Her eyebrows are perfection. Notice the fan at the head of the brow? It’s soft, irregular, and gauzy. The color, just a hint lighter than her hair. The arch a long, gradual taper.

This look is dreamy, natural, and very boho-chic.

Love to see you at the spa Vanessa!

Photo Credit: Amanda DeBello

I was hunting for inspiration this morning to start a fresh day when I came across a post from local author Susan Gaddis, who reminded me that lent is coming, in her blog Holy in the Daily. Lent will start on Wednesday, the 22nd of February and will continue for 46 days until Saturday, the 7th of April.

I’ll agree, the liturgical calendar seems a bit obsolete these days, but this season of Lent inspires me. I spend a good bit of my time reading faith-based books and blogs. My daughter Valery and her husband Jonathan are writing one called Hoekmania from Ethiopia right now, a blog that is not necessarily faith based, but it and its followers are truly faith-filled. Jon’s  dad, Larry writes God2Me, which shows up in my inbox each morning. I also like Daily Manna from the Net.

That’s the easy part: reading the inspirational writings and teachings that others post. But it is in the doing, the being, that the struggle lives. I can easily become like the Dead Sea: things flowing in, but nothing flowing out. My life can become too salty for anything good to live in.

The purpose of the infilling I think, is to enable the out-flowing. Both parts: filling and emptying, need to be very conscious decisions. Truly, the choice to be happy, grateful, giving, does not come naturally.

Lent then, becomes a special container – a time set aside for this process.  What we fill the time with, and what we give are unique to each of us. My hope is that I don’t sound too super-spiritual but that my life truly reflects my words. Here are some of my ideas. Maybe they will inspire you to create your own.

• Stay in the moment. Projecting ourselves out into the future or dragging ourselves back to the past are futile efforts.
• Let yourself feel. Author of Taming Your Gremlins, Rick Carlson, tells us that The Zen Theory of Change is in this simple notion.
• Be angry, but sin not. I used to be afraid of anger, but I’ve learned that anger is natural, needful. If we don’t allow anger in our lives or the lives of those we love, we will experience its outlet in secret ways…much harder to deal with.
• Be your own mom. This notion came to me one day and changed my life. Treat yourself well, love your body, don’t be critical of yourself, be fully you.
• In everything give thanks. As you embrace and work with what is, you will grow and mature and your life will flow.
• Forgive yourself – forgive others. This sounds like a good idea doesn’t it? But it’s not so easy, for like love, forgiveness is an action. It starts with an intellectual choice, but until it permeates your actions, it is empty.
• Mind your own business. Pretty self-explanatory. I’ve got enough work taking care of my own issues, shortcomings, challenges. I can listen, reflect, and empathize…then stop. It’s not mine!
• Treat others as you want to be treated. It’s not just the Golden Rule but the only way to true happiness for yourself. For hidden in the way you treat others is ultimately what you will attract, and in the end, the way you will be treated and judged.

The answer is two-fold: I’m not so special – well not more special than anyone else. And, my business – ditto. What is true however, is that there are two very doable elements that make me successful and can make you successful too.

1. Be grateful. Eucharisto – this word contains within it three elements: Gratitude, grace, and peace. Being thankful is the single most important element essential to achieving and maintaining happiness. Are things always the way I want them? No. But one act of being thankful when things aren’t going your way, is worth many times more than countless thanks when things are. Thankfulness, then, is a choice – and not a response to your situation.

2. Bring your “best self” to everything you do. Seth Godin, a favorite author/blogger, says this about business: “The extra, bonus part of your business activities that are over-the-top for no good reason, and going out of your way to build that into your brand, make your business remarkable. And today, people are ONLY responding to remarkable.”

Are my services always remarkable? Probably not. But I do bring my best self to every single interaction. Granted, sometimes my best self is just plain not enough, or maybe no matter how good it is, some won’t count it as such. So be it. After all, I do my best work with those who truly value it, and those who don’t will find someone and someplace that gives them what they want.

I moved Star Brows last year to the wonderful town of Grover Beach. I love this town for many reasons, mostly because it is on my beloved Pacific  Ocean. For this, I am beyond grateful. This location sets the stage for a spa-setting extraordinaire. Not only can I take a break and head out for an invigorating, uplifting stroll (instead of feeling grumpy about a no-show client), but it is a free gym where I can work out and clear my head of all negativity, worry, and exhaustion and commune with my Creator and His creation.

My work is fulfilling to me:

I am honored by the people I meet and get to know.

