According to Sandy

I post this every year – because I can and also because I get a chance to tout a favorite movie from back in the day, “Black Orpheus”.

The music, the floats, the dance troups,  the beads – Mardi Gras, February 13, 2024. I don’t think of Shrove or Fat Tuesday without having this terrific movie “samba-ing” across my mind.

“Black Orpheus”, 1959, by French director Marcel Camus is the classic Greek romantic tragedy, transplanted to Brazil, of Orpheus (Breno Mello) and Eurydice (Marpessa Dawn) set against the back drop of a high energy, high drama, dance troupe.

The costumes, the songs of Rio de Janeiro, the dancing, and all those pretty people being chased by a man in a skeleton mask – fabulous.

Even if you haven’t seen this film, you are probably familiar with its great music by Antonio Carlos Jobim, including “Manhã de Carnaval” (written by Luiz Bonfá).

So, if you can’t get to a Mardi Gras near you, put on some feathers and sequins, watch “Black Orpheus” and Samba!

FYI  ~  “Black Orpheus” won the Palme d’Or prize at the 1959 Cannes Film Festival,  the 1960 Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film and the 1960 Golden Globe for Best Foreign Film.

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The Sun entered independent Aquarius on Saturday, January 20, 2024. All 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, 11th 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.

~ Aquarius Sun ~ Jan. 20, 2024 * 9:07 AM EST / 6:07 AM 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!

On Thursday December 21, 2023, Winter arrives in the Northern Hemisphere – the “Winter Solstice”, the shortest day of the year. Always in tandem is the careful, capable & career centered 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 10th 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 with ambition & responsibilities that you become rigid or cautious. Fun can still be had!

~Pluto, planet of power & transformation, will continue transiting Capricorn.  It  has been adding its energy since 2008 (moves into Aquarius on 1/21/24). It can foster deep feelings along with possible changes in career direction, upheaval, & renewal / regeneration.

~ Capricorn Sun ~ December 21, 2023 – 10:27PM EST / 7:27PM PST ~

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

*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.)

Wishing For Peace and the very Best of the season for all of us

Happy New Year! 

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)

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That lucky old Sun prances into Fire sign Sagittarius on Wednesday, November 22, 2023. Ruled by exuberant Jupiter, the king of positive thinking, being “hopeful” doesn’t seem quite so far out there. “Bigger is better”, everything is “huge”- ideas, actions, themes, etc. We just don’t have enough space for all the goodies anticipated when there is Sag Sun.

However. the “go BIG or go home” routine will not always work to your advantage. Certainly be an “of course” for excellent results, reach for the good things, discover something new, pay attention to your intuition (Sagittarians love a good laugh but they are also deep and love to ponder the universe) but, be aware of the edges – over confidence can send you too far. Pause occasionally and look over the landscape – not only to admire the view, but also to realize that some of those “sure things” you want to jump on are not so sure.

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

Mercury, Communication planet ~ Nov 11 – Dec 1

Clever, curious and often razor sharp, this can be good for creativity. Teach a class/ take a class, write/paint/cook something that you’ve been thinking about forever.

Mars, Warrior planet  ~  Nov 25 – Jan 5, 2024

Energy is heightened, quick to action, may jump from one thing to the other. Pay attention to tasks, follow up on ideas. Watch mischief quotient if boredom hits.

A Sagittarius Sun wants us to be hopeful & upbeat, to be with people & to revel in the abundance of the season. May we all be able to take advantage and enjoy it whenever, wherever, and/or however possible.

~ Sagittarius Sun – November 22, 2023 * 9:03 AM EST / 6:03 AM PST ~

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

** One of the symbols for Sagittarius is the Centaur with the bow and arrow and wine pouch. Perfect, just in time for the holidays.

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

On Monday, October 23, 2023 the Sun strutted into stubborn, secretive and sensual Scorpio – the heat wen up a notch! The passionate 8th sign of the Zodiac can infuse us with determination and focus to get projects done, snare that love interest or drill down through any mysteries that need to be solved. Sensitive and emotional – there will be drama and there will be depth.

Note that “deep” and “fierce” can lead to all sorts of “feelings” that you may not be prepared to confront. So, don’t be surprised if emotions occasionally go unchecked. Often, the resulting “overwhelm” will not quite match the situation. There is nothing wrong with using an internal pause button to give a chance to think, rather than just react.

With Water sign Scorpio’s traditional planet ruler Mars (energy and aggression) and its modern ruler Pluto (power and transformation), being cool, being superficial – skimming the surface, 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.

Clever Communication planet Mercury has a Scorpio transit from 10/22 to 11/25/23. The demand for the “real”, in any interaction – conversation, texting etc, goes up a few notches. And just to add to the intensity, Mars will visit Scorpio from 10/13 to 11/11/23.

A lot can be accomplished during a Scorpio Sun regardless of where it appears in your personal chart. Remember that even while being serious and authentic, laughter can still be used as a balm to stabilize, bring things into perspective and lighten the atmosphere. Save any overflowing angst and/or grudges for another day – it can dissipate as the mood changes.

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

~*~ Scorpio Sun 10/23/23 ~ 12:21 PM EDT– 9:21 AM PDT

Yes, The Sun moves into Scorpio on the “ 23rd”, different from other signs with Sun transits beginning on the 20th, 21st or 22nd of the month.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.

