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.

Happy Halloween

Happy Halloween. On Friday, Mercury (Communication) is playing well with Uranus (the planet of new ideas and inventions), so get ready to talk about inventive ways to solve problems, and work through new projects. Talk is good — planning and strategic thinking will help you actually get to the solution. Hey… maybe you can apply this to your pumpkin carving? Venus, the planet of Love, is also working well with Chiron, the great healer, today. Obvious message, isn’t it? Love can heal all wounds. But you have to open your heart for that to happen.

“Often we feel tugged in two directions. How can we try our new inspirations, but do so in a practical way?”

Earlier this week, the Moon was squaring off with Neptune (planet of Spirituality and also Illusion), but with Mercury (Communication) working well with Neptune. This made it possible for you to talk about spiritual matters and beliefs with those you care about, but might have left an uneasy feeling about it. How did that go? Often there is spirituality behind politics, as in what differing candidates base their crucial decisions upon. The Spirit guides our discernment and so our decisions. From the Spirit comes principles. Important things to talk about, but also topics likely to stir up emotions. State your truth quietly and clearly.

Saturday finds a very active Moon dancing with seven planets, and tangoing well with Mercury, Neptune, and Chiron. Communication, Spirituality, and Healing. When you work out your Spiritual message, based on right priciples and integrity, then you will find that your life takes the path of healing. But the Moon is also at odds with both Saturn (practicality) and Uranus (new ideas). Often we feel tugged in two directions. How can we try our new inspirations, but do so in a practical way? Feel restrictive? Actually this is a good form of tension, which can bring your new plans in on budget — and budgets are very good in these times.

Sunday is a good day for renewal and rejuvenation. Where can you go for a quiet break, a good book, and a cup of java? If it’s raining, then enjoy a cozy cafe with your romantic interest. This is not a day for new initiatives. Just a day to celebrate what feels comfortable. There’s a time for action, and a time to rest. Enjoy it.

Monday — the day before the election — is looking like a good one to “bring it on.” The Moon is working well with the Sun (personality) bringing a nice balance to your endeavors, and also with Uranus — New Ideas — so go into work and roll up your sleeves. You have what it takes to “get on with it.” New ideas are also good things to introduce into your love relationships. Cook a new meal, plan a new trip, even watch a new TV show. Then observe how that affects the dynamic between you.

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.

Distant Galaxy captured by Hubble telescope.

Here comes Thursday. The Moon is working well with both Saturn (practicality), and Jupiter (prosperity), while showing stress in the realm of Chiron (the “Healer”). One simple interpretation is that being practical in your finances is the path to fixing any unbalances and will lead you to prosperity. Sound like common sense? Tell that to Congress, Wall Street, and all those loan lenders that didn’t serve us well. The Moon (Emotions) also cooperates well with Uranus (New Ideas), so you can work with this energy to give birth to your inner feelings. That’s just as important in your career as it is in your romantic life.

“Yes — check things twice and thrice because of the Retrograde period, but don’t hang back now. “

Earlier this week, we saw Mars dancing with Pluto. Pluto’s energy is about transformation and renewal, so mid-week brought a good time to put forward a proposal to try something new… at work, or in your personal relationships. How did that work out for you?

Friday looks a little emotional with the Moon (Emotions) putting stress on the Sun (Personality). Then we have Saturn (Restrictions), and Mercury (Communication) putting stress on the Moon. Hmmmm. Remember too that the Mercury Retrograde is in effect, so it is a time to be very careful in your negotiations. There might be something that has been holding you back, which you need to speak about with a boss or a loved one, but you’re worried about how emotional it can be. Just do what you know to be right, based on your Spiritual principles. That’s all any of us have to do at any time. And, we are emotional beings, so some feelings are to be expected.

On Saturday, the Heavens get busy and “bring it” with the Sun making nice with the Moon, Mercury dancing with Chiron the Healer, and the Moon playing well with both Chiron and Mercury. This is the time to speak and negotiate as it can bring about a fortunate result for you. Yes — check things twice and thrice because of the Retrograde period, but don’t hang back now. Your emotions and personality are all aligned with the potential for healing from your communication which means both speaking… and listening. Good luck.