I wanted to add a footnote to my entries. I include the time that a transit will be exact so that you can see when it waxes and then when it starts to wane. However, the effects are often felt sometimes even as long as a day or two. The energy is usually felt more strongly during the time leading up to the height and then it slowly starts to dissipate after. Keep in mind that Moon transits tend to last a shorter period of time than planetary transits.
(Sunday 12/20/09)- While this will (mostly) be an astrologically quiet day coming from a transit standpoint, things may get a little choppy with Mars coming to a halt and turning Retrograde. The day will be under the influence of humanitarian-oriented Aquarius Moon, which adds some tension since it is opposite of the Red Planet. 
Mars (The God of War) will be turning Retrograde today in the proud sign of Leo (exact at 8:26am EST). (Retrograde meaning: As all planets orbit around one another, they do so at different rates. Long ago Astronomers/Astrologers believed that the planets seemed to slow down and eventually reverse their orbit. This in fact, is an optical illusion caused by different orbit speeds, when viewed from Earth. This process is called a Retrograde in Astrology. In interpretation it means that the planet is somewhat weakened and the energies are harder to access). Mars usually goes retrograde every two years and two months. Mars influences our actions, expression of anger, aggression, ego (both in and out of power), energy, courage, confidence, self-reliance, boldness, violence, destructiveness, cruelty, and often dictates the type of person that we will be sexually attracted to. It’s medical associations are: red blood cells, tolerance for pain, muscular energy, inflammation, and fevers…..and because of Leo’s influence heart, gall bladder, & spine. Mars is like our engine…it makes us go, go, go! But when it is moving in reverse, things might not go as smoothly. We need to keep a proverbial eye out for bumps in the road. Actually, we need to be much more careful over the next 3+ months, because we may be much more accident prone than usual. Right now is not the time to initiate, especially since Mercury will be going Retrograde also on Dec 26th. If doors shut on you right now, do not try to force them open. Patience will be needed and you can reproach the situation soon enough. Domineering and aggressive tactics won’t work either. We could also run into people that are passive-aggressive during this phase. This will be felt more strongly if you have your Sun, Moon, or Rising sign in: Leo, Aries, Scorpio, Taurus, or Aquarius. It depends where Mars/Leo falls within your chart in order to know how this will affect you on a personal level. We can look forward to this Retrograde phase ending on March 10, 2010!
In evening, the Moon in Aquarius will form its monthly opposition to Mars in Leo (R) (exact at 9:44pm EST). Someone could irritate you during this transit. It’s possible to enjoy a debate with someone (or at worst, an argument). As with all Mars transits, I recommend exercise or doing something physical. Mar’s energy will want to get out one way or another; it might as well be constructive! Then, Venus in Sagittarius will form a beneficial sextile to Jupiter in Aquarius (exact at 11:53pm EST). Remember, this is a planetary transit and its effects will be felt much longer than a Moon transit. This will bring luck/opportunity with both love and finances! This will be beneficial for group gatherings and social events too. If I were a betting woman (which I am), this would be a good time to buy a lottery ticket. (Sorry, but I am not responsible for any losses nor am I condoning gambling-LOL). Venus transits also encourage us to get outside and be close to nature.
