Quarter Moon - Where the Action Is

We hear lots about the New Moon and the Full Moon but very often events occur around the Quarter Moons.  The First Quarter Moon occurs halfway between the New Moon and Full Moon.  This is the waxing Moon, the Moon gets bigger every night until it reaches fullness.  Then each night it begins to diminish.   When it is halfway between the Full Moon and the next New Moon it reaches the Third Quarter stage.  This is the waning Moon.

The current First Quarter Moon occurs February 25^th with the Sun in Pisces and the Moon in Gemini.  Gemini Moon is a busy Moon, folks are more adaptable under this Moon and tend to be more talkative. Gemini Moon enhances our ability to see both sides of the picture which can be a good thing but it inhibits the decision making process.  This will be a very busy day.  Short trips, conversations, and overloaded in boxes are just a few threads that will have to be pulled together.

While the Moon is in the waxing phase it is a good time to start something that you wish to see grow.  A waxing Moon in Cancer is the optimal time as Cancer is a very fertile sign.  This week the Moon enters Cancer at 7:50 AM on Friday morning, the 27th and remains there until Sunday evening at 6:43 PM when Moon enters fiery Leo.

But before the Moon enters Leo on Sunday it becomes “void of course”.   When the Moon makes its last major connection to another planet and will make no other connections until it moves into the next sign, it is said to be void of course.   Voids can last for seconds, minutes or days.  With the current planetary lineup there are long periods of void of course.

Things begun under a void of course Moon have unexpected results.  One’s judgment can be faulty and facts are not readily at hand.   This period is best for routine work.  Meditation and spiritual matters work well during this period.  It’s a great time to simply kick back. 

Despite all this Sunday will be a busy day with some unusual activity going on.  Mercury in Aquarius connects with Uranus and Jupiter during the daylight hours.  Mercury rules all kinds of communication, transportation, the wind, the mind and how we process information.  Uranus nudges our urge to freedom bringing change that often occurs suddenly.  Mercury and Uranus together can signal aviation disasters, sudden destructive winds, communication and transportation snafus.  Jupiter symbolizes optimism, enthusiasm, and justice.  The planet of expansion, Jupiter brings abundance. A Mercury / Jupiter connection can bring a lot of hot air.  Expect a lot of political pontificating coming from the Sunday morning talk shows.

When Jupiter catches up to Uranus early Tuesday morning sparks will fly.  Justice, liberty and freedom are themes splashed across the headlines.  Jupiter always brings something big while Uranus is a true wild card bringing something totally unexpected.

On Wednesday, March 4^th Moon enters practical Virgo.  Moon in Virgo is a great time to organize messy kitchen drawers, sort through papers and any tasks that require attention to detail.  We get concerned about our diet and health issues while Moon travels through Virgo.  Venus has a busy day on Wednesday touching base with Jupiter, Uranus and Pluto.  Venus rules love and money, she is a yin planet so has the ability to attract.   We don’t feel much like working when Venus is around, we just want to have fun.  Venus and Uranus together in the sky signals some unusual and very different types of relationships.  This can be an exciting combo but love affairs begun under this influence while they have a lot of sizzle and pop they can fizzle and plop just as quickly.  Venus with Pluto can bring love affairs that have a fated feel to them, almost an obsession.  Often issues of power and control come to the surface in existing relationships.  Venus’ active presence in the lead up to the Full Moon brings some sweetness and light to all situations.   Collaboration is a key word for Venus’ involvement.

The Full Moon in Virgo on Thursday, March 5^th triggers a lot of communication, news reports and a search for truths that are not readily apparent.  Virgo Moon forces attention to detail and there is danger of not seeing the forest for the trees.  Step back and take a look at your own situation and try to gain some objectivity. 

After the Full Moon it is Mars’ turn to take the wheel.  Unlike Venus, Mars is set to light the fuse, the more chaos the merrier. 

Stay tuned for the next Quarter Moon installment.

Waxing Moon – First Quarter – Could Be Trouble

Sunday, January 05, 2014 dawns with Moon in sensitive Pisces. There’s a heightened awareness of those things that go bump in the night when Moon is in Pisces.  Folks are impressionable now so it is important to surround yourself with the positive.  We sense the mood of others and absorb it.  Stay away from those who would bring you down. During the afternoon Sun in Capricorn opposes Jupiter in Cancer bringing a lot of confidence and optimism into the atmosphere.  The flaw here is over confidence.  Jupiter is expansive; in Cancer he expands the emotions.  Sun in Capricorn is all about reining things in and keeping everything neat and tidy.

Before the Sun rises on Monday morning Mercury in Capricorn connects with Saturn in Scorpio.  This is a practical Mercury ready to get down to business.  Saturn wherever he maybe, is always ready to get down to business. This aspect sets the stage for the first full week of 2014 and gives an able assist to those ready to tackle the chores left hanging during the festive holiday season.  Holiday’s over folks. 

Monday afternoon Moon moves from dreamy Pisces into action oriented Aries. Aries Moon favors vigorous action and initiative.  People want change when Moon moves through Aries.  It is important to remember that change for change sake is not always the best move to make.  Try to avoid impulsive action now.

Tuesday afternoon Mercury joins forces with Venus, both in Capricorn.  Under this aspect the time is ripe for signing documents pertaining to money or partnerships.  Venus is retrograde so these deals may fall under review. These issues won’t be resolved until month end when Venus goes direct. The first week of February provides a window of opportunity to tie things up before Mercury goes retrograde on February 6^th.

