Welcome to my interactive resume: samples for potential employers, content for the public!

Tuesday, March 31, 2015

"The Best Spring Fashion Builds" Presented by Serena Spates

Serena Spates is a renowned journalist, covering stories regarding several topics and speaking with people of great importance. On March 30, 2015, Spates launched her blog for her website, with several authors contributing engaging starter stories. My article, The Best Spring Fashion Builds, is one such article and is my first published fashion article.

The article includes the “Trend Quiz” which I also wrote to make the article more interactive and engaging to its readers. This quiz demonstrates my ability to redirect people to applicable individual interests. The article itself touches down on basic fashion with a unique and creative twist.

Click here to view The Best Spring Fashion Builds
Click here to view SERENELIFESTYLE.COM



Thursday, March 12, 2015

Top 26 Most Attractive Barbie Dolls


If you grew up in the 1990s or earlier, then you remember Barbie. Debuting in 1959, Barbie is one of America's most classic toys. When Barbie was created, her proportions were not perfect. It took many decades before Barbie's image began to reflect any sort of female normalcy. In fact, early Barbie was impossibly disproportionate. She was given a tiny waist, overbearing breasts, was about 5'9” and only 110lbs, which is terrible. (I am 5'3” and weigh an average 130lbs, so that should tell you something isn't right about her.) Finally, Barbie's waist was extended, and although there are still some controversial opinions about Barbie, you can tell just by looking at her that there has been a massive improvement.


But what if you had to choose the most attractive Barbies, despite their unlikely measurements? I looked through The Barbie Collection (of which all pictures are attributed) at hundreds of dolls, and picked out the ones I thought were the most beautiful. The following is a (personally biased) list of the most physically appreciative dolls to date.

#26. Angel of Peace Barbie Doll (1999)

This doll has a wholesome look to her, which isn't something nineties Barbies typically had going on for them.

I like this doll because she's sparkly. A stupid reason? Maybe. But look how shiny she is! It's eye-popping and dazzling. She has a unique reddish hair color and delightful skin tone, and the lavender of her dress really makes her mocha skin and emerald eyes pop. Gold and pastels were a perfect choice for this beautiful doll. 


#25. The Twilight Saga: Eclipse Alice (2010)

Did I really just pick a Twilight Barbie? I don't even like Twilight! Either way, this Barbie is an accurate representation of Alice from the series.

What I like about Alice here is her shape. She has that adorable heart-shaped face and overall petite look (without looking too skinny.) She has a cute lip shape, and a very cute bob haircut. Overall she's, well, cute! My favorite thing about her, other than her shape, is that her eyes really pop. She can pull off the pale look without looking sickly. Also, her outfit suits her. Although the design was based on the Twilight character, the Alice doll remains one of my favorites.


# 24. Barbie Doll as Goldie Hawn (2009)

Wait a minute...finally, a Barbie with tattoos?! Actually, this inked Barbie is a tribute to a '60s television series called Rowan and Martin's Laugh In with actress Goldie Hawn. Hawn played a tattooed go-go dancer, who is now...a Barbie doll? Yep.

http://www.webpan.com
This remains one of the most fun and attractive Barbies to date. Firstly, this Barbie has moxie. Look at that pose! Secondly, she's stylish. Many people have tattoos these days – I'm sitting here typing with a half-sleeve. And this Barbie pulls off the inked style with ease. She looks fun and friendly, with stylish hair and a great smile. Overall, a wonderful, likable addition to the Barbie collection.


#23. Barbie Doll as Marilyn Monroe (2009)

This doll (along with the former Goldie Hawn doll) are both from the “Blonde Ambition Collection” of Barbie. Before you start flailing, no: she doesn't have a trademark mole, because she is Barbie as Marilyn, not Marilyn the Barbie. (Word order is important! Get your edumacashuns!)

Monroe was a natural beauty (although her dress size wasn't as large as people think.) This doll really encompasses her look, while still managing to look like Barbie (as the title dictates.) The golden dress and sheen in her hair suggests a regal, feminine look, and the expression she wears is indicative of desire. A very physically appealing Barbie, to say the least!


