Jupiter in Cancer Trine Saturn in Scorpio, May 24th - Persistence of Vision

Jupiter's tarot association as seen by Kris Waldherr
for her "Goddess Tarot"© perfectly represents
this trine's energy

Two of our trine partners from earlier this month are still in partnership.  What does a trine (two or more planets in an aspect of 120 degrees to one another) without Chiron’s tender mercies look like?  Pretty darn awesome, actually.  Trines are lucky and Jupiter, the planet of luck, is at its mojo-making best in the sign of Cancer. Jupiter governs not only luck and expansion, but health, happiness, wealth and worldly goods as well.  Our spotted giant has two faces: One, fun and frivolous, the other thoughtful and philosophical. On one hand Jupiter’s energy enjoys loud cocktail parties and on the other, good red wine enjoyed over intense cafe conversation. Jupiter is either a free-wheeling traveler, or a much more reserved student of the human condition.

Saturn has a more dour nature.  The ringed wonder aims to teach us personal responsibility, diligence and a sound work ethic.  Saturn loves us to rise to the occasion and this planet carries a stern and more restrictive flavor than jovial Jupiter.  Currently residing in Scorpio, Saturn produces powerful energy waves for transforming our lives.  The view from Scorpio's eighth house shows us motivations, ours as well as other people’s, with greater clarity.  Remember the old PT Barnum adage, “You can’t fool all the people all of the time?”  That’s part of Saturn in Scorpio.  Our blinders are off and we have a strong sense of engagement and commitment  – a persistence of vision that means long after the visual is gone, its retinal image continues in our mind’s eye, guiding us forward to embrace change and destiny.  Pretty heady stuff, but here’s coolest part.  There’s little to no dredging up of old wounds with this trine.  It’s not required.

Jupiter in Cancer loves to give us unexpected gifts.  The only

Here's a reminder from Corrine Kenner and
John J. Blumen's "Wizard's Tarot"© that
Saturn says, "Be persistent and diligent."

exchange it asks is that we use the gifts given.  What sort of gifts?  That’s where Jupiter’s expansion comes in.  Doors once closed to you miraculously spring open and Jupiter expects you to walk through.  When you find yourself in the right place at the right time Jupiter wants you to seize that opportunity.  Know that it belongs to you as a gift and all that’s required is that you accept it put it to good use.  If you don’t, Jupiter has no qualms about taking it back.  Jupiter in Cancer is notoriously good with money.  Work with it.  Make plans, but also make some first steps.  The Universe moves to clear your path once it perceives that you are heading toward a specific goal with intention. However, to engage universal assistance you must act.  All the energy in the cosmos isn’t going to do you any good unless you put it to use, no matter how small, or halting your first steps are. Work with tarot’s Wand energy.  Use Saturday’s trine to create a better life for yourself and others and above all else, entertain the magical.

LADY ORACLE

Full Moon in Scorpio, May 14, 2014 – “Fair Exchange”

Scorpio's card, shown here from "Legacy of the
Divine Tarot" by Ciro Marchetti

May’s Full Flower Moon occurs on May 14th at 12:16 p.m. PDT.  This month’s Full Moon is also known as the Corn Planting Moon, or the Milk Moon.  Traditionally, the energy released by a scorpion Full Moon is intense, emotional and makes us all just a tad bit judgmental – more so if you have are either a Scorpio or have full Moon in Scorpio in your birth chart.  However, this month we have some significant contributing factors to this energy model – Jupiter, Saturn, Chiron and Pluto.  

Pluto, one of Scorpio’s two ruling planets (also Mars) is currently in retrograde. (See blog: "Pluto Retrograde" ) This pint-sized dynamo of a planet asks us to consider our goals along with the trajectory of our life. Are we holding true to our ideals? Are giving our best to humanity?  That’s what Pluto retrograde does. It makes us pause to contemplate our place in the Universe and to decide if we’re happy with the neighborhood we’ve chosen.  Full Moon in Scorpio speaks to our intuition, helping us see our own issues as well as the hidden issues of others with greater clarity. If you have hunches to play during the next couple of days, play them. 

Lakshmi from Kris Waldherr's "Goddess Tarot"©
represents #10 Wheel of Fortune, Jupiter's tarot card

Scorpio is also the sign that denotes the end of cycles and the beginning of something new – both subtle and not so subtle transformations. It rules the eight house of the zodiac where our shared resources and sexuality are stored.  The financial resources that reside in the house of Scorpio include bonuses, inheritances and windfalls from any source. 

