Thank You and Farewell 2018

Just a quick end of the year post to say thank you and share a few ideas.

First and most importantly, thank you to everyone who supports me, starting with my wife Jennifer and my chosen family, as well as my students, mentees, nieces, and friends. Whether you are near or far, you are never far from my heart. I would not be who I am today without your steadfast support.

Also, a sincere thank you for my tarot and astrology clients. I'm humbled and honored that you trust me with your challenges and look forward to working with you in 2019.

Finally, thanks to everyone who reads these metaphysical meanderings and who tell me they enjoy reading it. To answer your question, yes, I hope to blog more in 2019.  Consistency in this realm has never really been my specialty, as Saturn will tell you, but I do want to get him off my ass at some point. 

I feel like I've learned a ton this year. The lessons haven't always been easy but in true Saturn style, I guess I needed to learn them.

There are a few changes I'm making for myself in the coming year. I won't share them here, but I'll put my power into making them come to fruition. Nothing can match Pluto power and I plan to bring him to bear in 2019 to evolve. 

I'm looking forward to more opportunities to read cards, do astrology charts, and teach and speak publicly. I also look forward to more private lessons with my students and mentees, with a few new ones to keep life interesting! 

For the first time in 2019, I'll be taking on someone who wants to learn public speaking. I'm really looking forward to that! It's a passion of mine. 

Many of us have had a hard time this past year. If you fall into this category, I hope your next year is better.

May you get what you wish for--security, prosperity, love, good health, or anything else you desire--and then some in 2019. I hope you will do your part to make your dreams come true as well. 

I'll see you in 2019, good people. 

Farewell to Donna van Toen

Donna van Toen (1949-2018)
Astrologer, teacher, mentor, and friend

Scorpio is a sign that understands and appreciates topics that others do not, especially those that people would consider "taboo". 

Take death, for example. We understand all too well that nothing is permanent, that everything changes, and that in many ways, everything is temporary. That includes our short human lives on this planet. 

If that sounds like a morbid way to go through life, well...it is what it is. It's how we're wired. 

For this reason, many Scorpio people do well in careers that deal with death, either as doctors, researchers, forensic pathologists, detectives, embalmers, psychiatrists, counselors, ministers, doulas, and funeral home directors. 

It's easier to help others through the grieving process than it is to go through it yourself. Even when death is "expected", it still hits hard. When you think you have it all under control, something comes up and pushes on that bruise, and you realize you're not done with grief.

Donna van Toen lost her battle with cancer less than a week ago. The world has lost a wonderful person, astrologer, teacher, friend, trivia and gemstone aficionado, conference organizer, and mentor.

Nearly five years ago, a mutual friend introduced us. She told me that Donna ran an astrology conference called State of the Art (SOTA) and that she was always looking for new talent. Donna gave me a chance to speak at "Open Forum", an unpaid time slot during the conference where we "tried out" for future opportunities at SOTA. I had never spoken at a conference before. Turns out my speaking time was on my birthday in 2014.

Donna found out it was my birthday and bought me a drink in the bar to celebrate after my talk. Then she turned to me and gave me a serious look. "Where's your sun?" she asked.

At the time, I was a newbie astrologer and didn't even KNOW where my sun was, so I grabbed for my phone, looked at my chart, and answered, "1 Scorpio 37."

A smile broke clean across her face. "We're going to be best buds!" she declared over the din, and we drank together, the first of several times we would in the future. At the time I wasn't sure exactly what she was talking about, but I took her word for it. [I found out later her Venus in Pisces has a connection to my Sun.]

Donna took a chance on me that day, and it paid off for us both. I presented on tarot every year after that and met a ton of amazing astrologers and friends at SOTA. It's a conference that I've always enjoyed and looked forward to.

She was always there for me when I had a question about a chart or something else astrological. She provided advice and counsel so often and I appreciated her candor. Donna was not one to sugarcoat anything, a quality that I sincerely appreciated. 

She recommended the Midwest School of Astrology for my studies, and I recently graduated from the school, studying with Donna during her weekend seminars in Cincinnati. I remember her asking me why I had driven all the way from Virginia to see her, because, "You already know everything I'm going to teach." I just gave her a puzzled look; there's always something new that you can learn from someone with her level of expertise and experience. 

More recently, I was thrilled when she agreed to take me on as a private student. Lessons with Donna were incredibly enlightening and in some ways very challenging. You had to leave your ego at the door. No one likes to be told they're wrong, but Donna was more concerned that I learn the right way and she corrected me at every opportunity. I remember wondering after one or two of those lessons if I'd figure "this astrology shit" out. I never blamed Donna for my own ignorance, but I will say at least she was nice about it, wielding her many years of experience firmly, but gently, as I grew into the astrologer I have become.

Those sessions with her profoundly influenced my astrology practice and still do to this day. I miss my sessions with her, and I hope that SOTA will continue next year. Even if SOTA goes on, it won't be the same without her. And I have been thrilled to see so many others honoring her on social media; even though she would probably bristle at the accolades, she deserves them nonetheless. 

