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Although we begin this week with the love planet Venus entering hardworking Virgo on October 8, your need for independence is compelling with the square between Jupiter and Uranus on October 9. October 11 brings a new Moon in Libra. prompting you to invest extra energy into your relationships. But watch out for Mercury turning retrograde on the same day; you’ll need to make sure you clear up any misunderstandings right away.

October 8: Venus enters Virgo

You had a chance last July when Venus turned retrograde in this earthy sign to focus on the more concrete aspects of your important relationships. But just as you were getting your feet on the ground, the planet of love went retrograde into the fire sign Leo on August 8, reminding you that having fun is just as important as working hard. Now, as Venus reenters Virgo, you can get back to some of the relationship projects you were contemplating back in July. Virgo is not only the sign of work but is also the sign of health, making this a potent time to rate the state of your important relationships. What works? What doesn’t work? You have until November 8 to answer these questions, and then Venus leaves this analytical sign.

October 9: Jupiter square Uranus

Since January of this year, when Jupiter and Uranus formed their first square in this series, you've no doubt made changes in your social and economic life to allow for more freedom and independence. By May, at the time of the second square that occurred with Jupiter retrograde, you had the opportunity to reassess and make further modifications. Finally! These two big planets square for the third and final time, and hopefully you feel good about your lifestyle choices. If not, your level of restlessness will be high. If you do, you are ready to take full advantage. This is what 'free will' is all about!

October 11: New Moon in Libra

A beginning, as all new Moons represent, in the relationship sign Libra gives you the opportunity to institute something brand new into your relationships. Do you need a date night? How about attending more social events? Have you and a good friend spent enough time together lately? The Moon seeks nurturance and emotional contentment; and since it's in Libra, make sure your relationships reflect a sense of harmony. But Mercury turns retrograde on the same day, so watch out for communication snafus.

October 11: Mercury turns retrograde

Be forewarned if you are trying to keep a secret! As the planet of communication turns retrograde in Scorpio (the sign of the detective), there is little that will deter you from finding out whatever you put your fertile mind to. Willpower is in abundance now. As always with Mercury retrograde periods, double-check everything and get your ducks in a row. With this strong sign, be gentle with them!

Past Issues of The Stars This Week