Current Planetary Positions:
Please reference the Blog entry on the date the planet went into that sign for an explanation.
Sun: Libra 9/23-10/23, Scorpio 10/23-11/20
Moon: Changes signs (approximately) every 2 ½ days.
Mercury: Scorpio 10/13-11/2, Sagittarius 11/2-1/9/12
Venus: Scorpio 10/8-11/2, Sagittarius 11/2-11/26
Mars: Leo 9/18-11/10, Virgo 11/10-7/4/12
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: 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.
Jupiter Retrograde in Taurus 8/30/11-12/25/11
Uranus Retrograde in Aries 7/9/11-12/10/11
Neptune Retrograde in Pisces 6/3/11-12/10/11
Chiron Retrograde in Pisces 6/8/11-11/10/11
Coming up: Neptune turns Direct on 11/9/11 and
Mercury goes Retrograde in Sagittarius 11/24/11!!
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 (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 10/23/11)- The astrological day starts in the afternoon. Today should be mostly astrologically pleasant. The only possible glitch is in the afternoon when Mars aspects Pluto. This could certainly give us a lot of energy! By the way, happy birthday Scorpios!!
In the afternoon, the Moon in Virgo will form a positive sextile to Mercury in Scorpio (exact at 12:48pm 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. Then, Mars in Leo will form a slightly uncomfortable sesquisquare with Pluto in Capricorn (exact at 1:20pm EST). Remember, this is a planetary transit and its effects will be felt much longer than a Moon transit. This one could bring about lots of physical energy. As with all Mars transits, I recommend doing something physical or exercising around this time (Mars creates energy and it would be best to channel it into positive pursuits). Sexuality can be enhanced around this transit. So what happens when the God of War forms an uncomfortable liaison with the Lord of the Underworld? Don’t push others around this time! It is best to strategize. Actions now will have consequences (good or bad). Try to keep things positive….just remember that Pluto is the great transformer.
Happy Birthday Scorpios! The Sun will shift into the intense sign of Scorpio (exact at 2:30pm EST). Words and phrases to describe Scorpio are: “I Desire”, Fixed/Water, deep, prodding, sexual, secretive, solitary, inquisitive, moody, loyal, spiritual, occult, death/rebirth (Phoenix Rising), mystery, and detective. It is associated with the reproductive organs, bladder, rectum, genitals, bowels, obsessions, and allergies. Metals are iron & steel. 
Stones: Topaz, Opal, Coral, Obsidian, and Topaz. Over the next month the Sun will be under the influence of this intense sign. We have been under the influence of light-hearted, romantic Libra….now it is time to take things to the next step and identify our passions. Scorpios are usually very hard working and take their responsibilities very seriously. They are natural detectives and are usually able to pick up on the undercurrent of a situation. Although secretive themselves, they abhor being lied to and often have trust issues. Over the next month, there may be lots of complexities to be dealt with. On the positive side passion may play a larger role; whether it is a person, project, or creative endeavor. It should be something that you can really sink your teeth into and delve deep. On the negative side jealousies (which is an unhealthy form of passion), secrets, and hidden agendas may be prevalent too. The Scorpio has 3 symbolic associations. The common symbol is the Scorpion. They are known to “sting” you if you tread on their toes and can be vengeful and defensive but will otherwise leave you alone. The second association is the eagle; which is the highest echelon of Scorpio. This is the stage of “rising above”, great strength, respect, and courage. The lowest form is the grey lizard always hiding in the shadows consumed with fear, (negative) psychic power, and depression (this stage is often associated with manipulation, drug/alcohol abuse, sexual deviance, & solitude). Just remember, that lizards can shed their skin and go through a renewal…some Scorpios go through all three phases within one lifetime. It may be hard to keep things light as we prepare for the dark days of winter. When we come out of this time period we will be ready to explore under the Sun’s influence of adventurous Sagittarius (on Nov 22nd). Some famous Scorpios are: Demi Moore, Grace Kelly, Leonardo DiCaprio, Sally Field, Georgia O’Keefe, Bram Stoker, Kevin Kline, Bill Gates, Julia Roberts, Richard Dreyfuss, Dylan McDermott, Hillary Rodham Clinton, Winona Rider, Henry Winkler, Jane Pauley, Jenny McCarthy, K.D. Lang, Pat Buchanan, Matthew McConaughey, Tatum O'Neal, Joni Mitchell, David Schwimmer, Pablo Picasso, Whoopi Goldberg, Prince Charles of Windsor, Danny DeVito, Martin Scorsese, Calvin Klein, Jodie Foster, Larry King, Bo Derek, Bjork, Goldie Hawn, Simon LeBon, John Cleese, Theodore Roosevelt, Ben Harper, Lyle Lovett, Ike Turner, Maria Shriver, Marie Curie, Tonya Harding, Condoleeza Rice, Yanni and Jeff Buckley.
