"The Venus cycle, as it weaves in and out with the precision of a metronome, is perhaps intended to bring us internal harmony—allowing us to be at peace with our choices."

Venus in Gemini Summer Horoscopes

What will you choose? Life does offer us choices... It's been eight years since we last lived through this part of the Venus cycle, and once again it is time to re-evaluate what is of true value and significance to us personally. The imagery of the cycle is a five petalled flower like the rose and a pentacle or pentagram. Venus cycles allow us to get in touch with our intimate desires—not merely in terms of relationship—but also about what we wish to have, do and achieve in the course of our lives in order to feel fulfilled and in harmony with our soul.

Timeline: Venus in Gemini April 3-August 7, 2012 (PDT)

• Repeats from: April 3-August 7, 2004 and April 3-August 6, 1996

• Will repeat: April 3-August 7, 2020; April 3-August 7, 2028 and April 3-August 7, 2036

• Read the Venus Story 2012

To read your horoscope click on your sign: Aries, Taurus, Gemini, Cancer, Leo, Virgo, Libra, Scorpio, Sagittarius, Capricorn, Aquarius, Pisces

Aries

March 19-April 19

Do you find that your everyday life meets with your expectations and feels rewarding?

For an Aries Sun person (and/or Aries Ascendant person), the Venus story is filled with opportunities, all requiring your choice and decision to do what is need to achieve success. The big them is communication, sharing ideas and learning to interact with the people in your daily life. This might be a time when you end up spending more time with a sibling or a cousin, someone familiar from your younger days. There are likely to be times when you contemplate if a particular connection is worth your effort and time. Our choices often begin with what we no longer want. During this potentially, social period accept the invitations to gatherings, parties and the like. Opportunities can only be found if we are in the right place at the right time, and choose to see or hear what is possible.

The Venus in Gemini Summer is great for reconnecting with siblings, cousins and people in your neighbourhood and daily environment. We don't simply talk to relay information, expressing our emotions through words and non-verbal communication is equally important. Improving relationships with siblings and co-workers is time well spent. Work situation may also be challenging around this time—ultimately the steps you are 'forced to take' result in dramatic improvements. Personal effort and better co-operation paves the way.

Venus Rx Advisory, May 15-June27: It is not an ideal time to purchase a vehicle as it might end up being a luxury item you could ill-afford or end up being something of a money pit... Contracts made to yield monetary gains might be best left unsigned until after June 27. Partnerships formed during Venus retrograde have extra lessons for us, and may be somewhat fleeting in nature.

Note that horoscopes address potential issues in broad terms; we have our own horoscope with an array of variables, and these provide much more information than a generalized write up. I have numerous inexpensive astrological reports for sale on this site; ranging from personality analysis to annual predictive reports. Read about the reports. A sample report of each is available through links on that page. Some predictive reports, such as Starlight will offer good insights without a known birth time. The next natural step is to book a consultation.

Taurus

April 19-May 20

Are your efforts producing the kind of results you desire?

Venus is the guiding light for Taurus, as she is weaving her magic and enticing us to hear our inner voice, it pays to listen to those intuitive hunches. When something is right, we don't need to question our instinctive choice, and when it is wrong for us, we often begin to seek the second, third, etc. opinion. On a mundane note, it might be a good idea to review your finances and if these truly are in need of revision, make a new plan. It isn't a great time to make major investments—chances are that we end up paying too much for something with an inflated value. Copper is a Venus metal, and its value has caused massive thefts of copper wiring for the past eight years—it began with the previous Venus occultation in Gemini in 2004. What is interesting is that countries have been busily getting ready of coppers in their currency—the lowly penny will no longer be minted in Canada as of this Venus summer. It isn't all about money for you; the bottom line is your priorities, are you happy with your present day choices? If not, what are you holding in high regard that really isn't worth it?

April 3-August 7, 2012 Venus will be in the area associated with money, the future and your priorities. Chances are you have planets in Gemini as well and are feeling this energy rather strongly. We were here last in 2004, the same dates, what is it you desire for the future, what gives you a sense of contentment? There are the upcoming 40+ days, beginning May 15, when you are likely to ponder things in depth. We tend to make some big choices for ourselves with these Venus periods. That dance of the seven veils is the Venus dance—letting go of what no longer serves a purpose for you and choosing something new and improved based on your desires.

