According to Sandy

This has been a rocky year (climbing the “rough side of the mountain” for many). We can use a “pick-me-up”, a little bit of “upbeatness”. Gratefully, the Sun prances** into adventurous, optimistic, Fire sign Sagittarius on Saturday, November 21, 2020. Ruled by expansive Jupiter, the king of positive thinking, being “hopeful” doesn’t seem quite so far out there.

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

~ Mercury *  12/2/20 – 12/21/20  * Communication focused, clever, curious and often razor sharp, this planet visit can be great for creativity, sharing Sag’s knowledge and wisdom

~ Venus* 12/16/20 – 1/8/21 * Caring relationships, beauty and wealth/value. Revel in the warmth and spread it around.

Everything may seem possible while the Sun is in Sagittarius, everything is “huge”- ideas, actions, themes, etc. Be confident, think “of course” for excellent results, reach for the good things, and enjoy the abundance of the season. But, 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 – bravado can send you too far. It can be expensive and/or embarrassing. Have a good time – but, don’t overdo.

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

~ Sagittarius Sun – November 21, 2020 * 3:40 PM EST / 12:40 PM PST ~

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

BTW- Regardless of your actual birthday, take advantage of any positive vibrations from whatever the current Sun transit.

**Re: “prances” – One of the symbols for Sagittarius is the Centaur with the bow and arrow and wine pouch. Perfect, just in time for the holidays.

The Virgo Sun started spreading its influence on Saturday August 22, 2020 regardless of Astrological sign. The 6^th sign of the Zodiac makes us a little more grounded, practical, efficient and responsible. This Earth sign (of health, hard work and service) also lets us know that it really is all about the details, details, details. But don’t think being conscientious has to mean “dull”. With quick witted Mercury as its planet ruler, Virgo’s cleverness can liven up situations when you least expect it. 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 insists attention be paid, but, being over critical and picky, “sweating the small stuff”, “not seeing the forest for the trees”, suffering bouts of “paralysis analysis” will just get in the way and slow you down from making improvements and 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 safety, diet & fitness, be a contribution, take care.

~ Sun Into Virgo: 8/22/20  – 11:45 AM EDT * 8:45 AM PDT

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

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The Sun Sashays into Leo, the Zodiac sign it rules, on Wednesday, July 22, 2020. With the Sun King up front, don’t be surprised if there are sudden, unexplained cravings for sparklers, sequins and confetti. Just go with it. We may all feel strong, upbeat, magnanimous, a bit more dramatic and drawn to the spotlight regardless of our actual Astrology sign. Leo doesn’t understand shyness and we are urged to seek attention, to be colorfully creative and just to be full of lion’s pride. As the Sun settles into this regal Fire sign, expect to have some fun for the duration of its stay.

Mercury, the Communication planet, transits Leo from 8/6 to 8/21/2020. Verbal and written interactions can 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!).

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!

*Sun into Leo: July 22, 2020 * 4:37AM EDT / 1:37AM PDT

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

(Next up – Virgo Sun 8/22/20)

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 will often exhibit a combo of characteristics from both signs).

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Wednesday May 20, 2020, the Sun entered the 3^rd sign of the Zodiac – Gemini, sign of the twins. Ruled by the communications planet Mercury, this Air sign has a reputation for cleverness, flexibility, adaptability and love of change. Lighthearted, “younger than springtime”, a Gemini will not look/act their age for most of their lives. (Not childish, but youthfully engaging.) BTW * I’m a Gemini Septuagenarian, so I loved writing this.

Transiting planets to be aware of:

~ Venus spreads charm and beauty during a Gemini visit from 4/4/20 – 8/7/20. It can bring out our social best and gentle some of that Gemini verbal sharpness.

The love planet will also be Retrograde from 5/13 to 6/25, which only happens every 2 years. Think twice about jumping into romantic liaisons – don’t marry someone you just adore on Zoom – after meeting them during a “social distancing” date on twitter. Also, try to curb overboard spending.

~ Information maven Mercury transits Gemini from 5/12/20 – 5/29/20 highlighting writing, reading, conversation, a “let’s do something / lets learn something” type of energy we will all experience.

