This peculiar galaxy was photographed by NASA’s Hubble Telescope.

As we slide into the New Year, Friday looks relatively quiet — perhaps to match the slower work day, or day off most of us enjoy today. There’s a bit of stress with Mercury today, the planet of Communication, so keep things upbeat and positive.  The Moon (Emotions) is blending energy with Uranus — the planet of New Ideas — which reinforces the feeling of change which the New Year brings.  What will you try new this year?

“…the Moon is working well with Neptune, which means that your Spiritual work this weekend will empower you — it’s the focus you need as you face the first full week of the year. “

Earlier this week, the Heavens were providing some interesting alignments, including Mercury (Communication) joining forces with Saturn (Practicality), the Moon (Emotions) in Harmony with Pluto (Renewal), and mingling with the energy of Venus (Love). It looked like practicality is the focus in the coming economic climate, though there’s a feeling of transformation in the air as a new US President stands ready at the helm.  And of course, it’s a time to remember old friends, your family and aulde lang syne — that beautiful song we associate with the holiday, and translated means “days gone by.”  Remember them, but focus energy on what you can do now, as the New Year dawns.

On Saturday, we see a more active planet scape with the Moon in harmony with Jupiter and Mercury. This alignment makes it possible for you to talk out your plans for growth with your mate and those close to you.  But plans are one thing… wait for a better time to initiate them — there’s tension with Mars in the air.  Neptune is putting a bit of stress on our Moon today, which means that Spirituality could come into question.  That’s good — dealing with yoru Spiritual side is one of the most important things you can do.

On Sunday, the Moon is squaring off with the Sun — pitting emotions against personality… which can leave us out of sorts. After the energy of the holidays wind down, sometimes it takes a few days to get back on the track.  But now, the Moon is working well with Neptune, which means that your Spiritual work this weekend will empower you — it’s the focus you need as you face the first full week of the year.  Chiron, the great Healer, is also in favorable position today, so the time you spend in prayer, meditation, and reflection will really do you good.

Cone Nebula captured by NASA’s Hubble Telescope — The part pictured here is 2.5 light years in length (the equivalent of 23 million return trips to the Moon).

Welcome to Friday. Things are perking up a bit after Thursday felt “ho-hum.” On Friday, the Moon is in harmony with Jupiter (Prosperity), while Jupiter, meanwhile, is dancing nice with Saturn (Practicality). So sure, you feel like enjoying success, and you can attract it today, but you will truely prosper when you keep your plans down to earth. Make sure they are “doable”, and even in tough economic times, you can realize your reward. This scenario looks doubly promising since the Moon is also at play with Uranus (New Ideas), so get your pencil out and fashion a good, tight working plan for what you need to do.

“…look for healing to come on Sunday via your relationship with God and your Spirituality.”

Earlier in the week, the Moon was dancing in Trine with Pluto — the energy of transformation and renewal. That’s always a good time to get a burst of energy — you can use it in your career… and at home. Sometimes, more gets done when you are busy, anyway. You might have felt a bit out of sorts on the emotional side on Wednesday as the Moon squared off with both the Sun and Venus. Things go in cycles, and it is wise to embrace even the tension and some of the stress of life — it is how we change, grow… and renew ourselves.

As we head into your weekend, the Moon is playing nice on Saturday with Mercury (Communication), Mars (Initiative), and the Sun (Personality). So, you will feel that you can talk about plans for the holidays, end of the year, and looking forward to 2009. This is good on a Saturday afternoon as Thanksgiving approaches. Interesting now, that the Moon is also squaring off with Pluto — the planet of transformation. How can it be? Well, while it’s natural to talk a good game about new initiatives, it’s also natural to feel a bit nervous about actually moving forward. That’s ok — that tension will provide the energy you need to focus.

