Venus - Desire - Love - Money

Today, November 1, 2019, Venus the planet of love, relationships, artistic endeavors and money moves from intense Scorpio into exuberant Sagittarius.  The intense passions of Scorpio give way to the more lighthearted endeavors of Sagittarius.

Venus in Sagittarius is setting us up for the holiday season, getting us in the mood for all of that frivolity.   Venus in Sagittarius wants freedom, the freedom to explore, the freedom to be.  Relationships formed while Venus is in Sagittarius tend to be exotic and international.   People are attracted to folks of a different background, foreigners or those who seem to be different from what they are used to. 

Venus is a fast  moving planet and will move into Capricorn on the 25th of November.  During her journey through Sagittarius she will square off with Neptune on the 14th.  Venus/Neptune combinations are the ultimate in romantic fantasy.  It can be quite lovely.  Under Neptune we are searching for the ideal.  With Venus it is either the perfect love or the perfect money making deal.  Keep in mind the old saying, love is blind, as well as, if it sounds to good to be true, it usually is.  That does not mean that  you cannot find true love under this aspect.  It does mean you need to take off the rose colored glasses and see things as they really are not how you wish them to be.

On the 24th, the day before she leaves enthusiastic Sagittarius, Venus snuggles up to Jupiter.  These are the two benefics of astrology the Greater, Jupiter, and the Lesser, Venus.  Think big, grand social events, huge productions, everything is "major".  All the "good time Charley's are out" , the Charlene's as well.   Money is no object here, not even a consideration.  If it brings you pleasure you'll buy it, spend it and blow through it like a hot knife through butter.   If you connect with someone at this time it will probably be a lot of fun.  Be wary of someone who promises more than they can deliver.  This may be a fun relationship but not one where the other person will be around when the going gets rough.  This is a fun person.  And that is fine if that is all you want.  Keep their number, you'll have it whenever you want to connect for a good time.

Things will look and feel differently when Venus moves into Capricorn on the 25th.  We start to sober up.  Venus in Capricorn is very different.  Stay tuned.

Full Moon Madness or Sanity?

The Full Moon of July 1, 2015 is a mixed bag of the benevolent and the malefic.  The Sun in favorable aspect to Neptune brings forth compassion and caring.  The Venus/Jupiter conjunction in the early hours prior to the Full Moon are symbolic of love and luck. These two planets are known as the Greater (Jupiter) and the Lesser (Venus) Benefic.   That lucky combo connects favorably to anything goes Uranus. Venus brings harmony and rules diplomacy, Jupiter adds an international flavor ruling foreign countries and affairs as well as law and the judiciary. Whenever Jupiter joins the party he brings a “lot of” whatever it is he is toting. The danger of Venus and Jupiter in harmony together while quite lovely and favorable for romance and money can bring too much of a good thing.  Over indulgence, over spending and over the top in general. Throw Uranus into the mix and it’s anyone’s guess what the outcome will be because Uranus loves to surprise and brings the unexpected to the party. 

While the Sun in caring, nurturing Cancer remaining in that lovely connection to Neptune in Pisces can bring out the Mother Theresa in all of us there are other factors in play at the time of this Full Moon.  Mars, known as the Lesser Malefic (Saturn being the Greater Malefic) sits very closely to the Sun and squares the nodal axis. The Nodes in astrology are the points where the Moon’s orbit intersects with the Earth’s orbit. The Nodes have a lot to do with relationships and at this Full Moon with the Venus/Jupiter conjunction new relationships will form while others break up.  This is true on the personal level as well as the global level.  Countries will form new alliances while old treaties and agreements are revised or broken.  Greece and the European Union come to mind.

Bringing more rain on the parade, that benevolent Venus/Jupiter combination is in a wide square, an aspect of agitation, with the Greater Malefic Saturn.  Venus/Jupiter wants to spread the love, is expansive with all that is fun, lovely and good.  Saturn is the wet blanket bringing reality and practical considerations to the table.  Jupiter expands, Saturn contracts and while not a head on collision at this point there is an awareness that the party must be paid for at some point.

