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The Following Month Ahead Horoscopes Were Found:

1st February 2003 - 28th February 2003
With a crowded fifth house life should be fun and certainly until the 14th the planets are behaving well. You could just wait and see what these sweet influences produce or you could take the bull by the horns and steam into action with some of your more pressing ambitions. And, for what it�s worth, I definitely favour the latter. Use the period between the 1st and 14th to lobby support for ventures and to make an impression on someone important. Librans tend to do well in life: this is partly due to your positive image and your knack of getting on with people but also because you are a Cardinal sign and the Cardinals are doers, even if, as in your case, they sometimes appear to be laid back to the point of supine! Whether February is notable for its social events, your getting away from the routine or because something new comes into being, you�ll have an easier ride in the first half.

Not that the second half is all bad. It�s just that the configurations are edgy and this tends to make for misunderstandings. And even if you are as cool as a cucumber other people could be experiencing difficulties and that means they will be less easy to deal with and not so keen to advance your course. And you too could encounter a problem or two over the weekend of the 15th and into the following week. It may be that a letter or message has failed to reach its destination so a chain of events is put in motion that requires patience and effort to set to rights. Or, perhaps, an event has to be cancelled or some other development makes you feel less than pleased. All these things should be resolvable and they will sort themselves out all the quicker if you take practical steps.

The home front has the benefit of Venus throughout the month, so there could be happy news regarding a member of the family or a celebration on home territory. This is also a month when home improvements can be made, whether this means you�ll be redecorating and refurbishing or whether you�re looking to move house. Perhaps more importantly Venus and her principles of love and harmony are focused on the very base of life thus the actions you take now and the events that come into being have the capacity to enrich your life on all levels.

1st January 2003 - 31st January 2003
The base of your chart is the area of new beginnings, a theme brought radiantly to life through the sun's passage through this zone during January. You can make a fresh start with any feature of your life, of course, but this would be an ideal month to bring in a new order on the home and family front. What complicates this process of ushering in the new, however, is Mercury's retrograde journey through the same area of the chart. Thus it may be that you have to resurrect an old idea, go back to the origins of a situation or perform some laborious tasks before you can truly get on with building anew. Also, with Mercury in reverse thrust you will have to exhibit the usual patience with transport, travel and communications. Not perhaps the best of months to get from A to B without false starts, U-turns and unexpected detours.

Uranus is in charge until the 12th - yet another planet synonymous with the new and the different - and with the area of finances involved here there could be some changes in your income or some unexpected gains or losses. And even though Uranus takes a back seat after the 12th you should continue to manage your finances very carefully and avoid taking on new commitments until you are on more solid financial ground.

The full moon of the 18th falls on the life-direction axis of your horoscope. This full moon will make you more aware than ever of the great aims you have in life - and it will reveal just how far off course you are. This full moon could also bring a family or property matter to crunch point, however, you would be better waiting until February before you make a final decision.

This may not be the best January ever but it could turn out to contain some very useful events.

1st March 2003 - 31st March 2003
Hard work and organization are the way to go in March. Now, I admit this may sound rather dull when you were looking forward to romance and the good times but as Ecclesiastes put it - to everything there is a season! The sixth house of your horoscope is in the astrological spotlight and this is known as the area of work, health and service. Thus, on a mundane level we are looking at a month when developments at work are likely to prove interesting to say the least and a time when any weaknesses in your system are likely to be exposed. And by the same token hard work should pay off now; likewise setting to rights any health wrongs and putting in motion a new health and fitness routine (you did have one, didn�t you?) should work wonders.

With Venus transiting the social and creative fifth house there could indeed be some romance and happy events to look forward to but these are likely to take second billing to other more challenging developments. Between the 8th and 18th a complex alignment involving the sun, Mercury, Saturn and Pluto will be holding sway and while Saturn and Pluto are well-placed for Libra, helping you to make good decisions and urging you to find a broader canvas for your talents and interests, these two planets can still cause trouble. It may be that you have bitten off more than you can chew or that someone/an organization is not open to your ideas. Indeed, a commitment may come to an end under such influences. You may also find that events beyond your control change an arrangement and it is advizable to be very fluid in your expectations and your planning at this time.

On the 21st the sun heads into the area of love and relating, thereby beginning a two-month period of key developments linked to relationships in general and your love life in particular.

1st April 2003 - 30th April 2003
Finally, after months of astrological bogies comes a pleasant astro-scape. It might not be enough to transform your life, nor indeed to end wars and banish suffering and poverty to the outer reaches of the universe, but it will take some of the bumps out of that long and winding road we all appear to be on.

Throughout April the sun, followed by Venus, will move through the seventh house of relationships so being an independent individual with the freedom to act unilaterally will be a dream too far. Discussions, decision-making and allowing others to tell it how it is will all be part of your April experience. This is also a premium time for Libran engagements and nuptials. And, if romance has been off the menu for a while, it could come back with a vengeance.

However, for many Librans the focus on relationships is not all about love and romance but about joining forces for professional purposes. Other people are more likely to notice your talents and charms now, and offers could arrive that promise to improve your position and provide you with a higher profile. And, if you need support for a scheme or you are looking for advice, people come out of the woodwork and to your aid in April.

The full moon of the 16th takes place in your sign and since it is the only one this year it marks the end of a significant chapter in your life, or the end of a pattern of experience. A relationship could be in the picture here, whether this mid-April period is one when you make a commitment or one when you end one. You are usually empowered by a full moon in your sign, so you should obey your instincts and be unafraid to make a definitive move then.

Make the most of your April stars and in many cases this means allowing others to show you the way forward.

1st May 2003 - 31st May 2003
This is another of those months when your innate ability to find balance and harmony will be in considerable demand. Both May and June are periods of extremes and while there may be nothing you can do about world events or those things that happen to other people, you can clear the decks of unfinished paperwork, so to speak, in order to be able to spring into action in the event of an unexpected development.

Mercury will be retrograding until the 20th so you will have to be long-suffering about the trend for delays and no-shows. On the other hand, this does give you a valuable opportunity to go back over old ground and re-consider a decision or plan you made earlier. And you may well be able to re-connect with an old associate or an old flame. (Venus�s passage through the area of love and relating - until the 16th - often spritzes up a lacklustre love-life, and if you are marrying or signing a contract with an individual or an organization the future is looking bright.)

Adding to the magic and mystery of May is a series of Neptune aspects. Neptune increases our capacity for spiritual experiences and helps us become more compassionate, sensitive and loving people. However, Neptune also blinds us to reality and sends us on wild goose chases. Thus, while you should throw yourself whole-heartedly into experiences which elevate the heart and the soul, you should be rather cautious in whom you place your trust. Seeing is not necessarily believing in May.

The lunar eclipse of the 16th focuses on the financial axis of your solar chart and since full moons bring issues to a head and inspire closure, a financial commitment may be ended around this time or a source of income may come to an end. Certainly, early May is a time to set your accounts in order and to ensure that you have sufficient funds to cover unexpected outgoings.

The solar eclipse of the 31st falls in the zone of far horizons and it points to a development of an overseas nature. This eclipse could be the portent of a journey to foreign parts, a meeting of importance with someone from afar or an event that changes your long-term plans. And although it would be astrologically satisfying for such things came to pass on or near the 31st, since eclipses have a life-span of some three to six months it may take until November before this prediction is fulfilled.

1st May 2003 - 1st May 2003
Due to unforeseen circumstances, this months forecast has been delayed! Please call back again soon. Penny

1st June 2003 - 30th June 2003
Planets in the ninth house add up to travel and high hopes. This is the time of year when Libra leaves the familiar behind and heads optimistically toward new horizons. Well, that�s the theory; in practice you may find that much as you yearn to move onward and upward, circumstances beyond your control make your progress somewhat protracted - the proverbial magical mystery tour.

June�s astro-scape is dominated by a series of oppositions to Pluto and squares to Uranus, not to mention the first sun-Saturn conjunction of this two-year cycle, all of which makes the month ahead a dynamic, if rather unsettling period. At best these influences will change your long-term horizons in the most welcome of ways but at worst you may find that a major U-turn of some description is necessary. And while this theme may apply to a holiday plan or a journey of some distance, for some Librans a development at work or in a relationship could lead to big changes in your life map.

The arrival of Saturn on the Mid-heaven of your solar chart (4th) is an important event on the Libran calendar. During the two years that this planet will transit this area you will have opportunities to climb the ladder of status and success, provided you remain focused and do not make compromises. Saturn demands great things of us in this position and when we measure up we get rewards. And you get you first taster of Saturnian rags or riches around the 23rd of the month. Indeed, the final week of June is perhaps the most eventful of all, whether you already have a big date in your diary then or whether news that you receive or exchanges of ideas and feelings leave their mark on you.

The year has been tough going for all the signs, so although June clearly has its happy moments - and for some Librans its wonderful life-changing events - you cannot afford to cut corners or take things for granted. Think, learning curves.

1st July 2003 - 31st July 2003
With the bulk of the personal planets transiting the tenth house of your solar chart, July is the month of the year for getting ahead. As you know, Libra can be too laid back for its own good at times and rather too keen on being liked so this forecast should serve as a timely reminder to focus on your Cardinality and show the world that you can hustle with the best of them. Saturn has been in this area of the horoscope for a mere few weeks so it is a little too early to form a judgment as to whether this planet will help you gain greater stature in the world �out there� or whether you will encounter blocks and opposition to your success. However, with Mercury and Venus conjoining Saturn (on the 1st and 8th respectively) you should steel yourself for a moment of truth or a moment of glory - and you should certainly look at the deeper implications of events during the first half of July, because they could be signs of the reality to come.

The full moon of the 13th is another key point of July: this is an excellent period in which to attend to family business and to reach conclusions about your professional or familial future. Of course, full moons can cause emotions to interfere with good judgment but, provided you are not guilty of a knee-jerk response, what you decide then should set the stage for a new and improved cycle of life.

As the month goes by the emphasis shifts onto social and creative pursuits - yes, it may be time to head away on vacation or put your energies into the more enjoyable things of life: indeed, it is essential that you do strike the balance between fulfilling your worldly ambitions and taking time out.

All in all July�s stars are a serious improvement on previous months, although I am still tempted to say: the best is yet to come!

1st August 2003 - 31st August 2003
Like your opposite number Aries, it�s about time you got off the treadmill and embarked on a more leisurely and pleasure-oriented programme. The year has been heavy going for many Librans so taking some time out at this juncture will add immeasurably to your chances of ending 2003 on a high note. If you haven�t considered taking a short (or long) break then you might want to revise your plans, and if you have commitments that bind you to that proverbial treadmill at least make fun a priority too. The latter part of August has some surprises up its sleeves, as we shall see shortly.

The area of collaboration and creativity is in focus, and with a full moon here on the 12th a gestation period has reached its end: something that has been �cooking� for some months is ready to see the light of day. Now, this could presage a real birth, but it is more likely to signal a new stage of an endeavour or an association. Whatever the case, this mid-August period is one when you may wish to reflect on your labours, throwing out those things that have not worked, or are wasting your time, energies and assets, and making big plans for those things that are heading in the right direction. There is rather a wake-up-smell-the-coffee flavour to the mid-part of August and you should grab any opportunity to strip the dead wood from your life - in whatever shape and form it appears to exist!

The second half of the month is full of exciting, if rather volatile, influences: this is certainly a time when new romances spring up suddenly and plans get side-lined because of unexpected developments. I tend to see this 21st - 30th period as one of tremendous good fortune so that you should not hesitate to board whatever boat of opportunity arrives in port at that time but it is just possible that these same nine days will create tensions in relationships and a few Librans may be propelled into cut and run mode. Also, if you are travelling during this latter part of August, please pack some patience pills into your first-aid kit!

1st September 2003 - 30th September 2003
Twelfth house matters are the subject of September�s stars. Until the 15th a cluster of planets lurks in this mysterious neck of the woods and it may take the sun�s entry into your sign on the 23rd before you gain a better grip on life. Ideally, of course, you should be on a spiritual retreat, seeking the guru on the mountain peak - that sort of thing - but since that is a luxury few of us can afford you will instead need to take a little more care of your physical and mental health. A few early nights and attending to niggling health problems will go a long way to getting you in good shape and while I would not recommend ignoring any financial red lights - or, indeed, distress signals from any aspect of your life upon which you depend - there is a lot to be said for waiting until all the facts appear before making a decision. And that may well mean after the sun enters Libra and Mercury and Mars have both turned direct - the 20th and 27th respectively.

The month�s key alignment involves the mighty Pluto and is most active between the 5th and 17th. Since you are feeling your way through twelfth house territory events may pass over your head, so to speak, which, on the one hand may leave you relatively untroubled but on the other could mean that a difficulty is building without your knowledge. I mention this not to alarm you so much as to urge you to question anomalies and to keep on top of those people and those situations that are crucial to your security and stability.

Happily, ruler, Venus, enters your sign on the 15th and this benevolent planet may well offset any of the aforementioned difficulties. Venus usually produces one or more event that makes you feel glad to be you: Venus enhances your image, helps you beat the competition and impress those who count. And then there�s love and romance. Between now and mid-October is one of the year�s hottest spots for your relationship life. And I choose my words carefully!

1st October 2003 - 31st October 2003
October is birthday month for many Librans, and whether or not you�re delighted at the prospect of your solar return, your stars for the month are pretty good. Venus, your ruler, will remain in your sign until the 9th adding to the general harmony and happiness to be had and from then on she lends her beneficence to the area of money and self-worth. Indeed, there is a high focus on finance and self-esteem right through until mid-November. For some Librans, the prospect looms for greater earning power and financial improvements while for others it is a case of setting your finances on a more realistic footing and looking at ways in which to ease cash-flow and cut down on the monthly hemorrhage from your bank account. As a rule Librans do not suffer from low self-esteem but you can give away your power in the hopes that other people will like you more. If nothing else, October�s empowering aspects set you on the right track, urging you to be uncompromising in your quest for financial independence and greater appreciation of your assets.

Saturn is an abiding presence throughout the month, but especially on or near the 6th, 10th, 14th and 25th. While, during the next two years, Saturn will raise your game and add structure and cohesion to your life, there are sure to be the occasional foot faults and disappointments to bear. It may be that around the aforementioned dates you will feel anything but appreciated for your assets and a loss or delay, most probably regarding a job or a family/property matter, could discourage you. However, you should accept the situation stoically and philosophically, re-channel your energies and wait and see what the next few months bring. Saturn will be retrograding between 25th October and early March, but once he turns direct you may find that a project or association comes back into being. And, indeed, that the period in between has been entirely useful and edifying.

And while we�re on the subject of Saturn, this planet could also prove very useful this month in helping you separate the good from the bad, the true from the false, particularly in regard to friendships, working associations and long-term endeavours. As they say: truth is beautiful.

1st November 2003 - 30th November 2003
This seems to have been a year of stirring alignments and many times I have found myself setting the stage for uncomfortable world developments and personal challenges but in many ways November is in a class of its own. Two eclipses and a series of hard angles to Pluto and Uranus contribute to a month of vicissitudes and moments of truth. (And if you�d like to find out a little more about the so-called �Harmonic Convergence� please go to my new article: Harmonic Convergences, Eclipses and other awe-inspiring matters.)

