Organized embroidery floss

Originally uploaded by curiousmess

Overview: For the next two weeks the focus is on alignment. Wherever we have gotten off track in terms of doing things that may not best reflect our values will become glaringly obvious. Reclaim something of value from the past with an organized approach. Don’t be afraid to ask for advice if you don’t know what to do. There are many practical solutions to the issues you face now, and you may want to retrace your steps to look for clues as to what the best move is for you.

1/17…After trying to play fair yesterday we are ready for some strategic maneuvering.

1/18-19…Rolling rocks uphill…Think back to mid-October. What were your spending your time and energy on? Perhaps a long term project? You may be struggling with an apparent obstacle, but keep the long term goal in mind and conserve your energy. Sometimes waiting it out and taking the time to get organized leaves you better set up for the long term than, well, rolling rocks uphill. Even if you lose a little face in the process.

1/20-21…Friday starts off with a fresh slate as the Sun enters Aquarius. New inspirations and connections present themselves to carry us through yesterday’s hard place.

1/22 New Moon Aquarius…We take ownership of our part of the puzzle and release the rest. At the time of the new moon our energy typically flags, and we may need to reset our expectations around a particular timeline. This new moon reminds us of the clarity available when we get a little reprieve from caring what other people think. Often this time in the moon’s cycle brings an ebb in energy, and this month is no exception so be sure to get some extra rest. Pair and balance your inner reserves and resolve with your intellect and diplomatic skills to focus and concentrate your efforts.

1/23-24…Order and discipline…Mars the warrior goes retrograde in Virgo today, until April 13th. Mars has been in Virgo since mid-November, and because of this retrograde cycle will transit this sign until early July 2012, leaving us with about 8 months of Mars in Virgo total. For projects that you’ve already started, the retrograde period (until April 13th) this is a great time to get organized and do any detailed work you may have been putting off or just haven’t been able to get to. Follow urges to get rid of clutter, organize your workspace, home, garden, etc. We are also called to be more mindful of our health with Mars in Virgo. Where would you like to make improvements? Small changes in routine are favored now and can have a major positive impact over the long term. During the retrograde cycle we may have less energy and need to be mindful of how we use it. Lapses in accountability and integrity may drive us crazy, and speaking up with a solution instead of just criticism is very important to remedy the situation. In general we have to be careful to not overly focus on criticism lest we alienate others during this time.

1/25-26…Cleans and clear your space and your mind. Empty your cup so you can replenish yourself. Pay attention to information coming from your intuition.

1/27-29…The moon’s entrance into Aries inspires us to action. With mercury making a number of aspects and entering into Aquarius, expect to field quite a bit of communication—our inboxes will be hoppin’.

1/30-31…After a busy weekend, the week starts out methodically with a focus on your resources. To get good and grounded in the basic building blocks of our current situation. What values do you see embodied before you?

STEVEN IS EXCITED

Originally uploaded by Rachel Allyson

Overview: Welcome to 2012! The year starts out with a fiery Aries first quarter moon, followed by an emotional Cancer full moon on 1/8. Our passion and emotional truth take center stage. Our feelings can direct us towards a deeper connection to our creative and intuitive impulses, which are important energy sources for the year ahead. Align yourself with the instincts that elicit the most excitement from you. Celebrate areas in your life where you can say “yes!” with aplomb. And those that elicit a half-hearted response or even dread, where can you take responsibility to make some changes? Or perhaps it’s time to commit to a long term plan that might entail short term sacrifices but is heading towards a goal you care about.

1/1-2…The year starts out with a fiery first quarter moon in Aries. Harness the courage and passion to start the year off right by putting your most authentic foot forward. By the afternoon/evening of 1/2, the pace slows down.

1/3-4…Brings a focus and groundedness. Enjoy the realistic outlook and ability to effectively prioritize.

1/5-6…The moon’s entrance into Gemini sparks conversation and ideas. Circulate and expose yourself to new things. Let your curiosity guide you. Also good days for writing and sales.

1/7-8…Full Moon in Cancer…Cancer helps us identify where we need more emotional closeness and empathy in our lives. If you’ve been soldiering on without paying attention to your deeper needs for security and comfort, time to re balance. On the other hand, if you’ve been playing it safe and/or overly focused on feelings, it may be time for a shift in perception in order to see what you’ve outgrown and move on. If there are some needs going unmet in your relationships, remember that one of the best ways to fill them is to give to others what you most want. Our hearts are wide open for some new forms of relating and melting away any ruts or judgements that no longer serve us.

