Cosmic Support amidst Shakedown City

February offers us a bit of a break.   It feels so nice after the push and pull of planets in January and the hustle-bustle of December’s holidays.   This month, not a single planet turns retrograde or direct motion out of retrograde which affirms our sense of where we are going.  With the exception of Jupiter, all planets are moving forward in February.   So we feel less struggle and more directed.  YAY!  Not that there isn’t work to be done (there always is…); but we will feel as though we are actually getting somewhere, making tracks, accomplishing our goals. 

Underscoring this are some really helpful configurations.   For starters, Generous Jupiter and the Lunar North Node (our true calling) continue to travel together in Virgo, focusing and delivering our goals in the health and work sectors of our lives.  This power couple finishes details to an astonishing level of perfection and will not skip over a single item of note. 

Forming a gorgeous alliance to Jupiter-North Node are Messenger Mercury tightly conjoined to Transformer Pluto in constructive Capricorn, matching our minds, messages and desires.  Messages will be really strong now, both those you receive and deliver.  Pay attention to what is said and what you say.  Capricorn is all about solid foundations, creating that which lasts the test of time.  What are you trying to create and manifest to sustain yourself and loved ones?  Envision. By the end of the first week (Feb. 7^th) beneficent Venus joins this pair complimenting and cheering on our efforts; all three align with Jupiter-North Node to plan and execute to the final detail.  Build baby build!   

The trick is managing the unexpected.  The curveball.  Because challenging the Capricorn planetary trio is Radical Uranus.  This is the game changer.  All of us find we must reinvent ourselves, our methods and routines to accomplish what we seek.  No exceptions.  What used to work no longer does.  This can be a break through period for those willing to go out on a limb and take chances (see below).  You will be rewarded.  For those clinging to worn out ways, little movement occurs.  An example of this out-of-the-box climate is the highly tumultuous political scene in the USA.  On both the Right and the Left, the Capricorn Establishment is facing complete upheaval.   Donald Trump and Bernie Sanders are shaking down the traditional system and offering something totally different. Keep an eye on the Iowa Caucuses as an indicator of how much change voters demand.

So while we have a tremendous amount of cosmic support this month to get where we want to go, do make allowances for surprises.   When we aren’t caught off guard and staying on track, February is a time to roll up your sleeves and really nail down the format and details of your desires.  Mars accentuates the messages from the Mercury-Pluto duo:  trust what you are hearing and seeing.  As February begins, Motivating Mars is at a critical degree of Scorpio telling us to dig deep.  Keep looking, searching and hunting to leave no stone unturned and each detail accounted for. 

(A cautionary note about Mars at such a notable degree in Scorpio:  watch your wallet.  Fortunately it is aligning helpfully with Mercury-Pluto in practical Capricorn.  So balance and settle accounts. Ask:  do you really need that extra such and such?  It is always a good idea to pay debt off first.)

Scorpio is the master intuitive so trust your gut, your instincts and your hunches in all cases.  The greatest art has been produced by artists following their intuition.  Some of the most profound and significant scientific breakthroughs have occurred by scientists following their hunches.  The trick is stamina.  To persist and keep at it even when you think you have no energy or ideas left.  Try not to let failure or disappointment dissuade you.  You have gut instincts and hunches for a reason.  Make like a Scorpio detective and put your nose to the grindstone.  Hard work now will indeed pay off.  It just isn’t always for us to know when or how.  Trust the flow and allow.  Take a break when needed. Just when you believe all paths have been exhausted, that’s when Mighty Uranus and Saturn step in by offering an Awakening, a Surprise, a breakthrough. 

Because the engines of invention and innovation are working overtime now, firing on all cylinders.  Wow.  We can hardly ask for more!  Radical Uranus in fiery Aries beautifully aligns with Saturn in adventurous Sagittarius fueling our mind, body and soul through the entire month.  Working late to solve a problem?  Feeling like you are on the edge of landing that job, healing old psychological or physical wounds but just don’t know if you have steam left to pull it off or are overwhelmed by the task ahead?  The Uranus-Saturn alliance is your friend for sure.  It’s like having an endless supply of gasoline to keep the car running.   Turned into yet another dead end?  Uranus-Saturn delivers miraculous ways of looking at something, a fresh round of resources you never knew you had.  It is very cool indeed.  Saturn in Sagittarius is all about trust:  believing even though you can’t yet see results.   Like agreeing to something or someone with a handshake and a whole lot of blind faith and just knowing it will all work out.  Uranus-Saturn say go ahead and make the deal, try something new: you have nothing to lose.