Goodbye, dear mentor. Know that you had a profound positive effect on me that will benefit my clients for many years to come. I promise to help others selflessly as you helped me to repay your incredible generosity and kindness.

Tara's Sagittarius New Moon Forecast!

New Moon 

December 7, 2018

This year’s new Sagittarius Moon will take place the morning of Friday December 7th, at approximately 0220 hours. New Moons represent new beginnings, renewal, youth-like energy, and hope. 

New moons occur when the Moon meets the sun in a zodiac once per lunar cycle. The relationship between the luminaries is called a conjunction, which is the most powerful of all planetary aspects. With both of our light bearers in the mutable fire sign Sagittarius, it will express its energy through thought-provoking, adventurous, humorous, and truth-seeking activities.

At the time of the new Moon, the planets are all contained within 180 degrees of each other. This is called a bowl pattern. Bowl patterns contain the expression of energy between 6 to 7 signs; which leaves 180 degrees of the chart untenanted by any planets. Bowl patterns can make people look for balance, look for what they feel they are missing, and be stubborn. With this new Moon chart, most of the planets are below the horizon, which suggests the internalization of self-expression or self-containment.

The lead planet or cutting planet of the bowl is Venus. Venus will have extra work by leading the planets through their transits in the zodiac. The ascendant of the New Moon chart is Libra, which gives Venus rulership over the lunation chart. Being both the cutting planet and the chart ruler places heavy importance on how Venus functions and exchanges energy with the other planets.

Although out of retrograde, Venus is slow moving once again into Scorpio. Venus in Scorpio is in detriment. Venus in Scorpio will bring intensity and the need for loyalty in relationships. The last few months of Venus in retrograde had the majority of us either purposefully or inadvertently dealing with finding out about loyalty, betrayal, trust and the purpose of many questionable bonding relationships in our lives. We took an accounting of what we want, need, and aspire to have. Venus back in Scorpio is when we will apply the results of our internal processing and our personal needs.

Venus also finds herself in a wide opposition to Uranus, by degree not sign. Venus and Uranus act as “rims” to the proverbial planetary bowl across the axis of the 1st and 7th houses. Each of them is responsible for containing the planetary energy within the bowl. With Uranus in fiery Aries in the 7th house opposed to Venus in Scorpio in the 1st, we can expect some intense and exciting situations to occur involving our relationships with friends and lovers. Further proof of these sudden events being of great importance and karmic in nature would be that both Venus and Uranus are at the bendings of the Moon’s nodes, with Venus associated with the north node and Uranus associated with the south. We must pay attention to the lessons that Venus in retrograde taught us in order to move forward for our own karmic best interest.



The actual lunation itself will occur in the 3rd house which will shed light on: our communication, our siblings, our cousins, our coworkers, our social environment, short trips, our desires, our education, the changes we make for ourselves, and our mental acuity. The 3rd house is also the heaviest house in the chart. Gemini / Mercury are natural rulers of the 3rd house. Gemini is a mutable air sign that likes to communicate its information outward. Mercury ruled signs are very precise in the manner they give and receive information. In this new Moon chart Sagittarius is on the cusp if the 3rd house. Sagittarius also likes sharing information; however it does so in a much more blunt and humorous way which is not always well received. With this being said we would be wise to filter what comes out of our mouths before we speak our mind this holiday season; especially with our: coworkers, siblings, cousins and anyone we share our immediate environment with.

With the lunation in Sagittarius Jupiter will also play an important part in the chart. With Jupiter in Sagittarius, Jupiter is in dignity. This means that Jupiter will be firing on all cylinders. With Jupiter in the 2nd house he may bring an opportunity for financial gains and some good luck. Also occupying the 2nd house is Mercury. Having Mercury in the 2nd house usually lends itself to a strong head for finances. However with Mercury just out of retrograde on December 6th, it’s still considered to be in its retrograde storm, we may want to think twice about something before committing our money to it.

Another important aspect to this chart is the angles of the natural cardinal houses all have cardinal signs occupying them. This will add natural power to the cardinal houses which deal with: self, home, relationships and career. We may find that we are expressing the energy differently due to the changes in sign but there will be strength there to get our feelings and ideas moving.

Lastly, there will be a Mars / Neptune conjunction in Pisces in the 5th house square the new Moon. Having Mars conjunct Neptune can add passion to our personal dreams; unfortunately, it can also drive people to sudden extremes with a negative impact. With the conjunction occurring in the 5th house desires will probably focus on: childlike activities, the things you do for fun, children, creativity, love, performance art, and celebrations or activities with small groups of people. The square with the lunation can mean that your desires may not be easily accomplished and will take some adjusting.

Mars in the 5th house he may unintentionally spoil the party by taking things too far. Be very careful that in your effort to celebrate the holidays with cheer, you don’t take things too far doing something you can never take back emotionally, verbally, physically, and financially. Choose wisely!

