Hat Trick Magazine September 2016

Volume 5 • Issue 9 • September 2016

ISSN 2058-198X

THE

WORLD NEEDS YOUR HELP

WHY IS SELF-LOVE SO HARD FOR WOMEN? From

HOW TO DEAL WITH AN

ENEMY

AVanBOLIVIAN: es s a A c os ta

Hat Trick (noun): 1. A sports metaphor for three achievements by a single player in a game. 2. A magic trick. We happily accept both definitions.

Hat Trick Magazine is a special project targeted at sharing spiritual and professional growth with like-minded people from around the world. We share strategies that truly will change your life, business and career (with a little help from some pro friends).

We’ve all been there: under/un/employed, in a bad situation, in transition, wondering what the options are and not knowing the skills we would need to get us there. We won’t lie to you. Coming out the other side isn’t easy, but we can show you what we learned along to way and help you get the confidence to turn that leaf over and pursue that which is your destiny. Knowledge is power.

Not everyone fancies themselves to be an entrepreneur but the truth is, even when seeking employment these days, pulling together your resume requires some sly articulation to showcase your skills, be keyword-optimised and with a strong, personable presentation to get noticed.

We feature inspirational people who have great careers, amazing businesses, tips and a host of amazing stories will inspire and amaze you. Our editors and contributors are some of the most connected in their industries and specialisms.

Hat Trick Your Life! Take control of your lifestyle, your career, your dreams and your journey. We’ll share what we know and we invite you to join us.

If you or your business would like to be featured or simply would like to contribute a feature in an upcoming issue, please email us on: content@hattrickmagazine.com

Hat Trick Strategies cannot accept responsibility for unsolicited coverage made by our contributors including reviews, articles, manuscripts or photographs of products, services. While every care is taken, prices, details or availability of items are subject to change and we cannot accept responsibility for omissions or errors.

We reserve the right to publish and edit letters or correspondence received via email, social media or other communication.

All advice is given in general terms or as a matter of opinion, for entertainment purposes only, and may not be exhaustive nor suitable for all situations.

Always seek specialized professional advice, specifically suited to you or your business needs. Absolutely no part of this magazine should be taken as medical, professional or other advice - always seek the advice of a qualified practitioner.

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Editor-In-Chief Michelle Fitz

Copy Editor Shali Selva

Design & Illustration Michelle Fitz Steve Dawson Eleni Sofroniou

Your Life

Your Skills

Charlene SanJenko Cherie DeBurger Tanya Jackson Joey & Michael Phelps Jane Lindsey

Andrea Sullenger Sukh Pabial Uchechi Ezurike-Bosse Michelle Holmes

Your Look

Your Spirit

Michelle Fitz Rachael Pontillo Marina BerBeryan Mina Thomas Muirhead

Karen Salmansohn Cherie Corso Manish Kumar Arora Katie Clifton

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Contact us at content@hattrickmagazine.com

From the Editor The Importance Of Being Cool................................................................................................................. 8

Cover Story From A Bolivian: Vanessa Acosta...........................................................................................................14

Your Life Energy Management For A PowHERful Life................................................................................................ 26 What We Are Reading.........................................................................................................................................38 Lil Nipper Snappers Cartoon Where’s The Thrill........................................................................................39 A Rare Phenomenon ......................................................................................................................................... 40 Sweet Potatoes......................................................................................................................................................46

Your Look Things We Love.......................................................................................................................................... 50 Why is Self-Love So Hard For Women? ............................................................................................. 52 How To Style Gaucho Pants....................................................................................................................72 Oh Sun Why Do You Forsake Me?........................................................................................................76

Your Skills Smash Records With Emotion Charged Headlines That Convert.............................................. 68 I Will Stand For Inclusion; I Will Stand Against Intolerance............................................................74 I Need Your Help! The World Needs Your Help............................................................................... 80

Your Spirit How To Deal With An Enemy................................................................................................................. 86 Your Horoscope October 2016..............................................................................................................70

Click an article to jump straight to the corresponding page

From the Editor

The Importance of

8

Being Cool

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Before you write me hate mail, allow me for a moment to set some context and explain what I mean by “being cool’.

ACIM tells us that there is peace in our surrender.

I

n non-modality based life coaching, the moment we identify someone being stuck in a moment, we disrupt it.

If you are crying, we will make you laugh or shock you with profanity-laced reality soundbites relevant to your mindset. We seek to disrupt the pathway down which your brain is leading your hormonal and cardiovascular systems by using the very tool that your brain is currently disrupting - your body. We reconnect your air supply and disconnect the energy behind your attack thoughts. Because that’s all they are. Riskbased, old “monkey mind” biological and evolutionary tools that do us good in, I don’t know, being mindful and physically prepared for mountain lions as we forage, but tend to screw us over in normal complexities of the modern world.

To be human is to be able to recognise the impact of the body made through the triggers of our hormones, neurological and cardiovascular systems. To be human is to be able to not only see what is going on, but to be able to do something about it before it escalates. This is mindfulness.

For me, being spiritually cool means to be less invested in outcomes and to see goals as merely our guiding light or destination as we navigate our lives. It means using tools and techniques to interrupt our biological

“For me, being spiritually cool means to be less invested in outcomes and to see goals as merely our guiding light or destination as we navigate our lives.”

Letter From the Editor, Michelle Fitz

9

responses. It means recognising that the fun happens on the route and that the destination will not be our ultimate and final pathway of peace.

As human beings, we are never fully satisfied.

We are hungry, creatively-driven problem solvers. Being spiritually cool means being comfortable with the curve balls that come along the journey, by using techniques through breathing, physical activity, and meditation to become as least invested in what happens next and more engaged in what is happening now. It means that though we may not be 100% “unrockable”, we are, for sure, at all times trusting that by being and trusting in what is happening now, the future is no longer a scary thing to be managed. It is something that naturally comes to pass, exactly as it should be.

The message is clear: if we want miracles, if we want peace, we must surrender. Some modalities will call this faith. In my spiritual nomadic way of teaching it is merely releasing one’s grasp on an outcome and instead turning to a state of knowing that the direction of your life is in the hands of the divine.

Which, I remind you, is inside of you. There is no separation between the divine and what is taking place right now in your pure state of love and grace. The place where no matter what happens, you know that though you may not like

“How can I tell you to let go of the outcomes of the future and take peace in the now, when the future is the big scary thing and the now is where the drama is unfolding?”

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it, but this too shall pass and you will rise like a bowie at sea.

Philosophy is delightfully confusing. How can I tell you to let go of the outcomes of the future and take peace in the now, when the future is the big scary thing and the now is where the drama is unfolding? Because being present as you conduct your day-to-day life is the most important thing you can do not only for peace of mind but for having a direct say in how the future will unfold.

Let’s talk about the drama for a second. It would not be a life without a problem or challenge to resolve. In fact, in order to have contentment in our lives, we must have and embrace being placed in positions of choice and personal growth or we become uninterested and disengaged, unsatisfied with life. We cannot control health issues, sudden losses, blows, or struggles. We can, however, control how we react to them.

