Saturn Return Can Bite Me

Inconjunct issues

"An inconjunct is a stress aspect because, unlike the opposition or the square, it is difficult to focus on the issue at hand. We tend to swing wildly from one position to another when an inconjunct is active in our charts. This is why it is known as the “seesaw” aspect.

When you have an inconjunct between two natal planets, that is an area of life where you have difficulty finding a resolution point. It is a dilemma and a big one. In many ways it is uncharted territory and may indicate a spiritual lesson that has not been attempted in previous lifetimes.

An inconjunct to the natal Sun indicates an personality that hides behind a role or an image. There is an uncertain sense of self, a lack of sense of a place in the world. For this reason, an individual with an inconjunct to the Sun often feels unwanted or unloved.

An inconjunct to the natal Moon indicates an individual that goes to extremes emotionally. At times they are emotionally restrained, at other times emotionally exuberant. Because they are so uncertain about their own emotional center, they are afraid of being embarrassed, humiliated, or worse yet, betrayed."

My sun and moon are inconjunct...yeah, what a mess.

Uranus, planet of drama

More...

Uranus in the first house-How can you be missed? You can not. Even in drab executive garb, you electrify the room when you enter. All eyes are on you, whether you like it or not. People are drawn to you because you appear so friendly and they envy you because you attract attention without even trying. No one knows the hell you suffer from having spotlights on you 24-7, and they laugh at you if you complain about it. Your challenge is learning how to channel your popularity to constructive cause. Your gift is that you can use your appeal to persuade others to participate in projects that can help humanity in some way.

Aquarius on the fourth house-  Even if everything was perfectly normal, you still felt like an alien in your own home, like the child who knows intuitively he was adopted, but the family doesn’t talk about it.

Yeah, really it was that everything was perfectly normal BUT me.

Incidentally, I'm doing the ol' "guess someone's rising sign" game again and reading this totally makes me think the person has Uranus in the third/Aquarius on the fifth. Too bad that makes them Virgo rising :P

Moons and mommying

Found this and thought, "Finally! That explains everything!"

Sagittarius moon people have need for attention, support and social interaction from their loved ones. Their mothers kept the focus of the family on themselves, so consequently the fire signs expect the same for themselves. They are great fun to have around, but the upkeep is sometimes more than other people can handle.

Um, yeah. Especially the mother bit (see below):

Pisces moons, have need for emotional support and intimacy that most people have a challenge providing. Their emotions run scary deep and they think in terms of emotional content instead of the intellectual. Relationship with mom is complicated and fraught with emotional perils. Then you meet her and find she is a perfectly delightful individual. The water sign moons need harmony in their home life to function properly. Continual upsets and disruptions in routine will make them a basket case. They fall in love with love quite often, thinking they need a partner. They do need a partner, to keep feeding them love and kisses so they can venture out into the cold cruel world. If you love one of these moons, you enjoy the absolute wholeness of total love surrounding you, but you also get to experience total misery when you do not give them what they want.

Oh lord yes, that's mine right there.

I guess they'll never break up?

Brangelina, that is.

I'm surprised to hear that she's got Venus Saturn- given how she hops in and out of relationships, that did not at all seem likely to me (other than finding Billy Bob hot *shudder*). And together there's Venus/Moon and Venus/Saturn oppositions...oof.

Mars in Sagittarius = uber-traveler.

It has occurred to me of late that some people I know (or know of) that are obsessive travelers must have some Sagittarius in there SOMEWHERE. My shrink has to fly to the other coast something like every or every other weekend. My aunt is constantly going to Europe or Australia or somewhere every few months and now has a position where she has to fly twice a week. And then I finished reading Eat, Pray, Love (self-explanatory) and had to go look up the author's chart.

I had to check.

Yup, all three of them have Mars in Sagittarius. I was surprised nobody had a stellium in Sag (though I don't know the rising signs of 2 out of the 3, so that's a possibility). But that's some powerful travel mojo.

It sort of makes me wonder about me, since I've got two planets in Sag (one being one of the big personal four) and yet I never feel THAT compelled to travel. I suppose I just do the Sag thing intellectually...well, that and I'm picky about where I go. (Nowhere cold, nowhere that hates women, nowhere where I really need to speak a foreign language well, nowhere where the food/water makes me have to live in the toilet... yeah, that rules out a lot of places.) But then again, I can't say I have ever been all that Saggish. I think the Mars must really trump something, especially that Cancer sun of Liz's.

This week's Free Will Astrology

"The greatest poverty is boredom," said one of my teachers, Ann Davies. "The greatest hell is not having a goal."
Make those ideas your touchstones as you carry out a twofold assignment. First, use all your ingenuity to banish any reasons you might have to feel bored. Second, invoke your craftiest optimism and wildest discipline as you identify a goal whose pursuit will move you ever closer to the state the mystics call heaven-on-earth.

