I am very excited to announce that I have found a new place to do private Astrology Readings, Reiki, Life Coaching, and Hypnosis!! I will be available on Wednesdays and Fridays between 2-7 PM. Please call me for an appointment, as I will not be taking walk-ins. It is located at 65 Pearl St. in lovely downtown Burlington VT (it is a dark red brick building). There is metered street parking and across the street behind the restaurant Bove’s there are also metered parking spaces. To celebrate this I will be offering a 20% DISCOUNT on all my private Astrology Readings during the month of July!!! Please feel free to call me with questions or to book an appointment. #802-999-4677. (Spirit Dancer is not included in this special)
Current Planetary Positions:
Please reference the Blog entry on the date the planet went into that sign for an explanation.
Sun: Cancer 6/21-7/23
Moon: Changes signs (approximately) every 2 ½ days.
Mercury: Cancer 6/16-7/2, Leo 7/2-7/28
Venus: Gemini 6/9-7/4, Cancer 7/4-7/28
Mars: Gemini 6/20-8/3
Jupiter: Taurus 6/4/11-6/12/12
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 8/4/11-2/3/12
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.
Pluto Retrograde in Capricorn 4/9/11-9/16/11
Neptune Retrograde in Pisces 6/3/11-12/10/11
Chiron Retrograde in Pisces 6/8/11-11/10/11
Coming up Uranus turns Retrograde 7/9/11!
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 6/26/11)- The Sun will form a tense square with Uranus today. Whenever Uranus is involved, you have to expect the unexpected. They call Uranus the “Great Awakener” and with good cause. Tomorrow Mars will aspect the same planet therefore doubling the effects. Overnight, the Moon will form its monthly conjunction with Jupiter both in Taurus (exact at 1:07am EST) assisting us in feeling optimistic and upbeat. This is an ideal time to work with groups of people. It also highlights/benefits: travel (especially long distance), other cultures, higher education, law, publishing, advertising, sales, horses, and spirituality. Then, the Moon in Taurus will positively sextile the Sun in Cancer (exact at 1:29am EST). This is an ideal time to be with friends & loved ones. This transit is conducive for feeling supported. Maybe it’s time to do something nice for your sweetheart? Next, the Moon in Taurus forms a positive sextile with Chiron (R) (the “Wounded Healer”) in Pisces (exact at 3:33am 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 Taurus will form a flowing trine to Pluto (R) in Capricorn (exact at 5:22am 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 gardening or connecting with nature. Just after, the Sun in Cancer will form an uncomfortable square with Uranus in Aries (exact at 6:13am EST). Remember, this is a planetary transit and its effects will be felt much longer than a Moon transit. Time to expect the unexpected! In the early morning, we may experience some obstacles with communication or receive unexpected news. It may be difficult to act on this new information. There may also be small glitches with technology or travel. We could experience a block or feel uninspired. It is also possible to have trouble with someone older or in authority around this transit.
In the afternoon, the Moon in Taurus will form an annoying quincunx with Saturn in Libra (exact at 2:00pm 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. Then, Mercury in Cancer will form a slightly uncomfortable sesquisquare with Chiron (R) “Wounded Healer” in Pisces (exact at 3:00pm EST). Remember, this is a planetary transit and its effects will be felt much longer than a Moon transit. Past memories may come flooding in around this time. Reminiscing? Forgiveness (or the need to forgive) often accompanies this transit. This can increase sensitivity, so please choose your words carefully.
(Monday 6/27/11)- OK, this is the good news and the bad news. Today may be the best day astrologically this week. I guess it's good because we will be starting off the week on the right foot at least. However, Mars will be aspecting Uranus which could bring about unexpected or even frazzled energies. Watch out for crazy drivers and erratic behavior. This will be continuing yesterday's Uranus energies when the Sun aspected the same planet. In the early morning hours, the Sun in Cancer forms a flowing trine with Chiron (R) (the Wounded Healer) in Pisces (exact at 3:08am EST). Remember, this is a planetary transit and its effects will be felt much longer than a Moon transit. This is a great time to heal past hurts (especially with siblings and friends). We will be feeling positive about the future. Even if you have been feeling down lately, there will be a light at the end of the tunnel. Then, Mars in Gemini will form a positive sextile with Uranus in Aries (exact at 6:26am EST). Remember, this is a planetary transit and its effects will be felt much longer than a Moon transit. This will help us to break out of our rut and even do something that may be somewhat unconventional. Technology (like computers), inventing, innovation, New Aged ideologies, and friendships are favored around this transit. Even though the height of this will occur while we are sleeping, it will still be felt most of the day. This one will increase energy, so parents out there try to be patient with the kids! Pay attention to dreams tonight also, since some startling revelations may occur.
