by Mark Dodich

Quick Mercury gives the optical illusion of moving backwards about three times each year. When the winged messenger is in this re-visioning phase, it is time to  make a behind the scenes plan for future application. Instead of taking the negative Oh My God approach to this sometimes debilitating phase, constructively use this time to study, tend to old business, improve communications skills, and update equipment such as computers, autos, and software. Be clear in your communications: I was to meet friends at a neighborhood restaurant where the friend could only remember the ‘fruit’ in the name. Smart guy that I am, I said I knew exactly where it was. I had dinner alone at Papaya Thai and my friends ate at Mango Thai. If you know the house area of your natal chart holding the sign and degrees of Mercury retrograde, you will know where you can get the most from your effort. In the 7th house of your natal chart, work on your significant relationships. In the 10th house, tend to career issues such as redoing your brochure or web site. If Mercury moves backwards across a planet in your natal chart, its effects are increased; look at the meaning of the planet  being transited for additional information.
 
Jan 28-Feb. 18, 24-8°Aquarius: Reconnect with old friends, tend to computer issues, and invent a new way. 
 
May 26-June 19, 22-12 Gemini: Travel, write, share ideas that will be useful in the future. Use care in signing contracts.
 
Sept. 24-Oct. 15, 23-7 Libra: Relationships and all types of social activities can be revised or planned.
 
In all retrogrades, keep plans flexible so they can adapt after the cycle is complete.