Planet Waves stuff

I got sent some (promotional?) stuff from there, which happens periodically. Figured I'd reprint what I could.

May Taurus horoscope:

As a stunning New Moon sweeps through your birth sign this month, I suggest you ask yourself one question: is what you want based on what you want, or is it based on some extreme external conditioning?

Oh, I hear THAT. It's my big issue of late.

One’s work or mission must be based on an inner process in order to be authentic. While it’s impossible to sort out all external factors, there are a few you need to be aware of. These principally involve the effects of what you were told you could not do. The equation parses out like this. If you were blocked, chastised, or punished for expressing your talents, this can trigger a kind of obsession with ambition.

Hmmmm, sorta? To be fair, blocked on my TALENTS, not so much. Blocked on other things, yes. I guess that could explain where my obsession with this stuff could be, though.

The effect would be to make you object oriented rather than process oriented; in spiritual terms, you could stay hung up on the supposed destination rather than the journey. You will have a clue about whether this is happening if in some way you emphasize image over substance; if you are concerned more about what people think than how you feel.

I'm just separating the next part of this to highlight it...

The most helpful thing you can do at this point is discern whether your goals are really your goals. Where exactly did they come from, and what other options do you see? For where you are at now, is it necessary to have goals at all, or do they conceal something deeper — something you truly want and need?

HMMMMMMMM.

Will have to think about that one. Especially the last damn sentence of it. I will admit that part of my goals obsession is to do something for myself, that specifically DOESN'T require the cooperation and finding of someone else to do it.

Weekly horoscope in e-mail, so no linky:

The slow progress you are making in your current quest for self-understanding would go quicker if you would let pain be your teacher. Americans in particular make up a lot of rules about pain: it's always bad; we must seek pleasure; an easy (wrong) answer is better than a difficult (correct) answer. I am not here to preach the doctrine of struggle, but rather to deliver the simple message that if you give your pain, your fear and your self-doubt clear voices, you will actually understand what they are saying, and you will have a chance to respond appropriately. The real you is alive and well beneath your doubts, waiting for its moment to play.

Eeek.

Birthday horoscope roundup!

Reprinted from the other blog:

Birthday horoscope roundup!

Cafe Astrology:

You are working hard and playing hard in the year ahead. You are coming across with more authority, and quickly gain others' respect. You are likely putting forth more practical effort this year, and if you do, the rewards are measurable. It's an excellent year in which to organize your life in some significant manner. Opportunities to advance abound. There is likely to be some stimulating fireworks in your romantic life, and also some decidedly romantic and growth-oriented experiences.

Already this is my favorite one. You'll note reading these things that they are all, CAPRICORN RISING THIS YEAR WORKITY WORK WORK!

The Sun forms a grand trine with Saturn and Pluto in your Solar Return chart, making it an excellent year for productive mental activity, solving problems, and purposeful work. This is a very stable influence. While your mental faculties are attuned to otherworldly impressions, offering you increased insight, focus, psychological understanding and awareness, you are also grounded and thinking in very practical terms. Besides solid problem solving, it's also a good year for getting organized, doing detail work, and preparing for the future. Decisions made during this period in your life tend to be practical and well thought out. Work done now is likely to beget tangible results in the future. Manifestation and achievement are what satisfy. It's likely to be a year in which you are capable of a whole lot of work and effort, and you derive quite a bit of satisfaction from it.

Yay!

You stand to gain some perhaps profound new insights into your life. You can be especially persuasive and convincing in your communications, whether written or oral, as you come across with increased authority. You certainly have the power of practicality, realism, and caution on your side in the year ahead. Work you have done in the past begins to pay off this year--not necessarily in dramatic ways, but in small, measurable ways. You may be recognized or rewarded in some way for the efforts you put forth. Because you project a more responsible and credible “you”, people in authority are more inclined to appreciate you and recognize your work. This is a year in which you put your life in order in some significant manner. Improved concentration, a more realistic outlook, and a practical awareness of the limits of time all help you to make steady progress, particularly in your career. Your concern for your future this year is stronger than usual, and you may find that projects you start, or investments you make, this year will benefit you for years to come. The key to success now is adopting a realistic, practical, disciplined, and orderly approach to your life.

With Venus square both Mars and Jupiter, the pleasurable areas of life will not be overlooked! Sexual tensions and competitiveness are possible, and there can be conflicts that arise from differences between romantic and sexual needs. Feelings of elation in love or with regards to the pleasures of life can lead you to overdo, overindulge, overspend, and overstate your feelings. Take care not to set up unrealistic expectations in your partnerships. Avoid hasty (or haughty!) decisions, and be wary of making impulse purchases. You might take great strides to get noticed on a social or romantic level. Your affections are strongly stimulated, and you are more acutely aware of your powers of attraction. Romance, love, and sexuality occupy your mind more than usual.

