DIY Astro Guide: What Your Horoscope Means This Week, 3/9/2015

What's happening astrologically during the week of November 24 to December 1, 2024?

Mercury goes retrograde on November 25. Do not to fear or dread these periods when Mercury is retrograde; instead, view them as a perfect opportunity to review and reevaluate your actions. Slow down, get organized, and double-check any documents before sending them out. Don’t leave things to the last minute. Pack early, and make sure you leave plenty of time if you're traveling over the holiday weekend. Flexibility and a sense of humor are essential.

On November 27, the Sun makes a beneficial trine to Mars, the planet of action. We will feel this energy all week. It should be a wonderfully optimistic time when self-confidence is high. We can be courageous and enthusiastic, so if you need to approach your superiors with a request for a raise or more responsibility, this week supports those brave actions. Be sure to exercise and move your body; dancing and playing can be especially joyful and fun. This energy is also quite attractive, so if you need extra motivation to ask someone out, you might find the courage this week to act on a crush.

Also, on November 27, Venus, the planet of love, harmony, and values, squares Chiron, the wounded healer and Shaman of the Zodiac. This challenging aspect might bring up wounds around self-worth or self-esteem. Past traumatic experiences involving relationships or finances might resurface. Balancing the Sun - Mars harmony with this challenging Venus - Chiron aspect is key. We all have the potential to heal and overcome a lack of confidence or insecurities about self-worth. We also have the opportunity to help others overcome self-consciousness or anxiety. Use the enthusiasm and optimism of Sagittarius to help one another.

There is a New Moon in Sagittarius on November 30, opposite Jupiter in Gemini. This is a perfect time to kick off the holidays, as we will find ourselves optimistic, generous, and cheerful. Be aware that Jupiter can amplify responses, leading to overindulgence, overpromising, or being overly optimistic. This is usually not a problem because everyone is feeling happy, but if you need to monitor your consumption or expenditures, pause before acting. Use Mercury retrograde as a reminder to take a breath and reevaluate any big purchases or acts of generosity. Take time to be still and plan what you’d like to accomplish this month. There is abundant energy for success if we focus and are clear about our ambitions.

I look to the sky and the planets to help navigate the world around us. If you’d like to know more about how these and other transits affect your life, please contact me for a personalized reading! SevenSistersAstrology.com

​Read Your Weekly Horoscope For Your Sun & Rising Signs

Aries (March 21 – April 20)

You should feel extra energized this week. You'll have the vitality and inspiration to work on creative projects. You might be tempted to work alone in the name of expediency. However, collaborating with others will require patience, which will benefit you during Mercury retrograde. Also, don’t forget that your leadership skills are best utilized when inspiring and empowering others. Include others, even if it initially feels frustrating. Try the mantra: The more, the merrier!

Taurus (April 21 – May 21)

Home and family are on the front burner this week. You might feel nostalgic for your childhood. It’s a good time to act on any projects around the home. Actively addressing maintenance issues or remodeling projects will make you feel more secure. Take a trip to the thrift store to add color or brighten your home. Take care of yourself in the process and refrain from overextending your resources. Nurture your loved ones, but don’t forget to nurture yourself too.

Gemini (May 22 – June 21)

Do you have a writing or video project that would benefit from focused effort? This week offers you the energy and inspiration to complete a communication effort. The key and the challenge will be to quiet your mind so you can focus. Find a quiet corner in a library or retreat to your office, and set up a schedule to discipline yourself. Practice meditation techniques and stick to a physical exercise routine to stay centered and make the most of this increased energy. Take care not to argue with others; instead, direct your energy toward accomplishing your goals.

Cancer (June 22 – July 22)

This week might find you dreaming of an entrepreneurial project to make more money. Or you might be ready to invest in yourself to advance your earning capabilities. This week favors any project that could bring in more resources. Be sure to orient your actions around what you desire, not what others think you should do. Refrain from impulse buying and watch your credit card expenditures. Your resources are a key focus this week; prioritize wise expenditures and money-making opportunities. Another way to use your money wisely is to focus on health — start the holiday season determined to stay healthy. Consider purchasing a punch card at a nearby yoga or Pilates studio.