This gorgeous, fiery energy is in place on February 8^th for the New Moon at 19 degrees Aquarius.  Talk about the Mother of Invention and out of the box creativity…Wow!   Smack in between both planets, the New Moon forms a very helpful angle to both Uranus and Saturn, aligning our emotions, will, effort and creative intent.  There is a “your wish is my command” expression to this New Moon.  The caution here is the challenging angle between the Moon/Sun in Aquarius and Motivating Mars in Scorpio.

We must reach far deeper than we expected, re-examine exactly what we’ve gotten ourselves into to achieve our goal.   In fact, we must ask if our goal is in line with our soul purpose.  In other words, are we really certain our goal is what we need for our best and highest good?   Have you thought about what you will do when you attain that goal?  Then what?  We definitely have an endless supply of energy to get us across the finish line now. It is within reach:  you can see it just in the distance.   If your mark is in fact soul-aligned, you will attain it.  Keep moving toward it with everything you have. 

On Valentine’s day, Messenger Mercury moves into group-oriented and detached Aquarius.  And the Messenger planet in this airy sign loves springing surprises; with Venus in status-conscious Capricorn, expect the rather large and unexpected ­­­­­­­­_________ fill in the blank.  The moon is exalted (super honored) in earthy Taurus all weekend forming a gorgeous angle to Transformer Pluto and Jupiter-North Node.  What may seem to begin as an ordinary date night on February 13-14 could very well carry particular, positive and weighty significance.  Ahem.  Any proposal will be most heartfelt.  The ring accompanying it, BIG. 

Three days later beneficent Venus joins Messenger Mercury in Aquarius helping us to detach emotionally from any difficult relationships we may be ensnared in.  Incline toward folks who are new to you, can help you see through a different lens and/or enjoy group activities and networking for the rest of the month.  Aquarian Venus is humanitarian by nature and reminds us that we are all one, with souls and beating hearts.   Through detached interaction, we can more easily bridge the differences among us for better understanding of our fellow man.  This connectivity increases as Mercury-Venus travel together to the end of February.

On the 19^th, the Sun moves into self-sacrificing Pisces.  Known as the Mystic, Pisces directs our will (Sun) to believe.  Believe in our ideas, our fellow man, our loved ones, ourselves, what we create, increasing as the Sun joins Neptune, the ruler of Pisces.  It is an excellent time for creativity of any kind…to day dream and let your imagination run wild, to listen to music and enjoy any kind of water activities (from a soak in the tub to swimming in the ocean).  Have fun and see where the flow takes you…just remember to come back to earth!  Because the polar opposite of focused belief is escapism.   This is the caution with Pisces.  While Pisces imbues us with faith and imagination, it is best to strike a balance between reality and our fanstasies.  Fortunately, the earthy and ever-pragmatic Pluto in Capricorn and Jupiter-North Node in Virgo trio keeps our feet on the ground even while our head wanders through the clouds. 

This effect is highlighted on the Full Moon, February 22 with the Sun in dreamy Pisces while the Moon is realistic, analytical Virgo.  What we have sown blossoms into fruition now.  With Messenger Mercury exalted (specially honored) in Aquarius, it is a particularly great time for announcements of significance.  All Full Moons are key periods to make a splash and get noticed.  But the Full Moon on the 22^nd is a particularly ripe time.

The final week of February (and we get an extra day due to leap year!)  both Messenger Mercury and beneficent Venus move through a very noticeable degree of Aquarius.  So the spotlight you garnered on the Full Moon will carry over until the end of the month.  It is an excellent time to share news, build a network, grow the work force and expand building on all that hard work you have accomplished to date.  Mercury-Venus in Aquarius have a magical connectivity power.  So what you unleash and release to the masses can spread like wildfire.  Conversely, any information you are not prepared to share is best kept to yourself since Aquarius loves a surprise and can catch you off guard.  Whatever the case, may the Force be with you!

