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Cancer

The Crab

June 22 to July 22

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Element: Water

Glyph: Crab’s claws

Quality: Cardinal

Anatomy: Stomach, breasts

Polarity: Yin/feminine

Colors: Silver, pearl white

Planetary Ruler: The Moon

Animals: Crustaceans, cows, chickens

Meditation: I have faith in the promptings of my heart

Myths/Legends: Hercules and the Crab, Asherah, Hecate

Gemstone: Pearl

House: Fourth

Power Stones: Moonstone, Chrysocolla

Opposite Sign: Capricorn

Flower: Larkspur

Key Phrase: I feel

Keyword: Receptivity

The Cancer Personality

Your Strengths, Gifts, and Challenges

Your astrological symbol is the Crab, Cancer—which certainly does explain a lot. To start with, crabs have very, very hard shells—that protect very, very vulnerable innards. So contrary to what you might think, but unbeknownst to absolutely no one who knows you, is the fact that even if you come off as a tad brusque at times, you’re a serious marshmallow underneath it all. Now, when you’re this vulnerable, armor of the emotional variety is absolutely necessary. The thing is, you can get so good at arming yourself with brusqueness that at times your manner will be a bit off-putting—especially if you’re with people who aren’t intuitive enough to understand what’s motivating it. The other thing, however, is that it would break your heart to think that someone sweet and wonderful who might be in need of a hug, a good hot meal, or a foot rub was too intimidated to get close enough to ask. Yes, it’s an emotional dilemma, but the good news is that it’s easily remedied. Pay attention to the effect your mood swings have on others. You might need to hold back your feelings just a little every now and then—say, for example, when you’re hungry. In other words, practice being nice to anyone who isn’t responsible for your mood or your hunger. If you’re prone to all-out displays of anger, counting to ten could be quite helpful, too. That goes for moments of petulance and snits in general, by the way. No, it’s not easy to curtail your feelings with the emotional Moon as your patron planet, and yes, feelings are your job, but you can certainly make an effort to smooth out the rough edges and become more accessible. After all, unconditional love is your quest. Making yourself easy to love is in your best interests.

Romance, Friendships, and Casual Relationships

We’ve talked about the similarities between you and your sign’s symbol, the Crab, but let’s get back to that shell for a second, because when it comes to getting to know others, it’s kind of mandatory that you either come out of there or let them come in. The thing is, that shell doubles as your home, and there’s nothing more important to you than having a safe, secure place to return to after being out and about in that exhausting place known as the outside world. Needless to say, if you invite someone into your heart and your home to share your world, that’s a very big compliment, and one can only hope they appreciate it. If they don’t, however, you won’t hesitate to show them the door. You have a big heart and you often tolerate a lot from others, but if you’re hurt—whether the offense was real or imagined—you can fall into pouting and sulking, which might feel good initially but won’t help you make your case in the long run. Ah, well. Surround yourself with other emotional water signs—like Scorpio and Pisces—and you stand a very good chance of being understood and appreciated, not to mention the fact that you’ll also enjoy the company of someone who loves to hibernate as much as you do. If you’re bored and restless, however, and looking for a change, seek out the company of airy Libra or fiery Leo, signs that love commitment and family as much as you do.

Career and Work

In an ideal world, each of us would spend every waking hour doing something we love to do, Cancer—which includes the hours we put in at work to earn our daily bread. In your case, working out of your home is obviously a goal to aim your energies toward—that is, if you haven’t already found a way to pull it off. Being a stay-at-home dad or mom fits the bill nicely—and heaven help anyone who says that doesn’t qualify as work, especially if they’re foolish enough to say it in front of you. If you don’t have a family of your own just yet, caring for other people’s kids, homes, and/or animals will do just fine. You’re built for taking care of homes, though, so selling, maintaining, or evaluating real estate will work nicely.

