What is a birthday without those who remember them? Mum and Dad, brother, sister, Uncle Bob, Auntie Gee…
For most of us, September arrives with a distinct change in the air. As summer fades into autumn, the world naturally slows down, inviting us to pause and reflect. Universally, September is a month of balance and transitional light.
The September birthstone is the deep blue Sapphire, traditionally believed to bring wisdom, loyalty, and protection to those who carry it.
The Zodiac: The month splits between Virgo (grounded, practical, and deeply loyal) and Libra (focused on harmony, partnership, and heart connection).
For me, September acts like a quiet bridge connecting the lively gatherings of today with the soft memories of yesterday. I am fortunate to have wonderful people surrounding me now, but September also brings moments of gentle remembrance for those who now celebrate their birthdays in heaven or afloat.
Looking across the calendar this month, these dates mark some important stories through my life—ordered not just by the days on the calendar, but by the memories left behind.
September 1st: The Triumph TC & Newcastle Brown Ale
The month kicks off with my old shipmate Jamie (Ian Craig Jamieson), turning 69. We were young lads serving at RNAS Culdrose—he was a bit older, having joined at HMS Ganges the year before me, and crucially, he owned a car. That legendary long, hot summer of 1977 was fuelled by his Triumph TC, Newcastle Brown Ale, and sheer youth.
My Mum adored him as a fellow Geordie and "bonnie lad." I still chuckle remembering our trip up to Newcastle to meet his folks—including a night at Jubilee 77. We were leaning against a wall eying up the local talent when a bloke walked over and kissed the chap standing right next to Jamie. I nudged him and said we needed to move before someone asked him to dance, prompting Jamie’s classic reply: "But it’s my turn next!" before our swift exit.
Then there was the evening at my parents’ regular Irish Club, where Jamie and I found ourselves enthusiastically boogieing on the dance floor at the end of the night—completely unaware we were dancing to the Irish National Anthem, Amhrán na bhFiann ("The Soldier's Song"). On the drive home, as my dad took the wheel, I had to wind down the rear passenger window to part ways with that night's Newcastle Brown Ale!
And I'll never forget August 16, 1977, when we were in Edinburgh. Hearing the news that Elvis Presley had died, I broke down in floods of tears. Jamie’s initial concern was warm and genuine, though he eventually laughed at my frailty—but then again, we were just kids trying to figure out the world. Like me, Jamie went on to build a new family, but those 1977 memories never fade.
Happy 69th Jamie—enjoy it, and stay safe, my friend.
Virgos are naturally ruled by Mercury, giving them quick wit and sharp memories. Today’s Virgo energy encourages stepping into a supportive role and boosting up old friends. For Jamie, it's a cosmic reminder that the loyalty and camaraderie forged decades ago in high-octane days remain as solid as ever.
Shares birthday with :
- Zendaya – Acclaimed Emmy-winning American actress (Euphoria, Dune, The Greatest Showman and Spider-Man).
- Gloria Estefan – Multi-Grammy Award-winning Cuban-American singer and icon of the Miami Sound Machine.
September 6th: Cricket, Football, and Family
By the 6th, the calendar turns to another Craig—the partner of my stepdaughter, celebrating his 32nd birthday. Watching the two of them, it’s clear they have truly found each other. He has a generous, genuine way about him, even if he carries the terrible habit of supporting a football team that consistently beats mine whenever we meet! I think they meet again soon in a cup match, #COYS. When the football season wraps up, you’ll find him pacing back and forth on the cricket pitch. I wish him nothing but the best as he marks another year. Many happy returns, Craig and may you have every success across every 22 yards of travel.
People celebrating a birthday today receive the influence of the Page of Swords and active Mars energy—bringing mental sharpness, athletic drive, and a focus on long-term stability. It’s a powerful chart for building strong family foundations, competitive spirit on the pitch, and choosing unity over unnecessary arguments.
Shares birthday with :
- Idris Elba – Award-winning British actor (The Wire, Luther)
- Roger Waters – Co-founder, bassist, and principal songwriter of the legendary rock band Pink Floyd.
September 21st: The Anchor of My Present
September 21st belongs to my wife, Teresa, who turns 65 this year. We met back in 2006, and over these past twenty years, we have, I think, built a deeply rewarding life together. When I moved in with Teresa, I inherited her two young daughters, and it has been one of the greatest honours of my life to serve as their "JLAD"—Just Like A Dad. Teresa is the heart of our home, and marking her birthday is always a highlight of my year. Hoping you enjoy our forthcoming trip together and there are a few more to look forward to. Happy Birthday for the 21st.
