Nancy, our Resident Astrologer, has provided us with the Universe’s energies for this upcoming New Moon, occurring on February 13th.  Like all posts submitted by Nancy, take your time to read the insights by this amazing woman, whom I am proud to call my friend.  Thank you Nan!  These four decades have flown by so quickly…….

I am so excited by this months’ New Moon – not only is it in the sign Aquarius, but it also falls on Valentine’s weekend – so romance and love are definitely in the air.  Aquarius is not the most romantic sign, but they have a love of all humanity – a worldwide caring for the neediest among us.  They have big hearts and an open and honest way of declaring themselves.  If you have caught the eye (and heart) of an Aquarian, be assured you are a rare and special person – one always has to prove oneself to our Aquarian brothers and sisters.  But once enamored, they are always in your corner – and will always hold you in the highest esteem.  You have to look for the small ways in which they will show their love, it won’t be a bouquet of roses, or a box of chocolates – but rather an invitation to the latest and greatest technological venue around… or perhaps – the newest gadget to get you around town, — or even a new phone with their number already listed.  They are decidedly a different breed – idealistic, imaginative, worldly, exciting, adventurous, individualistic, and so very bright.  And so it bodes well that this Valentine’s Day will encompass many of the Aquarian interests and optimistic outlook that is so much a part of their psyche.

This months’ New Moon is at 25 degrees of the sign Aquarius, and it crests at 9:53 PM on February 13, 2010, and it rules such various things as the occult, inventions, aviation, telepathy, electricity, and new technology.  Aquarians love to be in the forefront of all that is new and quirky.  They are the ones who couldn’t wait for the new Blackberry, I-Phones, and Flat Screen TV’s.  They are forward-looking folks who can’t wait for the future to unfold.  They want to be ahead of the curve in all new technological areas – and can often be found helping less techno-oriented friends with their computers, gaming devices or gadgets.

Since the New Moon is late on Saturday, the best times for writing out your specific affirmations will be in the evening hours of the 13^th and all day on the 14^th.  You may repeat any wishes or affirmations that haven’t manifested yet, and if you want to work with the energy of this New Moon, you might decide to include your future plans, volunteering at a science center, increasing your circle of friends, helping yourself to get closer to just one special someone, or bringing more happy surprises into your life.  Uranus is the ruling planet of Aquarius, and it is the planet of the unexpected – it can often cause chaos, and break down the status quo – but the beauty of this planet’s energy – is that it never completely destroys without a plan to rebuild on a more stable foundation, and to renew what had long since gone by its “sell-by” date.  It is the planet of reform, renewal, and refreshing – never happy with worn out relationships, unfulfilling jobs, angst ridden situations, or those comfortable grooves that have truly become ruts.  You will be changed, reformatted, and reborn under the spell of Uranus.

There is also this month an interesting conjunction between Chiron and Neptune – this aspect promotes compassion, forgiveness, and healing.  We will find that our hearts are open to all who are suffering, and we are more aware than ever of our ability to be of service.  We are all travelers on this tiny Blue Planet – and we owe a debt to ourselves and to others to be concerned that all are well taken care of – that all our lives meet certain criteria for the basic needs of human life.   There will be an immense feeling of connectedness to our fellow humans – our identities will meld with those we live with, work with, and know intimately or from a distance.  We will begin to see the “Big Picture” – we are not awash in a lonely sea, but rather tied together with a higher consciousness guiding us through the murky waters.  Listen closely to that inner voice – follow the highest concepts it suggests, and we will leave this world a better place.

Until the 18^th we will be able to connect with our families, and friends to heal one another, to bring new ideas and ideals into play – and to rework what hasn’t been working.  The economic conditions may not improve in a timely manner, so we must take care to avoid reckless spending and unwise speculation for the next few months. Mars, in Leo, is still in Rx mode until the first decanate of March.  So it is not the best time to embark on new projects or purchases.

This New Moon weekend has so much potential to make your life more fun, more loving and more committed to improving not only your own life, but to helping improve those of others.  There are many fleeting aspects that will enhance your sense of well-being, bring better communication with loved ones, evince more spiritual guidance, have you feeling more altruistic, make you delve deep into your soul, and just for fun – bring out your quirky artistic side… is it origami, popsicle bird houses, or “trash” sculpture???  Whatever your forte, go for it in the most outrageous manner you can think of – and enjoy the kudos….

