Horoscopes: May 7- 13

Happy Monday Ya'll! So I did it. I ran Bloomsday In 1 hour 5 minutes. I happy with time; and my self. I stayed true to my goal of running the entire race only stopping for a quick potty break. I love seeing all the  veteran blooms. Especially those who have Run 'em ALL. 

To all the Bloomsday finishers: You are Winners!

Bloomsday, is an economic stimulus for Spokane that benefits local businesses and charities. This year the economic impact of Bloomsday was over 9.5 million dollars. I am an advocate for supporting local communities, (where ever I find myself.) With good karma in mind: here are your  Georgia Nicols horoscopes for May 7-13. 

Taurus:

This summer you will continue to feel playful and frisky! You'll be interested in sports, the arts and fun times with children. Nevertheless, Venus is going to bring you all kinds of financial opportunities to earn more money or improve your job and make purchases of gorgeous jewelry, clothing and art. (You love to collect treasures.) This summer will also be an excellent time to make financial investments; in fact, all business negotiations will be highly favourable. This makes sense because you're setting up a situation where the next 18 months will boost your earnings. No question. Ka-ching!

Gemini:

Your future is so bright you're gonna need to wear shades! First, we have this unusual situation of Venus being in your sign for more than four months, something that will never again happen in your lifetime. And coinciding with it, in June, lucky moneybags Jupiter enters your sign for the first time since 2001, and it will stay there for a year! (Not too shabby.) Venus, of course, will stimulate your desire to relate to others. That's why you'll be keen to talk to others and co-operate with them this summer. You'll feel super warm and friendly. That's why you'll enjoy a good relationship with family members and siblings. Yay me!

Cancer:

When you think about it, it's easy to confuse pleasure and happiness. But there's a distinction: Pleasure is sensory and temporary (perhaps the joy of eating something delicious or getting a massage or enjoying a fun time), whereas happiness is sustaining, long-lasting and much deeper. This unusual journey of Venus in Gemini is going to promote a deep happiness within you this summer because you will do things that are noble, generous and selfless. (Yeah, yeah, doesn't sound like fun but, in truth, this is where true happiness lies.) Your actions will engender self-respect, which make you love yourself more. You have such a rewarding summer to look forward to!

Leo:

You're going to be so popular this summer, it could be problematic. You might be running around like the White Rabbit muttering, "I'm late, I'm late, for a very important date." For whatever reason, you'll be much more involved with groups: clubs, organizations, small groups or large conferences. You will also be quite involved with friends, enjoying parties, social situations and group outings. (An interesting group outing is when three people come out of the closet at one dinner party.) Lord knows you're burning through cash right now, and it looks like you'll continue to spend big as all these social opportunities urge you to keep pace with what's happening.

Virgo:

Things are looking very good for you because this unusual situation with Venus takes place at the very top of your chart. This means your reputation is shining! People are impressed with you. They see you as attractive, charming, diplomatic and successful. Because you look so good, you might strike up a new friendship or even a new romance with someone older, richer or wiser - perhaps a mentor figure. In addition, others will want your creative advice about design, layout, appearances, colours, composition or any kind of aesthetic dilemma. Suddenly, you're the go-to person. (Enjoy this great PR!) But don't come on too heavy. Explore physical workouts and outdoor sports to use some of your pent-up energy.

Libra:

Perhaps more than any other sign (Taurus is a close second), you adore beauty. You love beautiful clothes, beautiful rooms, beautiful carpets, tables, gardens, patios, libraries, boutiques, linens and fabrics, dishes and stemware - the list is endless. You also love beautiful ideas. (Oscar Wilde and Pierre Trudeau were Librans.) This summer, you will adore travel and meeting unusual people and fascinating circumstances. You'll also enjoy studying and broadening your experiences through the arts, literature, film and seeing museums, parks and gorgeous architectural buildings. You will find a way to feast on exciting ideas and eye-candy experiences that delight you. All this will expand your consciousness. (Like, wow.)

Scorpio:

Lucky you! The heavens have arranged to bring you money. Most definitely, people will give you money this summer (and have probably already done so). In addition, you'll attract favourable opportunities, perks, gifts, loans, mortgages and the offer to use things that others own. You will benefit from the wealth of others. This can be handy because you're so involved in group situations (sports or whatever), you might need an instant clubhouse! Privately, your love life is going to be life-changing. Not only will romance be intense, it will strongly impact your life in a deep way. It will go beyond the mere physical and become a vehicle for self-transformation. (Well, at least a new hairstyle.) Pretty heady stuff!

Sagittarius:

Oh my, you have the good fortune of experiencing a summer wherein all your partnerships and close friendships will delightfully improve. You can count on this. Singles could meet someone "serious." Those of you in existing relationships will find your relationship deepens in an affectionate, friendly way. In part, this is because you find it easy to express your affection to others. (Everyone wants to hear they're loved.) In turn, you will feel warm and gratified when they express their affection to you. Everything is going along so swimmingly, you'll even forgive your enemies. (Just remember their names.) This is an excellent time to settle lawsuits and make peace. This is also an excellent summer to marry or make a commitment to someone. Don't go it alone. Be cozy and friendly!