Eeek!

You can enjoy an increase in personal magnetism (as well as libido!), but be wary of competitiveness or tension in existing love relationships, as this aspect ignites your passions in general, whether they‘re feelings of love or anger!

Venus also sextiles Chiron, Neptune, and the Moon's North Node, and you'll have a chance to heal old wounds with regards to love this year. You're also bound to find new ways of making money. You are more imaginative and attuned to the world of beauty and romance this year. Gentleness with others is the best way to harness this energy and to attract what you want into your life. There could be truly "magical" times on a romantic and social level. You might even find and fall in love with the person of your dreams. Benefits come through paying attention to your dreams and intuitions. You are very likely to attract loving relationships and/or new warm social contacts into your life. Your popularity increases and efforts to smooth over challenges in partnerships are more likely to succeed. Negotiations, marriage, and business partnerships tend to fare well.

Score! Sounds like a good year!

Mars trines Uranus, suggesting bursts of creativity and energy that help you to further your goals. Healthy risk-taking is likely this year, as you are more able to spot an opportunity when you see one. It is easier than usual to break free from habits that have previously held you back from going after what you want in life.

GOOD.

Mars also opposes Jupiter, and although you are bound to show great enthusiasm for your endeavors this year, over-estimating what you are capable of doing is a potential problem. You may get fired up over opposing viewpoints, and you may need to adjust your plan of action. Errors in judgment made now are likely due to impulsiveness and the overlooking of crucial details.

A harmonious aspect between Jupiter and Uranus suggests this could be a "lucky" year, although the luck is likely to come from a positive attitude and an enterprising spirit. It should be a strong year when sudden opportunities for advancement in different areas of your life appear. At the heart of this is your ability to recognize and capitalize upon opportunities and potentials. You are more open to new energies, approaches, and attitudes under this influence. Fortunate events occur as a direct result of your willingness to entertain the unusual and to think outside of the box.

Ooooh.

This aspect favors group activities, financial endeavors associated with groups or organizational efforts, educational pursuits, writing, publishing, speaking, and humanitarian efforts. A positive and optimistic outlook serves you especially well this year.

You are working hard and playing hard in the year ahead. You are coming across with more authority, and quickly gain others' respect. You are likely putting forth more practical effort this year, and if you do, the rewards are measurable. It's an excellent year in which to organize your life in some significant manner. Opportunities to advance abound. There is likely to be some stimulating fireworks in your romantic life, and also some decidedly romantic and growth-oriented experiences.

2008 is a Number Two year for you. Ruled by the Moon. This is a year of potential companionship. It is a quiet, gentle, and mostly harmonious year that is less active than other years. Instead, you are more responsive to the needs of others. If you are patient and open yourself up in a gentle manner, you will attract both things and people. This is an excellent year in which to build and develop for the future. Advice - be patient, be receptive, enjoy the peace, collect.

Hmm, this is a pretty couple-y chart here.

2009 will be a Number Three year for you. Ruled by Jupiter. This is a year of sociability. It is a friendly time, when it is easy to enjoy life and other people. Focus is on personal freedom, reaching out to others, making new friends, and exploration. You are more enthusiastic and ready for adventure. It is likely to be a rather lighthearted year, when opportunities for "play" time are greater than usual. It's also a good year for expressing your creativity. Advice - reach out, but avoid scattering your energies.

Elle:

"Your sense of beauty and desire for love make you a loyal, sensual and protective Bull. You’re a passionate collector and recognize the inherent value in items before the vast majority of others do. You take enormous personal pleasure in improving and decorating your home. Because your home is so important - and actually reflects your personality - you may ultimately own more than one dwelling. Gifted at spotting value and excellence, your property investments are generally quite successful. As your circumstances and tastes change, you migrate into different neighborhoods and revise your personal style. You prefer property that is aesthetic, comfortable, and mirrors your philosophy and status. You may take a personal interest in building and design. You can be exacting to the point of appearing difficult or demanding. Your standards are high, but you never ask others to work harder than you do. Therein lies the problem: you’re more driven and dedicated than most of your peers - so you almost always show them up. It’s likely that your personal and professional lives will play tug of war much of the time. Unwilling to do anything slipshod, you may suffer emotionally from regret or guilt if you believe your performance is less than stellar. You demand the best from yourself both at work and at home, and need to feel in control. A lot of this stems from your highly developed sense of responsibility, high standards, and intensely protective nature. You will not allow interlopers to breach your territory. You may also bristle when asked personal questions. No matter how tough your exterior, you have paid the cost of being the boss. Even the thing you want the most - love - tends to offer deep extremes of pleasure and pain."

