by Maria Shaw

On December 18th, Jupiter, the planet of good luck, moves out of the sign of fiery Sagittarius and into earthy Capricorn. Jupiter is said to bring luck, abundance and opportunities. I have tracked the transits of Jupiter in thousand of clients’ astrology charts over the years as well as my own and can honestly say, Jupiter has made a tremendous difference in many lives during its transit, especially when it visited a client’s sun, rising or midheaven (top of the chart which rules career/outside world). The real benefit of astrology is using it as a tool to alert us of opportunity times so we can prepare and act on them.

Here is brief synopsis on how Jupiter’s transit in Capricorn will affect us, based on our sun signs. If you know your rising sign, please read that forecast too.

Aries • Jupiter bestows blessings in the area of career and work. You can achieve a great deal in the new year if you are willing to work hard. More than one option may be available to you. Some Rams may find their dream job.

Taurus • This is the best year in over twelve years to travel; especially to foreign countries. I personally know a Taurus who is traveling to Italy and Greece in 2008. It is also a fine time to return to college and pursue educational goals.

Gemini • You will receive many benefits from other people in the coming year. You also get a chance to pay down debt, snag some great bargains, receive inheritances, bonuses, etc. This is one of your “money years” but that cash is likely to come from other sources, rather than work.

Cancer • Jupiter brings in wonderful relationships and happiness in current ones. Many Crabs will meet their soul mate. Some will marry. Others will form beneficial business partnerships. Legal matters go well also.

Leo • You will enjoy many of your co-workers. If you work in a health or service industry, your job will grow. The Lion’s health should be good. Some Leos will get a new pet. Others may see the return of an old flame.

Virgo • This is a wonderful year for relationships with your children if you have any. It is also a good year to expand the family. You could be lucky at the casino or if you play games of chance. New love affairs are highlighted. Many Virgo will take up a new hobby which they will enjoy immensely.

Libra • Real estate matters tend to go rather well this year. If you are looking to buy, sell, rent, remodel, move or even purchase a vacation home, your chances are very favorable for doing so. Family matters tend to go well.

Scorpio • The year ahead favors short trips, communications and the purchase of a new vehicle. Some Scorpios will welcome new neighbors. Others will improve sibling relationships that are strained.

Sagittarius • This is the Archer’s big money year. Jupiter will help increase the cash flow. Sag could also be spending a lot of money but overall the financial picture should brighten.

Capricorn • Thanks to Jupiter’s visit in their sign, Capricorns will be the luckiest of all signs. This is your year to shine. Many blessings will come your way. Be careful of weight gain because while Jupiter expands your horizons it can also expand your waistline.

Aquarius • Good karma is coming your way. All of your good deeds will be rewarded. People from the past will come back into your life (that you will be pleased to see). It’s as if you have an extra guardian angel on your shoulder in the year ahead!

Pisces • It’s who you know that will help you get ahead in the game of life this year. With Jupiter moving through the friendship sector of your solar chart, many blessings come from your social contacts. At least one of your fondest hopes or wishes stand a good chance of coming true.

Jupiter comes around to visit each sign about every 12 years so this is a big deal. In 2009, Aquarians will enjoy Jupiter’s stay. Then Pisces in 2010, Aries in 2011 and so on.

Maria Shaw is an author and relationship astrologer. She has offices in New Orleans, Detroit and Fort Lauderdale. Author of “Heart and Soul.” Workshops and lectures. www.MariaShaw.com. (810) 631-6887.