Mary Foley's Bodacious Blog

We Could All Use a Smile :D

Between stock market chaos and election battling, we could all use some good news, huh?

The tales from my latest adventures won’t recover Wall Street, but they just might put a smile on your face.  And right now, we could all use one.

Smile #1

First, my breast-cancer fighting and winning friend Casey and I went to the 3rd Annual Survivor Celebration put on the Susan G. Komen affiliate in Richmond, VA.  It was early Friday morning at the "crack-ass of dawn" as my friend Susie likes to say.  But, it was so worth it to celebrate Casey's courage.  Camera phones don't take the best photos, but here's Casey & myself at the breast cancer Survivor Celebration breakfast none the less.

She and I are continuing to celebrate all next month with the nail color we co-created called "Mammo Mango" for the Live Like Your Nail Color Club.  She discovered her had breast cancer through an annual mammogram.  "It saved my life" she says.

Smile #2

After the breakfast I had an hour to make it to the Virginia Press Women conference.  Fortunately, it was being held at the VA State Capitol building, only a few minutes away.  But, I couldn't have done it without my fabulous assistant Vicky who already had things setup.

Often when I travel to speak the meeting planner tells me how wonderful it was to work with Vicky to coordinate everything.  How cool is that?  I just hope she keeps mum about some of my crazy antics in the office to keep myself - and her - entertained!  

Smile #3

There is no end to inspiring women to be bodacious and live like their nail color!  I couldn't even stay for lunch with the gals at the VA Press Women conference because I had to catch a plan to share with the gals at the American Business Women’s Association (ABWA) in Indianapolis. (Normally, I don't have so many events so tightly back to back but, for some reason, Fri, Sept 26th was a very popular day!)

Turns out my flight was delayed so I missed my connection to Indy. Fortunately, there was another connection with some open seats.  Phew!  The ABWA gals had already heard what happened to me last week going to Vegas and were hoping I'd show up with all my clothes.  I got in late, but I got in, and that's what counts.  The next day, Saturday, we had a fun time at the event!

Even I laughed at this photo!  I know I'm talking about nail color because clearly I'm cazed!

Then all of a sudden I became Wonder Woman! That's right, a woman wondering what the heck happened to my life -- and striking a pose, of course.

When I asked what are some of the roles we play as women Cindy shouted from the back of the room "Sex Goddess."  I am not making this up.  After that she was the perfect volunteer for an exercise to help us all get a vision of today's wonder woman, Sex Goddess and all!

Let's just say that the rest of the luncheon we had a very good time! I shared my 4 steps for doing your nails and living like your nail color.  If you haven't heard them or you want to hear them again, then grab a copy of my free MP3 audio.  And share it with a girlfriend who you know could use a smile on her face.

Thanks to ABWA gals Diane, Cyd, Tracy and Susie who did so much to make this event possible and put a smile on MY face!

7 Steps to Closet Clean Out

Why not de-clutter and organize your clothes closet with me this weekend?  I’m using Elizabeth Hagen’s fabulous 7 steps below. 

 

After my closet, I’m anticipating that the energy surge will put me on a roll to de-clutter my office, bathroom, and living room cabinets!  When I’m all done (or maybe before) I’m going to celebrate  by putting on Less Stuff, More Life nail polish. 

 

7 Steps to Closet Clean Out

By Elizabeth Hagen

 

Do you open your closet and get depressed - instead of getting dressed?  Now is the time to clean out your closet and feel good as you look at your clothes instead of getting stressed.

Step 1
Take everything out of your closet. Yes, I mean everything. If you just go in and move things around you're cleaning, not organizing.

 

Step 2
Try everything on. I know that no one wants to hear this but this is the only way to really know what you want to keep.

Step 3
Ask yourself the following questions as you try on the clothes:

- When did I wear this last?

- Does it still fit?

- Is it still in style?

- Does it need to be repaired or altered?

- Does this look good on me?

- And most importantly - Do I love how I feel when I wear this?

Step 4
Based on the above answers you will either put the garment in the keep pile, throw away bag, repair bag, or garage sale/donate bag. We only wear 20% of what's in our closet. Feel good about getting rid of the 80%!

