August 2013 Sign-by-Sign Forecasts

Lunations in August- The New Moon on August 6^th lands on the Power Gate of Leo, smack in the middle of summer, supercharging an already potent period of days occurring annually and celebrated traditionally as Lammas, one of the cross-quarter points in the yearly cycle. Also know as Lughnasadh (pron. Loo-NAS-ah), this ancient festival phase of the Wheel of the Year cycle lasts a couple of weeks starting at the first of August and is devoted to early harvest feasts and fun, as well as honoring crafts, storytelling and magic. This Sun/Moon conjunction lands at the mid-point of Venus and Jupiter, signaling themes of creativity, romance, randiness, and exuberant, pushed-to-the-maximum pleasure-seeking.

The August 20^th Full Moon happens, again, in the Leo/Aquarius polarity, bringing to light our capacity to shine authentically, yet still contribute to the collective. Sometimes, garnering attention is important and useful, so take the stage and spotlight if you have something to say. In addition, be a good member of the audience if someone radiates with soul-force and it resonates with you – participate in the cycle of creativity by giving good feedback.

Sign-by-Sign Forecasts (read for your Rising Sign/Ascendant, too)

Aries- You are a force to be reckoned with, Ram-a-lamb, especially this month, when your electric personality receives a massive, cosmic boost, enabling you to charm off pants, blow minds and create strong and lasting impressions! The stage is set, so to speak, starting with the New Moon on the 6^th, for you to play to the audiences that eagerly await your displays of ingenuity, boldness, creativity and initiative. The Full Moon switches the house lights on, and from your on-stage perspective, you clearly perceive who is applauding, who fell asleep, and who needs an encore to completely convert them into fawning fans.

Taurus- The month of August finds you fun-damentally frolicsome, friendly and feelin' your wild oats, Horned One. The New Moon ignites a full month of creative attention dedicated to home and/or office improvement. Anticipate a climax around the Full Moon on the 20^th, and considering all the fiery potency indicated by the planetary alignments, some kind of birth/rebirth is symbolized – think phoenix and stork or some crazy, cosmically-ordained combination only the imagination is capable of producing.

Gemini- With your Ruling Planet, Mercury, coming “home” for most of the month of August in your Solar Chart, Gemini, expect your perspicacious, gift-of-gab, verbal capacities to be fully operative and totally under conscious control. The New Moon finds you performing like a spell-casting Magician; with that kind of word-power, please be certain to say what you mean and mean what you say. The end of August finds you reaping the results of your skillful or unskillful mouthings; may you be rewarded for your refined text-uring and meaningful conveyances.

Cancer- If you failed to make your birthday wishes recently, Crabby, do not let the lapse continue! Your 'lucky stars' are aligned, especially during the waxing Moon phase in August, from the 6^th to the 20^th. Wish upon a star, blow out the candles belatedly, pray, conjure or visualize – you may be shocked at how closely The Universe is listening.

Leo- First, Leo, read the horoscope for Cancer, then use your own lucky mojo to manifest something dear to your heart. With both Lunations, New and Full, illuminating your House of Sparkle and Shine, you have all the cosmic backing you need this month to make the phrase, “the power of personality” really mean something. Oh, and another thing, Kitty, take some time for yourself to recharge your batteries, rest when needed, and take some cat-naps.

Virgo- There is something to be said for solitude, silence and seclusion, especially if the “ways of the world” have worn you down and worn you out. Some quietude and introspection are in order for the Virgo clan this month. Root out any self-defeating habits and shore up your physical and mental confidence by tuning into soul-satisfying practices and endeavors.

Libra- At least until mid-month, Libras should follow the suggestions made to Virgos this month, as least some of the time. The lunations, which punctuate the rhythm of August with major pulses of energy, draw you into gatherings where cooperation and synergy are the fortunate result of shared ideas and efforts. This is a time to set or re-set goals and intentions that you share with others.

Scorpio- Rushes and bursts of energy and enthusiasm may have you talking in torrents to whomever will listen to your idealistic and ambitions ideas, Scorpio. Use the surge of power around the New Moon on the 6^th to begin implementing your ambitions and creative designs. The Full Moon on the 20^th highlights a peak phase in the month for you to be showing off, shining your light, and pushing your agendas and programs forward with intention and intensity.

Sagittarius- Soul-searching and inner turbulence are sure signs that you are in a growth phase, Archer. The New Moon sends you questing high and low during the first half of August as you search for perspective and meaning. The Full Moon on the 20^th reflects back what you have learned about your inner values and to what degree you are, or are not, living them out in your daily existence.

Capricorn- Decisions and resolutions that you made a while back regarding quality time you prefer to spend with quality people, as opposed to wasted time you spend with draining or difficult people, toll like bells in your brain when you fail to stay true to your commitment to yourself regarding friends and associates. If you missed out on the manifestation magic during July, you still get a chance to generate something special, but now you need to join in the wish-making with another person, or group. Focus with laser-like intensity and yearn with all your heart to make your combined dream(s) come true.

Aquarius- Do you feel like you are going through periods when you are the busiest person on the planet? Keep your nervous system calm, Aquarius, don't allow commutes and communication overloads to frazzle you. Find ways to cope with the electric surges of suddenly frenzied activity – even the most mundane and matter-of-fact interactions in your neighborhood and daily life are opportunities for Right Speech (Samma-Vaca) – one of Buddhism's Eightfold Path to enlightenment.

Pisces- The search into the Mystery can be a never-ending fascination, sometimes fruitful, sometimes frustrating; yet the journey continues, Pisces, as you encounter more (and less) of your true nature in your quest into Ultimate Being. The Leo New Moon this month spurs you to take pride in your work, stimulates attentiveness to your health, and energizes you as you tie up loose ends and complete projects. By the Full Moon on the 20^th, your discipline, preparations and efficiency will have paid off, providing you free time and energy to apply to socializing and romancing.

