Two Thumbs Up!

I am the anti-horticulturist.  Plants and flowers come to my house to die.  (no, I'm not trying to make potpourri)  Every year I head down to the Minneapolis Farmer's market in May with eyes wide open. (I'm going to kick some Belinda and Bobby Jensen ass this year!)  I have huge aspirations for my hanging baskets lasting through the summer with my watering, Miracle Gro and singing. (ok, no singing, more like begging, "you can do this, I only forgot to water you twice in the 90 degree heat, C'mon!, don't die on me!! please!!!")  I just threw out the brown, desiccated plants that have been hanging in the front of the house for the last week. (plant killer!)   My lack of talent in keeping something alive never really bothered me until my new neighbors moved in next door and upped the ante (bring it!)  We used to have the nicest yard on our side of the street (I only counted my vote) until the boys moved in next door. Let's just put it this way, people stop and take pictures of their lawn. (wtf!!, how am I suppose to compete with the Gardens of Versailles?!)  They look over at me, on my hands and knees trying to resuscitate the Annuals I planted less than two weeks ago and just shake their heads.  They make kind suggestions, "maybe you could put a watering can, filled with water (thanks, got that) by the front stoop and water them when you walk out the door every morning:"  (sheer brilliance!)  Unfortunately, my A.D.D. and my constantly running late ass don't have time to dance with the daisies on the way out the door. (maybe I should stick with cacti) After a day of weeding (1/2 hour), I stopped over next door to take in the view of the most amazing gardens you've ever seen and asked Mykal what lasts longer than two weeks.  Without missing a beat, he said, "my manicures." (funny guy) So I put away my hoe, mucks and spade and headed to Salon Intrigue for my first set of Axxium gel nails by O.P.I.
Where: Salon Intrigue located in Minneapolis. (952) 922-0588
What to expect:  Salon Intrigue has just undergone a gorgeous make-over and have added treatment rooms and more stylists.  The space is beautiful and the staff is upbeat.
Why gel nails:  They're flawless, last more than two weeks and don't chip.  Perfect for a "girl on the go" who doesn't want to stop in every week for a manicure.  It takes an hour to put them on and a little less than an hour when you go back in to get them filled.
Gigi's tip:  I loved my gel nails, my manicure lasted for two and half weeks however do not try to peel them off on your own, this will result in some damage to your nail bed.  Also, I would avoid a lot of pool time with your new nails.  That's means in the the pool not by the pool.  The gel tends to peel off when it' soaking in chlorine.