Born on the cusp where Virgo’s nurturing order meets Libra’s love for balance and harmony, this placement creates a natural anchor for the home. The current transits emphasise deep gratitude, emotional comfort, and the lasting rewards of creating a sanctuary for loved ones.
Shares Birthday with:
- Stephen King – World-renowned American author and the "King of Horror" (The Shining, IT).
- Bill Murray – Beloved American actor and comedian (Ghostbusters, Groundhog Day, Lost in Translation).
- Liam Gallagher – Frontman and lead singer of the iconic British rock band Oasis.
September 27th: Nine Years Married
Just a few days after Teresa’s birthday comes September 27th—our ninth wedding anniversary. It serves as a sweet reminder that second chances in life can be rich and enduring. Standing together at 67 and 65, looking back on two decades together, I am profoundly grateful for the stable, loving shore we’ve built, love is a cure for cancer in my view, bring on the Prosecco!
September 30th: Reflection and Lasting Legacy
As September closes, there is a date that used to mean cards, celebrations, and family gatherings over the 28 years I shared with my first love. Today, it simply passes quietly. We no longer share birthdays or mark those milestones together, and that is as it should be. Yet, looking back at that long season of my life—the Navy years, the raising of children—I can acknowledge the weight of that history with peace.
Some dates on the calendar don't demand a celebration anymore; they just ask for a moment of quiet respect for the path that brought us to where we are today. I hear she has a new partner now, and having sold up, they’ve set life afloat on a boat. As the old song goes, when the big ship sails on the Ally Ally Oh... you just have to wish them fair winds. Happy Birthday though to Jenny—On the last day of September; enjoy your day, wherever the water takes you.
Libras spend their lives seeking peace, balance, and grace in relationships. The major transits affecting Libra this month focus on reflection, letting go of old friction, and acknowledging that even long-past journeys leave meaningful roots that deserve quiet respect.
The Meaning of the Journey
A birthday is only as heavy or light as the memories attached to it. Looking across the full span of September, I see my whole life laid out: the wild youth of the Navy years, the long chapters of early parenthood, the painful turns, and the quiet, lasting joy of the present.
This month, I am lighting candles for the living, holding space in my heart for those who have passed or moved on, and giving thanks for every single person who made me who I am today.
There is no Poetry today, but here are some horoscopes to consider:
The Stars of September: A Tailored Horoscope by Your Blogger
For those who don't believe in astrology or don't fit neatly into standard zodiac chart, here is what the cosmos actually says by me for the unique stars of this month:
Jamie (The Culdrose Cosmic Traveller):
Element: Brown Ale & High Octane
Ruling Planet: Triumph TC
The Alignment: Born under the rare sign of the Designated Driver, Jamie’s stars indicate a lifetime of navigating tight corners with humour. The cosmos predicts a continued forecast of good laughs, cherished nostalgia, and a strictly enforced rule against dancing during foreign national anthems.
Craig (The Pitch & Pitching-In Pioneer):
Element: Leather & Willow
Ruling Planet: Matchday Victory
The Alignment: Aligned under The Generous All-Rounder, Craig’s alignment brings effortless charm and natural athletic stamina. While the stars show an undeniable streak of footballing luck (often at the direct expense of his potential father-in-law's team), his house of partnerships remains strong, steady, and full of good humour.
Teresa (The Anchor of the Realm):
Element: Calm & Heartbeat
Ruling Planet: Home & Sauvignon Blanc
The Alignment: Governed by The Matriarch’s Crown, Teresa’s birth chart reveals an extraordinary ability to turn water into wine and houses into loving homes blending paths into solid bedrock. Her stars predict endless gratitude for an eternity from her "JLAD" co-pilot and a season filled with well-deserved joy, warmth, and laughter.
Jennifer (The Keeper of the Voyage):
Element: Tide & History
Ruling Planet: Memory
The Alignment: Positioned under The Northern Star, this chart honours the enduring wake left behind by long journeys. Though past seas were rough, the stars favour peace, honouring the lasting roots of family planted long ago and the quiet dignity of time moving forward.
The Writer (The 67-Year-Old Navigator & March 11th Pisces):
Element: Saltwater, Storyteller's Ink & Deep Waters
Ruling Planet: Neptune & Second Chances
The Alignment: Born under the sign of the Intuitive Mariner, my March 11th Pisces chart places me firmly in the house of The Grateful Reflection. True to my water sign roots, my stars reveal a rare double constellation: equal parts nostalgia for the wild seas travelled and absolute contentment for the shore I now stand upon. The cosmos advises lighting every candle, pouring a fine glass of Sauvignon Blanc, and letting the memories play on.
Don't forget my first published work is now out on kindle - I hope you enjoy!
