• 2009 Mom'ination Winners •
Congratulations to Moms Myriam Ruiz, Shawna McAfee, and Gina Cousineau!
WINNER #1 -
MOMINEE: Myriam Ruiz
What words can I use to describe my precious mother? Strong, courageous, selfless, and humble are a few of the words that come to mind. My mother was born in a small indigenous village in the Andes Mountains of Ecuador. Her family was very poor so at age 9 she was forced to move out to the city and work with her older sister. At age 18 she met my father got married and I came into the picture. She endured many years of abuse due to my fathers alcoholism. When I was 4 years old she was presented with the opportunity of a lifetime to come to the US and work as a housekeeper BUT she had to leave her daughter behind. The 1991 movie Not Without My Daughter somewhat tells my mothers story. My mother pleaded with her sponsors and my abusive father and convinced them to let me come along with her. Our visas were approved and in 1984 we came to a land where we had no family other than each other. She worked round the clock and we lived in a small backroom. After only being in the US for one week she realized she was pregnant. My father had sent her with a going away gift. With the language barrier and very little money she raised my sister and I. My father came to the US a year later. He changed dramatically and stopped drinking. We used the LA public transportation system for everything but there were many days when we walked for miles to get from point A to B because of lack of money. My mother taught us to value everything and every penny that came our way. She instilled humility and a strong work ethic. Fast forward 24 years now and she is a happy grandmother of my daughter. I graduated from CSUF and my sister from UCLA and now my 17 year old brother will be going to CSULB. She is a very humble woman and even though life has thrown some crazy curb balls her way she is very forgiving and sincere. My mother is my queen and I pray you award her with a Gregories Great Escape as she so deserves it! Thank you!
SUBMITED BY: Angela Gomez
WINNER #2 -
MOMINEE: Shawna McAfee
My wife is in the Marine Corps. In August will be her 4 year mark and as of right now she is planning to get out and go straight to school. She has done a tour in Iraq and right after we got married. She got pregnant with our first beautiful daughter Tawnee 4 months after we were married. It was hard on us considering I did not have a job yet and she was the only one working. Our daughter Tawnee is 16 months old and my wife is due with our second daughter May 20th. She never buys her self anything. I honestly cant tell you the last time she got something for her self other then contacts that she needed. She always puts Me or her daughter first. Being in the military has been hard on her and she fights every day to make it through. She deserves a day to her self if it is anything. She works everyday to make sure her daughter and I have what we want. Im working now but to her its still not enough. She wants everyone but herself to have what they want and she needs a break. I think a spa treatment would do her great. It will show her that even though she is taking care of everyone else she deserves something also. She is one of the strongest woman I know considering the fact she is in one of the hardest military branchs there is and she has faught for our freedom. Her Daughter will look back at this one day and know her mom is a hero. Any spa treatment would do and considering Im a man I dont really now the difference. I think even just a pedicure and manicure would for her. She deserves the best and I want her to know that if her children could write this Im sure they could say a million more things about her. She is young and has already done something that a million men could not do. I am proud of my wife and I know her children are now and our children in the future will also be.
SUBMITED BY: Joshua McAfee
WINNER #3 -
MOMINEE: Gina Cousineau
SUBMITED BY: I am blessed to be the daughter of Gina Cousineau. My mom is extremely deserving of some relaxing spa time. May of 2009 marks two years since my youngest brother, Evan, was diagnosed with a terminal, genetic disease. My mom cared for him tirelessly in the hospital for the next 6 months while he underwent a bone marrow transplant. In November of 2007, we lost Evan to complications of his transplant, just before his 10th birthday. Despite this horrible tragedy, my mom has done a tremendous job of keeping Evans memory alive and saving lives in his honor. She has formed a foundation Be A Hero, Become A Donor which works to promote bone marrow, blood, organ, and cord blood donation. Through her efforts, countless lives have been saved. My mom is an incredibly inspiring woman, and my siblings and I are so fortunate to have her as an example. I can only pray that I will become half of the woman that my mom has become. Although we have been through some horrific things as a family, my mom has carried my family through all of the sorrow that we have endured. She understands the important of reflecting on the journey that shes been on, and does so by journaling. Writing helps her to release some of the tension that builds up in her life, and helps her to brainstorm on more life-saving strategies. I believe that my mom is incredibly deserving of a fabulous Spa G facial for all of her amazing work. She lost a son, and rather than give up, she has chosen to get up every day and honor Evan. My mom has vowed to devote her life to saving others, and that is something that truly needs to be recognized. I mominate my wonderful mom, Gina Cousineau.
SUBMITED BY: Mary Cousineau
• Mominations on Cox •
Winning moms will be featured on Cox Video OnDemand from Friday, May 8, 2009 through Sunday, May 31, 2009 and will also on Cox Channel 3 on the following dates/times-
- Friday, May 8, 2009 at 9pm
- Saturday, Mat 9, 2009 at 3pm
- Sunday, May 10, 2009 at 3pm
- Tuesday May 10, 2009 at 10:30 pm
• 2009 Mom'ination Entries •
1. MOMINEE: Debra Mooren
"Everyone thinks their mother is special--I'm no exception. But, my mother is actually a saint, and the strongest person I have ever known. My mother has had a hard life, both financially and emotionally. We lived in Connecticut for 15 years and faced extreme poverty as a family. My mother never hesitated to get whatever job she could in order to keep my father and us kids happy. She has battled and defeated cervical cancer, and as of December 2007, became a widow. Losing her husband to cancer was devastating to her, but she hasn't given up. She moved here to CA and has been trying to create a life for herself. Recently, she suffered a terrible injury at work, causing severe back pain and surgery in her left shoulder. With every hurdle, she keeps going. Debra Mooren is the most beautiful, strong and inspriring person I've ever met, and I'm blessed and priveledged to know her. Thank you."
SUBMITED BY: Megan Mooren
2. MOMINEE: Nancy Chamberlain
After suffering through a series of events...my oldest son suffered a brain injury in an accident, my husband was injured in a car accident several months later and then we became homeless, my brother and his wife are divorcing and my youngest brother is a single dad to 4...I think my mom deserves to be pampered. She is the most giving mother - selfless and puts all her kids and grandkids before her own needs. The stress of watching her kids suffer and not being able to "fix" the situations has taken a toll on my mom. She retired a couple weeks before my husband's accident and has gone back to work to help us. We are living in a hotel and she is a great support to me emotionally. I love her with all my heart and would just be thrilled to give back to her in this way! She would enjoy any treatment! Please consider her - she is a gem! She also cares for my dad who also retired and contracted ocular shingles due to all the stresses that we are all facing. I mom'inate her as she is a woman of great strength and integrity!
SUBMITED BY: Janean Lindner
3. MOMINEE: Janean Lindner
"Do I have to nominate MY mom or can I tell you about a mom who needs to be pampered more than anyone I know? I actually learned about your contest from her - as she told me she nominated her own mom. Janean Lindner is a mom of four boys. Her oldest was involved in a skateboarding accident without a helmet and suffered a severe brain injury. She was by his side taking him to doctor after doctor trying in vein to find help for his injuries. Just a few months later she got the dreaded call again - this time her husband was in a serious car accident 2 days before their 20 year wedding anniversary. He nearly lost his arm. The were both out of work due to the accidents and she was left to care for her son, her husband, her 13 year old son, her 5 year old who is autistic and her 4 year old. As they got closer and closer to being evicted she tried with every fiber of her being to remain positive and hopeful. She recorded her journey on her blog - http://www.justjanean.blogspot.com and continues to do so. They are homeless and live at a local hotel in Mission Viejo. I know her husband and boys would just be overjoyed to see her win a contest such as this. She just came to your spa for the first time today to get a pedicure - a gift that was given to her by 2 teenage girls that help take care of the little boys at no charge. She was just in awe as she has never been to a spa. She was thrilled by your service and thought it to be so relaxing. She is the one person that I can think of that needs to de-stress more than any woman in Orange County!! Please consider her...Janean Lindner 949-842-9277 Living at the Ayre's Suites Hotel in Mission Viejo. Mailing Address: 28715 Los Alisos Blvd Ste 7-348 Mission Viejo, CA 92692 Sincerely, Andrea Komatchia"
SUBMITED BY: Andrea Komatchia
4.MOMINEE: Janean Lindner
Janean Lindner: a kind, giving, loving, charismatic, selfless, beautiful individual. Our names are Chloe Lechuga and Megan Artiano and Janean is just as much a mother to us as she is to her own four boys. Janean is married to a wonderful husband, Stace, and together they have four boys ranging in age from 18 to 4 years. In December 2007, Janeans oldest son, Taylor suffered a brain injury due to a skateboarding accident. Since then Taylor has spiraled downhill, and has become addicted to drugs and alcohol. Following Taylors accident, Janeans husband Stace was involved in a car accident which left his left arm without 70% of its skin and his truck was totaled. Even worse, Stace went from a self-employed contractor to a jobless, disabled husband and father. After Staces accident all Janean could see was their life going downhill. Janean started applying for jobs because her husband could not work due to his injury. Janean is a photographer and was able to make some money by taking pictures of families, but it was not enough. Eventually Janean was hired at the hospitals to take photos of newborn babies, but she only works 3 days a week totaling about $400 a month. Unfortunately, her job was not enough to support a family of 6, living in a home that was $2,200 a month, and soon the family was evicted. Currently the family is living in a 400 square foot hotel room. Also, her 5 year old son is autistic and all that has happened has made his autism go backwards. Janean loves to go to the beach to relax, but with all that has happened she has not had the time. In our opinion, she would enjoy any relaxing massage along with a manicure and pedicure. Through all of this Janean has stayed strong for her family, and deserves this.
