Guest Blogger Hilary Harley on Venus Retrograde: She's a Lady. Whoa, whoa, whoa.

A HUGE Metaphysical Meanderings welcome to astrologer Hilary Harley, who was gracious enough to provide her interpretation of Venus' upcoming retrograde next month!

Venus is one of two beneficent planets in our galaxy, the other being Jupiter.  She rules Taurus and Libra, one earth and the other an air sign.  Both cultivate beauty in all forms imaginable, whether the flowers you plant in your garden, songs you write and sing, or the table you set for a dinner party.  Venus is grace, style and elegance.  But most especially, Venus is Values.  She rules our skills and talents, how we earn money through the application of these, our relationships, self-esteem, possessions, our worth.

Next month, Venus turns retrograde motion.  Most of us are familiar with Mercury retrograde as it occurs three times a year.  However, once every eighteen months Venus turns retrograde as well. From Tuesday, May 12^th to Thursday, June 25^th, Venus reverses gear in the sign of Gemini. 

What does this mean for you? 

First let’s look at Gemini.  The air sign of intellect, Gemini rules the mental realm:  thoughts, language, communication, speech, cause and effect…no small thing.  It is the Information Gatherer in Chief, along with disseminator of said information.  Think of a radio, which Gemini rules, giving and receiving messages constantly.  Thus, Gemini rules our rational, conscious mind, what occupies our thoughts presently, in the now, at this very moment.  It is the great connector, so ground transportation:  cars, buses, trains and the rides we take via these modes.  This is also the arena of our immediate environment, our neighbors, neighborhood and community and the extent to which we are engaged in it.  Last, the sign of duality, Gemini the Twins, rules siblings and pairs of any kinds.

In Gemini, Venus has an intellectual bent.  She wants to know, engage, discuss, read, write, be informed and share information.  She attracts smart people and wants to be in the thick of their knowledge. Venus in Gemini encourages us to be conscious of our thoughts, words, and language. She understands the cause and effect of thoughts and speech:  that kind words sooth and inspire; that insults hurt or do worse; that our thoughts affect our emotions which affect our actions.

If you know where Gemini occurs in your natal chart, you will find Venus going back and forth across that sector of your life this Spring.  For 40 days and 40 nights, she reverses gear to mark her shift from super bright evening star to the first to rise before the Sun as morning star.   That bit about 40 days and 40 nights….sound familiar?  Hmmmm, yes it does. 

Jesus wandered through the desert for this length of time.  And the Sumerian goddess Inannna descended into hell to meet her wanton sister Ereshkigal.   As did Ishtar and Isis, the Babylonian and Egyptian versions of Inanna, all forerunners of Venus.   Each relates a dark night of the soul we do not associate with Venus.  Whether it is the story of Jesus’ confrontation by the devil in desert or Inanna crossing through seven gates of hell to redeem and own her shadow sister side, the mission remains the same:   We are invited to pause and dance with pieces of ourselves we either do not know or acknowledge.  Emerging on the other side of this period, we will know who we are better than we ever did before.  No matter the sign it occurs, Venus retrograde is reflective and thus deeply psychological.

Enter the “re-” words.  As with all interior planet retrograde phases, the Re words are ready for prime time and take precedence.   In the case of Venus, because she rules relationships, this really means relationship review, including and especially with our primary relationship:  our Self.  

Reflection:  Who are you?  Have you checked in with yourself lately?  Given the extraordinary time we are living through now, most of us have been forced to hit the pause button and consider exactly how we conduct our lives, who we’ve become and most importantly, do we want to continue living the way we did before Corona virus? 

Reflections of self-worth are as much about our wallet as they are how we feel about ourselves.  Between May 12 and June 25^th we take stock, conduct an in-depth inventory of our skills and talents, both those we acknowledge or barely acknowledge or even perhaps, have yet to be discovered.  The virus has sparked necessity, the mother of invention.  If you find your bank account rapidly dwindling, Venus retrograding through Gemini has us thinking on all cylinders about new ways to apply skills and talents to earn money.  Have you been working a dead end job (which maybe no longer exists) simply to make ends meet?  Venus retrograde has you considering more soulful pursuits.  In alignment with yourself, your purpose, your confidence lifts.