Venus has moved into the sign Pisces, so we are all in a warm, fuzzy, cloud of loving emotions, intense passion, and have the need for all things chocolate.  Be it a Hershey’s kiss, green M & M’s, or Godiva soft centers – get your fill – I have it on good authority – there will be absolutely NO calories in any chocolate delight you ingest during this Valentine’s celebration.  But don’t overdo it; you don’t want to be out of control on the 16^th, as Venus moves towards its conjunction with Jupiter the planet of expansion, and all good things.  There really can be too much of a good thing.

May all of you find love, caring, kindness and understanding during this weekend of Cupid.  Be bold in your loving, intense in your caring, indulge in random acts of kindness,  and understand that you hold the secrets to your happiness – in your mind, heart, and soul – only you control the quality of your life, only you can alter your path – go for the gusto – don’t be afraid to be happy, content, fulfilled and whole.  You are deserving of the very best life has to offer – let the planets be your guide – but make sure you are at the helm – there will always be rocks in your path, there will always be fierce storms to conquer, there will always be a naysayer or two, heed your own council, and manifest the life you want.  You can and will be successful if you are true to yourself – I toast everyone, with my 90% pure cocoa dark chocolate truffle – may you always find the sweetest things life has to offer…

I like this post from Nancy, our resident Astrologer.  There is a calming confidence and sure-footedness, like a goat’s hooves navigating slippery rocks that I relate to when I read her words of advice.  Thank you Nancy!!  Your posts prepare me for the upcoming energies and make me feel less crazy in my head.

The New Moon for January 2010 is on the 15th of the month at 2:12 AM — it is at 25 degrees of Capricorn, so all day long is just perfect for writing down your affirmations and wishes. The loving planet Venus is within orb of this New Moon, so be open to love, forgiveness, random acts of kindness, and  be aware of those in need.  There is a karmic quality to this New Moon that might begin a new cycle for many Capricorns, and those with planets in the sign Capricorn.  Check out your chart and see where Capricorn lies — each house has a special meaning — and this could give you a clue as to where your energy should be spent.

This new year has begun with many delaying aspects in the Heavens, for instance it began with a Mercury Retrograde already in place — this aspect is always a bit tumultuous because it affects communication, transportation, educational matters, publishing and many day-to-day activities.  It is always a good rule of thumb to take our time when planning trips, using our car in bad weather, depending on mass transportation, or signing up for new classes.  Just about anything can be delayed or misconstrued when we are under this aspect.  Double check plans, places to meet, and make sure your car is up to snuff for the rigors of the winter weather (keep an emergency pack in your car: flashlight, water, cell phone, blanket or extra warm coat, AAA phone #, and even jumper cables), any and all of these items just might  be needed.  And make sure your gas tank is at least half full at all times.

In addition, Mars is also in Retrograde mode — this planet is our enthusiasm, energy and passion.  When retrograde, it also hinders new projects, relationships, finding jobs, and especially any “improvement” in our physical being. All of those good intentions that we hoped would emerge in this new year are bound to see delays and conflicts.  These aspects, however, do allow us to reconsider our goals and really look into what it is we truly want for ourselves this year.  Ask yourself the difficult questions now — am I where I want to be, where do I want to be in 5, 10 or even 20 years?  Am I happy doing what I am doing?  Are my relationships fulfilling and loving?  How am I going to reach those goals that I have been striving for over the past few years?  What will make me the contented, happy person I deserve to be?  What do I have to do, get, learn, find, or develop so that I might be finally on the true pathway that will be in my best interest, and will allow me to become my highest and most spiritual self?

Also, just so we don’t get too cozy — thinking all will be well after Mercury goes direct — Saturn, the teacher of our planetary system, will also go Retrograde in the sign Libra on the 13th and it will last until May 30th – enhancing the confusion, and reminding us to stay on course.   It will be so easy to throw in the towel and go astray… but remember what you have to gain by staying on course — you will succeed, you will get to your goals, and you will become that fulfilled person you want to become.  Saturn is the ruler of Capricorn, and as such will provide us with that extra impetus to keep our focus — and we will be happier in our relationships, our jobs, and more satisfied with life in general just by keeping to the straight and narrow confines of being honorable, and of doing the right thing.