Bridgett Walther:

For April 24: You’re so eager to break through silly routines, time-wasting meetings and someone’s pointless objections that it’s really difficult to contain your energy and borderline anger. It’s important that you bottle it up and seal it for the time being. Things will get better this afternoon. In fact, the slowski pace that has practically made you apoplectic eases up and feels almost fabulous - can you stand it? And it’s for real – not some cruel illusion. People actually start being cooperative this afternoon. (Since your time zone may be a factor here, I’m basing this on ET, just so you know.) Remain calm and know that the most irritating phase of an unnecessary soap opera is fading fast at last - sigh.

Eugenia Last: 

Happy Birthday: Focus on health and wealth this year. Relationships may need some adjustments. Your dedication and practical nature will be a winning combination. Take a look at an old situation and you will have the discernment to know how you should handle something you face now. Your numbers are 13,22,29,37,45,47

Birthday Baby: You are magnetic and will handle whatever comes your way for good or for bad. You are a troubleshooter and the go-to person -- the one everyone looks up to.

Daily Horoscopes:

You guide others in gentle ways and you leave positive impressions every place you go. You also never seem to be too busy to shake a hand and ask a person how they are. You may find yourself doing spiritual or intuitive things this Sunday.

This would be amusing if I was going to church, but I'm uh....going to an acrobat act.

The astrology present in your life this Monday is one that lends itself to hard studies and work, however you have been working hard and studying all month and will find today much easier than many others find their day. You may be very curious this Tuesday and want to do a little research. Your interest can be turned into most any direction and before this Wednesday is over you will probably find yourself at an art show, a museum or a circus performance. Keep a note pad handy for new ideas and then relax: Recorded or live music can be enjoyed through your earphones this Thursday.

This is the silliest thing I think I've ever seen in a horoscope. Um, duh, HEADPHONES AT WORK.

If you can’t physically remove yourself; perhaps you are on a boat. Of course today is work and the same stands true. Your good works today bring you special attention. When asked your opinion this Friday, it may be you will have to stop to see who is doing the asking. This Saturday is a delightful day for enjoying the out-of-doors.

Astro.com:

As would seem appropriate with this transit, today is a day of new beginnings, and the influences you feel today will affect the entire year to come.  However, this does not mean that the whole year will be disappointing if today doesn't work out exactly as planned.  You are receiving a new impulse from the energy center within you, as symbolized by the Sun.  Therefore any new venture that you start at this time will ride the crest of this new energy and will very likely come to an acceptable conclusion.  Whatever you do or begin today will bear the stamp of your individuality more than anything else.  This is the day to assert yourself anew.

MSN UK:

April 24 people make terrific parents and unconventional lovers, because they resist any kind of cliche in their thinking.

Since when did I become Aquarian?

This is amusing because normally I have seen it as "April 24 people are highly stressed in domestic life and mean to their children."

Nobody born today thinks others should behave in a certain way if it makes them unhappy.

Sure, TODAY. I got born too early!

Good news for their tearaway kids. Good news for their love-life too because they have an open mind about everything. Not such good news for the parents of young April 24, who probably won't agree with anything their parents say, certainly won't do what they are told, and will probably drive teachers at school mad with their questions. This is a day which questions everything, especially the status quo.

Yeah.

At work, they can't understand why bosses are supposed to know less about certain parts of the organisation than the workers. As bosses themselves, they make sure that all managers mix with the workers, understand the business from the floor upwards and don't behave patronisingly to employees. They are also careful to maintain a healthy environment for people at work. Kind and fair, employees like them. Managers are frightened of what they will think up next. And it's likely to be no private offices, no company cars and everybody eating together in the canteen. They throw a great party at work and at home. These are the people who shine at karaoke, dance brilliantly and often play in their own band. Some go on to make a career in showbusiness, where they will be known for their innovative style and infectious energy. On stage, everybody likes working with them because they are generous about others' talent, and always good for a laugh. Many people born on this day are keen on sport, sometimes overkeen according to their long suffering lovers and friends, who have to listen and enthuse until tears of boredom flow. Their homes will be tapped into cable and satellite for the sport, and newspapers seized first for the sports pages.
April 24 people can suffer from physical tension, or simply muscle strain. They get this from sport, just horsing around, and moving through life fast.

To be fair, I do this like every week at the gym.

An aromatic bath may be the answer. It's not expensive, helps skin disorders, relieves muscular and other pains, and induces restful sleep. Some essential oils can be an irritant to the skin if you use more than three drops. So be careful of basil, ginger, fennel,orange and peppermint. Sandalwood is one of the mildest and you may safely use up to 10 drops in your bath. Sprinkle the drops after you have run the bath.
Most people born on this day are essentially kind, but some may get swept away and make more conventional people feel dull and even afraid. Terrifying others is never an attractive characteristic, and always rebounds on you.

TELL ME ABOUT IT.

Tarot.com:

Treat yourself to all the things you like, but remember that moderation is the best way to avoid the consequences of having "more than enough"!
Your desire to learn more about the world can show you a path toward growth that pushes you beyond your old comfort zone. It's surely not time to pull back out of fear, but it's also not a good idea to surge forward without acknowledging how much work is ahead of you. Take time to reassess your destination in light of what you now know. Today, it's better to be realistic than idealistic.

