19TH Mercury and the Sun have joined Mars in Aquarius; happy birthday to all Aquarians. In this sign we concentrate on impersonal relationships that link humanity. We seek security in transformation, be it personal, social or global change. Close, overly emotional relationships are not a part of this cool detached concern for large sweeping social movement. Accepting people rather than changing them however is a way to objectify difficult situations.

Under the influence of this sign we feel more independent, mentally innovative and open to the unconventional. The intellect strengthens; the memory improves and the mind is more comprehensive. If we look at the world without set belief we see aspects of it we have overlooked. Within this energy field we redesign tradition, charity, community-mindedness; forge new techniques, create new paradigms and work on issues beyond the individual. Mental agility is enthralled by innovative, futuristic and gregarious thought and amiability. A magnetic draw pulls people of like mind together. This friendly sign activates social involvement and increases invitations.

We are focused on advancement; objective, detached and aloof. Some are made more dogmatic, biased, fanatically non-conforming or outright anarchical and rebellious. Aquarius is the shadow side of the Leo personality, its dualistic other half. If we are a little more stubborn than normal it is best not to believe we have all the correct opinions

20TH Beyond Aquarius, planetary combinations make this is a time of constructive social change and transformation. We are bound to have profound experiences and deep feelings. There is a riddle to solve and a paradox to equilibrate. Connections are created out of turmoil. Be aware of karmic strings, strands or hooks that bind to other souls. These can exist for lifetimes with nothing else in common.

We feel an overwhelming pressure to work harder. Transformative, shamanic and metamorphic experiences empower our growth. With the ability to be indifferent to those who attempt to manipulate we can avoid those who play psychological games. We can block attempts to make us powerless in a non-personal situation.

Some people who feel blocked or are struggling for power can feel compelled to release this energy destructively. Other people with exaggerated fears, paranoia or excessive self-absorption may feel isolated from society. Incorporate divertive inclinations into a cohesive system and practice. Change routine. Government, large corporation, assessment, the economy and other public financial plans are being rebuilt.

If we cannot implement the change we need it will come through spontaneous synchronicity. Restless impulsiveness is beginning to stir us up. The point is it will lead to startling realisations despite the upset and stress it may cause in the process. A frustrated ego that bottles itself up may eventually release destructively or through accident. We need to break away from whatever holds us back.

It is a good time to reinvent ourselves. We need new solutions, new mannerisms and changes in our commitments so we can be freely creative. Sometimes sacrifice is needed to get release. First reform intolerance to keep interactions positive, productive and future oriented. Our thought projections and communications combine with our actions to create the future.

Nurture the individual within, we need to develop the natural resources we contribute to the whole. We cannot be as concerned with making choices that suit others or second-guessing what we should do. We must be true to ourselves beyond labels, pigeon holes and categorization. Nurturing our self-worth will help us move forward. Taking care of and cherishing ourselves means we must love ourselves and find ourselves worthy. We have more confidence, energy and independence built up now so all that is left is to believe in ourselves.

22ND On the Gibbous Moon we need to remember to take care of ourselves. Responsibility, obligation, duty and commitment will take priority. So much so we forget to take care of the body, mind and soul aspects of living. Improving vitality involves nutritious food, adequate exercise and a restful portion of sleep. We may need to navigate sudden unexpected expenses. The demands of our children or associated with their schooling can be a burden at this time. Monitor the influence other people have and beware of misleading suggestion. Get the foundation of life in order; we will be drawn to such things.

26TH  With Vesta turning direct we can get on with doing what we are meant to do. We are working with the energy rather than it working on us. Being more true to the centre of our being or deepest essence of self we feel more present. It helps us to intricately demonstrate who we really are. Integrity and self-value will be stronger in the powerful silence of our spirit. The result of our self-development is self-acknowledgement.

Confronting our challenges with strength of intention tests each individual. We are stressed, irritated, ambitious, egocentric and motivated by a power seeking impetus. Reform is a positive motive but reaching agreement is testy. We need to see beyond mannerisms and other triggers that create opposition, challenge and confrontation. Underhanded or deceptive temptations should be avoided. They lead to enforcement, ruthlessness and illegitimate actions. Using these energies for personal power over others creates karma, or future repercussion. Old power struggles resurface in memory or similar experience.