Next, the Moon in Virgo will form a positive sextile with Venus in Scorpio (exact at 4:47pm 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. This will also be the beginning of a LONG 19+ hour void of course cycle that will last until the Moon transitions into peace loving Libra on Monday morning. 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 10/24/11)- This entire morning will be under the influence of the void-of-course Moon cycle that will be occurring in Virgo. Therefore, that will not be an ideal time for new beginnings or starting projects. It will be best to work on completing tasks and finishing up existing business. The majority of the astrological energy will be early morning and the energy may get sluggish in the afternoon.
Overnight, Mercury in Scorpio will form a slightly uncomfortable semisquare with Uranus (R) in Aries (exact at 1:15am EST). Remember, this is a planetary transit and its effects will be felt much longer than a Moon transit. These two planets are sort-of the “live wires” of the zodiac. People with ADD, hyper activity, anxiety, nervous conditions, etc., may have difficulty around this time. We may get ideas or sudden insights, but we may be too scattered to stop and think them through. There is a possibility that you may encounter someone that serves as inspiration. Awakening. There could be sudden changes in our plans, travel snafus, and issues surrounding technology..so just remain flexible. There may be difficulty or disruption with sleep. Then, the Moon in Virgo forms an annoying quincunx with Neptune (R) in Pisces (exact at 8:57am 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. If sleeping around this time, it would be possible to have prophetic or “visitation” dreams. Next, Sun in Scorpio forms a flowing trine with Chiron (R) (the Wounded Healer) in Pisces (exact at 9:36am 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 the Moon will transition into diplomatic Libra (exact at 11:49am EST). Activities that are favorable during a Libra Moon are: fairness, beauty (did I say beauty?), partnerships, joint enterprise, aesthetics, harmony, graciousness, cooperation, justice, peace, and romance. Things to avoid are: indecision, dependence, fickle, and lying (to avoid confrontation). Libras make great judges and counselors because they are often able to see both sides. Its physical associations are: the kidneys, lumbar area of the back, buttocks and adrenal glands. All of these themes will be accentuated during the next 2 ½ days.
In the afternoon, the Moon in Libra forms an annoying quincunx with Chiron (R) in Pisces (exact at 1:06pm EST). Past issues may resurface at this time. It may be hard to forgive & forget around this time. Remember that forgiveness gives you peace within yourself and is not necessarily for the other person. Then, the Moon in Libra will make its monthly opposition to Uranus (R) in Aries (exact at 2:11pm EST). This is not an ideal time to break from the tried and true. Even with the best of intentions to stick with details & organization, an outside event may steer you in a different direction. This could cause disturbed dreams and/or sleep (possibly inspirational or vivid dreams). Next, the Moon in Libra will square intense Pluto in Capricorn (exact at 8:12pm EST) possibly throwing a speed bump in our path. 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. Lastly, the Moon in Libra will quincunx Jupiter (R) in Taurus (exact at 9:06pm 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!
(Tuesday 10/25/11)- I will be doing Astrological Readings at Spirit Dancer today between 3-6pm (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 Scorpio will form an annoying quincunx with Uranus (R) in Aries (exact at 1:59am EST). Remember, this is a planetary transit and its effects will be felt much longer than a Moon transit. Quincunxes often represent a block, obstacle or delay. Either late Monday night or early Tuesday morning, we may receive some unexpected news. It may be difficult to act on this new information. There may also be small glitches with technology or travel. It’s possible that we may just be restless around this time. Just remember that it is difficult to change everything at once, even if we are inclined to! Then, Venus in Scorpio will form a slightly uncomfortable semisquare with powerful Pluto in Capricorn (exact at 9:06am EST). Remember, this is a planetary transit and its effects will be felt much longer than a Moon transit. This one could bring love/passion up close and personal. It could take the form of sexual tension, teasing in the form of flirtation (remember those school days?), jealousy (an unhealthy form of passion), etc. Pluto brings intensity and there is a possibly of obsessing (or being too intense) about love/finances. We may be able to look below the surface and discover things about ourselves, others, or even our finances that we may have over-looked or not noticed previously. If the energies are harnessed properly, there could be true transformation in these areas.