Money and Possessions

Security is priority number one in your book, Cancer, so having a cushy nest egg at the ready is important to your peace of mind. You’re really, really good at keeping it not just secret but entirely unexpected and very well hidden, too. That said, if one of the kids needs something, you’ll break into your stash just a bit to help them out, but until you replace it, you won’t feel comfortable. Other than going for groceries—which is actually fun for you, since it allows you to spend money guilt-free—shopping expeditions are usually reserved for home or family-oriented needs. Every now and then, though, treat yourself—and not just to a pint of Ben and Jerry’s.

Your Lighter Side

As much as you love your nest, your family, and your inner circle, Cancer, it’s pretty darn obvious that the best of all worlds is having absolutely everyone you love over to your place—for a meal, at least, if not for an all-out day-long food fest. Yes, whether it’s a reunion, a celebration, an anniversary, or a just-for-the-heck-of-it Sunday barbecue, it’s what lights up your life—and the lives of those who’ve been invited, too! Oh, and did I mention the great love and affection you have for your kitchen, once you have it set up just right? I mean, honestly—could there be anything better than puttering around in there, listening to the voices of family and friends? In your book, Cancer, that’s nirvana.

Cancer Celebrities

The emotional Moon is your patron planet, Cancer, and she’s very fond of silver, which is quite the reflective element. So think mirrors and then impressionists—and then consider that you were born under the same sign as both Robin Williams and Meryl Streep, the master and mistress of ducking out of their own bodies and taking on another persona. But you folks also have a way of making your way into our hearts in a very big way. Like Tom Cruise, Ricky Gervais, Jessica Simpson, Princess Diana, Tom Hanks, Liv Tyler, Will Ferrell, and Malala Yousafzai, for example.

Words to Live By for 2017

My own needs must be met before I can meet the needs of others.

The Year Ahead for Cancer

Your solar tenth house will play host to the lovely lady Venus for a total of three months this year, Cancer—and wherever Venus goes, good things follow. Now, this house is where you handle matters pertaining to career, profession, and dealings with higher-ups, elders, and authority figures. Venus is a veritable magnet for all things sweet, pleasing, and satisfying, and in this spot—especially since she’s all done up in Aries, a sign that’s just about impossible not to notice—well, if you’ve been hoping to make your mark in your chosen field, you’ll undoubtedly have the help of at least one influential person who’ll take you under their wing. Of course, what goes around comes around, and you’ve taken many newbies under your own wing in the past, so think of this time period as the Universe’s way of saying thank you for all your past efforts. In the department of romance, by the way—one of Venus’s specialties—you might find that you’re suddenly quite attracted to someone in a position of authority over you, and if that’s the case, there may also be an age difference that causes you to worry. Don’t. Focus on what you have in common, and let your relationship unfold as it will.

Professional partnerships are also spotlighted when Venus passes through the tenth house, especially if you’re thinking of sharing financial responsibilities. The thing is, while Venus will spend her time here from February 3 through April 2 and again from April 28 through June 6, she’ll be moving retrograde from March 4 through April 15, so if you’ve got anything official to sign, seal, and deliver, wait. You’ll probably be quite busy with personal and domestic things, anyway, thanks to mighty Jupiter. He’ll spend most of the year in your solar fourth house of home and family matters, so straight through October 10, even if you’re working hard to advance your career, you can expect to be distracted by more tender matters. Jupiter is an expansive energy, so you’ll probably need to make room for a new roommate at least, but you may also be moving in with someone yourself, marrying, or welcoming a new family member. News along those lines will arrive in early February or early June.

Saturn

Saturn is preparing to spend his last year in Sagittarius and your solar sixth house of work, relationships with coworkers, and health issues, Cancer. You’ve probably gotten super-organized—and as a result gotten a whole lot done—but I’ll bet you still won’t be sorry to see Saturn go. For one thing, this planet is extremely fond of structure and schedules, and as a rule, you water signs aren’t. You’d rather go with the flow and allow your emotions to guide your activities throughout your day. Put another way, you folks just like to do your own thing. Period. Still, you’ve been dealing with this cranky taskmaster for two years now, so you’ve definitely learned to accommodate him, most likely due to added responsibilities that forced you to prioritize your time. The good news is that if these added duties were given to you on the job, you’ve probably outdone yourself, which puts you in a far better position—professionally speaking—than you were in a year or two ago. The even better news is that if you haven’t already made room in your day for exercise, yoga, or meditation, you’ll have the entire coming year to make it happen. You’re on such a regimented schedule right now that it would be easy for you to forget about your health. Don’t do that. Tend to yourself with the same type of love and attention you give to others. Get thee to a gym or start daily walks with friends. And watch your sugar intake!

