Please reference the Blog entry on the date the planet went into that sign for an explanation.
Sun: Leo 7/22-8/22
Moon: Changes signs (approximately) every 2 ½ days.
Mercury: Virgo 7/27-10/3
Venus: Libra 8/6-9/8
Mars: Libra 7/29-9/14
Jupiter: Aries 6/6-9/9
Saturn: Libra 7/21/10-10/6/12
Uranus: Aries 5/27-8/13, Pisces 8/13
Neptune: Aquarius until 4/4/11
Pluto: Capricorn until 1/20/24
Chiron: Aquarius until 2/8/11
Current Retrograde Planets:
Please reference the Blog entry on the date the planet went Retrograde for an explanation.
Jupiter in Aries Retrograde 7/23/10-11/18/10
Uranus in Aries Retrograde 7/5/10-12/5/10
Neptune in Aquarius Retrograde 5/31/10-11/7/10
Pluto in Capricorn Retrograde 4/6/10-9/13/10
Chiron in Pisces Retrograde 6/4/10-11/6/10
Coming up: Mercury Retrograde from 8/20-9/12
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 8/15/10)- Today will consist of 2 Moon transits very early in the day. Keep in mind that Lunar transits are shorter in duration than planetary transits. After midnight, the Moon in Scorpio will quincunx Jupiter (R) in Aries (exact at 12:50am 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! Then, the Moon in Scorpio will make a supportive sextile to Pluto (R) in Capricorn (exact at 1:36am 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 will amplify the Scorpio Lunar traits.
(Monday 8/16/10)- Early in the morning, the Moon in Scorpio will form a positive sextile to Mercury in Virgo (exact at 4:10am 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.
In the afternoon, the Sun in Leo will form an uncomfortable square with the Moon in Scorpio (exact at 2:14pm EST). So, toward the early morning 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. 
Then, Jupiter (R) in Aries will form a stressful opposition with Saturn in Libra (exact at 4:45pm EST). Remember, this is a planetary transit and its effects will be felt much longer than a Moon transit. These are the two giants of our solar system, and they aren’t on the same page right now. This is also a big planetary event that is tying into the larger “Cardinal Climax”, which also involves the Saturn/Uranus opposition and the Saturn/Pluto square. The height of this event will occur three times: 5/23/10, today, and March 29th 2011. This cycle occurs every 20 years. The last time this event occurred was 1989-1991 (it actually came to exactitude 5 times during that period). Expansion and contraction! Optimism and pessimism! Radical and traditional! Feel like you are being pulled in two directions? You are not alone! Jupiter is optimism and the future and Saturn is the past, foundations, & long term goals. I think that the tearing down of the Berlin Wall was a great example of what can occur during this phase. We may hear about issues pertaining to banking/finance, housing/construction, foreign affairs/policies, justice/law, teaching and education around this time (more than the usual). Like the last time this event took place and the student democratic revolution in China occurred resulting in the Tiananmen Square killings. It will be very difficult to do goal setting right now or to have forward motion. Use positive thinking and keep a smile on your face if a few speed bumps appear right now. Any delays may be fortuitous. This opposition will bring about change. If you are the type of person that is flexible and rolls with changes, then this period won’t be as traumatic as it would be if you have the opposite personality traits. Keep your sights set on the large picture (Jupiter) but Saturn will remind you not to forget the details either. We will be working toward BALANCE…especially as we approach the opposition in for the 3rd time in 2011. Mark your calendar the next time this event occurs will be March 29th 2011.
In the evening, the Moon in Scorpio forms an uncomfortable square with Neptune (R) in Aquarius (exact at 8:48pm) 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. Lastly, the Moon in Scorpio forms an uncomfortable square with Chiron (R) in Aquarius (exact at 11:14pm EST). Past issues may resurface at this time. If you are sleeping while this occurs, you may dream about the past. 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!
(Tuesday 8/17/10)- I will be doing Astrological Readings at Spirit Dancer today between 2-5pm (I take my last reading at 5pm). This is a great opportunity to get an introductory reading from me at a discount. 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.
In the morning, the Moon in Scorpio will form a flowing trine with Uranus (R) in Aries (exact at 1:24am EST) helping us to step up to the plate and do the right thing, even though it may be somewhat unconventional. We could get a sudden revelation or idea, so write them down! Technology (like computers), inventing, New Age ideologies, and friendships are favored around this transit. This will also be the beginning of a very short void of course cycle that will last until the Moon transitions into adventurous Sagittarius (exact at 1:34am 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 Sagittarius makes a flowing trine with Jupiter (R) in Aries (exact at 5:59am 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. Just after, the Moon in Sagittarius will form a positive sextile to Saturn in Libra (exact at 6:10am 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.
