April – Crashing and Burning – The Great Cardinal Square

April 2014 may turn out to be a month that history will not ignore.  There’s a celestial battle taking place in the sky that has been going on for awhile and during the month of April a peak or tipping point is reached. This has a lot to do with the 126 year cycle of Uranus and Pluto.  Pluto is the destroyer, ruling toxic waste, corruption, elimination and despite all this has the power to transform and reform. The use of power to control others as well as the power of the group belongs to Pluto. Uranus is the humanitarian, revolutionary anarchist and has rule over technology and invention.  Kicking down rigid societal constructs is Uranus’ joy. When Pluto and Uranus engage, society changes. Add to this the Full Moon Lunar Eclipse on the 15^th and the New Moon Solar Eclipse on the 29^th and you have the makings of deep and profound changes.

Eclipses run in 19 year cycles. In 1995 there were Eclipses at these signs and degrees.  What was happening in your life then? What have you learned? What direction did your life take and can you use your current knowledge to guide you with the wisdom you have gained.

Uranus and Pluto square each other 7 times between 2012 and 2015.  The 5^th in that series of squares takes place on April 21, 2014. Into this particular square move Jupiter in Cancer and Mars in Libra creating what is called a Grand Square.  These four planets are either squaring or opposing one another and they are all connected to within a few degrees this month.  This is an explosive combination. 

So far we’ve seen earthquakes, mudslides, corrupt politicians, and unease and unrest in various parts of the world. This kind of activity will continue.

People with planets in the middling degrees of Aries, Cancer, Libra, and Capricorn feel the pinch of these planets and will continue to feel it for some time.  But the rest of us will not escape this configuration as all the elements are represented and affected. Earth, Air, Water and Fire all are taking a hit. 

There’s a battle going on within as well as without.  The need for independence balanced against the necessity of cooperation and collaborative efforts.  We may want to go it alone and be independent but circumstances may prevent that.  Maintaining the balance between the public and private life is a challenge for some.  Life’s direction and purpose come under review.

Letting go, releasing and giving up something is on the table for a lot of us. Letting go is painful. We’re creatures of habit and don’t like to step out of our comfort zone. These transits are a set up for change and resistance only makes the process more difficult.   We’re forced to give up something that we think is vital to our existence.  When we let go we open the way for something new and better to enter our lives.

Change does not have to be drastic for some it is the earthquake within that wakens them to new possibilities. Adjustments can be made to existing circumstances, new attitudes create new conditions. 

This month all the muck is going to rise to the surface. It is up to us to clear it away, clean it up and move on.  This is true on the personal level as well as on the world stage.  The environment and what humans are doing to it will hit home in a very big way. Justice, business, money, corruption all tie in to what is right and what is wrong about the world as we know it today.  Events will raise our awareness.  Some of these events will be like a slap in the face. It’s a wakeup call, so wake up folks!

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.

April Fools’ Day Let the Fun Begin– Venus in Gemini, Mercury Direct

Before dawn on Sunday April Fools’ Day Moon moves into fun loving, fiery Leo. Everyone’s a star while Moon travels through this show biz sign. People are ambitious, looking for romance and need approval for the next couple of days. Be wary of April Fools’ Day jokes that backfire or have unexpected results when Moon forms a sparkling aspect to Uranus on Sunday afternoon.  This energy favors change, opportunity and independent action.  Get out there and find new friends and new prospects.

 Monday morning Sun and Moon fire up the beginning of the work week. Enthusiasm reigns.  When Moon squares off with Jupiter in solid Taurus, expect a few flies in the ointment.  Especially when it comes to money and any plans to improve the diet, Jupiter comes with a big appetite and often promises more than can be delivered.

