Your Daily Horoscopes for Monday, December 31st

We may be eager to celebrate the New Year with fun and frivolity now that the Moon is visiting playful Leo. But expressing our holiday spirit at a party won’t tell the whole story today because rational Mercury enters serious Capricorn this morning. Meanwhile, assertive Mars forms an anxious alignment with sensual Venus, encouraging us to ask for what we want. However, we’re interested now in meaningful discussions about issues of substance.

Aries Horoscope

(Mar 21 – Apr 19)

Although you want everyone to see that you are doing the right thing these days, demonstrating your good intentions can be quite challenging at times. Part of the problem is that you would rather be enjoying yourself than fulfilling previous obligations. Accepting your current place in the world isn’t easy if it involves hard work; nevertheless, it’s what you must do now. Playtime might just have to wait until after you prove yourself worthy.

Taurus Horoscope

(Apr 20 – May 20)

You know what it takes to be practical today, but you don’t really feel like doing it. Ultimately, your most workable strategy now starts with being aware of the divergent forces that are pulling you in different directions. Your natural desire to simplify your life could win out over an unnecessary emotional display, even if you want everyone to know what’s on your mind. Remember, acting with maturity and patience will bring you more happiness than expecting others to cater to your needs.

Gemini Horoscope

(May 21 – Jun 20)

It seems like you are dramatically running from one task to the next, but you may not be as busy as you appear. Your hectic pace is part of a strategy that lets others know they shouldn’t ask more from you now. Unfortunately, they might not understand and make additional demands on your time, anyhow. Try a direct approach and just say you cannot take on anything else. Your true friends will appreciate your honesty and respect your limits.

Cancer Horoscope

(Jun 21 – Jul 22)

Even if you are usually fiscally cautious, it’s all too easy to forget budgetary restraints during the holiday season. Nevertheless, you might want to demonstrate that you are responsible with your money today, especially if someone has recently criticized your spending habits. Keep in mind that you don’t have to spend a lot of money to feel good about yourself. Bringing in the New Year with friends or family could be all you need to lift your spirits.

Leo Horoscope

(Jul 23 – Aug 22)

You may be quite moody now that the sensitive Moon is in your sign. You could even swing from being very upbeat to down and out in just a few minutes today. But don’t take decisive action based upon your emotions, for they will continue to shift throughout the day. Enjoy the buoyant feelings while they last, but give them time to come to rest before making any choices that have permanent consequences.

Virgo Horoscope

(Aug 23 – Sep 22)

You might choose to downplay your confidence now because you believe it’s out of place in the current situation. Although compensating for your hidden optimism by acting with cool restraint is one tactic, consider the positive impact you might have on others by offering them a ray of hope, instead. There’s no need to go over the top, but, at least, take a risk by spreading light instead of fear.

Libra Horoscope

(Sep 23 – Oct 22)

Your kindness might win over a previous enemy, yet you could make matters worse if you are insincere. Friendly Venus, your ruling planet, is currently caught in a web of words and the more you say, the farther away from the truth you get. Although a magnanimous gesture may have a positive effect if you are well intended, don’t attempt to explain your behavior. Verbalizing your feelings now only detracts from the clarity of your actions.

Scorpio Horoscope

(Oct 23 – Nov 21)

Coming to the aid of those who look up to you sounds like a good idea, but your actions may not be fully appreciated now. Instead of expecting to be admired in the spotlight, try helping someone today without even being noticed. It’s not about recognition, even if it’s well deserved; it’s about touching the hearts of those who need it most.

Sagittarius Horoscope

(Nov 22 – Dec 21)

It’s party time for you today, but at least you have the good sense to realize that the fun times won’t last forever. You’re eager to create a memorable event, whether on your own or in collaboration with others. But don’t be disappointed if everything doesn’t play out according to your best-case fantasy since there could be some unexpected last minute changes. There’s no need to exert too much control because the new scenario could be even better than your imagined one.

Capricorn Horoscope

(Dec 22 – Jan 19)

You have probably experienced your share of intense drama this holiday season with the willful Sun’s connection to shadowy Pluto. Thankfully, the energy begins to lighten up today, indicating that the tide is changing in your favor. But instead of looking back and analyzing what has happened, shift your attention toward the future. Utilize your current creativity to visualize the year ahead. Paint in broad strokes and fill in the rest of the details later.