The Moon in Sagittarius will form a positive sextile with Venus in Libra (exact at 9:56pm EST). 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. Finally, the Moon in Sagittarius will form a positive sextile with Mars in Libra (exact at 11:42pm EST). As with all Mars transits, I recommend doing something physical or exercising around this time (the energy will need a constructive outlet). Sexuality can be enhanced around this transit. Our feelings will be in alignment with how we act. Make sure to put your actions toward positive pursuits!
(Wednesday 8/18/10)- The astrological day starts in the afternoon when, the Moon in Sagittarius forms an uncomfortable square with Mercury in Virgo (exact at 12:50pm 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, Mars in Libra will form a slightly uncomfortable sesquisquare with nebulous Neptune (R) in Aquarius (exact at 3:52pm 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, 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.
Thursday (8/19/10)- I am happy to announce that I will be doing Astrology Readings once monthly at “Your Authentic Self” Day Spa & Wellness Center starting today between 4-7pm. They are located at 4366 Main Street in Waitsfield, VT. The shop’s number is #802-496-DSPA (3772), this is by appointment only. Link: http://www.yourauthenticself.org
Today will have 7 Moon transits and 1 planetary transit. Busy, busy! The Moon will be (negatively) aspecting the Cardinal T-Square, so there could be tension. Go with the flow! Try and stay grounded because there will be a lot of planetary/Lunar activity over the next 3 days!
In the early morning, the Sun in Leo will form a beautiful trine to the Moon in Sagittarius (exact at 2:57am 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 Sagittarius forms a positive sextile to Neptune (R) in Aquarius (exact at 5:06am 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? If you are sleeping while this event occurs, it may be possible to have prophetic or “visitation” dreams around this time. Then, Venus in Libra will form a slightly uncomfortable sesquisquare with Neptune (R) in Aquarius (exact at 7:15am EST). Remember, this is a planetary transit and its effects will be felt much longer than a Moon transit. Idealism, love, & escapism all rolled up into one big rose-colored package! It is possible to meet charming people (or to be charming ourselves) around this time so, wait until another day before serious declarations of love or before signing on the dotted line! Creativity, music, art, films, etc. will be favored. It is possible this could make us a little dreamy, sleepy, or fuzzy around this time. Then, the Moon in Sagittarius forms a (minor) positive sextile with (the “Wounded Healer”) Chiron (R) in Aquarius (exact at 7:35am EST). You may be presented with an opportunity to heal or to be healed. Holistic and alternative medicine is especially favored. Serendipitous moments abound! After that, the Moon in Sagittarius uncomfortably squares Uranus (R) in Aries (exact at 9:58am 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. This will also be the beginning of a short void of course cycle that will last until the Moon transitions into adventurous Capricorn (exact at 10:17am 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 will form an uncomfortable square with Jupiter (R) in Aries (exact at 2:35pm 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. Then, right after that the Moon in Capricorn will form an uncomfortable square with Saturn in Libra (exact at 3:39pm 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. Lastly, the Moon in will be making its monthly conjunction with Pluto (R) in Capricorn (exact at 4:02pm 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. Wow!
(Friday 8/20/10)- Today will consist mostly of 3 Moon transits and 4 planetary transits. Keep in mind that Lunar transits are shorter in duration than planetary transits. Also the planet Mercury will turn Retrograde. The will be a lot of cosmic energy in the 2nd half of the day. Folks that are sensitive to planetary energy may have trouble sleeping or will have a very active dream state tonight. I will say one of my favorite transits is occurring when Venus & Mars have their yearly liaison (love & passion)!
In the morning, the Sun in Leo will form its annual opposition with nebulous Neptune (R) in Aquarius (exact at 6:07am EST). Remember, this is a planetary transit and its effects will be felt much longer than a Moon transit. Neptune can zap some of the Sun’s vitality. This may be a morning that you might want to sleep late (if at all possible). We may feel dreamier or even a little fuzzy around this time. Unfortunately the “dark” side of Neptune involves illusion, delusion, and deception. People with escapism or addictive tendencies may have trouble around this time. It would be best to stick with creativity or creative pursuits today.
