Alacazem 2010.12.30

30 Dec Alacazem 2010.12.30

December 30 to January 6, 2010
Visible Planets: Morning: Mercury, Venus and Saturn  Evening: Jupiter

Feliz Ano Nuevo & Happy New Year 2011

Well, here it is, the end of another calendar year, another revolution around the Sun. The high-minded, altruistic energy of Sagittarius has morphed into the more traditional, practical-minded energy of Capricorn. We face the finite reality of Christmas costs and spending, look at credit card charges for gifts and holiday travel expenses, gather our wits and prepare for the last blast of New Year’s Eve.

Today, I’m living in a beachside palapa on the Sea of Cortez, whales spout and fish jump, the ocean breeze cools the hot Mexico sun to temperatures in the 70’s. Back home I hear of abundant snowfall in the Rockies, but that Telluride is still waiting for their first big dump. I know well the call of the mountains, the pristine white of first tracks and the magical sparkle of snowflakes glistening in the slanting solstice sun. Years ago, my husband and I migrated to southern Baja for the winter and made a quiet little village on the East Cape our home. Snorkeling replaced moguls, fresh-caught tuna replaced homegrown elk, salsa replaced ketchup and Pacifico replaced Coors. In those days, we christened the New Year with Christmas lights on cactus, tortillas, shrimp and fireworks, bonfires on the beach, cassette tapes from home and the sweet guitars of the Mexican pescadores – fishermen – our new amigos and compadres.

This year, I’m an older – and hopefully wiser – version of the woman I was 20 years ago. We sold our Cabo Pulmo casa to a good friend shortly prior to the New Millennium, and since then, have ventured to other countries and continents. But Mexico still holds a certain mystique for me. The vibrant colors, aqua waters, desert landscapes and tropical jungles; the spicy mariscos, succulent fruit and open-hearted corazones of its people still intrigue and entice. And, so, here we are, once again, returned to a place of gratitude and grace, peace and tranquility – es muy tranquilo. Still living, still loving, still travelers on the road of life.

Happy New Year – may your journey in 2011 be bountiful, beautiful and filled with all the peace, joy, happiness, love, productivity and prosperity you desire. Blessings to all…and as they say south of the border – Feliz Ano Nuevo!

Aries (Mar. 20-Apr.19)
Mercury – planetary trickster and magician – resumes forward motion on Dec. 30th and the smoke and mirrors of holiday cheer and fear dissipate.  Before you lies a new year, glittering with promise and paved with possibility. Recognize the extreme power of action and the consequence of karma. Everything – everything! – you do counts. Make it for the better.

Taurus (Apr. 20-May 20)
The upcoming solar eclipse in fellow earth sign Capricorn is just what the doctor ordered. It’s time to move past holiday leftovers and hangovers and start fresh. With good intention and higher-self awareness, identify where you want to go this year. Look at maps, read the books and get advice from people who have done what you want to do. Remain open.

Gemini (May 21-June 21)
Ruler Mercury played a starring role in last week’s solstice eclipse, even if the billing was nonexistent! C’est la vie, how often have you been in that position? Now, it’s time to laugh at the fanfare, remove the clutter and get serious about the road ahead. There’s plenty of work to be done and – lucky you! – plenty of time to do it. Get busy and focus. Get ‘er done!

Cancer (June 21-July 22)
Recovery is a priority now as eclipse energy continues. Whatever emotions or realizations you experienced over solstice, remember that awareness is only as long as it lasts. Rather than getting caught up in maudlin self-pity or fear of the future, count your blessings. Stay in the present and take of what needs to be taken care of. That means you!

Leo (July 23-Aug.22)
You may feel a bit twisted and turning as the year ends and a new era begins. Ecliptic energies are powerful and the world turns at a phenomenal speed, in spite of your greatest efforts to slow it down. The best strategy now is to step back from the fracas and focus on self-improvement. That, you can control! It’s time to lead by example.

Virgo (Aug. 23-Sep.22)
Capricorn energy has a calming, centering effect on the sometimes nervous or hyper tendencies of the Virgin. The holidays can take their toll and often what’s needed is rest. Focus on stability and routine as you prepare for 2011. Feel the power of love in and all around you. Recognize how far you’ve come over the past year. Congratulations, you’re worth it!

Libra (Sep. 23-Oct.22)
There’s no way around it – planetary squares to Saturn in Libra are certain to push buttons and pull pigtails. Whether it’s in the classroom, boardroom or bedroom, other people and the rules of engagement force attention, change and action. The good news is that you’re fully present, clean and sober to do it. Life is real today and you’re in it. Good luck!

Scorpio (Oct. 23-Nov. 22)
Vixen Venus has entwined and intrigued you for months, spending an extra-long period of time in your sign. Now that she’s almost done with your make-over, how about a kiss good-bye? Great and sudden opportunities beckon change. Grab the golden ring and embrace the sweet love of self-love. With humility and grace, share it with the world.

Sagittarius (Nov. 23-Dec. 20)
If you feel like you’ve been shaken and awakened by cosmic forces, don’t feel like the Lone Ranger. The entire world is aligning with the Galactic Center and being charged with electromagnetic light. Practice the art of centering – calm down and find a quiet place and space in which to find and feel your center. Carry that inner peace with you, wherever you go, whatever you do.

Capricorn (Dec. 21-Jan. 19)
The Jan. 4th solar eclipse marks a major milestone and turning point for the Mountain Goat. Career and social standing are in a serious process of re-creation as you continue on the metamorphic road of personal rebirth. Stay open to all that comes and be willing to let go of everything – especially dogma and belief systems – as you are truly being reborn.

Aquarius (Jan. 19-Feb. 18)
Numinous Neptune and chronic Chiron maintain a super-close conjunction in your sign, along with Jupiter and Uranus in Pisces. Expect a wild and exciting week, with plenty o
f time to enjoy it. Money, love and pleasure are themes, but keep your eyes and mind open when it comes to new career pathways and professional endeavors. Be ready and willing.

Pisces (Feb. 18-Mar. 20)
Spiritually generous Jupiter and wild, exciting Uranus are exactly conjunct in late Pisces at the time of this week’s solar eclipse. This translates as a time to put the finishing touches on the new, updated you. Close the door on all that you longer want or need, get rid of old behaviors and habits that no longer serve you well. You’ve arrived!

Cynthia is a third generation astrologer living in the high mountain desert of the American Southwest. Visit her website @ www.alacazem.com.