In honor of Mother’s Day coming up on the 12th, I’m thrilled to be featuring… my mom!
My mom, Sandina, was my first symbol of femininity and sensuality. I remember, as a little girl, sitting on my parents’ bed in my soccer uniform, watching fascinated as my mom artfully put on make-up and got dressed up to go out for the evening. Curious why she chose one pair of stockings over another. Putting on heels, sexy slacks (it was the 70’s), a partly sheer top or revealing neckline… to me, it was all so risque´!
Well now many years later, she and I recently celebrated her 61st birthday with a photo shoot. And this time, I helped her choose which outfits, pampered her with a professional make-up and hair stylist, and captured her the way I see her… playful, elegant, hysterical, sassy… beautiful.
My mom also makes the perfect subject for the 2nd installation of our new blog series focusing on having a healthy relationship with your body, being comfortable in your own skin, and enjoying your body and life. So I took this opportunity to interview her to share her inspiration:
Christa: Describe your body in 5 words.
Sandina: Curvy, strong, comfortable, mature, balanced.
How do you feel about your body?
I look in the mirror and start to see the wear and aging starting to set in, and it is frightening! Most days, I feel good about my body, especially when I’m on track with exercising, and I’m wearing the perfect outfit. When I start to get down about my body, I do something to make me feel better about myself, such as go for a massage, facial, a spa day, and last but by no means the least, shop for that killer outfit.
What do you love about your body?
It’s unique, mine, and one of a kind. There really is not one specific part that I love and always want to show off. If I have to pick because you’re making me (Christa: Yes, I am), I would say my ass. It still has a pretty good shape. And my breasts – I know many women would kill for full breasts – I was lucky and was born with them.
How did you feel about being half-naked in front of the camera?
Well, at first I felt shy and stupid, trying to be model-like, but then I started to open up and get into the zone. Then it was fun and felt glamorous.
How did you feel after seeing the photos we created?
Pretty, sexy and wonderful. When I’m looking at them, I see the playful side of myself again. And I think: hey, I look pretty damn good, especially for my age.
What’s your go-to item to wear to feel smoking hot?
Silk.
What’s your best tip for feeling gorgeous?
Pamper yourself in every way. (Christa: Really? You do this?) Absolutely, even if it’s just a quick massage, pedicure, hair color change, or new haircut. It works for me.
How do you feel about your age?
Love it and not afraid to show it.
You used to never want people to know your age. Can I mention on the blog that you’re 61?
Honestly, I used to be that way when I was 50! But now, I have finally accepted my age. So you’re right – I’ve changed. And yes, I welcome you to show my age.
Do you feel like your age affects how sexy you truly are?
Not at all!
What gets better with age?
Confidence. Accepting who you are. I also think you begin to look at your body differently. I know when I was younger, before being married, I hated my body and tried so hard to be pretty and look good like everyone else. But now, I accept myself and am okay with the way I look. I have a certain body type that will never, never be skinny, and now with age, I get it!! I no longer worry about pleasing others or how I compare. I’m my own person, and I’m happy.
What’s the best compliment you ever received?
“You’re how old?!” Just kidding. Any compliment I get from my children is good. The compliment I hear the most is from my girl friends. They say I have nice skin. It’s so nice to hear that. I can be so critical of myself sometimes. So hearing these positive compliments keeps me thinking, “It’s not so bad that I’m getting older.”
And without further ado, here are a few pics from our photo shoot…
My mama loves her hats!
You gotta love her…
Thanks Mom! I feel very fortunate to have a fabulous role model for loving life, having a sense of humor about yourself, and enjoying what it is to be a woman.
Lots of love and inspiration to every woman, and Happy Mother’s Day to every mama out there in advance!
xoxo, Christa