December 2012 Sign-by-Sign Forecast

General Forecast:

Millennialism and Apocalypticism- Groovy tunes, people! We have arrived at the current millennialist's dream/nightmare, 12/20/12 - the Mayan End Times! Some people prefer 12/12/12, so please hedge your bets and be ready for the Ascension on Wednesday the twelfth of December, just in case. I am truly trying to keep my cynicism at bay, and it is hard. Confession: I do not “believe” in the Mayan Prophesy, however, I really appreciate the spin many spiritually and evolutionary-minded folks have attached to the occasion. Perhaps since Y2K was such a dud following the apocalypticism preceding it, and because radio host Harold Camping's May 21^st 2012 “Rapture and Judgment Day” passed and the so-called Christians are still among us, I am somewhat skeptical about the predictions concerning the completion of the Mayan Long Count.

New Cycle- Scholars of Mesoamerican studies have fragmentary evidence (almost all the findings are fragmentary) that indicate the start of a new Long Count cycle (the 14^th b'ak'tun) correlates to our Gregorian calendar date of December 21, 2012. Interpretations made by archeologists infer that ancient Mayans would not expect that the end of a Long Count indicates that the world is ending, but rather making it to the end is a reason for great celebration! I can dig that.

“Finger-of-God” Yod- I can get behind the prophesiers who preach for personal and collective awakening, attuning to cosmic and transcendent forces, and recognition of the divine spark in all beings. The astrological alignment coinciding with the ending/beginning of the Mayan Long Count this month is very interesting and provides a great set of symbols to project evolutionary idealism upon. So that is what I will do in the following forecasts. What is occurring astrologically can be seen in a horoscope map as a multi-planet configuration that makes a sharp, arrow-like, isosceles triangle if you draw lines connecting the glyphs on the chart. This particular shape is called a “yod”, “Finger of God” or “Finger of Fate”, and is one of many possible multi-planet configurations that astrologers use in their interpretations. Avoiding too many technical details, I will merely add that certain yods are special, because a “triggering” planet will bi-sect the base of the triangle, forming an opposing point 180 degrees (opposite) from the apex planet. This yod, with Venus at the activation point, is occurring December 20-22.

For a nice image of the yod scroll down the page to “December 21 2012 Astrology Chart” at http://darkstarastrology.com/december-21-2012/

Four Planets in Play- There are at least three planets required to make a normal yod; the Solstice yod of December 2012 also has a planet involved at an “activation point” - Venus. Jupiter is the apex planet, Pluto and Saturn are in each other's sign (mutual reception) and form the base of the yod, 60 degrees apart. Since this configuration is occurring during the much-anticipated end of the Mayan Calendar, it makes it synchronistically interesting. It is also interesting since these particular planets, minus Venus, have formed this pattern only once since the year 1600, in May of 1989.

Free associating on the four planets in play:

Jupiter in Gemini – words make waves; expansive, inspiring, optimistic, arrogant, judgmental and (self-)rightous orations;

freedom to question; political platitudes

Saturn in Scorpio – difficult decisions; death of ruler(s)/ruler(s) dealing death; relentless hold on power;

ruthless justice; fatal consequences; implacable will

Pluto in Capricorn – institutional corruption revealed; rule by the

rich; absolute domination; leveling/destroying hierarchies;

shadow government; destructive/constructive power

Venus in Sagittarius – nature's wild beauty; women judges, actors, politicians; harmonizing foreign interests; beautiful ideals; reconciling divergent beliefs; appreciating other cultures

There are many ways to see these planet/sign combos - the above list is merely for illustration and no way comprehensive or complete.

The trick is to see how these archtypes might interact and synergistic-ally combine in news stories, and in our own lives. If we are creative and bold, as we could choose to be, we can make of these what we will, and co-create with these cosmic forces onto our own life's canvass. If “ascension” is desired, why be passive? When we know the factors in the mix, from a strictly astrological point-of-view, we can invoke, entertain and risk participation rather than merely watching, waiting and hoping for something good to happen. The following forecasts are written in the spirit of Scoop Nisker's famous advice, “If you don't like the news, go out and make some of your own.”

Sign-by-Sign Forecasts: (If you know your Rising Sign/Ascendant read it as well)

Aries: It is not your imagination, your hair is on fire, Rammy! If you think you are thinking non-stop and that your brain is working overtime, the planetary players concur. Do not worry about short-circuiting. You might glow radioactively from your cranium and seem somewhat feverish as you gab a mile-a-minute; this too shall pass. Before it does, exercise your powers of positive thinking and work to mobilize your creative imagination. You can master manifestation, the healing power of prayer, and persuasive speech-making if you can focus long enough to develop, practice, and perfect your massively-boosted mental powers this month. Learn, listen, glean, grok, absorb and integrate from all the sources of wisdom at your disposal during December. The Solstice yod will give you a chance to prove to yourself that you do indeed have magical skills derived from your powers of imaging, concentration and holding clear intentions. Align your will with the Universal Will and “make it so”. For practical instructions, get some cd's on The Silva Method, or take the workshop.

Taurus: Theme for December, Taurus – first get in the mood by listening to the song, “A Little Help From My Friends”. Next, make a list of any offers and invitations you have been putting off until “later”. Finally, graciously accept those lunches, dinners and events, plus cash in any “rain-checks” you have been waiting to “spend”. You have several “yes's” to say, which may lead to “thank you very much” and a re-balancing of accounts, so to speak. Are you experiencing an energy-exchange deficit? Can't be sure? Ask your body if it is time to collect on pleasures, payments and other debts that are due you. If you get a wave of relief (or rush of bliss), then go ahead and take care of reciprocal completions. It may be a very good thing to bring 2012 to a climax with a clean slate in terms of what should be coming back to you. Use the Solstice yod to replenish yourself, as well as to maximize your happiness quotient by “cashing in” your overdue beneficial karma.

Gemini: Ah, you silver-tongued, perspicacious, weaver of wit and wisdom! If you need to get your way using your way with words, Gemini, the planets are aligned this month to lubricate your communications and attune all the right ears to your frequency. If you have important communications to attend to, or some writing, reporting or publicizing to do, December should be fruitful for you. You may need to adjust, refine and craft your ideas carefully, but the analysis and revising you do will be worth the effort. If you need to polish a manuscript, proofread a paper or rehearse a speech, take advantage of the cosmic indicators and attend to your tasks, especially if you are facing end-of-the year goals or deadlines. The Solstice yod suggests that your audience is eager to receive whatever you need or desire to send, type, text, message, announce, read, write or relay.