OK — now if all of that information isn’t enough — the New Moon also ushers in an eclipse — so this will be a much more impactful and longer lasting cycle.  We may find ourselves with more responsibility and we must be able to accept these new parameters whether in our jobs or in our homes.  There will be times when you feel out of control, and that’s when you must not abandon your good common sense.  Don’t give in to those riotous feelings that will spiral your life out of control… You hold the keys to your behavior and your life — hold on to them dearly — and you will be rewarded with opportunities and choices that will be better for you in the long run.   Capricorn doesn’t move swiftly — this is a slow and steady sign, and with Saturn as its ruler — you know there will be rewards, and they will be worthwhile.

The Capricorn sun will hook up with the North Node between the 5th and the 19th and this will help give us the power to be in control of our lives.  In addition, Jupiter is rapidly going through the last degrees of Aquarius connected to Neptune — this will enhance in us a deep feeling that all will be well, no matter what limiting circumstances we will have to overcome.  When Jupiter enters Pisces late on the 17th we will be imbued with a new fervor — our spirits will be uplifted, and we will be empowered to expand our universe.  We will be able to see the “Big” picture — we can push aside the petty problems that don’t add to our sense of well-being.  Our eyes will be open to new pathways — just be sure you are not wearing your rose-colored glasses — be perfectly clear in your mind as to where you are going.  If something sounds too good to be true — steer clear!  Stay true to the practical and beautiful things you know are real and worthwhile.

The New Moon is at 25 degrees of Capricorn on January 15th, at 2:12 AM.  All day is fine for writing out your affirmations and wishes, be as specific as you can — repeat your affirmations for any difficult goals you have that might take longer to manifest.  Capricorn is a practical sign — so any wishes for more control over your life, or getting organized, or perhaps returning to basics are all good.  Capricorn will help you with the patience to reach your goals, and it enhances your endurance, so you will have the strength to conquer any obstacles along your path.

The power is in the ether — it is there for the taking – reach for the stars and you will begin to see your potential as a child of the Universe.  May this new year 2010 bring the awesome power within your spirit into the light — and may you be able to manifest your abilities, so that you will be aware of the magical being that is you.

PS.  Next month’s new Moon ushers in the Chinese New Year (sign of the Tiger) – more on that subject next month…. xo

Three months of being under the weather has left me depleted and absolutely flattened.  If it wasn’t for Nancy, our resident Astrologer coming to my rescue there would be nothing new to read these past few weeks.

I am keeping my eye on the ever changing energies of the Universe and how they may impact my life with practical advise and guidance.

Thank you Nancy!

Thought I would wind up the year in Astrological terms… and give some hints as to what awaits in the next year….

The Holiday is upon us, and with all the hectic activity of the last few weeks, I’m sure many are tired, cranky and anxious.  Well, astrologically — you are just where you should be — the Heavens have slowed down the planet Mercury to a standstill, (until it starts to actually retrograde on the 26th) … and a slow Mercury makes for slow travel, correspondence, and mail.  There will be many packages that are delayed until after Christmas.  Many plans may have been put on hold, or visitors that were expected are stuck in airports in the middle of the country.  We cannot change the weather or whatever Mother Nature throws at us — but, we can carry on with our plans as much as possible.

People are counting on us no matter what the delays or disappointments.  And with Mars also in retrograde motion, there isn’t much sense in getting ourselves in a tizzy over the circumstances.  Things are what they are — and no amount of ire will change the earthly happenings.  Our survival is in the stars — and there is help in many areas — The moon will be in Aries — giving us a boost of energy just when we need it most — there may be an edge to our desire to get it all done as soon as possible — but truly — take a moment to breathe and remember the wonderful meaning of this special time, carry on your activities with more aplomb, and more respect for yourself and your ability to make this time memorable, for all who share it with you.

