Transgender People Are No Longer Allowed to Serve Openly in the Military and We Have Questions

In a series of tweets this morning, President Trump announced, “transgender individuals in any capacity” will no longer be allowed to serve in the US military. Trump’s tweets go on to say the military must be focused on “decisive and overwhelming victory” and cannot accommodate the “tremendous medical cost and disruption that transgender in the military would entail.”

In the announcement, Trump claims to have consulted a series of military experts but does not clarify who those individuals are. Like with many of Trump’s tweets, the 140-character limit leaves us with a lot of unanswered questions.

1. How much does transition-related treatment really cost the military? Spoiler: It’s hardly a “tremendous” amount. But before we dive in there, let’s start with a bit of background: Transgender service members have only been permitted to serve openly for about a year, thanks to changes made by President Obama. The former president also instituted a policy that would require the Pentagon to pay for medical treatment related to gender transition. That order is currently being fought by Republicans, primarily Representative Vicky Hartzler from Missouri. Hartzler is fighting for an amendment to a $700 billion appropriations bill that would end the government’s obligation to pay for such medical services.

Okay, let’s talk numbers. A report by RAND claims that somewhere between 1,320 to 6,630 trans individuals currently serve in the military. That same report also concluded that it would only increase military spending by 0.04 to 0.13 percent to provide transition-related treatment for those members of the military. But here’s something important to remember: Not all transgender individuals seek medical treatment. RAND estimates that only 0.1 percent of the total force would seek transition-related care that could disrupt their ability to deploy. Looking for some exact numbers? That translates to somewhere between 29 to 129 service members. In total, there are over two million members of the military currently on active duty or in the seven reserve components.

All in all, these treatments could cost the military between $2.4 million and $8.4 million annually. To put that number into perspective, The Washington Post recently pointed out that the military spends $84 million annually on treatment related to erectile dysfunction ($41.6 million on Viagra alone). That’s nearly 10 times the cost of the treatment trans individuals might require.

2. How will the military actually determine if military members are transgender? Here’sa crucial part of Trump’s new ban that he has yet to specify. Before last year, military medical policies still excluded transgender people from serving in the US armed forces. Members of the trans community were not included in the 2001 “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” policy, which allowed gay, lesbian, and bisexual service members to serve openly.

Prior to 2016, transgender individuals were required to either hide their transgender status or face being discharged if their true identity was found out. It’s likely that this will yet again be the case.

3. How does this align with Trump’s prior claim to support the LGBTQ+ community? TBH, it doesn’t really. Trump has been wishy-washy about his stance on LGBTQ+ rights throughout all of his presidency so far, starting by retracting protections issued by President Obama which allowed transgender students to use the bathroom they identified with most.

Trump has a history of embracing the group, only as it’s convenient to him. Throughout all of June, Trump made no mention of Gay Pride month, despite many members of the community asking him to address the major holiday. In a tweet last year Trump wrote, “Thank you to the LGBT community! I will fight for you while Hillary brings in more people that will threaten your freedoms and beliefs.”

How this new military policy protects trans is advantageous to individuals’ freedoms and beliefs remains a mystery.

Where do you stand on this new ban? Share with us on Twitter @BritandCo.

(Photos via Getty)

Audiences loved the way Greta Gerwig's Little Women brought all four March sisters to life, and Netflix's Anne with an E became so popular that when the show was canceled after season 3, 1.7 million fans signed a petition to revive the series. It all just proves that classic adaptations can make the original story even more powerful.

And the newest movie based on a book is going to be one we think about forever — and not just because of its cast. Emerald Fennell (who you'll recognize from The Crown and her work as writer & director on Satburn) is adapting Emily Brontë's Wuthering Heights and Margot Robbie and Jacob Elordi are leading the cast!

The book, published in 1847, continues to grip readers, and it's become the blueprint for moody complexity — just like Emerald Fennell's Promising Young Woman, which won the Oscar for Best Screenplay thanks to its scathing look at sexual assault. Well, the Em's are coming together for this new adaptation.

Here's everything we know about Emerald Fennell's Wuthering Heights — and your first look at the movie.

