Getting a manicure can be pure bliss for a busy mom. But sneaking out the door and leaving the kids and chores behind is no easy feat. If you've ever had difficulty making the great escape, you'll relate to these 12 stages of one mom just trying to keep her nails on-point.
It's hard to decide which is the best part -- that intoxicating hand-and-forearm massage; the way the manicurist does the adult version of "This Little Piggy" with each of your tired fingers; or how amazing your rejuvenated hands look at the end of the visit. Of course, this all hinges on getting out of the house. Good luck, Ladies!
1.You wake up at 7 a.m. on a Saturday, super-excited, thinking about the manicure you're planning to get today. You don't normally have a chance to indulge, but you're attending a wedding at 5 p.m., and you want to look your best.
[code]
[/code] 2.You'll go just after you make the kids breakfast. You're really psyched. You haven't had any pampering in ages! Visions of fun polish names float through your head as you flip those flapjacks.[code]
[/code]3. Hmm, you should probably do the dishes first, because you definitely don't want to ruin that mani later!
[code]
[/code]4. Your daughter wants to visit Grandma. Perfect! You'll swing by the salon on the way home. It's not even 11 a.m. You're carefree with tons of time left.
[code]
[/code]5.You left your wallet at home. Shoot. Run back into the house. Do not stop to talk to anyone! Do not even make eye contact!
[code]
[/code]6. The younger one is begging for lunch. You're not dirtying any more dishes. You'll make grilled cheese in the toaster oven, and he can eat on napkins. It's almost noon, for heaven's sake!
[code]
[/code]More from The Stir: 12 Stages of Hangry From Just Plain Hungry to Murdery (GIFS)
7.You're about to leave when your partner tells you he forgot to drop off the dry cleaning last week. He asks you to iron the lone clean shirt he has left that he plans to wear to the wedding -- which is now just four short hours away.
[code]
[/code]8. You're almost out the door when your phone rings. You don't want to answer it. It's already 2 p.m. You need to get going. But what if it's your mom calling about your daughter? Reluctantly, you answer. It's your sitter ... canceling for tonight.
[code]
[/code]9.You spend the next 45 minutes calling everyone who doesn't have a criminal record to come watch your kids.
[code]
[/code]10.You've secured a sitter, but you're furious. Even Pauly D. has time to get a manicure -- probably because he's not a mom!
[code]
[/code]11. It's 4:45 p.m., and you've had to do your nails yourself. You've also put on your makeup in a huge rush. It's not your best work, but at this point you'll just be lucky to see the bride walk down the aisle.
12.You're almost there when your guy asks if you tried a new place for your nails this time because, get this, "They're kind of a mess."
[code]
[/code]We've all been there, haven't we?
Image via africastudio/shutterstock
If you’re lucky enough to get an invitation to a winter wedding, you’ll definitely want to reach for an embellished sheath dress. During this festive time of the year, it’s nice to give your LBD (little black dress) a rest and reach for something with a little sparkle. 
Some of the most beautiful tattoos are of nature -- trees, leaves, wildflowers, mountains -- and there are very creative ways to create a tattoo around the great outdoors.
Wondering how to transition your look from day to evening without a lot of effort this hectic holiday season? A series of simple changes will transform your ensemble from functional to phenomenal! 
Mary-Kate Olsen's engagement ring from Olivier Sarkozy is a massive vintage Cartier with diamonds and sapphires. It's major. But we didn't know the 
The 'it' look of the moment is all about velvet. It's plush and luxe and so very festive -- plus, the fabric will keep you warm and cozy. From sexy velvet dresses to even velvet underthings -- this collection of velvety goodies will have you dying to indulge.
Imagine a shampoo that not only promises to be sulfate-free, but also assures it can take the place of your daily conditioner, deep conditioner, and detangler. Sweet, right? Now let's say you splurge and buy a bottle, take it home, and use it -- and your 
'Tis the season ... for feeling festive, spending time with the special people in your life, and sharing the love. We want to experience the joy of this time of year with YOU -- our lovely readers -- so we're excited to celebrate with The Stir's 12 Days of Giveaways!
It's the holiday season! The time of year for feeling festive, spending time with the special people in your life, and spreading good cheer. We want to experience the joy of this time of year with YOU -- our lovely readers -- so we're excited to celebrate with The Stir's 12 Days of Giveaways!
Braids are the perfect style for the holidays, but it's easy to feel like like your braiding game isn't Princess Leia–strong enough to master certain styles. One look that's much easier than it appears: this infinity braid! You can take your basic braiding skills and create this beautiful braided bun look.
Many of us wouldn't associate holiday time with sexy time, what with all the turkey and Christmas cookies we're busy scarfing down. But then again, the deadly combination of eggnog and mistletoe has been known to lead to dirty deeds. For such occasions, there is holiday themed lingerie, in all its tinseled, candy-cane thonged, fishnetted, unintentionally funny, naughty-Claus glory.
If you have a lovely lady on your gift list who's perpetually pulled-together and effortlessly sophisticated, you know the struggle of finding them the perfect, on-trend gift is all too real. That's why we've scouted high and low for some of the most stylish options on racks and in apps. 
If you've ever even remotely considered dyeing your hair a bold, on-trend hue like purple, there's no better time to take the plunge than right now. With so many embracing the bright color trend, you'll be in good company with vibrant, violet locks.
There is something so chic and yet cozy about a winter white. Whether the color is on plush sweaters, lace dresses, or in a chunky knit, winter white is a must in your wardrobe -- and we have some incredible selections.
Something blue -- that's what you'll want on your nails this season once you see this gorgeous selection of blue polishes. With these colors, we can redefine what it means to have the winter blues.