Lunations in July: The New Moon on July 8^th falls in the home-loving and sentimental sign of Cancer. Since Mercury is retrograde at the time of this New Moon, the best advice is to avoid brand new beginnings even during the waxing phase, but you can certainly put renewed energy into something already underway, or long-delayed. This New Moon energizes the next day's Sun/Mercury conjunction. Pay attention the 8^th through the 10^th since big ideas, seeming strokes of genius, and “eureka” moments of discovery are highly likely occurrences for most everybody with a brain. Once Mercury stations direct on the 20^th of July, you will need to re-examine your brilliant brainchild for defects. By making some adjustments, applying intermediary steps, fact-checking and reality-testing, you will be able to “ground” your castle(s) in the sky. Shoot for the periods around July 20^th and August 24^th for initiatory manifestation of your schemes and dreams.

The Full Moon in Aquarius brightens the night sky on the days surrounding July 22^nd . This lunation is exact just a couple hours after the Sun enters Leo, setting the stage for a passionate and fiery finish to the month. Along with Luna's alignment with the Sun, she forms the apex of a triangular configuration in the sky called a “yod”, also known as “the finger of God” or “finger of fate”. The connection between the Full Moon with both planet Venus and asteroid Pallas suggests that practical wisdom is needed, along with a harmonious and healthy balancing between head and heart. Sullen Saturn registers in the mix as well, arms folded, ready to judge and condemn, just in case we do not sustain the delicate head/heart balancing act by failing to think ahead to possible consequences of passionate acts fueled by the “lunacy” of this Full Moon.

Mercury, moving slowly direct now, should be finished monkeying around with our minds, schedules and commutes a day or so after the July 22nd Full Moon - just in time for folks to take full advantage of the glorious con-joining of Mighty Mars with Bountiful Jupiter, climaxing the full glory of the Grant Trine of 2013 (see General Forecast below).

General Forecast: Ah, good tidings – finally! How long have people been asking your friendly, neighborhood astrologer “When will there be some good news from the stars?” Peaking, right along with the Full Moon in Aquarius (see Lunations above), will be the high- frequency harmonies of the Jupiter/Saturn/Neptune grand trine, which make July a very special month during 2013.

A grand trine is an equilateral triangular configuration surrounding the Earth, featuring one or more planets at each of the vertices. In birth charts, the grand trine is traditionally considered one of the best multi-planet configurations possible. Modern, humanistic astrologers have associated the grand trine with tremendous potential talent, along with easy access to qualities and attributes that potentially make a “winning combination” for the native personality. Note the double use of the word 'potential' in the previous sentence. Many contemporary astrologers express concern that the harmony and stability indicated by the presence of the grand trine in a natal horoscope can lead to lassitude, laziness and a tendency to take things as they come, thereby missing out on the possible benefits suggested by the combination of planets in the lovely triangle pattern. In my own practice, sometimes I'll notice the grand trine in the chart, but hear it as a “stuck” place – tendencies to repetitive behavior without the will to break free or grow from the experiences that occur again and again. For example, I have witnessed grand trine-wielding clients with shockingly fortunate “karma” when it comes to inheritances and legacies, who squander and waste their assets, ending up struggling to make ends meet, never confronting their issues, and virtually relying on the grace indicated in their charts to make it all happen again, hopefully! Thus, my experiences condition me to align with current views about the nature of grand trines in general; they can be glorious indeed, but some consciousness and effort needs to come into play to fully activate the promise of the symmetrical planetary combination.

Fortunately, the grand trine in the sky during July comes with some “fuses” and “triggers” that should help us engage the energies proactively and opportunistically, rather than just laying back and enjoying the temporary reduction in tension and stress. Like a wave machine at a water park, I predict that the cresting of the best will happen during the span from the 17^th to the 25^th of July.

However, I fear being caught up in the cultural paradigm of “go, do, achieve and succeed” so I say also that those people that can best benefit simply by taking a break, getting some “down time” and withdrawing from the pace and demands of the world should take the opportunity presented and, for awhile at least, float, flow and lie fallow, eschewing productivity and opting for the relative peace and tranquility that July can offer.

Here are some ways that I see the July 2013 Grand Trine making planetary waves.

Manifestation of dreams and wishes into physical plane reality.

I think the main thing that the combination of planetary forces symbolize is that people will feel 'optimistic expectancy' and thus allow themselves to plug desire into imaging, creative visualization, and plain old prayers. This sounds a lot like a page from Shakti Gawain, and by all means use her methods – they work! Either for personal needs or better yet, wishing together as a group or organization, aim high and even ask for miracles. As Bhagwan Shree Rajneesh said, “Be practical, expect a miracle.”

The supportive interaction of Jupiter, Saturn and Neptune are also great for...

Gathering together for mutual and common good.

This promising pattern uplifts collectives and supports the formation of communities and organizations who seek to work together to achieve positive results, reform society or culture, and hope to make a difference in their world. My friend and colleague, Stephen Poplin, wrote and inspiring online article about the Grand Trine. Find it at www.transpersonal.us/grand-trine2013.html

Receiving the benefits and rewards from hard work.

This water trine will especially signify results and attainments achieved by the hard work already done, especially at the emotional, attitudinal and psychological levels. For those who have been slogging it out, trying to maintain a positive outlook, who have been struggling at the threshold of despair, who have slipped into hopelessness, who wonder if it is all worth it, this heavenly occurrence offers not just a respite, but a renewal of hope, a new vision forward and the bolstering of faith in oneself, life, the universe, and the Divine. This benefits people who have been dealing with difficulties in relationship, breakthroughs are possible, nay – probable!

Steps for dancing with the stars:

Take time for gratitude and appreciation. Gratitude begins and ends the cycles of creation, just ask the Hindu deity Ganesha. Offer direct and sincere appreciation to those around you, it lubricates the flow of loving, positive energy.

Give. One crucial action that invites magic, as well as makes room for the new, is to offer up for recirculation within the community that which is no longer of great value to you, but might be of value to someone else. Make a real effort to be generous and see that what goes around, comes around, in a wonderful, sometimes wacky and unexpected way.

Do the work. Excavate the inner self for the garbage, baggage and nasty attitudes that arise from the wounds that have been neglected, ignored, and left unhealed. This is a moment to turn the proverbial lead into gold in the true alchemical sense.

Don't worry, be happy. Allow yourself the freedom to soar, feel magnificent, laugh and play. In the midst of powerful, tension-and- transformation-inducing cosmic forces since 2007 and going strong into 2020, this brief phase can give us what we need to recharge, regroup and mobilize our inner resources for the next phase, but we must be willing to see the positive, feel the love and smile and laugh in order to feel The Force sustaining and uplifting us.

