bet that I’ll be there, glass in hand. I have had the unique opportunity of touring the venue in its early construction or ‘dream phase’ and now to see the dream come to fruition is amazing. The place is beyond beautiful and while elegant, sleek and trendy, it still somehow elicits that relaxed HB vibe that us Surf City locals treasure.

The beachside wine bar (located at 21022 Beach Blvd.) will house a robust wine cellar featuring an international selection of boutique wine and champagnes, as well as craft beers on draft with plenty more to choose from by the bottle. SeaLegs will also feature a menu of California-style tapas, seasonal fresh rotating dinner specials, and decadent deserts to finish off the night. At SeaLegs, owners Alicia Whitney, Jennifer Dubourdieu and Lisa Nonemaker plan on transporting guests to a time when the conversation and laughter would flow as liberally as the wine, bringing people together for unforgettable memories and good times by the beach.

Visit SeaLeg’s website and make sure to like SeaLegs on Facebook for all the latest announcements, info on special events, live entertainment and more.

M.O.M SERIES GIVEAWAY: Comment on this post by sharing your favorite wine or a favorite wine quote. One lucky winner will be selected at random to receive a $50 gift certificate to SeaLegs Wine Bar. Comment by May 22nd. Winner will be contacted via email. Good luck.

I very rarely take time to really do my hair. I have pretty thick hair and it just seems to take forever to go through the entire process to make my mane look presentable. When it comes to my preferred hair style, it really comes down to what takes less time to do. Most days I wash, dry the front a bit and throw my hair back in a messy bun (I may add a cute clip if I have a meeting or special event). It just always seems like I am pressed for time to get out the door to work. When I don’t have work or an event to attend, I usually skip blowdrying all together and go al natural.

Blowdrying, straightening or adding a little curl is more of a luxury. When I have the house to myself or Savannah takes a long nap, I will sometimes put in the extra effort and it can often be a zen-like experience…maybe it has to do with the fact that I am not rushed and actually have a little me time. But still, if I could create one Jetson-like technology in my house, it would be a walk-through capsule that automatically turns blah into ta-da when it comes to my hair. Enter SAS.

A few weeks ago I went to check out this new shampoo and style bar located on the posh 17th strip in Costa Mesa. There is nothing not to like about SAS. Here are the things that stood out to me:

* Amazing decor – I could Pin everything from the lighting to tile colors
* Super friendly and talented staff
* Great products – try the DeepQuench moisture mask from ColorProof!
* Handsome bar help (okay so he may be the founder, but Mike Ruggieri can also make up a mean cocktail)
* Scalp massage – only complaint here is that I think I may have fallen asleep and drooled a little bit which is so not a good look
* Knowledgeable and tapped-in owner – Monica Ruggieri knows what us ladies want and she will make sure we get exactly that

SAS is the perfect place to hit up if you have a special occasion and want a unique style. Or maybe you just want to take a break from the norm and have someone else tame your locks. What about a girls night out? Get the ladies together and head over to SAS for some pampering and libations. Have a little lady who’s into her American Girl doll? SAS does American Girl parties. Have your corporate or family photos coming up? Get SASed first. SAS can work with you to make any special event a reality, just give them a shout at 949.646.6345.

Special offer for OC Family fans, visit SAS and mention OCFAMILY12 and get $5 off any service on top of any other promotions running.

M.O.M SERIES GIVEAWAY: Comment on this post as to why you deserve to be SASed and you could win an Above & Beyond pampering treatment from SAS (a $45 value). Comment by May 14th. Winner will be selected by random and contacted via email. Good luck.

View video of my SASification:

SAS is located at 270 E. 17th Street in Costa Mesa, CA 92627
Visit www.sasmeup.com for their complete menu of services.
Like SAS on Facebook at facebook.com/SASmeup
Phone: 949.646.6345

I don’t normally go to see a dermatologist, but when I run I sometimes get this rash on my leg, so I thought I would make an appointment to see if she could prescribe me some type of ointment or cleansing cream. While I was there, the doctor asked me when I had my last full-body skin check. Since I don’t see a regular dermatologist, I could not ever recall having one. This is when she discovered a small mole on my lower calf that she did not like. I wasn’t a big fan of the mole either, but that was more for cosmetic reasons. She did a biopsy on the spot and told me she would call with the results. I really thought nothing more of it. Then, I got the call. It was melanoma. “Mela-what?” I asked. I mean I knew what it was, but I was shocked. That little-bity freckle-like mole could be cancerous? My mom had to have a chunk cut out of her arm a while back due to melanoma. My older brother too had melanoma on his leg. They are both doing fine and caught the melanoma early.

I have scheduled the next dreaded appointment to get a chunk cut out of my lower leg. I really like my legs the way they are and could do without a chuck missing, I mean why couldn’t this have been found on my love-handle region?? But according to the doctor I was referred to, I have no reason to worry (easier said than done in this case) and will only need the one small incision around the original mole.