#22. Birthday Wishes Barbie Doll – African American (2014)
This Barbie is definitely a favorite because of her skin and facial expression. Reminds me a little of Isabela from Dragon Age II.

http:/www.nowgamer.com

Birthday Wishes” Barbie can mean anything. In fact, it sounds rather generic. But this doll really makes you do a double take. Although this is the “African-American” version, to me, she looks like an African-Puertoricana...which is mind-blowingly sexy. I'm personally not a fan of the pink (it takes away from the glow of her skin,) but the vibrancy of her eyes and voluminous hair definitely add to her beauty.


#21. Dynasty Barbie Doll Alexis (2010)


I spent forever looking at this doll, wondering why in blazes I found her so attractive. She's too skinny (although the sleeve fringe at least helps with the tiny shoulders) and there isn't anything particularly exquisite about her save her glamorous silver-gold clothing combo (which is hard to pull off but they nailed it.) Then it hit me...she looks like award-winning actress Liza Minnelli! Richtig, Mein Lieberherr?

http:/thebacklot.com
I feel bad because there isn't a whole lot I can say about the doll, just a lot I can say about this timeless actress. But since this Barbie looks like one of my favorite actresses, she's on the list! Biased? Yes. It's my list, damned it! Mine!


#20. Faraway Forest Elf Barbie Doll (2014)

I'm a gamer, and a huge nerd. I have spent my share of time wrapped up in video games and D&D. Popularity with fantasy has increased with the growth of popular culture, and now, there's a Barbie to prove it.

I like this Barbie because she encompasses the dramatic fantasy I so often enjoy. I like her for simplistic reasons: I like her long, red hair, and her pale skin. I enjoy her rose colored lips and how intense her eyes are. Her adornments suit her fantastically – green and brown are wonderful red-head colors. This Barbie is a hundred bucks! She's that awesome!


#19. Goddess of Beauty Barbie Doll (2000)

I like this Barbie because she does look like a goddess, is beautiful, and has that gorgeous, Greek, sun-kissed tone.

It's not easy to pull off gold and white combos (and white girls usually fail miserably,) but Greek? Why yes, she can pull it off! Because of her olive skin, this doll looks stunning. Not only does she have the clothes, she has the regal, god-status jewelry going on (all gold, naturally!) She has an excellent hairstyle, which indicates femininity and power. But what I like most about her are her lush lips, which are thicker than most Barbies without seeming to look disproportionate.


#18. Green Lantern Carol Ferris Barbie Doll (2011)

Oh, I am so okay with nerding out over this Barbie! I love comics and superheroes. That they made this Barbie speaks well of the increase of nerds like me in the world.

First, I'd like to point out, and excuse my point-blankness, that she isn't a ho-bag. She's wearing an outfit that makes sense for her profession (ultimately, fighting crime.) She has beautiful, smoky eyes and -and this, I find unique- a very determined look on her face. She looks like she wants to promote justice. For a Barbie, this is astoundingly badass.


#17. Hard Rock Cafe Barbie Doll (2007)

The “HRC Style Barbie” was a line of Hard Rock Cafe dolls that Mattel made. This was only my favorite out of the bunch. One of the best selling Barbies in the world was an early '90s Barbie called Totally Hair Barbie.



While her hair looked like a package of pasta noodles, this Barbie takes hair to the extreme while making it look good. She has that fun look without being too showy, and has personality due to her unique style and guitar accessory. From her piercing to her polished nails, this doll has attitude, and is easy on the eyes.




#16. Harley Davidson Ken Doll #2 (2000)

Wait – we can't forget about Ken! Barbie can be hot, but so can our beloved Ken!


This is definitely my favorite Ken doll (in terms of appearance.) Most Kens are clean-shaved douchebags who, if they were real, would spend more time in the washroom than us ladies. But look at this marvelous icon of manliness: rugged appearance, facial hair, leather, chaps, helmet with flames...the whole biker shebang! Now all they need to do is make Jax from Sons of Anarchy into a Ken doll...


