Drew Barrymore photographed by Annie Leibovitz from the web site Maria’s photo:  http://www.mariasphoto.com/2008/02/25/drew-barrymore-in-beauty-and-the-beast/

Seeing the Beauty.  Like everything, it’s a choice.  We can be sucked into what the world has decided is “perfection.”  Or we can rebel.   Rebel by rejecting the incessant labels society thrusts upon us:  ”Young, ” “Old,” “Average,” “Above Average,” “Rich,” “Poor,” “Nice,” “Mean.”  I could go on forever!  Or we could make it a habit to see the beauty in the not so “perfect” beast.  Perfect is boring!  Trust me, if you were given the “perfect” guy you would get bored.  You would never fight.  Fighting is passion.  Can you imagine life without make-up sex?  LOL.  If you were given the “perfect” body you would still see something you don’t like.  How many of us look back on our early twenties and think:  Wow!  I was hot!  We didn’t think it back then because we didn’t appreciate the wrinkle free skin.  We couldn’t relate because we’d never had wrinkles.

I was inspired by Ashley Judd putting the media in her place when they called her “puffy.”  http://www.thedailybeast.com/articles/2012/04/09/ashley-judd-slaps-media-in-the-face-for-speculation-over-her-puffy-appearance.html When some in the media don’t see perfection, they question, examine, judge.  They’d noticed Ms. Judd had been looking “puffy” lately and decided to analyze why.  Without asking her.   Isn’t there something else you would rather do than obsess over perfection, media?

Think of the people you are attracted to.  I guarantee the ones you’re closest to have something that pulled you in.  Is it how they’re always there for you?  That’s beauty.  It it their passionate curiosity?  Is it their loving spirit that’s reflected through soulful eyes?  I’ve always been attracted to people who make me smile and laugh.  They could be purple with little tiny spikes all over their faces and I would still love them.  We would just have to work something out when we hug. 

Then there are people who are not so beautiful.  Maybe physically they are when you first meet them, but through their actions you become disenchanted.  Suddenly little imperfections pop up that you never saw before.  They are there now because you’ve seen some of the things they do that turn you off.  Like maybe they lied to you.  Maybe they dump you when they get a new boyfriend.  Maybe they start to revel in their happiness around you in a catty way.   You start seeing someone for who they truly are.  No amount of hairspray, lipstick or flexing of a perfectly toned peck will stir you.

They’ve broken your trust.  They’ve lost your respect.  They’ve lost their beauty.  On their own.

The people who make you smile fuel your beauty.  The man you meet for a fleeting moment who opens a door for you.  The children playing and sharing their laughter and fun with you.  The little old lady all dressed up in her best as you pass by her in a restaurant.  You look at her, she looks at you and you admire how the blue of her suit plays up her skin.  You tell her the color looks beautiful on her.   She smiles back and says “thank you.”  The blue makes her feel beautiful.  It radiates from her soul.  That radiant beauty drew you to her.

The beauty of sound.  How you absolutely love something in nature.  The trickle of water from a nearby stream, the whish of the ocean waves.  Even the noise of an airplane that breaks your concentration overhead.  It is beautiful that we have something called airplanes that can whisk us off and we can be anywhere in the world.  In a matter of hours!  The beauty of touch.  Enjoying how soft your lovers skin is, or how his arms make you feel warm and protected.  How a kittens’ fur can tickle your nose and smell so good.  How soft and shiny your hair looks and feels after brushing it before you go to bed.

The beauty of sight.  Like the lady in blue from above or how pictures of food and fashion can make us literally swoon with the thought of eating or wearing it!  The sunset-how each one is unique with its colors and cloud swirls.  How one painting makes you stop.  And all the other paintings fall away.  Or when, on your daily walk, you walk by a certain house.  It’s a pleasure to admire the house because the owners put so much care in the landscaping and upkeep.  Then one day on your walk, the lady who lives there is working on her landscaping.  As you walk by you say “Your house is beautiful.  You do such an amazing job with it!”  She looks up, beaming with pride and says “Thank you!”  It feels so good.  The beauty of her creation affects you every time you walk by.  It makes you feel good to thank her and makes you feel amazing when she is so happy that you noticed!  Because you just made her feel beautiful.

