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Transits

November, 2008

ASTROLOGY.COM'S MONTHLY HIGHLIGHTS

IN THIS ISSUE:
** Note from Astrology.com:
--Free Samples: World Peace Reading, The Real You Reading, Day-by-Day Future Forecast, Nine Star Ki Reading
--Free Fun: Celebrity Birthday of the Month, Gobbling by the Signs, Sun Sign Travel profiles, Dancing by the Signs
** All about Sagittarius
** Your Starcast for November 21 to December 20
** Astrolesson: When Mars Meets Pluto

November 21: Sun enters Sagittarius

Enough intensity! Let's all take a deep breath and do what fun, travel-sign Sagittarius is all about: movement! Whether you hike, bike or take a day trip to your favorite location, a fresh change of scenery can give you perspective on everything that is occurring in your life. Sagittarius is a future-oriented fire sign and you may be feeling especially philosophical as you look at the road ahead. You have choices to make and questions to ask. Take your time. Life is a journey -- not a race!

The world needs you! As we all enter this philosophical Sagittarian cycle, examining your beliefs can help you assess the best way for you to contribute to the world. You have special gifts, talents and sensibilities. Our free sample World Peace Reading will give you plenty of ideas to get you started!

Honesty is one of the best Sagittarian traits, although the necessity for a bit of diplomacy and tact is something many Sagittarians eventually learn to include! How well do you know yourself -- not only your best characteristics but also the ones that need work? Our free sample free sample The Real You Reading tells you all about your strengths and weaknesses.

Sagittarians look to the future rather than dwelling on the past. That may be why they are so incurably optimistic! Knowing astrology helps you get a glimpse into the future, which in turn helps you to make wise decisions. Our free sample Day-by-Day Future Forecast examines the planetary movements to give you daily insights and a head start in all your planning! Gain an edge by looking into your future!

Speaking of the future, as that last digit of 2008 rolls from an eight into a nine, stay in rhythm with the wisdom of numbers by checking out our brand-new free sample Nine Star Ki Reading. Based on the yin-yang principles, this reading identifies the numbers that bring meaning and beauty to your life, and empowers you by helping you understand who you are -- by the star!

Outgoing and outspoken Tyra Banks, born December 4, 1973, is a model Sagittarian! Her philosophical and optimistic approach to life has carried her far. Just like the archer, who shoots arrows off into the distance, Tyra aimed high and followed her dreams becoming a supermodel, actress, talk-show host and advocate for girls. A modern-day philosopher, she states, 'Self-love has very little to do with how you feel about your outer self. It's about accepting all of yourself. You've got to learn to accept the fool in you as well as the part that's got it goin' on.' Happy Birthday, Tyra! We hope the upcoming solar year brings you everything you desire! Read all about Tyra and other Sagittarius celebrities in our Celebrity Section. And to help you philosophize even further about the famous, check out our in-depth StarStories and see how the movement of the planets affects the lives of famous folks. What better -- and fun -- way to learn astrology, and gain inside knowledge on the passionate lives of legends at the same time!

It's that time of year when many families gather together for a Thanksgiving meal. Everybody has their own holiday eating habits. Do you pick at the food before it goes to the table? Do you grab the best part of the turkey for yourself or do you wait until everybody else has filled their plate? Check out our list in Gobbling by the Signs and see if you agree with our assessments of you, your friends and family members.

Have you ever met a Sagittarius who doesn't like to travel? How about you? Are you feeling restless? Would you like to get out of your familiar environment and see something new? Everyone has a unique travel-style. Whether you love day trips, outdoor camping or spa vacations, get ideas in our Sun Sign Travel Profiles.

Are you a fan of TV shows like 'Dancing with the Stars' or 'So You Think You Can Dance?' You will rarely meet a Sagittarius who likes to stay still, and even if they aren't great dancers, it's easy to get them onto the dance floor. No matter what your zodiac sign, our Dancing by the Signs gives you a tailor-made dance style, just for you.

Keep reading for your Starcast, which will take you through the month's astrological events, and prepare you for all the interesting pathways and byways ahead. And be sure to check out this month's Astrolesson: When Mars Meets Pluto.

Happy Birthday to all you Sagittarians out there making the planet a better place to be with your gregarious spirit! Your freedom-loving ways and willingness to explore and embrace differences inspires us! We love your enthusiasm and can't wait to see what you archers do in the year ahead! Why not let your favorite Archer know how much you truly care by sending them a free astrological e-card!

Sagittarians are classically known as the 'favorites of the gods' for good reason: These folks are famous for generosity, humor and optimism, and for the ability to see the best is every situation, no matter how dire the circumstances. A Sagittarius will find a real reason to celebrate each and every day -- due in no small part to Jupiter, the planet most known for benevolence, and the Archer's planetary ruler. Of course, the other side of that coin is excess and extravagance. So in addition to knowing how to laugh -- and how to make others laugh -- Sagittarians are also experts at overdoing everything. At the same time, if a Sag really does have to be restricted to just one of anything, it had better be the biggest or most impressive of its kind -- literally, a one-of-a-kind object.

