Venus in Capricorn: Working for Love

The business of love in coming weeks

by Jeff Jawer on the topics of love, venus, capricorn, blogs, astrology

Expect a fresh look at relationships and self-worth issues during the next couple of weeks. The action starts on Tuesday, January 8, when alluring Venus enters hardworking Capricorn and romance becomes bound by rules.

This is an intentional process rather than just falling in love. It’s as if this is an involuntary process over which we have no control. The idea of being so attracted to someone that emotion takes over and all we have to do is follow its lead to eternal bliss is understandably appealing. It eliminates the work of thinking, planning and building a relationship over time, and it makes us feel like winners in the lottery of love. At least that’s what Hollywood taught us.

Venus in Capricorn sextile Neptune

Venus in Capricorn is another story, though. It’s about earning trust, which requires time and effort. The first part, however, is not about impressing anyone else; it’s about respecting and trusting ourselves. The love planet’s presence in this responsible Earth sign makes discipline, commitment and patience sexy and appealing. Recognizing your own worth based on the progress you’ve made and the lessons that you’ve learned is the foundation for successful relationships with Venus in Capricorn. The road to love, pleasure and approval, though, turns bumpy from January 12-17.

Oh, the journey starts off sweetly enough with Venus’ supportive sextile to tender and imaginative Neptune on January 9. This is a lovely alignment of intention and self-control (Venus in Capricorn) with the sweet surrender of Neptune in Pisces. Sounds like the best of both worlds and an ideal environment for establishing a romantic mood. But the dreamy and forgiving feel of this aspect quickly gives way to more complex social patterns.

Uranus square Pluto

Darling Venus, all grown up in responsible Capricorn, runs into the cosmic storm of the ongoing Uranus-Pluto square, the transformational aspect that lasts from 2012 until 2015. Venus forms an edgy square with volatile Uranus on January 12 and joins pressure-packed Pluto on January 16. These are aspects that can provoke strange attractions and sudden shifts of mood, as well as intense desires and profound mistrust. On the plus side, unspoken issues can rise to the surface to be addressed openly, which helps to break relationship habits, adding new interest to an ongoing alliance or opening the way to a new one.

The control we seek with Venus in Capricorn is disturbed by these transits because they are meant to teach us to appreciate change. Shifts of values and tastes are gateways to greater tolerance, and they help us discover personal and professional opportunities in these transitional times.

Some people may feel as if they’re going over the edge, but a safety net opens on January 17 when Venus sextiles security-conscious Saturn. This positive aspect connects attraction and order in a well-balanced way, enabling us to regain emotional equilibrium if we’ve lost it and to manage radical change if it’s desirable.

Either way, being responsible without becoming rigid produces a fertile field in which love can grow.

Living Life As The Witch: Surviving Mercury’s Retrogrades

Surviving Mercury’s Retrogrades

The Roman god Mercury (Hermes to the Greeks) is the messenger of the gods—the link between spirit and matter, between soul and personality. Mercury symbolizes the power of communication, reasoning capacities and the ability to perceive relationships and gather facts. Mercury narrates, talks argues, debates, writes, analyzes, memorizes, studies travels, sells, reflects, and expresses itself through the hands as well as the tongue. Mercury is the magician and the trickster, two sides of the same coin, both inclined to be hard teachers. As a master of the hidden realms, Mercury confounds us with unexpected information and events and challenges our habitual perceptions. He also surprises us with unexpected gifts and new possibilities. If we like the surprises, we call it magick; if we don’t, we call it bad luck. Either way, the result is to jar us from the inertia of our routines and move us out of the mundane. So when the planet is retrograde, we can expect things “ruled” by Mercury to go haywire; it’s just another way Mercury is providing lessons.

Mercury retrograde periods are plagued by indecision, bad timing, delays, communication errors, and mechanical problems. Although many of us particularly notice computer problems during this time frame. Uranus is the planet that rules electronic devices, including computers. But since so much of our communication is conducted via computer, Mercury’s influence has expanded.

For many of us, knowing when Mercury goes retrograde can be a sanity saver. We can mark retrograde periods on our calendars so we won’t throw parties, write letters, buy electronics (or pets), sign contracts or take a new job. If nothing else, it’s a time to take extra care that what you say is understood as you meant it to be. For years, it was a time when I battened down the hatches and rode out the messed up energies.

No longer. Now I use the retrograde energies of Mercury in ways that the work like a kind of cosmic aikido move. Doing so has transformed nine weeks of my year into positive, productive times and my frustration level has decreased dramatically.

The key is to remember that Mercury retrograde is a time for “re” doing things. So it is a wonderful time for anything based on research, planning, examination of resources and completing projects. You don’t want to start anything new during Mercury retrograde, but if there is a project hanging out there that you haven’t gotten around to finishing, this is the perfect time to return to it.

