Saturday, January 31, 2015

Written in the Stars - Week of January 30



Saturday, January 24, 2015

Written in the Stars - Week of January 23






Mercury Retrograde in Aquarius — When the planet of thought and communication retraces its steps through the sign of the individual, it’s an ideal time to reassess the way we approach the world and what we want from it. Disconnect from the herd and get to know yourself better.

ARIES
March 21 — April 19
You’re the “go in with guns blazing” type, Aries — no doubt about it. But it’s likely that you’ll encounter some obstacles and delays now, or simply some red tape that limits or slows down your momentum. Taskmaster Saturn is setting clear boundaries in your chart — working within them, rather than refusing or cursing them in frustration, can teach you something invaluable about persistence. These limits could come in the form of rules or tradition-bound superiors. Their instruction offers you essential lessons that lead to long-term rewards.

TAURUS
April 20 — May 20
In astrology, we often talk about your penchant for hard work and structure, Taurus — what we don’t mention as often is your ability to party/drink/play harder than any other sign. This week, your cravings are as single-minded and tenacious as you are. You could find drama at your doorstep due to bad bets, enjoyment to excess or romantic flights of fancy gone awry. Enjoy yourself, bull — but don’t indulge any bull. Your charm can hook you almost anything now, so be careful what you wish for.

GEMINI
May 21 — June 21
Isn’t it nice, Gemini, when the things you love in life and the work that you do, intersect? You are forecast to receive some recognition from higher-ups in the long term, regarding your ability to research or conceptualize. If there are delays or obstacles you have to overcome, don’t be discouraged. The temporary slow-down brought on by your ruler in retrograde could actually be a lifesaver. Use this time to review and revise some innovative ideas or theories you’ve come up with. Adjustments made now can lead to genius breakthroughs.

CANCER
June 22 — July 22
Consider your resources this week, Cancer, and those that are bestowed upon you by others. With Mercury retracing its steps in your House of Investments, hand in hand with sweet Venus, this is a perfect time to revise your budget in order to cultivate a life you love. A reward system could be in order — such as planning a vacation months in advance to remind yourself what you’re working toward. You make your own luck when you find ways to get excited about working and enacting new ideas despite setbacks. Keep going!

LEO
July 23 — Aug. 22
Practice makes perfect, Leo, even if you think you’re pretty damn close to perfect already. The best, most admired actors in the world are praised, in part, for their ability to make their work appear effortless. But one can have no doubt that Brando’s explosive outbursts were carefully, obsessively crafted before their spontaneity shook the world. Structure and discipline bring you luck and wisdom now, which only snowball as time goes on. Conflicts with partners could arise now — be patient. This will pass.

VIRGO
Aug. 23 — Sept. 22
No one knows how to plan like you, Virgo — and as an adaptable, mutable sign, you also know that even the best plans need a tune-up now and again. Your chart forecasts a steady upward ascension and you are being offered the opportunity to re-work your plan to get where you want to be. Is it the same place as it was a year ago? Take time to re-assess your home and work life — what helps, what hinders. You’re being given the energy and humor to deal with any hiccups as they arrive and the patience to stand your ground when necessary.

LIBRA
Sept. 23 — Oct. 22
You’re known for being indecisive, Libra — but the other side of that coin is that you make thoughtful, well-informed decisions. You may have experienced a disappointment recently though, related to an aspect of your life you spent a lot of time and energy on. A re-assessment of a creative or romantic endeavor is forecast — stay open to new ideas and don’t let your focus or energy flag. A bit of alone time to outline a new plan, or a brainstorming session with partners, could work wonders.
SCORPIO

Oct. 23 — Nov. 21
You’re a dichotomy, Scorpio — stubborn and single-minded, yet constantly transforming. With Mercury traipsing backward through your House of Foundations, you could be experiencing a deep questioning for the next few weeks and a profound sense of needing to rethink your values, or a need to bring your external world into alignment with them. If your ship is off course, this is an ideal time to steer it in a direction that arouses your excitement. You have much to do and after a short detour, the time will be right.

