Shop: Cabin 108 Banff

My address book is a collection of my favorite shops each is bookmarked and saved in dewy decimal categorical filling system. I like to shop, and I like style. Shopping at independent one of kind boutiques is an adventure: one, where you are never certain of the treasures you'll find. When ever I am in Banff, I make sure to stop by Cabin 108.

Cabin 108, is located in the Clock Tower Mall on Banff Avenue. The store carries fashion forward brands at reasonable prices. The store proprietor has a wicked flare for fashion and stocks her boutique with emerging fashion labels that can't be found in mall stores. Cabin 108 is a non-pressure shopping environment that allows you to loose yourself while browsing (just like summers at the cabin). 

Everything sold at cabin is wearable and affordable. The shop is the perfect mix of lazy day (in style) comfort clothes mixed with party dresses, jewelry, funky finds, and business casual. Both of my outfits below are courtesy of Cabin. 

Tank: Lovers And Friends, necklace Free Whistle; 

Dress: See you Monday.

Cabin 108 has a great selection of: Toms, Free Whistle, Alter Ego, Lovers and Friends, and See You Monday. A trip to Banff isn't complete with out a stop at Cabin 108. 

Horoscope:May 21- May 27

In Canadia Land, May Long Weekend fall a little before Memorial Day. The Canadian version, is much the same as the American lots of booze, music, and time with friends and family. May long weekend is always a righteous party for the town of Banff. As Victoria Day, marks the end of the ski season for the Canadian Rockies. Every May Long, Sunshine Village celebrates the end of the season with "The Slush Cup." Where slightly insane skiers and snowboards through themselves of a jump and into a pool of freezing water; warmed with snow.

The ski conditions at Sunshine Village are surprisingly good. While I won't be partaking in Slush Cup I look forward to some park laps, BC*DC, and the show of drunken stupor. With that, I'd like to remind everyone that there will be police check stops today, so please party responsibly.

And check out your Georgia Nicols Horoscope for May 21-27.

Gemini:

"...the envelope please. And the winner is Gemini!" All this good stuff snuck up on you, didn't it? Well, I say grab the baton and run with it. Life is full of up-and-down cycles as well as cycles within cycles. It's important to recognize when you're on a roll and things are going well. In fact, things are going to be even better and better! Don't take this for granted. Not only do you have a great summer ahead, you have a fortunate year ahead of you. Make the most of this. That saying, "Make hay while the Sun shines," is true! Fortunately, you don't sit around getting dusty. But why not go one step further? Hatch a plan. Set some goals. Write down what your perfect world would be about a year from now. Be specific.

Cancer:

Because Gemini is the sign next to yours in the zodiac, many of you have some planets in Gemini in your chart. This means all this Gemini pixie dust will sprinkle on you as well. We know you've been working hard to secure your home base and feel good about where you live. (You're a nester.) But for the next four-to-six weeks, it behooves you to think about what you want your "new" year (birthday to birthday) to be. For starters, why not look back over your shoulder and size up your last year. How are you doing at the art of living? If you clearly define the goals you want to achieve in the coming year, they will more likely become a reality. After all, are you steering your life or just responding to whatever happens?

Leo:

You're looking at a popular six weeks ahead. (Do get out of bed.) Invitations will pour in as friends, clubs and organizations make demands on your time. Expect to hang out with younger friends and creative, artistic types. (These are your people.) And while the next six weeks are the perfect time to schmooze and enjoy the company of others, they are also a good time to think about your hopes and dreams for the future. You're a leader. It's not your style to muddle along relying on management by crisis. Your reputation is getting a lovely boost now so what can you do to best use this advantage? (He who hesitates is miles away from the next exit.)

Virgo:

Of course, you're still a force to contend with because fiery Mars has been in your sign since November (staying until July). Small wonder this Gemini hit occurs at the top of your chart. It boldly calls attention to you, especially the attention of bosses, parents, teachers, VIPs and the police. You are definitely high viz during the next six weeks, and take note: This spotlight is flattering! Others see you as capable, which is why you'll be asked to take on increased responsibilities. Say yes because you don't have to be an action hero to please them. (It's the great lighting, get it?) Romance with someone older, richer or in a position of authority might percolate. (When you don't know what you're doing - do it neatly.)