SUBMITED BY: Chloe Lechuga
5. MOMINEE: Karen Thurston
"The mom I am nominating is my sister. She was finally able to have her son, Vaughan, after 6 failed tries of invitro fertilization (IVF). Vaughan is now almost 2 and is a beautiful but energetic kid, as are 2 year olds. They are now starting the process of IVF again, in an attempt for a 2nd child. This process and having a young child is extremely stressful for the family. Knowing how many tries it took the first time around makes this one even more of a nail biter for all of us. Karen is a wonderful and caring mother, so I could not imagine anyone more deserving of anothger child and a break at your wonderful spa. She enjoyed pre-natal massages at your spa during her last pregnancy and I know this would be an incredible way of starting the process of IVF again. As with a great deal of folks, this economy has made it difficult for them to enjoy some of the luxuries of life right now. Please help her enjoy a day at the spa. I know she would love any of your amazing massages. Thank you!!"
SUBMITED BY: Janice Gangolli
6. MOMINEE: Myriam Ruiz
What words can I use to describe my precious mother? Strong, courageous, selfless, and humble are a few of the words that come to mind. My mother was born in a small indigenous village in the Andes Mountains of Ecuador. Her family was very poor so at age 9 she was forced to move out to the city and work with her older sister. At age 18 she met my father got married and I came into the picture. She endured many years of abuse due to my fathers alcoholism. When I was 4 years old she was presented with the opportunity of a lifetime to come to the US and work as a housekeeper BUT she had to leave her daughter behind. The 1991 movie Not Without My Daughter somewhat tells my mothers story. My mother pleaded with her sponsors and my abusive father and convinced them to let me come along with her. Our visas were approved and in 1984 we came to a land where we had no family other than each other. She worked round the clock and we lived in a small backroom. After only being in the US for one week she realized she was pregnant. My father had sent her with a going away gift. With the language barrier and very little money she raised my sister and I. My father came to the US a year later. He changed dramatically and stopped drinking. We used the LA public transportation system for everything but there were many days when we walked for miles to get from point A to B because of lack of money. My mother taught us to value everything and every penny that came our way. She instilled humility and a strong work ethic. Fast forward 24 years now and she is a happy grandmother of my daughter. I graduated from CSUF and my sister from UCLA and now my 17 year old brother will be going to CSULB. She is a very humble woman and even though life has thrown some crazy curb balls her way she is very forgiving and sincere. My mother is my queen and I pray you award her with a Gregories Great Escape as she so deserves it! Thank you!
SUBMITED BY: Angela Gomez
7. MOMINEE: Kathie Podliska
My Mom has always taken care of other people and she is finally at a point to take care of herself. She was a stay at home Mom while my sisters and I grew up, even though she would have loved a part time job, other than the PTA. When I was 13 my parents divorced and my Mom and I learned to balance the mother/daughter relationship as well as friendship. At this time she was just discovering who she was as she had married when she was 18, so this was her first time on her own. We had our battles, but what teenage kid and their parents don't go through that. She struggled financially to send me to the college of my dreams and on an amazing trip to Australia, which I am sure she would have liked to have experienced herself. A few years later she remarried, only to have to take care of him after a few years. She was by his side through his heart transplant and many years of ups and downs with his health. When he needed a kidney transplant my Mom was a match and she donated her kidney to him. He died a few years ago and since then my Mom has stopped drinking, lost over 100 pounds, and retired and is just doing great. It is finally time for her take care of herself. A facial and massage would be perfect for her, as she is more than deserving.
SUBMITED BY: Kelly Burroughs
8. MOMINEE: Tressa Barnett
"OK, I HAVE THE WINNER RIGHT HER. SHE IS MY MOTHER-IN-LAW BUT I LOOK UP TO HERE LIKE MY MOTHER. TRESSA IS THE MOST WONDERFUL PERSON YOU WILL EVER MEET. SHE HAS THREE CHILDREN AND 7 GRAND CHILDREN(ALL BOYS). SHE IS ONE OF THOSE PEOPLE THAT NO MATTER WHAT TIME YOU CALL OR NEED ANYTHING SHE IS THERE OR SHE WILL DO ANYTHING IT TAKES TO MEAKE SURE HER FAMILY IS TAKEN CARE OF. SHE IS CURRENTLY TAKING CARE OF HER FATHER WHO HAS HAD MULTIPLE STROKES AND ISNOT ABLE TO BE ALONE OR TAKE CARE OF HIMSELF. HER MOTHER HAS HAD BREAST CANCER AND SHE NEEDS CONSTANT CARE OF HER HOME SO TRESSA AND HER HUSBAND MOVED INTO HER MOMS HOME TO TAKE CARE OF EVERYTHING GIVING UP A RANCH FULLOF HORSES AND ANIMALS. AFTER DOING SO MUCH FOR OTHER PEOPLE SHE IS NOW BATTLING THE HARDEST STRUGGLE IN HER LIFE, SHE HAS CANCER AND IS CURRENTLY ON TREATMENT FOR IT, HER IMMUNE SYSTEM HAS CRASHED SO MANY TIMES WE CAN'T EVEN COUNT ANYMORE. BUT THRU ALL OF THIS SHE MANAGES TO ONLY FOCUS ON HER CHILDREN AND TO MAKE SURE THAT EVERYTHING IS STILL TAKEN CARE OF. I COULD NOT THINK OF A BETTER GIFT FOR HER THAN FOR HER TO TAKE SOMETIME TO HERSELF AND GET PAMPERED. PLEASE REVIEW MY ENTRY AND KNOW SHE WOULD BE SO OVERWHELMED TO RECEIVE YOUR AWARD AND WE RIGHT NOW DON'T HAVE ALOT OF MONEY SO IT WOULD HELP ME TO SHOW HER JUST HOW SPECIAL SHE IS TO US!! THANK YOU SO MUCH, NICOLA SILVA SHE WOULD LOVE THE FACIAL AND ANY OTHER TREATMENTS THAT WOULD JUST RELAX HER."
SUBMITED BY: nicola silva
9. MOMINEE: Megan
I would like to Mom'inate my wife for this special award. I'm sure any of my four children would nominate their mommy, whom they adore, themselves. However, since three of them are four year old triplets and the other is a 3 year old, they are not yet adept at typing. As you can imagine taking care of four toddlers so close in age is a major accomplishment everyday. I believe a day at the spa, particularly a long deep-tissue massage, would be a great way to reward a terrific mom and a great wife. I'm always trying to find ways to help out my wife to relax more by watching the kids and freeing up time for her to take yoga classes. This would be such a blessing to me to be able to me, without taking too much of my teacher's salary, to wish a happy Mother's day to the best, and hardest working, mom on earth?
SUBMITED BY: Mike Conlay
10. MOMINEE: bernadette (bernie) guyovich
"I would like to nominate my close friend of five years Bernie Guyovich. She is probably the hardest working mom I know. Bernie is the mother of two special needs children. Her son Mason has Down Syndrome, and her daughter Samantha has autism. In addition to taking them to numerous therapy and doctor appointments, she also makes sure they participate in ""typical"" childhood activities such as gymnastics, swimming, and piano lessons. Bernie likes to relax by swimming and taking Zumba classes at the YMCA. I have treated her to a facial at Spa Gregories, she has also had a massage there as well. She loves the spa but doesn't have a lot of extra money to spend on herself. I think she is very deserving of any spa treatment at Spa Gregories."
SUBMITED BY: Kathy wallace
11. MOMINEE: Roberta Buser
My mom is a truly amazing woman that deserves to be recognized. She started her nursing career before me and it continued for 40+ years. She is now recently retired and gives back to the community by volunteering. Growing up in Orange County in the 80s as a teenager I was a heavy metal princess, my mom coming from very conservative Boston MA did not understand but always gave me emotional support. I was every parents nightmare a rebel without a clue my mom never let up she always followed through with discipline, continued to push me and never through in the towel. I will never be able to say enough I am sorry or enough I love You to make up for all the late nights, door slamming, name calling, parent teacher conferences my mother endured with grace, style and honor. Today I am married, successful, and looking to start a family of my own. Without my moms support, praise, punishment, kind words, constructive criticism and love I would not be where I am today. Thank you mom you deserve the best because you are the best mom !!
SUBMITED BY: Lesley Buser-Bauer
12. MOMINEE: Apolonia Leano
Superwoman is the word that I would choose to describe my mother. There is no one else in this world that I know who is more loving, kind, and strong than my very own mom. My mom has raised 4 children of her own and practically raised her 9 siblings of her own. Her whole life she has always put herself second in order to make her loved one's first. My mom is in her 60's and finally has retired from the work force and has yet to pamper herself... she's never had haircut over $20, never set foot in a spa, nor been to salon that offers you complimentary tea and water. She refuses to have her children purchase her these services beacuse she would rather have us spend our money on ourselves. For all the love she gives I hope to give her little pampering and a lot of love back.