The Grand Water Trine on the 14^th (See blog: "Grand Water Trine" ) makes this month’s Full Flower Moon a powerful force for manifesting. Jupiter in Cancer carries that terrific, Santa Claus energy and wants to expand the good things in your life with the power from that dreamy trine.  Identify precisely what you want to create in your life during this Full Moon, but take it a couple of steps further.  Make a list of how you are going to achieve what you want, step by step. Don’t stop there. What do your goals feel like once they are accomplished? What does your life look life? Concentrate of the sights, sounds and even tastes of what you envision. And that most important last step? What is your contract with the Universe – your exchange? No, not what will you give up, pay, or sacrifice – that’s not required. Besides, the word, sacrifice really means, ‘to make sacred,’ not to ‘suffer or practice self-denial.’ Think of positive growth. Ask yourself what is the gift you’d give the Universe as a natural consequence of your successful manifestation work. Allow yourself to experience the joy such a gift can bring. Life is about checks and balances, so once you successfully manifest your goals, you naturally and symbiotically exchange positive energy with the Universe, expanding the good and balancing the scales.

Source, or Universe represents the Divine
from "OSHO Zen Tarot" © by Deva Padma

What form does your exchange take? Who knows? It is personal to each of us; as profound as being in exactly the right position to prevent a grave misfortune befalling an absolute stranger, or as simple as a kind word, or being able to put $5.00 into the hand of a homeless person. The point is to act with good intention from the joy in your heart and trust that the Universe knows exactly where your gift will be needed in space and time. The form of the Universal exchange varies, but its vibration remains constant. It is the vibration of love.

The High Priestess is tarot's card for
The Moon. From Rome Choi's
and Kwon Shina's
"Dreaming Way Tarot"©

Consider the steps I’ve suggested as you practice your manifestation skills this Full Flower Moon. Allow yourself to transform through Scorpio, draw from the expansiveness of Jupiter and ground yourself with the healing energy of Chiron. Live authentically in each moment with joy and love.

LADY ORACLE

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Grand Water Trine, May 14th 2014 – "The Universal Hum"

#21, the World from Kris Waldherr's,
"The Goddess Tarot" © is tarot's card for
Saturn

Since March and April anything with the word, ‘grand’ in the title is somewhat suspect, but have no fear.  We’re talking about a Grand Water Trine for this week and that means going with the flow, and what a flow it is.  

A trine is the most favorable astrological configuration out there.  Trines occur between two or three planets holding a 120 degree angle respectively to one another to create a trance inducing, universal hum.  On May 14th this easy–going, drifty aspect goes exact between Jupiter in Cancer, Saturn in Scorpio and Chiron in Pisces. Turn on the mediation music with the water feature trickling in the background and set about untangling your inner knots.  

Chiron, an asteroid, or planetoid discovered in 1977 by

Chiron, seen here in "Wizard's Tarot"© by
Corrine Kenner and John J. Blumen
represents #5, The Hierophant

Charles Knowal, orbits between Saturn and Uranus.  While its astrological effects are still being studied, many modern astrologers consider Chiron’s location when configuring birth charts.  Chiron was the highly intellectual centaur of myth, skilled at healing who, ironically was poisoned and suffered great pain.  The planetoid Chiron is believed to assist us in our inner healing work and to aid us in spiritual growth and transformation.

Jupiter in Cancer is good fortune.  The planet Jupiter is exalted, or high-functioning in Cancer and works hard to show us where our lives can can favorably expand – home, career, earnings, even luck – and help us move towards that expansion.  Saturn is Scorpio, while traditionally offering instructional stumbling blocks that help us grow and learn, is less about schooling us during the trine effects and more geared towards assisting us to recognize and seize those opportunities that will transform our lives under Chiron’s steady, healing energy.  

Tarot's card for the sign,Cancer is #7
The Chariot, or Movement in
"The Goddess Tarot"© Don't forget to
MOVE durning this trine

If there’s any issue with trine energy it’s the fact that the harmonious energy of a powerful trine can make us lethargic, too content to go with the flow.  Avoid resting on laurels or telling yourself you need time to simply hang out and discover who you are.  While recouping and healing is a terrific idea after a particularly stressful time, don’t miss the opportunity Jupiter in Cancer provides you under this sky.  Heal, move on and carpe the heck out of that diem, baby.

May’s Grand Water Trine is an excellent time to finish up healing work, and set out in an exciting, new direction in life.  Take what you’ve learned during the complex astrological patterns of the past couple of months and set forth with optimism knowing that an open mind and willing heart are the often the only tools you need for success.