Libra:

In the next six weeks, you want to blow town. You want a change of scenery. You want to see new places, new faces and hear new ideas. In fact, you want to be stimulated by fascinating conversation with intelligent people who transport you to new levels of awareness. You want mind-blowing experiences to make your life exciting. Obviously, if you can travel, do so. If you can't travel, then explore your own sandbox. Go someplace you've never been. Talk to people from different backgrounds. Do things that are out of the ordinary (nothing as extreme as jogging, but you could get a window table in an ethnic restaurant and watch runners go by. Of course, cyclists are more fun because they dress better. And the guys shave their legs.)

Scorpio:

Keep your pockets open because all kinds of gifts, goodies, money, as well as favours and perks will come your way in the next six weeks. Ka-ching! (Would I kid you?) People will give you things directly and many of you will benefit indirectly because your partner or someone close to you gets a windfall. The next six weeks are the perfect time to ask for a loan or a mortgage. They're also the perfect time to decide how to share jointly-held property or an inheritance or settle insurance disputes. Sex will be very hot as well. Hey - you're laughing!

Sagittarius:

You are on the other end of the teeter-totter with Gemini because Gemini and Sagittarius are 180 degrees apart. In other words, you are two ends of the same plank. Therefore, all this wonderful stuff swirling around Gemini mirrors you! In fact, life will be so dazzling you'll need to wear shades. Relations with everyone will be smoother, more gracious and diplomatic. A casual relationship could become more committed. It's a great time to begin new partnerships (personal or professional). This is not the time to go it alone. Form working units with others and let people help you! Good time to consult experts as well. ("Is there a taxidermist in the house?")

Capricorn:

Your urge to organize (which is always there) is going to be strong in the next six weeks. You'll want to alphabetize your CDs and colour-code your closet. ("A home for everything and everything in its place.") Not only will you enjoy getting better organized at work and at home, you'll become more active at work in a hands-on way. Partly, this is because your relations with co-workers are so good right now. (Good enough for a romance to spark!) This drive for self-improvement will expand to your health as well. The high standards you set for yourself could earn you a raise or praise from others. Kudos!

Aquarius:

The next six weeks are going to be one of the most fun-filled times of the year for you. Grab every opportunity to enjoy a vacation (even a tiny one). Attend musical performances, summer fairs, sports events, the arts, craft fairs and anything to do with theme parks and the hospitality industry. Playful times with children will be rewarding. Romantic relationships will get a wonderful boost. Singles could start a new romance. Existing relationships will heat up in a sweet way. Look for ways to express your creativity because this will be satisfying.

Pisces:

You're entering a domestic phase for the next six weeks. This is why you will enjoy gardening, redecorating, puttering around your digs and tweaking things. You will definitely enjoy entertaining at home, which is also why you're keen to tackle home repairs. This impulse to improve your living space extends even into your family, which is why family relationships will become a stronger focus and also more rewarding and affectionate. For those of you who are exploring real-estate deals, this will be a busy time. Profitable opportunities are possible so keep your eyes open.

Aries:

Your tempo is quickening. In the next month, you'll be running around like you've got an outboard motor on your ass. The pace of your days will accelerate because you're cramming more into each day. Short trips, busy errands, conversations with everyone plus increased reading, writing and studying are just some reasons your pace will be approaching Warp 9. But you'll welcome the challenge! (You love being out there, flying your colours, talking to everyone.) Look for ways to make money from talking and writing because you can do this in the next four-to-six weeks. Hey, you're more than just a pretty face.

Taurus:

This heavy-duty Gemini trip makes you focus on money, money, money! You've got money-making ideas and opportunities to earn money. Naturally, since you're earning some coin, you're thinking about major purchases. (You do love your treasures.) But at a subtler level, when you think about your assets and what you own, you'll also think about your life values. What are your values? What guides you? You know you want to be happy, and you know you want financial security. (Mortgage-free land!) So what can you do that's fun and rewarding and makes lots of money? (Will this make you happy?)

