My mom grew up poor and had to very tightly budget as a young woman, to this day she lives a frugal life despite her very average middle class income. I learned from her how to be careful with money while I grew up.

I have a very comfortable life: a loving husband and a perfect child, good income, a profession I enjoy, house, car... everything I could ask for I guess. I just have no idea how to spend money on anything that's not essential.

We have enough that we buy good quality products - it's only logical that the little extra cost is worth it.

At about thirty I am finally becoming somewhat comfortable with spending the money I put aside for my hobby on my hobby (arts and little crafts projects) even though it's still a very weird feeling. I know that this little spending is a good thing: it's well calculated and my hobby makes me happy.

But I have never stepped inside a beauty salon, I own about a handful of make up stuff that I use approximately twice a year, and my hairdresser sees me about once every five years.

Since my mom couldn't afford it in her youth, she never learned anything about these things. I learned from her and I take good care of my personal hygiene, but that's about cleanliness and health... not make up and beauty treatments and salons.

I know that for most women it's a treat to "go to the salon and get a facial" and I'm not even sure what that means!

I feel a little like I'm missing out, but I have absolutely no idea how to change this. I guess not overdoing the make up and sunbathing has been good to me but I'm sure I could take better care of my looks... I just don't know how.

I feel silly and shy and could use some tips or pointers. Damn, like a teenager but without the cocky attitude.

Edit: I know I could theoretically learn anything about make ups and related stuff online, but it's not really about make up as the ... whole thing I guess? I just don't even know where to start.

What is a "facial"? What happens at the salon? I'll have to think up actual questions for a next post...