1/9-11…The beginning of the week is relatively quiet on the astrological front, although the moon’s entrance into Leo Monday evening and the lingering effects of the full moon will leave us with plenty to process and express. Try some creative outlets to celebrate your uniqueness.

1/12-13…The moon’s entrance into Virgo has us focus on the small changes we can make towards larger aspirations. Good days for creative and spiritual pursuits, and doing things that clear your heart and mind. A boat load of inspiration awaits us if we can redirect any overzealous voices of judgement in our lives

1/14…Saturday evening is a great night for romance and fun. We are in the mood to connect and opportunities present themselves to share our hearts.

1/15-16…Think back to a week ago during the full moon. How has your perspective shifted? Where have you shed some outworn beliefs? Take a moment to look at the ground you’ve covered during the last week. Celebrate and offer gratitude for the shifts you’ve witnessed in yourself and others.

DSC_0144_vedauwoo_climbers

Originally uploaded by kdriese

We close out 2011 with clarity and resolve on our next steps . Any delays or processes that have been underway for the fall and winter shift into the next iteration or stage. This may require that you travel a little lighter, so make sure to let go of anything you no longer need for this part of journey.

12/17-18…We are moving to a deeper level of practicality with our current hopes and dreams. Some challenges may come up around how to move forward in a decision that impacts others. Be patient. Later in the week a possibility opens up that we couldn’t have foreseen.

12/19-20…Enjoy the opportunities and energy opening up for synergy and and an updated approach.

12/21-22…Winter Solstice…The longest night of year is upon us. In the midst of any holiday buzz, carve out some time to reflect on what you are letting go of as 2011 comes to a close. A change in direction is nicely accompanied by the resources and inspiration needed to follow through.

12/23-24…Capricorn New Moon…What ladder are you climbing? What goals and milestones are you thinking about? We are poised for a strong dose of forward momentum. Just make sure the direction you are headed is where you want to go.

12/25-26…Ready, set….Jupiter turns direct this, setting off a wave of growth and good feelings. Think back to the end of August, what were you working on, what has been in process this fall and winter? Get ready to surf a wave of good tidings. It will be well worth the wait. This is one of the best times to launch a business, make an investment, put yourself out their so opportunity can find you. If you don’t play, you can’t win.

12/27-28…With the forward momentum there will things we’ll need to leave behind. This may be uncomfortable, even painful, but if something is dying in your life, let it go. We need to decrease the drag so we can be more aerodynamic. This is an opportunity to feel very close to our purpose and sense of vitality. Enjoy the intensity and focus available to you.

12/29-30…The passion continues, although a non linear approach is needed with the moon in Pisces. Pay attention to coincidences and messages that come throughout the day.

12/31…Say goodbye to 2011…Our words might not match up exactly with our intentions. Cultivate humility as we close out 2011. Integrity and accountability are needed. Let’s cut the guilt, blame, semantics, and judgement, and commit to quality improvement and solutions in our personal world as well as collectively. We hold those values dear as we turn the page to the next chapter.

Opposites

Originally uploaded by norton8

In astrology, all signs have an opposite. This can be the ground for conflict, but it also supplies balance and diversity. Where are you at with apparent oppositions in your own life (including the political sphere)? For the first two weeks of December, see if you can build in some reflective time amidst the holiday bustle. This could be a heady period if we aren’t intentional about staying grounded and compassionate. The eclipse on 12/10 coincides with Uranus stationary direct, which means during the days leading up to it expect some shifts, potential chaos, and also disruption of sleep patterns. There are some old stories that are ready to be released, narrow thinking patterns that we must shed to increase and embody a larger awareness.

12/1-2…The month stars off with a deep dive into relationships. Enjoy the strength and stamina of your love. An important detail may reveal a lapse in accountability. Make adjustments to improve the whole system versus judging individuals.

12/3-4…Plan some time to do nothing on 12/3, as 12/4 will be an energetic day. Make sure to get some exercise if you find yourself with an abundance of mental energy.

12/5…Enjoy how good it feels to show up to those you care about in practical ways. Nurture trust by coming through on your promises.

12/6-7…Get outside and get grounded. Be methodical in your activities. The moon in Taurus reminds us to heed our biological clock.

12/8…Our sleep patterns may be disrupted by the restless energy. Pay attention to sudden insights and ideas. The wheels are turning on something you’ve had in the works since early July.