Uranus

Where Uranus goes, change of the most sudden variety follows, Cancer. Now, back in 2010, Mr. Unpredictable stormed off into fiery Aries and your solar tenth house of authority figures, higher-ups, and career matters—which certainly does explain a lot, doesn’t it? Ever since then, this wired, twitchy energy has had you thinking about ditching it all and fleeing from your current profession and into the arms of the field you’ve always wanted to pursue, maybe even from as early on as childhood. This type of longing that Uranus inspires—to be yourself even while you’re at work, that is—is impossible to ignore. Plus, he’s an insistent kind of guy. At some point, then, you’ll really have no choice but to give in and follow your bliss—so what’s the holdup? Why not get the show on the road right now? That internal tension you’re feeling is your first clue that it’s time to stop living up to the expectations of others at the expense of truly being you, 100 percent of the time. If you feel stifled, repressed, or restless and you haven’t yet rebelled, prepare yourself, because it’s coming. Whoever or whatever is causing you to feel as if you’re in a straightjacket will simply have to leave your life—very soon. Buckle up. All this goes double for those of you born between July 11 and July 23, because Uranus is also currently squaring your Sun. Uranus demands change. Aries planets demand speed. Squares demand action. Any questions?

Neptune

You’re a water sign, Cancer, aptly ruled by the Moon, the Queen of Emotions. As such, you feel quite at home with other emotionally inclined water energies—like Neptune, the Queen of the Oceans, for example. Dreamy, sentimental Neptune has been moving comfortably through equally watery Pisces for the past six-ish years, making it especially easy for you to snuggle up inside a comfy, cozy cocoon and take a nice long nap whenever reality doesn’t suit you. The thing is, if you sleepwalk through this lovely transit, you’ll be cheating yourself out of an opportunity for serious spiritual growth—so please do force yourself to get up off the couch, turn off the television, and find your tribe. You’ve been longing for spiritual fulfillment, and there’s really nothing like being in the presence of kindred spirits. If you were born between June 30 and July 7, Neptune will also be forming an easy trine aspect to your Sun, so finding these folks will be a piece of cake—again, provided you get up, get dressed, and get out there. Don’t miss out on this chance to find new members of your spiritual family. Oh, and if you have the feeling that you’re able to pretty much read other people’s minds—well, don’t question your sanity. Your instincts have always been right on, and now they’re being heightened by Neptune—who erases boundaries and temporarily endows us with superpowers. Just don’t let on to others that you know exactly what they’re thinking. It’s intimidating.

Pluto

Back in 2008, intense Pluto set off for your solar seventh house of one-to-one relationships, Cancer, all done up in serious, practical Capricorn. Now, this energy was tailor-made for commitment. After all these years in this house, there’s no question that you’ve either made, broken, or seriously questioned a commitment to someone—unless, of course, you were born between July 7 and July 13, in which case, you’re probably going through that right now. Whether that someone is important to you personally or professionally doesn’t matter. The point is that you’re going through a kind of molting period now in the department of relationships, and some of the people in your life will necessarily have to go. That goes double for anyone who only functions on a surface level or anyone who isn’t having a positive influence on you. Now, this culling of the herd doesn’t mean you’ll be alone afterward—in fact, since Pluto replaces what’s gone with something new and more positive, you might end up being less alone than you have been in a very long time. This isn’t an overnight process, and no one’s saying it’s going to be a walk in the park, but you can count on feeling like a whole new person when it’s done. In the meantime, resist the urge to hang on by bulldozing or manipulating. If you’re over it, just go.

How Will This Year’s Eclipses Affect You?