Mercury retrograde is not my favorite time of the year, but I’m a lot less stressed about it now that I’ve learned some strategies for using the backward energy to my advantage.

Excerpt from:
Dancing with Mercury,
Backwards: Do More Than Just Survive Mercury
Retrograde
By Lisa McSherry
Llewellyn’s 2013 Magical Almanac for Every Day Living

Daily Horoscopes for Thursday, January 3rd

We want to be responsible now, but it may be difficult to settle down and follow through on our commitments as mental Mercury tensely squares erratic Uranus. Although we are restless, help comes from three planets in stable Capricorn and the Moon in patient Virgo. Meanwhile, an optimistic Sun-Jupiter alignment tempts us to follow our bliss. The Moon’s shift into accommodating Libra at 8:10 pm EST reminds us to consider other people’s needs, too.

Aries Horoscope

(Mar 21 – Apr 19)

Although you may feel like changing the course of events today, others might not be willing to follow your lead. You could be too impulsive, since you’re inclined to jump to conclusions without having the necessary facts to support your fantastic ideas. Go ahead and be as inventive as possible now, but don’t expect anyone else to join in your parade. March to the sound of your own drum instead of waiting for something to happen.

Taurus Horoscope

(Apr 20 – May 20)

You like knowing what’s real, yet a whole new set of data may come to your attention today that gives rise to self-doubt. You might even question whether or not you’re on the right track. Your resistance to change could harden into rigidity but this isn’t a sensible strategy, especially if your previous assumptions were wrong. Remaining open to other options doesn’t fix the underlying problem, but it can make your day easier to manage along the way.

Gemini Horoscope

(May 21 – Jun 20)

You’re on top of your mental game today and can amaze people with your wit and wisdom. However, extra care is required or you might become so enthralled with your own cleverness that you take an argument too far. Too much eagerness on your part could cause you to lose ground in a conflict. Go ahead and take a risk, but think twice before pushing your luck.

Cancer Horoscope

(Jun 21 – Jul 22)

You may step on someone’s toes unintentionally because you’re uncharacteristically insensitive today. Normally, you’re acutely aware of people’s feelings, but you might get so excited now that compassion falls to the wayside. Your temporary lack of concern doesn’t mean you are unkind; it’s just that your enthusiasm makes you a bit inconsiderate. The simple solution is to stop and think about the impact of your words before you speak them.

Leo Horoscope

(Jul 23 – Aug 22)

You are eager to enjoy yourself today, but previous commitments might present time management problems. Unfortunately, your nervous energy could grow distracting unless you consciously channel it into a creative activity. It’s a good day to work in partnership with someone whose approach is much different from yours. A collaborative effort can be highly productive and may even bring the personal satisfaction you were originally seeking.

Virgo Horoscope

(Aug 23 – Sep 22)

An unconventional plan helps to break you out of a familiar rut today. A job-related issue that’s been eluding resolution may suddenly be put to rest, with the answer coming to you like a bolt of lightning. But don’t take yourself too seriously, even if your solution is brilliant; acting in a self-righteous manner puts others on the defensive. Simply make your decision and then move on without the need to prove your superiority.

Libra Horoscope

(Sep 23 – Oct 22)

Your day won’t likely run as smoothly as you wish because unexpected circumstances can have a dramatic impact on your schedule. Unfortunately, you might become quite frustrated if you cling to your original agenda. The smartest way to handle irresolvable tension now is to simply let it go. Acknowledging that fate is temporarily in charge of your life makes embracing the surprises more pleasant than resisting them to no avail.

Scorpio Horoscope

(Oct 23 – Nov 21)

Worrying about an unlikely outcome only creates additional stress as you become enthused about a radical approach to a sticky problem at work. There are many possible solutions now, but you have reservations about moving into uncharted territory by taking charge. Your ideas are probably better than you think, so go ahead and initiate action. You can always make necessary adjustments and try again later if you don’t hit the nail directly on the head.

Sagittarius Horoscope

(Nov 22 – Dec 21)

The notion of doing something completely different from everyone’s expectations is rather thrilling now. Unplanned activities may supersede your previous commitments. You could even stir up a bit of mischief just to see what kind of reaction you get. Have fun; there’s no need to go out of your way to conform since your current unconventional ideas will likely lead to a sensible plan by tomorrow.

Capricorn Horoscope

(Dec 22 – Jan 19)

You are usually cautious in your conversations about business, but your thoughts may be so loud today that it’s hard to keep quiet. You might even say contradictory things now, which lowers your overall credibility. Instead of rambling on and on, continue to develop your ideas on your own and wait until tomorrow before sharing them. You’ll have a much better chance of impressing others if your plan is well conceived.