As it is primarily about your money, values and priorities—how well do you stick to your budget, and how do you allocate your time and effort? Now might be a good time to learn how to stay on top things. Ultimately it isn't about how much we make but what we manage to keep (i.e. not spend). The Rx period, in particular (May 15-June 27) is not ideal for any major purchases—you may regret your choices. This can also be a good time to find new ways to build your personal assets. I don't know that I'd choose to get new investments but explore different options. Now is the time for re-evaluation and re-assessment—always follow your heart and rely on your innate knack for finding co-operation, common ground and harmony. It is your second nature. Venus is your ruling planet after all.

Gemini

May 20-June 20

How do you measure up to your own assessment of yourself?

If you are a Gemini Sun, your identity and what you identify with is front and centre. Do you like where your life is headed? Do you like yourself? Are your relationships supportive and are you enjoying to conversations and daily interactions with people around you? If you couldn't give a resounding YES to those queries, you might need to revamp your life. Evaluate what is still important and what you wish to eliminate. In our hearts we know what is right for us, and if we pause to reflect we have our own answers.

If Gemini is your Ascending sign, much of the above applies to you, however your resolve and motivation will be different as the change must begin with your own action/choice. You might decide to work on your appearance but also at how you act, behave and maybe even change the direction for your life. Venus is in your Sun sign for an extended period of time; we were here last in 2004, the same dates. What were the revelations you had at the time and what was it you were grappling with? Much of the outer planet energy has shifted since then and we are all eight years older and wiser now, however, the message is always simple. Align your life so that you feel happy and content leading it.

All in all this is a hundred year cycle designed to awaken us to our desired aspirations in life. Looking at this from the perspective of the Sun and its role in the symbolic language of astrology, we are gauging who we are, who we have evolved into being in the now and then we question if we are living the life we always wanted and finding our life fulfilling. Big, lofty concepts and our inner voice as our guide, we have the option not to wander through life on a 'default' setting—we can make choices. Listen to your heart.

Venus Rx Advisory, May 15-June27 is the time to take stock and re-evaluate our personal desires. That one question always is 'do I love doing what I do' and if not, what am I willing to give in order to gain something that I value most.

Venus is always a beneficial influence, granted we tend to have to surrender something during this period each Venus period. This can also be a time to revisit places and people from our past. This gives us insights to how what we used to desire no longer intrigues or fascinates us. With Venus in your sign you are likely to be noticed more and appreciated for what you do and who you are. Throughout these months remember to stay true to your ideals.

Cancer

June 20-July 22

Do you have enough time and adequate tools to recharge your internal batteries?

Meditation, contemplation and ensuring adequate rest and relaxation are important to both our emotional and physical well-being. Are you leaving room in your daily schedule for yourself? In an attempt to convey how this Venus energy might play out I am reminded of the Indian Proverb on my home page: "Everyone is a house with four rooms, a physical, a mental, an emotional and a spiritual. Most of us tend to live in one room most of the time, but unless we go into every room, every day, even if only to keep it aired, we are not a complete person." It is time to air the spiritual areas of your life. Your dreams might be rather profound or even prophetic now. Similarly, your intuition is likely to be in high gear this Venus summer... Listen with your 'second ears' and see with your 'second sight'.

You might you benefit from journaling your dreams. If you haven't delved into the world of imagery and symbolism yet, now might be the time to pick up a book or two on the subject matter. The most profound answers to life's challenges are answered from within. Close friends—confidantes—may be able to offer suggestions, but ultimately we need to learn to listen to our conscience. Learn about how subconscious mind helps us cope with our daily lives. Dream time can be wonderful for learning about life and often other intriguing topics.

The chances are that you will encounter both people and places from the past. Relationships we valued back then may only return to remind us how we have grown and changed. May 15-June 27 is potentially the most profound time in this lengthy period. When all is said and done, you may have encountered many unfamiliar, new concepts and people—suggesting it might be time to step out of your comfort zone and do something new.

If you are feeling under the weather, don't neglect your physical well-being. If it is merely a rut, consider physical activity that incorporates a meditative component such as yoga, tai-chi or another form of martial arts.

Leo

July 22-August 22

Do you have enough time to spend with friends? Are you on track to attaining your goals? What does my heart desire?

This Venus cycle rolls around at 8-year intervals, there are familiar themes however the potential events tend to be different. This is a good time to work on your friendships and professional networking connections. You may find that some of these connections are no longer viable and will fall by the wayside naturally; you might also have to deal with some that are a bit painful. It might be a time to get rid of a few goals that in the final analysis aren't that important.

Listen to your heart; choose those goals that you expect to be rewarding and worthwhile. Remove the expectations of others out of the equation and consider what will make you happy and what will make your heart sing. Remember how as a kid you felt that each day was new and exciting; that is how we are meant to feel as adults as well. When we don't it is up to us to implement changes—the biggest one of course is our attitude toward life.