November puts the sun in the zone of self-worth so on the face of it this should be a month of developments that add to your prestige, increase your confidence and make you feel a lot more financially secure. However, the lunar eclipse of the 8th/9th cuts across the financial axis of your solar chart and like all super-charged full moons could well cause a cash-flow crisis or bring a simmering monetary problem to boiling point. Certainly, this is not a four-week period in which to trust in luck and to hope that people will go along with your wishes and needs. Quite the reverse, in fact, it is a month when events in other people�s lives disrupt your plans too! Of course, it is entirely possible that the total lunar eclipse and the total solar eclipse (23rd) augur great and good developments but if you�re sensible you�ll consider a few worse-case-scenarios too before you head into meetings or while you await results.

Travel could also produce more than its usual share of delays and detours so especially around the 10th and 25th you should allow plenty of time for journeys and expect a degree of hassle along the way. Other people are not going to be easy to deal with now: they are likely to be unprepared to compromise and subject to irrational impulses - all of which upsets the lovely Libran state of balance. Put this month�s events down to good experience: celebrate what comes through and gracefully accept what does not.

1st December 2003 - 31st December 2003
Travel and communications grab the Libran headlines this December. You may have plans for journeys - and long ones at that - already mapped out but if not, don�t be surprised if you suddenly have a reason to head off to distant parts. Not that travel is as fluid as it might be: first, a full moon (8th) then Pluto (12th) create static, and finally Mercury, the planet of movement and contact, turns retrograde (17th). But to be forewarned is to be forearmed! Do your best to bring forward important meetings, check that messages have been sent and received and allow considerably more time for journeys.

On the 16th Mars enters the seventh house of love and relating. On the plus side, Mars�s energetic and desire-evoking qualities could do amazing things for your love life, but on the minus side, you�re likely to run into some hot opposition to your plans and wishes. This trend continues until early February and while you may choose to exhaust your powers of diplomacy, there�s no need to let partners in particular and people in general walk all over you. You could have made a serious enemy, someone for whom no amount of placating will charm, and being equally as tough is the way to go.

And talking of tough! Confronting unpalatable truths could be one of December�s star features, whether you finally realize how you feel about someone or whether it is apparent that you cannot go any further in a particular direction. Pluto brings to the surface buried issues, which, although painful, are ultimately liberating and certainly therapeutic - something to think about on or near the 13th and 22nd.

Saturn is a constant planetary presence throughout the month, but especially around the 6th, 13th, 22nd and 31st. If you have a late September/early October birthday Saturn is adding to your responsibilities and giving you a generally hard time of it all; and whenever you were born these dates produce obstacles to your perfectly laid plans. Be practical and stoical - all this will pass.

1st January 2004 - 31st January 2004
Why is it that everyone else seems to be having a genuinely good time at New Year when you are pushing yourself to appear to be remotely enjoying the occasion. Well, I don�t know why this should be an annual trend but I can certainly see why it is the way it is this year. In a word: Saturn. During the last few days of 2003 Saturn draws ever closer to an �opposition� to the sun while Mars draws ever nearer a delightful �square�. Clearly, these debilitating aspects could coincide with a seasonal affliction - no, not a surfeit of family, turkey and tensions but one of the current crop of viruses doing the rounds - but it may also be that you have a unseasonal difficulty to face. You didn�t want to hear that, I know, but at least you will be prepared should someone make an announcement that goes down like a lead balloon (very Saturnian) or something else of a less than wonderful nature takes place.

The first seven days of the month are, let�s face it, a bit of a trial but once the full moon of the 7th has begun to fade, life picks up. This full moon, flanking as it does, the life-direction axis of your solar chart marks the end of a chapter: for many Librans this end-of-a-chapter applies to the home itself, since you will be moving during the coming year. For other Librans, an ending will coincide with the completion of a job. And in general this full moon will help you close the door on a painful episode and put to bed an endeavour or association that has done its time.

There is a strong accent on domestic affairs, whether this means you will be arming yourself with a paintbrush or having a major clear out or whether family issues dominate your schedule. Certainly, until the 20th you can expect to be dealing primarily with the domestic arena and putting together the foundations of future plans. I wouldn�t say it was a joyous time but it should be productive.

From the 20th the sun begins to shine on personal matters. You will have increasing opportunities to enjoy life and to express your creative talents. And with Mars in the area of relationships your competitive side should be emerging with a vengeance. Sports and other �combative� activities are recommended, as is exercising your feistier spirit any which way. By the end of the month you should be in a far better space than that of the beginning.

1st February 2004 - 29th February 2004
With your ruling planet, Venus, gracing the seventh house of relationships, how can you not be happy? Well, on balance this is a month of heart-warming developments, especially on the romance front, but there is a sting in the tail for a few Librans, perhaps those with a late September/early October birthday. And I�ll explain why shortly.

First, the sun will be highlighting the creative and self-expressive zone so this is a period when you can put plans on the drawing board and your input on business endeavours and personal matters will yield excellent results. The full moon of the 6th indicates a gestation period is at an end, which can indicate that a project that has been �cooking� is ready for serving up or, quite literally, that a baby is shortly to be born. Basically, you get to see where your labours have got you in February.

On the 14th, Venus and Saturn link force-fields, which is hardly the most exuberant of aspects, although it will make a reality of a dream and it will certainly enable you to make a relationship legally binding. And we could be talking marriage here, or a financial or professional merger. Nevertheless, Venus-Saturn connections can bring their share of emotional upsets and painful realizations. Thus, if instead of a bouquet of red roses you get the equivalent of a squashed tomato, try to remember that Valentine�s Day is but one day in 365 and you will have many opportunities during the rest of the year to establish how much somebody loves you and to find romantic fulfilment. And this advice could also apply to anything that fails or comes to a dead end around this time.

By the 19th Uranus will be in charge, so you won�t be able to predict the outcome of anything! Uranus is the cosmic joker so you need to have your sense of humour at the ready between the 19th and the 27th. Clearly, you can take advantage of the Uranian climate by doing something you�ve never done before or making a radical change in a tired old situation, most probably of a work or life-style nature.

1st March 2004 - 31st March 2004
The sixth house of the horoscope is often undervalued by astrologers: it�s lable - the house of work and service - is not exactly glamorous, and who wants to feel that a month with planets focusing on this area is just about keeping your nose to the grindstone. Well, I�ve come to look at this house rather differently during the years, and I now see it as an area where preparation and organization take place: these �house-cleaning� activities help create the foundation stones of new (or new stages) of endeavours, relationships and ambitions. Getting in shape is one of my epithets for the 6th house, which applies in all ways from trimming and toning your mind and body to getting your ducks in a row work-wise, relationship-wise - every which way. Yes, March may turn out to be a month when you�ll work hard, when health issues take precedence and a time when you may become acutely aware of your responsibilities and duties; but the real trick to sixth house transits is in putting in the spade work with people, personal and professional endeavours, and refining your mind, body and spirit.

So, lecture over! Divide the month into two parts: until the 15th be prepared for a hard slog and for situations to be anything but seamless and easy. People will be less than amenable and you won�t be able to put difficult issues into a pretty package. Things will have to be faced warts and all. I�m not suggesting that you discard the diplomatic option but I am preparing you for some tough talks. The full moon of the 6th is one day when you�ll need to be armed with an olive branch and a sack-load of facts and alternatives. The period between the 8th and 15th is another when patience and expedience will be needed. And if something has to be discarded then, focus on filling the vacuum that has been created!

By the 17th Venus and Jupiter will be generating a more heart-warming climate and from this point you should be on the up and up. This date could also prove helpful to financial negotiations - indeed, finances could be the most rewarding area of the horoscope this month. On the 20th the sun enters the relationship sector, all set for a six-week period of key romantic and partnership developments.

1st April 2004 - 30th April 2004
April�s influences suit Libra. Mars is in fellow air sign, Gemini, along with Venus, so harmony and balance are no longer elusive qualities - they surround your life and your affairs, of which more later. Until the 20th, the sun transits the zone of love and relating, then moves on to highlight other joint matters, principally finances. Gone are the heavier and greyer aspects of the past few months: you should have opportunities to enjoy life and some evidence of success.

Far horizons beckon in April, whether you are travelling to foreign countries, making contact with people at a distance or creating plans for the future. Indeed, for many Librans, it could seem as though your personal and professional interests are best served in areas far from your usual surroundings. Venus will spend five months in this long haul section of your solar chart, so those of you looking for love are likely to find it in distant parts, or with someone from a different background, race or religion. Weddings and romantic celebrations in foreign places are starred, although this same distant theme to romance could translate as your having to go a long way for love in terms of patience and hard work!

The solar eclipse of the 19th falls in the relationship zone - another pointer of new love or the rebirth of an old one. Also, new people entering your life open doors for you in terms of your career and life goals. There is a chance that this solar eclipse will signal the demise of a friendship, working association or romantic relationship, not necessarily in April but possibly June.

Finances are going to be more of a hot topic next month, but in order to be ahead of the game and possibly pre-empt a difficulty, you should aim to hold discussions with partners and organizations/individuals connected to your money supply during the second half of April. Ideally, you should be pouring over your accounts, and understanding exactly where you stand: that way you can sort out a fairer arrangement with companies or partners, and cushion yourself against any potential shortfalls in the future.

Mercury will be in retrograde between the 6th and 30th, so all the usual advice with travel and communications applies - expect delays and detours, especially during the run up to and during Easter, and be very patient and understanding with people who do not get back to you or fail to inform you of their precise intentions. Use Mercury�s retreat to take a few days off from the rat race.

1st May 2004 - 31st May 2004
As an air sign, your great strengths lie in your fair and balanced judgment (no, I�ve not been brainwashed by the Fox News Channel!) and your ability to detach your emotions from the issues, however, these qualities may be somewhat lacking in May. It could be that you are in one of those phases when you are more emotional, sensitive and introspective; on the other hand, events could upset your equilibrium. What may help is recognizing that this is indeed just a phase, and eventually you will be back to your usual fair and balanced self.

The month opens on a controversial and somewhat explosive note - Venus and Pluto will be in opposition (2nd) and there is a total lunar eclipse (4th). Whatever these auger in the way of world events - and there could be some powerful and disturbing global developments in May - you may find yourself dealing with people who are anything but reasonable and situations that seem to have gone ever so slightly pear-shaped. Technically, it is the money zone that bears the brunt of the planetary storm here, so do yourself a favour and initiate discussions and moves that could stem a cash-flow crisis or prevent some other financial hiccup. The area of travel and communications is also in the frame in this first week of May, and although Mercury will be back on track there could still be some problems with getting from A to B, both in the sense of travel and discussions.

Mars reaches the mid-heaven of your solar chart on the 7th, all set for a six-week season of intense activity on the career and getting-ahead front. You may be asked to take the lead in some way, whether this manifests as a job promotion or putting together a social event. Superiors and authority figures will not be pushed around from this point so be prepared to go on a serious charm offensive in order to get your way.

The month ends on a similarly powerful note: expect a change or two to your agenda and don�t be defeated by small obstacles - think: par for the course.

1st June 2004 - 30th June 2004
You may already know by now that when I start talking about Libra being the sign of balance that the cosmos is about to get very unbalanced. It�s not the first time the astrology has been this stormy - and you�ll almost certainly weather the storm - but it can only help to take your umbrella out of cold storage.

The travel and communications axis of your horoscope is the setting for a series of Uranus and Pluto alignments, so ease and joy are not two adjectives I would use to describe your journeys and negotiations in June - at least during the first seventeen days. Circumstances in other people�s lives could force you to change course, or you may feel the need to alter your plans, and while this may not be the end of the proverbial world, it will give a disjointed feel to the early part of June. Foreign travel, international relations and long-term commitments could all come under the hammer, so unless you have no alternative but to accept a new status quo, do your best to put decisions on hold until later in the month and keep the door of negotiation open.

From the 19th, first Mercury, then the sun will enter the tenth house of career and life-direction, giving you opportunities to make progress and succeed in your endeavours. Discussions with the-powers-that-be, whether in terms of your job, finance or your future, will be appropriate from this point: indeed what may have appeared to go pear-shaped in the early part of the month could be set to rights, or an alternative route may appear.

1st July 2004 - 31st July 2004
A great many people labour under the myth that Libra is such a laid-back sign it would fall off its own sun-lounger if there wasn�t some lackey at hand ready to leap to attention. Not a bit of it. Libra is a Cardinal sign, therefore highly self-motivated and extremely ambitious. All right, you rarely give anyone a glimpse of that ambitious side of yourself, although under July�s stars you just might!

Saturn�s transit of the tenth house of your solar chart is enabling you to add to your responsibilities: in some cases, this has already meant that Libra is having to work harder than ever - and with no obvious benefits as yet - but in other cases members of your sign have been promoted and seen their reputation grow. During July, the sun also transits this same area, stirring your ambitions and creating a climate in which you can impress those who count. The period between the 1st and 10th is one when you can experience a solid success or you may well realize that you have been �selling� your talents to the wrong audience. The full moon of the 2nd and the sun-Saturn conjunction of the 8th will both bring issues to a head: contracts can be struck at this time, yet the other side of this astrological coin is the severing of a bond - first and foremost a professional bond. And in general the early part of July reveals the strengths and weaknesses of plans and commitments.

Nevertheless, July is not the most challenging month of 2004: you have Mars bringing out your competitive spirit and enabling you to make a winning move. There is a strong theme of collaboration and friendship, so much can be gained by pooling ideas and resources. Social events and sporting activities also provide success and pleasure. On or near the 13th and 25th, however, you need to be a little more careful with your statements and actions - Neptune is in the frame then, which makes for misunderstandings and the proliferation of rumours and lies.

The month ends on a full moon, making this weekend a time of endings and beginnings.

1st August 2004 - 31st August 2004
You are at the beginning of a two-month period of preparation. First and foremost this implies that you should be getting enough rest, enough time to clear your mind and sort a few priorities in order to be in good shape for late September and October. However, for some Librans the concept of preparation applies to a specific forthcoming event already in your diary. Either way, you won�t be able to force issues in August or accomplish anything at speed. A gentle pace is what you�re aiming for. Part of this trend is related to Mercury�s retrograde passage (10th - 30th), but there are also a series of alignments involving Uranus that may interfere with your timetable. More about this shortly.

Venus will be making her way through the tenth house of career and personal ambitions, so although the pace may be slow and gentle, employers and people you need to impress will not be blind to your charms and talents. Indeed, seeds sown at this time could result in a serious success later in the year. Love and romance could also be high on your list of priorities in August, and, if you want to speed the course of love, or at the very least have a fun time, the period around the 11th is the one to go for.

But back to Uranus. This planet is full of surprises, sometimes great and good surprises and sometimes quite the reverse. Aside from the weekend of the 1st, Uranus is in charge between the 17th and 27th, so risks of any sort - financial, emotional or personal - should not be taken at these times. This is another of those periods when global hot spots get even hotter, and with Mercury retrograde, you�ll need to be very adaptable and patient when it comes to travel and communications.

1st September 2004 - 30th September 2004
Until the sun enters your sign on the 22nd, it will be cruising through fog-bound twelfth house, so don't be too hard on yourself if you're not the brightest bulb on the tree for now - it's your time to get as much rest and relaxation as you can. In some ways, the fact that this concentration of planets is in the twelfth house may do you some favours, since it may well provide an anaesthetic for what can only be described as a bruising alignment! More about this shortly.

September is a time to put health under the microscope. Any signs of distress should be attended to, and if you know that you should be fitter, more agile and eating more nutritiously now is the moment to get behind a new health plan. Indeed, this may be what the aforementioned alignment is all about for you - the realization that you are not invincible, and you need to get in shape. Also, when the twelfth house is under focus, things of a mysterious nature come to the fore: your dreams may be more colourful, your intuition sharper and you are likely to be much more sensitive to atmospheres and other people's feelings and agendas. There is also a chance that while you feel nothing much is going on, behind the scenes all manner of plans and projects are gathering momentum.