Aquarius Horoscope

(Jan 20 – Feb 18)

Your nervous system is wired tightly today while chatty Mercury is getting buzzed by electric Uranus, your key planet. Be careful, since you could easily commit your time and energy to a creative project that isn’t really in your best interest. Consider the consequences before agreeing to an endeavor that can drain your resources. There’s no reason to add more activity to your already busy schedule unless it’s something you really want to pursue

Pisces Horoscope

(Feb 19 – Mar 20)

You want to show everyone how independent you are today, making you less accommodating than usual. Your patience may be tested, tempting you to say something that could be disruptive. Nevertheless, you don’t have to put up with childish games as long as you’re prepared to deal with the ramifications of your current rebelliousness. Thankfully, the results will be worth the temporary turmoil if you clearly express your honorable intentions to others.

Daily Cosmic Calendar for January 3rd

How you deal with delays and frustrations can test your character. This theme may be prevalent today as a void lunar uncertainty zone begins at 4:16AM PST during a Moon-Venus square of 90-degrees. From 4:16AM PST to 5:12PM PST, it is best to go with the flow, complete old business on a high note, and put new, bold enterprises on hold while the void-of-course Moon in Virgo is in charge. During the unsettled nature of today’s lunar predicament, Mercury squares Uranus (8:31AM PST) while Venus opposes Ceres (9:01AM PST). Major aspects that occur during a void time-span are usually watered-down or made less influential. Therefore, the Mercury-Uranus square from Capricorn to Aries is a challenge on the communication, literary and educational fronts, but the aspect may lose some of its volatility and anxiety. The Venus-Ceres polarity is a reminder to stay as productive as possible in crafts and hobbies, but don’t go overboard on complex projects difficult to manage effectively. Once the Moon enters Libran territory (5:12PM PST), the cosmos is directing you to improve the quality of your primary partnerships and plunge into a favorite fine or graphic art project. Love vibrations increase in frequency — courtesy of a Sun-Venus parallel (6:05PM PST). Let the good times roll at an impromptu party tonight.

Change is the name of the game

By Rick Levine and Jeff Jawer

The most important astrological pattern of this century started just last year, when revolutionary Uranus and transformational Pluto aligned in an exact 90-degree square on June 24 that repeats six more times before concluding on March 16, 2015. This culture-shaking aspect is the second step in a cycle that marks a change of collective consciousness that first occurred in 1965 and ’66. That was a naive time in some ways, as a healthy economy made it easy to drop out and live an alternative lifestyle, since there were plenty of jobs available when people were ready to drop back in. Alas, it’s not the same story this time around.

Digging deeper, we note that Uranus, the planet of liberation, is in the individualistic sign of Aries now. This might not encourage cooperation, and we can see that reason and compromise are hard to come by these days. Yet it also means that each of us is a unique source of innovation, and that collective change starts with the individual. Potent Pluto in Capricorn represents the controlling forces of institutions, both public and private. The abuses of power by governments, corporations, schools, and religious organizations can easily be criticized … and should be. But the healing forces of change that will carry us through these tumultuous times and into the next phase of human evolution are within each and every one of us. Breaking patterns and discovering new ways to express ourselves individually might not seem very significant in the bigger scheme of things, but the cumulative effect of a million bright ideas and loving acts of kindness will change the world.

The heart of the matter

Saturn is the planet of hard, cold reality and represents the limits that hold us back, as well as the structures we can build to fulfill our ambitions. It entered emotionally intense Scorpio last October and will stay there for two years. Scorpio deals with the deep issues of survival, intimacy and power. It is concerned with our desires and the ways that we measure what we give others in order to get what we want in return. These are very meaningful issues, but ones we are often reluctant to address openly with others or even honestly with ourselves. Yet getting to the heart of our needs is where Saturn in Scorpio’s essential truth lies. When we push past the limits of politeness, niceties, and looking good to others, we may discover some deep hunger that has been overlooked or denied. Maybe it can’t be completely fulfilled, but just knowing what we really want can be a strong step toward creating a happier future. Being willing to negotiate with others in both our personal and professional lives empowers us in relationships and overcomes the quiet desperation of staying silent.

Areas of opportunity

Expansive Jupiter is in jaunty Gemini until June 25, filling minds with a million and one ideas. This is terrific for creative thinking and imagining more options in our lives, yet we can also scatter our energy if we pursue too many possibilities at once. Being selective helps to capture this intellectual inspiration without dissipating ourselves in too much thought. On June 25 Jupiter enters cozy Cancer for a 12-month stay, putting an emphasis on personal security and domestic matters. In mid-July, Saturn and Jupiter are joined in a harmonious Grand Water Trine with imaginative Neptune and assertive Mars. This is a special time for setting long-term strategies, since faith and action combine with vision and reason to lay down a solid foundation for reaching inspirational goals.