Seeing the beauty in everything is more fun than what society is trying to pull us into doing:  obsess with perfection.  Sitting around and discussing what may or may not be wrong with the target (ie Ashley Judd).  Turn them off and rebel.  When they try to show you something ugly or try to criticize – look for the beauty.  Maybe our “Perfection Rebellion” -  will spread and we can tame a few “judgemental” beasts out there.  And bring them over to our side.  Love, Goddess

Related Reading:

1. Like Curves?  Sofia Vergara  http://bitchlifestyle.com/2012/03/sofia-vergara/
2. We Are Perfect:  http://bitchlifestyle.com/2009/06/we-are-perfect/
3. Beauty Rituals Empower You:  http://bitchlifestyle.com/2009/06/beauty-rituals-empower-you/

© S Stevens Life Strategies

LOVE this one.  From the web site Celebs Central:   http://sofiavergara.celebscentral.net/user/picture/161415/

I have a major girl crush on Sofia Vergara!  The first time I saw the “What Lola Wants,” Diet Pepsi commercial?  Love at first sight.  Yeah…that’s how a Sassy Bitch does it.  Then I would see this woman work her curves to perfection at awards shows like the Oscars and Golden Globes and was so happy!  Curves on a woman are sexy.  Yummy.  So your assignment today is to work your curves like Sofia.  Use her glamorous ways as an inspiration to you.  Wear only that which make your curves scream va va voom.

Love, Goddess

Other amazing women for your reading pleasure:

1. Josephine Baker:  http://bitchlifestyle.com/2011/06/josephine-baker/
2. Cleopatra:  http://bitchlifestyle.com/2011/09/cleopatra/
3. Susan Boyle and the Famous Seductress:  http://bitchlifestyle.com/2009/06/susan-boyle-and-the-famous-seductress/

© S Stevens Life Strategies

Yeah…so fitting for our luscious lips.  Nothing but pure red rubies or pink diamonds!  Or…a the perfect Chanel lipstick or new lipgloss.  Treat your beautiful lips like jewels today.  Just for fun.  You can copy this look from:  Single Ladies Cafe’  http://thesingleladiescafe.com/cafe-style-2

© S Stevens Life Strategies

Well…are you?

1. Do you command a room when you enter?
2. Do you have a signature scent?  One that…as you put it on and savor the smell it lights you up and sends warm tingles throughout you?  The scent that makes a man stop and makes him murmur…you smell so good.
3. Have you made your quirks into charming eccentricities?
4. Do you understand and relish the importance of first impressions?
5. Are you unafraid of doing or saying something that may…how can I say it…create a hushing noise in those that surround you?
6. Do you know your signature style?  The style that makes you feel absolutely fabulous.  The one where you put on certain combinations of clothes, rocker chic, feminine glamour, slightly pristine princess (emphasis on slightly) and it wakes you up?
7. Do you understand the power of your voice and the allure of good conversation?
8. Do you know how to make a man laugh and forget all his burdens?
9. Do you see flirtation as way more than a little “pick me up?”  Do you see it more as-you’re lifes’ blood?
10. Do you revel in your determination, independence and spirit?
11. Do you relish the possibilities of the day upon awakening?  Always?
12. When you are moved by something, anything, do you savor every last drop of the experience?  No matter the where?

If you are…then you are really immersed in loving every drop of gorgeous you.  Isn’t loving yourself grand?  Love, Goddess

Gorgeous pictures above from the really beautiful and inspirational web site Karen Harvey Cox.  Visit and be inspired!   http://karenharveycox.blogspot.com/ 

© S Stevens Life Strategies

The Wen Hair Care commercial.

Sucks me in every time!  One time a girlfriend, Suzana and I, were on a girls’ overnight and we stayed in the hotel room watching that darn commercial.  Both of us mesmerized by the hair transformations.  Both of us talking about how much we wanted to try it.  Blissfully wishing for THAT kind of hair.  So finally, as a Christmas present to myself, I bought the introductory kit.  Here’s what I learned:

The Good:

1.  I got the Almond Mint…which really does smell wonderful!
2.  I loved how the mint made my scalp tingle.
3.  I loved the extra pampering time it took.  The directions wanted you to work the product into your hair throughout the shower.
4.  I thought the kit itself, for $29 + change was a good value.  You get to try a lot of things (what girl doesn’t love that!)  and the comb is cool.

The Bad:

1. You have no idea how bummed I was when Wen didn’t work on my hair!  For those of you who have seen my Facebook photo, you know I have A LOT of hair.  https://www.facebook.com/pages/Bitch-Lifestyle/205875411841  My hair was done by a stylist for that photo because my hair is THE definition of curly, frizzy, thick and unruly hair.  I used Wen exactly as the directions said.  For 2 weeks.  I had to stop because my hair kept getting frizzier.  Not good with my wild hair.
2. You have to use a lot of product each time you use it.  Even if you have short hair you have to separate your hair into 4 sections and then use 3-5 pumps of cleanser in each section.
3. In order to get the starter kit, you have to sign up to be on their “membership renewal program.”  Which means they have your credit card number and send you more every few months for a discounted price.  In order to cancel, you have to call them.  Which means you’re going to have to deal with the hard sell by an associate when you do.  Unless of course, you’re a Sassy Bitch. 