Many people think that they must control their thoughts through... more thoughts. The best way is through your physical body. Hijack your cortisol level by using the cortisol. Rid yourself of elevated heart rate by allowing the body to engage in any form of aggressive physical manifestation of that emotion, and the heart rate and all the emotional drivers manifesting your hormonal responses in the body. I disrupt my thoughts through southern adages which bring relief through humour. Some people work it out through physical activities such as running. You can take these feelings and hormones to task simply by sitting in a chair and aggressively pumping both arms in the air for a few minutes. Ridiculous looking? Sure - but so is walking around in a stressed or angry state of mind when no one else really understands the internal struggle. The most important thing is to find a way to deactivate the storm cloud and get your physical body in a state which can support the mind. The mind and body are beasts connected and interdependent, after all. Remember, this too shall pass. It may pass like a kidney stone, but it will pass.

Letter From the Editor, Michelle Fitz

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“I disrupt my thoughts through southern adages which bring relief through humour. Some people work it out through physical activities such as running. You can take these feelings and hormones to task simply by sitting in a chair and aggressively pumping both arms in the air for a few minutes.�

Once we learn the techniques to which our bodies and supporting systems best respond, we can go back to proactively living in the now, enjoying and observing the moment, and ensuring we are taking steps that ultimately align to the future we wish to maintain or secure.

This is being spiritually cool.

Manage the now as this is where the drama, the living, the joy, and opportunities which manifest your tomorrows are found.

Trust through your actions and manoeuvres, the future simply unfolds and we will deal with new achievements, happiness, and yes also challenges when they come.

By Michelle Fitz, Editor-In-Chief 12

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Michelle

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Cover Story

Vanessa Acosta was hiding under the rack of my aunt’s clothing shop and all I could see were vague silhouettes of people running through the gas bombs on the streets. My aunt yelled at me to stay down and hide and I couldn’t quite comprehend the danger of being in a riot in the capitol of Bolivia. That memory will forever remain; it’s what runs in my blood.

The passion, the fight, and the fire of what it means to be Bolivian.

It all dates back to the Incan Empire, where my ancestry begins. That indigenous bloodline runs through me and it’s what inspires me. My parents come from a small third world country located in South America, sandwiched between Brazil and Peru.

I am American born, but Bolivian bred.

I was raised with a rich Latin culture that my parents never let go even after migrating to the states. I grew up learning both Spanish and English, any first or second-generation kid can

relate to the battle of two cultures.

It would be a lie to say that I have always appreciated my heritage, I never hated it but I didn’t embrace it as a kid. But that way of thinking would change with age, I would later learn to appreciate and find the hidden gift within my origins.

As I grew older, I began to fill my days

By Michelle Fitz, Editor-In-Chief 14

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“As college started, I realised I wasn’t going to have that traditional college experience; going to a design school meant work hard and play way later. with artsy hobbies. My teen years were spent painting away the Monet women in flowing dresses on big canvases. I loved to paint women; they were so angelic to me in that post-impressionist way. Clothing was just something humans had to wear, but I began to question how it should it be worn, or how that print can be created, or what can I tweak about that shape to make it different.

I began to ask the questions that every designer begins to ask the moment they realize this is their calling. Construction, differentiation, textures, colours, trends all these aspects clouded my mind and my parents got me the tools to play with

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this new interest. I didn’t learn to sew till after high school, but there was something in my heart that felt so confident that this was for me. That no matter how much I had to learn, or how limited my resources were, this is what I was meant to do with my life. After building up the love and interest for fashion, I finally took the leap to go to fashion school and that is where creative journey truly begins. It was a long but exciting rollercoaster of a journey.

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As college started, I realised I wasn’t going to have that traditional college experience; going to a design school meant work hard and play way later. I spent my nights not sleeping because of school projects, and simultaneously working my first fashion job in Los Angeles.

I was constantly busy and I quickly

discovered that this is an industry where you have to have the drive and natural talent for it. I saw peers drop out of the fashion design program because they weren’t cut out for it. People often confuse knowing trends and knowing brands as enough to qualify you to be a designer.

That is the big mistake most make.

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If you make it through the rough edges of design, then you’ve got what it takes. That small percentage that can handle the pattern making, the sewing, the sketching, and the eye for fabric and shapes and on top of all the technicalities, have the ‘right stuff’ to unleash something absolutely

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revolutionary to the industry. I graduated with a design portfolio that was handpicked and tailored towards important industry people from around the city, and I was on high spirits being released into the real world. For the next couple of years, I built industry knowledge off

had to soak in all the small details and inside material about every corner of the industry to be ready for the future.

And that day would soon come.

So, after working from 2009 up until 2016 in all areas of design, it finally clicked. I had found my inspiration; I had found my calling and my design aesthetic. The funny thing was that it had been in me the entire time.

It was my Bolivian roots. Travel began to take over my life. Restoring cultures was always an obsession of mine. Keeping these dying cultures from around the world not only sparked my interest, but also inspired me. And as my passport

the jobs I would take. It went from design assistant to merchandiser to runway assistant to finally, assistant designer. I dipped my toes in all of it. All these jobs gave me the experience and drive to someday do something on my own.

But I knew that for the time being I

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filled up, so did my brain with ideas of adopting techniques and traditions from other cultures around the world.

My design aesthetic was discovered through my love for travel and I had to go back to my origins to find that.

Coming to this “aha” moment at 27 years old was the perfect timing.

When I was younger, I was still figuring out who I was and hadn’t experienced life enough to be secure with myself. The decisions I make today are well decided, thought out, bold and final. When I make decisions now it’s a win or lose with a ‘no going back’ mentality. Time is my enemy and also my friend so I strive to make wise decisions. This is where it begins, the journey into the next important chapter in my life, an adventure for the

books!

I’ve been a witness and a close friend with seeing how fragile life can be, I don’t take it lightly so I go through life working hard and being an obnoxious perfectionist about it. I value time and the years I have on this planet. Just one year ago I was more fixated on how to make my dreams a reality to now asking how can that dream become a reality while helping others and making a difference in the world? There’s this transition when attempting to achieve your own goals becomes too small of a dream, your mentality changes and that dream just gets bigger. Finding my signature design style made me delve deep into anthropological research of indigenous tribes of South America, look into the preservation of dialects, the amazon, the people, the culture. It’s something I hold dear in

“I had found my inspiration; I had found my calling and my design aesthetic.”

From A Bolivian

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my heart. It’s my roots, it is what dies with me – I have to pass it on or try to let it live on past my time. That is what I am currently working on; I am excited to share a collection that is solely designed using traditional Bolivian Aguayo textiles, with indigenous techniques and detail. It’s a colourful, bold culture with a lot of character and it shows through the designs. I wanted to shine the light on Bolivian culture as it’s an underrated country but one that shouldn’t be ignored. I’m proud to be a Bolivian/American and the journey continues into what may develop in these early stages of my personal journey.

This will be my biggest adventure

yet. I have planted the seeds and now begin to build my brand as the roots begin to grow deep. As of right now, a collection, a look book, magazine collaborations, photoshoots, mass production and a research/ volunteering trip to South America is all in the making. If I were to pull one thing from this experience is that patience, hard work and positivity get you to places.

