Breast Cancer Awareness: Kristin's Story Part II

Image: Hayley West

Styling: Stylist LisaG

MAU: Hanna Fisher

I couldn't possibly share this amazing woman's story in one blog. This is Part II of Kristin's journey from battling Breast Cancer to her road to recovery. Kristin has been so inspiring to me and what an amazing way to celebrate her end of chemotherapy treatment than with a styled pictorial showcasing her beauty - both external and internal. If you missed the first Part read is HERE

There is a lot more to recovery than the physical healing of incisions. Kristin told me what she has been doing to heal herself, and what she would tell others who have received a diagnosis, "You’re not alone! Be careful doing searches on Internet. We are really fortunate to have so many helpful resources in this town. For example, Wellness Kitchen in Templeton I get bone broth and healing tea quite often. There is pick up location in San Luis Obispo.

 No sugar or processed foods! Sugar feeds cancer 

 Buy Book

 Buy Book

I take several supplements to keep my immune system and overall support.  I Know you are thinking that must be so expensive and the answer is YES. But I think it is worth every penny. If you can't afford it at least take Vitamin c, d . Mushrooms are great for immune support. I started with Turkey tail and since then moved on to Mitake and now Shitake (Host Defense Brand).  Consult with a Naturopath doctor first. I feel fortune to have best of both worlds. I have a regular oncologist Dr. Dicarlo and Dr. Hedi Lucas my integrated naturopthic oncologist.

Please check out Kristin'a GoFundMe Page if you are able to help out!

HERE

Kristin explains how your contributions are helping her with her health; 

" I went back and fourth on the derision of doing radiation . After many visits to radiation oncologist with many questions . I decided to not move forward with radiation . Just never had a 100% peace and my gut was telling me it was more harm then good . With that said decided to go an alternative route and work with a nutritionist . On a very strict diet and as he works on re-booting my body . I buy all my fruits and veggies at local farmers market . We are so blessed to have one every day of the week in different towns near by . Usually I attend sat in Templeton and wed. In Atascadero . Currently on a plant based diet with fish and chicken . My nutritionist has me on intestinal cleanse , then gall bladder cleanse , kidney , liver ...... This is to purge the toxins out of my body and keep me healthy ! Also juicing twice a day . So as you can imagine it's very time consuming and costly to work with a nutritionist . I am feeling better and feel this strict regiment is with it ."

Her words of wisdom:

"Stay Positive: Your mind plays a huge part in your mood. Yes there will be good days and bad days. Feel blessed to have had more good days than bad days.

Allow help: Everyone has different ways of showing they care and helping.

Keep moving: I think the biggest reason was so strong through treatment and surgery is a great team of support but also private Pilate lessons at the house. I also try to walk at least 30 min a day and eat really clean.  

I feel so fortunate to have been a part of the project and to have connected with Kristin. I am so thankful for her courage to share her story as it may save a woman's life. Share what you have learned with your sisters, we need to support one another. As women we have an amazing opportunity to educate,  empower and inspire each other and lift each other up by sharing our truth and experiences. Take the opportunity to speak to your friends, colleagues, family and strangers about early detection, self examination and overall health this month and beyond.

L

XO

Inner Beauty Regime

Christy Turlington for VOGUE April 1994 in Jean Paul Gaultier Suit

When we think of beauty we are always TOLD what is on the inside that counts but what we are SHOWN is the value and measurement of beauty by society on the outside. We spend a lot of time (and money) on our outer beauty regimes. For me what is on the inside naturally enhances what is on the out; conventional, generic beauty is non existent through my eyes. Personal style is a powerful non-verbal statement/reflection of who you are inside represented visually by the clothing you choose and how you style them, but it is only a part of the picture. 

I was just asked what I do for my hair and skin in the winter as part of my regular beauty regime and it got me thinking about beauty as a whole. What we see on the outside is the tip of the proverbial iceberg of an individuals beauty. A small piece of who we really are. Do you have an inner beauty regime? My weekly Yoga practice is a very important part of my internal beauty regime. Words can honestly not describe how it impacts me as a whole; inside and out.

Candelight Yoga - where I practice.

My yoga instructor used the iceberg analogy when speaking about yoga in a class I took a while back.

I wanted to share an interesting read provided by Daily Cup of Yoga  . The most powerful message is the common misconception that yoga is all about the poses. Although very important and an integral part of the practice there is so much more to the practice of yoga than ASANA (the poses). Conversely, fashion/style and outer appearance IS important to your beauty concept and who you are but there is so much more internally that makes someone beautiful.

I personally LOVE inspirational quotations which always serve to motivate me to evaluate, think and act in my daily life and always promotes inner growth in some way.

I also continuously challenge myself and purposely choose the road less traveled so I am able, through adversity to build character. This includes failure and tough tasks that push me out of my comfort zone. Doing for others and giving with no expectation of a return is another item to add to your inner beauty regime and practice on a regular basis. You should give it a try today.