Here's Your First Look At 'Wuthering Heights'

The first look at Emerald Fennell's Wuthering Heights is getting some seriously mixed reactions. The photo features a close-up image of someone (maybe Margot Robbie's) with their fingers and a few blades of grass in their mouth.

"CAN NOT WAIT," one Instagram user said, along with a couple fire emojis. But the intimate (and somewhat shocking) image also has some users asking, "what in the saltburn?"

Is Wuthering Heights going to be in theaters?

Focus Features

It appears director Emerald Fennell and producer Margot Robbie are pushing for a theatrical release, which is why they've reportedly turned down a Netflix offer of $150 million.

Despite the fact Netflix co-CEO Ted Sarandos said theatrical releases are "just not our business," and the company has stuck to at-home streaming instead, they did break that pattern for Knives Out: Glass Onion in 2022. The movie appeared in around 600 theaters the day before Thanksgiving, but left a week later ahead of its December 23 debut on the streamer.

Co-CEO Reed Hastings told The Hollywood Reporter that keeping the movie in theaters could have made Netflix more money, but later said they just wanted to "break through the noise" and get movie lovers excited for the film to come to Netflix.

All that to be said, Margot Robbie (whose Barbie made over $1 billion worldwide) and Emerald Fennell (whose Promising Young Woman nabbed her an Oscar win and two other nominations) know how to capture the imaginations of movie lovers everywhere. And it could definitely be in their favor to stick to a theatrical release. Stay tuned for official news on where you can watch Wuthering Heights!

Who's in the new Wuthering Heights movie?

Frazer Harrison/Monica Schipper/Getty Images

Wuthering Heights Cast

The Wuthering Heights movie will be led by Jacob Elordi and Margot Robbie as Heathcliff and Catherine Earnshaw, respectively. Margot will also produce with her production company LuckyChap, which worked behind the scenes on Emerald Fennell's Saltburn and Promising Young Woman.

While some fans were initially excited about the casting, others were concerned about the fact that in the book, Heathcliff is described as "dark skinned." He also tells Nelly that, "I wish I had light hair and a fair skin, and was dressed, and behaved as well, and had a chance of being as rich as he will be!" Um, it looks like Jacob Elordi definitely has fair skin to me.

"Heathcliff is described as a dark-skinned brown man in the book and a major plot point is that he was subjected to racist abuse by his adopted family," one tweet (which has over 8 million views) says. "But yeah sure Jacob Elordi is perfect!"

Another says, "Film studios will say 'We are committed to diverse casting' and then cast Jacob Elordi to play Heathcliff, one of the more famous people of color in literature, whose race is crucial to both his character and the story."

Check back here to see who will play characters like Edgar Linton, Nelly Dean, Isabella Linton, and Lockwood.

When is Wuthering Heights coming out?

Warner Bros. Pictures

Wuthering Heights Release Date

Wuthering Heights will premiere on February 14, 2026. Happy Valentine's Day!

What is Wuthering Heights about?

Amazon

Wuthering Heights Plot

Emily Brontë's Wuthering Heights follows the Earnshaws and the Lintons, who are living in the Yorkshire Moors in the 1880s. Their lives change forever when the Earnshaws take in Heathcliff. Like any good dramatic novel, passion lies beneath proper connections, marriages, and societal expectations — and despite Catherine and Heathcliffe's feelings for each other, they have to choose between security and love.

Check out 16 New Movies Based On Books To Add To Your Watchlist to inspire your next movie night!

Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

This post has been updated.

Just like fashion trends, coffee orders can quickly go out of style, and some drinks give serious early-2000s energy (ahem, Señorita Awesome’s PSL order). New flavors and innovations are constantly being made in the coffee world, rendering a lot of once-popular sips obsolete.

From overly-sweet concoctions to blends that have lost their edge, these 7 “outdated” coffee orders are practically begging for an upgrade. If your go-to drink feels stuck in the past, it might be time to shake things up and sip on something a little more current. (Luckily, there are some exciting new menu drops coming from our faves at Dunkin’ andStarbucks!)

Scroll on to discover the top 7 “outdated” coffee orders that are no longer worth the hype – and the ones your barista is probably judging you for.