Until the full Moon in 2 weeks,

Brightest Blessings,

Tara

Mercury Retrograde Update from Venus

Good day everyone! Venus here with an update on Mercury's retrograde.

First of all, I sincerely apologize if my own recent retrograde caused you any problems. Here's when I went direct.

I hate causing strife, but I also hate when people are unhappy. So hopefully my business trip allowed you to take a closer look at your own values and make better choices about the beautiful people and things in your lives right now. And if you indulged in some retail therapy, I hope you didn't regret your choices, or that you kept your receipts.

But do not fear...I'll be done with my shadow period--that place that I'm crossing for the second time moving forward between 25 Libra and 10 Scorpio--in a few short weeks so you can start making some decisions and moving your lives forward. And no retrograde again for me for nearly two years. So thanks so much for your patience; I really do hope my departure provides opportunities for re-evaluation and growth.

Speaking of retrogrades, my communicative colleague Mercury is out and about again. Honestly, he can't still for very long. Three times a year for three weeks is his usual schedule, so there's no real need to freak out. To be fair, you do know that he's going. He would suggest that you put those dates in those hand-held computers you adore so much so that you don't have to wonder. Less upset = better life!

Unfortunately, my fast-moving colleague is already making his presence felt. See the chart below!

 I got a very garbled voicemail from him that I couldn’t really make sense of. It’s unsettling! Word has reached me that one person got the week of Thanksgiving mixed up with the week after Thanksgiving when she made reservations to travel! It’s just terrible that the person had to give up some time with a special friend because of Mercury. Simply awful! And think of the money wasted in change fees.

And our favorite blogger is also not immune. He had to make a last-minute trip in the lead-up to Mercury’s departure as well, which forced him to cancel a number of his own appointments. You just never know where Merc’s influence will slow you down or cause chaos. I still adore him, but I accept him for who he is, you know? John’s traveling again soon so I know he’s making sure that there are no problems that he can correct.

Anyway, I hope you enjoy the rest of what I hope has been a very pleasant weekend with your loved ones. See you again soon as I re-start my journey through Scorpio!

Warmly,

Venus

Tara's Full Moon in Gemini Forecast!

Full Moon 

Friday, November 23rd, 2018 

Washington, DC, 1:39am 

Here in the nation’s capital shortly after midnight on Friday, November 23rd, 2018, we will experience a Full Moon, the midpoint of the Moon’s monthly cycle where it’s opposed to the Sun both by sign and degree. The opposition is the second strongest aspect between two planets. Oppositions exude energy from two locations within our charts; we need to find a way to balance the energy.

At the time of the full Moon the sign on the ascendant is Virgo, this gives the planet Mercury rulership over the lunation chart. Mercury governs our thoughts, how we communicate, our health, our daily routine, and travel. Mercury went retrograde on November 17th, which can cause disruptions with all Mercury-ruled aspects of day-to-day life.

While Mercury retrograde can be chaotic, it’s an excellent time to re-think, re-view, and re-do. It is not the ideal time to begin projects either personal or professional. If a project begins during Mercury retrograde, you can expect delays and miscommunication for the duration of the event.

Under normal circumstances Mercury behaves with precision and purposeful effect, but in Sagittarius Mercury considered to be in its detriment and struggles to perform effectively. In this sign, Mercury has far less precision and becomes more expansive and abstract in its energetic expression. Sagittarius is concerned with the truth of the matter, and while seeking is its forte, delivery of the message is not. Mercury in Sagittarius can be blunt and abrasive, and to reach the larger audience it loses the subtleties of intimate communication.

The full Moon is occurring across the 3rd and 9th houses. The 3rd house is traditionally ruled by Gemini / Mercury and focuses on: communication, learning, thinking, our intelligence gathering, local travel, our immediate environment, and our siblings. The 9th house is traditionally ruled by Sagittarius / Jupiter and focuses on the expansion of the higher mind, higher education, theology, our ethics, the higher courts, publishing, our in laws, and our grandchildren.

During the full Moon the Sun will be located at 0 Sagittarius in the 3rd house and the moon will be at 0 degrees Gemini in the 9th house. Zero degree points carry the full force of the sign. Any planet located between zero and 1 degree of any sign, by natural position, inherits the most potent energy the sign offers. With both luminaries occupying zero degrees of their perspective signs, we know that the Sun will exhibit powerful Sagittarian energy and the Moon will exhibit strong Gemini energy.

At the time of the lunation the Sun is also conjunct Jupiter in Sagittarius. Jupiter loves to be in its home sign of Sagittarius and it wants nothing more than to broaden our experiences and mindset. Sagittarius is the sign of the centaur and more so than any other zodiac sign, it enjoys its two things: a good party and freedom. With the Sun conjunct Jupiter in the 3rd house, we can expect our thoughts, our immediate environment, and information to shift and change often. We can also expect our social calendar and obligations to increase. More than likely travel is on your agenda and you will be busier than normal.

