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.

Like a bright burning candle, so the year burns down to its close.

There are a number of favorable signs in the heavens as we reach the end of this holiday week. The Moon is working well with both Venus and Neptune — think, “Spirit of Love.” Of course that is what the season is all about, but sometimes we forget — and it is good that the planetary energies are aligned with the right energy when we remember. Mercury (Communication), is also working in tandem with Saturn (Practicality) so that you can find the enjoyment of the holidays in a down to earth way as you work out your plans for the weekend. There’s alittle tension between the Moon and Saturn though — this can come out when you bump into your budget. We’re all in the same boat, though, and people will understand… so do what’s right for you and yours as the New Year approaches.

“You may find that the holiday celebrations, and conversations with new friends and old, spark new ideas for adventures in the new year.”

Earlier in the week found the Moon (Emotions) working with Pluto (Renewal) - a perfect alignment as the Christmas week began. Have you ever noticed the opportunity to reconnect with old friends during the Holidays? Of course. But the opportunity extends deeper than that — you have an opening to actually transform your relationships — to let go of the things in the past you don’t want anymore, live and celebrate totally in the now, and make the next year a dream of happiness. That’s the magic of the yuletide.

Saturday looks interesting with the Moon in “Conjunction” (two planetary energies working things out together) with the Sun, and Venus in Conjunction with Neptune. The latter Conjunction involves interplays of Love with Spirituality, and can also show a kind of zealous romantic encounter fired up by the spirit of the season. Moon and Sun, are Emotions and Personality, always a combination behind what makes things tick. When they cooperate (instead of your gut telling you one thing and your head another), this alignment can help you see thing with clarity and be efficient. No hesitation.

Sunday finds the Moon dancing well with Uranus — the planet of new ideas. You may find that the holiday celebrations, and conversations with new friends and old, spark new ideas for adventures in the new year. The Practicality of Saturn is also at play, and of course in the larger picture this is wise — economically speaking. The Moon is in Conjunction with Mercury today, so you feel that you can talk these things out with your mate — a good day for a hot mocha and a chat about the coming year.

Astronauts aboard the Space Shuttle Discovery recorded this rarely seen phenomenon of the full Moon partially obscured by the atmosphere of Earth

Welcome to Friday: a Full Moon Thursday led into a busy Friday (Celestially speaking), when you could use the empowerment of the Full Moon as the energy of Chiron (the Healer) and Neptune (Spirituality) serve to heighten this day. You will find that when you go as the Spirit moves you, those around you will be with you and you will feel better for it. Also on Friday, Mars (Initiative) is at war with Uranus (New Ideas), which means that the best route for you may be a tried and true path. What has worked well for you in the past, and how can you use those strategies and methods today?

“Maybe you’re wondering what to get people? Think of how their Spirit shines, then look for gifts that support it.  It’s a powerful Lunar weekend, full of transformation.”

Earlier this week, you may have noticed a bit of tug and pull on your emotions, then a bit of relief on Thursday. The Moon was making nice with Venus, the planet of Love, so you may have found that your romance life feels good to you right now. But Venus was showing a bit of stress with Uranus, the planet of new ideas, so celebrating traditions in your relationships, and enjoying your favorite dinner together should have worked out well. And of course things are a bit “tighter” this season with the economy the way it is — another reason to stay safe, with tried and true ways to spend time together.

Saturday looks interesting — have you got your Christmas shopping done? Maybe you’re wondering what to get people? Think of how their Spirit shines, then look for gifts that support it. It’s common sense — the avid sportsman gets sporting related gifts. The traveler… well, you get it. The Moon (Emotions) is working well with both Mercury (Communication), and Pluto (Transformation), so get on the cell phone when you’re out shopping and check in with your people — they will give you the details you need to know. Continue to use the power of the Full Moon to get you through this busy time.

Sunday finds the Moon working well with Saturn (Practicality), and Uranus (New Ideas) — you’d be surprised how many practical but new approaches there are for your career, family projects, and of course, gift shopping. Don’t get too stressed out… things always get done and work out, don’t they? Maybe every year you are rushing around to try and do everything that needs doing in a busy season. Gift yourself a break now. It will get done like it always does. Take time out for a mocha — your own private celebration of the season. Then just get it done. That’s the ticket.