You know what feels just like Wen, minus the tingle in drugstores?  TRESemme’ conditioner.  I use that all the time and love it.  Now…and into the future I’m going to take the pampering aspect of Wen and use it when I’m conditioning my hair.  Work the product into the hair and massage.  So really, I got something cool when I ordered Wen.  A new way to slow down and enjoy myself in the shower.  Thank you, Wen!  Love, Goddess

© S Stevens Life Strategies

Gorgeous picture of actress Sherilyn Fenn from the web blog Sweet Life Saga http://asweetlifesaga.blogspot.com/2011/01/hollywood-glamour-with-real-magnolias.html

Do you feel unforgettable?  Yeah, some days I’m a little iffy there.  Well, let’s play with that a little bit.  Maybe make it a fun experiment over the weekend?  Hmmmm?  One or our favorite things to do growing up was playing dress up.  When we grow up, we get so busy we forget one of our most favorite activities EVER!  So let’s get back to that fun euphoria again.  Here are some ideas to sass you up into “Unforgettable You.”

1. Do you have a signature scent?  If so, what is it?  If not, start exploring.  Go to a perfume counter and spritz some different brands on sample papers.  After letting them rest for a few moments, revisit the scents.  Take your two favorites and spritz on each wrist.  Wait a few more minutes.  Continue until you find something you absolutely adore.  I recently discovered Ralph Lauren “Romance.”  Mmmmmm….
2. Who are you fashion wise?  Lauren Hutton All-American?  Soft and feminine?  Edgy Biker Chic?  Do you want to play with your Inner Seductress or Siren?  Find a way to bring your “Vixen” to your everyday wardrobe?  Look in your closet for ways to do this.  Go shopping and try something on out of your comfort zone:  a style of dress, color, accessory etc.
3. Make-Up:  Play with different colors and looks.  Create your own personal “smokey eye.”  Combine with #2 idea from above.
4. What is your favorite color?  Wear it.
5. Your hair is your crowning glory.  Treat it that way.  Find a Sephora near you and visit the hair section.  I love Sephora because you can try everything!  Experiment with all the brands and then get the perfect hair care for your gorgeous locks.
6. What are your favorite flowers?  Buy them.  Just for you.  Enjoy the scent, color and texture.  Put them by your bed when you go to sleep.  You deserve it!
7. Find a glowing light like above and bask in it like Sherilyn does.  Dress, no dress, as naughty or nice as you like it.

Then…as a final touch, when you’ve made yourself unforgettable…say it.  Smile, feel the warmth tingling in your body and purr, “I Am Unforgettable!”

Love, Goddess

© S Stevens Life Strategies

Picture from the fabulous blog I have a Degree in This, who has some fantastic incites about this ad  http://www.ihaveadegreeinthis.com/2011/08/marketing-fail-summer-eves.html

They’re trying,  I guess.  The douche commercials.  You know how much I hate the commercial where the girl is looking in the window and is completely depressed because she has “embarrassing odor.”  Well now they have the new one.   Here’s the link:  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MxW_ZCd64tg

My problem with it?  You don’t need Summers Eve.  Your pussy already rules.

The ad starts out sooooo dramatic.  Hail to the V:  it’s what men go into battle for.  Hail to the V:  Men will do anything for a pussy.  This demeans US and THEM.  At the end of the commercial they show a woman picking up the Summer’s Eve.  Why don’t you do something for it?  PLEASE.  Douching is not necessary unless your DOCTOR tells you it is necessary.  Our pussies clean themselves!  You have been given a gorgeous, luscious scent of your very own.  Own it.  Here is The Sassy Bitches’ way to celebrate her luscious scent and feminine core!

1. Decorate it.
2. Give yourself your own hot little orgasm.  Practice makes perfect.
3. Trim, masque, comb, condition.  Pamper her like you would any other part of your body.  No douche required.
4. Give her a sexy nickname.
5. Know your gorgeous anatomy…every luscious lip and crevice.
6. Get the song “Fergalicious” and sing “Pussylicious” to it instead.
7. Read books like “The Yoni,” by Rufus C. Camphausen and visit Christina Camphausen’s blog for her Yoni Art: http://yoniportraits.blogspot.com/
8. Take a picture of her and frame it.  That’s really Bitching it Up!

And don’t take those silly douche commercials seriously.  Don’t ever let anything or anyone question your feminine core.  It is PERFECT the way it is!!!

xoxo  Pussylicious Bitch

Private 1 on 1 Coaching available.  For more information: http://bitchlifestyle.com/private-coaching/  Private 1 0n 1 Coaching limited to 10 people.