SUBMITED BY: Aileen Leano
14. MOMINEE: Paige Maxwell
"Dear Cox & Spa Gregories, I nominate my mother for the relaxation treatment. My mother raised my two brothers, my sister, and I and we have had a terrific life. Along with raising us she also baby sits several babies. She has six kids to baby sit every weekday. When I leave to school at 7:30 in the morning the first two arrive and when i leave for practice at 5:20 in the afternoon the last one leaves. She has been doing this work for 23 years, long before i was born and she started when my oldest brother was one year old. She has only taken two years off when she had three of her own kids under the age of 5, my brothers and sister. Recently she has received an injury in her shoulder from her years of picking up children. She has to stretch daily and does several exercise routines to ease her pain along with her chiropractor. Currently I am in high school playing lacrosse and my three older siblings are in college. My sister is about to graduate UCSD and go to NYU for 2 years of school. My mother currently walks around the Mission Viejo Lake in the morning to relieve herself of stress before the babies come. Although she has a lot on her plate she finds time to come to all my games and all my siblings major events. My mother does a lot to relax, but I feel that she is in need of a more relaxing time. I ask for your help, so that you can help show my mother how much she means to my dad, my siblings, and to me. Thank you for reading this and I hope to hear back from you. Just wanting to show my mother how much we all love her, Colby Maxwell"
SUBMITED BY: Colby Maxwell
15. MOMINEE: Gail Jones
I am nominating my mom because she is everything to everyone. she anticipates the needs of those around here and takes care of our every whim and loves us all more than anything. She is generous, loving and always goes beyond the call of duty. My mom is my bestfriend and most cherished mother. She is the best grandmother of 15 that anyone could ask for. She is fun and laughs and enjoys life and can use a day that recognizes all that she does for others. we could not imagine life without her. she loves massages, facials and mani/pedi.
SUBMITED BY: kendra johnson
16. MOMINEE: stacey
"Hi, I am a 13 year old girl who lives in Gahanna Ohio, and I would like to nominate my hardworking mother for mother's day. My mom is a caring, kind, and responsible person. She can never pass by anyone who is in need without giving them a helping hand. Currently, my mom runs two girl scout troops, is the president of running a homeless shelter, works from home, and still has time to take care me and me two other sisters. I honestly do not know how she does it. My mom is very special because she is always there for me, and practically for everyone else. I think she is an amazing person and deserves a day at the spa to relaxe, and also to be recognized. She really needs a day of rest. I would tell you what spa teatment she would enjoy, but i am not familiar with the different types. I hope you can make your best judgment. thank you for giving me the oportunity to nominate my mom for mother's day."
SUBMITED BY: Maria Pina
17. MOMINEE: Sheron Walker
"I would like to nominate a very special mother, whom I met at my son's school. She had 5 children (3 boys and 2 girls). She is an incredible woman, with an amazing spirit. Having five children can tire anyone out, however, this mom gives a new meaning to the word Supermom. Her kids do very well in school, are unbelievably polite and respectful of others. To top it all off, her youngest child has Down Syndrome, plus health issues related to his heart. She spends countless hours attending to him, taking him to doctor appointments and theraphy sessions, and through it all she never complains. In fact, she always has a smile on her face and an upbeat attitude. She makes it all her kids' special events and is there to support them. Her outlook in life puts many of us to shame. Please consider her for your Annual Mom'ination Contest. I can't think of a more deserving mom than her -that is, besides my mom (aka. ""The Saint""). She would benefit from any form of pampering, as she never has any time for herself."
SUBMITED BY: Cris Iagher
18. MOMINEE: Janean Lindner
"I am writing to tell you about a mom of 4 boys who has been through some very tough times but manages to have a superior upbeat outlook on life. Janean Lindner is a mom to 4 boys - ages 18, 13, 5 and 4. Her oldest was injured in an accident in 2008 and suffered a brain injury. Months later her husband was injured in a roll over collision. She has a 5 year old that is Autistic and an active 4 year old as well as the 13 year old who is a ""teenager"". They recently became homeless and she still smiles each day. She has an amazing blog - justjanean.blogspot.com She deserves a wonderful Mother's Day! She is an inspiration to many!"
SUBMITED BY: Barb Harris
19. MOMINEE: Juhi Sharma
My mother is truly an individual who puts people before herself. Currently, she works at a school that specializes in disabilities for kids with autism. My mother has dedicated her whole life to helping children who are in desperate need. She involved herself in a field of psychology and schooling where teachers of her nature are desperately needed. The parents of these students are so appreciative for my mothers help. They constantly praise her for her patience and drive to help these children whom she treats as her own. Her love, education, determination, endurance, and compassion is apparent in every aspect of her life. In addition, my mother currently fulfills her duty to care for her elderly mother from India who is living with us. Despite my mothers undying motivation to help, she never expects anything in return. She is a selfless being that deserves a day of rest and relaxation. My mother has never had any type of spa relaxation which is why I cannot suggest any form of treatments. My mother is a deserving and praiseworthy individual. I look up to my mother as my mentor and idol. I can only aspire to be as loving and dedicated as she. By accepting my mother as the Mominated, your decision in doing so will be absolutely justified and appreciated. Thank you for consideration and for allowing me to share how great my mother really is.
SUBMITED BY: Kunal Sharma
20. MOMINEE: Ginny Moon
My mother is my best friend. She is who I strive to impress and make proud each and every day. That is because my mom is a superhero. My entire life we have lived with my Grandma, my mom's mom, a wonderful little day with diabetes who recently had a stroke and is finally recovering. Though I have always seen my mom help her mom every day, since the stroke it has been worse. My mom takes care of her mom selflessly each day, which involves her leaving work early a lot to come home to take care of her, and spending the weekends to take care of her as well. Not only is my mom my grandmother's primary caretaker, but my mom is a full time grandma, selflessly taking time to take care of her grandson anytime it is needed. My mom also works at our church as the office manager and is the director of the musicals we put on in the church community. If I could be half the mom that she is, I would be proud. She raised my sister, brother and I with compassion, love, understanding, trust, and never once lost sight of any of those things. She is a wonderful mom to my siblings and I, a devoted wife, grandmother, and daughter, and a faithful sister. I am blessed and lucky to have her as my mom. I have never really seen my mom get a break, a true day of pampering and relaxing, and I definitely think she deserves it. She loves spas and massages, as well as manicures and pedicures, so I was thinking the milk and honey bath, lavender and sea salt manicure and pedicure, and the fassage, one or all of those would be amazing!
SUBMITED BY: Courtney Moon
21. MOMINEE: Patti Garriepy
I am nominating my amazing mother, Patti, not because I think she is the hardest working, most deserving mother out there. But because she IS. She suffers from a pain-inducing medical condition called fibromyalgia. She works very hard just to make it through everyday situations, like doing the laundry. I am 14 years old, and believe she needs, and completely deserves a relaxing day away from daily worries. She would probably enjoy a soothing bath or pain relieving treatment the most, but I'll let her decide what her favorite is, that is, if she wins. (:
SUBMITED BY: Jamie Garriepy
22. MOMINEE: Lidia Califano
My mother Lidia is absolutly the best candidate for the momination because she has never once put herself first, she always thinks about others before herself. She has been through a lot, and never once has time to sit down and relax. She's the person I most admire in my life, I could never do half the things she's done with the little she's had to work with. My mother is in her mid 60s, and still works so hard, she never gets tired. Ever since she was 6 yrs old my mother has worked hard, she grew up in Argentina taking care of her sick father after her mother had passed from cancer, she was pretty much on her own since childhood and that's exactly why she's such an inspiration. My mother is such a positive person, always on the go, always helping, doing things when she doesn't have to. When I compare myself and my mother I think to myself wow, I could never do half the stuff she does. Her heart still ticks like she was still in her 20s. After raising 4 children, all grown adults now I Believe its time for my mother to get something amazing in return and this is why I believe my mother is the best candidate for the momination.
SUBMITED BY: Gisela Califano
23. MOMINEE: Peggy Sunshine
I am writing to nominate my mother, Peggy Sunshine, because she definitely deserves a day of rest and relaxation! My mom is the most inspirational and hard-working individual that I know. She has a demanding job at a senior's retirement home, and she is helping people around the clock all day. When she comes home after a tiring yet rewarding day at work, she still has a surplus of love and insight to give us and keep our familial bonds close together. A few years ago, she was diagnosed with thyroid cancer, a vicious disease that makes her tired very easily as it has left her with little energy. Taking this into account, it always continues to amaze me how, despite her cancer that she has thankfully overcome, she always has so much love to give. She is my hero, and what inspires me the most about her is her strength, endless love, and will to persevere even through the most difficult of times. She is the Sunshine of our lives, and she definitely keeps the sun shining in our family. She is my role model, and I hope to be a terrific mother just like her someday. Her selflessness and generosity for all the people around her are definitely attributes that need to be recognized--which is why I want her to enjoy and indulge herself at the spa. I am not too familiar with the treatments, but I checked out some of them and I think that the Gregories Great Escape or Really Spoiled Mom Package would be an EXCELLENT gift for my EXCELLENT mother!!!!
