April 29, 2008

Mama Said

2008 Mother’s Day Guide

Moms really do give the best advice. So why not actually listen for once?

Mama Bella
She shared her secrets for gorgeous skin (not that you ever actually tried the mayo face mask); return the favor with luxurious Nellie Tier lotions. The organic line was started by a mother-daughter duo. Fun scents include geranium and green tea and may chang and mandarin. (Proper Topper, 1350 Connecticut Avenue NW; 202-842-3055).

Mama-to-Be
Mamas know you can’t hurry love, but you can prepare for a special delivery with a prenatal massage at Nusta Spa. The treatment is designed to relieve pregnancy-induced back and muscle aches. Follow it up with a soak in the hydrotherapy tub (1129 20th Street NW; 202-530-5700).

Earth Mama
You know the old refrain: Waste not, want not. Mama’s the one who taught you to love and respect Mother Earth. Treat her to a low-impact adventure with Excitations’s hot air balloon ride over the scenic Shenandoah Valley.

Mamacita
Mama said knock you out. And really, what mom doesn’t want a knock-out bod? Sign her up for Vida Fitness’s Belly Dance Basics, designed for women of all ages and fitness levels (601 F Street NW; 202-393-8432).

Mama Hen
She said that it is better to be loved than feared, so team up with those who love her back and reward her with chocolate. Set Mom up to receive a SquidNote card and ask everyone in her life to sign. The 50 moms with the most e-signatures on their cards come Mother’s Day will receive free chocolates from TCHO.

Mama She Wrote
She was tireless in pestering you to write your thank-you notes. Prove that you got the message with darling stationery from Arlington-based Fast Snail. The funky designs (think paisley penguins) can be personalized with Mom’s name or a graphic of your choosing (Le Village Marché, 4150 Campbell Avenue, suite 101; 703-379-4444).