© S Stevens Life Strategies

Dita Von Teese…the whole glamour package.  She has developed her glamour, her sensuality and passion for burlesque into an art form.  From Dita’s Official Web Site:  http://www.dita.net/

“She is the biggest name in burlesque since Gypsy Rose Lee. She is a modern day fashion icon who tops best-dressed lists all over the world. She is credited for bringing back the glamour and allure of Old Hollywood stars. Self-created. Distinctive. Iconic. Often imitated, never duplicated. She is Dita Von Teese.”

Dita creates every aspect of her famous burlesque shows.  Music, costumes, sets, lights.  Below is a picture from her famous “Cocktail Glass Show,” which was performed on the television show CSI  http://www.tv.com/shows/csi-crime-scene-investigation/viewer/?flag=1&i=45&gri=19&grti=101

She is the best selling author of two books:  Burlesque and the Art of the Teese and Dita Stripteese.  Dita is a self-styled fashion icon that has topped international best dressed lists and walked in high profile fashion-shows. Dita will bring some of her signature fashion style to the masses with a new fragrance, lingerie collection, and dress  collection this fall.  All will be available on her web site, beauties!

She is a passionate advocate for the fight against HIV and AIDS.  Dita was a MAC Viva Glam Spokesperson from 2006-2008 and in 2009 she participated in the H&M/Fashion Against Aids campaign. She has also performed and appeared at several events for Amfar and was honored with their Award of Courage in 2008.

So your home work is this.  Visit her web site, find your own unique glamour and become the Belle in your very own Self Created Ball.  Like Dita has.

Love, Goddess

© S Stevens Life Strategies

Glamour Week Day Three:  Make your eyes sparkle…literally!

Find glitter eyeliners and enhance your eyes.  (Hint:  Ulta has NYX)  They come in a rainbow of the most luscious colors.  Create a day and night look.  The final touch…along the eyeliner line, sweep a precise line of glitter in the color of your choice.  This will add a dazzling touch to your eyes.  Whomever you encounter will be drawn in.  Guaranteed to get you compliments!  And since eyes are the mirrors to our hot, sassy little souls, it’s the perfect thing to make sparkle!

Oh the homework I have you do…(sassy smile)  Have fun!  Love, Goddess

© S Stevens Life Strategies

Playing with a new look.  When was the last time you did that?  We did it all the time growing up.  We couldn’t wait to try on Mom’s make-up, clothes, shoes and perfume.  Then we grew up.  We get dressed up for special occasions, but putting on make-up and adding a touch of glamour to everyday life can be a chore.  Recently I realized how much fun getting back to this play can be!

This re-awakening took place because of several things.

1.  My best friend Mary Ann does an amazing job applying make up.  She did mine when we had a weekend away.  She gave me a look that I would have never thought of.  Because of that experience, I started to apply the basics when I left the house. 

2.  I started looking forward to playing with my make-up before leaving the house.  Not in a million years did I think I would.  I also started noticing my skin more.  It was looking a little blotchy.  So I started taking better care of my skin.   My skin is so much better now!  I get compliments.  See what a little attention to you can do?

3.  Tonight I was getting ready to go out.  I turned on the tube for entertainment.  I flicked away and came upon Kim Kardashian.  Normally I think this gorgeous woman wears too much make-up.  Today I liked how she looked.  Smokey eyes with a light tan lip gloss.  So I did my make up like hers.  With a lighter touch.  I loved the tan lipgloss more than anything.  I have dark lips and have always gone with berry glosses.  It was a surprising discovery.

So when was the last time you played with your beauty stash, honey?  Why don’t you try it.  Get a magazine and copy a look you love.  Copy your favorite celebrity’s look.  Try Kim Kardashians’s look above.  Make it your own.  What feature is your favorite?  Play it up.  Try ripe lips with glowy skin.  Try an eyeshadow in a kit you thought you would never wear. Put a few tiny spots of glitter at the corner of your eyes.

Bitch it up by going to a fun place and having your favorite cocktail or bite to eat.

Bitch it up further—buy a fun new make-up kit.  Something a little out of your comfort zone.  Ulta has amazing, affordable ones.

In conclusion:  For years I wore next to no make-up.  I would buy a kit and it would just sit in my drawer.  I’m discovering how fun it can be to use these things!   Decorating and adorning your gorgeous face with a splash of color is a way to apply a little love and celebration to you.  Give yourself that little extra time.  Discover, play and enjoy.

Love, Goddess

© S Stevens Life Strategies