It’s a beautiful thing to know that my background has become my inspiration. Realising that the answer is within you is an empowering thing. It’s all happening and I am ready for it.

VA

From A Bolivian

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Your Life

Energy Management for a powHERful LIFE.

Find me online here

By Charlene SanJenko 26

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Crush your energy hang-ups and reclaim your natural energy rich, powHERful state.

I

spend a good part of my time researching, studying, interviewing, connecting and collaborating with powerful women. These powHERful women understand the dance between harnessing their greatest power, capitalising on their fullest potential, and living a fulfilling life.

that far exceeds any personal gain.

Energy management is a top priority for their personal and professional success.

When we use the term ‘powHERful‘, our definition is likely quite different than the one you are familiar with which can be primarily ego-driven, competitive and insanely insular.

Whether it’s background work for our lifestyle + leadership television series, PowHER TV, a future magazine interview or perhaps an invitation to speak at one of our upcoming events, the women on our radar are confident, vibrant and extremely focused on making a social impact in the world

PowHERful women understand just how critical it is to keep our energy in check. What you might not realise though is that energy rich is our natural state, and it’s hightime we reclaim it. In our two-part series, we’ll explore the various energy hang-ups women endeavour to manage and manipulate in their daily lives as well as various methods to raise your own vibrancy and strengthen your energy. We’ll also encourage a conversation around why we feel this topic is so important – not only for our health and happiness, but also for building strong – and much needed – female leaders both now and in the future.

What you might not realise though is that energy rich is our natural state, and it’s high-time we reclaim it PowHERhouse | Energy Management for a powHERful Life

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Be aware of energy drains.

One of my favourite things to do is to watch sailboats. Our West Coast home sits beside the ocean where many frequent, allowing a great view.

I’m certainly no sailor, but I appreciate watching the boats skim across the water with ease and grace. Most times I visualise a parallel with my own life, seeking the greatest fulfillment and freedom with complete ease and grace.

However, if your ‘boat’ has numerous leaks, its ability to move swiftly and effortlessly across the water quickly comes to a screeching halt.

Women spend much time playing offense – professional development, ‘beautifying’, networking, lead generation, skill-building, mastering the latest tech tools and gadgets – but do we honestly play enough defense?

If we were all born for greatness (thank you Rumi) – ready to soar – could it be that our journey in this lifetime is about returning to greatness rather than finding it? Could it be that our greatest realization of powHER will be ultimately accessed when we return to our strongest state; our natural state, our Whole Self?

The wasteful, shortsighted and greedy exploitation of marine resources by modern fishing fleets has already depleted 90% of the fish in the ocean in less than a 100 years!

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PowHERhouse Profile | Cristina Mittermeier

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Let’s take a look at some potential energy drains:

● Water is in the fluid that surrounds your joints

Crap food | Okay, we’ll start with the basics. Energy in = Energy out. If you want to embody powHER, you must fuel up powHERfully. Check out the #FuelMe section of our website for some simple cleaning ideas that taste good.

● Water moves food through your body – without it, you’ll suffer constipation (Adequate water intake can decrease the risk of colon cancer by 45%!)

Lack of movement | Energy breeds energy. Human beings were born to move. If you aren’t getting adequate movement in your life, your vibrancy won’t be where it could be, you’ll start to seize up, and you simply won’t feel energetic, strong and powHERful. Get moving!

Lack of water | Here are just some of the many benefits of water. It may sound way too simple, but many women who find themselves yawning, lethargic, even headachy simply need to drink more water. ● The human brain is 95% water ● Without water, you would die within a few days ● A 2% drop in your body’s water supply can trigger signs of dehydration such as: memory problems, trouble with basic math, and problems focusing and concentrating

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● Water transports oxygen and nutrients to your cells ● Water helps the body metabolise stored fat. This means that a decrease in water intake will cause fat deposits to increase. Likewise, an increase in water intake will cause fat deposits to decrease. ● If you are not drinking enough water, your body will store as much as possible as a defense mechanism (AKA bloating).

Lack of rest | I’m not just talking sleep here, I’m talking rest. We all have different sleep requirements. Even the amount of sleep we might each require in any given month can vary throughout the year dependent on various stress factors, natural light, hormones and menstrual cycles, temperature and weather patterns, and more.

For most of us, life is ruled by alarms and reminders. These don’t change throughout the year, yet our rest requirements do.

Here’s how we can improve our rest: Focus on quality over quantity: There are only so many hours in a day so realistically you may not be getting your optimum number of hours of sleep each night.

Ensure the hours you are getting are of quality sleep. Some suggestions to make this happen include: a comfortable pillow, adequate time to wind down before lying down, not heading to bed too full or too hungry, ensuring the temperature of your room is comfortable and dark enough.

Give yourself regular catch-up opportunities: If you answered ‘yes’ to the vacation question above, you’ll definitely want to start scheduling times for weekly catch-up opportunities.

They are not optional. If you are looking

to perform in your most powHERful, magnetic and attractive state, your tank must be full. That doesn’t mean you have to sleep, catch-up opportunities for your rest are gold: retiring 30 minutes earlier from time to time, enjoying a catnap even for 15 minutes, lying quieting in shavasana for just 5 minutes to let all of your systems settle and your mind clear.

Figure out how to decompress: I know meditation is not for everyone, so I’m going to cut you some slack.

What I feel is most important for being Energy Rich is the ability to powHERfully decompress. For me, that might mean a brisk walk between the end of my work day and the start

It could mean rituals such as nourishing teas and soothing music, baths by candlelight, consciousstream journaling, or when necessary, a good cry with a close friend.

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People are powerful forces in our lives. They either give us energy or they deplete it. of my evening. It could mean rituals such as nourishing teas and soothing music, baths by candlelight, consciousstream journaling, or when necessary, a good cry with a close friend.

Here’s the thing: Your energy is directly related to your emotions. When was the last time that you felt complete and utter joy and total exhaustion at the exact same time? Unless it was the birth of a newborn, I’m going to guess, not often.

People People are powerful forces in our lives. They either give us energy or they deplete it. There’s no in-between.

Those who run at neutral aren’t adding so they are depleting. Who you associate with is one of the greatest sources of richness for your energy or one of its most challenging inhibitors.

We all vibrate at a certain energy

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or vibrancy. When you interact with another, does that interaction leave you feeling more or less energized?

My friend Jock was a natural bodybuilder who prided himself in fueling his body with tip-top nutrition, exercising on a committed and regular basis, and maintaining a strong, positive mindset through meditation, visualisation, good friends and gratitude. I would enjoy the pleasure of ‘lunching it’ with Jock the odd Friday afternoon. It was definitely a highlight for me. Jock’s eyes would dance when he talked, his smile was infectious, and his laugh contagious. By the time our lunch dates would end, my vibrational energy level would elevate to match Jock’s level, and I would leave his presence walking about three feet off the ground highly anticipating our next visit. I craved Jock’s company. I craved Jock’s energy.

Media At no other time in history has the media been so accessible to us.

Plugging into the social media feeds means we are aware of the top headlines almost instantaneously.

