I had planned a photo quote de jour and may post it later, but this takes precedence.

Mercury in Retrograde, the astrological bugaboo and bane of communication and all things mechanical has an upside. A friend was lamenting today how squirrelly everything’s been for the past two weeks, and like her I've been counting the days until Mercury goes direct. It will begin to ease out on September 12 and be fully direct by September 27.  You may be wondering why your computer is wonky, everything and everyone is late and your smart phone isn’t acting very smart.

Relax; there is an up side to this Retrograde, which is in persnickety Virgo this time around. Yup, the Mercury retrograde happens about three times a year each time in a different sign giving it a new diabolical twist. So before you throw your (fill in the blank) in the toilet/river/garbage, do this instead:

 Take extra good care of yourself, your pets and your home by:

1) Expect things to be odd, so double check every detail. Give yourself extra time to complete tasks.

2) Take long cleansing baths with Epsom’s salts and aromatherapy oils.

3) Eat healthier.

4) Do a colon cleanse or fast/take your vitamins.

5) Spend time unplugged in nature. No, not even your iPod.

6) Groom your pets (good time for a vet visit).

7) Clean, organize and de-clutter your home and office/ desk.

8) Clean/organize things you normally don’t take time for like polishing silver. Who knows what treasure you’ll find under the sofa cushions or car seat!

9) Make a list of what you want to manifest and a list of what you’re grateful for.

10) Relax. Know that there is perfection in imperfection.