New Year – New Moon - Snap, Crackle and Pop!

Moon enters Sagittarius on Sunday, December 29, 2013 at 12:37 PM bringing with it a sense of restlessness.  Folks want to get out, move and partake of a little adventure.  This is a Moon of diversity, good for enjoying sporting events as well as reading through those weighty tomes that inform and elevate the spirit. 

Things begin to sizzle when Mercury squares off with Uranus.  Mercury is the messenger of the Zodiac bringing quickness and at times nervousness to the fore.  Uranus takes that energy and magnifies it.  Uranus prods us into independent action urging us to break out of any restrictive modes.  Conversation, communication, and traveling may involve some unexpected twists and turns.

As Sunday rolls into Monday, the Sun forms a square to Uranus as well.   Be prepared to wake up Monday morning to some shocking news or a major disruption in the daily routine.  Moon goes Void of Course at 6:36 AM EST and remains so throughout the day into Tuesday.  Actions taken under a Void of Course Moon often don’t turn out the way things were intended.  Sticking to the routine is the best bet.  That is if all this Uranus action will let you.  The evening finds the Warrior, Mars, in square aspect with Pluto.  This is not a pretty sight. Mars is the action principle while Pluto signifies transformation.  A square, while not harmonious, does make things happen.  Mars loves to stir things up and Pluto will make sure Mars sticks his oar in deep bringing up all the deep, dark secrets.  Things could get ugly. 

Early on Tuesday Morning, Mercury, another one who likes to stir the pot connects with Pluto, then Mars, activating all that energy once again.   Moon moves into Capricorn on Tuesday afternoon at 1:01 PM EST.  Capricorn is ruled by Saturn.  Saturn likes to contract, organize and bring to order all things.  Moon in Capricorn time is the time to get down to business and take care of practical matters.  As it is the last day of 2013 and the dark Moon time, this Moon will help everyone clear the decks and make ready for the New Year.

The New Moon occurs on New Year’s morning, January 1, 2014 at 6:14 AM EST.  This is an important New Moon.  Not because, as all the hype would have you believe, it falls on New Year’s Day but because it is the first New Moon after the Winter Solstice. Like all New Moons that fall right after the season changes it has a little extra oomph to it giving a hint of what the season will bring.  This New Moon packs a big punch because it is conjunct the heavy hitter Pluto in Capricorn and squares both Uranus and Mars.  This configuration is called a T-Square and it not one of the kinder, gentler aspects.  The pot will be stirred big time.

On Thursday, January 2^nd Moon enters Aquarius at 12:03 PM EST.  Folks get the humanitarian urge under this Moon feeling empathy for those less fortunate.  That is not to say that independence and quirkiness will not cause anxiety for some folks as this Moon craves the unconventional.  Some folks are all for it while others abhor it.

In the evening the Sun and Mars get nasty with one another.  Sun is the boss here and Mars does not like to take orders. Expect some backlash, rumbling from the ranks and general discord all around.  On Friday, Mercury and Jupiter stand opposite one another and the talk is big.  Be wary of exaggeration and keep your bullshit meter well tuned. 

Saturday the 4^th, just before noon, Moon moves into gentle Pisces.  People are more sensitive and less interested in the material. Heightened sensitivity often brings a feeling of vulnerability while Moon travels through Pisces. A good time for meditation, music and the arts, seek out the stuff that speaks to and feeds your soul.

Chant OM for yourself and for the world.

 

Christmas, Kwanzaa, Solstice Season, Last Quarter Moon - A Week of Diversity

There’s nothing better than the Moon in Virgo to kick off the work week.  Sun in Capricorn with Moon in Virgo is a great time to organize your work space, clear the inbox, and take care of those pesky little details that often plague us.   So forge ahead and clean those closets and get that kitchen junk drawer in order.

Before dawn on Tuesday, December 24^th Mercury sobers up and moves into Capricorn.  Mercury in Capricorn is great for manifestation.  Mercury symbolizes how we process information, how we think.  While traveling through Capricorn this Mercury facilitates the transition from thought to action.  Mercury in Capricorn wants to see results; great for practical matters and for grounding your flights of fancy and turning them into something concrete.   Around noon time the Sun in Capricorn connects with Neptune in Pisces.  Neptune in Pisces speaks to the ephemeral, the intangibles, those things you know are there but can’t see, feel or touch.  Sun in Capricorn deals in the real world of practical matters and will have no truck with things that go bump in the night.  The connection that Sun and Neptune make at this time acts as a bridge between the insubstantial and the concrete, a great aspect for bringing the imaginative into reality.

On Christmas morning at 1:17 AM EST, Moon moves into Libra.  This Moon sign is great for the social, herding animals that we all are.  This is a great Moon for Christmas Day as folks are in the mood to socialize.  Love, beauty and harmony thrive under this Moon.   Discussions are more apt to reach a happy conclusion rather than exploding into an all out war.   Christmas Day may not prove to be as harmonious as Libra Moon would like.  There are a couple of flies in the ointment.  Around 3:30 AM EST a subdued Mars in Libra opposes Uranus in fiery Aries.   Be wary if driving during the wee hours of the morning as this aspect can be very explosive.  Mars is always looking for a fight, even if he is in the peace loving sign of Libra.  And Uranus can stir the pot in unexpected ways.

The Last Quarter Moon occurs on Christmas morning at 8:48 AM EST.  Throughout the day Moon bounces off Uranus and Mars reactivating that explosive aspect that occurred in the early hours, ending the day squaring off with Pluto the great transformer.  Libra is known as the negotiator, the peacemaker but Libra is also known as the iron hand in the velvet glove.  No one can tell you, so politely, to shove it like a Libra. 

Early Thursday morning, the 26^th Kwanzaa begins with Mercury making a lovely aspect with Neptune. Here again we see the practical and the mystical joining forces.  These two can make beautiful music together.   Mercury in Capricorn articulates the imaginative forces within Neptune in Pisces. 

On Friday morning Moon steps into Scorpio raising the sensitivity meter a few notches.   Scorpio Moon arouses suspicion and strong passions.   Try to keep your social interactions clean and simple.   Folks often find it hard to forgive and forget under this Moon.  Try and hold off on any deep conversations until Sunday when Moon moves into Sagittarius.

