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The social climate shifts with worldly Jupiter's entrance into independent Aquarius on January 5. The full Moon in Cancer on January 10 reminds you to pay attention to your feelings and personal concerns. Then, on January 11, Mercury turns retrograde in Aquarius when you will want to make a thorough review of your plans for the year ahead.

January 5: Jupiter enters Aquarius

Jupiter takes about one year to travel through a sign and has been in ambitious Capricorn, an earth sign, since December 18, 2007. Earth signs are interested in tangible achievement; air signs (Aquarius being one) are interested in the world of ideas. Jupiter is a planet that has to do with social systems and has something to say about how we relate to the outer world. Because Aquarius is focused on groups and teamwork, expect the year ahead to be one where you are interested in finding like-minded groups and participating more in your community or in the world-at-large.

January 10: Full Moon in Cancer

Last month when the December 27 new Moon was in Capricorn, it was important to be ambitious and find a mountain to climb. Full Moons are always a culmination of what you began at the last new Moon. With this full Moon in security-oriented Cancer, it is important to tune in to your feelings. Worldly ambitions need to be balanced with personal needs. What do you do to soothe and calm yourself? Do you take a bubble bath, eat comfort food, or curl up on the couch with a good book? You'll feel extra sensitive now, and tuning in to your personal needs is a perfect way to step back from all of your out-in-the-world tasks. Saturn's trine to the Moon provides a supportive environment to enhance your security and emotional well-being.

January 11: Mercury turns retrograde

Are you ready for your first Mercury retrograde of the year? The communication planet retrogrades three times a year (although in late December of this year, we will have a fourth one that ends 2009 and begins 2010). This one starts in group-minded Aquarius, returns to Capricorn and won't turn direct until February 1. All Mercury retrograde periods are about returning to previous thoughts, discussions and ideas. Reserve decision-making until Mercury turns direct. Mercury retrograde periods are famous for misunderstandings and glitches in communications and travel systems. Double-check meeting times and travel arrangements, and wait to buy vehicles and communications products of any kind.

Past Issues of The Stars This Week