Hurdles?

Certain weeks have more than their share of planetary drama — and this is definitely one of them! As the Sun enters Gemini on May 20, begin to gather information that will help you make informed decisions. Just be aware that you’re doing so within a tumultuous environment, as rapid changes keep you on your toes once Uranus squares Pluto on May 20. Later in the week, on May 24, a lunar eclipse in Sagittarius helps you create a bigger and better vision for your life!

May 20: The Sun enters Gemini
Everybody’s trying to nail down correct information as the Sun begins its transit through Gemini, the sign of communication. Don’t allow this week’s full slate of distractions to steer you off-course! Instead, use Gemini’s natural friendliness to socialize with friends, meet people, and cultivate fresh interests. However, also pay attention to what people are saying and the information you’re receiving. In a particularly dramatic week like this, words carry a great deal of power.

May 20: Uranus squares Pluto
Rebellious Uranus and intense Pluto squared twice during 2012, and today brings the first of two squares in 2013. (The next square is set to occur in November.) The changes and disruptions in your life over the last year-and-a-half have brought endings as well as beginnings … but the road has been bumpy. This aspect represents a long-term trend of global, societal, and personal changes, and everything you can do to work with what’s happened — and what you’ve learned — will help you now. Don’t waste energy wishing your life could be the way it once was — if you do, you’ll miss all the wonderful experiences  ahead!

May 24: Lunar eclipse in Sagittarius
Nobody’s at a loss for words as a Venus-Mercury-Jupiter conjunction in Gemini accompanies this belief-driven lunar eclipse! However, finding accurate information right now is like trying to pick a needle out of a haystack. While some will feel optimistic that the truth will make itself known, Neptune’s square to the Sun and Moon shows a cloud of deception that casts a long shadow. Don’t become so emotional that you’re unable to use common sense to make important decisions. If you remain true to your ideals and values, this eclipse will help you create a better life for yourself!

Confusion…

Mercury and Venus both receive mixed messages this week from realistic Saturn and imaginative Neptune. Be aware that an open heart may not serve you well as Venus squares Neptune on May 13 and quincunxes Saturn on May 14. Once May 15 arrives, put yourself in research mode as Mercury enters Gemini. Finally, watch for confusion as Mercury squares Neptune and quincunxes Saturn on May 18!

May 13: Venus squares Neptune
May 14: Venus quincunxes Saturn
People may not be who they seem — or perhaps someone is behaving in an unexpected way — as love planet Venus receives crossed signals: Neptune causes relationship confusion while Saturn throws a curveball, both of which may give you a reality check about someone. Vet potential dates thoroughly and pay close attention so you don’t get blindsided by others who don’t have your best interests in mind. If you need a wake-up call about someone, you get it now!

May 15: Mercury enters Gemini
The communication planet in its own sign brings conversation, interesting ideas, and new interests, making this a wonderful time to socialize. Have you wanted to learn a new language, take up a hobby, or write a memoir? Now is the time! And if you’re making plans for your future, cast a wide net to gather as much information as possible as you enjoy this transit through its May 31 endpoint.

May 18: Mercury squares Neptune and quincunxes Saturn
Under this confusing double aspect, you’ll wonder who’s telling the truth! When Mercury, planet of communication, meets dreamy Neptune, your thinking is inspired, but impractical. This aspect is famous for misunderstandings, and Saturn’s job is to give you a reality check. If this serious planet can pierce the fog of dreamy Neptune, you’ll receive helpful information — so keep your ears and eyes open!

Action!

The week ahead brings a good deal of feisty energy, and you’ll need to keep your wits about you if you hope to negotiate such a heated environment! First, on May 7, Mercury conjuncts Mars — a duo known for being argumentative! These planets then proceed to conjunct the Taurus south node on May 9 and 12, respectively, when your past financial mistakes and triumphs all catch up with you! Love planet Venus enters curious Gemini on May 9, a transit that makes your relationships much more interesting! Just watch your spending as May 9 also brings a dramatic solar eclipse in Taurus!