Venus Rx Advisory, May 15-June27: This is the time when we revisit issues and people from the past and look deep within for answers. In order to take a step forward in our quest we may need to take two steps back. Think of it as distancing ourselves from the immediate and looking at it in terms of a bigger picture. Chances are that you'll receive plenty of assistance and help during this period. Perhaps too much, so you need to learn to say: I value your input, but...

Virgo

August 22-September 22

What is the measure of success? Are you on track to attaining the results you desire?

We tend gauge success by our impression of successful people. A successful author, as an example, is the one whose name is known globally and whose books sell in the millions not in hundreds; a business owner who similarly brings in millions becomes the yardstick. Reality naturally is different, and it might be time to acknowledge your accomplishments, pat yourself on the back and to count your blessings. What are the goals that are closest to your heart? Are you on track to achieving those? Maybe you measure success in terms of money, and feel that you haven't had an increase in ages.

This Venus period may include strained interactions with bosses and people in authority (particularly May 15-June 27). Our values may clash. We don't all appreciate the same things, and it is tough to understand how someone could feel so differently about something. It is a good time frame to get your relationship with parents onto a better level—co-operation, accommodating and showing appreciation are Venusian tools at your disposal. At times we also need to agree to disagree and move on.

If you are feeling dissatisfied with you career/avocation, now might be the ideal time to search deep within for solutions. Our choice is to change our attitude and approach or pick a new direction. Don't discard until you have examined for viability.

Libra

September 22-October 22

What do you desire in the now and how could you attain your aspirations?

Venus is your guiding star, and during this Venus Summer her energies flow without obstacles. Meaning whatever you have chosen moves toward its natural conclusion without much effort on your part. If you have chosen nothing, preferring the status quo, this might not be the greatest of summers. Playing the 'let's just wait and see what happens' game is probably not even possible in this massive year of change we have numbered 2012.

The quest to understand life, the pursuit of higher learning/education or simply the Holy Grail are the kinds of concepts you might need to learn to understand for this summer. The urge to explore the big world out there is strong now. This Venus Summer may be about setting some rather lofty goals.

The challenging part may be dealings with in-laws and attempting to help people who live at a distance or choose to be somewhat hermit-like. You know you feel fulfilled when you help another gain perspective; simply remember others can be extra sensitive now. Themes and people return for a review so that you can re-evaluate your true goals and aspirations. This is a time to plan a different kind of future, remembering the importance of following the guidance of your heart.

When it comes to communication it is best to listen with heart, be extra accommodating and willing to find compromises along the way. It is also important to take time out to contemplate and during the retrograde period (May 15-June 27) avoid making rash decisions. Ultimately the question is 'do you love it' and if not can you let it go. Life is ours to create.

Scorpio

October 22-November 21

Do your savings/investments meet your expectations? How are you handling financial matters?

18 months ago, Venus spent almost four months in you Sun sign. Now she is doing a similar dance in Gemini (April 4-August 7, 2012), which for your sign represents shared resources and commitment . This Venus Summer is great for doing research, learning to understand yourself and your motivation better. Count your blessings within an existing relationship, it is and a wonderful time to rekindle the passion you and your partner shared before, which has perhaps faded....You may find that things and even people naturally fall out of the picture now. It is a great time to rediscover what you value in the now.

Venus Rx advisory May15-June 27: This is not an ideal time to make big financial decisions, especially if these involve increasing your debt load. It might be best to avoid long-term commitments, you are more likely to discover that you chose too quickly and it is typically harder to disengage from the person, project, or possession. Major financial decisions are best left to after these weeks.

Venus in Gemini is capable of scouting out information, offering us opportunities to talk to a variety of people, which naturally means you need to open up and discuss matters frankly without keeping the important concepts a closely guarded secret. This Venus summer can be filled with secrets, and you may need to guard a few unsolicited confidences. You might even have to guard one or two of your own vehemently.

Find the right balance with handling and managing any resources and obligations you share with another. Now is also a good time to re-evaluate how the give and take works within your intimate, committed relationship(s).

Sagittarius

November 21-December 21

Does your relationship measure up to your expectations?