Enjoy this Solstice season remembering that the days are beginning to get longer as we return to the light.

A Week of Change- Winter Solstice – Retrograde and Direct Motion

The week begins with Moon in Gemini.  This Moon is perfect for multi-tasking as Gemini is the best juggler in the Zodiac.   On Tuesday morning the 17^th at 4:28 AM EST, Moon reaches fullness with Moon in Gemini and Sun in Sagittarius.  This is the yakkety-yak Full Moon.  The Full Moon is the last aspect the Moon makes before changing signs, becoming void of course.  Void in Gemini is a time to be wary of allowing your mouth to run away with you.  You may say things that you really shouldn’t say. 

That very same day, Uranus, the original shock and awe guy, stations, or stops and changes direction moving in the direct mode.  Coming during the Full Moon period heed that old cliché, “expect the unexpected.” 

Moon slides home to Cancer on Tuesday as well.  Emotions move to the head of the class and folks are more sensitive and need to be nurtured or to do the nurturing thing. We react in an emotional manner to all of life’s ups and downs.  Comfort food calls under a Cancer Moon and eating for the wrong reasons can quickly become an issue during this time.  All in all, Tuesday is a shifty changy day.  

But it ain’t over yet.  On Friday afternoon Moon moves into Leo. A fire sign, Leo Moon brings out the drama queen in all of us.  We want love, romance and appreciation under this Moon.  Leo Moon heightens the need for fun things and generosity to others.  Attributes that are certainly suitable to the season.

But the real biggy of the week is the Winter Solstice on Saturday, December 21, @ 12:11 PM EST.  This is when the Sun enters the cardinal sign of Capricorn. The Sun is at its most extreme southern declination and it is the longest night of the year. After this day the days begin to get longer.  Throughout history this has been a time of celebration.  This solstice day has Venus changing direction from direct to retrograde.  Venus rules love and money.  It points to what we desire and to what we consider important or value.  With Venus retrograde issues in these areas may be put on hold and/or be reevaluated.

The Horoscope for the Winter Solstice provides a picture of what the winter season will bring.  This horoscope for this Solstice has Mars in Libra opposing Uranus in Aries and squaring Pluto in Capricorn.  This is called a t-square and the aspects of a t-square are not aspects of ease.  They are aspects of agitation. Mars is about war but he is in Venus’ sign of peace.  Uranus adores the shakeup and is ready to rock and roll.  Pluto is the great destroyer but not without the prospect of something new and better to replace what is gone.  This is transformation time.  Jupiter in Cancer is in the mix as well and this can be a benevolent influence.  But that is not always the case.  Jupiter for sure will bring a “lot of” but a lot of what is the big question.  Saturn in the Sign of Scorpio mixes it up with Jupiter providing the brakes to any headlong dash. Saturn in Scorpio highlights debt and interest rates.  Saturn warns us to be cautious about running up the credit card. Take heed else Saturn will come back and remind you when the bill arrives.

All in all it is a week of change and new direction.  Keep your feet on the ground and remember to breath.

First Quarter Moon - Interesting and Active Week Ahead

This Week starts off with the First Quarter Moon at 10:12 AM EST.  Quarter Moons occur when the Moon and Sun are at 90 degree angles from one another. This is called a square in the language of astrological aspects.  This one is the opening square and like all squares it is an aspect of action. This action could be something as simple as paying a bill. It doesn’t have to be dramatic as the Moon rules our daily life and the Sun brings us the flavor of the month.  The Moon’s aspects can trigger some major action if there are other configurations present that aspect the natal horoscope. 

This First Quarter Moon has the Sun in Sagittarius and the Moon in Pisces.  Both of these signs have a lot to do with the spiritual side of life, the search for truths and the activation of the higher mind.  At the moment of exactness there is a lovely grand trine between Moon in Pisces, Jupiter in Cancer and Saturn in Scorpio.  A trine is an aspect of ease when two planets are 120 degrees apart.  A grand trine occurs when these two planets trine a third creating a pattern that looks like a triangle.  This grand trine is in the Water signs which indicates a lot of emotion and a lot of intuition.  Saturn in the mix brings a certain degree of practicality and assists in grounding the flights into the ethereal that a Moon in Pisces/Jupiter in Cancer aspect can instigate.

On Tuesday morning Moon leaves the soft light of Pisces behind entering aggressive Aires where physical action becomes the keyword.  Be wary of impulsive actions and remember to look before you leap. Think before you open your mouth.  Especially around noon time when Mercury in Sagittarius, notorious for putting foot in mouth, forms a trine with anything goes Uranus.  Shock and awe are some apt words for this combination.  Mercury rules all kinds of transportation, communication, and the media. Youth and the public school system fall under Mercury’s purview.  I would be careful on the road and while behind the wheel curb that impulse. Uranus rules electricity, air flight, and any activity that likes to upset the status quo. This aspect may kick off a big news cycle.

On Thursday afternoon Moon slips into the more sedate Taurus.  Taurus is an earth sign and while the Moon is here we are comfortable with “stuff” we can see, feel and touch, none of that mystical crap for Moon in Taurus. Folks tend to get a bit stubborn under this Moon.  Resistance to change calls to mind the phrase “bullheaded”, so keep in mind that Taurus is the sign of the Bull. There is a need for security and material possessions while Moon is here.  In the evening Jupiter makes a trine to Saturn.  This is part of the 20 year rumba these two engage in.  In the year 2000 they were together in the sky in Taurus. Two planets sharing the same degree is called a conjunction.  This joins the energies of the two and is a strong aspect. The next time they get together like that will be in December of 2020. When they aspect one another during the course of their 20 year dance there is usually some societal shift or action going on.  Jupiter’s energy is one of exuberant enthusiasm while Saturn tends to be more conservative and restrictive.  A trine creates a cooperation between the energies.  Saturn tones down any excessive expansiveness of Jupiter while Jupiter prods Saturn into letting go of some outworn traditions that no longer serve. With Jupiter in Cancer and Saturn in Scorpio the water signs, Cancer, Scorpio and Pisces resonate most with this energy while the other Cardinal signs of Aries, Libra, and Capricorn along with the Fixed signs of Taurus, Leo, and Aquarius will feel the rumble as well. 

