We begin the New Year with Mars still retrograde. Remember, he changed direction in Cancer mid November causing many of us to melt down and blow our tops. Mars has now backed into Gemini causing that sign to bounce around harder than ever trying to figure which tact or decision is best. While Mars is retrograde we are wise to put assertive behavior on hold almost as if we would do with Mercury retrograde.

 Mars is also opposite Pluto in Sagittarius during the first half of January. Oppositions often bring us lessons and struggles. This opposition between Mars and Pluto is very intense and can bring hassles and even accidents. Those of us who are persistent can accomplish a great deal under this influence, but there is not much that comes easy at the very start of the month. Gemini, Sagittarius, Virgo, and Pisces born late in those signs are most affected. All are wise to use good sense when going about the world. Mars was last opposite Pluto during the last week of September 2007.

Lucky Jupiter is moving through Capricorn and trine Saturn January 7. Somewhere in our lives away from the trials and tribulations that Mars and Pluto are creating; we feel this pleasant aspect. These two planets at this angle are wonderful for doing business and signing contracts. Since Saturn and Mars are retrograde some of us may stall on our decisions, but for the most part business plans have the potential of going well. Real estate and other professionals who deal in contracts should make the most of this fertile time.

Also, on January 7, Mercury moves into Aquarius. This has us thinking ‘out of the box’ looking for new and inventive ways to solve problems. Exciting discoveries can happen now especially for Libra, Gemini, and Aquarius. Taurus, Leo, and Scorpio are stressed by news and details and all are wise to get stuff started before Mercury goes retrograde January 28 – February 18. As usual, while Mercury is retrograde we want to finish and redo situations and plans that have previously been started. This is not the time to begin anew. Gemini, Virgo, and Aquarius are most affected by this tricky planet and are wise to remain attentive to one task at a time. Accordingly, with Mars retrograde until January 28 and Mercury retrograde from January 28 to February 18 we are hard pressed to get started in this New Year.

The biggest news of the month and year is that Pluto moves out of 13 years in Sagittarius and into Capricorn January 25. He does back into Sagittarius June 14 to November 26 so that Sagittarius can finish the business of rising from the ashes that has taken place since January 1995. While Pluto moved through Sagittarius many of our heroes have fallen either from physical death or their own follies exposed. Child abuse has been unmasked and churches have been taken to task for their unholy actions. Pluto definitely shows us that which needs to be torn down and rebuilt.

 Pluto last moved through Capricorn from 1762 to 1778. Those years brought about the democratic revolution of the United States. The colonists revolted against a government that was not considering their needs to say the least. In 1517, with Pluto in Capricorn, Martin Luther spurred the Protestant Reformation  which attacked church practices of buying and selling church positions and other self-indulgent behavior.

During 2008 through 2024 we will experience a replay of the people deciding, “enough is enough”. Major transitions will occur in the way we do business. Those who have been underhanded and self-serving are sure to be exposed and run out of Dodge. Those who enjoy fabulous salaries while others toil away will be put on notice to shape up or lose their positions. In the coming years businesses will fail, governments will fall, and elder abuse will be exposed. If you consider that the cultural composition of our population is shifting the coming changes are quite evident.  In 2022- 2024 Pluto in the sky will return to the position of Pluto in the birth chart of the United States. Revolutionary ideas will boot out the aristocrats and politicians who preach one thing and then do as they please. The boys club and the cronyism will die. Pluto shifts our consciousness and all of us are at the brink of an exciting new period in our country and the world. We will suddenly remember that our constitution begins with “We the people”.

During the first few years of Pluto in Capricorn all of us born in the first days of any sign will be experiencing a taking apart of our life situations. Incidents in our lives will occur that change our outlook of our personal world. Capricorns are at the brink of one of the most exciting transformational periods they will have in their lifetimes.

January 6 Sun, in Capricorn is sixty degrees from Uranus in Pisces. Capricorn and Pisces are mentally sharp. Staying alert is easy and gets you to the head of the class.

The downside of the day is that Venus in Sagittarius is square Saturn in Virgo. Many of us feel unsure or even reserve regarding one or more relationships. If you feel honey is acting distant over the next few days; give them space. They are evaluating more than just their love for you. Those who have made a mess of an affair are sure to have consequences to deal with during the coming week.

January 8 The New Moon occurs in Capricorn at 5:37 am CST. Always start new projects in the days between the new Moon and full Moon. Since this new Moon occurs in goal oriented Capricorn we do well to begin projects and tasks that get us organized. Now is the time to set goals and the make plans for climbing the ladder of life towards those goals. Just as the Moon is new it also goes void until tomorrow at 5:13 AM CST. Hold off until that time to attempt just about any activity unless it involves telling someone bad news. Otherwise most tasks and situations performed today fail or produce unexpected results. And of course we have Mars retrograde and Mercury about to do that so this growing period of the Moon is a bit diluted by these other events in the zodiac.

January 12 Venus, in Sagittarius is ninety degrees from Uranus in Pisces. Venus loves fashion, art, jewelry and most other pretty items. Uranus’ spontaneity has many of us making impulsive purchases. Most of us we should not do that, but Aquarius and Scorpio may want to spring for a lotto ticket.