Sagittarians are also famous for their love of travel and philosophy; they crave knowledge, and will spare no effort to satisfy that innate curiosity. Sag's own personal philosophy is that life is really nothing more than a series of extended vacations -- hence the reason so many born under the sign of the archer end up living in a different city, state or even country than where they were born.

When it comes to relationships, Sagittarians often find that some of their most successful ones are with four-legged creatures -- their connection to anything with fur, feathers and even leaves is legendary. Romantically speaking, if you're a human, you can only 'have' a Sag of your very own if you're willing to hold on with an open palm. Restrictions will not be tolerated. However, if you let your Sag sweetie know you care, but allow them to live as they see fit, you'll have gained an intelligent, witty and highly impressive partner whose long-term loyalty will astound you. One warning, though: Don't ever ask these folks a question if you don't really want to hear the answer. Sagittarians aren't known for their ability to lie. They'd much rather tell the truth, regardless of the consequences -- because that way, at least they can be sure that you know exactly who they are. So while they can get along with just about anyone, Sagittarians are most drawn to the other fire signs, who also live by the motto 'what you see is truly what you get.' No games.

Learn more about always-direct Sagittarius, or explore any other sign in Sun Sign Central.

Not a Sagittarius? Look beyond your Sun sign and find out where the Archer might appear in your own birth chart with a free sample Astro Identity Reading.

The Sun's entrance into nomadic Sagittarius urges you to get out of your familiar environment. This sign embraces what is different, whether it is a person or a location. So, discover something new! You'll be quite outspoken when communicative Mercury enters Sagittarius on November 22, and so will everybody else! One of the most important astrological events of the decade occurs on November 26 with Pluto's entrance into ambitious Capricorn where it will remain for the next 16 years! Then Uranus turns direct on November 27 bringing change, excitement and unpredictability. Also on the 27th, the new Moon in to-the-point Sagittarius improves your aim as you look toward what's ahead. The Sun, Mercury and Mars travel though Sagittarius this month forming squares to the transiting Saturn Uranus opposition that was exact last month. Weigh your words carefully when Mercury squares Uranus on December 4 and Saturn on December 8. Then the Sun and warrior Mars conjunct on December 5 and Venus enters can't-we-all-be-friends Aquarius on December 7. The Sun squares Uranus on December 10 and Saturn on December 12. Then Mars squares rebellious Uranus on December 11. Mercury's entrance into pragmatic Capricorn on December 12 helps you get a plan together although emotions will be intensified with the full Moon in talkative Gemini on December 12. We end this solar period with a hard-working square between Mars and Saturn on December 15 when it is important to stop and consider what you are doing and why, making this a great time to consider sensible alternatives.

November 21: Jupiter trine Saturn

Both Jupiter (expansion) and Saturn (contraction) are social planets that have something to say about the larger world. They are now in harmony with each other, which provides an easy way to improve your overall social and economic conditions. Take advantage by setting goals and utilizing the assistance and opportunities that are all around you.

November 21: Sun enters Sagittarius

As the Sun travels though this outspoken and future-oriented fire sign, you're ready to look at the road ahead and get an aerial view of your life. Where do you want to go? Whether you are making short-term plans or looking further ahead, you are asking the bigger questions now and may even be feeling philosophical about the choices you've made and the roads not taken. Sometimes it can be good to get out of your familiar environments. Since Sagittarius is a travel sign, this is a great time to plan a trip. Bon voyage!

November 22: Mercury enters Sagittarius

The communication planet traveling through such an outspoken sign is sure to bring plenty of statements followed by retractions and explanations! Honesty and frankness are hallmarks of this fire sign -- just make sure you mix in a little sensitivity or you may say something you regret. No sign is more enthusiastic than Sagittarius, so this is a wonderful time to dream big!

November 26: Pluto re-enters Capricorn

Last January 25, intense Pluto entered Capricorn for the first time since 1778 when the prevailing mood shifted from the Pluto in Sagittarius issues of morals (who is right and who is wrong) to more pragmatic, earthy issues. We moved from 'what I believe' to 'what I want to build.' On June 13, Pluto retrograded back into Sagittarius giving you the opportunity to clear the decks and prepare for this new journey. Now Pluto re-enters Capricorn, where it will be until 2024. No more exploring! Put you passport away and park your car in the garage because the intensity of Pluto's focus is now on what you will build over these next years.

November 27: Uranus turns direct; New Moon in Sagittarius

Are you feeling restless or rebellious? Do you want to be in charge of your own destiny instead of having others tell you what to do or who to be? Good! When this independent planet changes direction, its power is strong. You are being asked to liberate yourself from old habits and conditioning. Embrace change and be flexible so you can take advantage of this new cosmic climate. And let the fresh energy of the new Moon in aim-oriented Sagittarius help you in your efforts!

This new Moon will most affect those born November 19-25, February 23-27, May 24-28 and August 26-30.

