A Cosmically Active Week – Ending With a Shocker!

This week we have more impeachment hearings, a Last Quarter Moon, sign and directions changes.  All of the planetary activity signals changes and shifting of energy and attitude.  Expect some bombshells, literally and figuratively. 

Tuesday Mars moves into Scorpio.  Here Mars rules and can be Mars without restriction.  Mars is the planet of action and recently that action has been dressed up pretty in Libra.  Mars does not like pretty.  Here Mars is only restrained by the Scorpio desire to dig to the depths before taking action.  When action does come it can be explosive.  Scorpio thrusts Mars precisely into the heart of things cutting to the quick.  Mars in Scorpio is passionate and not just sexually passionate. 

The Last Quarter Moon on the same day has the Sun at 27 Scorpio and the Moon at 27 Leo.  That we are going to see some action on the impeachment front is a given.  The Moon sits on Donald Trump’s natal Mars and Ascendant.  These two points in his chart are very important and reveal a lot about his personality.  Mars in Leo here says I am going to fight to the end.  Bring it on I love and thrive on it.  The Sun squares these points. This is not an aspect of ease, bringing action, agitation and difficulties that have to be addressed.  Also Venus at this time sits exactly opposite Trump’s Sun.  Venus rules diplomats and here in opposition signifies exactly that, opposition.  A conflict between the Diplomatic Corp and the President. 

Mercury is poised and ready to go direct on Wednesday afternoon, the 20^th.  When planets change direction there is usually activity pertaining to the nature of that planet.  Mercury is all about communication, transportation, and information. When Mercury moves from retrograde motion to direct motion, information surfaces, new ideas form and things are viewed differently. Expect a lot of activity around this day, before and after.

On Friday, the Sun moves into exuberant Sagittarius and a very different energy prevails.  Whereas Scorpio is secretive and keeps things close to the vest Sagittarius throws it all out there.  Sagittarius is ready to move.  This sign is also one of high ideals, justice and the deeper meaning to it all.  Judges, the judiciary, foreign and faraway places are all part of the Sagittarius makeup. 

On Sunday the 24^th Venus joins Jupiter.  This is a lovely aspect and can prove to be very lucky.  In Sagittarius, if you are looking for love and/or money this is the day for it.  Get out there, socialize, meet people and trust to the luck of the day to bring you something wonderful.  But be wary because along with that aspect is the much more dangerous one of Mars opposing Uranus.  This is an explosive lineup.  If anything shocking is going to come out of these impeachment hearings, it will come out now.  This combination surprises, stuns and brings the outrageous to our door.  It is not pretty. This is the bolt out of the blue that leaves us reeling.  Explosive is the key word here. Disaster is another. This energy will be in play for the entire week as Mars moves closer to the opposition point, reaching its peak on Sunday, then slowly waning into next week.  Hang on to your hat. 

By the time the New Moon arrives on the 26^th we will be facing an entirely different picture.  Attitudes, outlooks, feelings and desires will segue into something fresh and new as we prepare for the holiday season.

That is if we survive the earthquake and aftermath that the weekend will bring

January Ends With a Bang!

On Wednesday January 27^th with Mercury now direct and waning Moon in Virgo it is a good time to clear the decks, desks and tie up any loose ends that have been hanging. Finish and complete are the buzzwords for this energy.  Thursday morning Moon enters Libra at 9:59 A EST bringing conversational skills to the fore.  This is a good time to resolve any issues within a personal relationship.  Libra Moon sees both sides of the picture, promotes fairness and favors teamwork and partnerships of all kinds.

Moon goes Void of Course at 8:34 PM EST on Friday evening and remains so until entering the sign of Scorpio on Saturday at 10:50 PM EST.  This is one of those long Void of Course periods, best to kick back and just let things flow. It is best to ground and center, engage in any spiritual practice and avoid making decisions.

As Friday rolls over into Saturday Mercury joins Pluto for some intense conversation. No idle cocktail party chitchat for these two.  Deep, penetrating and profound questions, answers and conversation is the hallmark of this signature.  With the Sun directly overhead in the sky on this Saturday, Venus connects with Neptune.  This is a great aspect for the artist.  Everyone becomes more aware of the love and beauty around them.  The danger here is clinging to the ideal and not the reality.  This is the original rose-colored glasses aspect.  In areas involving love and money be sure you are seeing what is, not what you want it to be.