Of Special Note:

I recently completed my Level IV Reiki Training and am now a certified Reiki Master.  I offer both in-person and distance Reiki sessions which last about 45 minutes.  To schedule either a Reiki session or astrology reading, please email me at hilary@hilaryharley.com or visit my website www.hilaryharley.com

Tried and True: It isn't Sexy but it Works!

We all like a little glamour in our lives.  Who doesn’t?  Yet as 2015 rolls into 2016 we will find ourselves relying increasingly and steadily on that ever-so-boring quality:  function.  What works efficiently and effectively in our lives.

As each of us is pushed and pulled by the forces that be and drowned out in the cacophony of others seemingly more powerful, it is imperative to stay focused this coming year.  What are your goals?  Stick to them like glue and don’t be dissuaded.  Don’t have any goals?  Develop one or two manageable tasks that you believe can be accomplished. 

At our service helping us to get things done through the first three months of 2016 is the powerful pairing of Generous Jupiter and the Lunar North Node.  The latter is often called the North Node of Fate because it pulls us toward our destiny.  There is no mistaking when it calls our name.  How?  By resonating deeply with us.  Making us feel good, that we have done the right thing when we follow its lead.

Jupiter brings abundance wherever it cycles through the zodiac.  In combination with the Lunar North Node, these two underscore and emphasize where we are supposed to go, what we are doing, and how we spend our time.  If you are on the right path, you cannot help but feel it, that you are in the right place at the right time, doing the right thing.

In functional Virgo, the Jupiter-North Node duo is highly discerning and analytical.  They will really help you get the job done, no matter what the job is.   Nothing says Let’s get Real like earthy Virgo.  Why?  Virgo rules health, work, animals, routines and habits, and service to others.  Virgo doesn’t mess around.  It makes a list, checks it five times, adjusts accordingly, and follows through with an unparalleled efficiency.  Depending on where this power couple falls in your chart, all the wholesome goodness of ethical, hardworking Virgo is brought to you in spades.  Stand back and behold!

January is often a time when we revisit diet and exercise, routines of all kinds.  Virgo is the Queen of Routines.  Since our lives are formed and based on habits, it is essential to make sure these are healthy and serving us well.  Rolling into the New Year, what habits and routines do you want to change, what have you outgrown and need to shed or improve upon?   Have you neglected your body?  Are you overworking and under-playing?   Want to volunteer but haven’t figured out how to squeeze it into your schedule? 

Optimally functioning and well-serving routines and habits are vital to our well-being.  But a word of caution:  they can be a trap like anything else where we get stuck in a rut.  Sticking to a routine simply because it is what you know, not because it serves you, greatly diminishes its value.   The New Year affords us a time to review what is working and what is not in our lives.  Virgo is a mutable sign, meaning it offers flexibility, variety and possibility to help us adjust our patterns to create the most effective life possible.  It is OK to embrace the new, untried path, to add variety; in short:  to be different.  Regardless of what others think or say.  No time like the New Year to take charge of your life!

So what a blessing to have Jupiter tied to the North Node all month long underscoring and reinforcing our quest to develop new patterns.  At every turn this pair supports our efforts for health and well-being, and work (but not overwork).   The caution here is that Virgo rules perfection and details.  Be careful not to bite off more than you can chew; try not to over-analyze or overthink the myriad details and lose sight of the big picture for all of the details.   Attempt small shifts first.  Give yourself a trial period.  Feel what works and what doesn’t.  Adjust.

Deepening our quest to Get Real in 2016, Motivating Mars enters Scorpio just after the New Year on Monday, January 4^th.   Mars is our drive, what gets us out of bed in the morning.  In Scorpio, the psychologist of the zodiac, Mars drives us to dive deep inside ourselves to thoroughly observe and examine what makes us tick.   Where the Jupiter-North Node pair analyzes how well parts of your life are functioning, Mars now pushes us to find out why, to get to the veritable bottom of the story.  This trio is potent and means business.   It wants answers.  Like the film, A Few Good Men, Mars directs us to get the truth, whether we can handle it or not. 