#15. I Dream of Autumn Barbie Doll (2006)

This Barbie actually looks terribly familiar to me, but I just can't place it. It's an actress but...nope, file not found. (Comment if you have any ideas on who she looks like! It's killing me!)

This doll was part of the “Dream-Seasons Collection.” There is a Barbie for every season...but Autumn is definitely the most sexy. She brings that rustic, warm feeling to life with her unique autumn-themed dress. Although if she were without the clothing, she may feel too normal (white, brown hair, brown eyes) but she still has a dreamy smile and radiant glow about her. This doll can pull off layers, an essential theme to go along with fall leaves.


#14. The Divergent Series: Insurgent Tris Doll (2015)

Divergent is an action movie starring Shailine Woodley as Tris, who also appears in the sequel, Insurgent, with shorter hair (like on the doll.)

http:/www.hypable.com
I haven't actually seen the movies, but I love this doll. From her modest clothing to her cute, pixie-like hair, she has a very natural, feminine appeal. She feels very realistic due to her sporting solid earth tones and minimalist makeup. Overall, a very attractive Barbie.




#13. Italy Barbie Doll (2009)

This is the kind of woman I'd have a one night stand with during an epic travel across seas. Okay, so I've never done either of those things, but I'm still young!

I love the rich femininity of this Barbie. She is modern and stylish. First, she has the heels and makeup going on. Her hair is done, and she's definitely ready to meet someone. Next, she has a fantastic outfit. She seems like the person who dresses up to go to the grocery store just in case fate dictates she meet her one, true love, or maybe a person of great passion. This Barbie spells love, lust and romance.


#12. Japan Ken Doll (2010)

Another Ken doll! And again, he's very manly. What can possibly be more attractive than a warrior? Well, the answer to that is: a samurai!

This Ken doll is absolutely breath-taking. Like the motorcycle Ken, he has facial hair (can you tell I like beards, yet?) And this Ken has a unique feature that most Ken dolls don't – his hair is just as long and intricate as Barbie's, and so are his clothes. Japan Ken manages to look as beautiful as he does masculine, which is unique and incredibly attractive. Besides, he has a katana!




#11. Japan Barbie Doll (2010)

This Barbie comes from the same “Dolls of the World” set as Japan Ken. She is just as vibrant, and equally as stunning as her male counterpart.


This doll can pull off red like nobody's business. Come on, no one looks that good in red! I have no idea when anybody would ever want to wear heels that high, clothing that fancy, or makeup that intricately applied, but judging by the expression on Japan Barbie's face, she knows what she wants and what she wants is to look good. This Barbie is unique because her expression is very, very lustful. Either that, or she's eying a delicious, chocolate cake. It's hard to tell with us gals.


#10. Joan Jett Doll (2009)

Joan Jett is the best of the “Ladies of the '80s” series (which also include Cyndi Lauper and Debbie Harry.)

This doll is ridiculously attractive. The doll (as opposed to the actual Joan Jett) actually looks like my ex who had the same hairstyle at one point. Unlike my ex-girlfriend, I look at this doll and know it doesn't hate me. (Cue awkward silence.)

http:/www.aceshowbiz.com

If you grew up in the eighties and liked rock, the you knew The Blackhearts. This doll really encompasses that strong, eighties rock vibe. Although the doll is a bit too skinny, she does have good form, and her heart-shaped face is very cute.




#9. Hunger Games Katniss Doll (2012)

The Hunger Games got very popular. And so did the character Katniss, along with the actress who played her, Jennifer Lawrence who is known for her blunt and comedic attitude.


Perhaps I don't like the doll – perhaps I like Jennifer Lawrence. It's tough to tell. But I think the doll is quite attractive (even more so than the one that looks like Liza.) Her hairstyle is laid back, but attractive. Her clothes are comfortable, but still cute. The doll's blue eyes really stand out against the orange lining of the coat. And of course, anyone who comes equipped with a bow and arrows is at least a little interesting.