Leo (July 23 – August 22)

Take charge of your life, but be careful not to overpower those around you as you pursue your dreams. You can assert yourself effectively — assertiveness is not aggression. Put action plans in place to advance your goals. You'll be more charismatic and attractive the more confidence you display. You can successfully pitch ideas to a boss, advocate for yourself, or stand up for what you believe in. Just don’t overdo it. Keep your ego in check. Be sure to exercise and expend your energy, or you might find yourself in unnecessary arguments and frustrations.

Virgo (August 23 – September 22)

Take time to rest. Pay attention to your dreams at night and actively engage in daydreaming. Your imagination will be quite active. Use this time to connect with your inner most desires and create a plan to achieve your dreams. Observe any behavioral patterns that effect the way you assert yourself. Use this courageous time to adjust unconscious actions or inactions as you pursue your aspirations. You may prefer to work alone, but be sure to avoid distractions. What you uncover during this reflective period will be insightful and helpful in the near future.

Libra (September 23 – October 22)

Cooperate and collaborate with a team to achieve your goals. You may feel more inclined to lead rather than follow. Use your natural inclination for balance and fairness, coupled with your organizational skills, to benefit the whole group. Delegate tasks and demonstrate generosity to an inspire your team. Everyone has a role, and potential for growth under your leadership. Use this power wisely to prevent your schedule from becoming overwhelming, and ensure you leave time to devise innovative approaches.

Scorpio (October 23 - November 21)

There is intrinsic value in what you contribute to your community. Are you motivated by personal aspirations, or are you pursuing something purely for external validation? You might seek acknowledgement and praise from others for a job well done but remember, praise from others can often feel shallow. What is truly matters is feeling pride and self-satisfaction in your work. It's a great time to refine your professional aspirations. Your substantial natural charisma can be leveraged to expand your business or professional presence through self-promotion.

Sagittarius (November 21 – December 21)

You're feeling bolder than usual. Use this powerful time to expand your consciousness in meaningful ways. Study a new subject or learn a new skill to enhance your capabilities. You might feel restless and eager for an adventure, and travel could provide a great opportunity to explore and learn about the world around you. However, this restlessness may also cause you to become stubborn or assume you have all the answers. Channel this energy into personal growth and discovery. Restlessness and sleeplessness my also contribute to nervous energy, so practice grounding techniques to stay balanced.

Capricorn (December 21 – January 19)

Prepare for transformation and change, especially in your intimate relationships. You may feel compelled to explore deeper connections through vulnerability and open communication. Seek intimacy that is rooted in equality and respect rather than dominance or submission. Pay attention to the power dynamics in your relationships and strive for reciprocity. This is an excellent time for self-discovery and growth in the meaningful connections you nurture with loved ones.

Aquarius (January 20 – February 19)

Avoid acting impulsively when faced with challenges in your relationships. Instead, take an objective and composed approach to avoid escalating conflicts. Address each situation with the intent to create cooperative and creative solutions. Practice active listening and strive to be fair and balanced in your interactions. Take time to reflect on your impulses and consider whether they stem from outdated patterns or conditioning that no longer serve you. You have the power to evolve and grow into more constructive modes of relating.

Pisces (February 20 – March 21)

Focus on refining your daily routines and activities. Get organized and commit to a health-focused routine. Achieving physical well-being may involve improving systems in your home life. Stick to a schedule, stay consistent with healthy habits, and pay attention to your sleep patterns. Make sure to get plenty of exercise during this high-energy phase. The systems you establish now can provide a reliable foundation for the future. While you may feel drawn to help others, ensure your personal routines and well-being are solid first. Your example will serve as an inspiration to those around you.

​What is Mercury Retrograde?