Sunday with Moon in Scorpio all day, the Last Quarter Moon occurs.  Quarter Moons create action.  This Quarter Moon has Mercury squared off with Uranus. And the Moon while squaring the Sun snuggles up to Mars in Scorpio.  January will end with a bang. This could manifest as a weather related event, an aviation or transportation mishap or outrageous words and actions by a prominent figure.  With Uranus involved the unexpected rules, things that one could not possibly conceive of, occur. These aspects also set the stage for the following week.  Expect more surprises as the first week of February unfolds. Hang on to your hat!

Full Moon Fallout

There’s a lot of action going on around this Full Moon as the energy culminates. In the lead up to the Full Moon Venus the planet of love, money and diplomacy has been making the rounds connecting with the big boys, Jupiter, Uranus and Pluto.  This combination encompasses diplomacy, foreigners, power and control.  The headlines reflect this as a foreign Prime Minister Netanyahu addresses Congress with the warning that agreements with Iran are dangerous and those talks in question resuming the very next day.  There’s a bid for power going on here, internally as well as internationally.  What about the power struggles in your own personal relationships? Has Venus done her job? It is for sure that with Uranus and Pluto involved anything goes.

If relationships are rocky as the Moon sails into Libra on Friday evening, March 6^th, the energy become more congenial as Libra Moon favors all kinds of relationships.  Folks want to get along under this Moon, to connect and socialize.  With Moon here over the weekend it is a great time for parties, a get together or a simple conversation to clear the air. That’s the thing about relationships, when the parties involved get over emotional they often forget that a simple conversation can chill things out and move the relationship along. When you do this, I feel that. Simple.

If Venus has gifted you with smooth sailing don’t become complacent as Mars takes the reins as the Moon begins to wane moving into the Last Quarter phase on March 13^th

On Tuesday the 10^th with Moon in intensely emotional Scorpio Mars makes a sweet aspect to Jupiter.  They are both in fire signs, Aries and Leo respectively and while Mars lights the fire Jupiter ensures that it becomes a conflagration.  Mars in Aries is the master at confrontation. The next day, Wednesday, he joins forces with anything goes Uranus and the powerful transformer Pluto. War, strife, the unusual coupled with the desire to be free and unfettered create a volatile mixture.  Explosive is a keyword here. 

That evening the Moon moves into fiery Sagittarius bringing a desire for movement and a change of scenery.  Sagittarius Moon can bring an open mind or the opposite, a proselytizing, closed minded fanatic. Generally folks are warm, friendly and enthusiastic under this Moon and are curious to see how the other guy lives.

As we get closer to the Last Quarter on Friday Mercury enters Pisces and throws logic out the window.  Mercury in Pisces learns by osmosis. While you are sure that you see the truth in a situation often Mercury in Pisces places the rose colored glasses on your reasoning abilities. Good for meditation and inward contemplation.  Listen to music, watch a beautiful sunset or engage in activities that connect you to your own spirituality. You can go to church and light a candle, say a prayer or sit on a park bench and enjoy the beauty around you.  With Mercury in Pisces you see it or sense it all around you.

The Last Quarter Moon brings a lot of action leading up to it and following it. If you have learned anything from the last New Moon to the Full Moon now is the time to share that learning and spread the information around.  Moon in Sagittarius at this Last Quarter favors the teacher. We all have knowledge this is the time to spread that knowledge.

On Saturday the 14^th of March Moon moves into practical Capricorn.  People what some respect for their talents, for a job well done and for the efforts they apply to their responsibilities.  This Moon is a good time to tackle the tasks at hand.  It’s a double Capricorn day as the ruler of this Moon, Saturn changes direction in Sagittarius going retrograde until August. Saturn is the planet of limitation as well as manifestation.  Saturn is all about the real world, the material world and what we have to do in order to survive in this world. He’s not a fun guy but he will reward you when you take care of business in a timely manner. Saturn says, “You don’t get brownie points for doing what you are supposed to do.”  But in the long run, heading out to the job every day, paying the mortgage and living a healthy lifestyle brings the rewards that you have earned. So this is a good weekend to take of those tasks that are necessary to keep life running smoothly.

