According to Sandy

Tuesday, June 21, 2022 is special. Besides being the longest day of the year in the Northern Hemisphere, it also means the Sun has moved into Cancer, the Moon ruled 4^th sign of the Zodiac. This Water sign can make us emotional, moody, restless and sensitive, but regardless, “taking care”, of family and friends, is the priority.

Don’t let the “feelings” antennae wilt in the summer heat. Heightened awareness can provide useful information about people, places, and things. Pay attention to your instincts. However, if absorbing too much unsettling information from the universe, don’t over indulge in the wish that an extra scoop of Ben & Jerry’s or another spoonful of hot fudge on that banana split will make things better. Change the scenery. Change the mood. Know what is best for you – food, people, situations, etc. Lighten the load – let go of what doesn’t work.

Communication planet Mercury transits Cancer from 6 July to 19 July, 2022 – don’t be surprised if interactions are more emotionally revealing than usual. That can show up in what you write or speak, especially with those close to you.

No matter what your Sun sign,  take advantage of Cancer’s kind, protective and nurturing influences.  Use  all that “homey” energy  – enjoy the love along with the frozen yogurt. Create a comfort place. Make your Summer as great as you can!

(The year is half over – what are you going to do with what’s left?)

~ Cancer Sun / Summer Solstice (Sun in 1^st degree of Cancer): June 21, 2022 ~  5:14 AM EDT / 2:14 AM PDT

*Gemstone – Emerald * Power colors- silver, pale gray (Moon colors) *Body Part – Breasts

Happy Father’s Day to all the Dads & Happy Juneteenth to all !

On Friday, May 20, 2022, the Sun bounces into flexible, variety loving Gemini. Welcome to “Twins Land” – the 3rd sign of the Zodiac represents duality (think Castor and Pollux).  This Air sign is all about versatility, multi-tasking, being busy, needing change. A curiosity for new places and things, the enjoyment of doing several things at once and the willingness to adapt that keeps the wrinkles, mental and physical, at bay. They almost always look younger than their age. The characteristic youthfulness of Gemini has nothing to do with immaturity. Regardless of your birth sign, everyone should benefit from a boost of Gemini energy. I have a Gemini Sun, so I’m really having fun w/this 🙂

Ruled by the Communication planet Mercury, we will all feel some of this sign’s influences, regardless of our Zodiac sign. There may be sudden urges to learn something new, meet and greet, read and write, chat too much/gossip too much, wishes to be in two places at once (that “twin” thing). And don’t forget travel, whether it be real or arm chair, the search for greener grass will be enticing.

~ Clever, quick, information maven Mercury transits Gemini from 4/30 – 5/24/22. The planet will be Retrograde (it appears to move backwards in the sky) from 5/10 until 6/2/22 which may cause confusion & some snafus. Check the details. Collect your thoughts. Watch what you say or write. Don’t be careless or sloppy while interacting with others.

Deepak Chopra said: “Language creates reality. Words are magical power. Speak always to create joy”. Perfect for a Gemini Sun Transit

~ Gemini Sun:  5/20/22 – 9:23 PM EDT / 6:23 PM PDT

*Gemstone: Pearl or Agate * Power Color: Yellow * Body Part: Hands

~*~ June 7^th – Prince’s Birthday (Also my niece, Cybel) ~*~

Stay Safe. Stay Sane. Please

>>>>*****<<<<<

On Tuesday April 19, 2022, the Sun moves into determined, security minded Taurus. Even though the Bull is its Astrology symbol, it is ruled by the lovely, pleasure seeking planet Venus – the 2nd sign of the Zodiac has many dimensions. Stubbornly stand fast, but, let go of the tug rope when it is no longer useful. Write a little poetry for a loved one, enjoy a gourmet meal in a romantic restaurant, and give a lecture on being financially savvy and avoiding monetary pot holes – a nice mix.

Clever, communication planet Mercury transits Taurus from 4/12 – until 4/30.  Interactions are steadied and grounded. Discussions about security and safety may be brought forward.

Uranus, planet of unexpected change and rejection of the status quo, has been in Taurus since March 2019 and will remain until 2026. Don’t be surprised if there are sudden shifts in how finances are handled, how sensuality is expressed, how food is approached, and how “luxury” is interpreted. “Change” is the operative word.