LADY ORACLE

Full Pink Moon in Libra, April 15th, 2014 – “Blood on the Moon, or Miss Scarlet in the Conservatory With A Candlestick”

Blood on the Moon.  Again. Predictions about this month’s Full Moon with eclipse vary from multiple natural disasters to a full-blown apocalypse.  If any of you saw the 2011 movie, “Red Riding Hood,” you know that catastrophic events are supposed to occur when the Moon turns red.  Must be – I mean, did anyone else read the reviews for that movie? Talk about a career killer. There’s no doubt this is a powerful, yet touchy Full Moon cycle coming up – not going to lie about that. However, the edginess we’ll feel during the eclipse is more likely to have us seeing red rather than foretelling certain doom.  

The Full Pink Moon occurs at 12:42 a.m., PDT on April 15th, in twenty-six degrees of the sign, Libra. Lunar eclipses occur when the Moon passes through the Earth’s shadow.  When this happens, the Sun’s light disburses through the Earth’s atmosphere before reaching the Moon. The higher spectrum lights, such as violet, blue and green fade out and the colors left are orange and red. This is the same effect that gives us big, orange Harvest Moons and pearly, pink Moons during moonrise. There’s no way to actually determine how red the eclipsing Moon will get. It could be anything from a bashful blush to a deep crimson. In either case, the effect only lasts a few minutes, so watch closely. The eclipse begins at 10:58 p.m. on April 14th and reaches its climax at 1:07 a.m. on the 15th.  

Even the most upbeat astrologers suggest that we pay close

attention to the world around us during this volatile month.  On the outset, our Full Pink Moon in Libra is a partnership moon filled with charm and social grace. There’s a naturally empathic element that comes with Libra and this instinctual connection with people lends itself to greater success in relationships. In our personal lives, Libra likes close, balanced partnerships where everybody wins. Expect a boost to your people skills during this Full Moon cycle. However, this Full Moon can also make you feel needy, or as if your partner is sucking all the air out of the room. Relax. It’s a temporary effect brought on by the energetic ebb and flow of Lady Moon.

Eclipses act as an energy reboots for the entire planet, setting the tone of our planetary energy field for the next six months. During the eclipse cycle you frequently feel charges of energy coursing through you, almost more than you can handle. This effect is most intense two days prior to the eclipse and for the three days following it. Channel these high voltage surges into productive, positive actions. Focus on releasing any feelings of pressure that have built up in you this month.  Remember your positive mantra.  If you don’t have one, write one.  You are unique, you are enough and you are love. Pull in and use the energy from the stars of fortune and glory, Arcturus and Spica.  These guys are contributing their energy patterns to the lunar eclipse mix.  Arcturus is the stronger influence, combining good fortune with a powerful need for justice.  Use directed, conscious thought to set positive intentions (#1, The Magician) Again, stay grounded and don’t let chips form on your shoulders because someone will knock them off.

While a Full Moon lunar eclipse is already a powerful

Typical Grand Cross configuration

energetic force, this particular eclipse also heralds the exact squaring of that rare astrological event that’s been hovering over us, the Cardinal Grand Cross.  Remember that a Grand Cross forms when two sets of planets, in opposition (at an aspect of 180 degrees to one another) form two squares (aspects of ninety degrees).  ( See blog : "Cardinal Grand Cross"  )The planets involved in this Cardinal Grand Cross are: Mars, Jupiter, Uranus and Pluto.  The word, ‘cardinal’ simply refers to the type of signs each of these planets currently occupies, or in this case, Libra, Cancer, Aires and Capricorn, respectively. Cardinal signs are the signs at the beginning of each season.

"Osho Zen Tarot"© reminds us to seek
the silence with ourselves to achieve balance

Cardinal Grand Crosses carry very unsettled and challenging energy.  Uranus and Pluto want to sweep all the chess pieces off the board, even if they create wreckage along the way.  Jupiter in Cancer wants to help you rebuild with glorious results, while Mars in Libra wants to charm people into his way of thinking – the quintessential smooth operator. This is great energy, however, don’t hang onto things that no longer serve you, because this energy can metaphorically pull your arms from their sockets if you do. Also, watch out for Jupiter in Cancer’s expansion giving you too much of a good thing while Mars puts those he can’t sway to the sword.

As with any astrological patterns there are highs and lows. You simply need to make adjustments for working with this month’s power flow. Proceed mindfully, stay grounded and you will be brilliant.