NY Post:

Luck planet Jupiter is immensely strong on your birthday this year but because it make difficult aspects to Venus and Mars, the relationship planets, there is a danger you might take others' support for granted. You'll get away with a lot but there is a line you must not go beyond.

Seattle Times:

Career, work and making progress in the material world may be your most important motivators for the next few months. Since you are temporarily a perfectionist,

Hi, temporary Capricorn!

you will strive to fulfill all of your duties to the letter and win the respect of the boss. Having a few letters after your name or completing the requirements for a raise might also be a possibility. Since your reputation and responsibilities fill up all your time, the best month for a glamorous vacation will be in November when your love of romance and leisure is accentuated.

Too bad I'm vacationing in June and September. And I'm busy in November.

Holiday Mathis:

There's a hint of mystery in the air now -- you're not sure what this year will bring, but with your winning attitude, you're sure you're going to like it. In June, it's futile to resist being in love, so just give in!

That just made me laugh my head off. Well, it would liven up June.

Singles meet eligible and exciting partners in a school of some kind.

Bwah.

You'll travel in October.

See above. There's a reason why I am traveling in June and September...

You hit it off famously with Libra and Pisces.

Woot! Can I boink a Libra?

Your lucky numbers are: 6, 20, 19, 30 and 1.

Whew, they're not any of the Lost numbers...

Georgia Nichols:

You're very protective and nurturing to your loved ones, which is   why it is difficult to focus on your job at the expense of family   at times. Most of you make excellent parents. You're interested in   a wide variety of ideas, religions and philosophies. Your year   ahead strongly highlights partnerships and close friendships, and   perhaps a major decision? (It's about values.)

More corroboration.

Eugenia Last:

Focus on health and wealth this year. Relationships may need some adjustments. Your dedication and practical nature will be a winning combination. Take a look at an old situation and you will have the discernment to know how you should handle something you face now. Your numbers are 13,22,29,37,45,47
You are magnetic and will handle whatever comes your way for good or for bad. You are a troubleshooter and the go-to person -- the one everyone looks up to.

Linda Black:

A major objective is within reach this year. This could be about your career, and it has always seemed just beyond your reach. If more education is required, sign up for the classes now.

Marjorie Orr:

IF ITS YOUR BIRTHDAY TODAY your year ahead will be upbeat, confident and a time when you're likely to talk big and occasionally exaggerate what you can accomplish. Don't over-commit yourself. A speedy schedule will make you impatient of people making mistakes. You may travel more than usual since you'll be keen to explore new experiences. Loved ones may be asking more of you. After mid year you will be deciding what changes to put in place at home.

New Zealand Herald:

The wheel of fortune swings your way in areas of substance. An improvement in lifestyle, personal happiness or career comes courtesy of lucky Jupiter in your zone of expansion. Team up with a compatible partner.

Woot! So, good stuff.

Cafe Astrology:

You are working hard and playing hard in the year ahead. You are coming across with more authority, and quickly gain others' respect. You are likely putting forth more practical effort this year, and if you do, the rewards are measurable. It's an excellent year in which to organize your life in some significant manner. Opportunities to advance abound. There is likely to be some stimulating fireworks in your romantic life, and also some decidedly romantic and growth-oriented experiences.

Already this is my favorite one. You'll note reading these things that they are all, CAPRICORN RISING THIS YEAR WORKITY WORK WORK!

The Sun forms a grand trine with Saturn and Pluto in your Solar Return chart, making it an excellent year for productive mental activity, solving problems, and purposeful work. This is a very stable influence. While your mental faculties are attuned to otherworldly impressions, offering you increased insight, focus, psychological understanding and awareness, you are also grounded and thinking in very practical terms. Besides solid problem solving, it's also a good year for getting organized, doing detail work, and preparing for the future. Decisions made during this period in your life tend to be practical and well thought out. Work done now is likely to beget tangible results in the future. Manifestation and achievement are what satisfy. It's likely to be a year in which you are capable of a whole lot of work and effort, and you derive quite a bit of satisfaction from it.

Yay!

You stand to gain some perhaps profound new insights into your life. You can be especially persuasive and convincing in your communications, whether written or oral, as you come across with increased authority. You certainly have the power of practicality, realism, and caution on your side in the year ahead. Work you have done in the past begins to pay off this year--not necessarily in dramatic ways, but in small, measurable ways. You may be recognized or rewarded in some way for the efforts you put forth. Because you project a more responsible and credible “you”, people in authority are more inclined to appreciate you and recognize your work. This is a year in which you put your life in order in some significant manner. Improved concentration, a more realistic outlook, and a practical awareness of the limits of time all help you to make steady progress, particularly in your career. Your concern for your future this year is stronger than usual, and you may find that projects you start, or investments you make, this year will benefit you for years to come. The key to success now is adopting a realistic, practical, disciplined, and orderly approach to your life.