Cancer: Put your heart into your work and reap rewards from unexpected quarters, Cancer. This Solstice Yod signals a time of concentration and consecration related to your chores, tasks and disciplines. Do your duties with a smile. Treat your tools like they are treasures. Wash your face like you are making love to your skin. You may not receive direct or material compensation for your efforts, but the scriptures advise us to be unattached to the “fruits of our labors”. Do not be lazy, that would be wasteful and you will miss Fortuna's offerings – be playfully productive and you will conjure blessings from the Beyond. What form these blessings will take is a mystery.

Leo: Caught somewhere between the demands of your job and your struggles to maintain your home is your playful self, calling out for creative freedom, playmates, and opportunities to “be excellent” together. What good is it to have an ego if no one is around to appreciate the great person you have become? The holiday season in the U.S.A. finds many wishing – wishing they did not have to deal with so-and-so every year, or wishing for at least one beloved to spend the long nights with while everyone else is supposedly celebrating. The Solstice yod invites Leos to make room in their hearts for everyone, family, in-laws, friends of friends you might not like, workmates – hell, the whole human family! To activate December's gift for you, Lion, all month long ask everybody what they wish the New Year to bring. If you get asked back, say whatever is on your mind at the moment, it may surprise you how many varied, divergent and even contradictory wishes you have in your sub-conscious!

Virgo: The prime polarity for Virgos stretches from the foundation to the pinnacle, the root matters of your home, family and private life to the most public and externally-oriented endeavors you are involved in. Use this month's astrological influences to funnel resources from either arena to benefit and fulfill the other. Money, recognition and success in your career, for instance, wants to translate directly into improvements in your home and/or enriched experiences with your family or roommates. Nurturing support and the comforts of home enable you bring your best self out into the world beyond your neighborhood. Like a fountain, pour out your gifts generously to your community by drawing upon the pool of simple pleasures and joys had at home.

Libra: Time to think, time to read, write, correspond and catch up on all the communications with the connections you have far and near. December is the time to ponder the meaning of life, get perspective, wonder those big wonders and ask the questions that bring you back in touch with meaning, purpose and the sense that life is a great game, or adventure. Benefits blow your way if you open the windows of your awareness, Libra, and let some foreign, exotic breezes freshen up your attitudes, beliefs and stagnant state-of-mind. The goodness will come, if you allow your natural curiosity to open new horizons and take you beyond what you “know” into new understandings about yourself, your world, life, and why you are here. Stumped about what to ask to spur you on your way to expanded consciousness? Go to http://www.tabletopics.com/tabletopicscubes and find an assortment of editions. Clue for you - this is not a task to be taken on alone.

Scorpio: Tense, Scorpio? Is it hard to relax, let go and let down your guard? Giving in and giving up may be tricky for fixed-water types. Water flows, foams, steams and falls freely from the sky, unless it is frozen. Then we have ice. Are you a little ice-like lately, Scorp? In order to receive, you need to relax, open and yes, even surrender. Last month's eclipses should have softened you up some, revealing when and how you harden your heart to others, or contract to protect yourself. Set the intention to open yourself to the goodness and bounty others are very eager to share with you. Get touch, practice deep breathing, exercise - then nap. Ask for support in order to soften, let someone else guard the gates for awhile, ask for some help with the heavy load. Embrace abundance flowing your way to allow the current of living energy to circulate the way it should - let it in, because accepting what you deserve keeps us all in the flow.

Sagittarius: The Solstice yod is a peak moment in the give-and-take, see-saw journey you are on this month, Sag. Your giving nature will come in handy, especially since the good you do for others will come back to you in many wonderful ways. It is a two-way street. It is even o.k. to realize that you are sewing seeds for your own prosperity and happiness while you are ably assisting others. Cheer for others' successes. Make connections and network to benefit your chums. Take time to be supportive and generally helpful. You might even tap into some vibrant, spiritual energies and awaken to lofty philosophical realizations about the nature of existence on this planet, and discover your own answer to the question “Whom (or what) do you serve?” Homework: Listen to the original, or one of the many covers of Bob Dylan's “You Gotta Serve Somebody”.

Capricorn: Optimization and efficient utilization are typical terms we associate with your tribe, Cappy. What about the terms waste, degradation and failure? Those yukky words, by virtue of their polarity, are linked to you also, and may in fact, be “by-products” of success. Question your approach, inspect your methods and especially search for any “sad, but necessary” consequences of your efforts and striving, Capricorn. From the most minute and personal to the grandest and most visible, your behavior and actions are making waves, having effects, and sowing the seeds of future and tangential consequences. This month's Solstice yod, as the Sun moves into your sign, puts you on notice that anything willfully ignored or shoved into the shadow pit of denial will sooner than later thwart, undermine or kill your best-laid plans. Shoot for integrity, first within yourself and then in relationship with the world. Be as clear and clean as possible, because you are on the threshold of having your way, making great gains, and moving into the winner's circle. The rewards you reap will reflect the total sum of your causes and effects. May you be satisfied with the results.

Aquarius: Time to tune up your relationship with your inner child, Aquarius. Sometimes Aquarians bear labels like “odd duck,” “stranger,” “exile” or “lost soul”. That can hurt and, if borne long enough, mark a personality and instill a seemingly permanent sense of longing for brother-or-sisterhood, family, contact and connection. The eternal innocent within you, that appreciative, eager and ever-available part of yourself may need some coaxing, care and reassurance if you have not been friendly to it for awhile (or ever). If the inner child is afraid or sullen, and you need help with the relationship, check out the Hawaiian system of Ho'oponopono. December is for making time to play, indulging your silly and regressive side, having some fun, and seeing if you can fully reclaim the sense of wonder and wide-eyed hopefulness you are so famous for.

Pisces: Stand tall and proud, Pisces. This is not the month to wither on the vine or play wall-flower. Whatever you have been striving for will be ripening in the next few weeks. The Solstice yod suggests that you could choose to cocoon in your nest, pulling away from external demands, retiring to the comforts of home instead of engaging with people and pet projects. I say thee nay! Take some rest, yes, and revel in the nourishment of close friends, family and the warmth of your cozy den. Be not lured and seduced into Van Winkle's slumber, though. You would miss a major crescendo in your soulful symphony. This 'movement' is related to recognition, manifestation, and claiming your place in the world. It might take some extra effort and determination while the nights are longest (in the northern hemisphere), but the planets are aligned to put a spotlight on the star you are. For energy and inspiration listen to “Top Of The World” by Van Halen.