SAGITTARIUS
Nov. 22 — Dec. 21
You may find yourself with much to say this week, Sagittarius, and at times, addressing an empty room. Mercury is bumbling backward through your House of Communications, indicating that you could experience some missed connections. A re-assessment of your social structure could be in order — who best fits your current level of life experience? With whom would your time be best spent? You have great charm and diplomacy working for you now, so rearranging plans won’t be an issue. You’ll smooth things over.

CAPRICORN
Dec. 22 — Jan. 19
Where would you like to be in five years, Capricorn? What is one thing you could do today to work toward that? Notice I didn’t ask where you were five years ago, or where you wish you’d be now if things had gone “right” back when. Mercury is giving you the opportunity to re-work the way you handle your personal resources — do you make your time and energy work for you, or do you work for them? You’re going through an intense revision of your past — let it positively affect your present. Increasing your stature increases your confidence.

AQUARIUS
Jan. 20 — Feb. 18
All eyes are on you now, Aquarius. Venus is blessing your sign, making you appear more attractive and charming, and bringing compliments and invitations. Meanwhile, chatty Mercury strolls backward next to pretty Venus, asking her how she makes her magic, and why she directs it where she does. For the next three weeks, you have the chance to re-assess the way you project yourself and decide how to shape your impact the world. If you use this time actively, beneficial changes to your resources and partnerships are forecast.

PISCES
Feb. 19 — March 20
It’s cold outside, Pisces, and the landscape may look quiet and colorless where plants lay dormant, protecting themselves from the chill. Yet they are quietly gathering strength, too, and preparing to show themselves for what they are: delicate and determined, fallible but fruitful. Your seeds are being nourished, Pisces, and knowing their limitations is what gives them life. Recognition is coming and with your ruler, dreamy Neptune in cahoots with energetic Mars, you’ll feel unstoppable. Stoke your inner fire — your glow will come through.

Saturday, January 17, 2015

Written in the Stars - Week of Jan. 16


 
 
Mars in Pisces — When the planet of energy and action enters the sign of vision and spirituality, we are motivated to pursue our ideals rather than on practical duties. Life imitates art. Following dreams can alter and inspire your reality.

ARIES
March 21 — April 19
You’ve been offered the gift of a smooth transition, Aries, as you accept your new, improved position. Whether you’re being acknowledged externally with a promotion or award, or you’ve simply decided internally to raise your standards, things are looking good. Your ruler, energetic Mars, has moved into your House of Secrets. This month is an ideal time to trust your own dreams and ideas, but to express and develop them quietly. They’ll be ready for presenting next month, once they’ve incubated.

TAURUS
April 20 — May 20
You’re quite self-sufficient and proud of it, Taurus, but this is a powerfully fortunate time to share your ideas with a group of allies or employees to help make them real. The opportunity for a massive uptick in material security is forecast if you can focus this considerable Martian fire. Your ruler, charming Venus, is snuggled up to intelligent Mercury in your House of Career and Destiny, giving your delivery of these plans extra charisma, warmth and wit. Take this rare astrological opportunity to gather your allies and send a message.

GEMINI
May 21 — June 21
You’re eager to broaden and explore your horizons this week, Gemini, with mental Mercury tripping through your House of Philosophy and Exploration hand in hand with voluptuous Venus. “Big” ideas, far-reaching visions and exotic, new learning experiences will be very attractive now. Meanwhile, powerhouse Mars has rushed into your House of Career and Destiny, firing up your ambition and desire for recognition. It’s excellent to know and acknowledge your own worth, but don’t push authority figures too hard just now.

CANCER
June 22 — July 22
You’re ready for a brand new day, Cancer, and you may be wondering why some others around you don’t seem as eager. This is a great time to take a class, throw yourself into a new hobby or study, or go on a trip somewhere you’ve never been. You’re feeling highly energized and attracted to new and exotic people, places and ideas. There is wealth potential forecast, along with a commensurate amount of work and dedication. Let people move at their own pace, but don’t let it stop you from going at your own, too.

LEO
July 23 — Aug. 22
What if I told you to “get serious” about playing, Leo? Does it sound like an oxymoron? It’s not. There is something that you do naturally — possibly something you were known for as a child — that is creative and playful, and could potentially earn you far-reaching rewards that you can’t even fathom yet. For the next few weeks, you have some golden potential energy in your hands. The right timing, partners, and even investors are moving into your sphere. Put your nose to the grindstone and have something ready to show them.  