The Moon in Gemini will sit high in the 9th house at zero Gemini. The Moon is the most elevated planet of the event chart, a position of prestige as the closest planet to the Midheaven. This ties the most elevated planet to your public reputation. The Midheaven is also Gemini, which connects the energy of both the Moon and Midheaven by sign. With the moon being at 0 Gemini, it will exude its chatty nature with lots of conversation. However, Gemini usually enjoys playing to a smaller audience; this time, she is on display in the 9th house for the entire world to see. With the Moon opposed the Sun’s conjunction to Jupiter in Sagittarius, over sharing is incredibly likely.

The moral of this Thanksgiving story is although we are going to feel the pressure to remain busy and visit people. If you feel yourself getting ready to blow your top, it’s best to walk away and find a quiet place where you can collect your thoughts and remember what your personal truth is.

Be well everyone!

Sincerely

Tara

Tara's New Moon in Scorpio Forecast

November 6, 2018 

11:01 AM

Washington, DC

Here in our nation’s capital, the new Moon will occur on Wednesday, November 7th at 11:01 am. As we have discussed before, the new Moon occurs when the Moon and Sun both occupy the same astrological degree of any one zodiac sign. This creates an aspect called a conjunction, the strongest aspect between two heavenly bodies. The luminaries, both Sun and Moon, are the light bearers of our solar system. In astrology, the Sun represents our life force, our vitality, and our full untapped potential. The Moon represents our internal reflections, our inner emotional responses, and our ties to the soul and past lives.

The new moon is a time when both luminary energies are expressing the same sign, element, modality, and gender. This month the new moon is in Scorpio and represents Scorpio’s natural energies: fixed, water, and feminine in nature. Fixed signs are known to be stubborn and not easily influenced; they maintain their ideas and really stick with them. Water represents our emotions and often water signs tend to be more emotional or passionate about the things that they believe in. Feminine signs, both water and earth, internalize their expression. This means that the energy manifests itself more on an internal level.

Scorpio is the natural ruler of the 8th house in the natural zodiac; its classical ruler is Mars, and its modern ruler is Pluto. As such, it’s going to have a very intense energy. Scorpio wants to connect to fulfill its own desire. It has a tendency to be ruthlessly passionate yet extremely secretive about the information it holds. It does not seek the limelight but rather prefers to hold the power while staying in the background.

The 8th house also represents what we must release or change. The ultimate change from life to death is a very plutonian concept. Scorpio also rules intimate unions with others to share something with them such as procreation and financial ties. Lastly Scorpio rules the occult and mystical studies; as one must surrendered their ego to explore the mystical evolution of a higher consciousness one must also “let go” of what no longer serves our own evolution.

The new moon in general ushers in new energy and new ideas. Perhaps it’s not so coincidental that this new moon is less than 24 hours after Election Day here in the US. It’s also not so surprising that many people are both passionate and secretive about their political ideas. In this chart, the new moon will occur in the 10th house, the house of our public image. I do believe that we will see many new faces representing our nation at various levels of government. These newly elected officials are going to be driven to do their jobs with a resounding push from the people who elected them.

The danger here is that with the new moon trine Neptune in Pisces, people may become so euphoric about the change that they may forget the hard work yet to come. Having Pluto in the first house in Capricorn indicates that change can happen. Having Saturn conjunct the ascendant means that the change MUST be earned through hard work. This election is just the beginning but certainly not the end of the changes to come.

Lastly, the nodes of the Moon have changed signs, denoting a shift in our collective consciousness. The north node has moved into Cancer which is a cardinal water sign. Cancer’s energy will shift the consciousness of many toward family matters, their property, and women in general. Being a cardinal sign there is the motivation and ability to effect change. With the water sign being feminine in nature it will internalize the passion to change.

I look forward to talking to you again in two weeks when we discuss the November full moon. Until then sky watchers, may you embrace the change and remain passionate about what drives you.

Bright Blessings,

 Tara

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Tara's Full Moon Forecast for October 24, 2018

Full Moon

1245pm 

Washington DC 

10/24/2018

Welcome back for another lunation discussion. While the highlight of the past few astrological weeks has been Venus retrograde, with its effects continuing for several more weeks, this lunation is going to bring light to the retrograde as well.

At approximately 1245 pm, in our nation’s capital, the full moon will hit its zenith point. It’s a daytime lunation chart and the Sun is at the highest position, which will give prominence to the Sun (in the Western Hemisphere). The lunation occurs across the axis of the 4th and 10th house. The Sun is conjunct the mid-heaven and the moon is conjunct the nadir. The 4th house represents home, family, mothers, women, and property. The 10th house represents our career, our reputation, and the way we conduct our business affairs. With the lunation across these houses, it will draw attention to and otherwise energize them.

The ascendant of the chart is Capricorn, which gives Saturn rulership of the chart. At the time of the full moon, Saturn is conjunct the ascendant in the 12th house. Having Capricorn as a rising sign and having Saturn on the ascendant can make for an environment of rules, structure, and hurdles to overcome. It can also make situations and people more reserved.

