Michaela Blaney's Blog

Whats better then chilly winter nights and cozying up with friends and sipping on something warm.  Or cuddling up and reading a good book.  These are the perfect feelings of winter and here is the perfect playlist to go along with it…let us now what you think in the comment below.

 

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Setting the Course

“Dear past, thank you for all the lessons. Dear future – I am ready” – Wild Woman Sisterhood

Looking forward to the new year? A successful future depends on the lessons learned from the past. As we bid farewell to 2015 we have the opportunity to reflect on what we’ve discovered from living through it. Everyone had their share of trials, tribulations and triumphs in the last eleven months, but with each comes greater life awareness. In reviewing what we’ve experienced, we can find out a lot about ourselves, our connection to others and what we want to achieve going forward. This empowers us to make positive changes, start healthier habits, implement new activities and improve our goals toward a more life-affirming and fulfilling tomorrow.

Some of us may have experienced a steep learning curve in the past few months. There may have been upsetting occurrences or situations that brought on feelings of fear, worry, distress. It’s important to acknowledge these feelings but equally important to remember that, no matter the external circumstances, we always have a choice. We can choose to see the positives, the possibilities, the potential for something better in our future, rather than dwelling on what’s negative, pessimistic or discomforting. Staying positive does not mean that you ignore problems or dismiss hardships. Instead, it means focusing on the thoughts that encourage your well-being and future growth.

This is the month to set our sights on the horizon, releasing limitations to move forward with greater life expectation. It’s a perfect time to check our inner compass and ask: What can I learn from my past to improve my future? In recognizing the life lessons from this year alone, you can put into place ways to improve and increase your life success going forward.

The December Solstice gives us an extra push forward, assisting us in understanding our year-in-review highs and lows – and how to use that knowledge to our advantage. By honoring the lessons of 2015 we can work to improve ourselves and our future dreams, which help us create a positive and prosperous 2016.

What can you look forward to in this last month of 2015? Here’s your #AstroMotivation for December:

4 December: Venus moves into Scorpio – Passion for Change!

As we celebrate this last month of this year, love expressions, sensuality and need-to-connect feelings become more intense! Greater passion and seductive energy encourages us to find new love or share our strong affections with a significant other. This is a highly emotional time when we’re eager to make positive changes in our lives in order to feel more fulfilled. We yearn to experience greater love, creativity and self acceptance now and have a deep awareness of what we can do to further these needs. Our healing and intuitive powers are stronger, prompting us to align with those who feel as intensely as we do! Use this time to envision what you need for a more satisfying relationship and then help your heart-energy to manifest it!

9 December: Mercury moves into Capricorn – Set Your Course!

Our future dreams and goals are supported now with the energy of ambitious reflection, serious intention and conscious contemplation. We have more discipline, determination and mindful direction to set a course of action for greater future advancement. The ability to be more practical, pragmatic and perceptive in our plans helps us to make the changes we need to get ahead. This is a great time for considering ways to improve and empower ourselves for future success. As we move into 2015 our views and vision become more goal oriented, with a get-real, get-going, get-it-done mindset!

11 December: New Moon in Sagittarius– Share the Joy!

This last New Moon of 2015 brings a new cycle of joy, expansive expression and positive feeling! Embracing greater prosperity, possibility thinking and like-minded adventures inspires more confidence and abundance in our lives! Jump open-armed and open-hearted into new relationships and projects now with the feeling that you can accomplish anything! Optimistic beginnings for inner growth and outward expression are highlighted as we open our minds to appreciate all that we’ve learned and experienced this year. Make an effort now to set your course of action, securing your big-picture goals for greater success in 2016!

21 December: Sun moves into Capricorn – Celebrate the Solstice!

On this magical Solstice, the longest day in the Southern Hemisphere and the shortest in the Northern, we mark the turning of the light to help illuminate ways we can be more responsible going forward – to our selves, each other and our beloved Earth. We now find extra energy for practical planning, detailed organization and conscientious consideration when it comes to preparing for a successful 2016. We are encouraged to consider what positive changes we can implement now to secure our goals and advance our future projects. Happy Solstice!

25 December (25th in U.S.A.): Full Moon in Cancer / Uranus Goes Direct– Encouraging Emotional Security!

This large lunar energy in its natural sign helps us consider what’s needed for our emotional security in 2016. As we go forward into the new year, our feelings are strong, protective and caring of those close to our heart. Intuitively we embrace full understanding of what is important to us – friends, family and the foundations of our lives. We also feel a greater sense of nurturing, both toward those we love and toward our sensitive selves. This is also a great time to honour our feelings while sharing thoughts and plans with others, allowing us to grow emotionally and encouraging domestic progress. Additionally, this is a perfect time to consider the connections we have with others and how we can improve things in the new year!

29 December (29h in U.S.A.): Venus moves into Sagittarius – Embrace, Enjoy, Encourage!

Love energies turn expansive, with a greater ability to share affections and the adventures of life with loved ones. This new cycle of possibilities broadens our horizons, encouraging positive contacts and spiritual partnerships. By manifesting more self belief there’s a better chance of attracting a soul connection. This also heralds a time for expressing universal healing, good will and reverence for all living things. As we enter 2016 we are infused with more beautiful and joyous energy to embrace life, enjoy those we’re with and encourage the start of a wonderful year ahead!

