‘Where are you going now?,’ laments Mom, ‘I thought we were going to have a lovely family breakfast. I made your favorite, a hot pepper frittata!’

‘Work,’ answers Dad curtly.

‘We had plans,’ insists Mom. ‘Was I imagining you had promised to spend the day with us?’

‘Work first. Maybe later after racquetball.’

‘Racquetball!!’

Today’s Full Moon in dynamic, but oftentimes self-assertive Aries, highlights the disparity between independence and relationship. The Sun in Libra is striving for partnership, negotiation, and diplomacy. The Aries Moon, enhanced by close proximity to (wild, go your own way) Uranus is hankering for freedom, autonomy and excitement.

Vexing this Full Moon even further, the co-ruler, aggressive Mars is hanging out in work-oriented Capricorn in a tight alliance with business tycoon Pluto. Energy and ambition are in cahoots. Ruthlessness abounds. Personal relationships may be put on the back burner. It doesn’t help that vixen Venus, the other co-ruler of this Moon is touring secretive Scorpio. Motives may be cloaked and emotions raw.

‘We may not be here when you get back,’ taunts Mom.

Watch what you say as quicksilver Mercury confronts slick Pluto. Words may come back to haunt.

‘Of course I look fabulous in everything I put on! Too bad I can’t wear everything at once. But that would be over-doing it. Boring! Minimalism is so droll. The impression I want to make is Claire Underwood meets Cersei Lannister. Corporate, sexy, powerful. I hope there’s a nice humboldt fog at this to-do.’

Rest assured Kit. Probably a few Limburgers too boot! Friday’s New Moon in diplomatic, gregarious Libra is reeking of excess. Prodigious Jupiter joins the luminaries in this sociable sign. Freed from a stint in moderate Virgo, Jupiter
is ready to unleash his joie de vivre and party.

This New Moon is not all hobnobbing and ganache however. While pragmatic Saturn gives a discerning nod to career advancement, Pluto squaring this New Moon warns of dangers along the path. Don’t get caught ill-prepared. As Venus, ruler of this New Moon cavorts with illusory Neptune, it is easy to think charm will beguile. It may not. Know your facts lest opportunity slip away.

‘I’m freeing you Carina. Freeing you at last from the chains of self-doubt, insecurity, pessimism and chaos. I destroy this stony, wretched monument of myself in the hopes that I will transmute into a being of radiant energy, a beacon of creative light, a powerhouse of intellectual and spiritual wisdom. I banish donuts, escapism, and judgments. I welcome compassion, inspiration and pragmatism. Farewell Old Carina.’

Friday’s Full Moon in Pisces is illuminating the disparity between art and practicality. The Sun in competent, yet self-critical Virgo is at odds with the Moon in ethereal, artistic Pisces. Passionate Mars in fiery, opinionated Sagittarius is adding fuel to the fire. The Moon is in close proximity to Chiron the ‘wounded healer’. Retrograde Mercury (one of the rulers of this Full Moon) is in cahoots with the Moon’s nodes. Both of these influences auger thinking about past hurts. How to resolve them will become paramount. Look to agitator Mars to stir up buried resentments and rages. Mars may inspire tantrums, a catharsis to deal with the trauma.

Adding to the theme of art vs. science is Neptune (the other co-ruler of this Moon) at odds with Saturn. Saturn, planet of boundaries, time, and pragmatism, has been trying to reign in on boundary-less Neptune’s parade. Neptune wants to finger-paint the day away, Saturn wants deadlines, curfews and story-boards. Generally, discipline is a much needed virtue for creativityto manifest but unsupervised playtime can also be a crucial ingredient.

‘Now that I am destroyed, I am ready to begin.’

‘He can’t continue to ingest these enormous amount of sweets and starches without repercussions. It’s imperative that you address these issues immediately if not sooner,’ admonishes Dr. Vesta Virgo. ‘On top of that Athena you could stand to lose a few yourself. I heartily recommend you lay off the vino. That isn’t just wheat belly you have going on in your abdomen.’

Ouch.

This New Moon in Virgo is insisting we take accountability for our health, hygiene and dietary habits. The luminaries conjunct the North Node are appealing to our sense of wellness. Unfortunately, they are also opposing nebulous Neptune which is putting the haze on decision-making and willpower. Neptune and pragmatic Saturn have been at cross purposes all year. Neptune has idealistic faith, while Saturn wants to formulate steps for success.

The ruler of this New Moon, Mercury has just begun his retrograde cycle. In Virgo, Mercury is inviting us to rethink and revisit our physical, spiritual and mental well-being. Mercury is soon to reconnect with expansive Jupiter who is finishing up his tour of Virgo. Jupiter in Virgo has exposed the dubious nature of some so-called health foods. As Mercury backtracks this is a wonderful time to get physically ready for winter months.