SUBMITED BY: Erin Sunshine
24. MOMINEE: Felicia Cunningham
When my husband and I first saw this advertisement, we both instantly thought of the same person. She is the most selfless person we know. She has her hands full with two young beautiful children and another one on the way. She always puts her family and friends first. Both of her children have required physical therapy and she spends all of her time tending to theirs and everyone elses needs. Her children are two of the happiest kids Ive ever seen and she spends all of her energy keeping them that way. She never misses the important or minor dates in all of our lives, right down to cards, gifts, thank you notes and follow ups to things I cant even remember in my own life, let alone someone elses. During my pregnancy, she donated so many major things to us like clothes, car seats, high chairs and books and followed up on Drs appointments that I almost forgot I had. If that wasnt enough, she bought us many major items for our baby shower too. Even when there isnt anything to celebrate, she gives us the most amazing gifts just because she loves us and feels like doing something nice. Her and her husband had initially only planned on having two children, so their third was definitely a surprise. She worries about how overwhelming it may be to raise three children so close in age, but we are 100% confident that she has what it takes. It would be so nice to see someone take care of her like she takes care of all of us, so we would love nothing more than to see her selected for some special pampering. Any of the treatments in the Mother-To-Be program would be wonderful for her, especially the Maternity Massage and Prenatal Facial. Thank you for your consideration.
SUBMITED BY: Keri Caldwell
25. MOMINEE: Kathi Konogeris
The hardest working person I know is my mom. Not only is she a wonderful, hardworking mother, but she also works at an elementary school helping others. On top of her jobs at the school and as my mother, she somehow has time to go back to college to get a degree as a Speech and Language Pathologist. For as long as I can remember, my mom has always been there for me when I needed help or advice. I am amazed at how much time she has to spend with my family and I. One of my moms rules is family comes first. No matter the situation she always puts her family before anything else. Just the other day she had to miss a college class to be at my soccer banquet. I told her it was okay and that she should go to her class, but she insisted on coming to my banquet. Whenever I need help or advice, I immediately turn to my mom. She always has the right thing to say to comfort me, or the perfect solution to any situation. The best thing about my mom is her personality. She is always optimistic and finds a positive in any predicament. My mom finds the good in people and exposes it. Mothers Day is the day that we all show our moms how much they mean to us, and I want to show my mom that she means the world to me. Please give my great mom a well-disserved break at Spa Gregories.
SUBMITED BY: Thomas Konogeris
26. MOMINEE: Twila Berget
I really think my mother is an amazing person. She tries so hard at everything she does. She is a single mom, recently engaged. She has to take care of my two brothers, my two soon-to-be step brothers, and me. My mother works with young children who have autism or may possibly have autism. She recently went back to school to get her masters degree in psycology and recieved it not too long ago. I can tell my mom is stressed and overwhelmed by it all. Along with that, my mom has been trying to plan a wedding with her fiancee. They are to get married in mid-July. I was excited to find that she wanted me to be her maid of honor. I didn't exactly know what that entitled. I thought this was something that my mother deserved. My mom currently does not have an real relaxation practices, she keeps her self working seven days a week. I don't think she is able to find time to relax with all her responsiblities. I saw that their was a Bachelorette Party package available on the spa menu. I thought this was cool, because my mom told me i was really under no obligation to do anything as maid of honor, and this would be a nice surprise. I also think my mom would like the Aloha Paradise! package. Both would be suitable for my mom's case, because she really needs to take a break and try to relax. Thank you for offering the Momination opportunity.
SUBMITED BY: Alyssa Lutwen
27. MOMINEE: Nobuko Martin
My mom is the cutest little Japanese lady you've ever seen. She is always telling me to eat healthier foods that have lots of antioxidants so I think a detoxifying massage would be great for her. I think my mom would enjoy the Lymphatic Drainage Massage because my dad has just recovered from cancer in the lymph nodes. She spends so much time washing dishes, folding clothes, and making sure that our family is healthy, that she hardly has any time to take care of her own health. That's why I think my mom deserves to be Mom'inated. Thanks
SUBMITED BY: Joppi Martin
28. MOMINEE: Eleanor Pellettieri
My mother has lived in Orange County and served this community as a registered nurse since 1965. She has been married to my father for over 50 years now and raised 3 wonderful children. Even though my mother was diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis many years ago she has dedicated her time singing in our church choir, playing the bells and even attends preschools once a year on grandparents day as ""adopted a grandmother"" to preschool children who have lost their grandparents. She has been a working volunteer for over 35 yrs. consistently at ""The Pageant of the Masters"" in Laguna Beach. Although she is now a retired nurse she has not retired her wonderful bedside manner by helping the residents of Laguna Woods by running errands for them taking their blood pressure and visiting with them when she knows they are alone. My mother is so well liked she can not go anywhere without two people recognizing her and coming over to say hello because she is so pleasant to be around. A few years ago she lost her son my brother at age 42 from a sudden heart attack and who has been battling diabetes since age 10. Now, we just found out last week she has liver cancer and its in the last stage but this has not stopped her from being that positive and caring person that has touched so many lives and whom we all love. She is at the gym every morning and goes bowling once a week with a league. I think my mother deserves to be Mom'inated for all the thoughtfulness and acts of kindness she has done her entire life for others and she would appreciate any pampering that you could offer. Thank you, Cheryl Pellettieri"
SUBMITED BY: cheryl pellettieri
29. MOMINEE: Peggy Singh
"My mom deserves to be Mom'nated because she describes the quote ""i have the best mom in the world."" My mom is my hero and my backbone. I do not know where i would be without my mom today. She has helped me become a successful young women throughout every aspect in my life. First, by pushing me to be independent and do well in school. To teach me not to rely on anyone but myself. She paid my way though college to help me graduate. She also spoils me when it is uneeded and never asks for anything in return. She did not grow up from a wealthy family and worked her whole way through college so I didnt have to. Now all i want to do is pay her back now that I just graduated and what better way than to give her the best mothers day ever. Please help me do this it would mean everything in the world to me and my mother, Thank you, Elyse Singh"
SUBMITED BY: Elyse Singh
30. MOMINEE: shirin khamessi
To truly describe all that my mom has done for me would take years. She is the best mom in the world I dont know what I would do without her. She does so much her everyday life and I truly look up to her. Not only does she work full time outside of the house but inside of the house as well. She does so much for me and my family and we truly take it for granite. Throughout my life there are numerous times that my mom has helped my sister I through tough times. She spends the majority of the day either working or running the house and barely has time left in the day to spend on herself. She has never been to a spa and I think any of the glamorous treatments at your wonderful spa would be incredible. Thank you!
SUBMITED BY: samar javid
31. MOMINEE: lori torres
I would like to nominate my adoptive mother lori torres, she is the most hard working positive woman i know. she has taught me so much in life and by watching her i know exacly how i want to be when i am older. my own mother left to be with her boyfriend and lori took me in to her home and treats me as one of her children. she now i can say is like a second mother to me she deserves this spa treatment, she already has 2 boys and now a teenage girl you can image the stress that has put on her. I just want to give back to her a little for what a big impact and how much she has given to me and changed my life for the better.
SUBMITED BY: natalie o'Brien
32. MOMINEE: Sook
My mom deserves to be Mom'inated because she is the most nicest and genuine person that I love and respect. She never does anything for herself and since she's a nurse, she works 12 hour shifts and comes home extremely exhausted, which I feel bad for. On days she doesn't work, she helps out the disabled at the "Joy Center" for church. I've never seen her get angry for my whole 20 years, and she doesn't spend any money on herself but supports us or donates it and I love her so much cause of it. I feel bad since I don't work that I can never do anything nice for her or take care of her like I want so I wish she wins! As for current relaxation practices, she doesn't do much but take long baths. She finds make up products that are $20 expensive so there are no current investments in such! Either way, thanks for reading and I hope she gets nominated cause you'll never meet a sweeter person! :)
SUBMITED BY: Grace Hwang
33. MOMINEE: Shawna McAfee
My wife is in the Marine Corps. In August will be her 4 year mark and as of right now she is planning to get out and go straight to school. She has done a tour in Iraq and right after we got married. She got pregnant with our first beautiful daughter Tawnee 4 months after we were married. It was hard on us considering I did not have a job yet and she was the only one working. Our daughter Tawnee is 16 months old and my wife is due with our second daughter May 20th. She never buys her self anything. I honestly cant tell you the last time she got something for her self other then contacts that she needed. She always puts Me or her daughter first. Being in the military has been hard on her and she fights every day to make it through. She deserves a day to her self if it is anything. She works everyday to make sure her daughter and I have what we want. Im working now but to her its still not enough. She wants everyone but herself to have what they want and she needs a break. I think a spa treatment would do her great. It will show her that even though she is taking care of everyone else she deserves something also. She is one of the strongest woman I know considering the fact she is in one of the hardest military branchs there is and she has faught for our freedom. Her Daughter will look back at this one day and know her mom is a hero. Any spa treatment would do and considering Im a man I dont really now the difference. I think even just a pedicure and manicure would for her. She deserves the best and I want her to know that if her children could write this Im sure they could say a million more things about her. She is young and has already done something that a million men could not do. I am proud of my wife and I know her children are now and our children in the future will also be.