But here’s the thing – there is

a very small ratio of good news coming across those feeds. Most stories bring up feelings of doubt, fear, sadness, anger, resentment, disbelief, and frustration. We need to be aware of how much we’re getting sucked in and how we’re balancing it all out.

Solutions Step 1 is being aware. Monitoring.

Step 2 which we’ll be reviewing in our second Energy Rich article is understanding and utilising methods and best practices available to raise your own vibrancy and strengthen your energy.

We’ll also encourage a conversation around why we feel this topic is so important – not only for our health and happiness, but also for building strong – and much needed – female leaders both now and in the future.

Publisher. Producer.

Builder of Strong Women.

I am a social entrepreneur, author, community leader and second-term Councillor for the Town of Gibsons in BC. At my core, I am a woman who believes the stronger we feel in our bodies, the more positive and powerful we are in our lives. In fact, I believe one of the greatest factors holding women back both personally and professionally is a lack of integration between lifestyle management and leadership development.

PowHERhouse | Energy Management for a powHERful Life

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By Joey Phelps & Michael Phelps Lil Nipper Snappers Cartoon

39

A RARE

Phenomenon

By Cherie DeBurger 40

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things in life don’t happen very often.

Halley’s Comet, for example, only passes by earth amazing us with it’s beauty and regality once every seventy-six years.

Certain people, like my wonderful Aunt Shirley, have to wait four long years to be able to celebrate a birthday on February 29th. Of course, when my parents argue, or in their words “discuss”, the times that my father actually admits he is wrong and my mother is right are few and far between.

been asked to stay over at their friends’ houses.

I was talking to my mom on the phone and jokingly said all I had to do was find someone to take the youngest three. That is when the insanity began. My mother, (A.K.A.WONDERWOMAN) graciously, albeit foolishly, offered to take the three youngest kids for the night.

Most of these examples don’t equal how long I have to wait to have a night alone with my husband. I’m not talking about date night or hanging out with another couple, I’m talking about when ALL the kids are gone and we have the entire house to ourselves.

I couldn’t believe my ears and for a moment was stunned into silence as I realised the sheer magnitude of the moment. Was it possible? Was it really going to happen? Did I dare to get my hopes up? One of them would surely come down with some sort of puking or pooping ailment before my husband got home from work.

I remember the last time this rarity occurred: my oldest two children had

I was giddy with anticipation of what I could accomplish without the constant

Most of these examples don’t equal how long I have to wait to have a night alone with my husband A Rare Phenomenon

41

By the time my husband got back from dropping the kids off, we were both kind of hungry. We looked at the stove and I looked at him and laughed out loud. The only thing I was using in the house to make dinner tonight was the phone to order it. interruptions or the “help” the little ones always wanted to give when I was doing something. It’s funny how things would take twice as long when ten little fingers managed to work their way into the centre of things.

The other option was not accomplishing anything at all. I wouldn’t have to go into the bathroom and lock the door just to have a few moments of quiet bliss. We used to have weekend getaways or overnight trips but as we kept adding to our

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family, it was harder and harder to find someone that we trusted and that was able to watch our big brood. Going away is great but to actually have the house to ourselves was like winning the lottery. You knew it could happen but the probability was really low. We would be able to enjoy the comfort of our own home.

When my husband got home from work, I had the kids packed and dressed and ready for him to drive them over to Nana’s. No sense wasting time or taking any chances, right? After kisses and hugs, they ran to the car with almost as much excitement as I was feeling.

As I closed the door, I wondered what

to do first - the options were endless. I stood in the middle of the kitchen and listened to the quiet.

I walked into the TV room and decided to just plop down on the couch and do absolutely nothing. That may not sound exciting but when it is something you never get to do, it can be euphoric.

By the time my husband got back from dropping the kids off, we were both kind of hungry. We looked at the stove and I looked at him and laughed out loud. The only thing I was using in the house to make dinner tonight was the phone to order it.

I began my beached whale impersonation on the couch while we waited for the food. I was reminded how wonderful Chinese food was this time because I actually got to eat it while it was still warm.

As the evening progressed, I found my mind wandering over to how my kids were doing. Come on! They have been gone a mere three hours and I have fantasized about free time like this for so long. I concentrated on the movie we were watching, trying to curb the urge to call and just make sure everything was good.

The peace and quiet was a treat that my mind was having trouble accepting and my ears played tricks on me. A

I began my beached whale impersonation on the couch while we waited for the food. I was reminded how wonderful Chinese food was this time because I actually got to eat it while it was still warm.

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couple of times I thought I heard one of the kids call for me and I would start to get up to see what they needed and then I would remember they were miles away.

One thing that I had no problem dealing with was getting to sleep in the next morning. That seemed to take no effort at all. I basked in the glory of drinking my whole cup of coffee without it getting cold or moving my butt from my rocking chair - yes, this was heaven!

Throughout the morning, I bounced back and forth between missing them and knowing my “alone time” was coming to an end. As much as I had enjoyed the break, I was anxious to

see them and cover their faces with kisses.

I heard my mom and dad’s car pull up and the doors open. I imagined my kids were eager to see me because, in my mind, I’m the only one that really knows how to take care of them exactly right. We reach the front door, excited to see our little rug rats.

Stepping out onto the front porch, we expect the kids to run into our open arms, all the while telling us how much they had missed us.

When they finally had their pillows and backpacks under control, they did indeed come running toward us onto the front porch but instead of latching onto our legs and telling us how much we were missed, my son went running by me and into the house. Instead of my daughter saying “I missed you Mommy”, the first words out her mouth to me were: “When can I go back to Nana’s?”

It may be sooner than she thinks...

If you have any comments then please feel free to email me at

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Sweet Potatoes

One of the greatest foods of the South is sweet potatoes (not to be confused with yams). We get sweet potatoes from the farmers living around our town; a little town plopped down in the middle of a bean field. Our produce, if sold by the road, is truly fresh!

Sweet potatoes in the south have become the vegetable de jour. Restaurants are now offering french fried sweet potatoes. Yep, we will fry anything, and much to my chagrin they are actually good. I still like baked sweet potatoes best, but I am willing to try new ideas.

By Tanya Jackson

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INGREDIENTS 1/2 sweet potato, peeled and julienned.

Seasonings (I used a hot Creole seasoning. You can use a flavored seasoning or just salt and pepper if preferred)Salt & pepper to taste

For our lupper (that’s after lunch, but before supper) I made a salad on which I sprinkled julienned sweet potatoes. Very tasty and so nutritious. Uncooked sweet potatoes are off the charts with nutrients, but unfortunately you can’t get the flavor of the sweet potato in its raw form.

Method w w w w w w ww ww

Dip the sweet potatoes in water.

Grab them in your hands and shake water off.

Sprinkle with lots of seasoning.

Put on plate and microwave for 30 seconds on high (this retains as many nutrients as possible, but lets the delicious flavor of the sweet potato through).

Toss on salad and enjoy!

Now that’s good eatin’!