Step 5
Purchase enough white hangers for your clothes that are left. Put them back in your closet in categories: Shirts, blouses, pants, skirts, jackets. Then from sleeveless to long sleeve, short skirts to long skirts, and by color: Light to dark.

Step 6
Get the bags out of your room today. Throw the trash, bring the repairs to your alterations person, bring the donate bag to the appropriate charity. If you're having a garage sale keep the garage sale bags in your storage room to collect until you have the sale.

Step 7
Stand in your closet and go WOW! (and put on some Less Stuff, More Life nail polish)

 

Happy Last Days of Summer!

A number of you have asked me about my staycation. I can honestly say I’ve got the “stay” part down. The “cation” part has been a bit illusive. Instead of leisurely doing things around the house (like cleaning out my closet), I took time to make an important change to the Live Like Your Nail Color Club a reality.

Until the change, the Club’s 3-month Mini Membership was a one-time experience designed to give you a taste of the Club. If you loved it, then you had confidence about becoming an Annual Member. Several Club members asked if they could stick with the Mini-Membership option for better budgeting. With the gas prices and everything, I happily agreed. So, now you can choose between 2 on-going Club membership options!

I took time last week to put this in place so you could still get in on the “Less Stuff, More Life” August Goodie Package. If you join by Aug 31st you’ll get a Goodie Package with a bottle of “Less Stuff, More Life” nail polish, fun recording with my organizing expert friend Elizabeth Hagen, and snappy newsletter.

Did you know that studies show that 80% of what we keep we never use? And because most of that stuff is stuffed away in closets, drawers, and spare rooms we forget about it. Well, sort of. It keeps weighing on our minds. Studies also reveal that clutter makes most of us feel anxious, guilty and depressed.

I say don’t get depressed, just get rid of stuff!

Now that I’ve put changes to the Club in place, I’m going on a de-cluttering binge starting with my clothes closet.  After my closet, I’m already anticipating that the energy surge will put me on a roll to de-clutter my office, bathroom, and living room cabinets! And when I’m all done (or maybe before) I’m going to celebrate by putting on my “Less Stuff, More Life” nail polish.

Phew, I’d better stop writing and start de-cluttering. Clothes closet, here I come!

Summer's Winding Down - Time For A Staycation

I can’t believe we only have a few more weeks of summer. I hope you grab some fun, whether on a trip or at home. I’m doing both.

My recent trip to NYC for the National Speakers Association Convention with my girlfriend and radio show co-host Susie Galvez was a hoot. I called us the convention “bad girls” because of our bouts of uncontrollable laughter and fabulous outfits! Here’s a fun photo of us along with some gals from Richmond, VA.

For the rest of the summer I’ve decided to take a staycation. To be honest after so many plane trips and long car rides, I don’t want to haul my rear-end anywhere. Plus, I have some things to get done at home so I’m ready for the fall.

One of the best things I did last August was to FINALLY go through all the boxes and piles of “stuff” in my office. I sorted, I purged, I re-organized. When all was done I literally felt lighter! I started to get new energy and looked forward to entering my office each morning.

I’m doing the same thing again. That’s why I named this month’s Live Like Your Nail Color Club polish “Less Stuff, More Life.” It’s a clean, crisp white color that’s perfect for a simple French Manicure.

“Simplify your life and make every moment count” says professional organizer Elizabeth Hagen. I love that so I asked her to give us some practical ways to de-clutter and re-organize – one drawer, one closet at a time!

I’m already using her easy 31 day file system to handle all the incoming mail and paper based to-dos. My assistant Vicky is using the same system for keeping track of all the kids’ papers and household bills. “The pile is gone! I can finally see my kitchen counter!” she told me.

If you want some inspiration to simplify your life and make every moment count, you can get your very own “Less Stuff, More Life” Goodie Package by visiting http://www.LiveLikeYourNailColorClub.com

Imagine how ready you’ll feel for your busy fall!

Fishy Feet?

