Willow's Weekly Word

Aquarius is the eleventh astrological sign in the Zodiac, 21 January
to 18 February, originating from the constellation Aquarius. The
corresponding month in the Babylonian calendar is Arax Šabaṭu,
the destroying month, also called arax arrat zunne, month of the
curse of rains, associated with the Great Flood and is dedicated to
Ramman, the storm god. The zodiacal sign of this month was called
GU or Assyrian qâ, the name of a dry-measure. This was associated
with Hebrew kad, pitcher jar, presumably in reference to the urn
of Aquarius. According to the Greek mythology, Aquarius was cup
bearer to the gods, Ganymede, son of Tros, king of Troy. While
tending his father's flocks on Mount Ida, Ganymede was spotted by
Zeus, who became so enamored of the boy, he disguised himself as
an eagle (represented by the constellation Aquila) and whisked
Ganymede off to Olympus, to be his personal cup-bearer to the
gods. So, this is why the sign is symbolized by the water carrier,
even though it is actually a fixed air sign.

People born under the sign Aquarius have a contradictory side to
their nature. They believe in the ideal of equality, but have a
strong will and an individualistic streak. They are driven to rebuild
and reform as well as disrupt, revolutionize and challenge. It is
sometimes considered an unpredictable sign. Aquarians are usually
friendly, though unemotional, independent and need to maintain
their own personal space. They like to keep in touch with current
thinking and the latest modern technology.

The gemstones associated with this sign are aquamarine and
turquoise. Their flower is the orchid. The body parts associated
with Aquarius are the ankles and shins. Countries associated with
this sign are Russia, Sweden, Poland, Israel and Iran.

So, there you have it. Happy Birthday, all you Aquarian bloggies
out there, wherever you are!

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info from Wikipedia and Astrology by Darby Costello

photo: Aquarius statue, Val's restaurant, Alviso, CA by hayleybeee, Flickr