Tuesday evening, January 7^th the First Quarter Moon occurs.  Quarter Moon’s are a time of action and this one is especially so because of various planets involved with the Sun and Moon configuration.  Mars opposing the Moon and squaring the Sun agitates to put it mildly.  Jupiter opposing the Sun and squaring the Moon blows things way out of proportion.  Moon in Aries acts on emotional impulse, while Sun in Capricorn along with Mercury and Venus tries to maintain order.  This cluster of planets in Capricorn is outgunned by Pluto in Capricorn. Pluto’s the howitzer and he stirs the pot mightily.  Diplomacy really doesn’t have much of a chance. Uranus is widely in the mix as well, so anything goes from the personal to the political.  Mother Earth may rumble. This week is a period of volatility in the business, personal, political and natural world.

On Wednesday, Moon goes Void of Course at 11:22 AM EST.  In the afternoon, the agitator Mars squares off with Jupiter.  This may bring some disruption, inflated and overstated actions and reactions.  Moon moves into the more stable Taurus at 9:24 PM EST.  People are cautious under this Moon sign.  This is fixed earth and change is an option that is difficult to take.  This is the “I have” Moon and this Moon wants to keep it. Financial and material security is paramount under this Moon.  Try to avoid being stubborn and digging in the heels.  Some change is good.

Moon remains in Taurus until Saturday, January 11^th at 7:26 AM EST.  Before Moon enters Gemini at this time, Venus makes a strong connection with Saturn.  Venus is in Saturn ruled Capricorn and is in the cautionary stage of retrograde so this aspect could prove to be very productive but the fruits of that productivity may not be evident for awhile.   Sun passes over both these planets during the course of the morning hours lending strength to the organizational energy precipitated by the Venus/Saturn conjunction.  Moon in Gemini takes it all in.  People are curious, inquisitive and talkative under this Moon.  Gathering and sharing information are hallmarks of Moon in Gemini.  We’re open to change and are able to see both sides of the picture.  Juggling comes to mind as this Moon enhances our capacity to multi-task.

Late Saturday afternoon Mercury enters Aquarius.  Mercury is comfortable in this air sign and reaches far and wide for news and information.  We hear about stuff that old Pluto in Capricorn at the First Quarter Moon has been trying to keep under wraps. During these few days when Moon is in Gemini, Mercury’s ruler, there’s lots of traffic, on the roadways, the internet and in the intellect.  There’s much to think about and process.

Try to grab a few moments to ground and center.  Remember to breathe.

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.

 

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.   

 

New Moon in Cancer - A Bit Chaotic

The July 19^th New Moon in Cancer kicked off a cycle that is bound to be quirky and full of surprises. Moon rules this cycle for sure, in Cancer, in the fourth house, the sign and position where the lunar energies are most strong and function at the optimal level. Folks will be leading with their emotions. Saturn in Libra, square the lunation point offers a bit of temperance but he may very well be out gunned by the strength of the Moon.   Mars in Libra opposing Uranus in Aries receives a boost from friendly Jupiter in Gemini. This combination speaks to impulsive actions, gut reactions and the ignoring of that old adage, “look before you leap”.  In the big wide world, high stakes games are being played.  Be prepared for some crazy rhetoric and irrational thinking.  A lot of drama and conflict with some “good stuff” in between. 

This lunation cycle with Moon in Cancer brings up stuff from the past. If these issues have not been resolved previously, this resurfacing brings the opportunity to settle the matter once and for all.  The energies prevalent now call for change; the important thing to remember is not to change simply for the sake of change.  Think it through, examine all the possible outcomes, and dig deep within yourself to insure that the changes being made are what you truly want.

Of course, with the current planetary configuration in play of Mars opposite Uranus and both squaring Pluto, change may be unavoidable and will come from outside events over which the individual has no control.  As the First Quarter Moon approaches news and shocking events trigger strong emotional response. Be aware that information may be distorted, exaggerated and possibly not true at all. This cycle of misinformation carries through the Full Moon period.  At the Last Quarter we are able to sort the truth from the lies and begin the process of assimilation and dissemination of what we have gained during this cycle.

During these changing and chaotic times it is essential to plant feet firmly on the ground and to keep head, heart and emotions clear and free of clutter. Some things cannot be changed and have to be dealt with. Other things can be changed.  The real trick is in recognizing what can be changed and what can’t. In relationships we often beat our heads against a stone wall for a long time before we realize that this particular significant other is not going to change. Either we accept that or we don’t. If we don’t it is the “I” not the “thou” that has to make the change. Change can be difficult as well as liberating.

The Cardinal signs of Aries, Cancer, Libra, and Capricorn receive the energies most strongly and obviously. The Mutable signs of Gemini, Virgo, Sagittarius and Pisces catch these configurations on a more subtle level. They get a sense of something but are not sure or clear on what it is.  The Fixed signs of Taurus, Leo, Scorpio and Aquarius make connections and receive information that requires review.

Regular meditation and times of quiet contemplation provide a respite from chaos and can bring clarity to the jumble of thoughts and emotions that the current planetary configurations bring.  Remember to breathe.

A June to Remember – Complex Configurations and Some Tips on What to Look For In An Astrologer

This week brings the New Moon and the Summer Solstice. New Moons and Solstice/Equinox points are always important and these two are no exception. They are even more important due to other planetary configurations that are unfolding from now until the end of June. Events that take place now will have far reaching effects that we might not be aware of now. Obviously the elections in Greece and Egypt will certainly play an important role in the financial and political arenas effecting the lives of many around the world.