In Gemini, we review information, journal, reconnect with neighbors and our community in ways that harken to days gone by, in a simpler time.  Take car rides and let your imagination flow, to local destinations, state parks and recreation spots.  Watch the conversations unfold along the way.  Expect heightened involvement with siblings, perhaps those you’ve become distant or even estranged; at a minimum, ponder your sibling relationships.  Others from earlier in your life may also resurface:  old partners, friends, relatives. 

The caution of Venus retrograde is temptation.  Enter mythology or biblical parables:  this is where the Devil comes to entice us.  Hit the pause button:  do you really want to indulge in an affair with your ex boy/girlfriend?  In Gemini, there is also the temptation to misuse of language, either thought or spoken.  It is vital to understand the power of your words, both positive self-talk and the information you share.  Watch, in particular, your thoughts and where they lead.  Are you mentally spiraling into hollow pits of negativity?

Covid 19 has sparked fear mongering of the worst variety, triggering all manner of psychological hijacking.  The great news is that now is a perfect time to retrain your brain.  Use affirmations, mantras, meditations, positive people, books and conversations to redirect your thoughts. 

Along the same line, gossip is never a good idea but especially this May and June, your words may come back to haunt you.  Information exchanged and shared during this period must be based on proven facts, evidence, science and NOT magical thinking.   It is essential that you speak the truth as best you understand it.  The words you speak represent who you are, your character and your worth.

By the same measure, since Venus rules the stock market, our possessions and how we earn a living, May 12-June 25^th is not the time to invest in things we cannot afford, whether cars, luxury items, or pipe dreams.  Gemini is the salesman of the zodiac and its versatility with language is also its biggest vice:  avoid deals and situations that seem too good to be true.  Hit the pause button and sleep on it.  In the morning, check in with your gut.  What does it say?  Mid-May through June is not an optimal time to start a new job either, but for anyone receiving unemployment now, new work is best begun this summer.

To recap, some brief do’s and don’ts of Venus Retrograde in Gemini:

DO:

Reconnect with siblings, neighbors, community

Reflect on your relationship with yourself, your life, especially on a car drive

Review  information, messages, your spending habits, finances

DON’T:

Fall for temptation  

Be seduced into negative mental spirals, sexual affairs, purchasing luxury items, gossip

To read more about Venus, her cycles and connection to your life, I highly recommend the works of Ronnie Gale Dreyer and Arielle Guttman.

To book an astrological consultation with Hilary, please contact her: hilary@hilaryharley.com or www.hilaryharley.com

And a GREAT BIG THANK YOU to John Marani for inviting me to guest blog on his marvelous site!

An Open Letter to Saturn by Holly Ross

Ladies and gentlemen, it's my pleasure to introduce astrologer Holly Ross, a 12 year astrology student and someone who I have the pleasure of teaching. This is her first astrology blog, and I'm so excited to have her guest blogging here at Metaphysical Meanderings!  Take it away, Holly!

“If you like it then you should have put a ring on it.” - Saturn

Saturn,

First, I need to apologize for the things I blamed on you that were actually Pluto. When he was disrupting and transforming my life - for the better I should add - your poor reputation made me think it was you. I frequently wondered what karma I had put out into the world that made me deserve any of the circumstances I was going through. As is normal with Pluto, the only way out is through. Having you strongly on my side is what gave me--and continues to give me--the perseverance to learn, grow, and come out the other side better than I was when everything started. Pluto and Saturn together might shake the foundations of life, but they put something stronger in place that could withstand anything. I can appreciate that now.

Ever since learning more about astrology I have been a strong supporter of you. I’m not being gushy in my love for you; that’s not our style. You are what turned me to astrology in the first place. I knew there were things going on in the universe and using them for proper timing would make my life easier. The only way to find the right door to walk through was to learn. I started with learning about my Saturn return because that was the supposedly scariest thing coming up. 

We can agree in my younger years I was impulsive. If it sounded like a good idea I would do it. We can both blame that on other planets, and a bit on choice. THis isn’t about them though. Every time I would do something I shouldn’t, you reminded me that karma can be swift. This kept me on the straight and narrow because I might be stubborn, but I’m a quick learner. I really think that’s why people give you a hard time. If they don’t learn, they repeat mistakes, and you probably let out a heavy sigh and make sure they face consequences. 