Inner and outer beauty regimes each serve to enhance the other but we as a society of women, from my experience, tend to spend less time and effort on the internal.

Do you have or devote time to your inner beauty regime? the part of you that creams, injections and clothes can't enhance or change?

What is your favorite inner beauty practices? 

Image: Hayley Marie Photography

I Love Lace

Ad campaigns from certain fashion houses always serve as inspiration. I am in LOVE with theDolce & Gabanna ad campaign for 2013. 

It is like you are transported to a carnival of clothes, rich in textures. The lace was the obvious stand out for me and reminded me of how much I LOVE LACE

Now that the holiday season is upon us there is no better time than NOW to embrace the LACE.

Me: Vintage Black Lace Top, Evolution Rewind Mask Ring w Photographer Hayley Marie in a 70's BOHO Dress both from

Evolution Vintage

Let the lace inspire your holiday look. Mix-and-match these Vintage pieces with current pieces from your wardrobe along with contemporary or vintage accessories for a signature look that is ALL YOU!

1960's Black Lace Over Nude - Pant Suit (Tunic Top) - Can be styled at least 3 ways! ~ $250

Mint Green Lace ~ Christina Lacroix Top ~ $110

1950's White lace over mint dress ~ $90

 Baby Blue Lace ~ 1960's Frock ~ $55

Brown Lace Applique, 1980's custom made dress ~ $160

Vintage black lace blouse ~ $40

Creative Images with Hayley Marie

Snake Ring

Since my images for my NEW Evolution Rewind Ring Collection have hit the net I have had several inquiries, not only about the rings but the person who shot my images.

Ring & Earring Set

Green Egyptian "Eye" Ring

I work with a local Central Coast photographer; Hayley, of Hayley Marie Photography.  I featured her work along with a Q&A almost a year ago, read it HERE 

On Set for my REWIND Shoot  

Photographer Self Portrait

Over the past year her work and creative eye have evolved.  We have since collaborated for both of my Evolution Rewind Ring shoots and others I have styled; bringing Vintage clothing and vibe from fashion's past into the contemporary realm.

 "Alice in Wonderland 2012" Styled By LisaG - Images: HMP - Buy the DRESS

Stylist: LisaG  Buy the DRESS

Hayley is located on the beautiful Central Coast of California, but this Australian native is not opposed to travel for her work. She often travels back to her homeland down under or brings her camera to Los Angeles, San Fransisco and all California locations in between (inquire here for travel pricing).

She most recently shot my family portrait, where with some clever styling the past and present could collide.

Looking for someone to turn your generic "family portrait" into something creative and fun?

 or ready to treat yourself to some glamorous images that will last a lifetime? 

.

give the gift of a photo book, enlargement or calender for someone who has everything? 

Styled by LisaG - Evolution Vintage Sheer Jacket (BUY it w dress)

Take advantage of her KILLER pre-holiday deal of a "mini shoot"  ~ $175

Includes:

*45 min shoot at a beautiful outdoor/indoor location (Central Coast Only - Inquire for travel pricing for other California locations)

*Top 10 images fully edited

*On-line gallery to share with friends & family

*1 8X10

*3 5X7

BOOK NOW! You MUST be booked and shot BEFORE November 18th!

Connect with Hayley

FACEBOOK

WEBSITE

Line Up

Linda Evangelista - Photog: Steven Meisel

I LOVE to Line Up when creating the perfect eye. In recent years I have gotten into the use of eyeliner. There is nothing sexier to me than a BLACK "Cat's Eye" or "Wing". After all these years it remains a make-up staple.

A lot of women have told me they love the lined look but are unable to do it. Just like everything else in life ladies it takes practice, trial and error and a little bit of experimentation.  DO NOT try liner until perfected on the day of an event. Start your practice in advance.

Here is a photographic step-by-step Vintage liner "PicTorial"

It's fun to play with different liners, and then pair with various eye shadow colours and techniques. The only limit id your imagination.

I use M.A.C Fluidline in Blacktrack

I use M.A.C. Angle Brush # 208 (It is technically for Eye Brows but I love it for my lash line)

The Result - My mix of Pink Shadow (Kat Von D: Mi Vida Loca) & Wing Liner

Image: Hayley Marie Photography

TIP: I pull my eye lid FLAT to get the perfect line. Then fill in.

Need a step-by-step guide??

WATCH:

Ekaterina Ulyanoff Make Up Artist

Are you ready to LINE UP? Post your comments, tips and photos below.

Keep it Simple

Life with all of it's ups and towns, surprises, tragedies and triumphs it can sometimes feel like it is pretty complicated. Some of the issues you face are quite complex with several layers and are usually emotionally fueled. However, just like everything else there are two ways to look at things. I have always instinctively opted for the complicated or learning the lessons the HARD way.  Lately I am working on taking a new perspective - Simplicity. When you really think about it and change your perspective the situations in life can be pretty simple.  When faced with a new situation wait until the emotions subside to examine it with a clear mind. Put it into perspective and THEN act. It is easier said than done for sure but with practice it can become common place in your life.

