LOVE HOROSCOPES

Ruling Planet: Sun
Symbol: Lion
Element: Fire
Color: Yellow, gold

Timing is everything. And as we usher in the New Year, the royal Lion's assignment is to make the most out of every opportunity that lands at your door, no matter how insignificant it seems. This year, three major planets are on the move and at times, the wind will be at your back and fickle fortune will smile on you. So do keep your cosmic clock (or your Astrologer) close by.

This year, expansive Jupiter's transit of Pisces could increase your cash flow. But bear in mind that Jupiter also encourages excess, so while he moves back in with wild Aries between June and September, mind those extra pounds, dollars and the temptation to invest in a relationship that everyone knows is going nowhere fast.

Passionate Mars will lend you his powers through June, however until March he is on a retrograde slow-down, and you may feel that your work or projects are stalled or that you have run out of fuel. Pace yourself. Follow through on your plans and when the winds shift, you will be ready to fly.

Clever Uranus will move in with fellow fire sign Aries for a brief stay between May and August. This mental energy will enflame your imagination and curiosity while giving you itchy feet. Travel is the antidote, but this is also the transit of higher education. Take advantage of this stimulating energy. And remember that every cosmic aspect is part of the bigger puzzle. Ergo, a course in philosophy, plumbing or management may be exactly what you need for next year's interview or new challenge.

With Mars in Leo until June you could meet your life partner, new life-long friend or soul mate. However, single Leos are now in line for a significant relationship, and even if love does not bloom this year, you could meet someone who returns in 2011 with more than friendship on their mind.

This year you may want to keep the words of Dorothy Bryant very close: "Like an old gold panning prospector, you must resign yourself to digging up a lot of sand from which you will later patiently wash out a few minute particles of gold ore." 

Ruling Planet: Mercury
Symbol: Woman
Element: Earth
Color: Green, indigo

The mystics say that life is an illusion and all Virgos are reality-based magicians. This year, if you tap into your deep well of Virgo intuition mixed with common sense, you will find success and happiness in uncommon places.

In 2010, bountiful and lucky Jupiter will invest his powers in your seventh house of marriage, relationships and partnerships while free-spirited Uranus will move into anything-is-possible Aries. With these power planets on your side, don't hesitate to listen to your heart, follow your ambitions and lay claim to new horizons.

June's powerful eclipse will strip away any illusions. And in April when stoic Saturn confronts Uranus, the planet of freedom, you can expect a life-altering power surge that will plant the seeds of change or attract a new relationship which has the potential to completely alter the direction of your life journey.

In June, fervent Mars links travel and love, and the transit of Venus in Virgo between July and August intensifies attractions and sparks dormant passions. Dear Virgo, you tend to be a bit too timid in relationships and one of your greatest challenges is to take the initiative and make the first call. You'll find that being more receptive and a little aggressive will have a surprising effect on your career, work and love life.

In September don't hesitate to listen to your heart or forge a new path in your career and work. By becoming a bit more receptive and aggressive from mid-October to mid-November, you will set in motion events that promise to set your heart soaring.

This year when you feel your heart skip a few beats and a sudden urge to reach out and touch someone special, consider the advice of St. Augustine of Hippo: "There is no greater invitation to love than loving first."

Ruling Planet: Venus
Symbol: The Scales
Element: Air
Color: Pink, blue

In Chinese, two symbols are used to describe crisis. One means great difficulty and problems but the other means opportunity. Both of these definitions describe the Libra astrological chart in 2010. At times, the challenges and difficulties will seem to override the opportunities. But you must dig deep into that sensitive Libra well of spiritual belief and trust that life is handing you an opportunity to build a foundation of great stability and success.

This year there will be a multitude of star-crossed contradictions. Three major planets - bountiful Jupiter, unpredictable Uranus and Saturn, the planet of responsibility and limitation - are on the move. During July and September, if you are on a job search or are offered a new assignment or responsibility - although it may not be what you had expected - this is an opportunity for future expansion, so hit the pavement running.

Between May and August, the trickster Uranus will visit wild Aries. Arrange a romantic interlude that is fun, sensual… but short-term. This is not the time to make legal or financial partnerships and as long as you don't mistake an infatuation for the real thing, this can be a fun, uplifting transit. Be very careful if an ex knocks on your door. This could invite problems back into your life.

Committed relationships thrive during this transit. Even if your funds are low, go out and do something fun, interesting and romantic rather than watching TV. Most of us forget that relationships are like hybrid flowers which need nurturing and attention every day. 

Saturn has begun a three-year transit of Libra, and will demand that you get your personal and professional house in order. Saturn is a tough disciplinarian but if you work with him, he will help you over bumps in the road and give you a map to a new career and domestic bliss.