Tuesday dawns with purpose, do your job and take care of business as Leo Moon joins forces with sober Saturn. Mid morning Moon and Venus, at odds with one another, bring mood swings and difficulty in relationships.  Moon goes void of course for a big 6 minutes then enters Virgo.  Here Moon retreats from center stage operating more comfortably in the background. Virgo Moon prefers the intellectual over the emotional. Tasks that require attention to detail or organization do well under this Moon.  Use this energy to clean the house, rearrange storage space and sort what is good from what is ready for the dustbin. Before noon Venus moves into flirtatious Gemini.  Sociability increases, folks make many contacts but not many with staying power. Venus in Gemini is easily bored. After lunch, Moon opposes Neptune and relationships hit another snag. Be wary of deception, especially self deception. By evening commute time Moon, in lock step with Mars warns against impulsive actions and outbursts of anger. Chill. 

 During the wee hours of Wednesday, April 4^th in the Eastern Time Zone Moon connects with Pluto and dreams reveal some deep psychological issue.  As the Sun rises, Mercury stations and begins to move in direct motion. Hurray and halleluiah! Projects on hold begin to move along, information flows and facts previously unknown are revealed. Virgo Moon, making nice, nice with Jupiter promises good opportunity for those on the lookout.

 Moon goes void of course at 1:37 AM EDT Thursday making a last aspect with newly direct Mercury setting the stage for the revelation of new facts.   Moon slides into Libra at 11:32 AM EDT ending the void period.  Libra Moon highlights partnerships, harmony, and social gatherings.  This is not the time to “go it alone”; Libra Moon encourages interaction with others, preferably in pleasant surroundings.  In the afternoon Moon and Libra’s ruler Venus form a harmonious blend. This is a good time to try and resolve any difficulties and disagreements in relationships.  All is peace, love and goodwill.  Complete any discussions before Moon faces off with unpredictable, unconventional Uranus around 8PM EDT.   Moon/Uranus combinations are volatile and disruptive.  Libra Moon wants to join forces while Uranus craves independence.  Later Venus squares Neptune an aspect of tension. Venus with Neptune can lead one to believe they have found their true soul mate. The reality is usually quite different.  There is a real danger here of overindulgence in intoxicants of all kinds in order to escape reality. Venus/Neptune contacts offer great opportunities to escape through music, art, prayer and meditation.

Moon squares off with Pluto during the small hours of Good Friday and we wake up to some deep revelation. At 3:19 PM EDT the Full Moon perfects, Libra Moon opposes Aries Sun.  This Full Moon brings eruption, disruption and other assorted shocks.  Thinking is quick, words leap to the lip without any consideration of the havoc those words may create.  Outrageous news and scandalous behavior mar the Easter/Passover weekend.

 Early Saturday morning Moon joins Saturn in an effort to sober everyone up and put them on a more stable track as Moon goes Void of Course.  Entering Scorpio at 11:18 AM EDT, Moon evokes passion and desire.  Intense moods and heightened suspicions create complications when communicating with others.  Throughout the day Moon moves along connecting with Neptune then Mars sparking an overly active imagination, doubt and distrust. Passions ignite when Venus squares off with Mars Saturday night.  Sexual desire demands as all romance gets thrown out the window. This does not sit well with some. Harmony and cooperation becomes difficult.  Take a breath, take a break, and try to relax. Realize that all this discord arises because there is a need under Scorpio Moon to merge with others on a deep, emotional level. We want to feel. Allow passions to cool don’t make a decision in the heat of the moment.  Don’t throw out all that peace and good will generated earlier in the week.  Slow down and try to think dispassionately. What is really going on here?

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!

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.

