Many people are familiar with their own astrological sign because Sun sign astrology is popular in today's culture. Taking this one step further extends the understanding of astrology from the Sun sign to other planets and aspects of astrology that interplay at the moment of birth. A chart is produced that astrologers can interpret. What you may not know is that astrologers can also calculate a chart for each of your birthdays, and these charts can predict the patterns that you might experience in the forthcoming year. This is because each year the Sun does a full revolution of the zodiac. Therefore each year the Sun returns to the exact position of your birth chart Sun. Wherever you are in the world we can calculate this birthday chart. This chart is called a Solar Return; hence the saying "many happy returns". This chart represents the opportunities and challenges of the forthcoming year. It should also be read in conjunction with your birth chart to fully understand the lessons and opportunities available to you in any given year.

When using these Solar Return interpretations, please bear in mind that, inevitably, every chart will contain some contradictory influences. As a result certain interpretations of different items in the same chart may seem difficult to reconcile. However, this may still be an accurate reflection of your chart, as it is likely that you do experience conflicting desires, events and circumstances in your life. Usually an astrologer will synthesise these apparent contradictions in order to present a cohesive and meaningful interpretation of the dilemmas of the chart.

Please also be aware of the fact that each person possesses both positive and negative influences in the chart, and therefore in their lives. The challenge is to accept and overcome the negative influences, so that we can successfully focus on manifesting the positive traits or qualities. This report outlines both influences, and therefore helps us to rise to the challenges during any given year. Any advice given is meant to be an aid the individual in taking responsibility for his or her own life. Ultimately the decision rests with each individual.

The Ascendant

The Ascendant indicates your primary focus of the year. It shows your main direction and how you are likely to go about achieving your goals. The Ascendant indicates whether you are more likely to be self-motivated, or whether you are more likely to rely on other people during this year.

The Ascendant is in Pisces

Your birthday chart Ascendant is in a feminine Water sign indicating that this year during which you are more introspective. Traits such as gentleness, kindness and patience are of more value to you this year. As a result you are more likely to be concerned about your private life, turning your focus to matters of the home and hearth, rather than professional ambitions. In astrological terms the three Water signs are considered fertile. Therefore you may be considering whether or not to bear to a child, or perhaps to give birth to a new project. Nevertheless if you do seek a new project or professional advancement then you are more likely to cooperate in a team, rather than step forward as a leader. Your creative process is also likely to be a gradual process as you give birth to ideas, reflecting on different options, and letting these ideas gently transform into actuality. Even if this is not your usual modus operandi, this year you are content to go slow and perhaps even take a back seat. You may be more focused on the needs of others rather than yourself. Emotions may run high during the course of this year depending on other aspects of your astrology. Your journey is to learn to follow your intuition, taking into consideration other people's views, but not submerging your own desires too severely. If you focus too much on other people's approval then you could lose your way. You are better advised to be thoughtful and caring, but also to value your own feelings and needs.

The sensitive sign of Pisces is nudging you into areas that draw on the compassionate and caring side of your nature. This year you may discover your true calling in life, as you reflect on spiritual riches, rather than material ones. At times you may feel overwhelmed by practicalities such as household chores and personal finances. This is because your journey is currently focused on spiritual matters, not mundane ones. You need to make sure that you eat and sleep well, and deal with the basic requirements of life, but this is your year to contemplate otherworldly matters. You may even be required to focus on someone else's needs, sacrificing your own at some stage during this year's journey. Love is the key. You may have to adapt, but you are likely to learn much about yourself and your loved ones in the process. You learn a lot about love. You may find solace in Chapter 13 of the book of Corinthians in the Christian Bible, which starts, "love is patient and kind; love is not jealous or boastful; it is not arrogant or rude," and continues to talk about love's qualities.

The Sun

The Sun is very important when interpreting a Solar Return chart given that the chart is based on the Sun. It indicates the major theme of the year depicting the area in which you would really like to shine. Parts of your life that have been seemingly unimportant in previous years can become very important once the Sun shines its light in a particular house of a Solar Return chart.

The Sun is in the Sixth House

It is time to focus on your lifestyle. This could range from a new health regime, to a new job or it could involve a complete change of scenery. This year you are prepared to change your habits. You are not necessarily going to change your life direction, but rather the details of how you live your life. The emphasis is on the minutiae rather than the big picture. Therefore this year is the ideal time to turn your attention to goods and services. How long since you had your car serviced? Do you need to change a washer in a leaking tap? Does your pet need vaccinations? These are the sorts of daily chores that need your attention right now. If you have been putting off renovations then you may need to do some updating of your house right now. However, the emphasis is more likely to be on health and occupation. You are likely to maintain your current career choice, but office politics may influence your choice of work place. Your role at work may change, become more demanding or you may change work places or employers, or become self-employed. If you are already self-employed then you may simply change your daily work practices by employing someone else to carry out tasks that you would normally undertake yourself. If you have been overworked then you can opt to downsize or delegate some responsibilities. If you are unemployed then you are likely to spend a lot of time and energy searching for a job, and are likely to find one. This year presents an opportunity for you to change your daily habits, and to improve your organization skills and lifestyle. Daily life is likely to be busier, rather than calmer, this year. Therefore it is time to rearrange your calendar. Holidays won't just happen. You have to schedule relaxation time. You may benefit from starting meditation or yoga practices. It is important that you schedule in time for fitness. This year presents an excellent opportunity for you to improve your diet, take up a fun and healthy activity and have a health check. In fact you are likely to be required to have a health check or get fit as the result of a work project. Perhaps your boss signs you up for a gym, or perhaps you are self-motivated to join a health club. Either way it is the ideal time to improve your fitness levels and address any niggling physical ailments. Listen to your body. You may also be drawn to small animals, perhaps adding a pet to your household, or focusing more on a current pet. It is time to dwell of minor adjustments rather than major changes. The more that you pay attention to the details now the more that you are able to enjoy your home and personal life in the following year.