Sunday brings energy for positive emotions, via the power of Chiron — the great shamanic healer. The Moon is also moving into a Trine relationship with Neptune — the planet of spirituality. So, look for healing to come on Sunday via your relationship with God and your Spirituality. This is good because there is also heavenly turmoil occuring with Mars, Saturn, Mercury and the Sun. So, you may find it hard to voice your concerns about practical ways to proceed for your family and within your love relationships. Your Faith will help in that department too.

Starry Night, so named because it reminded astronomers of the Van Gogh painting. It is a halo of light around a star in the Milky Way — from NASA’s Hubble Telescope

T.G.I.F. — long week? Sometimes it’s better when you’re busy… things go faster. Friday brought an interesting celesial paradox into play with the Moon (Emotions) in harmony (a Trine) with Chiron — the great Shamanic healer. Oddly, though, Mars (Initiative) also squared off with Chiron leaving quiet feeling of wellness all around, but no clear pathway forward. Sometimes that’s enough — a contemplative moment in a coffee shop to get back your perspective and feel more settled. The Moon’s positions today can leave you quite ready for a quiet, relaxing weekend — maybe a good thing before the Holiday rush.

“…watch out for romance to totally change your outlook on life. The key to it all will be Spiritual — as in Soul Mate. It always is. “

Earlier this week, Saturn was in position to work with Uranus - bringing new and practical ideas. How could you apply that to your career and your personal life? And, oddly, while the Sun (Personality) and Moon (Emotions) were working together on Thursday, they were both at odds with Neptune — the planet of Religion and Illusion. You may be wary of idealistic people and practices — yet another encouragement to stay down to earth and in the practical realm. We continue to see a battle in our nation for different belief systems. This is an important part of our freedom, and it requires every one of us to get very clear and discern right Spiritual priorities.

Saturday already looks interesting with the Moon in harmony with Neptune Spirituality, and working in tandem with Venus (Love) and Pluto (Transformation). Quite a recipe — watch out for romance to totally change your outlook on life. The key to it all will be Spiritual — as in Soul Mate. It always is. Let’s face it… if you are not extremely compatible Spiritually, then you’re just passing time. Interesting that the Moon is also squaring off with Uranus, a powerful force for new ideas. This can mean that some new things you had planned will have to wait as you deal with serious relationship matters. How will it all balance out?

Sunday feels busy and talkative with Mercury (Communication) getting busy with Jupiter, Saturn, and Uranus — the big three. Growth, restrictions, and new ideas — time for a good chat about politics, business, and budgets… in the Capitol, and here at home. You’re able to speak about what you feel, and have some new ideas on how to proceed so get them out there. There’s still some lingering energy from the past week’s Full Moon to carry you forward.

A quintet of galaxies captured by NASA probes.

Here comes Friday… seem like a long week?  Oddly enough it has also swept by as a new US President was swept into office. There were so many emotions surrounding this election that it is a welcome move in the heavens for the Moon (Emotions) to embrace Pluto (Renewal).  Time to put all that angst aside and hang on to what you truely love.  The Moon is also dancing well with Mercury (Communication) as the week ends, so go ahead and talk about putting things together again, and forging ahead.

“…it’s a good time to pray for discernment. Cut to the core values and stick with them.”

On Wednesday, as Americans woke up to the result of the election, Venus (Romance) was working well with Neptune (Spirituality).  Hmmmm… the Romance of the Spirit — sounds like a book title, doesn’t it?  Well, when you think about it, all of Romance is Spiritual in nature.  A political campaign and the move forward, once it is over, is about ideals and much about that… is of the Spirit.  On the home front — what can you do to bring transformation into your own relationships?  Trust your instincts.