This combination is of great help if you have some huge task to perform that requires stamina, focus and organizational skills.  It can also help to maintain the balance between work and play.  There is a need for both in this world and while all work and no play makes Jack a dull boy, all play and no work makes Jack a good time Charley.

Moon doesn’t shift gears until the wee hours of Sunday when the Air signs, Gemini, Libra, and Aquarius get a big break when Moon enters busy Gemini.  Folks are talkative, busy and curious under this Moon.  Moon is gearing up to oppose the Sun at the Full Mon on Tuesday.  Stay tuned, more to come.

New Moon in Sagittarius - Tis the Season

The New Moon in Sagittarius occurs on Monday night, December 2, 2013 setting the tone for the upcoming month.  The dark Moon time over the weekend had Moon in intensely emotional Scorpio.  Scorpio and the dark Moon time are great for deep inner probing in order to clear out the emotional junk we all carry.

The New Moon in Sagittarius lifts us out of that emotional muck urging us on to higher things.  This is the season, as the days get shorter, that leads us into that point in time when the shift from dark to light begins, the Winter Solstice. Sagittarius brings out the philosopher in all of us.  This sign provides the push to explore the far horizon seeking meaning and purpose.  There’s a strong feeling of religious conviction and the need for justice.  If one does not take the high road, the Sagittarian ideal can become one of hypocritical self righteousness.   The energy of this New Moon is one of enthusiasm, freedom, learning and teaching.  Any and all activities that expand the mind as well as the individual’s universe receive a boost during this lunation cycle.

Mercury while still in Scorpio makes a congenial aspect to Mars in Virgo on Tuesday.  Thoughts and actions coincide with each planet giving the other a positive push. This is because Mars rules Scorpio and Mercury rules Virgo and each planet is in the sign the other rules. This is called Mutual Reception. 

Early Wednesday morning Moon moves into practical Capricorn bringing us down to earth to deal with the material world reminding us that spiritual pursuits, while uplifting, don’t do much for us when dealing with practical issues.  Moon in Capricorn deals with the real, physical, material world and requires you to do the same. Later in the evening Mercury slips out of Scorpio to join the Sun in Sagittarius.  All that inner probing and spiritual searching pours out when Mercury is in Sagittarius.  Talk flows freely and despite the practical Capricorn Moon the talk runs to the philosophical and spiritual. 

During the wee hours of Friday morning Moon enters Aquarius a place where emotion chills out as rational objectivity moves in.  Folks are friendly but in a more impersonal manner. Interest in the welfare of others prompts many a donation when Moon is traveling through Aquarius.  The urge for freedom, independence, the new and unusual surfaces now.  During the evening commute Mercury, the philosopher in Sagittarius squares off with Neptune in Pisces and the talk turns once again to the spiritual.  Be wary on the road as this aspect promotes daydreaming and meditative states.  Behind the wheel is not the ideal place for these activities. 

On Saturday afternoon Mars enters Libra.  Mars is not comfortable here as he rules the opposite sign, Aries. He’s a visitor in Venus’ domain and can’t run around in his ratty old underpants while lounging around the house.  Mars is going to remain in Libra for longer than his usual stay due to his retrograde motion which begins in March when reaching 27 degrees Libra.  He cycles all the way back to 9 degrees Libra before turning direct only moving into his home turf of Scorpio on July 26^th.  As Mars is the planet of action and energy where Libra falls in the individual’s horoscope will be the area where the process of moving forward will require some review or experience delay.

Early Sunday morning Moon enters Pisces.  Under a Pisces Moon folks feel more sympathetic towards others.  There is certain empathy that enables people to get an idea what it is like to walk in another’s shoes. Unlike the more practical, material signs of the Zodiac, Moon in Pisces senses the unseen.  Heightened awareness to the intangibles of this world surface now.  Some folks go to the church of their choice while others find their church or spiritual connection through meditation, a walk in the woods or a seat by the ocean.  Folks are softer and gentler now.  A great time to listen to music that transports.

Last Quarter Moon – A Juicy Week Ahead

The week opens with the Last Quarter Moon on Monday the 25^th at 2:28 PM EST. The Moon is at the half and half stage, half light, half dark.  This is a time of reflection.  Quarter Moons bring crisis and with the waning quarter that crisis is usually internal.  Contemplation and meditation do well during this period.  This time in the lunation cycle is the time to prepare the ground for the seeds to be planted at the next New Moon.  This phase has the Sun in Sagittarius with the Moon in Virgo.  These signs as well as the other mutable signs, Pisces and Gemini may have a deeper connection to the energies of this quarter moon.

Monday evening Mercury and Saturn, in Scorpio, make a powerful connection.  This is not the time for casual conversation.  Topics are deep and complex.  Scorpions feel the energy most acutely while the other fixed signs, Taurus, Leo and Aquarius catch a lot of the fall out.  Especially the Aquarians, their ruler, Saturn, is heavily involved in the discussion.  Moon in Virgo lends a hand to Mercury.  Mercury rules Virgo as well as Gemini so these signs are pulled into the discussion whether they like it or not. The other mutable signs, Pisces and Sagittarius will need to roll with the punches as well.

Moon shifts into congenial Libra at 5PM EST on Wednesday. Libra Moon lightens the mood as folks want to connect in a more convivial manner.  This Moon reminds us that we are social beings and need and want the company of our fellow human beings. It’s a good time to throw a party as everyone wants to get along and have fun. Later in the evening Mercury once again makes a connection, this time with Venus in Capricorn. Once again the Mercury ruled signs are involved as well as the Venus ruled Taurus and Libra.  Libra gets an assist from the Libra Moon.   The conversation is likely to be practical as Venus in Capricorn is all business. Mercury in Scorpio wants to get to the bottom line. So things should work out well as long as everyone is dealing from the top of the deck.

Libra Moon provides some pleasant energy for the Thanksgiving Holiday festivities.  We are more tolerant of that pesky relative that creates discord at family functions. Indeed the pesky relative is not so pesky under this Moon.  Venus in Capricorn opposes Jupiter in Cancer.  Capricorn the conservative tries to put a lid on the excessive tendencies of Jupiter.  Jupiter in Cancer is right in tune with the huge Thanksgiving meal.  Overeating is the norm on this day the energy of Jupiter in Cancer says food is love and we all indulge freely.  