Sixth House Cusp is in Leo

Leo is the sign on the cusp of your 6th house, suggesting that praise, self expression, play, and creativity are all important facets of your daily routine. You need to be actively engaged with your work, self-expressive and creative in the routine conditions of your job, as well as feel that you are a vital employee in the system in order to feel satisfied. A playful atmosphere in the work environment goes a long way to helping you feel comfortable, focused and connected. You need to identify with your job and make it your own. Similarly you need to be recognised by your workplace and enjoy your workmates. Work is a place you need to be proud of, experience that it is alive and creative; if not, you feel deflated. When you identify negatively with your work or working environment then you may withdraw and become irritable and condescending. Feedback and approval are important components of your daily routine. You work best when you are aware that you have your superior's approval or your work mates' endorsement. Ultimately of course you need to build your own confidence in what you do, but this is aided by the support of others. Without an adequate sense of approval you may unconsciously expect to fail and therefore not apply yourself or strive to achieve. It is important that you know that there is scope for advancement and that opportunities exist for promotion. With these assurances and the right environment you are a loyal employee and a terrific spokesperson for the company. However you may also be drawn to being self-employed promoting your own products, creative works or talents. Don't shy away from promoting yourself or having big ideas, as this is a natural aspect of who you are. You possess a natural appeal which attracts the right situation to you when you give it a chance. With your charisma you can easily promote and sell yourself. It is good to know that people find you attractive. However, when you lack confidence or doubt your own talents you might compensate by becoming overconfident or inflated, which damages your natural charm. When you become stressed your cardio-vascular system becomes overworked and over wrought. Work stress affects the heart, reminding you that you need to return to centre. Your chart indicates that there is a correlation between work pressure and tension with your heart. Since Leo also is connected to the lower back, pain in this region reminds you that you are out of sync and need to find work that is enjoyable and fulfilling.

The Moon

The Moon is also an important indicator in a Solar Return chart. Generally speaking the Moon shows which areas of your life are likely to undergo change during the year. More specifically the Moon shows your personal needs. Your individual needs and urges are likely to trigger changes in your life during the course of the year.

The Moon is in the Sixth House

It is time to focus on your health and well being, changing any bad habits in favour of life enhancing ones. The good news is that you are now motivated to make the necessary changes. You feel good about adopting a healthier lifestyle. This makes the adjustments so much easier to embrace. On the one hand it is possible that some physical warning signs have prompted you to seek medical advice. A series of tests highlight the areas that need attention and you take appropriate action. On the other hand you may already be living a healthy lifestyle and simply decide to make some slight adjustments. Whatever the scenario this is your year for giving up smoking, reducing your levels of sugar and/or fat, starting an exercise program, and making more time for leisure rather than work. The occasional walk on the beach or a random weekend away may be beneficial, but this alone is not going to cut it this year. You are being called on to change your habits on a daily basis, not just your physical habits but the underlying psychological problems that have led to your bad habits. In other words you need to slow down, reflect on what type of lifestyle is going to be most beneficial to your emotional well being. Ask yourself the question, "what is stressful in my life"? and then ask yourself, "why do I continue to impose these stressful conditions on myself and my loved ones"? Hopefully as you then address these questions you will hopefully reduce your emotional stress, and attend to your emotional needs. You can now embrace a more meaningful lifestyle, and then the physical symptoms that have been plaguing you are likely to dissipate. Meditation, yoga, gym classes, dance lessons, relaxing with loved ones at home are just a few of the ways in which you can slow down and enjoy your life more.

It is always possible that your lifestyle has been the opposite of fast-paced. Perhaps you have been comfortable for some time, and have felt in a bit of a rut. Once again this is the year during which you feel motivated to change. You may change jobs, re-arrange your working environment, become more involved with activities with your co-workers, or start a new work-training program. These changes are likely to be beneficial. The end result of the changes that you adopt this year, is that feel more energetic, optimistic, healthy and enlivened in your daily life.

