According to Sandy

The Communication planet has been slowing down for the last few days, you may have noticed some snafu like occurrences lately. It stops and reverses direction on April 21, and continues Retrograde until May 14, 2023. It will then go Direct.

No need to go “cray – cray”. Mercury is concerned with information, travel, education, technical gadgets and small appliances – things that help our lives go. We can overcome, we can handle, we can deal – as long as we pay attention to details and “back up” our stuff. This planet’s often confusion generating Retrograde period continues until 5/14/23, when it stops motion and goes Direct.

Tech toys, plans, budgets, especially since Mercury is transiting the security minded (financial and physical), luxury and good food loving 2^nd sign of the Zodiac – Taurus. Prepare for any missteps that lurk out there. Take this time to reconnect, rethink, reassess, revisit, review, rewrite, refresh. If something does go downhill, at least you’ll be prepared to shore the landslide and hopefully prevent total disaster.

Things will gradually become clearer as Mercury picks up forward speed. You’ll be able to go ahead with anything you may have discovered during the pause and refresh time out. Clarify career and money goals. If you can, wait a few days after Mercury goes Direct before firming up new partnerships and signing contracts or agreements.

Of course, life goes on, there are chores and plans that must be dealt with regardless of what Mercury is doing. Retrograde chaos is not inevitable. We can mitigate potential misunderstandings by paying attention to the “small stuff”.

FYI: Mercury just “appears” to go backwards. Planets only move forward, however, due to the earth’s changing speed as it orbits around the Sun, the positions are such that it looks like a reverse motion from earth.

*Mercury Retrograde: 4/21/23 * 4:35 AM EDT / 1:35 AM PDT

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On Monday, March 20, 2023 the Sun moved into the dynamic first sign of the Tropical Zodiac – fiery Aries. The Sun has transited all 12 Astrology signs and the cycle starts anew. We also celebrate the Spring Equinox on the same day – 1 degree of Aries. Spring is here with new, fresh chances to bloom! We should keep our eyes open for opportunities on the horizon.

Aries, ruled by warrior planet Mars, is “out front”, physical, impulsive, prone to rushing and risk taking. We can bungee jump off that mountain of ideas and projects that has been stewing all winter. The universe will support. However, let’s be active with purpose and focus rather than act just because we’re bored. Think a project through and complete it. But, don’t forget to have fun. Risk vs reckless~ don’t be careless.

Sharp & clever Communication planet Mercury transits Aries from 3/20 to 4/4/23.  Writing, speaking, texting will have a certain quickness & lift – you’ll be great in debates? Be powerful, just watch the snark.

Jupiter has been in and out of Aries since May 2022 (retrograde/ Direct). In 2023, the planet of luck & expansion remains going forward until May 17, 2023 when it moves Into Earth sign Taurus.

~

Aries Sun*Spring Equinox: 3/20/23 ~ 5:24 PM EDT / 2:24 PM PDT

~ Gemstone: Garnet * Power Color: Fiery Red * Body Part: Face

*FYI – March 20^th is also designated as “International Astrology Day”. Always observed on the Equinox, it is a celebration of the ancient art of Astrology.

Let’s spring into action! (Sorry, I couldn’t resist it J).

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The Sun glides into the 12^th and final sign of the Zodiac – imaginative, impressionable, intuitive Pisces on Saturday, February 18, 2023. It is a sensitive Water sign and if too much emotion sends you off course, focus on the task at hand to stay grounded and connected to reality. Keying in to adverse energy or vibrations is no excuse to drift or evade life. Stay steady and productive. Tap into all that compassion and kindness that Pisces is known for and spread it around. Sympathy and empathy abounds, but take off the rose colored glasses – offer assistance where it is genuinely needed. An abubdance of “feelings” may affect all of us regardless of Astrology sign.

Mystical Neptune, Pisces’ Planet ruler, will transit until January 2026 (happens about every 165 years). It’s been visiting since February 2011. It has a reputation for clouding the waters, fading boundaries and fostering escapism. But, all those things that make life unsettled can also enhance imagination and creativity. Innovations in music, dance, and theater will probably bubble to the surface faster than usual. The subconscious can be a treasure trove of ideas now. Keep paper and pencil handy, jot down your dreams.

~ Sun in Pisces – February 18, 2023 ~ 5:34PM EST / 2:34PM PST

* Gemstone: Amethyst * Power color: Purple * Body Part: Feet

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Valentine’s Day ~ Tuesday, February 14, 2023, doesn’t  have to be about flowers and candy. (Although it really is nice to give & receive.) It can also be about acknowledging delightful partnerships, a special someone, a “match”.

