Horoscopes for the Week of August 13-19

Welcome to mid August and the bumps in the celestial road I already warned you about. If things have run relatively smooth lately, this week brings a few blips that might add a bit of extra spice to this hot summer month. 

The first speed bump is a Mars-Saturn conjunction on August 15 in the sign of gracious Libra. Generally speaking this should ease up on the full effect of the conjunction but when this duo collides, tensions soar and tempers flare. Be especially careful at this time, since this planetary pairing tends to make everyone more accident prone! On the better side, Mars conjunct Saturn in Libra accelerates activities or issues that involve relationships, equality, legal matters or goal-setting, most of them Libra themes.

A troublesome T cross involving Venus also “colours” the landscape on August 15 and 16, when it meets first with Pluto, then with Uranus. This aspect can intensify relationship conflicts and extremism, especially for Aries, Cancer, Libra and Capricorn. You'll go from fiery, passionate, possessive and jealous on August 15 to just letting the chips fall where they may the following day. Breathe...it will pass.

Fortunately, by August 17, the Leo Sun perks up Saturn, while the new Moon in Leo can bring a new cycle into your life involving romance, creativity, entertainment, leadership or activities with children, a fresh start. On this particular Moon, we may all get a unique chance to get our sensible plans off the ground! 
And with Mercury trine Uranus on August 18, we get doubly inspired, unconventional, inventive. This aspect favours Aries, Leo and Sagittarius and to a lesser extent, Gemini, Libra and Aquarius.

The Universe mixes this week the strangest ingredients to keep us on our toes and reward us in the end with juicy, creative energy...and this sounds more than good to me! Who wants boring?

With this week's sweet and sour news out of the way, let's see how Saturn is affecting each sign this summer, while slowly (and painfully) moving out of Libra to make a grand exit by October. We are striving for balance.


Aries 

 Frustration runs high this month, culminating between August 13 and 17. Saturn offers an opportunity to grow by facing obstacles head on during this time. Do so and your confidence will benefit. Steer clear of defensiveness. It is really not like you!

Taurus 

 Self-love is the order of the day, Taurus, or else, orders mighty Saturn forcing you to see your weaknesses and deal with them once and for all. You’re far more capable than you realize, and this month will prove that. If you just got the determination....

Gemini 


 Saturn in Libra suits you, dear Twins. Combined with the Moon and Venus working to your greatest good this month, you’re displaying the breadth of your full potential. All systems, go! Watch for extra nervousness and flighty behaviour this mid month week though.

Cancer 


Mars and Saturn join forces on the 15th, finally bringing an end to the mounting pressure. It’s been months, maybe years, since you’ve felt such a sense of relief. It’s a turning point in your struggle to learn to put yourself first. Venus graces your sign this month, bringing sweet rewards from home and family. There will be fireworks followed by milk and honey.

Leo 


 Mars give you the boost you need to put Saturn’s determined energy to good use, particularly between the 13th and 17th. The result will be progress toward your long-term goals. A few calculated risks will reap rewards. You have no time for small talk and small action this week, Leo. You are geared to show your true colors and nothing will stop you.

Virgo 


 You find yourself wanting to be a little bit of a spendrift this month, Virgo. On one hand, strangely enough, Saturn encourages this behaviour while Mars brings money conflicts to a head. Learning to relinquish control of your usually tight purse strings a little, or ending dependency on someone else's, every once in a while is liberating, and a very Virgo lesson.

Libra 


 You’re moving ahead by leaps and bounds now, Libra, buoyed by the slog of Saturn in your sign. The emphasis now is on staying positive and moving forward with energy and initiative. You can close this deal and many more to come. The worse of this transit is over and you will get your rewards afterall.

Scorpio 


 Things are finally starting to shift a little more in your favour, Scorpio this week and during the second half of the month that you’ll see the real difference. Don’t expect an easy road of it, but rewards are on the way! In the meantime, enjoy some vacation time.

Sagittarius

 This week is slow moving and relaxing for you. Look for Mercury sextiles Saturn on August 29, launching your long held plans into action. This will continue until mid October, giving you ample time to set grand plans in motion. Expect gains (Money Money Money) to begin materializing, bolstered by planetary positive energy from the New Moon in Leo (on the 17th) forward.

Capricorn 


 Mars conjunct Saturn frustrates you more than most, Goat. You’ll find yourself driven to act courtesy of Mars but held back by stern Saturn, your Master and Commander. Don’t compromise your goals, but recognize if you need to put them on (temporary) hold.

Aquarius 


 Mars and Saturn work together to move you closer to your goals mid-month. However, obstacles arise in the wake of the New Moon in Leo on the 17th activating your 7th House of Partnership. If you did not act early in the month, hold your fire this week and wait for smoother sailing.

Pisces 


 You’re particularly social this month, Fishes, and why not? You’re feeling more confident than usual, really putting all the lessons of Saturn in Libra to good use rather than being a recluse. Have fun!