On Monday the 16^th Mercury in Pisces squares off with Saturn in Sagittarius.  Mercury in Pisces is the dreamer and visionary.  Saturn deals with cold reality.  A square is an aspect of agitation and irritation.  This aspect can push the dreamer into manifesting the dream into reality.  A good time to write down those ideas, make plans to implement the dream or to take some action in the real world that moves your dream along.

The big aspect of the day, the month or the year even occurs on this day as well Uranus and Pluto make their 7^th and final square aspect on Monday night.  The first of the 7 occurred on June 24, 2012.  On this date the square became exact but Uranus and Pluto had been in range for many years. This is a 126 year cycle and this current aspect ushered in the financial crisis and the major unrest felt around the world.  Although this is the last in this series they will be in range for another year or so.  We are not out of the woods yet.  When these two get together they bring about broad societal changes.  In the early 1930’s they were in the closing square aspect.  In the mid 1960’s they were in conjunction. Both these periods ushered in major changes. 

For some folks this series of squares has ushered in major life changes of a very personal nature while others have experienced changes due to the business, political or social climate.  No matter how you look at it, it is all personal.  The Cardinal signs of Aries, Cancer, Libra and Capricorn have felt these aspects strongly while the rest of us have felt it on some level or another.  Stress and tension ushers in change and while the change may be needed and result in a positive outcome it can be a difficult adjustment.

During this week before the next New Moon the Moon is in the Balsamic phase.  This is the Crone’s Moon. She reminds us that change is constant.  This time as the Moon slowly disappears from the sky is the time to dream, to let go of the old and be ready to prepare for the new at the next New Moon.  Meditate and let your ideas incubate.  Be patient and take the time to assimilate what you have learned and be ready to take your next steps after the New Moon of the 20^th.

The Week Ahead – Last Quarter Moon – Venus Retrograde

Sunday, January 19, 2014 Moon travels through Virgo.  A good day for tidying things up, cleaning out closets/ drawers and general purging all around.  Don’t forget the junk food in the pantry.  Late in the evening Aquarians rejoice as Sun begins its monthly sojourn through that sign. Aquarius, like Capricorn, is ruled by Saturn and can be just as conservative.  Whereas Capricorn leans towards the corporate structure and serves societal constructs, Aquarius celebrates the individualist and often wants to topple those structures especially if they have become rigid and incapable of change.

 Moon remains in Virgo throughout Monday going Void of Course at 3:55 PM EST until the following morning, Tuesday, January 21^st at 7:43 AM EST.  When Moon enters Libra the energy shifts into a more social mode.  Venus ruled Libra Moon heightens the need for interaction with others.  Partnerships, associations and collaborations flourish under this Moon.  A cautionary note here: Libra’s ruler Venus is retrograde and has been since December 21, 2013 and will go direct on January 31, 2014. Venus retrograde can bring uncertainty into all relationships and confusion about finances. Like all retrogrades it is a time for review and reevaluation about the issues that the retrograde planet represents. Venus is about love, money, beauty, art and value systems. This is not the time to take action. It is the time to examine and become aware of issues revolving around love and money.  Often Venus retrograde can trigger extravagant spending on beautiful things that may not be practical.  It is important to remember to try and stay within the budget.  Relationship issues that surface now are not the signal to break off an existing relationship or begin a new one.  Venus is about what you want and what you value. Retrograde is the time to figure out what that is.  Keep in mind when Venus goes direct on the 31^st, Mercury is slowing down in preparation for retrograde motion on February 6^th. 

Wednesday while Moon is in Libra she connects with all the planets throughout the day kicking off a lot of action and discussion around Libran themes.  This is a good time to really listen to what the other person is saying.  Hear them and make sure they hear you.  Be sure that all involved are hearing what is really being said and not what they want to hear.  

