Current Planetary Positions:
Please reference the Blog entry on the date the planet went into that sign for an explanation.
Sun: Aries 3/20-4/20, Taurus 4/20-5/21
Moon: Changes signs (approximately) every 2 ½ days.
Mercury: Aries 3/9-5/15
Venus: Pisces 3/27-4/21, Aries 4/21-5/15
Mars: Aries 4/2-5/11
Jupiter: Aries 1/22-6/4
Saturn: Libra 7/21/10-10/6/12
Uranus: Aries 3/11/11-5/16/2018
Neptune: Pisces 4/4/11-8/4/11, Aquarius 8/411-2/3/12
Pluto: Capricorn until 1/20/24
Chiron: Pisces 2/8/11-4/18/2018
Current Retrograde Planets:
Please reference the Blog entry on the date the planet went Retrograde for an explanation.
Mercury Retrograde in Aries 3/30-4/23
Saturn Retrograde in Libra 1/26/11-6/12/11
Pluto Retrograde in Capricorn 4/9-9/16
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 (or longer). 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 4/17/11)- Palm Sunday. I was actually reading another astrologer’s take on today’s energy. That person was stating that because the Full-Moon will be in peace loving Libra that today’s energy would be easy. While that may be true for some, I would have to respectfully disagree. The Full Moon will be triggering 5 Lunar oppositions with all of the planets in Aries currently. This can trigger a stress response. We do need balance right now (because 5 planets are in Aries). Try to spend some time in nature this weekend and ground yourself!
Overnight, the Moon in Libra makes its monthly opposition with Mercury (R) in Aries (exact at 1:49am EST). You may find that you are not able to express yourself as easily or someone may cut you off from saying something. It will be hard to put your thoughts into words. This is a time where someone may oppose your thoughts or feelings. The key is to integrate the two (thoughts & emotions), although it may not be easy. Next, the Moon in Libra makes a stressful opposition with Jupiter in Aries (exact at 9:05am EST). Sometimes this can zap our self-confidence. Conversely, we could also feel a little too confident and over state our abilities (possibly over promising). Just remember you won’t always feel this way and there are only so many hours in a day….it is OK to say no!
Later, the Moon in Libra will form an annoying quincunx with Venus in Pisces (exact at 8:16pm EST) possibly causing a monkey wrench in the love department. It could be that the object of our affections is somewhat inaccessible around time…. unfortunately the same could be true with our finances too! Double-check your bank account before making a big purchase. Then, Jupiter in Aries forms a slightly uncomfortable semisquare with Chiron (the “Wounded Healer”) in Pisces (exact at 10:12pm EST). Spirituality, intuition, foreign travel/cultures, healing arts (especially alternative), and dream work, are all areas that will be highlighted today. Mentors, guides, and teachers can come into our lives now, although we could receive a lesson in an uncomfortable way. This transit could “trigger” international interest and especially past wounds that need to be healed. This is an ideal time to meditate and send out healing thoughts/prayers to our fellow brothers & sisters in Japan. Tonight, we will experience the height of the Full Moon in Libra (exact at 10:44pm EST). The Full Moon that takes place in April is often called the 
Full Pink Moon, Sprouting Grass Moon, the Egg Moon, and the Fish Moon. The height of the Full Moon is always signified by the opposition of the Sun (currently in Aries). Do you have faith in yourself and your abilities or do you defer to someone else? Are you comfortable being alone or do you always need someone else around? Which is more important to you; keeping your independence or being in a relationship and functioning as a unit? Do you have to give up your idea of self in order to be in a relationship or is it possible to marry (pardon the pun) the two? These questions/themes will be highlighted now. It depends where the Moon/Libra & Sun/Aries falls within your chart in order to know how this will affect you on a personal level. Full Moons astrologically are considered to be a time of culmination or endings. I personally like to take this time to meditate and send out prayers for family, friends, and humanity. The key word for Libra is BALANCE. Make BALANCE the focus for today. Libra’s herbs & flowers are: geranium, chamomile, eucalyptus, fennel, dill, vanilla, & roses. By simply adding some of these elements to your day either by drinking tea, burning essential oils, adding to your salad, etc. will help your balance to be restored. Take a quiet moment to reflect on this during the day. This will also be the beginning of a 3+ hour void of course cycle that will last until the Moon transitions into passionate Scorpio Moon. 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.