For the next 4 weeks, we can tap into the strength and versatility of Earthy Taurus so that we solidify and complete the projects started during the high energy of the Aries Sun. Watch out for a tendency to be overcautious – don’t miss an opportunity out of fear. Security is attractive, especially in this unpredictable climate, but, sometimes we have to take a second look to see the advantages.

Taurus ~  *Gemstone: Rose Quartz * Power color: Soft rose-pink* Body Part: Neck

* Sun into Taurus, Tuesday 4/19/22 ~ 10:24 PM EDT / 7:24 PM PDT

**As always, those most affected have the Sun and/or Rising sign in Taurus, but the rest of us will still feel the stabilizing influences somewhere in our lives depending upon where this Earth sign appears in the birth chart.

(Next up, Gemini!)

*~*~*~*~*

On Sunday, March 20, 2022, the Sun moved into the dynamic 1st sign of the Zodiac – Aries.  We began the cycle again and  it’s  celebrated as “International Astrology Day”! It is also the beginning of the Vernal Equinox in the Northern Hemisphere – Spring has sprung!

Mars ruled Fire sign Aries is “out front”, physical, impulsive, prone to rushing and risk taking. We can bungee jump off that mountain of ideas and projects that have been stewing all winter. Pay attention to those urges to just “act” (act out or act up). Think a project through and complete it. But, don’t forget to have fun. Spring is here and everyone can use a little bit of controlled craziness every once in awhile.

Adding potential “snap, crackle and pop” to interactions, Communication planet Mercury transits Aries from 3/28 until 4/12/22. Writing, speaking, tweeting etc. may have more quickness, edge and bite than usual. No need to hurt anyone’s feelings. No need to go down in relationship flames.   Just watch the snark.

As always, those most affected have the big 3, Sun, Moon and/or Rising sign, in Aries, but the rest of us will still feel the feisty vibes somewhere in our lives depending upon where the sign appears in our chart.

Aries Sun*Spring Equinox: 3/20/22 ~ 11:33 AM EDT / 8:33 AM PDT

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

*FYI –  “International Astrology Day” is always observed on the Equinox, it is a celebration of the ancient art of Astrology.

In the past 12 months, the Sun has visited all of the Zodiac signs. It starts anew. Let’s spring into action! (Sorry, I couldn’t resist it).

~**~

On Friday, March 18, 2022, the Moon (Virgo) is opposite and reflecting the Sun (Pisces) = “Full Moon”. The hard working 6^th sign of the Zodiac is about health, service, handling the details and getting things done. We are pushed to take care of ourselves and our work.

A “Full” phase is a great time to finalize and complete whatever projects and plans you have been putting off. Just be careful not to do too many things at once. Juggling might be exciting and a personal test of skills, but don’t go overboard. Think “pace”. The universe will support you in being productive, useful, healthy and whole.

The influences of this Lunar phase will last for several days.