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The lovely, lively, lush Libra Sun envelops us on 9/22 PDT ~ 9/23 EDT. It alerts us to a change of season, whether you call it “Fall” or “Autumn”, (in the Northern Hemisphere), it is an “Equinox” – equal day / equal night. Balance – interactions, both business and personal, cooperation, genial negotiations will be in the forefront for the next few weeks. Good things in life are sought after due to the influences of sweet planet ruler Venus – romance, music, delicious food, beauty and hospitality. Even if it isn’t your Sun or Rising, the 7th sign of the Zodiac will still cast a glow.

Air sign Libra wants to see both sides of an issue before making decisions. Seeking harmony by trying to be “fair” can sometimes lead to appearing wishy-washy. Using the “Pros/Cons” list method for making decisions can just draw 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. Don’t hesitate to show your spine when needed (some may be surprised when the Libra inner tensile strength is revealed), you’ll still be loved!

High spirited, warrior planet Mars began a Libra transit on 8/28 and will remain until 10/13/23. Normally prone to action and impulsiveness, the planet’s usual aggressiveness can be muted and softened.

As always, your experience of the Sun in a particular sign depends most upon where it appears in your chart. But the Sun in harmony loving Libra can set a mood to benefit us all.

My suggestion for anything Libran is always: meet fun folks somewhere beautiful for brunch and or cocktails. Enjoy being with others!

*~* Libra Sun & Autumn Equinox 9/22/23, 11:50 PM PDT ~ 9/23/23, 2:50AM EDT

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 Virgo Sun spread its influence over us on Wednesday 8/23/23. (Yes, the same day Mercury went Retrograde.) Regardless of whether it’s your Astrological sign or not, the effects of this service oriented, practical, hardworking & efficient Mercury ruled 6th sign of the Zodiac will be noticed.Things get done!

Quick witted, Communication planet Mercury, has been transiting Virgo since 7/29 (thru 10/6/23). Spoken, written or tweeted, language is sharper & snappier. The transit is longer than usual due to the planet’s Retrograde period, 8/23/ – 9/15. This would be a good time to be careful of your interactions of all types.

Earth sign Virgo insists that attention be paid to the details, “the nitty, gritty” (is that term still being used?). However, being overly critical and picky, “sweating the small stuff”, “not seeing the forest for the trees”, suffering bouts of “analysis paralysis” will often get in the way and slow any improvements and / or  organizing messes. Friends, family & co-workers may resent relentless corrections no matter how “helpful” or how good the intention. Don’t get on their nerves  😉

Instead, do evolved Virgo things – be useful, bring calm & order, create a plan for better diet & fitness, be a contribution, take care.

Virgo Sun ~ 8/23/232:   5:01 AM EDT /2:01 AM PDT

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

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The 3^rd Mercury Retrograde period of 2023 begins on 8/23 and ends 9/15/23. The planet Mercury is concerned with all types of information, travel, education, tech stuff and small appliances. Labeled “the Communication planet”, it’s often confusion generating “backward” period gets blamed for the unexpected snafus that occur in life. (Some may have already been experiencing the effects. Mercury starts the slow down about 2 weeks before the actual day of Retrograde. It’s called the “storm period” and electronics,gadgets,  personal contacts, can start to go sideways all of a sudden.)

The possibility of communication issues are intensified because Mercury is currently in one of the signs it rules, Virgo (the other is Gemini). When going direct, all the Virgo/Mercury traits are pumped – analyze, write, speak, teach, work, service. With the sluggishness of Retrograde, energy may be blunted and slips of the tongue or pen, Freudian or otherwise, can occur.

Project initiation/creation would be best delayed if possible. Take this time to use those “re” words– revitalize old projects, re invent an approach, review, rethink, rework, revisit ideas, etc.

However, life goes on and things have to get done. We can mitigate potential misunderstandings and snafus by paying attention & being prepared. Be meticulous. Be careful. “Back up”your stuff. Stay grounded & alert to what you say, write & sign. Verify deadlines, read directions carefully, etc. (Jump all over the details.)

Regardless of reputation, Mercury Retrograde doesn’t have to be tragic. We can manage.

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.

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The Sun strides into Leo, the Zodiac sign it rules on Saturday, July 22, 2023. With the influence of the “Sun King”, we are upbeat, magnanimous, a bit more dramatic, colorfully creative and drawn to the spotlight. (The 5^th sign doesn’t get shyness.) The Sun’s stay in this regal Fire sign increases the potential for having fun.

Raising the sparkle and shine experience even more is a Venus visit, from 6/6 – 10/10/23. The planet of love brings more warmth, beauty and love of “luxe”.  Beautify yourself and your surroundings. Money will be very easy to throw around, ignore the urge to show off. People will be drawn to you regardless of your big bank roll and your big tips. (This Venus transit is longer than usual due to a Retrograde period, 7/23 to 9/3/23)

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

Enjoy the spotlight! Share

*Sun into Leo: July 22, 2023 * 9:50 PM EDT / 6:50 PM PDT

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

(Next up – Virgo Sun 8/23/23)

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).

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“The livin’ is easy…” We greeted the Summer Solstice, on Wednesday June 21, 2023, with a frozen, delicious treat while wearing large sun glasses and a wide brimmed floppy hat. Besides being the longest day of the year in the Northern Hemisphere, it also means the Sun has moved into the sign of Cancer, the Moon ruled 4^th sign of the Zodiac.

This Water sign can make us more emotional, moody, restless and sensitive, but, with family (real or created) & friends, “taking care” is the comfort place.

Regardless of Astrology sign, take advantage of Cancer’s kind, protective and nurturing influences. Its “homey” energy reigns, so use it – enjoy the love along with the ice cream or frozen yogurt. 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, 2023 ~  10:58 AM EDT / 7:58 AM PDT

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

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