SUBMITED BY: Joshua McAfee
34. MOMINEE: Gloria Sears
"I am nominating my best friend, my mom. She proves to me everyday that she is an incredibly strong women. She is my confidant. She has worked hard all of her life for her two children, whom she loves immensely. She has carried that unconditional love over to her grandchildren. She has been by my side all of my life. She is the type of mom that you know you can completely depend on. She was my rock through my difficult pregnancies and difficult marriage. Without her I do not know where I would be. This year started off particularly challenging for her. My grandfather was quite ill from Diabetes in the beggining of the year. He was in and out of the hospital. My Mom, whom works full-time was there for him at his beckon call. She would spend her days with my grandfather and then go into her office and work through the night. In February, my grandmother suffered from a massive stroke. She has permenant brain damage and is slowly worsening. My mom immediately moved my grandmother into her home and is taking care of her full-time. Everyday my mom hides the emotional stress that she is dealing with, living with her mother who does not even know who she is anymore. My mom has maintained a positive attitude and is making my grandmother's last days the best they can be. My mom never stops to take care of herself. I do not tell my mom enough that I respect, admire and appreciate her. This is a great opportunity to let her know. If she is chosen I know that she would love any of your services. If having to choose she loves manicures, pedicures and facials(Arcona Rejuvenation Deluxe). She needs some rejuvenating. Thank you!"
SUBMITED BY: Ramona McMahon
35. MOMINEE: Victoria Rutledge
"I have a mom who is a selfless rare woman who deserves to be papmered for Mother's day because she is always pampering and caring for everone else but her self. She is a workaholic. All her life She is accustomed to 70 hour work week so I just sticks with it. She is the room mom, soccer coach, Boy Scout leader, Girl Scout leader, team mom (in at least one sport a year), PTA mom (executive board at one or both schools), serve on the School Site Council, teaches taekwondo after school and is also a second degree black belt,teaches art in both of her kids classes, do Junior Great Books at both schools (for classes my kids arent even in sometimes) and volunteers in all the classes and completly runs staff Appreciation. She would love to have more time to spend with my family and friends but can't say no. She also does Art Masters training and a birthday and team dinners and lunches for a friend. Recently she had strep throat and didn't even rest for 1/2 a day let alone while she was sick. She is a selfless person, with a giant heart and I am proud to be her friend. She does NO relaxation practices and would LOVE Spa gregories relaxation massage and facial. I do!
SUBMITED BY: Michelle Bounds
36. MOMINEE: Yvette Cervantes
My mother is a hard at work for a family of seven, she works days from 7:00 to around 4:30, she never takes a well deserved break for herself. She has work and on top of the long days volunteers herself for our school programs; she helped with my brothers football program, she's helped with my whole familys school projects, she helped feed at my school farm every sunday. Almost all of my siblings play a sport and she's out there every single day to help do her part in our dreams of becoming great like she is. She is always willing to help someone in something they need, no matter how large or small the task may be my mother is always there to help a person in need. She is very well deserved to this, my mother is my hero.
SUBMITED BY: Brooke Cervantes
37. MOMINEE: Vanessa
My mom is really the hardest working mom, my dad lost his job and for 6 months he couldn't find another one so my mom was working her job and then took over the responsibilities of a co-worker to make extra money. Then my mom lost her job, since that day she's been trying non-stop to find another, and she doesn't give up. On top of that my grandma (her mom) was diagnosed with cancer, my mom has been keeping my grandmas spirits high and it's been working :) my mom would love a facial and masage day, especially the massage (she has major back problems) my mom really deserves this, please, it would mean so so much.
SUBMITED BY: Devon Koch
38. MOMINEE: Lillie Heisser
My mother has had a very interesting life. She is very lonely at this time. All 8 of her children she raised and now have families and lives of thier own. My father pasted away 2 years ago, and she is very sad. I feel if she was pampered for a day that it just might lift her spirits up, so that she will be able to get back to herself. I would appreciate it so much just to see her happy again, even if it is for one day! Thank you for taking time to read this entry.
SUBMITED BY: Mia Johnson
39. MOMINEE: Victoria
I know everyone says their mom is the best ever, and mine may not be, but she's the greatest I've ever met:) She works so hard for our family. She deserves to get away every chance she gets. I'm not telling you to pick her, but I think you should really think about it. Nobody deserves it more than my mom! <333
SUBMITED BY: Heather Erwin
40. MOMINEE: Siu Tong
"My mother moved to Orange County October 2008 to help me raise my then 3 month old son. She said good bye to a very well-settled life style in San Francisco, her friends and family, and a steady job without hesitation so she could be a part of her grandsons life. Her sacrifice is underscored by the fact that she speaks little to no English. She grew up in a small village in China and immigrated to the US with a husband (my father, who was dying of nasopharyngeal cancer) and two young children. Alone in a new culture and without any system of support, she shouldered the long and painful death of my father alone, and only months after arriving to the US. Determined to give her children the American dream, she worked long hours to provide for us. Her unconditional love for her family, generosity, and profound wisdom were vital to the success of our little nuclear family. I use the term success not as a measure of our familys socioeconomic standing. Rather, success reflects some comfortable level of achievement of the American dream a dream she worked so hard to foster and protect. And my mom continues to amaze me by volunteering to do it all over again for her grandchild. But this time around will be different. This time around, she can sit back and revel in watching me instill in my son all those wonderful values she passed on to me. I think she will enjoy this role much better. And I can think of no better way to thank her and show my appreciation for her many years of devotion than a relaxing salon day in beautiful Orange County. (I think she will enjoy the LED facial and a massage)"
SUBMITED BY: Serena Nervez
My mom is probably the most hardworking, independent and giving mothers anyone has met. Some may think that it's a cliche thing to say but she is truly a gift from God. My mom is always giving and always helping someone, whether its me or a stranger on the street. She never stops moving or working, especially owning two businesses. The economy is definitely not the best right now either but she finds a way to somehow put food on my plate and clothes on my body. Seven days a week, she is either cleaning houses or trying to plan a wedding or an event. I feel she deserves a day to herself with peace and relaxation because she never has the opportunity to pamper herself. I would say she needs a relaxing facial and massage to take her stress away, especially with her bad back. I know she would be the one to appreciate this gift the most because she is always busy giving, giving,giving and never recieving. I love her so much!
SUBMITED BY: Alexandria Clinkscales
42. MOMINEE: Jean Wallensack
My mom has raised three kids with very little to work with. She worked as well as my father all of my childhood. I am the middle of three children and all of us believe that my mom is long over due for a little pampering and a little regonition for all that she has done. She ahd a thyroid disease that makes it harder for her to move around and stand on her feet as long as most people. She has always gone without for us either not eating if there wasnt enough to not getting her thyroid medication because we didnt have the money for it. My mom is a stay at home mom these days and she cooks a a very good home cooked meal every night to make sure that we are all well taken care of. She never gets herself something nice or new because we didnt have a enough for anything new. she would love a day of luxury and i think she more than deserves it.
SUBMITED BY:heather wallensack
43. MOMINEE: Martha Trujillo
My hard working mom's life is sooo stressful. She always has break downs and I don't like to see her that way. I have never got her anything so I would like for her to be Mom'inated. Please select her. She works so hard, and I think its time for her to have a break. Please chose her. She is very nice and works hard to keep this family running. My dad helps sometimes, but he is always at work. I have baseball practice and games and my sister has volleyball. So it's hard to move around. She really deserves to have this. Please Mom'inate her. I love her sooooooooooo much.I'm seriously begging. Please. My brother moved up to Oregon for collage, and my other sister just got married. Its really hard and we don't have a lot of money in this economy. I would really like to have her Mom'inated. Really. She has been providing for the family for years, and we haven't done anything for her. She really deserves to win this. Please Please chose her. Everyone loves her and it's time for her to get a break. Please chose her.
SUBMITED BY: Mark Trujillo
44. MOMINEE: Lynne Higgins
My mom is a fighter, a winner, and my champion. She went through 16 weeks of chemotherapy this past fall and still maintained a full coarse load at Saddleback College with a 4.0 GPA. She is my inspiration and my motivation every day for me at Cal State Fullerton. In 2007 my father abandoned my mother and I in Ohio, and family came to our rescue and brought us out to live California. Not only did my mother make sure that I finished high school when I was a sad and lost teenager, but she pushed me to work hard so I could move forward and go to college. With her support, I was accepted at 3 Cal State Schools and 2 UC schools. Since day one here, my mother has shown that she has the will and determination to accomplish anything she sets her mind to. She is my hero.
SUBMITED BY: Elizabeth Higgins
46. MOMINEE: 56
My mom deserves to be mominated for a spa treatment because she is a hardworker and never takes time for herself. My mother is so busy caring about others that she cannot indulge herself. My mom works five days a week, sometimes six, and is a hardworking dentist. She works from nine in the morning, until eight at night. My mother does all of this to support me, her daughter. My father works in the Phillipines, and is hardly ever home. My mother supports and raises me like a single mom and deserves to finally relax for a day. Even when she is not at work, she spends her free time doing the billing for her patients and this mother's day she needs to take her mind of off work. I am very thankful for my mother, and she is honestly the best mother any woman could be, especially how hard she works just to support me. She never stops until she see's a smile on my face, and is the sweetest, most caring woman you will ever meet. The Spa G treatment I think she would most enjoy would be a massage because she is so stressed out, and I feel that it would help her unwind. My mom deserves to be Mom'inated, and I want her to enjoy at Spa Gregories since I cannot give her this. Please choose my mom, she really really needs this!
