Please reference the Blog entry on the date the planet went into that sign for an explanation.
Sun: Taurus 4/20-5/21
Moon: Changes signs (approximately) every 2 ½ days.
Mercury: Aries 3/9-5/15
Venus: Aries 4/21-5/15
Mars: Aries 4/2-5/11, Taurus 5/11-6/20
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 8/4/11-2/3/12
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.
Saturn Retrograde in Libra 1/26/11-6/12/11
Pluto Retrograde in Capricorn 4/9/11-9/16/11
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 5/8/11)- Happy Mother’s Day!
A woman has two smiles that an angel might envy - the smile that accepts a lover before words are uttered, and the smile that lights on the first born babe, and assures it of a mother's love. ~Thomas C Haliburton
I will be honest, I wish there were better alignments happening for Mother’s Day. On one hand the Moon will be in Cancer which does personify motherhood and maternal drives. However she (the moon) will be squaring 3 planets today possibly bringing out her shadow side. Oversensitivity, grudges, and unhealthy nostalgia (like dwelling in the past) all could rear their ugly heads around this time. We do set off the day on the right foot when the Moon in Cancer will positively sextiles the Sun in Taurus (exact at 7:00am 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?
In the afternoon, the Moon in Cancer will square Venus in Aries (exact at 1:52pm 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 Cancer forms an uncomfortable square with Mercury in Aries (exact at 2:10pm 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, the Moon in Cancer will form an uncomfortable square with Jupiter in Aries (exact at 7:04pm 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. Lastly, the Sun in Taurus forms a slightly uncomfortable semisquare with Uranus in Aries (exact at 9:14pm EST). Remember, this is a planetary transit and its effects will be felt much longer than a Moon transit. 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. Emotions are just under the surface.
(Monday 5/9/11)- Today through Wednesday there will be a lovely triple conjunction between Mercury, Venus and Jupiter all in Aries. This will be a very pleasant influence indeed. Use your words to evoke feelings of romance and creativity…this is the stuff that poetry is made from! It would be helpful for you to know where Aries is located in your chart in order to know how this influence will affect you on a personal level.
Overnight, the Moon in Cancer will form an uncomfortable square with Mars in Aries (exact at 2:52am 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. This will begin a 2+ hour void-of-course Moon cycle that will last until into proud Leo. 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 Moon transitions into proud Leo (exact 5:35am 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 in Pisces (exact at 6:57am 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, it would be possible to have prophetic or “visitation” dreams. In the late morning, the Moon in Leo will form a flowing trine with Uranus in Aries (exact at 11:10am 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. Just after, Mercury will form its yearly conjunction with Venus both in Aries (exact at 11:14am EST). Remember, this is a planetary transit and its effects will be felt much longer than a Moon transit. We may have love on the mind and want to talk about it! Hobbies, artistic, and social endeavors are favored. It may be possible to have a money-making idea (or opportunity); take the time to write it down before you forget! If you’re single, you will be drawn to an intelligent & witty person. If you are in a relationship, have fun laughing with your partner (maybe watch a comedy or go to a show)! You know what they say; your brain is the biggest sex organ!
In the afternoon, the Moon in Leo forms an annoying quincunx with Chiron in Pisces (exact at 2:36pm 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 Leo will make an annoying quincunx with powerful Pluto (R) in Capricorn (exact at 6:33pm 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).
(Tuesday 5/10/11)- 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 will consist of all Moon transits. Keep in mind that Lunar transits are shorter in duration than planetary transits. Remember we are still under the influence of that triple conjunction between Mercury, Venus & Jupiter (see Monday & Wednesday entries). Overnight, the Moon in Leo will form a positive sextile to Saturn (R) in Libra (exact at 1:46am 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.
Later, the Sun in Taurus will form an uncomfortable square with the Moon in Leo (exact at 4:33pm EST). We may experience some tension between friends or loved ones. This won’t be conducive to feeling very supported. Sometimes this transit brings (minor) squabbles. Lastly, the Moon will begin to highlight the triple conjunction when the Moon in Leo makes a flowing trine to Mercury in Aries (exact at 11:48pm 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.
(Wednesday 5/11/11)- Today is a very busy astrological day. Remember we are still under the influence of that triple conjunction between Mercury, Venus & Jupiter (see Monday & Tuesdays entries). Just after, the Moon in Leo forms a flowing trine with Venus in Aries (exact at 12:07am EST). You could find your thoughts with friends or loved ones. It is possible to receive a compliment on how you look. Love, beauty, art, creativity, and aesthetics will be favored (and because of this reason, shopping too). Pamper yourself! Then, the Moon in Leo makes a flowing trine with Jupiter in Aries (exact at 12:52am 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 start a long 9+ hour void-of-course Moon cycle that will last until tomorrow when the Moon transitions into perfectionist Virgo…
Mars in now moving into the sign of Taurus (exact at 3:03am EST). There are now a total of 5 planets in the sign of Pisces! Mars is an action-oriented planet and is often associated with physicality, sex drive, who we are sexually attracted to, and ego. 
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, neck, throat, lower jaw, and thyroid gland. The metal is Copper and Stones are: 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). We have been moving at a fast pace lately because there were 5 planets in Aries. This will begin to shift as the planets transition into Taurus (the Sun is also in this sign). Mars rules over our actions, and Taurus is asking us to slow down and be methodical. 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! This is an ideal time to be out in nature and/or to do gardening. It will certainly help to burn off some calories because we may be inclined to overeat or over-indulge with rich foods around this time. This is a great time to make a budget and to work on building foundations. We will have the fortitude to finish some of the things that we started when the planets were in Aries! Taurus do have a strong romantic streak and often have strong earthy libidos to match. If you are in the market for a romantic partner, you may find people that are steady and stable to be sexy. It depends where Mars/Taurus falls within your chart in order to know how this will affect you on a personal level. Mars will transition into Gemini on 6/20/2011.