With Venus square both Mars and Jupiter, the pleasurable areas of life will not be overlooked! Sexual tensions and competitiveness are possible, and there can be conflicts that arise from differences between romantic and sexual needs. Feelings of elation in love or with regards to the pleasures of life can lead you to overdo, overindulge, overspend, and overstate your feelings. Take care not to set up unrealistic expectations in your partnerships. Avoid hasty (or haughty!) decisions, and be wary of making impulse purchases. You might take great strides to get noticed on a social or romantic level. Your affections are strongly stimulated, and you are more acutely aware of your powers of attraction. Romance, love, and sexuality occupy your mind more than usual.

Eeek!

You can enjoy an increase in personal magnetism (as well as libido!), but be wary of competitiveness or tension in existing love relationships, as this aspect ignites your passions in general, whether they‘re feelings of love or anger!

Venus also sextiles Chiron, Neptune, and the Moon's North Node, and you'll have a chance to heal old wounds with regards to love this year. You're also bound to find new ways of making money. You are more imaginative and attuned to the world of beauty and romance this year. Gentleness with others is the best way to harness this energy and to attract what you want into your life. There could be truly "magical" times on a romantic and social level. You might even find and fall in love with the person of your dreams. Benefits come through paying attention to your dreams and intuitions. You are very likely to attract loving relationships and/or new warm social contacts into your life. Your popularity increases and efforts to smooth over challenges in partnerships are more likely to succeed. Negotiations, marriage, and business partnerships tend to fare well.

Score! Sounds like a good year!

Mars trines Uranus, suggesting bursts of creativity and energy that help you to further your goals. Healthy risk-taking is likely this year, as you are more able to spot an opportunity when you see one. It is easier than usual to break free from habits that have previously held you back from going after what you want in life.

GOOD.

Mars also opposes Jupiter, and although you are bound to show great enthusiasm for your endeavors this year, over-estimating what you are capable of doing is a potential problem. You may get fired up over opposing viewpoints, and you may need to adjust your plan of action. Errors in judgment made now are likely due to impulsiveness and the overlooking of crucial details.

A harmonious aspect between Jupiter and Uranus suggests this could be a "lucky" year, although the luck is likely to come from a positive attitude and an enterprising spirit. It should be a strong year when sudden opportunities for advancement in different areas of your life appear. At the heart of this is your ability to recognize and capitalize upon opportunities and potentials. You are more open to new energies, approaches, and attitudes under this influence. Fortunate events occur as a direct result of your willingness to entertain the unusual and to think outside of the box.

Ooooh.

This aspect favors group activities, financial endeavors associated with groups or organizational efforts, educational pursuits, writing, publishing, speaking, and humanitarian efforts. A positive and optimistic outlook serves you especially well this year.

You are working hard and playing hard in the year ahead. You are coming across with more authority, and quickly gain others' respect. You are likely putting forth more practical effort this year, and if you do, the rewards are measurable. It's an excellent year in which to organize your life in some significant manner. Opportunities to advance abound. There is likely to be some stimulating fireworks in your romantic life, and also some decidedly romantic and growth-oriented experiences.

2008 is a Number Two year for you. Ruled by the Moon. This is a year of potential companionship. It is a quiet, gentle, and mostly harmonious year that is less active than other years. Instead, you are more responsive to the needs of others. If you are patient and open yourself up in a gentle manner, you will attract both things and people. This is an excellent year in which to build and develop for the future. Advice - be patient, be receptive, enjoy the peace, collect.

Hmm, this is a pretty couple-y chart here.

2009 will be a Number Three year for you. Ruled by Jupiter. This is a year of sociability. It is a friendly time, when it is easy to enjoy life and other people. Focus is on personal freedom, reaching out to others, making new friends, and exploration. You are more enthusiastic and ready for adventure. It is likely to be a rather lighthearted year, when opportunities for "play" time are greater than usual. It's also a good year for expressing your creativity. Advice - reach out, but avoid scattering your energies.

Elle:

"Your sense of beauty and desire for love make you a loyal, sensual and protective Bull. You’re a passionate collector and recognize the inherent value in items before the vast majority of others do. You take enormous personal pleasure in improving and decorating your home. Because your home is so important - and actually reflects your personality - you may ultimately own more than one dwelling. Gifted at spotting value and excellence, your property investments are generally quite successful. As your circumstances and tastes change, you migrate into different neighborhoods and revise your personal style. You prefer property that is aesthetic, comfortable, and mirrors your philosophy and status. You may take a personal interest in building and design. You can be exacting to the point of appearing difficult or demanding. Your standards are high, but you never ask others to work harder than you do. Therein lies the problem: you’re more driven and dedicated than most of your peers - so you almost always show them up. It’s likely that your personal and professional lives will play tug of war much of the time. Unwilling to do anything slipshod, you may suffer emotionally from regret or guilt if you believe your performance is less than stellar. You demand the best from yourself both at work and at home, and need to feel in control. A lot of this stems from your highly developed sense of responsibility, high standards, and intensely protective nature. You will not allow interlopers to breach your territory. You may also bristle when asked personal questions. No matter how tough your exterior, you have paid the cost of being the boss. Even the thing you want the most - love - tends to offer deep extremes of pleasure and pain."