Moon goes Void at 10:50 PM EST and moves into Scorpio on Thursday afternoon, January 23^rd at 4:43 PM EST.  Passions are aroused when Moon travels through Scorpio.  Scorpio Moon, ruled by Pluto and Mars, brings out aggressive tendencies and emotional outbursts. Despite Scorpio’s tough reputation, people are sensitive now.  Social interaction can get complicated when the green-eye monster emerges, even though there may be nothing to be jealous about. Suspicion is in the air.  When things get intense take a step back, take a few breaths and take it down a notch.

 At 12:20 AM EST, in the midnight hour the Last Quarter Moon perfects.  This is a time of reflection. As we reflect and assimilate we are ending one phase in preparation for a new beginning.  When Mercury connects with Mars on Friday morning it will be helpful to talk about what is on your mind.  While Scorpio Moon is intense and emotional, Mercury in Aquarius is detached and intellectual.  Mars in air sign Libra will be forced to listen. He may want to argue but Libra will have none of it. 

Saturday morning busy Mercury squares off with Saturn in Scorpio.  The talk is serious and Saturn reigns in Scorpio’s explosive emotions.  Doesn’t mean that it is going to be easy as some unpleasant truths may be revealed. It’s really difficult when those truths are about oneself.  Moon goes Void of Course at 8:55 AM EST and remains so until 10:13 PM EST when intensity falls by the wayside as Moon enters Sagittarius.

 Under Sagittarius Moon there’s a need to move, an itch to travel, a desire to kick the football around or go for a hike.  Sagittarius Moon generates a friendly atmosphere. Ruled by philosophical Jupiter we dive into books about self improvement, philosophical ideals and intellectual edification.  Restlessness under this Moon can lead to impulsive action.  Take a walk, vacuum the rug, simply get moving before you do something that your lack of thinking about will lead to complications later on.  

 

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.

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.

Monday Again! Venus in Cancer – Mercury Direct – Last Quarter Moon

The week starts off with Moon in “get up and go” Aries. Folks are enthusiastic, ambitious and energetic. Not a bad way to begin the Monday morning grind. Be wary of impulsive actions; try to think things through before you start something new. People can be temperamental under Aries Moon and flare-ups and arguments often spark and burn before flaming out.

On Tuesday Venus the planet of love, money and relationships moves from talkative Gemini into emotional Cancer.  Venus in Cancer becomes the nurturer.  She’ll bring you a cup of tea, wipe your brow and offer a shoulder to cry on.  Watch out for emotional outburst with moody Venus in Cancer.

Mercury moves into direct motion early Wednesday morning.  All the communication snafus, missed appointments, and crossed wires come to an end as projects on hold move forward.  New information surfaces and new ideas blossom as we begin to understand what our friends, colleagues and relatives really meant.  Clarity arrives. 

Moon moves into Taurus shortly after Mercury’s change in direction.  Taurus Moon kicks aside the impulsiveness of Aries and settles into a routine.  Caution is the name of the game under Taurus Moon.  Change is not a word in this Moon’s vocabulary, maintaining the status quo is the primary focus. Folks get stubborn under this Moon as they dig their heels in from a sense of insecurity.  We identify with our “stuff” under this Moon and fear we don’t have enough.  Emotions can run high now as Taurus enhances the Luna attributes.

Thursday the Last Quarter Moon arrives as we enter fully into the winding down process.  We assimilate and prepare for the upcoming New Moon.  This is the time to incorporate and let go.  Take what is needed and shed what is useless. Make ready for the rebirthing process that comes with the next New Moon.

This Last Quarter Moon has Venus in Cancer forming a sweet little aspect with Neptune in Pisces. On the high level this can bring relationships of a spiritual nature.  Taking the low road can bring relationships that emphasize escapism whether through seeing the other through rose colored glasses or getting together for a round of drinks in order to flee from reality.

The work week ends with Moon in Gemini. Under this Moon making a decision presents a problem.  Dualistic Gemini sees all sides of every issue. Something as simple as choosing a restaurant or a movie becomes a major production. This is a good time for the intellectual, puzzles and mental challenges as under this Moon folks are curious, restless and looking for change.