Capricorn:

Many of you are going to have wonderful health benefits this summer. Perhaps this is due to a new exercise regime or because you'll take up a new sport that benefits your body. Or you may change your diet in a positive way by avoiding eating things that are harmful to you. (You will however, be tempted by sweets and desserts. Just remember: A minute on the lips is a decade on the hips.) Along with improved health, your job is going to improve as well. This is a great time to negotiate with co-workers because they will be co-operative. You might get a raise, or praise or favours from others. You might also get a better budget or better working materials. It's all good.

Aquarius:

You're looking at one of the most fun summers you've possibly ever had. However, disputes about inheritances, shared property, taxes, debt and insurance issues could continue. Nevertheless, your sex drive is strong! Vacations will promise good times. So will sports events, playful times with children and entertaining events: festivals, musical concerts and mini getaways. Love and romance are in the air! Existing romance will be unusually lighthearted and prankish. You will delight in opportunities to express your own creativity. Basically, you'll be having such a good time, unconsciously, you'll just be happy to be who you are. Yup, there's no time like the pleasant.

Pisces:

All Pisceans are going to be happier with their home scene this summer. You might get a new deck, or a new barbecue, or you might change your home to be more attractive. Many of you will certainly be on a decorating kick. Not only will you enjoy your own home personally in a quiet, private way; you'll also enjoy entertaining at home. In other words, you'll have it both ways! It certainly behooves you to improve your home this summer because you're entering an 18-month period where real-estate opportunities are going to be the best they have been for your sign in more than a decade. This means you can buy and sell. It also means you can invest in where you live because you will value whatever you do or buy for years in the future. (How thumb-sucking cozy.)

Aries:

This unusual placement of Venus is going to give you an opportunity to appreciate the beauty of your daily surroundings and also to appreciate - on a daily basis - just how much love there is in your life. This is a wonderful thing because appreciation is one of the most elevating, edifying and inspirational experiences anyone can have. An appreciation for who you are and what you have, especially in your daily environment, is phenomenal! This summer, something will happen to make you feel so very, very fortunate. Naturally, these positive vibes set up a vibration of attracting positive people and favourable circumstances to you. What a great merry-go-round ride!

Eat: Ginger Wasabi Tofu and Miso Salad

In honor of the lilac bloom, Spokane Hosts "Bloomsday," a 12 km (7.46 m) road race. Bloomsday is one of the largest road races in the world, accommodating 50,000 plus runners. Bloomsday 2012, is the 36th annual run. Today, I'm running Bloomsday for my 3rd time. I love Bloomsday! It is a riot. 

My goal is to run the entire race, no walking. I always get competitive with my self in race situation. My adrenalalin is already racing. I find it hard to eat before an event so my breakfast was light. After compition I'm always starved for protein. I've prepped my lunch and I am so motivated to come home and  enjoy a tasty ginger wasabi tofu salad! 

Wasabi Tofu & Glaze

 1/4 cup tamari (soy sauce) 

 1/4 cup minced fresh ginger 

 2 Tbsp. sesame oil 

 1/4 cup rice vinegar 

 1lb. extra-firm tofu, drained, and sliced into 1/2 inch thick slices 

 2 Tbsp. wasabi (japanese horseradish paste) 

 1/4 cup agave syrup

 2 Tbsp. shallots 

Preperations:

In a small bowl combine the: tamari, ginger, shallots, sesame oil and rice vinegar. 

Cut up the tofu into cutlets, and place them into a resealable container. Pour the marinade over the tofu, shake well and refrigerate for a few hours. 

Just before grilling, combine the agave syrup and the wasabi to create a tasty glaze. If the paste is too thick thin it with a dash of vinegar. 

Brush the glaze onto both sides of the tofu and grill until crisp/tender. 

Serve the Tofu with a spinach miso salad. 

 Miso Salad dressing 

1/4 cup rice wine vinegar

1 tbsp soy sauce

2 tbsp miso paste

2 tbsp ginger (Fresh)

1/2 tsp wasabi

1 tsp sesame oil 

2 tbsp olive oil

 salt and peper to taste

Prep:

In a small bowl mix all the ingredients above well. 

Salad 

2 cups spinach

2 cup mixed greens

1 cup red onion chopped

1 cucumber sliced

1 cup chopped celery

1 cup sliced radishes

2 carrots shredded

1 large bell pepper sliced 

Prep:

In a large bowl toss the salad. 

Add the tofu, and slowly pour in the dressing. Toss well. 

-enjoy!

