Full "Strawberry" Super Moon

   Welcome to the first Full Moon of the Summer in Capricorn, highlighting the need for a feeling response, Sun in Cancer, to make a necessary change for the greater good! This "Strawberry" Moon is the harbinger of Summer, coming as it does on the heels of the Summer Solstice 4 days ago. Go to your local farm and pick some strawberries, then share your favorite jam or pie with loved ones! Mercury in Gemini is now in Direct motion, but the shadow phase lasts until July 9th, so bite your tongue until then, if you don't have anything kind to say. 

   The Sabian Symbol for 4 degrees of Capricorn is "a group of people outfitting a large canoe at the start of a journey by water" . This implies a feeling response by a group of people with a common will and consensus to make a necessary change in response to a specific situation. It is the group activity that is important. With the Sun tuned into to emotional undercurrents in polarity to the Moon in this pragmatic Earth sign Capricorn, it is a great time to ask yourself where you can make a difference.

   With the Moon sextile Jupiter, there's a feeling of optimism in the air. The Sun trine to expansive Jupiter brings a sense of well-being and generosity to the fore. If you're a boss, what can you give to let your employees know they are appreciated, and if you are the head of the household, how can you share your caring with your loved ones? On the other hand, if there's something you need, what  practical steps can you take now to engage with those in a position to make a difference?

   The monthly opposition of the Sun and Moon brings into play ego vs. emotion and empathy vs. assertion. This Full Moon chart plays out on the stage of the people opposed to organization, whether that highlights political or socio-economic situations. Cancer represents the people, emotions and public opinion, while Capricorn is authority and current structures. There is a cautionary note here involving aggressive Mars who is very active at this Full Moon. Self-restraint and self-discipline are needed here if you want to move toward your goals. Missteps and accidents are possible due to an alignment of Mars to revolutionary Uranus. Watch out for carelessness and recklessness if you want to avoid trouble.

   All the angles for this Full Moon chart set in Washington DC are at 00°s of the Cardinal signs, with the Ascendant being 00° Libra. That means Venus is the planetary ruler of this moment in time that affects us where we live, how we want to be seen in the world, and who we chose to associate with. Lovely Venus in late degrees of Cancer is in an opposition to powerful Pluto at 26° Capricorn, which can bring drama into relationships or escalate into a battle between love and desire... if allowed. What is really going on is a chance to let go of the old ways of reacting and to generate a new response. Giving up the struggle could allow a creative path to healing, perhaps initiating a whole new form of relating where one doesn't have or take total power over the other.  

   Enjoy the sunshine, spread love, look to the stars and stay grounded~

Solar Eclipse New Moon

    Tomorrow's Solar Eclipse New Moon in Gemini is a potent reminder of the power of our thoughts and words. When the Moon joins the Sun at 19 degrees, 47 minutes of Gemini, both will be closely aligned with retrograde Mercury in its own sign. This makes for a whole stew of thoughts and ideas, information and plans to be tossed around. Choices abound around what to do and who to associate with. Gemini is a very sociable, somewhat ambiguous Air sign, and after more than a year of practically zero face-to face connections, catching up and interacting are high priorities for most families and friends. Because Mercury is retrograde until June 22nd, there is added emphasis on research and restraint before leaping forward with big plans or projects. 

   In the New Moon chart, we find the Lights and Mercury in Gemini residing in the 12th House, squaring off with its' ruler, Neptune in Pisces up in the 10th House. The Twelfth House focus is on the unseen, or subconscious motivations. This area of life relates to what's hidden, what holds us back or where our ability to connect with spirit lies. In our Natal charts, it may have to do with secrets, restraints - like hospital stays, or where we seek refuge from the world. At any rate, sometimes we need to dig deeper here to uncover hidden talents or abilities. Imagination, fantasy, muddled thoughts and confusing information is apt to be the name of the game during this Solar Eclipse.

