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You will need to be very aware and on top of things this week to not lose your way. On May 27, expansive Jupiter conjuncts dreamy Neptune when idealism is in full bloom. Then, Neptune turns retrograde on May 28 and Mercury turns direct on May 30 when you will need to separate fact from fiction. Finally, feisty Mars enters practical Taurus on May 31, and we can all get our feet back on the ground!

May 27: Jupiter conjunct Neptune

Jupiter takes 12 years to travel through all 12 zodiac signs, one year for each sign, so this conjunction hasn't occurred for quite a while, the last being in Capricorn in December of 1996. This time the conjunction is in independent Aquarius. This is a highly idealistic, future-oriented combo that is likely to bring new inventions, a movement toward a global community and a spiritual blossoming for many. When these two planets meet, they also seem to be a bit flood-prone, so take sensible precautions. This is the first of three conjunctions.

May 28: Neptune turns retrograde

Neptune has been transiting through Aquarius since 1998, a sign that represents the quest for a better life, for freedom, equality, peace and contentment. Because it takes Neptune about 14 years to transit through one sign, this retrograde has been occurring once a year in the same area of your birth chart, giving you the opportunity to review how you invest in your dreams, and how to establish a solid foundation for your life achievements. Aquarius is a sign that rules the group, the community, the larger world. Every time you align your desires with those of others, you move yourself forward and your life opens up. This retrograde period will last until November 4.

May 30: Mercury turns direct

Had enough with the glitches? As Mercury ends its retrograde in earthy Taurus, it's time to incorporate everything you've learned since May 6 when Mercury turned retrograde in curious Gemini. Communication becomes easier and less confusing, and you find it easier to make a decision. Hopefully you used the retrograde time well, conducted a proper review, and become better informed about your options. Sign those contracts, send out your resume or pick up the phone! It's time to communicate all of those great ideas and put your plans in motion!

May 31: Mars enters Taurus

Life settles down a bit as Mars leaves its own sign, fiery Aries, and enters steady Taurus. This is a grounded get-down-to-business placement that can help put you on the path to a materially secure future. Sort through your business and personal expenditures, and use the determination of Taurus to solidify your material world. Mercury turning direct yesterday will help you move forward with everything you have learned over the past three weeks.

Past Issues of The Stars This Week