(Monday 4/18/11)- Overnight, the Moon will transition into intense Scorpio (exact at 2:19am EST). Favorable Scorpio Moon activities are: anything related to research, occult, detective work, self-discovery, digging below the surface (both figural & literal), passion, mysteries, secrets, etc. Things that are not favored or exacerbated during the Moon in Scorpio are: jealousy, anger, intensity, and surgery (it can delay healing time). These will be themes over the next 2 ½ days. Then, the Moon in Scorpio will form a flowing trine to Neptune in Pisces (exact at 2:54am EST) causing our imagination/creativity to soar. This transit is also beneficial for daydreaming, idealism, intuition, romance, music, poetry, abstract ideas, mysticism, etc. It is possible to be more charming (or to meet charming people) around this transit. (I wouldn’t make a big decision around this time). If you are sleeping while this event occurs, it may be possible to have prophetic or “visitation” dreams around this time. Next, the Moon in Scorpio forms an annoying quincunx with Uranus in Aries (exact at 5:38am EST). This is a time where someone around you may challenge tradition. You may also want to buck the system. An unexpected event or surprise could catch you off-guard. Lastly, the Moon in Scorpio will form a flowing trine with Chiron (the “Wounded Healer”) in Pisces (exact at 9:05am EST). You may be presented with an opportunity to heal or to be healed. Holistic and alternative medicine is especially favored. Serendipitous moments abound!
In the afternoon, Mars in Aries forms a stressful opposition with Saturn (R) in Libra (exact at 12:02pm EST). Remember, this is a planetary transit and its effects will be felt much longer than a Moon transit. Mars wants to go, go, go and Saturn’s approach is slow & steady. These planets don’t have the same energy, and that is the problem. Mars will give us the energy, but be prepared to be in it for the long haul. Put your energy towards organization and goal setting. If the Universe throws you speed bumps around this time, try not to react with anger and simply handle it with grace. This could affect relationships and highlight when two partners have different drives. Then, the Moon in Scorpio will make a supportive sextile to Pluto (R) in Capricorn (exact at 2:14pm EST). This will be a favorable time to look below the surface and have in-depth conversations or counseling. This is a time that we could be feeling passionate or intense. This transit will amplify the Scorpio Lunar traits. Next, the Moon in Scorpio makes an annoying quincunx to Mars in Aries (exact at 11:16pm 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.
(Tuesday 4/19/11)- I will be doing Astrological Readings at Spirit Dancer today between 3-6pm **Please note the time change** (I take my last reading at 5:30pm). This is a great opportunity to get an introductory reading from me at a discount-$30 ½ hr. 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. The store’s number is 802-660-8060.
Passover Begins. Just after midnight, the Moon in Scorpio will form an annoying quincunx to Mercury (R) in Aries (exact at 12:07am EST) possibly causing blocks in communication. It may be nearly impossible to express ourselves. You ever had a time that you couldn’t put your thoughts into words? Then, the Moon in Scorpio will quincunx Jupiter in Aries (exact at 9:43am EST). This is a time where you could feel disconnected from the group. Someone could challenge your beliefs around this time. Our optimism or self-confidence may be a little low. This is not a time to rely on luck. Don’t worry, this will be temporary! Next, Mercury (R) conjuncts Mars both in the sign of Aries (exact at 10:58am EST). Remember, this is a planetary transit and its effects will be felt much longer than a Moon transit. This transit will be beneficial for mental agility, technical skills, hand/eye coordination, quickness, fast-talking, debating, and even possibly speeding…don’t get a ticket! This is a good time to put your thoughts into action! Write out a list…and start crossing things off! This will give us pep in our step! The down-side to this transit is to watch what you say transit. You may find yourself or others expressing themselves in a passionate or aggressive manner (like “foot in mouth” type of stuff). This is a time when words could just fly out of your mouth! Technically both Mercury & Mars are opposing Saturn causing miscommunications and travel delays are also possible. The remainder of the day will be under the influence of the Scorpio Moon…
(Wednesday 4/20/11)- Today will consist of five Moon transits; two out of the five will be positive. Things will lighten after the Moon transitions into Sagittarius.