You were a supporter of mine before I was yours. In classical astrology, Aquarians are children of Saturn. Being told that I was radical, unique, and kept people on their toes never really quite felt entirely true. Yes, some of it is accurate in some ways. I have been told I don’t think like others. We are a dually ruled sign after all. An ever-stronger truth due to your placement in my life is that logic has ruled my life forever. Anytime I do something that seems out of left field for someone else it’s because they weren’t paying attention, or privy to my thought process. All decisions are well thought out, planned, and made with strategic future thinking in mind. That has always been true. You helped me hone that.

Since this is an Aquarian love note we’ll talk about the few nice things that you’ve given me. Obviously, you are swooning because there are bullet points. I know you love that.

• Your placement gave me a good moral compass.
• You gave me the ability to stick to my guns; to see things through no matter how tough they got.
• When I set a goal, you give me the knowledge that my hard work WILL pay off.
• I was able to buy a house because of you.
• I met my husband in the most Saturn way.
• I was able to get a job with great benefits that I enjoy because of my hard work and dedication.
• You taught me maturity and gave me responsibility years before my peers.
• You’ve taught me patience, something I sorely needed as a younger person.
• You gave me a sense of duty to others - though that placement is with other planets as well. 
• You give me integrity, and responsibility; the knowledge that if I get something, I come by it honestly. There are no hand outs and there is always a lesson to be learned from any difficult time.

This month you’re going to be joining your Aquarian children for a visit until July when you go back to the Capricorns. In December you’ll stay longer. I would be lying if I said I wasn’t looking forward to it. When you were here in the early 90s I had a rough go of things. I think I learned the lessons thoroughly the last time; at least I hope I did. I know the planets are going to be in different places so maybe we’ll be able to relax a bit, not too much, and enjoy each other’s company more this time around. Maybe it’ll be a little easier now that I’m older, and gray--you like the gray, I can tell. I’m obviously a better person due to your influence. It’ll be hard work, but sometimes I like that… and really is it worth having if you didn’t work hard for it?!

Anyway, I’m pretty sure no one thanks you while they’re still alive, but that’s exactly what I’m doing. Thank you for being there for me. If I had not listened to you, none of this would have happened.

Yours,

Holly

Book Review: Using Dignities in Astrology by Charles Obert--Review by Heather Figeroa

Hello everyone! I'd like to introduce you to astrologer Heather Figeroa. She'll be posting on the blog from time to time and this is her first review on my site. I'm so grateful to her for sharing her thoughts on Charles Obert's Using Dignities in Astrology with us! Take it away, Heather!

Correct usage and application of the principles of the dignity system can really take your chart reading to the next level. But it's not always easy to find books with real meat in them about the subject of dignities, with the exception being some of the ancient texts that explain some of it in great detail; the challenge is they can be dense or confusing, and astrologers, especially beginners, may have trouble relating to them. 

To clarify things, Enter Charlie Obert and his book on dignities. One of the big advantages of this book is that Obert designed it for use in a class that he teaches on the subject for Kepler College, so the layout and structure were well organized. Also, by providing cumulative information, he took this book from helpful guidebook to indispensable resource. 

Even seasoned astrologers might sometimes wonder what is the real difference between a planet in exaltation or rulership. Obert handles this brilliantly and gives the reader solid explanations on what it means for each planet to be in each specific dignity. He builds slowly and includes a handy reference sheet as well as checklists to consult when you want to parse the chart using the dignities.

Moving even further into the book, Obert speaks about mutual reception and even shares his techniques on how to apply mixed reception, which was something that really made me excited and opened up a new avenue of how to blend the planets.

This is neither a thick or pedantic read, nor was it created in a way that seeks to be overly verbose in his explanations. If you'll excuse the pun, you won’t find any wild and far out astrology here, for Obert prefers to deal with things very traditionally. He provides many chart examples and elaborates in his creative and perceptive style, bringing his audience along for his examination of rulership, exaltation, detriment, and fall.

One of the nicest things about this book was when Obert really opened up the field with his revelations about all the ways a planet could be accidentally dignified as well, and included some handy checklists to apply to each chart to discover all the hidden accidental dignities as well. 

Another aspect that Obert tackles is the conversation of sect--a classical astrology term that deals with day and night charts--and how all of these aspects interplay together to form a cohesive whole. It’s not a stretch to say that with the use of this book and its rules and checklists, it would be entirely possible to delineate the chart based on Charlie’s techniques here alone to create a totally new kind of reading. I have done this, so I know it is possible, and the results? Eye-opening and satisfying. 