Uncovering the Truth, you may not like what you find.  And so of course the downside, flipside and dark side of Mars in Scorpio is a drive to escape into sex, drugs and overspending to avoid what must ultimately be faced:  reality.   If you choose avoidance instead of walking the Path, prepare to pony up.  Instead, why not do the hard, soul work now so you can enjoy life when the time is right.  So, watch your wallet for the next two months.  Ask:  do you really need that?  After all the holiday shopping and spending the bill comes due in January and February.  Pay it off as quickly as you can.  Otherwise the interest is guaranteed to build up in 2016 as Mars revisits Scorpio later this year.

The very next day after Mars enters Scorpio, Messenger Mercury turns retrograde motion for most of January.  This is a mixed blessing.  While we have the urge to get going in the New Year, to jump on the bandwagon to set a fresh course in 2016, it is also the deepest part of winter in the Northern Hemisphere.  A time for turning inward.  Snuggling with others and ourselves.  Our pets.  So while we set intentions for the New Year, Mercury asks us now to review those intentions until January 25^th, to be sure of our goals, that this is what we want, the path we seek to walk.  Is it?  For the next three weeks:  ponder.

Three days later on Friday, January 8^th, Jupiter also turns Retrograde until early May.  Unlike some common perceptions, planetary retrogrades are not a bad thing.  It simply means the planet’s actions slow down and prompt us to search or act internally rather than outwardly.  With Jupiter conjoined to the Lunar North Node, we are invited to take to heart our quest for good health, efficient work habits and service to others.  Do as you say.  Follow through.  Be reliable.  Virgo isn’t sexy or fun, but oh man, where would we be without honesty, responsibility, punctuality and integrity? 

Introspection never hurt anyone; and prepares us beautifully for the New Moon on January 10^th in earthy, pragmatic Capricorn.  This New Moon is tied to Messenger Mercury, the Sun and transformer Pluto.   Pay attention to messages you receive now, literally anything that crosses your path, as Mercury forms a very helpful angle to Jupiter, creating one very powerful New Moon phase.  In practical, structured Capricorn, the stage is set for 2016.  Think of January as the platform and building block for the rest of the year.

A key note of this New Moon is its proximity of transformer Pluto challenging Uranus, which has shaped us over the past four years.  While these outer planets will not precisely challenge one another again for quite some time, their current razor’s edge prompts us to revisit the same the same themes we’ve worked through in 2014-15.  It is a highly appropriate time given Mercury and Jupiter’s retrograde status in January…to have us take one more thorough look at where we’ve been, how far we’ve come in order to establish where we want to go in 2016. 

Fasten your seatbelts then because during the third week of the month, cosmic activity picks up steam.  On January 21, the Sun says goodbye to Capricorn and enters inventive Aquarius, paving the way for strong individuality two days later when the Full Moon occurs in Leo on the 23^rd.    This is the culmination of a very potent lunar cycle involving Messenger Mercury which is tightly conjoined to Powerful Pluto.  Watch your words.  Listen, really listen, to what others are saying.  Pay attention.  With Mercury-Pluto in black and white Capricorn, people will take you at face value, closely observe whether you are hearing what they tell you and want you to know.  So be sure to say what you mean and mean what you say.  The Leo Full Moon can also be over the top dramatic.  It also wants to have FUN.  A good time, a really, really good time.  Just be sure to take a taxi if you’ve had too much to drink and filter your words.  Rely on Mercury-Pluto in practical Capricorn to help with both.

Exactly the same day as the Full Moon, Vivacious Venus shifts into high gear at an attention-getting degree of Capricorn.  Deals and relationships may take form now.  With the North Node of Fate still tied to Jupiter, very significant people may enter or make a mark on your life now.  FOCUS!  Do not ignore or dismiss anyone new to you now.  While you may not find them relevant in the current moment, hang on to their information as you may need to contact them at some point later on.  The Leo Full Moon is also highly romantic and creative as much as it is full of surprises with the Sun in Aquarius.  This is a great time to plan a proposal or creative venture as Mercury turns direction two days later on January 25^th.  So go ahead and ask/prepare to launch!

