As a young girl I would spend summers with my grandmother. I adored watching her pick out her jewelry, do her makeup, and put on the pretty shade of coral lipstick that matched her painted nails. She would do my hair and put blush on my cheeks. I think I've always wished to one day be as elegant and put together as she was.

Today I'm a single mother of 2 girls, and I want to teach them that beauty is when you can have a genuine smile on your face because you feel good on the inside. I struggle with this myself, which is funny because I can find beauty in anyone else. Physically, I think we are our own worst critics. I'm at my heaviest weight ever, and I get down on myself for not exercising at the end of a busy day. I think I look younger than I am, but I don't feel beautiful on a daily basis anymore. I've been through a lot and have overcome depression, anxiety and other issues. God has helped me to find Him and I can truly say I'm proud of myself for what I've done with Him in the lead. After working at the same job for 12 years, I was able to go back to school and get my basic and masters licenses in aesthetics. I've always struggled with skin issues, and find it so rewarding to be able to help others and educate them about skin health. I love meeting new people and helping others feel good about themselves. 

I've always had lower self esteem because of things from my past. I continue to build strength and feel better about my outward appearance. I remind myself that we are all beautiful and unique in our own ways.

Loving others is my favorite non-physical feature. Life is so short-what else is there? I think God has made me a hugely empathetic person and I hope I'm serving Him well.