November 2012 Sign-by-Sign Forecast

General Influences: Sex, lies and revelations accompany Mercury's retrograde journey in Sagittarius and Scorpio from November 6^th to the 26^th . If anyone asked, astrologers would suggest scheduling an election on a day when Mercury is not stationary in the sky, at it's most tricksy and befuddling. Remember hanging chads, recounts, and the selection of the President by a politically-biased Supreme Court in the stolen election of 2000? That was the last time the United States had a General Election when the Messenger God was standing still in the sky. Concerns and accusations about the ballot process have abounded since then; even now a petition is circulating calling for Justice Department action due to the fact that candidate Mitt Romney's son, Tagg, is a major investor in a company that manufactures voting machines used in swing state Ohio. Suspicion, secrecy, manipulation and betrayal which rock our cherished beliefs– sure sounds like Sagittarius/Scorpio territory to me.

With Mercury joining Saturn in Scorpio, we can expect the investigative, relentless, and probing nature of the Scorpion to uncover nasty news, and for folks to start reacting in a gut-level, emotional way to the pain of what was previously suppressed or denied because the truth was too shameful, horrifying and ugly. For instance, there is a film currently in production, “September Morn”, which will explore the complicity of the George W. Bush administration with the hijacking, destruction and deaths that occurred on September 11, 2001.

The truth, in whatever arena, situation, and relationship, even though upsetting, needs to come to light for any rectification, healing and justice to occur, whether on a personal, national or planetary level. Purging the toxicity of guilt, blame and shame leads to resolution, redemption and renewal. This is the gift of Scorpio, and this month, with Mercury and Saturn both doing their thing in this sign, expect the best with the worst. Deep healing and profound insights are not only possible, but very likely, if only we are willing to peer into the shadow.

Eclipse season: We are in “eclipse season” throughout November. For excellent eclipse interpretations and predictions go to Stephanie Austin's website www.EcoAstrology.com and subscribe to her forecasts. Well written and well-worth it!

Working with the Mercury retrograde cycle: Mercury's cyclic turnaround is meaningful, not just pesky. If we pay attention, Mercury “telegraphs” what would be useful to work on during the retrograde phase. If we give attention to something that deserves reappraisal, we can actually benefit from the tiny planet's reversal. Ponder and consider any ideas, aha's, messages received, omens or instructions that came into your awareness October 17 – 19. Since Mercury was in Scorpio at that time, the “message” could be about things you tend to avoid looking at, so dig deep to recall a significant theme brought to mind during that span of days, when the Winged Diety crossed over into the so-called “shadow zone” of retrograde territory.

Standard Mercury rap: When the Herald of the Gods seems to go backwards in the sky (retrograde motion), those affairs ruled by the Winged Diety can get tricky and confused. All communication, especially routine and business transactions, need to be checked for errors. Electrically-operated equipment (anything running on wires and batteries) purchased during retro-phase is often found faulty. Calls are missed, directions misinterpreted, and our cherished communication devices fail to function properly. Avoid downloading new software or starting any new projects or endeavors. Try to sign contracts or make new hires before or after the retrograde phase. Hermes (the Greek's name for Mercury) the thief, liar and joker is at his most tricksy in the few days around both stations (standstill), periods of apparent turnaround in the heavens.

Good to do during Mercury Retrograde time – anything you can affix “re-” in front of, for instance, re-thinking, re-doing, re-organizing, repairs, renegotiating, reveries, recuperation, relaxation rescheduling, reworking, renovation, etc. Read poetry, listen to music, take a different route, get out of your normal routine, shift your typical state of mind into an altered consciousness by napping, daydreaming, meditation, dancing, etc.

Forecasts for November 2012:

(read for your Rising Sign/Ascendant as well as your Sun Sign)

Aries: (Read “Working with the Mercury retrograde cycle” above to fully take advantage of the monthly forecast.) The far horizons beckon, Aries, with both your patron planet, Mars, and the Fleet One, Mercury, touring through your house of distant travels. Even if you do not venture far away this season, Rammy, it might give you something exciting to look forward to if you can plan a getaway to someplace, near or far, that is quite different from your current environs.

Taurus: (Read “Working with the Mercury retrograde cycle” above to fully take advantage of the monthly forecast.) Giving you heart and courage to delve deeply into your inner self, Mercury invites you to share fully and completely this month with your partner(s) and closest friends, “truthing to trust” to paraphrase the late Stan Dale.

Gemini: (Read “Working with the Mercury retrograde cycle” above to fully take advantage of the monthly forecast.) Getting good advice will help you deal with a sticky issue this month, Twinsy. Collaboration and co-operation, who knows better than you that two heads (or more) are better than one.

Cancer: (Read “Working with the Mercury retrograde cycle” above to fully take advantage of the monthly forecast.) It is all about taking care of business, dealing with the devilish details and staying current with your contacts, Crab. Do this diligently during the first two weeks of November, and you'll have things wrapped-up nicely to better frolic and relax during the holidays.

Leo: (Read “Working with the Mercury retrograde cycle” above to fully take advantage of the monthly forecast.) Lighten up and resurrect your inner child in time for the holiday season, Maned One. Your beloveds (and pets) will find you much more enjoyable if you leave your public persona at the door and just come in and play.

Virgo: (Read “Working with the Mercury retrograde cycle” above to fully take advantage of the monthly forecast.) Source your strength from home until mid-month, Virgo, then go ahead and throw yourself with verve and vigor into the holidaze craze! Stay fueled and rested and keep your cool while the busyness in the atmosphere stimulates you into hyperactivity.

Libra: (Read “Working with the Mercury retrograde cycle” above to fully take advantage of the monthly forecast.) Scrutinize any transactions; re-read numbers you give and receive on the phone; double-check dates, times and schedules; and generally be extra-specially mindful of info you exchange this month, Libra. Pay attention to sales and special offers for big savings and great deals for the next couple of months, particularly after Mercury goes direct on the 26^th of November.

Scorpio: (Read “Working with the Mercury retrograde cycle” above to fully take advantage of the monthly forecast.) No matter how much or how little you generally participate in the autumnal spend-gasm, Scorp, mind your budget this month. The second half of November and first third of December is a period where you should utilize time and energy doing for yourself at least as much as you do for others!