The Moon is in Leo

This year you are able to put on a happy face no matter what the circumstances. This is because you are in high spirits, noticeably so. In some cases this placement of the annual chart Moon can indicate a new romance and perhaps this is sparking your exuberant attitude. However, it is also just as likely that you are feeling pleased with yourself in many areas of your life. You may have instigated some changes that have turned out well for you, or you may simply be feeling cheerful in the face of adversity. You have a happy knack of making lemonade from lemons this year. For some reason you just can't keep the smile off your face. Others are likely to notice your cheerful demeanour and be drawn to your fun loving nature. Your social calendar may be full as a result. Right now you feel the need for warmth, fun, laughter and company. You want to enjoy life to the best of your ability. As you play you may explore new activities and hobbies, or make the most of your existing talents. The fiery masculine sign of Leo indicates that you have plenty of initiative this year, and are happy to make the most of any creative talents. If you are already drawn to the arts then you are likely to increase your involvement and receive more recognition for your efforts. Perhaps you become the director rather than the actor, the choreographer rather than the dancer or the designer rather than the crew member. However, if you are not artistically inclined then your creativity may find an outlet in a different way. This is a fortunate year in which even if misfortune strikes you surrounded by loved ones, and are able to feel good about your own life. You feel privileged to be part of the great circle of life and indeed, the angels are smiling on you.

The Moon is Trine Pluto

Birth and renewal are themes in your domestic life. This could literally depict a pregnancy and birth of a baby, or it could more metaphorically indicate emotional renewal. Either way you are likely to experience some deep feelings this year, triggered by an event or a person. This is a significant year of change in your personal life. If you try to resist the forces of change then you are likely to experience distress. Your feelings are powerful, perhaps overwhelming at times, however; you are strong and able to end one chapter of your private life and experience the elation that comes from renewal. You are well advised to avoid struggle and conflict and where possible go with the flow. Imagine yourself as a vehicle for the outpouring of emotions. Let them flow through you, rather than fear and resist them. If you can trust the changes that are occurring in your domestic life, and perhaps also your body and allow them to take place, then you are likely to feel cleansed. You need to also have confidence in your feelings of distrust for anyone who plays a prominent role in your personal matters. If your emotional antennae tell you that someone is trying to manipulate or control you then you need to deal with this situation as soon as possible, even if it means walking away. Of course you feel sad as a phase of your life ends, or as you say goodbye to a special person, yet these can also be sacred times, where you learn to have faith in yourself. You are able to recognize your emotional strength as well as form strong bonds with those closest to you. Gradually you realize the privilege of shared emotional experiences and being intimately linked with another human being, whether this is through the process of birth, death, or perhaps marriage. The emotional bonds formed this year are strong.

The Moon is Sesquisquare Jupiter

This is a year of emotional growth, when you realize firsthand that the universe is a big place and you aim to find your place in it. You are likely to move away from the comfort of your home and explore further afield. You may travel to a faraway place. You are no mere tourist, but rather a traveller following a dream, seeking your purpose and exploring different environments. You may like a place so much that you decide to make it your new home. If you are not able to travel, then you may meet an adventurer or philosopher, someone who inspires your own dreams. You may socialize with people from different walks of life rather than travel. Instead you may focus your own emotional energy on expanding your own home, either through renovations or moving to a larger house, or a home that is surrounded by wide-open spaces. You may feel an urge to study a subject close to your heart, something that compels you. You may have a more philosophical bent this year, forming or changing your personal religious or spiritual beliefs. The actions of someone you cherish may spark a change of religious or spiritual beliefs. Faith plays a more prominent role in your private life. The idea is that this year you are keen to have experiences that touch you emotionally, that expand your heart. This is emotional intelligence. Some of your dreams may be a little grandiose and you need to make sure that you are not flying off on tangents that lead nowhere. You may even feel overwhelmed by your emotions as you experience new frontiers. A little moderation could be called for at times. However, even if you do go off track the angels are watching over you this year. Upsets may occur but you and your loved ones are being protected. You learn much about your strengths through adversity. Mostly though good fortune visits your doorstep, and helps you experience happiness and joy in your own personal ruminations, travels and relationships with loved ones. Even if some of your experiences cause you emotional pain, you are likely to look back on this year as one that helped you grow strong and resourceful.

Venus

The planet Venus sheds light on the personal areas of love and finance in the forthcoming year. This planet of love tells you whether or not personal relationships are likely to be prominent during the year. If you are single then are you likely to attract a significant relationship? If you are married is this a year of romance and fun, or perhaps one in which you tackle a few changes.

Venus is in the Seventh House

The planet of love is residing in your personal house of relationships this year. It is as if the Gods have taken a large spotlight and shone it directly on your love life. You are seeking fulfilment through another person. Be careful not to set your standards too high, either for a current partner or a prospective one.

If you are single then right now you are likely to be yearning for someone special to share your life. You may be attracted to someone, or you may be dwelling on the type of person you would like to attract. This is a time during which you think above love, look for love, and likely meet at least one prospective marriage partner. You need to be realistic in your assessment of your relationship needs. Otherwise you may set the bar too high and miss the opportunity to meet and marry someone special, not perfect but uniquely suited to you. Try to enjoy the dating game.