Moon goes Void of Course on Friday morning and remains so all day entering Scorpio at 11:03 PM.  Scorpio Moon brings intense passion and desires to the forefront.  Sensitivity increases and people feel insulted when no insult was meant.  So be careful what you say and how you say it.  Saturday, the Sun in exuberant Sagittarius makes a harmonious connection to volatile Uranus in Aries.  This is a fiery and exciting combination.  Be prepared for disruption in plans, surprising events and a bit of shock on some level.  The fire burns hot and fast with this combination.

Moon remains in Scorpio for the rest of the weekend.  Sunday Moon bounces off Saturn, Jupiter, Venus, Mercury and Mars, in that order.  That’s a lot of action going on.

Remember to breathe.

A Mixed Bag as Sun Enters Sagittarius

This week the round Full Moon begins to diminish.  At the Full Moon we see the results of what was seeded at the New Moon.  The time from fullness to waning quarter is a time of sharing or “disseminating” what we have learned.  This is also a good time to evaluate, to sit quietly and listen to the inner voice. 

Try to stay grounded this week as the energy changes and various influences combine to shake things up.  Monday the work week begins beneath busy Gemini Moon.  On Tuesday morning Mars in Virgo connects with Jupiter in Cancer providing energy to complete onerous tasks.  Issues of health and well being, religion, and what we define as moral and ethical move into the public consciousness. Mars and Jupiter together bring a lot of energy.  Remember to sit down before you fall down.

Wednesday morning Moon moves into Cancer.  This home turf for the Moon and emotions are right out there for all to see.  Folks are sensitive now and need to nurture or be nurtured.  Be kind.  In the evening Mercury connects with Pluto and conversations become deep and probing.  Hurt feelings provoke sharp tongues.  Take a deep breath and continue the conversation for what is uncovered aids in personal transformation.

On Thursday evening the Sun moves out of serious Scorpio into the more free-wheeling sign of Sagittarius. Optimism is the keyword here.  All the serious probing and delving is over and the air is cleared, time to indulge in some adventure.   An outdoor hike or an indoor, inner spiritual adventure; either will fit the bill.  Sun in Sagittarius is spontaneous and enthusiastic.  You’ll feel the shift as we segue into the holiday season.

Friday evening the Moon enters Leo and folks want to feel appreciated and recognized for what they do.  Thanking someone or giving a compliment goes a long way under this moon. It pays to be generous with praise.  You’ll make a new best friend or shore up an alliance.

Saturday Venus in Capricorn hooks up with Capricorn’s ruler Saturn in Scorpio.  The conservatives have a field day. The Capricorn influence brings conservation, contraction and concentration of energy. Less is more.  Relationships begun now with Venus in Capricorn are while slow to develop usually end up with a long term commitment if other factors in the horoscope support it.

On Sunday the fog descends when Sun squares off with Neptune.  Go to church, pray and meditate.  Avoid practical decisions as judgment is apt to be off. Things are not what they seem to be.  Wait a day, sleep on it and get another opinion before taking any action.

Hooray! Mercury Direct - First Quarter to Full Moon

All those missed connections, traffic snafus, and tangled communications begin to clear up and clear out now that Mercury turns in direct motion on Sunday afternoon.  This is the First Quarter Moon day as well kicking the week off with a lot of action.

 On Monday, with Moon in Pisces, Mercury trines Neptune in Pisces and imagination runs wild; this combination is good for writers, musicians and healers. There’s otherworldliness about it all. We reach into the mystical with ease under this aspect. Just remember to pay attention while driving.  Meditation behind the wheel is not a good idea. 

Tuesday Moon goes void at 9:34 AM and Sun trines Jupiter.  Trines, a 120 degree aspect, are an aspect where the two energies blend with ease.  Sun and Jupiter together are a happy pair.  There is danger though of overconfidence here.  You may have to take your enthusiasm down a notch in order not to overwhelm. 

Moon enters Aries in the wee hours of Wednesday.  Neptune goes direct on Wednesday afternoon and with that earlier assist from Mercury some issues become clearer.  There’s a suggestion of movement although it may be very subtle. This is a good time to listen to that inner voice.

Thursday Moon goes void at 3:57PM and does not enter Taurus until Friday morning at 9:49 AM.  Over the course of these two days, Venus squares Uranus and conjuncts Pluto.  The square to Uranus on Thursday night brings excitement, the unusual and the unconventional.  The Friday afternoon conjunction with Pluto in Capricorn promises intensity.  Capricorn is about business and societal structures. Venus is the diplomat. Discussions are passionate and topics are deep.  No idle hour chit chat for these two.

The Full Moon on Sunday morning falls along the Scorpio/Taurus axis.  These are fixed signs and folks may not want to budge from their positions. At this time you get a hint of what the New Moon Solar Eclipse is all about for you as the Full Moon energy is a culminating energy, bringing things to a head, as it were.

A little note about Moon Void of Course:  The Moon is a fast mover traveling through all twelve signs in a lunar month.  When the Moon gets near the end of a sign it makes its last aspect before entering a new sign.  This is called the Moon Void of Course period.  This can last for a few minutes, hours or even days depending on where the other planets are transiting.  Actions taken during Void of Course periods have a tendency to turn out in ways that were completely unexpected.  Decisions made now often have difficulties or run into delays. Void of Course is a good time to go with the flow.  Focus on the spiritual, do a little meditation, and spend some time reflecting.  In the real world this is not always possible as life goes regardless of the Moon’s position. So just keep moving and do what needs to be done.  If possible postpone decisions until the void period ends.  But don’t get your knickers in a twist if you can’t. Life is full of adjustments and readjustments.  We truck on.

A Week of Shifting and Change

If the Solar Eclipse on Sunday wasn’t enough to rattle your cage a few planetary shifts in the upcoming week may accomplish what the eclipse did not.  Although an eclipse is quite a vehicle for change any New Moon period is the time of planting the seeds of change.  We don’t often see results or action right away but must wait until the seeds begin to sprout.

