2012 MamaScopes: Aries

Ready, set, go! 2012 gets off to a productive start. If there's anything you'd like to accomplish from now until June, make a list and start planning your course of action. Did Santa forget to put that new job in his sack 'o toys, perhaps? Dream big, and get ready to work hard. Lucky Jupiter is in Taurus, your work and money house, until June 11^th. The first sixth months of the year could bring job opportunities galore. For Aries moms who work outside the house, you could get that promotion or finally score the job of your dreams.

Is your work aligned with your passions and ideals? It could be time to make your move. If you're scared to start over, don't be: now's the perfect time to gain some new money management wisdom and skills. Find creative ways to minimize your family's financial burden and trim unnecessary expenses. You don’t have to deprive yourself; it’s just about making smart choices. For example, even though you THINK you're saving money by shopping at all those big-box retail stores, is it really worth a few cents in savings to sacrifice quality and health? Think small-scale this year: hit the farmer's market instead of the superstore, and watch your carbon footprint. Prepare quality food in bulk over the weekends, freeze it, and then leave it to defrost while you're at work or on the go. You'll not only save money in the long run, but you'll also feel good about what you're putting into your kids' bodies...and yours!

Speaking of bods, put a little focus on your own, Aries. If you're still wearing maternity clothes (and your youngest is going into kindergarten), give your wardrobe some much-needed TLC. Pick up a couple of great staples: a nice pair of black pants, a versatile blazer, some comfy-yet-chic shoes, eye-catching accessories. Nothing you buy has to be pricey, but make sure that it's meant to last. And hey, a little decadence goes a long way. Even if that status bag is a little out of your price range, if it makes you feel like a million bucks (and will last for years to come), maybe it's worth the splurge.

Independence is another theme this year—actually, for the next seven years, while free-spirited Uranus is in Aries until 2018. Uranus has been here since last March, and you could already be setting off in a brand new direction. It's time to get real about the fact that you need your own thing going on. While you love your kids and your partner, if you're not forging your own path, then you're not satisfied. Simple as that! Need some ideas? If you're a writer, or you feel passionately about a subject, start your own blog or contribute to someone else's. If you’re not in the workforce, it could be the perfect moment to get a part-time gig, or to take classes at a local university. Has it been awhile since you worked with technology? Libraries and community centers often offer classes in the latest computer programs. The world truly is your oyster, but it's up to you to dig out that pearl!

As long as you have supportive and loving friends--the ones who call you at 6 AM to remind you to work out, AND the ones who keep you out 'til 6 AM having fun--you're golden. On that note, even your downtime could use a bit of a makeover. Have you considered taking a yoga or meditation class, or maybe even going on a spiritual retreat? Research now so that you're ready to hit the ashram by the end of the year. If you're interested in photography, art, or dancing, this year could find you in the darkroom or the studio.

What's love got to do with it? In 2012, slow and steady wins the romantic race, Aries. You could learn some important lessons about mutuality and teamwork in the coming months, and maybe, just maybe, you'll finally give up always having to run the show in your relationship. Trust the people around you, and start relying on them for support. Saturn, planet of maturity, is in your partnership-driven seventh and eighth houses for most of the year. Thanks to its presence, you'll be less inclined to settle for someone that may not be right for you and your children, and for a pattern of behavior that's doesn't give you the respect and stability you need. Stand up for yourself, Aries, and don't give up on the quest to find meaningful love if you’re single. If you're married or coupled, quality time could be scant, due to your busy schedules and obligations. Book date nights far in advance, Aries! If you'd don't plan it, it just might not happen.

2012 Mom-tra: “Me time, we time. I need both.”