VIRGO
Aug. 23 — Sept. 22
Your relationship to your closest loved ones is in sharp focus now, Virgo. Mars has moved into your House of Partnerships, fueling the dynamism of those interactions. It’s possible that you could get into verbal tussles with someone(s) quite close to you, but this doesn’t have to be fruitless or angsty. This energy also gives you the courage and honesty to face any blockages and address them head-on so that all parties can move forward clearly. Make sure everyone gets to speak their piece. Good resolutions are ahead.

LIBRA
Sept. 23 — Oct. 22
It’s time to step it up, Libra. You have a lofty goal (the only kind you have) in mind, and the Universe is doing all it can to signal you that it’s a GO. Mars is charging your House of Work, giving you a ton of energy that would be well spent on your passion project(s). Those projects are blessed by the wit and warmth of Mercury and Venus, who are writing everything from poetry to stand-up in your House of Creativity and Self-Expression. Jupiter blesses your House of Alliances, giving you the support you need. Do your part, then reach out and accept the miracle.

SCORPIO
Oct. 23 — Nov. 21
You’re known for being the mysterious, deep, strong-but-silent type, Scorpio. But you’ve got something to say, and now you’re ready to say it. Whether you “say it” with words, images, clay, crayons or ostrich feathers doesn’t matter. What matters is that you give this unique energy its deserved (and demanded) outlet. There is power behind your words, with your ruler Pluto orating from your House of Communications. Your fearless creativity and snubbing of others’ standards promises greater wealth and personal satisfaction. Dreams come true.

SAGITTARIUS
Nov. 22 — Dec. 21
You’re known for being often profound, yet rarely serious, Sagittarius. Yet in the last few weeks you may have found that some events have sobered, limited or slowed you and forced you to take stock of yourself. Some may even experience some sadness or even depression, but if you experience this, know that it is just your own internal recognition that certain parts of your life need to change to better serve your happiness and growth. Invest in yourself now to see major leaps and gains.

CAPRICORN
Dec. 22 — Jan. 19
You are the sole of efficiency, Capricorn, and an expert at sniffing out the worthless or unnecessary. So when you find yourself doing less than you’d like, or not fulfilling certain expectations you have for yourself, you feel like a failure. There’s nothing so inefficient as time wasted on punishing yourself. Pick up from where you are and march forward in the here and now. A long-existing cycle is ending and Saturn is teaching you something valuable about your past. Take what affirms and teaches you and purge what’s toxic.

AQUARIUS
Jan. 20 — Feb. 18
You’ve got your mind on your money, Aquarius. Your possessions and resources are of high importance right now — you may find yourself getting in disputes regarding money, payments and ownership rights now. Try to keep a calm head through it all. Venus and Mercury are blessing your House of Appearance and Personality with wit, charm and ideas that people will truly “love.” If you can combine your: dynamic spirit to make money with your beautiful ideas and unique way of communicating, you’ll be unstoppable.

PISCES
Feb. 19 — March 20
If you ever needed to stand your ground, start a quest, or make your mark on the world, now’s the time, Pisces. Fiery Mars has leapt into your first House of Personality, giving you a surge of energy to show yourself to the world. Saturn is assisting you — though sometimes his assistance comes in the form of showing you where you “should have,” or where you went wrong. Don’t be discouraged if such things come up. They pave the way to a smoother, happier, more solid future. “Plan your work, then work your plan.”

Saturday, January 10, 2015

Written in the Stars - Week of January 9




Astrological Tip! — As you may or may not know, you’re probably reading your Sun Sign horoscope. But you have a Rising sign (or Ascendant) that is just as significant. Do a web search to find out yours and read both horoscopes for some extra stellar direction.

ARIES
March 21 — April 19
Time to step into your rightful position as a leader, Aries. It’s very likely that this week you’ll make connections with powerful figures that can help you take bold new steps (your favorite kind.) However, it would be good to meet your creative plans for these groups or organizations carefully despite your desire to barrel in. Take your time. Today and this weekend in particular, you have some extra astrological finesse in your chart to share your vision in a positive, accessible way. There is great potential here. Think long-term.