‘Oh dear,’ laments Athena, ‘basically you’re saying I can’t wish the pounds away and should join a spin class while Leo here waves good-bye to pancakes and embraces the gym.’

‘In a nutshell,’ advises Dr. Virgo

‘I think we can end world hunger with this one last ingredient.’

‘Oops, I thought we were trying to cure baldness.’

‘Looks like Kit is flying on a wing and a prayer.’

‘Angela Aries is piloting reusable lightbulbs on wave energy.’

This innovative Aquarius Full Moon is bursting with fiery enthusiasm. The Full Moon ruler, eccentric, erratic Uranus is blessing both the creative Sun and nurturing Moon with his wild, unpredictable Aries induced energy.

Adding to the youthful overtones of this Moon is the traditional ruler of Aquarius, Saturn, which recently stationed direct in feisty Sagittarius. While Saturn is not associated with youth or feistiness, its close proximity to Mars, harbinger of action, passion and initiative is. Mars and Saturn united together can produce a formidable resolve, an endurance, exuberance and determination to combat the task at hand. Bonding the stability of Saturn with the drive of Mars should prove advantageous.

The fly in the ointment of course is nebulous Neptune. Without effort Neptune will distract, cloud and/or evaporate any project. Remember to stay on course and this can turn out to be a fortuitous time.

‘Where’s Penelope Pisces? Isn’t she harvesting the hydraulic lavender emulsion?’

‘She’ll be here right after she takes in the opening of Asteroids 3: Vesta Virtues Versus Nessus Nellie. Or so we hope.’

‘Produced by Lola Leo.’

‘If I want something done grandiosely obviously I have to do it myself. I can’t wait for anyone else to notice how talented, charismatic and utterly fabulous I am. I’ll just have to take the cosmos by horn and show off! I will sing, dance, wow with hilarious anecdotes, create amazing costumes plus construct an awesome venue. And do my own publicity. Note to self- hire janitor.’

Tuesday’s New Moon in self-assured, creative yet egomaniacal Leo is inviting us to broadcast our inner light. Adding to the artistic flavor of this Moon, the luminaries are in a off-kilter relationship with ethereal Neptune. Visions abound yet capacity for applied effort may be fleeting, flirty and inconsistent.

However, this Moon is getting cosmic help from pragmatic Saturn in expansive Sagittarius. Saturn, usually a bit of a realist, in Sagittarius has been inviting us to examine our thoughts and feelings regarding the essence of life, belief systems and value. Saturn teaches us to lay the groundwork for what we want to manifest. In Sagittarius, Saturn recognizes that a plan starts with a vision. Time to materialize what we feel passionately about.

Mars, planet of action, verve, and temper gallops into Sagittarius hours before this Moon, adding another fiery burst of energy. Mars is ready to fight for his principles. In Sagittarius the exuberant, life-affirming energy of Mars can be unleashed. This is definitely an auspicious time for self-expression.

‘Vision board is done. Now all I have to do is write the script and get this show on the road.

Thank goodness I’m such a creative mastermind.’

‘I feel like playing hooky,’ laments Saturnian Sam. Lord have mercy! Since when does Saturnian Sam have Neptune in his eyes?

‘Absolutely not,’ admonishes Athena. ‘Those tofu dogs you’re so crazy over don’t buy themselves. Plus Starrkitty wants a new fishing pole. Hop to it and be chipper about it.’

This Full Moon in Capricorn highlights not only the disparity between home and work, but the reality of day to day obligations vs. the rueful imaginings of the life unlived.

Uranus, planet of revolution and rebellion squares this Full Moon. Uranus calls for a shake-up of the status quo. As the Sun and Moon have recently been on the receiving end of a Uranian wake up call, one’s identity and emotions are feeling uneasy. Uranus wants to liberate the true self. In Aries, Uranus demands an individual march to the beat of their own drummer. The time has come to chart your own course.

Adding to the identity confusion, the ruler of this Moon, stoic Saturn, is in conflict with Neptune, Jupiter, Venus and Mercury. Though Saturn usually keeps its nose to the grindstone, the cosmic pressure on Saturn to daydream (Neptune), edify (Jupiter) and entertain (Venus, Mercury in Leo) has pragmatic Saturn bamboozled.

‘Not today Athena. Today I give the gang a lesson in kayaking.’

Way to have a little fun Sam!

‘Catch it, catch it’ ‘This is the greatest hotdog ever!’ ‘Who wants another kebob?’

‘Lord have mercy, who invited Plutonian Paulie?’

‘What could he want now???’

This emotional New Moon in family-oriented Cancer carries the promise of closeness and unity, but it also has a wee bit of a dark side. Chock full of sensitive, nurturing Cancerian energy, it houses not only the luminaries, but sociable Venus and communicative Mercury are basking in its energy as well. The emphasis is clearly on family, emotions, children, creativity and security.

