This Sunday, we're seeing the first of 2005's two lunar eclipses. Very early in the morning, the Earth's silhouette will pass in front of the Moon, shadowing out its light, but you'll begin to feel the effects 24 hours earlier. This eclipse is focused on Scorpio, the sign of sexuality and the paranormal -- quite the exciting combination! Scorpio is the most secretive and ambiguous sign of the zodiac, and you'll certainly feel a sense of mystery this weekend. You'll also feel a detached focus on yourself, as the illumination of the Moon, which rules our emotions, will be blocked. It's an excellent time to take a step back from the details of your life to see the whole picture.

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The New Moon kicks off a fresh lunar cycle, inspiring us to take charge of the different area of life it represents each month. With this month's New Moon, we focus on the practical, determined sign of Taurus the Bull... a perfect time to explore your career potential!

As master astrologer Jeff Jawer tells us, "Planting seeds for future material comfort makes sense now." Taurus longs for security and will work hard to obtain it. Every sign can take a lesson from the steady bull...

The most powerful goals are the ones that align you with your true purpose in life, and this is not the same for everyone. Use this once-a-year concentration of Taurus energy to think in new ways about your career. Then resolve to create your best life and livelihood. The seeds you plant now might not bear fruit tomorrow, but with Taurus determination, you will be on the path toward a rich harvest!

"Taurus gets where she's going, not because she is exceptionally fast or clever, but because she will not let herself be distracted from her goals."
– Rick Levine

The new moon was May 8  but it will still be new for a while

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From May 27 to June 2 we’ll all be under the influence of a T-square between Venus, Mars and Pluto, meaning everyone will be on their biggest, loopiest emotional roller coaster.

The T-square is a concentrated, dynamic three-planet combination. It's created when two planets -- in this case, Venus and Pluto -- form an opposition (think standoff), which is difficult enough. But this aspect is further complicated by a third planet, combative Mars, who will make a stressful square to the other two.

When Venus, the planet of love and emotions, and Mars, the planet of action and aggression, both meet up with powerful Pluto, the entire world can feel topsy-turvy.  But your focus will be on interpersonal relationships. Who exactly is in control here anyway? Even the smallest issues (like what movie to see or what to have for dinner) can trigger major power struggles. Jealousy can raise its ugly green head, and sexual energy (shall we call it tension?) will run high.

The best way to deal with any challenges that come your way right now is to take lots of deep breaths,  realize that everyone's affected by this astrological weather and know that it will soon pass. Keep in mind that minor events can trigger major upheavals; now is a time to tread carefully in your relationship.

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It's a time of visionary breakthroughs this week, as the Sun squares off with the planet of surprises, Uranus. What box might be hemming you in or holding you back from enjoying life to its fullest? The daring, sometimes rebellious energy of Uranus is going to be activated now – so use it to look at your life in a new way, through the lens of your individual karma.

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Let the fire of Mars in Aries move you forward!

The mid-point of the year 2005 (does time fly or what?) is an excellent time to take stock. How are you doing on those New Year's resolutions you made in January? With Mars just now entering the energetic sign of Aries, this is the time to dust off old plans, make bold new ones... and get fired up to create the future you want – starting now!

Master astrologer, Jeff Jawer describes the power of this dramatic astrological shift of Mars into Aries:

"The warrior Mars returns to its home sign, letting fly sparks of change, challenge, action and ambition. It's time to put a new project in motion. This is the first time in two years that the pure fire of Mars will be so bright—so take the plunge no matter what the risk. Get moving mentally and physically to catch this heat wave and turn its pioneering force in a direction of your choosing. Enthusiasm is a sign that you're on the right track."

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From Astrology.com

The summer solstice will occur this year on June 20th or 21st (depending on your time zone). It represents the longest day of the year in the northern hemisphere, and for thousands of years, it's been celebrated as a time of awakenings and the start of the harvest season. Astrologically, it's also the time the Sun moves into emotional Cancer. And this year, at the same time, the Moon (Cancer's emotional ruler) will conjunct Pluto. The solstice and the rest of the summer will be shadowed by the influences of these planetary movements.

Cancer, the most emotional sign of the zodiac, is known for keeping true feelings under wraps -- throw powerful Pluto into the mix, and these hidden feelings could become extremely intense. In fact, Pluto is the very ruler of control! With so much emotion working under the surface, everyone will be struggling to keep their feelings in check, possibly even keeping things from those they love. So maybe someone you care for will put up a wall to block you out. Or maybe you'll have a secret admirer. Or maybe you'll be the one hiding behind the wall and admiring someone from afar.

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More on the Summer Solstice from

The Meaning of Summer Solstice

June 21^st marks the official start of summer in the Northern hemisphere, the date when the Earth's orbit tilts those of us above the equator towards the Sun, resulting in our longest day of the year. Astrologically, the Summer Solstice also marks the movement of the Sun from the curious sign of Gemini, the Twins, into security-minded Cancer, the Crab. An emotional water sign, Cancer is associated with nurturing and protection, the part of us that is drawn to home, family and familiar landscapes. Energetically, this is quite a change of pace from the restlessness and longing for stimulation that may have pulled us in new directions during the Sun's journey through the inquisitive sign of Gemini.