I’ve been getting a lot of notes lately about the nail adventures of some fabulous women. Like this one from Lynette who wrote:

“I was so inspired that I made arrangements for Saturday morning for my 3 boys and went to get a manicure and pedicure. Thanks for the kick in the butt I needed to take care of myself. It’s funny, I’m a certified life coach and often I speak to my clients about balance in their life, about taking time for themselves. Well, today I’m preaching with French toes and sheer pink nails!”

You go, Lynette! What about you, time for a pedicure break? How about a Fish Pedicure? You’ve got to see what a salon in Northern Virginia is offering in the article below. Maybe they should offer a nail color named “Sounds Fishy!”

Isn't that just a hoot?

How was your Independence Day?

I’m sitting here thinking about what I’ve FREELY done as a woman in the last few weeks and am very, very grateful for living in a country where I can travel, act, and think independently!

Recently my friend Susie Galvez and I launched our new radio show “Girlfriend We Gotta Talk!” on WHAN 1430 each Thursday from 5:30 – 6:00 pm here in the greater Richmond, VA area. In late April we were at the station together being interviewed. After the interview one of the guys said “You should have your own show!” Well, dang it that stuck and we did just that! To think we can freely say “Ok, let’s do it!” and make it happen. God bless America!

Why not join us live or listen to past shows online at www.GirlfriendWeGottaTalk.com!

Last week I hosted a “Live Like Your Nail Color Benefit Party” for my friend Casey who is winning the battle against breast cancer. We had a great time which included us all painting our nails “Mammo Mango” in Casey’s honor. Plus, we raised over $1500 for the Casey Kicks Cancer Fund. All women, all acting freely, all making a difference. Yeah!

After the party I hopped a plane to Orlando to the Phi Mu National Convention. I proceeded to give away 300 goodie bags with pink nail polish that I named “Make a Phi Mu Splash” to go with the convention theme. It was fun to encourage the women of my sorority that gave me so much while I was earning my engineering degree at VA Tech. Traveling independently I wasn’t hassled or questioned.

Thanks to Barbara, Jean, Nancy and Valena who shared a condo with me and were a hoot!

Since we've just celebrated America’s independence, let’s be thankful that as women we’re not bound by ridiculous restrictions. We can go where we want to go, say what we want to say, do what we want to do.

The only thing truly holding us back is ourselves. That’s why something as simple as trying new nail polish, especially an unexpected color, can be powerful. Am I willing to take the risk to see what it looks like – even if just on my toes?

This month’s nail color of the Live Like Your Nail Color Club is a shimmering blue named “Making Waves” and our guest Libby Brown has an inspiring story and lessons learned about taking risks. If you’re not a member, why not join in today? My Bodacious 100% Satisfaction Guarantee means that your only risk is that you might be encouraged and have some fun.

June's Nail Color: Flip Flop Fantastic

Summertime and the living is easy, right? Sometimes yes, sometimes no, but it's hard to forget the free, easy-breezy feelings of childhood when school let out and going barefoot was common.

As an adult woman you can tap into that summer fun mindset with some fun purple “Flip Flop Fantastic” nail polish for your toes. Yes, purple! You’ve just don’t know how much fun you’re missing until you see those purple toes peeking out of your flip flops or sandals.

I couldn’t think of a better person to inspire us to live "Flip Flop Fantastic" than my good friend and beauty expert Susie Galvez, author of "The Thrifty Girls Guide To Glamour – living the beautiful life on little to no money."

Armed with quick wit, years of professional experience and more get-pretty tips than a beauty pageant coordinator, Susie is an internationally-known beauty expert, author, and leading consultant in the spa industry.

In this month’s Club recording Susie shares...

• What happened at 8 years old that started her on the path to being a beauty professional
• Why you really can feel more beautiful on little or no money
• Her 15 best summertime beauty tips that you must try before the end of the season...

This recording is part of the June Goodie Package for members of the Live Like Your Nail Color Club. Each month Club members are reminded to take some time for themselves, to feel positive, and to have fun. It’s easy when their Goodie Package arrives in the postal mail filled with a fun bottle of nail polish with an inspiring name, a motivating CD to help you live like each month’s nail color, and a snappy newsletter!

