Disclosure:  This is a sponsored post.  All opinions expressed are my own.

Parents make a lot of sacrifices for their kids. Sometimes I think too much. I am guilty, we are all guilty. We don’t spend enough time on ourselves. When I was a kid, (oh my I sound like my mother) parents had parties downstairs while you slept upstairs. They went out to dinner and a movie. I can count on my hands the number of times since (A) was born that RNYD and I did that.

This year I have actively tried to make a change. I am spending more time on things I enjoy, that make me a happier momma. Not to say that I don’t enjoy my kids, because I do, every second. I adore them (I would think that was quite obvious from the site), but I CANNOT be the best mom I can be without taking care of myself too.

I am taking baby steps, one thing at a time. First I started exercising again, and I am loving it (read our full review). I felt terribly at first about the time spent away from the kids, but I have found ways to go while they are asleep (6 am or 7:30 pm). I have lost 25 lbs and have more energy and am happier, which makes our time together so much better.

While at kickboxing I met Carrie, an esthetician who is part of Sacred Skin Wellness of Nyack. At Fitness Kickboxing it’s a real family atmosphere so we talk about everything. Carrie knew about my facial woes. One night I was getting ready for bed and had a particularly terrible flair up, and I reached out to her for help. She was at class the next day with a new facial regimen for me. Then she said she wanted to set me up with a facial Treatment.

My original reaction was no way. I can’t. It’s time away from the kids (during their waking hours), its money spent on me and not them. I couldn’t possibly. RNYD urged me to go, he understands my struggle and wanted me to take the time for myself. So I went.

Located in an unassuming, adorable house in Upper Nyack Sacred Skin Wellness hides nestled in a back entrance. From the outside you would never know that there was a sanctuary inside. At first I was a little worried that I was in the wrong place, but it’s perfect. You aren’t in a “town” and you can really relax. It’s not a huge assembly line SPA it’s a personal experience. You and your esthetician are the only people in there. You are safe to speak about your facial issues (or otherwise should you use one of their other available services).

We discussed my facial issues and dermatological history then came up with an action plan. I would have the HydraFacial treatment that focused on blemishes. A HydraFacial is a newer type of facial and it’s not available everywhere. Only a few places have it, Sacred Skin Wellness is one such place.

It starts out similarly to other facials with some essential oils (which can be personalized for you) and prepping. The warm table was very comfortable (I fell asleep 3 times during this process and I don’t sit still well). Then Carrie really got into the process. The HydraFacial itself can only be described as “Powerwashing” my face. It sounds very odd and felt a little different, but the end result was amazing. Before we got really deeply into it Carrie tried it on my face to let me know what it felt like. As the tip of the machine is brushed across your face, it gently exfoliates and removes impurities (it actually sucks them into the wand (I looked at the collection container at the end, not pretty). After a moment or two I was used to the feeling, and was drifting off to dreamland.

The first stage cleaned and exfoliated, the second was an acid peel (super gentle, don’t let the name scare you).

In between stages, Carrie worked on my existing blemishes used more oils and pampered me away. She then went back over my face with some hydration that nourishes and protects the face. At the conclusion of the facial she gave me a FABULOUS scalp massage. I never wanted to get up.

We took some pictures of my face before and after but it doesn’t do justice to the actual transformation. My face is brighter, and my blemishes less. The biggest change, is that my face is so smooth I can barely stop touching it. It doesn’t feel like my face. As the days pass (it’s been 8) my face isn’t dulling, it is still glowing and smooth. I am continuing with the skincare system that she prescribed and am very happy with my progress. So much so that I have already booked my second session (in 6 weeks) to continue to heal and rejuvenate my skin. I made sure to book it fast because I’m afraid that once the word is out I won’t be able to get an appointment!!!

HydraFacials can be completed on a lunch break too, so you can use time that you might already be away from your children, and it didn’t leave me red and not wanting to be in public.

The final thought that Carrie left me with before I was on my way.. Nailed it.

What’s even better? Sacred skin is a team of estheticians who can perform HydraFacials, so you won’t miss out. Additionally, they are offering a special this fall, 15% off any HydraFacial Treatment, they are recommended for sun damage, wrinkles, redness, blemishes, AND oily skin. Use the coupon code AUTUMN2015 to redeem.