As we enter summer, we move beyond our ideas (Gemini) toward what we feel (Cancer). We are compelled to trust our instincts and our senses rather than our intellect. Fears can arise, but Cancer also gives us the opportunity to address those fears in order to conquer them.

Focus on Family

The Sun's summer passage through Cancer is the perfect time to turn your attention to family matters. What unresolved questions come up for you when you think about your parents, siblings, partner or children? Use divination to explore any issue related to those close to you, including how you can bring your best to interactions with relatives. Because ultimately how you approach another person is the number one thing you can control in any interaction.

Full Moon Double-Header

Capricorn is King of the mountain this summer!

A rare astrological phenomenon to note this summer is the fact that the full moon on June 22^nd and the full moon on July 21^st both occur in the determined sign of Capricorn. Generally, only one full moon occurs in each sign over the course of the year. This unusual event accentuates the Cancer/Capricorn dichotomy, namely: how do I make myself feel safe by tucking into familiar territory (Cancer) vs. how do I make myself feel secure through what I achieve out in the world (Capricorn). We get to live through this one twice… so pay attention to what you learn from the June full moon and you could achieve a lot of clarity on July 21^st!

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Seize the day! Two powerful planets are facing off in the heavens right now – energetic Mars and expansive Jupiter – offering a rare opportunity that comes just once every two years.

The opposition of this dynamic duo is an astrological event that generates boundless energy. Don't be surprised if you find yourself feeling called to take action and move into new territory. Put your worries about overstepping aside. With Mars and Jupiter in your pocket, it's better to take the leap and go for it!

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Did anyone SEE the conjuntion last night!@!!!!

Awesome!!

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Yay! A comment!  lol

grrrrrrr.... I missed it! What was it like?

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Not terrifically great as I did not have a telescope = it was visible with just naked eye or binoculars

I still got chills though!

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From  [ send green star]

We celebrate the New Moon now with the sun and moon together in emotional Cancer — the moon’s home sign — stirring up energy around nurturing and nest making. It’s the perfect time to nurture yourself with a visit to your true home — your authentic self. Use astrology to navigate your course. Explore who you are today and the dreams you can fulfill as you tap your full potential.

Taking time to increase self-knowledge will give you a fresh perspective, recharge your batteries and ultimately benefit your entire circle… because when we take good care of ourselves, we have more to offer others.

Its also a good time to cut your hair & for other beginnings

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Mercury turns retrograde about three times a year, creating a planetary optical illusion -- its movement, relative to Earth's, seems to stop and then move backward. As a result, the messenger planet's famous wings are temporarily clipped. Let's not sugarcoat it: This isn't the time to sign anything important, kick off a new relationship or expect a last-minute birthday card to make it to Aunt Sue. Until Mercury turns direct (just before midnight EST on August 15), its signature domains, communication and travel, will be riddled with annoyances. (Conserve your patience, because Mercury's concentrated energy can be particularly difficult around the time it turns direct. Things will settle down completely by August 30, when the planet passes its pre-retrograde position.)

So what is Mercury retrograde good for? When in doubt, refer to the 'RE' rule; those two letters are the key to getting the most from this admittedly tricky period. Retreat from the frenetic nature of modern communication. Repair and reconfirm (reservations or messages, that is). Left things unresolved with an ex? Resolve them! Writing that groundbreaking novel? Reedit it! Embrace this forced reprieve from life's hectic pace to tend to anything you've neglected.

This retrograde occurs with Mercury in Leo; not surprisingly, the Lion's known for pride, confidence and creativity -- areas you'll want to keep an eye on now. Don't abandon details in favor of big-picture schemes, and keep bravado in check before opening your mouth! (If Leo's prominent in your chart -- particularly as your Sun, Moon or rising sign -- be doubly careful.) On the other hand, retrograde Mercury in Leo can facilitate the closer examination of recent events. Revisit the details of any experience that you've accepted unthinkingly, and you just might gain a new understanding of how to handle it.

May the next few weeks bring you all the introspection you crave! from  [ send green star]

With Mars energizing Taurus, one of the zodiac's most sensual signs, feelings of comfort and luxury may be especially appealing right now. Taurus desires its share of indulgences while Mars inspires a go-for-it attitude... making this a great time to surround yourself with sensual beauty. Look for ways to fill your world with sights, sounds and other creature comforts you enjoy.

Making your environment more harmonious feels great, of course, but did you know it can also help you attract wealth and prosperity? According to the ancient Chinese art of feng shui, simple changes you make at home or in your office can bring good fortune.

From Tarot.com

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This month's New Moon is in people-loving Leo – creating an irresistible out-and-about party mood... perfect for some serious flirting! So put a flower in your hair and flash that big smile of yours at anyone who catches your eye. It's a great way to have fun and – who knows – if you're looking, you could meet "the one!"

from Tarot.com

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The zodiac's two largest forces – the Sun and Jupiter – are dancing together right now... to the tune of "Let the Good Times Roll!" Since the Sun is about your true nature – and Jupiter is about thinking big – now's the time to expand your vision of who you are and what your life could be.