Eclipses are celestial exclamation points. They amp up the volume on ordinary life whenever they occur, but the signs and degrees they activate also bring along events and circumstances that are quite intense. Eclipses occur in pairs, six months apart. Solar Eclipses are supercharged New Moons. They bring the Sun and Moon together, marking peak times for planting spiritual seeds and announcing our intentions to the Universe. Lunar Eclipses are high-energy Full Moons, and just like these monthly oppositions between the Sun and the Moon, they signal times of dramatic culmination and fulfillment.

The first Lunar Eclipse of the year will arrive on February 10 in fiery Leo and your solar second house of possessions, money matters, and values, Cancer. If you’ve been thinking of making a major move—and actually, even if you haven’t—this is a great time to begin the process of going through your things with an eye toward keeping what’s important and letting go of what’s not. Now, you usually attach emotions to possessions, especially gifts, but you can’t move forward if you’re still surrounded by the past, so be brave. You don’t have to destroy anything—just see to it that it finds a good home where it will continue to be appreciated.

On February 26, you’ll feel the effects of a Solar Eclipse in Pisces and your solar ninth house, Cancer. Now, this lunation will be working hand in hand with mystical, magical Neptune to open your eyes to new ideas—and possibly even a whole new belief system. If you’ve been searching for something more from the Universe, make it a point to check out other spiritual paths. Your kindred spirits are waiting. Metaphysical subjects will also fascinate you, and your already keen psychic abilities will be running on high. Remember to trust your gut above all else! If you were born around the first of July, a whole new vocation may be calling out to you.

The second Lunar Eclipse of the year will occur on August 7, all done up in startling Aquarius and set to make its presence known in your solar eighth house of joint finances and shared resources. Now, Aquarius is a big fan of sudden change, so if you’ve been angling to refinance your debts, thinking about a new investment, or preparing to bankroll someone else’s business plans, something unexpected could be on the horizon. Prepare yourself so that even if you’re surprised by what happens, you won’t be at a loss. Oh, and this house also has a lot to do with intimate relationships, so if you’re not already involved—well, that could change, suddenly and soon.

On August 21, a Solar Eclipse will bring the Sun and Moon together in Leo and your solar second house—which is exactly where February’s Lunar Eclipse was. Whatever you ended way back then—and not just financially speaking—will now be replaced by something you probably
didn’t see coming that’s bigger, better, or just plain old refreshingly different. Might be a new job, an entirely new profession, or a whole new set of higher-ups who actually appreciate your work. Regardless, you have a chance now to make a name for yourself in your field simply by doing your job to the very best of your creative abilities. Take advantage of it!

Cancer | January

Relaxation and Recreation

Venus will take off for woozy, dreamy Pisces on January 3, urging you to kick back, relax, and binge-watch at least one series you’ve been dying to see. If you have the right company and you’re financially equipped, this wouldn’t be a bad idea—provided you don’t do it 24/7 for the entire month, which will be tempting.

Lovers and Friends

With Venus in Pisces, falling in love with love is always a possibility, but in your case, as sensitive and emotional as you are, you’ll have to be doubly cautious. If you cross paths with someone who seems to be just perfect for you, you may indeed have found your soulmate, but just in case, don’t propose until at least next month.

Money and Success

“Everything in moderation” is an old adage that rings true even now, and it applies especially well to the use of escape hatches when times get tough. If you’re going through something tough and ducking out whenever possible, be sure you’re not damaging your chances for a solid future. No one’s saying you can’t give yourself some breathing space. Just be sure you’re also dealing with reality.

Tricky Transits

The New Moon on January 27 will join forces with fiery Mars to put you in the mood to rebel, Cancer, in a very big, very noticeable way. If you’re taking up arms because you’re just plain old done with someone’s nonsense, don’t hesitate to get them gone. Just be sure not to go into battle simply because you’re in the mood for it.

Rewarding Days

1, 2, 3, 13, 15, 20, 23

Challenging Days

5, 6, 9, 11, 19, 27

Cancer | February

Relaxation and Recreation

With three planets in impulsive Aries and two in startling Aquarius and two eclipses scheduled, you probably won’t have much time to yourself this month, Cancer, but you’ll have some serious fun with unusual, interesting others who’ll want nothing more from you than your company. What a refreshing change! Just for the heck of it, let one of them talk you into trying something new and exciting.