 (FYI: Mercury will be Retrograde in Cancer from June 18 – July 12)

There may be urges, regardless of birth sign, to learn something new, meet and greet, read and write, chat too much/gossip too much, wish to be in two places at once (that “twin”, Castor & Pollux thing) which can be a good time, but also exhausting. Rather than feeling overwhelmed or scattered, hit the pause button occasionally, re focus, complete tasks that need to be finished, then go on to the next. Half done is half accomplished.

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

Gemini Sun:  May 20, 2020 – 9:49 AM EDT / 6:49 AM PDT

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

~ Deepak Chopra said: “Language creates reality. Words are magical power. Speak always to create joy”. 

(Since most of us (?) are not touching strangers to greet, congratulate, and / or give comfort, etc, at this time, it is perfect for a chatty Gemini Sun Transit)

The Sun moved into sensual, steady, strong, security focused Taurus on Sunday April 19, 2020. The second sign of the Zodiac has the Bull as its symbol. Perfect!

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

As always, just to make life a bit more interesting, there will be planet transits:

Communication planet Mercury in Taurus from 4/28 to 5/12/20 ~ Verbal / written interaction steadies, is more down to earth and direct. Mercury’s quick cleverness may be slowed down and softened, but also focused. No nonsense. Commitments, promises, contracts will expect to be honored!

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 money is gotten and handled, how sensuality is expressed, how food is cooked and consumed, and how “luxury” is considered. “Change” is the operative word.

For the next few weeks, regardless of Sun sign, we can all tap into Taurus traits of responsibility, strength and endurance. The “Bull” is Taurus’ symbol for a reason – stubborn, unwavering, holding on after others have dropped the tug rope, etc. Just remember to “let go” when obstinacy no longer works. Don’t miss an opportunity due to an unwillingness to move and / or shift. Security is attractive, especially in this climate, but, sometimes we have to take a second look, before the “no”.

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

* Sun into Taurus – 10:45 AM EDT / 7:45 AM PDT

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

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The Sun entered unpredictable, independent Aquarius on Monday January 20, 2020. Ruled by Uranus, planet of unexpected events and outrageous happenings, the 11^th sign of the Zodiac is about originality, inventiveness and changes of direction.

Intellectual Aquarius has a stubborn streak (it is one of 4 “Fixed” signs of the Zodiac, along with Taurus, Scorpio and Leo). Ignoring opposition and the word “don’t”, there is a lean to gather, along with friends, neighborhood groups, etc. , at  a rally, an organized march and / or form a protest for any issues deemed to be righteous. Regardless of Sun Sign, we may all feel the need to join our rebellion of choice. Just remember that the “Revolution” will be televised, tweeted and instagramed.

And, there are Planet transits:

Venus (harmony). 12/20/19 – 1/14/20 ~ can bring an upbeat tone and cheeriness to fiery rhetoric, solidifying relationships in the midst of revolutionary zeal

Mercury (Communication). 1/17 – 2/4/20 ~ adds cleverness and networking expertise. Temper any tendencies towards sarcasm and sharpness. (Sugar better than vinegar) Be clear in speech and written word when rallying your comrades.

Taking risks, being on the edge, or ledge – sounds intense, but it can be done with humor. If you’re going to spend time enrolling people into saving the world, you might as well have fun doing it.

~ Aquarius Sun: January 20, 2020 = 9:55 AM EST / 6:55 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!

~ * ~

The ambitious Capricorn Sun arrived on Saturday, December 21, 2019 along with the celebrated Winter Solstice. It is a new decade – 2020!  Take the time to look at what was accomplished and make plans for the future. I love that “what’s next?” question – a New Year, a blank calendar to fill in. Possibilities!

Capricorn, an Earth sign ruled by serious planet Saturn, likes structure, boundaries and is comfortable with the trappings of authority. Being a “boss” is not a burden. Being in charge is welcome. The 10^th sign of the Zodiac can keep us busy, accomplished and sensible. Re-goal yourself (I made this word up), tune up career moves, network, organize whatever needs to be shaped up. Make something happen. Just don’t get bogged down that you become too rigid and/or too cautious.  Relax, remember that you have a sense of humor – use it.

The Sun will be in Capricorn until 1/20/20. 4 planets will also transit during this time adding to the power & energy:

~Saturn, planet of boundaries & discipline – rules Capricorn so its influences will be tweaked. The 2 year visit started 12/19/17, will end 12/20/2020. Mature decisions, duty, responsibility are all highlighted for hopefully good results down the line.