April Lunation Cycle 2011

Viewing the Astrological Chart of the New Moon on Sunday, April 3, 2011 at 10:32 AM EDT makes one think that there is a macabre cosmic April Fool’s Joke going on.  But it is no joke; it’s a potent planetary configuration that promises earth shattering events.  At this New Moon it is hard to say what is the most important factor as there are so many of them.  The Sun and Moon, conjunct in Aries form a wide square (90 degrees) aspect to Pluto and an opposition to Saturn.  Jupiter, bringer of “big” stuff is close to the Sun/Moon conjunction and opposes Saturn. This Jupiter/Saturn opposition is the “Full Moon” aspect of their 20 year cycle, which began in 2000 kicking off the Dot.Com financial bust out. To light the fire under all of this is that Wicked Warrior, Mars in Aries (at home and in fine fighting fettle) conjunct Uranus in Aries.  Explosion is the keyword for this combination. But Mars will be busy all month. By the First Quarter Moon he pulls in closer to a square to Pluto and by the Full Moon he will oppose Saturn.  Along with all of this we have Mercury Retrograde for most of the month.  Check the facts, read the fine print and wait until the dust settles before you make a decision or form an opinion.  Retro Mercury is the master of the fake out.  The day after the New Moon, Neptune moves into Pisces.  Neptune has been in Aquarius since late 1998. When these slower moving planets change signs it is “an event”.  When Pluto moved into Capricorn in September of 2008 Lehman Brothers collapsed and the financial implosion began.  When Uranus went into Aries on March 11, 2011, Japan, earthquake and tsunami filled the headlines.  Neptune can be a saint or a scam artist and plays each part equally well.  Oil, oceans, pharmaceuticals fall under Neptune’s rule.  The master of illusion Neptune often distorts, deludes and misrepresents.  Neptune on the high road brings the Mother Theresa’s of the world to the fore, on the low road, think Bernie Madoff and the like. With all of the outer planets in the mix this month major upheaval in governments, finance, natural and manmade disasters will dominate.  My thinking is as Mars moves along his merry way touching base with his fellow bad boys he will be igniting fires as he goes acting as a trigger for all of the slow movers.  There are some major power struggles going on now and for the rest of this decade the question is who will hold all the cards, own the power and rule the world. Really. The problem for the Power Brokers in this era is the readily available information that moves around the world in a flash. What the puppets of the powerful say to today is available tomorrow for review.  And we know how often they contradict themselves.  On a personal level, where these configurations fall in the individual’s horoscope will tell the tale.  The house in the horoscope where Aries and the other Cardinal signs fall, Libra and Capricorn will be feeling the stress. Indeed those with Sun in Aries, Libra and Capricorn and with other planets in these signs are taking a big hit this month.  Guaranteed they will be talking to their Astrologer, broker, or favorite bartender.  For all of us we need to remember to breathe and keep the faith.

Jupiter in Aries

When you think about Jupiter you have to think global. Jupiter is the high priest, the prophet, the philosopher, the legal expert and wise judge. Jupiter in excess or taking anything less than the high road brings exaggeration, overestimation, fanaticism, intolerance and a tendency for overindulgence. Jupiter has to do with holding society together through rulership of laws and legal systems.



Aries represents the spring awakening. The powerful force that germinates and pushes to the surface, Aries is impulse, pioneering, initiative, impatience, seizes the untried, the new and finds new solutions to old problems. Aries on the dark side can be brutal, violent, prone to start and fail to finish, a big ego with no regard for the feelings of others.


A blending of these two begins this Saturday, Jan 22, 2011, when they join forces as Jupiter enters Aries. Last June, 2010 Jupiter popped into Aries spending a quick 3 months, returning to Pisces in September 2010.


A Jupiter transit in a personal horoscope expands the individual’s universe, the consciousness and at times the waist line. The energy flows easily and the house it transits is the area of growth. Bad habits can grow as well as good habits. The cautionary tale of a Jupiter transit is “don’t overdo.”


Jupiter’s transit through the sign of Aries will be the luckiest of times for natives of this sign. This time signals a twelve year cycle of growth. Aries will feel good, optimistic and hopeful.


The Aquarius and Gemini receive favorable vibes. This transit brings good relationships and opportunity. For Leo and Sagittarius good stuff comes your way but this transit can make you lazy, so pay attention and don’t let opportunity pass you by. Capricorn and Cancer, while generally favorable need to navigate the snags and snafus that arise and threaten the benefits Jupiter brings. The Pisces and Taurus’ may be totally unaware of the benefits and good luck that is around them while the Scorpios and Virgos experience annoyances that if left unattended can blossom in a big way. Libra experiences this as a culmination; it is a Full Moon type of occurrence as Jupiter is opposing its Libra position of 2004-2005. Libra’s chance for success is good now but a focus on the spiritual will better serve.


