A good bit of every year, more than one planet is in that condition called Retrograde. Though an optical illusion (created when earth passes by another planet), we experience its affects as quite real, bringing difficulties in the area that the Retrograde planet represents. Before and after the Retrograde, the planet moves forward through the degrees of the backtracking, in what we call "shadows" when some of the same or related challenges may be present. What we begin prior to the Retrograde may need adjust later. In the closing "shadow" time, we recuperate or clean up from the damages. Dates for these shadows are on my free download "2008 On a Page."

Mars will be Retrograde from Nov. 15 to Jan. 30. Since Mars is in charge of our energy level, during its Retrograde period we might be sluggish or hold back from taking action. Mars is also related to personal desires, making its backtrack a difficult time to make progress on your goals. For instance, if you want to begin a new health routine or exercise regimen at New Years, you might be better off returning to an activity or plan that you've done successfully in the past rather than venturing into uncharted territory. The part of the body ruled by Mars is the head, so be careful not to knock yours around.

The part of the zodiac where it retraces its steps is between 24 degrees of Gemini and twelve degrees of Cancer. This affects anyone born June 15 to July 4 (any year) or anyone with planets in that range. You can read more about Mars Retrograde at the bottom of my article on Retrograde Motion in the Information Booth at my website.

Earlier this year I wasn't sure I would be producing a 2008 Janet's Plan-its. My dad died in March and I became his substitute is making sure my mom has everything she needs, as well as being his executrix. This has been a part-time job! But so many people are "hooked" on my calendar (and I use it myself in my practice and in my daily life) that I had to do it. It's just out a lot later than I usually like it to be.

I'm happy to report that the 2008 Janet's Plan-its Celestial Planner is bigger and better than ever. I've added a few new pages, including one on working with your chart and the calendar (also the topic of a conference call class - see below) and brought back a feature that I'd dropped because it's so time- consuming to create: the year's best and worst days for various activities. (This list is not available in the free download of 2008 On a Page, but in the printed calendar it's on that page.) The price did go up a little - like everything else nowadays. It's $14.95 plus shipping. For only a few more days, the Early Bird Special is in effect (through 11/15) with $4 off, for a price of $10.95. So hurry up and place your order!

If you know a little about astrology and would like to use it more in your planning, I'd like to help you do just that. My conference call classes are a great way to start. I send you notes ahead of time and then you phone into the group call. The call takes place via a long distance number for which you'll have to pay your own long distance charges (not a toll free number). You can ask questions just like in a real in-person class. On Dec. 8 at 1 pm EST, I will have a class on Planning a Great 2008.

If you'd rather have me work one-on-one with you and your chart, we'll schedule a private reading. This makes an excellent holiday gift for you if someone is looking for a special treat to give you. (You can refer them to my Gift Certificates on my website - see link on the left.)