(Monday 12/21/09)- Happy Winter Solstice & Happy Birthday Capricorn! Today marks the shortest day of the year and also the Sun’s entry into business-minded Capricorn. Many different cultures and religions celebrate at this time of the year. For the sake of brevity, I will not be covering this event in depth but rather providing a few links for you to check out:
Farmers' Almanac: http://bit.ly/6BcfzC
Ancient Origins: Solstice: http://www.candlegrove.com/solstice.html
Crystal Links: http://www.crystalinks.com/wintersolstice.html
I will have a lot to cover today! There will be a lot of planetary activity overnight, so pay close attention to your dreams! Just after midnight, Venus in Sagittarius will form a positive sextile to Neptune in Aquarius (exact at 12:24am EST). Remember, this is a planetary transit and its effects will be felt much longer than a Moon transit. When it comes to love, we will have our rose colored glasses on today. Love relationships will take on an ethereal quality. If you are single, and you meet someone under this influence you will have the feeling that you were meant to be together. It’s possible that a friend could become more than a friend; it would feel like you are seeing this person in a new light. This will be a beneficial day for creativity, arts, music, film, etc. Then, Jupiter will conjunct Neptune both in Aquarius (exact at 3:50am EST) again highlighting creativity. This would also be a favorable time to explore different cultures and religions. We would do well working with a group for a greater cause that is bigger than ourselves. Its about self-sacrifice and service to others. The only caveat is use caution with putting friends or an organization up on a pedestal. You know what happens when they fall!? The late, great astrologer Linda Goodman used to say: “Aim straight, shoot higher than man can see-past the stars-to the place all dreams were really born”. Then, the Moon in Aquarius will conjunct the triple conjunction highlighting all of these characteristics (between 3:33am-7:09am EST). Just after, Mercury in Capricorn forms an annoying quincunx with Mars (R) in Leo (exact at 7:33am EST). Remember, this is a planetary transit and its effects will be felt much longer than a Moon transit. Think before you speak! This may cause us to feel restless and fidgety (attention those with ADD or ADHD). Our thoughts may be moving at a fast pace, but Mars Retrograde is saying look before you leap! Luckily, the Moon will form a positive sextile with Venus in Sagittarius (exact at 7:53am EST) to help smooth things out. It is likely that we could receive compliments on how we look or dress. It will be easy to interact with others. This transit is positive for both relationships/love and finances. This will start a 11+ hour void-of-course Moon cycle that will last until the Moon will transition into intuitive Pisces. When the Moon makes no major planetary aspects to another planet, before it switches into the next sign, is call “void of course”. It is best to not do anything new during these times because it has a decreased chance of working or will have delays.
Happy Birthday Capricorns! The Sun will move into business-minded Capricorn (exact at 12:47pm EST). Words and phrases to describe Capricorn are: “I Use”, Cardinal/Earth, ambition, self-discipline, hard work, motivated, coldness, condescending, frugal (sometimes cheapness), responsible, slave-driver, public ambition and tradition. It is associated with the skeleton, knees, teeth and falls. Its metal is lead. Stones: Amber, Black Onyx, Ruby, Agate, and Garnet. We are now transitioning away from a time of exploration and mental expansiveness (Sagittarius) into a mode of seriousness, organization and long-term goal setting (Capricorn). It is not a surprise that this is the time of year that is heavily steeped in tradition and we tend to cling to old family holiday rituals as well as making new ones. This is also the time of year in which we start setting goals for the New Year and begin making resolutions. Capricorns are usually great planners and are notorious for their list-making abilities. Often they are wise beyond their years and when they are younger tend to befriend those who are older than themselves. The down-side to Capricorn (or when they are “out of power”), they tend to be users and will coldly climb over you to get what they want. They also tend to be workaholics and this is how they usually show their families that they care…by providing. This of course, doesn’t leave a lot of time for hugs and kisses and they often rely on their spouses to tend to that department. Under their formal exterior, they will show you that they have a hardy sense of humor and can catch you off-guard with a dirty joke or two. Capricorns also seem to be lonely (even if they are with someone) and sometimes a little sad. It’s as if they innately know that they are associated with the starkness of winter. The Sun will transition into unique Aquarius on 1/19/10. Famous Capricorns are: Nicolas Cage, Jimmy Buffet, Henry Matisse, Federico Fellini, Annie Lennox, Donna Summer, Gerard Depardieu, Tiger Woods, Louis Pasteur, Jude Law, Mary Tyler Moore, Denzel Washington, Anthony Hopkins, Humphrey Bogart, Mel Gibson, Diane Keaton, David Bowie, Muhammad Ali, Elvis Presley, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., Rush Limbaugh, Mary J. Blidge, Rod Stewart, Howard Stern, Edgar Allen Poe, Dolly Parton, and Al Capone.
Later, the Moon transitions into dreamy Pisces (exact at 6:42pm EST). Activities that are favored during Moon in Pisces: creativity, intuition, spiritual aspirations, higher consciousness, connection with feelings, counseling, music, art, photography, nature and especially being near water, and charitable work. Things to avoid are: getting so caught up in others feeling that you put your aside, excessive escapism, and acting like a martyr. These are all themes that will last the next 2 ½ days. Lastly, the Moon in Pisces makes a positive sextile to the Sun in Capricorn (exact at 7:15pm EST). This is an ideal time to be with friends & loved ones. This transit is conducive for feeling supported. Maybe it’s time to make your sweetheart dinner?