For a clue to what this means for you personally think back to last June through September, what was happening in your life then. For a broader picture of what is going on in your life think back to 1999 when Jupiter last transited Aries. That cycle is ending now and a new one is beginning. Where were you twelve years ago? What wonders of the universe opened up for you? Get ready for another round. And remember, at its highest Jupiter is all about connecting to ones spiritual self. Jupiter brings material goods but the best gift Jupiter brings is the spiritual blessings that are pearls beyond price. Meditate and get in touch with your higher self, your inner spiritual self and how to turn those selves into the pioneer embodied in the Jupiter in Aries archetype.

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!

Scorpio New Moon

Passions are aroused when Moon enters Scorpio Friday morning, November 5, 2010 at 2:15 AM EDT. Scorpio Moon brings out strong feelings and desires. People are more sensitive to real or imagined hurts. Be careful when dealing with members of the opposite sex. There is a strong desire to merge and meld, not merely in sexual passion but on a deeper soul level. People do not forgive and forget easily under this Moon. Tread carefully. The New Moon occurs at 12:52 AM EDT on Saturday morning, November 6, 2010, in Scorpio. So the flavor of the month is Scorpio. While this sign can generate secretive, passionate and intense feelings it is also about being resourceful and brings about transformation. Where this New Moon falls in the Natal Horoscope is where the native is going to dig deep and plumb the depths. Expect some earth shattering events. The physical earth, i.e. volcanoes, earthquakes and the like as well as in the business and political world. I am thinking this because the North Node of the Moon is conjunct Pluto in Capricorn at this New Moon. The North Node is the point on the ecliptic where the Moon crosses the equator from South to North. It is an 18 year cycle that is very important in world events and on a personal level as well.  Pluto is a great destroyer and rebuilder. Societal structures belong to Capricorn. When the North Node was traveling through Cancer, opposite to where it is now, housing (Cancer) prices were at their peak. Now, in the opposite sign of Capricorn, housing prices are in the toilet. Adding to this mix, on Sunday, Neptune stations and turns in direct motion. The Neptunian energies are strong. Psychic stuff as well as fraud, oil, drugs, think scandal. Retrograde Venus moves back into Libra signaling a reappraisal of relationships and negotiations. On Monday, November 8, 2010 Mercury moves into Sagittarius. Here come the fiery speeches espousing strong religious, philosophical and political views. At the First Quarter Moon on Saturday, November 13, 2010 at 11:39 AM EST, the seeds planted at the New Moon begin to sprout. The Moon is in Aquarius and the Sun is in Scorpio, two fixed signs knocking heads. Scorpio has deep passions while Aquarius has strong convictions. Neither is inclined to budge. Venus in Libra and Mercury in Sagittarius may open the door for some conversation and keep the lines of communication open until a more auspicious time. This will be true on a personal level as well. When you hit a stone wall, step back and take a breath. Upon further reflection and review we usually find a way around the obstacle. Obstacles, hitches and glitches force us to take action and although not easy or pleasant, accomplishment is the result.