At the Last Quarter Moon on the 9^th bad boy Mars moves in to break up that compassionate party between the Sun and Neptune.  The down side of a Mars/Neptune get together can bring out fanaticism and illusion.  Mars in Cancer acts on emotions. Neptune energy can be smoke and mirrors with only the highly evolved seeing the true picture. 

This is a transitional time and a turning point for many.  Think before you act. Try to see all the possibilities available to you.  From Full Moon to the next New Moon is a time of digestion and assimilation.  Let all the information and emotions settle a bit.  Adjust, listen to others and to your own intuition and heartfelt desires.  We’re in a volatile period all around and the next New Moon while bringing a fresh start does not bring an end to the volatility.  Remember to breathe.

 

Quarter Moon - Where the Action Is

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Stay tuned for the next Quarter Moon installment.

Full Moon – Dream It – Create It

Today, March 16, 2014 the Full Moon culminates at 1:08 PM EDT.  With the Sun in Pisces and the Moon in Virgo this Full Moon is about imagination, dreaming and visualizing and facing the reality of what is.  Pisces Sun says dream it big while Virgo Moon helps to bring that dream to fruition. This Full Moon promotes flexibility and gives the mutable signs, Pisces, Virgo, Gemini and Sagittarius a get a move on nudge.  With the dynamic T-Square between Jupiter, Uranus and Pluto still in play no one escapes the push and shove of world events and inner promptings that call for repositioning and prompt us to take steps to break the rigid and crystallized in our lives.  When routine becomes rut, it’s time to rethink that routine.

Moon enters Libra on Sunday night and while Moon travels through this sociable, balance seeking sign it is a good time to talk, to work on relationships and to connect with people in your life.  We’re looking for beauty and harmony under this Moon.  It’s Venus ruled so art, beauty and forming partnerships are favored. 

On Monday, Mercury enters Pisces leaving the intellectual sign of Aquarius.  Mercury in Pisces heightens our telepathic and intuitive senses.  We sense things.  This is great for artists but for all it is best not to let the imagination and fantasies run wild.

On Tuesday, Venus in Aquarius connects with Uranus in Aries testing that Libra Moon’s love for harmony.  Venus ruler of love and money joining forces with Mr. Surprise, Uranus calls for fireworks.  Unusual, original and unexpected words, actions and events occur around this aspect. Aquarians and Aries feel the jolt along with the Leos and Libras. 

On Wednesday morning Moon leaves congenial Libra and enters suspicious Scorpio. Strong passions are aroused under this Moon sign.   Folks get a bit moody and sensitive under this Moon.  Don’t let secrets, jealously and suspicion rule you during these few days.  Step away from the emotional and look at things objectively.

On Thursday, the Vernal Equinox, Spring begins.  The day and the night are equal in length.  The energy changes and although it may not feel like spring, change is in the air.  This season will be a season of volatility on all fronts.  Wet and windy with some record breaking days, the Jupiter, Uranus, Pluto configuration speaks of unpredictability on all fronts.  Be prepared to roll with the punches.

On Friday Moon enters Sagittarius and suspicions fall by the wayside as people become warm and friendly.  Sagittarius Moon loves change and motion.  Folks want to get out to a sporting event, a hike in the woods or a flex of the independent muscle.  Keep moving is the motto of this Moon.

On Saturday when Mercury in Pisces joins forces with Neptune in Pisces intuition takes the main stage.  It is important to remain positive and be around positive people and influences now as this combination is like a sponge and we absorb what is around us.  There is a strong possibility of deception, confusion and misrepresentation of the facts. Take the high road boys and girls you don’t want to get stuck in the mire.