TAURUS
April 20 — May 20
It’s a breakout week for you, Taurus. By that, I mean that you’ll be wanting to break out of work and home routines, and you may vibrating with so much energy that your skin could break out — but also that some stellar, breakout ideas are forecast! It’s an ideal time to promote yourself or your business, or if you’re not already self-employed in any way, it’s a great time to pour some energy into a brilliant idea you may be keeping to yourself.  Your restless energy craves adventure — go to new places and meet exotic people.

GEMINI
May 21 — June 21
You may find yourself questioning, Gemini, “What’s the meaning of this?” Both in its indignant, rhetorical sense and in a truly inquisitive way too. At times, you may find yourself questioning it quite loudly. Mars is charging through your House of Philosophy, firing up your urge to declare. Declare yourself, your truth, declare your opinion and the attributes which make it pretty-much-fact. You have great opportunities for growth, even some moneymaking ideas. Leaps are ahead, but diplomacy in the present will help clear the way.

CANCER
June 22 — July 22
It’s an unfortunate side effect of long-term relationships, Cancer, that sometimes we lose sight of the beauty in the people and things that matter most to us. If we’re not careful, we can take them for granted and lose them — whether they be prized possessions or connections. Take the time to acknowledge and love those that support you. Count your blessings. More resources are forecast to flow into your life, once Mars helps you experience breakthroughs in your emotional life. Make any “little people” who have helped you along the way feel ten feet tall.
 
LEO
July 23 — Aug. 22
Everything you need for your next big adventure is right inside you, Leo — and it’s looking pretty incredible. Jupiter is filling your House of Personality with vigor, excitement, good fortune and celebration. You’re ready to get your show on the road — but it’s not a one-wo/man show. Mars is setting off fireworks in your House of Partnerships, lighting up the areas of your relationship or partnerships where adjustments are needed. Some cooperation and dedicated communication will work wonders.

VIRGO
Aug. 23 — Sept. 22
What have your dreams been like lately, Virgo? The solar system’s benevolent giant, Jupiter, has moved into your House of Secrets and Awakenings, promising surges of intuition. You may find your workload has increased, or decide that now’s the time to begin a new health regimen. The timing couldn’t be better, with Mars charging through your House of Health and Work. Good things are happening for you behind the scenes and success is promised when you keep your heart light and your hands busy.

LIBRA
Sept. 23 — Oct. 22
Time to get this show on the road, Libra, and what a show your chart forecasts it to be! Mars is charging through your House of Creativity and Fun, giving you a surge of playful fire, the dynamic urge to be exactly who you are and proclaim it out loud. Meanwhile, bountiful Jupiter is bestowing his stellar luck on your House of Friends and Associations. How could you unite the brightest of those around you to make fun, far-reaching dreams come true? If you can harness this dynamic spirit, the possibilities are endless.

SCORPIO
Oct. 23 — Nov. 21
How much do you invest, Scorpio? In yourself, in your work, in your family? These themes are keenly highlighted for you now. You could be feeling restless or moody as Mars lights up shadowy areas in your House of Home and Family. The instinct to defend, protect or enhance your foundation could arise and would be well spent on building yourself up. Jupiter is blessing your destiny and unfolding life path with surprise blessings and journeys. Tend to the home fires now so you can see them from wherever you’re headed.
 
SAGITTARIUS
Nov. 22 — Dec. 21
You know better than any sign, Sagittarius, that life is a boundless adventure. There are so many places to see and go, and with your ruler, larger-than-life Jupiter, in your House of Philosophy and Journeys, you see and desire them all. This optimism, combined with the energy of fiery Mars lighting up your House of Ideas and Communication, may have you sending your messages to the four winds. As exciting as this is, ironically it would be better to focus your fire more minutely order to reach a wider audience.