LADY ORACLE

March 2014, Venus Goes Vintage While Jupiter Pays It Forward

The Goddess of lover, herself, as she appears
in "The Goddess Tarot"© by Kris Waldherr

Venus rules the signs, Taurus and Libra – an interesting dichotomy to say the least.  While Taurus is an earth sign in the fixed modality, Libra is the element of air and carries a cardinal quality.  Taurus ferries about yin, or feminine energy and Libra is steeped in the more direct yang, or male energy.  Taurus rules the second house where self-esteem, possessions and income potential are stored and Libra, in house number seven, is all social grace, refinement and primary relationships.  

On March 5th, Venus put on her bellbottoms, wove flowers in her hair and glided into Aquarius.  Why the sixties symbolism?  That would be because Venus in Aquarius is open, compassionate and loving, but, more than anything else, loves her freedom. There's emotional detachment going on, but not in a cold, or analytical way. Aquarius carries an expansive energy for group participation, grand projects and for attracting a wide range of friends. Venus in Aquarius  is a student of human nature – free-wheeling and always extending the benefit of the doubt to those around her.  Don’t worry about spending endless hours seeking meaningless hook ups.  You won't.  Venus in Aquarius is a platonic energy and while there may be a romantic fling involved for some people, this transit is about socializing.

Jupiter in Cancer normally carries a wonderful expansive

Kris Waldherr depicts #3, The Empress as
Estsanatlehi, Goddess of Fertility in
"The Goddess Tarot"©

energy. The Santa Claus planet has been in retrograde lately however, and we’ve all felt the slow down in drive, as well as a tighter than usual feeling in our pocket books.  You might have experienced more bills than money during normally flush cycles.  Investments with significant growth potential were slow starters during Jupiter’s retrograde. Wall Street, notoriously fickle, even neurotic at the best of times, struggled and in many cases refused to live up to projections.  On March 6th, however, Jupiter went direct and anyone watching the world markets saw the shift.  For example, this morning saw Coupon.com’s IPO and in milliseconds, the price per share jumped from just over $12.00 to more than $28.00.  

Jupiter

The expansion we’ll enjoy is not simply limited to money-making (thank Heaven!). Our sense of compassion expands as well.  Jupiter in Cancer demands largess from our emotions.  There’s humor in this energy – big belly laughs.  Hence the likening to Santa Claus: Jolly, generous and sympathetic.  Jupiter plays well with the Taurus side of Venus’ nature that enjoys pleasure and opulence.  Is there a down side? Oh, heck yah. While Venus says, “Spoil me,” Jupiter responds with, “Sure thing, Doll-face.” Overindulgence of yourself and others can lead to a continuance of financial woes, or emotionally giving ‘til it hurts.  Remember that socializing energy?  You can still socialize without buying drinks for the whole bar.  Know your limits and stay within their boundaries.

It’s a great feeling to have Jupiter moving us forward again. Even with the caveats for March’s retrograde mania ( See Blog: “Astrological Trends For March 2014” )we still have plenty of room to bloom this month. Simply keep your goals insight and your boundaries tight.

LADY ORACLE

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Astrological Trends for March, 2014 – “Full Throttle, Reverse”

March started backwards. Why? It’s because on March 1st,

#16, The Tower is tarot's card for Mars
depicted by Ciro Marchetti for
"Legacy of the Divine Tarot"©

Mars in Libra went retrograde, swiftly followed by Saturn in Scorpio on the 2nd.  Retrogrades are designed to make us slow down and take stock of the world around us. The effects of planetary retrogrades differ according to the planet involved, its characteristics and the sign it occupies during the retrograde cycle. Strong retrogrades, such as Mars and Mercury, are not good times to start new ventures.  However there’s still plenty of work to do to move your life forward. All you need is patience.

#11 Justice is tarot's card for Libra
depiction from Rome Choi's
"Dreaming Way Tarot"©

Forceful Mars calls for subtler, more inward action while in retrograde. Spend time reviewing your desires and ambitions, as well as your previous deeds. Is your current path creating more conflicts than you’d like? Do you react more aggressively in situations than is necessary? Mars’ charm falls a little flat during retrograde and unresolved issues frequently resurface.  Reacting aggressively when this happens can cost you hard-won ground. Conflicts right now will test not only your patience, but your integrity as well.  Although Mars in Libra carries an innate sense of justice, during retrograde it becomes important not to bend justice to suit your wishes. Let painful feelings fall away. They are in the past. They cannot hurt you unless you choose to let them rule your present actions.  