#8. Kenyan Barbie Doll (1994)

For 1994, having a black, almost hairless doll really makes a positive statement about society. The “Dolls of the World” series made an effort to bring diversity to Mattel, and some of the dolls are gorgeous.

I like this Kenyan doll because she has little hair. This, coupled with the amounts of clothing she is wearing, forces you to focus on her face. Her eyes are ginormous, and they're really quite lovely. The red-yellow-green combo is tough to pull off for anyone without making it look childish. But this Barbie does it with ease. And her elaborate jewelry makes for a unique and pretty doll.


#7. Starring Barbie Doll in King Kong (2002)

Admittedly a very odd role for Barbie, this doll turned out to be fantastically beautiful.

Some classic movie dames are revered for their beauty, while others seem to just blend in colorlessly with the rest, looking and sounding alike. This doll encompasses one of the exceptions. She is a Barbie, through and through (blond hair, blue eyes, pink dress.) But the classic look works for her. Her hair fits the shape of her face very well. The dress she is wearing is both sexy and stylish, and gives off the classic cinematic vibe it intended. She has that pearly complexion and tone, so light pink is absolutely the perfect color for this damsel in distress. Unusually enough, she doesn't looked frightened at the monkey; she looks kind of like she's debating on whether or not to eat that cupcake.

Oh, I'm gonna do it, you just watch...
http:/www.kelliehillnutrition.com




#6. Louisiana State University Barbie Doll (2012)

Why LSU commissioned Mattel to make Barbies (or...however they did it,) I have no idea. But this was the result, and the result is really cute.

I appreciate this doll a lot. I don't really like cheerleaders or college girls (in the traditional sense of the term) but this doll is exceptionally pretty. Something seems wholesome about her, and it's tough to explain why. She isn't showing unnecessary skin or wearing loads of makeup. She's just a cheerleader, and looks content with what she's doing. This Barbie has a pretty face and hair, and generally, a positive feel.


#5. Mexico Barbie Doll (2014)

This is another gorgeous addition to the “Dolls of the World Collection”. And this doll is remarkably unique.

Although Mexicana women are usually a bit darker in complexion, this doll possesses fashionable clothing accurate to Mexican tradition. Blacks, reds, yellows and whites are all common colors in feminine, Mexican garb.

http:/www.examiner.com
The outfit is a bold combination of traditional and professional. The color of the suit, along with the bright bow and large hat, are typical colors seen in Mexican formal wear. But this Barbie also has a business sense about her with the jacket, heels and pencil skirt. She has marvelous eyes that are absolutely entrancing. With a round face and porcelain like complexion, she is beautiful in a traditional fashion.



#4. Oriental Barbie Doll (1981)

This is the oldest Barbie on the list, and is almost a decade older than I am! Keep in mind that the term “oriental” is outdated and can be rude due to its disregard for individual cultures. (The fact that this doll isn't specifically from one country or another is ignorant at best.)

Still, the doll herself is beautiful. Her pale skin and round face is more indicative of Chinese heritage. The richness of her brunette can be quite unique for east-Asian cultures, which I believe is a beautiful touch. Although the skirt has a terrible shape, her jacket and colorful garb is stunningly beautiful. Her bangs and unique orange-ish lipstick give her a pretty look that makes her stand out among other Barbies.


#3. Grease Rizzo Barbie Doll (Dance Off) (2008)

Everybody loves Grease, and Rizzo is a timeless character from a very beloved movie.

http:/www.gloriouslyvapid.com


Rizzo was pretty, and so is this doll. Although she's too thin to capture Rizzo's attractive and curvy body type, the doll's face keeps the same sexy square jaw and deep, dashing eyes. The red hallmark dress looks perfect against her skin, as does her dark hair. In general, this Barbie is charming and handsome, and so far, one of my absolute favorites.


#2. GONE WITH THE WIND SCARLETT O'HARA Doll (2014)

Few Barbies look as great as their inspiration, but the Gone with the Wind's Scarlett O'Hara doll is an uncanny likeness. O'Hara is a gorgeous Barbie (several, actually) who happens to be one of the most attractive dolls out there.