To grasp the significance of Mercury in retrograde, it’s essential to first understand what retrogrades are. As planets orbit the Sun, they follow specific paths, with some moving faster than others. Generally, the closer a planet is to the Sun, the quicker it travels. Occasionally, these planets appear to veer off their usual course; during this time, the Sun's gravitational pull brings them back into alignment, marking the onset of a retrograde period. While this phenomenon is astronomical, it resonates on a collective level, prompting reflection and introspection here on Earth.

Mercury, often referred to as the planet of communication, plays a crucial role in our thought processes, decision-making, and interactions. During its retrograde phase, which occurs multiple times each year, it's important to navigate this period with care. Here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind:

Do’s:

• Reflect on past decisions and learn from previous experiences.
• Revisit unfinished projects or ideas that require reassessment.
• Take time for introspection and self-examination.

Don’ts:

• Avoid making significant decisions, such as buying a home or starting major renovations. These choices may face unexpected delays and complications.
• Steer clear of launching new projects, as they may not proceed as planned.

By being mindful during Mercury in retrograde, you can work its energy for thoughtful reflection rather than potential miscommunication and disruption. Remember, as above, so below.

​What is happening during this Mercury Retrograde in Sagittarius in 2024?

This Mercury retrograde in Sagittarius begins on November 25 and wraps up on December 15, 2024 — just in time for the holidays! During this quirky period, you might find communication and travel resembling a game of charades — confusing and full of surprises! Sagittarius, with its adventurous spirit and knack for big ideas, nudges you to reflect on your beliefs and long-term goals while dodging any miscommunication like a pro at a holiday buffet. Stay open-minded about new concepts, and by reflecting on past experiences, you can turn any holiday hiccups into cherished memories, making your connections with loved ones more meaningful — just double-check your travel plans.

Here are some common themes to expect during this period:

1. Miscommunication in Beliefs: Discussions around ethics and worldviews may lead to misunderstandings, so clarifying intentions is crucial.
2. Revisiting Travel Plans: If you have holiday trips or adventures in mind, be prepared for potential delays or changes. This is a good time to reassess your travel goals or revisit cherished destinations.
3. Reflecting on Learning: You might feel drawn to revisit past studies or explore new philosophies, making this a valuable time for self-reflection.
4. Adventurous Spirit: This retrograde may ignite a desire to break free from routine. However, be cautious about making impulsive decisions during the holiday rush.
5. Open to New Perspectives: While confusion may arise, this is also an opportunity to reevaluate your beliefs and explore fresh ideas with an open mind.

Overall, this period encourages you to slow down, reflect, and be mindful of how you communicate and receive information, enhancing your holiday experiences.

Read Your Sun & Rising Sign Mercury Retrograde Horoscopes For November 25-December 15, 2024

Aries (March 21 – April 20)

Prepare for some soul-searching between sips of eggnog and lively family chatter this holiday season. You might start to wonder if that “special holiday sweater” is really as special as you thought. Conversations could get a bit awkward, so take a deep breath and remember: that patience is key—especially when stories start to loop. Welcome any travel mishaps as unexpected adventures; they’ll turn into hilarious tales to share later!

Taurus (April 21 – May 21)

This season, it’s all about sharing—whether it’s your holiday spirit or your budget! You may need to tiptoe around sensitive topics, like who gets the last piece of the pie, so choose your words wisely. If plans get delayed, think of it as a chance to cozy up with loved ones instead of stressing out. Reflect on what matters, and don’t be afraid to indulge a little—after all, holiday treats are basically a form of self-care.

Gemini (May 22 – June 21)

Your relationships might resemble a game of charades, with everyone trying to decipher what everyone else really wants. Whether you’re flying solo or in a couple, keep an eye on those festive planning talks—they could definitely use some clarity. Use this time for personal growth, turning any communication slip-ups into lessons that brighten your celebrations and keep the fun rolling. Just remember: clarity is key, so make sure everyone’s on the same page.