Later in the evening, the Moon in Libra will form a positive sextile with Mars in Leo (exact at 9:51pm 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! Lastly, the Moon forms its monthly conjunction with Saturn both in Libra (exact at 10:04pm EST). This is an all work no play transit. Best to concentrate on: work, organization, BALANCE, joint enterprises, goal setting, and details. This would also be an ideal time to start a new health or exercise regime. Build foundations in relationships. Sometimes this can give us a feeling of loneliness or isolation (or even the blues).
(Wednesday 10/26/11)- I am available for private Astrological/Life Coaching sessions between 2-7pm today; please call or e-mail me to schedule an appointment!
There will be a lot of planetary and Lunar activity today. This is a good time to remind you that planetary transits are longer in duration than Lunar transits. I'm going to take some liberties with this blog entry and only cover the planetary transits since there are so many of them. Mars will aspect two planets today Venus and Saturn. This could be a great day to commit to long-term goals, relationships, or projects. We will certainly have the energy! Enhancing that energy will be the new Moon in the sign of Scorpio.
In the morning, Mars in Leo will positively sextile Saturn in Libra (exact at 5:37am EST). Remember, this is a planetary transit and its effects will be felt much longer than a Moon transit. Sextiles are usually associated with opportunity, but may take some effort to have it come to fruition. Mars wants to go, go, go and Saturn’s approach is slow & steady. Mars will give us the energy, but be prepared to be in it for the long haul. Try to be patient and take your time with handling the details; it will be worth the effort! Put your energy towards planning, family/domestic pursuits, finances, organization and goal setting. This is a good time to get things done! Then, the Moon in Libra will form a flowing trine to Neptune (R) in Pisces (exact at 8:18am 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. This will also be the beginning of a 2+ hour void of course cycle that will last until the Moon transitions into passionate Scorpio (exact at 11:08am 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.
In the afternoon, Mercury in Scorpio will form a slightly uncomfortable semisquare with intense Pluto in Capricorn (exact at 3:26pm EST). Remember, this is a planetary transit and its effects will be felt much longer than a Moon transit. It may be harder to access deeper thoughts around this time. This is actually a better time for superficial activities. Keep things light! Not a good time to do research or to “dig below the surface”. Verbal sparring or debates could end in disastrous results because others won’t want to back down. 
Just go with the flow right now. Just after, the height of the New Moon in the sign of Scorpio will occur (exact at 3:56pm EST). The New Moon is considered to be beneficial for new ideas, new projects, and manifesting. All of the Scorpio Moon themes will be highlighted/amplified. I personally like to do space clearing and meditating during this time. The New Moon is always accompanied by a conjunction with the Sun (also in Scorpio). This usually makes us feel connected & supported by loved ones with emphasis on relationships. It’s easier to talk about our emotions during this transit. It depends on where the Moon/Sun/Scorpio is located in your chart in order to know how it will affect you on a personal level. Then, Venus in Scorpio will form an uncomfortable square with Mars in Leo (exact at 6:23pm EST). Remember, this is a planetary transit and its effects will be felt much longer than a Moon transit. This transit may bring some tension (especially with love, family, & finances). However, we may have a drive to be social around this time. We will want to act on our feelings. Just make sure you look before you leap. 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. Sometimes this will bring up sexual tension. Hmmmmm?!? We will conclude the day when the Moon in Scorpio forms a positive sextile to Pluto and also opposes Jupiter roughly at the same time (exact that 7:45pm EST). There could be some intensity around this time especially when it pertains to groups of people. It would be best to stay in tonight and enjoy limited company!
(Thursday 10/27/11)- I am available for phone or Skype Astrological/Life Coaching sessions between 2-7pm today; please call or e-mail me to schedule an appointment!
Today will be a much lighter astrological day compared to yesterday or even compared to tomorrow. The majority of the day will be under the influence of the Scorpio moon. Keep in mind that lunar transits are shorter in duration than planetary transits. We will certainly be feeling the planetary onslaught that will be taking place tomorrow… The start of the astrological day begins much later in the evening when the Moon will conjunct Mercury both in Scorpio (exact at 10:08pm 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. Just after, the Moon in Scorpio will form an uncomfortable square with Mars in Leo (exact at 10:56pm 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.