I love the spectacular products I bring to them, like the newest in my lineup: Heather Gardner jewelry.

The services I offer are diverse and gratifying to perform. I can help create beautiful skin, give someone a new look, relax them completely, and provide a place for people to escape. Plus, I make new friends every day. Who could ask for more?

In the end, although the spa business is magical, your business – or for that matter, your life – contains magic, too. The trick is to show up each day looking for it - simply noticing it in the everyday moments.

See you at the spa!

Coastal Glam, inspired by the children waiting for homes at the care center in Addis, was a huge success! We raised over one thousand dollars for the children, which will go a long way. (My goal was half that, so I’m beyond thankful.) I’ll keep you updated on what they do with the proceeds.

So many people played a part in making this event a success. I am inspired by the generosity and sacrifice of all! My family was there in glorious full force, Allegra was party-planner-extraordinaire, The Grand Bouquet provided lovely topiaries and orchids, Chrystal shot the event for posterity, with her brilliant little side-kick Kyler in attendance, my friend Jeanne spent countless hours editing press releases and the like, and property landlord, Dennis, of Jackson and Associates, was kind enough to let us move “all things spa” into his space so we had room to party – and on it goes…

Heather Gardner’s trunk show was simply gorgeous. (Check out the Star Brows facebook page to see pictures of the event.) Paul’s food was yummy, dad’s vino was superb, and a good time was definitely had by all:

“Anytime you get to dress up, drink wine and try on beautiful jewelry, it’s a good night, but Coastal Glam took fun and fashion one step further by combining those things with a worthy cause.  Linda, Heather, and the team that put the event together epitomize true glamour–the kind that goes beyond appearances and actually strives to make the world a little better. ” Jenn at The Style Geek

“Coastal Glam was a delight from beginning to end! From the fabulous spread of cheeses, fruits, nuts, and other goodies, to the excellent Robert Hall wines, the generous selection of silent auction packages, and Heather Gardner’s amazing jewelry collection, the evening was absolutely perfect.” Jeanne at  Writer’s Notes

“SOO excited to have brought home the most amazing Heather Gardner silent auction necklace EVER! I’m now one step closer to becoming a Sports Illustrated swimsuit model.” Melanie

Karen won the Wellness Basket, generously donated by author and local business woman, Jean Steel. Jean called me one day before the event and said she grew up in Addis, and offered support and encouragement. Karen loves her book, I’d Like to Run Wild. I made a heart-felt connection with Jean, and others who love the Ethiopian children.

If you couldn’t make the event but are still looking for a fabulous new piece of jewelry, check out Heather Gardner’s site. It’s a great place to go to see what you’d like from her collection. Note: Her posted prices are considerably higher there, so she doesn’t compete with retailers like Star Brows!

The newest piece in my personal collection is the Five-Layer Large Crystal Ethiopian Necklace in silver. I’ve had it three days and worn it twice! I’ll have to tell my husband I’ve already got my Valentine’s present!

Next year? It’s kind of like asking a woman who’s just given birth if she’d do it again. Ha! Probably.

See you at the spa!

If you’ve never tried Brazilian, or Bikini Waxing, now is a great time. The Product Features this month are great after-care for these services to help avoid those pesky bumps and ingrown hairs.

I use the same Berodin French Depilatory Wax for sensitive body parts that I use for brows. If you’ve had a bad experience using strip wax, you’ll be amazed at the difference. Check out the YouTube testimonial a client did for body waxing at Star Brows.

The special this month, Peeling Cream by Tu’el, is a great exfoliant for the face, as well.  It contains Lactic Acid (an alpha hydroxy acid or AHA), so it doesn’t just clear surface debris but goes gently and deeply into the cell wall to exfoliate.

It also contains Tea Tree and Lemon Grass Oils to disinfect naturally, as well as Chamomile Extract to calm and sooth.

Clear-it by Tu’el is a non-drying blemish control cream that helps keep hair follicles healthy after shaving or waxing. The active ingredient is Colloidal Sulphur. It also contains Allantoin for calming and soothing and Lemon Oil for disinfecting.

If you’re new to Star Brows, you may not know about The Product Feature or Rewards yet. To put it simply, 10% of all your product purchases, all the time, go toward free Service Enhancements, like Raindrop Therapy, Lash Tint, Chemical Peels, or Star Massage.

When a product is the Monthly Feature, however, you’ll get 20% back in Rewards! This month’s feature, Peeling Cream, is $36. That means $7 toward a service Enhancement. Clear-It, which is $40, gives you $8 in Rewards.

