NEW BEGINNINGS & BELIEVING IN YOURSELF with chef, TV host and QVC's Q50 Ambassador SANDRA LEE

SANDRA LEE IS BELOVED FOR HER BRIGHT SMILE, VIVACIOUS PERSONALITY AND INGENIOUS RECIPES.

- Bonnie Siegler

And now, after an eight-year hiatus, she's returned to the spotlight as the host of Netflix's Blue Ribbon Baking Championship and as one of QVC's Q50 Ambassadors, a group of accomplished women over 50 who celebrate possibility at any age. "I've had to work hard to make my own silver platter in life," the 58-year-old tells FIRST, recalling her rough childhood and how she became the caretaker of her four siblings due to her mother's struggle with addiction. Add to that her fight against breast cancer and a double mastectomy in 2015. "Going through pain, you are so grateful to come out the other side of it," says Sandra. "But it's that pain and difficulty that make us buck up." Here, Sandra shares how confidence, kindness and appreciation have helped her heal...body and soul.

MY STRESS RX

Taking a time-out

"Nonsense causes me little stresses. But also, the last eight years have been tough. I haven't been able to work with things going on in my life. So the absence of money, absence of time-all those things are stressful," Sandra reflects. "When I feel anxious, I try to reflect on the mistakes I've made in the past and how they could affect what I'm doing now. I'll take a break, walk and think, or do a little meditation. It helps me feel more calm."

MY WAY TO CELEBRATE

No-sweat picnic