Having Saturn so close to the ascendant yet within the 12th house can indicate a carrying over of karmic baggage; to me, this says that there is something we are holding on to which would be better to release. Saturn on the ascendant can also cause physical ailments or obstacles. With Saturn trine the moon in Taurus and semi-sextile the south node, it’s likely that what needs to be released may be emotional matters focusing on home or family.

The Midheaven and nadir are at critical astrological degrees in the chart. Critical degrees are the 29th degree of each 30-degree sign. These represent transitional periods or turning points when the energy expression is about to change into a new sign. Having two of the chart’s angles at critical degrees adds to the intensity of the approaching change. The Midheaven and nadir are doorways to the 4th and 10th houses, the axis of the full moon lunation and once again highlighting our 4th and 10th house matters.

The lunation occurs across the axis of 1 Taurus (Moon) and 1 Scorpio (Sun). This full moon lunation occurs a sensitive point in the chart called the bendings of the lunar nodes. The nodes of the Moon are karmic points in a chart that indicate where we are heading and what no longer serves us. The bendings are 90 degrees from the current position of the nodes of the Moon. The north node is currently at 1 degree of Leo and the south node is at 1 degree of Aquarius. This puts the bendings of the nodes at 1 Scorpio and 1 Taurus.

This creates the appearance of a grand cross; however, since the nodes are mathematical points and not actual planetary bodies we cannot say it’s a true grand cross. It does however ask us to reflect on the fact that having planets at the bendings indicates a greater than normal opportunity change. There is a karmic window opening, and it’s time to ask yourself what you need to do to grasp your golden ring.

The Moon has accidental dignity by being in its home house (4th), adding intensity to the Moon’s strength and ability to influence us. The Moon is exalted in Taurus, and functions well in both the house and sign. At the time of the lunation, the Moon will be conjunct both the nadir and the planet Uranus. There is a high probability for something to stimulate or bring shock to our emotional stability or foundations. The mounting emotional pressure will cause undue stress, and it’s possible that whatever is upsetting you can be related to 4th house topics or anything having to do with our movable possessions, resources, and finances.

With the Moon and Uranus at the bendings of the south node, it indicates an echo from our past demanding resolution. South node issues are things that we fall back on because they are familiar to us; however, karmically they are not in line with our growth or highest self. As I said earlier, with the Moon and Uranus being trine Saturn in the 12th, it also indicates a releasing of responsibility. Take a look at what you hold yourself responsible for and who. You may find that you need to let people and things go to adopt new practices and relationships which benefit YOU.

During this lunation, the Sun will be at the first degree of Scorpio. The first degree of any sign is potent, carrying the full intensity of the sign’s energy. The Sun in Scorpio is intense, powerful, and looking for ways to transform you. The sign Scorpio rules transformation, our financial attachments with others, the price we pay (taxes) and regeneration.

The Sun of this lunation chart is elevated, conjunct the mid-heaven, and Venus. Venus remains retrograde, and with her powerful alignment with the Sun she will continue to use her charm to get what she wants and not tolerate what no longer serves her purpose.

Sun and Venus in the 10th house are finding ways to manifest their desires into the forefront of your life, possibly through your career, and at the bendings of the north node, we’re headed in the right direction. The north node is located at 1 degree of Leo in the 7th house of relationships. This combination reinforces the Venus retrograde and the Sun-Venus conjunction in Scorpio, indicating our need to re-assess the relationships in our lives.

The truth is that we need people and people need us. The trick is to choose the right people who help you flourish and don’t continually drain you, even if it’s the very people you’re closest to. It’s time to re-think and re-establish those important boundaries and choose wisely.

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Venus Retrograde and Preparing for SOTA 2018

Good morning, everyone, as the hustle and bustle for my trip to Buffalo has begun in earnest! I told Jen earlier this week that it's like "astrology camp" for me and I look forward to it every year!

This will be my 4th year speaking at SOTA, the State of the Art Astrology Conference in Cheektowaga, NY. I'll present "Telling Time with Tarot" on Saturday afternoon, and hope that I'll get a number of folks to show up to hear it. I've also heard that SOTA is having a record attendance year, with many of the extra lectures and lunches already sold out. This is fantastic news...SOTA is my favorite conference and I really enjoy the atmosphere and the people immensely.

Speaking of things we enjoy, the planet Venus rules them on an astrological level, and right now you may be reconsidering anything Venus-ruled. But I wanted to bring something else to your attention that my beloved Jen mentioned about Venus retrograde. 

She said that when I originally started talking about the effects of Venus retro, she thought that she might be drawn to thinking about these Venus-ruled topics like relationships in a passive way. You sit down for a cup of coffee, for example, and you consider whether or not relationships are serving you.

Her theory is that during this time, Venus-ruled topics are brought to the forefront, that you are actively challenged to deal with them between now and November 16. I wholeheartedly agree; this process has definitely been more "in your face", and that makes sense since Venus retrograde is more like Mars than her usual self. 