Sagittarius: (Read “Working with the Mercury retrograde cycle” above to fully take advantage of the monthly forecast.) Something about your way with people, Archy - the good,the bad, and the ugly, is up for examination and review during this Mercury retrograde cycle. Cultivate feedback from those around you and take what you receive to heart, even the hard-to-hear remarks. By growing more conscious of your effect on others you can refine your vaunted “people skills”.

Capricorn: (Read “Working with the Mercury retrograde cycle” above to fully take advantage of the monthly forecast.) Do you remember your dreams, Capricorn? Work on recalling at least one dream or dream fragment this month, and then record it on paper. Find a way to connect with your dream - read and re-read it, go to a dream analyst, join a dream group, draw a picture from it, or follow any directions and suggestions you glean from the dream. (Ignore the dream dictionaries!) It might not solve the world's problems or even help with your issues directly, but you will be tuning in to your personal link with Divine Wisdom while enhancing your symbolic literacy and precious intuition.

Aquarius: (Read “Working with the Mercury retrograde cycle” above to fully take advantage of the monthly forecast.) Notice your connections to people you call friends, your associates, and the groups you find yourself involved with. Now notice how powerful you feel, or the reverse, diminished, in the company you keep. Use this Mercury cycle to establish your place among those who build you up without any loss of your authentic individuality.

Pisces: (Read “Working with the Mercury retrograde cycle” above to fully take advantage of the monthly forecast.) Learning on the job? Mastering new skills? Assuming authority in a suit you don't quite fit yet? Presenting in front of a new and unknown audience? Flying by the seat of the proverbial pants? Pisces, do not fret, this Mercury retrograde cycle is timed perfectly for you to do your behind-the-scenes research while holding the reins of power, and simultaneously steering your personal ship of destiny with navigational maps in the other hand.

Selected Heavenly Activity

Pacific Daylight

11/3 10:24am Venus square Pluto

Pacific Standard

11/6 2:57pm Mercury station retrograde

11/8 11:26pm Venus trine Jupiter

11/10 6:48pm Neptune station direct

11/13 2:09pm Scorpio New Moon Solar Eclipse

11/13 4:03pm Mercury square Neptune

11/14 11:00am Chiron station direct

11/16 3:15am Saturn trine Chiron

11/17 6:22am Mars sextile Neptune

11/17 7:47am Mercury conjunct Sun

11/21 11:12am Sun square Neptune

11/22 00:59am Venus trine Neptune

11/23 2:05am Mars square Uranus

11/23 9:28am Mars sextile Chiron

11/24 2:52pm Mars sextile Saturn

11/25 7:10pm Venus trine Chiron

11/26 6:15am Sun trine Uranus

11/26 1:45pm Sun square Chiron

11/26 2:46pm Mercury station direct

11/26 5:20pm Venus conjunct Saturn

11/27 12:12pm Mars conjunct Pluto

11/28 6:46am Gemini Full Moon Lunar Eclipse

11/28 7:59am Venus sextile Pluto

11/29 2:33pm Venus sextile Mars

October 2012 Sign-by-Sign Forecast

General Influences

Saturn prefers consistency, so I will consistently harp on the shift of Saturn into Scorpio in the following forecasts. Saturn departs Libra and ingresses into Scorpio on October 5^th for the duration of almost three years. A Full Moon with extreme indicators occurred the 29^th of September, so we are all rocking and rolling with the punches the first couple weeks of October. A much more peaceful-appearing New Moon in Libra illuminates the night sky on the 14^th/15^th of October, then the Full Moon in Taurus on the 29^th will help keep the little goblins and witches visible on the streets on Hallowe'en.

Aries: The New Moon on the 15^th shines a gentle, Libran light on relationships for the Ram Clan, only to catch up with stubborn Saturn in Scorpio fourteen hours later. What starts out as a mid-month breather and rewarding respite could develop into a brouhaha

of ardent, determined passion, or a rigid stand-off of chilly rejection. This middle-of-the-month fandango will illuminate, for the alert Aries, the major lessons in Saturn curriculum over the next 36 months. Saturn's agenda is not punitive, just firm and insistent: stay in integrity, keep your nose clean, neither lend nor borrow, keep your own counsel if necessary, your word is your bond. The path to deep trust is tricky, neither quick nor simple, however that's the road for you Rams, so start this journey off happily, by learning to know and trust yourSelf.

Taurus: Say “good-bye” to Saturn as it leaves your solar sixth house and “hello” to the Ringed Planet as it enters your seventh house of close friends, teammates, lovers and enemies. Say “Thanks very much” to the Stern Critic for two-years' worth of tough lessons about efficiency, scheduling and discipline. Pray “Be gentle, please” as the Lord of Karma imports his portable school of hard knocks and its strict curriculum into your relationship arena. Meanwhile, ravishing Venus slips into your play house for those certain modes of recreation you Taureans dearly love. This month, despite it all, Bulls just want to have fun.

Gemini: The good news first, Gem, is that you can enjoy your home and/or family, getting all the pleasure and comfort you need without having to wander, or spend money to smile. Now, for the less uplifting bulletin – Saturn will be assisting you, for the next three years, in its no-nonsense way, coaching, directing and perhaps coercing you to be more efficient, attend to your hygiene, make it on time, and stay in good graces with your co-workers, employees and pets. Think of this as a preparation phase, laying the proverbial groundwork for big things yet to come.

Cancer: Lunations may affect you most of all Moon Child, and the Full Moon on the 29^th of September was a doozy, involving the major planetary theme of the decade, the Uranus/Pluto square. When stodgy Saturn shifts to Scorpio on the 5^th of October, you might find yourself breathing a sigh of relief. The compulsory house-cleaning (on both literal and metaphorical levels) that you have been engaged in is essentially over. Time to look at what is left of your family, furnishings and household, then notice if and how stable and grounded you feel on your foundations now. Suggestion: build an altar to your ancestors, living and dead, known and unknown, and offer gratitude for what you are standing upon in terms of your life's roots and thus prepare yourself for the task of taking your creativity seriously for the next three years or so. Not talking just art, here – we all have creative life force at our disposal and now the planet of Karma will coach you on how to utilize yours!