See you at the spa!

We planned the event just before Valentine’s Day for a couple of reasons: Women love jewelry (especially if they get to pick it!), spa service gift certificates are also a hit, and how better to show love than to help impoverished, orphaned children?

Seems like a home-run to me: shopping, wine, friends, and fun – all for a charitable cause!

Take a look below at the Raffle we’ll be doing the night of the event! The prize is  a 32″ 4 Layer Ethiopian Metal Bead and Crystal Necklace (shown below)! It’s leather wrapped, with gold and black diamond swarovski crystal. You want this – I know I do! $130 value

We’ve also collected a few items for the Silent Auction, and I thought I’d give you a sneak peak. Proceeds will help support the children of Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.

SILENT AUCTION ITEMS FOR BID

Spa Package  - This is a luxurious Star Brows experience from head to toe (for a man or woman). Perfect for a V-Day gift or just for you! Two hours of bliss: “Integrative Massage, Face and Foot Treatment, and Raindrop Therapy and a beautiful African sisal grass basket (thanks Mike!). It’s filled with Hempz Body Lotion, a favorite vanilla soy candle, shower mitt and a bath towel.” $190 value

Heather Gardner Signature Swarovski Crystal Necklace - This is gorgeous, and it goes with everything! I have one. It’s 36″.  Heather donated this to benefit little Bronson’s Care Center. $130 value

Robert Hall Wine - These are my four faves: 2009 Cabernet Sauvignon, 2010 Viognier, 2010 Orange Muscat (Margaret’s Vineyard), and 2007 Rhone de Robles. Thanks Dad and Margaret! $71 value

Responsible Referrals Package – Our friend Mike donated the items in this auction offering, which were made by orphaned children and widows in Kenya. This is a beautiful collection of jewelry and carvings in a handwoven Ethiopian basket Valery and Jonathan brought back with them on their last visit to the country. $75+ value

Brow B.F.F. Kit - This is your brows’ new bestie! What’s in it? Brow Boost, Brow Buddy, Universal Brow Pencil, Brow Gel, Tweezers, and a Billion Dollar Brows Makeup Bag. $105 value

Bath & Body by Tu’el - A great collection of products, all of which are in my shower right now! Native Botanica Lotion, Peeling Cream (for face and body), Hydrating Body Tonic, De-Tox Bath Gel, and and a pair of nylon gloves to scrub with. Thanks Eva’s Esthetics! $82 value

RAFFLE TICKET OPPORTUNITIES

Win a 32″ Four-Layer Ethiopian Metal Bead and Crystal Necklace by Heather Gardner! Receive ONE Raffle Ticket the night of the event for Each of the Following You Do:

Bring a Friend

• Get one ticket for each friend you bring. Remember to RSVP.

Facebook: Check-In

• Open your Facebook Application from your Smart Phone.

• Log in if you are not already logged in.

• Select “Check-In” at the top right.

• Select your location.

• Hit “Post.”

Yelp: Check-In

• Open your YELP Application from your Smart Phone.

• Log in if you are not already logged in.

• Click “Search.”

• Type in “Star Brows -GroverBeach.”

• Select “Star Brows” from Options.

• Click “Check-In.”

Twitter: Become a Follower & Tweet about the Event

• Open your Twitter Application from your Smart Phone.

• Log in if you are not already logged in.

• Follow @StarBrows.

• Tweet: “At Coastal Glam with @StarBrows & @HeatherGardnerMalibu.”

Take a look  at the Raffle we’ll be doing the night of Coastal Glam! The prize is  a 32″ Four-Layer Ethiopian Metal Bead and Crystal Necklace (shown left)! Heather Gardner, of course. It’s leather-wrapped, with gold and black diamond Swarovski crystal. You want this – I know I do!

Receive ONE Raffle Ticket for Each of the Following You Do:

Bring a Friend

• Get one ticket for each friend you bring. Remember to RSVP.

Facebook: Check-In

• Open your Facebook Application from your Smart Phone.

• Log in if you are not already logged in.

• Select “Check-In” at the top right.

• Select your location.

• Hit “Post.”

Yelp: Check-In

• Open your YELP Application from your Smart Phone.

• Log in if you are not already logged in.

• Click “Search.”

• Type in “Star Brows -GroverBeach.”

• Select “Star Brows” from Options.

• Click “Check-In.”

Twitter: Become a Follower & Tweet about the Event

• Open your Twitter Application from your Smart Phone.