This new years party mask configuration is 114 million light years away in the swirling cores of two merging galaxies called NGC 2207 and IC 2163 in the distant Canis Major constellation

Happy holiday Friday — here’s wishing you a good Thanksgiving weekend. We’re still rolling with the inspirational energy of the Thanksgiving day New Moon, so maybe that will help you on your shopping trips. Friday turned out busy with Venus (Love) playing well with Uranus (New Ideas) — perfect to help you figure out what to get your loved ones. And the Moon (Emotions) was playing well with Neptune (Spirituality) — so listen to those old Christmas tunes, and get in the Spirit.

“It is strength of Spirit that nurtures us in sudden misfortune, and resolving hard feelings is often an act inspired by and motivated within your Spirit.”

Earlier this week, the Moon (Emotions), was dancing well with Saturn (Practicality), and Jupiter (Growth). This fostered a nice feeling of practical growth as Thanksgiving rolls around. If you think about it that’s appropriate since Thanksgiving is a practical holiday where people are well-fed, and not without a bit of growth! The Moon was also in Trine with Uranus, so I wouldn’t be surprised if you found yourself brainstorming some new ways to proceed — at work, and in your private life. Remember that New Moons are times for new beginnings… and that will work out well… even in “old” relationships.

Saturday shows Venus (Love) working well with Saturn (Restrictions) — so if you’ve got to set some limits on how you go about your Romance and family life, this is a good day to do it. Limits? Sure — everyone does better when clear boundaries are set. Maybe you need some more time for yourself. Maybe you need to tell the kids to respect parents’ time. Maybe it’s time for a chat with your partner about your own needs and desires. This can actually bring about a change for the better — a renewal in relationships — and the Moon’s energy is working with Pluto (energy of transformation) to facilitate it today.

Sunday finds the Moon (Emotions) at odds with the tides of Neptune (Spirituality). People are sometimes surprised that their emotions tap into the Spiritual at all, but much does go on beneath the surface, and in dreams. It is strength of Spirit that nurtures us in sudden misfortune, and resolving hard feelings is often an act inspired by and motivated within your Spirit. Neptune has also represented Religion, and Illusion at times. Interesting that those two go hand and hand. Much of the Spirit’s highest calling can be misrepresented in life, so it is best to pray for discernment.

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.

Above, NASA Hubble Space Telescope image of the Antennae galaxies (NGC 4038 & 4039) shows this merging pair of galaxies. During the course of the collision, billions of new stars will be formed. (Click to Enlarge)

Welcome to Friday…The Moon (Emotions) is doing a dance with Venus (Love) as we end our week, and cooperating with Mercury (Communication), so look forward to a romance filled Friday. But remember that the key is Communication, and that means BOTH talking and listening. It also means giving careful consideration to what you wish to say, and how to say it so the other person can hear it “in their own language.” What language? Well, I mean English, but relationship advisers often point out that people respond to different words and adjectives. Do you know your mate’s “love language?”

On Sunday, the Sun and Moon are in balance, and the Moon is playing with Pluto — a planet with energy vibrating for rejuvenation

Earlier in the week, there was a feeling of renewal in the air as the Fall season really came on and you took a look at annual projects to determine ways to do them better this year. This with the power of the Aries full Moon on last Tuesday evening brought a sense of purpose, heightened still more by the Moon’s conjunction with Mars — the planet of initiative. Time to get things done — you can carry this into your weekend.

Saturday finds the Moon squaring off with two big, but distant planets — Saturn (Practicality), and Uranus (New Ideas). Remember those new projects you brainstormed earlier? Go ahead and use those new ideas in a practical, down to earth (compare Lowes to Home Depot, for best prices, etc.) way. The Moon is also dancing nice with Neptune, paradoxically the planet of both Religion and Illusion. How do you discern the difference? You can pray for that discernment. Reminds me of the old Moody Blues poem that ends, “but we decide which is right — and which is an illusion.” To that I would just add that God already knows.

On Sunday, the Sun and Moon are in balance, and the Moon is playing with Pluto — a planet with energy vibrating for rejuvenation. You could use a little “R and R” — couldn’t you? After all, a certain amount of stress can come about from the “work” required in love relationships (shown by a stressful position with Venus), so a break will do you good. At least get away to a park — before the weather heads into the Winter zone.