SUBMITED BY: Nikki Batte
47. MOMINEE: Monica Hernandez
The mom I feel needs to be pampered is my Fiancee, Monica. Monica is a Loss Mitigation Specialist for US Bank. This means that she, daily, attempts to help people save their homes from foreclosure. This job sends her on a constant emotional rollercoaster for 8 to 10 hours a day. This also causes many physical problems for her and she is constantly sore and tired. Yet, through all this, she is the perfect mother of a wonderful 8 year old daughter named Kaila. She always makes time to check K's (her nickname) homework and make her dinner. She reads to her and spends time with her every chance she gets. Currently, the only relaxation she gets are the basic massages I give her in the evening, after K goes to bed. I feel she would love the Deep Tissue Massage. She always brings home a lot of stress and tension from work and I think if she gets the chance to get some relief from it, this would make her the happiest woman in the world.
SUBMITED BY: Michael Carpenter
48. MOMINEE: Rose Johannsen
"Rose is the mother of 17 month old triplets. She was on bed rest for most of the pregnancy due to the high risk, and used that time to learn all she possibly can about proper care, nutrition, and developmental care for the babies. Once they were born, she put her career on hold so that she could be a stay-at-home mom for the children. In these hard economic times, the loss of an income means a great deal of personal sacrifice, which she gladly accepts so that the children can be raised by their parents. Between three babies, now 17 months old, she has very long days, very short nights, and few opportunities to relax and escape the stresses of multiple-motherhood. She's an incredible mom - the kids are all happy, well adjusted, and growing up to be wonderful people."
SUBMITED BY: Eric Johannsen
49. MOMINEE: Kathy Heckathorn
My mom is the best in the world! She has worked super hard to make sure that my brother and I had the best life possible. Every good trait I have is because of her. Seven years ago, my father had a stroke and she took on the role of full time bread winner and full time caretaker. Then, a year ago, my father pasted away and a week later my mom was laid-off from her job of 18 years. At a time when some people might give up, my mom pulled up her boot straps and started a new career as a realestate agent. What a time to be a realesate agent! She is having to work every day, really long hours. She totally deserves a break. She's given up most of the things she likes to do for relaxation, like yoga, for work. There is no time and no money. I really think she would love any nice facial or anything that makes her glow on the outside like she does on the inside.
SUBMITED BY: Kelli Meiers
50. MOMINEE: Mary Vineyard
All the mothters that have been nominated on this website should be given a free spa day, but one of the most deserving is my mother. she is beautiful, not from her make-up or clothes or the way she gets her hair done at a salon. She is beautiful in the sacrifices she makes for my family each day. She takes time out of her day to make homeade meals, or working her heart out to make money to support my family, or making cute snacks for school, so good that is how everyone knows you. Someday I wish to be as beautiful as she is. She is also very kind. She has gone out of her way many more times than she should have to help people in need or to rescue a stray dog because that is what she would want someone to do for her. I am truely blessed to have a mother that is so caring as my mom. She is the vision of a strong woman who never complains and yet denies herself a day of relaxation, to get the house clean,or do gardening.She never does anything for herself that doesn't beneift others. She always thinks for others, like if she is going to the store and sees gummy bears she will buy them for me because they are my favorite candy. She has never been to a spa i thought this would be perfect for her. I think she would love the Detox Seaweed Wrap because it would be very relaxing and i know she would enjoy it.
SUBMITED BY: Eva Vineyard
51. MOMINEE: Debbie Bozek
SUBMITED BY: My mom, Debbie Bozek, deserves this special treatment for many reasons. Here are some to name a few...Her first grandchild was born just before Christmas last year, and was born with many health complications. He was admited to the LA Children's hospital and is still there. It has been almost 5 months now and every weekend she goes there to visit and offer support for her son and daughter-in-law. There are so many other things to do on your time off, but my Mom chooses to drive to LA and stay with her new grandson. My husband recetly had back surgery down in San Diego, and I needed help with walking the dog and taking turns in the hospital speaking with the doctors. She lived up in Irvine and drove back and forth everyday making sure that my husnand and I and the dog were taken care of, taking time off from her work. There was never a question as to if she was going to help or not! My mom has a very stressful job and makes sure that her entire staff is always taken care of and that every person's individual needs are taken care of. She never puts herself first. My mom deserves this day of relaxation, not just because she spends time with family, helps family, friends and co-workers, but because she never puts her needs and wants first. I would like to give something back to my mom! Put her needs and wants first! She would love a massage for sure! I thank you for taking the time to do this for all of the moms out there that deserve this special day!
SUBMITED BY: Gwen Neumann
52. MOMINEE: Gina Cousineau
SUBMITED BY: I am blessed to be the daughter of Gina Cousineau. My mom is extremely deserving of some relaxing spa time. May of 2009 marks two years since my youngest brother, Evan, was diagnosed with a terminal, genetic disease. My mom cared for him tirelessly in the hospital for the next 6 months while he underwent a bone marrow transplant. In November of 2007, we lost Evan to complications of his transplant, just before his 10th birthday. Despite this horrible tragedy, my mom has done a tremendous job of keeping Evans memory alive and saving lives in his honor. She has formed a foundation Be A Hero, Become A Donor which works to promote bone marrow, blood, organ, and cord blood donation. Through her efforts, countless lives have been saved. My mom is an incredibly inspiring woman, and my siblings and I are so fortunate to have her as an example. I can only pray that I will become half of the woman that my mom has become. Although we have been through some horrific things as a family, my mom has carried my family through all of the sorrow that we have endured. She understands the important of reflecting on the journey that shes been on, and does so by journaling. Writing helps her to release some of the tension that builds up in her life, and helps her to brainstorm on more life-saving strategies. I believe that my mom is incredibly deserving of a fabulous Spa G facial for all of her amazing work. She lost a son, and rather than give up, she has chosen to get up every day and honor Evan. My mom has vowed to devote her life to saving others, and that is something that truly needs to be recognized. I mominate my wonderful mom, Gina Cousineau.
SUBMITED BY: Mary Cousineau
53. MOMINEE: Diane Colvin
My mom is like my sunshine. Every morning when she comes in and wakes me up for school,my day is brightened. She is so nice and caring. She's funny and knows how to have fun. She will do whatever she has to do for my family of five. Right now she is pretty stressed because we have just moved into a new house and it has been extremely hectic. On top of all this, she was sick on the day we moved in. We will now be doing some work on our yard and what my mom needs the most is a nice relaxing day at the spa. A break from all this stuff she has to worry about. She has so much going on between having three kids and work going on on her house that she barely has enough time to sit down and read a book or take a walk, which she normally does to relax. The treatment she would enjoy the most is probably the soothing stones massage. My mom loves massages. They always make her feel really relaxed and calm. A few years ago she had a shoulder problem and her shoulder muscles are still sort of tight so a massage always helps loosen them and make her feel much better. The past year has been a bit difficult for my mom. First of all, her oldest child went off to college which was very hard for her. In August, two days before her birthday, her father passed away from lung cancer when he was only 76. Also, about two months ago, her best friend and the first friend she met when she moved to Newport Beach was diagnosed with colon cancer and is currently going through kemo therapy in an attempt to cure her cancer. My mom is very worried about her. My mom is amazing. I would not be who I am without her as my role model. She loves Spa Gregorie's and with everything that is going on a spa day is just what she needs.
SUBMITED BY: Samantha Colvin
54. MOMINEE: Maryalaine Herbert
"My mom, Maryalaine Herbert, is one of the most selfless people you could ever meet. Along with raising her sixteen year old daughter and coming from a difficult divorce she has also for the past five years been working with special needs children for the Newport Mesa Unified School District.The children she works with have problems ranging from ADD to more severe disorders which may cause them to become violent.However,her passion for these children is what keeps her going everyday. Despite all the things my mom does everyday to help her community she's also a dedicated and caring mother to me. She is always putting my beauty needs first,whether it be with always buying me nice expensive clothes or getting her hair cut at SuperCuts so that I can go to a top noch salon to get mine done. She tells me all the time that I am her whole world and she would do anything to see me happy. On May 15, 2009, my mom will be turning 50 years old and she plans to spend her birthday taking her former autistic student to Disneyland so that he may enjoy himself. If that doesn't prove her selflessness then I don't know what does.I just want my mom to look as beautiful on the outside as she is on the inside and for her to come first for once instead of her putting everyone else first. I think the treatment that would best benefit my mother would be the Deluxe Agora Rejuvination because she works so hard everyday and her job takes a lot out of her, often making her appeared tired. She always keeps herself going and only seems to relax when she goes to bed at night. I think my mom deserves to win this contest because she is the best mom anyone could ever ask for and deserves the pampering that Spa Gregorie's offers their customers. If she is chosen, this will definately be one of the best Mother's Day/Birthday presents she will ever recieve."