If you are already in a committed relationship, then the spotlight is on your need to share pleasurable moments with your loved one. Ideally you and your partner are able to enjoy romantic interludes, harmonious outings and shared love. You need to take care that you do not expect too much. Your needs for love are highlighted this year. You may be a little insatiable when it comes to love and romance, particularly if past hurts and neglect come to the surface and you are unable to forgive and forget. Money matters may also be at the centre of your concerns. It may be the right time to get your joint finances and any business contracts in order. You would do well to notice your feelings regarding your partner, carefully assess them in the cold light of day and then you can decide what action to take. Be honest with yourself and your partner. If you need to lower your expectations then do so. If you are really dissatisfied with your marriage, and you feel that it is beyond repair then you may leave your relationship to seek fulfilment elsewhere.

Whether you are single or married, you need to be wary of fleeting sexual passion. This is a year for rekindling true love and passion for life, not letting unruly hormones rule your decisions. This is your year to rediscover a passion for life, perhaps in liaison with another person. However, it could also be time to fall in love with inspirational artistic, fashion or beauty project, or perhaps even with yourself.

Venus is in Virgo

The planet of love is in an Earth sign this year indicating that you are more security conscious when it comes to love and money matters. Generally speaking you are not willing to take risks when it comes to your finances and love life. Even if you are usually more adventurous, this year you are looking for stability. You are less willing to step out of your comfort zone. If you are single and looking for a lover, then you are likely to be attracted to a solid and dependable type of person, someone to whom you can ultimately commit. If you are attached, then you want seek reliability and predictability. For this reason this year may be one during which you make a commitment, either of your own volition or as a result of your partner's request. Sensuality may also play a key role in your love life this year. Look at other aspects of your annual chart for more details on your love life and money matters.

Venus is Square Pluto

You are about to make some profound discoveries and changes when it comes to love and money. Over the course of the year you are likely to become more and more focussed on everyday patterns, how the minutiae reflect the larger issues at hand. The psychological side of relationships is highlighted. If you are living a solitary lifestyle then you become increasingly aware of your own needs for independence versus dependence, and how these affect your desire, or not, to be in a close and intimate relationship. The time may have come to change the way that you approach and interact in intimate unions, or to accept that you are happier in your own company. Either way a deep psychological change occurs in your psyche, which in turn affects your prospects for marriage. If you are in a relationship, then you are likely to become increasingly aware of the interactions, the nature of sharing within the relationship, and whether or not your own needs are being met. This can be an intense process, even if you are in a loving and supportive union. Little things can take on larger than life proportions right now, and you need to do a little soul-searching to find their origins, to gain insights into the true nature of your interactions and then to change what needs to be changed. This is particularly true when it comes to money matters. You are likely to change the way in which you and your partner handle your finances, even if this involves a few arguments. You are prepared to battle to change the balance in your marriage, if you have to, but should also consider alternative methods of asserting yourself. Your insights may be correct, and your relationship needs are likely to be valid, but a battleground is unlikely to serve anyone. Your need to change the way in which money is handled in your marriage could be as a result of a change of circumstances, or because you have made a profound decision in your own life. Your spouse may not realise just how much the little everyday things are affecting your attitude to love and money right now. Therefore you would be well advised to keep the lines of communication open right now. The more that you can express your deepest feelings and desires, the more satisfying your love union becomes. As a result the changes that take place can bring you closer to your loved one, and no matter what serious issues arrive they can be dealt with together.

Mars

The planet Mars tells you about your assertion and drive for the year. It depicts what motivates you in the current year, and what desires drive you most powerfully. Are you ambitious for professional power, or do you desire a meaningful relationship? Are you likely to be highly motivated, or perhaps ready to sit back and cruise for a while? These are the types of questions answered by the qualities of the planet Mars in your birthday chart.

Mars is in the Seventh House

The sparks are flying in your partnerships this year. The positive note sounded right now is one of excitement, sexual tension, and energetic co-operation in business and personal affiliations. If you are single then you may meet someone who really lights your fires, and changes your personal life. If you are married then you are keen to involve your spouse in your activities and projects. You seek their enthusiasm and involvement, at the same time expecting your beloved to accept your guidance. It is also possible that an event in your own or your spouse's life triggers a change of circumstances this year. Sexual attraction is likely to be a strong force in your major relationship this year. You are keen to share positive sensual experiences, and may become disgruntled if the feelings are not shared. You may feel frustrated, tempted to have an extra-marital affair. All being well, this year sees your marriage or business partnerships flourishing with renewed vigour and excitement. The problem is that you may be expecting too much. The planet Mars is a feisty one, that often incites arrogance in those who have this tendency. Therefore you need to be wary of being too pushy. You may have plenty of energy and drive, but perhaps you are compelling your partner to follow your lead, when he or she has other plans. If you are not careful joint projects can become a battle of wills, yours against your partner's. This likely to aggravate you, and fail to produce the results that you want. Of course, if someone else is standing in your way you can end the alliance. This is your choice, but you need to be sure that you are doing this for the right reasons. If you are simply being childish, taking your ball and playing elsewhere because you haven't been able to force your own way, then you are likely to miss out on all the benefits of a loving marriage, or a successful business partnership. On the other hand if you have done all that you can to co-operate and feel that the battle has reached a standoff, or worse still is showing signs of violence, then you may decide that the time has come to move on. In this case you and your partner could part ways this year. Imagine that you are in charge of a team of headstrong, harnessed horses, pent up and keen to take off. What is the best way of handling this spirited team? The answer is to keep calm and disciplined guidance through the reins, as well as giving the team enough freedom to race ahead. This is how you can harness your own feelings when it comes to your involvement with your spouse or business associates.