Powerful alignments like the one forming between the 7th and 22nd have a big part to play in world affairs: like similar configurations earlier in the year - March, June and August for instance - conflicts escalate and stormy events prove just how powerless we are against the force of nature. As the diplomat of the zodiac, I'm sure you'll have no trouble defusing conflicts in your own life, but it may help to know that you're going to need to dig deep into your reserves of patience and forbearance. There could be some particularly sticky moments at work, and some Librans may feel they have no choice other than to hand in their notice.

But, whatever comes or goes in the early-to-mid part of September, on the 25th fabulous Jupiter enters your sign for a year-long stay, so you are on the edge of one of the most expansive and successful phases of your life. Indeed, for some Librans, especially those with September and early October birthdays, a great and good development is just around the corner. And it may well have a romantic aura to it!

1st October 2004 - 31st October 2004
What a gathering of the clans! No less than four planets in Libra - and one of them the mighty Jupiter - make this a month for the record books. And what do I mean by this? Well, October is not going to be a dull period - there's plenty going on, and with Mars in your sign to boot, forget all that Libran indecision, you'll be calling the shots and creating sparks. Your ambitions are stirred, whether you funnel your desires and enthusiasms into personal projects or professional pursuits. And you stand a serious chance of becoming very successful. If you're looking for romance and relationship uplifts, I think November is more the month to go for, since October finds you somewhat driven and less in the mood to be wooed and conquered!

Jupiter has twelve months in which to add to your life in material and psychological terms, but, especially if you have a September birthday, not a moment should be lost this month getting new ideas off the ground and putting out feelers of one sort or another. This astro-scape is one boat of opportunity not to let sail out of port, so to speak. Of course, offers and invitations may come pouring in without your doing anything at all, but just in case you're waiting for the green light from your astrologer, here it is.

Saturn and a solar eclipse present the only obstacles to your happiness and progress this month, and even they may do you more favours than dis-favours. Saturn is centre stage on the 13th and 20th, bringing with him his theme of reality and reckonings. You can get things settled under Saturn and you can establish the facts; what you don't get is a barrel of laughs. If you feel dispirited around these dates or you receive disappointing news/ face a challenging situation, do your best to focus on practicalities. The solar eclipse of the 14th is another sign that something is on its way out, whether this translates as a close relationship, a business endeavour or a phase of life. However, you have so much going for you that losses of any sort will be compensated for in the weeks and months ahead.

1st November 2004 - 30th November 2004
With assertive Mars and adorable Venus in your sign until the 11th and 22nd respectively, is there anything you cannot achieve or anyone you cannot conquer? I guess Saturn might reveal an opponent or obstacle or two but in the main this is a good month for the Scaly People.

In the pursuit of success and happiness, first, you need to recognize your assets and work them to exhaustion and second, you have to decide what pleases you, not what you think will please others. There will be plenty of other times when you can exercise your nurturing and self-sacrificing skills but November isn't one of them. And even if you think I'm exaggerating the necessity to put yourself and your ambitions first and other people second, you could be invited to take part in an event that gives you a higher profile or opens the door to new projects, or new associations. And in the process you may well come to understand how much your commitments and responsibilities are holding you back. But more about this in a moment.

Venus always brings the subject of love and romance into view so while some Librans will simply want to add a touch of romance to life others will be able to inject life into a lacklustre relationship, and a few will begin a new and passionate love affair.

Then there's those commitments and responsibilities. The weekend of the 6th and on or near the 20th a series of aspects to Saturn could persuade you to take a long hard look at what is worth putting your efforts into and what is not. You may come up against a brick wall of opposition at these times or you may simply feel dispirited and overloaded. It's a temporary thing, but nonetheless, making a realistic decision or cutting back on a commitment or two may be no bad thing.

1st December 2004 - 31st December 2004
There have been many months this year when I could have suggested that you polish up your diplomatic skills and rehearse your balancing act but December has to take top honours. The Cosmic Joker has been at it again, and not only given us a lulu of an alignment involving Pluto but a retrograde Mercury into the bargain. So, it's a case of patience, trust and be on your best behaviour!

The areas of finance and communication are in the frame, so aside from December being a month to spend money like water, send those Christmas cards and visit the in-laws, there could be some pretty important developments regarding your financial situation and some unexpected developments regarding travel, and where you're headed in terms of the future. Whenever planets like Uranus and Pluto forge aspects to our birth chart, events seemingly beyond our control affect our plans - sometimes these events are entirely welcome but at other times we don't like them at all. However, the changes they evoke in our lives, in our thinking and in our orientation are always for the best. And just in case you'd like to know when to get out your diplomatic bag, your balancers and your ready Reckoner, try the 7th, the weekend of the 11th, the 19th, 26th and 31st.

Certainly, thanks to Mercury's retrograde motion, we can expect more than the usual delays and frustrating moments with travel, whether the weather, computers or incompetence get in the way of our journeys, or because we fail to make enough time and allowances for Christmas congestion and confusion. If, you receive some unsettling news or you have a less than positive interaction with an employer, colleague or member of the family, once Mercury rights itself (20th) you may well find matters improve. However, for many Librans, it's a case of taking your patience pills and waiting until early January for answers, and for normal service to resume.

A full moon over Christmas makes for an emotional celebration while the 31st's Mars-Uranus square indicates an unexpected invitation or a last moment change of plan. The symbolism is highly applicable though... the end of an old order and the birth of a new.

1st January 2005 - 31st January 2005
Let's not forget that you are the sign of grace and poise, because the start to this month could rock even the most well balanced boat. Of course, rocking the boat is no bad thing if you've finally got up the courage to follow your dreams or obey your heart, but if events perform the task for you, it could be rather unsettling...

There are two reasons for this rock and roll start to the year: Mars and Uranus form a hard angle to each other on the 31st December, which is followed by a Venus-Mercury conjunction to Pluto on the 2nd and 3rd. These planetary aspects represent an exercise in streamlining your life, whether you take this theme quite literally and embark on a health and fitness kick, or whether a relationship, or some other aspect of your existence, gets the boot. In many ways, the start to the year is the perfect time to clean house in both the literal and metaphorical sense, and even if you feel less than delighted by events, try to remember that they pave the way for new and better things to come.

Saturn puts in an appearance around the 13th and 25th, and since this planet is currently in the area of career and life-direction, the possibilities presented range between a big promotion to a major set-back. Saturn always reveals weaknesses and flaws, whether they are within our own nature or the nature of situations, so you have the option to work harder in the direction of a specific objective, or to abandon ship.

The home front is also centre stage in January, so many Librans will be making decisions as to a house move or refurbishment while others will be dealing with complex family issues - either way, the difficulties of January should be mitigated by the positive events of February - a far, far better month all round.

1st February 2005 - 28th February 2005
Well, that was the month that was - January! And if you weathered the celestial storm you will have the next few weeks to enjoy life, and should you have fallen into a trough of seriously low pressure, February's comforting alignments should prise you out of your depression and set you on the road to recovery.

The fifth house of creativity and self-expression is playing host to the sun, Mercury and Venus, so there should be social events to look forward to - a holiday, perhaps, even some romance. Speaking of which... Valentines Day puts Venus and Neptune together - the most romantic of duos - so especially if you have a 10th or 17th October birthday this could turn out to be a very happy occasion indeed. Clearly, not every Libran will have the romantic date of his or her dreams this year, but with so many plus factors to the astrology your efforts to get the attention of your significant other should not fall on stony ground. Also, if you have selected this month to marry or become engaged, you have chosen well. The reservations that I do have about this month's astrology come in the form of a series of aspects to unruly, Uranus, during the last eight days of February.

Uranus has the capacity to shake us out of complacent little ruts, and while this may apply to your love life, making this a period when romance blossoms out of nowhere or disappears in a puff of smoke, it is more likely to relate to work or your health. Now, before you panic and assume that I am warning you of dire developments, it is just possible that you have been so preoccupied with material and financial matters that you have run yourself into the ground, therefore you need some rest, relaxation and maybe, just maybe, a minor health issue requires attention before it becomes a major problem. Certainly, you should acknowledge any distress signals during the last eight days of the month, whether they appear at work, at home or wherever.

Nevertheless, even with Uranus, the rebel, to contend with February looks to be a largely happy and certainly creative period of the year.

1st March 2005 - 31st March 2005
You may find that each March you seem to spend more time on the minutia of life, on dealing with essential but unglamorous tasks, and generally putting work and duties before pleasure and playing the starring role. There is a reason for this: each year at this time the sun transits the seemingly innocuous sixth house of the horoscope, a place where work is done and the cogs in the wheel of life are attended to. Not only is March a period when preparation and detail count but it is also a time when you should get behind health matters. Minor problems you have ignored, believing they would go away, should be sorted, and if you've been gazing at the body beautiful in the mirror and wondering who that Rubenesque creature was, a trip to the gym and a serious look at your nutrition programme (you do have one, don't you?) could be in order.

This March finds Pluto centre stage - a complicated planet currently doing the rounds in the area of travel and communications. On the one hand, many of this month's key events could centre on travel and the exchange of ideas and information, and, on the other, you may have some tough negotiating to do regarding your job. Pluto will, as usual, bring buried issues to the surface so there could be some hard facts to face, whether these are to do with your own feelings about someone or something or whether a difficult decision needs to be made based on new information coming to light.

On the 20th, the sun arrives in the relationship zone, closely followed, on the 22nd, by fortunate Venus. Also, on Good Friday, the only full moon this year in your sign takes place. Thus, this latter part of March is where life, and probably love, really take off. If you have chosen this last ten days of the month to marry or celebrate a special date, you can be sure the event will be memorable all round, and, if you have nothing penned in the diary, don't be surprised is someone makes your day, and in the most unexpected of ways. (More about love and romance next month.) One last word: retrograde Mercury. (Sorry that's two.) From the 20th expect some delays and re-routing with travel, and the usual log-jam with information and making connections.

1st April 2005 - 30th April 2005
As the most partner-oriented sign of the zodiac, you'll be in your element in April. The sun, Mercury and Venus will all transit the seventh house of love and relationships, encouraging you to resolve any lingering problems with your significant other and generally proving the point that other people play a rather large part in your happiness and success.

One of the most important periods of April, if not 2005, falls between the 2nd and 11th, and by far the most significant astro-event of this time is the solar eclipse of the 8th. Eclipsed new moons signify new beginnings, which are always a pleasing prospect, however eclipses rarely perform their task without a degree of upheaval. Even an event such as marriage, while being a beautiful thing, can generate static, sometimes because of the relatives and at other times simply through sheer nerves and anxiety. And some Librans could have chosen this date, or the surrounding days, upon which to marry, thereby allowing this eclipse to carve a powerful signature on their future as a couple. And, if you have no big occasion planned for the 8th and the following weekend, you should nonetheless take note of events that come about then, since they could lead to great things in the future.

Another reason why this period is so important is the presence of Saturn - a planet that has an aura of things-coming-together-in-time about it. Actions taken many moons ago could come to fruition at this point and/or events that take place may have huge repercussions in the future. Certainly, this is not a time to ignore a distress signal or assume you can charm your way out of a delicate situation. As I said earlier, April is a month when you'll become acutely aware of the huge influence other people have on your progress and happiness.

The second eclipse of the month cuts across the financial axis of your solar chart, indicating the end of a cycle. This would be an appropriate time to close an account, to settle an outstanding debt or to negotiate a loan. This eclipse may also signal a settlement or the end of a working contract. And even if none of these scenarios is remotely applicable to you, this late April period is an excellent one in which to sort out your accounts and start a new fiscal cycle.

All in all, a month of key developments: a time when you come to see just who is on your side, and who definitely is not.

1st May 2005 - 31st May 2005
Life becomes more deep and meaningful for Librans this month as the sun illuminates your intimate relationships and shared resources. Some lucky Librans will experience a regeneration of their sex lives, while others may benefit from an inheritance or windfall which they can share with their partner.

The weekend of 7th-8th could find you discussing finances with a loved one. Saturn is currently bringing structure and a sense of responsibility to your career life and the new moon in Taurus could encourage you to pool your resources, so, while some Librans might be opening a joint account, others will be sharing more intimate, romantic moments together, possibly even falling madly in love.

Mars and Uranus combine on the 15th in your health, work and lifestyle zone. You can expect the unexpected in these areas of your life so, sudden outbursts or arguments in the workplace might occur. You might do well to tackle any niggling health problems before this date to avoid a sudden flare-up and if you're a regular in the gym, ease up a little to avoid injuries. People who work from home should also take a little more care, especially when handling electrical equipment.

From the 10th onward Venus will be highlighting your zone of foreign travel and far horizons which means that you will derive pleasure and perhaps encounter opportunities from travelling, either physically, to a new country, mentally, by expanding your knowledge, or spiritually, by exploring new belief systems. On the 20th the sun enters the same area hitting the spot with even more energy and enthusiasm. Of course, since Venus is the planet of love it is also possible that you could become involved with somebody from distant shores. There are signs too of further discussion of deep feelings, but, since Neptune is in the picture on the 22nd, beware of empty romantic utterances. Those fair-minded Librans who are employed in the legal profession could also be reaping the benefits of Venus, particularly if involved in mediation since Jupiter is currently favouring the harmonious resolution of disputes.

The full moon of 23rd highlights travel and communication so you might find yourself going on an emotional journey of some kind. The 29th is also a particularly highly charged day and it may be that the month will leave some of you feeling shaken and stirred and in need of a little respite to restore your Libran equilibrium.

1st June 2005 - 30th June 2005
Your horizons are broadening this month as the sun transits the sector governing travel, philosophy and higher education. Mercury has you thinking of fresh fields too and the new moon of the 6th brings further emphasis to this area, so don't be surprised if you have itchy feet or want to experience freedom and explore new locations, beliefs or ideologies. Since Jupiter is also urging you to branch out there is a feeling of expansion and progress in your life and the tone is positive and optimistic.

So much for the overview, as we focus in on the month we see that there are certain periods when the atmosphere is volatile, and dramas of one sort or another erupt out of nowhere. One such time is the 1st, another is the 14th, however, you'd be safer sectioning off the whole of the first half of June, with a view to carrying your diplomatic bag around with you everywhere you go, and expecting life to deliver a raspberry or two.

The sun-Uranus square of the 1st represents a wake up call, both on the world stage and on a more personal level. Uranus is presently residing in your health and lifestyle zone so, this could prompt you to experiment with alternative health remedies or generally involve you in more healthy pursuits. Unexpected events are the hallmark of Uranus, so it may be that you are forced to take more care of yourself, especially if you have been working too hard and not building enough leisure time into your life to restore your Libran equilibrium. This might be a good time to get back in the gym or dig out those running shoes, or maybe even just take the dog for a walk but if you are worried about any niggling health issues, now is the time to get them checked out.

On the 14th June, Uranus turns retrograde and the sun opposes Pluto - and on the axis of travel and communications - thus you could find yourself on a life-changing journey, perhaps with some elements of the past to it. This could be a physical journey, where new ways of life change your view of the world, or a more spiritual journey, where your belief systems are challenged somehow. Pluto is affecting the way you communicate: it is bringing more depth to your thinking and urging you to question your attitudes and belief systems. With this in mind you could now meet somebody from another culture who will change your view of the world without even venturing out of your own neighbourhood.