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

~Mercury, planet of Communication, travel – will move into Capricorn on 12/29/19 until 1/16/20. Speech, writing etc. could be more serious and tight. Maintain sense of humor. Reign in sharp, hurtful personal interactions. 

~Jupiter, planet of big ideas & expansion – its sign visits last approximately 1 year, 12/2/19 until 12/19/20. Some of the risk taking tendencies can be curtailed & action more grounded.

*Of course, how you experience all of this 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, 2019 – 11:20 PM EST / 8:20 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)

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Look forward to a Gemini Full Moon on Wednesday (Pacific) and Thursday (Eastern). While opposite the Sagittarius Sun, it will glow in all its roundness. As always with a “Full” phase, finish and complete any old projects hanging around. Clear out any debris to make room for what’s next. (New Moon in ambitious Capricorn 12/25/19 – great time for new beginnings)

While the Moon is in the Mercury ruled 3^rd sign of the Zodiac, communication is key. Chatting, Twittering, Face Booking, etc. can tend towards the witty and the clever, and with “Full” energy, our interactions can also be purposeful, powerful and precise. I love this quote from Deepak Chopra:

“Language creates reality. Words are magical power. Speak always to create joy”

Let us all do that!

* Gemini Full Moon: PST 12/11 ~ 9:12 PM / EST 12/12 ~ 12:12 AM

***

The Sun pranced into cheery Sagittarius on Friday November 22, 2019. Ruled by exuberant Jupiter, the king of positive thinking, we are more upbeat and everything seems possible, everything is “huge”- ideas, actions, themes. Enjoy it! But, remember to pause occasionally and look over the landscape – not only to appreciate the view, but also to realize that some of those “sure things” are not.

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

Venus 11/2 – 11/26 * The Love planet lends beauty, tact, sweetness and charm.

Jupiter since Nov. 2018 – 12/2/19 * Sag’s planet ruler transits the 9^th sign of the Zodiac encouraging us to risk and “go BIG or go home”. Rather than go over the top, set limits. (BTW, Jupiter visits each Zodiac sign for about 52 weeks every 12 years)

Mercury 12/9 – 12/29 * Communication focused, clever, curious and often razor sharp, this planet visit can be great for creativity, sharing Sag’s knowledge and wisdom

A Sagittarius Sun wants us to be happy, to be with people, to revel in the abundance of the season. Certainly be an “of course” for excellent results, reach for the good things, discover something new, but, just be aware of getting close to the edges. If you must go “Kwazy” at least aim for controlled excess.

~ Sagittarius Sun – November 22, 2019 * 10 AM EST / 7 AM PST ~

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

BTW- Regardless of your actual birthday, always try to take advantage of the vibrations of whatever sign the Sun is transiting.

The symbol for Sagittarius is the half man/ half horse Centaur – usually with a wine pouch. (Perfect, just in time for the holidays)

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Scorpio season is upon us, the weather might be cooling down, but a Scorpio Sun brings heat and sizzle on Wednesday, October 23, 2019. Potent, powerful, persistent, and passionate OR, stubborn, secretive, sensitive and sensual – I couldn’t decide on which group of adjectives to use for the mysterious 8th sign of the Zodiac.

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.

Mercury, the Communication planet, transits Scorpio from 10/3 – 12/9/19.  Interactions can be easily heated and more demanding than usual. Be focused and avoid unnecessary confusion and / or hurt whenever possible. (Adding to the possible drama: Mercury will be Retrograde in Scorpio from 10/31/ to 11/20/19)

Lovely, romantic Venus visits serious Scorpio from 10/9 – 11/2/2019, adding beauty and lushness to this sign’s natural sensitivity. Also, thoughts may lean toward what you value and especially how you value yourself. Pay attention.

As always, the impact of planet placements depends on where (which House) Scorpio falls in your particular chart.

We can accomplish a lot during this time using Scorpio’s power and determination. But, also remember that laughter can be used as a balm to stabilize, bring things into perspective and lighten the atmosphere.  

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

~*~ Scorpio Sun 10/23/19 ~ 1:20 PM EDT– 10:20 AM PDT