General Horoscope

Spirits are high today and excitement permeates our lives, but plans may be turned upside down as the Sun dynamically squares wild Uranus. The Moon’s entry into whimsical Gemini at 2:13 am EST adds another layer of unpredictability to the current circumstances while energetic Mars’ shift into intellectual Aquarius further stimulates our nervous systems. We’re tempted to try risky solutions when more conventional ones might work just fine.

Aries Horoscope

(Mar 21 – Apr 19)

Common sense takes a back seat to enthusiasm because you want to let it all hang out. Oddly enough, exercising a little self-restraint can help you gain even more independence now that the willful Sun squares unconventional Uranus in your spontaneous sign today. Unfortunately, it may be easier to act first and then think through the consequences of your actions later. It won’t hurt to count slowly to ten before flying off the handle.

Taurus Horoscope

(Apr 20 – May 20)

You would like to demonstrate your dependability, but there could be a bit of a gambler in you now who wants to explore unusual possibilities. You are willing to go along with others, even if they encourage you to step out beyond your normal comfort zone. But it’s of no value trying to be more responsible than necessary today. Take a leap of faith; something wonderful might happen if you follow your heart

Gemini Horoscope

(May 21 – Jun 20)

Getting along with others may be more challenging now because you’re out to have a good time. Unfortunately, you could inadvertently offend an ally without even knowing what you did. Try not to overstep your bounds, even if someone eggs you on. Don’t get involved in an unimportant argument or you could end up regretting the whole thing. Your sense of urgency is not as real as it seems. Change the topic or just walk away for the sake of keeping peace.

Cancer Horoscope

(Jun 21 – Jul 22)

You have a strong need to partake in social festivities today, but too much irresponsible spontaneity could land you in big trouble. You’re better off tempering your crazy ideas by checking in with friends and family first. Even if you have your own agenda now, try to integrate your expectations with those who are part of your day. Everyone will benefit from your flexibility if you can compromise and still bring joy to the party.

Leo Horoscope

(Jul 23 – Aug 22)

You might think you know the best way to make things happen today, but being too rigid in your approach can precipitate an unpleasant conflict. Make sure that you’re being stubborn for the right reasons because your efforts could be thwarted if you’re on a power trip. Expressing your demands gently as preferences increases your chances of getting what you want.

Virgo Horoscope

(Aug 23 – Sep 22)

You want to be everything for everyone today, but spreading yourself too thin isn’t a smart strategy. You might become so overcommitted that you wish you could hide and just spend some time by yourself. If you discover an escape route, keep in mind that your solution won’t likely be a permanent one. Nevertheless, you still need to blow off some excess steam. Once you express your feelings, come back and join the festivities with a lighter heart.

Libra Horoscope

(Sep 23 – Oct 22)

Intense feelings continue to hold you in place today, even if you’re actively trying to change your day for the better. Your smartest strategy now is to keep reminding yourself of what’s most important. If you let your goals for the day become your guiding light, you’ll make the best choices. However, if you get sidetracked by negative emotions or unmet expectations, even the best intentions may still lead you astray. You cannot change everything in your environment, but you can choose how you respond to it.

Scorpio Horoscope

(Oct 23 – Nov 21)

The uncontrollable tides are swirling around you now, making it doubly important to maintain your emotional balance. If you are swept up in the moment, you might not be able to find a stable place to stand. Fortunately, someone close to you may unexpectedly come through, acting like the solid rock you seek. Let go of your fears and accept support when it is offered. Even temporary security can be the catalyst that allows you to completely relax and be yourself.

Sagittarius Horoscope

(Nov 22 – Dec 21)

You act as if you are having a wonderful time, but the truth is that your heart may not be in it today. You are projecting your optimism, yet you might feel detached from your friends and family. But instead of pushing your agenda forward, it’s more important now to pursue a spiritual solution to your dilemma. Your current happiness comes from letting your emotions flow and not from rationalizing everything in your head.

Capricorn Horoscope

(Dec 22 – Jan 19)

You can have all the thrills you want today and still fulfill your obligations to others. Nevertheless, your imagination might still stir up issues of low self-esteem, tricking you into thinking that you’re unprepared for what’s ahead. However, you’re probably in better shape than you realize. Keep your eyes on the big picture and let the details slip for now. Remain open to being surprised and kick up your heels while you can.