In the afternoon, the Moon in Taurus will form a positive sextile to Mercury in Cancer (exact at 12:24pm 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. This will also be the beginning of a long 15+ hour void of course cycle that will last until the Moon transitions into the chatty Gemini Moon tomorrow. 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.
The remainder of the day will be under the influence of the (void-of-course) Taurus Moon…
(Tuesday 6/28/11)- 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.
Overnight, the Sun in Cancer will oppose transformative Pluto (R) in Capricorn (exact at 1:19am EST). Remember, this is a planetary transit and its effects will be felt much longer than a Moon transit. Power, power, power…did I say power? This one will draw power struggles to us like a magnet. If someone wants to fight, don’t bite…just walk away. They can’t fight with themselves! I would avoid heavy discussions, confrontations, especially if you know things could get heated. During this transit it is possible we will hear a lot about violence on the news (possibly related to nuclear topics). It may be hard to balance family and work obligations. There may be a boss (or someone in authority) that is making things difficult right now. On the up side, this transit could cause heightened passion. Then, the Moon transitions into chatty Gemini (exact at 3:56am EST). Good Gemini Moon activities are: communication (including talking, emailing, faxing, writing, etc), working with your hands, interaction with others (especially siblings and teachers), learning something new, diversified interests, mental agility, inquisitiveness, travel, and reading. Things to avoid are: fickleness, information overload, starting too many things & not being able to finish them, hyper activity, talking too much, and indecisiveness. These are all themes that will last the next 2 ½ days. Next, the Moon in Gemini forms an uncomfortable square with Neptune (R) in Pisces (exact at 5:24am) 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 around this time. Then, Mars in Gemini will form an uncomfortable square with (the Wounded Healer) Chiron (R) in Pisces (exact at 9:26am EST). Remember, this is a planetary transit and its effects will be felt much longer than a Moon transit. This will be certain to bring up old wounds and memories and our 1st emotion may be anger. However, Mars provides us with the tools to act and make things better. It would be best to face these situations directly (yet with tact) and just deal with them once and for all. The rewards will outweigh any uncertainty.
In the afternoon, the Moon will go onto highlight the Mars/Uranus/Chiron/Pluto transits. Ah, fun stuff! In the afternoon, the Moon in Gemini will form a positive sextile with Uranus in Aries (exact at 12:35pm 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. Then, the Moon in Gemini forms an uncomfortable square with Chiron (R) in Pisces (exact at 2:06pm 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!). Next, the Moon will form its monthly conjunction with Mars both in Gemini (exact at 2:22pm EST). As with most Mars transits, I usually will recommend some form of physical exercise (yes, that includes gardening, working on the car, housework, etc.). This can increase physical vitality & health (and passion too). It is important to properly channel the excess energy; otherwise arguments and nitpicking could result. Lastly, the Moon in Gemini will make an annoying quincunx with powerful Pluto (R) in Capricorn (exact at 3:47pm EST). Certainly this can bring up jealousy issues, power struggles, hidden fears, and obsessions. It is best to keep things a little superficial. This transit could cause frustrations on blending work and family time (especially if you have children).
(Wednesday 6/29/11)- Today seems like a light astrological day, but don't be fooled as there will be a difficult transit later this afternoon. Any time that Mars’ is energy is blocked, especially by Pluto, we are just asking for planetary trouble. Just after midnight, the Moon in Gemini will make a flowing trine to Saturn in Libra (exact at 12:16am EST). This is a great time for organization, house cleaning, filing, recycling, and being disciplined. This is also beneficial for starting a diet or health regimen (like quitting smoking). Sometimes others will ask for help around this transit, but it won’t be burdensome, we will be happy to assist!
In the afternoon, Mars in Gemini will form an annoying quincunx with Pluto (R) in Capricorn (exact at 2:47pm EST). Remember, this is a planetary transit and its effects will be felt much longer than a Moon transit. Quincunxes usually will manifest in the form of a block or obstacle. Keep things light! Outside influences could affect you and you may need to change how you react to it. Adjustment (on your part) may be needed to come out on the winning end of the situation. Anger or aggression may be prevalent around this time (remember what I always say about Mars energy?). Now is not the time for big actions or reactions. Keep it subdued (if possible).
(Thursday 6/30/11)- Today will consist of all Moon transits. Remember, that Lunar transits are shorter in duration than planetary transits. Overnight, the Moon will conjunct Venus both in Gemini (exact at 3:33am EST). We will want to experience love on a visceral level. This is a great time to: pamper ourselves, decorate, shop (because we will have an “eye” for things that look good), artistic endeavors, creativity, and be in the company of loved ones. Sometimes this transit can have us feeling a little indolent; it is actually a favored time for finances. This will start a long void-of-course Moon cycle that will last until the Moon transitions into sensitive Cancer.