(Tuesday 12/22/09)- I will be doing Astrological Readings at Spirit Dancer today between 2-5pm. This is a great opportunity to get an introductory reading from me at a discount ($25.00 per ½ hour). They are located at 125 S. Winooski Ave in Burlington, VT (across from the fire station). Walk-ins are welcome or you can call me for a time.
Overnight, the Moon will highlight the Saturn/Pluto square (see Blog entry from 11/15/029). Just after midnight, the Moon in Pisces will form a positive sextile with Pluto Capricorn (exact at 12:41am) helping us to connect with what is going on under the surface. If you were awake during this time it would be beneficial for: cathartic experiences, deep conversations, and all forms of counseling are favored during this transit. It may be possible to have intense dreams while you are sleeping. Then, the Moon in Pisces will form an annoying quincunx with Saturn in Libra (exact at 3:13am EST). It may be hard to complete everything on our “list” or to get organized. It’s also possible that our emotions could make it hard to work around this time. Luckily, this influence will be short. The remainder of the day will be under the influence of the dreamy Pisces Moon.
(Wednesday 12/23/09)- This is another day that will mainly consist of Moon transits. Keep in mind that Lunar transits are shorter in duration than planetary transits. In the morning, the Moon in Pisces makes an annoying quincunx to Mars (R) in Leo (exact at 10:12am EST). Did you ever meet someone that says something that is completely different than how they actually act? For instance: you went out on a date, the person says that they had a fantastic time, and then they never called you? This type of disconnect (coming from yourself or coming from others) may be more pronounced around this time.
In the afternoon, things will become more lively as the Moon in Pisces will forms a positive sextile to Mercury in Capricorn (exact at 1:06pm EST). This will make us want to reach out to friends and family to chat. This transit helps with the flow of communication. It will be easier to express how we feel around this transit. Things will simply sizzle when the Moon forms its monthly conjunction with Uranus both in Pisces (exact at 4:43pm EST). The Uranus connection can bring us unexpected inspiration/ideas & can enhance clairvoyance & channeling. This can highlight technology, electricity, inventing, and unexpected events. Due to Pisces’ influence it can also assist healing and healing arts.
(Thursday 12/24/09)- Christmas Eve! Today may be a little more tense than we would prefer. Today & tomorrow the Sun will be highlighting the Saturn/Pluto square (see Blog entry from 11/15/09). Then, the Moon will go onto highlight that same dynamic again. This is an indication of intensity, but then blockages & delays. Extra patience will be required to handle these feelings. It starts overnight, when the Moon in Pisces squares Venus in Sagittarius (exact at 3:09am EST). Although we will have a drive to be with others around this time, it would be best to avoid heavy conversations pertaining to love. Sometimes the object of our affections is just out of reach (or otherwise detained) around this transit. The is not a good time to go shopping or work on beautification because what we think looks good now may seem like a bad idea at a later time. This will start a short void-of-course Moon cycle that will last until the Moon transitions into pioneering Aries (exact at 6:39am EST). Aries Moons are similar to New Moons. It is considered to be a favorable time to start new projects, physical activities (like sports or working out), dynamism, leadership, competition, and action. Things to avoid are being too bossy, arrogant, and insensitive during the next 2 1/2 days. Aries rules the head, so pay attention to stress; especially of you are prone to tension headaches.
The Sun will form its annual conjunction with intense Pluto in Capricorn (exact at 12:31pm). Remember, this is a planetary transit and its effects will be felt much longer than a Moon transit. This is a time where we will want to get deep and explore our subconscious. This will greatly assist us in processing our emotions and is beneficial for all types of counseling, cathartic experiences, and exploration of hidden or “taboo” subjects. We may even be feeling passionate & sexy around this time! It will be hard to be superficial. Even though it is Christmas Eve, our business “sense” may be sharp. Pluto does have a dark side however; and this can create power struggles, explosive feelings, hidden fears/anxieties, and intensity. Just after, the Moon in Aries will square intense Pluto in Capricorn (exact at 12:35pm EST) further highlighting this transit. Someone could know how to push our buttons and really get under our skin. It is important to have good boundaries with others and remember not to overstep yours. Try to avoid power struggles & ultimatums. The Sun in Capricorn will form an uncomfortable square with the Moon in Aries (exact at 12:36pm EST). We may experience some tension between friends or loved ones. This won’t be conducive to feeling very supported. Sometimes this transit brings (minor) squabbles. Lastly, the Moon in Aries will have its monthly opposition with Saturn in Libra (exact at 3:01pm EST). Luckily the duration of this event is short. Sometimes this can give us a feeling of loneliness or isolation. We may feel passed over or possibly not getting the recognition that we deserve. It’s possible that our feelings may get in the way of responsibility.