All Month: Mars is in Libra – Harnessing Harmony!

For all of December the planet of activity couples with the sign representing relationships, artistry and balance. We now strive for more harmony and beauty in our lives and with each other. Greater creativity and the need to interact is enhanced, so use this time to cultivate connections and express your aesthetic visions! This is an excellent time for sharpening your conflict management skills or finding a creative project that brings holistic and therapeutic benefits. Be mindful however of indecision, passive-aggressive behavior or vacillating between the pros and cons of taking action. Instead of provoking others, use the energies at hand to express diplomacy and artistry. Where can you direct your energy to grow more harmony and happiness with others in your life?

The Outer Planets stay in a sign for a longer period of time, so their effect on us is more gradual, but significant none the less. Here they are in their current positions:

Jupiter in Virgo: Look back at what you experienced 12 years ago, when Jupiter was last in this sign, and notice similar themes arising for you. The difference being you now have more experience, wisdom and knowledge to help make the most of this new cycle of expansion. Success now comes by how much we pay attention to the details of our lives and our future goals. As the planet representing opportunity and growth moves through the sign highlighting practicalities, orderliness, analysis and organization, we can find greater prosperity and advancement by practicing these same things. Paying attention to the fine points, putting plans in place, being mindful of the details and having clear direction will enable us to bring our visions to reality. This goes hand-in-hand with better care and consideration of our body, mind and spirit balance.
Saturn in Sagittarius: We now have greater opportunity to move forward with our passions, plans and pursuits. This is an ideal cycle for embracing our true purpose and laying the foundations for manifesting our visions. Paying closer attention to what we want to experience, advance in, learn about and achieve for greater personal fulfillment is highlighted. Extra persistence, expansion and opportunity can come now, allowing us to get serious about our abilities, work toward realizing our dreams and take our talents to the next step!
Uranus in Aries: (Retrograde until 26 December 2015): We are encouraged to reflect on what we need for greater freedom in our lives. Honouring unique forms of self expression, liberation from oppression, new technology and inventive pioneering action is now highlighted. Strength, assertive action, inspirational vision, intuitive understanding and new innovation helps us to open up to new dimensions. Uranus will be in Aries until 7 March 2019.
Neptune in Pisces: Assists us in honouring greater spiritual awareness, creative inspiration and intuitive insight in our lives. We-are-all-one compassion is emphasized now along with humanitarian expression. Readdressing ways to embracing greater sympathy and empathy along with universal understanding is highlighted. Neptune will be in Pisces until 31 March 2025.
Pluto in Capricorn: This pairing will continue until 24 March 2023. The overall theme of this time is uncovering the misuse of power and authority to enable change for the better. It represents a major cycle of energy that brings transformation to our society, government, world order and Mother Earth. It also pushes to bring about much change to our personal lives and belief structures, especially as Pluto aspects the planets in our natal chart.
Chiron in Pisces: The ability to open our hearts to others while working to heal ourselves is highlighted. Greater spiritual awareness, empathy and compassion can be gained during this time but it’s important not to loose ourselves in the effort to assist others. Keeping personal boundaries in place is key for self care too. Chiron will be in Pisces until April 2018.

**Warmth, Heart and StarLight to all Sweet Star Seekers for a momentous month ahead! Much Love and encouraging energy to each of you for a fortunate and fulfilling month ahead!**

GiGi Sosnoski was first introduced to Astrology when she was 10 years old, and went on to turn her love for the subject into her life’s passion “Motivational Astrology”! Giving Astrology readings and Motivational Life Coaching sessions to thousands of clients, from all walks of life and from all over the world, for over 25 years, is what gives GiGi the experience, knowledge and know-how to guide and direct others successfully!

Astrology is a wonderful tool for self-awareness, self-activation and self-actualization. Properly used, Astrology gives us great insight into how we can improve our lives, relationships, business and the situations around us. What is ahead for you personally this December and for the New Year ahead? How can you utilize your individual Astrological energies to make the best of what’s to come in love, work, finance, family, health, creative fulfillment and spiritual advancement? Having an #MotivationalAstrology session with GiGi will give you the answers you seek – and more! Help yourself to make the right decisions for you and your future! Wherever your location, contact GiGi today for an appointment for an in-person, phone or Skype session: Keep Looking Up / Positive Skies

With Much Warmth, Heart and StarLight,

-GiGi Sosnoski

Keep Looking Up Ltd. // Positive Skies Ltd.