Full Moon Aries/Libra and the Scorpio Season

Moon goes void of course at 2:49 PM EDT on Sunday, October 17, 2010 until 10:52 PM EDT when Moon enters Pisces.  There is softness about Pisces Moon, a dreaminess, a heightened sensitivity to the ethereal.  Under this Moon we tune into the subtle nuances around us. People are more emotional and tend toward the spiritual. There is a need to escape the harsh realities of life.  The danger here is donning the rose colored glasses, seeing what we want to see, not what really is. Mercury makes an aspect of ease to Neptune on Monday morning. When these two join forces the possibility of illusion, deceit, false rumors and fake news increases.  This aspect is great for imagination and creative work but it is hard to be objective in practical matters. Keep in mind with this aspect often not all the facts are known.   On Tuesday morning the Sun sends loving beams to Neptune.  This aspect can literally be illuminating as sunlight reveals some of the dark secrets Neptune has kept.  The Moon goes void of course on Wednesday morning at 6:25 AM EDT moving into independent Aries at 11:23 AM EDT.  People are fired up under Aries Moon, eager to begin, to start something new or go off exploring.  People are enthusiastic, energetic and impulsive. Many times projects begun under Aries Moon never reach completion. Completing projects requires more than an initiative impulse; follow through and a stick to it attitude is required.  Wednesday is also the day that Mercury enters Scorpio.  Mercury rules the intellect, the thinking process, communication and transportation. The transaction, the buy and sell of business and commerce falls under Mercury’s purview as well.  Scorpio is the sign of finance, banks, debt and co-mingled resources. In world events and markets, Scorpio brings out the power hungry, threat, crisis and the old fear factor.  In this day and age think complicated transactions that end in default.  An individual with Mercury in Scorpio has a mind that is sharp, decisive, likes the mysterious and has an x-ray quality when it comes to digging up the details.  Mars in Scorpio mixes it up with Jupiter in Pisces creating some aggressive competition. Expect some ugliness on the campaign trail and an increase in international tensions.  In the lead up to the Full Moon on Friday, October 22, 2010 at 9:37 PM EDT Mars in Scorpio squares of with Neptune and Mercury connects with Pluto.  This Full Moon falls along the Aries/Libra axis at the 29^th degree.  Soon the Libra mode of accommodation will give way to the intensity of Scorpio when the Sun enters that sign on Saturday morning, October 23, 2010 at 8:35 AM EDT.  There is a lot of planetary action around this Full Moon.  Exposed is the word that comes to mind, on all levels and all fronts.  By weekend we will be in full Scorpio mode with Sun, Mercury, Venus and Mars all traveling through Pluto’s territory.  Pagans and Christians alike recognize this time of the year as the time of the dead, when the veil between the two worlds is the thinnest.  Samhain, All Hallows, All Saints and All Souls signal the close of the harvest and the preparation for winter.  Whether you prescribe to the theory that one can talk to the spirits at this time or not, you can expect the Scorpio season to raise fear and suspicion.  Complicated financial transactions will continue to collapse, more scandals will be revealed and politicians, public opinion and public actions increase in intensity.  Scorpio tempts with the allure of power but will bring you down if you don’t take the high road.  That is the key, taking the high road, the more spiritual path.  It is hard to do when the energy is permeated by the sex and death sign of Scorpio. But it is through sex that life is created.  So think about that for awhile. And when the going gets rough, ground, center and meditate.  Remember to breathe.

Moon and Mercury Set the Stage For a Wild Weekend.

We begin the month of October with the Moon in Cancer. Moon is at home in Cancer and operates at full bore here. Emotion run high, sensitivity ratchets up and we all need to give or get a hug. Be aware of this heightened sensitivity as you negotiate the mine field of emotions until Moon enters Leo on Saturday, October 2, 2010 at 2:21 PM EDT. Creative enthusiasm reigns under Leo Moon. Our true selves emerge and we want to be recognized for our special gifts. And we all have them. Mercury plays a big roll this weekend as well. Mercury reigns over transport, trade, ideas, the highway, the byway, the daily commute, bus/train stations, airports as well as news and information. On Friday, Mercury opposes Jupiter. Jupiter rules philosophies, belief systems, the judiciary, foreigners and foreign travel. Jupiter is a big guy and he brings “lots of”. Since both planets have to do with writing, publishing and the media we might expect some bombshell news event over the weekend. This is further indicated by Mercury’s opposition to Mr. Surprise, Uranus on Saturday morning. Uranus represents the urge for freedom, the innovative, the unexpected and the unusual. When Uranus comes calling, you can review every possibility that comes to mind and Uranus will still surprise you. In addition to revolutions and such Uranus brings events in the natural world, earthquakes, violent weather etc. (Here in the Northeast we are experiencing some of that wild weather) On Sunday morning Mercury leaves the dust of Virgo behind and enters Libra. Mercury in Libra talks nice, negotiates and pours oil on troubled waters. Do not be lulled or gulled by the smooth talkers. Mercury often acts as a trigger for events set up by the outer slower moving planets. So hang on to your hat and get ready to Rock and Roll.