Mars is Sesquisquare Neptune

You are travelling along the road and you see a sign that says road works. You know the road rules and you slow down, knowing that others' safety and your own well being depend on it. So why is it so difficult to do the same thing when your life requires the same action. The challenge for you this year is to take notice of the signs of whether or not you are on the right path, to slow down when necessary and to take a different road if required. Others may question your motivation, but you need to take note of your own heart and mind. It is time to follow your intuition and to ensure that your actions have meaning. Otherwise you could lose your sense of purpose, feel redundant and have decisions made for you. It is much preferable for you to calmly take the initiative. This is an excellent year to pursue humanitarian or artistic project. You may not benefit financially, but you are likely to find the work rewarding, particularly if you work behind the scenes rather than seeking the limelight. This is your year for service to others, rather than self-seeking behaviour. You need to strive for emotional satisfaction and creative merit, rather than material gains. It is possible that you are at the mercy of the whims of someone else this year. If this is the case then your life may change direction as a result of his or her creative endeavours. Of course, you do not have to be the sacrificial lamb at the altar of their desires. You can pursue your own dreams, but you may have to be prepared to assert yourself gently and firmly. Your compassion for others is likely to be aroused now, and therefore you are a soft target for con artists, pedlars and fundraisers. You need to refrain from making financial contributions or decisions that deplete your resources. Donations of time and money certainly have merit but your powers of discrimination are not strong, so wait until after your next birthday before investing large amounts of money. Likewise you can volunteer your time, but make sure that you are not depleting your own energy levels.

Uranus

The planet Uranus is one of disclosure. It reveals the areas that you need to change during the course of your birthday year. If you are the type of person who anticipates and embraces new experiences then you are likely to delight in the challenges, and instigate a few of your own in the area highlighted by this unpredictable planet. If you tend to prevaricate, preferring the comfort on known situations, then you are likely to be in for a few surprises. This erratic planet does not recognise safety and security. Its task is to help you to grow beyond your limitations. You can either accept or resist the challenge and see what happens as a result.

Uranus is in the First House

It is time to disclose your true nature. If you have been hiding your light under a bushel, taking a back seat to someone near and dear or acting in any way that is not authentic then this is your year to break free. If you are a strong individual then you may already be living an authentic life, true to yourself and your ideology. Therefore you may undergo a series of seemingly minor adjustments such as changing your physical appearance by working out at a gym, changing your diet, hair colour or fashion style. You may feel that it is time to freshen up your image, rather than make major life changes. On the other hand you may want to make a bigger statement by changing your job, moving to a location that more truly reflects the lifestyle that you crave, or by starting a study course that really lights your fire. You may experience a blinding flash of clarify about what it is that you crave to change in your life this year, or you may feel an inner itchiness, a restlessness that is pervasive. Try to trace the source of this restlessness, even if it means taking some time out to discover this source. You may also consider living on your own for a period of time in order to truly discover your true nature. As part of your self-exploration you could try a series of new activities so that you can explore different options and see what appeals. You may also meet someone new and exciting, who reflects the changes that you would like to make. For instance if you are a responsible and staid individual then you may meet someone who takes risks, and lives a creative and free lifestyle. This person is like a beacon showing you the traits that you need to take on this year. This is your opportunity to break free of any restrictions. If you have always listened to other people rather than to your own inner truth, then you are now free to follow your own heart. You may surprise yourself once you start to break the bonds of your own and other people's expectations of who you should be, and how you should act. As you become more authentic you are also likely to be astounded by the changes that you instigate, and the chain reaction that reverberates in all other areas of your life. This is an exciting and liberating time.

Uranus is Conjunct The Ascendant

This is your opportunity to break free of any restrictions. If you have always listened to other people rather than to your own inner truth, then you are now free to follow your own heart. You may surprise yourself once you start to break the bonds of your own and other people's expectations of who you should be, and how you should act. As you become more authentic you are also likely to be astounded by the changes that you instigate, and the chain reaction that reverberates in all other areas of your life. This is an exciting and liberating time.

Pluto

Peace can be deceptive. True peace comes when life is balanced, when you are living true to yourself and are sincerely happy with your life choices. You respect other people and assert your own needs and wishes, and live your life with integrity. Sometimes it appears that your life is peaceful, but you are really just sweeping things under the proverbial carpet, keeping the peace by swallowing your own needs or biding your time until events or people force you to make the necessary changes. You can be assured that the powerful planet Pluto will shine a bright light in one or more areas of your birthday chart and you will see your own process very clearly. If you are living your life true to yourself then you are likely to reap benefits from this planet of transformation. However, if you have been dodging the truth then events or people are likely to change.