World-wide Motivational Astrology and Motivational Coaching

 

GiGi Sosnoski is a New York City Astrologer, Motivational Coach, Motivational Speaker, Planetary Intuitive, Workshop facilitator, Writer of monthly Motivational articles and videos, Radio and TV contributor and regular on TVNZ’s Good Morning show and The Breeze Radio. As a Life Enthusiast, her passion is sharing upliftment and inspiration with others using her Motivational Astrology. Encouraging people to get excited about their lives, their abilities, their relationships and their futures is what she does best! Contact GiGi to help yourself find greater awareness, confidence and further understanding of your true potential as seen in your unique Astrology chart! Motivational Astrology Readings by Phone, Skype or at GiGi’s Keep Looking Up

The post December Astrology Forecast appeared first on Amore & Vita - Shay Mitchell and Michaela Blaney.

We both wrote these long ago and have been saving them for quite awhile.  We love a good Q&A with fun, thought provoking but easy going questions that an reveal more than you think.

See what Shay had to say about what she would tell the 14 year old her and what she wants to see in another life…

 

What’s in your bag:

Covergirl mascara, iPhone 6 plus, lipstick, my script for the show, snacks…always snacks, gum, extra pair of contacts just in case.

How do you stay sane:

Working out with my trainer…100%. Sweating lets it all out! AND dancing alone in my bedroom in the morning or singing in my shower…a hilarious release….

Sweet or savory:

Savory….followed by sweet…can I pick both?

Wanderlust:

I can’t pick – if you gave me a globe I’d ultimately want to spin it and go where ever my finger lands…there is so much to do and see and discover.

Can’t live without:

My phone.

Walking out of the house in:

Comfortable – a cute dress or romper…whatever is easy and goes with my mood. My go to would be stiletto slingback, jeans, a cute top, sunglasses and a killer purse.

The Last Supper:

PIZZA. PIZZA. PIZZA…and a side of pasta.

Signature Supper:

Spaghetti with homemade tomato sauce – I leaned how to make it in italy.

Favorite Book:

The four agreements soon to be the 5th agreement when i finish it.

Currently can’t stop:

Snapchat! Im addicted its so much fun. Looking at interior design magazines and blogs.

Beauty Secret:

Coconut oil ..your hair, face, skin….everything.

Gets you inspired:

Life. The highs the lows, places, people…all of it!

Words to live by:

Live the life you love

What would you tell the 14 year old you:

Others opinions are none of your business…it gets better.

The future you?

Slow down and enjoy the moment!

Top 3 qualties in a partner:

Humor, loyalty, kindness…and a good cuddle.

I love _____ when I’m alone:

Being naked

We are so lucky to have a plethora of smart, talented and girl boss women surrounding us.  They give us advice, run their own sh*t and know when to have fun.  Each one does their own thing professionally be it a CEO, writer, interior decorator or entrepreneur. You can only imagine the busy lives they lead – we when we get “girl time” the last thing we want to do is talk about work.  Picking their brains for those golden strands of utter intelligence is NOT always on the agenda…

I have learned however, that successful and productive people are always educating themselves and growing their knowledge and IQ.  A particularly common way of doing so is reading…go figure!  So while paying a visit to someone I admire I always take a look at whats on their book shelf – you will ALWAYS find something to acquire something new to learn and won;t be let down.

…so while at my very good friends house, I took a little snapshot of what’s on her book shelf currently.  Penni has graced the pages of Forbes Top 30 under 30 and continues to expand her #girlboss repertoire with projects and accomplishments for days.  Everyone of us could learn a thing or two form her current favorites:

Penni’s Bookshelf:

The Advantage – Patrick M. Lencioni – “Why Organizational Health Trumps Everything Else In Business”

Conscious Capitalism – John Mackey (Co-CEO of Whole Foods) – “Liberating the Heroic Spirit of Business”


The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People – Stephan R. Covey – “Powerful Lessons in Personal Change”




I am Malala – Malala Yousafzai – “The Girl Who Stood Up for Education and Was Shot by the Taliban”




#GIRLBOSS – Sophia Amoruso – “How she went from dumpster diving to founding one of the fastest-growing retailers in the world.”




The Woman I Wanted To Be – Dian Von Furstenberg – “An intriguing page-turner filled with revelations”

The 10-Day MBA – Steven A. Silbiger – “A Step-by-Step Guide to Mastering the Skills Taught In America’s Top Business Schools”

The Honest Life – Jessica Alba – “Living Naturally and True to You”

Give and Take – Adam Grant – “Why Helping Others Drives Our Success”




Waking Up – Sam Harris – “A Guide to Spirituality Without Religion”




Delivering Happiness – Tony Hsieh – “A Path to Profits, Passion, and Purpose”




Bliss – Shay Mitchell & Michaela Blaney – “Navigating your early 20s to find your Bliss enduring trials, tribulations and friendship”

Letters From Leaders – Henry Dormann – “Personal Advice For Tomorrow’s Leaders From The World’s Most Influential People”

Berkshire Beyond Buffet – Lawrence A. Cunningham – “The Enduring Value of Values”

 

The post On the Shelf With…. appeared first on Amore & Vita - Shay Mitchell and Michaela Blaney.