CAPRICORN
Dec. 22 — Jan. 19
Normally you’re known as a frugal sort, Capricorn, but you may find yourself tempted to overspend now. Mars is firing up your House of Wealth, increasing your desire for objects and experiences that make you feel “rich.” If you can instead use these urges to fuel your rise in power and true wealth, new and better resources are forecast to arrive. Let your restlessness and desire propel you. Jupiter is blessing your House of Transformation and Others’ Money, indicating that teaming up will pay dividends.

AQUARIUS
Jan. 20 — Feb. 18
If you’ve got an idea or business plan in mind, Aquarius, you couldn’t ask for a better time to kick things off. Mars is heating up your House of Personality for the next few weeks, giving you more physical energy, inspiration and urge to express your unique ideas. All this fire could make you seem a bit pushy, so be careful not to bulldoze over others, particularly partners. Jupiter is blessing your House of Partnerships with luck and money, so you could receive wealth or broad recognition by working closely with a colleague or lover.

PISCES
Feb. 19 — March 20
You have a unique opportunity now, Pisces, to link your conscious and unconscious mind, to let knowledge and intuition harmonize in the ways that lead to truly genius ideas and insights. Mars is burning in your House of Secrets, burning away the aspects of the past that need to be cleansed, and illuminating those that need your focus. Meanwhile, Jupiter blesses your House of Work and Health, saying you can bring these ideas into the tangible world. Take care of your body and hone your spirit to see dramatic new gains.

Saturday, January 3, 2015

Written in the Stars - Week of January 2


 
Mercury conjunct Venus — lighthearted charm colors our communications when the celestial messenger links up with the planet of love and beauty. Sweet gatherings, kind conversations and lucky business transactions are forecast. What we lack in discipline, we make up for in grace!

ARIES
March 21 — April 19
You're not mistaken, Aries — you are definitely at a turning point. With four planets crowded in your House of Career and Destiny, it's just about time for you to begin the newest leg of your crazy journey — almost. With your ruling planet, ready-and-rarin' Mars haranguing Jupiter, the house of big rewards, the stars say you must be patient. It may feel like it's now or never, but actually, you'd be well advised to answer this frantic internal sense by pacing yourself. Beware of pushing others too hard now. Rest assured and rest up — it's coming.

TAURUS
April 20 — May 20
Things are going to be looking very different for you in the near future, Taurus, though you may not see the evidence right away. It's a good thing you have so much charm and wit lighting up your chart this week, because you're also loaded with invitations and expectations. Everyone wants a piece of you! Give what you can, but know that most of your energy should be directed toward building yourself up, because both your home and career sectors are going through massive change. Prepare to be surprised and revitalized!

GEMINI
May 21 — June 21
Don't get ahead of yourself this week, Gemini. Mars is firing up your House of New Horizons, lighting your inner pilot light and pushing you to plunge ahead, explore new territory and discover new (internal and external worlds.) This is all well and good until you over-extend yourself into oblivion, what with bigger-is-better Jupiter bellowing in your House of Communications. Refuse to: borrow trouble, make mountains out of molehills, or be forced into sudden decisions. Channel this fire into your to-do list and watch obstacles crumble.

CANCER
June 22 — July 22
The last few months may have been quite frustrating for you, Cancer, with their pull-the-rug-out plans and unfinished business. You're at a turning point now, where you may be confronted with opportunities to enter new partnerships, rekindle old ones and sign contracts. These new contacts lead to the steadiness and comfort you Moonies long for. With Jupiter in your House of Wealth opposing fiery Mars in your House of Other People's Money, you must consider carefully the way you use all resources. Don't push yourself or others too far.

LEO
July 23 — Aug. 22
What venture are you embarking upon, Leo? Are you preparing to write the Great American Novel, design a new invention or make your mark on Broadway? Your creative sector is absolutely shimmering with power and promise — while others search for opportunities with both hands and come up short, your arms are full of ideas. If others can't see your grand vision (yet), don't despair. Keep your eyes on your own paper, work hard and pretty soon you'll be showing them what you're worth. Be kind — they'll be there when you need them.

VIRGO
Aug. 23 — Sept. 22
This week call for radical trust, Virgo. No matter what your trusty earth senses tell you, there is magic in the air. You may find yourself shaken up this week, even feeling "forced" to consider things from another angle. If you get this chance, do your best to embrace it. Your empathy is being highlighted, so you may be clued in to how you affect others. Positive attention is likely to come your way as well, but stay humble. Your stars say rolling up your sleeves and working patiently (kinda your specialty!) brings financial improvement. 