Heal. This magical alignment promotes healing, especially in the area of the heart, helping with barriers to intimacy and promoting deeper bonding. “For one human being to love another is perhaps the most difficult task of all...” according to Rainer Maria Rilke. Take time to delve into the shadow, confront unhelpful stubbornness within and the fear of feeling too much. Much can be gained by attending to our blocks to giving and receiving the love we desire.

This healing can also mend the separation we feel from Nature. Spend time in your heart-space, feeling the living world and creatures around you – even if city-bound, listen for birdsong and enjoy the changing colors of the sky each day.

Some folks are going to experience tragedy, be utterly miserable and find no good coming this month. Do not fret, feel that you have missed the boat, or have done something wrong. The universe is calling upon you to do a very special thing, a difficult and challenging task since you are chosen for the hardest of roles to bear at times like these – the one who asks for help. Even if you do not believe it can come, ask, appeal, pray, even beg; but this is as important as any other approach that others may endeavor to take during this phase. You must show compassion to yourself, reach out to others and allow yourself to break free of guilt, shame or blame. This too activates the potential of the Grand Trine of 2013.

Blessings to you. Send along your responses and reports, the 'comments' section (www.astro-counselor.com) awaits your input! Sign-by-sign horoscopes return next month.

I am taking new students for beginning-level astrology starting in July. The evening class will be held Tues., Wed, or Thurs. at the Mystic Dream in Walnut Creek. Contact Paul Bogle at (925) 956-2110 or via the website link above.

March 2013 Sign-by-Sign Forecast

Lunations in March (all times PDT)- The New Moon in Pisces on Monday, March 11^th at 12:51 pm, takes us to mystical heights and open us to increased sensitivity, sentimentality and vulnerability to this month's emotional ebbs and flows. Stay grounded and avoid destructively escapist behaviors as the Piscean vibes invite you to dream, imagine, and fly the friendly skies. Speaking of dreams, with the help of Mercury retrograde (until March 17^th) this is a fantastic time to attend to the messages from The Dream Producer. You may get guidance regarding the year ahead, and looking at the next lunation, you may need it!

The Libra Full Moon arrives on the 27^th of March, exact at 11:14 am. This full Moon is portentous of a major shifting of gears – from floating or wading in watery Pisces to full-throttle Aries go-get-'em acceleration. Lines in the sand, polarization, and reactive combativeness are likely between individuals and collective entities. Think before you pick a fight, and think before one is offered, or seems to be. Working on relationships of all kinds will be served if both parties can agree on a shared intention to keep the forces at play flowing toward agreement.

General Influences- The planets Pluto, Uranus, Saturn and Jupiter, plus the comet, Chiron, are in a complex interplay of challenging and supportive dynamics during March, and most all of 2013. By abstracting the lines of tension and the lines of easy flow for each zodiac sign, the following forecasts describe where some effort will be needed to creatively resolve conflicts coming up between two or more areas of life, and how to take advantage of where the “wind is at your back”, as my mentor, Stephanie Austin, used to say.

If you know your Rising Sign (Ascendant) read it, also!

Aries- Tension arises between your conscious and sub-conscious mind(s), this month, Rammy. Since the sub-conscious is so much vaster and more powerful, you can resolve the inner conflict (and simultaneously obviate the troublesome effects of the Mercury retrograde) by surrendering to the mysteries and paradoxes offered up in dreams, poetry, optical illusions and humor. Powerful planetary influences support your will to power and reward you for self-reliance. Think about the greatest leaders you have experienced or heard about. Inspiring leadership comes through you by tuning into whomever inspires you. Even if you are leading no one but yourself, or just hoping to set a good example, channel the spirits of the most exalted avatars you seek to emulate, and allow your intelligence to meld with your intuition to produce some glorious results.

Taurus- The month of March presents a conflict between the urge to follow a myriad of meaningful pathways and conjure up co-creative associations with teammates while also needing to think through how to make your long-term goals fit with your budget and available time and energy. The resolution, Taurus, lies in trusting your process while expanding your sense of the timeline(s) you are working with. If you can apply some of that renowned Bullish patience you may alleviate some self-inflicted pressure by pulling your attention away from the immediate, surface-level of activity and opening your vision to the bigger picture. Support this month comes your way if you cultivate the guidance and advice of those you trust and respect. Consciously manifest situations in order to apply your training and education to maximize your success and productivity.

Gemini- The tension you experience in March, Gemini, may arise between your preference to do what you want, when you want, with whom you want, and your ambitions for achievement, honors and respect. Steering the course of your day-to-day affairs by your own will fosters enthusiasm for life and a sense of co-creative partnership with the Divine Forces. Heeding the call to make a contribution, make your mark, and make a difference could set a course that takes on a life of its own that both elevates and involves you in an unfolding set of circumstances that require equal parts participation and surrender. The resolution comes through tracing out the threads of sublime influence in both personal and social arenas and interpreting the synchronicity of events as guiding signals that can ultimately harmonize even disparate and seeming contradictory elements into The Big Holy Tapestry. Support from the Universe is activated this month through working hard and digging deep where physical and emotional health are concerned. Regain your strength and balance to be ready for big new developments, Gemini.

Cancer- The friction for Crabs in March occurs when what you believe you know about the Universe collides with information that blows your mind and challenges you to re-think your philosophy and cosmological understanding. Resolution lies in your willingness to be open and curious while both taking stock of your world-view and at the same time holding it loosely. Beliefs should be temporary paradigms to help you navigate your way, and thus flexible frameworks that can be re-formed and readjusted as you grow beyond your comfort zone and spiritual safety-nets. This month, prime the pump of Cosmic Blessings to shower you with profound pleasures by making time with your beloveds to playfully engage the dark and mysterious aspects of Psyche. Parlour games, tarot cards, Truth or Dare...have some fun and discover fascinating truths about yourself and your friends.

Leo- The tension for Lion-cats this month lies between your desire to keep some things under the covers (perhaps literally), and your growing involvement with your community. You want to help others and know the time is ripe to offer your knowledge, wisdom and guidance, however you might feel exposed or vulnerable to inquisitive, prying eyes if you get too involved. The harmonious influences during March support work and repairs, tidying and organizing (boring, huh) in the home and office. “As within, so without”, to twist an ancient adage, the clean-up is connected and reflective of the inner work and soul-recovery you are really engaged in.