Aquarius Horoscope

(Jan 20 – Feb 18)

Adopting a grounded sense of your responsibilities at home and in the community today goes a long way toward stabilizing the rest of your life in the days ahead. Although you’re respected by your friends and family, you still must be practical to reap the rewards. Whatever distractions come your way now, lean on those you trust for the emotional support you need.

sces Horoscope

(Feb 19 – Mar 20)

You won’t be satisfied with anything less than a happy holiday today, but you don’t necessarily want to leave home to experience it. You may have a plan for creating lots of fun without needing to go to some exotic destination. Thankfully, your friends come to your rescue now, especially if they realize how important your dreams are to you. However, you must give up control and accept the gifts as they are offered, even if they differ from your initial expectations.

Will it be merry, or will it be mutiny?

Maria DeSimone on the topics of insight, holidays, blogs, astrology

Feeling testy? A little defiant? It’s not your imagination. Although Christmas Day is meant to be a time filled with peace, joy, love and the overall spreading of good cheer, you and those around you might grapple with an overwhelming feeling to ditch at least one of your tried and true holiday traditions and go a bit rogue.

Sun square Uranus

Most notably, the Sun will rub elbows with Uranus in a tense square. When these two planets put up their dukes to fight it’s almost always about rebellion against what everyone expects from you.

You’re not about to sit quietly and obey the rules when this energy looms in the sky. In fact, you’re more interested in breaking free from rules because, somehow, they’ve become rather suffocating. Remember, however, that this energy is not only about you. You may notice it in a jarring way from anyone you encounter — particularly if they have personal planets or a Rising sign near 4 degrees of any Cardinal sign (Aries, Cancer, Libra, Capricorn).

In the context of a major holiday, this could mean that instead of the usual dinner you enjoy with your clan, Mom or the top chef decides to take the day off, forcing other relatives to regroup and concoct a new, more unusual menu. You may also decide to do something radical when it comes to your traditional gift giving practices. Either the gifts you choose for and receive from others will be a little “out there” or you may decide to do away with tangible gifts altogether. Even if it’s as simple as an unexpected dinner guest who rattles the balance of your family’s comfort zone, what you will undoubtedly remember about this Christmas is that it was different from the norm.

You may try to “run away” from the trappings of the holiday rather than embrace it. If this occurs, you’ll have your reason but please remember that this energy is so fleeting. Don’t allow yourself to become overwhelmed with agitation that you later fill with regret each time you recall Christmas of 2012. In fact, Sun-Uranus energy can be quite energizing, if used properly. What an opportunity to begin a new tradition with your family and friends that you’ll embrace for years to come! You’ll also have a chance to show off your originality this Christmas. Whether that’s with decorations, food, gifts or anything else is up to you.

Mars in Aquarius

Another key astrological pattern that emerges in the sky as we approach the latter part of Christmas Day is that Mars, the planet of action and motivation, will change signs — moving into inventive, cerebral Aquarius. Mars will remain here until February 1, 2013 and during these weeks will enjoy a special relationship to Uranus in Aries. Mars is the planetary ruler of Aries and Uranus is the planetary ruler of Aquarius. As you can see, these two signs are hosted in the other’s ruling planet for a stretch, which gives them honorary strength in a pattern called mutual reception.

When two planets are in mutual reception they share a special unification. Thankfully, this will be a happy occurrence because Mars and Uranus, when bickering, can lead to violence, accidents and aggravation. During this mutual reception however, we’ll enjoy the best of what Mars and Uranus can offer us when they work together as a team. This is incredible energy to pursue your individuality and those eccentric endeavors without anyone holding you back. Consider it a green light to revolutionize yourself in some capacity.

I will say that because this begins the very evening Sun is square Uranus we might not see the positive right away. In fact, even if it’s a white Christmas for you, fireworks are likely. Fireworks represent freedom, but if used improperly they can be quite explosive. You or those around you might be ready for a radical change and this shift may ultimately be positive. The problem will be in the delivery. Don’t expect it to be gracefully executed.

On a different note, with all of this Uranian energy electrifying the sky on Christmas Day we’re likely to see plenty of technology-related gifts exchanged. That’s because Uranus rules technology and the Internet. Skype or FaceTime might prove a blessing if there’s a loved one you want to connect with who doesn’t live nearby.

So you see, all of this Uranus in the face of Christmas doesn’t have to be a bad thing. As usual, awareness is everything and in the end the choice is yours. Will your Christmas be Merry or Mutinous?

Lovers generate heat as we move from 2012 into 2013

Maria DeSimone on the topics of winter, love, horoscopes, astrology

Baby, it’s cold outside! This winter however, you can anticipate plenty of body heat between you and someone special.

A rare, sizzling mutual reception between Mars in Aquarius and Uranus in Aries will boost your sex life between December 27 and February 2. If you’re typically shy in the bedroom, don’t be shocked if you’re suddenly in the mood to spice things up!