By the end of the month, the sun's entry into the sector related to career and life-direction, will turn your attention to grand designs, whether this translates as career and work-related matters or personal ambitions. Mercury and Venus improve networking skills and Saturn gives you the ability to get the job done. Indeed, as the month closes, it seems the choices you made earlier are paying off and you can finally see the light at the end of that tunnel.

1st July 2005 - 31st July 2005
Forget your reputation for sitting on the fence: with the sun focusing its life-giving energy on your ambitions, and feisty Mars opposing your sign, there has rarely been a better time to make courageous moves on the personal and professional front. Indeed the opening few days of July could produce great opportunities, which should be grabbed with both hands. It may be that organizations and individuals approach you with offers or you yourself are brimming with ideas and enthusiasm. Whatever the case, don't be afraid to strut your stuff and make it clear that you are a person to be reckoned with. Thanks to Mars, you may have met with some opposition in June, even a serious conflict, so while you may still have to tread carefully with the powers that be, neither should you seem cowed by events. The plus to Mars' transit of the relationship zone is that your sex life can sizzle and strong attractions can bubble up in an instant.

On the 16th, Saturn exits the area of life-direction and turns his attention to collaborations and creative enterprises. Over the next two years, you should be able to solidify friendships and working associations, and bring into being meaningful and lasting endeavours. Also, with Saturn at a much more harmonious angle to your sign, the past trend for sluggishness and disappointments, especially regarding your career and role in life, should gradually wane.

The period from the 21st - 31st is an interesting one: on the one hand, there are indications that a family or career matter can be settled - and this would be an appropriate time to complete on a house sale or purchase - on the other hand, a friendship or working partnership could hit a major rut in the road. Conversely, a friend or colleague could experience a loss or a difficulty, necessitating your support and advice. And with both Saturn and Uranus in residence on the weekend of the 30th, my advice would be to stay close to home and avoid contentious issues and intransigent individuals.

1st August 2005 - 31st August 2005
I hope you're in laid-back mode, because you probably won't be going anywhere fast in August. With traveller, Mercury, retrograde until the 16th and muddle-maker, Neptune making constant appearances throughout, life may take on a quality of extreme strangeness. This month, the sun will be passing through the zone of creativity and collaboration, so it is the time to be with friends and pool resources, talents and finances - and with Venus heading into your sign on the 17th, life could get very romantic indeed. But back to Neptune.

Neptune is a highly spiritual and inspirational influence so with this planet forging dynamic angles to the sun, Mercury and Mars (8th, 26th and 28th respectively) you could be brimming with ideas and in constant communion with your muse, however, trying to get to grips with facts and figures or endeavouring to keep to a strict time-table could prove very frustrating. Making sense of situations will be easier after the 16th but if I were you I'd be prepared for other people to act in an unreliable fashion and for everything to take time. In many ways, this is the perfect month to go on holiday or to take frequent vacations from normal routine. Of course, your journeys could also take longer than anticipated and be full of mind-expanding experiences.

Then there's romance... Venus's passage through your sign from the 17th August - 11th September, puts you in the mood for love and gives you your best chance in 2005 of finding it. You will be at your charming best during the second half of August, attracting the opposite sex and drawing fortunate experiences toward you. You could feel much more positive about life and love, and whether you make a deliberate effort or whether events contribute to your overall happiness, your image could experience a terrific uplift.

Do I have any other reservations about August? Well, with the sun entering the subterranean twelfth house on the 23rd, you must avoid doing too much and shouldering too many of other people's burdens. Start as you mean to go on in August and take daily doses of chill pills.

1st September 2005 - 30th September 2005
Prepare to get in touch with your spiritual side as the sun dips into the lowlands of the twelfth house and stirs the most selfless part of your nature. Your healing and helping skills are likely to be drawn upon and you could even make some kind of personal sacrifice. This period of the year (23rd August - 22nd September) is your "quiet" time - you need more rest and less input from the world "out there": dreams and intuitions play a more important part in your daily dialogue, and you perceive situations and people in subtly different ways. The only question remains: how will all this gentle healing, nurturing and insight take place with Uranus, Pluto and Saturn in full voice?

The best spin I can put on the prevailing alignments of the 1st - 18th is that they are enlightening - they open your eyes to a reality or two. It may be that you will come through this period in a kind of dream while others are battling some real life nightmares! On the other hand, you may have some challenging matters to deal with yet you are operating on two cylinders instead of four! Friends, colleagues and associates could prove to be the focus for these influences, whether you are supporting them through a crisis or whether your relationship experiences something of an upset. What I would urge you to do during the early-to-mid part of September is take notice of small distress signals with a view to dealing with them later in the month. It may also be that events in distant or not-so-distant parts of the globe are of great concern. Whatever the case, be careful when travelling and think twice before you make a statement from the heart.

By contrast, ruler, Venus, is on fine form. Until the 11th, this planet will be transiting your own sign, bringing beauty and love to the fore - and if not in reality, then certainly in mind! This would be the perfect time to market your assets, whether in strictly personal and romantic terms or with a view to promoting your career and ambitions. With Venus behind you, you tend to be seen in a highly favourable light. After the 11th, this planet will move on to improve finances, and you may do particularly well through house-sales/purchases or by adding value to your property by beautifying it. Do your best, however, to resist spending too much money on luxuries...

On the 20th, Mercury arrives in your sign, and with it more clarity and common sense! From this point on you should be able to patch up any small relationship tears and your voice will be the one to be heard. The sun follows suit on the 22nd, thereby beginning one of the most important and potentially successful phases of 2005 - more about which, next month.

1st October 2005 - 30th October 2005
For those Librans unsettled or disturbed by the events of September, the presence of the sun in your own sign will encourage you to come out of your self-imposed exile and become the sociable fun-loving person you truly are. You will want to be seen again and make yourself available if invitations are extended to you rather than hiding away and contemplating life's mysteries.

On the 1st Mars begins its retrograde journey through the area of finances and joint enterprises. From this point up until 10th December, you will have an opportunity to restructure loans and monetary commitments, with a view to making your financial position stronger and more stable. However, this same period could coincide with a delay or hold up regarding a financial agreement, settlement or inheritance. Not that finances are the only purpose of this retrograde journey... This area of the horoscope also focuses on relationships, so during the course of the next couple of months you could be exploring the roots of problems in a relationship, and making discoveries of facts and figures that have been concealed from you.

There are two eclipses in October, both of which involve your sign - the first, on the 3rd, is a solar eclipse, and the second, on the 17th, is a lunar eclipse. Thanks to these eclipses relationships could be thrust into the spotlight, whether you receive a proposal, meet a new partner or decide that the old one needs a make-over! Indeed, makeovers of one description or another are quite the theme for October. With Venus as your ruling planet, there is nothing you love more than pampering yourself and making the most of your assets. What may also prove to be a useful exercise is to look back on events three to six months ago to see if any of those set in motion then are reaching their conclusion. As Venus, your ruler, is also trining Saturn on the 17th, this could be a propitious moment to make a commitment. Of course, it doesn't have to be a romantic tie, business relationships or agreements are also a possibility, but we all know which way your mind works Libra - you are the romantic charmer of the zodiac.

The other big news this month is that on the 26th Jupiter moves into Scorpio, which means that, for the next year or so you are promised abundant resources, in other words, whatever you value most in life should be coming your way more easily. For some of you this will mean more money, for others of you, love, maybe even both! As Jupiter leaves your own sign, you will be a wiser, more spiritual person, with a deeper understanding of what is truly important in life.

1st November 2005 - 30th November 2005
The sun takes the spotlight off your personal life and encourages you to get your financial affairs in order at this time of year, so this would be a good month to explore such things as new bank accounts, investments and so on. The new moon on the 2nd is also favouring fresh starts in this area, so if you have been procrastinating ( or in your case, Libra, simply unable to make your mind up ) you will now find yourself wondering why on earth you didn't sort things out months ago. Mars in your zone of joint resources will give you the energy to shop around for the best deals although your partner might not always agree with you and this could give rise to arguments along the way. The 7th is a day when disagreements could flare-up and it may be that your partner or children appear to be frittering your hard-earned cash away in the name of pleasure. Saturn is now limiting your desire to be sociable ( unusual for you Libra ) so just be aware that you might be seen as something of a party-pooper at this time.

Communications could prove even more of a problem when Mercury begins its retrograde motion on the 14th. Mercury is actually placed in your travel and communication zone during this period, so journeys might be subject to delays, letters could be lost in the post, e-mails could disappear into the ether...get the picture ? Best to get any important missives on the way or make travel arrangements well before this date. While we're on the subject of communications, there are two days this month when you might find yourself receiving sudden unexpected news - namely the 6th and 21st. Uranus is responsible for these surprises and it's currently residing in your health / lifestyle / work zone, so, some of you might be hearing about changes in the workplace, while others could be jumping on the scales to discover you've lost more weight than you thought. ( Unfortunately the reverse could also be true! ) Don't despair, however, on the 27th, Jupiter and Uranus form a harmonious trine which will aid you in any endeavours to make changes in your everyday life. So, if you did receive some less than welcome news on the 6th or 21st, Jupiter ,the planet of success and opportunity will be on your side to help put matters right.

1st December 2005 - 31st December 2005
Travel and communication are highlighted this month and, as Mercury, Chief of networking, goes direct again on the 4th, you should find it much easier to make progress, especially with financial matters. If you've been waiting for a mortgage or bank loan to come through, for instance, Mercury will now bring you the news you've been waiting for. Jupiter, of course is assisting you in all matters financial for the next year or so, which means that you are likely to prosper under its influence. Some of you may be tempted to overspend, however, and arguments about joint finances or difficulties with a loan could erupt on or near the 5th.

On the 16th, the sun and Pluto conjoin in Sagittarius, placing even more emphasis on travel and communication. You could hear some life-changing news around this time, or somebody in your environment could have his/her life changed dramatically. Pluto does nothing by halves and transformation is one of the key words to consider when Pluto is flexing its muscles. Re-birth and re-generation are also words to consider, so if you feel life has temporarily gone pear-shaped, before you know it new growth will be sprouting forth. Because travel is emphasised here I would advise you to check your car is fully prepared for the time of year and, think twice before venturing out in poor conditions. It's also a good idea to exercise diplomacy when speaking (never a problem for you Libra) as your words could have a profound effect upon others.

After the 22nd the sun enters your home zone, so aim to have all your Christmas shopping done by then as you'll feel much more like settling down in front of a roaring fire rather than fighting your way through crowded shops. On Christmas Eve, Venus turns retrograde in your love zone so don't be surprised if an old flame turns up on your doorstep bearing mistletoe!

By New Year's Eve Mercury and Pluto will be giving you plenty to think about. It may be that a parent or offspring is the subject of your discussions, and it seems the drumbeat of change can be heard advancing through the doorway of 2006. Certainly, there is a profound end to 2005, whether in your own mind or because of the actions of someone to whom you are close.

1st January 2006 - 31st January 2006
As the year opens the sun, Mercury and Venus will all be gracing the base of your chart - effectively the foundations of your life. Thus, not only could this be a busy time for family and property matters but you could be fired with enthusiasm for new projects, whether of the personal, professional or familial variety. And since Venus is the planet of beauty and harmony the chances are that you'll be attempting to paper over the cracks on both the walls of your home and in one or more relationships. Until the 15th the alignments are generally harmonious but the weekend of the 14th sets a more serious and hard-working trend in motion.

The full moon of the 14th flanks the axis of life-direction, and especially if you have a mid-October birthday brings a small or large chapter to a close. This chapter may relate to work or to domestic life, and even if a job does not come to an end or you move home this would be an appropriate time to tie up loose ends and to create a new blue-print for the future. Should you have been debating the merits of giving up a commitment this full moon will help you decide and if you have been waiting for a contract or some other offer to materialize, this may well be the signal for such things to take place. A small word of warning, however, the Mars-Neptune square of the 18th is not conducive to accuracy and cohesion, so make sure you have all the facts, an iron-clad guarantee and an ability to ride out both the good and bad times should you be signing your life away!

On the 20th, the sun heads into the creative and pleasure-oriented sector of your solar chart - perfect for setting out on holiday or at least spending part of your time doing those things that make your heart happy! Indeed, romance could begin to make a bit of a come-back from this point. I wouldn't call the Mercury/sun-Saturn opposition of the 27th exactly fun on sticks but it will help you make lasting decisions and it will bring reality to bear in a situation that has been shrouded in mystery. Finally, the new moon of the 29th opens a window of opportunity, and one especially relating to your creative talents. A fertile time indeed.

1st February 2006 - 28th February 2006
It's probably about time you had some fun - the start to 2006 was hard work, and you may well have had more than your usual share of responsibilities, duties and worries - so if you have pen, paper and a diary to hand, why not at least plan a weekend away with friends. Better still, you could take off on holiday for a week or two. Fantasy aside February is a period when you should aim to find enjoyment any which way you can, even if that does mean embarking on a new creative project, which could be challenging and time-consuming.

Speaking of fantasy, planet Neptune rules the roost until the 14th of the month, so if your dream life takes off or you spend more time than usual at the movies you'll know why. Then again, if an endeavour or an association hits a mysterious rut in the road, you can blame that on Neptune too. As a rule of thumb, with Neptune in charge, you should avoid being taken in by appearances and keep your expectations on the low side when it comes to promises of any description. Individuals and organizations may not mean to lead you on; they just become sidetracked. The first seven days of the month are particularly vulnerable to the mistake and misunderstanding syndrome, so be clear in your intentions, keep regular checks on arrangements and insist of written guarantees.

Valentine's Day comes in the wake of a full moon and on a Mercury-Uranus conjunction, so your ideas of what may happen will probably be very different from their reality. And even if your partner behaves in a predictable fashion and you do the same thing you do every Valentine's Day, an unexpected development could be on the cards for this mid-month period. The unexpected could come in the form of a surprise job offer; a change of venue for an event or a minor health problem could rear its head. Whatever way Uranus decides to awaken you, there is no reason to press the panic button, merely to adapt to the new order.

With the sun's arrival in the zone of health and service (18th) you are beginning a four-week period when you can resolve any health worries and set yourself on a healthier and fitter course. Tuesday 28th looks to be the most important day of this second half of the month - revelations and resolutions being the theme of the moment.

1st March 2006 - 31st March 2006
March is a pivotal month for the whole zodiac: it begins with a volatile sun-Uranus conjunction and ends on a total solar eclipse in Aries, and in between there are tough connections to Saturn and Pluto, not to mention a retrograde Mercury. Clearly, the next six to eight weeks are going to produce some powerful events on the world's stage, and we can expect to see some leadership changes, a reshuffle or two in the corridors of power, even a natural or not-so-natural disaster. And where travel and communications are concerned, we can forget about getting anywhere in a hurry and a straight line. Of course, tough alignments produce wonderful events too so don't rule out announcements of marriage in royal/celebrity circles and a major scientific or medical break-through.

For much of March the sun and Mercury will be transiting the zone of service, health and lifestyle, so, as always, this is your period to focus on getting fitter, more organized and to put in place the building blocks of the next twelve months. Indeed, this is the premium month for dealing with issues that involve mind, body and spirit. That word service cannot be forgotten either, both in the way of helping others and in the higher sense of work-as-a-path - seva. Thanks to all the formidable alignments in this area, including the lunar eclipse of the 14th, at the very least you can expect your daily routine to be disrupted but at most, there could be a complete change of job or life circumstances. As mentioned earlier, Mercury is in retrograde motion from the 2nd to the 25th, which breeds travel and communication blips, and this will apply most irritatingly if travel is connected with your job. Since Mercury is also in your health and lifestyle zone you may be reminded of advice given to you at an earlier date - you can't burn the candle at both ends. Now is the time to take heed of any pearls of wisdom coming your way regarding health foods, remedies, exercise etc.