Virgo- The tension for Sweet Virgos this month lies between the call of success and the yearning for contact. As opportunity knocks and you mobilize your forces to make the most of those chances you have been waiting for, your friendliest friends and lovingest lovers sing siren songs, or at least whine for more attention. The harmonious influences in March help you crystallize your ideas into actual expressions of your deep, mysterious soul. Creativity laden with meaning may not always be pretty, but some of the best art depicts the messy, soulful parts of life, even as it charges us with energy and insight. List some ways to constructively engage your creative powers this month, Virgo; self-expression in any mode or arena counts as “creative” if you are putting something together with something else and discovering something intriguing in the process.

Libra- Tension arises this month, between your House of High Ideas and your House of Practical Application, Libra of the Weighing Scales. What glorious ideas have hatched in your head that deserve caring scrutiny and cautious re-thinking in order to work them out into physical plane reality? On the other hand, do you sometimes get stuck in the small-focus, hypnotized by the surface level of reality, and find yourself plugging away at the minor necessities while losing sight of the higher purpose? Resolve this conflict in order to walk your talk, or more correctly, live your ideals on a daily basis. No time like the present to ground your beliefs into manifestation. Cosmic support arrives as you activate your potential, utilizing your innate abilities and skills. You were made for this moment, Libra. Apply your talents and training and blow yourself away, and everyone around you, with your gentle mastery and graceful application of your will-power.

Scorpio- Are you a player or a stayer? The tension this month, Scorpion, is tied up between two areas of life where creative energy is highlighted and rewards come by taking risks. Harmonizing these divergent life-stages requires making good choices in the midst of intensity and drama. This is a month to stay alert, be ready to think on your feet, and do what you can to remain grounded and calm while the fur flies. The flow is fluid and easy when it comes to important connections with friends, siblings, and people with whom you do business, even if Mercury is retrograde the first half of March. Take on more authority, show others who is in charge, and even display your power – a roar or teeth-baring may actually settle things down and lead to mutually-satisfying results.

Sagittarius- The urge to play is strong this month for Centaurs, so the tension arises when your plans and preferences run counter to the wants and wills of your potential playmates. Do you have it your way and find yourself alone, or attempting to have fun with folks who feel bulldozed into your agenda? Or do you go along and try to accommodate - only to feel unfulfilled, bored and restless? The way through to ultimate harmony requires communication and cooperation; just remember – compromise is not always a nice word. The wind is at your back in March when you are making money, managing your resources, and during spiritual and service-oriented activities. Doing your taxes may actually give you a sense of empowerment, and bring you peace of mind as you clarify your actual financial situation.

Capricorn- The challenge for Seagoats during March lies in the need to prioritize with all the busy-ness and multi-tasking required going on at once. With so much coming at you and so many projects and people-contacts to juggle, there may only be brief lulls and short intervals during which you can think things through and plan ahead. Utilize those sparse moments to re-adjust and reorganize as things develop and evolve on the playing field of your life this month, Capricorn. You may find yourself behaving like a football quarterback calling “audibles” at the line of scrimmage just prior to the next play. If football is unfamiliar to you, go to the forecast for Scorpio for additional insights to help you resolve the tensions this month, and shift toward creative harmonization. Easy results come while you are joined up with the gang, the group, the committee or the fellowship. Use your innate leadership to bring folks into agreement, align the collective intentions, get everyone to cooperate, and pull together as a team.

Aquarius- Tension arises this month, Aquarius, between your need to earn and your wish to play. This situation is complicated because your creativity and self-esteem are implicated in resolving the challenge to pay the bills and at the same time enjoy friends, take a stimulating excursion and enhance romance. Resolve the conflict by employing your innate talents in an activity that you value, or that serves some higher purpose, and feed your sociability and wanderlust with some degree of restraint so you will not suffer from “buyer's remorse”, or damage your credit rating. Plugging into the Cosmic Source with respectful intention may allow you to take advantage of the supportive astro-weather available to Water-bearers during March. Find an energizing link between your individual, (semi-)autonomous self and Transcendent Power to help you wield whatever modicum of authority is allotted you as free will, so you can steer your life course according to your own best judgment.

Pisces- Your sparkling personality and irresistible attractiveness may create conflict between your desire for enjoying your private home space or answering the call of comrades who crave your presence and engagement. One way to resolve these tensions this month, Fishy, would be to host, or at least plan a party or gathering. Support during March is supplied by powerful friends and impressively smart people who will push you to use your education and training in important interactions with others. Actively cultivate this support network, Pisces, to get the full benefit; and beware of hiding behind the “nice and amiable” persona when you may need to display how potent and persuasive you can be when you mean business. 

February 2013 Sign-by-Sign Forecasts

Lunations and General Influences – A New Moon in Aquarius occurs on Saturday night the 9^th of February, (Pacific time). The following Full Moon will illuminate the winter (northern hemisphere) sky with the Sun in Pisces and the Moon in Virgo on February 25^th around mid-day (Pacific time).

It is impossible to resist patterning my forecasts on a pair of archetypal opposites, Mars and Venus, since they both shift signs at the start of the month, into Pisces and Aquarius, respectively. Since these are only two of many heavenly bodies co-creating the polyphonic symphony of the spheres, take into account as you read which areas of life are “governed” by these planetary deities. Mars makes us mad if we feel blocked or thwarted, and actively protective of others and ourselves if there is a perceived threat. Long associated with strife and conflict, Mars (Ares in the Greek myths), confers strength, potency and lights the fire of desire. Venus gets a better rap, but irresistible Aphrodite is no stranger to trouble, either. Neither are apt to follow the mores and norms of society; Venus disrupts lives and relationships when her compelling allure pulls women and men into illicit affairs or into the pursuit of pleasure or satisfaction, no matter what the cost or consequences. Venus blesses us with happiness and joy, brings relief from drudgery and boredom, rewards us with pleasure and delight, and pretty much makes this often difficult and tedious life worth living. Venus and Mars are a storied pair of divine lovers, the Golden Goddess of Love and the Fiery God of War drawn inexorably into passionate union.