Neptune, planet of mysticism, art, martyrdom and sometimes shady behavior is also influencing this Moon. A dose of Neptune’s grace can enhance any occasion with glamour and allure, yet it can also veil ulterior agendas. In Pisces situations may become a tad fuzzy. Things may not be as they seem. It is easy to be sucked into a scam.

But the real hooligan in this lunation is Pluto. As Pluto opposes this Moon, it calls attention to the dark side of emotions. Buried secrets, resentments and memories are bound to surface. Old loans may need to be repaid. Jealousies can fester. Pluto gets what it feels entitled to or it will wreak havoc.

‘Hey there, Grannitaurus, long time, no see. What gives, you don’t invite cousin Paulie to family occasions no more? No problem, no offense taken- I’ll just take one of those chimi-changi steaks you got there on the grill. Smells delish. You drenched it in butter didn’t you-Still burying cash on Aldebarran-I need some dough for a down payment on a little property on Antares.’

‘OFF you go varmint, I have no use for your kind here.’

‘Listen to me people. There is no one true god, but I have all the answers. Listen to me.’

‘I can’t stand anymore.’

‘Has he lost his mind.’

‘How much sugar is in this energy drink anyhow?’

Whew! This second Full Moon in Sagittarius is really a whopper! Speaking of Sagittarius, on a higher level the archer points to truth, justice, the quest for knowledge, and spirituality. The downside is blatant loud-mouthed pontificating and bloviating. Unfortunately during this week’s Full Moon we experience bragging, misinformation, preaching and so much more.

While the Moon, symbolizing the emotional nature, is wrapping up a visit to intellectual, yet passionate Sag, the Sun, illuminator of personal identity, is ending its yearly romp in curious, hop-on-the-next-trend Gemini. The desire to transmit voluminous amounts of info as quickly as possible, without ascertaining the value of said info is prevalent.

Adding to the cerebral short circuiting of this Full Moon are its rulers, Mercury and Jupiter, locked in contentious aspect to each other as well as a host of other celestial bodies.

Mercury, in silver-tongued Gemini is leaping into the Saturn-Neptune square. Saturn opposing Mercury is demanding Mercury be accountable for blatant exaggerations. At the same time, Neptune square Mercury is enticing Mercury to concoct even more incredible fantasies. What’s a trickster planet to do?

Sagittarius ruler, Jupiter, has spent the year in fastidious Virgo. While this benevolent teacher does not entirely groove on some of the constricting aspects of Virgo, Jupiter here has learned some beneficial health habits. However, its yearlong opposition to murky Neptune and square to pragmatic Saturn has made it difficult to implement those lessons. Saturn has a tendency to put the kibosh on Jupiter’s enthusiasms. Neptune again provides an illusory spin. As Jupiter hooks up with the Moon’s North Node in this health-conscious sign, and slowly spirits away from this celestial fracas, hopefully health and healing will make a comeback.

‘Pipe down Pollux, I’m trying to savor my mind-body connection.’

‘What’s he saying?’

‘Can’t hear this blasted mosquito is buzzing in my ear...’

‘Who got misdiagnosed with thyroid...’

‘I cant find my keys.’

‘No, I said Lilith’s aunt has fibroid...’

‘Hear ye, hear ye, the next cruise to Europa will be..’

‘Cruise? Sailing on what spirits?’

‘What is that green blob oozing out of Pollux’s trumpet?’

‘I don’t owe you any money. I finished that job.’

‘Where’s my phone? I need to cancel my dinner reservations. I booked in 3 different places. Where is it?

Saturday’s Gemini New Moon is a hot bed of miscommunication, misunderstandings and misplacement. In spite of the fact that the New Moon ruler, Mercury, has recently stationed direct and is in the process of leaving his shadow period, he is still lumbering through the weighty sign of Taurus. Although the trickster recently enjoyed an earthy energy boost from contacts with Jupiter and Pluto, in Taurus, Mercury’s cylinders are not firing at full speed. Mercury needs air or fire elements to really flourish and breathe. To top off the mayhem, Mercury finds itself in a contentious aspect with warrior Mars. Past actions or words may come back to haunt.

While the earth sign trio invites productivity, the New Moon itself is besieged. The mutable energy of this Grand Cross finds nerves on edge. Charming Venus joins the luminaries in the witty sign of Gemini. Venus in Gemini normally likes to take center stage and entertain. Sociable, fun-loving and enchanting, her recent contact with serious Saturn has put a damper on Venus’ natural joie de vivre. Adding to this, her upcoming square to Jupiter in health conscious Virgo reminds Venus that there is such a thing as a waistline. Scones are fattening, there are consequences to foot-loose, fancy-free tomfoolery.