Winter receives an indulgent, romantic welcome on December 21, as Venus and Jupiter oppose one another. These two planets make love sweeter — even if they go overboard as they prompt you to express affection.

Aries (March 21 – April 19)

Love is an adventure! You’re likely to feel as if your potential for romantic fulfillment is one giant open road as winter begins. If you’re single, a sudden encounter with a friend or someone introduced to you through a friend may leave you breathless between December 27 and February 2. What starts out as a fun, “no strings attached” winter romance may turn into something more after a heartfelt conversation with your lover on February 6. Attached Aries, you’ll find it easier than usual to bare your soul to your partner. You’ll feel especially well connected with your mate on January 16 and 17.

Taurus (April 20 – May 20)

You may begin the season with a restrained attitude about love, but don’t let this bring you down. You’re in the process of defining what you truly want in a committed partnership. What are you willing to compromise in order to enjoy a stable relationship? Where will you never settle — even if it means going it alone for a while? Fortunately, Saturn’s presence in your partnership sector these days is well supported, and the potential for you to find that everlasting love has never looked brighter. On January 16-17 you’ll feel as if you and a current mate are on solid ground, and by March 7 you’ll be willing to expand your horizons on relationship enough to see the big picture.

Gemini (May 21 – June 20)

Once Jupiter turns direct in your sign on January 30 your optimism about personal and romantic endeavors will be in full swing. A committed relationship will enjoy special harmony until January 9, thanks to Venus’ tour in your partnership sector. Then, from January 10 through February 2 you’ll enjoy a boost in intimacy. Love may border on obsession near January 16, however, due to an intense link between Venus and Pluto in your 8th House of Depth. Remember that love is not about control; it’s about relating to and honoring your mate for who he or she already is. If you try to force your partner to conform to your expectations, a battle of the wills may erupt. Fortunately, it will smooth over quickly. Single Gemini, you may begin a new romance with someone who has a background quite different from yours near February 6. Ooh la la!

Cancer (June 21 – July 22)

With Saturn touring your 5th House of True Love, you might worry that you’ll be stuck feeding off stale crumbs this winter when it comes to love. Don’t despair! In fact, Saturn may help you find your one true love now. Saturn will receive incredible support from love planet Venus on January 17. Because Venus will be in your partnership sector from January 10 until February 2, an existing partnership will become more harmonious and durable. If single, a new romantic prospect will ripen during this time and may become serious faster than you expect. Go with it. This winter you’re not playing games when it comes to love. You’re playing for keeps.

Leo (July 23 – Aug. 22)

Leo, you’ll begin the season with incredible powers of attraction thanks to Venus touring your true love sector until January 9. You might receive even more attention from potential suitors than usual, and of course you’ll cherish every drop! One lucky person, however, is likely to stand out from the crowd and you’ll want to give this special someone your full consideration. Attached? Expect sparks between you and your mate from December 27 through February 2, as Mars tours your relationship sector. While it’s true that you might pick a few more fights than usual, it’ll all be in good fun. You might even do it for the pure pleasure of making up in the bedroom afterward! Venus in your relationship sector from February 3 through February 26 will help smooth out any wrinkles in your love life. By the New Moon on February 10 you’ll have a fresh start in partnership.

Virgo (Aug. 23 – Sept. 22)

A series of errors in how you communicate with your partner might frustrate you both during Mercury Retrograde from February 23 through March 17. Fortunately, Venus and Neptune will embrace in your relationship sector on February 28, adding potential for the best possible outcome. Still, if your mate is behaving in a way that appears too good to be true around this time, it’s conceivable that you’re not seeing the full picture. Thankfully, you’ll have the cosmic lovers — Mars and Venus — both in your relationship sector between February 27 and March 13, motivating you to swim past murky waters. In fact, March 6 might be a day of incredible harmony. You’ll have enough perspective about your love for each other to turn the page in a happier direction.

Libra (Sept. 23 – Oct. 22)

Expect romance to sizzle this winter! Cosmic lovers Mars and Venus will each take a turn touring your true love sector, assuring that your libido will get a wakeup call. From December 27 through February 2 you’ll have Mars, the planet of passion, helping you have more fun in bed. A sexual adventure with a friend is possible. Alternatively, you might enjoy a casual sexual encounter with someone you don’t intend to have a relationship with. Love will eventually catch up to you, however, because from February 3-26 you’ll have Venus in this area of your chart. You may develop feelings for that one night stand after all! You may also find that more than one person is after you, and if so you’ll have a difficult time choosing who to give your full attention to. In the end, the one who will win your heart will be original in his or her pursuit and will remember to give you plenty of breathing room.