SUBMITED BY: Elizabeth Barzegar
55. MOMINEE: Tiffany Thompson
"My mom is the most amazing person in the world. She has a great personality. She would do anything for me. She loves to make me happy and i want to make her happy. She is there for me when i am having troubles with my friends. My mom is also always there when i am sick. She love to go to adventures with my sister and i. She really deserves this gift and i want to give it to her. SO PLEASE NOMINATE MY MOM FOR THIS GIFT. thank you so much Jessica"
SUBMITED BY: Jessica Thompson
56. MOMINEE: Yvette Cervantes
If you look up the word mother in the dictionary you will see a definition such as, a female parent. But I think that the definition should be changed to something like a female parent who is selfless, caring, strong, and giving. I come from a family of 7 people and we are all supported by my mother. Without her we would'nt be the people we are today. She pushes us to do more than we want to and gives us the support and resources that we need to become great people like her. She is one of the most selfless people I know and she gives us everything that she can. I always make sure not to give her giftcards for her birthday because she usually spends it on us. My mom really deserves to have time to relax because she currently doesn't even take the time out to relax due to the fact that she is taking care of everyone else. Her name is known by dozens of people at our high school, at our church, on my lacrosse team, and on our football team simply because of the fact that she is always there to give a helping hand. All of my friends as well as my brother's and sister's friends call her mama Cervantes. I know she would greatly appreciate a nice massage, specially on her hands and feet due to the fact that she is always on her feet walking around at football and lacrosse games and using her hands to help out everyone around her. I love my mom very much and I would love to see her get a much deserved and needed spa treatment
SUBMITED BY: Brittany Cervantes
57. MOMINEE: Patricia
This nomination is for my beautiful wife, Patricia. She is the dearest and most dedicated mother and grandmother I know. She has three grown children and 3 grandchildren. Patricia is a wonderful cook and baker, and makes birthday cakes for every birthday and party, She has made Halloween costumes for the Grandkids and has always been there for her children whether as a babysitter, to help with a family function, decorating, moving or just as a friend to listen. She has had Fibromyalgia for years as well as Back and Knee problems and never lets it stop her from giving everything she can to her family. Even more amazing is she has given me the honor of sharing her family with me and allowing me to be a step-parent and a Grandfather. She is a truly amazing person and I always pray that I can be as caring, giving and loving as she is. I hope she can have a day of rest and pampering that she deserves. She is my one and only
SUBMITED BY: Bradley Miller
58. MOMINEE: Kelly Bainter
My mother is a deserving mother because, she is a mother of 2, Andrea 19, and Breanna 15.My younger sister has put my mother through a lot, she made big mistakes and put my mother under a lot of stress. When we were little my mom raised us by herself. My father was in and out of the picture. She has worked all her life and she has been at the same miserable job for 11 years. Very recently, her grandmother which she was very close to, has passed away. It has taken a huge toll on my mom. My mom has been through a lot this last year and a half, and me and my sister want to make it up to her. It would be so great if on Mother's day we could tell her she was getting a spa day which she would appreciate so very much.
SUBMITED BY: Andrea Olson
59. MOMINEE: Lisa McAffee
My mom is a perfect example of hard-work and sacrifice. My mom goes out of her way to help her children succeed in life. In the past years, she went back to working at Mission Hospital to help put me through college as well as my two siblings. The real gratitude for my mother came when I was greeted with my own challenges in life. My mother was my angel through every bend in the road. She stayed by my side offering support, an understanding nature, and unconditional love. She is a woman who does not shrink from challenges but rises to meet them. If I learn one thing from my mother it is strength. She always has faith that things will work out. The love and concern doesnt stop at home. As a nurse, she works 14 hour days, on her feet all day in the service of others. My mother comes home from work, almost exhausted, yet she doesnt stop to complain when she gets home. My mother then goes to work, helping us in any way she can. I love my mom because even during the hard times, she still finds ways to show she loves us whether it is leaving a kind note on a bed, or doing her old school drill team dance moves to make us laugh. Her life is truly lived as a labor of love. My mother is the woman I can only hope to be one day. She never puts herself first and I know that she really deserves to. In fact, I never see her relaxing so that is why I nominate her. I would never want my mom to feel taken for granted, because she deserves the world. When I saw the commercial, I knew it was meant for my delightful mother. So please consider giving an incredible day to an incredible woman, my mother.
SUBMITED BY: Courtney McAffee
60. MOMINEE: Jennifer Lapaglia
My mom is the most wonderful and dedicated mom and grandma there is. She has always been there for us and done everything possible to give us everything we wanted including love, support and understanding. Last year my 2 year old brother was diagnosed with cancer. A mother's worst nightmare had come true. He had to go through 9 months of chemotherapy and 8 weeks of radiation and my mom was by his side every single second. She literally nursed him back to health, the doctors believe that her nursing him was what gave him the will to fight. There were times where that was the only thing that he wanted and no matter how exaughsted or weak she was she never gave up and never thought of herself. I have a seven year old brother who stayed home with my dad, which was hard because she missed him dearly, and saw him in between hospital stays and doctor visits. She never had a break and still never gets one. They have a special bond and he still finds comfort in her constant attention. It is very hard on her and she deserves a special day to herself. She loves pedicures and massages, I absolutely know that she would love the Ultimate Detail Pedicure. She went through the hardest thing a mother should have to go through and I think this is exactly what she needs to give her a boost and let her focus on herself for once. We want her to know how much we all love and appreciate her. Thank You Mom. Thank you Spa Gregories for this wonderul opprotunity.
SUBMITED BY: heather lapaglia
61. MOMINEE: Mary
My mom Mary is very hard working. She is a doctor and surgeon and works all day. And then she comes home and takes care of my family. We have six people in our family which means the dishes and laundry is very hard to take care of. She tends to get them done but never has any time for herself. She is such a supportive and loving mom and deserves the best mothers day ever! I want to be just like her when I grow up because she takes care of everyone but herself. She takes care of my grandma and our neighbor who has a terrible disease. My mom is the person who everyone leans on and I want her to enjoy a day without having so much responsibility. Like I mentioned before she is a doctor and listens and takes care of everyone elses problem but her own. She loves spas and pampering and manicures and pedicures. She ha s the biggest heart in the world and I wish she could have this one day to realize how truly special she is and how much of a blessing she is to our whole family!!!
SUBMITED BY: Karen Billeci
62. MOMINEE: Melinda Klein
My mother has grown to be one of the most respectable people I have ever known. Her past has been revealed to me year by year with neverending surprises. I have learned stories with such hardship that I don't know how anyone could endure it. My mom, above anybody, needs to relax, especially right now. She has been recently retired and now holds the job of mom-of-the-house, doing errands, cooking dinner, filing paperwork, doing the laundry, paying the bills, and more. But before this, she was Director of Pharmacy at Long Beach Memorial. She held this stressful position for 23 years being manager-on-call for over 50% of the time. During her tenure at the hospital, she balanced many other things including me and my sister, a divorce, bankruptcy, living out of a car, and simply trying to just make ends meet. To get to her position at the hospital, my mom went to school for 10 years. 4 years at Cal State Fullerton, 4 at USC, and 2 years in her residency. She has really worked her tail off to be where she wants to be. But it hasn't been all smiles. After she retired, alcohol abuse began to follow and she became a day and night alcoholic consuming bottles of wine a day. Finally, when it went too far with a medication overdose, I checked her into an alcoholics anonymous club. Proudly, I can now say she has recently achieved her one year of sobriety. Many other things have entered her life. She has had many previous painful back surgeries that have caused her slight physical immobility. Also the recent shootings 2 weeks ago at Long Beach Memorial claimed 3 of her long time friends' lives. Attending their funerals, she has been on an emotional roller coaster but is still staying strong in her life. My mom usually uses acupuncture, aromatherapy, and lidocaine patches to help soothe herself instead of resorting to the former friend of alcohol. I believe that an hour of your Swedish massage might just do the trick. She frequently complains of tense muscles, back pains and much stress that I think the Swedish massage may help alleviate. My mom really needs this. I would greatly and immensely appreciate it if she was given this prize. She honestly does not receive the credit she deserves. If anyone needs this, my mom does.
SUBMITED BY: Maxwell Iskra
63. MOMINEE: Tamara Kessener
"My mom has never received a spa treatment before because she is always saying the money could be used for better things that would benefit me or my brother. She goes through daily back pain and to watch her try to stand is painful enough. She is always putting me and my brother first and I this year I want to try to do something that will truly help her. She works so hard all day, every day, I couldn't tell you the last time she had a true day of relaxation. She worries about so many things during the course of a day that she never takes time for herself. I try to get her into a relaxing bath, but she says no because there is always something that needs to be accomplished. I nominate my mom because she is the most unselfish person I know and this would only show a fraction of appreciation from us. As for her relaxation practices, she has none. I think the closest she gets is closing her eyes for 20 minutes in the afternoon, but even then it's not true relaxation. I think a deep back massage might do the best; on the other hand, anything would be good for her. The only way she could truly relax would be to escape the house, get away from it all, and enjoy herself. With our dog always wanting to walk and following her around, then worrying about what to make for dinner, it is next to impossible to find a good amount of time to relax.
SUBMITED BY: Kara Kessener
64. MOMINEE: Lori
My mom is the most amazing mom ever! She cares for my sister and I when we are sick, helps us with homework, and is very creative. She is very funny, and i love it. She is very nice to everyone, and is very caring. She has these amazing remedies for when your sick, and she makes the most amazing comfort food.My dad had lost his job, and during that time, my mom was the one with income coming in. My dad now has a part time job. When we have to get a surgery or have to pay a lot of money for something that is important or has to do with our health, she will pay for it right away. When she comes home from work,she always says," Can you massage me?" and my sister and I are like ,"NO!!!!!!!" She loves getting massages.She is the best mom ever and that is why I mom-inate her for this contest.