Remember that after work party, bar pick up line from  years ago – “Hey, what’s your sign?”. It didn’t always result in a “you complete me” hookup, but,  it’s a great question if looking for “interesting” company. Astrology signs are grouped from Aries to Pisces – all 12 have a partner. Does it mean that the sign opposite yours is your “soul mate” – not necessarily, but, there may be undeniable heat, attraction and fun.

Sun Signs are listed below with their direct opposites in the Zodiac. Either you will find spending time with the other sign tangy and energizing or the relationship may need compromise and patience, but, generally, consider them the other side of your coin, another piece of the “couple” puzzle:

Aries: March 21-April 19 (Energetic, Impulsive) and

Libra: Sept 23-Oct 22 (Charming, Social)

*

Taurus: April 20-May 21 (Solid, Responsible, Patient) and

Scorpio: Oct 23-Nov 21 (Intense, Deep Connections)

 *

Gemini: May 22-June 20 (Logical, Communicative, Versatile) and

Sagittarius: Nov 22-Dec 21 (Adventurous, Enthusiastic, Optimistic)

 *

Cancer: June 21-July 22 (Family Oriented, Emotional) and

Capricorn: Dec 22-Jan 19 (Traditional, Disciplined, Ambitious)

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Leo: July 23- Aug 22 (Pride, Fun Loving, Generous) and

Aquarius: Jan 20-Feb 18 (Unpredictable, Freedom loving)

*

Virgo: Aug 23-Sept 22 (Analytical, Service/Work Focused) and

Pisces: Feb 19-March 20: (Dreamer, Sensitive)

Happy Valentine’s Day!

May there be lots of XOXOs for you & your partner, regardless of Sun Sign.

Champagne & Chocolates for everyone!

(My “Disclaimer”  ~  Of course there are other factors that create great couples, but, I thought I would give romance an Astrological slant!)

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On Wednesday December 21, 2022, Winter arrives in the Northern Hemisphere – the “Winter Solstice”, the shortest day of the year. Always in tandem is the ambitious, careful, & capable Capricorn Sun. Although Earth sign Capricorn is very different from the previous sign, upbeat Sagittarius, spirits don’t have to deflate after all of the joyous seasonal happenings you created.

The 10^th sign of the Zodiac is ruled by stern Saturn. It can keep us busy networking, organizing, tuning up career and financial situations and being in charge. Directing traffic is fun. Being “Top Dog” is not a trial or burden. Just don’t get so bogged down in responsibilities that you become rigid and cautious. Fun can still be had!

And to add to all that fun are Capricorn planet transits:

~Mercury, planet of Communications – moved into Capricorn on 12/7 and remains until 2/12/23. Speech, writing etc. could be more serious and tight. Maintain sense of humor. Authority with honey, not vinegar. (Long transit due to Retrograde period, 12/29/22 to 1/17/23)

~Venus, Planet of Love, beauty, & relationships, arrived on 12/11 until 1/4/23 – pay attention to romantic expectations, feelings of restriction, less flexibility.

~Pluto, planet of power & transformation – has been in Capricorn since 2008 (until 2023) – fosters deep feelings, possible changes in career direction, upheaval, regeneration.

*How you experience transiting planet power depends on where Capricorn appears in your birth chart, – its traits will be intensified in that section of life. (And of course, a Capricorn Sun or Rising sign is especially energized.)

~ Capricorn Sun ~ December 21, 2022 – 4:48  PM EST / 1:48 PM PST ~

*Gemstone: Obsidian, Onyx *Power color: Black, Gray * Body Part: Bones

FYI:  “The Winter Solstice occurs exactly when the Earth’s axial tilt is farthest away from the sun at its maximum of 23° 26′. Though the winter solstice lasts only a moment in time, the term is also a turning point to midwinter or the first day of winter…The seasonal significance of the winter solstice is in the reversal of the gradual lengthening of nights and shortening of days.” (per Wikipedia)

Wishing the very best of the season to all of us

Happy New Year!

When the Sun prances into Sagittarius, we are treated to a cheery couple of weeks beginning on Tuesday, November 22, 2022. Ruled by exuberant Jupiter, the king of positive thinking, we are more upbeat and everything seems possible, everything is “huge”- ideas, actions, themes.

Let’s all enjoy this sign’s feelings of luck, optimism and adventure. It makes me think of my favorite line from “Jaws” – “we’re going to need a bigger boat.” We just don’t have enough space for all the goodies anticipated with a Sag Sun.