Leo: Without taking anything for granted, Pussycat, you can plan on giving lots of attention to whomever is signed on as “family” and whatever serves as “home” over the next few years. The parental units, the entire ancestral bloodline, and the legacy of inherited traits and traditions stand to be scrutinized with the heavy hand of Saturn in Scorpio. This is not a bad thing, in fact, it will serve you well to be able to stand on your own while discriminating what from your past is serving you, and what are habits and patterns of behavior that actually undermine your security and well-being. Saturn in Scorpio plays the role of Gardener examining the roots to make sure the “plant” is getting all the nourishment it needs, while clearing away the rot and tangles that impede growth. This phase leads to a deeper sense of who you are, Leo, and a more secure and solid sense of belonging.

Virgo: Crash-course in retrospective review coming up this month, Virgo. The Full Moon to New Moon waning phase through the 14^th is for taking stock of your assets, accounting for how organized you have become related to your finances, and measuring your degree of personal satisfaction by whatever scale you choose. Then, give thanks to Saturn the Disciplinarian for helping you get it together in those crucial areas of life. The New Moon at mid-month finds you signed up in a new course of study: attitude adjustment. It is a three-year seminar, hosted by Saturn the Judge. To get started, notice what you say and how you say it, then ask - does this thought and/or the way it is stated serve me? Eventually, you will be able to boil down your basic attitudes about “life and everything” into bumper-sticker-sized phrases. Once you do, you can decide if you would really want them on your car and in your mind, filtering your reality. With Saturn tutoring you, even useless and self-defeating attitudes can be discharged, and replaced by helpful and supportive ones, thereby improving your existence and experience of life.

Libra: Looking ahead into October, Libra, make some time on the 8^th, 9^th and 10^th to have a jolly good time and open the doors to abundance, prosperity and positive vibes. Even though these opportune days fall in the middle of the work week, the Universe is going to meet you more than half-way and generously reward any attempt on your part to improve your joy & satisfaction quotient. Best bets: trips to the museum, art exhibits, travel (or just reading about distant lands in books or mags), lectures, classes, group adventures and religious gatherings. As for Saturn's shift into your sector of talents and finances, expect to be grounded in your gifts and have your monetary affairs consolidated and stabilized by autumn of 2015.

Scorpio: If you have had any difficulty lately, concretizing your dreams, manifesting your wishes, and bringing your projects and plans into the light of day, Scorpio, the ingress of Saturn into your own sign this month signals a major change in your relationship with the outer world. This is like a slow-motion downshift into a lower gear, allowing you to gain traction in situations where you have been putting lots of thought (and maybe anxiety). This will proceed at its own deliberate pace; the New Moon on the 15^th (USA time) calls you into reflection mode. For best results, be clear and methodical as you take steps to bring your “castles in the clouds” down to Earth.

Sagittarius: Let's set up an analogy that applies to the shift of Saturn for Sagnefarians. Like a woman who desires to have a child, once the dream is fulfilled and she learns she is pregnant, a whole set of interesting issues and typical (I am generalizing for the sake of analogy) reactions come up. In the Archer's case, the Saturnian gestation period is approximately three years instead of nine-plus months. What you have been wishing and aspiring for is triggered for labor and delivery sometime in “the future”, the timing dictated by The Great Mystery. How do you cope with the anxious expectations, the known and unknowable factors, the impending impact upon your life and relationships? Hint: the birthing being is going to look a lot like what you see in the mirror, only wiser and more capable than ever.



Capricorn: If you have been working hard to build, sustain, erect and manage, then some significant feedback will be coming your way, starting this month, Cappy. What has impressed others will become known to you, as a function of what you are did and have appeared to represent now that your momentum-generating phase is coming to completion. The world will either embrace, reject, or send you back to the drawing board based upon what you have to offer, both in terms of your projected identity and your products and offerings to the world and its denizens. Thus starts a crucial and potentially very, very rewarding integration phase. The next three years find you flexing your power in actual relationships and situations that have the potential to support you in achieving a personal, lifetime pinnacle.



Aquarius: Saturn steps up to the zenith of your solar chart, Water Bearer, symbolizing the call to action. The outer world induces you to show up and do your thing, with a Scorpionic twist. A force behind the throne? A mandate to remove and eliminate? Talking truth to power? Using hidden resources to influence and dominate? Revealing inner strengths previously kept private? Subtle maneuvering that leads to strategic victory? Establishing deep and solid foundations while breaking up corrupt and decaying structures? Transforming through reduction, shrinkage and minimization? The time has truly come to walk thy talk. Your efforts may never garnish headlines, but one or more of the themes listed above, or symbolically similar ones, will play out in the microcosm of your life, like a mirror of the cosmic macrocosm - “As above, so below”.



Pisces: We're talking home improvement, more love in your life, action in the career arena, lots to look forward to this month, Fishy. And here comes stately Saturn, adding focus to any matters that involve philosophical speculation. Why not write out your personal tenets on the best way to live life? Are you equipped with a cohesive, working cosmology? What is your relationship to the Great Is? Father Time says it is your turn to think through your belief system and re-examine your world-view. When was the last time you brought your Big Ideas up to date? Are your beliefs and “-isms” current with the more worldly, wiser you? Start a journal practice you can continue over the next three years with a title something like, “What I Believe To Be True And Why”.

Selected Heavenly Activity

All Times Pacific Daylight

10/2 5:06pm Venus sextile Saturn

10/3 3:27pm Venus opposite Neptune

10/4 5:38am Jupiter stations retrograde

10/5 2:44am Mercury conjunct Saturn

10/5 3:06pm Mercury trine Neptune

10/7 7:11pm Mars square Neptune

10/8 10:53pm Sun trine Jupiter

10/8 11:48pm Mercury trine Chiron

10/9 1:02am Venus trine Pluto

10/10 00:29am Mercury sextile Pluto

10/10 7:37pm Saturn trine Neptune

10/14 11:46am Mars square Chiron

10/15 3:33am Mars trine Uranus

10/16 5:31am Mercury sextile Venus

10/16 4:35pm Venus square Jupiter

10/23 4:15am Sun trine Neptune

10/25 1:33am Sun conjunct Saturn

10/25 10:10am Mercury sextile Venus

10/27 8:49pm Sun trine Chiron

10/28 5:55am Mars opposite Jupiter

10/29 10:40am Mercury square Neptune

10/30 3:26am Sun sextile Pluto

September 2012 Sign-by-Sign Forecast

September 2012 Sign-by-Sign Forecast

General Influences:

Virgo New Moon September 15 7:11 pm PDT

Aries Full Moon September 29 8:20 pm PDT

Another exact contact by square aspect between radicalizing Uranus and uprooting Pluto occurs mid-month, so be prepared to feel unprepared for whatever comes along. With that in mind, I will tell you that my friend and associate, Darlene, took me to see “Beasts of the Southern Wild”. That film strikes me as a strong allegory for what is up with our culture, on several levels. Check it out, and catch it in theaters while you still can. Darlene's brilliant take on it prompts me to wonder if you can project the young protagonist as a symbol for the re-emerging feminine, being given all that the masculine, dominant authority figures have to offer, representing the dominant paradigm in its stance vis-a-vis Nature and the world? It may not be what the filmmakers intended, but it works for me.