This year, keep the words of Wendy Wasserstein stamped in your psyche: "Don't live down to expectations. Go out there and do something remarkable." 

Ruling Planet: Pluto
Symbol: Scorpion and Phoenix
Element: Water
Color: Red

Forget hibernating like a bear! In the New Year you haven't got a moment to waste. The planetary movements for 2010 are vital to your personal growth and will help you release past beliefs and hindrances and awaken forgotten dreams so that you may enter into a new cycle of personal and professional success. This particular year will be one of transformation on an emotional and spiritual level, and quality of life should be your goal. 

Inspirational yet challenging planetary movements during the first half of 2010 will weed out unhealthy relationship and situations and inspire your creative and realistic ambitions. But the big news is that Jupiter will transit Pisces for most of the year. Whether you're in a committed relationship or single, you are in for a lovely, romantic cycle. Jupiter's transit of intuitive and sensitive Pisces gives you the creative edge and makes others remember why they love you.

Between April and July, Saturn will give you confidence in the future and set your curious mind on fire. If you can't get away, take an online course, spend lunch in the museum or volunteer for a seminar or new assignment. Whatever you do, don't allow this time to slip by without learning something new, meeting a few interesting people or adding to your résumé.

Jupiter will make a quick sojourn into Aries between June and September, creating an opportunity for you to expand in your present work situation or take on a few more responsibilities or part-time work that will lead to even bigger opportunities.

A friendship or partnership could hit a troubled spot in April, primarily over finances or creative differences and you may decide to part ways. But if you have second thoughts, why not step back and allow time to work his healing magic?

This year, Dr. Denis Waitley's affirming words could inspire your belief in the endless possibilities of life: "There are two primary choices in life: to accept conditions as they exist or accept the responsibility for changing them." 

Ruling Planet: Jupiter
Symbol: The Centaur/Archer
Element: Fire
Color: Blue and purple

Last year was plagued with demanding family, work turmoil and personal limitations but that's the past. In 2010 you will be inspired to take control of your own destiny and move into the future. Many of you have tried to gloss over relationships that are more of an illusion of your creative mind than a reality. And relatives or partners have expected you to give more than is reasonable and even possible. But you now have amazing cosmic momentum encouraging you to restructure and re-prioritize relationships at home and work.

Excellent career and job transits open new doors between April and July, so be sure to return every call, follow every lead and value every introduction. Even if you don't get your dream job (or even a call-back) something is percolating under the surface and will come back in a surprising new package.

Fun is an intricate part of this year and while Jupiter visits your friend Aries between June and September, lifting your spirits and giving you new confidence in the future, don't waste time thinking about yesterday. Invest your energy in the present and make every minute count.

Don't give up on love. Passionate Mars is stuck in a retrograde slow-down until March but as soon as he regains his powers, your social world will suddenly become more interesting and your love life will take on a new glow. A love affair could become very serious, and by June discussions of the future may be in order. If you haven't met anyone special, give time a chance to work his magic. After September, Cupid has you in his sights and he may bring someone back for a second interview.

This is the year to rebuild an old relationship that may have fallen on hard times but still has life. Between September and December, give love one more chance and your bet will pay off with a lovely return of affection.

This year follow Vincent Van Gogh's formula for success: "If you hear a voice within you say 'You cannot paint,' then by all means paint, and that voice will be silenced."   

Ruling Planet: Saturn
Symbol: Goat
Element: Earth
Color: Navy blue, dark green

Pluto, the planet of renewal and transformation, hangs out in Capricorn for the next 24 years. The last time Pluto was in Capricorn we experienced the American Revolution. For the Goat this strongly indicates that you will be given the chance to knock down the walls surrounding your heart and ambitions and achieve something of monumental importance, the goal of the hero's journey: finding yourself. 

Your ruler Saturn's move into graceful Libra will continue to relieve the stress in your personal and work life and all the cosmic indicators say that you can and should trust the confident and optimistic impulses that are vibrating at a very regular pace in your life.

The Goat is one of the Zodiac's true romantics. Your relationships are ruled by the intuitive, sensitive and moody Moon. As a result, you tend to hide your passionate heart beneath a cynical facade designed to keep others (even those you love) at a safe and controllable distance. But this year's four eclipses (January, June, July and December) will insist that you break down those walls. Each eclipse will offer a wonderful opportunity for a new love interest and introduce you to intriguing people who could become important players in your work or career.

