Stephie Estie

Smile!

laughter

What’s a quick, easy, and free way to improve your appearance?

Smiling!

You can spend thousands of dollars on skincare items and makeup but if you can’t also master the simple technique of smiling, then you’re missing the bigger picture.  Don’t get me wrong. I love makeup and skincare more than the average person-it’s why I choose to study it!  But at the same time, what good does it do you to have all those products if you have a grumpy demeanor and outlook?

Case and point: Have you ever seen someone who was good-looking but had a scowl that would intimidate Disney villains?  Their vibe yells out unapproachable and can repel others from wanting to converse or be next to them.

Smiling can change our mood and alter a negative viewpoint into a positive one.  It can also help alleviate stress, boost your immune system, lower blood pressure, make you look younger, seem more attractive,  and best of all, it’s contagious.  A smile will draw and bring happiness to you and those around you.

So, smile and laugh because it’s your birthday.  Because you’re alive.  Because you’ve overcome obstacles.  Because you helped someone out.  Because it’s a new day to start over. Because you found time to relax.  Because you have a purpose.  Because you’re unique.

What is your reason to smile?

 

 

 

Ready. Set. 'Defeet' Cancer!

number 5k

This past Sunday was the 9th annual Kids 4 Kids 5K and 10 K Run/Walk 2014 in Downtown L.A. which benefits the Children’s Cancer Research Fund.  As I’ve mentioned before, I love helping people, but to be able to help and participate in helping brave kids who are fighting cancer is awesome! It’s my third time partaking in this event and every year I am amazed to see how many people (of all ages and fitness levels!) come out and support such a great cause.  Parents encouraging their little kids to keep running, volunteers cheering us on, heck we even get encouragement from Bugs Bunny and Daffy Duck, which gets major smiles from all the children.

I had a family remember who although didn’t have cancer,  was given the same treatment as someone who did.  Sadly, he passed away two weeks after his sixth birthday.  Despite all his pain, his face would light up whenever he had visitors, especially if they brought him toys.  There aren’t too many feelings you experience that can top that of bringing joy to a child who is sick, at least in my opinion.  That captivating smile on his face is an image that will forever be engraved in my memory, and now, this 5K has an extra special meaning to me.   I run for Bryant and all the little angels watching us from heaven as well as the current ones here on earth who battle such a devastating disease.

I believe it’s important to take time out of our busy schedules to make time for ourselves as well as to help others out. It’s such a gratifying feeling that focuses our perspective on what truly is important.

 

My inaugural medal

My inaugural medal

 

Lights, Curtain, Dance!

 

Latinva Group

Last week I talked about the importance of making time for you, and besides skincare (of course!)  here is a glimpse into one of my “me time” indulgences-dance!

I participated in the Gym Crew Challenge at the Barnsdall Gallery Theatre over the weekend, performing with the Latinva Dance Crew and it was a blast! I used to do ballet, tap and jazz when I was younger but I had forgotten how much fun and nerve wrecking it all could be. Running late to tech time, a tiny wardrobe malfunction, hair piece not staying in place, makeup touch-ups and numerous run throughs can leave you feeling exhausted before you even perform.

Then, it’s show time!

That ‘butterflies in your  stomach’ feeling when it was announced we were on deck, the adrenaline rush once the the curtain rises and the lights (and all eyes!) are on you, recalling all the steps you’ve learned- turn right, pivot left, (was it left?)- at light speed, all while remembering to smile, smile, smile.  And, oh yeah, celebrity judges like Brian Friedman, Chris Scott and Comfort Fedoke will be watching and critiquing us at the end, so no pressure whatsoever.  Despite all this running through my mind,  the performance was almost perfect.  All those hours spent practicing were put to the test, and although we didn’t win, it was great nonetheless.

I feel so lucky to have met and worked with such a wonderful group of inspirational, positive, and motivational people, including my lovely mother.  It’s funny how back then, she was the one who would help me learn my routines and now I was helping her.

This dance experience reminded me that sometimes life is like a dance routine: you have to take it one step at a time and be willing to step out of your comfort zone- it’s a way to make you grow!

Below, a video of our performance that felt a little like an episode of Dancing With The Stars and a picture of me with the makeup look I opted for.

Steph
I hope you enjoyed this post!