Aquarius Horoscope

(Jan 20 – Feb 18)

The fiery Leo Moon is traveling through your 7th House of Others, tugging on your relationship axis today. You may be lured into discussions about what you want, but your desires might not fit into someone else’s expectations. Luckily, you know how to detach yourself from an overly emotional conversation. Don’t waste energy trying to justify your actions; convoluted rationalizations will only further complicate your life. Let your actions speak for your heart.

Pisces Horoscope

(Feb 19 – Mar 20)

Trust your instincts when it comes to doing what makes the most sense today, even if it’s counter to your logical analysis. You’re receiving instructions directly from your subconscious now and it isn’t necessary to understand the reasons for your current decisions. Your intuition is your greatest ally; just follow your hunches and don’t forget to enjoy the journey along the way.

Your Love Horoscopes for the Week of December 31st

This New Year’s Eve is perfect for playing dress-up and acting like a star as the showy Leo Moon adds glam to the party. Lovers Venus and Mars sparkle with sexiness that’s more about having fun than making a long-term commitment. We grow more intimate as the weekend’s lunar transits in relationship-oriented Libra and soulful Scorpio inspire us to share more of ourselves.

 

Aries Horoscope
Aries Horoscope (Mar 21 – Apr 19)

The New Year’s Eve Leo Moon is shining in your 5th House of Romance to cast you in the bright spotlight. You can put on a fabulous show while sassy and sexy Mars are busy flirting with beautiful Venus. Sharing becomes more important this weekend with the gracious Libra Moon pulling creative people into your orbit. Being willing to compromise over small issues rather than fighting to prove a point, makes you so much more attractive in the eyes of someone special.

Taurus Horoscope
Taurus Horoscope (Apr 20 – May 20)

Saturday could be your best chance to connect in a gentle way as the lovely Libra Moon aligns favorably with your romantic ruling planet Venus. Sunday looks to be intense because you may be attracted by forbidden fruit. Exposing needs that make you feel vulnerable is a brave thing to do. Desiring someone dangerous or pushing buttons with your current partner may be risky, but makes your heart beat faster than sitting on the sidelines playing it safe. Just don’t let your adrenaline rush tempt you to cross lines you might later regret.

Gemini Horoscope
Gemini Horoscope (May 21 – Jun 20)

Your love life should be yummy from Thursday evening until late Saturday night with the inviting Libra Moon hanging out in your 5th House of Romance. Macho Mars is urging you to be extra adventurous on Friday when going too far might sound just about right. And even if you come on too strong, sweet Venus helps you smooth out any rough spots on Saturday when an enthusiastic partner shows up to please you. Discovering common interests together could turn out to be a lot of fun.

Cancer Horoscope
Cancer Horoscope (June 21 – Jul 22)

Making it through the noise of New Year’s Eve can be a chore unless you leave responsibility behind and let foolishness rule. If you’re not into games and parties, look for a quiet way to celebrate, instead. Late Saturday night is when your emotions deepen with desire. The passionate Scorpio Moon traveling through your 5th House of Romance is like a mysterious song that can’t fail to stir your soul. The power of your feelings helps you attract who and what you want if you are brave enough to express your heart.

Leo Horoscope
Leo Horoscope (Jul 23 – Aug 22)

You can roar in the New Year with the Moon’s presence in your bold and colorful sign on Monday night. Being loud and proud will be fun but toning it down is recommended over the weekend. The attentive Libra Moon in your conversational 3rd House makes listening to others the real key to intimacy. Opinionated people can push your buttons but staying cool is more inviting to romance than battling over beliefs. Seek common ground to make a loving connection last.

Virgo Horoscope
Virgo Horoscope (Aug 23 – Sep 22)

Giving up a little control can bring you a lot of enjoyment on Friday. Breaking rules at work or experimenting by shaking up your daily routine is a wonderful way to warm up for some unexpected pleasure. If you can keep your sense of humor and let go of doing things by the book, you’ll have fun with a rambunctious individual. Save the serious tone for Sunday when it’s time to discuss an intense issue that could shape the future of a significant relationship.