Pluto is in the Tenth House

Prepare for your date with destiny. The powerful planet Pluto is influencing your life direction - marital status, career, parental influences and standing in the community. The time has come for you to reassess your influence in society, the role that you play as an authority in your field, your career satisfaction and your marital status. As a result of your soul-searching you are then challenged to make changes. If you are satisfied with your current career choice, then you may choose to stay in the same profession and seek more responsibility. If you are dissatisfied then you are likely to seek a new career path. If you are single then you may marry, depending on other influences in your astrology chart. You may become a parent, which changes the course of your life.

Matters of power are also likely to be prominent right now in your profession. What does this mean? One dictionary describes "power" as, "the ability or official capacity to exercise control; authority - a person, group, or nation having great influence or control over others - forcefulness; effectiveness." In other words make sure that you co-operate with anyone in a position of authority. This is not the year to go head to head with your boss. You are better advised to work to the best of your ability and co-operate.

Mercury

The planet Mercury helps you plan your year ahead. The Messenger of the Gods in a Solar Return chart indicates whether or not you are encouraged to forge ahead with your plans, or perhaps better advised to wait another year before moving ahead. This is particularly true for any area of your life connected with communications, study, business and transport.

Mercury is in the Seventh House

Love and all that is connected to love is highlighted right now. If you are single then you may meet someone new and intellectually stimulating, perhaps even two new people. While your mental connection is powerful, you need to ensure that you also feel an emotional bond. Otherwise you may feel torn between wanting to share your life with this person, and wondering if it will last because deep down you realize that an important issue is not going to satisfy you in the long term. On the other hand you may be delighted with your new partner, more than willing to compromise and keen to make a commitment. Keep the communication lines open, because this is your year for decisions when it comes to life partners and marriage. In fact an imminent wedding ceremony may be the focus of many discussions and plans, as choices need to made about flowers, serviettes, wedding cars, guest lists and all that is entailed in such a happy event. If you are already married then discussions are likely to be intense surrounding some other happy event. Perhaps you are discussing whether or not to have children, or planning your life together as your children leave home. You and your partner may spend many hours sitting around the kitchen table discussing renovation plans, or how to juggle holidays with family commitments. Perhaps a big overseas trip is on the wish list and now you have to plan the details. Whatever the happy event, your lesson is to keep conversing and remain flexible. If there are gremlins in the works and events don't go exactly to plan then don't get irritable and argue. Try to see the funny side. If you and your partner don't see eye to eye on something important then take time out, and then negotiate a compromise. The most important thing this year is that you are learning about yourself, your relationship and your partner. As US psychologist Dr Phil McGraw says, "do you want to be right, or do you want to be happy?"

Mercury is in Libra

The ideas are flowing fast this year with your annual Mercury in a social Air sign. Gatherings of all kinds are likely to provide plenty of stimulation this year. You may take a real interest in other people's news, learning much about your friends, family, colleagues and also the world at large. While the creative ideas flow, you may have difficulty concentrating on one task at a time. Your challenge is to avoid being distracted by social events, and people who just love to chat. Of course if you are happy to socialize, network and achieve very little else intellectually this year then you can cheerfully do so. However, if other aspects of your life demand results then you need to make sure that you apply yourself to the tasks at hand. If you have given your word then you need to follow through with action. Otherwise your reputation may suffer as others become weary of broken promises. Don't try to talk your way out of trouble, or lash out with a sharp tongue. Ask for help and delegate where possible. This year you can enjoy improved communications in most areas of your life, and may even delight in the stimulation of juggling many activities. You are mentally sharp and inventive. As a result creative projects and business decisions may come easily to you.

Mercury is Conjunct Venus

In many ways this is a good news year. Even if you are facing some challenges you have the self-confidence and the support to rise above your difficulties, make plans and decisions that are in your best interest. Ask and you shall receive. Your friend, family and colleagues are likely to help you this year. As you make improvements in your lifestyle, decisions that change your course, you discover that offers of love, support and even money may come your way. You need only decide what you most desire and then announce your plans, and the rest follows. It is time to make your fortune. All may not turn out exactly as you had planned, but you can trust that the results will be to your liking. For instance you lose your job only to be offered an exciting opportunity with even better conditions and financial remuneration. You may be unmarried, planning your life as a single person. You are fully prepared to go solo, and then you meet someone and strike up a romance. Life as you know it changes, but for the better as you incorporate your lover into your life. Romance is a distinct possibility for singles this year, and you may fall in love and make a commitment before the year is out. You may also receive a financial gift. "Fortune favours the brave", as the saying goes, so don't hesitate to make the most of the opportunities that spark your passion.

Jupiter

The planet Jupiter tells you about the opportunities and benefits that arise during the course of the year. Good news, new prospects and a sense of well being are associated with this beneficial planet.