(Friday 10/28/11)- I am available for private Astrological/Life Coaching sessions between 2-7pm today; please call or e-mail me to schedule an appointment!
Today will consist of a lot of cosmic energy; in fact, it may be the busiest astrological day this week. For today, I'm going to skip the Lunar transits since they will surely be out shadowed by the planetary transits. Jupiter will form a positive trine with Pluto. This transit alone is an important one but now the Sun will get involved and aspect these two planets as well. This will be a very positive time for working on manifestation and fortuitous endeavors.
In the morning, the Moon in Scorpio forms an uncomfortable square with Neptune (R) in Pisces (exact at 7:49am) 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. This will be the start of a short 2+ hour long void-of-course Moon cycle that will and when the Moon transitions into adventurous Sagittarius (exact at 10:45am 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, Mercury in Scorpio will form an uncomfortable square with Mars in Leo (exact at 11:08am EST). Remember, this is a planetary transit and its effects will be felt much longer than a Moon transit. Think before you speak! We may have difficulty putting our thoughts/ideas into action. This may cause us to feel restless (attention those with hyperactivity, ADD or ADHD). Children (and adults) may be irritable. There can be issues with mechanical failures, travel plans, arguments, technology, communication, etc. This transit may affect relationships and domestic fronts the most. Remember, if someone doesn’t understand what you are saying, don’t push the issue (wait until another day). Try not to let the morning routine breakdown…allow enough time to get ready this morning!
In the afternoon, Jupiter (R) in Taurus will form a positive trine with Pluto in Capricorn (exact at 12:29pm EST). Remember, this is a planetary transit and its effects will be felt much longer than a Moon transit. (The effect of this may be felt up to a week.) 
Power in beliefs! Now is the time to have faith and inspire others. There can be a lot of power in words…especially if you are selling something. You may find yourself being very influential. Travel and international dealings will be favored. Be honest in your dealings, otherwise you may get “called out”. This is not a good time for underhanded tactics. In fact, if there has been something going on under the surface, now is a great time to bring it out into the daylight. This could be a good time for financial dealings (only again, keep it honest….otherwise you could be facing a very big, public, downfall). This is a good time to ask yourself…What are my beliefs? Am I open minded? Did I base my opinions on what someone else said/wrote? Is there another way to look at my position? Of course, the downside to all of this is that we could encounter fanatical beliefs, opinions, or religious convictions around this time. As with all Pluto transits, great transformation can take place…so harness these energies for the positive! Then, the Sun in Scorpio will form its yearly opposition with Jupiter (R) in Taurus (exact at 9:42pm EST). Remember, this is a planetary transit and its effects will be felt much longer than a Moon transit. Usually, oppositions can be stressful. This one however, could have us feeling a little too confident and/or optimistic. It is possible to over-promise or over-commit. Remember that it is OK to say NO! Try to avoid compulsive shopping, as we may feel inclined to buy big-ticket items. We could encounter a show-off or someone that opposes our plans or beliefs. Although we may want to be around others at this time, try to work independently instead. The opposition could come from children or friends. Again this one could make us feel rather sunny….so enjoy, just don’t over-do it! Lastly, the Sun in Scorpio will form a positive sextile with intense Pluto in Capricorn (exact at 11:11pm). Remember, all of these are planetary transits and their effects will be felt much longer than a Moon transit. This is a time where we may 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. Our business “sense” may be sharp and we may be shrewder with our money.
(Saturday 10/29/11)- I will be doing Astrological Readings at Spirit Dancer today between 2:00-5:30pm (I take my last reading at 5:00pm). 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.
There won't be many astrological transits today. That may be a good thing since yesterday was so jam-packed! The majority of the day will be under the spell of the Sagittarius Moon. We will certainly still be feeling the effects of yesterday's planetary onslaught. The one and only transit will take place later when; the Moon in Sagittarius will form a positive sextile to Saturn in Libra (exact at 11:18pm 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.
Mark your calendars! Next Wednesday (11/2) both Venus and Mercury will transition into the sign of Sagittarius.
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 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
Master NLP (Neuro-Linguistic Practitioner) Hypnotherapy Life Coach
Ordained Minister & Certified Spiritual Healer (Inter-Faith)
#(802)-999-4677
