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!)

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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!

That lucky old Sun bounces into Fire sign Sagittarius on Sunday November 21, 2021. Ruled by “bigger is better” planet Jupiter, everything is “huge”- ideas, actions, themes, etc. We just don’t have enough space for all the goodies anticipated when there is a Sag Sun. We can all enjoy feelings of luck, optimism and adventure.

However, remember to pause occasionally and look over the landscape – not only to enjoy the view, but also to realize that some of those “sure things” you want to jump on are not so sure. Be aware of the edges – think controlled excess. Bravado can go too far. It can be expensive and/or embarrassing. Have an adventure while using common sense.

And, to add to the fun, there will be planets transiting Sagittarius:

Mercury, Communication planet ~ 11/25 – 12 /13/21 ~ Clever, curious and often razor sharp, this can be good for creativity. Sagittarius wants us to share a good laugh but also go deep and ponder the universe. Teach a class, take a class, write something that you’ve been thinking about forever.

Mars, Warrior planet  ~  12/14 – 1/24/22 ~ 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 upbeat, an “of course” for excellent results, to be with people and to revel in the abundance of the season. Enjoy it whenever possible.

~ Sagittarius Sun – November 21, 2021 * 9:34 PM EST / 6:34 PM PST ~

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

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

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

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It’s also the Fall Equinox, but it’s still all about relationships. On Wednesday, September 22, 2021, the Sun moves into Air sign Libra and 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 lovely 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.

We may also experience some effects of the planets transiting Libra at this time:

Mercury ~ 8/31/21 – 11/6/21: should amp up our chats, tweets, and texts, with cleverness and charm. (Long stay due to the Communication planet’s Retrograde period)

~ Mercury Retrograde  9/27 – 10/17:  Back up your devices. Pay attention to details. Read contracts carefully.  Avoid snafus, hurt feelings etc – read it over before hitting “send”.

Mars ~ 9/15/21  10/30/21: normally prone to action and impulsiveness, the Warrior planet’s usual aggressiveness is muted and softened.

The Libra way is 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!

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 9/22/21 ~ 3:21 PM EDT / 12:21 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.

Up next: Scorpio!

** ~*~**

The Sun moves into Virgo on Sunday Aug. 22, 2021. This is a chance to settle down after all the Leo sparkle and flash. Think: grounded, practical, dependable and efficient. The 6^th sign of the Zodiac is about work, service and health. But don’t think being conscientious has to mean “dull”. With quick witted Mercury, its planet ruler, Virgo’s cleverness can liven up situations when you least expect it.

Communication planet Mercury has been transiting the sign since August 12 (until the 30^th). Spoken, written or tweeted, language is sharper and snappier. Can be fun, just don’t hurt anyone’s feelings – especially since combative, belligerent Mars began a visit on July 30 and remains thru September 15, 2021.

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 of plans for 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  😉

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 ~ 8/22/21:   5:35 PM EDT / 2:35 PM PDT

*Gemstone: Carnelian * Power color: Deep green * Body Part: Bowels

~*~*~*~*

The Sun moves into tenacious, talented & tasteful Taurus on Monday April 19, 2021. The second sign of the Zodiac has the stubborn Bull as its Zodiac symbol – for a good reason. Often unwavering in beliefs, there may be a tendency to hold on even after others have dropped the tug rope. Just remember to “let go” when obstinacy no longer works.

However, Taurus is ruled by the lovely, romantic planet Venus. This Earth sign has several other traits. It can be practical and grounded, but it’s also a lover of beauty, good food and financial acuity. Loved ones are treated to poetry, music and gourmet restaurants, while getting a lecture on avoiding economic pot holes – nice mix.

~ Planet ruler Venus visits Taurus 4/14 – 5/10.  Beautification of self / surroundings and gourmet concerns may be intensified

~ Clever, communication planet Mercury transits Taurus from 4/20 – until 5/5.  Interactions are steadied and grounded. Discussions about security and safety are brought forward.

~ Also, 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.

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

* Sun into Taurus, Mon 4/19/21 – 4:33 PM EDT / 1:33 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.

*** ~~ ^ ~~ ***

The Moon will be in energetic Aries Saturday and Sunday, 4/10 and 4/11. When the Lunar orb transits the 1^st sign of the Zodiac, which is ruled by warrior planet Mars, we are more physical and more “up for anything”. Depending upon what the “anything” is, it could be the best of times or the most precarious of times.

Aries loves action and you probably won’t want to sit around anyplace for too long. Also, communication planet Mercury is transiting this high octane sign until 4/19, so not only is motion speeding up, but so is thinking and talking. Take advantage. Definitely initiate something exciting, different but be positive. Keep the flame thrower in the closet.

Have a great weekend! 

~~**~~

The Sun enters independent, intellectual, Air sign Aquarius on Tuesday January 19, 2021. Ruled by Uranus, the planet of unexpected events, this 11^th sign of the Zodiac is also about originality and inventiveness. Not necessarily wild and crazy but definitely sudden change and out of the box thinking.

Community focused Aquarius has a stubborn streak (it is one of 4 “Fixed” signs of the Zodiac, along with Taurus, Scorpio and Leo). This determination often shows up when it involves tackling group issues. Concern for others is authentic – caring, involvement and perseverance to find resolutions to problems that touch others. Contributing to the universe is a given.

Take advantage of this energy regardless of your own Astrology sign. Fill in some of those blank calendar spaces with purposeful action  – find a cause, volunteer, organize a neighborhood, leave a place better than you how found it. Enjoy people, support them, inspire and whip them into shape! Make a difference.

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

Saturn ~ 12/18/20 until March 2023 – Contraction. Responsibility, restraint and discipline.  

Jupiter ~ 12/ 20/20 – Dec 2021. Expansion. Bigger is better with Jupiter. Any group efforts, interests and or involvements could be intensified. Striving for independence and freedom may push boundaries.

*If Jupiter pushes towards the cliff, Saturn may prevent going over the edge.

Mercury ~ 1/9 until 3/15/21 (includes Retrograde period – 1/30 thru 2/21/21) 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, 2021 = 3:40 PM EST / 12:40 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!

~ *** ~