The following will relate to threads of experience over the next month, not necessarily to the dominant unwinding pattern of fate, but hopefully to important and interesting personal elements in the total tapestry of experience.

If you know your Rising Sign (Ascendant) read for that sign also.

Aries- Okay Gun-slinger, with your patron planet, Mars, in the murky Twelfth House of your Solar Chart, you feel like you are meandering in a carnival's House of Mirrors. The laws of physics fall by the wayside as astral rules seem to warp the play of the game. This means the pistol's barrel droops when you pull it from the holster and despite yourself, you shoot your own foot! Beyond the silly metaphor, Ram, this month is one to become aware of tendencies to work against your own interests, to notice and set aside childish reactivity, and especially, especially know when not to act and when to keep your fool mouth shut. Not the funnest phase, but during these stages we grow up a lot, especially if we are able to recognize self-defeating behaviors and gently correct them. Vivacious Venus livens up your house of friends and associates. This means plenty of company and plenty of chances to check your intended actions (Mars) against the received responses and reactions of your buddies and companions (Venus in the Eleventh House).

Taurus- Tempestuous Mars storms into teammate territory this month, Taurus. The first week-and-a-half could prove tricky and sticky, as companions either melt away in the mist, or seem nothing but needy and wounded. As February wears on, the fog will lift and folks will reappear from the void, or friends of a finer feather will flock to you for joint ventures and pleasures. Assert your feelings, your preferences, and even risk revealing your intuitions and spiritual sensitivities while Mars is sensitized by Pisces. Dare to be known by others! Ever-popular Venus enhances your career and vocational aspirations, Bull. Take advantage of your good fortune and amplified appeal to make headway on your life path as well as impress bosses, chiefs and other authority figures.

Gemini- Aside from the glorious good fortune of the Greater Benefic, Jupiter, gracing your house of good looks and personal magnetism for the next five months, guess what you also get, friend Gemini! Ambitious Mars makes it to the top of the charts, so to speak, and gets to play “king of the mountain” for a month. This is when you should show your strong-but-sensitive side and make bold moves on the career front. Better yet, Golden Venus is your booking agent, tour guide and traveling companion all rolled into one as you fly the friendly skies, literally or metaphorically, throughout February. Freedom to explore is what you want, either locally or in more exotic regions, or via intellectual or imaginative forays in your mind. Tripping into new territory or revisiting states you often can't make time for can trigger the pleasure centers of your brain and make you ask yourself, “Why don't I take these kinds of journeys more often?”

Cancer- If Earnest Mars fulfilled its recent mission, what you have been craving for is within reach and you may spend the balance of February sating your hungers and satisfying your desires. If you are still empty-handed, but you know what you want and need, then perhaps it is time to cast a wider net and explore beyond what seemed previously to be reasonable boundaries and expectations. What if you are not sure what will do the trick because you are not sure what you want? Then allow Sinuous Venus to wind her way deep into your psyche, beyond the fragile barriers of the civilized self, plunging past the facade of propriety and normalcy that protect you from your wanton, instinctive nature. Aphrodite's gentle yet insistent caress of your hidden primal nature will invite your animal side into arousal, clarifying beyond doubt those yearnings that want out of the shadow and into your conscious awareness for at least imaginative, if not literal engagement.

Leo- It is a double edged-weapon you wield this month, Leo. On one hand, Bewitching Venus allures and appeals, making you willing to put most everything aside just to dance and sway to the rhythm of her music, to revel in the abandon of her particular brand of pleasure, to enjoy, even momentarily, freedom from the mundane. If the enticements of Venus the Enchantress were not enough to occupy your thoughts and disrupt the daily grind, how will you deal with Mars the Shit-Disturber, flinging up scraps of The Shadow and prying open private chambers of the soul all throughout February? The dynamics of your intimate relationships will likely intensify, which can be a good thing, provided everyone feels willing to take a possibly wild ride into the unexplored jungles of the psyche to discover the treasures hidden below the surface layers of the ego. Leave the cameras behind, Lion, you might not want the images from this month's adventures to find their way to YouTube.

Virgo- Greater harmony at work, healthier body and mind this month, Virgo, thanks to Graceful Venus. Even the typically tedious, grungy or thankless jobs will seem easier to accomplish, with less gritting of teeth and general consternation this month. Maybe an innovative method or cooperative readjustment will change the dynamics of certain tasks and make them less onerous, while improving efficiency simultaneously. In another dimension entirely, the partnership house heats up with Always-Ardent Mars igniting the one-on-one scenarios into passionate exchanges. Wear your flame-retardant undies and courageously welcome the sparks that fly this month between you and your friends, enemies and lovers. In fact those designations may apply to just one person during different days (or hours) in rapidly progressing intervals (not necessarily in that order). Keep your wits about you, it must be time to liven up the landscape, Virgo, so more openness, vitality and authenticity will prevail between yourself and those you love and hate.

Libra- Ah! A balancing act for Libras in February – what else is new? Flirty Venus cajoles and seduces you into romance, recreation and play-time, while Hyperactive Mars gives you the impetus to work, organize, and care for your pets. Oh, which to choose?!? My suggestion is that you give time to both departments, making time for fun and games and balancing that out with tidying and taking out the trash. If you have children in your life, supported by Playful Venus, this can be a good month to spend some relaxing and/or creative hours with the kids to help bring out your own spontaneous nature. On the other side of the coin, Mars the Motivator energizes your attempts to optimize your health, and goads you to get started on any fitness regimen you have been promising your body since you made those New Year's resolutions.

Scorpio- With Serious Saturn settled in your Solar House of Self-talk, you Scorpios are probably sick of suggestions, advice and guidance just about now. Taking that into account, I will merely invite you to consider the fact that Macho Mars moving through your Playpen of Romantic Encounters signals a phase where you may find yourself “on stage,” even if you thought you were mastering the act of invisibility. Taking a more assertive stance in regards to your need for time-out, risky gambles, and sweaty fun could lead to more rejuvenation and revitalization than you have given yourself permission for in a long time. On the home front, Aesthetically-Oriented Venus wants your inner sanctum to please and inspire you because the textures, colors, furnishings and décor reflect your sense of style, and bring forth the inner artist.