In the afternoon, the Moon transitions into sensitive Cancer (exact at 12:13pm EST). Good Cancer Moon activities are: anything to do with home and family, cooking, maternal/mothering, being emotional, crafts, sensitivity, empathy, finances, savings, and care-taking. Things to avoid are: holding grudges, feeling slighted (possibly with little or no cause), over sensitivity, emotional eating, stubbornness, and being grumpy. All of these themes will be highlighted over the next 2 ½ days…. Then, the Moon in Cancer will form a flowing trine to Neptune (R) in Pisces (exact at 1:33pm 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). Next, the Moon in Cancer uncomfortably squares Uranus in Aries (exact at 8:28pm 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. Just after, the Moon in Cancer makes a positive sextile with Jupiter in Taurus (exact at 9:11pm EST) helping us to feel optimistic and/or lucky. This is an ideal time to be with friends or to work with a group of people. It is also beneficial for spirituality/religion, higher or continuing education, horses, law/legal matters, advertising, sales, and publishing. Next, the Moon in Cancer will form a flowing trine with (the “Wounded Healer”) Chiron (R) in Pisces (exact at 9:47pm EST). You may be presented with an opportunity to heal or to be healed. Holistic and alternative medicine is especially favored. Serendipitous moments abound! Lastly, the Moon in Cancer will form its monthly opposition to Pluto (R) in Capricorn (exact at 11:21pm EST). This can signify a (short) period of intensity. Someone could challenge you in an area where you are sensitive. Another possibility is that you may spend too much time analyzing instead of acting. Avoid underhanded tactics because someone will be more apt to notice.
(Friday 7/1/11)- This is my first day!! I am very excited to announce that I have found a new place to do private Astrology Readings, Reiki, Life Coaching, and Hypnosis!! I will be available on Wednesdays and Fridays between 2-7 PM. Please call me for an appointment, as I will not be taking walk-ins. It is located at 65 Pearl St. in lovely downtown Burlington VT (it is a dark red brick building). There is metered street parking and across the street behind the restaurant Bove’s there are also metered parking spaces. To celebrate this I will be a 20% DISCOUNT on all my private Astrology Readings during the month of July!!! Please feel free to call me with questions or to book an appointment. #802-999-4677.
New Moon in Cancer and Partial Solar Eclipse (exact at 4:54am EST). This is a minor eclipse and unfortunately we will not be able to see it in the United States. In fact, you would need to live in Antarctica in order to view it from Earth. Let me clarify, I did say minor eclipse, and while that is true, that is only part of the story. In fact, I think this could be one of the most significant eclipses that we have this year. I don't know if news is astrologically-based or intuitively based but I have been worried about this eclipse for some time. As you know if you read my blog regularly you know I'm not an alarmist, but this eclipse is surrounded with some negative planetary energies. Of course, solar eclipses are always accompanied by the New Moon and the New Moon and the Sun are currently in Cancer. Since the Moon is the natural ruler of Cancer this Eclipse could be particularly potent. Throughout history eclipses have always been subject to lore and mystique. This eclipse is sandwiched in between two very significant astrological transits; the Sun opposed Pluto and Sun square Saturn. One of the last times the Sun aspected these two planets, was when the “underwear bomber" struck on Christmas Day in 2009.
How to avoid the negative side of this solar eclipse? Since Cancerian energy is going to be prominent, it is a good time to take a walk down memory lane (Cancers love to reminisce about the good old days). Unfortunately, this also means that they can really hold onto a grudge, so try to let go of unhealthy patterns (keep it positive). Maybe reorganize family photos and certainly take time to honor/remember our ancestors. Finances may also be affected around this time. Home, domestic, and maternal relationships will be highlighted. Cancer also rules the stomach area. It would be a good time to eat fish, violet colored foods (like grapes), and greens. Try to avoid yeast (like breads and sorry, beer). Cancers usually love to cook (and eat) so go ahead and have that BBQ! Herbs/flowers/scents that are favored are jasmine, magnolia, chamomile, lemon, rose, and carnation. Lastly, take time to honor nature and its cycles by getting outside or bring in some fresh cut flowers. New Moons are considered to be a favorable time to start new projects. This is a good time to write down your monthly goals as well. On a personal level, Eclipses often trigger transformation (that can last up to 3-6 months). It depends what area of your chart that the Cancer/Sun/Moon falls in as to how it will affect you. Just after, the New Moon in Cancer will form an uncomfortable square with Saturn in Libra (exact at 7:37am 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. This will start a LONG void-of-course Moon cycle that will last until tomorrow when the Moon transitions into proud Leo.
The remainder of the astrological day will be under the influence of the New Moon and Solar Eclipse in Cancer…
(Saturday 7/2/11)- 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.