May 7: Mercury conjuncts Mars
May 9: Mercury conjuncts the south node
May 12: Mars conjuncts the south node
Don’t go throwing good money after bad, and try to avoid arguments entirely as communicator Mercury and warrior Mars come together before each conjuncts the Taurus south node. Mars heats up any planet it contacts, and in this case, since Taurus rules finances, money issues and problems are likely to become a trigger for heated discussions. Taurus is loyal but also stubborn, so trying to get people to change their minds now is just about impossible. One of the best ways to work with these aspects is to address any past mistakes or missteps, while also creating a new financial plan to help you get ahead. There’s real potential here for coming up with a sensible, workable plan.

May 9: Venus enters Gemini
Each year, love planet Venus spends time in curious, talkative Gemini, giving you a chance to discover compelling information not only about matters of the heart, but about people you know … or would like to get to know. In most years, a stimulating conversation is beneficial to all relationships. This year, however, due to the current Mercury - Mars - south node conjunction, tread carefully when broaching certain topics. Just keep in mind that these are the sort of discussions you perhaps need to have to keep your relationships fresh. Whatever you do, get out of the house and do something different and fun to spice up your love life!

May 9: Solar eclipse in Taurus
A solar eclipse, which always occurs at a new Moon, marks an especially dramatic and important beginning. With the past highlighted since this particular eclipse occurs at the south node, anything that requires your attention will be extra-obvious — indeed, it’s time to take care of certain things in your life that require attention! Place special focus on your finances, for an eclipse in earthy Taurus, the sign that rules values and your material life, shows that it’s time to seriously consider how to go about building and maintaining a comfortable, secure life. Weigh the costs and benefits of your expenditures. Do you have enough money put away so you’re prepared for the unexpected? The solar eclipse is joined by an argumentative Mercury-Mars conjunction, so be sure to carefully weigh your words before you speak!

Steady as She Goes!

Solidify your plans as Venus, Mars, and the Sun all enter determined Taurus this week! First, Venus moves into Taurus on April 15, when it’s time to let go of fair-weather friends. The Sun and Mars conjunct in Aries on April 17, giving you one last burst of energy to get new plans going! Then, on April 19, the Sun enters Taurus — followed by Mars on April 20 — when you’ll summon all the strength and determination you need to succeed!

April 15: Venus enters Taurus
The planet of love and values, Venus, moves into one of its home signs, Taurus (the other is Libra), to settle in and count its money. Your finances could use some attention, so if you can use this time to create a workable financial plan, you’ll give yourself some much-deserved peace of mind. Whether you want to pay off a lingering credit card balance, make some investments, or set aside money for a child’s education, this is a smart time to plan for the future. Furthermore, your relationships stand to benefit from getting a better sense of where your values match — or don’t. Loyalty is a top relationship consideration of Venus in Taurus … and surely you know that loyalty to yourself is priceless!

April 17: The Sun conjuncts Mars
When these two forces come together, the sheer energy of this duo can turn either explosive or extremely productive — and it’s up to you to decide where you want to direct all this dynamism. Because both the Sun and Mars reside in fiery Aries, you may become involved in situations that call for you to defend or advocate your point of view; just take care to showcase your confidence while avoiding ugly ego battles. Whatever you do, use this powerful energy to chase down your goals!

April 19: The Sun enters Taurus
Whether you need to save for retirement or invest money in further education, you’re likely wondering how you can create more material security in your life as the Sun now shines a big light on your finances. This is an ideal time to make decisions about how you want to spend, earn, and save your money. This practical transit lasts until May 21, so make the most of it.