Moon moves fast through the sky and throughout this speedy passage through the Zodiac Moon touches all planets. It rules the ups and downs of daily life.  Transits from the outer planets to an individual’s horoscope often get triggered by the swift moving Moon. When that happens life’s ups and downs can get a bit steeper. A consultation with an astrologer can prepare you for these bumps in the road.

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.

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.

Another Fun Week! The Change Comes From Within

The Last Quarter Moon reaches perfection at 5:54 PM EDT on Sunday, August 21, 2011 kicking off a busy week of planetary sign and direction changes.  Quarter Moons call for action, in the waning phase the action/change occurs on the inner planes.  This is the time to finish projects, do some tweaking here and there and take a little break, especially as we segue into the Balsamic phase. The Crescent Moon is shrinking and soon the night sky is dark. Dream the future, stop, smell the roses and listen.  In the quiet new ideas formulate and creativity percolates preparing for the start of the next cycle, the New Moon on the 28^th/29^th of August. Hold off beginning the new until after this New Moon. Before we reach this new phase we will have to get through this week of fluctuating energy. On Sunday, Venus moves from fiery Leo to the more sedate Virgo. Venus loves to indulge herself and Virgo has no patience for fancy frills and extravagance. The love of Venus in Virgo is a more practical love. Venus in Virgo will weed your garden or cook you a pot of soup.  Venus in Virgo minds the budget and is reluctant to spend on luxury items. A new stove is fine; a silk scarf questionable.  Moon moves into Gemini Sunday night. Waning Moon in Gemini is a great time to clear your desk of all communications that require a response. People are busy, busy, talky, talky while Moon is in this sign. On Monday, the Sun opposes Neptune bringing a jangle of discordant news and exposure of a few dark deeds. The real truth of it all comes out after Mercury turns direct on Friday, August 26^th at 6:03 PM EDT. In the meantime Gemini Moon keeps pumping out the information until Wednesday morning when Moon slides home to Cancer. Things begin to get emotional. Gemini Moon thinks; Cancer Moon feels. Wednesday could turn out to be an emotional roller coaster, try not to base any decisions solely on emotions. On Thursday morning Mars in Cancer squares off with Saturn in Libra. Think difficult. In traditional astrology these two are considered the Greater and Lesser Malefics. Things could get ugly. Disputes, fights, foul weather, and some nasty explosive types of events are possible. Moon goes Void of Course at 9:04 AM. When Moon is Void of Course the best course of action is one of kicking back and letting life flow around you.  Actions and decisions made during Void of Course periods have a funny way of running in unexpected directions. So whatever the Mars/Saturn configuration stirs up the wise will remember to take those ten deep breathes before reacting. In the evening, Venus plays the diplomat with powerful Pluto.  Political shenanigans come to mind. On Friday noonish Moon enters Leo. People want to be loved and appreciated when Moon is in Leo. The creative, playful side emerges. Leo Moon is a great way to start a fun weekend.  At 6:03 PM Mercury shifts into direct motion. Over the weekend new information surfaces and the news, scandals and false reports all receive a makeover as the truth finally comes out. Let the dust settle and wait until Monday before deciding, acting or beginning anything. 

Last Quarter Moon - Week of December 27, 2010

Here in Rhode Island, in the EST time zone, the Last Quarter Moon occurs at 11:18 PM EST on Monday, December 27, 2010. The angles of the chart set for Providence, RI are closely conjunct and square the degrees of the recent Lunar Eclipse. The angles of a horoscope are the cusps of the first, fourth, seventh and tenth houses. These are very important points in the horoscope. In a personal horoscope transits to these points often coincide with important events in the life. The mix of energies prevalent at the New and Full Moons continue as the Moon winds down appearing smaller each evening until the darkness prevails. This is the time where we assimilate all that we have learned during the waxing and full phases and prepare for the coming New Moon, Solar Eclipse in Capricorn on January 4, 2011. In preparation for this Last Quarter Moon, Moon enters Libra at 12:38 PM on Monday. Libra is a social sign and we feel like talking, mingling and interacting with our fellow human beings. Libra has the knack of seeing both sides and weighing things in the balance. This is useful when operating under the stressful aspects that prevail at this Last Quarter Moon. This week as the Moon travels from Libra, to intense Scorpio into exuberant Sagittarius, Mars will make a stressful aspect to Saturn. This is a good time to work on projects that require diligence, organization and practical use of energy. Things can get done under this aspect although it may not be easy. The other big news this week is Mercury turning in direct motion on Thursday, December 30, 2010 at 2:21 AM EST. You will notice things beginning to move forward that were “stuck”. New information surfaces and rumor is laid to rest. You may find that you have to redo or reorganize projects begun under retrograde Mercury. Wait to begin new projects until after the New Moon of the 4th. Finish up what has been started, tie up loose ends and prepare and be ready for the new that is sure to come with the New Year and the New Moon. Peace!