Creamed Peas With Potatoes & Onions

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About a Homemade Year

Your Look

1

3

4 2

By Michelle Fitz

5

LAYOVER DRAPED KNIT PONCHO IN OATMEAL

1

6 SCULPTING TRIO

2

WOMEN’S ORIGINAL REFINED BACK STRAP WELLINGTON BOOTS 3

THE DESIRE MAP PLANNER - DAILY EDITION 2017

4

CLEAR QUARTZ VOGEL TRIANGLE WITH JOHN OF GOD BLESSED QUARTZ

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THERE’S A CHANCE THIS IS WINE, COFFEE MUG

6

Why is Self-Love So Hard for Women?

Interview with Andrea Ellsworth

Find me online here

By Rachael Pontillo 52

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’ve been a practitioner of selflove for several years now. It’s a concept that came to me intuitively on a day where I felt like I looked and felt my worst with a face full of acne and a post-baby body.

It was one of those moments where you know the Universe has thrown down the gauntlet – that it was time for a big attitude adjustment. Prior to that, I had tried just everything outside of myself to have the skin and body I wanted. And when it didn’t work, I blamed myself and thought the worst of thoughts every time I passed my reflection in the mirror.

This intuitive moment led me to understand that I didn’t want to live the rest of my life hating myself every day. Plus, I sure didn’t want to be

an example of a mother who hates herself to my daughters (who were just toddlers at the time). If I wanted to truly be happy and live my life with confidence – and raise happy, confident daughters – then I needed to learn to love myself as I was right then and there – at what I thought was my “worst.” So I did. And I lost the weight and cleared my skin. But it was one of the hardest things I ever did.

Why is self-love so hard?

Why is it easier to compliment and say kind things to a stranger, but not to ourselves? Why is it hard to take a compliment from a stranger without downgrading ourselves in some way in the process? Is this familiar to you?

“It was one of those moments where you know the Universe has thrown down the gauntlet – that it was time for a big attitude adjustment.”

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“You have really beautiful skin.”

“Thanks! It’s this new makeup I just bought.”

“That’s a stunning picture of you.”

“Oh I can’t take credit – the photographer did a beautiful job.”

Self-love is hard. It’s a concept nearly as hard to grasp as alternate universes or a female god. But if you’re trying to heal your skin–or your physical body in some way–it’s where you have to start. It wasn’t until I was able to love and accept myself for who I was, no matter what I looked like, that I was guided to make right decisions for my skin and health that ultimately gave me the physical and emotional results I craved.

My guest today is Andrea Ellsworth, of Andrea Ashley Co. This is part 1 of our interview. Andrea is a lot like me in many ways. She’s an aesthetician who was perplexed by the fact that though aestheticians are trusted to help women achieve the skin they want so they can feel how they want, they receive very little brand-neutral training on how to do that. Andrea shares my frustration with the skincare industry, that its main approach is so “either or.” Meaning you either have acne OR sensitive skin. Dry skin OR mature skin.

So your skin gets treated one way, even if you have other issues present, and without questioning what the potential source of those issues are.

“Andrea and I also share the same philosophy that skincare should be customized to each individual person’s needs” 54

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Andrea and I also share the same philosophy that skincare should be customized to each individual person’s needs, and that ultimately, using skincare products isn’t about clearing up acne or getting some other desired result. It’s about helping women feel the way they want (and deserve!) to feel about themselves. Andrea is also an aromatherapist, and Part 2 will focus more on essential oils and aromatherapy as a holistic skincare philosophy. Part 1 focuses on custom skincare, but also the bigger issues of women’s empowerment and self-love–and how we can make these things easier and more accessible for women.

Watch Part 1: My biggest takeaway was when Andrea made the point about how we can’t buy all these external things like skincare products and clothes to make ourselves feel better, and then call ourselves words like “fat cow” or “ugly” when we put them on. Until we can change the negative selftalk and stop looking outside of ourselves to fix what we feel – or don’t feel – on the inside, we’ll never feel or look the way we want to.

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How To Style

GAUCHO PANTS

Today, I’m sharing a little article on what I wore and a runway trend that no one is talking about — gaucho pants.

Designers who have incorporated this trend on their runway looks include Rebecca Minkoff, BCBG Max Azria, Tibi, Zimmermann, and Ralph Lauren.

“So, I paired the gaucho pants with light pink dress-shirt. The look was completed with 70s-inspired Fendi wedges.”

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Find me online here

By Marina BerBeryan

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I’ve embraced the high-waisted wide-leg cropped pants with a transparent design just above the hem. I just love making fashion statements with uniquely designed wardrobe pieces.

So, I paired the gaucho pants with light pink dress-shirt. The look was completed with 70s-inspired Fendi wedges.

Here are 3 ways to style Gaucho pants: 1 For casual Fridays at work, wear your gauchos with a buttoned-down shirt.

Delicate earrings and a pair of pumps should finalise this professional office look.

2 For a weekend outfit, pair your gauchos with a cute cropped top and flip-flops. Add a Panama hat and a pair of cool-shaped sunnies for a chic look.

3 Going on a date? Pull together a look with, say, an open back shirt and your new gaucho pants with sexy open toe heels. Accessorise your outfit with sexy, long earrings.

If you’re not sure where to shop for gaucho pants, find below some of my favourite gaucho pants!

“Going on a date? Pull together a look with, say, an open back shirt and your new gaucho pants with sexy open toe heels.”

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Also, don’t forget to subscribe to my blog!

Oh Sun,

why do you

forsake me?

By Mina Thomas Muirhead 60

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see photos of myself when I was in Today, we have an assortment of high school. I had the most beautiful products, spa and medical treatments to golden tan! Now, whenever I’m in help correct our bad habits of youth. Not the sun, I turn an unpleasant brown one treatment will do it all. Taking care colour and add several more brown of your skin is really a combination of a spots to my collection. Sound familiar? good at home routine, plus what your medical provider can do in office.

Sun damage can appear in all different forms. Poikiloderma (red flushing discolouration), solar lentigines (age spots), actinic keratosis (red, flaking spots that are also precancerous lesions), and, of course, names we all know: freckles, wrinkles and sagging skin.

Most of the sun damage that appears on the skin in our 30s and older is the result of sun damage we acquired before the age of 20.

The first thing is always good skin care. If you do only one thing, let it be a great sun block. What makes a great sun block are two ingredients, zinc and titanium. These ingredients given you a physical barrier against the sun’s UV rays.

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They are healthy for the skin and for new cell growth underneath. For generally do not cause irritation. When brown spots and uneven skin tone, you think of zinc, don’t think of the white retinoids slough them off and curb the thick spread you would sometimes see over production of melanin. They also on actors noses in 80’s movies. The hamper the breakdown of collagen formulation of these products are much and thicken then deeper layer of skin more impressive. You can find a good where wrinkles get their start. one that has a tint and also acts like a makeup primer. Incredibly important, but Finally, we need antioxidants. I don’t view this as an option. If you want it will also only prevent future damage, healthy skin, it’s a must! Antioxidants not your current discolouration. If you want to improve what you already have help your skin clean up any free radical damage and give your skin extra sun going on, you will need a couple more protection (although it does not take tools in your tool box. the place of a sunblock). Antioxidants will improve the appearance of lines Retinoids has been a mainstay for the past 30 years. There are many brands and wrinkles, loss of firmness and soften discolouration. Today’s medical and strengths - I would suggest a skin care formulations will use multiple retinol from a medical grade skin care high-grade antioxidants to give you line, or from your dermatologist. They the best results and protection. The work by promoting surface skin cells most important one is L-ascorbic acid, to turn over more rapidly, making way otherwise known as Vitamin C. In order for a vitamin C to be most effective, it must be formulated with pure L-ascorbic acid, at a pH within 2.0-3.5, and a concentration of 10-20%. But how will you know if your Vitamin C meets this standard? Even though there are lots of good sunblocks and retinols on the market, SkinCeuticals CE Ferulic (for normal to dry skin) and Phyloretin CF (for normal to oily skin) are the only formulations that meet those standards.