With this Fire sign, we need to aim for controlled excess – there is this underlying sense of “can’t miss”, the million dollar deal is done, everything is great!- this can lead to an arrogance that can cost ya.

Be an “of course” for abundance, reach for the good things, learn something new, pay attention to your intuition (Sagittarianss love a good laugh but they are also deep and can see what others don’t) but, just be aware of the edges – over confidence can send you too far. It can be expensive and/or embarrassing.

And, to add to the energy, there are planets transiting Sagittarius:

*Mercury, Communication planet ~ 11/18 – 12/7/22 *  

Clever, curious and often razor sharp, this planet visit can be great for creativity, sharing Sag’s knowledge and wisdom

*Venus, planet of Beauty ~ 11/17 – 12/11/22*

The Love planet can add tact, sweetness and charm to the holiday season. (We can use it all after the past year.) Caring relationships, elegance and self value. Revel in the warmth and spread it around.

*Sagittarius Sun ~ November 22, 2022 – 3:20 AM EST / 12:20 AM PST

*Gem stone: Sodalite * Power color: Lilac, Mauve * Body Part: liver, Hips

**Re: “prances” – One of the symbols for Sagittarius is the Centaur – ½ man (with the bow, arrow, wine pouch) and ½ horse. Perfect, libations for a holiday gathering.

~*Happy Thanksgiving! And yes, be thankful *~

On Sunday, October 23, 2022, the Sun sashayed into powerful, and often fierce, Scorpio. Wind down and focus to get projects accomplished, snare that love interest and reveal any mysteries that need to be solved. (Think “determination”.) With Scorpio’s traditional planet ruler Mars (energy and aggression) and its modern ruler Pluto (power and transformation), being cool, being superficial – skimming the surface, in conversation or action, just won’t do. The next couple of weeks can ramp up intensity and dig deep into feelings for all of us regardless of birth date. Save any overflowing angst and/or grudges for another day – they may dissipate as the mood changes.

Due to the characteristic sensitivity of this Water sign, the 8^th sign of the Zodiac’s power will not be served distant and cold – there will be drama, there will be depth, the time is ripe for full out emotions. Stubborn, secretive, serious, sensual – these adjectives all fit Scorpio to a T (or in this case, to an “S”). The Sun will heat and be heated.

There are Transits! (Planets visit signs over the year which I think adds spice)

Venus, 10/24 to 11/17/22 – Love Planet Venus, always associated with beauty, love, charm, etc. may soften Scorpio’s approach while searching for deep connections and passion. As always, the impact depends on where Scorpio falls in your particular chart.

Mercury, 10/30 to 11/18/22– the Communication planet can easily turn interactions up a notch. Pay attention and be as clear as possible regardless of how deep the vat of emotion.

*Gemstone: Topaz *Power color: Deep shades of red *Body Part: Reproductive system (surprise!)

** Scorpio Sun 10/23/22 ~ 6:36 AM EDT– 3:36 AM PDT

*** Wondering why the Scorpio Sun is the 23^rd of the month this year and not the 19th, 20th, 21^st or 22nd like most other signs?

The Earth’s rotation actually determines the start dates of a sign – not the Sun. The dates can vary by as much as 2 days depending on when a leap year occurs.

As the world turns, the Sun appears to flow from one Zodiac sign to another. Since the Earth wobbles, it takes slightly more than 365 days — actually 365 + 1/4 days. Because of this, our calendars must be adjusted to compensate for this difference.

Next up – Upbeat Sagittarius 11/22/22 !

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The Sun glides into Libra on Thursday, September 22, 2022.  Fall is officially here in the Northern Hemisphere. Even if it isn’t your Sun or Rising sign, Libra will still cast a glow. It’s all about socializing, networking, getting along. Hopefully, there will be cooperation, genial negotiations and the urge to seek balance in both business and personal relationships. Good things in life are highlighted due to the influences of the love and beauty planet ruler Venus – romance, music, delicious food, graciousness and hospitality. This can be a fun time.

Seeking harmony, the Libra way is to see both sides of an issue before making decisions.  However, using the Pros/Cons list method can just string the selection process out. Be aware that important action can be stalled by over think. Paying attention to instinct and being honest will give a more direct line to a choice.