Saturday finds our emotions and egos (Moon and Sun in a Trine — a harmonious configuration) in balance, with the Moon also playing nice with Saturn — the planet of practicality.  Time for a basic, wholesome weekend event… like a potluck dinner, or maybe just a simple drive in the country.  There’s also a feeling of newness in the air, because driving into unfamiliar territory (literally, or otherwise) is another likely component of your day.  We’re under a Pisces Moon this weekend, and  many age old questions prevail today and throughout the weekend, and you find yourself asking these questions: So why am I here? What am I doing? Where am I going? And what’s this ‘physical life’ all about anyhow?  Today Faith replaces Logic… so ask that question too, where and on what do I place my faith, trust, and loyalty?

Sunday brings about a sense of initiative as influenced by Mars — the warrior planet.  What can you get done today?  Well the Moon (Emotions) is in opposition with Venus (Romance) today, so it might be best work on projects from other parts of your life… even simple household chores.  We’re also showing some stress around the elements of religion and illusion (two things that often go hand in hand, when you think about it) today so it’s a good time to pray for discernment.  Cut to the core values and stick with them.

Welcome to the weekend. Today, Friday, the Moon squared off with Venus, but made nice with Mars and Jupiter. This sets up energy that helps you get things done in a practical way, but not necessarily in the most loving way. Will you cut costs and have hamburger helper, or take your mate out for a Steak Dinner? Tomorrow, you can rationalize that (Sun cooperating with Saturn), but was your savings really a gain?

“On Sunday, the Moon is in harmony with Venus… so a little love and romance are in the air. Go ahead — enjoy your relationship and celebrate it together.”

Earlier in the week, it was a good time to have a chat with a romantic interest, or a conference with your coworkers. The Moon was making nice with Mercury (Communication) and Pluto (Transformation) — so how did it go? Did you make any headway? That configuration can bring about a renewal in your relationships that is much needed, and sought after. Remember that good communication involves both talking… and listening. Remember also, that each person brings a different perspective to a project, or focus area.

Saturday is showing some interesting celestial movements — the Sun (Personality) shows some stress with Saturn (Practicality), and Mars (Initiative) is at odds with Pluto (Transformation). Might be a good day to curl up with a good book. Don’t over-spend today. The Moon is also at odds with Neptune (Spirituality), which leaves an unsettled feeling. That’s OK… you can simply kick back and take a rest from it all.

What about Sunday? Well… the Moon is in harmony with Venus… so a little love and romance are in the air. Go ahead — enjoy your relationship and celebrate it together. Mercury (Communication) is at odds today with Saturn (Practicality)… so the time is not right to talk about day to day matters. Focus instead on your close relationships, nuture them, and they will grow.

Monday is already looking interesting as Mars dances well with Saturn (there’s the big ringed planet again), but squares off with Chiron the shamanic healer of the celestial realms. Hmmmmm. Saturn can be a bit restrictive, so what is it you are doing that holds you back… even to the point of showing a health risk? Are you afraid to take a needed exercise break and get in a good walk? Don’t be. You’ll be better in your career and personal life for it.

Colorful image of Mercury — now in Retrograde… stay cautious in your communications — from NASA’s Jet Propulsion Lab

On Friday, the Moon is cooperating well with both Mars AND Venus.  Man, Woman.  Action, Romance. A good day for a date with a new friend or long time romantic partner.  There’s also harmony with the energy of Pluto (renewal), so a date with your love interest could be just the ticket you need to fuel the fires.  The Moon (and that relates to a pull on your emotions) is at odds with Saturn, the planet of practicality, however.  Financial woes at home, and in the markets got you blue?  Don’t overspend to fight it.  Practical, down to earth, prudent moves exactly what’s needed right now.

“Since this is a time of caution, make sure your logical thinking keeps your feet on the ground before proceeding.”

Earlier in the week, we began Mercury Retrograde, so be very cautious about all communication and negotiations. The Moon is also showing an opposition with Neptune (Religion), but in harmony with Mercury (Communication).  So go with your gut feeling — your instincts — when you’re wondering what to say.  And use that uneasy feeling you may have about what’s going on with your Spiritual pursuits to make needed adjustments and get right with your Spiritual goals.