April 20: Mars enters Taurus
As Mars leaves fiery Aries behind to join the Sun and Venus in earthy Taurus, the pace of your life slows down, giving you the breathing room you need to accomplish your goals. The gifts of patience and determination will be most helpful to you, so don’t rush anything. Instead, work to create a solid foundation on which you can stand. Come June, when this active planet enters Gemini, you’ll be ready to get your ideas out into the world and connect with people who can help you.

Spring Into Spring!

With so many conflicting planet patterns this week, you’ll need to plan carefully to take advantage of any mixed messages that may arise. First, when Mars quincunxes Saturn on March 25, then sextiles Jupiter and squaresPluto on March 26, stop and consider what you’re doing — and why you’re doing it. Then, the full Moon in Libra on March 27 triggers your emotions and impulses, so be careful! Break out of ruts as March 28 brings a triple conjunction between the Sun, Venus, and Uranus. Finally, the Sun quincunxes Saturn on March 30 and squares Pluto on March 31, when you’ll need to let go of anything that isn’t working.

March 25: Mars quincunxes Saturn
March 26: Mars sextiles Jupiter and squares Pluto
No matter what you want to accomplish this week, the powers-that-be are set to apply the brakes! However, this may turn out to be advantageous. Are you acting too quickly or being impulsive? Mars in Aries has a tendency to rush, so slow down enough to carefully consider what people are saying, how they’re acting, and whether or not their intentions are in alignment with your own. Make a course correction if it will help you in the long run.

March 27: Full Moon in Libra
The full Moon is always a time of heightened emotions, while it also marks a culmination of the plans you set in motion during the previous new Moon. Ordinarily, this would be a good time to tune into your relationship ideals, as you’re mindful now of maintaining a balance between yourself and others. However, this particular Libra Moon presents a few challenges since it’s opposed by an army of planets in Aries! Action speaks louder than words right now, and those who do as they say will receive the most attention. The more confident you are, and the more sure you are of what you want (and why you want it), the more you’ll succeed. This is not a good time to discuss your plans; it is, however, a good time to act on them!

March 28: The Sun, Venus, and Uranus conjunct in Aries
Are your relationships a little too ho-hum lately? Are you tired of doing the same things day after day? Perhaps it’s time to shake up your life! This triple conjunction is enough to get even the laziest person to do something! Indeed, there’s enough energy in this grouping to inspire you to be true to yourself and break out of routines that aren’t right for you. This is a time to be courageous and honor your uniqueness. Finally, keep an open mind about everyone you meet, for it’s time to move out of old ways of relating. One thing is for sure — you won’t be bored this week!

March 30: The Sun quincunxes Saturn
March 31: The Sun squares Pluto
Even the best plans can benefit from a review! Don’t worry if the world isn’t so cooperative right now — people have their own agendas and issues. You may need to absorb a few responsibilities you weren’t necessarily counting on, or perhaps you’ll run into more problems than expected on a project. If you can let go of anything that isn’t working and make necessary adjustments, you’ll succeed in your endeavors. You can impact part of your destiny; other areas are outside your control. Recognizing which is which will help you make beneficial decisions!

A New Beginning!

A new Moon in inspirational Pisces on March 11 shines a spotlight on your goals and dreams, indicating that it’s time to do something with them! That same day, March 11, you get all the energy you need as Marsenters fiery Aries. Much later in the week, information finally becomes available asMercury ends its retrograde on March 17!

March 11: New Moon in Pisces
You may have trouble figuring out what’s real and who’s telling the truth with so many planets in Pisces during this new Moon, so be sure to proceed with caution! But with Neptune, Mercury, Venus, Mars, the Sun, and the Moon all in Pisces, this is a wonderful time to connect with your spiritual life, catch up with yourself, and leave your busy life behind — even if only for a 24-hour period. Become reacquainted with the healing power of nature, write in your journal, or listen to inspiring music. This new Moon will help you gain inner strength and a fresh perspective to help you deal with your outer-world commitments.