The fall equinox arrives on September 22^nd this year, at 8:25 am PDT.

Remember to read for your Ascendent/Rising Sign, too. (If you do not know it, contact your friendly neighborhood astrologer to find out.)

Aries- You must have passed the tests and trials laid out by Saturn last month, Ram-rod, or you would not be reading this now. Traditional astrologers believed Mars, your patron planet, to feel extra-strong, yet stable in Scorpio. I am in agreement with the those long-gone star-gazers – Aries Sun-sign and Rising Sign people will be both powerful and balanced during this phase, all the way through the first week of October! Your efforts will succeed though a more nuanced and subtle application of your strength and prowess throughout this transition from summer to fall.

Taurus- Gain from play. Success through joyful self-expression. What pleases, pays. Need I say more? September is split down the middle by the lunations, the first two weeks it is about the power and dynamism of your various personae, the last half of the month you are working to make the most of opportunities you have been creating though your sustained and diligent efforts the past several months.

Gemini- There are a lot of good days in September for Gemini tribes-members, but the Sun really shines for you Twinkle-twins from the 9th through the 18th. If you are inclined (especially the magically-minded of you), you can remove mucho garbage, (on all levels) before the 15^th, and start growing something groovy after. So, what makes your garden grow, Gem? Well, think compost and fertilizer from the detritus you eliminate, then fruit and flowers will soon follow. Homework: Read or re-view The Way of the Wizard by Deepak Chopra.

Cancer- Thoughtful Crabs are getting the best out of the transits this month. Deep, penetrating insights and startling realizations through thorough research with concentrated, focused attention on one hand, and wild, possibly brilliant and original ideas arriving like lightning via daydreams, night-dreams or while simply out strolling on the other. Magnetize resources and work on unfinished business up to the New Moon on the 15^th; be bold with new agendas down the stretch to September's end.

Leo- Venus ingresses or “moves in” to your very own sign on September 6^th (PDT), Golden Mane. If you can keep from overspending and blowing your entire wad of play-money, you might have enough pocket change to have a few good weeks of maximum pleasure. Stick with the notion of keeping the happy vibes going, rather than a huge, brief rush of ecstasy, and you might be able to ride the happy waves all month long.

Virgo- Are you making love, or war, Virgo? Maybe one should not set things up in such stark, oppositional polarities, which can suggest a black-and-white, overly simplistic view of things, however, the Full Moon on the final day of August propels you Virgins head-on into a collision course with enemies and/or lovers. Or perhaps with enemies who were lovers, or lovers who used to be friends but now are...anyway, it is all about facing off, getting clear, merging or purging. Suffice to say, after September, it may never be the same as it was with some people.

Libra- Two disparate symbols to consider, Libra. Venus, your guiding archetype, after a soulful and sensitizing sojourn in Cancer, will get all hot and bothered while in Leo's domain starting on September 6^th (in the Americas). Check out the Lion's 'scope to get a sense of the possibilities. To balance out this glorious development, Scale-y, look to Scorpio's forecast and think hind-sightfully. During these last few weeks of September, reflect upon how much you have learned and experienced in Saturn's school of hard knocks since Hallowe'en eve of '09. Incubate wisdom by reflection to help get the most of this significant cycle, nearly finished.

Scorpio- A time of reckoning approaches, Scorp. Solemn Saturn ingresses into your sign in early October, sticking around for almost three years, give-or-take a few months spent bedeviling the Sagnefarians. You can already feel it can't you, the gathering forces that are calling you out to your full capacity for decisiveness, authority, and self-reliance? For now, be poised to take action on behalf of your core values and in service to children, prime the pump of your own creative juices, give yourself permission to defend others' rights to make their own choices, even if you disagree. This September is the month to link up with your allies and speak aloud your hopes, dreams and intentions, and ask of them theirs, so you can all pull together in the coming months.

Sagittarius- With your governing planet, Jupiter, slowing down for its retrograde phase, it is time for the Archers of the world to pare down, prioritize and concentrate efforts on a few pet projects and people. Otherwise, you may soon feel the shadow sides of the biggest planet – overspending, over-extension, over-commitment, over-load, overeating, etc. You get the picture, Sag? If you put “over-” in front of most good things, they aren't so good anymore.

Capricorn- September is the last full month that Saturn, your patron planet, travels though Libra, sign of justice, peace, partners, and plain ol' good manners. Tradition avows that Saturn is at its best in Libra, “exalted” as they say. Keep your public presentation positive and remember, that for only five weeks more will it seem like the spotlight never leaves you. Until then, you are your very own 24/7 reality show. Homework: watch or re-watch “The Truman Show”.

Aquarius- The Full Moon at the end of August portends needful adjustments and possibly re-calculations, Aquarius, due to powerful influences that come from areas in your life, that while not necessarily unexpected, carry a certain gravity and emotional impact. The waxing square Moon on Friday/Saturday the 7^th & 8^th of September mark a turning point toward the positive, blessed relief, good news, and fun times for the Water Bearer.

Pisces- The month of September continues the theme of companionship for Fishes. Be not the wilting wall-flower, Pisces. If the invitation you are pining for is not forthcoming by the 15^th, use the boost provided by the New Moon in Virgo to reach out and make connections of your own volition. Not all encounters this month are guaranteed fruitful, but sometimes we do better with, than without, a part of, rather than apart. This is one of those months.