January 16 Venus is sixty degrees from Neptune in Aquarius. This romantic aspect has us in feeling the delights of love and lust. Take time off to spend with a special someone. Many of us will want to share our good will with those in need.

January 19 Venus, still in Sagittarius, is opposite Mars in Gemini. Relationships that are already on the right track get better while those that are on the skids choke for survival. Physical attractions are intensified especially for Sagittarius, Gemini, Virgo, and Pisces.

January 20 The Sun enters Aquarius until February 18. In the days ahead our attentions turn toward inventive ideas and procurement of knowledge. Many of us will want to participate in humanitarian endeavors. Freedom and the pursuit our that ideal will be much talked about while the Sun moves through Aquarius. Libra and Gemini generally have an easy time while the Sun transits Aquarius. Taurus, Leo, and Scorpio are challenged by ideas and situations that are counter to their positions and beliefs.

January 22 The full Moon occurs in Leo at 7:35 AM CST. This is the peak of the lunar cycle and we are now compelled to turn our attentions away from initiating tasks to receiving results. In the days between now and the next new Moon on February 6; complete the stuff you have previously begun. The full Moon is always a high energy time and since this one occurs in expressive Leo many of us will have give a hug or express just how we feel about a situation whether that means approval or disapproval. Cancer is always wired up during the full Moon influence.

Mercury, slowing down in Aquarius is conjunct Neptune. For the past few days and through the first week of February many of us feel confused. This is no time to sign papers. Check your facts and do not take anything at face value. Tricks and lies are afoot. Aquarius, Taurus, Leo, and Scorpio are the most affected by this confusion but all are warned to pay attention in the days ahead.

January 23 Venus about to leave Sagittarius crosses Pluto. Emotions are intense and many are attracted to the grass on the other side of the fence. Some of us will want to act out our hormones whether that includes exercising lust, jealousy, or guilt. Aries and Leo get a pass and most likely can enjoy this passionate aspect. Sagittarius, Pisces, Gemini and Virgo do well to hide at home at least for the next couple of days.

January 24 Venus enters Capricorn until February 17. In the days ahead our attention are attracted to the business and organizational side of life. Those usually blah business suits suddenly seem sexy and a trip to office supply is a turn on for those who usually find that boring. Capricorn, Virgo, and Taurus are smart to dress in their best business attire, as they will be turning heads. Try not to steal those shiny staplers; it is bad karma.

January 29 Venus, now in Capricorn, is trine Saturn, retrograde in Virgo. This is a really good time for stabilizing relationships and doing good business. Expenditures are done with good sense, but since Saturn is retrograde many of us will be taking extra time to evaluate our position regarding any decision. Many will be reevaluating decisions that seemed settled previously.

Capricorn, Dec 22 - Jan 19

 Lucky Capricorn is experiencing the opportunities and good luck that Jupiter transiting your sign has to offer throughout 2008. During this first month goats are compelled to come to terms with efforts that are useless. Look to your subconscious drives to understand why certain situations or people have come up to be resolved. This includes unruly helpers and health matters. The new directions and sense that you are moving forward do not come to pass until March. Meanwhile, clear the clutter from inside so that you are more easily able to reinvent yourself over the next sixteen years. Mid month is great for doing business and signing contracts. Dealings with foreigners go well. Financial plans should be put on hold beginning the 28th. Best days 7th, 8th 

Aquarius, Jan 20 - Feb 18

 You like to be on a team so be a team player. Children and honeys are more than a handful and in some cases you want to knock them up side the head. Consider the ways you have related to friends, children, competitors, and romantic interests. Handle these people with kid gloves. Some of them are heading down the wrong path and your role should be supportive. Planning and initiating projects go well, but you mostly likely will not see results until mid February. Once Mercury goes retrograde on the 28th, Aquarius will be at a standstill. Use the time until February 18 to rethink all situations and finish tasks previously begun. Make deals before the 28th; especially those, which include joint efforts or credit. Best days 9th, 10th 

Pisces, Feb 19-Mar 20

 Blowups happen as partof clearing the air. Talk out disagreements as opposed to breaking the china over someone’s head. Ensure that parents and your home are both secure. Home improvement of any sort should be delayed until March 11. Otherwise, the job will be over budget and you already have enough commotion going on at home without adding to current disruptions. New friendships are coming but it begins to be apparent that you do not see eye to eye with those who were once fast buddies. Pisces feels impulsive at mid month. Think about buyer’s remorse before taking any purchasing leap. Be available to help those in need, but take their directives even though you may have a better plan for their well being. Best day 11th 

Aries, Mar 21 - Apr 19

 Aries’ ruler, Mars, remains retrograde until January 28 meaning that you are still in neutral which is tough for this assertive sign. Throughout January rams must mind their words. You are not always right and that will be pointed out if you get into anyone’ face. Aries who push will be pushed back harder. Use caution when driving. Handle the neighbors and your siblings with kid gloves. Evaluate which efforts are useless including enrolling in higher education or filing a lawsuit. Think before agreeing to chair the hospital gala, as your career deserves great attention during this year of many opportunities. Communication with friends is full of pitfalls January 29 to February 18. Aries begins to rebuild their career over the next sixteen years. Best day 14th 