This week; helping to move that process along are a couple of planetary changes that will change the flow of energy.  Early Tuesday morning Venus kisses the fiery freewheeling sign of Sagittarius behind and dons her business suit as she enters the earth sign of Capricorn.  Capricorn is all about business, structure and form.  Venus here wants a solid relationship and does not encourage frittering money away on trivial things.  You can put a new roof on or buy a new furnace but forget the mink coat and diamond earrings.  In relationships, while Venus always loves the fun and games, in Capricorn she is looking for stability.  Capricorn is an earth sign and folks tend to forget that earth signs are not without passion, although Capricorn usually gives more while expending less energy.  Relationships begun now are usually slow to start but tend to last awhile.

As Wednesday rolls into Thursday, Jupiter, Thursday’s ruler, changes direction, turning retrograde.  Retrograde periods are times to revise and review.  Jupiter in Cancer has a lot to do with the home front, nurturing, and things of an emotional nature.  Jupiter in Cancer turns on the water works with emotions overflowing and at times exaggerated. Where Jupiter is transiting in the natal chart will tell the tale.  This is the area where the brakes are applied and a little evaluation and reevaluation will be going on until Jupiter goes direct again on March 6, 2014.

The First Quarter Moon, just after midnight on Sunday pits the Scorpio Sun against Aquarius Moon, two fixed signs that help you to dig your heels in and persevere.  This great but sometimes change is necessary.  Don’t cling to the old and useless, try to embrace the new.  At 4:12 PM EST on Sunday Mercury, at last, goes direct.  Decision making should be put off until after this change in motion.  Over the following few days, new information surfaces, new ideas form and channels of communication open up.  We tend to see things a bit differently after Mercury goes direct. So hold off decision making or signing important papers until next week.

Some may get a glimpse of what the Solar Eclipse of the 3^rd holds for them.  Eclipses are about change, news and new directions.  Although this is a tough eclipse period with a lot of discordant energy there is always a silver lining, a gold nugget or a precious gem lying beneath the surface.  A little meditation goes a long way during this period.

Solar Eclipse in Scorpio

This Sunday morning the day dawns with a Solar Eclipse in Scorpio.  This is a rare hybrid eclipse in that it starts out as a partial eclipse and segues into a total eclipse.  The eclipse is visible along the eastern seaboard of the United States in its early stages.  Solar Eclipse brings events that are outside oneself, events in the outside world that somehow impacts the individual.  The closer the eclipse degree falls to a planet or point in the horoscope the greater the impact.  The conjunction, when to planets are together in the sky, and the opposition are the aspects that carry weight.

The Solar Eclipse chart set for Washington, DC finds the eclipse falling in the 12^th house of secrets and hidden things.  In addition to the Sun and Moon the planets Saturn and Mercury figure prominently in this event, while Mars plays a secondary role.

A Scorpio eclipse in the 12^th house churns up a lot of deep rooted phobias, fears and emotions that some folks may not be ready to deal with.  The issues that float to the surface during this time can trigger some deep transformation which often leads to new beginnings.  The task is to overcome one’s fear of looking within and bravely facing one’s shadow. 

Emotions run deep and the issues are complex under Scorpio’s influence.  Often there is no easy solution but careful probing and deep meditation open doors to new avenues of pursuit.  Fear not!  Eclipses bring life changing events and news.  Folks get married, divorced, move or change jobs.  Youngsters decide on which college to attend or graduate and move into the adult world. 

The house where Scorpio falls reveals the area of life that will be impacted.

 First house brings changes in appearance or activities.  A new exercise program or wardrobe, something that changes how one looks, like a haircut.

Second house alters the financial situation as well as what you consider important, while finances fluctuate the value system changes.  Issues of self worth surface demanding attention.

An eclipse in the third house can bring changes in the daily commute, the neighborhood and relationships with siblings.  Issues arise around those we encounter in our daily life.

A fourth house impacted by an Eclipse brings changes to the domestic sphere.  A move or major redecorating project alters one’s personal space.  This is the house of parents and of one’s foundations.  Thing we consider rock solid in our life undergo change.

The fifth house affects our creative expression, our inner child as well as our children.  Children leave home or return home.  Love affairs begin and end when an eclipse falls here.

The sixth house is the house of work, health and service.  An eclipse here can alter one’s daily routine and working space.  Often folks become concerned with health and diet issues.

The seventh house impacted by a solar eclipse brings about changes in relationships. These are the personal one on one relationships, some folks commit to a more serious relationship while others question the relationship they are in.

The eighth house, another house of deep rooted issues brings some latent energies to the surface.  Often things end in order for something new to begin. Shared resources and the issue of money held and spent in common becomes the topic of discussion. Getting into or out of debt is an eighth house issue.

A ninth house eclipse opens one up to the wider world and sends the person searching for hidden truths.  An eclipse here brings news from afar.  Often the lure of faraway places gives one the travel bug.  Higher education and improving the mind ride along with this house placement.

An eclipse falling in the tenth house brings change in career and life’s direction. Often relationships with authority figures change. Career success arrives but may not be what the individual really wants.

An eleventh house eclipse emphasizes plans for the future, money from job, friends and associate.  The hopes and dreams held for a long time shift and change.   New friends arrive while old friends drift away.

The twelfth house brings hidden talents and hidden flaws to the surface.  The native becomes aware of how their behavior really affects others.  An eclipse here brings to the surface the hidden ways we screw ourselves up.

This is simply a thumbnail sketch of how an eclipse impacts the various houses.  A deeper understanding can be derives from an in depth analysis of one’s natal horoscope and the horoscope of the eclipse.

On a mundane level, the area of world events, hidden deals and secrets dominate.  The health care issue and NSA probing will continue to dominate the news.  Public demonstrations and disorder may be suppressed by violent means or may never make the main stream media as authorities try to keep things hush-hush.  Rest assured though, secrets will be revealed.