On Christmas Day, Venus the planet of love, and those who are special to us, (and sweets), will move into the sign Capricorn — this is a practical and earthy sign that will bring us down to earth and help us recall all of the wonderful celebrations of the past — and all of the love we have for our families both near and far…We will remember the traditions passed down from generation to generation that we hold dear, using Grandmother’s special bowl for our Christmas punch — ornaments from Mom, and those that celebrate each child in their own unique way… the candy canes, cookies, cakes and pies, whose recipes we have used for as long as we can remember.  We recall with love those who have passed through this journey we call life, and we rejoice in those still here with us, able to celebrate this family occasion.

There are always stressors on these days, but our choice can be to only recall the warm and loving times that have been shared by all — and as Christmas Day winds to a close — there are aspects that will keep us happy, allow us to enjoy all of the creativity and beauty that has gone into making this day a success, and you will awaken with a feeling of joy, satisfaction, and perhaps relief, that another busy and active Holiday has become another wonderful memory, to be stored in our minds and to be brought out when once again the family comes together for happy or sad times — it is the memories that stay sweet and fresh, and any fatigue and stress is forgotten in the wonder of the love you have shared.

As we have mentioned before — this New Year’s Eve is a doozy!!!  With the Blue Moon in the sign Cancer, our inclination will be to overdue in food and drink — so be aware!  Most of us would prefer to enjoy a taste of the holiday repast, and toast to the coming year without paying the heavy burden of losing a day to feeling sick and terrible — and paying in headaches and stomach aches, for too much indulgence…. The sign Cancer does rule the stomach, and is a water sign — so it will be easy to forget how much champagne we might have sipped, or how many tasty, but rich appetizers we have eaten.  Stay alert and you will enjoy the eve of the New Year and also the beginning of it as well….

Now we know Mars, and Mercury are in Retrograde motion (Mercury turns direct on the 15th — the day of the New Moon eclipse).  This will cause us to reflect inwardly — and instead of making unwieldy resolutions — perhaps a better path is to try to imagine where we want to go this year.   Where do we want to be by the next Holiday season…?  Saturn also turns retrograde on the 13th, and this will add to our introspection.  It is a wonderful time to re-evaluate our choices of the past year, and our hopes and desires for this New Year.

The economy will still be fragile for some time to come, and we all will have to tighten our belts this year and be conservative in our spending.  Some of you may be deciding to follow pathways that were closed to you in the past; perhaps a creative new offer will come your way.  Be ready to take these offers seriously and make sure you are prepared with your background and lifetime experiences – even if it was in a volunteer or part-time capacity — you have been noticed and you will shine.  Many will have to make difficult choices in finding new pathways to earn a living… check out all training programs, apply to schools that teach just what you want to learn, and be positive in your attitude — I deserve this break, I am the right person for this position, I am going to succeed in this new field.  You can find your way and be truly fulfilled when it is the true path you are destined to follow.

This will be a year of challenges, trials and tribulations, but — you can succeed, you can be successful and you can find your Bliss!   Be open to new opportunities, be flexible in your attitude, and be ready to pounce on that quirky or different offer that will lead to happiness and a new way of thinking, living and loving.   You will be successful this year, you are deserving of all good things life has to offer, the opportunity will appear — be ready to enter your very own next chapter with a positive outlook and the excitement that you know in your heart of hearts — this is the moment !!!

May all of you find and enjoy your very own karmic moment of happiness this New Year –

Where would we be this year without our resident Astrologer Nancy?  Her posts and insights help me to navigate life’s rocky waters month to month.  Somehow she has always been the voice of reason for me throughout the decades.  End this year on a positive note by listening to her interpretations of the energies that rain down from the heavens:

Thought I’d get an early start with the astrological information this month — as it is a busy and active period in the Heavens….

First there will be a second Full Moon this month — a Blue Moon on December 31st — yep — New Year’s Eve — sure to be a merry-maker of monumental moments..memories… and “migraines”….

Especially as our friendly planet Mercury goes into Retrograde motion on the day AFTER Christmas — make sure you have all your receipts — especially if returning an item that was a gift — keep the tags ON…. there will be confusion — but it needn’t be a disaster…a little forethought goes a long way — and if you are prepared with all the tags, receipts, and any other confirmation, your efforts will be quick and easy.