Throw nebulous Neptune in the mix. Art, beauty, and fantasy intoxicate. Reality leaves a lot to be desired. Escape is very inviting. Imagination is strong.

‘Wouldn’t it be great if we could cruise to Europa?’

Harness the grounding energy of Saturn during this Moon and manifest those dreams.

‘I know I’ll write a short story about a star with an inflated ego who hoodwinks an entire planet into trusting him then gets exiled to Europa where a mysterious ailment plagues the kingdom, only the natural charm and heroism of the Starrkitty tames the virulent virus. The inflated star combusts before...’

Hmmn...

‘Listen up people,’ extols Pollux, ‘the world is your classroom. Wonder and curiosity lead to knowledge. Observe nature, look, listen, ask...’

‘Hear ye, hear ye,’ trumpets Kitty, ‘nothing competes with book smarts. Put the M in STEAM, learn your multiplication tables, ...’

‘Street smarts be the real smarts,’ argues Andy Aries. ‘You got to read people, show em some charisma, seize the moment.’

‘Music is the language of the soul,’ counters Leora Leo. ‘If you can transcend barriers via song, composition and beauty you can elevate people of all...’

‘An apple a day, organic naturally, is all I need to know,’ voices Vera Virgo.

Saturday’s Full Moon in Sagittarius is likely to cause many varied debates. The Sun in curious, verbose Gemini is concerned with the gathering and communicating of information. The Moon in philosophical Sagittarius is absorbed with processing and disseminating that info. This intellectual yet emotionally volatile Moon is in close proximity to passionate Mars. It is feeling information intently and may become very fervent about voicing its personal perspective. With Mars being retrograde it may internalize its reaction or react volcanically. Issues regarding education, sports, politics, nationalism are likely to be contested.

Jupiter, a ruler of this Full Moon, is in frictional alignment with both Saturn and Neptune. Topics such as health food, hygiene, fresh water sources, animal rights etc. are all being exposed. Everyone is sick of being duped and swindled by giant corporations.

Mercury, the other ruler of this Moon, while winking with Pluto and Jupiter in grounded earth signs, is still highly perturbed. As this Full Moon shines, Mercury is wrapping up its latest retrograde. Spending extended time in security conscious Taurus, changeable, trickster Mercury has had some harsh truths to swallow. It is learning that its childish ways can cause some serious ramifications.

In Taurus the stakes are serious. People plot, plan and build for the future. The next step is no joke. The ease with which information or propaganda gets dispersed is alarming. It is all too easy to get people riled up over false assumptions. The best prevention for hysteria is knowledge. This Full Moon is imploring us to use discerning judgment in how we react to the barrage of daily information. As Mercury moves forward hopefully it will bring some much needed gravitas to its love of communications.

‘All I know,’ laments Penelope Pisces, ‘is we all can’t seem to agree on everything, but at least we can respect each other’s right to an opinion.’

‘Drat these darn vulturous critters! Every time I turn my back they’re invading, encroaching, laying nests or some other such insidious way to make my life a living...,’ moans Grannitaurus.

‘Why do you keep at it then Granny,’ questions Leo. ‘I mean if it causes you so much grief?’

‘Idle grousing, Leo. That’s who Grannitaurus is. I do it because out here in the middle of space this hunk of rock is all I have to hold onto. I treasure it. It’s beautiful. You have to take care of what you value or else you’ll lose it. It’s me against the critters. I fight the good fight everyday so we can have fresh fruits and vegetables, pretty flowers. Some darn good pies.

‘I’ll say. I love your pies Granny, you’re my favorite bug-squashing, beetle annihilating super-hero!,’ extols Leo.

No foolin Leo! Friday’s New Moon in Taurus is beseeching us to appreciate what we have. There is a boatload of cosmic energy in earth signs at the moment, accenting the physical aspects of life. Jupiter back-pedaling in Virgo is reminding us of the importance of fresh, healthy food and eating nutritiously. Pluto in Capricorn is transforming the way we perceive the riches around us, and the proliferation of planets in value-conscious Taurus is reminding us not only to treasure and enjoy our resources, but to work hard to protect them.

Getting in touch with nature is paramount to the physical, emotional and spiritual health of our soul and bodies. Taurus energy is urging us to bask in the wonderment of the physical. Hike, plant, eat and/or smell the roses. Life is beautiful.

Friday’s Full Moon in Scorpio invites a deep rumination on the mysteries of life. Passion, death, shared resources and regeneration are topics tormenting the soul. Both the modern and traditional rulers of this sign, Mars and Pluto, have recently stationed retrograde enhancing this energy. Mars in philosophical Sagittarius is backing away from the stern, yet pragmatic energy of Saturn, heading toward revisiting intense, passionate Scorpio. Visions and yearnings for old loves may start intruding on thoughts.