12/9-10…Lunar Eclipse in Gemini…This eclipse brings options and a change in direction. We are refining our communications to better embody inspiration and brilliance versus dogmatic belief. The polarities in our lives, whether in the current political climate or closer to home in our families, work situation, etc, offer many lessons and opportunities to be curious and listen deeply. Check out Marriage of Spirit, by Leslie Temple-Thurston, for simple journaling exercises to deal with strong feelings around opposition we perceive or encounter. We are learning how to listen to the messages beyond the words.

12/11-12…Our emotions catch up to the ideas and options we are contemplating. Don’t play it safe, but also don’t resort to going too far out into the unknown.

12/13-14…Mercury goes direction 12/13, urging us to be mindful of our words and slow down. It may be difficult to see another’s point of view. The focus is more on our own self-expression of the changes we have experienced lately.

12/15-16…Take out a magnifying glass to get a closer look at the fine print. What routines are you interested in reinstating that might have gone by the wayside with the eclipses and thanksgiving holiday?

Leaf 2

Originally uploaded by Marek52

Overview: We are ready to shift to more advanced states of awareness. In order to do that, we must be willing to shed some illusions that may be obstructing our thinking. The Sagittarius eclipse on 11/23 brings some shifts to move us out of our comfort zone, and with Mercury retrograde 11/23 (until 12/13), it’s best to hold any storylines about what’s happening very gently and resist jumping to conclusions. For Thanksgiving plans, double check and confirm travel details and plan extra time to get to airports etc. Be gentle with yourself and family members if miscommunications occur (avoid politics and religion as conversation topics, instead focus on what you are grateful for). Standard Mercury retrograde tips apply: Back up your computer and write down the IMEI number of your cell phone in a safe place (dial *# 0 6 # to find it, your carrier can then disable your cell phone in the event it is lost or stolen). Plan in some reflective time to journal and process.

11/16-17…Enjoy the confidence and precision you feel. These are creative days, where we can get through projects and collaborate effectively, especially if we are wrapping up things from the past few months.

11/18-19…Necessity and our will have some compromises to make. See where you can become more efficient to get more of what you want given current limitations.

11/20…Shed any illusions that may be clouding our minds and spirits.

11/21…The focus is on relationships. Where do you need to adjust your expectations? Keep out of the storyline by focusing on the common ground.

11/22-23…Our inner awareness is primed for a quantum leap, even if it feels like external events are crossways and backwards. Allow extra time for holiday travel. Our passion, confidence, and inner resolve help us make the best of current circumstances.

11/24-25…Solar Eclipse in Sagittarius…What are the lessons you are learning right now? There are many levels of freedom: emotional, physical, mental, and spiritual. See where you are itching to move from break down to break through. Important teachers from our past offer support and guidance at this time.

11/26-27…Get grounded in your relationships. We may need to renegotiate longstanding traditions in order to refresh the connection. A simple shift can yield a wonderful generosity of spirit.

11/28-30…Keep the big picture in mind as you release any energy around taking the changes of late personally.

Open

Originally uploaded by wiccked

Overview: The next couple of weeks give us opportunities to see where our reactions may be just a reflection of our relationship to change at large. How can you be a better lover, friend, and companion to change? Shed the shackles of resistance that keep you bound to an existence much smaller than who you are truly meant to be. Use the first week of November to take care of business and get some extra rest. Later in the month, Mercury goes retrograde (11/23-12/13), so use the time now to initiate or do any projects that may require lots of communication and/or technology and make sure to back up your computer. I highly recommend booking holiday travel now if you haven’t already.

11/1-3…Brings some breakthroughs and inspiration. Our thinking may be blurry on 11/1, but during 11/2-3, fresh innovation flows. Just keep in mind that this visioning process may not easily translate to action at this time. Think long term.

11/4-5…These are non linear days. Slow down and reflect. Communication could be a mixed bag. Clarify before jumping to conclusions.

11/6-7…When we open ourselves to a larger vision, we wash ourselves clean of any lingering doubts that we aren’t in the right place at the right time.

11/8-9…Don’t forget to vote on 11/8. Schedule some time for sleeping in and a nap or two. Good day to refocus your spiritual routine.

11/10-11…Less is More…Full Moon in Taurus…The Taurus full moon urges us to simplify and come back to the basics. How are you stewarding your resources, whether they be financial, energetic, spiritual, or emotional? With all of the changes and upheavals occurring in the world, how are your values changing? In what ways are you willing to better walk your talk?

