.....This month brings a proverbial plethora of planetary
activity, starting with Mars reversing his direction on the 1st as he trudges through the practical and earthy sign of Taurus. The art of follow-up and follow through is an ideal use of this energy, with the reverse side of the coin tempting us to become the Scarlet O’Hara of our day, putting off until at least tomorrow what we could easily do today.
On the 3rd, we are graced by the solar eclipse in Libra. This is, by definition, a new moon, and therefore a great time to turn over a new leaf when it comes to the notion of compromise. The sign of the scales reminds us that we don’t live in a vacuum and in order for us all to find a way to get along we need to accommodate our fellow human beings. ......Mastering diplomacy and tact is part of the package.
On the 8th, Mercury’s entrance into Scorpio encourages us to peer below the surface of ideas and dig for hidden meaning and information. Imagine that you’re somehow related to Sherlock Holmes as you don your detective goggles and gear. Simultaneously the planet of Venus makes her way into Sagittarius, reminding us that life is a myriad of fun-filled adventures the more the merrier.
......By the 17th, the moon will have made its way halfway through the zodiac, bringing us the lunar eclipse in the independent sign of the ram. Any apparent lack of self-motivation will surely be reversed by this position. On the 23rd, the sun makes its way into the scorpion, helping us appreciate how we can effectively merge our talents and resources with those around us. The 26th brings us a heightening of this theory as Jupiter makes his annual entrance into a new sign, this time accompanying the sun in Scorpio in the process. Perhaps a rise in the popularity of mysteries will be one such manifestation.
Neptune insists on being part of the planetary plot, moving forward on the 26th. Idealistic fantasies that have been floating around in the ethers are now primed for realization. Lastly, the fleet-footed Mercury charges his way into the restless sign of Sagittarius, making us antsy to be anywhere but where we are at this moment.

Aries (March 21 - Apr. 19)
As your ruler Mars reverses himself in your neighboring sign, it’s time to drop back and punt with respect to things financial. Take a good long look at how and where you’re investing your assets, including your energy, with an eye on gradually adjusting strategies. But first, you must do your homework. Remember that spontaneity isn’t always your friend. No doubt, patience is a virtue right now. Regarding relationships, accept the irony that arises when you find that by putting the other guy first you actually benefit in the long run. But don’t expect those rewards to materialize until the lunar eclipse in your sign on the 17th. Probe your dreams’ hidden meanings, and if inclined, sign up for a fun class.

Taurus (Apr. 20 - May 20)
Your goals require regrouping, thanks to Mars retrograding in your sign. Now let’s face it; you bulls are renowned for being slightly rooted in your routine. So when someone dares utter the words “change” or “adjustment” you feel out of your element. You actually wonder if a visit to the shrink is in order. But we’re not talking radical change, such as altering your entire life purpose; but more of an adjustment of process. Just as a flower eventually blooms, you’re more comfortable easing in to a different mode, rather than diving right in. As Jupiter enters your opposing sign of Scorpio, cast your eye toward partnerships of all varieties. You have plenty of negotiating room.

Gemini (May 21 - June 20)
The new moon in your solar fifth house of romance blesses your life with an enticing aura. Someone radically different from your “normal type” may be just the ticket. If you’re already attached, change the momentum. Adventure is the key to stoking the fires. Dip your toes in new waters. When you’re not focused on affections, you’ll find your mind easily captivated by work’s challenges. If a co-worker or boss insists that something is impossible to accomplish, that’s all the fuel you need to prove them wrong. Luckily you have the mental and physical stamina to win the battle. Keep a high social profile during the lunar eclipse on the 17th.

Cancer (June 21 - Jul. 22)
You crabs are fond of taking refuge in your home, just as the crusty creature does within its shell. However, the home front doesn’t appear all that peaceful. It seems things are in a state of flux. Perhaps you’ve grown bored with your surroundings and feel the urge to shake things up. Or your tastes might be changing. Regardless, consider different techniques for accomplishing your goal. Hiring a feng shui expert might be an option. Or ask that good friend with a good eye. Remind yourself that you’re virtually going to war here to attain a sense of peace. Keep romantic gestures subtle. There’s a lot to be said for mystery. Co-workers are convinced you deserve to be pampered.