Saturn in Scorpio turned retrograde on March 2nd and now

#21, The World is tarot's card for Saturn
depiction from "Tarot Of Pagan Cat's"© by
Lo Scarabeo

nobody gets to sleep.  This is the perfect time to re-tool organizations and bureaucratic systems. Talk about the need for patience. Streamlining becomes a way of life under Saturn’s retrograde in Scorpio. Review policies and procedures.  Work within systems to change them. Yes you can, because you have the personal power needed to undertake these types of challenges, exhausting as they may be.  Scorpio’s intuition gives you tremendous insights into over-burdened, poorly functioning areas of life – not just in business, but personally as well.  When tapping into the power of Saturn in its home sign, Scorpio, use the energy wisely and with a sense of higher purpose.

Jupiter's tarot card is #10, The Wheel of  Fortune
depiction by Barbara Moore and Aly Fell for
"Steampunk Tarot"©

Jupiter turns direct in Cancer on March 6th. Hallelujah! Combine this expansive energy hit with the revisionary power of both retrograde planets.  What an opportunity to transform your life.  Don’t want to transform it?  No problem. Refine is another ‘r’ word (Retrograde are about using ‘r’ words after all: Revisit, review, refine) that helps you utilize life’s holding pattern common during retrograde energy.  If revision isn’t required in your life see what area needs to expand in your consciousness to support your vision.

This month also brings the return of the Grand Cardinal T-Square, Venus’ entry into Aquarius, Full Moon in Virgo, Sun in Aries combined with the vernal equinox and another New Moon on the 30th.  Whew! I will be covering these events as we go.  This month will be fast and furious, my friends, despite the temporary stagnation patterns of ongoing retrograde cycles.  Use caution and remember to respond this month, not react.  Be brilliant!

LADY ORACLE

December 2, 2013, New Moon in Sagittarius – “The Art of Manifesting”

We’ve talked a lot about clearing our emotional and mental

#10, The Wheel of Fortune
The tarot card for Jupiter, ruler of Sagittarius
From Stephanie Pui-Mun Law's and Barbara
Moore's "Shadowscapes Tarot"©

decks in preparation for the power burn at the end of 2013.  Now it’s show time.  On December 2nd at 4:22 p.m. PST, the New Moon in Sagittarius arrives.  What’s so special about this particular New Moon? Optimism and luck for starters. Being in the right place at the right time.  New Moon in Sagittarius is one of the best moons of 2013 for easy manifesting and plain dumb luck.

This month Sagittarius baths Lady Moon in fast-paced, positive energy.  All of us (but most particularly those with Sagittarius in our birth charts) will be surrounded by fiery, upbeat power surges that push us to not only get involved, but to get going as well. Turn your eyes to the horizon this month and look for the next big opportunity coming your way. It’s there. During December’s lunar cycle, our vision will be clearer, our wit, sharper and our actions, while perhaps spontaneous, will be Divinely guided.  

There’s an art to manifesting and Sagittarians have it down

#14, Temperance is the tarot association for Sagittarius
Aly Fell and Barbara Moore's "Steampunk Tarot"©

pat.  Manifesting is literally like breathing for them because Sags stay focused in the moment better than most of us.  December already has an intense spiritual core as we all celebrate the natural order of life through a variety of wonderful, time-honored beliefs.  Sagittarius carries the energy of the spiritual philosopher (See blog: “Sagittarius the Archer”).  Archers are highly optimistic. They don’t see barriers, they see opportunities.  Work with this positive boost this month, particularly if you’ve been pulling the 8 of Swords (self-restriction) in your readings lately.  This is a perfect opportunity for you to push your boundaries, pull off the blindfold and step on out.

RWCS 8 of Swords shows
the illusion of self-restriction
US Games ©

Jupiter, the Santa Claus planet, (perfect for this month, don’t you think?)remains in Cancer and while Jupiter is still in retrograde, there are still plenty of perks to go around from this planet’s naturally expansive energy.  Where you might find that you have to watch your holiday dollars a little more closely, which is good advice any time, you’ll still have a fantastic holiday season. Explore the new, the different, even the offbeat.  Lights shine a little brighter this year, wherever and whoever you’re with.  Experience is the keyword this month because Sagittarius is never about things.  For them life is one big visceral experience.  Focus on people and events, not the number of shiny packages.