The solar eclipse of the 29th falls in the seventh house of relationships, and it presents many possibilities. At the very least this eclipse signals the onset of a new stage for a close relationship, but at best someone may appear in your life during the next few weeks who will affect your course, whether for professional, romantic or financial reasons. This eclipse could signal marriage, a business partnership or the joining of an organization, yet it can also point to the ending of a relationship, most probably due to circumstances in a partner's life. By May, your ruler, Venus, will be covering this same ground, so May could turn out to be the month that reveals the person or the factors that set in motion these important changes. Whichever way you look at it, a significant new cycle for relationships begin now, and, of course, this includes working relationships and friendships... no prizes for guessing which one you'd rather choose!

1st April 2006 - 30th April 2006
Renowned as the most partner-oriented sign of the zodiac, you're going to love your April stars - they're all about love and relating. They're also about getting ahead, both in terms of your career and your life ambitions. Furthermore, in stark contrast to March, which was full of potholes and depressing speed-bumps, April helps you reach your objectives easily and with pleasure.

So, relationships... The total solar eclipse of 29th March highlighted this chart area, so in April you may well discover what this celestial event portended. Some Librans could be joining a new organization or going into a business partnership, while others will be naming the day or welcoming in a new partner. In many ways, you have to do little to further your own romantic and partnership interests in April - other people will be making all the moves. However, this does not mean you can be a lazy old so and so (!): with assertive Mars at the top of your solar chart from the 14th April - 3rd June this is the period of the year for setting out your market stall and showing the world what a mover and shaker you can be.

Of course, April is not one long honeymoon. The week of the 3rd puts Mars and Pluto in opposition, thus upping the potential for conflict and certainly confrontation. We will surely see some impressive results of escalating tension in the Middle East prior to Easter, and the Bush administration will have to be very careful how it plays events in the early to mid part of the month. While in the Christian World Easter is a time of celebration, for many other creeds it is simply business as usual. With the Mars-Pluto opposition flanking your axis of communications, expect people to be tough-talking during this first week and should you be hoping to sign a contract or complete a legal process, there could be some hidden hazards. On the plus side, after a long, hard effort you could get the thumbs up for an important project, and with the full moon of the 13th in your very own sign, the theme of closure and completion is writ large in early-mid April's stars.

From the 20th finances loom into the spotlight. It is at this time that loans and joint monetary agreements can be sorted, but with Saturn's input on and around the 27th, don't expect others to be generous with you. Facts and figures are the only currency in which you can deal, so be careful not to take on too large a commitment and be sure you know the exact state of your personal and business finances.

The weekend of the 30th is dominated by Venus and Pluto - perfect for a passionate exchange, as long as it involves the heart and not the temper!

1st May 2006 - 31st May 2006
Well Libra, it certainly looks as though you are going to enjoy the merry month of May! Your finances are extremely well-starred and it is also possible that unexpected news in the workplace will bring you a cash bonus. Your career is being energised by the presence of Mars at the zenith of your solar chart and when Mars teams up with Jupiter (7th) success can surely be yours. Your personal life is also looking rather wonderful, in part due to Neptune's presence in the zone of romance and creativity. Aside from inspiring fruitful new projects and alliances, your ability to fall deeply in love is enhanced, although you could have that extraordinary sense of your ego boundaries dissolving through more cerebral and spiritual pursuits.

One of the great pluses to May is the passage of ruler, Venus, through the seventh house of love and relating. May is the perfect month to marry or become engaged, and if you're looking for love, this planet will pave the way. Relationships of all kinds benefit from Venus: established partnerships get a face-life and excellent business connections can be formed. Indeed, you are the flavour of the month in more than one person's book, so don't sit on that Libran fence when it comes to marketing your talents or achieving a major personal (or romantic) objective.

So far, so good. One of the most fascinating features of May is the presence of a Grand Cross - an alignment of four or more planets, made up of squares and oppositions - which is in play between the 4th and 15th. Without becoming too technical, when planets are in this tense alignment, they bring all manner of issues to crunch point, and there is a feeling of having reached a giant cross-roads. While this configuration will certainly present itself in the form of moral and political crises for world leaders, in our own lives we too must make some wise decisions in a confusing and pressurized climate. This Grand Cross takes place in the areas of your chart related to feelings, values, fertility and collaboration, and it is a sign of karma being fulfilled. Whether you feel the karmic fairies have been good to you on this occasion or somewhat harsh, the important point is that you accept events with grace and fortitude.

On the 19th Mercury followed by the sun enters the sector of far horizons. Aside from the prospect of travel during the following six to eight weeks, this period is one when your life-horizons expand, either through your own efforts or by way of contracts and contacts with people far away. Life may not be perfect, Libra, but the stars are doing their best to improve your prospects.

I am sorry this forecast was delayed. The original sending was lost and both my webmaster and I have been in transit over the last 3 days. We have now added better facilities for updating forecasts.

1st June 2006 - 30th June 2006
One of the great pluses to your June stars is that although you are under the same rocky alignments as the rest of the zodiac, their focus will be the zone of far horizons, which means that you will be able to see the positive side to any setbacks, and you may also find that a stumbling block leads to good things in the future.

Both the sun and Mercury will be transiting the ninth house of distant objectives, so matters of an international, legal or educational nature should dominate your agenda. You may be travelling some distance or dealing with people in far-off places, and for some Librans a dialogue between you and an individual or organization will lead to a large contract or major opportunities. And even if none of these prospects materializes, this is nonetheless a premium month for making plans for the future and getting your life and your aims in perspective.

This month puts Uranus and Pluto centre stage, and since many countries have major events planned for June, these alignments underscore the importance and celebratory nature of national occasions, yet they will surely produce some shocks and tremors too. On the 3rd, Mars enters the regal sign of Leo for a six-week transit and on the 18th this assertive planet hooks up to heavy-metal, Saturn - and at the same time as the sun-Pluto opposition. Mid-month, therefore, will be a time to watch for international dramas and the push-comes-to-shove syndrome. This conjunction falls on President Bush's Mercury-Pluto-Ascendant combo, and Tony Blair's South Node, so neither of them is in great shape in June, and there could be some serious threats to their tenures as leaders (as if there haven't been enough already). For you, this same period is likely to be one when events force you to examine the value of a friendship or commitment. It may be a struggle bringing new things into being, whether you are bogged down by bureaucracy or exhausted by meetings, discussions and responsibilities, and only you can decide whether to end a commitment or put it to one side simply for the time being.

Ruler, Venus, will be transiting the sector of finances and shared interests, which, on the one hand, could improve a partner's monetary prospects or enable you to strike up favourable financial agreements with banks and lending institutions; you may also be able to relate at a deeper, more intimate level with your significant other - indeed a thriving sex-life could be another of June's pluses.

In a nutshell, June is a month of changing horizons, both in a literal and metaphorical sense.

1st July 2006 - 31st July 2006
After the planetary heat of June, July�s influences have much to recommend them. Even with Mercury in retrograde between the 4th and 29th, there are many benign alignments, and in tandem, national and international affairs may be more fruitful than fraught. However, the Grand Cross in fixed signs will be loosely in place, so it may seem as if more than one situation is refusing to budge, and there will be very little give when it comes to matters of law and enforcement. Many of the world�s leading figures, including Tony Blair, George Bush, Queen Elizabeth and Prince Philip have relentless Saturn and nebulous Neptune on key planets and points in their natal charts, and it remains a mystery to me as to why the gathering gloom has not yet resulted in a truly serous crisis, although leaked information from the enquiry into the death of Princess Diana must be sending seismic waves through Britain's corridors of power. With this in mind, events on or near the Mars-Neptune opposition of the 5th and the full moon in Capricorn of the 11th could precipitate a minor tsunami...Pluto also puts in a double appearance on the 14th so the first half of July looks to be the most scandal ridden and generally explosive.

The sun is pouring its energising rays into your career zone, enhancing your public image and reputation. Unexpected opportunities could come your way and these look certain to boost your finances after the 6th when Jupiter resumes direct motion in your money zone. If you are looking for promotion or seeking employment elsewhere, take advantage of your ruler,Venus, which reaches the zenith of your solar chart in the latter half of the month, as you will be even more likely to impress the powers that be with the your skills and charm.

The aforementioned full moon of the 11th occurs in the fourth house - a most sensitive area for you personally. Full moons can bring closure or completion so some of you could be changing residence at this time, or carrying out major alterations on home territory. Deep emotions are likely to be stirred and you may find yourself reflecting on the past and feeling somewhat nostalgic. You are not the sign of the zodiac most at home in this watery zone, but we all need an emotional clear-out from time to time. Take advantage of this opportunity to get in touch with all those buried feelings which may be clogging up your emotional pipelines. Grab a box of tissues, have a good howl and you�ll be amazed by how much better you feel once your Libran sense of equilibrium is restored.

1st August 2006 - 31st August 2006
You may be feeling even more gregarious than usual as the sun highlights your zone of group endeavours. It�s a well-known fact that Librans are one of the most sociable signs of the zodiac, but, this month you will be drawn towards people in large numbers rather than ones or twos. If you haven�t already done so, you are about to discover the more clubbable side of your nature. Some of you may feel the urge to do something to help your fellow man, while others will join an institution of some sort. Those less troubled by a social conscience may simply throw a party, but there�s absolutely nothing to stop you doing all of the above. There are certain advantages for you in following your herd instincts during the coming weeks: you could benefit financially since Jupiter, currently in your money zone, makes contact with the sun, Mercury and Venus during August. You may make a lucrative business contact or receive a useful piece of information which will boost your bank balance. However, before you run away with the idea that August is one long holiday, there is a small matter of the applying Saturn-Neptune opposition.

Now, I have written a separate piece on this aspect, which becomes exact on the 31st of this month, so you'll have plenty of food for thought should you find yourself wondering why you're making little progress and running into troughs of low pressure at inappropriate intervals. August is always a strange (and often uneventful) month in politics, but given mid-July sparked another major conflict in the Middle East, under these relentless influences we can expect an intensifying of hostilities - not just in and around Lebanon - and very little progress on the diplomatic front. I'd like to believe that the Jupiter-Uranus trine, which is both ebullient and barrier-breaking, will provide a balance for this depressing opposition but we will have to wait until the very end of the month before we see what rabbits these two can pull out of the hat. The usual suspects - that's President Bush, and Prime Minister Blair - face a dark and difficult summer break, although with the world in such crisis, their individual careers and reputations pale into insignificance.

This all-important configuration flanks the creative axis of your solar chart, so already you may have run into some hold-ups and difficulty regarding the development of a business, project, a romance or even a pregnancy. In psycho-spiritual terms you are being asked to exhibit patience - not your way, not your timetable, but God's, sort of thing - and August may prove to be the most trying month of all. Nonetheless what you do bring through will stand the test of time, and your heart may be expanded in the most loving and spiritual of ways.

To return to the theme of friendship and socializing, while you are out and about networking, partying or clubbing, you could make an important new romantic contact. Towards the end of the month Venus aspects both Saturn and Neptune, so romance which stands the test of time is a distinct possibility. Some of you will find that one love ends as another begins, but the depth and intensity you seek in a relationship is achievable under these stars.

1st September 2006 - 30th September 2006
If you're truly in synch with your stars you may have noticed already that you're anything but the life and soul of the party, even a little under par. The reason for this is the recent entry of the sun into the subterranean twelfth house. Until the 23rd of the month when the sun will arrive in your own sign, your batteries are being re-charged and you have greater access to the inner world of feelings, dreams and intuitions. So, rather than fight the instinct to retreat and relax, put in some early nights and get back to your meditation and yoga practices. This is also a premium period to attend to any health issues and to embark on a productive exercise programme. When you do things in synch with your stars, you get results.

September, like August, is a big month in astrological terms. The Saturn-Neptune opposition is still dominating the heavens (and, if you need to gen up on this transit, please go to the article dedicated to it on the website...CLICK HERE) so we are still trying to get to grips with reality and watching some very weird situations unfold out there on the world's stage. There are two eclipses to take into account - neither of them total eclipses but nonetheless they can still pack a powerful punch. The first - a lunar eclipse in Pisces - appears on the 7th, and harks back to March in terms of eclipses and events, and the second, on the 22nd, is a solar eclipse in Virgo. Eclipses set in motion events that shape the destiny of nations, and also our own lives, should they fall on key planets and points in our charts, so anything that emerges on or around the time of an eclipse must be taken seriously. The period of the 11th - 17th looks to be the most impressive: transformational Pluto is centre stage, so we can expect some dramatic entrances and exits on the political scene and a rattling of sabres from the usual suspects. The sun's entry into Libra on the 23rd, followed by Venus on the 30th, heralds the beginning of a calmer period, and certainly one in which dialogue and debate pave the way for peace and concord.

Since much of the planetary activity is taking place in the aforementioned twelfth house, it may have the effect of making you feel as though something is going on, but you have no idea precisely why, where or what it is. You would be better biding your time rather than reaching finite decisions, and you must also be careful in whom you place your trust. Keep your own counsel and in the event of a problem seek professional, unbiased advice. Relationships may not be as plain-sailing as you might hope, and if a previously flourishing liaison starts to falter, acquire distance and perspective; when Venus comes into your own sign on the 30th you'll be in a better position to call the shots, and to establish what is really going on. And although this trend may be apparent in a romance, even working associations, family relationships and friendships could encounter a blip or two.

In direct contrast to all this underground activity, on the 8th, Mars enters Libra, stirring your ambitions and generally adding to any percolating aggravation. (Please don't give up on astrology - these things have a way of working out just fine!) Since this planet will continue to transit your sign until late October, there is plenty of time to mount an offensive or two, and to assert your power and authority. All you'll succeed in doing in September, however, is generating a lot of steam, so do yourself a great big favour and chill!

1st October 2006 - 31st October 2006
One of the best birthday presents you'll receive this month is from the planets. Ruler, Venus, remains in your sign until the 24th creating a breeding ground for success and giving you opportunities to enjoy the good things in life. Venus embodies the principles of love, harmony and balance, so while some Librans can look forward to a new romance, others may experience improvements in close relationships, and a few may find new supporters and promoters. This is also a premium month for weddings and engagements - every weekend of October, with, perhaps, the exception of the 28th, sports uplifting influences, which bode well for the future of long-term unions.

With the challenges of August and September behind us we can all look forward to better times in October. Until the 23rd there are almost no hard angles to the senior planets (Saturn, Uranus, Neptune and Pluto) to hamper us, which means global hostilities should lessen and the climate will be suitable for discussion, debate, new peace agreements and generally more co-operation between nations and leaders. Of course, having put my pen where my astrological judgement is it wouldn't surprise me to find that a simmering hot spot boils over and that there are further terrorist outrages. However, it is unlikely... By the 22nd this little patch of perfection will be over: the sun, Mars and Venus head into Scorpio, Mercury is squared by Saturn (23rd), and Mercury turns retrograde (28th) all of which is likely to create a more intense atmosphere, and we may see some reversals of previous decisions, and certainly far less progress made in war-torn areas.

