Still on a needed vacation, but here is.....


ASTROLOGY.COM'S MONTHLY HIGHLIGHTS...

Enjoy the Sun's transit through Cancer. June 21-July 23

June 21: The Sun enters Cancer

The Sun's entrance into this protective sign marks the Summer Solstice, and since a powerful solar eclipse will occur in this sign next week, you're likely to feel more emotional than usual -- especially with matters concerning the well-being of those with whom you're closest. This sign is famous for its compassion and nurturing ways, making this a wonderful time to be reminded of the importance of family, hearth and home -- and a lovely time to count your blessings!

June 21: Mars squares Neptune

Mars's entrance into talkative Gemini is influenced this year by Neptune's placement in Pisces. What may have been straightforward last year is anything but that this year! Your current environment is nebulous and new, and the previous road signs and landmarks no longer exist. You'll have to be very creative, thoughtful and aware to advance your cause now, and you can do it if you adapt quickly to all the changing circumstances. The current climate is akin to watching a surfer who knows how to ride a wave, so practice fluidity to help yourself succeed!

July 1: Solar eclipse in Cancer

Over the last week, you've probably already felt the drama of this eclipse since it falls in such a sensitive sign! But since it occurs at the south node, the tricky part of this particular eclipse is to take care of your own security needs without going overboard. All solar eclipses occur at a new Moon, so this marks a dramatic beginning for you. If you're familiar with your chart, examine the house in which this eclipse lands for more information; also, keep in mind that eclipses often herald major messages, so expect bold headlines and plenty of breaking news!

July 1: Mercury enters Leo

Since Mercury, the communication planet, enters the sign of bold Leo the same day as the solar eclipse, plan on receiving plenty of dramatic announcements. It seems as if everyone has something to say, with topics centering largely on issues of leadership, respect and who's getting the lion's share of attention. This is a great time to speak up and get your message out; just keep in mind the possibility that your message may be eclipsed. If your intuition tells you to wait, however, choose another day. And, as always with this placement, give the same kind of respect you wish to receive.

July 3: Venus enters Cancer

Enough chatting! As Venus leaves talkative Gemini and enters feeling-oriented Cancer, it's time to cozy up and tend to the emotional needs of your loved ones. Need some ideas? Cook your sweetheart a special meal, or make reservations for the two of you at your favorite restaurant. Plan a fun family activity, or write a love letter to your partner. This transit is all about opening your heart, taking a dip in the world of feeling and giving your mind a rest.

July 6: Mars trines Saturn

This is an excellent aspect to occur so closely to Jupiter's trine to Pluto (see below) -- it helps you take care of smaller details as you advance your bigger plans for the future. This Mars-Saturn combination is known for the kind of hard work that brings rewards. After all, Mars in Gemini is the quintessential salesperson, while Saturn in Libra reminds you to be fair and improve your social skills. If you use this beneficial time well, you'll be able to accomplish more than you think is possible!

July 7: Jupiter trines Pluto

"Success magnified" is the motto for this fortunate combination! Make sure you get out into the world, because powerful, prestigious and influential people are willing to help you right now. It's time to showcase your enthusiasm with Jupiter's placement in earthy Taurus, and with Pluto in Capricorn, you'll want to demonstrate your ambition and willingness to work hard. Believe in yourself ... and others will, too!

July 9: Uranus turns retrograde

Expect a few fireworks as freedom-focused Uranus turns retrograde in Aries, a sign that symbolizes the pioneer and the warrior! Forget about trying to make your world stable -- this time is all about change. Until December 9 (when Uranus turns direct), review the areas of your life where you'll benefit by moving out of old ruts and away from outmoded mindsets. And be sure to make yourself extra-flexible, as your routines and schedules are likely to change more than once. When you think about it, is your life so perfect that it couldn't use a bit of change? After all, times like these are made for those who know how to adapt to changing circumstances.

July 11: Mercury sextiles Mars

This aspect describes an animated conversation and is a perfect aspect for planning a party or any fun event. Mercury's placement in dramatic Leo and Mars in talkative Gemini provides plenty of opportunities to take your projects and plans to a higher level. People are friendly and willing to help you, so do everything you can right now to maximize the possibilities!

July 13: Venus squares Saturn

Love planet Venus in cozy Cancer loves to nurture, protect and swim in the feeling-world. Rule-making Saturn in Libra, however, is concerned with the boundaries associated with social relationships, fairness and the mind-world. When these two meet in a square aspect, your relationships will be tested. But through it all, you're likely to find clarity about what you want from your relationship ... and what you don't.

July 14: Full Moon in Capricorn

The last new Moon, on July 1, was a solar eclipse in Cancer, the sign of home and family; at that time, your top priority was focusing on your own security. The culmination of this full Moon in Capricorn, the sign of ambition and career, shifts attention to your worldly activities. How can you provide for yourself and your loved ones? With all the rebellious and revolutionary activity in the world recently, this is a good time to take care of basics.