After midnight, the Moon in Scorpio forms a flowing trine with Venus in Pisces (exact at 12:53am 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). This will also be the beginning of a 2 hour void of course cycle that will last until the Moon transitions into adventurous Sagittarius. Then, the Moon in Scorpio will form an annoying quincunx with the Sun in Aries (exact at 2:35pm EST). It may be hard to feel supported around this time. Accomplishments may go unrecognized. It is possible to clash with someone younger than yourself (like a parent child relationship). The Moon transitions into adventurous Sagittarius (exact at 2:50am EST). It is said in Astrology that the Lunar transition between Scorpio and Sagittarius is the most stressful of all the Moon transition. So use caution around this time and allow for (minor) setbacks. Activities that are favored during Moon in Sagittarius are: sports, horseback riding, outdoors/nature, spiritual aspirations, higher consciousness, honesty/bluntness, law/legal, higher learning, education, travel (especially international), and getting out to meet people. It is best to avoid taking too strong of a stance and not being open to others opinions, as people will usually defend their beliefs rigorously at this time. These themes will be prevalent for the next 2 ½ days. Then, the Moon in Scorpio forms an uncomfortable square with Neptune in Pisces (exact at 3:31am) telling us to not believe everything we are told. Illusion, escapism and deception will be prevalent. On the positive side, creativity will be high around this transit. If you are sleeping while this event occurs, it may be possible to have prophetic or “visitation” dreams.
Happy Birthday Taurus!! The Sun moves into earthy Taurus (exact at 6:17am EST). Words and phrases to describe Taurus are: 
“I Have!”, Fixed/Earthy, reliability, stubbornness, possessions, determination, slow and steady progress, possessiveness, (sometimes) laziness but usually hard-working, pleasure, tactile, good/rich food, aesthetics, physical, sensual, and prosperous. Its physical associations are the ears, throat, lower jaw, neck, and thyroid gland. The metal is Copper. Stones: Emerald, Sapphire, Amber, Rose Quartz, Turquoise, and Azurite. We are moving away from a time of bold, impetuous behavior (Aries) and moving into a time where we will be more thorough and steady (Taurus). Over the next month we should be concentrating on spending time finishing all of the projects that we started when the Sun was in Aries. Not to mention, Mercury is still Retrograde right now. The ruling planet of Taurus is Venus and is associated with beauty and luxury. Taurus’ tend to work hard and play hard. This sign is associated with rich food, luscious fabrics, and comfortable lifestyles. Yes, Taurus’ have a need to look good, but aren’t ones to wear itchy sweaters or tight shoes…they need to feel good too! Taurus is also associated with wealth and material possessions. Not that all Taurus’ are wealthy, but they usually have a good degree of knowing how to budget and to stretch the dollar. Now is a good time to get your finances in order and to determine what possessions you value. You know the rule, if you haven’t touched it in one year; it’s time to donate it to the Good Will! I can’t write about Taurus and not mention the notorious trait that this sign has…stubbornness! Over the next month try to avoid opposition, “just because”. Make sure you pick and choose your battles. Discern what is important to you and let go of the rest. Some famous Taurus are: George Clooney, Jay Leno, Renee Zellweger, Salvador Dali, Stevie Wonder, Carol Burnett, Florence Nightingale, Billy Joel, Shirley MacLaine, Al Pacino, Willie Nelson, Stevie Wonder, Bono, Cher, James Brown, Sigmund Freud, Pierce Brosnan, Debra Winger, Robert Browning, David Beckham, Chow Yun-Fat, Jack Nicholson, Daniel Day-Lewis, William Shakespeare, Janet Jackson, Jerry Seinfeld, Uma Thurman, Katherine Hepburn, Kelly Clarkson, Dennis Rodman, Cate Blanchett, George Lucas. Barbra Streisand, Fred Astaire, Pope John Paul II, and Charles Mingus. The Sun will remain in Taurus until May 21st when it will transition into Gemini.