(Friday 12/25/09)- Christmas Day! 
In the afternoon, lovely Venus will travel into the sign of Capricorn (exact at 1:17pm EST). Just like my entry on Monday 12/21 when the Sun moved into Capricorn…now the planet that rules love, finances, aesthetics, and beauty is also moving into this serious sign. On a collective level we will be transitioning into a more serious, commitment-oriented time. Power and ambition will seem more appealing. If you are single and looking for a mate during this time, you may be looking for someone with good breeding and an accomplished resume. If you are in a relationship, this is a good time to make long-term plans with your sweetheart; maybe even feeling a renewed sense of commitment. Actually business matters in general are favored. This is a good time to prepare and do tax planning. Speculative ventures and high risk investments are less favored. Our tastes may be more geared towards the classics or even retro-styles during this time. Spending time with the elderly (or folks that are older than yourself) is also favored. It depends where Venus/Capricorn falls within your chart in order to know how this will affect you on a personal level. Venus will transition into quirky Aquarius on 1/18/10.
The Sun in Capricorn will form an uncomfortable square with Saturn in Libra (exact at 6:57pm EST). Remember, this is a planetary transit and its effects will be felt much longer than a Moon transit. Hmmmm, I am sorry this one is occurring on Christmas Day! Saturn’s nickname is the “task master”. People may be in a more serious mood around this time. This can be a time of pessimism, feeling “the blues”, or even loneliness. Try to avoid being overly critical and hard on yourself (or others). It is also possible to clash with someone older than yourself (especially father figures or someone in authority). Remember, that Saturn rules over falls….so be careful if you have to walk on snow or ice! Hopefully, you won’t have a lot to do today….if at all possible, try to take it easy and relax! Then, the Moon in Aries will form a flowing trine with Mars (R) in Leo (exact at 8:00pm EST). Our actions will be in harmony with how we feel. We may crave action around this time or have more energy. People will be inclined to fight for what they believe is right. Lastly, the Sun in Capricorn will form a slightly uncomfortable sesquisquare with Mars (R) in Leo (exact at 10:31pm EST). Remember, all of these are planetary transits and their effects will be felt much longer than a Moon transit. It seems the more we assert ourselves and the harder we try, the more resistance will be felt. The best advice I can give around this transit is, leave your ego at home! There could be aggressive attitudes, competitiveness, ego-centric behavior, arguments, temper tantrums, and quick judgments around this time. There may also be an increase in accidents and/or speeding (please be careful while driving & allow extra time to get to your destination). We may have a lot of extra energy, so make sure it is channeled properly (like with exercise) and playfulness.
(Saturday 12/26/09)- Kwanzaa begins! Today mostly consist of Moon transits. Keep in mind that Lunar transits are shorter in duration than planetary ones. Just after midnight, the Moon in Aries forms an uncomfortable square with Mercury in Capricorn (exact at 12:16am EST) possibly causing miscommunications. You may find that you are not able to express yourself as easily or someone may cut you off from saying something. Overnight, (between 2:12-6:44am EST) the Moon in Aries will form a positive sextile with our super triple conjunction (Chiron, Jupiter, & Neptune). This will stir-up positive and maybe even idealistic feelings. This is a good time to focus on manifesting abundance, spirituality, intuition, and healing. This will start a 9+ hour void-of-course Moon cycle that will last until the Moon transitions into stabile Taurus.