You may be surprised with the results.

In the meantime celebrate all that life has to offer. Try to simply look for the good or the lesson in each negative that comes your way. Keep it simple.You never know what will wash up on your shore next. 

Photo: Hayley Marie 

LisaG's GIFT GUIDE

Can you believe it? 38 days until Christmas. I am 99% done my shopping because for me on top of my baking, home decorating, tree-trimming, wrapping, pre-school participation, and socializing yuletide duties I have little time to shop as the actual holiday approaches. I attempt completion by Dec 1st (at least that's the goal). This year I also get to go home to Canada and enjoy my entire family in the snow too; 2 kids on a plane from LAX to Toronto with all my Christmas gear in tow .. Good Times. Yup, I'm going to be "that person" on the plane this time.
So for the stressed and time crunched, or just for those who have no idea what to give this year I wanted to offer a few suggestions that may help you check the shopping portion of the Christmas program off your list.

LOVE is obviously the BEST gift as is TIME spent with love ones but let's be realistic. We ALL have people on our list to BUY for.

1) EVOLUTION VINTAGE GIFT CARD - Give the gift of FASHION! The card are electronic (emailed - you can print & give!) in $50, $100, $150, $200 denominations. You can use this toward shipping too. If you know someone who has unique taste and loves high quality Vintage this makes a great gift!
2) PICNIC BACK PACK - A gift that makes you want to explore the great outdoors, with some comforts of home dining. Cruise the site too: Red Envelope has a lot of unique gifts (some you can customize!)

3) Book: 100 Unforgettable Dresses – by Hal Rubenstein Fashion. Eye Candy with Great information about each dress.

4) Vestige Jewelry Recycled Vintage metals and jewels. All the pieces are unique!

Read her Evolution Revolution Vintage Feature HERE


5) Visit InvenTORI: A variety of unique gifts! Gifts for your home, baby, pet, library and MORE! The treasures in Tori's Finds are from her own personal collection of one-of-a-kind items!! Stop by the store if you are in the LA area or shop on-line. An amazing assortment of gifts and great prices. There is really something for EVERYONE! EXCLUSIVE to Evolution Revolution readers - SAVE 10% on ALL ON-LINE purchases using the code: HOLIDAY

6)Decades of Style – 60’s & 70’s How to Hair & Make-up. Great information about the decades and the looks along with quotations. EXCLUSIVE for my readers: message the author though her website and SAVE 50% before Thanksgiving and 40% until Christmas!!

7) Dreaming of Chanel & Dreaming of Dior: Vintage Dresses, Timeless Stories Travel though one woman’s inherited Vintage Collection of over 3,000 pieces from her godmother in these 2 books! Great illustrations too.

8)Dragon Voice Software Great for writers, bloggers, or people who can speak/think faster than they can type. Also good for people who have sustained injuries and have a hard time typing or navigating with their mouse. Let the Dragon do the work! Special Christmas sale for home computers on now!

9) Central Coast Sea Scape Calendar Enjoy the beauty of California’s Beautiful Central Coast, with amazing images and quotations. The bonus is 10% of the proceeds are being donated to Breast Cancer. Mention Evolution Revolution and get FREE SHIPPING!! 10) Custom Portrait – Marty Parker ART! Be forever immortalized in pencil by the hand of a great artist. It is a unique and custom gift for friends or family. You can also purchase an existing print from Marty’s collection to be framed for your gift! Mention Evolution Revolution and SAVE $20 on a fine art print of your choice and if you live in the US SHIPPING IS FREE on all items!

11) Raw Essentials Skin care line. If you care what goes into your body give the RAW line a try (the price is right too)! Model Carol Alt has created a line of skin care products that use Raw ingredients that are better for your skin because they are never heated above 115° and retain all the vitamins, minerals, nutrients and antioxidants providing maximum nourishment to the skin SHOP: www.rawessentials.com (FREE Shipping over $75) also available at Shoppers Drug Mart in Canada

12) Kam Bey Jewelry - Scott Kam & Andrea Bey collaboration combining Kam's Vintage Native American Jewelry along with Bey's Contemporary Jewelry Designs. There are some unique pieces in their collection. EXCLUSIVE to Evolution Revolution readers: Buy a Kam Bey Piece and get another piece for 50% off (of equal or lesser value)

13) Pennies From Heaven: A Medium's Two Cents on Life and Death by Christopher Stillar. Not only did I have the pleasure to write the forward to this book I have also witnessed the impact Chris has made in the lives of others by providing them with validations from the other side. Don't take my word for it ... READ IT and GIVE IT to those who believe and the skeptic's too!

I hope this guide will help you get ready for the holidays!!

The real joy of this and ALL seasons comes from giving. Your time, love, service and of course a gift or two!