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Even though their study results are phenomenal, being a product snob, I was sceptical until I started seeing changes in my skin as early as 2 days. As we know, the beauty industry is a multi-billion dollar market. For consumers, it can be quite overwhelming. I encourage you to start with these three basic products and you will start to see real changes in your skin.

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Your Skills

Smash Records

with Emotion Charged Headlines

That Convert Find me online here

By Andrea Sullenger 68

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answered with one word: headlines.

I told her, your headline is by far the most important element of your article or post, no matter how freaking fantastic your content is.

One of my clients was talking with me the other day, and she wanted to know how to get her articles and posts shared more often. I

Your headline has one purpose; to get your reader to read the first sentence of your article. After that, hopefully, you’ve grabbed them. You’ve either convinced them to take a minute and read on, or you’ve helped them realise your article is geared for someone else.

That’s ok, too. After all, you’re looking to engage your target audience, right?

o you spend zillions of hours writing content for your blog and website and they still don’t seem to get noticed? You’ve heard from me before - that content is king - and you’d better be getting your voice out there.

That’s still true and even more valid now than ever. Content is crucial in this online world. I’ve learned a lot about headline writing, and I can’t wait to share it with you.

“Use your creativity to make your title powerful in your individual way. Readers see articles, posts and sales copy almost everywhere they turn.

Put personality into your writing and especially your headlines.”

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“You’ve likely realised by now that to help your business thrive you need to create good quality content that will resonate with your followers and potential followers.

Here are my top 5 headline writing guidelines: Emotion – This is the best way to engage your reader. Make sure your title has emotion-charged words included. Copywriters even have a name for these kinds of words. They’re called Emotional Marketing Value or EMV for short. There are thousands of these words in the English language - in fact, 20% of the words we use fit into this category. Here are some examples: agony, catastrophe, frightening, embarrass, hazardous, insidious, panic, smash and strangle.

Reason – Will your reader see a practical use for whatever you’re describing in your headline? If there is a purpose stated in the headline that your avatar can identify with, there is more chance your article will engage them, and they will read on. Many people think a grabby, clever headline is the best, but a lot of great headlines are effective because they offer something useful.

Time-Sensitive – Conveying a sense of urgency is a powerful way to engage your reader. Consider this advice anytime you are creating a headline, sales strategy or even a full campaign. Check out how

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copywriting experts use this tool when you read articles put out by large companies and public relations firms.

Unique – Use your creativity to make your title powerful in your individual way. Readers see articles, posts and sales copy almost everywhere they turn.

Put personality into your writing and especially your headlines.

Having your unique slant will be the difference between a mundane headline and a title that jumps off the page.

Specific – Great headlines are not vague. Engage your readers by telling them something specific so they’ll be intrigued and want to read more. That doesn’t usually happen when the title is general and blah.

Now you can relax and stop spending so much time writing your articles!

Put more of your effort into the headlines and you’ll reap the rewards with shares and comments. When that happens, you’ll be glad you put a little extra effort into your headlines.

Hat Trick Magazine 9 Tips for•a hattrickstrategies.com Killer Elevator Speech

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Happiness is not achieved by the conscious pursuit of happiness; it is generally the byproduct of other activities.

Aldous Huxley

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Marketing Metamorphosis WITH MICHELLE HOLMES FREE 30 DAY VISIBILITY CHALLENGE When you show up in the world embracing, embodying and expressing your rue ReflectionTM you’ll attract the people, opportunities and experiences that make your heart sing with ease (while spending a LOT less time in front of a screen)! I’m here to help you create metamorphosis in your life and business – and evolution in the world!

Register Online

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I Will Stand for Inclusion; I Will Stand

Against Intolerance Find me online here

By Sukh Pabial 74

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oday, I am morose. More so than when the riots spread across the UK in 2011. At the time of the riots, I couldn’t understand how to help those who felt actively disaffected by the changes the government was sweeping onto them.

Today, the UK has voted to leave the European Union. I’m finding it hard to process, hard to help myself work through what I’m feeling, and feeling quite sad about what this means for our future as a country. I am Britishborn, proud to be British, and have contributed in every way a citizen is expected to. And I have enjoyed being part of a union where peace has been the mainstay, and that we have grown and

developed our collective ability to not only be more tolerant as a society, but also more accepting of difference.

And today, I am left feeling that those things are now less important and that those with power are fundamentally challenged in the mandate they thought they had.

I am concerned about the influence of UKIP on the UK scene, and I am very glad that they have no direct political influence in the UK. UKIP have one official MP so their political power is far less than they would have us otherwise believe. But the rhetoric they’ve been allowed to foster and cultivate has driven many in society to forget that inclusion and acceptance of difference are important.

The ridiculous levels of argument and debate have seen experts reduced to nothing more than pains in the arse because their facts don’t match those of people who have a personal position.

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It is ridiculous because you would not question a doctor or an accountant or a lawyer on matters of which they know more about. It is their duty to be informed and to present information to helpfully advise others. When we don’t listen to those sound opinions because of nothing more than scepticism, we reduce our ability to be healthy individuals and increase our chances of being distrustful and end up acting out of spite.

People are sharing many reasons for the vote to Leave. This will continue for many years to come. My personal opinion is that we won’t know the true impact of this decision for at least a decade. Why that long? Because regardless of protocol, changes like this take time before those in power decide on how to act next. When they do, and things start to happen, evolution of that

process has to happen. There will be implications and consequences that none of us can forecast at this stage or indeed over the next few years. The best that can happen is working a few months ahead at a time. Things won’t settle for years because there won’t be any certainty of anything for years.

This is quite possibly one of the most radical events of change we’ve seen in the Western world since 9/11.

What concerns me, more than anything, is the willingness by some in society to feel they have a voice for intolerance just because they can, and have less capacity for compassion and inclusion. Farage and UKIP have stoked fears amongst the populous like never before and are responsible for the negative attitudes held by their followers. They’ve long campaigned for exiting the EU, and now it’s happened, where will their attention turn to?

Their rhetoric until today has been about the immigrant problem – and that’s not going to be resolved before we leave the EU, and certainly won’t be resolved for several years to come.

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Which means their attentions turn to those of us in society with difference.

Ethnic minorities are now at more risk of exclusion than before because of the rhetoric that had been allowed to be cultivated.

The LGBTQ community will face abuse in a way that hasn’t been prevalent for more than a decade. Women will have a harder time to have equal status for no reason other than Farage and his white trope are misogynists.