Moon in Aquarius

This afternoon at 2:00 PM the Moon moves into eccentric, inventive, independent Aquarius. Despite all the hoopla Aquarius makes about independence, Aquarius Moon draws us to our fellows.  This Moon favors hanging out with your tribe.  Being Aquarius the tribe does not necessarily have to be those you are related too.  This is the tribe of like minded individuals and those with whom you have a shared interest.   Aquarius, ruled by Uranus, does bring with it a desire for freedom, the freedom to be and express our own personal uniqueness. Folks are friendly but not clingy under this Moon.  There is a desire to get out and deal with the public in some way as well as concerns about issues of public welfare. Over the course of this Columbus Day weekend of 2013 Aquarius Moon will be bouncing off, making contact and in general stirring things up with the other planets.  Just after midnight Moon makes a sweet little sextile with Venus favoring that romantic connection.  Remember that under this Moon folks are more impersonal and detached.  This connection may be more like two ships passing in the night.  Get their info while you can.  Early Sunday morning Moon sets off sparks when she connects with Uranus, the ruler of this Aquarian Moon. A sudden jolt of surprise when you wake up and see just who you have been sleeping with, how did I get here you may ask.  A short time later Moon squaring Saturn brings reality slamming into your face.  The question now is how do I get out of here?  By late afternoon another square to Mercury brings some heated discussion.  Try not to get to heavy into politics, sex, or religion as the discussion will quickly turn into a full blown argument with both parties foaming at the mouth.  If that happens, go to your respective corners and chill out. Monday afternoon’s commute may turn ugly as Moon opposes fiery Mars in Leo.  Be wary of road rage, relax the grip on the steering wheel and unclench you teeth.  A little after 5PM the Moon slips into dreamy Pisces.  Throw some soothing music on and shed the stresses of the day.

Venus in Sagittarius

Venus in Sagittarius

Today, Monday, October 07, 2013 Venus moves into Sagittarius.  Venus, the ruler of relationships and money has been traveling through Scorpio since September 11^th.  Venus in Scorpio is complex, secretive and at time obsessive. At Venus’ entry into Sagittarius there is very definitely a feeling of “lightening up.”  Venus in Sagittarius wants to get out there and move around.   Venus in this fire sign does not commit easily. This is probably a good thing because on Thursday Venus moves into a square aspect with Neptune. This combination can bring disillusionment in love, relationships and money deals.  Relationships begun now need the test of time to prove their worth. We don’t see things clearly, are unrealistic and have trouble dealing with reality.  Artists do well under this aspect as it can stimulate the creative juices. 

The prospects for permanent relationships do not improve when Venus forms a trine aspect with volatile Uranus on Wednesday, October 16^th. This aspect brings excitement and a desire to break from the daily routine.  Relationships begun under this aspect sizzle and burn hot and fast but are apt to fizzle just as quickly.

Venus in Sagittarius is a good time to explore and expand your horizons.  Folks from different backgrounds and cultures appeal now and we are often interested in relationships with someone who is not our usual type. This Venus likes to have fun. Sporting events, museums and physical activity holds a lot of attraction.

Take advantage of this fun loving Venus while it lasts.  Venus is a fast mover and only remains in a sign for a short while.  On November 5, 2013 Venus enters earthly, serious Capricorn.  At that time our attention shifts to the practical and material.  Love under Venus in Capricorn is slow to build and has a tendency to last longer.

 

Aries New Moon - That's a Whole Lotta Aries!!!

Venus, Mars and Uranus join the Sun and Moon in Aries at this New Moon.  This New Moon sparks the pioneering spirit prodding folks to be bold, courageous and assertive.  Taking the initiative and acting on impulse are earmarks of Aries energy.  The New Moon to Full Moon period is always good for starting things but this New Moon is especially so.  With Moon in Aries there is an emotional need for action. Mars in Aries is the big dog at this Lunation. He’s in his own sign and has all the dignity, which means the energy of Mars functions well.  Mars on the bright side is good for starting things and asserting yourself. This New Moon is a great time to start an exercise program.  Mars on the not so bright side signifies all who dispute or fight.  War and warriors all belong to Mars. A strong Mars is often indicative of violence in some form.  Remember a jog around the block is preferable to punching someone in the face.  While Mars rules the soldier he also rules the athlete. So do the calisthenics, get out there and move because Mars will be calling you to action so use the energy in a positive manner.

At the First Quarter Moon on April 18^th Mars again is prominent.  Here he is conjunct the Sun and both square, (90 degrees apart) Moon at home in moody, broody Cancer.  Emotional reactions will be over the top. Venus has moved into her home turf of Taurus and will try to play the diplomat but will not have much luck. In Taurus, she’ll stick with it as Taurus is a fixed and stubborn sign. There’s no one who can dig their heels in and stand their ground like a Taurus.  Mercury at the New Moon was in quiet, contemplative Pisces where logic takes a back seat to dreams and visions. Now at this First Quarter, Mercury has moved into fiery Aries. Folks generally say the first thing that pops into their minds, blurting it out without thinking about the impact of what they say. Mercury in conjunction with Uranus here speaks of shocking news, accidents on the highway and in the air. Whatever it is, shock is the key word.

The Full Moon on April 25^th is in Scorpio and is also a Lunar Eclipse with the Sun in Taurus and Moon in Scorpio.  While Venus in Taurus at this Full Moon is strong in general an Eclipse in Scorpio indicates secretive actions.  Taurus and Scorpio have a great deal to do with money, debt and interest rates. On the grand scale of the world stage currencies, economies and the big banks will hit the headlines.  Don’t be fooled into thinking that a country’s saber rattling is about honor, it is about money, bottom line.

By the Last Quarter Moon on May 2^nd much is still going on behind the scenes.  Some courageous do-gooder may make an attempt to reveal some dark secrets. Scandal about secret love affairs and secret money deals aggravates an already aggravated public.

We live in unsettling times with the economy in the pits and societal changes moving along to the dismay of many and not quickly enough for others.  The new and the traditional vie with one another for supremacy. The Lunation cycle that begins with this New Moon agitates and aggravates the tensions prevalent in the world today.

 On a personal level use this New Moon energy to make changes and to move forward.  Remember to be assertive, not aggressive.  When Mercury moves into Aries and touches base with Uranus on the 20^th use that energy to foster creative, innovative ideas in your personal and professional life.  It’ll feel like a light bulb has flashed on in your head. Brilliant!

At the Full Moon dig deep into your own money issues and figure out what it is you truly value.  This Full Moon should bring the awareness that we cannot let out possessions or lack of possessions define who we are.

As the Moon winds down to the Last Quarter take the time to meditate, contemplate and quietly review all that has gone on in your life as the Moon waxed and waned.  There is a need to assimilate and dissipate or dispense what we have brought into ourselves during this cycle. It’s like fertilizer that we spread to nurture the next New Moon cycle.