A Week of Shifting and Change

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

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

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

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

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

Moon in Aquarius

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

Venus in Sagittarius

Venus in Sagittarius

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

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

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

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

 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

 

Oscar Pistorius and Reeva Steenkamp – Romance Gone Bad

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

 

The Full Moon – A Stormy Week

Here on the East Coast of the USA this Full Moon brings with it storm, wind and rain. The Full Moon chart for the nation’s capitol has wet Pisces on the Ascendant and windy Gemini on the 4^th house cusp.  Weather storms are not the only types of storms that this Full Moon heralds. Venus, the planet of love and money, opposes Uranus and squares Pluto.  Venus having just entered her home sign of Libra sits in the 7^th house, her natural home giving her some extra oomph something she will need as she moves into exact aspect with the big boys Uranus and Pluto.  Expect storms to brew within relationships with issues of money, freedom and who is in control to surface.  Mars in Sagittarius opposes Jupiter in Gemini.  Mars is all about action and Jupiter brings abundance to the table. Mercury enters Sagittarius early Monday morning promising some big talk and perhaps loose tongues promising more than can be delivered. Mercury making a square aspect to Neptune in Pisces indicates delusional thinking.  There’s a lot of that going around so be sure to check the facts before climbing on board someone’s bandwagon.

Moon moves from fixed Taurus into airy, mutable Gemini on Wednesday afternoon.  Moon moves into aspect with the major players of the Full Moon chart kicking off events related to the symbolism of the particular planet.  Neptune planet of illusion, delusion and the mystical may reveal some truths when hit by transiting Moon. Or is it the truth? One never really knows with Neptune.  A Gemini Moon opposing a Sagittarius Mercury guarantees discussions often about the big picture and generally overflowing with information and excessive verbiage.  Try to get to the point quickly before your audience begins to yawn.  Late Wednesday night Moon makes a lovely trine aspect to Venus and talk of love fills the air. Money and values will enter the picture as well.   

Early Thursday, November 1^st Moon connects with volatile Uranus and anything goes.  By early evening Venus will make her opposition to Uranus exact and Moon will conjunct Jupiter.  These aspects may trigger a big news event on the world stage and on a more personal level lightning bolts and out of the blue actions and events disrupt relationships, money deals and social plans.  Early Friday morning Moon opposes Mars in Sagittarius setting off sparks.

Early Saturday morning, November 3^rd Moon enters Cancer. Moon is at home here and emotional actions and reactions will reign over the next three days. Saturday afternoon brings the exact square between Venus and Pluto. Pluto likes to abduct fair maidens and Venus in Libra is the fairest of them all. Venus in Libra speaks to fairness and justice and these values may get hijacked by the corporate institutions that Pluto represents.  On a personal level it is a relationship between equals that needs to be maintained.  

The optimal way to ride out the storms of this week is always to try and take the high road.  Take care of your own interests and stand in your truth for sure but examine your motives and try not to let the big ego take control. Often that is easier said than done.  A little meditation goes a long way during these volatile periods.

Lunar Eclipse, Transit of Venus and all that Jazz

It’s a busy sky this week what with the Lunar Eclipse on Monday and Venus’ occultation of the Sun on Tuesday. This Venus transit of the Sun is second in a series of two that occur every 100 years or so. The first occurred in 2004. This is a momentous event often signaling social, political and cultural changes of a broad range. The Protestant Reformation began around the time of the 1519 transit. The 1631-1639 pair brought the European to the Americas while the 1761-1769 coincided with the rise of revolutionary fervor here in, what was then, Colonial America. The Eclipse falls along the Gemini/Sagittarius axis and the Venus transit occurs in Gemini, both fall in the mid degrees of their respective signs. After Monday’s Eclipse in the morning, Neptune turned retrograde and Venus squared off with Mars.  The transit of Venus across the face of the Sun occurs on Tuesday, June 05, 2012 at 9:10 PM EDT. Here in Rhode Island the Sun and Venus are in the Sixth house of workers, (unions and civil servants in particular) health, and the armed forces, emphasizing issues of public health, labor and wage conditions, and the food supply possibly involving restaurants and other venues that serve food and drink. Mercury in Gemini, on the cusp of the 7^th house of relationships still trines Saturn in Libra, in the 10^th. The 7^th house is all about relationships and the 10^th represents authority figures, heads of state, the boss and one’s standing in the community.

With all this going on remember that we are in the Lunation cycle that began on May 20^th with the Solar Eclipse in early Gemini. As previously written this cycle is all about communication within relationships. Those with planets in the mid degrees of the Mutable signs of Gemini, Virgo, Sagittarius and Pisces will feel the kick more than others but the Cardinal and Fixed gang are not off the hook. The house position of the Eclipse and transit of Venus will really tell the tale.