Selected Heavenly Activity

All times Pacific Daylight

9/3 00:44am Venus square Saturn

9/3 4:00am Mars sextile Pluto

9/4 9:45am Mercury trine Pluto

9/6 7:48am Venus enters Leo

9/7 3:15am Sun square Jupiter

9/8 5:14pm Mercury square Jupiter

9/10 5:44am Mercury conjunct Sun (superior conjunction)

9/12 9:45pm Venus trine Uranus

9/16 4:22pm Mercury enters Libra

9/17 4:48pm Pluto SD (stations direct)

9/19 00:30am Uranus square Pluto

9/20 3:23pm Mercury opposition Uranus

9/20 4:19pm Mercury square Pluto

9/22 8:25am Sun enters Libra (autumnal equinox)

9/26 7:09am Mercury trine Jupiter

9/27 1:49am Venus square Mars

9/29 00:15am Sun opposition Uranus

9/29 10:51am Sun square Pluto

August 2012 Sign-by-Sign Horoscopes by Paul Bogle

General Themes for August- Mercury continues its backwards ways until 10:40 pm on August 7<sup>th PDT, so hold off on signing contracts or finalizing big sales until Mercury is in direct motion again, according to your time zone – give or take a few hours from Pacific Time. Many astrologers, including yours truly, think that planets at their station are also at their most powerful. I count the days until Mercury is at least a degree beyond the stationary point before I feel 'safe' regarding matters governed by the Messenger planet. So, keep your eyes on the road and double-check any messages, amounts and addresses until at least the 10th of August.

August begins with a Full Moon in Aquarius, signaling a time of year to love your neighbor and celebrate the peak of summer with friends and community. The New Moon arrives mid-month, on the 17th across the Americas. This New Moon, in Leo, spotlights both Mars and Saturn, traveling companions for a few weeks in Libra. This is a combination that favors sustained, creative output. Any projects, especially fun ones that you hope will have lasting value and that you plan to keep working steadily on, should be started now, with the cosmic winds at your back.
Aries- The August lunations light up the fun, friendship and romance sectors of your Solar Chart this month. The challenge for Rams lies in getting along well enough with everybody to spend quality time together. Sometimes it is better to go it alone, or be willing to be lonely rather than embroiled in conflict. The recipe for August should: A) Fun 'n frolic by yourself or with strangers/fresh prospects. B) Keep to serious matters and work on being productive in joint projects with close buddies and partners, while maintaining as much independence in these endeavors as possible. Saturn and Mars are thwarting intimacy and easy-going jollies with loved ones, so the best way to 'make lemons into lemonade' will be to work together first to satisfy the Taskmaster (Saturn) and his enforcer (Mars) and the subsequent "pleasures shared" should come without trouble or rancor.

Taurus- Earthy themes for an earthy sign this month, Taurus. Without getting too technical, let's say the material aspects of life are in the spotlight, especially the first two weeks of August. There are three things to work on and weave into an cohesive pattern. If you can put your gifts and skills to good use, stay organized and productive while keeping your priorities straight, then you may find yourself shining like the star you are in the upcoming months, Bull-babe.

Gemini- Everybody loves you still, and now you can look forward to your sparky, magnetic attraction drawing in money along with all the groovy attention you have been getting, lately. Already assigned the "gift of gab" label, whether the greeting card descriptions are accurate for all Geminis or not, this month is likely to provide multiple opportunities to listen, learn, interview, reply, edit, and just plain talk. A key bit of information and/or a well-timed conversation with neighbors, siblings, or passers-by could be a magic "tip" that leads to riches and rewards.

Cancer- Starting the second week of August, the goddess of Love and Beauty, Venus, slinks into your personality house until the second week of September. This means that you can take advantage of the fact that you look cuter, smile sweeter, sound silkier and seem sexier, Crabby. With all this charm and charisma oozing out your aura, make the most of the situation and reach out and touch someone(s). Venus helps with love and enhancing attraction, but that is not all. Friendships flourish and money-matters benefit as well. The over-all pleasure principle applies here... cool breezes on hot days, a tasty treat, or a gentle touch on exposed skin make life a little more liveable, so live it up a little more this next month, Cancer.

Leo- Homework for Leo this birthday cycle – and happy, happy birthday to all the radiant Lions out there – listen to "My, My, Hey, Hey" by Neil Young. And ask yourself, "Is it better to burn out, than to fade away?" If you are not sure of the answer, listen to Neil Young's "Hey, Hey, My, My." As the jester whispered to the king riding in his carriage, soaking up the praise from his adoring subjects, "...and some day, you too shall perish." Take heart, Big Kitty, the more you are willing to see your life as a streaking comet instead of an eternal flame, the more equipped you are to fashion a brilliant display and give your absolute all. Why hold back? This is a month to get intimate with the eternal flame of Self, so that you can play your personal roles to the hilt, giving the tastiest performances and emptying yourself on life's stage - just to be filled back up with the rich, juicy, ambrosia of the essence of the Divine. Rock on.

Virgo- Ahh, supposedly meek, mild, virginal and virtuous Virgo, how to say what I have to say...When the wind blows at your back, when the omens indicate Fortuna smiles upon you, when the cards are stacked in your favor, press your advantage! If you can keep from shadow boxing with yourself or fretting your favorite worry, you may actually expand your magical power of finding God in small things to encompass enough of the Big Picture to place yourself into a winning situation. People, positions, placements and opportunities are out there. Are your horizons broad enough to scope out the possibilities? Don't fret the pressure, you have almost exactly one year to feast on the blessings available, just do not procrastinate forever, or you might waste what the Universe is offering.

Libra- A friend of mine with an inexhaustible supply of apt images, Cassandra English, came up with an analogy for Saturn interacting with Mars: Saturn is the horse-trainer and Mars is the wild stallion. Find a way to tame your dynamic, untamed creativity without breaking the spirit of your primal, instinctive nature, Libra. This month, the Luminaries shine in your inner child's playhouse, and illuminate your friendships and alliances. Your best playmates this month help you out of your strait-laces and into situations where you let your hair down and allow the fur to fly. Libra's libido and creative life-force needs to be unbridled for a bit so your vitality is available to meet a challenge, master a task, surmount a hurdle, or take on a juicy new project. You can harness (Saturn) your horse-power (Mars) for the long-run, and measure (Saturn) out the energy (Mars) towards the ultimate goal, but first you have to wake the pony up!