Gemini is the sign opposite yours and therefore a symbolic representation of the partner you tend to seek and attract. The entire Venus story could play out more in the lives of your partner and people in your life in general. However, one of Venus' domains is our social interactions, which may be particularly strained during the retrograde period (May 15-June 27). Naturally the intent is to work on relationships in order to regain balance and harmony within that relationship. We humans do tend to postulate, lose our cool and speak without consulting the brain or taking the feelings of others into account, when we feel that we are not being understood, feel taken advantage of, etc. Relationships are typically the biggest challenge we encounter in life. We seek people who we think are most like us, and it takes us a long time to understand those differences we have about our priorities. It can be as simple as not understanding how someone can waste their money on... fill in the blank, when we personally don't find that in the least bit enticing to own or have. When we personally find an issue truly important and attempt to convince another, we tend to get into disagreements and might eventually find that we don't care enough to work on that particular relationship any longer. Yes, Venus is more than just love.

Once every eight years, you work on these issues with the tools of Venus—co-operation and the goals of Venus are to achieve harmony and to keep everything pleasant. Oddly enough, it is not what we say that causes the problems (well at times it is); it is how our words are received. Most of our communication is actually non-verbal, and people tend to be rather good at reading things from our posture, facial expressions or the rolling of the eyes. With Venus in Gemini, use your words to clarify and re-clarify until you perceive the right non-verbal message from the person you are talking to.

Capricorn

December 21-January 19

Does your work environment measure up to your standards and expectations?

Gemini for you represents the work environment and the daily setting where you handle tasks, for a stay at home mother that might be the house and playgroups etc. With the versatile Gemini in charge, you are an old hand at multi-tasking; here comes the juggling act part X. Once every eight years you work with current issues using the tools at Venus' disposal. Those are co-operation, mediation and social interaction. You might find that you are handling relationships with co-workers, acting as the mediator and having to listen to all those details tests even your patience, but the only way to improve the situation is to truly hear and understand their stories.

This might be a time when you choose that you won't be doing this job much longer and make strides to realign yourself with goals that you would love to be pursuing. That one question always is 'do I love doing what I do' and if not, what am I willing to give in order to gain something that I value most.

The touchiest time with Venus is while she is retrograde (May 15-June27 7), those biblical forty days and forty nights. During this time we need to look deeply within our souls to understand what our highest priorities are. We are not human doings we are human beings, and shouldn't waste our lives feeling discontent with our job, our relationship, etc. Within us we have the resources and the courage to improve our lives and as we work on that, the world around us transforms.

Aquarius

January 19-February 18

Does your romantic relationship measure up to your expectations? Are you expressing your creativity to personal satisfaction? What does your heart desire?

Gemini energy is something that you understand instinctively; it is equally inquisitive but less rigid. This cycle in Gemini is associated with romance and passion for you, and you are likely to be re-evaluating your most intimate relationship. The last time you handled these issues with the tools of Venus: co-operation and heart-to-heart discussion was back in the 2004. Life is cyclical ain nature, thus you are likely to be examining not only your intimate relationships (partner and children BTW), but also your innate creativity.

It is a natural time to explore your creative ideas and to try a variety of things. Choose one or more that you would like to realize. This is about what the heart wants. We all yearn to feel loved and appreciated for who we are and what we do. Once every eight years these issues are under the proverbial magnifying glass so that we can see and talk about what needs fixing and what is perfect. For example, when we have been a relationship for many years or even decades, we tend to begin to assume that our partner knows how we feel. However, all of us want to hear it in words and feel it in actions. It is amazing what a feeling a little compliment arouses in us.

During May 15-June 27, the need to analyze our relationship with partner and children feels more urgent. All conversations are now significant, there is more to discuss. It is a time to revitalize, to address any issues and work on things, rather than toss aside.

Pisces

February 18-March 19

Are you content with your home and family life?

Similar issues were under scrutiny back in 2004, what were you contemplating back then? Do you feel comfortable and content in your current setting? Do you have privacy or are there issues you have to handle whether you like it or not? Should you see family members more often? What could you upgrade, improve, change around the house to make it feel the way you would prefer.

These months are ideal for having heart-to-heart conversations with family members. Facebooking, tweeting, etc. cannot replace face-to-face time (not on a mobile, by the way).

This might be the time you opt to rejuvenate and liven up your home, during the actual retrograde period (May 15-June 27) is not an ideal time to go buy all kinds of luxury items. We are more likely to throw caution to the wind and follow the desire to own something with little regard to whether we can comfortably afford the item(s).

Life is about choices, unless you wish things to remain the same; that is until we decide what we value the most and go after it, things happen outside our sphere of experience. It is about comparison: good, better, best, etc. Share how you feel, talk about your feelings (it is no longer all that girlie...) and get clarity. Once you give voice to what you would like, it is easier to obtain your heart's desire (most of us are ill-equipped to read minds, dear Pisces).

Private Tutoring

Anne's Book

www.astrologicallyspeaking.com

www.annemassey.ca

www.astrotieto.com