Scorpio (Oct. 23 – Nov. 21)

Is love real or is it only an illusion? You’ll find out this winter, as several key planets will tour your romance sector starting on February 1. Because they are all in idealistic Pisces, you might discover that instead of a prince or princess you’ve been kissing a frog. Of course, you may also realize that this love is the most inspirational and enchanting experience of your life. You may, indeed, feel convinced that you’ve found the ultimate soul mate. During Mercury Retrograde in your 5th House of True Love from February 23 through March 17, you’ll have an opportunity to sort this out in your mind. By winter’s end, one way or another, you will know if it’s love or if you’ve only been dreaming.

Sagittarius (Nov. 22 – Dec. 21)

A close relationship that’s going well is about to get even better this winter. Jupiter, the planet of expansion and abundance, will turn direct on January 30. Because Jupiter is in your partnership sector, you’ll notice an instant difference in the yumminess factor between you and your mate. You might even decide to make a commitment to someone special and move in together, become engaged or even marry! If you’re single, expect sparks to fly between December 27 and February 2, when Mars and Uranus engage in a rare mutual reception. Because Uranus is in your 5th House of True Love and Mars will be in your 3rd House of Community, a sizzling romance might develop between you and a neighbor!

Capricorn (Dec. 22 – Jan. 19)

You might think it’ll be a long, cold and lonely winter. Well, you’re wrong. From January 10 until February 2, you’ll be the most alluring sign in the zodiac thanks to Venus moving through Capricorn. During this time you’ll have a special way of attracting attention to others and your confidence will enjoy a much needed boost. This special vibe of inner and outer beauty that you’ll emanate will certainly help you attract romance, so be sure to socialize as much as possible during these weeks. In fact, on January 16 you’re likely to experience a fated romantic encounter with someone who will leave you breathless. Expect to feel devoured by love.

Aquarius (Jan. 20 – Feb. 18)

Seriously, Aquarius, this winter you have won the jackpot of love! On January 30, Jupiter, the planet of “all good things” will turn direct in your 5th House of Love and Pleasure. Jupiter only tours this part of your chart once every 12 years and it’s one of the most opportune times to find true love. Now that Jupiter will be strong and direct this winter, there is nothing to stop you from melting the heart of someone special. In fact, Venus will be in your sign from February 3-26, making you completely irresistible! A perfect link between Venus and Jupiter on February 7 promises romance with all the trimmings, and you may want to celebrate Valentine’s Day early. This winter it might be cold outside, but it doesn’t matter. Your heart will be on fire.

Pisces (Feb. 19 – March 20)

Sex appeal will be your middle name this winter! The cosmic lovers — Mars and Venus — will both tour your sign. Mars will give you plenty of stamina and enhance your sex drive from February 3 through March 12, while Venus will offer you a dose of beauty and charm from February 27 through March 22. During the early part of March, when both planets are in your sign, there will be no stopping you from getting whatever your heart desires. Adding to the mix, on March 1 Venus will embrace Neptune, offering four-star potential for an enchanting romance to bloom. You’ll exude sensitivity and warmth to others, and by March 7, when Venus, Saturn and Pluto connect, you might have found the love of a lifetime.

The Astrology of 2012: The End of Days?

Get ready for a cosmic call to action in 2013

by Rick Levine

Are you scared? Don’t be! As we approach the infamous date of the end of the Mayan calendar on December 21, 2012, fear continues to mount that it really is the end of days. But fortunately we’re here to set the record straight about that.

Countless books are now available that describe a Doomsday scenario, and of course Sony Pictures already released the John Cusack movie 2012 years ago, the major motion picture with a promotional website called “whowillsurvive2012.com.” As Sony stated in its film promotion, “Never before has a date in history been so significant to so many cultures, so many religions, scientists and governments. 2012 is an epic adventure about a global cataclysm that brings an end to the world and tells the heroic struggle of the survivors.”

The good news is that the world will not really end in 2012, although you don’t need to be an astrologer to see how quickly things are changing. You can get key dates and prediction for the year ahead with a Big Picture Yearly Astrology Forecast, but whatever big changes are coming, you can trust we will still be here.

Civilization as we know it seems to be in a precarious situation, with growing political unrest and financial stresses warning us that we are repeating epic mistakes from our own cultural history. For example, we have just witnessed the sharpest economic downturn since the Great Depression. Differences in political ideologies and spiritual beliefs continue to fuel increasingly destructive wars and unrest across the Middle East. Environmental threats make our water and food supplies more and more scarce; meanwhile, we are powering our world with a diminishing reserve of oil and others resources. So it’s no surprise that so many people — experts and laymen alike — are predicting that the fabric of our entire society is dangerously at risk.