March 11: Mars enters Aries
Your motivation is bound to increase as energetic Mars enters the fiery sign it rules, so if you can direct your new energy toward a goal or project, you’ll be able to get more done now than you have so far all year! Just make sure your facts are in order, since Mercury remains retrograde for another six days. If you know what you want, make a plan; if you don’t know, spend the next few days conducting research until Mercury turns direct later in the week. Feisty Mars in such an active sign needs a focus — otherwise, you may find yourself becoming argumentative for no apparent reason. (Although Aries is the sign of the pioneer, both Mars and Aries are named for the God of War.) But if you can keep your mind on your own goals now, you’ll go far!

March 17: Mercury turns direct
Finally! Mercury ends its retrograde today, and all those good ideas and plans for your future can begin to gain traction and move forward! Hopefully you’ve delayed making important decisions during Mercury’s period of reverse movement, but now that you can obtain accurate information, you have everything you need to make fully informed decisions. Straighten out any recent misunderstandings as quickly as possible so they don’t negatively affect your most important relationships. Mercury’s current placement in Pisces lends extra power to your dreams and goals, so make an effort to get your ideas and projects out into the world

There’s a strong creative and romantic side to the New Moon in spiritual Pisces on March 11, 2013. This Sun-Moon conjunction is flanked by loving Venusand passionate Mars. This turns higher ideals into artistic and social endeavors … adding grace and beauty to our lives. It’s a bit like bringing heaven down to Earth while compassion, imagination, and affection elevate our relationships to a divine level.

Take a look at how your express your own personal brand of artistic flavor with a Creativity Astrology Report!

Aries (March 21 - April 19)

This spiritual Pisces New Moon illuminates your 12th House of Dreams and Spirituality. Taking time away from the grind of daily life allows you to float in an ocean of inspiration. The quiet and meditative moments are teaching you how to receive. Let imagination and faith flow through your mind to remind you of the infinite power of love.

Taurus (April 20 - May 20)

Becoming a more engaged part of a community is the gift of this Pisces New Moon, which falls in your 11th House of Groups. Connecting with others to work on projects that inspire you will be especially rewarding now. Be as generous as you can by putting causes before your personal interests. Showing compassion for friends and colleagues will earn you love and respect.

Gemini (May 21 - June 20)

This creatively gifted New Moon lands in your 10th House of Career, where it can initiate a fresh direction for professional activity. Using your people skills could be crucial to helping you fulfill your potential. Handling others gently and finding individual ways to inspire them will make you more successful leading than playing by the book. It’s time to invest more fully in a work-related dream.

Cancer (June 21 - July 22)

Your mind may be drifting off to dreams of faraway places with this magical Pisces New Moon in your 9th House of Travel. Saving up for an idyllic vacation might not seem very practical, but the boost of morale you get just from thinking about it could make it a wise investment. Learning about the art of other cultures is another way to broaden your intellectual and creative horizons.

Leo (July 23 - Aug. 22)

Alluring Venus and passionate Mars’ connection with this sensitive Pisces New Moon arouse powerful feelings in your 8th House of Intimacy. Being tender and delicate with a partner or potential partner is a must. Forgiveness and compassion combined with imagination could make this an emotionally and physically satisfying time.

Virgo (Aug. 23 - Sept. 22)

Relationships take a romantic turn with the dreamy Pisces New Moon in your 7th House of Partners. A fresh start with the one you’re with or a connection with someone new could be a magical experience. Appreciating the pleasure of another’s company for the sheer joy of it is the secret to catching this wave of happiness. Leave practicality aside to take a magical ride where love conquers all.

Libra (Sept. 23 - Oct. 22)

This inspirational Pisces New Moon spurs hope in your 6th House of Employment — revealing happiness with your current job. Developing your creative abilities is a great way to tap into the artistic potential of this event. If you are not fulfilled with your work and can’t change it, put more time into a hobby or serve others because it’s likely to bring you the joy that you’re seeking.