Last Quarter Moon and Week of November 28, 2010

The Last Quarter Moon occurs on Sunday, November 28, 2010 at 3:36 PM EST with the Moon in Virgo and the Sun in Sagittarius. This is the half and half Moon, half light and half dark. The winding down phase and like all squares it is a time for action. In this waning phase the action is one of assimilation as we process inwardly what this cycle has brought us. We are preparing for the next New Moon when the cycle begins again. At this Last Quarter Moon the planet Mars squares off with Jupiter. Squares make things happen. Mars in Sagittarius, the sign of philosophy, religion and belief systems in a hard aspect with Jupiter in Pisces the sign of spirituality, illusion, high ideals, smoke and mirrors suggests a flare up of differences on the international front. North Korea’s attack on South Korea comes to mind but I am thinking more Middle East, Oil, Christian, Moslem area of world events. Jupiter promises big stuff and he can deliver. As co-ruler of Pisces and ruler of Sagittarius Jupiter has some power here. Mars is the spark. The planet Uranus is in the picture as well. The exact square aspect between Mars and Uranus occurs on Friday, December 3, 2010 at 9:01 AM EDT. Before that happens, Venus, that mysterious lady, leaves the all sweetness and light sign of Libra and enters the dark waters of Scorpio on Monday night. Venus, in addition to ruling love, beauty and the arts, rules money, values, and diplomacy. Scorpio, among other things, is the sign of debt. Venus in Scorpio is not diplomatic; she’s donned her combat boots and is through talking. On Tuesday evening Mercury the planet of communication, business transactions, contracts, and the daily commute moves into Capricorn. Capricorn wants the facts, demands logic and organization. Mercury is only too happy to oblige. The Moon begins the week in Virgo; the details will make us happy while Moon is here. On Tuesday morning Moon enters Libra. This is the people need people Moon. Libra Moon reminds us that we are social beings. On Thursday morning, Moon enters Scorpio and passions run high. The Mars square Uranus becomes exact under this Scorpio Moon. We will have a lot to absorb and assimilate as we prepare for Sunday’s New Moon in Sagittarius when another cycle begins that looks to be quite volatile. Stay tuned.