Lovers and Friends

Mars and Venus are the astrological equivalent of Antony and Cleopatra—one of the best-matched, most passionate, and most powerful teams. Venus attracts and Mars pursues—and they’ll both spend the month in fiery Aries and your solar tenth house. If you find yourself attracted to someone older, younger, or in a position of authority, it’s a given that the feelings will be mutual. Now what? Be careful!

Money and Success

The Lunar Eclipse of February 10 will occur in your solar second house, Cancer, which is where possessions and money matters are handled. This lunation will be in fiery, dramatic Leo, so if you’ve been having financial problems with one particular person, there’s just no way they won’t come to a head. Ready or not, it may be time to go to battle for what’s yours.

Tricky Transits

Your ruling planet, the Moon herself, will form a Grand Square with Uranus, Pluto, and Jupiter on February 8, Cancer. She’ll be initiating change of all kinds, but in your case, especially since you’re so susceptible to her moods, you should prepare to question just about everything and everyone. Let your instincts guide you, especially with regard to conflicts and disputes. When have they ever let you down?

Rewarding Days

1, 4, 6, 17, 18, 25

Challenging Days

7, 8, 10, 21, 26

Cancer | March

Relaxation and Recreation

With so much Aries energy currently on duty in the heavens above you, Cancer, you probably won’t get much rest. In fact, when the New Moon occurs on March 27, you might even be unable to sleep, no matter how hard you try. If this happens more than a night or two, sit down for a chat with someone who knows you and figure out what’s really keeping you awake.

Lovers and Friends

Loving Venus will turn retrograde on March 4, and for the next six weeks she’ll be inspiring you to review your past relationships, both long ago and recent. You may feel the urge to reach out and find the one who got away, and with social media, it probably won’t be all that tough. Gather what info you can, but keep in mind that people really do change—well, every now and then, anyway.

Money and Success

Five planets will take turns passing through red-hot, ultra-impatient Aries this month, Cancer, which will put them on a stormy path through your solar tenth house of higher-ups and authority figures. Obviously, if you’ve got a work-oriented goal to accomplish, this crew will provide you with all the energy anyone could ever want to get the job done fast. Just be sure you also do it right.

Tricky Transits

On March 2, startling Uranus will be opposed by Jupiter, who expands and enlarges the energy of any planet he touches. This cosmic face-off will activate your solar fourth and tenth houses, which just might cause a conflict between your personal life and your professional activities. Hang tough. By March 6, you’ll have it all worked out.

Rewarding Days

1, 6, 7, 9, 29

Challenging Days

2, 3, 4, 11, 12, 17, 30

Cancer | April

Relaxation and Recreation

The Sun, Mercury, and Mars will take turns passing through earthy Taurus and your solar eleventh house of friendships and group affiliations this month, Cancer. This practical, quality-conscious gathering of energies will introduce you to people you’ll feel quite closely connected to just about immediately. If you’ve been searching for new friends, you’ll most certainly find them.

Lovers and Friends

The lovely lady Venus is moving retrograde at the moment, Cancer. On April 2, she’ll tiptoe back into Pisces to inspire you to review and reevaluate the relationships you’ve had with folks who are now a long distance from you, either time-wise or geographically. You’ll want to reach out, and if you’re fairly sure they’ve grown as much as you have—well, why not?

Money and Success

If you suddenly become aware that the kids need something fancy around April 6, even if you’re not sure you can afford it, you’ll want to get it for them. And it’s not just the kids. You’ll do the same for anyone you love, especially if you’re still in the throes of infatuation. Don’t put yourself in a bad financial place. Do what you can—and no more.

Tricky Transits

Mars will set off for Gemini on April 21, putting this impatient planet in an extremely communicative sign. Yes, this could mean you’ll be a bit less able to react with your usual patience when someone comes to you for a favor—especially if it’s a favor you’ve done for them many, many times. It might be time to take a deep breath and just say no.