This is quite possible the essence of fall in a protein and fiber packed delicious one meal deal.  I tend to use quinoa or farro as a hearty vehicle for seasonal flavors and in this case the nuttiness and colors of the rainbow quinoa were ideal.  Using a farmers market fave; butternut squash, hearty and aromatic rosemary and my personal fave, leeks topped with a creamy sheep feta – this dish is beautiful, tasty and colorful.  Perfect for fall.

What You Will Need:

2 cups uncooked quinoa
4 cups chicken broth
1 large or 2 small butternut squash
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp butter
2 sprigs fresh rosemary
2 garlic cloves
4 leeks
4 oz sheep milk feta
Optional: 1/3 cup sliced toasted almonds

Directions:

Cook the quinoa to the box directions using the quinoa and chicken broth – this adds some extra flavor.
Start with the butternut squash – the prep takes time but the little perfect cubes are so worth it.  Using a large knife, slice the top off then slice the neck of the butternut squash off of the bulb. Peel the neck and remove the skins.  Set the squash down on a flat end and then slice 1/3 of an inch thick slices until all of it has been sliced.  then cut each slice into strips, then cubes.


In a skillet, add 1/4 cup water and butternut squash cubes -season with salt and pepper to taste.  Using a wooden spoon gently toss them around over medium heat for about 10 minutes until tender – you want them to keep shape.  Add to the cooked quinoa.
Next step,using the white and light green parts of the leeks, cut them in half, fan them through water to clean out dirt, then slice them 1/3 inch thick.  Place to the side.


Smash the garlic cloves with skins on opening them up but keeping them in tact.  Add the garlic cloves, olive oil, butter, and whole rosemary sprigs and salt/pepper seasoning into a skillet over medium heat.  Let the oil and butter infuse with the garlic and rosemary for about 5-7 minutes  – DO NOT LET THEM BURN – remove and discard the rosemary and garlic.  This will infuse the oil and butter, which allows the flavor to be present but subtle and not over powering.
Add the leeks and sauté until tender and aromatic. Pick a leek out and check to see if it is seasoned with salt and pepper properly.
Add the leeks to the quinoa and butternut squash and slowly fold all flavors together.
Display your finished product on a beautiful serving tray and crumble sheep feta on top.  For an added earthiness finely chop about 1 tbsp of fresh rosemary for garnish and enjoy!

NOTE:  I like to season every layer.  Adding salt and pepper to every layer brings out the vibrant flavors.

The post Butternut Squash & Leek Fall Quinoa appeared first on Amore & Vita - Shay Mitchell and Michaela Blaney.

Getting Over Guilt

“No amount of guilt can change the past and no amount of worrying can change the future.” – Orebela Gbenga

Feelings of guilt. We all have them. They’re part of life, learning and personal growth. Each of us has at some point felt guilt over something that was said or done – or that wasn’t! Guilt used properly can help us take corrective action, be more mindful of others or indicate ways for self-improvement. Guilt’s purpose isn’t to make us feel bad, it’s to help us learn from our experiences. But for many, guilt can become destructive when we can’t get over it. Holding on to guilt, replaying situations or conversations over and over again in our mind, does nothing but increase pain and erode self-belief. It’s time to get over the guilt!

Guilt is all too often a way of punishing ourselves. It can be a self destructive thought pattern that becomes all consuming, degrading you, preventing you from living in the moment and keeping you a prisoner in the past. Dealing properly with any regrets, learning the lessons and releasing the holds they have on us, is part of our mental, emotional and spiritual healing. Forgiveness is key. First, forgive yourself. No one is perfect. Then forgive the situation. Harping on what happened in the past does not fix it for the future or provide you with positive feelings toward yourself or others.

Mix-ups, mess-ups and mistakes happen. To everyone. It’s an important part of our learning curve! Holding on to the burden of guilt only brings continuous stress and solves nothing. It’s actually a bit self centered to think that something was ALL your fault! How powerful you are to take ALL the blame for something that occurred! Stop it! Misdoings and misunderstandings are a function of life. The only way we grow is by acknowledging it, considering how to do it better in the future and then releasing any feelings of guilt that go with it. Apologize and make amends if it’s your fault, stop fretting about it if it wasn’t, but either way learn the lesson and then get on with your life. Guilt has no part in your advancement, empowerment or promotion of your spiritual, knowledgeable, emotional being.

This is the month to get over guilt! The Astrological energies for November encourage us to look deep within, find any destructive feelings that we may be harboring and then let them go, which in turn helps us to have a healthier sense of emotional balance, resulting in greater happiness, health and harmony in all we do! Read on to see how this months Astrological energies can assist you! Here’s your #AstroMotivation for November:

(To really understand how YOU will personally be effected by the current Astrological energies, you need to see how they fit into your individual Astrology chart. From this you’ll learn what impact they’ll have in your life, where you need to make changes and how to bring about the best outcome. It is up to us to embrace November’s planetary energies to finally make things happen rather than just hoping they will. If you’d like to better understand how these planetary powers will effect you personally, contact me to schedule an over-the-phone, in-person, or skype Motivational Astrology reading today!)