Scorpio- Wow! Are you feeling yanked in several directions simultaneously, Scorpion? Is your current life like a never-ending game of 52-card pick-up? Is your schedule a cut-and-paste tapestry of tatters? Do you wake up wondering what day it is, what month it is, what life it is? If anyone could relate to this next message, it would be you Arachnid, a delver into the deeps if there ever was one. If you let yourself be caught up on the surface swells you will be fighting fruitlessly against the choppy and chaotic waves of each day. Find a deeper channel, a submerged current that moves with a steady and powerful flow. Meaning and purpose is located there, and mystery, too. There is an open connection with the Source/Force of Being that can be tapped into. This is not to suggest you try to drop anchor and hold fixed in resistance. That would be a mistake. Instead, keep sounding the depths to stay on soul's course and recognize the distractions for what they are. Helpful read: The Odyssey by Homer.

Sagittarius- Travel for Archers is not favored until after Mercury's wobble period is finished around the 11th of the month; however, once the God of travel and transactions has settled down, the rest of August calls the restless soul to journeys either literal, or simply flights of fancy. If not over actual territory, the mind may need to venture to faraway places. Books, travel shows, classes, lectures, visits to the observatory or meditative soul-seeking, these are things that keep home-bound Sagnefarians satisfied when the opportunity to sail, ride or fly is not available.

Capricorn- Exchange value, worth, market potential, getting and giving, earnings and trade. Maybe you are business-oriented and production-minded this month, Cappy, maybe not. How might those terms and concepts also apply to personal matters? In the mirror of oneself only, it might be that deeper feelings of self-worth and self-love ought to be explored. When it comes to relating, the subtle dynamics of appreciation and reciprocation, offering and receiving will benefit from conscious attention, aided by the lunations in August. Are you getting what you want, and of equal and probably intertwined importance, are you giving what your 'other' desires? Time to work it out, even if the most important other is yourself.

Aquarius- With early August's blast of Full Moon in Leo power-surge to the heart and soul, Wunderkind, you are tasked with taking stock of your intentions and deciding where to put your attention and energy. This humble astrologer has some suggestions for you. Divide your focus into two different dimensions of your life. First, have some fun, joyous, liberating, exalted, heck – even excessive fun. Just designate a driver, alright? Second, put some serious thought into your Path, your life direction, and what to do when - in order to make tracks towards your personal Promised Land. Perhaps a vision quest or some sort of path-finding exploration is in order. Whether you commune with iguanas in the wilderness, or a life-coach in an office, or scorch your feet with Tony Robbins, find a way to Find Your Way and start trekking, souljer.

Pisces- The Universe seems to be requiring Pisces-people to take a course in self-reliance while devilishly putting a kink in their supply lines, making it harder to count on the kindness of others. With Mercury retrograde until mid-month, the happy place for Fishes looks a lot like home. While you are at it, the cleaning up you are doing should extend to your diet and overall lifestyle, Pisces. While relying upon your own resources is not necessarily a bad thing, when bankers won't make loans and even your roommate seems stingier than usual, it might be tempting to take it all personally. Think of it as a consolidation period. Do more with less and think of it as a game where the most frugal Fish wins. By the second week of August, your friends will start showing up again, asking if Pisces can come out to play.</sup>

Lavender Devas

 

Meet our Lavender Devas...

Coming soon, exclusively at The Mystic Dream.

Look for these plant spirits and more to soon compliment our selection of herbs. Each is hand-crafted from lavender clay to bring out the spirit of the herb.

Fall Advertisement for The Mystic Dream

Special Oil Number 20

Special Oil Number 20

Special Oil Number Twenty has been a favorite at The Mystic Dream for a while, 

now we make it available to you online.

Special Oil Number 20 is a traditional Conjure oil that is often used as an all-purpose dressing oil. If you are unsure which oil best suits your condition, then Special Oil Number 20 is designed for you.

It's scent is a delicious blends of High John, Patchouli, Vanilla, Palmarosa, Nutmeg and various other rich aromas.

Special Oil Number 20 also works well in an aromatherapy diffuser, making the atmosphere both relaxing and sensual.

 2 ounce bottle for $13

Special Oil Number 20

New Crystals

New crystals have arrived at The Mystic Dream. Amethyst flames, Labradorite hearts, Rose Quartz spheres, Boji stones, Moldavite and many more must have gems. Come by and enjoy the new energy they have brought to the store.

Reiki Share for JAPAN

Sat, May 7, 5pm – 7pm


The Mystic Dream: 1437 N Broadway, Walnut Creek, CA 94596 (925) 933-2342


Donations requested for Doctors Without Borders to assist with the relief efforts in Japan. Reiki is a traditional form of energy healing. Come and experience a mini-spiritual healing session with local Reiki practitioners, or come and practice your own Reiki skills. Network with others in the area in an environment that is fun, safe, and uplifting, or just come to watch and learn about this powerful healing modality. Chas Bogan is a Reiki Master/Teacher and one of the owners of The Mystic Dream. He has been practicing Reiki for over 10 years and offers Reiki sessions at the store on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays by appointment. For more information please call the shop at 925-933-2342.

Locally crafted Soy Candles and Gift Sets!

We are very pleased to be offering locally crafted Soy candles and gift sets in time for Easter and Mother's Day!

Each candle comes in its own glass container and is offered in a decorative sachet, making them perfect for gift giving. 

Lightly scented with essential oils, these candles burn up to 30% longer than other wax candles and contain no petroleum or animal products - an environmentally and humane choice. And they are beautiful! Choose from many pleasing scents and colors.

In addition, there are beautiful Gift Sets that contains candles, scented greeting cards, eye pillows, and more! Even potpourri! Come by and take a look while supplies last!

We Set Lights!

Setting Lights!

Setting lights for the needs of others is a time honored service provided by spiritual candle shops that involves the lighting of a candle that has been empowered with specific oils, herbs, powers and prayers, all of which are aligned towards manifesting your particular need.

We believe in the power of prayer, the reality of magic, and in the tradition of setting lights to express our needs and desires to the Divine. As ministers and rootworkers we will dress, bless, and light candles on your behalf. Although we cannot guarantee that your every wish will be answered, we are proud of the results we have seen in our spiritual practice and hope to repeat such results for you.

This Custom Service Costs Just
$20

We will create magical sigils designed from your name and need, draw them upon your candle, dress it with appropriate herbs and oils, charge it with energy and prayer, and light it on your behalf.

We will email you a brief follow-up report with a photo of your candle after its process is complete, providing insights as to how well your spell progressed based on how the candle burned.

To purchase this service, simply visit our webpage below...

Setting Lights!

Join the many satisfied clients from The Mystic Dream who have taken advantage of this service.