Scorpio (Oct. 23 - Nov. 21)

Romance and creativity are boosted by this exceptionally imaginative Pisces New Moon. It lands in your5th House of Amour and Self-Expression, giving voice to the artistic and loving sides of your personality. Your ability to charm others for personal or professional purposes should be extremely high now, so don’t be shy about stepping into the spotlight and letting your views be known.

Sagittarius (Nov. 22 - Dec. 21)

Beauty and delight can be found in your life with this inspirational Pisces New Moon. This union of the Sun and Moon occurs in your 4th House of Home and Comfort where they are joined by artistic Venus and passionate Mars. Pleasure at your place is enhanced by making it more attractive, letting bygones be bygones and by slowing down to appreciate the considerable comforts of home.

Capricorn (Dec. 22 - Jan. 19)

Letting charm and pleasure take the lead will bring you more joy and get better results than being overly serious now. This magical New Moon in Pisces lights up your 3rd House of Conversation with social skills that make you more appealing to others. The creative and kindly manner in which you speak will get better results than coldly laying down the law.

Aquarius (Jan. 20 - Feb. 18)

This compassionate Pisces New Moon occurs in your 2nd House of Self-Worth, reminding you that your value and potential income grow when you’re inspired by what you do. This is a very creative — even artistic — lunation that rewards you for letting your imagination run free. All of your ideas may not be practical, but there’s at least one gem that could earn you more money and respect.

Pisces (Feb. 19 - March 20)

This New Moon in your sign is supported by gracious Venus and passionate Mars, making you especially appealing to others. The key to making this magic happen is to be inspired by your own imagination. Your appearance, attitude and approach to others needn’t be limited by reason because it’s the boundless field of creativity that makes you glow and makes people want to be with you.

Network!

While it’s a good idea this week to return to past conversations (and even people), hold off on making any important decisions as retrograde Mercury conjuncts the Sun on March 4. Your relationship life improves asVenus sextiles Pluto and trines Saturn on March 6. Finally, once Saturn and Pluto form a beneficial sextile on March 8, you receive help from influential people!

March 4: Retrograde Mercury conjuncts the Sun
Your mind works overtime as retrograde Mercury conjuncts the Sun in imaginative Pisces. This is an excellent time to gather information and investigate options as you consult visionary people, spiritual leaders, and even your dreams for inspirational messages. If you want help, people are available to assist you — or direct you to those who can. Don’t worry about delays, as your plans will get back on track once Mercury turns direct on March 17.

March 6: Venus sextiles Pluto and trines Saturn
Looking for a soul connection? The love planet’s contact with passionate Pluto and serious Saturn brings an opportunity to meet new people and deepen your connections with those you already know. If you’re single, this is a wonderful time to meet someone new. For those already partnered up, if you open your heart and reach out, the healing power of love will open a new romantic chapter in your relationship.

March 8: Saturn sextiles Pluto
When these two powerful planets connect in a positive aspect, your circumstances improve as helpful social and economic policies are put into place. But you must do your part! These planets symbolize authority, responsibility, and leadership. How can you step up to help yourself and others? Overall, these times are still under the influence of the revolutionary, reform-minded Uranus-Pluto square; therefore, nothing is completely stable right now. That said, this beneficial aspect will help you gain footing and make huge forward strides. Take advantage of any help that comes your way!

Take Care of Yourself!

It’s time to find more balance in your life as the full Moon in Virgo on February 25 highlights themes of self-care. Shortly after this full Moon, but also on February 25, love blooms as Venus enters romantic Pisces. Just watch out for misunderstandings on February 26 as retrograde Mercury conjuncts feisty Mars for the second time this month! Finally, on March 1, the Sun sextiles Pluto and trines Saturn, connecting you with individuals who can help you.