Expect the Unexpected…….

Moon in Capricorn from Wednesday, September 15, 2010 at 4:30 PM EDT until early Saturday morning, September 18, 2010 at 3:35 AM EDT signals a time of structure, organization and a concern for the material aspects of life. Capricorn Moon is not a dreamy, imaginative Moon. This Moon wants to see, feel and touch in order to verify reality. Anxiety over security issues sparks ambitions and sends us off to perform the various chores and duties required to get ahead in this material world. It is best to perform the tasks at hand beneath this Moon, focus on today and not worry about the future. Avoid the pessimistic and remain positive. Moon goes void at 1:35 AM EDT on Saturday morning. Before dawn Moon enters the intellectual air sign of Aquarius. There’s a different feel in the air. Like Capricorn, Aquarius is also ruled by Saturn. Saturn brings structure, form and contraction to the table. Aquarius Moon speaks to concrete ideas, logical arguments delivered in an airy manner. Aquarius’ co-ruler Uranus brings spontaneity and innovation into the equation. Under Aquarius Moon there is a desire to speak our minds and to have the freedom to express our thoughts. This is a great time to make connections and network. On Saturday evening, Jupiter makes a conjunction with Uranus; this is the 2nd in a series of three. The first occurred on June 8th at the Cardinal degree of zero Aries. Since then both planets have retrograded back into Pisces so the second conjunction and the third in January of 2011 will occur in the sign of Pisces. Events and issues that surface at the first conjunction surface again at the second conjunction only to be finally resolved at the third conjunction. When two planets are in the sky together like this their energies combine and intensify. Jupiter is considered the greater benefic, it supposedly brings the good stuff. That stuff can be good or bad, depending on whom Jupiter is running with. For sure, Jupiter brings “lots of.” The general principles of Jupiter include belief systems, the search for life’s meaning, wisdom, growth, success and expansion. An exaggerated, afflicted Jupiter can bring the religious fanatic to the fore, a closed mind rather than an open one. Uranus symbolizes the urge humans have for freedom and individuality. Uranus carries surprise, sudden upheavals, and brilliant flashes of inspiration. Blending these two energies creates an anything goes atmosphere. The house in the horoscope where the conjunction falls is where the action is. Any aspects to natal planets from this conjunction bring further clarity to the issues at hand. On a more Mundane level, world events, the same anything goes attitude prevails. The political world is surely feeling the effects of these conjunctions and we have not heard the last from Mother Nature. We’ll feel the influence of this conjunction from several days before (Primary Elections) to several days after. Next week we have the Autumnal Equinox, when the Sun moves into Libra and shortly after the Full Moon along the Aries/Libra axis. These events kick off the zero Cardinal points that have been active on and off all year so expect the unexpected, be prepared to roll with the punches and above all, keep an open mind.