Sagittarius- Talk, write, network and keep the communications coming and going – does it seem like that is all you do some days, Sagittarius? Genteel Venus rewards your recent busy-ness this February, and those connections you are keeping open far and near, especially near, will pay off in pleasurable ways. Relationships with siblings can improve, or provide more-than-usual satisfaction this month. On the other hand, if you have simmering issues with roommates you might want to clear the air and find constructive outlets for your frustration, Arrow-shooter. Aggressive Mars stirs up trouble in your domicile if you don't find ways to channel your energy carefully and consciously. “Doing it yourself” may be the antidote, at least temporarily. Use the Labours of Hercules as a guiding myth this month. What might seem like insurmountable chores can be tackled with determination in February and even into mid-March. The end results will make you a happier centaur, more comfortable in you own home, and much easier to get along with!

Capricorn- Good news or bad news first, Cappy? Bad news first? Here goes – beware of getting snippy with neighbors, siblings and your local shopkeepers. Keep your road-rage contained as well, keeping your fingers from flying and your screams insulated inside your vehicle as assholes break your driving rules and potholes jar your chariot out of alignment. Hot-Headed Mars can make you irritable with minor upsets in your neighborhood, and especially angry at idiots on the road or delays in your commute. Breathe, take it easy and keep soothing snacks on hand. The good news comes with Charming Venus augmenting your Solar House of Wealth and Personal Values. It is not always about more, more, more, is it Capricorn? Sometimes you just need the chance to slow down enough to enjoy what you already have available or accumulated, those pleasure-giving things or associations that truly make you happy, and also realize that all the effort and striving you put in seems worth it after all.

Aquarius- Style-enhancing Venus spends almost all of February in your Solar Chart's First House, gracing you with magnetism, charm and attractiveness. Even if many of you non-conformist Aquarians don't bother staying current with fashion changes, you can nevertheless count on the magic of Aphrodite to help you sparkle and shine all month. Just think what might happen if you decide to smile and allow some of your quirky personality to come out from under wraps! Meanwhile, Muscular Mars barges into your Second House of Money, Talents and Resources. If you have been wanting to make more money, you may get the chance to bring your skills into service. In other words, Mars stirs things up, then you need to strive and mobilize to bring home the bacon.

Pisces- February finds you feisty - yes you, Gentle Pisces! Take a stand, fend off annoying people, speak out and be assertive! Prove yourself capable of self-protection and subsequently, your capacity for self-projection will come from your authentic strength. Avoid the Fishy tricks of passive-aggressiveness, and instead risk really going for what you want, clearly and directly, when and where you want it. Warrior Mars will reward you with renewed confidence. In another dimension entirely, Kind-Hearted Venus dons her helper's smock (with matching shoes, of course) and sets aside her personal desires to engage in selfless service. Not her favorite hangout, the Twelfth House nevertheless opens the heart of compassion. The rewards are indirect and usually just add more points to the karmic merit account as opposed to the adoration and immediate gratification Aphrodite prefers. Love's gifts during February are best given unconditionally, and to those forgotten, in need, or unable to really reciprocate.

2013 Sign-by-Sign Forecast

Guiding Planets, Challenges and Gifts: This forecast into 2013 follows a formula for each sign of the zodiac. The planet that is associated with, or disposits the zodiacal sign, is the “Guiding Planet” for the interpretational highlights for each sign for the year. Additionally, Saturn, on one hand, and Jupiter, on the other, balance each other out as givers of challenges or gifts, respectively. The forecasts are a bit longer than usual in most cases, but will hopefully contain interesting and useful astrological predictions to utilize throughout the year, and during the specified periods given in some of the delineations.

Read for your Ascendant: It should be presumed that the reading for your Ascendant (or Rising Sign) will be as accurate as for your Sun sign. If you do not know your Ascendant and want that information you can go to many different on-line sites and get birth chart data, plus much more. In most cases, you have to set up an account, (business is business, I suppose) but can leave boxes unchecked that offer newsletters, emails and other stuff. Here is one link to follow that offers a user-friendly and aesthetically pleasing interface to get your natal astrological data. Try your darndest to get an accurate birth time before you start.

http://www.tarot.com/online-games/cosmic-profile

Aries- With Mighty Mars as your Guiding Planet, Aries, you can always count on things to change quickly, week-to-week and even day-to-day. In general terms, for the first part of the year, Ram, be the bigger person, rise above the fray, and keep your actions in line with your higher values. Just in time for spring, the God of War and Sexy Dancing penetrates into home territory for glorious rebirth and renewal. Things should pump along quite nicely, if you can just be your natural self, until late July, which marks a critical turning point in your personal year. At that point, pay careful attention to the domestic scene, attend to any squeaky wheels you have been trying to ignore, and be prepared to shift your agenda and focus. Your challenge: stay on-track and dig deeper than you typically would to suss out any underlying rot or leaking resources. Gifts will come your way in 2013, splitting the year into two six-month phases of fortune. The first half finds you getting useful information, so keep your ears open. The second half of 2013 could mean expansion of home, family, or just lots more fun spent with the ones you love.

Taurus- By tracking the progress of your guiding planet, Venus, you can plan to be the best you can be during mid-spring. Mid-spring is always your time, and especially so in 2013, when the Goddess of Love and Pleasure sashays through your home sign, Taurus. A glorious rendezvous with Jolly Jupiter during the last week in May suggests that you Bulls should plan ahead in order to be in position for “A+” experiences during that time. Finally, the year closes with Venus turning retrograde in Capricorn. If you always follow the rules and bow to tradition, especially during the winter holidays, this might be the year to break free while also expanding the possibilities of the seasonal opportunities on your own terms. Your challenge area, according to Saturn the Tester, lies in your closest relationships. It may take quite an effort to keep your friends and/or lovers from becoming enemies, at least occasionally, but you can deal with the worst as long as love is not entirely lost. Key themes in the relationship department: “boundaries” and “trust”. Gifts come via aforementioned Jupiter; take advantage of your enhanced capacity to generate more money during the first six months of 2013 and during the second half of the year, learn, listen and don't be afraid to talk and teach – communication will be the key to your success, halfway into 2014! (Read Libra's Guiding Light themes for additional predictions that apply to Taurus as well.)