Leo (Jul. 23 - Aug. 22)
Since you lions speak right from the heart, those who know you would be shocked to find you mincing your words. It is essential that you focus on your capacity to express yourself in the days ahead. Although best done in writing (what with the new moon in your solar third), the idea is to get your point across in a colorful yet tactful manner. And because the new moon falls in Libra, the goal is to observe any and all sides of the coin. Comparing and contrasting proves much more informative than attempting to reinforce a particular opinion. Venus in your solar fifth insists you carve out time for dancing and romancing. Venture out during the lunar eclipse.

Virgo (Aug. 23 - Sept. 22)
Expect a swing of the financial pendulum, compliments of the new moon in your solar second house. Perhaps money is coming in from different directions than before. It’s hard to imagine that you could become even more curious, but that is what is in store. You’ll leave no stone unturned as you search for the answers to deep-rooted questions. Organization is certainly a strong suit of yours, and these days you feel the need to make things more compact, giving yourself more elbow room. It appears as if you’re on the receiving end of a free education, as those around you have practical knowledge that they happily share with you.

Libra (Sept. 23 - Oct. 22)
Your destiny is solely in your hands, so take the wheel and steer with purpose. The time to factor others into the equation arises during the full moon. Don’t take economic trends for granted. A little snooping around on your part reveals greater potential. Whole new options open up late in the month as Jupiter begins his year-long journey through your solar second house. Take time out from the day-to-day grind and venture out into the sticks. It matters not your destination, but rather that you’re gazing upon new sites. Pay close attention to subconscious queues such as suggestions arising from your dreams. Share humor with your siblings.

Scorpio (Oct. 23 - Nov. 21)
You folks get edgy when you don’t feel completely in control. That perspective could prove frustrating right now since so much appears to be up in the air. There is a lot brewing beneath the surface, but you’re not in a position to actually see what is happening. If you feel as though you’re in a state of suspended animation, you’re not imagining it. An appropriate use of this energy is to tie up as many loose ends as possible to prepare for the next lunar cycle. Mentally you’ll be sharp as a tack, what with Mercury occupying your sign. Take financial risks from the 8th forward, especially if a major purchase or investment is in order.

Sagittarius (Nov. 22 - Dec. 21)
You should have little difficulty keeping a high social profile. And what is most interesting is the wide array of humanity with whom you come in contact. It truly runs the gamut. Your greatest challenge will lie in what you say. Since you’re not one to hold back when it comes to expressing your opinions, you might consider renting a muzzle for the month. It simply isn’t appropriate for you to be laying all your cards out on the table right now. The timing isn’t right, nor is that the proper strategy. Playing the proverbial fly on the wall is your best bet, soaking up the pearls that others cast in front of you. Since work maintains a steady pace, reward yourself with some pampering.

Capricorn (Dec. 22 - Jan. 19)
You’re in your element when life conforms to the preconceived structures you’ve put in place. Unfortunately, things don’t always live up to that game plan, and this is one of those times. Expect some turmoil when it comes to those in positions above you or significant decision makers with whom you come in contact. If a new foundation is to be built, you’ll see signs in that direction during the full moon. Meanwhile, your colleagues happily allow you to pick their brains. Close personal friends need to air their dirty laundry in order to make sense out of their lives. You seem to have just the perspective they need, so be generous when it comes to sharing your wisdom.

Aquarius (Jan. 20 - Feb. 18)
Set your sites on places significantly distant from your home base of operation. If actual travel is not in order, expect to be in contact with those in other regions of the globe. There is much to be learned in the process, not the least of which is a greater appreciation for the customs and mores of other cultures. Professionally speaking, you may not be privy to every
detail. All you need to know right now is the end result. The process may be revealed later on down the road. Carve time out for pure fun with a group of your best buddies. And if they feel like doing something wild and wooly, you ought to go along for the ride, if only for the kicks.

Pisces (Feb. 19 - Mar. 20)
As naturally psychic as you are, it’s virtually impossible for you to separate yourself from what is going on in the world. And your subconscious mind is so active and receptive, that you may wake up exhausted from your dreams. Give yourself some sort of outlet for all this intensity. As creative as you are, surely there is some form of expression which will prove the perfect vehicle. Writing is an option, but you’ll have to exercise patience in getting the words just right. If all else fails, seek out a human sounding board. Professionally speaking, the sky is the limit, so keep your sights high. A quick spending spree is in order during the full moon.

Kathryn L. Silverton is an Atlanta area astrologer. She may be contacted for consultations
at 770-931-2577 or
kls@planetaryperceptions.com