In addition to the New Moon and Summer Solstice on Sunday, June 24, 2012 the first of seven squares between Uranus and Pluto takes place. These planets were conjunct in the 1960’s. Prior to that, their last (closing) square occurred in the early 1930’s. Political and social unrest and upheaval accompany these two planets when they are in hard aspect. Broad social movements result. The financial calamity the world is in today is not quite as disastrous as the 1930’s because of the social programs put into effect at that time. Here in the United States particularly Social Security and unemployment insurance provide a safety net protecting many from total deprivation. During the 1960’s there was the Vietnam War, the beginning of Medicare, the youth movement, civil rights movement and the women’s movement; all serving to shake up the status quo. Echoes of those times when Uranus and Pluto were in aspect reverberate today as they again meet.

On Monday, June 25, 2012 Saturn in Libra changes direction shifting into direct motion, Mercury moves into Leo and Jupiter forms a square aspect to Neptune. On Wednesday, June 27, 2012 Venus changes direction as well, turning direct in busy Gemini. So this is the set up we’re moving into and these planets represent the energies we have to live with and live through in the months and years to come. The outer planets, Saturn, Uranus, Neptune and Pluto move slow and the change they bring on a societal as well as a personal level is slow and inexorable.

The Square between Uranus and Pluto that repeats seven times from now until March 16, 2015 involves the Sun, Jupiter and Venus in the July 4, 1776 horoscope of the United States. The Sun represents the head of state while Jupiter and Venus are the money planets. The economy is a big issue in this election and will continue to be until this aspect plays out and even beyond.  The Venus direction change hits the Uranus in the US horoscope. A money surprise is in order. Venus rules money, women and diplomacy. Uranus rules things you cannot conceive of. When Uranian events occur they are seemingly out of the blue and shake us out of our complacency.  The Mars in the Summer Solstice sits on the Neptune of the US horoscope and squares the US Mars. Mars rules aggressiveness and war. Neptune in a natal chart is where we see things through rose colored glasses. My guess is the people of the United States are going to be sold another bill of goods about making war somewhere in the world, Iran comes to mind.

This warmongering Mars sits on President Barack Obama’s natal Mars. Mars goes retrograde about every 2 years and this year in January it went retrograde at 23 Virgo, right on Obama’s natal Mars and at this Solstice it reaches that point again. Warrior Mars in a natal chart is the action planet and governs how you use your energy.  Obama with Mars in Virgo is a detail man. He’s very meticulous in appearance, and probably in his thought process and how he tackles issues and problems. With Mars reaching his Mars my guess is that he will come out swinging on the campaign trail and in his dealings with Congress. The gloves are coming off folks. This week he’ll be taking a combative stance.

The celestial set up over the next few weeks is a complex one and defies generalization. On a personal level where in the chart, the houses the planets are transiting and the natal planets they aspect tell the tale. Mars traveling through the houses of the horoscope reveals where your energy focus will be. Mars traveling through the fourth house of home is a great time to do spring cleaning regardless of the season as a person with this placement puts the energy focus on the home. Jupiter is another good yearly planner as it stays in a sign for one year.  Jupiter is considered a bringer of good things but can also bring too much of a good thing. Saturn remains in sign for two and a half years and makes a complete circuit of the chart in about 29 years so you know when he comes along often life changing events occur. Uranus with an 84 year cycle entered Aries in April of 2011 and will remain there until March of 2019. When Uranus hits a natal planet he wants to shake things up. One thing Uranus hates is when he finds an individual in a rigid rut. My advice to clients when receiving this transit is usually to make a change in the area affected, be proactive. If not an outside event of a disruptive, surprising nature occurs that forces a change and while upsetting these changes often turn out to be beneficial in the long run. Neptune has a cycle of 165 years while Pluto takes a whopping 248 years. Analyzing a natal horoscope along with the current transits to that horoscope in a comprehensive manner is a complex and multifaceted project that takes time and effort. The actual time spent with the client is the culmination of hours of examination and study.

The next couple of years will be a rocky road for a lot of people. Many will feel the need to consult with a professional and some of those professionals will no doubt be professional astrologers. If you are one of those people do not be afraid to ask the astrologer some questions before you engage their services. Ask them how long they have been studying the subject, who they studied with and what, if any, professional organizations they belong to. A person is not an astrologer who read a book about astrology.  Nor are they an astrologer if they had their chart done and learned about themselves. A competent astrologer has probably read a thousand books and analyzed tens of thousands of horoscopes. A good astrologer belongs to one or more professional astrology organizations, has taken classes, gone to conferences and is continually learning and studying.

I have been studying astrology since the late 1960’s. I learned by reading books, examining horoscopes, taking classes and going to conferences.  In the 1990’s I was certified after taking an examination with the National Council on Geocosmic Research (NCGR) and began seeing clients professionally. I still go to conferences and monthly NCGR meetings to hear lectures by other astrologers. The learning process is continuous. I see clients and write an astrology column “Lunar Notes” for Motif Magazine. If you call me, don’t be afraid to ask me questions before you engage my services. I am not clairvoyant and will not wave a magic wand to make things right. I will ask you questions, get your birth data, analyze your horoscope and do the best for you that I possibly can to guide and prepare you for your personal planetary cycle.