The Full Moon brings new ideas, interesting news about others, creative information and insightful new directions. It is a positive and somewhat lucky fullness of being. This does depend on karma and past history to take effect. Serious financial situations need to be handled practically. This is not the best time to set off on a journey into unknown territory. It is a good time for a spiritual pilgrimage or retreat for the sake of enlightenment. We shed unnecessary material and financial encumbrances.

28TH Highly individualised, original and creative intuitive thinking is inspired. Remarkable flashes of insight or breakthroughs of awareness bring advancement. Increased understanding through transpersonal thought will find better resolutions. Thinking is more free and independent. The nervous system is highly charged and can be overloaded. High frequencies make us more erratic so take things in stride and drive carefully. This is a good time to take on technical projects, increase knowledge of electronics or undertake another highly articulate task.To deflect negative energies, say projections from other people or their unwelcome thought forms and wavelengths; build a mirror ball hologram in the mind so these will be repelled.

30TH Jupiter turning direct is good. Opportunity is released and advantage made possible. Just for a few days in the turnaround phase we can spin our wheels getting nowhere or things will not go as expected but once in gear the beneficial momentum builds. Our spirit is bolstered with optimism, positive enthusiasm, expansiveness, well being and good humour. We want even more independence. Success and good luck is possible. We move toward a sense of promise. This should be good news for Gemini. There have been many steps forward and backward during 2012 so hopefully this third swipe fixes things for 2013. Use the objectivity gained in 2012 to make the best use of this acceleration.

Other people will share information we need during the Disseminating Moon phase. This could solve a mystery or be the key that unlocks the gateway forward and the hope that makes the impossible possible. We continue to process the transformative issues of 2012-15 but we are steadier. We let things pass, let go and detach realising where our life's focus needs to be. Those of us facing what seems to be indomitable health issues find the inner resolve and commitment to choose to love ourselves and heal. Elements of fate surround children. Emotions will go through many changes.

We have come round circle; back to where we started from a year ago. Whatever did not work out successfully then can be viewed optimistically now. There is advantage and luck where it alluded in previous tries. The old blocks and frustrations, inner conflicts or struggles with ethics are not present. We benefit by increased patience, confidence, maturity and wisdom. Better able to recognise our past achievements we can set broad far-seeing goals. There is also an increase in cultural or faith based interest. We are inspired to investigate belief systems.

1st With Mars in Pisces we are passively changeable and moody if not passionately sensitive. No doubt there is confusion and restlessness. This interferes with assertiveness or derails productivity most probably through resentment. It is a good time to practice walking the middle path. Emotions are intense and unpredictable. Withdrawal, retreat, isolation and introspection are creative. We may feel our life force is drained or we are physically weak. We are more ethereal.

Enjoyment or practice of the arts brings natural pleasure and appreciation. We are in our element in the creative environment and intricately sensitive to colour, tone and rhythm. Assertiveness happens behind the scenes or subtly rather than boldly. Being too aware of other people's feelings has both an up and a down side. Insights into human psychology and healing are enhanced. Fantasy lacks proportion. High expectations or idealistic leanings need to be offset. Romance will bloom without the usual sexual drama.

Venus has entered Aquarius An unconventional twist or turn within us changes our perspective to relating with just about anything. In life we relate to everything, like a cup of coffee for some or a freshly juiced vegetable and fruit combination for others. How we relate to each and every item or event makes us who we are. We get to choose alternatives and possibilities that will enhance our individuality in a personally relevant way.

We turn our attentions to social involvements, friends and shared activities. It is easier to connect with other people, on a superficial level at first, but enough to know if we want to develop something more later. Awareness of our options will shake loose any reserve we unwittingly cling to. For those of us that enjoy the comfort of close personal relations this can be a little disquieting as people become a little distant, more independent and this makes us feel they are a little impersonal and indifferent.

2nd Blessed Candelmas

3RD The First Quarter Moon presents us with some serious homework. We know what we have to do but in some cases we do not want to do it. Whatever is on our plate at present is part of our life's work. It is necessary to evaluate things on our own terms while being presented in no uncertain terms what we must move through. The idea of it is worse than the actualisation of it. Grin and bear it. In fact not knowing but trusting and having faith will bring rewards. Expect the unexpected and work with it. We are eliminating karma, dealing with past lives and clearing our cache of cause and effect.