Heading into the final week of January, Savvy Saturn makes an increasingly helpful angle to Ingenious Uranus and will continue to do so through February.  With the Sun already cycling through Aquarius (ruled by Uranus) it is an excellent time to think, plan and act out of the box.  Saturn’s alliance with Uranus is the magician’s wand, a truly magical combination, as Saturn is hard work and Uranus is ingenuity.   Both are currently in fire signs bringing together pioneering, trailblazing inspiration (Uranus in Aries) and adventurous, philosophical search for meaning (Saturn in Sagittarius).   Uranus in Aries is full frontal can-do spirit while Saturn demands the Truth, the Whole Truth and Nothing but the Truth.  It is in an incredibly strong combination.  Whatever the energy is aimed at manifests, like literally having a magician’s wand in your hand.  It is terrific for accomplishing altruistic goals.  But use with care.  With Mercury now direct, still tied to Powerful Pluto in Capricorn, the Great Manifestor, the world will be yours for the asking in 2016.  So do be careful what you wish for.

Of special note:

I wish each and every one of you a healthy and joyous New Year!  I have now expanded my practice to include Reiki therapy.  Please see my newly updated website:  www.hilaryharley.com and linkedin page listed under Hilary Harley for more information on Harley Holistic Healing and how to schedule an astrology reading or Reiki treatment.

Blessings,

Hilary

Seek and ye shall find: all that glitters is not gold

Try as we might to ease into December, the cosmic forces aren’t having any of it.  The dance between illusion and reality, what is really going on, kicks into high gear this month.  We felt it building all through the fall as Taskmaster Saturn moved into a tight challenge to Mysterious Neptune.   The latter, Neptune, the most famous trickster and ringmaster of illusion and delusion tantalizes us with all that glitters.  It is up us to decide, discern and figure out the hard way, if what glitters is actually gold.  Or not. Do we get caught up and slide into the vortex of what feels really delicious but may be oh, so unreal. Or, do we roll up our sleeves and get down to the gritty work (but immeasurably rewarding effort) of searching for veritable and lasting meaningful truth.

As I wrote this month’s blog I was torn about how to title my message:  do I use Shakespeare’s weighty line “All that glitters is not gold…” or the more optimistic, “Seek and ye shall find.”  Either way, it is up to us to sift through glamour, fog, and haze of what scintillatingly allures us to find the meat and bones, the structure holding up our lives.   As Walter Mondale famously asked, “where’s the beef?”  This December more than most others past, we quest for sustained and sustainable substance in our lives.

For those already on The Path, (following their hearts and conscience), their journey will have its challenges this month but not be riddled with eruptions and life interruptions like those who are off path.  You know who you are.  Are you chasing an unattainable something you think will make you happy…if only you had this job/ car/house/lifestyle, then life would be perfect/good, etc. OR, are you diving down deep inside yourself to figure out your source of unrest and lack of peace?   Saturn in Sagittarius demands pure, unbridled honesty with one’s self and others.   By the end of December when Uranus turns direct motion, those not following their hearts and conscience will receive a wake-up call for sure.

But first, let’s look at the opening days of December.  Saturn tightly conjoins the Sun (our Will) in Truth and Justice Sagittarius, both challenge deceptive Neptune…hence we are asked, invited (or pushed) to examine what is real/true/meaningful and what is not.  What will see us through the good times and especially the bad times.  Life’s downturns.   Driving this message home is transformer Pluto’s increasing challenge to radical Uranus.  We must really look hard at our desires, what drives us at our core, and how we can use alternative, untried and perhaps pioneering methods to achieve our goals/desires.  A word of caution here:  using illegal and unethical means to achieve said desires will fail utterly now.  Mercury in truth-searing Sagittarius aligning with out-of-the-box Uranus assures that:  we must tell the whole truth and nothing but the truth. 

All through the first two weeks of December, Motivating Mars in Libra tightly challenges Pluto and Uranus.  Libra is about relationships, the cornerstone and centerpiece of our lives.  If someone or somebodies are not cooperating as you would like or expect them to, it is up to you, not him/her/them, to effectively manage the situation.  Alter your tactics.  What has not worked before is most likely not going to work now.  Time for a new strategy.   You do have options:   try something new, surrender your expectations, give it up and let go; talk to others in similar situations and find out what works for them and try that; walk away. 

December 4^th-6^th may be especially prickly as the emotional Moon moves toward Mars giving rise to feelings that have been unrealized or unspoken.  Suggestion:  be gentle with yourself and others during this time.  Patience and understanding, putting yourself in another’s shoes will work wonders rather than harshly judging.  Libra is about decisions, the process of decision-making and judgment.   And if there is one thing about Mars in Libra, you do not want to rush to judgment only to wake up and find you were on the wrong side of the scales.  Take your time and evaluate your options, consider your feelings and those of others.  Weigh all of the facts carefully and judiciously.  After all, what is the rush? 