Olena Bohovyk / PEXELS

1. Frappe (Frappuccino)

While ice-blended coffees are still enjoyed in some places, the classic frappe has been overshadowed by a slew of other options like cold brew, iced coffee, and shaken espresso. Plus, these drinks can get quite complicated with chains offering endless customizations and add-ons.

Esra Afşar / PEXELS

2. Mocha

This combination of chocolate and espresso with steamed milk was pretty trendy for a while, but it’s definitely evolved with more diverse flavors and types of chocolate (dark choc for the win). Plus, mochas can get extremely sweet extremely fast, erasing the taste of coffee altogether.

Emilie Faraut / Dupe

3. White Chocolate Mocha

Mochas made with white chocolate were the drink to order… in the 2010s. Now, they may be seen as overly-sweet compared to more nuanced coffee flavors – especially if you ask a seasoned barista.

Esra Korkmaz / PEXELS

4. Caramel Macchiato

This highly-Instagrammable coffee bev used to be a go-to for many people, but over the years, it’s been associated more and more with tween and teen sippers – likely due to its sweetness and (very) high sugar content. If you want your coffee order to seem more age-appropriate and sophisticated, shift towards simpler options like iced coffee or cold brew!

Itschansy / PEXELS

5. Instant Coffee

While instant coffee is convenient, many baristas and coffee enthusiasts will turn their noses up at the mention of it. Oftentimes, you can get a way better flavor (and overall drinking experience!) with freshly-brewed or specialty coffees. Just save the instant coffee for your next camping trip!

Kelley McQuillen / Dupe

6. Espresso Con Panna

You don't see this one too much anymore. Espresso con panna – AKA a shot of espresso topped with whipped cream – was once considered a luxurious treat. With many people preferring sweeter coffees, it’s just less common now.

Mathias Reding / PEXELS

7. Irish Coffee

While still a total classic coffee order in bars (and especially around St. Patrick’s Day), Irish coffee is just not something you hear ordered as frequently in cafes anymore.

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Any Hunger Games fan will agree that one of the best parts about Catching Fire is that it offers a whole new look at Haymitch Abernathy's character. The mentor (played by Woody Harrelson in the film franchise) won the 2nd Quarter Quell, and the brief mention of his Games totally captured fans' attention, leading to fan art, fanfiction, and even some viral short films. Well, we're finally getting the full story thanks to a brand new Haymitch Hunger Games book, just in time for spring 2025!

Here's everything we know about Sunrise On The Reaping, coming March 2025.

Who's narrating the audiobook?

Cam McLeod/Paramount

It was confirmed on February 3 that Yellowstone actor Jefferson White will narrate the Sunrise on the Reaping audiobook.

“It's an honor to be a small part of a world I’ve loved for so long — Suzanne Collins is a genius and it's equal parts exhilarating and terrifying to be back in Panem," he told People.

See The Official 'Sunrise On The Reaping' Cover

Amazon

The Sunrise on the Reaping cover was unveiled the morning of October 16 and it's just as beautiful as we hoped! It continues the tradition from the other books of a bold background color with gold and white accents, and I'll admit I was surprised when I first saw the snake and the mockingjay. The snake is obviously a nod to President Snow, and we know that both Lucy Gray Baird and Katniss Everdeen are two songbirds the President was never able to shake. Will Haymitch Abernathy become one as well?

In the original books, Haymitch starts out as an angry man with no friends or family who always has a drink in his hand, but by the end of Mockingjay, he's a wise, caring father figure for Katniss — and I'm betting Sunrise on the Reaping will show us plenty of those character traits as he has to make his way through the Hunger Games.

One detail on the cover that concerns me is the fact the snake and the songbird are connected, and that a sun sits between them. David Levithan, Scholastic's vice president, publisher, and editorial director told TODAY that just like the other covers, this one features "one of the central themes of the series: how conflicting forces can be connected by their common nature, the songbird and the snake springing from the same source."

When is Sunrise on the Reaping coming out?

Lionsgate

Sunrise on the Reaping will hit stores on March 18, 2025.

What is the Sunrise on the Reaping going to be about?