Solar Eclipse – Relationships, Like It or Not, You’re Going to Have to Deal With It.

The New Moon of May 20, 2012, as always, marks the beginning of the monthly cycle.  This cycle is a bit different because it begins with a solar eclipse. A solar eclipse that occurs just minutes into the tropical sign of Gemini. Eclipses in Gemini often bring windy days but the gusty winds often spring from mouths that are all talk and no action. 

There are a couple of real interesting configurations going on at this eclipse.

Venus in chatty Gemini is in an aspect of ease to Saturn in Libra. The eclipse chart set for Washington, DC puts Saturn, already strong in Libra, in the 11^th house which he naturally rules.  Saturn is the big dog here and he usually does not bring tidings of great joy. Saturn in Libra connected to Venus in Gemini speaks relationships, partnerships and negotiations. Saturn in Libra often tests relationships or brings them to a more serious level.  Venus in Gemini wants to flirt, is changeable and above all wants to talk about it.

Another powerful pattern has Pluto in Capricorn, Mars in Virgo and the asteroid Vesta in Taurus creating a Grand Trine.  Vesta rules the hearth and home; Mars makes war and Pluto, into power and control, plumbs the depths in order to bring about transformation.

The asteroid Juno in Scorpio opposing her lover, consort and cheating husband, Jupiter in Taurus further emphasizing relationship issues.  

The final little tidbit has Neptune in Pisces, mystical, magical and illusionary, in aspect to the eclipse and the moon’s nodes. This is like a blanket of fog spreading over all activities obscuring the truth while offering tantalizing glimpses of prophetic clarity.

We can expect legal issues involving money, marriage and partnerships.   Ongoing discussion and activism involving marriage equality and the so called war on women bring out the powerhouses on both sides of the issues. Powerful women step up and take part.  Mars in Virgo at the top of the Washington, DC chart digs into details. Involved with Pluto and Vesta those details expose financial, agricultural, military and labor issues.

Relationships on a grand scale, those that catch the public eye containing issues that trigger the collective psyche, stand out. Curiously the John Edwards trial goes to jury deliberation at this eclipse that has Juno, the long suffering wife opposing Jupiter, the philandering husband.  Perhaps not so curious, perhaps more in the nature of cycles, what goes around, comes around.

Taurus Ingress, New Moon in Taurus

Today, shortly after noon time here in the EDT time zone Sun moves into “feet on the ground” Taurus.  Taurus is a very sensuous, luxury loving, practical earth sign.  When a planet or “light” (Sun and Moon) enters a new sign astrologers cast a chart for that moment. This is called an Ingress chart.  The theory is that this chart will provide clues to what events and concerns will be prevalent while the planet or light moves through that sign.  The Sun’s transit through a sign and the corresponding Lunation cycle offer useful tools to use if you want to get in sync with the rhythms of the universe.  The Sun’s importance in the life cycle cannot be underestimated. We could not live without the Sun.  In astrology the Sun is the creative spark, the core self and everything else in the horoscope is filtered through the Sun’s position.  When the Sun travels through a particular house in the horoscope it literally lights up and activates the symbolism, ideas, people and events associated with that house.  A first house transit is very different from a twelfth house transit.  We shine and feel energetic and assertive while Sun travels through our first house, while a twelfth house transit often has us feeling fatigued and content to work behind the scenes.

This Ingress chart set for Washington, DC has some interesting planetary configurations that are in play for the New Moon in Taurus on Saturday, April 21^st.  The asteroid Juno conjoins the North Node in Sagittarius. These two form a favorable trine aspect to a Mercury/Uranus conjunction in Aries.  The asteroid Juno represents marriage, relationship, and the harmony and discord within relationships.  The Nodes of the Moon symbolize the past and the future.  Nodal contacts between people, IMHO, often means the two have to do “stuff” together. It may or may not be the be all and end all of relationships, but it often takes you out of your comfort zone forcing you to grow. At other times those relationships send you diving for cover back into your comfort zone triggering an awareness of repeating patterns.  Mercury and Uranus together jumps out and says be ready for some startling news.  Mix it all together and what do you get?  In Mythology, Juno is the Roman counterpart to Greek Hera, wife of philandering Zeus.  Juno/Hera was not of the “turn the other cheek” variety she was more the “hell hath no fury” type. Relationships are highlighted for good or ill.

Another important configuration involves a “grand square” with Mars in Virgo, opposing Neptune in Pisces, both squaring the nodal axis, North Node in Sagittarius conjunct the aforementioned Juno, with South Node in Gemini with Venus just out of the picture in Gemini as well. Mars is all about action, energy and how we assert ourselves. In Virgo the Martian energy is focused on analyzing, organizing, work, health, and diet. In Virgo it is important to express anger and not let it build up for it is sure to affect the health. While Mars in Virgo is all for the concrete and real across the Zodiac sits Neptune in Pisces wallowing in the mystical and magical at work dissolving walls and boundaries.  Whatever Neptune in Pisces is, it is not clear. If it is clear, it is clear to those who are highly evolved.  The Mother Theresa’s and Buddhist monk among us tune into Neptune in Pisces’ highest vibration in direct communication with the Goddess/God and walking the path of righteousness. Those less evolved don the rose colored glasses and often seek the divine in a bottle of booze.  