The year begins with three major planets (the Sun, Mercury and Venus) supporting Capricorn. And with Jupiter moving in with intuitive Pisces (from February through early June), the first half of 2010 will be a time of emotional expansion, upheaval and soul-searching.

In June the pace of your personal and professional life picks up, and there will be breakthroughs, decisions and exciting encounters. The July and December eclipses hold the greatest romantic potential but again, it's all about breaking down the walls surrounding your heart and trusting others with your hopes, fears and dreams.

This year reflect on this insight from Zora Neale Hurston: "Love makes your soul crawl out from its hiding place."

Ruling Planet: Uranus
Symbol: Water Carrier
Element: Air
Color: Violet, blue and pastels

Dear Aquarius, your life has been in the throes of transition for so long that you may wonder if you should trust fate when it offers you the keys to success and happiness. During this transitional year amazing support for your ideas or projects will come from surprising sources. Your assignment will be to open your mind and heart to the endless possibilities of life.

Your social skills will come in handy this year. Networking, new friends and throwing around ideas with colleagues will open the door to a new job, a juicy assignment, client or desired move.

Between May and August, your ruler Uranus will be under the influence of the enthusiastic and ambitions sign of Aries. This sojourn will give you a glimpse into 2011, when you will begin a new journey toward fulfilling a goal or ambition. Step out of your routine, travel, volunteer for a new project, try a new career path or take classes that will enhance your skills or résumé.

Use this energy wisely and you will make an investment that will help you reach a destination, which today eludes your wildest dreams.

The warrior planet Mars continues his disruptive transit of your house of partners until June. This dramatic planet can turn small disagreements into major arguments. At work, stay mindful of those with fragile egos or argumentative personalities and you will avoid being pulled into their personal dramas.

Venus's presence in your sign between January and February will give love a chance to bloom. Between July and August, Cupid will shoot a few arrows your way. If you catch one, hold on because your sector of true love and commitment in 2011 is beyond beautiful, brilliant and defiantly worth the wait.

"Never be afraid to try something new.  Remember, amateurs built the ark; professionals built the Titanic."  - Author Unknown

Ruling Planet: Neptune
Symbol: Two fishes
Element: Water
Color: Mauve, deep blue

No astrologer is likely to tell you that the year 2010 promises unparalleled highs and wish-fulfillment but life certainly will be interesting and the horizon is gleaming with possibilities.

Although the year begins on a sluggish note, by February Jupiter - the planet of abundance and prosperity - will move into Pisces, giving you a boost unequaled in 12 years. However your spoiled-sport Astrologer wants to remind you that luck is another word for hard work and preparation. And if you keep your expectations in line with reality and work like a fiend, although certain rewards will trickle in, your Jupiter bonus will come in 2011.

Uranus, the planet that has kept your life spinning since 2003, is making preparations for a big move in 2011, but between May and August he will take a tour of the sign of Aries. This sojourn will give you a glimpse into the challenges of next year and encourage you to shift gears, make adjustments and, above all, adopt a receptive attitude to new ideas and information. And because Jupiter is also visiting expansive Aries, you could actually reap a few rewards for this year's hard work.

Relationship issues are very serious this year and during the four Mercury retrogrades transits (January, April, August and December) by keeping the lines of communication open, you will help resolve or avoid any problems.

By April it may be obvious that certain work and personal relationships have run their course. You could stick with the status quo or follow your heart and mind and begin to work your way out of this situation.

July's eclipse could become an important relationship turning point. And no matter if you are committed or single, this is not the time to hold back your emotions. Remind yourself that the words "I love you" are a magical incantation few can resist.

This year consider the advice of Bob Bone: "Be bold. Be confident. Be alive. A gallery of possibilities awaits you when you make change your friend."

Ruling Planet: Mars
Symbol: Ram
Element: Fire
Color: Red

Last year, you came to the realization that there must be more, and now you intend to get it. Lucky Jupiter's transit of the visionary sign of Pisces - with a brief visit to Aries between June and September - will empower you to break out of stagnant work and personal situations and discover new horizons. Because of circumstances you created, a domestic or career move will alter your lifestyle considerably by the end of the year. Before you run out and nail everything down, remember that change is the essence of life that keeps it interesting.

Freedom-bound Uranus's visit to Aries from May through August will be your signal of things to come, and encourage you to strike out in a new direction. Adding to this transformative transit, Saturn, ruler of your career and work, will regress into pragmatic Virgo between April and July, arranging a few more adjustments in your work life which, if you join this work-feast, could result in a new job, promotion or an interesting assignment.