Out of all the Barbies that relay classic, cinema beauty, the Scarlett doll is my favorite. In part, this is due to her character from the story. I love the inspired dress, as deep as red wine, contrasting against her porcelain skin. The doll's eyes aren't just blue, they're almost sea colored, blue with rich, green undertones. And the hair isn't just brunette. It, too, has undertones, of deep red. This is a very rich, tasteful look, as strong as it is feminine.


#1. Barbie Doll as Lt. Uhura (2009)

The last doll I've chosen is none other than our beloved Uhura, originally played by the wonderful Nichelle Nichols and later by Guardians of the Galaxy's and Avatar's Zoe Saldana (who the doll clearly represents.)

http:/www.fanpop.com
What's so attractive about the doll isn't necessarily the craftsmanship, but what she represents: science fiction has come a long way, and is one of the oldest outlets supporting strong women that show leadership. The doll does, however, really possess the same air of charisma and whimsy that the lieutenant did. Complete with excellent poise and a deadly weapon, this is one gorgeous Barbie. 


TIFU by throwing my humans a party.

The following post was created for the popular Reddit TIFU, or, Today I Fucked Up: stories of situations that people got themselves into that ultimately turned out to be disastrous. I took the unique approach of writing as my cat instead of about her. 


Although cats are superior and we are celebrated as such tremendous beings of influence, humans sometimes do things that deserve a small amount of praise. For example, my humans typically allow me to park my fat ass on their faces. Such is one of the laws of nature; my ass fits on their face, on their face my ass shall go.

But humans must endure this for years at a time. Five or six (hundred) episodes of parking myself upon their slumbering vessels is nothing to meow about, no. But what about the six-hundredth-and-first time?

Needless to say, I was proud of my humans for showing such endurance and patience and decided to throw them a party. I know that one of the humans in particular, Nike, was having a bad day. It was one of those days (and cats have them too) where everything is frustrating. First, one thing happens, then another, then another all in annoying succession; it never seems to cease. Yes, this was a good day to surprise the humans.

Hmm...what to do, though? I spotted some party streamers lying upon the ground. They were rather boring, though, mostly bland colors with no real scent or texture of substance.

So I ate them, never letting the noble deeds of the human slaves escape my thoughts.

I didn't want to put them back on the ground. What if my humans missed them? I wanted them to go somewhere special, so that nobody would overlook them. I was determined to make them noticeable, like a "Happy Birthday" banner, or a Christmas tree. Perhaps the litter box? No, too typical. Besides, I didn't know how long it would be before I had to make.

Then...I hopped up on the bed. Knowing that poor Nike was about to take a nap and re-energize, trying desperately to turn her day around, I decided that I should turn her day around for her by placing my very special, thoughtful gift right on her favorite, memory foam pillow.

The owner who rescued me from the shelter, Nike's roommate, came in and began laughing hysterically. I had pleased him. Matthew ran down the stairs to tell Nike and her boyfriend that "Lulu threw up colorful party streamers all over the bed!" He was tickled.

I smiled. I knew I had done right by the humans. So I waited for the rest of the humans to come back up the stairs. Nike walked into the room. I beamed at her. "Meow!" I exclaimed in my native language, which translates roughly into "Hey, look! I regurgitated stringed, rainbow confetti on your favorite pillow just for you! I hope you like it. I tried very hard."

Then...her face went cold. I have never seen such malice within the eyes of another human. Looking into her eyes was like peering into the soul of a tainted beast from hell: sinister, malevolent, frightening beyond explanation. I don't know what would have happened if I waited around to see her reaction beyond that death stare.

Humans! The nerve! I eat and vomit colorful party favors onto the bed and what do I get?! Nothing. Nothing except the dire rasp of the human's voice, crying "LULU YOU LITTLE SHITHEAD!" into the air as I flee.


Tl;Dr: Tried to throw my humans a party, painstakingly ate and regurgitated colorful streamers and placed them on their favorite pillow, and was shut down...hard.