Likewise, Pluto, normally a ‘when it’s over, it’s dead and buried’ kind of energy, is being jostled by a Uranus-Venus aspect. When Uranus-Venus unite there can be erratic, unpredictable attractions. Something new and vital can appear out of the blue or relationships thought combusted may be re-ignited if only for a brief burst of life-lesson drama.

The Sun in earthy Taurus doesn’t help matters as it is yearning for sensual delights. Though Taurus is a grounded energy it longs for rewards of the physical kind. Food, drink, sex, material comforts wink at this springtime Sun.

‘She drove me nuts with her rampant shopping and do-gooding,’ laments Sal Scorpio. ‘But she had legs like a giraffe.’

‘I‘ll know where I’m going when I get there,’ vows Andy Aries.

‘Now that’s the first thing I’ve ever heard him say that makes a lick of sense,’ notes Kit. ‘Usually he’s so busy running in circles, he goes nowhere at all.’

‘You have a point,’ agrees Athena Aquarius. ‘Still I’m concerned he won’t know where or who he is, if, or when he does arrive.’

‘Mmmn,’ concurs Kit.

Thursday’s New Moon in generally dynamic Aries, does have a billowy cloud shrouding it. At first glance the Sun and Moon coupled with wild, eccentric, Uranus in youthful Aries suggest adventure, exploration, bravery and forging new frontiers. However, this naive Moon has just had an altercation with veteran Pluto in crotchety Capricorn. In this age old battle between the old and the new it looks like the traditional may have the upper hand.

The New Moon ruler, enthusiastic Mars, is in the philosophical, optimistic sign of Sagittarius. While that would generally augur advancements in intellect, travel, and law, Mars is not only stationing retrograde, he is also in a combative relationship with Jupiter in critical Virgo, Neptune in ethereal Pisces and is being somewhat squashed by big brother Saturn. While Aries is an effervescent energy that is clamoring for change in both physical and mental consciousness, its ruler Mars is rendered somewhat impotent by its present cosmic condition. The crustier planets are shouting, ‘Hey slow down, younguns, not so fast. Don’t go off half-cocked without a nutritious breakfast, a vision board and a well-constructed plan.’

As Mars, ruler of this New Moon slows down, it could be time to contemplate instead of act. Forearmed is forewarned. Move forward but bring a navigator, a map, or better yet- an old-fashioned compass!

‘I want to do what I want to do, I want to do it now and I want you all to do it with me,’ insists Andy Aries. ‘We are going to Mars, we’re going lava surfing, we’re having asteroid races, and we’re going motor-crossing. So there.’

‘Not me,’ bickers Kit, ‘you can’t always have it your own way. I want to try the fishing on that new exoplanet WASP-17b. I hear it’s stellar.’

‘I’d like to paint that,’ concurs Penelope Pisces. ‘I’m feeling very Monetish.’

‘I’m with Kit,’ chimes in Leo, ‘fishing sounds both invigorating and relaxing.’

‘Agreed,’ asserts Saturnian Sam.

‘No you don’t,’ combats Andy, ‘I’m the biggest and the loudest and the bravest and what I say goes. We’re going to Mars and you are going to like it, because it’s my idea and I say so.’

‘Quit being so noisily domineering Andy,’ admonishes Kit. ‘You’re harshing my mellow. I’m going fishing.’

Egads! This Full Moon in harmony loving Libra seems a bit off-kilter. While the emotional Moon is in tactful, people-pleasing Libra, the ego-centric Sun is in aggressive, headstrong Aries. This Full Moon is angling to find the middle-ground between the two. Mercury, planet of communication, is perched right next to the Sun adding to the call for autonomy and personal expression.

The disparity between what I want vs. what you want seems more pronounced at this particular time. Venus, co-ruler of this Full Moon is currently hanging with nebulous Neptune in artistic Pisces. Both planets here are experiencing dreamy intuition, creativity, love of music, painting and ethereal communion.

Mars, the other ruler, is in feisty Sagittarius. Mars here, is outspoken, impassioned, incensed, vigorous and ready to do battle.

Just as the Sun and Moon are clashing over personal issues, its rulers in Sagittarius and Pisces are skirmishing over spiritual concerns and ideologies. It may prove quite difficult to work out relationship issues at this tenuous time. Might be best to retreat to separate corners of the ring. Adding to the tension both Mars and Venus are sucked into the mutable T-square vexing the cosmos. Maybe respecting varying viewpoints is a viable option.

Wishing an illuminating eclipse!

‘Clean the bathroom, book club meeting at 9, at 11 I meet with my editing team, quick brunch for the kids...
What am I doing??? Breathe, be, drift, breathe...’

Seems like Athena Aquarius is having trouble reconciling this weeks New Moon energies!