December 4: Mercury square Uranus; December 6: Mercury square Saturn

Saturn is concerned with the rules, while Uranus loves to break them! Your mind will be buzzing when Uranus connects with Mercury and may have more thoughts than you know what to do with! Why don't you write them down in a notebook so you don't forget them. Then Mercury traveling through outspoken Sagittarius receives a challenge from Saturn, and you'll need to defend your point of view. Do your homework and you'll be fine!

December 5: Sun conjunct Mars

When these two come together, the sheer energy of the duo can become explosive or unbelievably productive, and it will be up to you to decide where you want to direct this dynamic energy. Because both are in belief-driven Sagittarius, you're likely to become involved in situations where you need to defend or advocate your point of view. The trick is to be strong and confident and avoid ego battles. Find out where this conjunction takes place in your chart so you can take full advantage.

December 7: Venus enters Aquarius

The relationship planet in such a friendship-oriented sign brings out your social side, and you'll naturally want to mingle with like-minded people. If you are single, this is a fabulous transit to meet someone through shared interest activities or through a friend. Married or in a committed relationship and looking for couple-friends? Perfect! Use the energy of this transit to attend events that promote causes that are important to you. Chances are you will make life-long friends!

December 10: Sun squares Uranus and December 12: Sun squares Saturn

Even though the Sagittarius Sun with its freedom-loving ways has a natural affinity with independent Uranus, this square still presents the challenge to break free from old self-definitions. As Saturn weighs in, self-assessment is emphasized. Ask yourself where you can build upon your experience while still integrating healthy changes that liberate you out of unproductive patterns.

December 11: Mars squares Uranus

There are few combinations that are as rebellious as when these two get together! One thing's for sure: you won't want anyone telling you what to do -- although you're sure to be challenged now! As always when Uranus is involved, liberating yourself from old patterns is essential. Whichever way you're used to doing things, do yourself a favor and step back, see what's working, what's not and proceed from there.

December 12: Mercury enters Capricorn

With all of the independent, rebellious energy this week, Mercury's departure from philosophical Sagittarius and entrance into this earthy, pragmatic sign will help stabilize your thinking so that you can come up with a sensible plan. Communicate what you want using practical ideas and concrete specifics to get the best results. Your work and career goals can get a boost as you turn your best thinking to advancing yourself in these areas.

December 12: Full Moon in Gemini

Nervous energy is high and your emotions are on high alert with this particularly emotional full Moon. The reason for this is the major aspect pattern -- the Grand Cross --which is the dominating influence. The Saturn-Uranus opposition squares the full Moon and warrior Mars sits next to the Sun. A war of words is likely with threats of action. Everybody will need to take a deep breath and not over react. This goes for countries and individuals. Do whatever you can to not add to the noise. Somebody has to keep their cool and it may as well be you!

This full Moon will most affect those born June 10-14, September 12-16, December 10-14 and March 10-14.

December 15: Mars square Saturn

You're doing what you want to do, but suddenly you're stopped in your tracks. This gives you the opportunity to weigh carefully exactly where you want to go. People in authority are unlikely to greenlight your projects or plans, and delays in general mark this period. Instead of trying to drive with the brakes on, seek alternatives. Something needs to be taken into account before you can proceed. Don't push since delays may ultimately be helpful to you. Take your time. Just because things don't come easily is not a reason to give up. Just reconsider how you're going about getting what you want

Enjoy the Sun's transit in Sagittarius!

Mars represents action, movement and desire. Whenever you get your plans in motion, you are activating the Mars in your birth chart. For example, if your natal Mars is located in Gemini at the time of your birth, you are quite the salesperson! The fiery energy of Mars located in a sign of communication gives force and umph to your words. If Mars is located in security-oriented Cancer, you are likely to -- just as its symbol the crab moves sideways -- feel your way around a plan until you feel emotionally comfortable and secure enough to set that plan in motion. At the end of December, Mars leaves nomadic Sagittarius and enters earthy Capricorn. Transiting Mars describes the prevailing energy when it comes to taking actions. It is like we all become honorary Mars in Capricorns!

To make the most of this transit in such an achievement-oriented sign, use its tenacity to head toward your goals so you can make significant progress. Since Pluto, the power planet, is presently in Capricorn, Mars joins up in a conjunction on December 28. Mars represents personal action and Pluto, Mars' higher octave, represents the powers that be. It's a collective energy. Think of it this way: you have the ability to set something in motion, but you can't control what others do. What happens when personal will (Mars) and collective will (Pluto) meet? Your drive to accomplish your goals is intensified. This is a power-packed combo! The trick is to turn all of that potent energy in a helpful and healing direction rather than trying to control the desires and agendas of others. Whenever Mars and Pluto meet, keep an eye out for control freaks and remember: it takes two to tangle -- or tango!

As we move into the holiday season, give yourself the gift of wisdom with our Astrology Blogs! From the witty and sometimes naughty insights of Sex & the Galaxy to the ever-so-timely advice of Financial Astrology to the balancing and energizing teachings of An Intuitive Life to cosmic clues about bringing up baby in Motherhood & Astrology and seven other informative blogs -- you're sure to get your fill of galactic goodies!