Saturday brings some interesting aspects, with the possibility of some ruffled feelings. Remember to communicate clearly, and to listen (an often overlooked skill in communications).  The Moon is working well with Jupiter today, so there’s a feeling that your growth plans are going to be OK.  Of course global financial markets are still in flux, so stay prudent and cautious.  Venus (Romance) is also putting some stress on feelings today, so make the right moves to be there for your partner.

Sunday finds Mercury (still in Retrograde) working well with Neptune — the planet of inventions and new ideas. This presents both an opportunity and a note of caution.  You may find your self in talks with colleages, family members, and coworkers about some business ideas you have, or perhaps a project or two around the house.  Good.  Just make sure you make all the details and your intentions clear — Retrograde is a period (in Mercury) known to foster errors in communication.

Peaking into next week, Monday is showing the Sun (personality) at odds with Neptune, so yesterday’s good feelings about a new project may get a double-check when you look more closely and logically at how it might proceed. That’s OK.  In business and at home, there’s always a push and pull between gut instincts and good common sense.  Since this is a time of caution, make sure your logical thinking keeps your feet on the ground before proceeding.  The Moon and Sun are also in conjuction today, so this is another sign that it is good for you to balance intuition with clear thinking.

A NASA image of Hoag’s Object, a non-typical galaxy of the type known as a ring galaxy, discovered in 1950 by astronomer Art Hoag.

Saturday finds the Moon under some stress from Mercury, Venus, and Mars. They are the planets closest to earth, and so spin closer to our Emotions at times. Remember that stress is not always a bad thing. The right kind of “creative tension” is what makes the world go around. Literally. In this case, while you may feel a bit nervous over your decision to speak about your lovelife with your partner — when you do so in a measured fashion based on right principles — it will go well.

“…Mars (Initiative) cooperates with Neptune (Spirituality) — a perfect early Fall day to concentrate on your religious beliefs and have a good talk with God.”

On Friday, the Moon squared off with Neptune, but danced well with Uranus — it was a good time for you to try out some new ideas in your job, and relationships. Earlier in the week, our emotional Moon was showing harmony with Saturn (Practicality) and Jupiter (Growth). Practical Growth. That’s a good theme in light of all the out of control problems in the stock market and financial markets. Back to basics are good in your personal life too.

The Moon does show some stress with the Sun (Personality) tomorrow, which usually means your head is not exactly where your heart is. Where is your heart? Always a good question. Take a look at your spiritual values now, because there’s also some stress in the air with Uranus (religion and illusion). Stay practical based on sound spiritual principles. We’re heading into the balancing time of the Autumnal Equinox, which a good reminder to stay balanced, mentally, spiritually, and of course Financially. Balance the books.

On Sunday, Mars (Initiative) cooperates with Neptune (Spirituality) — a perfect early Fall day to concentrate on your religious beliefs and have a good talk with God. The Moon (Emotions) is also cooperating with Mars which means that the spiritual initiative you take today will feel right to you. The other incentive is that the Moon is interacting well with Pluto (transformation) today which means that the renewal you need lies on a pathway from what you feel in your heart to what you learn from the Spirit.

The ESO (European Southern Observatory) shot this picture of galaxies interacting — part of the astrological forces that influence us on earth.

Welcome to Friday. It’s a busy day for the Moon (Emotions) with a number of planets forming a lively dance in the heavens — Mercury, Venus, and Mars are partnering with the Moon, and so it’s a good day to take the initiative to speak about your love life goals with your romantic interest. Probably an early Fall evening out with dinner and music are in order. But the Moon is also stressing a bit with Pluto (transformation) and the Sun (Personality), so things are not so simple. Are they ever? So, yes — it’s a good time to talk, but don’t expect an immediate change. Give it time.

