Virgo:: "If you are going through hell, keep going," said Winston Churchill. Let that advice be your inspiration in the coming week, Virgo. But wait: Before you jump to conclusions about what I'm saying, know this: Your tests and trials will be far, far less hellish than the ordeals Churchill faced as he led England through World War II. It's true that you may feel a bit tortured in the heat of the moment, though. So don't you dare slow down to feel sorry for yourself or scream at the chaos-makers. Keep plodding forward, secure in my assurance that you'll cross the border and exit out of the infernal regions well before you're exhausted.

'I am half-sick of shadows,' she said.

I have this feeling that my life hasn't started yet. I'm waiting for the catalyst. I'm ready to sweep away the chaff and build a new path. I tire of complacency and apathy and endless waiting. I want a life where I don't come to expect and predict disappointments like clockwork.

Work is stressful. I don't mind being held accountable, but please don't hold me accountable for what went on before I was hired, thankyou. I'm still sweeping up those messes.

Care package swap assignments go out tomorrow afternoon. If you've sent me your questionnaire and I've noted it not received, please email it again, then comment to a post, then delete your comment. Double-insurance that I will receive it. Any questionnaires received by approximately 12 noon EST tomorrow will be included. Any not... well, I've been extremely lenient with the deadline, but there is a line.

Dancing tonight. I don't know what I want to wear. Regardless, I hope I can get into a better mood before then.

I have seen so many butterflies in the past week that I felt that I had to note it. Really, an unusual amount of butterflies. Ever time I look out my window, I see one. Every time I poke my head out the door. Whever I'm out for a walk. Hell, I'm looking at *two* now, even as I type. All shapes and sizes-- large yellow and black ones, small yellow ones, even a greenish one.

Butterflies symbolize transformation, a new stage of life, and the ephemeral nature of physical existence. This is obviously a sign.