Fun and Games All Around - First Quarter Moon and Jupiter opposite Saturn

Today, Saturday, August 14, 2010 moon goes void of course in Libra at 4:06 PM EDT until entering Scorpio at 8:26 PM EDT. Void of course periods are good times to kick back, avoid taking decisive action and to recognize that our judgments may not be up to par. There are unknown factors at work. Of course life goes on so don’t tie yourself up in knots if you do have to take some kind of action. The weekend shifts into the Scorpionic mode which kicks the pleasant sociability of Libra to the curb. Things get intense while moon travels through Scorpio. People get jealous and suspicious. “Just because you’re paranoid, doesn’t mean they are not out to get you.” That is the Scorpio Moon rallying cry. The best thing you can do when things get intense is to remember to breathe. The breathe calms and centers. You’ll need it. The First Quarter Moon occurs on Monday, August 16, 2010 at 2:14 PM EDT and the second in a series of three oppositions between Jupiter and Saturn follows at 4:45 PM EDT. Saturn and Jupiter have a 20 year cycle from conjunction, (together in the sky) to opposition to conjunction again. (The moon does this in about 28 days). This First Quarter Moon occurs in the middle of the rare Cardinal T-Square that has accompanied all the financial, political and environmental crap we have been dealing with. The moon in fixed, intense Scorpio is 90 degrees (square) from the sun in fixed, fiery Leo. The lights, sun and moon, pull nebulous Neptune into the picture; Neptune has been laying low for awhile, but that does not mean he hasn’t been up to some mischief. It just means we don’t know what it is. The Quarter Moons are times of action; they create the energy that moves things, people and situations along. With the slower moving planets involved; this is about big societal changes. We all know something is going on, we can’t put our finger on it, nor can we articulate it yet. We are not seeing the big picture or getting the true story. I am still waiting for the other shoe to drop.

So You Survived the Weekend, Well, It Ain't Over Yet!

Well it looks like we survived the weekend with all of the unsettling aspects that went on but I keep waiting for the other shoe to drop. The symbolism of these slow moving planets, when in rare configurations as they are now, sometimes take months, even years for the true meaning to unfold. Sometimes it hits you right away, like being hit over the head with a baseball bat, sometimes the realization comes in retrospect, “so that’s what that was!” We may not know or reach the realization of what has gone on until the Full Moon of September 23rd or when Mars enters Capricorn in December (the 7th), or around the Lunar Eclipse at the Winter Solstice; all of which spark the early degrees of the Cardinal signs where the slow moving planets are currently transiting. Today, the moon in Virgo goes void of course at 8:04 PM EDT and is void until tomorrow evening, Thursday, August 12, 2010 at 6:42 PM EDT when Old Luna enters Libra. Now there is a lot of Libra energy around now with Venus, at home, in Libra and Saturn, very comfortable, exalted as the astrologer’s say, on Venus’ home turf. Mars is here also, not so comfortable; in “detriment”, opposite the sign he rules. It is like this, Mars is strolling through the drawing room in his combat boots mucking up the carpet. He is not comfortable in these posh, beautiful Libran surroundings. He has no idea what he is doing here. His energy is more suited to the great outdoors, the sports arena or the battlefield. High tea and crumpets ain’t his thing. Venus here wants to make nice-nice, Saturn wants to negotiate a truce and Mars, well, Mars’ job is to take action, make war, or be a pioneer. That drive is stunted in Libra. Now all this Libra action has been receiving input from Jupiter and Uranus, in Aries and Pluto in Capricorn, all in Cardinal signs and in early degrees of those signs. Moon is going to jump into Libra and by Friday morning will have bounced off all of these planets activating all of these complex configurations. Generally moon in Libra encourages sociability and friendliness. There’s a sense of fairness and balance in the air. It is a good time to reach out, settle differences and smooth ruffled feathers. Late Friday evening, Uranus slips back into Pisces. The sudden, unexpected and unusual meets the guru, the oil slick and/or the drug pusher. Libra moon, all sweetness and light may not be able to cover up the darkness that may be revealed. Life goes on so enjoy, go to a party, an art gallery or take in a movie. There ain’t much you can do about it anyway.

Feel Like You Are Riding a Roller Coaster? You Are.