February 25: Full Moon in Virgo
As this hard-working Virgo Moon is opposed by several planets (the Sun, Mercury, Mars, and Neptune — all in sensitive Pisces), you’ll want to watch out for multi-tasking exhaustion. You’re overly sensitive at this time, and everything affects you more than usual. As Jupiter in Gemini squares this full Moon, you may become overloaded with information, so take time to sort out everything you’re learning about yourself and others. In the days following this full Moon, but before the next new Moon on March 11, prepare a plan that will enable you to take care of your body, mind, and spirit.

February 25: Venus enters Pisces
Do you have a soul mate? It’s time to make room for romance as Venus, the love planet, enters spiritual Pisces! Once each year when Venus transits through this Water sign, your heart seeks a deep connection. Whether you’re married, in a committed relationship, or single, this is a perfect time to strengthen the spiritual bonds with those you care most about — including yourself! Can you leave the busy “thinking world” behind for the time being? Make time to meditate, listen to inspiring music, commune with nature, and turn off your noisy mind. There are times when love and appreciation needs no words … and this is one of them.

February 26: Retrograde Mercury conjuncts Mars
Do you feel as if you’re mired in an argument that will never end? This is the time to return to a recent conversation (or perhaps a previous idea) for review; just don’t hope for a neat conclusion yet! And with warrior planet Mars weighing in, you certainly won’t want to say anything in the heat of the moment that you’ll later regret! Mercury is retrograde now, which means you’re still working out details and straightening out misunderstandings. You’ll find resolution next month once Mercury turns direct on March 17.

March 1: The Sun sextiles Pluto and trines Saturn
All your hard work pays off now, as these aspects bring opportunities that can showcase your talents! People in positions of power take notice — and they’re willing to help you. Make the most of this opportunity by putting yourself in the right place at the right time. Keep in mind, of course, that Mercury is still retrograde, so go over your plans and presentations carefully, and make allowances for last-minute changes. The more you’re able to adapt to changing circumstances, the better you’ll do. These aspects occur only twice each year, so don’t waste this beneficial time!

Time to Rethink!

While your dreams and goals may begin to take shape this week, forward progress is halted for the time being. Indeed, the road ahead is no longer clear as the Sun enters Pisces on February 18 before conjuncting Neptune on February 20. However, you stand a good chance of finding success if you can regroup once Saturn turns retrograde on February 18 and Mercury turns retrograde on February 23.

February 18: The Sun enters Pisces
February 20: The Sun conjuncts Neptune
As the Sun enters the most sensitive sign of the zodiac and conjuncts spiritual Neptune — all within two days of one another — it’s time to focus on the larger issues of your life. Turn away from distractions and direct your attention inward. Meditate, start a dream journal, or spend time in nature. Once all the noise is gone, you’ll be able to determine what you truly want to do. This is the time to pay attention to your intuition and tune into your soul’s desires.

February 18: Saturn turns retrograde
Saturn, the planet that describes how you structure your life, entered Scorpio last October 5 for the first time in 28 years. Now, Saturn turns retrograde in this intense Water sign, and it’s time for you to gauge how far you’ve come in the last four-plus months. You may have tackled a new project, moved to a new location, or started a new relationship. Take time to review until July 8, when Saturn turns direct. Work on improving your circumstances and let go of anything that’s no longer good for you or working properly. Saturn’s transit through Scorpio can empower you to create a solid foundation for your goals and ambitions!

February 23: Mercury turns retrograde
As Mercury turns retrograde in imaginative Pisces, you’ll want to revisit old ideas and previous contacts. Be open to making changes and reconsidering your plans. Consider the pros and cons of everything, since you’ll surely notice that your mind isn’t settling on anything for certain. If possible, avoid buying communication-related products such as computers and phones; if you do, be certain that you keep your receipts. If you’re travelling, double-check your reservations and bring a good book to read in case you’re delayed. If you know the house(s) in your natal chart through which Mercury is traveling, apply this review to those areas of your life. And of course, try to defer major decision-making until Mercury turns direct on March 17, for the messenger planet’s retrograde periods are infamous for people making mistakes!