Then, the Moon transitions into perfectionist Virgo (exact at 9:59am). Good Virgo Moon activities are: organization, being detail-oriented, service to others, health improvement, intellectual pursuits, practicality, research, and really anything that requires precision. Things to avoid are: being overly perfectionistic, excessive worry, analysis paralysis, criticism, and being too caught up in the details that we can’t see the forest through the trees. All of these themes will be prominent in the next 2 1/2 days. Just after, the Moon in Virgo forms a flowing trine with Mars in Taurus (exact at 10:22am 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. Just after, Venus will conjunct lucky Jupiter both in Aries (exact at 10:42am EST). Remember, all of these are planetary transits and their effects will be felt much longer than a Moon transit. This is one of the most beneficial transits; make sure you utilize its energy! This will be beneficial for group gatherings and social events. If I were a betting woman (which I am); this would be a good time to buy a lottery ticket. (Sorry, but I am not responsible for any losses nor am I condoning gambling-LOL). Venus transits also encourage us to: get outside & be close to nature, beauty, music, and the arts. This is also a great time for publishing, law/legal matters, religious pursuits, large animals (especially horses), marketing, and sales. Next, the Moon in Virgo will form its monthly opposition with Neptune in Pisces (exact at 11:19am EST) causing our imagination/creativity to soar. I wouldn’t make a big decision around this time. Especially since this will also enhance escapism (people with drug or alcohol issues will have trouble around this transit).
In the afternoon, the Moon in Virgo forms an annoying quincunx with Uranus in Aries (exact at 3:27pm 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. Just after, Mercury will form a powerful conjunction Jupiter both in the sign of Aries (exact at 3:57pm EST). Remember, this is a planetary transit and its effects will be felt much longer than a Moon transit. We will feel opulent, jovial, and downright bubbly. For all you students out there, this would be an excellent time to square away questions about financing and/or higher education. This could also be a favorable day for legal issues. The potential to overdo it, is an understatement. Jupiter helps us to over-spend. Next, the Moon in Virgo forms a stressful opposition with Chiron in Pisces (exact at 6:39pm 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! Lastly, the Moon in Virgo will form a flowing trine to Pluto (R) in Capricorn (exact at 10:14pm 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 Virgo & Capricorn are earth signs, so this is a good time for gardening or connecting with nature.
(Thursday 5/12/11)- Early in the morning a confusing liaison occurs between Mars & Neptune. Mars in Taurus will form a positive sextiles with nebulous Neptune in Pisces (exact at 4:28am EST). Remember, this is a planetary transit and its effects will be felt much longer than a Moon transit. This would be an ideal time to focus your energy on creative and artistic endeavors. The energies of these two planets don’t normally blend easily. Mars is about fire and passion, and Neptune is water and emotion...but blending them is exactly what is called for! Dancing, yoga, meditation, swimming, boating (in fact all water sports) are also recommended around this time.
In the evening, the Sun in Taurus will form a beautiful trine to the Moon in Virgo (exact at 10:52pm 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! This will start a long 12+ hour void-of-course Moon cycle that will last until tomorrow when the Moon transitions into diplomatic Libra…
(Friday 5/13/11)- I will be honest, today might be a little rough and not because it is Friday the 13th! Aside from the Sun/Pluto transit, today will consist of all Moon transits. All 7 Lunar transits are difficult; in fact 6 out of the 7 are quincunxes. Quincunxes often present as obstacles or delays and there may be a day full of them! (Keep in mind that Lunar transits are shorter in duration than planetary transits.) This is not a great time to start something new. Work on grounding and lots and lots of patience!
Overnight, the Sun in Taurus will make a slightly awkward sesquisquare with intense Pluto (R) in Capricorn (exact at 3:34am EST). Remember, this is a planetary transit and its 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 but everyone around us wants to keep it superficial. Power struggles are possible (especially with children), so pick and choose your battles! On a positive note, we may be feeling passionate & sexy around this time! Next, the Moon in Virgo will quincunx Jupiter in Aries (exact at 4:01am 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 Virgo will form an annoying quincunx to Mercury in Aries (exact at 6:37am 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? Next, the Moon in Virgo will form an annoying quincunx with Venus in Aries (exact at 7:03am 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. The Moon will transition into diplomatic Libra (exact at 11:56am 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 Neptune in Pisces (exact at 1:16pm 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. Then, the Moon in Libra makes an annoying quincunx to Mars in Taurus (exact at 3:00pm 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. Next, the Moon in Libra will make its monthly opposition to Uranus in Aries (exact at 5:20pm 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. Lastly, the Moon in Libra will square intense Pluto (R) in Capricorn (exact at 11:41pm 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.
(Saturday 5/14/11)- 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 will consist of all Moon transits. Keep in mind that Lunar transits are shorter in duration than planetary transits. In the early morning, the Moon forms its monthly conjunction with Saturn (R) both in Libra (exact at 6:06am 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).
In the evening, the Moon in Libra forms an uncomfortable square with Chiron in Pisces (exact at 8:22pm 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!).
Mark your calendars! Next week: Tues (5/17) Full Moon in Scorpio, and Sat (5/21) the Sun moves into Gemini.
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 (Neuro-Linguistic Practitioner) Hypnotherapy Life Coach
Non-Denominational Ordained Minister & Spiritual Healer
(802)-999-4677