   Another consideration at this Solar Eclipse New Moon, is the harmonious relationship of the Sun and Moon to Saturn in the Fixed air sign of Aquarius.  The Moon's concern here is feeling comfortable with responsibility to the larger group, while the Sun brings self-confidence in its organizational abilities. Saturn lends consistency to building a solid foundation for the future. I am cautiously optimistic that positive strides are being made to renew open lines of communication in our government. At the same time, I have serious doubts about that being the intention of the majority of those politicians who refuse to be responsible to the people of this country and not to their bank accounts.

I set this this chart for Washington, DC and as lovely as the aspect between The Sun, Moon and Saturn could be, we are dealing with a divided country of separate interests which may or may not create an even larger socio-economic split than what we are currently experiencing. It may take Venus' attracting power of love and harmony in Cancer, working compatibly with Uranus in Taurus, the planet of sudden reversals, at this Solar Eclipse to bring an opportunity for reconnection based on our democratic principles of freedom for all, to turn the tide. Venus in Cancer is close to the United States Sun which bodes well for our self-worth as a nation, if it's not too late and we've already sold our collective soul to the devil of greed, or not... 

   In the meantime, focus on what you can do in the here and now to stay on track for achieving your personal goals, be patient and realistic, and maintain your sense of self, while keeping your head in the stars and your feet on the ground. I pray for Light and Love to restore Harmony on the Earth.

   

   

Mercury Retrograde

    The planet of communication and interaction, Mercury, has been in its rulership of Gemini since May 3rd and due to a retrograde period starting tonight, at 24 degrees and 41 minutes of Gemini, Mercury remains in this Mutable Air sign through July 10th, entering Cancer on the 11th of July. On June 22nd, Mercury will turn back to Direct motion at 16 degrees and 10 minutes, finally moving out of its shadow phase on July 7th, meaning it will leave the retrograde area that it covered 3 times between 16 and 24 degrees of Gemini.

   So, what does this mean for you? Mercury is concerned with planning, researching and organizing, as well as agreements and negotiations. This is the perfect time to get more information and become clearer on the important details of your endeavors. Don't be in a rush to finalize plans, unless you've already done all your homework and time is of the essence. Otherwise take your time considering your options and sharing your ideas with those closest to you in the planning phase. If you are traveling during this time, double check all the details before you go.

   After the past year it feels like we're ready to do quite a bit of socializing. In Massachusetts, things are opening up quickly with events and venues beginning to welcome people back. There's an air of excitement about all the possibilities and Mercury retrograde can have us confused about our options. This is not the time to jump into a new commitment without careful research. Think of a retrograde time as an opportunity to reconnect with yourself and your plans. Gemini has a tendency to jump from one thought to another, one plan or the other and it can become quite tiring. 

   I hope that you are enjoying the gradual return to sociability and seeing smiles again. Gemini rules the hands, arms, shoulders and lungs, so write or read more, hug longer and breathe deeper while keeping your head in the stars and your feet on the ground.

Full Moon Lunar Eclipse in Sagittarius

    Eclipse season begins tomorrow morning at 7:14am EST with the culmination of the Full Moon Lunar Eclipse at 5 degrees of Sagittarius. The next Eclipse will be at the Solar New Moon on June 10th. This Full Moon is also known as the Flower Moon and it happens to be the closest 'Supermoon' to the Earth this year. Eclipses mark a time of potent possibility, when  the energy is used wisely. Generally, Lunar Eclipses are known to signify the surfacing of an emotional awareness of what we can release, like old habits or negative behaviors, while Solar Eclipses can jumpstart new beginnings that appear from the seeds of a New Moon.

   A Full Moon means that the Sun and Moon are in opposition, drawing attention to any imbalances between the ego(Sun) and the emotions (Moon). Another way to look at this is as a tug-of-war between assertion and empathy. With the Sun in Gemini, there is a big push to connect, socialize, talk  and plan. The Sagittarius Moon wants to set some long-range goals and look further afield than just right now.

   Perhaps you feel thwarted in your efforts to make big plans because of all the details that have to be taken care of first. Maybe you are feeling more philosophical about life  and don't have the time for idle gossip or chit-chat. Or, maybe you're finally ready to broaden your perspective and move on to bigger and better goals! In any case, it would behoove you to stay centered on the present and take care of necessary details even while expanding your horizons. 