Librans, as you may know, can miss the boat of opportunity through spending too much time debating the pros and cons of a proposition. Avoid doing this at all costs in October. With all the personal planets in your sign, you are the protagonist of your own success; you are the one doing the moving and shaking, the person initiating plans and making the moves in a relationship. Whatever doubters may attempt to deter you from taking a specific path, trust your own judgement and have confidence in your abilities.

1st November 2006 - 30th November 2006
November's stars are much ado about money and values. In a nutshell, the decisions you make will set in motion a whole new cycle, a minor part of which will last a year and a major part, twelve years. Thus, if you have been debating selling or purchasing a property the time is ripe, and if you've been despairing over the level of credit you have and fighting your way through an ever-expanding bog of interest payments, this is the month to find a way to consolidate your debt. Other people, which includes those with whom or for whom you work, could be cutting costs and some Librans may be faced with a loss of income, albeit temporarily. Finance aside, November encourages you to set your value-system straight, which may mean extricating yourself from people who and pursuits that are not worth your time and talents. Up until the 16th you may find yourself spending more money, especially on luxuries and those things that boost your morale, but from the 17th economy and common sense are the order of the day.

The big event this month is the entry of Jupiter into the sign it rules, Sagittarius. Clearly this is extremely good news for all Sagittarians, since the planet of increase will be transiting their sign until December 2007, but, hopefully, this planet's expansive nature will help us all take some impressive leaps of faith and encourage us to follow the spirit of religion as opposed to the dogma. Jupiter enters Sagittarius on the 24th, less than forty-eight hours after a sun-Jupiter conjunction in the final degree of Scorpio, and while this may prove to be a terrifically happy and successful period for those with birthdays on or near this date, new beginnings made at that time (whatever your sun sign) are auspicious indeed. We should look at global developments here too, whether we see magnanimous gestures on the part of leaders and governments or an aggressive show of power. Jupiter does not have the astrological stage to itself, however, and as if to remind us that the best things in life have to be earned and that all actions have consequences, Saturn makes regular appearances in November, and since Neptune is still in opposition to Saturn, especially around the 8th, 17th and 29th we will need to read between the lines when it comes to statements of national and international importance: the distance between reality and fabrication may never have been greater. While such influences would not be out of place with an announcement of a withdrawal of troops from Iraq, and a subsequent aura of failure and defeat hovering over the Bush administration - their chances of keeping the Senate Republican are slim - we may be looking also at a severe loss of face inspired by leaks and betrayal for Tony Blair upon whose Mid-heaven Neptune will be sitting.

As I mentioned earlier, the big issues for you in November will tend to centre on money and values, and the periods around the 1st, 8th, 17th and 29th could prove to be the most challenging. Mercury will be retrograde until the 18th so it may take until the week of the 20th before you really feel in a position to make decisions and, on the 24th, with the arrival of Jupiter in your third house of travel and communications you will be ready to move on and explore options that promise to expand your life's horizons. There will be better times than November for romance, although should you meet a new love interest on or near the 21st, the signs are very promising.

1st December 2006 - 31st December 2006
With the area of travel and communications lit up like a Christmas tree even if you're not taking a plane to foreign parts you'll be clocking up the miles in and around your neighbourhood. The theme of the month is going the distance, and by the time you reach New Year's Eve you will have arrived at some important conclusions. This is by no means an easy period of the year, which does not mean there won't be fun events and happy times with loved ones but it does imply that one or more situations will take you into deep and meaningful territory and you must forget about emerging from an impasse smelling like a rose and concentrate instead on being honest, frank and realistic.

Each year at this time the sun squares Uranus and conjoins Pluto and often there are other alignments which add to this powerful mix, resulting in upheavals of a personal and global nature. Take the tsunami of 2004, for instance, which began as the moon clipped the degree of the sun-Pluto conjunction just prior to becoming full. Between the 1st and 22nd of December there will be no less than five planets in the sign of Sagittarius, so there is a concentration of 'energy' in one area of the cosmos: in a natal chart this often manifests as an individual who is a specialist, one who is very focused, and in terms of events there can be a last-straw effect to be observed. Put another way, people reach the end of their tethers and take extreme measures to prove their point. The period from the 15th to the 23rd is potentially the most explosive and we may see a lot of sabres being rattled by world leaders and another terror alert that interferes with our travel and our peace of mind. The year closes with war lord Mars and Master of Mystery, Neptune, in harmony, which is perfect for a champagne entry into 2007 but also a compassionate end to a year that has been full of strife and conflict.

Yes, your peace-making talents are going to be much in demand this December, but I think you have to ask yourself at what cost comes all this pleasing others? Whether you have been putting up with an unsatisfying job, power struggles in the home and the 'office' or just generally feeling undervalued and unfulfilled maybe the time has come to make a stand. Jupiter is opening up your world and if you do end up burning a bridge or two this planet will surely protect and provide.

Until the 11th the course of romance can be furthered by sweet emails and letters, and some Librans may find romance springs up on a journey or in a place far from home. The Venus-Pluto conjunction of the 8th helps put passion back in the relationship equation, while the weekend of the 10th is all about the joy of the season - and the cost! After this date, the focus is firmly on home and family. Christmas Day finds a Mercury-Pluto conjunction presiding over the turkey, so don't be surprised if someone isn't too pleased with their presents... Ah, it's only Christmas.

1st January 2007 - 31st January 2007
Compared to December January's stars are a dream. Venus spends most of the month in Aquarius generally sweetening life for members of this sign and helping those of the opposite sign (Leo) find and celebrate love. The full moon of the 3rd is in Cancer and, like all full moons helps us close a chapter and begin a new one - something we tend to do anyway at the start of a new year., although of course, for Cancerians, this process is profoundly more marked. The Mars - Pluto conjunction of the 13th is the last in a series of aspects between the personal planets and Pluto, so events mid-month may well have a connection between those of the 8th-25th December. (Here in Great Britain the enquiry into the death of Princess Diana confirmed that it was an accident - not a white-wash surely? And on the same day (14th December) Prime Minister Tony Blair was questioned by police in the cash for honours enquiry - not an attempt to bury bad news, surely? - and in keeping with Pluto's principles of dark deeds, a nationwide police hunt began for serial killer of five young prostitutes, which resulted in an arrest just before Christmas.) On January 16th Mars enters Capricorn for a six-week transit - OK Cappies, it's time to get moving and motoring! And on the 20th the sun arrives in Aquarius. These last ten days of January present a complex and certainly variety-packed picture. In a nutshell the theme is chickens coming home to roost (courtesy Saturn Lord of Karma) so if we've spent too much money over Christmas we'll be paying the price at this time, and, in general, both on the world's stage and in our own lives we'll be looking at the cost of actions taken some time ago.

Between the 19th and 23rd your ruler, Venus, conjoins Neptune, then the moon, and later goes on to oppose Saturn. Your zone of love, pleasure and creativity is accentuated, so some of you could embark on a new love affair, which could involve letting go of a relationship which has served its purpose. Venus and Neptune are the most romantic of combinations, yet this couple can also breed illusion and fantasy. It may be that a friend will disapprove of a love affair, or urge caution. If this is the case, listen carefully. You might not like what you hear, but it will be the voice of reason and fact. The trick this month is to distinguish fact from fiction; truth from lies; fantasy from reality. Your powers of reasoning are second to none Libra - the only thing which might cloud your judgement is love, which as we know can make a fool of all of us.

1st February 2007 - 28th February 2007
With a full moon opening to February the theme of endings and beginnings is clearly stamped on our astrology. The moon is in Leo so members of this sign and those of Aquarius are in the front row when it comes to bringing to a close anything that has outlived its usefulness. Relationships for these two signs in particular appear to be at a crossroads, and with Valentine's Day coming in between a sun-Saturn opposition (10th) and a Venus Pluto square (20th), the scent of final straws is in the air! This is far from a light and frothy month, primarily due to the applying Saturn-Neptune opposition. (And if you want to know more about this important transit, please click on the article relating to it on the home page.) This opposition is exact on the 28th, and from the middle of February onwards we can expect to see events out on the world's stage reflecting its theme of sacrifice and redemption on the one hand, and the erosion of established structures on the other. Among those for whom the Saturn-Neptune bell tolls are: Fidel Castro (sun: 20 Aquarius), Tony Blair (Pluto: 20 Leo), George W. (Venus: 21 Leo) and Queen Elizabeth (Mars: 20 Aquarius and Neptune: 22 Leo).

A love-at-first-sight experience could take you by surprise in the workplace and leave you feeling weak at the knees. Your ruler, Venus, is the culprit as she joins up with Uranus and makes sparks fly during the first week of the month. If you do find yourself embarking upon a love affair (and we're not limiting ourselves to the workplace here) just be aware that you may well be the subject of intense gossip, which, though it starts out good humouredly, could turn unpleasant, especially if you stir up jealousy amongst your friends or colleagues. The sun is currently passing through your love and creativity zone, so while something romantic may well be on the agenda, it is also possible that some of you will be creating your own bundle of love and joy in the shape of a baby. If you're not in a baby frame of mind, perhaps a pet of some sort will silence your biological clock temporarily. Just bear this in mind: any additions to your family now will make you aware of a loss of freedom.

You are probably the most sociable sign of the zodiac, Libra, but in recent months have felt less inclined to party. This is due to Saturn's restrictive presence in your zone of collaborations and group endeavours. With Saturn playing such a leading role in astrological life in February this trend could reach something of a peak: in some cases you may have to cancel social events because you have to focus on work, or some other kind of duty/responsibility, and in other cases there may be a feeling that you are being somehow excluded from a group. Consider this part of life not all of it.

1st April 2007 - 30th April 2007
With the sun highlighting the partnership zone April is the month for love and relating. Other people will be making the moves so although this does not mean you can ignore great opportunities or serious distress signals, you should allow situations to fully unfold before you add your input. Uranus, the Master of Surprise, will do his best to raise your eyebrows at the beginning of the month and the last weekend so expect some interesting developments, especially on the work front - some of you could be saying goodbye to a close colleague, possibly after an unexpected resignation or redundancy, while others will be facing the prospect of a new workplace. The full moon of the 2nd is in your sign (the only one this year) so a relationship could well have come full circle: full moons are times of beginnings and endings - perhaps an Easter wedding for some Librans or the writing on the wall of a relationship for others.

The two Grand Trines of the month (most active during Easter and the weekend of the 21st) highlight the areas of communications, collaborations and creative endeavours. Now, this may translate as the successful launch of a business project or discussions that lead to such a scenario in the future. A journey may introduce you to someone who will prove very useful to you, and should you be starting a new job or joining forces with others you couldn't want for better stars.

On the 12th, ruler, Venus, enters your travel zone making this a very good time to embark on a holiday. If you do so, take special care of yourself from the 23rd onwards, since Venus is challenged by Mars and Uranus. Avoid over indulgence of any kind since you will be more prone than usual to health blips, which are tiresome at the best of times, but even more so when far from home.

Saturn resumes direct motion in your friendship sector on the 19th, and there is an opportunity here to resume contact with friends and neighbours and generally become more sociable. You are, it has to be said, a pleasure loving person, and might even be puzzled by your recent lack of enthusiasm for meeting and greeting your fellow man (or woman!) this will now change and you should feel more of a spring in your step as you plan or attend gatherings and reunions. Clubs or societies joined between the 8th-10th will prove to be long lasting fruitful alliances for you and/or your partner.

1st March 2007 - 31st March 2007
What can you say about a month that has two eclipses in it, the first of which is not only a total lunar but conjunct/opposition lively Uranus, and the second, a partial solar, which squares Pluto? I'd say it's one of those periods in which matters that have been rumbling underground for some while erupt with the force of a minor volcano! March is a very cleansing month: think de-tox and de-clutter, whether in terms of our homes and our offices or in regard to our opinions and belief systems. The periods around the eclipses (3rd and 19th) are the most dynamic or disruptive, depending on your perspective, and the final ten days with its heavy concentration of Saturn are the most hard work. Could we have an announcement about a forthcoming wedding for Prince William and Kate Middleton? Very possibly. And will events in the Middle East be the cause of even greater consternation? Almost certainly.

The areas of work and well-being are under the astro-microscope for you this month so long-awaited changes come in and you will be made aware of what needs to be done to improve your overall health and help you on the way to a healthier lifestyle, if not a healthier bank account. Out of the blue job offers can be expected and, by the same token, changes in the hierarchy of a company could mean further changes down the line for you, so this is an ideal time to network and explore other avenues for your talents and services, even if, at this stage, you do not appear to need alternatives. The period between the 9th and 17th is excellent all round and quite the best time to market your assets.

Lovely Venus will be in the relationship zone until the 17th so you have friends and admirers aplenty - indeed the aforementioned period 8th -17th is wonderful for marriages, engagements, meeting someone special or generally pepping up working and romantic relationships. And although March is quite a tricky month for the zodiac as a whole, you have much going for you in the way of invitations and happy events. Not that this may be quite so apparent during the week of the 21st. Irritating delays and run-ins with bureaucracy could make this a trying few days: do your best to treat any problems in as practical as manner as possible - that way they'll be resolved quicker - and if something appears to have completely run aground, consider that it may be the best thing in the long run. Better things lie ahead.

1st May 2007 - 31st May 2007
The sun is passing through your zone of shared resources this month: you may need to make some serious decisions about joint investments or you could be talking to banks and lending institutions with a view to taking out a loan or making a long-term investment. The full moon of the 2nd will bring to a head any cash-flow problems and it could also signal closure on a financial/property contract. As I mentioned in my general forecast, the period between the 5th-13th will not be without its share of challenges as several of the outer planets - Uranus, Pluto and Neptune - line up to obstruct, surprise or disappoint us. There are many possible permutations to these alignments and many areas under focus, but I would put finances at the top of the list for any major developments. This would be an excellent time to check how pension funds, etc. are performing and gather information about alternative options. With Jupiter transiting your communication zone, you can benefit from talking to as many experts as possible or researching for yourself to discover better deals.

Intimate relationships also come under the umbrella of this month's stars and the time may have come to have some serious discussions with a loved one to sort out any worries you might have concerning work, friendships, children, etc. You tend to shy away from problems in life, sometime adopting the ostrich position and burying your head in the sand rather than confronting things head on. This month it will be difficult to do so and you may be able to make real progress by discussing matters calmly and rationally - something at which you are quite expert.

On a lighter note, journeys are well-starred during the first and last weeks of the month and you could have a wonderfully romantic trip on the 1st or the 23rd so, if the middle period is somewhat trying, your equilibrium should be restored "ere May be out."

1st June 2007 - 30th June 2007
This month is all about journeys. The sun is transiting your zone of far horizons, so some of you may be literally travelling to distant places, while others will be taking a more intellectual voyage by reading more widely or studying a particular subject. Thanks to a combination of a new moon and a retrograde Mercury, a few Librans could be considering a fresh start abroad or returning to a place you once knew. When Mercury is retrograde (15th June - 10th July) you can expect more than the usual number of delays and detours, yet there is much to be gained from retracing your steps and going back over old issues. Venus is also adding to the prospect of happy landings and good connections, and with a super-abundance of charm, it's worth using liberal doses of sugar to sweeten a bitter pill... ask for an upgrade or persuade the ticket staff that they can still just squeeze you in if they really try. If you can't persuade them, nobody can!

The Saturn Neptune opposition of the 25th highlights, once again, your love and creativity axis. You may be missing someone special and feeling nostalgic about the past. Some of you may be feeling the empty nest keenly and this will not be the first time that feelings of longing and loss have been stirred within you in recent months. As June draws to a close, Venus, your ruler, opposes Neptune, reminding you that love remains constant even though time and distance may separate people and this should give you some temporary respite from the effects of this long-standing opposition and soften its effect for a while.