It is often hard to find one reference book that doesn’t also seem to veer off the topic to include things that may not be within the scope of the study. There is none of that here; Obert has included only the very best nuggets of wisdom into this practical and instructive manual.

An author at the top of his craft, Obert is the consummate teacher and his fluid skills in handling all the contours of subject of dignities make this a book that you need to read. Obert has a down-to earth, personable and conversational style, so grab a comfy seat and give this one some attention. You will be glad you did!

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

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 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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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

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

Tara's Pisces Full Moon Forecast

August 26, 2018

5:35am

Washington DC

Greetings Sky Watchers,

Finally, the first lunation in 8 long weeks that isn’t an eclipse! I can almost hear a collective sigh of relief from those of us who understand the power of eclipses. Regretfully much of this summer’s eclipse and retrograde planet’s energy is still in the mix; Mars, Saturn, Uranus, Neptune, and Pluto, and Saturn are still retrograde, their energy turned inward. Many of us will be internalizing our situations in life and rethinking our strategy.

At the time of the full moon, the sign Virgo is on the ascendant, which gives Mercury rulership of the chart. Mercury is no longer retrograde; however, it’s not yet back to full strength either, which means communication can still be foggy and problematic.

The first thing to notice here is that each of the 4 angles has shifted from cardinal to mutable signs. Immediately we see a potential for a decrease in the energy to start projects and an overall indecisiveness. People will weigh out their options and change their minds, possibly several times, and not necessarily for the better. Mercury in Leo tells us that standing firm in our choices and not wavering can be a good choice, especially if for a beneficial reason.

Next, the natural opposition of the Virgo/Pisces axis is flipped. This full Moon is at 3 Pisces, which traditionally rules the 12th house, but in this case both the sign Pisces and the moon will be in the 6th house, naturally ruled by analytical Virgo / Mercury. Likewise, the Sun at 3 Virgo will be in the 12th house naturally ruled by intuitive and compassionate Pisces / Neptune.

Virgo naturally rules the 6th house of daily tasks, our jobs, our health, our employment, and our coworkers. Virgo represents all things that require our close attention, cerebral processing and attention to detail, which is why Mercury rules Virgo. When the Sun is in Virgo it increases the feeling that it’s time to get organized, get focused, and get down to business. During this full moon, the Sun will be in Virgo but within the 12th house naturally ruled by Pisces / Neptune.

So here we have the dichotomy of two opposite signs (Pisces/Virgo), in naturally opposed houses (6th/12th), during a full moon, bringing focus to our self / Sun and our emotions / Moon. The key word is BALANCE! The difficult part is figuring out how to find it. This is where we really use the chart and planetary aspects to see how we can find our balance.

The showstopper of this chart is the kite pattern, which can indicate fated events. A kite occurs when a grand trine is present and a single planet opposes one of the planets. One of the planets in the opposition is also sextile to the 2 other planets of the grand trine. Both grand trines and sextiles are considered benevolent patterns that bring ease and harmony. The opposition within the kite creates a bow and arrow effect, which focuses the pattern’s energy to one focal point.

In this full moon chart, we have a grand trine is earth signs: Sun in Virgo in the 12th House, Saturn in Capricorn in the 4th House, and Uranus in Taurus in the 8th House. The theme of a grand earth trine is one of hard work and stability. However, the houses are naturally ruled by water signs--12th house by Pisces, 4th house by Cancer and the 8th house by Scorpio. Water houses will always have a water or emotional and spiritual effect so we must try to remain grounded while meeting our emotional needs.

The full moon creates the spine of the kite and the arrow of our bow. The moon in Pisces is the point of action, where we draw back the bow and the Sun is the focal point. With the Pisces moon in the 6th house, it is very likely that people’s emotions and even addictions may get the best of them, especially while trying to find a coping mechanism to deal with the stress and pressure of day to day tasks.

With the Sun as our focal point deep in the 12th house of recovery and secrets, it’s time for us to get honest with ourselves. To me, this indicates a karmic stop sign: You can’t lie to yourself any longer or outrun fate. Have you been neglecting yourself for others? Have you been putting your responsibilities over your emotional and physical health? Have you allowed your emotional attachment to work or your to-do list override your body and soul’s need for rest?