Bridgett Walther:

For April 24: You’re so eager to break through silly routines, time-wasting meetings and someone’s pointless objections that it’s really difficult to contain your energy and borderline anger. It’s important that you bottle it up and seal it for the time being. Things will get better this afternoon. In fact, the slowski pace that has practically made you apoplectic eases up and feels almost fabulous - can you stand it? And it’s for real – not some cruel illusion. People actually start being cooperative this afternoon. (Since your time zone may be a factor here, I’m basing this on ET, just so you know.) Remain calm and know that the most irritating phase of an unnecessary soap opera is fading fast at last - sigh.

Eugenia Last: 

Happy Birthday: Focus on health and wealth this year. Relationships may need some adjustments. Your dedication and practical nature will be a winning combination. Take a look at an old situation and you will have the discernment to know how you should handle something you face now. Your numbers are 13,22,29,37,45,47

Birthday Baby: You are magnetic and will handle whatever comes your way for good or for bad. You are a troubleshooter and the go-to person -- the one everyone looks up to.

Daily Horoscopes:

You guide others in gentle ways and you leave positive impressions every place you go. You also never seem to be too busy to shake a hand and ask a person how they are. You may find yourself doing spiritual or intuitive things this Sunday.

This would be amusing if I was going to church, but I'm uh....going to an acrobat act.

The astrology present in your life this Monday is one that lends itself to hard studies and work, however you have been working hard and studying all month and will find today much easier than many others find their day. You may be very curious this Tuesday and want to do a little research. Your interest can be turned into most any direction and before this Wednesday is over you will probably find yourself at an art show, a museum or a circus performance. Keep a note pad handy for new ideas and then relax: Recorded or live music can be enjoyed through your earphones this Thursday.

This is the silliest thing I think I've ever seen in a horoscope. Um, duh, HEADPHONES AT WORK.

If you can’t physically remove yourself; perhaps you are on a boat. Of course today is work and the same stands true. Your good works today bring you special attention. When asked your opinion this Friday, it may be you will have to stop to see who is doing the asking. This Saturday is a delightful day for enjoying the out-of-doors.

Astro.com:

As would seem appropriate with this transit, today is a day of new beginnings, and the influences you feel today will affect the entire year to come.  However, this does not mean that the whole year will be disappointing if today doesn't work out exactly as planned.  You are receiving a new impulse from the energy center within you, as symbolized by the Sun.  Therefore any new venture that you start at this time will ride the crest of this new energy and will very likely come to an acceptable conclusion.  Whatever you do or begin today will bear the stamp of your individuality more than anything else.  This is the day to assert yourself anew.

MSN UK:

April 24 people make terrific parents and unconventional lovers, because they resist any kind of cliche in their thinking.

Since when did I become Aquarian?

This is amusing because normally I have seen it as "April 24 people are highly stressed in domestic life and mean to their children."

Nobody born today thinks others should behave in a certain way if it makes them unhappy.

Sure, TODAY. I got born too early!

Good news for their tearaway kids. Good news for their love-life too because they have an open mind about everything. Not such good news for the parents of young April 24, who probably won't agree with anything their parents say, certainly won't do what they are told, and will probably drive teachers at school mad with their questions. This is a day which questions everything, especially the status quo.

Yeah.

At work, they can't understand why bosses are supposed to know less about certain parts of the organisation than the workers. As bosses themselves, they make sure that all managers mix with the workers, understand the business from the floor upwards and don't behave patronisingly to employees. They are also careful to maintain a healthy environment for people at work. Kind and fair, employees like them. Managers are frightened of what they will think up next. And it's likely to be no private offices, no company cars and everybody eating together in the canteen. They throw a great party at work and at home. These are the people who shine at karaoke, dance brilliantly and often play in their own band. Some go on to make a career in showbusiness, where they will be known for their innovative style and infectious energy. On stage, everybody likes working with them because they are generous about others' talent, and always good for a laugh. Many people born on this day are keen on sport, sometimes overkeen according to their long suffering lovers and friends, who have to listen and enthuse until tears of boredom flow. Their homes will be tapped into cable and satellite for the sport, and newspapers seized first for the sports pages.
April 24 people can suffer from physical tension, or simply muscle strain. They get this from sport, just horsing around, and moving through life fast.