Nothing to fear but fear itself

But if you look to the skies, you’ll see there’s nothing to fear on that notorious day in 2012. Astrologers watch the cycles of the Sun, Moon and planets to understand the changing nature of time and to put these shifts into historical perspective. For example, we had a dose of culture-wide panic at the threshold of this century. The start of the year 2000 — or “Y2K” — was as an apocalyptic date; some predicted that it would be the beginning of the “end times.” But astrologers could see then that there were no planetary alignments significant enough to warrant this kind of fear.

2012 is different — there are significant astrological factors that indicate these are truly significant times. But let’s clear one thing up right away: there won’t be a cataclysmic event on December 21, 2012. It’s been claimed that on this first day of winter, the Sun will line up perfectly with the center of the Milky Way Galaxy and that this will confirm the ancient Mayan prophecies. In other words, many claim that the Sun’s change of position will mark the end of time. But there is a scientific problem with this reasoning: The Sun’s alignment to the galactic center on Winter Solstice moves at the rate of one degree every 72 years! Therefore, this cosmic event is so slow-moving that it lasts more than a decade.

As astrologers track the cycles of planets, they pay special attention to the lunation cycle, which is the monthly flow of New Moons and Full Moons. This is how they are able predict the impact these movements will have on the personal and emotional cycles of our daily lives. Meanwhile, astrologers also track the activities of the slower-moving outer planets (the ones with the longest orbits), which create their own rhythms and are more closely related to large historical cycles.

For example, Uranus symbolizes sudden changes that release explosive energy, which is why astrologers refer to it as “The Great Awakener.” Pluto symbolizes total metamorphosis. The deep transformation that’s associated with mysterious Pluto is dramatic and complete, like a caterpillar evolving into a butterfly, which is why the profound cultural shifts of the 1960s corresponded with a conjunction between surprising Uranus and passionate Pluto in 1965-1966.

In the summer of 2012, these two planetary harbingers of change will come into a hard 90-degree alignment — their first since the mid-1960s. This dynamic angle between lightning-like Uranus and intense Pluto recurs seven times from June 24, 2012 through March 16, 2015. This is the period of upheaval we should be looking at, rather than focusing on a single day in 2012.

A great awakening

From an astrological perspective, we don’t have to wait until 2012 for the action to begin, because we are already in a time of profound change, not unlike the 1960s. Now, however, we communicate in ways that are far more revolutionary, due to our constant interconnection via cell phone, email, Facebook, MySpace, Twitter and numerous other social networks. There are new political opportunities for disenfranchised people all over the world to connect with one another, which may explain Barack Obama’s meteoric rise to the Whitehouse over the fearful cries of the old-school American political machine. It is this factor — our ability to communicate more quickly and openly — that will prevent the end of the world.

Astrology is not about predicting fated events; it’s about being aware of cosmic movements so we can get our timing right to make positive changes. The Astrology of 2012 is not about announcing the end of the world. Rather, it’s a call to action. Each and every one of us has a job to do, because as the great psychologist Carl Jung said, “The salvation of the world depends upon the salvation of the individuals living in it.”

Some of us may play larger roles in the current changes by getting involved in community, national or global politics. But each of us adds to the total picture when we live our individual lives responsibly. Astrology reminds us that there is no time to waste — we are each an agent of change and each of us can impact the big picture by replacing doubt with courage, and by conquering fear with love.

In other words, this is truly the time to “think globally and act locally.”

December 14 – 16: Restlessness Rules

Jeff Jawer on the topics of love, horoscopes, astrology

Friday could get a little chilly emotionally, with the Moon in ambitious Capricorn and freedom-loving Uranus gaining traction by slowly moving forward again. Independence may be more valued than cooperation and compromise now, providing some clarity about individual needs — but at the risk of losing your way on the road to love.

A friendlier mood rolls in on Saturday afternoon when the Moon enters amicable Aquarius. Going out as part of a group or working for a cause can be especially enjoyable. A spirit of adventure and willingness to take risks in pursuit of love comes with amorous Venus’ shift into outgoing Sagittarius later that night. Restlessness rules hearts as we seek broader horizons, which isn’t necessarily comforting for those who prefer caution and safety to unplanned romantic gestures.

The desire to escape routine relationships and predictable forms of seduction grows on Sunday when Venus squares enchanting Neptune. Ah, this is romantic fantasy at its dreamy best, when we tend to turn our backs on reality and let imagination take over. This is good so long as it’s a temporary escape from the ordinary and you channel this creative energy into a magical or spiritual experience. Yet it’s no time to bank on long-term plans and make commitments based on the inspiring but often fleeting feelings of the moment.

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