Last, but certainly not least, is the Grand Trine between the New Moon,  Sun/Moon in Taurus trine Mars in Virgo (Mars is busy in Virgo), and Pluto in Capricorn.  Now trines are considered aspects of ease and a Grand Trine can be a blessing in the natal chart as it indicates talents that come easily.  But just because it is easy does not mean that it is good. One must not forget that Mars’, in shy, retiring Virgo or not, first order of business is war and aggression.  Pluto brings transformation and issues of power and control to the fore.  Pluto rules debt, interest rates and the like. New Moon in Venus ruled Taurus is about love and money.  This is a Grand Trine in earth, nothing mystical here.  This Grand Trine will manifest in the real world.

Love, money and assorted relationships will top the list of concerns facing people this month.  Some relationships will end with a sparkling explosion while some of the more casual will deepen into a serious commitment. The issues of honesty, faithfulness and gaining trust will test many. By the Full Moon on May 5^th it’s all going to hit the fan. Money and the misuse of funds, love and betrayal, deception and truth create a mine field of intense emotion.  Many will shoot off their mouth without thinking.  While a lot may need to be said, think.  Are you done with this situation? Can anything be salvaged from this relationship? Or is it time to move on?  Last Quarter Moon, with Moon in Aquarius trining practical Saturn tones down the emotional roller coaster and brings some rationality into the picture.  Last Quarter Moon is a good time to end things. Ending or not different attitudes and feelings develop after the Sun moves into Gemini May 20^th and the next Lunation cycle begins.  This New Moon will be a Solar Eclipse in Gemini. A new cycle, new attitude and new ideas bring a fresh perspective.

What’s Up This Week? Where’s That Moon?

On Saturday, March 24, 2012 Moon goes void of course in Aries at 1:17 PM until 5:43 PM when the energy shifts as Moon moves into Taurus.  During the hours that Moon is void of course it is best to avoid making major decisions. Things never go as planned when Moon is void. Wait until the fiery impulsiveness of Aries gives way to the more staid, solid, stolid energies of Taurus. Folks get more cautious and conservative while Moon travels through Taurus. A note of stubbornness creeps in. Before this changeover, the Sun in Aries joins forces with Uranus in Aries. Sudden, surprising events upset the routine. Pay close attention to the news and trends of this weekend as these are a preview of things to come. Saturday evening when Moon connects with Neptune inspiration and imagination rule.  Avoid excess use of drugs and alcohol.  Escape through music, meditation, or art. Sunday morning Moon greets the day with a positive aspect to retrograde Mars in Virgo.  Mars is energy, Moon is emotion. This is a good time to work on home projects.  Throughout the day Moon connects with Pluto then Jupiter.  Strong emotions bring about strong reactions. Expect emotional eruptions. Try not to get pulled into the dark and snarly emotional baggage of others. By Monday afternoon Moon makes nice nice with Venus. Venus at home in Taurus is strong now. This is a good time for romance, a party or any social gathering.  Moon’s last aspect before going void of course is with retrograde Mercury at 12:35 AM EDT Tuesday morning. This is a blend of the mind and emotions. People say what they feel. Lines of communication are open; it’s a good time to clear the air.  Moon enters flirty, chatty Gemini at 6:43 AM EDT.  More communication, exchange of news and information and true to Gemini’s dual nature, some difficulty in making up one’s mind or changing one’s mind. Gemini’s airy nature brings with it restlessness and people get antsy if they start to get bored. Midmorning fantasy runs head on into the reality of the daily routine when Moon agitates nebulous Neptune. The evening commute brings a few surprises as Moon bounces off Uranus and Mars. Watch out for road rage.  Don’t let traffic jams push you over the edge. Remember to breathe. By late evening Sun and Moon form a congenial aspect and harmony and peace reign.  Wednesday Gemini Moon makes no exact aspects but expect to be busy under this Moon. Thursday morning Moon squares off with Gemini’s ruler Mercury. Retrograde in fuzzy Pisces, Mercury brings rumor, innuendo and unclear messages.  Be wary of signing or starting anything. Do some reviewing and revising.  The afternoon brings a nice Mercury/Venus contact that offers an opportunity to smooth troubled waters. Trouble could be due to a misunderstanding, go back and have that conversation to clear the air. When Moon connects with Saturn, the conversation gets serious and some solid information emerges. Then Moon goes void of course.  Before Moon slides home to the sign of Cancer, the Sun makes a bold, brassy aspect to the power broker, Pluto. This is another one of those moments that provide a glimpse into the future. The headlines will tell the tale. Moon, in Cancer, after 7:07 PM EDT gets mystical and intuitive with Neptune before midnight, now is the time to dream the dream. Be sure to see things as they really are not how you wish them to be.  On Friday Cancer Moon is busy making aspects with those heavy hitters, Uranus, Mars and Pluto before squaring off with the Sun bringing us to the First Quarter Moon phase. Quarter Moon time is a time of crisis and action. A decision has to be made. At this Quarter Moon it will be difficult to maintain peace. Don’t fly off the handle, get the facts and see the picture clearly before taking any steps that might make the situation worse. Let Venus in Taurus, (at the top of the Quarter Moon Chart here in New England) rule the day. Think beauty, peace and harmony.