To be fair, I do this like every week at the gym.

An aromatic bath may be the answer. It's not expensive, helps skin disorders, relieves muscular and other pains, and induces restful sleep. Some essential oils can be an irritant to the skin if you use more than three drops. So be careful of basil, ginger, fennel,orange and peppermint. Sandalwood is one of the mildest and you may safely use up to 10 drops in your bath. Sprinkle the drops after you have run the bath.
Most people born on this day are essentially kind, but some may get swept away and make more conventional people feel dull and even afraid. Terrifying others is never an attractive characteristic, and always rebounds on you.

TELL ME ABOUT IT.

Tarot.com:

Treat yourself to all the things you like, but remember that moderation is the best way to avoid the consequences of having "more than enough"!
Your desire to learn more about the world can show you a path toward growth that pushes you beyond your old comfort zone. It's surely not time to pull back out of fear, but it's also not a good idea to surge forward without acknowledging how much work is ahead of you. Take time to reassess your destination in light of what you now know. Today, it's better to be realistic than idealistic.

NY Post:

Luck planet Jupiter is immensely strong on your birthday this year but because it make difficult aspects to Venus and Mars, the relationship planets, there is a danger you might take others' support for granted. You'll get away with a lot but there is a line you must not go beyond.

Seattle Times:

Career, work and making progress in the material world may be your most important motivators for the next few months. Since you are temporarily a perfectionist,

Hi, temporary Capricorn!

you will strive to fulfill all of your duties to the letter and win the respect of the boss. Having a few letters after your name or completing the requirements for a raise might also be a possibility. Since your reputation and responsibilities fill up all your time, the best month for a glamorous vacation will be in November when your love of romance and leisure is accentuated.

Too bad I'm vacationing in June and September. And I'm busy in November.

Holiday Mathis:

There's a hint of mystery in the air now -- you're not sure what this year will bring, but with your winning attitude, you're sure you're going to like it. In June, it's futile to resist being in love, so just give in!

That just made me laugh my head off. Well, it would liven up June.

Singles meet eligible and exciting partners in a school of some kind.

Bwah.

You'll travel in October.

See above. There's a reason why I am traveling in June and September...

You hit it off famously with Libra and Pisces.

Woot! Can I boink a Libra?

Your lucky numbers are: 6, 20, 19, 30 and 1.

Whew, they're not any of the Lost numbers...

Georgia Nichols:

You're very protective and nurturing to your loved ones, which is   why it is difficult to focus on your job at the expense of family   at times. Most of you make excellent parents. You're interested in   a wide variety of ideas, religions and philosophies. Your year   ahead strongly highlights partnerships and close friendships, and   perhaps a major decision? (It's about values.)

More corroboration.

Eugenia Last:

Focus on health and wealth this year. Relationships may need some adjustments. Your dedication and practical nature will be a winning combination. Take a look at an old situation and you will have the discernment to know how you should handle something you face now. Your numbers are 13,22,29,37,45,47
You are magnetic and will handle whatever comes your way for good or for bad. You are a troubleshooter and the go-to person -- the one everyone looks up to.

Linda Black:

A major objective is within reach this year. This could be about your career, and it has always seemed just beyond your reach. If more education is required, sign up for the classes now.

Marjorie Orr:

IF ITS YOUR BIRTHDAY TODAY your year ahead will be upbeat, confident and a time when you're likely to talk big and occasionally exaggerate what you can accomplish. Don't over-commit yourself. A speedy schedule will make you impatient of people making mistakes. You may travel more than usual since you'll be keen to explore new experiences. Loved ones may be asking more of you. After mid year you will be deciding what changes to put in place at home.

New Zealand Herald:

The wheel of fortune swings your way in areas of substance. An improvement in lifestyle, personal happiness or career comes courtesy of lucky Jupiter in your zone of expansion. Team up with a compatible partner.

Depression drugs and astrology.

"The astrology chart of a chronically depressed individual typically involves a strong influence of Saturn, Chiron or Pluto - each of these planets evokes a different brand of depression. A Saturnian depression is classically melancholic - there is a darkness and a heaviness to it. Chironic depression has a sharper and deeper painful quality due to the Chiron's relentless pressure to bring old painful wounds to the psychological surface. Plutonic depression includes a dark despair and hopelessness; there is a sense of fatefulness and occasionally a longing for death."

Well, I've got a T-square and Grand Trine with Saturn in 'em, and Sun conjunct Chiron, and I'm Scorpio rising...oh, I am SO fucked.

A happy day in astrology

And that isn't just a birthday reference either :P

Grand earth trine!

I am kind of amused by Elsa's soldier stories of late, mainly because I already sound like I have a lot in common with him (both Tauruses, Mercury in Aries, Libra NN, both have a T-square and a grand trine in the natal). And apparently his birthday is this week too.