*Virgo Full Moon ~ March 18, 2022 – 3:18 AM EDT / 12:18 AM PDT 

~~~***~~~

The Sun moved into the 12^th and final sign of the Zodiac – imaginative, impressionable, intuitive Pisces on Friday, February 18, 2022.  Pisces 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. This may affect all of us regardless of astrology sign.

Jupiter, the planet of luck and abundance, has a Pisces transit from December 28, 2021 to May 11, 2022, and again from October 28–December 21, 2022. Expansion in all things, “bigger is better” Jupiter will push for more love, more giving and more joy.  (I’ll take it!)

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.

Whether over the top Jupiter or hazy Neptune, listen to your inner voice – the positive one.

~ Sun in Pisces – February 18, 2022:  11:43 AM EST / 8:43AM PST

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

~*~*~*

The Sun enters unpredictable, independent Aquarius on Wednesday January 19, 2022. Things may not be outrageous and out of the box, but, it can be original, inventive and often revolutionary when under the influence of the Airy, 11^th sign of the Zodiac. It’s not a surprise Aquarius is ruled by the unconventional, undeniably radical planet Uranus – freedom, independence and sudden changes of direction.

Aquarius has a stubborn streak. It is one of 4 “Fixed” signs of the Zodiac, (along with Taurus, Scorpio and Leo). While the urge to stand ground and refuse to follow along are all present, give attention to another trait which is the desire to contribute to the universe in some positive way. Groups, communities and their causes are a natural concern for Aquarius. (It is about “We/Us” rather than “I/Me.) There is determination to resolve issues that are deemed important. Regardless of your birthday, we can all tap into those vibrations as the Sun intensifies this sign’s influences.

And just to make it all the more interesting, there are planet Transits:

Saturn ~ from 12/18/20 until March 2023. Planet of discipline, responsibility, restraint and limitations – free spirit Aquarius may feel discomfort because they’re wrapped up too tight.

Mercury ~ 1/3 until 3/10/22 (includes Retrograde period – 1/14 thru 2/3) The Communication planet = adds cleverness and networking expertise. Temper any tendencies towards sarcasm and sharpness. (Sugar better than vinegar) Be clear in speech and written word as you interact with others.

~ Aquarius Sun ~ Jan. 19, 2022 * 9:39 PM EST / 6:39 PM PST

*Gemstone: Blue Tiger’s Eye *Power color: Ultramarine blue * Body Part: Legs

BTW: don’t get confused – even though the Astrology symbol for Aquarius is the “Water Bearer”, it is an Air sign!

~ Stay Safe, Stay Well, Stay Sane ~

~*~

Mercury, in Air sign Aquarius, appears to stop and go backward in the sky on Fri, Jan. 14, 2022. It will be “Retrograde” until Feb. 3, 2022. Communication planet Mercury is not just associated with reading and writing, but also with travel and transportation, education, manual dexterity and small electrical gadgets. While in reverse, technical snafus, confusion and unclear personal interactions may occur.

We can try to avoid disasters and mayhem with diligence and care until the winged planet goes Direct – verify, back up, double check, confirm.

As always, Mercury Retrograde is a good time to make future plans, complete projects and of course to exercise all those “re” actions:  re evaluate, re write, re assess, re acquaint, re fresh. Take the time to pause and reflect, rather than jump into new schemes, new contracts, etc. (Don’t forget finance / business details – catch an error and “save face”, save money.)

*1/14/22 Mercury Retrograde – 6:41 AM EST / 3:41 AM PST

FYI – when Mercury stops and goes forward, it takes time for it to pick up full speed. Give it a few days for things to clear up.

Yes, there will be 4 Mercury Retrogrades in 2022 (instead of the usual 3 per year).  Hmmm – as in, “things that make you go…”

*Jan 14      ~ February 03, 2022

*May 10     ~ June 2, 2022

*Sept. 9     ~ October 2, 2022

*Dec. 29    ~ January 18, 2023

Planet Mercury is concerned with information, travel, education, tech stuff and small appliances. Labeled “the Communication planet”, it’s often confusion generating Retrograde period gets blamed for the unexpected snafus that occur in life.

There are some of us that have already been experiencing the effects of January’s Mercury backward motion, (my printer just refused to work after 15 years of reliable service). That’s because the planet starts the slow down about 2 weeks before the actual day of the stop & turnaround = Retrograde. It’s called the “storm period” and electronics, personal contacts, can start to go sideways all of a sudden.

We will get through it, again. (I was able to fix my printer!) Pay attention– details, details, details. Back up your stuff! Don’t let carelessness or lack of focus bite you in the nether regions. Watch what you write and be conscious of what you say in order to lessen the possibility of breakdowns as you interact with others.

Mercury Retrograde “chaos” is not inevitable!

~  Stay well, Stay safe, Stay sane  ~

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.

***~~***~~***

* “Things that make you go Hmmm”  C+C Music Factory, 2009

The serious Capricorn Sun arrived on December 21, 2021 along with the celebrated Winter Solstice. Ambitious, efficient, grounded, practical, this Earth sign is ruled by the strict planet Saturn. But, there’s no need to feel too much of a letdown after experiencing the upbeat Sagittarius holiday revelry.

The 10^th sign of the Zodiac can keep us busy networking, tuning up career moves, telling people what to do and where to go as we reach for an upgrade in status. Being the “top dog” is not a burden. Directing traffic is fun. Just don’t get so bogged down in responsibilities and being “in charge” that you become rigid and cautious. Fun can still be had!

Adding power and energy are 3 planet transits in Capricorn:

~Mercury, plant of Communication – will move into Capricorn on 12/14/21 until 1/3/22. Speech, writing etc. could be more serious and tight. Maintain sense of humor. Authority with honey, not vinegar

~Venus– Love, beauty, relationships 11/6/21 until 3/7/22 (Retrograde 12/19/21 – Direct 1/29/22) – pay attention to romantic expectations, feeling restricted.

~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, 2020 – 10:59 AM EST / 7:59 AM 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!