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?)

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: Vegan French Onion Soup

I love soup for lunch, especially when I am up at the mountain. The fresh snow, mountain air, and the excitement of shredding always makes cheesy soups looks so enticing. The Chimney Corner, at Sunshine Village has a pretty fan-fricken-tastic French onion soup. I always drool in envy over it as other dinners dig into their cheesy pot of warm goodness. 

I have been playing with some French Onion Soup recipes, trying to find a decent alternative. I don't have a dutch oven, or one of those oven friendly soup bowls so this recipe has forced some creativity out of me. My French Onion Soup is tasty, hearty, and soul warming. 

Ingredients:

1 Tbsp olive oil

1 red onion (sliced into skinny moons)

2 white onions (sliced thinly)

Fresh thyme (about 4 or 5 twigs)

3 cloves garlic (minced)

1/4 balsamic vinegar

1 cup white whine

4 cups vegetable broth

1 bay leaf

1 tsp rosemary

1 tsp oregano

1 tsp salt

1 tsp black pepper

Topping

Sprouted grain bread

1 tsp coconut oil

Daiya vegan mozzarella  cheese

In a large sauce pan, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the yellow onions, thyme, and salt. The onions will appear to take up the whole pan, however, I promise that they will cook down. Cook the onions on a medium low heat, until they begin to caramelize (about 45 min). Add the balsamic vinegar, and stir the onions until the vinegar is absorbed into the onions and they are a deeper brown. Add the stock, wine, red onion, garlic, bay leaf, and pepper. Bring to boil and let simmer for 20 minutes.

You can year the soup now, as is, or for the extra gooey goodness of non-vegan french onion soup preheat the oven to 350 F. On a baking tray place several pieces of whole wheat, or sprouted grain bread- preferably fresh. Lightly brush with oil, and top with tons of Daiya Cheese. Bake for about 10 minutes or until the cheese is uber gooey. 

Pour the soup into a large bowl, and then cover with the baked cheese bread. 

- Enjoy

Scurfield Award: Curtis Glencross

Last night, March 15 2012, was a special evening for my family. My grandpa whom unfortunately passed away in an avalanche was a successful Calgary Business man, and philanthropist. My Grandpa, was one of the original owners of the Calgary Flames. Grandpa Ralph, along with his business partners brought the Flames to Calgary from Atlanta. In Grandpa's memory The Scurfield Award, is awarded to the Flames player who best exemplifies perseverance, determination, and leadership both on and off the ice. The player who receives the Scurfield award is chosen for his work ethic, and for his commitment to community service.

This year, my family has the privilege of presenting the Scurfield award to Curtis Glengross (20). A player who's rich family values shines through his playing ability, as well as his community service with: The Special Olympics, The Flames Foundation, and Crime Stoppers Calgary.  Curtis Glencross is a true team player; he is always supportive of his fellow players and seeks the success of the team before individual stardom. Glencross is a strong player, with a huge heart, and an educated mind. He is the perfect example of superlative leadership both on and off the ice.


The Award Presentation:




Congratulations Curtis; from my family to yours! We are excited to cheer for you and the rest of The Flames; as you chase Stanley and bring him home to Calgary.

GO FLAMES!

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!

Winter Beauty-Lushes Lips

As far as I am concerned winter is the best time of year. Snow beautifully dresses up the environment which makes for a picture perfect sight. Winter activities shine, and the lure of Hot Chocolate and mulled wine is enticing. Winter is a fairy tale come true, from tobogganing to ice skating, snow shoeing to dog sledding and of course my personal favorite Skiing/Snowboarding. Winter boredom is a myth, the activities are endless.

I grew up in Banff Canada and therefore with skis on. I spent the better part of my childhood ripping through tree lines in search of bumps. American Thanksgiving has traditionally been a time of the year in which I am thankful for because it means I can enjoy the mountains. Ski resorts open, and I'm pulled by an invisible force to occupy the chairlifts. 

Sunshine Village  in Banff Alberta, is my favorite. The snow is amazing, the mountain is huge, and the lifts are fast. I love cruising the resort, and playing in the terrain park. 

A minor irritation I have towards winter is, the curse of chapped lips. The cold air, dehydration, and outdoor activities do a number to my lips. I hate the feeling of stiff dry lips. Luckily with a few minor beauty adjustments you can prevent and avoid dry lips. Allowing you the freedom to flash a beautiful lushes smile all winter.

First: Ditch drying lip products such as matte and long wear lipsticks. If you need color to dress up your pout choose a tinted lip balm, and reapply often through out the day. If you go and enjoy the outdoors, remember to wear sunscreen and choose an SPF lip balm. The UV rays reflect of the snow and can hit skin with extra force. 

Second: Choose the right lip balm; you want  to fight and heal the cracking sensation. Choose lip care with ingredients like: shea butter, hyaluronic acids, dimethicone, and natural waxes.

Third: Add a soothing oil, oil can help restore moisture to dry skin. Try cocoa butter, beeswax, and Argan oil. Oil is rich in vitamin E and Fatty acids which help prevent skin dehydration.

Fourth: Avoid Fragrances!

Fifth: Eliminate Flakes by using a lip exfoliant or scrub. Lips need a more gentle exfoliant than your skin, so to avoid further irritation gently scrub lips and be sure to reapply lip balm and oil immediately after to help nourish the fresh skin.