Not a member of the Live Like Your Nail Color Club? You can join for a mere $39!

To make sure you get your June “Flip Flop Fantastic” Goodie Package, join the Club today. Because once this month is gone, it’s gone, and so is your chance to get a bottle of “Flip Flop Fantastic” polish and hear Susie! Go here to join: LiveLikeYourNailColorClub.com

Let Your Toes Go Wild This Summer

Between flip flops, sandals, or no shoes at all, summertime is the best time to let your toes – and spirit – go a little wild with color! How do you know what a purple or blue color looks and feels like if you’ve never put it on?

What’s so wonderful about trying new, wild colors on your toe nails is that it’s an experiment only you need to know. Trying new colors that may seem a bit outrageous can spark renewed feelings of fun and freedom, something we all need to combat the feelings of being weighed down by a very full, responsible life.

Dr. Michael Unger and author of “Too Safe For Their Own Good” says there is a psychological advantage to taking risks. Some of the rewards include feeling emotionally resilient, confident, and happy. You don’t have to jump out of an airplane or quit your job to feel these benefits. You simply have to give a little attention to areas of your life that tug on your curiosity or present a new challenge.

So, why not give your feet and toes a little attention first with Susie Galvez’ homemade pedicure “recipe” followed by a fun, wild nail color for your toes. And notice how your spirit starts to feel spunky!

Susie’s Homemade Pedicure:

Treat yourself to a great summer pedicure at home! Here’s how:

First remove all old toe polish. Soak feet in a large basin filled with anti-bacterial soap for 10 minutes. Push back your cuticles and trim nails. Add one half cup of sand (if no beach is available, it can be purchased at a craft store) and one fourth cup of olive oil in a bowl. Mix together. Slather the mixture to the feet and ankles. Rub gently. Rinse feet well, and pat dry. Apply a bit of your favorite sun protection cream (for the wonderful beach smell) and then apply a wonderful fun in the sun bright color to your toes!

Live Like Your Nail Color Club 100th Member!

Congrats Vickie Thompson!

This summer is already starting off with a celebration of the 100th member of the Live Like Your Nail Color Club!

Vickie Thompson of Arlington, TX, said she's wanted to join for months and finally did when I said that the 100th member gets her membership and a 30 minute session with me for FREE. I was so excited to tell her she won that I called her right away.

Do we look like sisters, or what?! After our session she sent me the sweetest note:

Mary, I just wanted to let you know how much I enjoyed our phone conversation on Monday. It was such a pleasure to hear part of your story and listen to your words of wisdom. I applaud your efforts to motivate women to live bodacious lives. Aren't we lucky to live in such a time as this? There are unlimited possibilities open to all of us! Best Wishes and thank you for your advice! ~Vickie Thompson, 100th Member of the Live Like Your Nail Color Club

Who knew?

Growing up a Tom Boy I NEVER imagined that my life would be full of talking about nail color! Just goes to show you really don’t know what you’re going to do when you grow up. But, I love it!

Last week I held another Live Like Your Nail Color Party at Be You, Bi You Wellness Center & Spa in Bethesda, MD. Believe me, it wasn’t your ordinary way to do your nails. I led everyone through my 4 steps of doing your nails while everyone reflected and shared about themselves with each step.

Doing your nails can even inspire you to find more grace in your life. You might be thinking, “How can you find grace when you can’t find clean underwear?” Inspirational humorist Lisa Earle McLeod says it’s easier than you think, which is good because my laundry isn’t getting done anytime soon.

On Thursday, May 22nd at 8 pm Eastern you can listen in as Lisa helps us live like this month’s color for the Live Like Your Nail Color Club -- “Finding Grace”! Check out all the details at www.LiveLikeYourNailColorClub.com.

This is one you don’t want to miss! Lisa is truly a hoot and a half. Hear what I mean by listening to a quick preview on www.LiveLikeYourNailColorClub.com. Plus, you can check out Lisa’s article “Lovin' Your Misery Is Wrong, But I Want To Be Right” that can help you be a bit gentler to those around you, including yourself - you'll find this in my "Bodacious Buzz"