Anyway, just a quick note to say hello and hope your fall and your Venus retrograde is going swimmingly. If you have any Venus retrograde stories to share, please let me know!

For those of you coming to SOTA, I'm leaving tomorrow morning and I look forward to seeing you Wednesday afternoon. 

#sota2018

Tara's October 2018 New Moon Forecast!

October 8th 

1146 pm 

Washington DC

Greetings Sky Watchers,

Welcome back for some more astrology talk. On Monday October 8th ,at approximately 1146 pm, here in the nation’s capital, we experienced a new Moon. As we have discussed in the past a new Moon is the time in a lunar month when the Moon and the Sun share the same sign and degree—an exact conjunction—at 15 degrees Libra.

The lunation will occur in the 4th house; however,  it's an intercepted 4th house. Cancer is on the Ascendant and the chart signature is Cancer as well. The Moon rules Cancer, which gives the Moon rulership over the lunation chart as well as the overall expression of the lunation.

With such a strong emphasis on the sign Cancer, regardless of what sign the Moon actually resides at the time of the lunation, we can expect a focus on Moon-based topics. This is especially true as the lunation will be occurring in the Moon’s native home, the 4th house. We can expect the focus to be on our emotions, families, cultural roots, homes, the land we live on, and women in general.

The intercepted 4th house adds another layer of complexity to this lunation. Intercepted houses are like rooms without windows; locked between two other signs, the only way in is through another door. The intercepted sign has a hard time expressing itself. Its energy is harder to tap into. With the lunation occurring in Libra both the sun and Moon will be trying to express the energy of Libra: partnerships, equality, relationships, and sharing.

The sun in Libra is in its fall, which means that the sun does not function well in his position. The interception will increase the sun’s struggle in Libra. The solar and lunar contact will draw focus on the emotional component, as the Moon is experiencing a coming home in the 4th house. The Moon’s boost being in its home house will bring the focus on our emotional desires and responses to stimulus; especially those things within the boundary of our home environment.

Virgo is on the cusp of the 4th house. This will increase the desire to self-analyze and possibly speak about. Scorpio will finish out the 4th house and the sign asks us to let go of what no longer serves our goals and build bonds with those who can help us get where we need to be.

Currently, we have Venus in retrograde in Scorpio. Venus rules our idea of relationships, finances, and women. In retrograde, Venus nudges us to re-think, re-assess, re-visit, re-do and re-evaluate our current connections to other people and to our finances. 

This is not the time to begin new relationships, new businesses, or anything involving long term emotional or financial attachments. Don’t be surprised if old flames come calling, forcing you to reconsider if they are something you want to revisit. 

With all of that said, proceed with caution; relationships during Venus retrograde may only be based on physical need and NOT the emotional component required for long term healthy relationships.

Venus in Scorpio can also deceive, so there may be more going on than meets the eye. People may be more driven by their own desires and not the truth, manipulating facts to suit their needs and degrade your ability to remain abreast of the situation, a very Scorpio technique. With Scorpio ruling the reproduction and the genitals be careful that during this time you are being mindful to protect yourself against STDs!

Venus retrograde in Scorpio makes an applying square—90-degree angle where the faster planet will overtake the slower one—to Mars in Aquarius. Squares cause challenges between planets, and as these are both personal planets the stakes are high. Venus Mars squares exemplify the classic battle of masculine vs feminine, passion vs self-control, and desire vs feelings. However, it should be noted that with Venus in Scorpio, Venus won’t behave as her normal gentle self; she’s much more aggressive and intense and may cause arguments and other strife.

Finally, there is a Mercury-Uranus opposition during the lunation. Mercury is the planet of thought, messages, learning, and travel. Uranus is the planet of sudden shock and revolution. So It’s especially important for all of us to pay attention to the details of life. 

The coming week or so is going to feel like an energy vortex and everything is going to run at a hectic pace. Be open to new and shocking information that may come your way about people you may know or may be close to, and keep your wits about you. Try to go with the flow whenever possible and stay focused on your own needs. Allowing yourself to become caught up in the web of the social spiral may cause you more harm than good.

Good luck navigating the cosmic energy shift and thanks for listening. I’ll be back to discuss the October full Moon in just about 2 weeks!

Brightest Blessings

Tara

Letters from Saturn: Venus Retrograde Caution

Good morning, everyone, from the most dignified planet to grace this blog. 

Normally when I discuss retrogrades I'm here to talk about Mercury's, which, to be honest, are usually taken way too seriously by the general public. 

In this case, however, I feel that people do not take Venus retrograde seriously enough. I'm here to offer some warnings and advice, should you choose to heed them. 

Venus went on her retrograde business trip a few days ago, as she does once every 18 months or so. My esteemed colleague does need to get out of the office from time to time, so she'll be gone for about 6 weeks, until November 16. 

Once she returns to direct motion, her shadow period will continue through December 17 so her retrograde motion and its effects may be felt through then.