“Harmony, then discord — so go the cycles of life. Remember that change, growth and development… all come with some ’stress’…”

Earlier in the week Venus (Love, Women) was in conjunction (Interacting) with Mars (Initiative, Men). This made it a natural to work things out with coworkers of the opposite sex, and also with your family members or partners of the opposite sex. Remember the book, “Men are from Mars, Women are from Venus”? That’s catchy — and true a lot of the time as the two sexes have different ways of relating to others and to the world. Did you find some easy going at work or at home? What about new brainstorms you had earlier in the week — did you right them down so you can work on them later?

The Moon was in the groove with Uranus (New Ideas), so you may have noticed good ideas percolating in your workplace, and also in your family life. Getting out of the rut — brainstorming improved way to do things. That’s the ticket, but you need to follow through now. There’s was also a little stress showing with Saturn — a planet that generally influences restrictions. Isn’t that the way it goes? You have a new idea… but others are resistant to change. Hang in there, real progress can only come from good new ideas and the change they inspire.

Looking into the weekend, the Moon (Emotions) is getting a little feisty on Saturday, showing some stress with Mars, Mercury, and Venus. That’s Initiative, Communication, and Love. This comes after cooperation with the same planetary energies yesterday (Friday). Harmony, then discord — so go the cycles of life. Remember that change, growth and development (in your family, career, romances, etc.) all come with some “stress” on the learning curve when you move ahead. That’s life. So, if you had a good conversation with a loved one on Friday, you could see a little “positive” stress on Saturday as the details get worked out. “Postitive stress?” Sure. Stress is a natural part of life and if it helps you get somewhere you need to go — that’s “positive,” right?

Galaxies Collide in this NASA photo from the Hubble telescope — think of the energy and power in the Cosmos and how it affects Earth.

On Thursday, the Moon (Emotions) is happy with Jupiter (Growth), and Saturn (Restrictions). Huh? Well, sometimes the Cosmos dance as crazy as your life appears to be here on good old Earth. And, to understand what it means for us takes a bit of what it takes to understand a good poem. You know, paradoxes like “the way forward, is the way back?” If you can find the truth in that, then call it the Universe’s poetry, and search for the truth of growth in restriction. How? One example is learning — you’re restricted to the basics at first, but as you proceed with the right foundation, you gain in skill, potential and prospects. So, ask yourself what your emotional intelligence knows to be the right discipline now — in learning, relationships, and your career — so you can continue your development. And the Moon is also harmonious with the Sun (Personality) today, so it’s a good time to “get it together.”

“…while you may fear communicating with your romantic partner, when you finally take the bull by the horns, you work out a practical solution for one of your challenges that you didn’t see at first.”

Earlier this week, the Moon was working with Chiron — known as the great healer. This can be a good follow-up to your speaking from the heart. Sometimes the truth can be painful… but emotions can and do heal. Tomorrow, Wednesday, the Sun (Personality) works in conjunction with Saturn (practicality) so you find yourself managing things on a budget (positive), but a bit restricted in your plans (the flip side). Our emotions are a bit at odds with what our head is telling us — how often is that true? Well, there’s some cosmological tension between the personality (Sun), and our feelings (Moon), and this again indicates Saturn (restrictions) influence. One good example of this is that your emotions tell you to buy that expensive piece of clothing (advertising gurus know that all purchases are made on emotion), while your head tells you to stay in budget. Which do you think is best?

Friday finds the Moon “in stress” with four planets — Venus, Mercury, Mars, & Saturn. Wow. Emotionally that suggests some tension in the areas of Love, Communication, Initiation, and Practicality. One example of how this can play out in your life is that while you may fear communicating with your romantic partner, when you finally take the bull by the horns, you work out a practical solution for one of your challenges that you didn’t see at first.

And, looking into the weekend, Saturday shows the Moon working well with Venus — the planet of Love and Romance — this after some stress with it on Friday. Whoo Hoo — time to celebrate your love life this weekend as a result of the courage you displayed in your conversation on Friday. See? “No fear” does have it’s rewards.