Rewarding Days

6, 12, 16, 17, 18, 19

Challenging Days

4, 5, 20, 21, 28

Cancer | May

Relaxation and Recreation

Taurus has always been one of your favorite signs, Cancer—with good reason. It’s solid and grounded, as firmly rooted to Mother Earth as you are. So this month, with both the Sun and Mercury passing through that sign, you’ll probably find that going out when you don’t have to will be just too much effort for too little pleasure. Pull on some sweats and kick back at your place.

Lovers and Friends

Your ruling planet is the emotional Moon, so when she reaches her full stage on May 10 in ultra-intense Scorpio, your feelings will be running on high, Cancer—to say the least. You might, in fact, want to step back from any especially emotional “discussions” if you get the feeling you’re about to say something you’ll wish you hadn’t.

Money and Success

Thoughtful Mercury will take off for quality-conscious Taurus on May 16, urging you to resist buying anything that really isn’t worth the ticket price. Of course, you still might do a bit of haggling, and you could end up with a number you’re far more comfortable with. Well, go ahead—but set yourself a ceiling price and stick to it.

Tricky Transits

On May 3, after three long weeks in retrograde motion, Mercury will turn direct—which should mean that everything you’ve been waiting for career-wise is finally going to happen. Not so fast, though. You could be on the verge of getting the deal you’ve been after, but a few details will need to be worked out first. Sit tight just a bit longer.

Rewarding Days

8, 9, 15, 16, 23, 24, 31

Challenging Days

5, 10, 11, 25

Cancer | June

Relaxation and Recreation

The Sun, Mars, and Mercury will dash through your solar twelfth house of secrets this month, Cancer, wearing fast-moving, cerebral Gemini. This crew will urge you to do a whole lot of communicating in private—which could turn out to be as delightful as it sounds. Just be sure not to let a confidence slip out in casual conversation. Shh!

Lovers and Friends

Venus will leave impulsive Aries behind on June 6, when she strolls off into earthy, practical Taurus. Now, this might mean your social life will slow down quite a bit, but not to worry. You won’t be bored, not by any means. You’ll simply be focusing on quality rather than quantity—and one particular someone could take up a particularly special place in your heart.

Money and Success

On June 24, an easy trine between intense Pluto and Venus, Goddess of Love and Money, will make it all too easy for you to become obsessive about finances or possessions—especially with the Moon in your very own sign. Don’t allow yourself to become attached to anything material for sentimental reasons. Ask a practical friend to advise you—and listen up!

Tricky Transits

The New Moon on June 23 will be in your sign, Cancer, urging you toward a whole new emotional beginning. The thing is, before anything new can make an appearance, everything that’s not working has to go—just to make room. Your mission is to clear the decks and make room for whatever is coming next.

Rewarding Days

1, 2, 6, 9, 20, 21

Challenging Days

3, 11, 19, 26, 28, 29

Cancer | July

Relaxation and Recreation

It’s playtime, Cancer! The Sun, Mars, and Mercury will all pass through fiery, fun-loving Leo this month, and you’ll be in the mood to find at least one new way to keep your brain nourished and amused. Your best bet is to find classes or other regular get-togethers where curious minds meet. You might meet someone who fascinates you for many reasons.

Lovers and Friends

Venus will set off for witty, chatty Gemini on July 4, Cancer—which might ordinarily mean that you’d be doing a whole lot of socializing with little time for intimate encounters. Not so. Venus will be in your solar twelfth house of clandestine encounters until the end of the month, urging you to be very particular about the company you keep.

Money and Success

Impulsive Mars will storm off into your solar second house on July 20 just as an equally impulsive square arrives between startling Uranus and the Sun in your sign. Leave your checkbook and plastic at home—just in case you suddenly decide to bet the ranch on what you see as a guaranteed win. This is a most unpredictable day. No major moves, please.

Tricky Transits

On July 22, just two days after Mars sets off for Leo, the Sun will follow suit, and suddenly, the heavens’ two fireballs will be looking for an audience. Yes, drama may be on your agenda that weekend, so if you’re not in the mood for it, make plans that don’t include being in the presence of anyone who knows exactly how to push your buttons.