Celebrate: The Margarita

In a Spanish language, "Margarita," means Daisy. In old Victorian times a "daisy was the symbol of innocence. In English, a margarita is a recipe for scandalous evening. The Margarita has been the victim of drink impersonators, high calorie sugar and lime mixes, and floor word down under aged and over dressed teens. A real margarita; is more that a frothy booze slurpee. When properly made a margarita is fun loving, while classy and smart.

A good margarita is dependent on its ingredients. Fortunately; the ingredient list is simple. Tequila, triple sec, lime/lime juice, and ice. Choose a tequila made from 100% agave, as many tequila are cut with a rum.
I like repasado personally.

A margarita does not have to be a calorie trap. Margaritas can easily be made skinny by using fresh ingredients and going light on the booze.

Classic Margarita

1.5 oz Tequila

.5 oz Triple Sec, Grand Marnier, or Patron Citronge

fresh lime juice

Lime wedges

In a shaker over ice combine the tequila, triple sec, and lime juice. 

Run the lime wedge around the rim of the glass, and dip the glass in salt. 

Add ice to the glass, and pour the shaker contents over the ice. 

Enjoy!

Watermelon Margarita

1.5 oz tequila

.5 once triple sec, or citronge

2 oz watermelon juice

1 oz lime juice

water melon spears for garnish

In a shaker combine all ingredients, shake until well blended. Strain and pour into an ice filled high ball or goblet glass. Garnish with a spear of watermelon and enjoy!

For more delicious margarita ideas check out The Patron Social Club. 

List: Santigold

Santigold (Formerly known as Santogold) is BACK! And dropping mad dance inspired beats on her sophomore album, "Master of My Make Believe."

Santi White is Santigold, and American alternative pop singer, producer, and songwriter. "Master of My Make Believe," was released May 1st 2012 and is the follow up album to "Santogold." The album picks up on the hype and mystic elements presented in Santogold. Santi White describes the album as: "sonically electric, but with some epic curve balls thrown in. I wanted the album to be about creating your own reality."

Santigolds music video for her single: "Disparate Youth" off of her new album "Master of My Universe."

Santigold is the brilliance behind such pop hits as Ashlee Simpson's "Outta My Head," and Lilly Allen's, "Littlest Things. Santigold has been compared to MIA in the past- I think the comparison is unfair as Santi Whites musical ability, evolution, and ability to vocally explore the different universes of conflicting musical genres far surpasses that of MIA. MIA, is a talented artist who helped paved the way for a new wave of American Pop songstresses who are inspired by multicultural urban life. 

Santigolds tracks are poppy- Fun to listen too, and motivating to workout too. If you listen to the lyrics their depth camflouged between the bust a move beats. 

Check her out!

Satigold's music video for: "Les Artistes," off of "Santogold."

Sweat: Beachen Bod

Instant Body Boosters

Wear the right clothes:

To accentuate your a$$, wear the right pant. Wear pants with narrow legs; that are fitted around the tush. A cigarette leg is classic and elegant because the fitted pant projects the image of an hourglass figure. 

To accentuate your midsection, look for a high-rise pant that frames the natural curve at your waist line. Add a big belt to break up the look, and enhance the illusion of voluptuous curves.

To highlight your beautiful broad shoulders look for a tops with a boat neck. 

The shoulder line of your shirt should always hit just below where your arm and shoulder join. This gives your arms the illusion of length. 

Go Indigo:

When choosing jeans, and knit sweaters pink an indigo hue. The dark color is figure flattering, without the harshness of noir. Dark denim, can be flattering in all washes and textures. When a choosing a lighter denim opt for a thicker fabric, a heavy white denim will add more shape to your figure while camouflaging problem areas. 

Tone It Out:

The more muscle tone you have, the better your body will fill your clothes. Aim to 

fit in 15 minutes a day for an easy toning workout. Alternate between major muscle groups. When you target your arms you engage core/support muscles that help to tone the lower body as well.  

Beautiful Body: Coconut Scrub

Coconut oil is a beauty blessing. The edible oil is not only great for cooking, but works beauty miracles. I give my self a coconut oil hair mask weekly. I use coconut oil as a make-up remover; and I use it to make a moisture rich exfoliating sugar scrub. 

Coconut oil is great for those with dry skin. The fat in the coconut oil is great for reducing the appearance of wrinkles. In audition coconut oil can help with annoying skin problems such as eczema, psoriasis, and dermatitis. Coconut oil is often a star ingredient in a lot of expensive skin creams. Fortunately; you save money by making your own Coconut Sugar Scrub. 

Coconut Oil can be bought at health food stores, or found online. 

 Coconut Sugar Scrub

Ingredients:

1 coconut oil

2 cups sugar

Essential lemon Oil

Preparation

Mix one cup extra virgin coconut oil with 2 cup organic sugar.

 (choose a sugar that is relatively fine, and not to coarse.)

To energize your sugar scrub and a few drops of lemon or grapefruit oil.

 Mix the ingredients well; until the sugar, oil, and essential oil is all mixed together.

Store in a mason jar, or empty beauty container.

Enjoy your skin, silky smooth!

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.