Mars in Sagittarius, Venus Retrograde Conjunct the Sun, Last Quarter Moon

In the lead up to the Last Quarter Moon on Saturday, October 30^th two significant events occurred on Thursday the 28^th. First, Mars left his home base of Scorpio and moved into Sagittarius. Mars is the planet of action.  Mars in a horoscope points how we do and what we do. Entering Sagittarius Mars signals the return of enthusiasm and optimism. Mars in Sagittarius sees the glass as half full. There can be a certain amount of impulsiveness when Mars and the Archer join forces. Mars is the warrior and in Sagittarius battles can assume the aura of a holy crusade. At the extreme, Mars in Sagittarius can bring the foaming at the mouth religious fanatic to your doorstep.  But most of the time the anger of Mars in Sagittarius is anger at an injustice.  This energy is good for the sportsman and athlete. Sports and athletics provide a positive outlet for this energy.  Thursday also saw the conjunction of retrograde Venus with the Sun.  This is called the inferior conjunction. Inferior conjunction occurs when Venus is retrograde and is closest to the Earth. Venus lies directly between the Earth and the Sun. It is a New Moon type of occurrence.  It is a special moment, a time to plant Venusian seeds. Venus is concerned with love, art, money and relatedness. Venus attracts but she is more than just a pretty face. Venus in a horoscope signifies what you want, your value system and what matters to you.   At the conjunction, Venus is not visible in the night sky. After the inferior conjunction Venus will appear well before dawn in the morning sky beginning November 4^th. It has been said that when Venus rises in the morning she calls the men to war. Let’s hope that she doesn’t intend to rouse them now.   If you want to figure out how this will affect you think back to eight years ago. Every eight years Venus will retrograde and conjoin the Sun in approximately the same area of the Zodiac.  The cycle begun at that time is ending and a new one is beginning. This is the time to plant those seeds you wish to grow and flourish during the upcoming eight years.   On Friday evening, October 29, 2010 at 8:38 PM EDT Moon enters the sign of Leo heading towards a square to Scorpio Sun.  This is the closing square; the Moon grows smaller in the night sky winding down bringing the darkness of the New Moon on November 5th.  The waning square between the Sun and Moon is a time to wrap things up and assimilate all that was taken in and learned since the previous New Moon and to clear the decks to make way for the new.  Meditation and inner reflection do well during these periods.  This is the weekend for quiet, romantic evenings.  Leo Moon brings out kindness and generosity in people.  There’s warmth and affection in the air. Enjoy!

Last Quarter Moon - Incorporate, Assimilate and Meditate.

Moon in Taurus keeps us grounded and cautious. We get emotional about our money, possessions and sense of security. Our “stuff” takes on greater importance. Venus ruled Taurus indicates a time to enjoy beautiful things of an earthly nature, sunrise, sunset and moonrise. Moon goes void of course on Tuesday, August 31, 2010 at 7:13 PM EDT and enters Gemini about an hour later at 8:19 PM EDT. Air sign Gemini moon lightens things up a bit; we are motivated by the intellect rather than the gut. It is easy to see both sides of the picture and because of this we often have difficulty making up our minds. There is a certain busyness, a talkativeness and restlessness about this moon. This moon is great for writers and communicators. The Last Quarter Moon occurs on Wednesday, September 1, 2010. Quarter moons are times of crisis and action. The waning phase is a time for introspection and assimilation. This current cycle began with the New Moon in Leo. The New Moon plants the seed, at the Full Moon that seed is in full blossom. Now as the moon wanes we incorporate what we have learned and prepare for the next phase to begin. Completion is the key word here. Finish what has been started rather than beginning something new. Wait until the New Moon on September 8, 2010 to initiate the new. The Gemini Moon goes void of course on Friday, September 3rd at 1:40 AM EDT until 2:50 AM EDT. At this time Moon slides into the welcoming arms of Cancer. This is where moon belongs, home base; the emotional nature of the moon flourishes here. We become a little more sensitive, tend to get weepy and sentimental and need to nurture or be nurtured. This is gut reaction time where the intellect takes a back seat. Beware of the over stocked Buffet line while moon travels through Cancer as food brings a great deal of comfort to the sensitive soul. On Friday, sun conjoins a retrograde Mercury, so be sure to dot the I’s and cross the T’s. On Saturday, Venus makes a lovely trine, an aspect of ease, to Neptune. This could be true love, soul mate time or bring the great deceiver into play. Be sure you are seeing things as they really are not how you want them to be. A concert, a visit to an art gallery or a meditation brings the positive qualities of this aspect to the fore. This is a great week to quietly adjust to any recent changes in your life and to prepare for the New Moon and upcoming planetary shifts in store for next week. Stay tuned.

Last Quarter Moon

Last Quarter Moon occurred on Sunday morning at 4:56 AM with the Moon in Cancer and the Sun in Libra at a 90 degree angle from one another. In the Sun/Moon cycle these angles indicate a crisis of sorts. In the waxing phase, action is taken or decisions are made. In the waning phase the crisis is one of consciousness. We’re assimilating the knowledge or activities begun at the beginning of the cycle, the previous New Moon and preparing ourselves for the next phase, the upcoming New Moon. This is a time for reflection, meditation and introspection. Get all your ducks in a row before you begin something new. This is the “thinking it over time” leading up to the New Moon on The 18th when we begin another cycle.