Put a list of your goals and desires together during the next couple of days.  Remember that goals must be specific, realistic and attainable.  They must also be yours, not someone else’s.  Once you have your list focus on it several times a day, but with one major difference.  Envision the items as if they have already occurred and you are already experiencing whatever it is you seek.  Don’t say to yourself, “When I get to Paris I’m going to be so excited.” Instead say, “Here I am in Paris and the lights on the Champs-Élysées are so beautiful at night that they steal my breath. I walk along the Seine and tears fill my eyes at the magic of being here. I’m so grateful to be here with all these marvelous sights and smells – even the traffic noise is amazing.”   Present tense brings your goals into reality, people.  It works like a charm. 

This month’s lunar cycle in Sagittarius is a gift to you from the

7 of Pentacles is an excellent focal point for
manifesting meditations, RWCS, US Games©

Universe and a golden opportunity for you start manifesting ( 7 of Pentacles, self-perpetuating harvest) the fruit of your own potential.  Work with Sagittarius’ energy and you’ll see amazing results.

LADY ORACLE

New Moon in Libra, October 4, 2013 - "A Roadmap for Change"

Our New Moon in Libra occurred at 5:34 PDT today.  Lots of us

#11, Justice is Libra's tarot card
from "Dreamingway Tarot"© by Rome Choi

felt the energy surges from this New Moon well before it took place and as it turns out, we had good reason.  October's New Moon is considered by some astrologers to not only be the most powerful New Moon of 2013, but also the most important.  Some consider it to be warning shot for the astrological configurations coming up in our winter skies.  Others view it as a rather bumpy, by necessary jolt that forces us to confront issues in our lives and deal with them.  All from this one little New Moon. 

#2, The High Priestess represents
our Lady Moon. from Rome Choi's
"Dreamingway Tarot"©

In previous blogs I've explained the cosmic dynamics of the notorious T-Square and Grand Cross/Square configurations. ( See blogs: September 2013 "The Flying Wedge" and August 2013 "Dynamic, Transformative and a Tad Scary")  These blogs basically describe what we have occurring  on this New Moon.  Astrologer, Bill Herbst, in his paper on this year's astrology, explains that a T- Square (August blog) is actually a four-legged stool with only three legs showing.  Our New Moon in Libra forms the powerful fourth leg.  We have four planets (okay, one satellite, three planets) all in the cardinal modality (first astrological sign for a given season)  form a Grand Square.  Square configurations are extremely challenging – this one in particular.  Don't panic, though.  You simply need to pay attention to the life lessons you are being shown.

Libra rules the seventh house of relationships and partnerships.  Communication is essential to any healthy relationship, both personal and professional.   Where New Moons in Libra are normally easy-going, intellectual and gracious, this one isn't.  The other members of this Grand Square are Jupiter in Cancer, Uranus in Aries and (drum roll please) Pluto in Capricorn.  That's right, the notorious Uranus/Pluto square is alive and well.  It's also on another power build up for November 1st when their square goes direct.  Revolutionary energy and pivotal, societal change.  You read the news, you draw the parallels.  

The Fool from "Dreamingway Tarot"©
by Rome Choi represents Uranus      

This Grand Square gives us the opportunity to lurch forward, granted, a little awkwardly, but forward none the less.  Here's where we can do a diagnostic on our lives and review our decisions to date.  (Mercury Retrograde later this month gives us the opportunity to seal the deal.) In order to move into a successful 2014 it's important to complete and turn it your homework.  Rule #1, do harm to none – especially not to yourself.  Rule #2, if you keep repeating the same pattern in your life, you'll get the same results.  Change the pattern, change your life.  October is all about redesign and New Moons are about new emotional cycles.  It's time to clear away the situations and thoughts that no longer serve you so that you successfully navigate the transitions coming this winter.  Stay grounded,  clear your space and get to work.  You will be brilliant.

LADY ORACLE

Astrological Trends for September, 2013 - “The Flying Wedge”

Tarot's #20, Judgment is the ruling card for Pluto
from Ciro Marchetti's "Legacy of the Divine Tarot"©

We start the first 9 days of the month with the astrological version of a classic Chinese/American dish called, “Happy Family” – a blending of sensational tastes that holds something great for everyone at the table.  Jupiter remains in Cancer, Mars is in Leo, the Sun is in Virgo, Mercury is in Virgo and Venus is in Libra.  Jupiter is exalted in Cancer, which means it’s high-functioning (life-enriching, expansive energy, home and hearth).  Mercury and Venus are both in their home signs and are also particularly powerful.  Mercury in Virgo offers us better communication and clearer thinking, while Venus is all about social graces and romance.  Mars in Leo, well, think of John Travolta’s strut at the end of “Saturday Night Fever.” This is a very pleasant energy combination that keeps us motivated in a positive way.