   The Eclipse energy of this Sagittarian Moon is huge and with Jupiter as the ruler of this Mutable Fire sign, a small blaze can ignite quickly, especially since both the Sun in Gemini and the Moon in Sagittarius square off with Jupiter. It's great if you're ready for it, kind of like a controlled burn of underbrush to make room for new growth. But things can get out of control fast with giant Jupiter's propensity for over-optimism or aggrandizement. 

   This is where we consider Saturn's role as disciplinarian, along with the fact that he's retrograde, and apply a healthy dose of realism and limitations. Research what it will take using the resources available to you to work toward your desired goal. One step at a time is a good rule of thumb before leaping into your bright and beautiful future. Mercury's interaction with the Sun and Saturn indicate that clear communication and compromise in any collaboration now will earn self-respect and help build a solid foundation for the future.

   Expect a few do-overs or setbacks while Mercury is retrograde from May 29th through June 21st. Think as big as you want and work within present guidelines and necessary limits and you will eventually get where you're going. In the meantime, you know the drill... keep your head in the stars and your feet on the ground!

   

Taurus New Moon May 11, 2021

    Welcome to the Taurus New Moon this afternoon at 2:59pm EST. The Moon is exalted in this gentle Fixed Earth sign, bringing a pervading sense of calm to the start of this Lunar cycle. Enjoy it while it lasts, because the Full Moon Lunar Eclipse on May 26th kicks off an eclipse cycle that brings a lot more excitement and some heavy confusion into play for the ensuing 2 weeks between the Lunar Eclipse and June 10th's Solar Eclipse!

   Something to be aware of today, is that while you may have been thinking... May 11th is a New Moon day, I can begin my project now... the Moon isn't exactly aligned with the Sun until 2:59pm, so please hold off on new starts until later this afternoon. There is an opportunity time a half hour before and after the New Moon, called "cazimi" that is an ideal time to initiate important projects. If you can't take advantage of this time frame, it would be best to wait until tomorrow afternoon when the Gemini Moon harmonizes with Saturn for lasting effects.

   Now, back to the Taurus Moon. In general, people are more pleasant, easy-going and supportive of each other with the Moon, ruling the public, in this placid Earth sign. Add to that, the Sun's influence and both lights connecting harmoniously with sensitive Neptune in Pisces and there's a feeling of compassion and caring in the air. It's also a great time for artistic and spiritual pursuits! Pluto aligns positively to assist your leadership efforts in knowing what's important and how to use these energies to make a transformative difference in your world.

   Mercury in its home territory of Gemini wants answers... as well as being able to connect with others, socially or for practical reasons. With a harmonious aspect to pragmatic Saturn in this chart, put some effort into making important and practical decisions now, before Mercury retrogrades on May 29th for 3 and 1/2 weeks. Common sense rules the day and sets the pace for this lunar cycle!

   Careful planning now, especially if you have to travel or negotiate a new deal during the Eclipse period (see above) or while Mercury is Retrograde, will help keep things running smoothly. Don't fret if you're not ready to negotiate, buy that new computer, phone or car prior to Mercury's about-face on the 29th. The best time to gather information or do reviews is during a Mercury retrograde cycle! Rushing to get under the wire when you're still not sure isn't a wise move.

  While enjoying the simpler pleasures of nature, a massage, a new outfit or opening a savings account over the next couple of weeks, remember to keep your head in the stars and your feet on the ground! 

Scorpio Full Moon

  Tonight's Full Moon culminates at 11:31pm EDT in the 7th degree of Scorpio. This is a supermoon, the second closest to the Earth for the year. It was known as the "Full Pink Moon", which gets its name from the pink early springtime blooms of the Phlox subulata plant, also called "moss pink." It's native to eastern North America. Let's hope we get to see a pretty pink moon and that the Scorpio symbolism doesn't overshadow its beauty.