Just after, the Moon in Sagittarius will form a flowing trine with Uranus in Aries (exact at 6:29am EST) helping us to step up to the plate and do the right thing, even though it may be somewhat unconventional. We could get sudden revelations or ideas, so write them down! Technology (like computers), inventing, New Age ideologies, and friendships are favored around this transit. The Moon in Sagittarius forms an uncomfortable square with Chiron in Pisces (exact at 10:05am EST). Past issues may resurface at this time. It may be possible to run into someone that will tell you how to do something (even if they have never done it themselves….annoying!).
In the late afternoon, Sun in Taurus will form a positive sextile with nebulous Neptune in Pisces (exact at 4:43pm EST). Remember, this is a planetary transit and its effects will be felt much longer than a Moon transit. All aspects of music, film, arts, creativity, abstract thought, dreaminess, intuition, escapism, and idealism will be highlighted. This is a good time to follow your gut feelings, as intuition will be high. We might be more introspective and contemplative. Serendipitous moments abound! Being near water may be soothing and regenerative. We may suddenly feel attracted (romantically) to a friend or a friendship could become a more spiritual connection.
(Thursday 4/21/11)- Exactly at midnight, the Moon in Sagittarius will form a positive sextile to Saturn (R) in Libra (exact at 12:00pm EST). Time to tap into our inner discipline, goal setting, organization and attention to details. We may want to make long term plans in our close relationships.
VENUS MOVES INTO ARIES…
Then, the Moon in Sagittarius makes a flowing trine to Mercury (R) in Aries (exact at 12:53am EST). This transit will assist us to express how we feel. It will be much easier to speak with friends and loved ones during this time. We may have an urge to be social around this transit and it is highly beneficial for all kinds of relationships. Then, the Moon in Sagittarius forms a flowing trine with Mars in Aries (exact at 3:48am 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.
In the afternoon, the Moon in Sagittarius makes a flowing trine with Jupiter in Aries (exact at 12:57pm EST) helping us to feel optimistic and/or lucky. This is an ideal time to be with friends or to work with groups of people. It is also beneficial for spirituality/religion, higher education, horses, law/legal matters, advertising, sales, and publishing. This will also be the beginning of a long 17+ hour void of course cycle that will last until the Moon transitions into hardworking Capricorn tomorrow morning….
(Friday 4/22/11)- Earth Day & Good Friday. Today may be intense with 3 planets aspecting Pluto. On the positive side, this will be beneficial for processing deep psychological thoughts and feelings. On the negative side we could hear of terrorist activities and subversive tactics. Either way things could be interesting!! Wow, this week has been wild!
Just after midnight, Mars in Aries will form a slightly uncomfortable semisquare with nebulous Neptune in Pisces (exact at 12:05am EST). Remember, this is a planetary transit and its effects will be felt much longer than a Moon transit. The energies of these two planets don’t normally blend easily. Mars is about fire and passion. Neptune is water and emotion. But blending them is exactly what is called for! Dancing, yoga, Tia Chi, meditation, boating (in fact all water sports) are recommended around this time. We may feel fuzzy, dreamy, sluggish or unmotivated around this time. It’s best to focus on inspiration and creativity. Then, the Moon transitions into hardworking Capricorn (at 6:24am EST). Themes that will be prevalent over the next 2 ½ days are: business endeavors, work, goal setting, drive, public ambition, and tradition. Try to avoid: workaholic tendencies, coldness, and using people for personal gain. Next, the Moon in Capricorn forms a positive sextile to Neptune in Pisces (exact at 7:14am EST) causing our imagination/creativity to soar. This transit is also beneficial for daydreaming, idealism, intuition, romance, music, poetry, abstract ideas, mysticism, etc. It is possible to be more charming around this transit. Anyone have rose-colored glasses? Then, the Moon in Capricorn will square Venus in Aries (exact at 9:25am 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. Pamper yourself! Just after, Sun in Taurus will form a beautiful trine to the Moon in Capricorn (exact at 10:11am EST). This is beneficial for all kinds of relationships (especially with children) and assists in making us feel loved and supported. This is also an ideal time to be close to pets or nature. Very pleasant indeed! Then, the Moon in Capricorn uncomfortably squares Uranus in Aries (exact at 10:33am EST). This is a time where someone around you may challenge tradition. You may also want to buck the system. An unexpected event or surprise could catch you off-guard. It is possible to experience issues with technology or mechanical issues.