Significantly helping our quest for the Truth now is Venus’ move into psychological Scorpio on December 5^th.   Scorpio is a veritable detective which plumbs the depths and leaves no stone unturned.  If someone is deceiving you, you will get to the bottom of exactly what is going on.  Ferret out every last single detail.  Fully supporting your efforts is Jupiter in detail-oriented Virgo squaring off with Messenger Mercury in truthful Sagittarius.  Those running away will not be able to hide.  And anything swept under the rug now will be tripped over as the truth is surely discovered.  Own it and own up.  Otherwise, face a stiffer penalty.

The point of these converging forces is simple:  live your truth.  Cosmic energy is not complicated.  It is elegantly streamlined.  It is just that human beings get in their own way and muddle things.  The aim of structural Saturn and dreamy Neptune is to build a solid foundation and dwelling for our dreams.   Neptune in Pisces asks us to believe in ourselves and our dreams while Saturn in Sagittarius asks the hard questions:  why do you really believe/want/desire this?  They ask us to understand what we believe; to have faith but also learn why and how to have faith; to educate ourselves about the very basis of our religion, philosophy, ideas, opinions, principles, theories…

In short, do not blindly follow ANY tenet/system/person/faith.  Do so at your own peril.  If you have lost faith or trust in someone or some aspect of your life OR are asked to place faith and trust in someone/thing:  ask questions.  Again, there is no rush.  The Mars-Pluto-Uranus trio demand we weigh our options.  Do not blindly follow.  It may feel radical to question the status quo but going along for the sake of getting along is a dead end trap.  The old ways, methods, routine just won’t work any more.  Put on your creative hat and find out what will work.

All this searching, truth-questing and detective work the first ten days of December gradually pays off around mid-month.   Scorpio Venus aligns helpfully with Neptune in Pisces, lifting the veil of what confused and confounded us, unifying, clarifying and demystifying answers we have sought, and further refining questions still to be asked, opening up the Path still to be walked.  There is tremendously powerful healing energy available to access December 7-20.

These are pivotal days.  First, Messenger Mercury moves into Responsible Capricorn at an attention getting degree on December 10.  You may very well hear vital news.  Capricorn’s key phrase is:  I USE.  So put all your knowledge collected over the past weeks and months to good use.  The very next day is the New Moon in Sagittarius on Thursday, December 11 forming a beautiful angle between the Sun (our will), the Moon (our emotions) and Uranus (our ingenuity).  If ever there were a New Moon to say a prayer, make a wish and set intentions for the time to come, this is it!!  Our creativity is off the charts now.

Guard your thoughts very carefully and focus precisely on what you DO want, not what you do NOT want to manifest on December 16 and 17^th when Venus helpfully aligns to the Messenger Mercury-transformer Pluto in Capricorn duo.  Venus rules love and money, so laser-like thought focus enables Venus to bring home the bacon and then some.  Venus continues to work its magic through the 20^th as it makes a harmonious angle to healer Chiron.  We will need every bit of her powerful love as the Sun challenges the lunar nodes exactly on the 18^th.  It is an evolutionary moment for every single one of us:  we are invited (or dared, depending on your viewpoint) to step into Love.  To unify through understanding and education rather than blindly dividing, further separating.  Become whole.  Recognize we are ONE.  That separateness is a fallacy, a lie, an untruth.  That each of us is a mirror to the other, our fellow human being(s).   

Hugely emphasizing this is Generous Jupiter’s conjoining of the lunar north node all month long in Virgo.  The North Node calls our name, calls us forward to our best selves.  Jupiter grants our wish.  In Virgo, this duo says through hard work, taking care of our health, being responsible, our wish is the Universe’s command.  The lunar nodes are evolutionary markers.  As they square or challenge the Sun (our will) in Sagittarius on December 18^th, we are called to do the work of telling the truth.  To ourselves and others.