When it comes to creating a bigger, more abundant life... have you ever thought "some people have all the luck?" It's easy to think of good fortune as pre-determined – either you've got it or you don't – but in actuality, karma is only a part of the equation. Attracting good fortune – or getting lucky – is actually a pretty straight-forward process. When you recognize your talents, open to a bigger vision and use your intuition to help you make the right moves at the right times... there's no stopping you! Your BIG vision is already becoming your reality.

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Here in the last month of 2005, Mars – the warrior planet – is shifting course... coming out of a 70-day retrograde phase and moving in a forward direction again. What perfect timing! Use this fresh Mars energy to ignite your enthusiasm for the future. Let it shine as bright as our fiery red planet itself.

Whatever you focus your energy on now – and it's sure to be supercharged, thanks to this Mars shift – will have much greater chance of becoming your reality.

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The Winter Solstice on December 21^st is the turning point in the light cycle of the year. For the Northern latitudes, it's the longest night of the year... followed by ever lengthening days, as the Sun climbs higher and higher above the horizon. Hooray! Out of darkness and into the light we go.

Because Winter Solstice signifies the completion of a yearly cycle, it is considered to be a good time for spiritual examination. Some ancient cultures believed that the dark nights of winter were when the veil between the spirit world and the living world was the thinnest... making the Winter Solstice the best time of year to meditate on hidden energies – the seeds lying dormant within the earth and within ourselves.

The Winter Solstice reminds us that every ending is a new beginning. Here comes the Sun ... may it light the way for you!
Paul O'Brien, Chief Visionary

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Time to get moving! Saturn -- the zodiac's taskmaster -- has been moving backwards, but is now moving forward again, inviting you to roll up your sleeves and get busy.

This shift in Saturn's direction can be described as a time for clarity and focus: As clouds of ideas and desires begin to take shape, the energy you give them now will pay off. Focus on major projects at home or work ... and you will see and feel a new momentum.

As Saturn spins direct, be sure to harness its productive momentum ... and cultivate a ritual that builds focus and power this spring.

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What happens when Mars energizes Uranus, the planet of surprises? Mars is now at a 120 degree angle with Uranus in the sky (called a 'trine'). In Astrology, a trine is a very favorable angle. Powerful Mars is now supporting Uranus -- the planet of surprises and breakthroughs. With Mercury's retrograde position causing a bit of turmoil, harnessing this potential might not be easy.

Uranus can signal changes in social circles as well -- old relationships end, new ones appear.

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As we live, we all create karma. In India, where the word comes from, karma is neither good nor bad. It's just "what is" -- the hand you have been dealt. You can think of your karma as the destiny potential you've inherited from past actions and experiences ... in this lifetime and those that may have come before.

Your astrological birth chart speaks volumes about your soul's inheritance. Right now, with the Moon in Sagittarius, it's an ideal time to explore one's personal history ... and to clear out the old to make room for the new. As master astrologer Jeff Jawer writes:

"The Moon in the outgoing fire sign of Sagittarius is like a rocket ship ride into the future. While karma can light up the journey of your life with new meaning, ghosts of the past need to be exorcised before the next flight takes off. This is the perfect time to burn off karma and let go of old habits."

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from Astrology.com

Saturn is often considered the taskmaster planet. And when it goes retrograde? Well, there're no two ways about it: Issues of authority come to the fore, and a conservative attitude toward responsibilities creeps into even the most free-spirited souls. Whether consciously or not, you will probably experience the effects of Saturn's retrograde -- which will last until April 19, 2007 -- as a time to reflect on past decisions and learn from your mistakes ... and definitely not a time to charge easily toward your goals.

That said, Saturn's energy, which rules issues of control and organization, lends itself well to making sound judgment calls as well as wise investments, if both sense and sensibility are properly utilized.

Saturn turning retrograde puts a challenging spin on achieving success, but the planet also rules issues of leadership, making this the ideal time to establish your own boundaries, strive for self-improvement and unleash your creativity on the world. Furthermore, when your goals have been met, you'll be that much more satisfied at having cleared this astrological stumbling block! On the way, you'll also have learned a lot about yourself and clarified your perspective.

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As get-up-and-go Mars enters sensible Capricorn, you're probably feeling the urge to put your plans into action. This astrological aspect is clearing the path for you to charge ahead: "Fiery Mars in earthy Capricorn means that action is aligning with purpose ... to produce lasting results."

Whatever you focus your energy on during this time, it's sure to be strong, thanks to Mars' energy and Capricorn's ambitious, yet practical tendencies. Let this goal-oriented alignment stimulate your passion for achievement ... and you will create new and rich successes for yourself.

Since Capricorn rules the house of business and career on the zodiac's wheel, this is an excellent time to focus on your business and financial prospects. Do you think you're on the right path? Is a decision in your personal investment of energy and/or money calling for your attention? Maybe you'd like to find a new direction that might be more profitable.

Timing is important, so take advantage of Mars and Capricorn energy to get concrete financial results. If you have monetary ambitions you've only fantasized about, now is an excellent time to turn those longings into a down-to-earth plan of action.

Here's to your financial success!

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