Our Virgo New Moon on the 5th asks us to analyze our emotions. Details, details. Mercury moves into Libra on September 9th and turns over-analysis into an art form.  Every aspect of every situation is weighed and calibrated.  The problem is that we can get bogged down in the details, particularly if you have Mercury in Libra in your birth chart.  Venus enters Scorpio on the 11th where she will have us all seeking our fiery, passionate soulmate.  The Pisces Full Moon on the 19th is a dreamer’s moon and I’ll have more on that later this month.  The big story for the month, however, is the activation of the (now infamous) Uranus/Pluto square by the Cardinal T-square that’s been occurring since July. This square will continue through September.  

Tarot's # 10, The Wheel of Fortune
rules Jupiter's expansive energy
Barbara Moore and Aly Fell's
"Steampunk Tarot"©

In honor of the football season (college or NFL) let’s think of the T square as an astrological ‘flying wedge.’  At the base of the wedge Jupiter in Cancer opposes Pluto in Capricorn which squares Uranus in Aires at the apex.  Astrologer, Bill Herbst likens T-squares to a four-legged stool with one missing leg.  If you draw a line from the apex to the opposite side of astrological wheel, you arrive at the missing leg, or other effected sign (in this case, Libra).

Square aspects hold a tense, challenging energy.  A T-square with Cardinal signs (first sign of each season) pushes issues, brings them to a head so that they can be resolved.  We’ve talked about the revolutionary energy for grand scale transformation that emanates from the Uranus Pluto Square.  The T-square, or Flying Wedge, with Jupiter brings the need for change down to a personal level.  What needs expansion and change in your life?  

During the Moon’s visits with each Cardinal sign (Libra, Aries,

Tarot's Fool rules Uranus - the
epitome of the fresh start
Corrine Kenner and John J. Blumen's
"Wizard's Tarot"©

Cancer and Capricorn) this month, we will all feel prodded in one direction or another.  That’s okay as long we use the energy released to productively change our lives.  This is Rose Bowl energy, folks, and you’ve got to drive that ball straight down the field to make your goal and get the three point conversion.  Let your creative drive flow, meditate, control your attitudes and respond rather than react.  I’ll post more about the Moon’s journey this week and later discuss the Equinox on the 22nd.  In the meantime, celebrate your opportunities and the seasonal change.

LADY ORACLE

Here's a link to Bill Herbst's paper on the 2013 astrlogical configurations.  I think he goes a great job of explaining complex formations.

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August 21, 2013, Uranus Squares Jupiter - “Dynamic, Transformative and a Tad Scary”

Recently, the web’s been abuzz about the T-square formed

Jupiter's ruling tarot card,
#10 Wheel of Fortune from
Barbara Moore and Aly Fell's
"Steampunk Tarot"©

between Jupiter and Uranus, with Pluto in opposition. Small wonder when you consider recent international news.  Jupiter's proximity has activated the power of the ongoing and notorious, Uranus/Pluto Square.  (See blog "September's Full Harvest Moon 2012") August 21st marks the shift of this T aspect into a Grand Cross configuration between Jupiter in Cancer, Uranus in Aries, Venus in Libra and Pluto in Capricorn.  This is one of those times to consider investing in a metaphysical Kevlar vest.

A Grand Cross is an extremely active, if not stressful, astrological configuration between four planets, in two sets of opposition.  Opposition refers to an angle of 180 degrees between the planets within each set.  The planets of this Grand Cross are all in cardinal signs of the Zodiac; signs that mark the beginning of each season and denote leadership and a fresh start. That’s a good thing – powerful, but good.  

#7, The Chariot rules Cancer
Self-Assertion - from Corrine Kenner and
John J. Blumen's "Wizard's Tarot"©
"

The keyword for this Grand Cross is ‘transformation.’ Jupiter in Cancer is captain of the pep squad, so to speak, encouraging prosperity and life expansion.  (See blog "Astrological Trends for August 2013") Uranus in Aries casts off the conventional in favor of ground-breaking ideas.  Social reforms are the hallmark of Uranus in Aries. Unfortunately, there’s also a tendency to jump in before considering all the ramifications of sudden change. Venus in Libra is our love child; romantic, creative and nurturing.  She works with Jupiter to balance the rashness of this configuration.  Then there’s Pluto in Capricorn – evolutionary and revolutionary energy that shapes both the soul of man and the world around him. Pluto and Uranus are squaring off until 2015, causing sweeping and revolutionary societal change. 