Libra Horoscope
Libra Horoscope (Sep 23 – Oct 22)

Warm feelings and weird ideas make your personal life more interesting on Thursday when the Moon moves into your gracious sign, bringing your feelings to the surface. Trying to smooth out problems is admirable but your time is better spent making yourself happy and seeking new ways to have fun. Use your imagination to invent a character for you to play who might take risks and say outrageous things you wouldn’t dare to try any other time.

Scorpio Horoscope
Scorpio Horoscope (Oct 23 – Nov 21)

Maybe New Year’s Eve seems silly to you but it’s better to be foolish and have fun than to judge other people. If you sit it out, you’ll have plenty of chances to rock the world starting late Saturday night with the Moon’s entry into your intense sign. Exposing your intimate secrets might shock some people, but will let them know exactly where you stand. Your blunt honesty cuts to the core of relationships, making the truth a very powerful instrument to be handled with love.

Sagittarius Horoscope
Sagittarius Horoscope (Nov 22 – Dec 21)

Your adventurous planet Jupiter is fired up by energetic Mars in Friday. There may be no limits to what you will do to have fun, which is fine as long as you’re with people who you trust. It’s wiser to show your wild side privately than to go too far in a public place. Your heart wants to say yes to anything this weekend, but use your head to avoid overestimating someone. Demonstrating some healthy self-restraint makes you more desirable in the long run.

Capricorn Horoscope
Capricorn Horoscope (Dec 22 – Jan 19)

You might as well wear a silly party hat on New Year’s Eve because it reminds you to take life less seriously. Just cutting loose without worrying about what others think is a great gift to yourself. The responsible role you often play returns this weekend, probably making you the social director of the group. But getting people to pitch in, instead of carrying the load alone, gives you the space to actually celebrate what you’ve created.

Aquarius Horoscope
Aquarius Horoscope (Jan 20 – Feb 18)

The cool thinking that tends to keep you from acting emotionally could be overheated this week. The fiery Leo Moon kicks up passion in your 7th House of Relationships on New Year’s Eve. On Friday, aggressive Mars in your sign is supercharged by a trine from gigantic Jupiter that can push you to risk more than you are willing to lose. Taking chances does widen the road to love, but if you’ve overstepped any limits, expect some serious discussion on Sunday. Start off with an apology first and then talk it out until you both feel better.

Pisces Horoscope
Pisces Horoscope (Feb 19 – Mar 20)

Saturday night’s cosmic energy brings a unique combination of emotional intensity and mental clarity to express your relationship needs more effectively. If you have a partner, he or she needs to pay attention to what you say in order to keep your trust. If you’re single and looking, having the courage to speak from your heart may scare off some people but will make you more attractive to a person who has the depth to fulfill your desires.

Astrology Inspired New Year Resolutions

Astrology Inspired New Year Resolutions

Keep your New Year Resolutions with help from the stars

Sally Philips

Sally Philips on the topics of new year, astrology

It’s that time of year again, when we all promise to correct our bad habits and become perfect people. Riiiiight! As we all know, New Year resolutions are made to be broken … but that doesn’t mean we shouldn’t make them.

Whether we stick to them is not always the point. It’s more about adjusting our focus each year to gain greater awareness. Little by little, that awareness can help us clean up our mucky areas and get closer to living the lives we desire.

 

Aries (March 21 – April 19)

If one of your resolutions last year was to finish projects that are still sitting on your shelf, it’s time to box them up and make room for a brand new endeavor. Here’s the resolution you will need to make it a success: I won’t start a new project until I finish the one I’m working on.

Taurus (April 20 – May 20)

Your fixed energy makes you great at follow through, but it can also keep you stuck in bad habits. Resolve to tackle a few of your worst ones this year. If you are true to your resolutions for just three months, you will be well on your way to breaking even the most stubborn habit.

Gemini (May 21 – June 20)

Your whirlwind life can be a lot of fun — and it certainly isn’t boring — but it might serve you well to slow down this coming year. Even though patience isn’t your strong suit, try adding a dash of it here and there. It will help you make progress in areas where your bouncy energy has actually been holding you back.

Cancer (June 21 – July 22)

You love your routines and your security, but it’s time to get out of your comfort zone and try something new. Resolve to reach out into unknown territory and see what you find this year. If it feels scary, remember that you’re just coming up on an edge where you need to stretch.