Pet Friendly Get-a-Ways

I have a theory, that Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs is being exemplified by domesticated animals, primarily dogs. In the past decade (or so), Labradors, Doodles, Toys, Collies, Hounds, and Boxers have made the coveted leap from pet to family member. Our four legged friends are unique, one of kind, with a personality so distinct-

The overt personification of domesticated animals has led to the evolution of their needs from a survival motivation, to a need to belong and be accepted by the human family. In attempts to gain family approval our furry friends have realized the importance of building esteem. Dogs have figured out that performing certain tricks grant rewards, (the need for esteem). Furthermore some highly evolved dogs, like my families over indulged Labrador has discovered the freedom that comes with basic problem solving (ex. eating one's leash to avoid being tied up).

In the past decade, there has a been an increasing trend to appeal to and include the family pet in advertising campaigns. Such as, "The Family Vacation."

Responsible pet parents know  that our pups, deserve a vacation too. The modern family resort is pet friendly. I wonder how long it will be until vacation destination begin a high budget marketing assault aimed at the family dog?

Watch as The Banff Dog enjoys his mountain retreat. Surly sparking envy from the urban pup community. 

Shred: Learning Park

 I love snowboarding. The mountains are where I go to recharge. I'm lucky to call the Canadian Rockies home. Mountain time, is a little like "island" time. On the mountain everything has a different beat and pace. With spring in the air, now is the perfect time to play  in the park. Spring snow is great for learning new tricks, whether it be your first time hitting a rail or trying a switch back lip on a stair set . The spring snow is soft, and the weather is nearly tropical.

Learning to ride park is not nearly as scary or painful as it may seem. You want to start small and work your way up. I recently teamed with Sunshine Village to film a few beginner park tricks. This first just walks you trough a basic 50-50. 

Go, and enjoy the snow where ever you are. Mount Spokane and Lookout Pass both have super fun parks to push your riding. 

 RCR Resorts have fun progressive rail parks to help get you framiliar and comfortable with riding rails/boxes. 

Sweat: Stretch Before, Stretch After

Stretching is good for the heart. It helps to break up the lactic acid deposits that are stored in muscles. If muscle are over burdened with lactic acid they stiffen up because clean oxygenated blood cant flow through. I often struggle with remembering to stretch properly. Before you physical exertion a gentle warm up helps to get the blood flowing; after a workout a gentle cool down helps the muscles flush out waste.

This 2011-12 ski season, I have been blessed with infinate powder days. I can honesty say that I have had more powder days this season than park days. Thanks to mother nature, Sunshine Village, and Red Mountain. The powder is heavenly- and the pillows luxurious. I'm loving the conditions; even though my muscles are taking a beating from the mountain and the fresh snow.

I find that religiously following an exercise program like TAM really helps keep my body in top mountain shape. TAM workouts help increase: strength, flexibility, and cardio. With all the physical demands of the mountain, I'm finding myself in need of a little extra TLC. I have had to up the anti on my stretching.

This 10 minute stretch routine, will help build strength and flexibility. It is a great way to loosen up your muscles and warm up the body. Perfect before of after the slopes. 

Eat: Tex-Mex Taco's

I was a server at  "The Magpie & Sump," a Tex-Mex restaurant in Banff. The Magpie is such a fun place, and working there has probably been one of my favourite jobs. I loved the people I worked with, the relaxed atmosphere, the customers, and the food. I love Mexican food, (and tequila). Traditional Tex-Mex food, can be a caloric disaster and Tex-Mex is not always as tasty vegan. ( At The Magpie and Stump, orders can be made vegan and gluten friendly.) 

This, Tex-Mex Tofu Taco Filling, recipe is one of my favourites to combine in a crock-pot before I head up skiing for the day. It takes 15 minutes to prep, and is a dumby proof recipe for great taste. 

Vegan and Gluten Free Texas Style Soft Tacos:

Taco Filling

1 package firm tofu (cubed)

1 sweet potato (chopped)

1 cup celery or bok choy (chopped)

1 yellow squash

3 cloves garlic (minced)

1/4 cup lime juice (preferably fresh)

1 cup salsa

1 red pepper (chopped)

1/2 tsp chili powder

1 tsp cumin

1/4 tsp paprika

salt and pepper to taste

Serving Accompaniments

1/4 cup cilantro (garnish)

1 cup red cabbage (shredded)-

1 large avocado

soft corn tortilla shells

Combine the above ingredients in a large slow cooker. Stir to combine all the ingredients, and cook on low for 6-8 hours. 