Jupiter is in the Tenth House

This is your year for being in the right place at the right time when it comes to career and marriage. Follow your intuition and you are likely to find lady luck keeps turning up opportunities for you to achieve your career goals, and advance your marital status. If you are single then you could meet a person who turns your life upside down, in the nicest possible way. This is a "heart beating", "must marry this person" type of feeling on a first meeting. If you are married then you are likely to experience a renewed sense of hope, faith and love in your marriage. Together you can conquer the world. You may travel together, or share a life-changing experience. If you are living a solitary life, then you are also likely to travel this year through some connection with your work, or perhaps to witness a loved one's wedding ceremony. Whether you are single or married, your career is likely to advance in leaps and bounds, as long as you have laid the groundwork. This is a "reap what you sow" year. If you have made foolish decisions in the past then you may have to make up ground this year. You are publicly recognised for previous achievements. The same is also true, on rare occasions, if you have been too grandiose. Your reputation is prominent, whether it is good or not so good. You can do it, and you are also aware of the valuable lessons that you have learnt. Travel, study, promotions, teaching, and golden opportunities are all possibilities in your career arena. It is up to you to make the most of the luck that comes your way rather than squander opportunities that may not come around again so quickly.

Jupiter is Trine Saturn

This year you are likely to make steady progress towards achieving your life goals. You're wise and perceptive, with a talent for creative ideas and the ability to put those ideas into action. Right now you're blessed with a wonderful sense of timing, knowing exactly when to make the right moves to achieve a desired result, whether it be for yourself or for a group project. You've just the right blend of optimism and realism. For these reasons you may enjoy success in your work whether as a leader, working on your own or as a valued member of a team. You work well within a structured system and therefore can do well in business this year, or in any project that demands this ordered approach. You have the ability to see the big picture and then work steadily towards achieving your results. You are able to move forward with any project right now because you have the ability to assess your options and make wise choices. You are likely to gain invaluable experiences this year in whatever you do and your reputation is likely to flourish. This is a powerful combination for success.

Saturn

Timing is an important aspect of life. People often comment on being in the right place at the right time. The planet Saturn can support us when it comes to timing. Is the time right to take up a new venture, or would we be better advised to shoulder our current responsibilities for a little longer? These are the types of questions that the nature of the planet Saturn can reveal when reading a Solar Return chart.

Saturn is in the Sixth House

This is your year to develop a strong work ethic, if you don't already have one. If you are a hard worker, then this is your year to reap the benefits of your hard work. Work, service and health are highlighted. It is important that you don't overdo things; otherwise your body is likely to show signs of strain. You need to pay attention to your daily workload, how you structure your days and how you apply yourself to your job. This is a year to focus on the details, rather than the big picture. For instance if you lift heavy objects, how to do you take the strain? Are you following the proper procedures for lifting and carrying correctly? Or are you straining your body by carrying out your job incorrectly? If you are paying attention to the procedures, in any work-related area, then you are likely to enjoy a year during which your efforts are rewarded. However if you are flouting the system in little ways then the everyday repetitive strain is likely to take its toll. Your lesson is to recognize that it is time to pay attention to specifics, the minutiae and seemingly irrelevant details. When necessary you need to take corrective measures, and follow the regulations. Learn the value of doing everyday tasks well. If you do not then you are likely to suffer the consequences, which could include losing your job, being forced to take time off work through physical strain or illness, or feeling tired and disappointed. On the other hand if you take notice of your work, what is required and apply yourself to the essentials then you can find satisfaction in a job well done. It is not just your working environment that requires your attention this year. It is also household tasks. You need to take responsibility for cleaning, tidying, fixing, building, and general upkeep at home. If these skills do not come naturally, then you may have to ask for help. Perhaps you know a friend or family member who is an expert in handyman skills, and can teach you the ropes? On the other hand you may have to budget and pay someone, but this year you are required to focus attention on what needs fixing in your house. If you have pets then you need to ensure that their health and well being are shipshape. At times you may feel as though you are servicing the needs of others, more than your own, but this is actually your year to search for a sense of purpose and joy in your daily life.

Neptune

The planet Neptune represents all that is ethereal in our world, and challenges us to develop qualities such as faith, hope and love even in the face of adversity. Under the influence of Neptune we can soar to great inspirational heights, however; if we are not careful then we can also sink into despair and disillusionment. The test is to look beyond the superficial and find meaning in our lives. The planet Neptune in our annual chart can indicate where to look.