Tuesday’s New Moon in dreamy, ethereal Pisces is coaxing us to step back, chill, daydream and regroup. The luminaries are joined in this watery, intuitive sign by quicksilver Mercury, healer Chiron, as well as the New Moon ruler itself, transcendent Neptune. After the airy, cerebral energy of Aquarius, the mood of Pisces is cloudy, hazy- yet artistic and creative.

However, this New Moon is being opposed by Jupiter, its traditional ruler, in the earthy sign of Virgo. The practical, ‘take care of business’ emphasis of Virgo, is at odds with the nebulous, get lost in the sauce flavor of Pisces. Jupiter in Virgo, although not at ease in this minutiae obsessed sign, is willing to try and play grown up and tend to those pesky ‘to-do’ lists.

Adding to the parental overtones of this Moon, stable Saturn, is also attempting to counter the unearthly qualities associated with this Moon. Saturn traveling through the philosophical, idealistic sign of Sagittarius is urging us to ground and solidify our beliefs. However, this month against the overwhelming Pisces influences, Saturn and Jupiter may as well join in the fun and take a little relax. The world will still be there in April, and Athena may just have a fabulous manuscript to show for it. Here’s to dreaming and hopefully a little manifestation!

‘Walking meditation works best,’ muses Vera Virgo. ‘Those folks who insist on silence don’t know what they’re missing. Grounding the spirit in the physical realm, while getting fresh air, exercise and glorious nature too boot. It is just what the doctor ordered.‘

Monday’s Full Moon in earthy Virgo is highlighting the balance between the physical body and the ethereal realm. While Virgo energy can be pragmatic, hypercritical and persnickety, Pisces is spiritual, transcendent and visionary.

Pisces ruler, Neptune, is adding a dreamy component to this Full Moon. Opposing the Moon, and nestled close to the Sun, Neptune is infusing the lunation with glamour, poetry and possibly a spot of self-delusion.

Virgo energy can be panicky. It needs a little laid-back Pisces input to squash the self-criticism and rise above the daily fixation of ‘to-do’ lists.

Adding to the cerebral angst of this Full Moon is co-ruler Mercury, in mentally hyper Aquarius. There may be a tendency to get too caught up intellectualizing concepts and not enough time feeling or listening to the voice within.

‘Yes walking meditation certainly beats the heck out of Penelope Pisces and her mantras, she gains weight while she meditates. Starrkitty pretends to practice mindfulness, the only thing....Oh, look how lovely, is that a blue indigo milkcap...’

Happy Trails-Enjoy the merge!

‘How many times do I have to say this,’ whispers Milo Mercury, ‘I don’t like Mercury as the ruler of Virgo. Mercury, like myself, is youthful, fun-loving, rascally and impish. What in the world does that have in common with nitpicky old Virgo? Why does Athena of all people, who I generally respect as a progressive thinker insist on...’

‘Listen,’ protests T.J. Taurus, ‘why can’t you just accept Athena’s lecture at face value. There is a lot of valid information in her interpretation. For eons, brilliant astrologers have assigned Mercury to Virgo. Attention to detail, craftiness, physical dexterity, daily activities are all governed by..’

‘Please, the entire time Vesta transited my 6th house my digestive system was in an uproar. I completely sublimated my sexual energy into work-related service and my cat was in and out of the vet’s office...’

‘Athena is speaking and the least..’

Oh my! Monday’s New Moon in unconventional, rebellious free-thinking Aquarius might raise some eyebrows. The New Moon ruler, Uranus, has been traveling through hot-headed Aries. In Aries, Uranus is shattering convention, hell-bent on forging a new path and fearless future. Having just skirmished with transformative Pluto in staid Capricorn, Uranus is more than ready to bid adieu to outmoded concepts and beliefs.

Adding to the quest for emancipation, Uranus is in a conspiratorial aspect with the traditional ruler of Aquarius, Saturn. Saturn in fire sign Sagittarius, is inviting humanity to take a good, hard look at its philosophy and belief standpoints from a responsible integrated vantage point. Saturn in Sagittarius is asking you to discover your own personal truth, and to use that truth to establish far-ranging goals and plans.

This New Moon in humanitarian and philanthropic Aquarius, while eliciting global involvement, is also very independent. There is a strong inclination to strike out for personal causes. Mars, planet of passion, aggression, and action is currently in the volatile sign of Scorpio. Mars being closely square this New Moon, might have trouble constructively expressing its energy. Buried rage may erupt. Take care to dispassionately examine motivations and objectives.

‘Milo,’ urges T.J., ‘quit questioning ancient wisdom. Athena knows her..’

‘I know what works for me. From now on I’m using Vesta as the ruler of Virgo and Juno as the ruler of Libra.’

To each his own.