Cancer (June 22 – July 22)

Prioritize your well-being and avoid the pressure of overworking yourself amidst the holiday hustle. As you juggle party prep, try not to get swept away in the festive chaos. Communication might feel like decoding a toddler’s drawing, so be clear with family and friends about what you need. Focus on self-care and balance, and you’ll navigate the whirlwind like a pro—maybe with a cozy blanket and a good movie on standby.

Leo (July 23 – August 22)

Get ready for a holiday season where your creative flair might take a few unexpected turns, like a well-rehearsed dance that suddenly goes off-script. As plans shift, practice your patience and remember what truly sparks joy for you. Reflect on those passions that make you shine, and don’t shy away from the mistakes--they often lead to the best holiday tales. Plus, a little extra glitter never hurt anyone—just try not to get it everywhere!

Virgo (August 23 – September 22)

Prepare for some family dynamics that might feel like a reality show reunion! Miscommunication could lead to some comedic misunderstandings about plans or traditions, so keep your cool. Take this time to reflect on your emotional needs and find a little order in the chaos. Strengthen those family bonds, because nothing says “holiday spirit” quite like sharing a laugh over that one family photo everyone wants to forget!

Libra (September 23 – October 22)

Expect your conversations to get a little tangled, like last year’s string lights. Short trips or outings could pop up, so embrace the unexpected adventures! Before sharing your brilliant ideas, take a moment to clarify your thoughts; nobody wants to accidentally volunteer to host the next family gathering (unless you really want to). Use these moments to deepen connections, and remember: the best holiday memories are often born from a bit of chaos.

Scorpio (October 23 – November 21)

This season, keep an eye on your spending—it’s easy to get swept up in the holiday cheer! As you tackle gift lists, take a moment to reflect on what truly matters—like the joy of giving without the post-holiday financial headache. Budgeting conversations may get tricky, so approach them with care. Mindful spending will help you enjoy a holiday filled with laughter and love, not a mountain of bills come January!

Sagittarius (November 22 – December 21)

Expect a bit of soul-searching this holiday, as you clarify your goals amidst the festive bustle. Conversations may go sideways, so take a moment to sort out your intentions before diving in. Cherish this chance for introspection and focus on what truly matters. Meaningful connections will blossom even in the chaos, turning challenges into opportunities for growth—and maybe a few good laughs along the way!

Capricorn (December 22 - January 19)

This holiday season, get ready for some introspection that might feel like unearthing old holiday memories. Past issues could bubble up, so keep your communication open to avoid any misunderstandings. Use this time to recharge and reflect on your needs. By seeing challenges as opportunities for growth, you can craft a more peaceful holiday experience—one that sets a cheerful tone for the New Year!

Aquarius (January 20 – February 19)

Friendships may take center stage, with old connections popping back up like holiday cheer. Just be ready for some communication blunders that might leave you scratching your head! Reflect on your social circles and decide who truly aligns with your vibe. Navigating these dynamics thoughtfully can lead to more meaningful connections and memorable festivities—after all, nothing beats laughter with friends over a cup of hot cocoa.

Pisces (February 20 – March 21)

This season, your career and public image might demand a bit of attention—like that one holiday decoration that always needs fixing. Communication with colleagues may hit a few snags, so be prepared for some delays. Reflect on your goals and ensure they match your true self. Staying clear and confident during festive gatherings will help you set the right tone for the year ahead—preferably one filled with good vibes and fewer awkward silences!

Christmas Appetizer Ideas

Bacon Pastry Twists with Beer Cheese

While cradling a cocktail in one hand, an easy-to-grab appetizer is essential. These flaky, cheesy bacon twists are both easy and delicious to dunk in a three-cheese beer dip. (via Brit + Co)

Sun-Dried Tomato Pesto Bites

A red and green holiday treat without sugary sprinkles? Count us in. These phyllo shells are filled with whipped pesto cream cheese and topped with basil and sun-dried tomatoes for some yummy Christmas food. (via Well Plated by Erin)

Cranberry Goat Cheese Balls

These cranberry goat cheese balls are the perfect balance of salty and sweet — a definite crowd-pleaser for any Christmas dinner! (via Chef Genevieve)