When you come back from your fabulous day of activity, check on the taco filling, and give it a good stir.

Chop up the cilantro, and the cabbage; while you warm up the taco shells. When you are ready to eat, dish out the taco filling, and dress with the cabbage and avocado. 

-Enjoy!

Horoscope: Jan.16- 22

Once Again, Happy Monday. 2012 is swing, and so far moving nicely. For the past week I have been involved with a wonderful fundraiser at Sunshine Village which has been raising money for The Waterkeepers. Growing up in Banff, I never truly realized how lucky I was to be immersed in the Rocky Mountains, until I travelled else wear only to see nature less stunning and madly polluted by human waste. The Waterkeepers in an organization that is important to me, because with out care for the natural grace of our world; there is no care for  us. 

So in the spirit of commitment to resolutions here are your weekly Gorgia Nicols Horoscopes. 

Aquarius:

Glory hallelujah! The Sun has finally returned to your sign, which means it's your turn to recharge your batteries for the rest of the year. Not only will you find yourself highly energized and feeling happier in general, but you will notice that important people and favourable circumstances seem to be coming your way! Quite literally, this is the meaning of "make hay while the sun shines." (OK, it means something else in the prairies but you get my drift.) You'll also be spending money on beautiful things for yourself and loved ones. This is no surprise because you're committed to making your home and your family relationships as wonderful as they can be this year. "More shortbread, anyone?"

Pisces:

This is a great month for you to buy wardrobe items because you like what you see in the mirror. You're diplomatic and charming because fair Venus is in your sign, so you'll enjoy schmoozing. Go dancing! Buy new shoes or boots! However, despite your desire for fun socializing, you also need time alone in the next month. Respect this need for solitude. Hide somewhere to catch your breath and mentally, psychologically and emotionally regroup. Because your birthday is just a month away, this is the perfect time to strategize what you want your new year to be. Be specific in your expectations. Write down some goals. What are three things you want to embrace in your new year? (Well, besides that.)

Aries:

In the month ahead, you'll enjoy socializing more! Resolve to get out and schmooze with others. Join clubs, groups and associations. Take a class. Since you'll be more aware of your goals in the month ahead, talk about your hopes and dreams for the future with others because their feedback will help you. Others might give you important contacts, names or beneficial introductions. Since you have opportunities to boost your income in the next 18 months, start to be aware of how you can do this. You're not living in a vacuum. Join forces with others to see how you can get more done - and faster! (We both know you're willing to work hard.)

Taurus:

During the next six weeks, the Sun will slowly travel across the top of your chart acting like a spotlight on you. This is the only time all year this happens, so make the most of it! Furthermore, this spotlight flatters you. ("Are you ready for your close-up, Miss Garbo?") It makes you look unusually competent to those in positions of authority like bosses, parents, teachers, VIPs and the police. That's why the next month is the time to make your pitch! Present your agenda. Ask for approval for whatever you want. Get permission from the powers that be to go forward with your plans. Since vacations appeal to you now and in the next few months, ask for time off.

Gemini:

As the Sun changes signs, your desire to travel in the next six weeks will increase dramatically. You want to see more of the world because you want to increase your experience of life! This means you want to expand your horizons through travel or study. You're unusually open to new adventures, unusual ideas and exploring religious and philosophical concepts. You'll enjoy talking to people from different backgrounds and other cultures. The month ahead is also a wonderful time to make headway in publishing, the media, medicine, the law and anything to do with higher education. Take a course! Learn a new language! Remember: Sight is a faculty, seeing is an art.

Cancer:

You've been focused on securing your home base through residential moves or repairing and renovating where you live. You want a solid base from which to operate. (Of course! You're a nester.) Naturally, this takes money and juggling resources, bills, taxes, debt and, possibly, insurance matters. In the next six weeks, focus on cleaning up whatever you can in these areas. Read a financial book on how to reduce your debt. Get tips about taxes, handling your expenses and dealing with shared property. You might have to work with someone whose values differ from yours. (Grrr. Not always easy.) Get on the ball because the early bird gets the coffee left over from last night.