Early Thursday morning, June 7, 2012 chatty Mercury moves into Cancer where people tend to articulate what they are truly feeling. Up to that time folks tend to intellectualize their thoughts considering it more of an exchange of information, Mercury in Gemini loves the informational give and take. Mercury in Cancer is a different kettle of fish as emotions come into play. Friday evening when Mercury gets friendly with Neptune in Pisces emotions may overflow and what is being said may not be particularly clear. Things can get foggy but there is also the opportunity for some intuitive information to surface. Any brilliant ideas that surface, it is best to write down as it will be gone as quickly as it comes.

What occurs this week and throughout the month of June offers us a glimpse of what will manifest over the next couple of years as this month is a kick off point for many planetary aspects and configurations. Hang on to your hat.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Taurus Ingress, New Moon in Taurus

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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.

How It All Began - Occupy Wall Street - New Moon in Scorpio

Occupy Wall Street began when a group called Adbusters sent out the call, on July 13, 2011,  to assemble in New York on September 17, 2011.  (I don’t have the time that Adbusters posted this) The revolutionary tactic outlined in the initial call was to focus on one issue, articulate that issue then demand and congregate in a public space until that demand is met. The original demand was for President Obama to form a Presidential Commission whose task is to end the influence that money has over Congressional affairs.  Good luck with that one.

 This call went out under a Cardinal Grand Cross which consisted of Pluto in Capricorn, Uranus in Aries, Saturn in Libra and Venus in Cancer.  Pluto is all about issues of power, control, debt, and destruction.  Pluto usually destroys in order to build something new and better. Uranus in Aries is the new, the revolutionary and the innovative.  This movement reverberates with Uranian energy.  Quoting from the original Adbusters document we have:  “A worldwide shift in revolutionary tactics is underway right now...”  This leaderless movement also reflects the Uranus in Aries mantra, the individual is all.  Saturn in Libra brings societal structures to the table. In Libra, Saturn is the great negotiator but Saturn can be rigid in the face of change. Venus in Cancer lends her blessing to this movement. Venus is social, attracting and diplomatic. In Cancer she nurtures. Venus wants everyone to get along. A walk through Burnside Park in Providence, RI reveals Venus’ presence and influence.  But don’t be fooled, when she takes off her party hat and gets down to business she’s all about the money. The cardinality present when the initial call went out indicates that this is just the beginning. The square between Uranus and Pluto speaks to masses of people and broad societal change. Despite being leaderless and sending out mixed messages this movement is not going away.

On the day that this call went out the Moon moved from Sagittarius into Capricorn at 10:14 AM EDT.  In Mundane astrology, the astrology of events, the Moon rules the people, women and public opinion.  Moon in Capricorn does not have an easy time but often this placement can harness the emotional impulse and use the emotion to bring about concrete results. Astrologers use a technique called Secondary Progressions, where a day in the ephemeris, (a table that lists the future positions of the planets) equals a year in the life of the person or event. This moves the planets along in the natal chart and offers a glimpse of what issues, incidents and occurrences the entity will face. In the Adbuster’s call to action chart the Moon moves through the chart making its first critical alignment with Uranus, (revolution), then Pluto (the power structure).  The Moon hit those points on that day and will do so through the process of Secondary Progressions as time progresses. The symbolism of these configurations clearly reflects the reality, the people are confronting the power structure.

The first actual march on Wall Street began after the first gathering on September 17, 2011 at 12:00 PM EDT. That horoscope has Sun in Virgo, Moon in Taurus and the Ascendant (the sign on the horizon, a critical point in any horoscope), in Scorpio. With the Sun and Mercury in Virgo there is a danger of getting bogged down in details and forgetting the big picture. The Moon in Taurus speaks to the fixed purpose of the people; they “will not go gentle into that good night.”  Pluto making a station, from retrograde to direct, located in the second house of money and ruling the Ascendant tells it all. The Ascendant and first house signifies grass roots movements. Scorpio rules debt and Pluto is all about power and the misuse and abuse of that power. Venus making nice-nice in Libra opposing rule breaker Uranus says that diplomacy is about to engage in a new tactic.