 

Spring Equinox

Spring arrived on March 20^th at 7:02 AM EDT.  Astrologer’s cast a horoscope for the Sun’s entry into Aries and study it in an effort to determine what the season may bring. This season promises to be a volatile and explosive one.  The planetary configuration present at the moment of the Equinox contains stressful aspects between planets.  Mars and Uranus, together in the sky are positioned 90 degrees from the Moon in one direction and Pluto in the other.  This in astrological jargon is called a t-square because it looks like a T. 

The Moon at the Equinox is strong by sign (in Cancer) and house (4^th for the horoscope erected for Washington, DC).  The Moon owns that sign and house so everything Luna has extra oomph. The Moon is all about emotion, feelings and gut reactions.  In Mundane astrology, the astrology of world events, the Moon signifies the population as a whole and has dominion over public opinion.  It symbolizes women, the water supply, common needs and agriculture. In difficult aspect it can indicate racial discord, unrest among the people and less than optimal agricultural conditions.  The fourth house where it is posited denotes real estate, land values, mines and quarries as well as natural disasters like earthquakes and floods. 

The Mars/Uranus combination is the most volatile one in the chart. Mars rules all who dispute or fight, the armed forces and arms manufacturing as well as meat production and the iron and steel industry.  In bad aspect Mars can bring volcanic activity, fires, explosions and other forms of violence.  What Mars starts Uranus finishes.  On the bright side Uranus rules new technology and inventions.  On the down side Uranus loves to stir things up with riots, strikes, earthquakes and other violent upheavals of nature.  This is a crash and burn combo for sure.

On the other end we have Pluto another fun guy.  The rosy optimistic view of Pluto is that he destroys in order to build something new and better.  While this is true it is difficult to see or imagine the rosy future when you are standing in the rubble of your life.  Great sociological movements occur under Pluto’s influence.  In bad aspect, like now, natural disasters, oil spills and mayhem natural or manmade are in the realm of possibilities.

The Moon is the fast mover and often acts as a trigger, as does Mars. Mars makes a circuit of the Zodiac in approximately two years and can act as a trigger as well. Two years ago Mars formed a conjunction with Uranus in Aries and we had the Arab Spring. Friday, March 22, 2013 Mars in Aries will once again be in exact conjunction with Uranus. This could be the trigger. Moon will also be in Leo on Friday touching off Sun, Mars, Jupiter, Saturn and Uranus. 

 The lead up to the Full Moon on Wednesday, March 27, 2013 has Mars connecting with Jupiter and then squaring off in a combative stance with Pluto.  The headlines and talking heads will reflect these powerful alignments.  Shocking and unexpected events will pepper our spring time season. Drought conditions will continue to effect food and water supplies.  From all sides of the political spectrum folks will continue to register their discontent.  We can expect more of “Arab Spring” types of events from around the world a reflection of the long term transit connection between Uranus and Pluto which little guys like Mars touch off every now and then. 

In personal lives old wounds that never properly healed are reopened. Painful but necessary as a proper mourning and/or healing period can occur.  Don’t despair, there is light at the end of the tunnel and no, it’s not a freight train bearing down on you.

Oscar Pistorius and Reeva Steenkamp – Romance Gone Bad

When Oscar Pistorius shot and killed his girlfriend Reeva Steenkamp shock waves were felt around the world. How does a seemingly romantic relationship end in tragedy?  Astrology can serve as a guide to relationships through the use of chart comparison. The planetary positions of one horoscope in relationship to another horoscope indicate areas of compatibility as well as points of contention between two people. Comparing the horoscopes of Oscar Pistorius and Reeva Steenkamp reveals a passionate and volatile relationship.

The first thing that pops out when comparing these two are the two Sun signs. Oscar is a Scorpio and Reeva a Leo. The Suns are in a 90 degree aspect to one another. In the language of astrology this aspect is called a square. Squares are aspects of agitation and ill ease.  While aspects between the Sun in one chart to the Sun in another are usually considered positive, a square presents problems.  There is a challenge here.  The Sun represents the ego and here the two egos take somewhat of a combative stance against one another. Scorpio and Leo are fixed signs, one of a sensitive watery nature, (yes Scorpio is sensitive) while the other, fiery Leo seeks the limelight and wants to be appreciated. 

Oscar with a Leo Moon needs that appreciation and recognition for his accomplishments as well.  Reeva’s Mars in Leo sits on Oscar’s Moon.  This aspect is one of great passion and a rather spicy sex life. They enjoy many of the same types of activities and a relationship filled with spontaneity. The problem here is Mars is the planet of action and aggression while the Moon rules the feelings and emotions. Often in this type of intra-aspect between two people we find that the Moon person (Oscar) feels that the Mars person (Reeva) is insensitive and upsets him emotionally. The Mars person (Reeva) feels that the Moon person (Oscar) is self indulgent and becomes impatient with the Moon person.

Aggressive Mars has more action in this comparison as Oscar’s Aquarian Mars opposes Reeva’s Leo Sun.  A Leo Sun person is not going to take any crap from anyone. (Neither is a Scorpio Sun person for that matter) A Sun opposite Mars combination brings electric excitement, an attraction between the two that is difficult to resist. It also brings a conflict of wills, with each heading in a different direction and trying to get the other to follow.

There is a lovely trine aspect, 120 degrees, between Reeva’s Venus and Oscar’s Neptune. This aspect is one of romantic attraction with a spiritual, intuitive connection between the two.  Without an accurate birth time for Reeva, her Moon cannot be placed with any accuracy.  Her Moon is definitely in Capricorn but whether or not it conjuncts Oscar’s Neptune is pure speculation.  A Moon/Neptune conjunction between two people insures a strong psychic connection.  A sensitive attunement to one another with lots of empathy.  Neptune is where we don the rose colored glasses and see things as we wish them to be not as they really are.

These are but a few of the intra aspects between Oscar and Reeva but with just these few one can see the attraction as well as some of the difficulties between the two. We may never know what triggered this awful incident.  The transiting Sun in Aquarius at the time of the incident opposed Reeva’s Sun while squaring Oscar’s.  The Sun was approaching conjunction with Oscar’s planet of action, Mars in Aquarius.  Mars in the sky at that time was in favorable aspect to Oscar’s ruling planet Pluto. Oscar has Sun, Mercury, Venus and Pluto all in Scorpio.  All signs have their shadow side. For Scorpio’s that shadow can be suspicion, obsession and paranoia.