If we feel victimised it is likely to be due to the discrepancy between our ideal and our reality. Our unrealistic expectations cause us to form inappropriate conclusions. This is not self-sacrifice. It is possible there is no deception by others and the disappointment we experience is created by ourselves. Certainly we can become disillusioned but remember it can if we let it lead us to enlightenment. Internal blockages, differences, resistances and unresolved dilemmas are at the heart of the problems that present themselves now. We need to implement appropriate self-corrective action in any crisis we think we conjointly share with others.

4TH With Ceres turning direct we need to give our creations, our loved ones and ourselves caring attention. For those working through childbearing issues there is more resolution. Connectivity to a web of loving life opens the channels of conception. At the same time we shed that which does not, has not or will not resonate with our vibration. We are less conditional but at the same time more exceptional therefore exclusionary. We are much more aware of what we do not want. We experience less dependency and less attachment. Loving ourselves more we turn our attentions to our real needs and to those who matter. Concerns with food, digestion, and feeling protected or taken care of are more straightforward.

We are within our rights to be unwilling to meet another's standard or demands for approval. Self-approval reigns supreme. Other people can bring out our defiance if they set expectations, standards or conditional approval levels too high. Otherwise we are willing. In all of this it is very important to let go of judgment. These are out of the ordinary circumstances and cannot be critically analysed on any terms. We cannot expect the optimum results if judgement is involved. Judgement robs another person of some of their energy to achieve.

Acting on fear-based assertions will lead many of us down the wrong path. We need to be inspired, stimulated and fascinated so we can view the unknown as an adventure. It is time to pursue our passions, dreams and ideals to realise them. Feelings of irritability, discouragement, feeling incapable, weak and inferior will plague those who cannot reach out to the next level of consciousness. Ill-thought-out actions, personal delusions, secret and selfish aims will take those people on a ride of their life.

Low energy will be exhausted easily. Take better care because this lowered power can affect the immune system and bring illness. This is a fantastic influence for the arts, for artists, musicians, dancers, writers, actors and others who usually form the fringe of society. The powers of creation are enacted. Those of us on the path will be imbued with universal consciousness which unifies and harmonises all that is separate and diverse.

5TH We are humouring a gender shift and confronting our archetype of how we "do" relationship. Is it no wonder that we are confronting unfairness? This is not a matter of getting even; we need to get smarter within ourselves. Even partnership has to get out of the way of self-interested actions. Conflict, quarrel, dispute and other smouldering anger can cause disruptive moments. But the pattern is within us and that is where we need to correct the dysfunction. We need to make what we do not want dysfunctional. Men and women, women and women, men and men need to call themselves up short when it comes to conditional expectations of each other.

Ease of expression is connected with non-tangible or spiritual things when Mercury is in the watery emotional realm of Pisces, where intuition and empathy are the source of information. Creative imagination and intuitive inspiration are influencing the conscious mind. Poetic and imaginative, these energies cultivate artistic minds. We have more difficulty coping with practical things but scientific studies can be assisted by visualisation. This is a deceptive and gullible position for Mercury, so pay attention to detail and avoid confusion. We will be able to remember in detail anything we have imagined. The emotional impression of current events will create photographic memories.

6TH The Balsamic Moon is an intense phase this lunar month. It is a good time for retreat, holiday or reflection. Most may feel the need to take care of their health concerns. Some will be overwhelmed by the pressure and chaos of work. We are reconfiguring ourselves in many departments of life with relationship being one of them. We need to dissolve the internal impediments to progress and inspire ourselves with a new and nurturing outlook. The past is dropping away as we embrace the true purpose of our intended pathway. This is a strongly conceptual time when conceiving life is optimum.

9TH As a faster planet approaches a slower planet it sets up a precondition that is meant to stimulate engagement in the ultimate culmination. We felt the beginnings of this restlessness in late January. Now we are drawn further into the conceptual preparation. Pulsating energy creates unpredictable impulses within us. Surprise, shock, sudden incident, rash behaviour, upset, accident, erratic and inconsistent conduct is produced. This is transformative therefore not everything comes out of the blue; some are the result of accumulation. The urge to be free of restraint can make the pace fast and furious. High pitched energy is building toward a peak in late March. This period will present some alternative choices that should be given consideration. What is made of this will be known by the beginning of May.

The New Moon sets us up in an evolutionary way. We are geared toward resolving family issues, prepared to search the length and breadth of things to find our purpose or reason and linked with personal responsibility to our pathway of purpose. In short this is a very creative atmosphere for the soul to make important breakthroughs with ancestral patterns, present life guidelines and handicapped relationship models. We are redesigning ourselves and our lifestyles.