In the afternoon, the Moon in Capricorn forms a positive sextile with (the “Wounded Healer”) Chiron in Pisces (exact at 2:23pm EST). You may be presented with an opportunity to heal or to be healed. Holistic and alternative medicine is especially favored. Serendipitous moments abound! Then, the Moon in will be making its monthly conjunction with Pluto (R) in Capricorn (exact at 7:51pm EST) adding emotional intensity to the mix. This may help with insights pertaining to business and financial endeavors. Helping to “pick up” on the undercurrent of a situation. This is also beneficial for therapy, cathartic experiences, passion, and ferreting out secrets. Lastly, Venus will form its annual conjunction with Uranus in Aries (exact at 10:28pm EST). Remember, all of these are planetary transits and their effects will be felt much longer than a Moon transit. Routine is so boring! Desire for independence and freedom. Looking for your muse? If you are single and looking for someone that is different from the usual types, then go out tonight! You might be up for anything that is progressive and new. Strange and unusual artwork or music may catch your attention. If you are in a relationship, take a break from your rut. Do something exciting with your partner! On the negative side, you could experience an unexpected revelation about your romantic partner or they may do something that seems very out of character. We are more inclined to be fickle around this transit and will feel a strong pull toward being independent. You could also have a “surprise” financially; this could mean that you unexpectedly got a bonus OR are overdrawn on your checking account!
(Saturday 4/23/11)- Today will consist of Moon transits. Keep in mind that Lunar transits are shorter in duration than planetary transits. In the very early morning, the Moon in Capricorn will form an uncomfortable square with Saturn (R) in Libra (exact at 4:56am 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 is better to work on organization around this time. Next, the Moon in Capricorn forms an uncomfortable square with Mercury in Aries (exact at 5:47am 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. Then, Mercury in Aries turns Direct today (exact at 6:04am EST)!! The temporary period of time that miscommunications and travel snafus run amuck, is now over. Unfortunately, it can take several days for Mercury to start traveling in a forward direction (it is Stationary right now), but this is certainly a step in the right direction! Hopefully you used the last three weeks to review and reevaluate what is working and what is not. Toward next week we should feel the cloud of confusion lift as we begin a new Mercurial Phase! In 2011 Mercury will be going Retrograde for three cycles, highlighting all the Fire signs (Aries, Leo, & Sagittarius).
In the afternoon, the Moon in Capricorn will form an uncomfortable square with Mars in Aries (exact at 12:42pm EST). As with all Mars transits, I recommend doing something physical or exercising around this time (gardening, housework, working on the car, etc. all count!). Sexuality can be enhanced around this transit. Did you ever have a moment where circumstances seem like they are conspiring against you? Often, this transit results in a culmination of things that can be annoying. Sometimes small irritations or quarrels can result. Lastly, the Moon in Capricorn will form an uncomfortable square with Jupiter in Aries (exact at 8:13pm EST). Someone could challenge your beliefs at this time. It’s possible that you could find out someone within your group has been acting behind your back or is at odds with the greater good. Dealings with groups of people or legal matters are unfavorable around this time. This will also be the beginning of a long 18+ hour void of course cycle that will last until tomorrow afternoon when the Moon transitions into unique Aquarius…
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, over the phone, or via Skype. 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, Reiki Master, Gem/Crystal Work
NLP (Neuro-Linguistic Practitioner) Hypnotherapy Life Coach
Ordained Minister & Certified Spiritual Healer (Non-Denomination)
#(802)-999-4677