Also, Mercury is in Libra from 9/11 until 10/30/22. In the middle of its transit, there will be a Retrograde period (9/17 to 10/1). The Communication planet went backwards in the 7^th sign of the Zodiac on 9/17. It will continue in reverse and back into the 6^th sign, Virgo, on 9/24, until 10/1.  Mercury will then stop, go Direct, forward, until it reaches Libra again on 10/11 and remain until 10/30/22. (Scorpio)

* May seem confusing, but the Mercury Retrograde story remains the same: back up your devices. Pay attention to details. Read contracts carefully.  Avoid snafus, hurt feelings etc – read it over before hitting “send”.

Libra is all about relationships, so any Retrograde missteps may involve the people in your life. Things might get messy. Someone from your past might pop up and want to continue whatever went on before (whatever that might’ve been?).

As always, your experience of the Sun in a particular sign depends most upon where it appears in your chart, but a Libra Sun does set a mood to benefit us all. Edges can be smoothed and softened of potentially contentious interactions. My suggestion for anything Libran is always: meet fun folks somewhere beautiful for brunch and or cocktails. Enjoy!

*~* Libra Sun * Autumn Equinox 9/22/22 ~ 9:04 PM EDT / 6:04 PM PDT

Gemstone: Aventurine * Power Colors: Blues & Violets * Body Part: Kidneys

FYI:  The Scale (signifying balance) is Libra’s Astrology symbol. All other Zodiac signs are either people or animals.

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The Sun is in Virgo as of Monday August 22, 2022. Whether it is your birth sign or not, the effects of this service oriented, practical, and hardworking Mercury ruled 6^th sign of the Zodiac will be felt. However, being conscientious doesn’t necessarily mean “dull”. Virgo’s cleverness can liven up situations when you least expect it.

Put the Leo drama and sequins aside. Organize, make plans, plot progress, unravel confusion. Implement a good health/exercise regimen. Feeling better helps you work better. It’s all in the details! However, “sweating the small stuff”, can also lead to being over critical and picky, not “seeing the forest for the trees” and/or that saying about paralyzing analysis, etc. Friends,  family and co workers  eventually resent correction, the pointing out of faults, no matter how “helpful” or how good the intention. Giving “assistance” doesn’t have to mean getting on everyone’s nerves and causing bruised feelings. 

Quick witted, Communication planet Mercury has been transiting Virgo since 8/6 (thru 8/27/22). Spoken, written or tweeted, language is sharper, snappier and sassier. Look forward to lovely Venus, planet of love & beauty, which will visit Virgo from 9/6 to 9/30/22 and can soften some of those critical, over analytical edges.

Do those lovely Virgo things instead – be useful, bring calm & order, create a plan for better diet & fitness, be a contribution, be a solution.

If you want to work better/ want better work, put together the little building blocks needed to create something substantial. Now is a great time to get it done (whatever “it” is).

Virgo Sun ~ 8/22/22:   11:16 PM EDT / 8:16 PM PDT

*Gemstone: Carnelian * Power color: Deep green * Body Part: Bowels (Cleansing the system)

(Next up – Libra Sun, 9/22/22)

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The Sun moves into Leo, the sign it rules, on Friday July 22, 2022. With the influence of the “Sun King”, we are upbeat, magnanimous, colorfully creative and drawn to the spotlight regardless of your actual Astrology sign. The 5th sign doesn’t get shyness, it loves attention. The potential for having fun and getting wrapped up in drama ramps up, just go with it.

Mercury, the Communication planet, transits Leo 7/19 – 8/4/22. Verbal and written interactions become livelier and snappier. Go ahead and be brilliant but share the space. Let someone else get a word in – it’s not all about you (for real!).

Venus visits from 8/11 – 9/5/22.  The planet of love brings even more warmth, beauty and love of “luxe”. Beautify self and surroundings. Money will be very easy to throw around, ignore the urge to show off. People will be drawn to you regardless of a big bank roll and big tips.

Glow and be warmed as the solar presence heats the talent, self confidence and love segments of life. Graciously ooze that Leo charm and you will be looked at, admired, loved. Time to step up and step out – just watch the imperiousness.

~ Sun into Leo: July 22, 2022 * 4:07 PM EDT / 1:07 PM PDT ~

*Gemstone – Tiger’s Eye *Power colors- Gold, orange (Sun colors) * Body Part – Heart (…of a lion!)

(Next up – Virgo Sun 8/22/22)

BTW: The date when the Sun transits into a sign can fluctuate year to year – from the 19th to the 23rd. If born on one of these days, you are considered a cusp baby – close to two signs- but regardless, there is only one Sun sign in an Astrology chart  (however, the individual may often exhibit a combo of characteristics from both signs).