10th Happy Lunar New Year ~ Chinese Year of the Water Snake

There really is no value in our calendar new year except in the psychology of humans. Every new start is to be valued. But I do place more emphasis on this New Year as it is based on the lunar cycles and thereby not manmade. Having said that remember that every new moon is a new beginning. Every Spring Equinox and every time a planet passes over 0° Aries it is also a new beginning. It is especially important to note that Uranus is currently in a new cycle and has been ever since it conjoined with Jupiter in 2010. There is a line up to follow - evolution of our times. There is no switch to flip, it takes time. Check out "Where Are the Planets Now" to note when these outer planets cross over.

A concurrent astrological configuration signals that in our overall plan certain objectives have been completed and are being assimilated into our ever-evolving structure. For some, projects can be winding down challenging them to develop the next test or quest. Large or expansive projects are impaired at this point demanding action that will secure their achievement. Assess past failures or lack of development to avoid repetitive mistakes.

This is also a time when we can extend ourselves beyond our normal limits. Many of us may be able to take advantage of the benefit of expansiveness if and when it is offered. But we need to get the ego out of the way, or be willing to learn from it because the mistakes we make will lead to trouble.

Try not to dissipate energy on too many fronts. Keep project planning realistic and moderate for a time of significant new beginnings and hopeful opportunity that comes in July 2013. We cannot afford to build on fantasy. No one is going to do it for us and there is nowhere to run away if we overextend ourselves beyond our resources. Try not to create any imbalances. Keep track, do not be reckless and be resourceful with this infectious optimism because there is potential for good fortune.

Almost anything can be aggravating. The annoyances we can expect to experience will be mechanical problems, issues brought about by strong competitive urges, philosophical differences or confrontation of clashing opinions. Psychological and physical strength may overtax energy reserves if we allow ourselves to blow small things out of proportion. We can be inclined to overdo and get stressed.

There are riddles to solve, paradoxes to equilibrate and karmic strings, strands or hooks to cut. Trivial things bind us to other souls sometimes for lifetimes. Transformative, shamanic and metamorphic growth and empowerment comes through profound experiences and deep feelings. Constructive social/personal change and transformation incorporates diversity into system. Government, large corporation, banking institutions, etc are being rebuilt based on validity. Overwhelming pressure to work harder drives us. We see through manipulation, psychological games and power strategies that attack our self-worth. When blocked or struggling for power compulsion can turn destructive. Exaggerated fears, paranoia and excessive self-absorption isolates.

11TH Childhood issues spring out of nowhere. Problems between parents arise. Role models established in our youth interfere with peaceful relations. We are deconditioning the subconscious images and social imprinting of old response patterns. Meal schedules are not consistent; disruption and conflict arise out of the unavoidable. Pulls of loyalty, coercion, obligation, guilt, duty, expectation, responsibility and control can disrupt family relations. Children push their trip too far and cause tension between parents. The battle between conditional and unconditional love of children wages between parents of different background, beliefs or attitudes. Children feel guilty and responsible about their parents' marital problems whereas in most situations they are mere pawns in the bargaining negotiations.

12TH The power of a well ordered mind will perform under pressure. Digging deep we call upon our reserves and find we can develop more skills. By building a bridge between the charismatic and the compelling we renew our mind and are transformed. We are drawn to people who give us the answers we need, those who can mentor or guide. Things that at most times remain hidden become revealed. Some will not be able to release negative aspects due to deeply buried rage. Stress reveals the deep unconscious blockages. Some affect identity and others our creative potential. All we can do is replace these with faith, hope and optimism. The shadow side is given force; it can be obsessive, self-destructive or fixated in thinking. There is intense power surrounding how we use the powers of our concentration. We need to be constructive.

Much will depend upon our state of evolution. Parallel to our strong mindedness the energies surrounding our wilfulness can make some amazingly bull headed while wearing horse blinders. These have the potential to generate passive-aggressive behaviour, competitiveness, bullying, challenges, criticism, quarrels, breaking rules, defensiveness and being one-pointed. We want things on our own terms. We must get in touch with our sacred warrior or warrioress. We need to put assertion in its proper place. A passive experience of these influences by those who are unaware of them and not in their grip would be the experience of illness, lethargy, accident or cruelty.If we consciously act with awareness we should be able to channel this powerful energy into action which brings healing and provides protection.