1st July 2007 - 31st July 2007
A fresh start is on the agenda as the sun and new moon both highlight your career zone. You may be in store for a pleasant surprise around the 10th as Mercury goes direct, followed by a pleasing trine between the sun and Uranus. The boss may have some good news for you or you may simply begin a new project in the workplace which proves to be a change for the better. Thanks to Uranus there have, no doubt, been some ups and downs in your working life over the past couple of years: this planet tends to unnerve us with its shock tactics, and it may well be that your job has changed beyond all recognition during this period. This July, however, the planetary energy is harmonious and brings change which should benefit you, thus increasing your sense of well-being. If you have found communication difficult in recent weeks, or have felt misunderstood, you should now begin to sense that your voice is being heard.

Work aside, there may be a significant event concerning a friend as your ruler, Venus, conjoins Saturn on the 1st. When these two planets get together commitments are often made, or contracts signed. An engagement may be announced or, since Saturn can cool and limit the affections, a separation is also possible. Some of you may be making contact with an old friend as the Venus Pluto trine of the 9th hints of reunions and Venus goes retrograde in your friendship zone, also suggesting that someone from the past will re-enter your life. So, if you have been taking a trip down memory lane and wondering how a certain someone is, this would be a good time to arrange the get together you’ve always promised yourselves.

1st August 2007 - 31st August 2007
In an ideal world you'd be spending much of August in the company of good friends and like-minded people but with Saturn and Neptune in dominating roles even if you are enjoying your time with others, you won't be putting your feet up and watching the clouds float by. Right from the start of the month you have business to deal with, probably related to finances or an endeavour that requires backing, and you'll need all your supply of charm particles to win over the opposition. It is possible that you will hear disconcerting news related to a friend, or an alliance may hit a stumbling block, but whatever strikes you as a development you could do without try not to take it personally. Some things require time to resolve and other matters have simply reached the end of their natural life. It's a bump in the road not the Matterhorn.

Jupiter has been transiting the area of travel and communications for the past year so hopefully you have spent some time away from your usual surroundings, and through your dialogues with others, on both a professional and personal level, you have seen your horizons expand. If, however, the reverse has been the case, with Jupiter turning direct on the 7th you may at last begin to experience some positive progress. Indeed, a trip or an endeavour that was postponed or cancelled could come back on the agenda. Also, if you haven't considered going 'back to school' or adding to your knowledge and skills in some way, now would be a propitious time to do so.

The last ten days of the month are the most interesting of all. You'll get answers, but whether you're happy with them or not entirely depends. Since the zones of romance, creative endeavours, work and health are all involved it could be any or all of these things that are the source of celebration or commiseration. However, many Librans will find that their work situation will change within six to twelve weeks of the 28th's eclipse. Perhaps you have been in denial about something or someone and the time has come to take action, maybe you need to take a step that will secure your future or other people could finally recognize your true worth.

1st September 2007 - 30th September 2007
This is the time of year when you Librans appear to go into hibernation and become less sociable and gregarious than usual. The sun is transiting your most spiritual zone and you may feel the need for a period of reflection and introspection. This year, however, Saturn moves into the zone on the 2nd , closely followed by a solar eclipse on the 11th, which means that this area of your solar chart is much more strongly emphasised. For some of you a period of reflection may be imposed upon you by, for example, a spell of hospital treatment. Others may simply feel unusually withdrawn and less inclined to go out and join the fray. By looking within, you may experience a renewal of faith, so, although you may feel frustrated by the limitations and restrictions which inevitably accompany Saturn, there is gold to be found if you dig deep enough.

Air signs such as you normally resist navel-gazing of any kind and prefer to live in a world of ideas and logic. This month, however, you might have to concede that the universe is a strange and powerful place. This would be the perfect time to explore such things as meditation, alternative medicine or different belief systems as you can feed your appetite for knowledge and nourish your soul at the same time. Ironically enough, your ruling planet, Venus, goes direct on the 8th in the zone of collaboration and creativity, so you could find yourself in great demand at work and on the social front. The trick here is to find the right balance between nurturing your inner and your outer being…only you can answer that one! If you are feeling less focused than usual, take particular care when travelling, especially around the 3rd and the 19th-21st - allow calmness and vigilance to be your travelling companions.

1st October 2007 - 31st October 2007
There is a certain irony in the stars for you this month: while the sun is transiting your own sign - lovely, sociable Libra - Venus, your ruler, is passing through your most introverted, spiritual zone. On the surface, therefore, you might appear to be your usual extrovert self, whilst secretly hankering after something or someone who is unavailable to you. For some of you this could mean a temporary separation from loved ones, especially around the 14th when Venus and Saturn conjoin to make you feel a certain longing or need. Secret love affairs are also a possibility, or maybe a soul-mate union which touches you on a spiritual level. You might be looking to the past as Mercury goes retrograde on the 12th, but the new moon of the 11th marks a fresh start in your personal life, so the dichotomy of the old and new reflects the outer and inner dilemma which faces you.

Perhaps there is a choice to be made…the full moon of the 26th is in your zone of shared commitments. There could be a financial element involved here and it might be as simple as a policy of some kind maturing. On the other hand it could be a matter of emotions maturing and a relationship could develop into something more fixed and stable. On the 24th. Mercury returns to your sign, also emphasising your relationships. This will aid rational discussion, but is not so great for decision making. You are well-known for being unable to make up your mind and it might be unwise to reach any momentous decisions while Mercury is still retrograde. You have a cast iron excuse now for delaying, especially financial decisions, until the new moon of November 9th.

1st November 2007 - 30th November 2007
The area of self-worth swings into prominence in November: it is a time to rework your finances and to ensure that in all your dealings you are being treated as you deserve. The new moon of the 9th instigates a fresh year-long cycle for money matters, and a new source of income or extra way of investing/securing funds could be on its way. Nonetheless, with Mars turning retrograde in the area of career and life goals (15th) it may take until January for the new to fully materialize. And, should you encounter problems with your job or people you wish to impress seem to be giving you the cold shoulder, hang on in there because all could change as the New Year comes in.

The really good news is that ruler, Venus, will be transiting your sign from the 8th. From this point you will be at your personal best and able to charm the birds off the trees. And, if you're looking for lurve , you won't have to look very far or very hard to find it. This is an excellent period in which to marry or commit yourself to a long-term union, and if there have been difficulties between you and a partner, you have the ability to heal them. That having been said the sun-Neptune square of the 12th could leave you feeling disappointed or disillusioned or, maybe you're just missing someone. Likewise, if towards the end of the month you feel somewhat isolated or vulnerable it may be that you need to look within rather than out there in the real world for answers and direction.

1st December 2007 - 31st December 2007
Things are moving fast and with some power. The third house of travel and communications is in the spotlight, coinciding with flying visits and important journeys for some Librans and a deep and meaningful exchange for others, maybe both. Jupiter has been moving through this area of your horoscope for the past year encouraging you to go out of your comfort zone and experience the world on a grander scale, and this trend reaches something of a peak on or near the 11th. Several times in recent weeks I have mentioned in my columns that your belief systems are changing and with it your priorities and goals, whether this is simply an innate process or the result of circumstances seemingly beyond your control. With this in mind, there could be new contracts coming your way or offers that involve a change of home or business location. One thing you won't be able to be in December is light and airy - you have important issues to deal with and much is being demanded of you. Nonetheless, before you decide to emigrate to a small desert island, what comes about during the next four weeks will be in your best interests. It may even change the course of your life.

Ruler, Venus, will be transiting the zone of finance and self-worth so aside from sparking some extravagant gestures you can make money and perform some favourable fiscal moves - this is also an excellent period for the sale and purchase of property. Then there's your ego... Someone or something looks set to boost your self-image, whether you receive promotion at work, a salary increase or a new job will mean more money in your pocket. And, of course, love... A relationship that began recently deepens and, especially if you have a birthday around 22 September your love life is at make or break point.

On the 18th Jupiter arrives at the base of your chart where it will work a degree of magic on family and property matters - and throughout 2008. There could be additions to the family, whether by birth or marriage, and you could move to a bigger and better home. Jupiter provides an enormous amount of protection in this area of your horoscope so there will be a cushion should any of your high octane plans fall to pieces.

Christmas and New Year are more emotional than usual, whether information is shared that produces tears of joy or has you crying in your beer!

1st January 2008 - 31st January 2008
Even if you$re travelling during the early part of the month you$ll be carrying your home with you, by which I mean, family, property and domestic matters will be a top priority. Jupiter has just entered this area of your horoscope and will remain there for a year providing you with opportunities to expand at root level, whether you add to the family or the home itself, perhaps make an upwardly mobile move. January may be a little too soon to see the fruits of this forecast fulfilled but seeds are being sown... Generally speaking, January is a period in which you will be making new beginnings so it is possible that opportunities for growth and change appear in other areas of life such as career or relationships.

The month gets off to a powerful start with Mars and Pluto in opposition. Eruptions of one sort or another are invariably the result of this aspect and with your sign being such a diplomat and an arch-avoider of ugly scenes you may need to prepare yourself for a bit of a barney. On the other hand, you could be about to make a journey or attend a meeting that will have important consequences, and one that will certainly change your outlook. Venus will cover this same ground a little later in the month so if a major issue comes up to be dealt with during the first week and then settles down it could resurface around the 24th with important results.

On the 26th Pluto arrives at the base of your chart for a six-month trial run, after which it will slink back into Sagittarius giving you time to think through any life-changing situations that have occurred. Initially it will be the 21st-23rd September birthdays who will feel the effects of Pluto$s transformational power - the outworn and the inappropriate get stripped away by Pluto and there is always a sense of destiny being the driving force behind events - but eventually every Libran will experience such a process.

The 28th puts Mercury in retrograde leading to the familiar problems with communication, transportation and travel so do your best to tie up loose ends and deal with legal matters and paperwork well before that time. Mercury in retrograde is not the end of the world, of course, but it can be deeply irritating.

1st February 2008 - 29th February 2008
You've got some of your lust for life back: in part this may have to do with happy events on the home front or it could be because you have someone special in your life - maybe both. And, if not, a solar eclipse in the zone of pleasure and romance is a sign of great things to come. This is a wonderful time of year for beginning new projects that demand a lot of personal input - some Librans could be pouring themselves into a fresh business endeavour and others into more socially oriented ventures: sport and fun activities of any sort could be on the agenda too. Babies and children figure prominently, whether you yourself are happily involved in their lives or because there is news of pregnancies and births. The Venus-Jupiter conjunction of the 1st is happiness in a bottle so even if Valentine's Day fails to deliver all you hoped for and more, you do have love in your life, somewhere. Nonetheless, you're going to find April the month for major developments on the love and relationship front. The total lunar eclipse of the 21st brings an element of challenge into the picture, and events at this time may hark back to those of late August/early September last year. Perhaps rumours of change on the job front six months ago now become realities or there is a further important development related to a situation that sprang up in August/September. Whatever the case, the latter part of February requires a big decision.

1st March 2008 - 31st March 2008
If you were hoping for a laid-back kind of month, think again. On the 4th, assertive Mars arrives at the mid-heaven of your solar chart with a brief to get you moving and motoring, first and foremost in regard to your job and your mainstream ambitions. People in positions of power will not be backwards in coming forwards, by which I mean you will be actively pursued for your talents and also should there be any problems with your performance, you're likely to hear about it. Indeed, the focus is very much on work and getting your life together. However, as you will gather from my general forecast, this is a tricky month aspect-wise and you will be an exception to the Libran rule if you manage not to run into unexpected potholes - look before you leap on or near the 7th, 15th and 21st. This is an ideal month to put your health under the microscope too and attend to any dental or physical problems; it is also a period in which you should take adequate rest and avoid piling your plate too high with commitments. The 21st is indeed an important date: not only the first sun-Pluto aspect in this cycle but the only full moon this year in your sign: all full moons end a chapter and for you it will be a chapter related to your love life or a close working association. What is done is done but, oh, what awaits you around the corner...

1st April 2008 - 30th April 2008
Show me a Libra who isn't a partner-oriented person and I'll show you someone who has been deeply disappointed and let down by love. And if this strikes a chord, wait and see what April's stars can do to change your tune. Not only the sun and Mercury but romantic Venus transit the seventh house of relating, helping heal rifts, bringing good people into your life and setting the stage for important decisions linked to both working and romantic alliances. Admittedly, you may have cause to doubt this forecast during the first week of April (Pluto will be hard at work creating a climate of confrontation and forcing you to dig deep for solutions) but once past the 8th life, and more particularly love, should get better by the day. It is from this date that an impressive alignment involving Saturn and Pluto will be in play, which not only adds to the already strong theme that you can make commitments with confidence in April but it could work wonders for finances. Perhaps a new salary structure will be put in place, maybe an investment pays off, but even if there are no dramatically good developments money-wise this mid to end April period is an excellent one to deal with financial problems and implement new structures any which way.

1st May 2008 - 31st May 2008
This is an intense month, both in the sense of emotions and mental focus. Planets in the eighth house of financial and sexual exchange point to considerable activity in these areas so, on the one hand, you could re-discover your sex-life and, on the other, the financial interests you share with others, especially your life-partner or a business associate, will be subject to much discussion and many potential bonuses. (You could be spending large amounts of time talking to financial institutions and creating strategies to free up money.) As an air sign, you like to keep your head above deep emotional waters but either a romance is becoming far more intense or issues within a long-standing relationship are generating a huge amount of friction. Just where this takes the relationship rather depends but once the sun and Venus start to transit the ninth house (20th and 24th respectively) you will gain some welcome distance and perspective. Your health may require a little more attention towards the end of May, if only because of all the activity or stress you've placed upon yourself! Nonetheless, there is much to recommend in May's stars.

1st June 2008 - 30th June 2008
The area of far horizons is the focus for June's exciting if somewhat destabilizing stars. Yes, you could be planning a long-distance trip, or taking one, or you may be exchanging important information with people overseas. Certainly, you are looking beyond your own back yard for success, happiness and fulfilment. And this is absolutely the right time to put out feelers for those things you would like to happen in the future. A journey for love could be on the cards too, and a romantic relationship can flower in a distant location. Now, all this sounds wonderful - and it is - but between the 9th and 21st a series of tense aspects to Uranus and Pluto will bring pressure to bear on you, whether some of your plans have to be changed or people prove very resistant to your ideas and opinions. And, if you are involved in a legal matter, please don't expect an easy ride. Nonetheless, these tricky alignments will root out the negative in your life and the positive will follow in the wake of any upsets. From the 18th, the astrological focus shifts to career and life-goals, setting the stage for a July of progress and opportunity.

1st July 2008 - 31st July 2008
You are in go-getting mode. The area of career and life-goals is in the frame so if people aren't coming to you with offers and opportunities, you're going to have to create them yourself. Yes, it's time to get off that fence. You will be in an excellent bargaining position should you need to negotiate a salary, or, indeed, negotiate anything, and if you have been thinking of selling or buying a property July is the time to set such things in motion. The new moon of the third is a brilliant moment to make a courageous move or start a project. The 10th, however, is an altogether different story. All sorts of flaws may appear, either in people or plans, and you will need to be at your diplomatic best with certain individuals. From the 22nd the sun will be transiting the most sociable and collaborative area of your horoscope – perfect for mixing with friends and bringing new projects into being - and some Librans will find that a friendship morphs into love. Do your best to line up all your ducks by the 26th because as we head into August life begins to get rather more complicated.