That shadow period is quite important, by the way, as it represents the area that she will travel over twice. 

Venus deals with both love and money, so I caution you to avoid making decisions in these areas while she is gone. I've listed some brief examples below of things to avoid:

• Purchases of big-ticket items (house, car, appliances, etc.)
• First dates, important relationship decisions, getting married or moving in together
• Extreme changes in decoration, either in a home or business or in a person's wardrobe or hair
• Starting a business

I urge Saturnian restraint in all of these areas, good people, as the Venus retrograde may cause you to regret those decisions if made during this period.

It's very important to understand that this is a time of re-evaluation in all personal and business relationships. What things, people, jobs, and styles are no longer serving you? Think carefully, but take no action immediately. 

Once Venus comes back to the office on November 16, you can solidify your plans, and if possible, wait until December 17 to implement them. If you can't wait that long, then at least Venus will be in direct motion after November 16.

One final important note: If you have any planets between 25 Libra and 10 Scorpio in your natal chart, these will be in the Venus retrograde zone. If you're not sure, ask your astrologer for some advice.

Our favorite astrology blogger has his natal Sun in that area, so I know he will be doing some careful consideration during this time. He's proven himself a worthy astrologer by passing his NCGR level one examination, so I have no doubt that he'll know what to do.

As always, I appreciate your attention. You will no doubt benefit from my sage wisdom. There is no reason to "freak out" as the youngsters say, but it is good to be aware of Venus retrograde's possible effects.

Very truly yours, 

Saturn

Sun Opposing Uranus: Expecting the Unexpected

Moon: Go on in, John...they'll see you now. [smiles]

John: Thank you, Lady Moon. You're positively beaming!

Moon: [grins] And you should be, too, for passing your astrology certification exam! That's quite an accomplishment.

John: I'll admit it wasn't easy, Lady Moon. I'm honored and humbled.

[enters office]

Sun: John! Come on in and sit down. [hands John a glass] Diet root beer, as I recall?

John: Thank you, sir. Luna has an excellent memory, doesn't she?

Sun: Cheeky already, I see. Excellent!

John: Is Uranus here or is he running late?

Uranus: [voice] I'm here!

John: I don't see you...where are you? [Turns around] What are you doing behind the door?

Uranus: Have you met me? Did you expect me to be just sitting in a chair like every other planet?

John: Fair enough. That's kind of what I wanted to talk to you both about anyway.

[Uranus sits down; the Sun sits directly across from him]

Sun: So how can we help you?

John: [sits down] So I just had a question. I found out last week that I passed my astrology certification exam.

Sun: I heard! Congratulations! Casting charts by hand isn't easy, is it?

John: Nope, it sure isn't. [drinks some soda]

Uranus: And yet it has value!

John: That's true, Uranus. But I looked at the chart for the date and time that it happened, and you were at 1 Taurus 37.

Uranus: [confused] Yeah...so what?

Sun: I think I can answer that. Wasn't I sitting at 1 Scorpio 37, John, when you were born? As I recall that was the moment.

John: Yes, sir. That's correct.

Uranus: Well I'll be damned! That explains a LOT, doesn't it? I opposed your natal Sun position. You know how rare that is?

John: I was just thinking that it's once or twice in a lifetime, right?

Sun: Yup. Urnie doesn't move fast enough for it to happen more than that.

Uranus: Hey now...I move pretty good for an older guy!

Sun: I can see you've come a long way in your studies, John. Good for you!

John: Far enough to see something this obvious, sir. But what I want to know from your rebellious charge here [gestures toward Uranus] is what is coming next. Can you tell me that?

Uranus: Dude...how should I know?

John: Astrology exam results are one thing, but I have some other things in play. I'd love some more clarity. [finishes soda]

Uranus: Who do you think I am? Mercury?

Sun: I guess we'll just have to wait and see, John. Sorry.

Uranus: I'm not!

Moon: [from outside] Urnie, be nice! And John...don't leave that glass in his office, please.

John: [stands up and raising voice slightly] Yes, ma'am. I'll bring it to you on my way out.

Tara's Full Harvest Moon Forecast!

Full Harvest Moon 

September 24, 2018

Manassas, Virgina

Greetings Sky Watchers,

Many people have been commenting on all of the cosmic energy floating around lately and wondering why it feels like why there is something off. There has been a lot going on cosmically, so let’s take a look.

On Tuesday, September 11th, Mars entered Aquarius, squaring both Uranus in Taurus and Venus in Scorpio and creating what astrologers call a T-square. With Venus in detriment in the sign Scorpio, we get to see the darker side of the celestial Goddess as she brings forth her obsessive, possessive, and inquisitive side. She is far less trusting or loving as she probes for evidence of reciprocal and equal affection. With Venus opposing Uranus in Taurus, she’ll get an energy boost from the comforts of her Taurean home; however, since oppositions require balance to navigate effectively, erratic and unpredictable Uranus will not calm an insecure Venus.