Hopkins and the likes feed on the fears of people, I know there are many in the Leave campaign who don’t agree with them or their positions. Some are good friends of mine.

And that’s the problem with why we’re at right there. The Leave campaign has largely been led by white middle class men. In that group, where was the representation from the other communities? They just weren’t there.

And because they weren’t there, the Leave campaign couldn’t embark on an inclusive campaign because they had noone to advise them otherwise.

I will stand for inclusion. I will lead with inclusion in mind and engage with inclusion as my heart. This is my stand. Come what may in next few years, I will be known for actively seeking to ensure everyone has a voice, everyone has the opportunity to participate, and everyone is included. I will stand for everyone who can’t stand for themselves. I will stand for myself, my family and my friends.

I don’t accept intolerance. It only leads to people being ostracised, marginalised and made to be the problem. As much as Farage, Katie I will stand for inclusion.

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I need your help!

The World Needs Your help Find me online here

By Uchechi Ezurike-Bosse

I

don’t know about you, but it seems like everytime I log onto Facebook, I see all the darkness and pains of the world. I have to admit, I’ve struggled over the last couple of weeks. I lost inspiration, hope and momentum.

I second-guess my work and my vision of a peaceful, loving world, and the hope of a better tomorrow.

The divide between societies, terrorist attacks, judgement and hate, felt so consuming, it broke my heart in so many ways.

I typically use my platform to share and help you focus on positive thoughts, because that’s how you get more of it. However, there’s also a time when we must look and acknowledge when the world seems to be falling apart. This acknowledgment is not about focusing on what’s wrong, placing blame and judgement, but about

using our platform to voice injustice and pain when we see it, in order to start a loving and respectable conversation around it.

Between the horrific killings of black men at the hands of police officers, and the equally horrific events of police officers being attacked and killed doing their jobs, to terrorist attacks and countless darkness in the world, it can feel overwhelming, leaving a feeling of helplessness.

I have the honour of having many people all over the world in my e-community.

Some of you witness and feel these events daily. When I think of this, it fuels my fire to make an even bigger impact, because the work I do is not about me. It never was. It starts with me, and then moves to we.

I was having a conversation with someone yesterday that felt she was seeing signs and intuitive nudges, and she told me she thought she might be a ‘light worker’, but didn’t really know for sure.

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I reminded her that she is indeed a light worker. We all are.

You, yes you are a light worker. Some people may be more awake to this than others, but darling, yes you are.

Seeing that only light can drive out darkness, I feel that these events are calling for us to do just that.

We are being called to be the light.

Being the light allows us to ignite it in those around us. Consequently, they ignite it in others, causing a ripple effect. This is how we heal and this is exactly how we’re able to start the change we want.

Let us not ignore the issues happening around the world, but rather, use it as a catalyst for change and transformation. The world is at a critical point right now and the future, our kids’ futures, depend on what we do! Think of how you can lovingly and respectfully teach others, and, at the same time, know when to walk away and not feed into the negative energy that may come up.

My mentor Gabrielle Bernstein says; ‘peace begins with me’. That is what I kept reminding myself all week when it felt my heart was breaking.

I honoured my feelings and allowed the light to come through the cracks.

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I believe in hope, peace and the ability of a better tomorrow. I believe in a world where you will not be treated differently based on your race, religion, sex nor sexual orientation. I believe in a world where everyone sees the divine in one another. Can you imagine that world? Close your eyes for a moment and picture it.

This is where it starts. Peace begins by us holding space and vision for this loving world for EVERYONE. Justice and peace for all. We can get there, my friend. It’s my mission to help make this happen. But I need your help, too.

It starts with examining your own views, thoughts and actions. Then, seeing areas where you can do and be better. Listen openly to the opinions of others and when you see hate and injustice, show up, speak up, and send healing love and energy to it.

I need your help to make this happen. The world needs you to do this. Will you?

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Your Spirit

Find me online here

By Karen Salmansohn

How To Deal With

An Enemy Find me online here

By Karen Salmansohn

D

o you have someone in your life you consider an “enemy”?

Maybe they’re a little cray-cray and making up lies about you?

Maybe they’re missing the “kindness gene” and just being a total jerk?

Well, I have a metaphor to help you deal with their cruel behaviour. I want you to start to think of this person as a “Metaphorical Tennis Player” who’s helping you to improve at the game of life.

My tennis player metaphor explained: As you might already know, one of the best ways to get better at tennis is to play with a worthy opponent – someone who challenges you and forces you to step up your tennis game. In fact, if you want to become a better tennis player, it actually helps a lot to have a tough tennis opponent who’s hitting that ball all over the court.

Eventually, you’re forced to bring in your A-game.

Well, the same thing applies to becoming better at the game of life. Often, we don’t want to put in the effort to work on important life skills.

But we will work on these life skills if we’re forced to – and we’re finally forced to when we’re face-to-face

with an “opponent”, “an enemy”, or what I like to euphemistically call “a Metaphorical Tennis Player.”

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Think About It… If you want to improve at the game of life, then it does indeed help to have someone who is tough on you – someone who challenges you – because they will ultimately force you to tap into your A-game.

When you’re face-to-face with an enemy, an “opponent” – a “Metaphorical Tennis Player” – you’re forced to reach deep inside yourself and tap into places of strength, insight, wisdom and growth which were simply lying there, dormant, and might have continued to lay there dormant, had it not been for your enemy, “opponent” or “Metaphorical Tennis Player”.

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YOUR ASSIGNMENT: Henceforth, I want you to re-name your enemy as your “Metaphorical Tennis Player.” I want you to start to think of them as someone who is here to actually HELP you to become stronger, better, wiser – to become a better player at the game of life. Ask yourself what positive qualities your “Metaphorical Tennis Player” is here to help you to develop – thanks to their chaos and resistance.

For Example….

“Metaphorical Tennis Players” can teach you how to remain calm in the midst of chaos, so you really get to work on developing your “I-will-tap-into-inner-peace-no-matter-what-is-going-on-around-me” muscles. You, thereby, have reason to thank your “Metaphorical Tennis Player” because this is a really awesome ability to get good at and will come in handy throughout the game of life.

“Metaphorical Tennis Players”can teach you the importance of not being anything like them – even a modicum. They’re offering you a powerfully convincing reminder to always behave as your highest self.

You thereby have reason to thank your “Metaphorical Tennis Player” because this is a super game-changer – to help ensure you’re always playing life at your best.

“Metaphorical Tennis Players” can teach you to honour your intuition more – because chances are you saw some “red flags” (or “red hankees or “red banners”) when you first encountered them – but you pushed down your intuition and allowed this person into your life.

You thereby have reason to thank your “Metaphorical Tennis Player” because from now on, you will amp up your “I-will-always-listen-to-mygut-instincts-about-people” muscles, which is another valuable skill to help you to become a winner at the game of life.

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Predictions

Find me online here

By Manish Kumar Arora

Aries 21 March-19 April

This is a pleasing month for love and business matters. Beautiful energy is with you for feeling in sync with people around you and with your environment.

You feel pleasantly effective, competent, and ambitious. This month has much creative potential, but it involves trying to centre yourself and relaxing.