This week the New Moon on Wednesday, November 26, 2011 at 3:56 PM EDT is in early Scorpio.  Scorpio always brings the crap to the surface. People tend to get very emotional and tongues get razor-sharp. Remember that people get hurt very easily and can take offense when no offense was meant.  For the Occupy Wall Street movement the Lunation occurs in the twelfth house of secret enemies. Beware of the infiltrator. The enemy has deep pockets and has a lot to lose. The Scorpio energy will not suffer fools lightly. Scorpio gets to the heart of the matter, quickly and without the niceties that Libra applies. It’s down and dirty time. When things get emotional it is important to step back and breathe. Keep your eye on the big picture and know that this is all part of the process.  Think of it as growing pains.

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.

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. 

You Think Last Week Was Tough? Get Ready for More

After teetering on the edge of default Congress finally reached an agreement to raise the debt ceiling; an agreement that many are not happy with. They reached this agreement on Tuesday just before Mercury went retrograde. In typical Mercury retro fashion (nothing resolved) the agreement included a plan to form a committee of 12, 6 from each party to review the budget cuts, revenue and debt ceiling again at the end of the year. If they don’t do this, automatic spending cuts will be implemented in a wide variety of programs. On Friday Standard and Poors downgraded the United States credit rating, from AAA to AA+ citing “the difficulties of bridging the gulf between political parties.”  On top of all this, the Dow Jones Industrial Average fell to its lowest since December 2010.

In the July 4, 1776 horoscope of the United States the money planets, Jupiter and Venus are conjunct in the early degrees of Cancer.  Pluto, the great destroyer and ruler of debt, taxes and interest rates is presently sitting directly across from these planets at 5 degrees of Capricorn.  Revolutionary Uranus currently at 4 degrees of Aries has been and will be creating a stressful square to the US Jupiter and Venus as well as to transiting Pluto. The energies created by the dynamic action between Uranus and Pluto impact financial, political and social constructs all over the world. Their last conjunction, occurring in the tumultuous sixties, should give you an idea as to how they shake up society. Today in their waxing square aspect we have most of Europe, along with the US, is in the financial toilet, revolutionary fire spreading across the Middle East; terrorism rearing its ugly head in the most unlikely places, natural disasters and weather extremes creating human misery across the globe.

Here on the eastern seaboard of the United States, Mars entered Cancer early Wednesday morning on August 3, 2011.  Zero degrees of any Cardinal sign; (Aries, Cancer, Libra or Capricorn) is a potent degree. These are the degrees that change the seasons, a lot of energy there.  Pluto and Uranus are in the early degrees of Cardinal signs as is the Jupiter and Venus of the United States. Pluto and Uranus are already messing with these money planets and when Mars enters the picture, well he is the original Action Jackson.  

Last week there was quite a bit of turmoil in the United States, politically as well as financially.  There is more to come. Today, Sunday, August 07, 2011 transiting Mars is conjunct the US Venus. Before the week is out he will connect with the United States Jupiter bringing more money woes for sure with the diplomatic arena not looking to healthy either. Transiting Saturn, hip deep into the Cardinal sign Libra will move into stressful square aspect to the United States Sun.  As the Sun in a mundane chart signifies Heads of State it is safe to assume that Obama’s got himself a big headache.  Transiting Saturn often puts you between a rock and a hard place.

Monday morning at 5:46 AM EDT, pesky little Mercury retrogrades back into Leo and then he opposes Neptune in Aquarius.  I would check every fact and figure that crosses my radar. Don’t take anything at face value. Do your homework and avoid snap decisions.  On Tuesday, 12:34 PM EDT, Mars, Mr. Action, squares off with Uranus, Mr. Upset and later in the afternoon the Moon enters Capricorn and the fun begins as Old Lunar kicks off those Cardinal Degrees.  By Thursday when Mars opposes Pluto be ready for scorched earth, literally and figuratively.  Major events are unfolding now and we may not know or understand what is really happening or what the fallout will be for many Moons. Whatever the case may be, this week’s run up to the Full Moon in Aquarius on Saturday will be volatile, unpredictable and violent.