1 November: Mercury moves into Scorpio – Sensing the Solution!

A new window of opportunity opens, allowing us to make positive changes in the way we think and express ourselves. We can now get to the bottom of important issues as our investigative skills are sharper and our analytical abilities more precise. This time is advantageous for in-depth study or researching projects, while using intuitive energy to solve problems. We can better understand the motivations of ourselves and others, while transformation of our thoughts and interactions is highlighted. This is a great time to declutter the mind, focus on changing negative mental habits and getting to the heart of any matter. What can you improve when it comes to how you think and communicate?

8 November: Venus moves into Libra – Appreciate, Cultivate, Celebrate!

Beauty, the beckoning of love, enjoyment and creativity are brought forth with this new Venusian phase. Relationships, affections, artistry and aphrodisiac feelings are strong now – so appreciate, cultivate and celebrate your joys! We have luck on our side now for connecting with others, manifesting new relationships and finding more beauty (and balance) in our lives! Now is the time to meet up, share and show your creative ingenuity and romantic talents. This lovely cycle helps us all feel more attractive, social and up for exciting enchantment – so go for it! What can you do to bring more beauty/love to your life?

11 November: New Moon in Scorpio – Passions & Purpose!

This is a powerful time to put into place your plans, passions and purpose in order to bring your visions to reality. This New Lunar Light is favorable for gaining greater understanding of our deeper feelings, finding new awareness and assisting us in transforming our lives! In the sign of Scorpio, our inner workings, intuitive sense and passionate feelings are highlighted. Deeper appreciation of our psychic, healing and intuitive powers can be felt now helping us to transcend any challenges that have recently been experienced. This is a time of renewal, of new beginnings and the promise of a fresh start regarding the important issues of your life. What can you begin today to help manifest your passions and purpose?

12 November: Mars moves into Libra – Harnessing Harmony!

For the next 7 weeks the planet of activity couples with the sign representing relationships, artistry and balance. We now strive for more harmony and beauty in our lives and with each other. Greater creativity and the need to interact is enhanced, so use this time to cultivate connections and express your aesthetic visions! This is an excellent time for sharpening your conflict management skills or finding a creative project that brings holistic and therapeutic benefits. Be mindful however of indecision, passive-aggressive behavior or vacillating between the pros and cons of taking action. Instead of provoking others, use the energies at hand to express diplomacy and artistry. Where can you direct your energy to grow more harmony and happiness with others in your life?

18 November: Neptune in Pisces goes Direct – Direct Your Dreams!

As the planet of creativity, compassion and mystical attunement moves forward after 5 months of backward motion, we can now advance our intuitive goals. This is a new cycle of directing our spiritual and artistic dreams to the next level, while opening up to greater awareness of our personal purpose. For the next 6 months we have greater opportunities for achieving new levels of insight, vision and connection with the Universal mindset. Use this time to get in touch with your spiritual self and your higher calling. What are your dreams for the future?

20 November: Mercury moves into Sagittarius – Grow your Vision!

An enthusiastic time for appreciating positive self-expression, expansive thought and new optimism! A favourable period for jumping into prosperous projects and brighter adventures, helping you journey further in heart, mind and soul! You have the ability to make your visions come to life now – so embrace those future plans! Connecting with others to appreciate and share all that life has to offer is also highlighted. What knowledge or awareness can you share with others?

22 November: Sun moves into Sagittarius – Grow Your Soul!

A new cycle of joy, expansive expression and positive feeling begins! As the Sun roars into this outgoing and thrill-seeking fire sign, we find more courage to advance our dreams! Opening ourselves now to greater prosperity, possibility thinking and freedom-loving adventures inspires more confidence and abundance in our lives! A great time for seeing the big picture in order to manifest it! Tap into higher minded expression, philosophical awareness and happiness harvesting now in order to surmount any challenge! As we express more positive energy and extroverted interests we grow our minds and souls! What new journey or intellectual adventure can you embark on this month?

25 November: Full Moon in Gemini – Reflecting and Releasing!

This insightful and thoughtful large Lunar Light signals a favourable time for reviewing what’s occurred for you this year, with an eye to what needs releasing before jumping into 2016! Consider all you’ve observed, discovered and come to understand these past months and what you’ve learned about yourself and others. What has worked and what hasn’t? What did you gain and what needs discarding? Discussing your experiences and goals while getting informative insight on what’s ahead (Motivational Astrology reading!) can help you better manifest your dreams for the coming year! Use this Full Moon to spark your curiosity, connect with kindred spirits and learn more about yourself! Upon reflection, what do you need to release now in order to move forward?