   Besides the Scorpio Moon being opposite the Sun in Taurus, it also opposes edgy Uranus and the Earth Goddess, Venus. Potentiality is what comes to mind here. There's the unknown energy of Uranus that may in fact bring sudden events involving the Earth's crust and getting the attention of people everywhere. Think volcanic activity and/or earthquakes. Venus stands her ground in Mother Nature's sign hoping for a return to balance, with an equilibrium that affects the many, not the few, as in how we treat her when trying to fill our needs, or just our pockets. How much oil do we really need... can't we use the power of the ever present Sun and the wind as energy sources?

  On a personal level, the deeply emotional Scorpio Moon's pull will affect hidden wounds or agendas that may suddenly arise to be dealt with. While such an awareness isn't always convenient, it is best to acknowledge the feelings and determine a course of action that will start the healing process. Rather than let old hurts fester to create resentment, it is timely to purge the infection and begin anew! There is an assist from Mars in Cancer for dealing with emotions, especially within family units. Allow compromise and collaboration to inform your choice of action and rid yourself of unnecessary pain while easing the suffering of all affected parties. 

   Due to a challenging aspect from Saturn (necessity), you may be lacking in the self-esteem department, feeling that your emotional needs aren't as important as those of others. Please let go of those old tapes of insecurity and work to build your own self confidence. The Centaur Chiron brings an opportunity in relationship to Saturn that starts the process of facing our fears so that we may reclaim our sovereignty as individuals and feel strong enough to help others.

   One more thing this Full Moon highlights, albeit in a slightly peripheral way, is an aspect to Neptune that has us squirming or nudgy... yes, that's a word... and the only way to know what you're sensing there is to get quiet and listen to your higher self. Neptune wants you to uncover the creativity beneath the surface appearance and to express yourself with fluidity. Close your eyes and imagine what you could be doing that speaks to you artistically, musically or spiritually. Now open your eyes and see new possibilities in the world around you. Energy follows thought into manifestation. Give attention to those things you want to create, not the ones you need to let go of.

   And while you're wondering how you will deal with whatever is surfacing for you personally, remember to stay centered in the present, feel the warmth, or the coolness, of the earth beneath you feet and gaze into the heavens for inspiration.

   

Aries New Moon, April 11, 2021

    Tonight's New Moon is exact at 10:31pm EST at 22 degrees, 25 minutes of Aries. This being the first sign of the Zodiac and the first time the Sun and Moon join here for the start of the astrological new year, gives us a green light for new beginnings. That project, job or relationship you dreamt about starting, can now be approached with intention. Aries asserts itself and can sometimes butt it's head in the door, so be sure of what you want, avoiding rash actions while moving forward.

   The world is exhaling and making room for a big breath of fresh air. We want to go, be and do the things we couldn't for so long. Here is an opportunity as Mars, the overseer of Aries, moves into a supportive position to the Sun and Moon, bringing us a brief window of opportunity to be brave and do the thing we were afraid to do not so long ago. This is the time to be daring and motivate yourself to take that first step toward a bright beginning.

   So, whether it's Chiron in Aries helping give you a dose of fortitude or Venus in Aries saying be true to yourself, the clear headline is to take a chance because if you don't, you won't know just how rosy your future could be! Chiron in Aries is about the process of healing your insecurities, developing self-confidence and moving forward with self assurance. Venus in this sign wants you to let others know what you value about yourself and what you're willing to invest in for yourself.

   The challenge in this New Moon chart comes from powerful Pluto over in the corner, still in Capricorn and continuing to dare you to make a wrong move so he can maintain control over you. Watch out for underhanded moves by fearful people who feel they are losing control of the situation, whatever it has appeared as in the last several years. Pluto shakes us to our core, destroys the status quo and forces us to be rejuvenated or reborn in a new and improved version. Just don't let manipulative people push your buttons out of fear. Do the opposite... see the writing on the wall and you decide what is crumbling, not good for you or downright harmful, then take back your power and do something different. 

   While realizing this could be a brand new world, full of possibilities, remember to keep your head in the stars and your feet on the ground.