‘From the vast emptiness of space and time, I, Leo, master magician of all, conjure the Abracadabra-Presto-Voila- the effervescent Sally Sagittarius!’
Thank you. Thank you very much! For my next astounding, amazing trick I will transport Grannitaurus forward in time to the newly discovered Planet Nine!

Saturday’s Full Moon in creative, enchanting, yet egomaniacal Leo is teeming with the energy of youth, vivacity and spirit. The Full Moon ruler, erratic Uranus, is journeying through the enthusiastic sign of Aries. In Aries, revolutionary Uranus is especially inventive, innovative and eager for new realms to explore. Coupled with this desire to forge new adventures, Uranus is still in contention with Pluto in old guard Capricorn. These two have been hammering away at each other for years inviting radical transformation and change.

Pluto and the youthful, tricksterish Mercury have been recently whispering. Mercury may be gently reminding Pluto that it’s time to move on to new concepts. It’s not to late to learn some new tricks.

Speaking of subterfuge, aggressive Mars is in secretive Scorpio, adding a sinister element to this Full Moon.

‘Wait a minute! Wh-Where am I?’

Keep your wits about you Leo, as dazzling as you may be, the element of surprise may take you by storm!

‘C’mon Sam, put some lead into it,’ urges Colly Capricorn, ‘you’re almost there.’

‘I’m enjoying the view. Admiring the lichen,’ retorts Saturnian Sam. ‘There’s a lot to see.’

This weeks New Moon in Capricorn highlights the quest for individual achievement. Capricorn is the sign best known for responsibility, pride, status and working single-mindedly towards pursuing a goal. Generally, Capricorn needs to see the evidence of its success. The sign of Capricorn also has a dynasty quality associated with it. As hard as he works, Capricorn usually enjoys sharing the fruit of his labors with family, sometimes expecting kinfolk to follow in footsteps.

However, this tricky New Moon has some complications. Capricorn ruler, Saturn, is in adventurous, truth-seeking Sagittarius. Sagittarius energy does not share the Capricorn love of status quo and conformity. Sagittarius energy seeks its own truth. They trailblaze. Results are less important than the journey, the experience.

Adding to this need for independence, Venus, planet of warmth and affection is on the receiving end of a distant chill. Parked next to parental Saturn, there can be a growing resentment toward following etched out plans. This discontent may be subtle and buried, not yet fully realized.

This Capricorn New Moon is also closely aligned with the waning Pluto-Uranus square. The square has been concerned with the ousting of old established order. Following in others footsteps is proving more difficult, for some young folks than forging a new path.

There is a sobering quality to this New Moon. Heed the call of exploration, contemplation, but lay down the framework for personal advancement. Time to choose a direction.

‘Don’t worry about me,’ urges Sam, ‘I’ll get there in my own time.’

‘I love basking in the warmth of my family,’ muses Kit, ‘but something’s missing. Hmmn, since I moved back home, I haven’t constructed any treehouses, caught any fish, let alone produce a starring vehicle. I’m off my game. In fact, I haven’t done much of anything. Could it be these wonderful people hold me back from expressing my inner light? Or, perhaps, nestled in the bosom of my family, I’m too complacent to achieve my full potential, which we all know is enormous?’

This Christmas Full Moon is provoking some serious questions regarding the disparity between home and career. While the Moon, representing the emotions, is in the warm, nurturing, homey sign of Cancer, the Sun, indicating our inner drive and desire to shine, is in the status seeking, career sector of Capricorn. Oftentimes, it is difficult to meld the two. Adding fuel to the ‘I want to make my mark on the world’ philosophy, Uranus, the planet of individuation is stationing direct, imbuing the masses with an egocentric need for autonomy.

As the co-ruler of this Full Moon, responsible Saturn, in the philosophical sign of Sagittarius, is also promoting freedom, expansion, and the pursuit of individual exploration.

‘Listen up people. After pie, I’m out of here! The winds of change are tickling my ears. I shall heed the call for re-invention and begin my quest for self-realization. But first I will fortify with two pieces of that yummy pie!’

‘This bulge doesn’t appear to be vanishing of its own volition,’ sighs Kit. ‘Drat! Clearly I need to forego the treats and make plans to reduce.’

Truer words Kit!

Friday’s New Moon in truth-seeking, philosophical (yet potentially belly-expanding) Sagittarius is being vexed by its own ruler, benevolent Jupiter. Jupiter signifies optimism, joy, success and abundance. While in the discerning side of Virgo however, Jupiter’s natural flair for indulgence is tempered. Virgo is the sign of health. Jupiter transiting this energy can’t help but become aware of the body and of the harmful, cumulative effects excessive habits can cause.

Adding to the emphasis on health, Jupiter is in a contentious aspect with Chiron, the wounded healer. The good news is that Chiron invites healing. In the nurturing, receptive sign of Pisces, Chiron is urging us to get at the root cause of some of our addictions and Achilles Heals and address them.