Sunday, March 8, 2015

March 2015 Horoscopes

This is a project I'm doing for a position as a daily astrologer. To give an example of how I write, I have compiled a general monthly horoscope for March 2015. I like to write horoscopes, as I can use deductive reasoning and creativity while incorporating modern ideas.

This is a good example of my resourcefulness and ability to write about specific items.

Images taken from: http://www.whats-your-sign.com/zodiac-signs-and-color-meanings.html




Pisces

This is your month, Pisces, and ultimately, your time to shine!
It's time to dig beneath your exquisite tastes and create something out of nothing; try making something new using only the resources you have. Build an art project using materials lying around your home, or start a new club, inviting people you already know. This will put your creativity to the test while allowing you to use your intellect. Impress yourself this month, Pisces! This will help you discover and appreciate skills that you didn't know you had.

Romance
March is a good time to be resourceful in your love life as well as with day-to-day efforts. This month, take the time to think about past lovers or dates that you wish you had a second chance with. Then, call them up! What do you have to lose? If there's somebody you've always wondered about, like a neighbor or friend, now is a great time to take a chance. Stop wondering what would happen, and make it happen. Take the initiative!

Monthly Goal
Create something new with resources you already have;
Reminisce and give second chances.

Traits to Use
Creativity and intelligence.

Traits to Explore
Resourcefulness and contentment.

Lucky Color, Number and Totem
Aqua.
21, 32, 45.
An old, dusty book.



Aries

Now is the time to take that Aries drive and put it to the test!
It's time to stop procrastinating and do what you need to do. With this beautiful Spring weather upon us, now is an excellent time to clean the house or tidy up at work. If there's any school work you've been waiting to do, spend the weekend catching up. If there isn't anything that needs fixing, try helping a neighbor with yard work or volunteering at a local shelter. Time slips past the Aries too quickly; don't take this time for granted, and when you're done tending to important things, you'll feel a thousand times better!

Romance
The Aries is notoriously impulsive. Impulse is easier to act upon when you're building on top of a solid, clean foundation. Make sure there's no bad blood between you and your lover. Take this time to apologize for any past wrongdoings, or hash out significant differences you both have. Don't just clean your home - clean your spirit. With cleanliness comes room for building, and the Aries is always building upward!

Monthly Goal
Put yourself to work;
Wipe the slate clean.

Traits to Use
Thoroughness and hard work.

Traits to Explore
Forgiveness and following through.

Lucky Color, Number and Totem
White.
97, 50, 44.
An opal gem.



Taurus

Spring is upon us, and the Taurus can appreciate the beautiful weather. 
Being grounded in nature, sometimes getting out and about can be a problem despite the Taurus's love for the outdoors. Now is the time to go for that hike you've been putting off. Don't jump right into hang-gliding: do an activity you feel is relaxing and calm.  Let the sun shine down on you, Taurus. You have one simple task this month: get out and breathe that beautiful, fresh air to put your spirit at ease!

Romance
This month is an excellent time to get to know people. If you've been in a long-term relationship, then ask your partner to tell you something about them that you never knew. Explore new social or sexual options as well, as this will offer fresh possibilities for both of you. If you've been eyeing someone, try talking about your shared interests. Everybody loves that honest, Taurus charm!

Monthly Goal
Take things slowly and enjoy yourself;
Familiarize yourself with your partner and show off your charm.

Traits to Use
Love, eagerness, serenity.

Traits to Explore
Romance, understanding.

Lucky Color, Number and Totem
Light blue
17, 61, 85.
Circles and crosses (Xs and Os!)


Gemini

This month, you're all about confidence, Gemini!
It's time to organize those scattered thought and habits, and do something! Apply for the job you don't think you can get, or write that story you've been putting off because you aren't ready. If you've been planning a trip, take it. You'll be surprised at the things you're ready to achieve. No matter what you do this month, it's going to be easier with a head of confidence. That confidence will undoubtedly help you reach new heights.