Taurus, Apr 20 - May 20

 Money and other financial situations require attention. Those who overspent during the holidays have juggling to do while those who have chased after dumb deals come to realize they were a chump. Taxes, credit, insurance, and especially stuff shared must be tended immediately. Some bulls are in the doghouse so get honey happy now or sleep on the couch. Urgency gives way to good business and a good financial foundation at mid month. Reconsider your investments and make adjustments to the portfolio. You may need to pick some new lotto numbers also. Career matters must be initiated before the 28th as after that plans get put on the back burner. Put your own agenda aside in order to get along at work and with family. Best days 16th, 17th 

Gemini, May 21 - Jun 21

 Mars has backed into Gemini causing this sign to feel temperamental. The first few days of the month are intensely difficult especially for those born in the late days of Gemini. Assert one of your identities with caution so that you do not get pushed around. If you are too pushy others will push Gemini out the door or into a court of law. Gemini’s goals are valid, but do recognize yours are not the only good ideas. Siblings and even neighbors have news and need advice. Contracts for property go well. Those who want a new home are ripe to lease or purchase, but should not go overboard spending at mid month. Your ruler is retrograde beginning the 28th     so take a timeout. Best day 19th 

 Cancer, Jun 22 - Jul 22

 Since mid November it has felt like outward situations have been contributing to your dissatisfaction with the status quo. Many crabs have felt weighed down with responsibilities. Turn your attention inward to discover the root of your unhappiness. Previous restless and impulsive action now require Cancer to float in the doldrums until the winds of time fill your sails again. Spend some time alone in order to touch base with your soul. Your goals are important indeed, but you might find the going easier if you defer to what partners want. The result will be that shared situations and deals of all sorts are finalized. Relationships that are not longer pertinent begin to leave over the next year as Cancer’s outlook greatly transforms. Best day 21st 

Leo, Jul 23 - Aug 22

 Lions are reconsidering financial decisions and processing opportunities to excel in their work. Just after mid month all the pieces fall into place for Leo to feel secure. Friends, honeys, and children provide reasons to blow your top. Count to ten and then say what you really want them to know. Work and your standing in the community are going well. Many of you will be helping those in need while other Leo’s will be hiring helpers. Get all legal matters and partnerships in order before 28th. After that relationships of all sorts suffer from misunderstandings that do not get resolved until after mid February. Those born in late August have compromises to make and health matters to tend over the next twelve months. Best day 22nd 

Virgo, Aug 23 - Sep 22

 Arguments can be intense and require immediate attention. Passionate emotions, words, and deeds, must be dealt with home and at work. From now through the first week of May you are retracing steps taken since September 2. Contentions of all of all sorts do not get resolved until early March. You must keep the lines of communication open so you do not just stew. In more than one situation Virgo will have to go along with the group dynamic in order to keep the peace in your community of work or even the neighborhood. It will be amazing how a cup of tea can soothe a situation. Your ruler is retrograde on the 28th so be ready to sit still at that time into mid February. Best day 25th

Libra, Sep 23 - Oct 22

 Legal matters come to a head. Siblings or the guy next store can be contentious even if they are normally great people. The situation with these bullies has been a long time coming. Concern over property rights or even who got the last dinner roll on Christmas Eve of 1980 must be resolved. Employ Libra diplomacy, but do not give away your rights. Big changes begin late this month as Libra is challenged to grow into the wise mature person you are meant to be in this life. The process is most intense this year for those born during the first few days of this sign. All Libras are reborn over the next sixteen years. Many are getting new homes or remodeling the current abode. Best day 28th 

Scorpio, Oct 23 -Nov 21

 Scorpio is in the final year of a twelve year period of tearing down and rebuilding your finances. Many a Scorpio experienced financial crisis and many have learned new talents or trades that have taken you to a new level of financial maturity and security. Use the next twelve months to complete your financial education. This includes taking important steps to clear out debt and tax matters that require attention. Relationships, both business and personal, need clarification so that misunderstandings do not get out of hand. Those who are having love challenges must use good sense or possibly lose that loving feeling. You will be tempted by shiny objects that scream “buy me” at mid month. Only consider those goodies if they accrue in value. Best day 29th 

Sagittarius, Nov 22 - Dec 21

 Sagittarius is coming to the end of a long period of transformation. Some of that has been painful while other parts of your transformation have bee amazingly useful. Your philosophy of life has changed along with your personality. 2008 is a year of steady financial growth, but also a year when your priorities and financial outlook begin to change. Over the next sixteen years many Sagittarians will come to realize what is really important to their wellbeing. Others will change professions and that will take them to a higher income bracket. Use caution during the first days of the month. Stay away from people who are a hassle or may be harmful. Business goes well this month, but you must be willing to let others an opinion. Best day 4th