SUBMITED BY: Nicole Iwashita
65. MOMINEE: Gail
The reason why my amazing mom should get this reward because my mom is some body that will do anything for a person even, if you just say Hi to her. My mother makes me laugh every night. Another reason to choose her is because she is the one who understands me. Sometimes I feel like we were programmed to be each other. My mom deserves more than any one in the world. My mom is a first-class parent and I couldn't be here if it wasn't for her. Everyone gets into fights in my family but me and her get over fast I think that is because we know that without each other we won't be a team. She and I are like a team of super heroes, if one of us falls we both go down. Everyone says that they have a best friend at school but my best friend is right here at my home, it is my mom. This is the third time I have written about how my mom is perfect. My mom is the light to my day. Mainly the bottom line why I want my mom to get this is because my mom does everything for me and is always there for me I thought that for once maybe I could make up all of the things I have made her miss. Lastly the reason why is because I want to see my mom happy. When my mom is happy I mean really happy she cries, I kind of want her to cry because she will be happy and crying for me. Her smile is amazing and it only comes around a couple of times a month, but after this gift she will smile much more. What I think the type of relaxation practice that my mom would want would be a deep tissue massage and facial, because a deep tissue massage to her is like a new start. You pull, and push away all of your bad unhappy knots and before you know it you have a fresh new happy start. However the reason she wants a facial is because it relaxes her and makes her feel young at heart and happy. Thank you so much for your time by reading my statement and how my mom should win this. I hope you let her have a chance to visit your spa so next time she can bring me and my friends along.
SUBMITED BY: Sara Sprenger
66. MOMINEE: Karen Riddle
I am nominating my wife for her dedicated care she has given my daughter and the things she does for our family. Recently my daughter was diagnosed with a loss of brain function related to a brain tumor and radiation she has had to save her life. She has been at CHOC for the last 2 weeks with stroke like symptems and faces a long road to recovery. My wife has been at the hospital every day and has spent many nights there. She still manages to keep her job as a part time librarian in the Irvine Schools system. We have 3 additional girls ages 5,10 and 11. She has been at most soccer games and would not miss her duties as a girl scout troop leader. She is our emotional and physical support during our families most difficult challenge. She supports my business eventhough the last 4 years have been the most financially challenging. We all love her and she deserves a special hot stone massage if you can see it in your heart.
SUBMITED BY: Frank Riddle
67. MOMINEE: Doris Aguilar Tarter
Just 3 weeks ago on April 11, 2009, my mother was diagnosed with breast cancer. To call my mother a superwoman is a complete understatement. Having raised both my brother and I single-handedly, my mother has faced incredible hardships from being the first generation in her family to move to America start from the bottom, go through an broken and abusive marriage, getting laid off from a long-standing job, suffer through bankruptcy, live off food stamps, eventually fly her sick mother (my grandmother) to America, all while managing to make ends meet, making sure both my brother and I stay grounded, grow up in a safe community and attend reputable schools. She has taught us the importance and value of sacrifice and that even through tough times you must keep your chin up, learn from the past, live in the present, and think of the future. A life goal for both my brother and I has always been to make sure my mother never has to suffer through any pain or hardship. Unfortunately, she has been thrust with another battle, which I know in my heart she will be able to survive. It would be nothing more than incredible for my mother to be pampered and recognized that she is an inspiration for both my brother and I, as well as other people. She always places my brother and I before her and never puts herself first. This time, I want Spa Gregories to be able to show my mother, that she is first and has always been number one in our lives. We love you, mommy!
SUBMITED BY: Domenica Bumatay
68. MOMINEE: Ruie Treptow
My Mom is a generous, dependable, loving, sacrificial woman with a survivors spirit and she is the sole reason my children and I are able to make it from day to day. She had always been a devoted and loving mother and grandmother, but since finding myself in the position of being a single mother of three five years ago, I literally could not accomplish my motherly responsibilities without her. She is the glue that holds us all together, her unfailing support is what allows us to keep on going. I work odd and long hours, and she makes her grandchildren dinner and sleeps over with them while I am working. When I can't make the money stretch far enough she steps in and helps. When the children are sick at school and I am unable to come home from work, she picks them up and cares for them with love and understanding. She also picks them up and drives them where they need to go when I can't. She encourages us and expresses her love for us with her words and deeds everyday. She has had a rough beginning to 2009 due to a sudden serious health struggle and I would love for her to be pampered and lavished upon. She is the woman I most admire, and she is my best friend. Thank you.
SUBMITED BY: Heidi Flynn
69. MOMINEE: Debra
My mom is a full time, single mom. She doesnt have much time for herself. She has to give so much for me and my brother. Sometimes I wish that i could give something back to her. She really, truly deserves this opportunity at the Spa. I just hope that she will get a chance, to have a day devoted to her. If I could have it my way, I would send my mom to the spa myself but I dont have enough money to send her. And she doesnt have money to spend like that. She is to busy to working and trying to make this the best place for me and my brother. So please pick my mom to be the one to go on the spa day.
SUBMITED BY: Angelica Douglas
70. MOMINEE: Theresa Nhung Nguyen
"I want to nominate my mom for the Spa Gregories and Cox Communications Momination Contest. To start off, my mom is 49 years old, speaks fluent Vietnamese and a little English, has a smile that can make your problems melt away, and is the best cook in the world. She is most deserving of this award for being the best mom and I cant think of a better reward than a relaxing day at the spa. Last year, my mom had a dislocated disc in her spine, which had to be fixed by surgery. Although she has healed, she still experiences pain in her back from time to time. However, that did not stop her from being the caring and loving mother that she is. She works from 5am-4pm, then comes home and takes on the job of being a mom. Besides cooking dinner and cleaning the house, its the small things that she does that I really admire about her and makes me want to be like her when I become a mom. For instance, she has this way of showing her love without having to say anything. She makes me feel safe and confident. She does things without complaining and is nurturing and affectionate to her children and husband. I truly appreciate the things that she does, even though sometimes we take them for granted. My mom doesnt ask for anything in return, except that her children do well in school and be good people. She is a simple person; she doesnt need to save the world to make me appreciate who she is. I love her very much and cant imagine life without her. She is my mom, my friend, my role model, and who I aspire to be when I have a family of my own."
SUBMITED BY: Christine Luong
71. MOMINEE: Leticia Noyes
My mom runs a daycare at home. She takes care of 9 kids not including my two younger sisters and myself. She is not only a mom to my family but is like a step in mom for the childern of her daycare. On the weekends she is a complete soccer mom who is a voluenteer referee for AYSO 630. She takes us to all our games and practices. My mom is the worlds best mom because she never rests. I dont know anyone who works harder then she does. She is the most hard-working and loving mother out there. When my mom needs to relax she likes to knit. My mom would be very pleased with any spa treament since she is very unselfish. My mother deserves this more than any other mom.
SUBMITED BY: Kathy Noyes
72. MOMINEE: sheila sayegh
My mom deserves to be mom'intated because last year I became very ill and ended up in the the hospital from January 1st to the middle of April. She spent every day with me and took time off from work to be with me and take care of me. After leaving one hospital I became very ill and she took me to cedars in LA and stayed away from our house and work for a week. Toward the end of my illness i became extremely ill to the point i almost went into a come and if not for my mom i would never had been taken and treated back at the hospital. After the last of my hospitalizations i had endless doctors appointments to go to until the middle of october and without asking my mom was there with me at every one, most of which were in san diego or los angeles. without my mom there is no way i could have made it through the struggles i went through and i would probably be sick or worse yet dead today if not for her. She is so strong and kept me strong and wouldnt let me give up. She is so generous and caring and definitely deserves to be pampered for a day. After being sick it has been hard for me to work and save money and she deserves for one day to have a day to herself where she can be taken care of and take a break from taking care of me.
SUBMITED BY: ashley sayegh
73. MOMINEE: Stephanie Rummage
Win or loose I wanted to take this opportunity to acknowledge a wonderful woman and mother. My wife Stephanie is a tireless nurturer of our two wonderful children, Abigail and Jonah. Like many other moms she does almost all the thankless work of raising our children and maintaining a household. What makes her situation different from many of the other wonderful and deserving moms in our area, are the sacrifices and struggles my wife has gone though because of our sons disability. He has Autism; among other challenges this condition severely affects his ability to communicate and basically he doesnt talk, this makes everything in his life a lot more difficult and time consuming. My wife and I (but especially my wife) have endured many struggles, emotionally financially and physically. It takes an enormous amount of patients extra effort and diligence to raise a child with this disability. My wife has been at it for almost six years straight with little to no outside help, and far too little pampering for her. Between the therapies special food and supplement preparation, and the almost constant attention he needs, my wife gets drained every day. She needs a break from her daily grind and she needs the works. I feel she would respond well to the usual beauty treatments hair nails ect. But she would also benefit from some of your relaxation and detoxification services and of coarse, massage. Our lives with autism arent all just challenges and struggle. We have many happy moments as a family, and if you asked my wife about her life she wouldnt paint it so gloomy. Her love for our son and family has carried her through these times and has often been our strength through the challenging times. For her love patients, extra effort and endless understanding, Stephanie Rummage deserves to be recognized and rewarded for being the person she is.
SUBMITED BY: Judd Rummage