Leo (July 23 – Aug. 22)

Have you used your irresistible charms to capture emotional prisoners this past year? If you’re a player — and you know who you are — resolve to be more devoted this year. Open up that big heart of yours and take your relationships to a deeper level.

Virgo (Aug. 23 – Sept. 22)

Nag, nag, nag … the only time you stop is when you’re nitpicking. Okay, that’s a huge exaggeration … but chances are you’ve gotten on someone’s case a little too often this past year. Resolve to lighten up this year and let others take care of dotting the i’s and crossing the t’s.

Libra (Sept. 23 – Oct. 22)

As hard as you try, you can’t have it both ways. Promise yourself you will make firmer decisions this coming year. You can still weigh all of your alternatives, but when it comes down to the line, make up your mind and stick to it. Your friends and colleagues will breathe a sigh of relief.

Scorpio (Oct. 23 – Nov. 21)

Keeping secrets adds to your mysterious allure, but there’s a limit. If you’re using your power to manipulate others, that’s where it needs to end. Resolve to be more transparent with those close to you this year. Let them in on your deepest secrets and enjoy the fruits of greater intimacy.

Sagittarius (Nov. 22 – Dec. 21)

You’re good at thinking big and you shouldn’t change that this year … but you might want to put more time into developing strategies that will help you reach your lofty goals. Remember — a goal without a plan is just a dream — so make this the year you follow through.

Capricorn (Dec. 22 – Jan. 19)

Here’s your mantra-resolution: It’s not all about money. Keep pursuing the almighty dollar if you like, but also take time to smell the roses that line your path to success. Your friends and family need you. Resolve to be more generous with your time and attention.

Aquarius (Jan. 20 – Feb. 18)

Even though we all love your quirkiness, it wouldn’t hurt to develop a bit more tolerance for the traditional. As it’s the flip side of where you usually put your energy, it may feel uncomfortable. But you shine when it comes to breaking the mold, so surprise everyone (again!) with a side of you they’ve never seen.

Pisces (Feb. 19 – March 20)

This is the year to put your compassion to better use. Resolve to find a project where you can help others in need. Your understanding and supportive nature is a gift you need to give on a regular basis. Reach out and extend it beyond your friends and family.

 

Your Daily Cosmic Calendar for December 31st

The last day of 2012 seems to begin with flair as the creative, loving presence of the Moon in Leo provides an undercurrent of sustenance. Venus forges an inspirational, 72-degree rapport with its higher-guardian planet Neptune (2:28AM PST) — giving the fine and graphic arts plenty of energy.  Mercury leaves fiery Sagittarius for earthy Capricorn (6:04AM PST). This significant shift by the Messenger of the Gods lasts until January 18 and places an emphasis on cogent professional plans.  Challenging alignments begin a cat-and-mouse game with favorable alignments — starting with a frictional, 45-degree link from Venus to Mars (11:47AM PST). Any discordant Venus-Mars contact can equate with rising stress between lovers and dear ones. Fortunately, the Moon in Leo forms a harmonious trine to Venus in Sagittarius (1:53PM PST). The hour or so before this link-up is exact offers the best boost for creative artistic expression and solidifying social affairs. However, this Moon-Venus connection also starts a long void uncertainty cycle that lasts until 9:36AM PST when the Moon shifts from Leo to Virgo.  Meanwhile, highly-stimulating Uranus decides to take center stage for several hours when it forms a supportive and vitalizing, 60-degree alliance with Mars (6:33PM PST). Nevertheless, Uranus leaves that happy arrangement to formulate an ill-advised square with Juno (8:12PM PST). Yikes! Just when it seemed the universe was rallying to give human souls an extra measure of solace and contentment, boom — a lightning-like strike from the ancient titan Uranus to the empowering, peace-loving Juno may wind up creating a very tense, destabilizing psychic atmosphere.  Yet the last word — belonging to the old year — goes to a nifty, 60-degree alliance from Mercury in Capricorn to Neptune in Pisces (10:51PM PST). Thus, it is wise and sensible to send out your healing thoughts and prayers for a year ahead filled with emotional serenity, peace of mind, and an enhancement of humanity’s capacity for empathy and psychic sensitivity for the deep needs of loved ones.