With the mutable signs on the angles it will be easier now for all of us to talk ourselves out of purposeful self-care and recovery. I encourage you to make yourself a priority for all the most beneficial reasons possible. Remember that we cannot pour from an empty cup! Self-love goes a long way to creating balance.

Brightest Blessings!

Tara

Tara's Solar Eclipse Forecast, August 11, 2018

Solar Eclipse 

Saturday, August 11, 2018

5:46am, Washington, DC

Greeting Sky Watchers,

We are back for the third and final eclipse of summer 2018. This eclipse is the third eclipse in 4 weeks. There are also a total of 5 planets currently in retrograde; two of these, Mercury and Mars, are personal planets, so there is an abundance of cosmic energy floating around. The one thing for certain is that eclipses trigger changes, and retrograde planets will turn the energy within.

Before moving on to what’s in store, let’s review some solar eclipse basics. Solar eclipses like this one are conjunctions of the Sun and Moon, which is the strongest aspect between two planets. Solar eclipses occur at new Moons and add extra energy to the cosmic event. Whenever the nodes of the Moon are close to a lunation; either new or full, there will be an eclipse. The extra energy of the eclipse act as a gateway of energy directed towards planet earth and beyond. Many people believe that these increases in energy also prompt natural events such as earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, and tsunamis.

Leo will be on the horizon in this eclipse chart, so the Sun is our chart ruler. The eclipse occurs at dawn with the Sun and Moon at 18 Leo. The Sun and Moon are joined with mental Mercury in Leo, forming a stellium by both degree and sign. A stellium creates an abundance of energy in one location of any chart, no matter the sign or house. Having a stellium involving the chart ruler at the ascendant, during a solar eclipse, at Sunrise, is an energy explosion!

In the 1st house, Mercury is oriental to the Sun and Moon at 14 Leo, meaning that Mercury will pass over the horizon before the Sun. Mercury is also conjunct 15 Leo, also known as The Lion’s gate, one of the 4 avatar points in every chart.

Avatar points are the anchors of the zodiac; they occur at 15 degrees of each fixed sign and form the exact mid-point between eclipses and equinoxes. Many astrologers refer to the 15th degrees of each fixed sign as “points of fame” or markers of something for which the world will stop and take note.

With Mercury oriental to the Sun, in Leo, in retrograde, and conjunct the solar eclipse, we can expect an abundance of bold communication. Mercury in Leo loves an audience and the attention it brings, and speaks with passion. During a solar eclipse, our emotions (the Moon) cast their shadow on who we are (the Sun). So don’t be a bit surprised if someone’s dramatic Leo overly emotional responses spill over, demanding your full attention.

Leo represents abundance, children, fun activities like hobbies and sports, romance, the theater, and small groups. With so much Leo energy in this chart, most people will have the urge to splurge and have some self-indulgent FUN. Don’t be surprised if an old flame returns; with the oriental Mercury retrograde, this would be the ideal time to determine if the relationship is serving you or not.

One downside to Leo energy is the pouting and sulking when the Lion doesn’t get their way. As with all things, proceed with caution and optimism, but don’t get caught up in the theatrical, ego-driven response of the Lion wanting more than what he/she can have. So roar all you want; you will make a statement for sure, but think about the long-term impact. Ask yourself if this is really how you want to be remembered.

We also see that the new Moon stellium in the 1st house is the focus of a Yod pattern, “the finger of God”. The two legs in the YOD are Neptune in the 8th house and Pluto in the 6th. Each planet involved in the Yod is retrograde, with the exception of the Sun and Moon. This indicates an internal hurdle to be overcome. Neptune and Pluto suggest a supporting relationship that shifts daily tasks or work in connection to what you share with others, especially finances.

The square between retrograde Mars in the 6th house and Uranus in the 10th house is a powerful source of energy. This could signal a time for change within how you approach work or your work environment.

Lastly with the north node always pointing us in the direction of our future in the 12th house, perhaps it’s time that we dust off some of our old ideas we once buried and give them life or take some time to rest.

Remember the gift of Leo, and that is leisure; lions only hunt when they need to. They apply their energy only when needed; otherwise they save their energy and REST. So set your new Moon intentions but remember self-care is important as well.
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As always, see you in a few weeks, Sky Watchers!

Blessings,

Tara