Leo:

This is the only time all year when the Sun is as far away from you as it ever gets. However, the Sun is your source of energy. This is why you need more sleep in the next month. Just accept this and do yourself a favour by accommodating your need for more rest. (Fortunately, romance is very sweet and affectionate, so it might be easy to stay in bed.) Incidentally, the one time of year when the Sun is opposite your sign is your best opportunity to learn more about your closest relationships. Use this advantage. Observe your style of relating to close friends and partners. How can you be more patient, considerate and worthy of getting great gifts from these people?

Virgo:

Because Mars is in your sign and the Sun is moving through the part of your chart ruling employment, you have the energy and motivation to accomplish an enormous amount, in any task you're doing but especially in your job. Mars boosts your energy and the Sun motivates you to be as efficient, effective and productive as possible. Capitalize on this! Make lists of what you want to do and get down to it. Don't be stingy. Give yourself the right tools to do a fantastic job. Buy cleaning supplies, shelving, file folders, bookcases, tools, paint or whatever you need to make your work easier. You'll create a better finished product. Yes!

Libra:

While Virgos are busting their buns, you have an entirely different motivation. In the next six weeks, you want to par-tay! By all means, get away on a vacation if you can. You'll enjoy fun excursions, social activities, the theatre, the arts, sports and playful times with children much more than usual. You want to inject romance into your life. Some of you will meet new romance while others will reignite existing relationships by "dating" and enjoying candlelight dinners and champagne moments. Work-related romances might also begin. The secret to using the Sun to your advantage is to know when to hold and when to fold. It's time to play!

Scorpio:

You're active with groups - competitively or delegating their efforts -nevertheless, your focus now swings to home, family and your private life. Grab every opportunity to hunker down at home and feel cozy. Enjoy any moment of privacy you can squeeze in. You'll find memories from your childhood will be resurfacing. This is a great time to organize family photo albums and get in touch with family members. You'll enjoy entertaining at home as well as cocooning in your bedroom or den. Many of you will be more involved with a parent. (My parents turned out pretty good; how about yours?)

Sagittarius:

You're busy! In the month ahead, you will hit the ground running. Just accept this accelerated tempo and get with the program. You've got things to do, places to go and people to see. Plan on taking short trips, doing mucho errands plus reading, writing and studying more than usual. But life will be exciting! You have so much going on in so many fronts at the same time. Gasp. (Gen. Patton had nothing on you.) Fortunately, because your ambition is aroused, you're up for this. You're also interested in redecorating where you live and entertaining friends and loved ones. Hot tip: If you put out fresh flowers, you don't have to dust.

Capricorn:

This continues to be a wonderful time of harvest, which means you see what is working and you see what is not. It's that simple. But you are empowered! You are definitely motivated to travel anywhere you can, and you'll have opportunities to do so. In fact, these opportunities will cause you to focus on your earnings, cash flow and how to get the best use out of what you already own. Take stock of your assets. In the month ahead, you will give much thought to your value system. It's important for you to identify what really matters in life so you don't miss it. ("Oh no! I forgot to have children.") You're also appreciating the beauty of your daily surroundings more than usual. This is a lovely bonus.

My Beach

We all have our special place, where we feel perfectly content. Corona the beer company has employed the concept of finding your beach to their latest ad campaign. I like the metaphor behind the concept, because it acknowledges a universal difference in the search for utopia.  The beer company is currently running a commercial that features a snowboarder ripping up the slopes of a sand filled mountain.

As a winter enthusiast; I struggled with the believability of the ad. I really love what Corona is attempting to market, however I personally have no desire to ever ride on sand: the dust would be annoying, and awful to taste; and the sand particles would forever be stuck in my gear. If I were to ever shred on sand, I would be so petrified of falling and munching a huge mouth full of sand that I would not be able to enjoy a single second of my ride. 

So, I decided to define my beach. Sand free. 