#11 Justice rule Libra, Sign of Balance
Karma, balance from Ciro Marchetti's
"Legacy of the Divine Tarot"©

This Grand Cross influences us from August 20th through the 30th and peaks on August 27th when it becomes exact.  As with any astrological influence – it’s what you make of it.  If you’ve been reevaluating your goals and systematically releasing the situations and people that don’t support your chosen path, you have a chance to make great strides in your life right now. It is vital that we stay grounded in each moment under this type of influence. Meditate. When things get bumpy, ask yourself, “Am I viewing this situation through my heart or through my ego?”  Get into curiosity, as we say in motivational speaking. Learn about the dynamics of a challenging situation, or the motivations of difficult people.  What are they afraid of? What are you afraid of?  Look for common ground and avoid all or nothing scenarios. You don’t have to accept them.  Our ability to compromise for the greater good rather than for self interest is one of the things that makes a society evolve.

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Astrological Trends, July, 2013 - “Trine Time”

Saturn's ruling tarot card
#21, The World
Shadowscapes Tarot©

July started the month off with incendiaries – some of which had faulty guidance systems, but all in all, July’s roller coster arrival (Super Moon after shocks and Mercury Retrograde) was nothing we couldn’t handle with meditation, creative visualization and maybe a couple of glasses of wine if things felt too crazy.  Now we’re humming as the Grand Trine between Jupiter in Cancer, Neptune in Pisces and Saturn in Scorpio takes the center stage and becomes the major player for July’s astrological forecast.  

A trine is the most favorable aspect, or angle (120 degrees), between planets and certain other celestial bodies. A Grand Trine is a harmonious and continuous flow of energy between 3 planets.  Our natural inclination during a trine is to bask in the pleasant out-pouring of magnificent energy, however, astrologers warn that too many trines at once may be too much of a good thing, causing a somewhat sluggish mindset, or even outright laziness.  Go with the flow this month, particularly during Mercury Retrograde, but remember that there is fabulous energy from the Grand Trine that you can use to shift your life in the desired direction. 

All the signs in July’s Grand Trine are water signs.  All water signs are spiritual, intuitive and creative.  Water folk tend to view life from an emotional viewpoint rather than from facts and figures.  They are often romantic souls. The analogy used to compare them states that if Cancer is a lake, Scorpio is a river and Pisces is an ocean. Each of these signs has a direct affect on the planet within its house and what we’’ll all be feeling this month is the water signs’ influence.  

Jupiter (tarot’s #10, The Wheel of Fortune) in Cancer (tarot’s

Jupiter's ruling tarot card
#10, The Wheel of Fortune
Shadowscapes Tarot©

#7, The Chariot) is humorous, good-natured and good with money. Design a budget and stick to it.  The end of summer will find your cash crunch eased and who knows, you could solve a tricky money flow issue with the help of Jupiter, the Santa Claus planet.  The combination of Jupiter in Cancer also promotes emotional growth and healing which makes July the perfect month to let go of romantic fantasies and emotional attitudes we should have left behind long ago.  

Neptune (tarot’s #10, The Hanged Man) is the ruling planet for Pisces (tarot’s #18, The Moon) and is the “beautiful dreamer” of the Grand Trine.  Neptune is also in Retrograde which means that we are more likely to contemplate our

Neptune's tarot card
#12, The Hanged Man
Shadowscapes Tarot©

connection to one another and question our intention towards our fellow creatures. Who do we serve, ourselves or the whole?  You may recall that Pisces easily becomes lost in day dreams and illusion.  In July we’ll all battle this tendency trying hard to remain focused on the here and now instead of the seductive allure of ‘someday.’  The lesson here; change your focus, stay in the now and change your life.   

Saturn (tarot’s #21, World) is the most practical of the three planets.  Saturn likes analyzing people’s motivations and assigning them either asset or liability status – not in a cold-blooded way, but as a matter of practicality.  Do the people in your life help you be a better person, or do they hinder the process? While Saturn in Scorpio (tarot’s #13, Death) normally uses challenges to help us transform our world, here we see Saturn stabilizing the trine and helping us use its energy in our daily lives.

Factoids for the month: Our New Moon in Cancer in on July 8th.  The Grand Trine becomes exact of July 17th, so expect a little more magic that day.  Hum a lot.  Mercury goes direct on July 20th and is an exact square with Uranus.  Look for some breakthrough energy there. The full Moon in Aquarius is on July 22nd and we also have a meteor shower, the Delta Aquarids, later this month.  More on these later.  Enjoy!

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