The Outer Planets stay in a sign for a longer period of time, so their effect on us is more gradual, but significant none the less. Here they are in their current positions:
Jupiter in Virgo: Look back at what you experienced 12 years ago, when Jupiter was last in this sign, and notice similar themes arising for you. The difference being you now have more experience, wisdom and knowledge to help make the most of this new cycle of expansion. Success now comes by how much we pay attention to the details of our lives and our future goals. As the planet representing opportunity and growth moves through the sign highlighting practicalities, orderliness, analysis and organization, we can find greater prosperity and advancement by practicing these same things. Paying attention to the fine points, putting plans in place, being mindful of the details and having clear direction will enable us to bring our visions to reality. This goes hand-in-hand with better care and consideration of our body, mind and spirit balance.
Saturn in Sagittarius: We now have greater opportunity to move forward with our passions, plans and pursuits. This is an ideal cycle for embracing our true purpose and laying the foundations for manifesting our visions. Paying closer attention to what we want to experience, advance in, learn about and achieve for greater personal fulfillment is highlighted. Extra persistence, expansion and opportunity can come now, allowing us to get serious about our abilities, work toward realizing our dreams and take our talents to the next step!
Uranus in Aries: (Retrograde until 26 December 2015): We are encouraged to reflect on what we need for greater freedom in our lives. Honouring unique forms of self expression, liberation from oppression, new technology and inventive pioneering action is now highlighted. Strength, assertive action, inspirational vision, intuitive understanding and new innovation helps us to open up to new dimensions. Uranus will be in Aries until 7 March 2019.
Neptune in Pisces (Goes Direct in Motion on 19 November 2015): Assists us in honouring greater spiritual awareness, creative inspiration and intuitive insight in our lives. We-are-all-one compassion is emphasized now along with humanitarian expression. Readdressing ways to embracing greater sympathy and empathy along with universal understanding is highlighted. Neptune will be in Pisces until 31 March 2025.
Pluto in Capricorn: This pairing will continue until 24 March 2023. The overall theme of this time is uncovering the misuse of power and authority to enable change for the better. It represents a major cycle of energy that brings transformation to our society, government, world order and Mother Earth. It also pushes to bring about much change to our personal lives and belief structures, especially as Pluto aspects the planets in our natal chart.
Chiron in Pisces: The ability to open our hearts to others while working to heal ourselves is highlighted. Greater spiritual awareness, empathy and compassion can be gained during this time but it’s important not to loose ourselves in the effort to assist others. Keeping personal boundaries in place is key for self care too. Chiron will be in Pisces until April 2018.

**Warmth, Heart and StarLight to all Sweet Star Seekers for a momentous month ahead! Much Love and encouraging energy to each of you for a fortunate and fulfilling month ahead!**

GiGi Sosnoski was first introduced to Astrology when she was 10 years old, and went on to turn her love for the subject into her life’s passion “Motivational Astrology”! Giving Astrology readings and Motivational Life Coaching sessions to thousands of clients, from all walks of life and from all over the world, for over 25 years, is what gives GiGi the experience, knowledge and know-how to guide and direct others successfully!

Astrology is a wonderful tool for self-awareness, self-activation and self-actualization. Properly used, Astrology gives us great insight into how we can improve our lives, relationships, business and the situations around us. What is ahead for you personally this November and for the New Year ahead? How can you utilize your individual Astrological energies to make the best of what’s to come in love, work, finance, family, health, creative fulfillment and spiritual advancement? Having an #MotivationalAstrology session with GiGi will give you the answers you seek – and more! Help yourself to make the right decisions for you and your future! Wherever your location, contact GiGi today for an appointment for an in-person, phone or Skype session: Keep Looking Up / Positive Skies

With Much Warmth, Heart and StarLight,

-GiGi Sosnoski

Keep Looking Up Ltd. / Positive Skies Ltd.

World-wide Motivational Astrology and Motivational Coaching

GiGi Sosnoski is a New York City Astrologer, Motivational Coach, Motivational Speaker, Planetary Intuitive, Workshop facilitator, Writer of monthly Motivational articles and videos, Radio and TV contributor and regular on TVNZ’s Good Morning show and The Breeze Radio. As a Life Enthusiast, her passion is sharing upliftment and inspiration with others using her Motivational Astrology. Encouraging people to get excited about their lives, their abilities, their relationships and their futures is what she does best! Contact GiGi to help yourself find greater awareness, confidence and further understanding of your true potential as seen in your unique Astrology chart! Motivational Astrology Readings by Phone, Skype or at GiGi’s Keep Looking Up offices: 09

The post November Astrology Forecast appeared first on Amore & Vita - Shay Mitchell and Michaela Blaney.

Kale Chips who?  I don’t know many people that haven’t hopped on the “kale” wagon. I mean who wouldn’t – especially when an uber healthy, green veggie can be turned into somewhat a member of the “chip” family.

When we are cleansing, or on a health kick, kale chips are our saving grace.  So whilst on my most recent cleanse I developed the NEW and IMROVED Kale chip:  The Brussel Sprout Chip.

What You will need:

a dozen large brussel sprouts
olive, grape seed or coconut oil
salt
cayenne


Directions:

It is best to use the same size brussel sprouts so that when you separate the leaves, the “chips” are around the same size and cook evenly.