I write this cause if I had not gone in for the little rash, I would have never probably gone in and the melanoma would have been at a worse stage. I am very hopeful everything will be okay. I have to be. I am so grateful that I caught it before it went deeper. So please, if you do not get regular skin checks, please schedule one. It is better to be proactive in this situation. Oh, and with summer coming, overdose on the sunscreen!

Common Female Rebuttals And What They Mean

• Fine: This is what we women say to end an argument. This proves we are right and we just really want you to be quiet.
• Five minutes: If I am still getting dressed or doing my hair/makeup, this means about a 1/2 hour. Five minutes is only five minutes if you have just been given five minutes to watch the game before taking out the trash or doing other chores around the house.
• Nothing: This is the calm before the storm. “Nothing” definitely means “something” so be on your toes. Arguments that start with “nothing” usually end in “fine.”
• Go ahead: This is more of a dare, not really permission. There are consequences.
• Loud sigh: While not actually a word, this non-verbal expression is all too often misunderstood. A sigh means I am frustrated at why we are arguing over “nothing.”
• That’s okay: This is about the most dangerous of statements a woman can make to a man. “That’s okay” means that I want you to think long and hard before deciding how and when you will pay for your mistake.
• I don’t care: Similar to the above, if you think “I don’t care” really means “I don’t care” you have a lot of hard learning ahead. “I don’t care” means if you don’t choose what I want we are both going to be miserable.
• It only cost like $20: Give or take $100. “Like” replaces “not-even-close”, but still, don’t question my financial decisions.
• Thanks: Don’t read into it. Just accept it and say you’re welcome.

I know there are plenty more, but hopefully these will help out some of the men out there. I apologize ahead of time and will just say this…”in time, you will get it and be better for it. Good luck my friends.”

Tim and I got engaged in Nashville and on our first night in town we were looking for a great place to hear some live music. We started talking to a group of guys on the street and one of the guys told his friends that he would meet them later and proceeded to walk with us for more than a few blocks to a bar with live music that he recommended – which turned out to be an amazing night. That so would not happen here. People here are too concerned with their lives and their schedule to do something like this for a stranger. I think I am going to try to make it a point that if I see people who look like they may be from out of town, to stop and ask them if they need directions somewhere or may be looking for a nice restaurant.

Anyway, try to show a little southern hospitality yourself and see if it pays off. You know what they say, “What goes around, comes around…y’all.”

Things from the South I loved…

• Bread Pudding. Yum. Here is a recipe.
• Sweet tea. I wouldn’t drink it all day long, but one seriously cold glass can transport you to the south. Basically, brew your favorite tea and add some serious sugar (while warm). Then put it in the fridge…get it nice and chilled and then pour a glass over ice…add a mint leaf just cause.
• Mason jar wine glasses….so me. Check these out.
• Dinner & A Cemetery - a great tour around a famous cemetery at night (spooky) complete with traditional southern cookin’. If you ever plan a trip to Savannah, GA…this is a must. Find out more.

There was a reason Jesus turned water into wine. It’s amazing. There is so much diversity in wine. From a light Savignon Blanc to a deep and robust Cabernet, everyone has their favorite. Wine people get it. When you meet someone who has the same love for wine, you can talk for hours and learn so much from one another. And, it is so true, one person’s tastes can be completely different from another and that is okay. One of my favorite whites (and I am not a big fan of white wines) is Barefoot’s Pinot Grigio at just about $5 a bottle. But then, there a few BIG reds I like — Rubicon Cask Cab ($60) and Silver Oak Cabernet Savignon ($80) and Opolo Zinfandel (great buy at like $30/bottle).

Trader Joe’s carries some fun wines. Love BevMo and CostPlus has some gems too. But, if you love good wine, there are some great wine shops in Orange County you should check out.

• BRIX, Sunset Beach
• The Wine Gallery, CDM
• Wine Lab, Newport
• Hi-Time Wine Cellars, Costa Mesa
• And coming in April 2012, SeaLegs Wine Bar in Huntington Beach

And here’s the kicker…I am helping to plan a HUGE wine tasting event taking place in the OC on Feb. 11, 2012. Wine Knot 2012 at the Huntington Harbour Yacht Club will feature eight (8) wine partners from Sonoma Valley to Paso Robles. Guests who purchase a passport to tasting will get three (3) complimentary pours from each of the partners, get to enjoy live music, dine on decadent foods and get to bid on some amazing silent auction items. Why not celebrate Valentine’s Day early this year…I mean nothing says love like PLENTY of wine and great chocolate (which there will be both of at Wine Knot).

Wine Knot Featured Partners Include:

• Thompkin Cellars
• ONEHOPE
• The Other Guys
• Taft Street Winery
• SeaLegs Wine Bar
• BRIX
• Pear Valley Winery
• Brew Bakers

Get more details on Wine Knot 2012.

Win a pair of passports to Wine Knot by commenting below and telling me your favorite wines. One lucky winner will be selected at random and contacted by Feb. 7th should they be the winner. Good luck and happy wining to all.

Should you wish to purchase passports to tasting for Wine Knot 2012, mention “OC Family” and get $5 off the passport price.