New Moon Start Anew And Other Delights

New Moons signal the beginning of a new cycle. This New Moon, in Aquarius, on January 23, 2012 holds some noteworthy patterns and points of interest that will hold sway far longer than the typical lunation cycle.  Mars in Virgo, stations in preparation for a 3 month retrograde period a few hours after the New Moon perfects. The New Moon, the conjunction of the Sun and Moon, is involved in a dynamic pattern with Saturn and Jupiter called a T-Square.  Saturn and Jupiter oppose (180 degrees) one another and the New Moon squares (90 degrees) them both. Saturn and Neptune are in a trine aspect (120 degrees) from Libra to Aquarius and they both are in the critical 29^th degree of their respective signs. Tying it all up is the developing waxing square between Uranus and Pluto. The seeds planted at this New Moon will continue to bear fruit well beyond this lunation.

Mars goes retrograde about every two years. The last time was from December 2009 to March 2010 in the sign of Leo.  When a planet is retrograde the qualities of that planet are more pronounced and it often does not function in the normal manner. Mars is the planet of action. In a natal chart Mars is the juice that gets you going, gives you the energy to function in the world and moves you across the finish line. In the big wide world Mars rules the military, wars and disputes of all kinds.  During this retrograde period Mars moves backward from 23 degrees Virgo to 3 degrees Virgo. Those with planets and angles within those degrees will be exposed to this energy three times, when Mars goes forward over them, retrograde and forward again. Mars was at 3 degrees of Virgo around November 18/19, 2011 and will station to go direct on April 13/14, 2012.

 Barack Obama has natal Mars at 22 degrees Virgo and Pluto at 6 degrees Virgo in his 7^th house of partners, relationships and open enemies. Transits to the horoscope of a head of state move from the personal to the very public. In Mundane astrology, the astrology of events, the 7^th house has to do with wars, foreign policy and international relationships. A Mars transit juices up the planet it touches and often brings out aggressiveness, belligerence and makes one prone to a snappy or snarly response. Mars prompts a combative stance. Obama will make his State of the Union address on Tuesday, January 24, 2012 at 9PM with transiting retrograde Mars conjunct his natal Mars. My guess is he will come out swinging and over the coming months he will face his opponents both foreign and domestic, within the party and without; in ways that are not his normal mode. What worries me is the natal square between Neptune (22 Virgo) and Mars (21 Gemini) in the horoscope of the Declaration of Independence.  Mars square Neptune means war for all the wrong reasons. Retrograde Mars, jazzing up this square, is up to no good.  High ideals dragged through the muck of combat seldom emerge pristine.  

The involvement of the New Moon in the Jupiter/Saturn opposition sends a frisson of energy to the long term Jupiter/Saturn cycle. Jupiter and Saturn form a conjunction every 20 years and their interactive dance over the years plays a big role in political, financial and societal events. The opposition is the half way point. Oppositions are just that, two opposing forces colliding head on. Jupiter wants expansion while Saturn wants contraction.  Jupiter wants to try something new while Saturn favors the tried and true.

Saturn is also involved in a trine with Neptune. Saturn is reality; Neptune the ideal. Before this Lunation cycle is over, Neptune will leave Aquarius for the final time and enter the home turf of Pisces, while Saturn turns retrograde.  (Neptune was briefly in Pisces from last April to August 2011) In the final degree of a sign a planet seems to always give it the “last hurrah” before leaving that sign, an event that signifies the symbolism of the sign and planet.   Neptune in Aquarius can denote a spiritual brotherhood. That’s the upside. The downside can be fraud, slander and misrepresentation.  Not much scandalizes us any more so it is difficult to imagine what event or revelation could set us on our heels.  We can only hope that the positive prevails, the sharing, caring and sense of universal human hood evidenced in the Occupy movement and other protests around the world.

The waxing square between Uranus in Aries and Pluto in Capricorn reaches exactness on June 24, 2012, the first of 7 squares from June 2012 through March 2015. These squares are part of the 126 year cycle of Uranus/Pluto.  This cycle brings about broad societal change. Uranus is the revolutionary rebel and rule breaker, in Aries; he’s willing to fight for it. Pluto is the great transformer, in Capricorn; he’s about altering the structure of business and government.  Here again it is the old against the new.  Think of these 7 squares as growing pains.  It will not be easy. Echoes from this New Moon will reverberate at the time of the first Uranus/Pluto square on June 24^th as Saturn moves in direct motion and Mars, once again in direct motion, reaches 22/23 degrees of Virgo.  Get ready to Rock and Roll.

This is not an easy time. These planetary dynamics touch each of us on a personal and collective level.  Transits to the natal planets and through the natal houses tell the tale of personal challenges and opportunities. A consultation with an astrologer is a valuable tool in troubled times. Astrology points the way around that stone wall so you don’t have to bust your skull trying to go through it.  As a timing device, astrology pinpoints the moment of chance and change.  Astrology gives you an edge when you need it and a heads up when difficulties loom.  Carpe Diem – seize the day!

Full Moon – Lunar Eclipse—Happy December

The approaching Full Moon Lunar Eclipse on December 10^th brings with it a mixture of grief and happiness.  This one is tough to call with Mercury retrograde and “Mr. Surprise” Uranus changing direction hours before the Full Moon perfects.   When a planet stations, (seeming to stop in the sky before changing direction), the energy of that planet is concentrated thus becoming stronger. We have become so accustomed to scandal that it is difficult to conceive of any event that could shock us but shocking is Uranus’ stock in trade.  Perhaps Congress may actually agree on something involving the budget, tax cuts and deficits. Now that would be a shocker!