Today may take on a bit of a fuzzy quality, especially since two planets will be aspecting Neptune. On top of that the Sun will have a contentious liaison with Saturn which could be difficult. This may include power struggles with authority figures and having to deal with straight out obstinance. Mercury will be transitioning into the sign of Leo which could have a soaring like a lion (careful with that, others may not appreciate it). Luckily, Jupiter will form a positive interaction with Chiron which could smooth things over. Fingers are crossed!
Mercury (The God of Communication & Transportation) will transition into the proud sign of Leo (exact at 1:38am EST). It only spent two short weeks in Cancer. Words and phrases to describe Leo are: “I Will!”, Fixed/Fire, warm, kind, generous, actor/theater, drama, loyal, domineering, proud, dignified, egocentric, creative, gambler/speculation, honest, noble, love children (especially their own), and games. A lot of “larger than life” people are Leos. It is common for actors and performers to be Leo or have heavy Leo in their chart (Leo needs recognition-I believe that is why). Areas of the body associated with Leo are the heart, gall bladder, & spine. Leo’s metal is Gold. Stones: Ruby, Onyx, Carnelian, Golden Topaz, and Tourmaline. We are moving out of the time of indirect communication (Cancer) and into a time of dramatic expressions (Leo). Leo's tend to be very entrepreneurial and self starting, this would be a very good time if you were in business for yourself. Even if you're not in business for yourself it would be a very good time to add flair to your work-style that you wouldn't normally have. Thoughts may surround children around this time. There may also be an emphasis on theater, concerts, shows and entertainment. Certainly, there could also be drama-don’t get sucked into it, if it is not yours! Leo does everything big, so it is possible to have big dreams or grandiose ideas (which isn’t necessarily a bad thing) just make sure there is follow through. All of these themes will be emphasized over the next 3+ weeks when Mercury transitions into detail oriented Virgo on 7/28/11. Please remember that Mercury is going Retrograde this year in all of the fire signs. So be prepared for Mercury to go Retrograde in Virgo/Leo in the beginning of August. Tried to confirm all of your travel plans now so there aren't any mix ups or delays.
Later in the morning, Mercury in Leo will for an annoying quincunx nebulous Neptune (R) in Pisces (exact at 11:43am EST). Remember, this is a planetary transit and its effects will be felt much longer than a Moon transit. Be very careful (especially) with business dealings today. If it sounds too good to be true, then it probably is! Review all fine print closely and if possible put off signing any contracts. We will want to idealize people/situations around this time. To put it bluntly, we could be more susceptible to manipulation or someone fibbing to get their way. We may want to get lost in our thoughts. Our imagination may be working overtime. This will give our day a dreamy quality.
In the afternoon, Jupiter in Taurus forms a positive sextile with Chiron (R) (the “Wounded Healer”) in Pisces (exact at 2:12pm EST). Remember, this is a planetary transit and its effects will be felt much longer than a Moon transit. In astrology sextiles often present opportunity but may take some effort on your part to come to fruition. This is a time that real healing can take place. Spirituality, intuition, music, foreign travel/cultures, healing arts (especially alternative), and dream work are all areas that will be highlighted. Mentors, guides, and teachers can come into our lives now. This is an ideal time to meditate and send out healing thoughts/prayers to our fellow brothers & sisters. This is also a good time to get involved with humanitarian efforts, social, or charity work. The Moon will transition into Leo (exact at 5:43pm EST). Good activities to do when the Moon is in Leo are: anything to do with performing or theater, seeing a show, dressing up & looking nice, managing, feeling proud, entrepreneurial endeavors, gambling, playing games, routing for the underdog and taking care of children. Things to avoid are being too bossy, acting egotistical, and going over the top. All of these themes will be highlighted over the next 2 ½ days. Then, the Moon in Leo forms an annoying quincunx with Neptune (R) in Pisces (exact at 6:56pm EST). Neptune’s influence can cause us to be fuzzy and idealistic. It is therefore, not an ideal time to make bold moves and big decisions. It is possible that we may have trouble accessing our intuition around this time. Next, the Moon will conjunct Mercury both in Leo (exact at 7:55pm EST) assisting with communication, short distance travel and feeling supported by others. It will be very easy to express feelings and emotions around this time. This is a great time to write (like journaling) or to express emotions. Lastly, the Sun in Cancer will form an uncomfortable square with Saturn in Libra (exact at 8:17pm EST). Remember, this is a planetary transit and its effects will be felt much longer than a Moon transit. 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! Hopefully, you won’t have a lot to do today….if at all possible, try to take it easy and relax!
Mark your calendars! Monday Venus moves into Cancer (7/4), and Uranus turns Retrograde on Saturday (7/9).
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, Skype, 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
NLP Hypnotherapy Life Coach
Ordained Minister (Non-Denominational) & Certified Spiritual Healer
(802)-999-4677