The very next day, December 19^th, Messenger Mercury joins Pluto in industrious Capricorn to challenge the Moon and Uranus in Aries as the latter prepares to turn direct motion.  This is a highly explosive mix  as Mercury-Pluto see and hear life in black and white, right and wrong, you vs. me.  The Fiery Moon-Uranus duo doesn’t give a darn about black and white, and will boldly strike wherever and however necessary to get its point across.  This mix is strong to say the least.  Explosive…which can be positive or negative, destroying for the sake of it or creating breakthroughs for the better, love, self-love and healing.  Ask:  which side do you want to be on?  Destructive or productive?  To build or tear down?  It is a crystal clear moment, as evolutionary, pivotal choices are presented to us.  We can unify and heal or perpetuate the illusion of separateness.

By the 21^st, the Moon enters earthy Taurus where she is healthfully grounded and makes a gorgeous angle to Mercury-Pluto and Jupiter-North Node duos.  This could not be more helpful to us as we enter the heart of the holidays.  Our thoughts, emotions, desires and efforts are all brought together, centered and aimed realistically to achieve our highest purpose and fullest potential.  It is really, truly lovely energy.  Heightening this is the Sun’s entrance into pragmatic Capricorn at an attention-getting degree.

It is the perfect lead-in, almost too storybook in its effect, as the Full Moon falls precisely ON Christmas.  In its home sign of Cancer, the Moon is serenely content and may ensure a very sweet, thoughtful holiday with family, good food and lots of heart-felt nurturing.  We will need every bit of this compassionate nurturing and otherwise planetary practical focus as radical Uranus turns direct motion the very next day, December 26^th.   How we have felt up until now, life as we know it may very well be turned on its head as unpredictable Uranus shifts gears.  In short, have your ducks lined up and be prepared for anything!

A potent combination supports us as the earth shifts under our feet:   Venus moves into adventurous Sagittarius on December 30 enhancing our faith in life and in ourselves, while Jupiter and the lunar North Node converge, making anything and everything possible if we are willing to focus on our to-do list and do the work ahead.   

Of special note:   I wish each and every one of you a wonderful 2016.  These last few years have been very challenging for all of us and we continue to feel the fall-out from the Uranus-Pluto shifts of 2012-2105.  I am now a Level 3 Reiki practitioner and am now offering both complete astrological counseling and Reiki services under a new name:  Harley Holistic Healing.  You may continue to find me at www.hilaryharley.com to schedule either a Reiki healing or astrology reading.  It is a the perfect gift for anyone in your life, including yourself!  May your holidays bring you peace and contentment and a beautiful New Year. 

Pretenders need not apply

November opens with a powerhouse cluster of planets in earthy Virgo.  Generous Jupiter joins Venus and Mars to emphasize health, healing, well-being, duty and work.   Giving tremendous support to this combination is transformer Pluto’s helpful angle to Jupiter and wellness asteroid Hygeia in practical Capricorn.  The effect creates solutions for long-standing problems with work and health as Healer Chiron opposes the cluster.

We are being handed a step-by-step how-to guide to follow an unfolding road map.  We are asked to produce (or reproduce) structures (Capricorn) to build a stronger and healthier life and/or more efficient and productive workplace.  Virgo is all about analysis.  By crunching the data, searching for numbers and information, we can then study what we’ve gathered and apply it accordingly.   This sounds very cold and impersonal.  However, even in the most intimate and personal relationships we are asked to now stand back and assess.  Detach and be objective.  What is working about certain aspects of our lives and what is not?  Pro vs. con.  Depth of situation or relationship.  Ask the hard questions.  It is a great time to search for answers.  The power cluster lasts through the first week of November so put it to good use.  Work it!

Bolstering our efforts for creative solutions is Messenger Mercury’s move into intense Scorpio on November 2^nd.  Mercury rules communication, how we think and speak.  In powerful Scorpio our observational and intuitive skills sharpen dramatically.  Trust what you are being shown now.  Try not to doubt or dismiss what crosses your view.  You may want to just file away for future reference what comes to you or you may want to act directly.  You choose.  The key point is that Scorpio Mercury is like a detective following clues revealed.  Each new one we overturn leads to yet another.

The first two weeks of November is a great time for scientists, artists, engineers of all kinds, anyone looking for breakthroughs to stubborn matters of the mind.  Conversely, we may be shown problems that must be addressed or fixed.  The Virgo cluster helps process and analyze all that data to look for a better way of functioning and operating.