In the afternoon, the Moon will aspect the Venus/Mars conjunct. The Moon in Capricorn will square Venus in Libra (exact at 12:45pm 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. Just after, the Moon in Capricorn will form an uncomfortable square with Mars in Libra (exact at 12:49pm 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. Next, Mars sesquisquares Chiron (the wounded healer) (R) in Aquarius (exact at 1:04pm EST). Remember, this is a planetary transit and its effects will be felt much longer than a Moon transit. If channeled in a positive way, this could present a very real opportunity to heal old wounds. However, we may be so wrapped up in our own busyness that we hardly take the time to pay attention. This would be a disservice to your emotional well being, as these opportunities really present themselves. The short-term pain that may be experienced will just be part of the healing process. Then, Venus in Libra will form an uncomfortable sesquisquare with Chiron (R) in Aquarius (exact at 1:37pm EST). Remember, all of these are planetary transits and their effects will be felt much longer than a Moon transit. This could bring up past pains & past loves. Use this time to heal old relationship wounds. Things get better when the passionate conjunction between Venus and Mars both in Libra will occur (exact at 2:49pm EST). Remember, this is a planetary transit and its effects will be felt much longer than a Moon transit. Wow, Venus the sign of love meets up with the planet Mars that influences physicality and sexuality! Needless to say we may be feeling friskier around this time! We will enjoy being social, so get out and enjoy the day! We will want to act on our feelings around this time. I always advise doing some sort of physical activity whenever Mars is involved because Mars’ energy will want to get out one way or another. This is also a good time to look within and find your “hearts desire” whether that be a person, vocation, hobby or otherwise. This transit will be active for most of the weekend into Monday.
Well it is here, Mercury in Virgo turns Retrograde (exact at 3:59pm EST). Usually Mercury (The God of Communication & Transportation) goes Retrograde for 3 weeks, 3 times per year. 2009-2010 are unusual because it will go Retrograde 4 times this year! We actually started 2010 with Mercury Retrograde. (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 Virgo 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, cell phone issues, 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). If you absolutely need to sign something important during this phase, take the time to re-read the document and pay attention to the fine print. 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 had a friend jokingly say that she was going to re-lax in her re-cliner with a glass of re-d wine!) 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. This is fine; just remember an ex is an ex for a reason! While Mercury is in Virgo, the emphasis will be on details, perfectionism, organization, micro-managing, service to others, practicality, criticism, and health (particularly the intestines & digestive system). We can all look forward to Mercury going "Direct" again on Sunday Sept 12th at 7:09pm EST. (Remember the planets don’t just stop and change direction with 100% speed, we will feel the effects lingering of this a few days before the start of Retrograde and after it turns Direct again).
Lastly, the Moon in Capricorn makes a flowing trine to Mercury (R) in Virgo (exact at 11:46pm 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.
(Saturday 8/21/10)- I will be doing Astrological Readings at Spirit Dancer today between 2-5pm (I take my last reading at 5pm). This is a great opportunity to get an introductory reading from me at a discount. 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.
We start the day with a difficult and life altering transit. This one has been going on for a while and it is a part of the bigger Cardinal-T Square. It will continue until 12/2010. Today it will be at its height when Saturn in Libra will form a tense square with Pluto (R) in Capricorn (exact at 6:16am EST). Remember, this is a planetary transit and its effects will be felt much longer than a Moon transit. These are very slow-moving, outer planets. Some people will hardly feel this and others will experience it strongly. It is most likely to be felt on a collective level. A great key phrase to describe this transit would be Replacing Antiquated Structures. Certainly, this has been a time of great change for many. I feel that the tarot card association would be The Tower. Sometimes we build walls around us in a desperate attempt to keep ourselves protected. This can be an illusion..and worse yet, a prison. Tear down and rebuild. If this process is initiated by outside forces, then obviously it could be painful. If something is just not working in your life, this is a good reminder to take matters in your own hands and not to wait until it is out of your control. Just like when the Sun highlighted this transit on Christmas Day (the “Underwear Bomber”), this can bring up terrorist activity or nuclear activity/threats (Pluto). Again, this less-than-ideal lesson was supposed to help us find new ways to do things (Saturn).
The Moon in Scorpio will form an annoying quincunx with the Sun in Gemini (exact at 7:11pm 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). Lastly, the Moon will form a positive sextile with Uranus (R) in Pisces (exact at 9:08pm EST) helping us to break out of our rut and even do something that may be somewhat unconventional. Technology (like computers), inventing, New Aged ideologies, and friendships are favored around this transit. This could cause disturbed dreams and/or sleep (possibly inspirational or vivid dreams). This will also start a very short void-of-course Moon cycle that will last until the Moon transitions into unique Aquarius (exact at 9:37pm EST). Activities that are favored during Moon in Aquarius are: social endeavors, friendship, technology, humanitarian efforts, politics, inventing, and New Age ideologies. Things to avoid: are getting too caught up in the greater good and masses that you forget the individual & their feelings, and being overly fixed in your own unique way of doing things that you can’t consider someone else’s good ideas.
Mark your calendars! The Sun will move into Virgo on Mon 8/23 and there will be a Full Moon in Pisces on Tues 8/24.
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, Reiki Master, Gem & Crystal Work
(802)-999-4677
DreamHomes@GretchenRealtor.net