Gemini- Mercury, your Guiding Light and the dispositor of your Sun, Herald, Merchant, Thief and Psycho-pomp, whizzes around too rapidly to single out one area of life for a given year, but there will always be a couple of highlights that involve Big Issues and Long-term Themes. Guidance, part 1: From the New Moon April 10^th through the New Moon on June 8^th you need to be above board, impeccably honest, and unerringly accurate in your business and relationship dealings. Tricks, short-cuts and sins-of-omission may be very costly. Upside: inspiration and dreams can be very helpful. Guidance, part 2: Make plans for Memorial Day weekend in late May, and the few days following. This is about maximizing your pleasure and/or making a proposal, presentation or public announcement for some project or relationship you want cosmic support for. The challenge that you need to deal with in order to succeed and prosper lies in any health concern or drudgy chore that you avoid, saying things like, “It feels like I'm going to die when I have to deal with that”. Whether it means a visit to the dentist, hours spent cleaning the garage, or “yuk!” - tidying up your files, there is a lot of blocked energy that needs to be freed up. Gifting you, more than any other sign for the first six months of 2013, is Generous Jupiter. Turn on the charm, and work on your self-image and presentation – the goal is to feel better on the inside, but a new pair of shoes never hurts. During the 2^nd half of 2013, affording those shoes should get easier if you take advantage of the“golden opportunities” showing up through the end of the year. (Read Virgo's Guiding Light theme for predictions that apply to Geminis as well.)

Cancer- Your Guiding Light, Cancer, is one of the two “luminaries” in our planetary pantheon. Luna, traveling precipitously compared to the grave and solemn pace of the outer planets, maintains one of two basic, bio-energetic rhythms in our existence, along with her astrological sibling, Sol. These “beats” reach poly-rhythmic crescendos 5 times this year at the eclipses in spring and fall. A very interesting one for you, Crab, comes at the Penumbral Lunar Eclipse on May 24^th - mainly due to the combination of idealistic and dreamy indicators at play. Questions to keep in mind in anticipation of this potent event: How can I ground my highest ideals and spiritual values more concretely in my daily life? In what ways am I exemplary at acting in a spirit of service or consecrating my behavior to a Higher Truth, but almost never, for whatever reason, speak aloud my true beliefs? Or, despite being philosophically clear, and offering meaningful, even “inspired” advice to help countless others, do I fall short in the little details of my own life? Engage these question, or ones like them, and you may reach an epiphany by mid-year, Cancer. The bugaboo challenge you have to face lies in A) the ways you fail to have fun, or B) the ways you take your relationship with your creative projects or children too seriously. In either case you need to lighten up. Jupiter offers varied gifts, split between the two halves of 2013. Jupiter supports the above-outlined inquiry into the intersection of belief and behavior until the end of June. At that point, Lucky You, Cancerian! Jupiter starts a majestic year-long stay in your sign. You will simply shine brighter, improve in all ways, and grow, grow, grow. Ahem, if you do indeed put thought and time into practicing your philosophy, then you will grow in many areas of your life, not just around your waist!

Leo- You are looking at a transformational week for Leo in the rear-view mirror as 2013 dawns. So, to follow your Guiding Light, first cast back – did you make any New Year's resolutions or come to any conclusions about yourself and your life since the winter solstice, 2012? There are going to be thresholds and gates as you cycle through this next year, embodied by the outer planets, Uranus and Pluto, as they make their mark on history, and your life. In case you did not resolve to clean up your life in some way, re-think that and pick one or two areas that really need some tidying up, and then proceed with the rest of this forecast. Done? Now set a time-table and some reality-check-points with me: During the week surrounding the Full Moon in late March yield to the urge to be seduced by something or someone so scintillating and exciting that it opens the possibility of liberating your mere lust into the realm of cosmically-ordained adoration, taking you to the outer limits of pleasure and passion – without necessarily literalizing the urge, unless you can proceed without lies, cheats, or self-betrayal. Sometimes your imagination is more than enough. Next stop, July 1^st ,(and the few days before and after) to check to see if your love-light is still shining. Are your professed spiritual or moral values showing up in your closest relationship(s)? If not, this is the week to do some shadow-boxing and see what is keeping you from experiencing the love you so dearly want and need. Final stop before the next cycle, October 1st, for a gut-and mind check. Start the autumn with some inner work, and get some some support while you are at it. Healing, and self-revelatory soul-searching are in order. Use the current status of your connections with significant others to help guide you to what needs care, cure and a medicinal approach. Challenging Saturn can potentially thwart the tremendous gains possible for you, so watch any tendency to dominate, control, emotionally bruise or neglect the people you call family – even ones from the past you no longer live with. Saving the day: friends and community-oriented social activities. Network your ass off, participate in your world, and congregate among those you share faith, ideas and ideals with. Just another year in the life of the Leo clan.

Virgo- Mercury, your Guiding Light and the dispositor of your Sun, Herald, Merchant, Thief and Psycho-pomp, whizzes around too rapidly to single out one area of life for a given year, but there will always be a couple of highlights that involve Big Issues and Long-term Themes. With the retrograde cycle of Mercury, your Guiding Light planet tends to spend significantly longer periods in one sign three times a year. Thus, you get to re-do, review and optimize in three distinct areas of life, Virgo. Here is a head's up regarding when and where to put extra focus and attention to make your life ever better and more wonderful. For February and March, you should relate to your business partners, bowling team, mate(s) and BFF's like they are the most cherished beings on the planet. In June and July expand the circle and show your allies, friends and associates some love. For example, send a courtesy “thank you” card to all your professional associations for their business, support, referrals and so forth. In October and November, lubricate your relationships with siblings and neighbors. Make an extra effort to let sisters and brothers know you care, and make a surprise gift of your pumpkin pie to a neighbor you usually just wave “hello” to. The Cosmic Stumbling Block for Virgos in 2013 has to do with your attitude. If you could put your daily waking orientation to life on a bumper sticker, would it be positive and inspiring like, “The solution to a problem changes the nature of the problem.” or cynical, “If you are feeling good, don't worry. You'll get over it.” Your daily life “slogans” color your experience of the world, and you are being challenged this year to take responsibility for your attitude and adjust accordingly. Gifts for you come through career gains, and by establishing yourself in the eyes of society and your professional peers. Even if “career” is not something you relate to, a “calling” of some sort, or fulfilling life path should open to you in the glory days of 2013. (Read the Guiding Light themes for Gemini, as they will apply to Virgos as well.)