Neptune is in the Twelfth House

It is time to surrender your spirit so that it might be renewed. This could mean finding time on a daily basis to meditate, listen to inspirational music or enjoy an uplifting film, or it could mean going on a spiritual retreat, fishing trip or writing your memoirs in a mountain cabin. It is important that you allow yourself moments of total immersion in a creative or meditative pursuit. Sit in a darkened room and whistle a tune, or sit under a tree and say a prayer, pick up your guitar and play. These are just some of the avenues open to you. You may simply want to get in your car and spend a night in a remote and beautiful location. The key to this year is to find some way in which to escape your daily responsibilities and tune out. There are several reasons why you need this time alone. The main one is that other people are not to be trusted this year. This is not to say that they are evil, or deceitful, but rather that they don't necessarily have your best interests at heart. Everyone has an agenda, and this year you are becoming more sensitive to what is being left unsaid, rather than what words are being spoken. You are noticing body language and other subtle signals. These revelations are likely to be disconcerting. You may feel disillusioned, wondering if you are on the right path and if you are really seeing things clearly. You need to learn to trust your own intuition and insights, but you also need a rest. You can share your insights with those closest to you, but be prepared for denial. Right now you are extra sensitive, and other people are not necessarily so aware of the undercurrents. Another reason why you need to escape the hum drum side of life is that this year you are likely to face a few ghosts from the past. Memories and dreams seem to pervade your daytime thoughts distracting you from tasks at hand. It is time to lay some of these ghosts to rest. You are being called to forgive, not forget, past hurts and mishaps so that you can move forward. As you undergo this process you are likely to note that your capacity for compassion, love and understanding deepen. If you are an artist then your work is likely to subtly change in inspirational ways. This is a very soulful year if you give yourself permission to listen to your urge to merge with the more uplifting elements of this world.

Neptune is Sextile Midheaven

If ambition, financial security and hard work have been the primary motivating forces in your profession then this is about to change. This is the year in which you start to look beyond the mundane and ask yourself if there is more to life than your current work. You seek more meaning in life, and particularly in your public life. It is time to question whether or not your current job really reflects your true passion. If it does then you are unlikely to make any dramatic changes to your career, or life direction. Your work may change in subtle ways, as you spend less hours at the office, or incorporate more creative or philanthropic approaches in certain areas. It is the ideal year in which to introduce a vision or mission statement into your work place, and perhaps become more benevolent or creative in your own role. You may take a temporary or permanent break making the most of long service leave, retirement, or some such scheme that enables you to slow down, recharge your batteries and return to your current work place with a new lease on life. It is always possible that you are unsure about your career right now. You may be vaguely aware of some dissatisfaction but are unable to ascertain the cause of your unrest. This also hold true for any volunteer line of work, or public office role. If you are weary without knowing why, then it is likely that you are resisting the changes that need to occur this year. Try to take note of the symbols and meaning that are like signposts on your life's journey.

Northnode

The Nodes highlight the areas of your year that are destined to occur no matter what you do. When you look back on your life you can see moments when the coincidences just seemed too uncanny - a chance meeting, a phone call out of the blue or an instant of being in the right place at the right time. The Nodes can give hints of which areas of your life are attracting the Fates attention right now.

Northnode is in the Eleventh House

This year’s journey is not one that you are likely to take on your own. It is time for you to find common ground with your friends and family. Group activities may appeal. In fact the opportunity to join a new group, cause or set of friends may cross your path. Your destiny is linked with this new group of people. If you are accustomed to spending a lot of time on your own, this year sees a change of heart. The humanitarian side of your nature is to the fore. If you are already a social being then you are fated to take a more prominent role in society. You attend a meeting and feel compelled to volunteer for an office bearer’s role, or a public relations job. It is possible that other events in your life trigger a change of friendships. A new relationship may propel you into a different social circle. Whatever your personal circumstances this is the year that you are destined to discover new hopes, dreams and wishes through contact with other people.

Northnode is Sesquisquare Mercury

Destiny plays its role in news received this year. It could be good news, or challenging information. Either way you are faced with some tough decisions, which affect the course of your life. In some ways you can be comforted that there is no wrong decision. Your choices are linked with fate and may be ultimately taken out of your hands anyway. Someone else may have already set in motion decisions that affect the course of your life, and you can only choose to go along with them or suffer the consequences. In other words you may feel like you have little choice in the matter, and this way well be the case. You are destined to receive the news and then it is not so much what you decide as a result, but how you reach your decision. Your communications now need to be calm, clear and considered. Later you may see the sense of this time more clearly than you can right now.

About the Author: Stephanie Johnson is a founder of Esoteric Technologies, the company that creates the Solar Fire suite of astrology products. She has helped create, design, develop and author Solar Fire and the other products. In particular she is the author of many of the Solar Writer range of astrology report writers. She is also the Marketing Director for Esoteric Technologies. Stephanie runs her own Seeing With Stars astrology consultation business as well as editing the Australian Data Collection. She holds a Federation of Australian Astrologers' Practitioner's Certificate and Diploma and is a member of the Federation of Australian Astrologers. She is a student of Medieval Astrology and the Ancient Wisdom teachings. She has lectured at national conferences, and her astrology articles have appeared in Australian publications including the FAA Journal and the Astrological Monthly Review. Before commencing her professional astrology career Stephanie was a journalist for 15 years in Australia, England and the USA.

About the Artist: Janet Bridgland is an artist and illustrator who paints in water colour. She works in a secondhand book shop called Back Pages Books, where she paints by a window overlooking a courtyard where the light is good. Her work may be seen there. She also exhibits at Greenhill Galleries in North Adelaide, Australia. You can contact Janet at backpages@bigpond.

Please note that the author and publisher accept no liability for any adverse effects of this report.

Copyright 2008, Esoteric Technologies Pty Ltd.