11/12-13…This weekend we are both contemplative and curious. Talk to others about the ways they are aligning their time and resources with their core beliefs and principles.

11/14-15…Security…Keep your orientation toward the future if you find yourself reacting from past patterns. If you feel like you are fighting your survival, make sure you are eating well and getting enough sleep. Give yourself and others credit for who you are now versus who you’ve been in the past.

Dove of Loreto

Originally uploaded by trulli26

Overview: The focus turns towards clearing clutter on many levels and letting go in order to create space for some fortuitous and long-time-coming opportunities at the end of the month. On 10/26 we dive deep into the darkness with the Scorpio new moon pulling us toward our true longing and pruning away that which might be holding us back.

10/17…The pace of the day is quick, and our outlook optimistic. Do dream big and inspire with your ideals, but careful not gloss over important details.

10/18-19…Soothe your nerves with the comfortable and familiar. We have some growing pains to attend to. Where are you striking the balance between recharging your batteries and knowing when to push on for the final stretch?

10/20-21…We are in a graceful mood, ready to celebrate and get a dose of the otherworldly in our lives. Take some time to create a lovely ambience, or got to a show to get your fix of the beautiful and sublime.

10/22-23…This weekend purge and organize. If you are feeling cluttered, overburdened, often our personal space can be a reflection of our internal state. This is a great weekend to take care of any fall clean up, especially those things you’ve been putting off.

10/24-25…Reach out and connect. Build your network, spend some time with friends. If you are trying to build some bridges with a person/place/organization, these are good days to work on that.

10/26-27…New Moon in Scorpio…The theme of purging and letting go from last weekend continues. Scorpio brings things into consciousness that may be uncomfortable or startling to look at. This new moon highlights where we may need to do some shadow work to better align ourselves with our personal sense of self and power. Plug into an enormous reserve of energy when you transform fears by facing them honestly and compassionately.

10/28-29…We can’t stop the tide turning even if we tried. Ready for an attitude adjustment? The skies are clearing after what might have felt like a heavy couple of days. Enjoy the courage and strength and future orientation of all that’s possible when we open our awareness to it (and do the work of bringing compassion and honesty to our fears).

10/30-31…First things first. This Halloween, celebrate others that emanate qualities you hope to bring more of into your life. For loved ones and heroes/heroines that have passed on, celebrate what you most admired about them.

freedom/responsibility

Originally uploaded by mamamusings

Overview: If you’ve been having difficulty making a decision, the second week of October will bring some clarity. The Aries Full moon on 10/11 highlights where we need to take a stand and take action. The decision may feel heavy, but the following weekend (10/15-10/16) brings a fresh perspective and desire for options that can make it feel more manageable.

10/1-2…Take a trip and explore this weekend. We are keen for an adventure to celebrate the fall. On 10/2 we might feel some friction between our goals and aspirations and current desires. Be thoughtful about a course correction to keep you on track.

10/3-4…We start the week with a plan and plenty of ambition. Don’t lose sight of key relationships that must be included early on in the process, even if it takes you more time in the moment it will save you from challenges in the long run.

10/5-6…Good days to revisit contracts and agreements. Our diplomatic skills and patience are at all time high levels, see where you can put them to good use.

10/7-8…Time to reflect and spend some time on artistic/spiritual pursuits. Easy does it. A gentle approach is needed with yourself and others.

10/9…Rest day. Sleep in, don’t over plan your day, and make time for reflection and reverie.

10/10-11…Full Moon in Aries……The tables are turned. You may find others are asking you for something you may have asked from them in the past. We must be willing to offer others the same amount of freedom and autonomy we demand for ourselves. If you’ve been undecided on a decision for the past few weeks, your instincts are ready to show you the most authentic path forward.

10/12-13…After the rush and activity of the earlier part of the week, our pace becomes more measured and our approach more collaborative. Something you have worked hard for is materializing. What obstacles have you overcome since early July?

10/14…Thoughts turn towards how to align our goals with our resources. Make sure to talk to others to broaden your perspective on what’s possible.

10/15-10/16…The conversation continues. Explore your options, especially if you felt backed into a corner last week. Learn a new skill or pick up a book you’ve wanted to check out. A fresh perspective can do wonders for our emotional health.