Scholastic/Instagram

The new Hunger Games book is called Sunrise on the Reaping. According to the official announcement, the story will take place 24 years before The Hunger Games, starting on the morning of the 50th Games' reaping. While fans had hoped the story would chronicle Haymitch's victory, it wasn't confirmed until October 16. Read the full synopsis below:

"As the day dawns on the 50th annual Hunger Games, fear grips the districts of Panem. This year, in honor of the Quarter Quell, twice as many tributes will be taken from their homes. Back in District 12, Haymitch Abernathy is trying not to think too hard about his chances. All he cares about is making it through the day and being with the girl he loves. When Haymitch’s name is called, he can feel all his dreams break. He’s torn from his family and his love, shuttled to the Capitol with the three other District 12 tributes: a young friend who’s nearly a sister to him, a compulsive oddsmaker, and the most stuck-up girl in town. As the Games begin, Haymitch understands he’s been set up to fail. But there’s something in him that wants to fight ... and have that fight reverberate far beyond the deadly arena."

Can you preorder Sunrise on the Reaping?

Murray Close/Lionsgate

Yes, you can pre-order the book now!

What happened in Haymitch's Hunger Games?

Lionsgate

As a Quarter Quell, the 50th Hunger Games had a twist. Just like the 75th Hunger Games pulled the tributes from the existing victors, the 50th required double the tributes, meaning Haymitch (who was 16 years old at the time) was one of 48 tributes, not 24.

The arena was a breathtaking landscape with a forest, snow-capped mountains, and beautiful flowers. But Haymitch quickly realized the beauty was a trap, and that everything in the arena was poisonous. He was able to outsmart the rest of the competitors, but after he used the forcefield against the other remaining tribute to secure his victory (a move that offended the Capitol), President Snow retaliated by killing his family and his girlfriend.

Is Sunrise on the Reaping about Haymitch?

Murray Close/Lionsgate

Yes, Sunrise on the Reaping is about Haymitch Abernathy and his win during the 50th Hunger Games.

Check out The 27 Most-Anticipated New Books Debuting In 2024 for more titles coming soon!

Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

This post has been updated.

2025 is still just starting to unfold, but movie lovers have plenty to be excited about next year thanks to these amazing flicks.

From superhero battles to long-awaited sequels and fresh takes on classic stories, the upcoming roster is shaping up to be a blockbuster spectacle.

So, here are 10 of the most-anticipated 2026 movies coming next year.


1. Avengers: Doomsday — In Theaters May 1, 2026

Marvel Studios/Disney

On May 1, 2026, the Avengers will make their long-awaited return to the big screen with Avengers: Doomsday, bringing a brand new Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) team together for the first time since Avengers: Endgame.

Specific plot details remain under wraps, but there are rumors of an overwhelming list of powerful villains (led by Robert Downey Jr.'s Victor Von Doom) and the largest assembly of heroes in MCU history.

2. Toy Story 5 — In Theaters June 19, 2026

Disney/Pixar

If you thought Toy Story was gone for good, think again. Toy Story 5 is slated to be released on June 19, 2026.

It could take the story in multiple directions, possibly splitting its focus between Buzz leading Bonnie's toys as she navigates elementary school and Woody adjusting to life as a lost toy with Bo and their carnival friends. But we know our favorite toys are up against some new competition: screens.

There's also speculation that Andy might return, crossing paths with Woody while celebrating his college graduation at the traveling carnival.

Still, details are unknown, so fans can only guess what adventure lies next.

3. The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping — In Theaters November 20, 2026

Lionsgate

The next Hunger Games movie is scheduled to be released in theaters on November 20, 2026. Francis Lawrence will return as director, and Sunrise on the Reaping will take viewers back 24 years before the OG movie to follow a young Haymitch Abernathy as he fights to survive the deadly 50th annual games, also known as the Second Quarter Quell.

This brutal edition saw double the usual number of tributes, making it the bloodiest in Panem's history.

4. Scary Movie 6 — In Theaters June 12, 2026

Dimension Films

Set to debut on June 12, 2026, Scary Movie 6 will be the latest installment in the popular horror movie spoof series. Shooting is supposed to start in 2025.

It's unclear who will star in the cast, but it is known that Marlon and Shawn Wayans, the original creators of Scary Movie, have returned to help with the latest project.