And land locked in Alberta. 

Weekly Horoscope: Dec.19- Dec.25

My goodness, Christmas is less than a week away, and 2012 is just around the corner. The past year has flown by for me. It has been an interesting year, full of lessons and surprise blessings. I have a full month of school for  winter break; and am enjoying my paradise, Sunshine Village in Banff Canada. I drove up from Spokane to Banff on Saturday. The roads through the mountain passes were treacherous. As a winter storm accompanied me through the pass. I don't mind driving in the snow, only because I know the skiing will be fantastic. Here is you weekly horoscope for Dec. 19 to Dec. 25, by Gorgia Nicols.

Capricorn:

Once again, the Sun has returned to your sign where it will stay for the next month recharging your batteries for the rest of the year. Yay me! This is a glorious opportunity for you because it attracts people and favourable circumstances to you. Quite obviously, you want to make the most of this because you feel high-energy, witty and quite dazzling! (This year is, after all, your hour, n'est pas? In fact, you're in for a long, fabulous run.) Continue to make travel plans. (Have you even unpacked your bags from the last trip?) School plans look exciting. Explore opportunities in the media, publishing, medicine and the law. So many choices. Tra-la, tra-la, it is to laugh.

Aquarius:

While everyone around you is running around madly socializing, by contrast, you are seeking sane, soothing shelter. (With or without alliteration.) There's only so much insanity a person can handle. Plus, privately, your sexual energy is very high now. This means you want privacy for lots of reasons! Play it low-key. Work alone or behind the scenes because this is the perfect time of year for you to plan what you want your new year (birthday to birthday) to be all about. Be specific about what you want to achieve next year. The more specific you are about your goals, the more likely they will materialize. (But you know this.)

Pisces:

You're facing a social whirlwind ahead for the next six weeks. Accept all invitations. Everyone wants to see your face. Not only will you enjoy the company of friends, you'll also be very involved in clubs, groups and organizations. The month ahead is a wonderful time to share your hopes and dreams for the future with others because their feedback will definitely help you. With Mars opposite your sign, you are a bit impatient with others. (Oh yes, you are.) Use this very social month to smooth over troubled waters. Pick up the tab for lunch. Give someone flowers. Remind them how truly caring and thoughtful you really are. (Works every time.)

Aries:

Heads up! The Sun will be at high noon in your chart for the next six weeks and this is the only time all year this happens. This has the effect of casting a spotlight on you, making bosses, parents and VIPs notice you more than usual. Furthermore, this is definitely great lighting! ("You look mahvelous dahling, mahvelous.") Because of this, you will be asked to take on increased responsibilities for something. Fear not, you won't have to be a super action hero to handle it. Ironically, it will require nothing special! Therefore, say "Yes!" Meanwhile, in the depths of your book-lined-leather-furniture-with-Aubusson-rug den (whaaat?), give thought to your life direction in general. Do you know where you're headed?

Taurus:

You've got the travel bug. (Forgive me, this current bedbug infestation is scary, isn't it?) Nevertheless, you intend to travel because you want to broaden your horizons. You want to grab more of life. If you can't travel, you'll read and watch documentaries of exciting places. You're hungry to learn more and you're also hungry for adventure. Think of the joys of eating scrumptious, exotic foods yet to be discovered. Do make this happen because you want to take a vacation! You want some fun! Add a dash of romance and sprinkling of flirtation and you're set. You must give yourself a treat like this in the next month (or longer).

Gemini:

In the next six weeks, you will feel much more passionately intense than usual. Yes, this passion will apply where you might hope. (Two guesses.) But not only will you feel highly sexed, you'll feel passionate about practically everything! In addition to your recreational stimulation, you'll also focus on dull, boring, red-tape material connected with insurance, inheritances, wills, taxes and shared property. You can't avoid this. You might have to enter into discussions about these topics, or you might just be cleaning up old paperwork. (What fun!) Nevertheless, you actually have the energy to do this now, so do it. You'll love yourself later for getting it done. (Kiss-kiss, hug-hug.)

