Hot Moms:
10 ideas to transform you from “somebody’s mother” to one hot mama this summer!

by Kim Seidel

Before I had children, I never understood how a mother couldn’t find time to shower or – gasp! – brush her teeth and hair. Now, two daughters later, I totally understand how the day can fly by without changing from the sweatpants and t-shirt I wore to bed.

Over the years, however, I realized the days I do pay extra attention to myself are the days I’m able to give more loving attention to my children. It may sound contrary, but it’s really true.

As mothers, finding our happiness and confidence – inside and out – is the most important gift we can give to our children, says Jessica Denay, co-founder of the Hot Moms Club, and author of The Hot Mom’s Handbook: Moms Have More Fun!

“Your outside should reflect your inside and when you feel good inside, you want to reflect that in the way you look, walk, and talk,” Denay says. “Projecting an image of confidence sets you up for success and respect, and it teaches your children to have confidence and self-respect.”

Do you want to be a “hot mom?” Denay offers these tips:

1. Ditch the sweats.
   It’s easy to fall into that comfortable rut. Give your appearance the attention it deserves. Take a few extra minutes in the morning to pull yourself together; it will change your entire day.
2. Make improvements you can see.
   Sometimes you have to work from “the outside in.” It’s a fact that when you look good, you feel good. Look at how your own 4 year old struts around in a new outfit. So, put on some lip gloss, get that hair cut you’ve been putting off, or treat yourself to a new dress or blouse.
3. Unleash your inner goddess.
   It’s hard to feel sexy if you’re changing poopy diapers all day, but remember you’re still a woman. Find things to do that remind you of your desirability. Throw on a pair of sexy panties or take a belly dancing class. As your confidence grows, you’ll naturally feel more romantic. Remember you’re modeling relationships for your children, so you owe it to them to keep the spark in yours.
4. Smile.
   This is the simplest and most effective thing you can do. You’ll feel happier and look 10 years younger. Your children should always remember you smiling.
   
   "Motherhood should be fun, so slide down the slide with your kids, laugh, and smile more,” Denay says. “That’s the essence of a ‘Hot Mom’.’’
   
   For more ideas, visit http://www.hotmomsclub.com.
   
   Salon-tested beauty
   
   Just in time to be a “hot mom” this summer, students at The Salon Professional Academy in Onalaska offer beauty trends for you to try. For more information, call 783-7400.
   
   
5. Sun protection.
   Try a body bronzer instead of a real tan. Use UV protection for both skin and hair.
6. Shimmering make up.
   Try lip gloss over bare lips or lipstick for a dewy look, or metallic eye shadow.
7. Bangs or a fringe.
   A quick change in your hairstyle can make a big difference. The “Bob” and the “A-line” are popular haircuts.
8. Waxing.
   Try a bikini/underarm wax.
9. Pretty feet.
   A French pedicure makes your toes look elegant in sandals.
10. Eyeliner.
    Add some color; there’s more out there than black and brown. 

Kim Seidel is a freelance writer living in Onalaska with her husband and two young daughters. She strives every day to “ditch the sweats” and take better care of herself.

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