You may need to take action on a matter before you are able to do so.

Stay active and involved now for best results. Strategy works with both your practical and personal affairs. An expense can come up that you overlooked; you may splurge on something you regret later. This is a good time to do work you’ve done before to make extra money.

Favorable Dates Oct 1, 9, 10, 18, 19, 28 Favorable Colors Blue & Red

Taurus 20 April-20 May

This month is likely to start quietly, but after the 9th you’ll find that the pace quickens. Money will start and continue

on a strong note; you are likely to feel in need of an image change, but seek the advice of someone whose sense of style is impeccable before embarking on any course of action. Attached persons will find their relationships moving to a whole new level. You’re a little more serious, and you crave more intimacy in your life, so you may cling a little to loved ones. This can be a good time to do something that is mutually beneficial to you and someone else, or to deal with other people’s money.

Favourable Dates Oct 2, 7, 11, 16, 20, 25 Favourable Colours White & Yellow

Gemini 21 May-20 June

You may come across as more of a perfectionist - organised, and anxious.

You will work quickly, efficiently and are productive. You can also feel stronger and more vital, and decide to try to improve your health through diet, exercise, or some other lifestyle changes. There would also be a definite focus on fun, although there’s a danger that you’ll be a little too dismissive of your work or school commitments. A couple of interesting romantic developments will make the start of month look very interesting. You want to make a list of everything you have to do, and go

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through it one at a time, crossing things off as you go along.

Favourable Dates Oct 3, 5, 12, 14, 21, 23 Favourable Colours Red & Green

Cancer 21 June-22 July

This month is likely to start on a mixed note, with cash being the focus of some minor tension. Ease up on the spending.

If you’ve been working hard and making smart decisions and being responsible, you’ll be rewarded and you can see good things coming your way. You need to keep the focus based on material things, but there are some tender moments to be shared too. You are strong when it comes to negotiations, mutual agreements, and business decisions this month. You would be tuned in to the more subtle or otherworldly elements of life right now, and thus, your understanding of others, yourself, and your purpose, can increase.

Favourable Dates Oct 1, 3, 10, 12, 19, 21 Favourable Colours White & Yellow 92

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Leo 23 July-22 August

Your creative self can come out, and you let your artistic side shine. You want to take time off from work and do the things that bring you most pleasure. The more you have to work, the less you enjoy yourself. In terms of romance, you’ll be setting the rules and probably breaking hearts if you’re single, while those of you who are attached may feel the need to snatch a little time to yourself every now and then. Helping someone out, offering sincere and mindful advice, being a source of comfort and inspiring others with your insight can figure strongly now, and can also lift your spirits. It’s especially satisfying to put others’ needs before yours.

Favourable Dates Oct 2, 8, 11, 17, 20, 26 Favourable Colours White & Blue

Virgo 23 August-22 September

Your emotions cloud your judgement in this month and everything you say has meaning, whether you’re trying

to do that or not. This makes it easier for you to express how you’re feeling, but you have a hard time being objective as a result. You question the career that you’re in and the direction your life is going in. You can have setbacks and delays within your career, make a bad first impression, and not see things go as you hope.

You’re stuck right where you are, and you feel like you’re suffocating. A health issue can return, and you can get lazy with your health.

sensitive to what other people think about you, wanting to be held in high regard, but you need to ignore their negative attitudes.

Favourable Dates Oct 2, 4, 11, 13, 20, 22

23 October-21 November

Favourable Colours White & Green

This month is likely to start on an intense note, with an emotional matter being aired and shared. It also sees you being a little too cautious: don’t be afraid to branch out. Someone can be amorous and showing definite interest and sincere concern for your needs. You may be displaying a quiet confidence that endears others to you. It could be an illuminating month in romance and indicates that you’re likely to meet someone who will prove to be a very good friend and lover. After the 23rd, you can be more outgoing, wanting to be more socially engaged, and need a busy schedule so you don’t feel you’re going out of your mind.

Libra 23 September-22 October

This month sees a project or venture gaining a new lease of life. This will be the month to clear out your junk so you can create the home environment and will see a need to concentrate on work or school. Don’t be surprised if there’s a happy family event announced. You can have an expense that wasn’t planned for and have to make do as best as you can, so try to have some rainy day funds.

Your sense of safety and security can take a hit in some way. You’re more

Favourable Dates Oct 2, 6, 11, 15, 20, 24 Favourable Colours Red & Yellow

Scorpio

Favourable Dates Oct 3, 7, 12, 16, 21, 25 Favourable Colours White & Yellow Horoscope Predictions For August 2016

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Sagittarius 22 November-21 December

It’s a more balanced month than usual. There is more optimism in your exchanges and interactions.

Communication, mental pursuits and interests, romance, and work are all in good shape right now. You can be both productive and sociable and get away with both. This can be a good time to do something to earn some extra money, like taking on a second job or side gig. You can also go over your budget carefully and try to see where you can trim and save more.

You come across as more reliable, stubborn, and sensual. You want to increase your sense of safety and security in life, and this will mostly be through your finances.

Favourable Dates Oct 3, 6, 12, 15, 21, 24 Favourable Colours Red & Yellow

Capricorn 22 December-19 January

You’re more defensive of your beliefs, and if you feel threatened, you’ll defend them strongly. Your co-workers can have a hard time 94

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understanding you and vice versa.

Your mind doesn’t move as well as it usually does, and you can feel scattered, unfocused, and anxious.

This is a good time to reconcile with a sibling, or re-do a community project. You will be in a very serious mood and will feel easily irritated with anyone who is being too frivolous. If single, you can go through a dry spell. If attached, you can fight or have misunderstandings with your partner. Some of you may see an old love return.

Favourable Dates Oct 5, 8, 14, 17, 23, 26 Favourable Colours White & Yellow

Aquarius 20 January-18 February

This month favours mental tasks and communications of all kinds. Finances can improve, or you may get good news about practical matters and personal possessions. Emotionality is a possibility, but your ability to step back from your emotions and apply logic tends to dominate. You can also experience issues in any groups you belong to, and decide to walk away from them. You can question your dreams for your future, and this may not be a good time to make any final decisions about what you should do.

It is a good time to rejoin a group you used to belong to, contact old friends, or take up an old cause.

Favourable Dates Oct 8, 9, 17, 18, 17, 18 Favourable Colours Blue & Yellow

Pisces 19 February-20 March

There can be a stronger appreciation of the intangibles in life right now, and letting go of something in order to embrace the new comes a little

easier as a result. Share personal philosophies and perspectives and enjoy the connection you feel to you and to the world as you do. It’s not a time for pushing your personal agenda – it’s a time for learning about the needs and concerns of others. Something may touch you or inspire you through your interactions with others. Special insight into a work matter or method can come to you like a mini eureka. The trick is to let your mind to back away from a puzzling matter.

Favourable Dates Oct 2, 3, 11, 12, 20, 21 Favourable Colours Purple & Yellow

Manish Kumar Arora. K.P. Astrologer, Numerologist, Tarot Card Reader & Vastu Consultant. Email for a personal reading or consultation at manishastrologer@rediffmail.com

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