Holiday Crostini Trio

Spread avocado, mascarpone, and provolone onto toasted baguette slices for a tasty appetizer, and top away for three versatile holiday food ideas that will please any palate at your holiday party. (via The Baking Fairy)

Honey Almond Baked Brie

Add this this gooey, sweet, and salty baked brie to your Christmas dinner menu and guests will gather around it like it's a fireplace on a cold day. (via The Seasoned Mom)

Christmas Food Ideas For Side Dishes

Sesame Shrimp Pastry Puffs

The seafood lover in your home will be elated to munch on these sweet and umami-rich (thanks to the oyster sauce) sesame shrimps blanketed in buttery puff pastry. You'll definitely want to add this dish to your best Christmas recipes list! (via Brit + Co)

Cheesy Sweet Potato Gratin

This savory combination of sage, gruyère cheese, and heavy cream is here to make sweet potato casserole even more indulgent. This is definitely one of our favorite Christmas dinner ideas. (via Brit + Co)

Healthy Butternut Squash Salad

Fill your guests' bellies with the seasonal flavors of butternut squash, apple cider, and pecans. The bacon is just the icing on the cake, so to speak. (via Sarah Anderson for Brit + Co)

Romanesco Christmas Trees with Parmesan "Snow"

Turn Romanesco broccolis into snow-capped trees with just six ingredients in this healthy yet cheesy dish for your next party. (via Brit + Co)

Slow Cooker French Onion Soup

Nothing will warm you to your toes quite like a good soup, and whipping one up in the slow cooker can save you time, mess, and energy. This French onion creation is a perennial favorite. (via Brit + Co)

Waffle Iron Latkes

These latkes make the perfect addition to any celebration, and the best part is how easy they are! From an apple butter topping to pomegranate and Greek yogurt, there's something for everyone. (via Brit + Co)

Cornmeal Biscuits with Cheddar, Chives, and Jalapeños

These slightly spicy biscuits are ideal for soaking up all that gravy goodness. (via Brit + Co)

Taco Salad

Okay, you might be thinking, "why in the world would someone serve taco salad at Christmas?" But hear us out – this recipe is full of delicious veggies, and it's just brimming with color. Keep things red and green to stay festive, or go all-out with every color of the rainbow. (via The Girl on Bloor for Brit + Co)

Crispy Leaf Potatoes with Rosemary Butter

If ever there were a bulletproof case for buying a mandoline, it's these potatoes, which are sliced chip-thin, layered upright in a baking dish, and gloriously bathed in salty rosemary butter. (via Rasa Malaysia)

Cozy Pumpkin Curry

If you're looking for vegan Christmas recipes, look no further than this warming, insanely delicious, and seasonal pumpkin curry. Just leave out the fish sauce to make it fully plant-based! (via Sarah Anderson for Brit + Co)

5-Ingredient Christmas Salad

A complicated salad is the last thing you need to worry about when picking out Christmas dinner recipes. This palate-cleansing dish is simply butter lettuce, pomegranate seeds, and a white wine vinaigrette. (via My Kitchen Love)

Main Dish Ideas For A Christmas Feast

If you're tasked with cooking the bird this holiday season, look no further than this foolproof roast turkey recipe. (via Brit + Co)

Beef Short Ribs with Vegetables

Make a statement with a delicious short rib recipe that's cozy, filling, and features an unbelievable wine sauce. Everyone will be talking about it until next Christmas. (via Baldacci Family Vineyards for Brit + Co)

Cranberry Glazed Turkey

Make your turkey extra-special with a delicious cranberry-pomegranate glaze everyone is sure to adore. (via Sarah Anderson for Brit + Co)

Roasted Chicken with Carrots

For a Christmas dinner or otherwise, every home cook needs a roast chicken recipe in their back pocket. Start with this step-by-step recipe, which shows you how to stuff, truss, roast, and baste the bird until juicy and golden brown. (via Simply Recipes)