Romance
It's time to put the Gemini's passion to the test! Take that good, old-fashioned Mercury passion and show your partner how much you care. Whether it's sex or just a date, it's time to go into romantic overdrive. If you're a Gemini on the prowl, check to see if your area is hosting any speed-dating parties, or try online dating. Your drive and social skills puts you at a great advantage, and people want to know you.

Monthly Goal
Do something!;
Perform a charming gesture that enhances your personality.

Traits to Use
Social skills, love for all things fun, confidence.

Traits to Explore
Readiness and eagerness.

Lucky Color, Number and Totem
Scarlet.
41, 77, 93.
The sky.



Cancer

You're a Cancer: the king or queen of your domain!
With Spring upon us, now is the perfect time to take charge of your home or office. Clean and organize your space. Clear out the garage so that you have more room to work. Find a way to organize your files better. Do all the laundry that's been piling up. Once your favorite place looks and feels great, purchase something new and exciting to give your space a little pizzazz, like a piece of art, new tablecloth or fancy office chair. It's time to make your area a warm place that you and other people can settle into comfortably.

Romance
Going along with the theme of your domain, this month marks the time to get comfortable with your lover. Try sharing your space with them. Let go of that stubborn Cancer attitude and invite your guy or gal over to visit. If you're invested in a long-term relationship, think about what it would be like to live together and permanently share a space. And if you want a date, try inviting your special someone over for dinner and a tour of your home. Treat them to a taste of you!

Monthly Goal
Spring cleaning;
Be inviting and warm.

Traits to Use
Cleanliness, organization, thoroughness.

Traits to Explore
Sharing and caring.

Lucky Color, Number and Totem
Pink.
2, 39, 66.
Soft fabrics (fur, velvet, silk.)


Leo

Leos are stars of the spotlight!
Lately, you've been feeling like that light has dimmed. It's time to get back into the swing of things! Whether it's work or play, March will be the month that you get back in touch with bosses, friends or coworkers. Throw a party or attend the office party. Call up old friends and invite them to spend time with you. Go out with your family. Remind yourself that you are the light of people's lives; people always love hearing from their sunny, Leo friend!

Romance
This month, shift the focus of your relationship to respect and stability. Since Leos are naturals at being the center of attention, (even when it's completely unintentional,) it's important to remind the person you care about that they're just as important as you are. Show that you respect them and make them feel good about themselves. Help them to understand that you're both in this together, and that all antics aside, your love is completely authentic.

Monthly Goal
Get back in touch with the world;
Make your partner feel important.

Traits to Use
Compassion and friendship.

Traits to Explore
Honesty, authenticity and legitimacy.

Lucky Color, Number and Totem
Forest green.
60, 68, 88.
Trees and roots.



Virgo

It's time to use that Virgo work-ethic to break away from the every-day!
Lately, Mercury has been directing you toward a stagnant, one-laned type of lifestyle. Virgo comfort can make it difficult to want to change. But this can lead to unhappiness. If you're working at a job you hate or dislike your major, it's time for a change. You may be tempted to turn this around at the end of the quarter or semester, but don't! Change something positive about your life so you can give 100% to something you want to do.

Romance
Virgos tend to be more reserved people. One of the most common misconceptions about the Virgo is that he or she is not romantic. This month, your job is to show your lover (or the person you've had your eye on) that you're sentimental. Buy them flowers, take them out for coffee or invite them over to watch a movie. And remember to be yourself; an honest Virgo is a treasure.

Monthly Goal
Stop doing what you hate and start doing what you love;
Show some romance!

Traits to Use
Optimism and control.

Traits to Explore
Risk-taking and freedom.

Lucky Color, Number and Totem
Blue
51, 62, 89.
Butterflies.



Libra

Libras love to go people-watching!
But sometimes, you get so caught up in the affairs of other people that you forget what you want. This month, the Libra needs to be treated well! Set some money aside so that you can take yourself out to lunch or coffee. Go on a vacation to a destination that you want to see. Bring your friends with you, but make sure you're doing something that you like. This month is all about you.