Whew !!!  — Now down to New Moon business — the New Moon crests on December 16th at 7:02 AM in the sign Sagittarius at 24 degrees….  for all you sun sign Sags — it begins a new cycle — especially if born in the later degrees of the sign.  Now we all know Sagittarians are outgoing, great fun, and can be the life of the party…  so it behooves us to be sure to invite a few to our holiday bashes.   This is an upbeat and friendly sign that will help bring us into the holiday spirit, and give us a positive and happy outlook for the upcoming celebrations.  It also has the mantle of sincere spirituality, and we will all feel the enormous pressures that are concurrent in today’s economy, and we will attempt to help those who are less fortunate, alone, or in distress at this time.  It takes so little to perk up someone’s day — a cheery hello, a little card, a phone call, or a plate of cookies.  Take the time to share your good fortune and you will be rewarded ten-fold.

Now everything isn’t “hunky dory” — there are contrasts that we will have to deal with, Pluto in Capricorn is not playing nicely with Saturn in Libra this month and might spark a few tense moments when reality makes us aware that we cannot do it all — or all by ourselves.   We will feel the need to be in control, and we will be uncomfortable with others making plans for us, or anyone telling us what to do.   There must be some compromises along the way — pick your battles — don’t waste your time on those things that are just not that important — it just becomes exhausting, and we must save our energy for more positive tasks.  We all should try to keep our heads when it comes to spending this year… after scrimping and saving all year long, we feel the need to let loose — but resist this impulse and make sensible lists to sustain your goals without breaking the bank.  Talk to your loved ones and perhaps choose just one person to give to this year — or if necessary ask for help in deciding what would be appropriate — there are so many options today — keep the lines of communication open, and be honest with those you care about.  No one wants you to do all the chores, or go deeper into debt.  Back to basics might be a good theme for this year, that old fashioned, common sense, feet on the ground outlook that gets us through the darkest hours.  There will be joy, and fun, and light — keep it simple — keep it classic — keep it real.

Mars the planet of passion and action goes into Retrograde motion on the 20th in the sign Leo lasting several months — so any new plans might not go as planned, there might be resistance to what you want to do.  It might be a good time to put on the brakes and reevaluate just exactly what it is that we want to manifest.  Then we must move ahead in a timely manner with all of our “ducks in a row” – serious planning is the way to go — be sure you have all of the facts and then and only then — move onward.

The New Moon is always a time to write down our affirmations, wishes and any goals we wish to manifest — this New Moon is so important because if comes just before all the activity of the Holidays. All day and evening are great for writing out your wishes. So, it is indeed a great time to make those wishes clear — for a happy and healthy holiday season, for protection for all those who are in peril, and peace for those who are mourning, or anxious, or are in dire need of healing.   Let your wishes reflect all of the deepest desires of your heart and soul.  Feel the energy enter your body as you prepare your list — free your mind of any angst, open your spirit to the highest emanations from the Universe — and marvel at what you can manifest.

Sagittarius loves freedom, adventure, being optimistic, looking far ahead, sports, being spiritual, and has a deep love of life — infuse your affirmations with some of these wonderful ideals.  Be specific and feel the energy gathering from within and then begin to push these wishes into the ether. They will bear fruit, they will come to pass, you will be in control of your future.

With Mercury in retrograde, and the 2nd Full Moon on New Year’s Eve in the sign Cancer, it is a wonderful time to look back and reflect on the past, family ties, and traditions, and hone in on our future goals, wishes and desires.

However, since many of us will be celebrating and partying on this New Year’s evening — be aware that Cancer is a water sign that rules the stomach, and any overindulgence in food or drink will have some of us reaching for those products that promise “quick” relief.   Water rules emotions and they might overflow with all manner of feelings.  And with Mercury Rx — make sure your plans are fixed in stone — or confusion will entail — double check all of the details and you will be fine.  Enjoy the festivities of these wonderful Holidays with élan — my wish for all of you is that you have a safe Holiday Season, and one in which the memories will be warm for many years to follow.

Eat ~ Drink ~ and be Merry ~~ and may the Spirit of these magical days reach deep within you and ease your worries, enliven your daily life, and enrich your soul… Blessings to all.