5. Minions 3 — In Theaters July 1, 2026

Illumination Entertainment & Universal Pictures

The mischievous yellow henchmen are back for another chaotic adventure in Minions 3, slated to hit theaters on July 1, 2026.

Following the massive success of Despicable Me 4, which raked in $969 million globally, the Minions franchise will likely continue to be a box-office powerhouse.

6. Scream 7 — In Theaters February 27, 2026

Brownie Harris/Paramount Pictures

Scream 7, which is in the middle of filming, will come out on February 27, 2026.

While the exact plot is a mystery thus far, Melissa Barrera and Jenna Ortega will not be returning. However, fans can expect to see Matthew Lillard, Mason Gooding, and Jasmin Savoy Brown gracing the big screen again.

7. The Mandalorian and Grogu — In Theaters May 22, 2026

Lucasfilm Ltd. & TM

If you've been waiting for season four of The Mandalorian, you might have to wait a little longer because Din Djarin and Grogu will be visiting theaters next.

This highly anticipated movie will be released on May 22, 2026. Following the events of the TV series' third season, Din Sjarin and Grogu are now working with the New Republic to track down Imperial Remnant leaders, setting the stage for a showdown with Grand Admiral Thrawn and his rising threat.

With Mandalore reclaimed and Moff Gideon seemingly defeated, this film is expected to bridge the gap between the series and the larger conflict unfolding in the Star Wars universe.

8. The Odyssey — In Theaters July 17, 2026

Michael Loccisano/Pascal Le Segretain/John Nacion/Getty Images

Christopher Nolan is taking on one of history's greatest epics with The Odyssey, a cinematic retelling of Homer's legendary tale that will debut on July 17, 2026.

The film follows Odysseus on his treacherous journey home after the Trojan War, where he encounters mythical dangers like the Sirens, Polyphemus, and Circe. Read up on the incredible cast!

9. Spider-Man 4 — In Theaters July 25, 2026

Columbia Pictures/Marvel Studios/Sony Pictures

Tom Holland will return to the big screen in Spider-Man 4 on July 25, 2026, just a few months after Avengers: Doomsday.

During an appearance on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon, Holland confirmed that production for the film, directed by Destin Daniel Cretton, will begin in mid-2025.

10. GOAT — In Theaters February 13, 2026

Ezra Shaw/Getty Images

Finally, Sony Pictures Animation will be giving us an animated sports comedy with the creation of GOAT, hitting theaters on February 13, 2026. Produced by NBA superstar Stephen Curry, it's supposed to be a heartwarming underdog story with diverse characters.

Which 2026 movie are you most excited for? Check out all the 2025 TV shows coming this year too!

It's another week, so time to dive into another batch of horoscopes! I write these horoscopes, not to predict the future, but to highlight opportunities presented by the moving planets, helping us align our lives with our highest potential. We have free will, and each person can activate these energies in their own unique way. Still, your weekly horoscope can help be a guiding light for your day-to-day choices.

This week, we have the chance to take bold actions that align with our deepest desires. Reflect on what you truly want, how you wish to live, and summon the courage to pursue your dreams. It’s also a good time for honest self-evaluation — consider what has held you back and how you can overcome self-imposed limitations.

Scroll to see your weekly horoscope for March 2-9, 2025!

Anna Shvets

On March 2, Venus, the planet of love and values, goes retrograde until April 13. It begins in Aries, moves back into Pisces on March 29, and turns direct in Aries again on May 1. As the northern hemisphere inches toward spring, embrace Aries’ energy — the same force that allows tulips to break through frozen ground and flowers to bloom from dormant branches. Each morning, visualize the vitality of spring as motivation to step beyond your comfort zone.

On March 3, Mercury, the planet of communication and learning, follows Venus into Aries. We may find ourselves reacting impulsively, craving instant results. The best way to use this energy is to streamline communication — speak wisely, concisely, and clearly. Stay physically active to keep this fiery energy flowing in a positive direction. If frustration arises, take a walk, cool down, and then plan your next move.