Romance
When you invest in a relationship, you invest. You like to do things for your partner, but you need to make sure that your partner is doing things for you. Take some time to think about the fairness of your relationship. If it's fair, then perfect; if it's unfair, then ask your partner to take you out or give you an unforgettable night.

Monthly Goal
Treat yourself as well as you treat others;
Be taken care of.

Traits to Use
Compatibility, friendliness.

Traits to Explore
Relaxation! 

Lucky Color, Number and Totem
Dark blue.
12, 76, 87.
Quilts, patchwork.



Scorpio

You're in for a very interesting month, Scorpio!
You like to have control over your life, but it's time to loosen the reigns a little. First, take some chances instead of taking control. Go with the flow, Water-Sign. Second, take charge of the new opportunities you wouldn't have found otherwise. Do this and discover new perspectives to use in social or career situations.

Romance
You like to have at least some control over your relationship, Scorpio, but what happens when you let it go? This month, tell your lover to surprise you with something unexpected. You could end up at a new restaurant, or about to jump out of an airplane with a parachute. Give the reigns to your partner, and prepare to be pleasantly surprised at their romantic gestures.

Monthly Goal
Give serendipity a try;
Try something your partner wants.

Traits to Use
Strength and calmness.

Traits to Explore
Patience and kindness.

Lucky Color, Number and Totem
Black and blue.
25, 32, 53.
Chariots and horses.


Sagittarius

With confidence and willpower, the Sagittarius is a great worker.
But sometimes, the Sagittarius can overlook things that need improvement. This month is all about polishing your skills to look and feel better. Although the Sag has a method, try learning a some new tricks of the trade to apply to your career or education. Rewrite your resume or an old story, or change your email signature. Be a better you, Sagittarius! 

Romance
The focus for March is positivity and stability. Stability isn't the Sag's strong suit, but it certainly doesn't hurt to have as a back-up for all the impulsive and fun decisions you make. Think about where you are or want to be in your relationship so that you and your lover can have time to act upon that wonderful, Sagittarius whimsy as you plan dates and events.

Monthly Goal
Improve yourself!;
Make room for stability.

Traits to Use
Willpower and diligence.

Traits to Explore
Stability and professionalism.

Lucky Color, Number and Totem
Silver.
29, 33, 99.
Parchment and quill, pen and paper.



Capricorn

The Capricorn is a hard worker, excellent at achieving success.
You want success with work, friends and education. But when was the last time you stopped and smelled the roses? It's spring, and this month, you need to -quite literally- stop and smell some flowers! Go for a hike, take a day off work, or spend your weekend camping. Taking a breather this month will help you maintain patience for important tasks as they arise.

Romance
There are two sides to a Capricorn: romantic and realistic. Sometimes, your rationality dictates a lack of romance...but it's there! This month, show it. Look into your partner's eyes and remind yourself why you're together, or go in search of somebody. Just give someone new a smile and a glance - use that natural Capricorn charm to reel them in and they can't resist.

Monthly Goal
Stop and smell the roses;
Pull out the ol' romance!

Traits to Use
Self-awareness and romance.

Traits to Explore
Relaxation and a calmer focal point.

Lucky Color, Number and Totem
Gold.
61, 83, 87.
Eyes.



Aquarius
The Aquarian is creative to an extreme.
Sometimes, harnessing a method of organization can be tough, and following through with something is often difficult. This month, push yourself to finish something and succeed. Purchase a date book or planner and start to get organized. Aquarians are excellent assets, and the first step to success is by showing your personality in a professional way.

Romance
Although you need to work on organization skills, don't let work drive you away from having a good time. Make sure you're spending time with the person you love or have your eye on. Don't hesitate to make plans with somebody. Remember, work time is for work, and play time is for play. If you can separate these two and dedicate yourself fully to each at the appropriate times, you will have a successful career and love life.

Monthly Goal
Mix personality with professionalism;
Separate work and play.

Traits to Use
Creativity and earnestness.

Traits to Explore
Organization and compartmentalizing.

Lucky Color, Number and Totem
Royal purple
8, 31, 60.
A paper clip.