Rewarding Days

10, 11, 14, 19, 25

Challenging Days

2, 3, 4, 5, 8, 20

Cancer | August

Relaxation and Recreation

This is going to be an extremely intense month, Cancer, so if you’re thinking of taking off for some much-needed downtime, try your best to set it up for the weekend of August 25. Mercury will be retrograde, so you’ll have to do some serious troubleshooting, but Venus will be in fiery, playful Leo, so even if you’re stalled or delayed, you’ll find a way to make it fun.

Lovers and Friends

Venus will spend most of the month in your very own sign, Cancer, and since she’s so magnetic and you’re so comfortable to be around, you should probably expect at least one new someone to come along in search of advice that only you can offer. Be careful not to get overly involved. This too shall pass—and quickly.

Money and Success

There will be two eclipses this month, Cancer, both of which will activate your money houses. The financial changes you’ve been expecting are due to occur, along with one or two you might not have foreseen. Stay calm. It’s simply time to prioritize. What’s important and what’s not? Think of this as molting. If you don’t need it, why burden yourself ?

Tricky Transits

On August 4, expansive Jupiter will square off with intense Pluto, creating the potential for what often astrologically adds up to a god complex. Now, not everyone will be affected, but if you notice that someone dear to you suddenly seems quite full of themselves, at least you’ll know the inspiration behind it. That doesn’t mean you have to be cooperative, however, especially if they’re being unreasonable.

Rewarding Days

1, 10, 11, 20, 22, 27, 28

Challenging Days

3, 4, 5, 7, 12, 18, 21

Cancer | September

Relaxation and Recreation

Four planets will make their way through your solar third house of short trips and communications during September, Cancer, all of them wearing detail-loving, meticulous Virgo. In a nutshell, it’s time to get organized. Big time. ASAP. It might be your physical home that’s begging for attention, but it might also be your spiritual self. Either way, meditation can’t hurt.

Lovers and Friends

In the department of romance, you’ll still be dealing with a bit of drama, Cancer, thanks to the lovely lady Venus, who’ll continue kicking up a storm on her way through Leo. Arguments over money are entirely possible, but if either of you plays the “if you loved me, you would” card, consider the relationship to be in a bit of trouble.

Money and Success

That whole money thing you’ve been going through for months now, on and off ? As of September 9 or so, it will be done for good. Signed, sealed, and delivered. Yes, that’s a relief, and yes, you’ll be able to take a breather from work, but don’t get comfy just yet. The Universe has big plans for you, career-wise, set to arrive with the Full Moon next month. In the meantime, relax.

Tricky Transits

About that pack of planets moving through Virgo? If you have a detail-oriented hobby that you’d like to turn into a part-time source of income, they’re prepared to help. Before you get too caught up in perfecting your craft, however, remember that this type of focus can put a bit of a wedge between you and yours. Take a break every now and then and be your own sweet self.

Rewarding Days

1, 2, 9, 10, 12

Challenging Days

5, 6, 13, 14, 16, 19

Cancer | October

Relaxation and Recreation

Jupiter will move into your solar fifth house of playmates and recreation on October 10, Cancer, marking the start of a very social and very lucky year for you. New and unusual friends who’ll support you on your current path will be popping up the entire time, so prepare for your social horizons to be widened—big time. It’s time to mingle. Get out there and shake some hands.

Lovers and Friends

Well, speaking of expansion, Jupiter’s presence in the house associated with love affairs means you single folks should probably nap now while you can. Chances are good that the coming year will be extremely intense—in a delightful way. You attached Cancers might want to line up reliable babysitters now, because you’ll definitely want some quality time alone with your sweetheart.

Money and Success

Five planets will make their presence known in Libra during October, Cancer, all of them urging you to keep your domestic finances on an even keel. Now, this could be easier said than done around October 14, 15, and 19, but if you’re determined not to touch your nest egg, don’t let anyone who hasn’t directly contributed to it make so much as a suggestion about how to spend it. Stand your ground.