We are in a heightened state of learning. Our perceptions are keen. We are excited about changing our relationship to life based on these new ideas and inspirations. We are directed toward self-integration and actualisation. Creativity, intellect, cultural and spiritual sensibilities are enhanced. It is easier to get in step with the changing times, the endings and turning points toward what will replace what was. The different aspects of our being can enrich and strengthen each other. If we enter into another stratum of being we will be drawn to artistic, political, healing arts and socially conscious involvements. New relationships formed now will have sexual demands. Some people use this energy to formulate battle plans with great objectivity. Others employ feminine wiles and strategies to acquire their desires by using people like pawns.

13TH The Crescent Moon is energising. It contains a great amount of vitality and enthusiasm. We are in touch with our innermost self and can act on its behalf. At the same time we can be broadminded and tolerant. This is a very creative mode that destiny will love to employ to our benefit. Keep positive, entertain faith, hope and optimism no matter how dire or difficult life may be. The beam of light we emit will keep us on our path and we will find our way. There is much to be done. Work, business or career can be very demanding. Relationships need to reassess their conditional agreements. There is a lot of force surrounding power struggles within them.

14TH Happy Valentine's Day ~ Remember to love yourself and others whether there is a Valentine person in life. Just open your heart and bless.

We will need to get beyond inhibition, feeling dysfunctional and out of accord. Whatever paradox confronts us we need to seek mutual connectivity. We may have to expend considerable inner energy working out a compromise within ourselves even before approaching another. Wherever we need to bridge the gap we can make strides toward that accomplishment. This is a time that offers much personal growth.

15TH Rebuild, regenerate and revise the altered course of action that has been presented in 2012. By doing so we will find things come together more easily in 2013. From survival to thrival begins with this step. Wherever we strive hard to achieve we can reach a more permanent state. The precedents, systems and standards that have been dismantled or have failed to thrive will take on an improved new form. A change in self-understanding, in our psychology, will improve our energy and mental perception. The communications, group involvements, contracts or writings and actions we set in motion now will have far-reaching future effects. We will be able to work together cooperatively with others for group goals and objectives. The negative expression is the urge to be defiant and challenging. We can encounter high energy persons or even extreme events.

16TH For many overwork appears the norm. A few find it is compensation for other problems. Some are redirecting repressed anger. We need to get creative if we find that our job is no longer in demand. Whether it is temporarily or long term it is best to think in a broad range of alternatives and contingencies. This is not a time to expect either/or. Natural aggression and energy is blocked or challenged. If it is not channelled it leaks out through passive/aggressive behaviour, flaking out, resistance or avoidance. When we are clear about our purpose and direction, the energy and willpower will be available to follow through.

Diligence and perseverance is strong therefore we are capable of hard work and organised details. We are careful, controlled and exacting. Our actions can lead to real and lasting accomplishment. We will win the respect of others. Work that requires precision, concentrated effort or involves metal and stone, drawing up exact plans, building, grinding, polishing and cutting, especially with metal tools is featured. If we look at all the alternatives and choose our course of action carefully and methodically we are a formidable opponent. Our actions can lead to real and lasting success. We are content to be patient.

17TH Readapting to the present we search for truth and meaning and a meeting of the minds on mental, emotional, sexual and spiritual levels. We can uplift and inspire each other. We share our philosophical, educational or religious beliefs. We will notice what other people find funny even if we do not. There will be examples of what builds self-confidence. We are called upon to focus our will toward our desired actions. If we do not look back there are instances of good luck. If a relationship needs retooling there can be crisis/conflict between ideals and reality. Attitude has a lot to do with it; prejudice, insincerity, lack of spontaneity/joy or superiority irritate. Legal complications can arise.

During the First Quarter Moon there is nothing else to do but get on with it. Do your work. Take time when possible to rest and recuperate. There is much going on. Challenges reside in the relationship department where will and power are in a struggle. Creative soulful solutions are available if we are inspired to try. Destiny requires a creative solution. We are reinventing ourselves building on the positive that comes from the past.

If we experience a sense of estrangement or alienation it is probably due to demands of work, deadline, timing problems and other related obstacles. There are things we need to separate from, like see our father with more objectivity, re-evaluate traditions and ideals and redefine our responsibilities. Paradox and disharmony are bred by a lack of free expression. This is a time of many adjustments and no single fix but effort stimulates a lot of growth and awareness.