With Mars in Aquarius squaring both Venus and Uranus, Mars becomes the apex point of the T-square, pulled in both directions. Mars ambition and drive is caught in a tug-of-war between Venusian obsession and Uranian freedom leading to a power struggle. Venus square Mars is your classic head-on challenge that requires some effort to wrangle. Mars square Uranus is like a bolt of energy urging you to take risks and shove aside old patterns. Don’t be surprised if people in general, especially women, are a little more feisty than normal. This is a time for evaluation and decisions; also how the energy is expressed may be far more intense than usual.

This T-square occurs in fixed signs, which can cause people to dig in their heels. Uranus in retrograde will turn the Taurus energy inward, causing an internal processing of what we desire to tolerate. Mars feels the pinch from Venus and Uranus and the God of War will push back. Fixed T-Squares are not ideal for the beginnings of new relationships, and it may be a testy time for existing ties.

The key to finding balance through T-square tension is the point opposed to the apex, in this case, Mars. The point opposite Mars in Aquarius is 3 Leo, conjunct the North Node of karmic implications and our future direction. Leo is the sign of fun, socializing, children and romance, and is driven by self-gratification. The lesson in this T-square is if it doesn’t feel good or right don’t do it, no matter who is asking. Just like the king of beasts take a little time to relax and indulge in what you love and draw pleasure from that.

Lastly, both luminaries are squaring the greater malefic, Saturn, which forms the apex of a second T-square. At the time of the full Moon Saturn is dignified in Capricorn but in the 7th house of partnerships. Saturn brings lessons and responsibility, and if we are successful with the lesson Saturn also brings success. Having a Saturn apex point of the T-square can bring feelings of burden driven by the hope of success. Anyone STRESSED yet?

With T-Squares there is a missing component to completing what would be the grand cross. To find the way out of the T-square stress, we look to the position opposite the apex point. This sensitive point represents what we lack and should focus on to create the balance of four. Four is a building number and provides balance and stability. For this chart, the point is located in Cancer in the first house.

The Moon rules Cancer, and the 1st house represents the self. This indicates that it is important for us to focus on our emotional wants and needs while maintaining the balance of the weight of our responsibilities vs our social desires. Cancer reminds us that it’s time to focus on what breathes life into your soul, as we learn to balance wants, needs, desires and responsibilities accordingly. We must let some things go to plant the seeds for our personal growth tomorrow.

Thanks as always, Sky Watchers! See you next time!

Blessings,

Tara

3 Ways to End Things Using Saturn

Saturn finally went direct! And while it might not seem like it...there was much rejoicing! 

His energy will produce new opportunities for growth in our lives and in our careers. But we can't take advantage of new opportunities without ending others. 

One of the best ways to use Saturn's energy is to establish boundaries in your life. Of those many guidelines you establish for yourself, very few are more important than deciding when you've had enough...of a course of study, a job, a relationship, or even a way of doing things. 

Tonight I'd like to talk about three ways to know when it's time to move on using different life areas.

1) What was your original educational goal? Has it been achieved?

We all start out thinking we know what the goal is. When we start a course of study, for example, we have certain expectations of what we expect to learn, how long it will take, what it will cost, and its long-term impact. It's time to see how far you are toward that goal, and if it is still relevant to you. 

I'll use my wife Jen as an example. She takes pottery classes every semester they're offered. She's loving every minute of it and improving her ability every semester. Clearly, the time and money are not wasted, and I now have amazing works of art all over my house, which makes me really happy. 

Education takes a lot of effort. If you feel like the path you've gone down is now a waste of resources--time, money, or energy--then it's time to re-evaluate whether or not you should continue. 

2) Is a particular relationship serving you?

I know how that question sounds, but every relationship you have should have a benefit to you. It can be as simple as, "I like this person's company!" or "I learn a lot from them" or "We have fun together."

But if you're in a relationship that is not serving you, or if you haven't ended it due to what I call "emotional blackmail" ("If I try to end this relationship, the other person will be angry with me"), then it's time to really examine the relationship and ask yourself if it's worth it. It may be that its time has passed and you have to be the person to say, "I'm sorry, but it's over."

The "breakup talk", whether it's with a friend or a romantic partner, is never easy. But with Saturn moving direct, now may be a good time to plan your exit. 

3) Is your job affecting your attitude?

Every job has its good and bad days, and there are jobs where the best you can do is cope. But this is where your ability to put up boundaries is important. Are you taking the stress home with you? How much time are you bitching/venting about your boss or co-workers? Are you working longer hours on nights or weekends with no compensation? 

If you are, it's time to set some boundaries. Leave on time. Don't give more of your time away for free. And stop thinking about work on your own time. A former colleague once asked me, "Why do you let them rent space in your head?"

Saturn is a career planet. He's moving forward now, so if you find yourself in one of the aforementioned situations, start examining your options.

As an important aside, Venus goes retrograde on October 5. That will be a time of re-evaluation. So it's time to make sure you know where you're going. By November 16th you should be ready to end a few more things and begin some new ones.