Right now we are hip deep into the most volatile period of the year. I have written about the converging cycles of the outer planets that reach their crescendo during the summer months of 2010. So here we are in the thick of it. Jupiter squares (90 degree angle) Pluto today, July 24, 2010 at 9:51 PM EDT. Saturn will make the 5th and last opposition to Uranus on Monday, July 26, 2010. The first of this series occurred on Election Day in 2008, and the election mirrored the symbolism of these two in opposition, old/young, tradition/innovation, and the conventional as opposed to the revolutionary. Obama not only changed the game because he was the first black President but also in the way he raised massive amount of money through small donations. Prior to this, that kind of money was only raised through rich, powerful people and entities. By the end of the week, Mars will move into Libra and will first oppose youthful revolutionary Uranus on Friday and on Saturday he will join hands with conservative Saturn. The first week of August, Jupiter will once again square off with Pluto. Mars will join the party, with an opposition to Jupiter and a square to Pluto. What Mars brings to the table is military action, a bit of strife, and a willingness to dispute or fight. If your birthday falls during this period, these energies will be present in your Solar Return, the Solar Return chart is a strong indicator of the types of issues, events and action you will be dealing with for the upcoming year. These major aspects occur and affect the early degrees of the cardinal signs of Aries, Cancer, Libra and Capricorn as well. So if your birthday falls between the 19th and 27th of March, June, September and December you can expect the Rock and Roll that your life has become to continue for awhile. These are life changing times for you. At times the outside events bring great change to your life but often there is an inner change that occurs that can be or bring about an enormous change. For all of us we can expect weather related events, fluctuation in the stock market and financial world, a few natural or manmade disasters, a diplomatic or international crisis or two to add to the fear and terror many feel when the world around them is changing. During these troubling times a little meditation goes a long way. Find your still center, this is the calm in the center of the storm, this is your true north. Listen, breathe, this too shall pass.

More Energy Changes - Pisces Rules

Last week I blogged about Mercury and Venus changing signs and the opposition between Mercury and retrograde Mars and what it all means. How we would feel different at the end of the week than we felt at the beginning. Here is a quote from that entry. “In the political world it rules public opinion, treaties, the Secretary of State and the public school system. A few days after entering Aquarius, Mercury and retrograde Mars oppose one another, a combative stance that does not bode well for peace and harmony.” Last week the Superintendent of schools in Central Falls announced that the entire teaching staff at Central Falls High School would be getting the boot. The teacher’s union is up in arms. Mercury ruling the public school system,the young, in Aquarius,speaks to organized groups, unions. Opposing Mars it also speaks to opposing opinions. This week is a Pisces week. On Sunday, February 14, 2010 Sun joins forces with Neptune in Aquarius. Neptune rules Pisces thus bringing the Pisces flavor to the table. This is a perfect aspect for Valentine’s Day. Love in its highest form. Venua is in Pisces, where, in astrological terms, she is exalted, meaning the Venusian energy operates at full force. Venus rules love, money, the arts, negotiation and diplomacy. On Monday Venus makes a positive connection with Pluto in Capricorn. Pluto, in Capricorn from 2008-2023, has the enormous task of purging society of those involved in big government and big business who have profited from the misery of others. Right now the public’s anger is directed at Congress, Washington, DC, Wall Street and the financial industry. Soon this will expand to include Big Pharma, health insurance and Big Oil. This is not an overnight process and will take some time. Venus will join forces with Pluto many time over the course of Pluto’s run through Capricorn. This week, Venus in Pisces offers the olive branch as she takes on the persona of the diplomat. Tuesday she joins forces with Jupiter also in Pisces, the sign that Jupiter rules. So you see, the Pisces energy is super strong. Jupiter is optimistic, confident and hopeful. Pisces is about our wishes and hopes. How we want things to be ideally. There is danger with Pisces in seeing things through rose-colored glasses. Seeing things how we want them to be, not how they really are. This is the time when we need to do a reality check. As Venus moves along touching base with the big boys she greases the wheels of negotiations and diplomatic relations. Mars, the warrior, the planet of action makes a friendly aspect to Saturn on Monday mixing things up. Saturn is in Libra and is also exalted here. Saturn principles operate well here. Saturn in Libra is the chief negotiator. Retrograde Mars in Leo wants to stir things up. Here Mars is all about strategy. In the political debates and union negotiations the name of the game this week is how to position oneself. On Thursday, Sun enters Pisces completing the Pisces takeover of the week. Watch the news reports and you will see that events reflect the Piscean ideals. Keep your eye on your own feelings and situation and how the Pisces influence impacts you personally.
We need those intangibles that feed the soul now. Take heed.