 

Heat oven to 350 degrees.  Line a baking sheet with foil or parchment.  Start by cutting off the stems of the brussel sprouts so that the leaves aren’t attached and can be peeled away easily.
Discard the first layer of the outer leaves.  Peel the remaining leaves off until they start to get too small and lighter in color (you may need to cut the stem twice). Save the brussel sprout hearts to roast separately.
Once they are all spread evenly on the baking pan, start with about 1-2 tablespoons of olive and drizzle it on the leaves – toss gently with your fingers making sure they are all coated evenly – if it isn’t enough add a little more – you do not want them soggy though.
Sprinkle the leaves with some sea salt and a little bit of cayenne.
Place in the oven and bake for 10-15 minutes – we like ours on the more crispy and cooked side..enjoy!

The post Brussel Sprout Chips appeared first on Amore & Vita - Shay Mitchell and Michaela Blaney.

I have been single for “years” now.  I have dated men (cough, boys, cough) for short periods of time here and there – but nothing serious.  I have mastered the art of the first date:  small talk, eat light, no more than two drinks, don’t give it up, blah blah blah.  But to be fair – I am so tired of saying what I do for a living I have been making things up and I am bored to tears after I order an appetizer and hoping for projectile food poisoning.

There must be a better way to filter out the ones not worthy of our time.

And I have found it.  Forget small talk.  Send this questionnaire to your date to find out if he (or she) is deserving of your time.  To the naked eye these questions may seem dull, or odd – but the answers will really reveal who your potential partner really is.

For example: #28 – If you slept in a bunk bed with the girl you’re dating would you take the top or bottom bunk and why?

If he chooses bottom, he may be a sleep walker, or have to wake up and go to the bathroom 5 times in a night…these could be deal breakers for you.

If he chooses top bunk, he may have bad gas – hot air rises – and do you want a walking whoopee cushion as a boyfriend?

By analyzing these simple questions with their answers provided we can avoid the grueling first date and find our prince charming!

Print this off and send it to your next potential mate and see what they say:

 

Pre-First Date Questionnaire

Have you ever worn nylons?
Do you match your socks to your ties?
Are woman always right around “that time of the month”?
Golf much?
Are you either a ninja or vampire?
Have you ever had your eyebrows shaved off at a party?
Beer or wine?
Thongs or boxers?
Do you ever get manicures?
Pedicures?
Do you play video games more than 8 minutes per year?
Do you like women with lip hair?
What year is it?
Have you ever streaked at a sports event?
Current IQ?
Pajamas or buck vulnerable?
Tap or shake?
Sit or stand?
Slap or tickle?
Again have you ever worn nylons?
Camping or five star?
Do you floss regularly?
How often is regularly ?
Have you ever been caught picking your nose at a red light?
If so what how did you recover from it?
Long walks on the beach or trail hike?
Trimmed, shaved or natural (on you of course)?
If you slept in a bunk bed with the girl you’re dating would you take the top or bottom bunk and why?
Window or aisle?
Have you ever worn the same pair of ginch two days in a row?
Do you play Mahjong Tiles?
Do you sleep with socks on?
How many liters of drool does your pillow consume per year?
Have you ever had to ring your pillow out after good night sleep?
Do you have to trim your nose hair?
If yes, do you trim your nose hair?
Do you enjoy unloading dishwashers?
Have you ever cried during the movie the notebook?
Have you ever screamed after zipping up?
Are you a proud owner of a George Foreman grill?
Speedo or trunks?
Do you have a criminal record?
How many pink shirts do you own?
Do you have allergies?
Are you irritating?
Seat up or down?
Is your father hot?
Does your mom still do your laundry?
Do you have any body hair to justify the question do you shed?
Were you the kid in grade 3 with head lice?
Do you like the smell of white out?
Smoke or stir the pot?
Have you ever worn headgear?
Do you like camping?
If so have you ever pitched a tent?
Without a calculator answer the following: 2234659 × 4+992436×447690+4 =
Do you believe in the law of gravity?
If no, have you ever fallen out of a tree?
Have you ever had to wear a “breath rite nasal strip” to bed?
Can you play a mean banjo?
Can you play a mean jazz flute?
Have you ever heard laughter at a urinal?
Moles?
Moles avec hair?
Have you ever broken a golf club against your shin?
What does San Diego mean?
Have you ever put your jock strap up to your mouth, taken a deep breath and pretended you were Darth Vader?
Has the theme song to jeopardy ever played through your head after hearing the question “how are you”?
Do you like to be given a ton of options?
Candyland or snakes and ladders?
How’s the bellybutton lint situation?
Have you ever put a Pringle on your shoulder and walked around announcing that you have a chip on your shoulder?
Bunions?
Have you ever made shadow puppets in the nude?
Were they “big” shadows?
Have you ever been glared at as the wrongdoer in an elevator?
Is your therapist on speed dial?
Your mom?
Do you have siblings?
If so how many and where are you placed (oldest, middle, youngest, only)?
Do you speak any languages?
Is chivalry dead?
Do girls like flowers?
Do you know how to make outgoing calls from your phone?
Do you know how to test message?
Batman or Superman?
Are you familiar with the term “crop dusting”?
Japanese or Chinese (food)?
Do your pets consist of “dust bunnies”?
Do you own a vacuum?
Do you have more than 3 roommates?
Do you have a checking account?
What was the last book you read?
Did you ever own a flip phone?
If we were eating pizza and there was one slice left, who would get it?
Can you cook?
Do you like a girl with a sense of humor?
Do you think I am extremely funny?
Please discuss:
Is there anything else you’d like to add to this questionnaire:

The post The Pre-First Date Questionnaire appeared first on Amore & Vita - Shay Mitchell and Michaela Blaney.