Cancer:

You're going to need more sleep in the next six weeks, just accept this. In fact, don't just accept this, respect your need for it. Get more sleep! The Sun is now as far away from your sign as it gets all year and the Sun is your source of energy. Do the math. However, this opposition of the Sun also brings up another matter, namely, heavy-duty focus on partnerships and close friendships. (Oh yeah.) Observe yourself in these relationships (carry a mirror at all times) to see your style. You've been coming on a little heavy lately, haven't you? Are people raising their hands in front of their face? (That's always a good clue.) Gently, dear Cancer, gently. (Don't get your belly in a rash.)

Leo:

Suddenly, you're running around with an outboard motor on your ass. You're on this big kick to turn over a new leaf and get organized. You want your home cleaned, you want your workplace cleaned, you want your car cleaned, you want your closet colour-coded and smelling great. (Yes, this includes finding the closet floor.) What's up? For many, it means company's coming. You like to entertain in style and you certainly like to look like you have your act together (even if you don't). One does have a reputation to keep up. But actually, you just have the urge now to be efficient, effective and productive. Good luck!

Virgo:

You have a fabulous month ahead! You're high energy because fiery Mars is in your sign. (Say no more!) In addition, other planetary configurations are encouraging love affairs, romance, and all kinds of fun, social diversions. You couldn't pick a better time for a vacation. Slip away somewhere if even for a weekend or a few days. Your month ahead is also a great time for sports, the arts and playful activities with children. Enjoy movies, the theatre, parties and schmoozing with everyone! Essentially, an explanation for why this is a wonderful combination is (a) you have the motivation to have a lot of fun (b) you have the opportunity to have a lot of fun, and (c) you have the energy to actually do it!

Libra:

Without question, your focus turns to home, family and your private life. (Bake those cookies. Easier yet - buy quality dark chocolates.) Invite the gang over. If you put out fresh flowers you don't have to dust. Theatre is really just smoke and mirrors. Family relationships, especially with a parent, will be lively and dynamic. Something hidden, behind-the-scenes is present but no worries. It is what it is. Enjoy good times with loved ones. And while the place is looking so good, entertain everyone you know! They might bring the cookies! It's much easier to entertain back-to-back because everything is set up. (You know what I mean.)

Scorpio:

The next six weeks are going to be busy because the tempo of your days is accelerating! You're doing the white rabbit routine: "I'm late! I'm late, for a very important date!" Just accept the fact that life will be hairy because of your jam-packed schedule, including short trips, mucho errands, and running around talking to everyone. But you will love it! The air has more electricity and you feel alive! Group activities are particularly boisterous (but do watch out for heavy-duty competition that could become fractious). You love meeting new people and picking up tidbits of gossip. "Really? Last week?"

Sagittarius:

Money, money, money! You're thinking a lot about cash flow, how to earn money, and how to earn even more money. That's because you have ambitious plans! And when you have big ideas (and when does a Sagittarius not have big ideas?) you need money! Fortunately, you have lots of money-making ideas right now. (Clever you.) Make an effort to stay on top of your scene: watch your cash flow, be aware of your assets, liabilities and even your possessions and how you might possibly turn something into some folding green stuff. On a more serious note (money isn't everything) you're thinking about your values in life. You want to know what you can do with all that money.

Shred the slopes; Get Fit.

I love winter! More specifically I love Snowboarding. I know that , I'm kind of the opposite of most people; because of my love for snow I am fitter and more toned in the colder snow filled winter months. The satisfaction and adrenaline of "dashing through the snow" on technical sled is unbeatable. A day skiing or snowboarding is not only great for your spirit, but it is a total body workout that requires large muscle movements to hold and edge, mixed with interval of anaerobic exercise. 

A single day on the slopes can zap over 1,000 calories ( and can help prevent the dreaded seasonal weight gain). 

For ski and snowboard reviews of resorts, check out: Board the World. My Personal favourite place to shred is the Canadian Rockies. I love Sunshine Village Ski Resort and Marmot Basin in Jasper.

There are a lot of great ski/board clubs; that can enrich you social life. Whether you are learning to ski or snowboard, or getting back into; you need to be patient, listen to your body, eat health foods, and always remember the importance of pre ski and post ski stretches.

So go,  get out, and enjoy winter!