With both Mercury and Venus in Aries, we can accomplish a great deal — just be sure to channel your energy wisely for the greatest good. On March 5, Mercury forms a sextile with Pluto, drawing us toward deep conversations, mysteries, and intellectual pursuits like psychology or astrology. This is a powerful time to combine intellect and intuition to gain insight into complex or perplexing issues.

This week’s planetary shifts encourage bold action, honest self-reflection, and meaningful communication. Tap into Aries’ dynamic energy to push past limitations and embrace new opportunities with confidence. Use this time wisely, and remember — your choices shape your destiny.

For deeper insights into these and other transits affect you, visit SevenSistersAstrology.com for a Natal Reading.

​Read Your Sun and Rising Signs

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Aries (March 21 – April 19)

Use your natural charm to your advantage. Take time to develop and articulate your ideas, then present them boldly with confidence. However, avoid being dogmatic — engage in conversations to refine and expand your vision. Stay true to yourself, but if you’re thinking of updating your image, be bold and embrace a fresh, creative version of yourself.

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Taurus (April 20 – May 20)

Pace yourself this week. You may feel drawn to retreat and recharge while also wanting to help others. Balance self-care with compassion — set boundaries to ensure you have enough energy for both. If your reserves are low, prioritize yourself first. Progress may be slow, but patience will pay off in the long run.

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Gemini (May 21 – June 20)

Engage with your community and collaborate on causes that inspire you. Innovative partnerships are favored, so stay open to unique perspectives. Hone your message — be clear and concise. Meaningful connections are likely, offering hope and inspiration. Support your group, but don’t neglect your own needs.

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Cancer (June 21 – July 22)

Strategic planning and honest communication are key this week. Conversations with superiors may lead to expanded roles or refined responsibilities. If you’re in a leadership position, engage your team to improve workflow and maximize collective strengths. Keep your vision broad but ensure your plan is detailed and practical.

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Leo (July 23 – August 22)

A thirst for knowledge and new experiences dominates your week. Keep your mind clear and let both intellect and intuition guide you. This is a great time for personal growth — embrace curiosity, explore new ways of thinking, and boldly expand your horizons with an open mind and heart.

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Virgo (August 23 – September 22)

Superficial conversations won’t satisfy you this week — you crave depth. If you’re in a relationship, nurture profound emotional connections. If single, seek out meaningful interactions within your community. If unresolved issues surface, address them courageously. Practice self-compassion and extend that kindness to others.

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Libra (September 23 – October 22)

Communication takes center stage, especially with loved ones. Your desire for harmony is strong, but ensure authenticity guides your interactions. In professional settings, negotiations are favored — aim for long-term agreements that benefit all parties. Acknowledge your contributions while maintaining a balanced perspective.

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Scorpio (October 23 – November 21)

You excel at detailed analysis this week, but balance logic with emotional intelligence. Empathy will be essential in all interactions. You’ll be productive and organized — just remember to promote camaraderie within your team. Be mindful of extremes; schedule time for relaxation and practice moderation in all aspects of life.

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Sagittarius (November 22 – December 21)

Creative expression is highlighted. Share your thoughts to foster deeper connections. Follow your curiosity and carve out time to explore new ideas. Embrace your artistic side and approach life with playful enthusiasm. Whether through art, learning, or joyful experiences, prioritize self-discovery and creative freedom.

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Capricorn (December 22 – January 19)

Your home and family take precedence. Strengthen relationships through clear, compassionate communication. If misunderstandings arise, address them with active listening and kindness. This is also a great time to host a gathering — friends may seek solace in your welcoming presence and cozy home. Welcome unexpected visitors.

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Aquarius (January 20 – February 18)

New intellectual insights may challenge your assumptions. Stay open-minded and embrace fresh perspectives. Encounters with others may bring energy and excitement — ride the wave of spontaneity. Growth happens in the journey, not just the destination, so be flexible and enjoy the ride.

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Pisces (February 19 – March 20)

Focus on security and stability, particularly in alignment with your values. If making major decisions, ensure they reflect your ethical and moral beliefs. Financial matters are key — consider long-term value over instant gratification. While you may be drawn to beauty and luxury, be discerning in your choices.

For more insights on how these and other planetary transit impact you, visit SevenSistersAstrology.com for a personalized reading.

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