 With Mercury playing retrograde games of misinformation, missed appointments, and general all round communication snafus we will need to keep our wits about us while sorting through what may or may not be the facts. Tensions will build up to the Full Moon and then we can expect a release of that tension.  An earthquake, a volcanic eruption, not necessarily in the physical world, prompts breakups and regroupings. A major event brings about unity in sorrow.  A breakdown in negotiations and communications provokes some people to speak before thinking. The fallout will be something to see. The media will report everything and anything without a thought to checking the facts. It will become apparent that many are pushing their own agenda and the truth will be hard to find.  

 On the 13^th when Mercury stations and begins to move in direct motion, the time to hit the reset button and begin anew is at hand.  As it stations pay attention to all things Mercurial; traffic, news, information, neighbors and siblings. Check out the action that surfaces around that time. Situations that have hit a snag may begin to move forward. In the meantime you can revise, review and clean out your intellectual and emotional closet.

Venus in Capricorn during this Eclipse wears her business suit. She’s all about money and into committed relationships.  In the Chart set for Washington, DC, Venus in the 12^th house of secrets sits close to the Ascendant. The Ascendant is the point of entry into the outside world and carries a lot of weight in horoscope interpretation.  Women figure prominently, in diplomatic relationships, world affairs and in personal relationships.  Venus, ruler of love and money promises unanticipated events around those issues.  Bewildering is the operative word here.

Venus and Saturn at the Eclipse are in Mutual Reception, each in the other’s home sign, so they help each other out.  Saturn is the big dog, holding sway over societal structures and institutions like marriage, Congress, and the like. In Saturn he is the chief negotiator.  Venus in the 12^th is his willing ally and is perhaps involved in some secretive mission. Venus in the 12^th is also about secret love affairs.  Those secrets are about to be revealed.

Mars in Virgo in the 8^th house of joint finance, debt, taxes and insurance brings the action and attention to these issues. Mars is energy, pure and simple. In Virgo, he’s focusing on the details. Social Security, pensions and public loans get scrutinized.  There is a hint of sorrow here. 

A confusion of themes and a variety of subject matter bubble to the surface during this cycle.  By the Last Quarter on December 17^th the cat will be out of the bag. An international incident, a judge and the judicial system, and/or some type of religious fanaticism grab the headlines.

Through all of this confusion remember that the Sun, the source of all life, is in Sagittarius.  Here the sunbeams light up all things Sagittarius and allows us to step back and see the big picture. People and events in our life are all part of the process. Sagittarius says open up to the possibilities; take step to the edge of your comfort zone and a little beyond. There’s a big world out there, so don’t limit yourself.

Waning Moon – Planetary Shifts – Life Goes On.

 The period between the Full Moon to the Last Quarter Moon is called the disseminating phase.  Now is the time to share what you have learned during the waxing phase.  What projects, events have unfolded and what have you learned.  What wisdom have you gained from your inner dialogue? At this time there is an urge to reach out to others and relate our experiences.  This is the letting go and the giving back phase.  When we get to the Last Quarter Moon phase on the 20^th its inner reflection time; a time to maybe take a break.  A project may come to an end or need to be put on hold for awhile. Quarter Moons are action times, times of crisis. In the waning phase the crisis is inner, more of consciousness than in the physical realm.  A good time to ask yourself where you are in life and where you want to be.  Let go of what is holding you back, get rid of bad habits and toxic people now.  As the Moon shifts from the crescent into darkness we enter the Balsamic phase.  This is just prior to the next New Moon.  One cycle is ending and begins to blend with the new.  This is the time to dream, logic does not do well in this phase.  Dream the fantastic.   What works in this phase is, cutting something that you don’t want to grow back fast, your hair or the weeds in your garden.  While the night sky is dark prior to the New Moon on September 27^th clean out your closets, get rid of clutter and anything you haven’t used for awhile.  Its painless under this phase of the Moon, we don’t cling so much to objects that we might be sentimental about, like our skinny jeans or the battered baseball from our youth.  It is wise to hold off starting anything new until the New Moon and the beginning of the new cycle. 

During this period leading up to the New Moon and the Fall Equinox Venus enters her home sign of Libra on September 14^th.  Venus loves it here and our social lives usually pick up and relationships take on a rosy hue.  Venus in Libra signals the time to make amends and iron out differences within relationships.  On the 16^th Pluto moves into direct motion.  When a planet changes direction the energies of that planet are intensified. Pluto in Capricorn has much to do with societal norms, institutions, and hierarchies.  Pluto in real time adversely aspects the money planets of the USA’s July 4, 1776 chart, (Venus and Jupiter) as well as the Sun/Pluto opposition in the Federal Reserve chart, money, budgets and debt will rule the headlines.  Currency wars reveal where the real power is.  On the 18^th Mars, the planet of action and how we use our energy enters the fire sign Leo.  Mars here gives self confidence, drama and the grand gesture.  Mars in Leo does not take criticism lightly.  Nonetheless, with Mars in Leo the show must go on. These planetary shifts and changes set the stage for the upcoming Autumnal Equinox on the 23^rd when all things Libra rule.  By the 27^th when the New Moon in Libra perfects it will be a brand new day.