Half a sun

Originally uploaded by D.Y

Overview: With the Sun’s entrance into Libra and Venus making some important aspects, relationships of all kinds are front and center for the next two weeks. We are called to examine the quality of partnership and friendship in our lives, and may need to clear out some skeletons from the closet so we can be in better relationship with self and other, especially around 9/18 and 9/27.

9/17…The tables are turned. You may find others are asking you for something you may have asked from them in the past. We must be willing to offer others the same amount of freedom and autonomy we demand for ourselves.

9/18…Some strong feelings emerge from our reactions to whatever occurred yesterday. The deeper, underlying issues must be acknowledged. If you’ve been avoiding a conversation for fear of hurting someone, time to buck up with honesty and directness to clear the air. You’ll be glad you did, even though it may be uncomfortable.

9/19-20…We may feel torn between taking care of business and exploring new options. Forge a path that includes the right mix for where you are at.

9/21-22…Honor any urges to stick close to home if you can.

Autumn Equinox…9/23…Here we are at the midpoint, the length of the day equals the length of the night, light balances dark. Utilize the balance and perspective to power you into compassionate action. The equinox highlights where we have achieved the poise and clarity we need to forge ahead, undaunted, into the darker part of the year.

9/24-25…An element of surprise hangs over this weekend, from where we least expect it. Enjoy the wildcard and fresh perspective and energy it brings.

9/26…Our words pack a punch today. Take care not to alienate others with black and white statements.

New Moon in Libra…9/27-28…The relationship theme continues, with Libra reminding us of the value of deep bonds. This new moon brings a crisis in consciousness, where we must use our heart, and not the mind, to deal with a paradox, two seemingly opposite but equal forces, particularly in our relationships. You may be in the middle of two ideas, two directions, or even two people. While it will be tempting to get black and white when considering your options, honor the complexity of the situation, especially in negotiations with others. We must be true to ourselves and long term plans; get advice from a mentor or elder. In the end, the most important question to ask yourself just may be: what would love do?

9/29-9/30…We move forward with confidence. The hard won considerations and levity of the past few days starts to lighten as we muster our confidence for the next step.

Swept&Gone

Originally uploaded by Mason James

Overview: The first two weeks of September are punctuated by some strong feeling and activity around the Pisces Harvest Full moon. After the Mercury retrograde cycle of last month we are ready to assess, organize, and gather our resources for the fall. Use your attention to detail to clear the clutter out of your work spaces and your mind. During the 2nd week of September the pressure is on to change or be changed by a cycle that started in mid April. We need to purge old attitudes and authority patterns that no longer serve us to move forward.

9/1-2…What are you harvesting right now? September starts out with some tangible proof of our efforts over the last few months.

9/3-4…Open up to a broad horizon of possibility. See how the practical steps you are taking reflect your deeper beliefs.

9/5-7…Moon in Capricorn brings a more serious, long term view. Use these days to make steady progress on current projects.

9/8-9…Mercury opposes Neptune, which can make for some confusion, some deeply meaningful non verbal communication, or both. Pay attention to the messages that surface throughout these two days, no matter who the messenger.

9/10…Get out and about and enjoy yourself. The mood is flirtatious and inspired–great date night. Eat good food with lovely company.

9/11-12…Pisces Harvest Moon…Passion and feelings run strong and deep. This full moon we have a lot of support to shed resistances and cultivate the emerging structures in our life that better support the good, true, and beautiful in our daily lives. This full moon marks a turning point in our journey individually and collectively, and also brings stability and maturity for us to draw upon. Our identity is shifting and at times may feel like it’s in free fall, which helps facilitate growth and grace on all levels. Wherever we may be cramming our energies into a box we’ve outgrown comes up for review: time to recycle the box. Ask yourself “Who am I?” underneath the social roles you play. Keep in mind that the best time to view the full moon is at sunset, looking east, on 9/11. See what kind of reflection, letting go, and forgiveness you can cultivate to honor the past ten years personally and collectively.

9/13-14…The moon’s shift to Aries brings a tailwind at the heels of the full moon, boosting us into a frenzy of activity. On 9/14 Venus moves into Libra, bringing us back into balance. See where you need to cultivate more grace, diplomacy, and harmony in your life and call on Venus to help you.

9/15-16…We are ready to stabilize and ground after a busy start to the week. A cycle that started in mid April but has experienced some delays/setbacks during the past couple of months is shifting out of neutral. Make sure to update any authority patterns so you can move forward with a fresh attitude.