Last week’s Friday Five concentrated on the top items for you and your BFF.  Capturing moments with a polaroid, wearing matching jewels, sharing a cup of tea and wearing the best BFF gear around.

Lucky for all of you BFF’s out there we are giving away a pair of the BFF heart crew sweatshirts for you and your boo.  Here is how to enter and win:

Take a photo of you and your BFF
Post it on instagram
Tell us the best part about being BFF’s
Include the hashtag #BITNBxAVxBFF
We will announce the winner on Monday

To finding #Bliss with your BFF.

www.BITNB.com

 

The post Giveaway: BFF Heart Crew appeared first on Amore & Vita - Shay Mitchell and Michaela Blaney.

Working or starting a company with your best friend sounds like a dream – does it get much better then that?  We also know what ACTUALLY working with your best friend IS like – and it ain’t all peaches and rainbows.

After the release of “Bliss” – a common question for media outlets, fans, readers and press alike is “How is it working with your BFF and how do you make it work?” – Shay and I are both very honest about the reality of working together and truthfully, it isn’t easy.  Combining friendship with work can be a recipe for disaster unless you nurture both relationships separately and follow some of these amazing tips below.

We asked 4 separate working duos how they balance the friend/work life and these tips are ON POINT.  Not only do we love what these duos are creating, but we respect what they are doing.  See what their top tips for working together are below:

Katie Dean & Brittany Seymour

Katie Dean Jewelry

We are huge fans of Katie Dean Jewelry and where the jewels all the time.  We  know that there is magic behind the brand to make these jewels fly off the shelves and get made by hand and this is the dup behind it.

Create friendship everyday!

Being a BFF isn’t a part time job. Make the effort to find out about their dates, hear their problems and answer their texts.  Everyone is busy and running from one thing to the next, but it’s important for friends to know you care about them and their well-being.  Social media friendships are pretty, but they aren’t what matters when shit gets real!  Keep that BFF magic alive and create friendship with them everyday – even outside of work.


INSTAGRAM


Tara Sowlaty  & Jessie Groveman

How You Glow

We love these glow girls and everything they stand for.  But running blog isn’t easy!  There tip speaks volumes!

How You Glow gives readers access to health trends, shoppable stories, product/restaurant/fitness/book reviews, monthly emails, and inventive nourishment.  But most importantly, we empower our readers to live delicious lives that make them light up from within.

It’s important to make sure that the time you spend together is nourishing and productive, as well as the time you spend away from each other. There needs to be a balance between the two in order to keep a healthy relationship! Always hear each other out and express yourself in an open and honest way as things come up! And lastly, remember that two minds are always better than one, and constantly be thankful to have a friend you love be by your side in this crazy journey of life.

INSTAGRAM


Jasmine Yarborough & Tamie Ingham

Mara & Mine

These gorgeous shoe & accessory designers forecast fashion and friendship.  They put each other first and business second and we love their tip as much as their shoes!

Mara & Mine is an aura of androgyny blended with classicism, creating a loyal following of wearers who are elegant and strong, yet adventurous and risky.  Lust-worthy, risk-taking and bold, Mara & Mine have developed the ultimate “it” shoe, a statement for the strong and modern.

When in business with a friend, make sure friendship always comes first and remember to always communicate, listen and trust. ” – Our friendship is now stronger than ever as well as our work environment. Tough business decisions are so much easier to make with your best friend and the good times are even more enjoyable.

INSTAGRAM


Kyle Hasday & Matt Stewart

Hazart Films

This writing/directing duo are close friends of ours and we love them – this film duo is making waves and we couldn’t be more thrilled for them.

They have recently completed two short films, ‘Title’ a 4 minute comedy based on the play of the same name from Chicago’s NeoFuturists, and ‘Still A Rose’ a queer adaptation of the balcony scene from Shakespeare’s ‘Romeo + Juliet,’ starring Troian Bellisario. Both are currently on the festival circuit while the duo develops their first feature film. ‘Still A Rose’ can be seen as a part of NewFest (New York City’s LGBTQ Film Festival) this upcoming Sunday (10/25) @ 3pm, tickets: http://bit.ly/SARny.

The royal “We”

Pronouns matter. From our experience, people are always trying to decode what opinions, ideas, or decisions belong to whom. Everyone wants to see the wizard behind the curtain and break everything up into individual components. Who wrote this? Who wanted those? Who decided that? If you are in a truly collaborative and indispensable partnership, the credit is shared. You have to learn to detach the singular and embrace the plural. Even if you both could easily concede a single credit for a specific idea or decision, it undermines the partnership and places one person higher than the other. Creative and professional partnerships only work when their is mutual respect and admiration.

 

INSTAGRAM

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