Well it is here, Mercury in Capricorn goes Retrograde (exact at 9:38am EST). Usually Mercury (The God of Communication & Transportation) goes Retrograde for 3 weeks, 3 times per year. 2009 is unusual because it will go Retrograde 4 times this year! This will be the 4th and final time this year. (Retrograde meaning: As all planets orbit around one another, they do so at different rates. Long ago Astronomers/Astrologers believed that the planets seemed to slow down and eventually reverse their orbit. This in fact, is an optical illusion caused by different orbit speeds, when viewed from Earth. This process is called a Retrograde in Astrology. In interpretation it means that the planet is somewhat weakened and the energies are harder to access) We all feel the effects of this influence, but you will feel it more strongly if you are a Mercury-ruled person (Gemini & Virgo), if you have strong Capricorn placements in your chart, or if Mercury was Retrograde when you were born. Astrologically, this causes small things to happen that may be considered to be "bumps in the road". Mercury heavily influences technology (how we stay connected to others). So an example of this could be computers crashing, copiers breaking down or jamming, faxes not transmitting, etc. Communication is another thing affected by Mercury Retrograde. It's a good idea during this time to save fax transmittal sheets, postal receipts, and documenting important conversations. Delays with travel can also occur because of miscommunications or breaking down of equipment. Make sure you confirm all reservations and allow extra travel time. This is not a good time to start anything new or to sign contracts (like getting a loan, buying a house, buying a car, etc). This is a good time to strategize and do your homework on projects that you may be planning.
On the up side (yes, there is an upside) this is an excellent time for the following: re-uniting, re-organizing, re-establishing, re-arranging, re-financing, re-negotiating, etc. Are you noticing a pattern? I personally, look to these 3 weeks as a good time to get filling done, finishing up tasks that I have been putting off, tightening up details, etc. I look forward to this time because it's excellent for re-connecting with people in general. This seems to be a time when people you haven't heard from just call "out of the blue" or you may "randomly" run into someone while out shopping. You can see that in business, this would be an excellent time to follow-up with past customers or clients. Just remember, if you are in a relationship, try to be understanding with your lover if you have a miscommunication.......these things will happen with Mercury Retrograde, it's not the end of the world! Sometimes old flames will try to come back during this time. Which is fine; just remember an ex is an ex for a reason! While Mercury is in Capricorn, the emphasis will be on business, organization, planning, and status. We can all look forward to Mercury going "Direct" again on Friday, January 15th at 11:52am EST.
In the afternoon, the Moon transitions into Taurus (exact at 3:26pm EST). Positive Taurus Moon activities are: focusing on organizing your finances, clipping coupons, decorating, designing, sensuality, cooking & eating luscious foods, organizing your home, massage, singing, and comfort. Try to avoid: laziness, relaxing too much, stubbornness, obstinacy and being too stuck in your ways. These will be the lunar themes over the next 2 & 1/2 days. Things will lighten up when the Moon in Taurus forms a flowing trine with Venus in Capricorn (exact at 6:12pm EST). You could find your thoughts with friends or loved ones. It is possible to receive a compliment on how you look. Love, beauty, art, creativity, and aesthetics will be favored (and because of this reason, shopping too). Pamper yourself! Then, the Moon in Taurus will form a flowing trine to Pluto in Capricorn (exact at 9:08pm EST). This will greatly assist us in processing our emotions and is beneficial for all types of counseling & cathartic experiences. It will be hard to be superficial around this time. Both Taurus & Capricorn are earth signs, so this is a good time for connecting with nature. Lastly, the Moon will form an annoying quincunx with Saturn in Libra (exact at 11:23pm EST). It may be hard to complete everything on our “list” or to get organized. It’s also possible that our emotions could make it hard to work around this time. Luckily, this influence will be short…
Mark your calendars! We end the year with a Full Moon in Cancer, on the same day as a Lunar Eclipse on New Year’s Eve!!
The above transits are often felt collectively but you would need to know where within your chart that they would fall. As always, I am available for a professional astrological reading. I now have a variety of charts to choose from (relationship, life path, time-line, etc). I can do readings in-person or over the phone. Or if you’re not into having a reading I can just supply a chart. Please feel free to contact me for more information! Have a great week! Bye for now……
Peace & Light,
Gretchen A. Hidell, Astrologer
Intuitive Counselor/Gem/Crystal Work
(802)-999-4677
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