Wedding Bells for Patrick Kennedy

So little Patrick is getting married; on the day after his annual Solar Return no less.  The astrological detective in me knows that this Solar Return deserves a look. The Solar Return chart is a valuable tool used by astrologers as a means to assess what the coming year will bring for the native. An important fact to remember when dealing with Solar Returns and other transits is that the energies of the Natal horoscope rule, if it is not promised in the Natal, it ain’t happening. Patrick Kennedy is a Cancer with a Libra Moon and Scorpio on the Ascendant. That Scorpio Ascendant tells us that what you see is not necessarily what you get. Scorpio Ascendant is secretive and not likely to reveal to much personal stuff. Libra Moon conjunct Mars in the 12^th house of secrets enhances his private nature. Simply put, a Scorpio Rising does not want people knowing their business. The first thing I notice about Patrick’s Solar Return is that the current Uranus/Saturn opposition straddles his MC/IC axis, the public image/sphere vs. the private/domestic sphere. Saturn in the 4^th house of home in the Solar Return indicates changes in the domestic arena. Sometimes this can mean a move to a new home or a remodeling of an existing dwelling. Whether he moves or remodels, he has a new wife with a child moving in. Change enough. More change is indicated by the planet Uranus hugging the Solar Return MC, the Midheaven, and highest, most visible point in the chart. Think public and out in the open.  The MC is an “angle” and in astrology planets on the angles are important. Here, Uranus on the most public point speaks to unexpected, unusual, and weird things happening in a very public manner. This could include a change in career, job and professional standing. My mantra when it comes to Uranus is, “if you can think of it, that ain’t it.” Because Uranian event are so out there, so unexpected the rational intellect can’t conceive of them. The upshot is this is going to be that kind of year for Patrick, unexpected, bolts out of the blue events. The Mercury in the Solar Return chart is at 17 degrees of Leo. That Mercury falls on his Natal Midheaven. Here we are at the most public point again with Mercury, ruling the media, news and information in Leo the show biz sign, on his MC. He’s in the news for sure and will be for the next year. The Solar Return Venus at 12 degrees of Cancer sits on his Natal Mercury. Venus=social events, love and marriage. Will Patrick be in the society pages as opposed to the political? The Solar Return Chart also has Cancer on the Ascendant, very domestic, with the Sun in the 12^th hugging the Ascendant. So close to the Ascendant, or cusp of the First house it can be read as Twelfth or First. I am thinking Twelfth because of other factors in the Solar Return like Solar Return Moon/Pluto conjunction in the Sixth house. This indicates that Patrick is going to be taking care of someone. His mother is the obvious candidate as she is of the age where this would be expected and has had some issues in the past. In the final analysis Patrick will want to maintain a low profile, be private and behind the scenes enjoying his new found domestic bliss. And bliss it is as transiting Pluto trines his natal Venus; passion there for sure. But events will prevent that and force him into the limelight. His physical and mental health may be an issue as well. At this time in his life he wants to finally do what he wants to do and not what other’s expect of him. He’s got another year or so before he will be able to accomplish that. My advice to Patrick this year would be to expect the unexpected, take care of yourself first and then take care of those around you. This is going to be a Rock and Roll year for Patrick Kennedy. Stay tuned.

So The Dog and Pony Show Begins and Shirley Does a Rewrite….

A couple of days ago I wrote about the Presidential race in a little piece about Mitt Romney and Michelle Bachman.  I have since deleted it for the simple reason that I had an incorrect birth date for Michelle Bachman.  I wish I could plead a fuzzy Neptune transit but I can’t. Sloppy keyboarding is my only excuse. So here is a rewrite and an update.

The dog and pony show is of course the US Presidential Race.  The Republicans are jockeying for position while the Democrats are hoping that the bloom is not off the Obama rose.  Republican Michelle Bachman officially kicked off her campaign Monday in Waterloo, Iowa. Michelle Bachman is an Aries. I don’t have a birth time for her but chances are her Moon is in Aquarius. Her ruling planet, Mars, is exalted in Capricorn.  What that means in plain English is, her Mars, the planet of how we use our energy, is in practical Capricorn and operates well there. She uses her energy in a Capricorn manner seeing some physical manifestation of that energy.  The world sees the results.  And make no mistake, Aries likes to be first and they are ever ready to do battle. She is a strong woman and her announcement comes under a waning Taurus Moon. The waning part of this equation gives me pause because traditional lore has it that if you want something to grow you begin when the Moon is waxing. The Taurus Moon, in perfect trine with Mars at the announcement, speaks to longevity and tells us that Michelle will not give up this fight easily. Mitt Romney, the current front runner is a Pisces with retrograde Mercury in Pisces as well as Mars.  The interesting thing about Romney is his Moon/Jupiter conjunction in Scorpio. Wow! A lot of emotion, deep and profound. His Pisces Sun is trine to the Moon/Jupiter conjunction. A trine is an aspect of ease so his emotional, instinctive nature is in tune with all that he is conscious of.  Pisces can sometimes come across as wishy-washy because they can be religious, escapist and not concerned with things of this world. With Moon in Scorpio hugging Jupiter, this guy is no light weight. He may be an altruistic Pisces but that Moon in Scorpio conjunct Jupiter says he is in it for the long haul as well and is not above getting down and dirty to get what he wants.  It is early days yet and there are a number of possible candidates out there. Newt Gingrich, a Gemini has good name recognition but he may be carrying too much baggage. Then there is the lightning rod, Sarah Palin. She’s an Aquarian thus an expert at the unexpected. At this time I am leaning towards her not running but with her track record I wouldn’t rule out a last minute run avoiding the grind and tough questions from the media. All the while remaining in the spotlight with bus tours, speaking engagements and even a new documentary out about her; she’s a clever one that is for sure. It is early days yet and I will be looking at all of the horoscopes of the Republican hopefuls. Stay tuned.