The planets are conspiring to make 2010 a year of heightened emotional and romantic awakenings. Reliable, stable Saturn has moved in with loving Libra, making you more serious and focused on long-term relationships. And between June and August, you can no longer stand on the corner of commit/don't commit. You could make the ultimate commitment in a relationship. But do remember that the decision to walk away from a difficult or unhealthy relationship is also an option that could bring you happiness. Fortunately, the choice will be yours.

This year as you make important, life-altering decisions, you may want to remember the words of William Faulkner: "You don't love because, you love despite; not for the virtues, but despite the faults."

Ruling Planet: Venus
Symbol: The Bull
Element: Earth
Color: Blue, pink

In 2010, with all the Universal signs pointing toward renewal and transformation, it's time to let the world know just how powerful and passionate the normally quiet Bull can be.

Don't worry that the first few months of the New Year seem to move at a snail's pace. You are laying the foundation for an exciting growth in your career, changes in relationships and perhaps your lifestyle.

Saturn's move in with social Libra will increase the probability of a career, job or lifestyle change and you could see the way this cosmic wind is blowing between May and August when two opposing forces - "status quo" Saturn and change-or-bust Uranus - face off. Your tendency to hold onto situations you have outgrown will be challenged but you are a pragmatist and will come to realize that change is the magic key that opens new doors of success.

This year your solar house of friendship is brilliant. Networking, social clubs and volunteer work will enhance your reputation, expand your social circle and introduce you to certain people who can assist you in your career or personal aspirations.

In May and June, an unexpected meeting or introduction could become a wonderful catalyst for change. But if you feel that this aspect has passed you by, don't despair. Luck (another word for preparation and hard work) comes your way again in September, and as an added bonus, Cupid will also be part of this autumn surprise. If you are in a committed relationship, plan a second honeymoon. Single? A friend could suddenly become a surprising attraction that will last a lifetime.

Certain financial or property matters may have to be reappraised in early June when, with the help of discriminating Virgo, you uncover unexpected or ignored problems. But by changing your perspective or expectations, you will see that the great physicist Niels Bohr was correct when he said: "Every great and deep difficulty bears in itself its own solution. It forces us to change our thinking in order to find it."

Ruling Planet: Mercury
Symbol: The Twins
Element: Air
Color: Yellow, orange

In 2010 your house of ambitions, career and social standing will be highlighted. This is a most auspicious position, Gemini, and by working with these transits you will leave this year with a new sense of purpose, surprisingly different ambitions and your heart's desires answered.

This year Uranus, the planet of change and far horizons, will transit anything-is-possible Aries between May and August, renewing your determination to free yourself from situations and relationships that no longer fit your definition of happiness and success.

True, Geminis are highly articulate, mentally sharp and clever enough to always maintain an edge. And between May and August while lightning-fast Uranus is under the influence of ambitious Aries, these sterling traits will help you to achieve whatever you set out to do. And with opportunistic Jupiter networking on your behalf, with your eye on your goal, you could end the year in a new job or forging a new career path or with a dramatic lifestyle change.

Although the year is full of exciting options and begins on a very positive note, there is one word of caution: Before you rush to quit your job, invest in a sure-thing or launch a new business, consider the words of Euripides: "Slow but sure moves the might of the gods."

Ruling Planet: The Moon
Symbol: Crab
Element: Water
Color: Silver-blue, turquoise

If you are a typical Cancer - trying to hold onto the past while moving into the future - 2010 is going to blow you out of your shell. The last few years have been personally and professionally uncertain but when lucky Jupiter moves in with your friend Pisces in January, follow your ambitions and heart and don't look back.

Jupiter will be under the influence of fiery Aries between June and September, attracting influential people who can help you move toward your hopes, dreams and wishes. This is an excellent time to exercise your brain cells and work on your professional skills. Why is this important, you ask? Next year, 2011, is a banner year in your career and work and this year you should do everything possible to enhance your reputation and résumé. Don't have time? A once-a-week Chinese or French cooking class will introduce you not only to great food and other people but a new culture while expanding your world.

In September listen carefully. Someone may give you a great idea, lead or introduction that could turn your life around. This year you may not meet the love of your life but you could meet someone who makes your pulse beat a little faster. In reality this is the catalyst that opens your heart, so that in 2011 you will be ready when Cupid calls your name. 

Between October and November an old partner or lover could knock on your door. You may want to remember exactly why they are no longer in your life. If you are in a serious relationship but engage in a bit of flirtatious fun, this also could come back to bite you. The advice is to behave yourself and, no matter how enticing, ignore temptation's alluring call.

You are on the brink of significant change, so this year look in the mirror, and reflect on these inspiring words of Kahlil Gibran: "To understand the heart and mind of a person, look not at what he has already achieved but at what he aspires to."