LIBRA
Sept. 23 — Oct. 22
Trust your intuition now, Libra, above your mind or even heart. (Both can be easily misled.) Your emotions will be on high and the past is still rearing its head, but it's likely that you will come to a resolution about it, this week. Healing is forecast, as well as massive, positive life changes. You may not see them yet, but the results will be apparent in the first three months of 2015. Keep the faith. Your friends and close associates bring you luck now, especially in creative and playful endeavors. Move forward and have FUN!

SCORPIO
Oct. 23 — Nov. 21
Destiny is calling, Scorpio, and your chart is spinning full speed ahead. It's not so much that you won't be running into any more obstacles, but more that you have learned SO MUCH in the last year about overcoming them, learning from them and moving forward with more strength than before. You, like no other sign, are able to integrate your shadow and use it to intensify your light. You're being called upon as a leader and you may find that others ask what they can do to serve you. Be true to yourself — a compassionate, determined leader. 

SAGITTARIUS
Nov. 22 — Dec. 21
You're looking quite attractive to others, Sagittarius, for all sorts of reasons. Some are admiring, some want to know your secret and others would really like to see you "put in your place," as they can't handle your success. Show that you can handle it gracefully. With Mars firing up your House of Communication, you must be careful not to burn bridges or people with your single minded words. Passion is excellent, but be sure to temper it with compassion. Jupiter is lighting up your House of Philosophy, promising "big" ideas and journeys. Ready?

CAPRICORN
Dec. 22 — Jan. 19
There is no doubt that you are in the midst of a massive transformation, Capricorn. With four planets crowded into your House of Personality, you are armed with charm, power, intelligence and charisma. You're at a turning point. Will you use these powers you've been endowed with for your progress, or will you "humble" yourself right out of your rightful opportunities? You're gifted with amazing vision at this moment; take stock of your life and ask yourself what's working and what is holding you back. Watch for signs — you're being guided.

AQUARIUS
Jan. 20 — Feb. 18
Are you feeling taken advantage of, Aquarius? If so, who is the culprit? A litany of names (or one very loud one) probably just crossed your mind. But if you're feeling unappreciated, you must always look to yourself first. Take responsibility for the ways you're complicit in living a life you're not always thrilled about, as this is step one to stepping out of it. Refuse to compare yourself to others. There is a powerful healing energy coursing through your chart, giving you the chance to forgive yourself and others and move in a happier direction.

PISCES
Feb. 19 — March 20
You're learning a lot about yourself and what you're capable of lately, Pisces, and this week, you could get a massive insight into your way of doing things. Big, benevolent Jupiter is in your House of Work, indicating there's lots to do — but also great rewards to be had for working hard and "getting it done right the first time." Unexpected meetings and rewards are forecast — if you've been job hunting or searching for the right partners to help you meet your goals, it could happen now. Expect strange, miraculous events.

Thursday, January 1, 2015

Cheers! It’s the first blog! *CONFETTI*






Welcome! And thanks for stopping by! This is my blog dedicated to astrology, Tarot, life, love, and all things unseen and interconnected. You can read my “Written in the Stars” weekly horoscopes here, and other articles about intuition and astrology, or you can post questions to get a little stellar advice about life, love and the pursuit of happiness. 

A little about my background: 
I learned the nuts and bolts of Tarot and astrology from my mother as a little girl, and ever since, I have continued to burn through books, maps, and decks, soaking up everything I could, while also honing the unconscious, intuitive side of things through meditation and energy work. I've been studying divination for twenty-two years, and I've been doing professional readings for ten. 

I'm endlessly fascinated by, and grateful for, the accuracy, incisiveness, and even healing power of astrology and Tarot. I hope that reading this blog brings — in some small way — that sense of support, magic, possibility and positivity to your life. Leave a comment or drop me a line at madeleinesmither@gmail.com with any questions, comments or suggestions for Starry Eyed. I look forward to hearing from you!