Whatever the trigger or reason a woman’s life has ended tragically.  And a man has to live with the results of his actions.  The lesson here may be that we all may need to take a step back, take things down a notch and take a calm look at what we are doing before we take irrevocable action.   

 

Pope Benedict XVI

Once again the Catholic Church and the millions of faithful were rocked when Pope Benedict XVI announced his retirement, abdication, resignation or whatever you call it when a Pope lays down his scepter.  The Church has been riddled with scandals from pedophile priest to financial issues involving money laundering for a good many years now and will continue in the upcoming years.  The transit of Pluto through Sagittarius from January 1995 to January 2008 triggered the sexual scandals which in turn sparked many a crisis of conscious among the faithful.  With Pluto now in Capricorn the crisis brings more concrete issues to the table.  Questionable financial dealings and corruption within the church send tremors through the institution known as the Vatican.

Questions regarding Pope Benedict’s knowledge of the pedophiles within the ranks and the alleged cover up continue to dog the Pope and show no signs of letting up. These issues and the Pope’s physical condition were major factors in the Pope’s decision.

Pope Benedict is an Aries, with a Libra Moon and Pisces Ascendant.  The Ascendant, having much to do with the personality of an individual, in the sign of Pisces indicates spiritual leanings as well as a tendency to look at things through rose colored glasses. The Moon in the horoscope points to what the person needs. In Libra, Pope Benedict needs harmony and peaceful relations. All of this is filtered through the Aries Sun. There is a certain amount of aggressiveness, assertiveness and an initiating quality with this Sun sign. Aries wants to be first.  Jupiter in Pisces, (faith) conjuncts the Ascendant as well as the Pisces Mercury and widely to Uranus in Aries. Pisces Mercury is great for meditation and prayer.  Arriving at decisions could prove to be problematic with this placement. In addition this Pisces Mercury squares (90 degrees) Benedict’s natal Mars in Gemini. So Benedict has this Pisces Mercury aligned with Mars in Gemini and if we couple that with the Libra Moon that needs to see both sides of the picture we can see where taking decisive action may be a difficult proposition for this individual.

A comparison between Pope Benedict’s horoscope chart and the chart for the timing of the official end of his reign as Pope (February 28, 2013, 8PM, Rome, Italy, from news reports) is worth a look see.  The transits to Pope Benedict’s chart at that time place Sun, Mercury, Venus and Neptune all in Pisces in his twelfth house of solitude. Traditionally the twelfth house is a house of affliction, exile, banishment and hidden enemies.  The Piscean strength in his natal horoscope leads me to believe that he really does wish to lead a contemplative life.  The scandals and his health were/are the factors in his decision. I am thinking that his health tipped the balance. The twelfth house placement of the transiting planets in his horoscope hint of secrets.  There is more going on than is being revealed. In October of this year there will be a Lunar Eclipse with Sun at 25 Libra and Moon at 25 Aries. The Moon will sit upon his Aries Sun.  From now until then secrets may unfold.  And the questions will be who knew? Who covered up? And where does the church go from here.

Moon Musings - First Quarter - Full Moon

Moon entered Taurus on Friday, February 15^th.  For the Taurus folks among us this is like a personal New Moon for when the Moon moves into the sign your Sun is in it will revive you and pump you up.  It is not so with the other Fixed signs, Leo, Scorpio and Aquarius. Moon opposes Scorpio and forms a 90 degree square aspect to Leo and Aquarius. Taurus Moon makes things tough for the other Fixed signs.  While making it tough for the Fixed crowd, Taurus Moon smoothes the way for the Earth signs of Virgo and Capricorn. In the Zodiac, Earth to Earth is an aspect of 120 degrees called a trine. This is an aspect of ease where the energy flows.

In the sky now the Sun is moving through the later degrees of Aquarius. On Sunday, February 17^th the Moon will move into a 90 degree square aspect with the Sun. This is the First Quarter Moon phase of the monthly dance between the Sun and Moon. Squares activate and agitate. The First Quarter Moon phase awakens the promise seeded in the New Moon phase. Action is required, go somewhere, do something, have that conversation.  Moon in Taurus brings out the stubborn and the cautious within us. This Moon is grounded and deeply invested in the status quo. Sun in Aquarius looks to the future and loves the novel and new. Despite this future oriented view, Aquarius is a fixed, air sign which equates to fixed ideas, ideas that are entrenched. It takes a great deal of reason, logic and argument to get an Aquarian to change that fixed, air mind. We may find ourselves between a rock and a hard place at this First Quarter phase forcing us to act.

As we shift from the Fixed signs of Taurus/Aquarius to the Mutable signs of Moon in Gemini and Sun in Pisces movement, change and adaptability loom on the horizon Gemini Moon encourages communication and curiosity. On Wednesday, February 20^th, Moon enters Cancer, at home here and forming an aspect of ease to Pisces Sun; heretofore barriers and obstacles to progress melt away. The Full Moon of February 25^th reflects this shift with Moon in Earthy Virgo opposing Pisces Sun.  Change is possible but for some difficulties remain, in particular Sagittarius and Gemini receive troublesome vibes from this Full Moon.  Capricorn, Taurus, Cancer and Scorpio receive some helpful energy.

In the lead up to the Full Moon, on Monday, February 18^th as the Sun moves into Pisces, Saturn in Scorpio stations, turning retrograde. Retrograde motion is the appearance of the planet moving backwards. When a planet stations and changes direction the energies of that planet are strong.  Saturn is about restriction, contraction and keeping your nose to the grind stone.  Scorpio speaks to sex, death, and transformation.  The more practical application of this sign encompasses debt and taxes.  While some may have a hot little love affair that transforms most will be dealing with the IRS and the credit card companies.

As we move into the Full Moon phase and wind down to the Last Quarter of this cycle that which was hidden shall be revealed. With Mercury going retrograde on February 23^rd we may have to wait until the next First Quarter phase in March when Mercury moves again in direct motion after the 17^th of March.

With the Sun traveling through Pisces the energies encourage quiet reflection and spiritual endeavors.  The down side of Pisces is escape from reality. Don’t hit the bottle or ignore the practical things that need to be dealt with.  Do get in touch with your core self, find your center and move from there.