• Log in if you are not already logged in.

• Follow @StarBrows.

• Tweet: “At Coastal Glam with @StarBrows & @HeatherGardnerMalibu.”

All proceeds from the silent auction will benefit the children of Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. My daughter and her husband will be purchasing diapers, formula, and other much-needed supplies for the care center where their baby, Bronson, lives. They will deliver these items on their next trip, which will hopefully be soon – with Bronson in their arms on the trip home!

Feel free to donate at StarBrows.com, use the “Buy Gift Certificate” tab, with a memo attached. You can also write a check to Star Brows and drop it off, but my favorite choice is that you come on January 26th between 6:00 pm and 9:00 pm, meet the family, and enjoy some fun!

Heather will also be doing a Gift With Purchase of a Swarovski Crystal Bracelet to anyone who makes a jewelry purchase during the evening! A portion of jewelry sale proceeds will also be donated to the care center.

See you at the spa Thursday night!

Ladies, Valentine’s Day is coming – time to drop your hints! I’ve invited Heather Gardner to do a trunk show to launch her couture jewelry line at Star Brows!

We’ve planned a really fun evening out for you – watch us on the Star Brows or Coastal Glam Facebook pages for  free prizes and more info about the event!

Save the date now!

What? Coastal Glam - An Evening of Wine and Jewels

When? Thursday, January 26 from 6:00-9:00 pm

Where? Star Brows – 1065 West Grand Ave. Grover Beach CA

Contact? Linda@StarBrows.com or 805-722-8222

Want to Know More About The Event?

This will be a dazzling evening of Couture at Star Brows. It will include a Silent Auction featuring a Robert Hall Wine Basket, A Star Brows Day Spa Package, and jewelry by Heather Gardner. A portion of all jewelry and Silent Auction proceeds from the evening will benefit the children in the Care Center of Addis Ababa, Ehiopia where my grandson Bronson currently lives. His parents, our daughter Valery and her husband Jonathan, will be helping host the evening.

As an added bonus, we’ll be serving Robert Hall wines and yummy appetizers prepared by our talented chef-in-residence, my husband Paul. And BTW, Heather Gardner is Jonathan’s sister!(Truly nepotism at its finest!)

About Heather Gardner Malibu

Artist/owner Heather Gardner, whose jewelry is worn by A-List celebrities, will be there to help launch her collection at Star Brows. Her jewelry line blends nature’s beauty with modern trend-setting style.

As a global traveler and outdoor adventurer, Heather seeks to capture the essence of the world’s beauty in her designs as well as the essence of earth, femininity, and fashion. The color palette of the minerals, gemstones, and crystal selected reflects the colors she has discovered in the places that inspire her most.

I’ve been wearing – and loving – Heather’s jewelry for years. So, featuring the Heather Gardner line at the spa is a dream come true!

We’ve sent evites to our current clients. Remember to check out the Star Brows Facebook and Coastal Glam Event page, and share with your friends. Together we can make the evening a great success!

Please RSVP to let us know if you’ll be attending. Hope you can make it!

See you at the spa!

Since the article was published, I’ve gotten some great feedback, along with a request to teach at the Santa Barbara Aesthetics Academy.

Of course, I need to give credit where credit is due. My mom is a writer. She has yet to be published but has written several novels. She is brilliant. Trained as a lawyer and schooled in psychology as well, she was definitely my first mentor.

Next comes Jenn Prentice, whom you know.  She worked with me when I first began blogging, and she writes the hilarious and awesome blog, The Style Geek. She has guest-blogged for Star Brows and has written one of my most popular posts: Youngblood Mineral Mascara – The difference is eye-catching. This lady has inspired and influenced me more than she knows.

Then there’s my bestie, Jeanne Dininni. She is a copywriter, writes the blog Writer’s Notes,  and edits everything I write (so, if there are mistakes…just sayin’). I hate(d) grammar and punctuation. She tries to slip in teaching moments, which I rebel against regularly. After all, why should I learn when I have her – ha!

No thank-you list of mine would be complete without a shout-out to the Lord! He inspires, sustains, and teaches me new things daily: most importantly the lesson of Eucharisteo. And my daughter Valery’s  father-in-law, Larry Hoekman, who writes GodToMe, my daily devotional, inspires me as well.

All this to say, “Don’t let your gifts lie dormant. Take a chance, step out of your comfort zone, and live each day to the fullest, breath to breath.”  Cheers! Here’s to success for all of us in 2012.

See you at the spa!