Libra- Your Guiding Light planet, Venus, is at her dazzling best in three different signs, according to venerated astrological tradition. (See the Guiding Light portion for Taurus, since it will apply to you as well, Libra.) Venus is said to be “exalted” in the sign of the fishes, Pisces. Universalizing her love and radiating pure vibes of peace and goodness, Venus is in her most transcendent phase the last few days of February until the start of spring. These weeks are for opening the heart and nurturing your tender side, Libra. Avoid ugly scenes when possible, keep the news turned down, contemplate beauty, make art, and generally soothe your soul so that your capacity to love and create harmony will be flowing easily in the year ahead. When graceful Venus is in your sign each year you can be at your natural best, and this signifies a period where your refined social and relational skills are at their peak. This is also a typically good time to strategically negotiate and selectively charm your way into win-win situations, or the best deal in town. In 2013, the Golden Goddess shines in her rulership from mid-August to the 12^th of September. Your challenge this year is to maintain your self-esteem even with a tight budget, and speaking of budgets, you may need to keep better track of spending, avoiding lavish outlays of cash and purchases of unneeded luxury items. If you learn and expand your knowledge and know-how through June, you can effectively utilize your new information and updated skill-set to maximize your marketability and boost chances for promotions and recognition in your work and your social sector during the following six months.

Scorpio- Your Guiding Light planet, Scorpio, is the heaviest mover-and-shaker of the solar system. Although recently demoted to dwarf-planet status by astronomers, Pluto is still the most feared and dreaded influence in the pantheon. Pluto is in a complex and powerful multi-planet alignment with other potent “outer” planet players throughout 2013. Use your power gracefully and for the benefit of others, Scorpio, in order to channel your strength with minimal “blow-back”. Sometimes showing up, speaking your mind, or simply taking control of messy situations is a major challenge for Scorpios. If ever you were meant to show your true colors, dominate when it is called for, and wade in when other balk, this will be the time. Hounding you if you hesitate, Stern Saturn will give extra force to your inner “judge” who will criticize you harshly if you keep your light hidden under the proverbial bushel. Keep your self-talk positive and encouraging. Think about this old cliché, “To make an omelette, you have to break a few eggs.” Gifts come through legacies and others' losses. If you step bravely into the fray, hack through the denials and hidden agendas, your star will shine and you can display your truest gifts, some of which only appear in the midst of crisis, since, more than any other sign, you can be strong and fearless in the most critical and charged situations.

Sagittarius- It is said that Saggitarians are born under a “lucky star,” and while not technically true, with Good King Jupiter as your Guiding Light planet, you generally get the boost of the biggest benefactor in the heavens. If you can keep your friends and lovers on your side and basically happy with you, Sag, you may find that the goodies and gifts come your way from others near and dear to you this year. In the Challenge Dept., it may be you have no one but yourself to blame, Sag. Self-undermining behavior, semi-conscious reactivity, mis-application of your power, and picking exactly the wrong moment to put your hoof in your mouth can lead to self-undoing in 2013. One good thing about being your own worst enemy, you do not have to wonder who to blame. If difficulty arises from unexpected quarters, it may also be that some folks are simply working at cross-purposes with you, or that you have not been clear in communicating your intentions to all the parties involved. Make an effort to speak to those that need to know while also remembering that telling the truth does not mean blabbing all you know.

Capricorn- Striving for excellence is typical and admirable about you Capricorns. This year the challenge lies in choosing the excellent and most worthy among your friends and associates while also drawing clear boundaries and limiting unfortunate and wasteful interactions with those who drain your energy or put a strain on your peace of mind. Health and happiness are linked this year, Cap. Beware the tendency to overwork, a problem for some Seagoats, and make suitable and agreeable life-rhythms a priority. This literally means balancing work, sleep and play into an homeostatic equilibrium on a weekly basis for the duration of 2013. With appropriate attention to the details, and by delegating good support people to help keep tabs on the small, but important matters, this should be a year of establishing yourself and experiencing growth in areas near and dear to your heart. The second half of 2013 brings happiness in your intimate arenas and partnerships. Schedule ahead of time in your datebook periods from July through spring of next year so you can ensure occasions of joy-filled experiences with loved ones and/or business partners.

Aquarius- Lighting the way for you Aquarians, and all the rest of humanity, is lightning-rod Uranus, sparking with flashes of electric brilliance, instilling genius and originality into those able and willing to receive. You may be learning-as-you-go this year, Water-Bearer, but do not let that stop you from sharing your new-found knowledge as fast as you can fact-check. Disseminating ideas comes naturally for most Aquarians, but even for those who tend to be more introspective, this is the year to write to the editor, apply for a patent, start the treatise or magnum opus, pen your poems and otherwise print, fax and convey. You may need to temper your more outrageous tendencies to rise to the position of respectability you deserve, but this is more about your quirky personality traits than your unusual ideas or out-of-the-box solutions to tricky problems. Conformity is not your style, but transferring the energy you expend struggling with authority figures into showing what you are capable of can lead to advancement, improved reputation, and honors for the hard work you have been putting in already. Gifts are bestowed if and when you stop taking yourself so seriously and recognize the “Leela” or play in the nature of the cosmic game of life. Improved conditions at work and in your overall health and well-being manifest starting in July.

Pisces- Neptune, under the modern astrological rulerships, is the Guiding Planet for Pisces people. Throughout 2013, and for more than a decade more, Neptune will pass through Pisces star-space providing for a pure and essentially unadulterated influence from the God of Dreams and Transcendent Awareness. Your Guiding Planet, Pisces, asks you consider the difference between style and artifice in regards to your connections to others. Is it easier to “put on appearances” to get by? Do you find yourself playing the chameleon in daily situations, and does this allow the true, essential you to ever be really touched, known and appreciated? The challenge for 2013 that stands in the way of living more “as within, so without” comes in your reluctance to trust your own wisdom, education and life experience, giving away power to people who just have louder opinions. The gifts for you, Pisces, come in two stages, split between the 6-month halves of the year. January through June continues a theme of joy at home and happy times with family and roomies. Party on the patio! From July through December the pleasures come in creative endeavors, romance and playful involvements with friends or kids, or friends who can make each other feel like kids again.