Tricky Transits

Well, speaking of tricks, on Halloween, your ruling planet, the Moon, will be all done up in Pisces—the sign that most adores wearing costumes and just loves hiding out behind glamorous masks. As susceptible as you are to her moods, you’ll definitely be in the mood for some mischief—most likely of the most romantic kind—but be sure you’re not kidding yourself about the future.

Rewarding Days

1, 2, 3, 12, 16

Challenging Days

4, 5, 6, 8, 15, 19, 26

Cancer | November

Relaxation and Recreation

The New Moon on November 18 will set up shop in your solar fifth house of playtime, Cancer, urging you to find a new way to have fun and express yourself creatively—possibly involving a whole new cast of characters. Oh, and on November 21, Venus and Pluto might see fit to introduce you to someone delicious at a gathering of entirely new friends.

Lovers and Friends

With Venus in sexy, intense Scorpio for most of the month, it’s not hard to imagine you being quite taken with someone, Cancer—possibly so much that it’s really tough to leave them to go to work. Well, we’ve all been there, but trust me when I tell you that it’s a lot easier to stay in love when you have enough cash for pizza, candles, and other treats. Embrace them fondly, but do go to work.

Money and Success

Right up until November 7, Venus will be on duty in your solar fourth house of home and family matters, and on November 3, you may receive an SOS from a family member or child who really needs a financial safety net. If you can manage to help without hurting yourself, you’ll do it. If you can’t, don’t beat yourself up about it. Give what you can.

Tricky Transits

On November 19, powerful Pluto will square off with red-hot Mars, who just so happens to be on duty in your solar fourth house of home and family matters. Yes, this could certainly mean there’ll be a display of anger in your home, but not to worry. You’ll be perfectly equipped to handle it. Heaven help anyone who thinks they can manipulate you now!

Rewarding Days

1, 3, 7, 9, 11, 16, 17

Challenging Days

2, 8, 13, 14, 15, 19

Cancer | December

Relaxation and Recreation

A Full Moon will occur in lighthearted, fun-loving Gemini on December 3, a cerebral energy that can’t help but inspire you to make the holidays at your place just perfect with creative meals and decorations. If you’re off to visit instead, expect an amazing cast of characters to make the gatherings special. Someone new will make quite the impression on you.

Lovers and Friends

Mars—the most passionate planet of all—will slip silently into sexy Scorpio on December 9, Cancer, which will put this amorous energy in your solar fifth house of lovers—which is obviously a very amorous place. Yes, this does sound wonderful, and you really should enjoy it to the fullest, as you see fit. Just don’t forget about family and friends. ’Tis the season, after all.

Money and Success

If work takes you away from your home, you probably don’t always enjoy it. But this month, Cancer, several planets in funny, philosophical Sagittarius will pass through your solar sixth house of work, and no matter where you are, a good time will be had by all. Just don’t get too crazy with take-out. You could gain a bit of weight even before the holidays arrive. Moderation!

Tricky Transits

After two and a half years, Saturn will change signs on December 19, Cancer. The thing is, he’ll be setting off for your solar seventh house of one-to-one relationships, and he’s a very serious, practical fellow. Your more lighthearted, casual relationships may fade away now, but not to worry—they’ll be replaced with friendships and partnerships that will provide you with support and stability in the years to come.

Rewarding Days

4, 7, 9, 16, 20, 21, 24, 25

Challenging Days

2, 3, 5, 11, 13, 14

Cancer Action Table

These dates reflect the best—but not the only—times for success and ease in these activities, according to your Sun sign.

JAN

FEB

MAR

APR

MAY

JUN

JUL

AUG

SEP

OCT

NOV

DEC

Move

12, 13

10

23

4

17

Start a class

9, 10, 11

9

27, 28, 29

1, 6, 12

Join a club

5, 18

10

24, 26

11

Ask for a raise

3, 20

13, 22

1, 24

15, 17

20

Get professional advice

22, 23

17, 24

19, 24

22

12, 13

16

19

Get a loan

20

12, 17

18, 19

20

13

New romance

16, 17

21

14, 27

24

Vacation

23

24, 26

12

9

16, 25

16,27

8

20

27

31

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