Fortunately, this is an excellent time to get a grip on your bad habits as this New Moon and her cosmic buds are in signs favoring change. Sagittarius, Pisces, and Virgo all get weary of the status quo. Sagittarius, in particular, has sights set for the future. It’s quicker to get there when you’re carrying less of a physical and/or mental load!

As the luminaries pull away from pragmatic Saturn, they carry with them His stern warning about truth, responsibility, and reality.

‘No ice cream for me if I want to look smashing in my new suit. There will be far too many sit-ups to pay that piper!

‘Hear ye, hear ye,’ trumpets Pollux, ‘Penelope Pisces, author of The Exploding Bubble Nebula, has mysteriously vanished. It is believed she disappeared into her iPad. Anyone with info on her condition is asked to report to authorities immediately.’

‘Spare me the dramatics,’ snarks Starrkitty, ‘if anyone is desperate for attention it’s Penny. I’ll bet she’s skulking about the Medusa Nebula savoring the Geminids, delighting in the attention. I’m sure she engineered the whole thing to promote, Creature from Lagoon Nebula. I heard revenues from Pistol Star were slow.’

‘I don’t know Kit,’ debates Jill Gemini, ‘Penelope could have been kidnapped by her iPad, she might be trapped in a gigantic electronic swampy purgatory the likes of which we can’t fathom, remember when she melted right in...’

This weeks New Moon in Gemini might be ripe for a few good yarns.The chatty Gemini Moon opposes the Sun, serious Saturn, as well as its communicative ruler, Mercury in blustery, exaggerative Sagittarius. While Saturn is urging conviction in testimony, the planets are being challenged by imaginative Neptune in Pisces. Neptune has a way of putting it’s own spin on the truth. With Neptune influencing Mercury, facts can be misinterpreted or misunderstood. Neptune and the Moon can heighten the imagination. Neptune and the Sun may cause delusions of grandeur. Images, emotions may be blurry and distorted. Confusion may permeate the cosmos.

‘I don’t know,’ cautions Athena Aquarius, ‘I would wait until solid facts are in, before I loudly opine.’

No fooling!

‘You swiped GranniTaurus’ necklace?’ asks Leo, ‘Why? You know it’s her prized possession. How could you? You don’t even have interest in jewelry!’

‘Who do you think you are judging me,’ retorts Andy Aries, ‘I didn’t tell you cause I wanted a lecture. I’m sick of Granny’s sermons and I wanted to get her goat, so there.’

‘No, I aggh,’ mutters Leo, ‘...I just always thought you believed in a high moral concept of right and wrong. I feel like I don’t even know you anymore- If I ever did.’

‘Don’t try and make me feel guilty,’ defends Andy. ‘I have my reasons. I’m the boss of my own behavior.’

Wednesday’s New Moon in penetrating Scorpio is illuminating some of the hidden facets, quirks and beliefs of those we are intensely involved with. This Moon in close cahoots with Mercury could shed light, in particular, on a sibling’s secretive behavior. What might be revealed may prove shocking, disturbing or even amusing. The motivations behind the behavior may also be uncovered as this New Moon ruler, probing Pluto, continues its transformative relationship with erratic Uranus. Catharsis is possible.

Adding to the melodrama, Mars, the traditional ruler of this New Moon is poised to leave the discerning sign of Virgo.
Feisty Mars traveling in the subservient sign of Virgo, hasn’t been fully expressing his aggressive energies. There could be issues of guilt, criticism, and/or passive aggressive behavior surfacing. Emotional explosions around the holidays should be expected as energetic Mars enters the relationship realm of Libra in a high pressure-cooker state.

‘One thing is for sure Andy,’ admonishes Leo, ‘I’ll be keeping a closer eye on you.’

Has the avaricious Starrkitty fallen prey to the act of selfless giving? Can it possibly be true?

Tuesday’s Full Moon in resource conscious Taurus is emphasizing possessions. While Taurus energy generally likes to accumulate softer, comfier assets, (and lots of them) its ruler, Venus, is traveling through the modest sign of Virgo-arguably the most selfless sign in the zodiac. Accompanying Venus through this potentially martyr-like sign, magnanimous Jupiter and aggressive Mars are also in a uncharacteristically giving state of being. They are all
searching for a suitable outlet for their repressed energies. What better way to exhaust than to serve and/or purge?

Adding to the cosmic altruism, Venus, lover of luxury, is being challenged by Chiron in compassionate Pisces. ‘I love my Barbara Eden signed “I Dream of Genie” bottle,’ sobs Kit, ‘but when I think of all the mouths it could feed on Aldebarran, I can’t conceive of keeping it. I’m putting it up for auction.’

Will wonders never cease?