December 25: Mercury sextile Neptune
'If you can dream it, you can have it' -- ever heard those words, or something similar? If you have, put them into action now, with full confidence that the universe is on your side. Cerebral, thoughtful Mercury is making easy contact with whimsical, woozy Neptune -- the stuff that not just dreams, but great big dreams are made of. However, if you come up with an idea that seems too good to be true, even if it sounds perfectly rational to you at the time, call on someone whose advice you trust -- just for the heck of it, and definitely before you take action. Hey, it can't hurt, and it might definitely help.
December 29: Sun sextile Uranus
When the Sun gets together with startling Uranus, there's no telling what might happen -- but it can't help but be surprising. Fortunately for all of us, the Sun is in sturdy, respectable Capricorn at the moment. So while you may still take a risk, it will certainly be a well-calculated risk. Still, with Uranus involved, there's no way to predict a situation's outcome, outside of knowing that it won't even be close to what you'd expected. Then again, once we become adults, how often are we actually surprised? Sit back and enjoy it.
December 30: New Moon in Capricorn
It's time for the yearly meeting of the Sun and Moon in Capricorn, which is sure to turn our attention toward duty, responsibility and getting the job done. Period. In the meantime, heaven help any friends or family who aren't quite so involved in their own work matters or projects, because they'll definitely have to learn to get along without you for a few days. They'll share some of your thoughts, though: For example, they'll want to take charge of their own careers, and they may even receive some interesting offers along those lines. Everyone's been working hard -- there's no doubt about that -- so why not give yourself the evening off from your responsibilities and have some plain old fun with the ones you love? 'Tis the season, after all ....
This new Moon will most affect Capricorns born December 29-January 2, Aries born March 28-April 1, Cancers born June 29-July 3 and Libras born October 1-5.
December 31: Mercury conjunct Pluto
With the emotional Moon in serious Capricorn, you won't be able to shake the feeling that you 'should' be doing something -- even if you're absolutely sure you've made your list and checked it twice. Still, you really should let go long enough to celebrate the New Year. And with thoughtful Mercury and intense, powerful Pluto in cahoots, your resolutions will be off to a potent start. These two planets, regardless of the sign they're in, are an amazingly persuasive duo. But since they're in Sagittarius, the sign of the salesperson, you'll be particularly adept at convincing others of your point of view, whether you do it through humor, rationalization or plain old common-sense philosophies. Just make sure you let up on the serious stuff by midnight. Raise a glass of whatever you choose, embrace someone you care for and bring on 2006 with a wish, a hope and a positive attitude. Happy New Year!
January 1: Venus into Capricorn, Sun trine Mars
Since December 24, Venus has been retrograde, creating the illusion that she's moving backward. Well, now the planet of love and beauty is rolling all the way back to Capricorn, leaving Aquarius's rebelliousness in favor of dedication and goal-oriented responsibility. During this unusually long stint in Capricorn, right through March 5, you'll be inspired to turn that casual travel companion/party partner you've been keeping company with into a full-time significant other. Meanwhile, the Sun, also currently in Capricorn, will form an easy trine with energetic Mars, putting the heavens' two fireballs in the mood to cooperate. If you've got something tough to tackle, whether emotionally or physically, it's time to do it. You'll have just the right amount of determination and stamina -- not to mention a remarkably cheerful attitude!