Jacqui Phillips: Real beauty in the face of challenge

We serviced a Baltimore bodybuilding show last weekend, and some of the most incredible figures were over 35. Some smoked the 20-somethings, including one who's 53 and another who has five kids. If that's not inspiration, what is?

Most have a story. They're fighting cancer or are in remission. They've been diagnosed with heart disease and are going to beat it. They have diabetes and are wonder thin it will make them. Or they simply want to transform themselves into something they always wanted to be.

All are fighters who redefine what beauty really means.

Julie Pape

Although we're hired to work a lot on their appearances for the day of the show, the beauty ritual really started the day the decision is made to participate in such an event -- in this case, the 2009 NPC Baltimore-Washington Invitational.

Rachel

Long before they compete, the bodybuilders can see the end result in their hearts and souls -- and slowly, vigorously, they transform their visions into reality.

Once this is accomplished, they are so grateful: Their energy is so unbelievable that you can't help share their natural high, and feel proud of each and every competitor's personal accomplishment.

Our Jacqueline Pasquale Spa in Edgewater has a direct link: We provide the body bronzing and glazing, the makeup

Meredith

artistry and hair styling. And although I try to keep my eye and not be a fan, it's impossible with these athletes not to root!

What they show on the outside is not the face of fear but the courage to accept themselves as who we they are, and to continue to create a better version of that through health and wellness.

We are each the star of our own movie. So why not make the best movie ever made, one that depicts who we really are?

We could all learn from the way these athletes constantly create the film, edit it, perfect it, and learn from it.

Find your motivation within yourself. Create your own movie. Reveal the true beauty that lies behind the curtain!

Kelly

Isn't it time YOU were pampered like a celebrity? Jacqueline Pasquale Spa has tanned and airbrushed makeup for everyone from Laura Bush to Lionel Richie to Chazz Palminteri.

Jacqui, who's created her own line of cosmetics, also writes twice weekly for cliffviewpilot.com, sharing her knowledge and experience as makeup artist to the stars.

Now you can enjoy the same treatment: Just call for an appointment, then come and experience the luxury that brings the rich and famous back over and over again.

Sara

It's easy to get to, in the Trader Joe's shopping center on River Road in Edgewater. Take advantage of their special offer by mentioning cliffviewpilot.com. Experience luxury like you've never known before: JUST CLICK HERE.