The pace of life should pick up a bit in February with mental Mercury finally getting back up to speed after starting the year in reverse. Ideas, information, connections and conversations should flow more smoothly now. Intellects will also be stimulated when Mercury enters airy Aquarius late on February 9. This may be the smartest sign of the zodiac, so brainy Mercury's presence there can open minds to fresh concepts while casting the light of understanding on situations that didn't make sense in the past.

The Sun's presence in innovative Aquarius until February 18 is another source of open-mindedness and, we hope, a greater spirit of cooperation. Venus, the planet of love, is also in heady Aquarius until February 11. Relationships tend to focus on friendship and common ideas rather than allowing us to lose ourselves in the mysteries of romance. That tendency to emotionally and spiritually merge with partners is more likely when Venus enters mushy Pisces on February 11. Venus is "exalted" in Pisces according to astrological tradition. This means that the loving qualities of the planet find a more sublime level of expression in this sign of compassion and imagination.

Energetic Mars, the planet of action and initiative, is still delaying some forward progress as it continues its retrograde motion until early March. This backward period of astrology's most forward moving planet makes it harder to break new ground, especially regarding creative projects. A little more patience is required before Mars shifts gears and we see more obvious rewards for our efforts next month.

A temperate pace in practical activities is countered by a deeper understanding of higher matters when philosophical Jupiter forms a supportive 60-degree angle with deep-diving Pluto on February 6. This is a subtle yet powerful aspect that helps to resurrect hope, as hidden resources may be found to fuel expansive projects. This positive alignment favors serious reflection on future plans, supporting tactical changes in pursuit of our goals.

The New Moon in quirky Aquarius on February 13 can spur dreams that inspire us or spread rumors that undercut authority. While spiritual activities may multiply under this potentially enlightening influence, discerning the difference between faith and fantasy could lead some people down paths of illusion and disappointment.

The Sun's entry into Neptune-ruled Pisces on February 18 also pulls us in the direction of the divine with an increased potential for escapism. The Full Moon in Virgo on February 28 caps off the month with a stern warning to pay attention to details and to take care of business. Yet with expansive Jupiter's conjunction to the Sun, hopes for a better future can be very high. This is an opportunity, then, to combine an optimistic vision with the focus and technical skills to turn it into reality....