1st August 2008 - 31st August 2008
The big plus to August's challenging planetary aspects is that they are focussing on an area of life in which you have a lot of room to manoeuvre. Creative and collaborative endeavours get the heat, whether this translates as a boom time for the start of new ventures and romances or a period when such things suddenly end. And while your ability to bring new ideas into the arena thereby getting around difficulties will be a blessing, if certain situations were not built to last nothing you can do will stop them crumbling. There is a trend for secrets to emerge and for unacknowledged feelings to erupt, so if it is in your best interests to keep a situation under wraps, avoid taking any unnecessary risks and have a back-up plan. Likewise, should a situation perform a 180º turn, maintain your famous equilibrium and await developments. Dates of significance include the 13th, 23rd and 29th. Nonetheless, there is a strong element of fate to August's alignments so you may well find that a mistake or unwelcome outcome does you enormous favours in the long run. On the 19th, Mars enters your sign giving you energy, determination and, more importantly, the ability to stand up for yourself and what or who you believe in: use your power wisely.

1st September 2008 - 30th September 2008
The sun's passage through the underwater-world of the twelfth house can dampen your enthusiasm and cause you to be less certain of where you're headed in life, however, Venus, Mercury and Mars in your sign counteract this trend, especially where affairs of the heart are concerned and those things that represent your heart's desire. This would be an excellent period to attend to health issues; it is also a time when you are more reflective and intuitive, and your dream life could be riveting. So, don't force yourself to be decisive and pro-active, if you don't feel up to it. If, on or near the 13th, a sudden and unexpected development upsets your timetable and your composure, distance yourself immediately and wait until you have fully absorbed events – a change, a nip and a tuck, may be necessary at this time and even if it is an enforced change you will reap the benefits in the years to come. Your job and your life style look to be in the mainframe here, although with so much happening on the romance front it could be that changes in your lifestyle occur because of developments in a relationship. The sun enters your own sign on the 22nd, giving you back your energy, focus and resolve, however, with Mercury turning retrograde on the 24th you may have to rein in your enthusiasm until mid-October. Things take t-i-m-e under retrograde Mercury.

1st October 2008 - 31st October 2008
With the sun in your sign and Mercury in Libra but heading backwards you may be fired up and ready to go but not so everyone else. Until the 15th you will have to exhibit patience with one or more situations, although you should not give up hope. Once Mercury has righted itself the pace will quicken and you'll be back on track. The week of the 6th could raise hopes and this is certainly the time to make your pitch, whether in the pursuit of your professional or financial interests or a romance. (All right Mercury may still be retrograde but the efforts you put in will achieve a result, even if it is a little slow in coming.) The full moon of the 14th cuts across the relationship axis, encouraging you to make decisions about a marriage, business partnership or an affair of the heart. In some cases the time will have come to make a long-term commitment; in others it will be the moment to end one. Either way, there can be no fence-sitting on relationship issues at this time. You are beginning a new cycle and you want to start clean and clear. Mars will be in the zone of finance from the 5th onwards, so, on the one hand, your efforts to make money will increase fourfold, yet there could be arguments over finance... Fortunately, from the 18th, Venus will be ideally placed to help you mend fences - she may even send you on a journey for love.

1st November 2008 - 30th November 2008
Keep thinking balance and harmony because this is one rocky horoscope. The month opens with ruler, Venus, squaring the Saturn-Uranus opposition, signalling an ending and a beginning. Now, this theme is going to vary in its intensity from Libra to Libra, in some cases marking the completion of a phase of activity related to the season and in others the end of a major commitment. The Saturn-Uranus opposition is a complex aspect so if you would like to know more about its meaning and effects why not take a look at my article elsewhere on this site. This opposition cuts across the axis of work, responsibilities and life systems in your solar chart so already you may be experiencing change and uncertainty regarding your job and perhaps some accompanying health problems due to stress and overwork. But whatever the imbalance in your life, eventually the scales will be back in balance and you will be strengthened by your experience. Any situation that is not conducive the health of mind, body and spirit should be released at this time, but as so often happens in life we become deeply attached to those things which are bad for us... The full moon of the 13th brings finances to the top of your must-deal-with list: it will be easy to make an error and for there to be mix-ups regarding money so whatever you do, don't be an ostrich. On the 27th, Pluto arrives at the base of your horoscope thereby beginning its sixteen year transit of Capricorn. The degree of your sun and what other planets you may have in Libra dictate when Pluto will begin his transformational process, which could include a change of home location possibly to another country, but if you have a September birthday changes are already beginning at core level.

1st December 2008 - 31st December 2008
You're moving and making big tracks in December. Yes, you could be travelling to far off places for Christmas and the New Year but, once again, the notion of going far is a metaphor for making some pretty important decisions. You may decide that in order to have more options and greater financial opportunities you will need to 'go back to school', develop new skills or you may find that a contract comes to an end and you must look in new directions for professional or personal fulfilment. Events happen suddenly and unexpectedly, especially on or near the 5th and 12th, so try to keep your plans very fluid and avoid being near people and situations already highly- charged. Of course, there is an element of fate about what happens in December so whether you are elated over developments or stunned by them, it may help to know that you are nonetheless on course. What you can do about events occurs in the wake of them... The sun and Mars meet up with Pluto at the base of your solar horoscope on the 22nd and 28th respectively, making this a particularly profound time for the September birthdays. These aspects are powerful enough to sweep away an entire pattern of life and set in place the foundations of a new and very different future. Actually, something for all Librans to ponder on at the stroke of midnight on the 31st.

1st January 2009 - 31st January 2009
You're laying down the foundations of the future. Now, this may mean you are beginning a new job or moving home; on the other hand, you could be starting a family or putting in place a new domestic regime. Then again, these foundations of the future may relate to setting a relationship on a firm footing, maybe acquiring a home together. To this end the full moon of the 11th and events on and around the 24th could prove key. This full moon ends a small or large chapter and with Jupiter starting its passage through the area of creativity and personal happiness whatever reaches a close this month paves the way for those aforementioned new beginnings. Venus will be moving through the work zone for much of January so although this is a favourable period for making career progress – and you should certainly have meetings with people who could expand your professional horizons – there could be some unexpected, and possibly unwanted, changes towards the end of the month. Still, there is nothing you cannot overcome and with a solar eclipse in this same area on the 26th it seems as soon as one door shuts, another will open. (Apologies for the clich�'.) Mercury will be retrograding from the 11th until the 1st February so don't expect to get anywhere fast, although you may enjoy more than one sentimental journey.

1st March 2009 - 31st March 2009
This is a strange period of the year: life is not particularly settled, and events happen that delay plans and make you feel somewhat unsure of your ground. However, this trend will be over by April so, although it's not a case of heading under the duvet for the next four weeks, you will need to distance yourself from people who and situations that are getting in the way of your focus and balance. Much of the planetary action is taking place in the work and lifestyle sector of your horoscope: maybe there are changes or rumours of change on the job front and perhaps some new technology or new faces will prove destabilizing. Then there's your health... This is the right month to have your annual physical check-up and visit the dentist, but if you have some real health worries it's time you consulted the professionals. March is all about setting systems of all kinds straight, getting your ducks in a row and looking at the component parts of a situation as opposed to the whole picture. On the 6th, Venus moves retrograde in the relationship zone, so if a love-affair turns pear-shaped or a special occasion has to be postponed, try not to inflate the situation by assuming all is lost. There is a reason for any delay and a relationship that is right for you will weather the storm. And speaking of storms... Pluto's presence on the astrological stage from the 22nd - 29th could bring hidden issues to light; yet if you are ready to change your life for someone, you've got all the help you need.

1st February 2009 - 28th February 2009
You should be in your Venusian element. On the 3rd, Venus, the planet of love, enters the zone of relating all set to make Valentine's Day very special. And even if the 14th goes past with nothing remotely romantic on offer, Venus will spend the next four months in this area of your chart so the stage is set for some happy developments before June. Sometimes, of course, Venus's job is to release you from an unhappy union – and with her angle to Pluto on the 6th, you may discover this for yourself sooner than you think! Otherwise, you should expect to be in no doubt as to how much you are loved... The early part of February is fairly stormy, however, and especially on or near the 5th and 12th you'll need to dip into your reserves of optimism and patience. It may be that you're not in fighting fit condition or that the pressures of work and finance are taking their toll but if you find yourself on the horns of a dilemma, accept what you cannot change and change what you can. The moon will be in Libra until 14hrs 50 (GMT) on the 14th so if you're planning to propose or make someone an offer he or she cannot refuse do it before that afternoon watershed. From this point in the month, fortunate Jupiter is in charge and the start to the week of the 16th could be fantastic.

1st April 2009 - 30th April 2009
Are you feeling romantic? Is your love life in great shape? Or are you having a hard time making sweet music with the object of your affections? If you answered yes to any of these questions, the cosmos is right behind you, or rather, planet Venus is. Until the 17th Venus continues on her retrograde course bringing up issues from the past – and sometimes reuniting you with lost loves – yet many Librans have suffered from partnership blips during the last six weeks, even heading for the divorce courts. Some of these trends will be reversed after the 17th when Venus turns direct, so don't be too sure a relationship is over. The sun, Mercury and ultimately Mars will all transit the seventh house of relating in April making this a month to have dialogues with people for business, friendship or romance, and you will be in no doubt as to who supports and admires you and who doesn't. Plus, the alliances you form in April while not necessarily lasting a lifetime will prove worthwhile. The Venus-Pluto square of the 3rd and the full moon of the 9th are key points in your astrological year: emotions will be running high, whether you will be shedding tears of happiness or frustration. The full moon will be in your own sign empowering you so feel confident in the actions you take. Indeed, although the accent is firmly on relationships this April, it is you who must decide what you want and where you're going.

1st May 2009 - 31st May 2009
The third and final meeting between Venus and Pluto gets the month off to a passionate start. As always, passion should be channelled into loving and positive directions, which it may well be on this occasion, but if tensions increase between you and a partner – or, indeed, anyone – don't be surprised if a beautiful friendship comes to an abrupt end. And maybe that's the right thing. Once past this date, Venus and Mars will do their best to put a sparkle on your love-life and some Librans could meet a new and important partner during May. (Mercury may be retrograde but this can sometimes bring a lost love back into your life – even a past life love.) As always with Mercury in reverse, communications and travel have their share of problems: the key here is to be patient and thorough – not allowing misunderstandings to arise through failing to check that messages were received. You can also point the finger at Neptune for mis-information and general madness, although with Jupiter in the mix the mid-to-latter part of the month would be wonderful for a holiday or a celebration – especially one with romantic overtones.

1st June 2009 - 30th June 2009
Are you blowing the dust off your suitcases? Hunting down your passport? If so, the ninth house of your solar chart is already calling you. You can travel far in June, not only in terms of miles but in the way of experience and knowledge. In fact what you learn this month could change your long-term horizons. Events on or near the 5th and 17th awaken you to a reality, and should you have events pencilled in for these dates, they will turn out differently from expectations, and they may well leave a lasting imprint. On the 21st the sun reaches the mid-heaven of your solar chart and immediately opposes Pluto. If there are seismic shifts in your life at this point, don't be surprised: it is Pluto's way of getting you where you need to be. It is always good to know how strong you are, how firm your resolve, and Pluto will test you. Should you be making some major life moves toward the end of June, Pluto will help you in the process. Transformation is a wonderful thing.

1st July 2009 - 31st July 2009
There's no excuse for failing in your mission – whatever mission that may be – although this does not necessarily mean you'll have it easy. Planets are grouped at the very top of your solar chart making this a premium month for career moves and improving your material world. Timing is all so if you sense an impending change that you're not going to like, get in there first with a plan that will make it better for you. On and around the 6th there is a degree of confusion to contend with but you should find any changes will do you enormous favours in the long run. (By the way, should you be deep in doubt about the wisdom of an enterprise, hold back until you know for sure it's what you want.) If you'd like to follow the astrological code, this is the right time to bring something to an end with a view to a new beginning on the total solar eclipse of the 22nd – or at least the bare bones of a new beginning. Venus and Mars will be influencing finances first and legal and foreign matters second so offers could be in the pipeline and you should feel confident about agreements being put together and long-term decisions regarding property and possessions. You may be travelling some distance during July, in some cases with someone you love and in others with a view to enjoying yourself at the end of your journey: either way there could be some beautiful romantic moments to look forward to.

1st August 2009 - 31st August 2009
This is probably not the most restful month of 2009 but you'll get a lot sorted. There's a strong focus on collaborative efforts, in some cases because you already have an endeavour set to take place with friends or colleagues and in other cases because new projects spring into being and friends turn out to be at the heart of the best and worst of times. The lunar eclipse of the 6th marks the end of a chapter – one that may have begun in January or February – or you may find that a business or romantic relationship reaches a turning point. Mars and Venus will be in high profile, which could prove helpful on the job front and in regard to overseas matters – indeed, some Librans could be travelling quite some distance in August. You may need to be extra patient and focused on or around the 11th and 19th – these periods are unpredictable and it will be easy to lose your grip and your cool. Pluto is centre stage on the 1st and 26th so both the beginning and the end of the month could turn out to be stormy: do your best not to allow someone to rattle your chain; on the other hand if you're ready to do all for love or make a huge life change, Pluto will help you very nicely.

1st September 2009 - 30th September 2009
There is a sense of preparation about September. In part this is due to the sun's passage through the reclusive twelfth house but it is also because there are a matter of weeks to go before Saturn enters your sign so preparing for this transit is a way to ensure its success. Now is the time to get all your financial, physical and emotional ducks in a row: face the flaws and fix them before Saturn drags you out in front of the class of 2010/11 and exposes them. And it's not just facing the flaws, but facing fears: whatever you don't want to deal with is a real sign of its potential to trip you up like a proverbial banana skin. Mercury will be retrograding from the 7th - 29th and although this may produce the occasional delay and mis-communication, it will be an excellent time to inwardly prepare for the key autumn and winter period. Health and fitness are a top priority, plus research will pay off big time. From the 15th , Pluto will be gathering steam, ready to angle the sun in Libra on the 23rd, so while this may prove to be a demanding and difficult eight days, there could be some big gains – certainly on a psychological and spiritual level. Issues that you thought were dead and buried, plans that failed to materialize, could be resurrected and if you are ready for a huge life change, get ready to rumba.

1st October 2009 - 31st October 2009
After the stresses and strains of August and September, October should come as a relief. Not only is the sun in your sign warming the embers of your soul and giving you the energy with which to mount a comeback but Venus will enter Libra (14th) bringing sweetness and love into your life. Then there's Saturn... Of which more shortly. The full moon of the 4th cuts across the relationship axis so it's time to renew your vows, take them in the first place and generally put your most important relationships under the astro-microscope. It is a time of endings and beginnings. Emotions could be running high this weekend but to good effect. (Sometimes Librans try to rise above their feelings, which drives their partners insane...) The Saturn-Uranus opposition will still be in effect, especially on or near the 9th and 13th, so you are a little more physically and emotionally vulnerable and you are much more likely to react adversely to any unexpected changes. As soon as Venus enters your sign she angles Pluto (15th) so this is another date around which to prepare for passionate exchanges and transformational moments. However, the really big news is the arrival of Saturn in your sign (29th). You are fortunate in that Saturn operates well in Libra so although, during the next three years, you will be tested and there will be hard times, you could make some enormous gains in terms of your personal standing, plus some factors of your life which are currently a mere sketch will be fully formed and able to stand the test of time.