Prosciutto-Wrapped Pork Loin with Apple and Rice Stuffing

This dish combines a classic holiday side with a crowd-pleasing main, and it's wrapped in prosciutto for a show-stopping finish. (via Host The Toast)

Creamy Tortellini Vegetable Soup

Pasta doesn't get enough credit when it comes to holiday recipes, but nothing's cozier than a delicious bowl of warm tortellini. Except tortellini soup, that is! (via Half Baked Harvest for Brit + Co)

Roast Beef Tenderloin with Mushrooms and White Wine Cream Sauce

This melt-in-your-mouth holiday meal is cooked in one pan in under an hour. Sauté mushrooms in an oven-safe skillet, put the beef on top, roast, rest, and make a cheesy, herby cream sauce with the pan drippings. (via Half Baked Harvest)

Turkey Roulade with Apple Cranberry Stuffing

This dish is all about texture, from the crispy bacon coat to the tender turkey in the middle and soft stuffing interior. This is one Christmas dinner recipe you won't want to miss out on. (via Boulder Locavore)

Delicious Christmas Dessert Ideas

Keto Eggnog

Got guests who are committed to the low-carb lifestyle? This keto eggnog is the perfect dessert to serve the carb-conscious. (via Annelies Zijderveld for Brit + Co)

Peppermint Bark

This easy peppermint bark recipe is so simple to make, you'll have plenty of time on your hands for more ambitious endeavors — like cooking the turkey. (via Jessica Smith Wall for Brit + Co)

Holiday Puppy Chow

Your go-to sweet treat gets a festive upgrade when you add in red and green candy! Bonus points if you have a red or green bowl to put it in. (via Brit + Co)

Jacques Torres' Chocolate Chip Cookies

No surprise here: the secret to Torres' high-quality chocolate chip cookies is high quality ingredients, like butter, flour, and chocolate. Letting the dough age for 24 hours and sprinkling it with sea salt at the end doesn't hurt, either. (via Jacques Torres for Brit + Co)

3-Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies

When it's your first year hostessing, the simpler you can keep your Christmas dinner recipes, the better. That's why we're huge fans of these 3-ingredient vegan Christmas cookies. (via From Eat Your Feelings by Lindsey Smith for Brit + Co)

Baked Hot Chocolate Donuts

Donuts are an all-purpose treat that can serve as Christmas breakfast, brunch, or dessert. This baked hot chocolate-inspired version doesn't require any special tools to make and is uber delicious. (via Half Baked Harvest for Brit + Co)

Dulce de Leche Cream-Filled Churro Donuts

These six-ingredient donuts, made with biscuit dough, have a cinnamon-y exterior and a rich dulce de leche filling that pairs wonderfully with Mexican hot chocolate. (via Brit + Co)

Eggnog French Toast

Another recipe you can serve as a Christmas dinner or brunch is this sweet French toast. The secret to nailing that 'nog flavor is the nutmeg and vanilla combo. Yum. (via St Pierre Bakery for Brit + Co)

Easy Vegan Slow Cooker Hot Cocoa

Give your oven and your plates a break and add this dairy-free hot chocolate to your easy Christmas dinner menu, or enjoy with Christmas waffles! Add all ingredients to the slow cooker, and let the gadget do the rest for you. (via Justina Huddleston for Brit + Co)

Champagne Ice Cream

This egg-free, celebration-worthy holiday dinner idea gets its creaminess from cream cheese and, better yet, its booziness from sparkling wine. (via Brit + Co)

Cinnamon Roll Pecan Pie

We call this pie holiday crack for a reason (or two): the pie crust is made of mini cinnamon rolls and the pecan filling is buttery on the verge of illegal, which definitely makes it one of our favorite holiday dishes. (via Brit + Co)

Easy Spiced Hot Fruit Bake

Hear that? That's a scoop of ice cream begging to top this sweet tray of apple, pear, cranberry, pineapple, and gluten-free dessert. (via Cotter Crunch)