Mercury gradually pulls into beneficial alignment with Jupiter through mid-month increasing our ingenuity and insight.  Wow.  At the end of the first week, Venus joins the lunar North Node at an eye-popping degree of Libra.  Relationships, art, the beauty business, harmony are the focus.  This intensifies on the 11^th and 12^th as Motivating Mars and the North Node switch signs:  Mars enters Libra and the lunar Node reverses into Virgo for a long stay.  Both are still tightly clustered with Venus, love and money, to form a power trio.  It is critical mass for those relationships that are not functioning and scenarios can play out in a number of ways.

There is significant help available to those committed to getting back on the right track – for doing the work to salvage the relationship or to create a healthier dynamic.  This planetary combination also portends new relationships opening up – perhaps with people you have been familiar with for a while but haven’t had the time or opportunity to really get to know them. 

There will be those who decide to call it quits once and for all and leave, either their family of origin or partnerships; and not to be forgotten, shifts in relationships at work – the classic corporate shuffle, the reorganization of staff reassigned to other departments, jobs outsourced or cut altogether.

The cosmic shifts occur on the heels of the New Moon in Scorpio with Messenger Mercury at a highly visible degree of Scorpio.  Bells and whistles will go off now.  Attention.  Attention please.  If nothing else, Scorpio is about power.  The dim light of the New Moon paired with Mercury aligns helpfully with Jupiter in Virgo and Pluto in Capricorn.  This combination literally gives us X-Ray vision and hearing, knowing power if we tune into it.  Really be aware and focus on what you are being shown now.  Even the slightest bit of information might be useful down the road.

A word of caution about secrecy:  the Mercury, Sun, Moon in Scorpio troika is keenly adept at hiding information, money, anything.  The dark of the Moon ensures it.  But it is also acutely aware, psychic if you will.   If you get a vibe that someone is taking advantage of you, follow your hunch.  Ask questions.  You do NOT want to sweep things under the rug now or dismiss advice, messages, anything that looks odd or off-putting.  Ask:  what is that about?  Gauge whether it is the proper time to use the information you receive; if not now, just wait and the right time will appear. 

On the 18^th, mystical Neptune turns direct motion in Pisces.  The effects of Neptune are subtle and gentle yet offers a consistent cleansing and clearing result to push us toward our highest potential.  As it will over the next year to come, Neptune challenges Saturn in Sagittarius, causing us to sift through our beliefs, our systems of faith, educational methods and institutions, our spiritual lives, and our attitudes or interest in foreigners and foreign life.

You may have questioned your religious or spiritual upbringing and faith before but now find yourself challenged in a whole new way.  Do you relate to your faith at all?  Do you want to explore new spiritual fronts?  What works and what doesn’t work about your spiritual life?  You may realize during this passage that you have nothing in common with your traditional belief system, its tenets.  The push and pull between Neptune in Pisces and Saturn in Sagittarius is BIG.  Its effects can be applied to nearly every aspect of our lives – partnerships, whether business or person, the kind of work we want to do, do you even relate to/believe in what you’ve been toiling at all these years?  What kind of work feels fulfilling, what kind of people do we want to work with or live near?

It is essential now that we are REAL with ourselves.  Faking your way just won’t work anymore.  The X-Ray eyes of Mercury in Scorpio ensures that no stone is left unseen.  The Neptune-Saturn challenge is profoundly existential – asking us bare bone questions:  who we are, what do we believe in, our values, on every single level, earthly to spiritual, how much faith do we have in ourselves and our work.  Are we pursuing meaningful work for the greater cause of humanity.  These are all at play now.  Escapist Neptune deals in disillusionment and deception while Saturn demands Truth and Faith.  Ask:  where are you avoiding/denying/deceiving yourself about another or a situation?  

Sagittarius Saturn is the ultimate Truth Seeker and the questions only sharpen, one leading to another, when Mercury joins Saturn in Sagittarius on November 21.  The quest for Truth is ON!  Those trying to skirt the issues in motion will be tripped up by this Cosmic Truth Teller duo.  It will be harder and harder to hit the Escape button now.

As much as Neptune would like to escape Saturn’s cold grip on Truth, there is no way out.  Except surrender.  Where are you working so hard against the grain?  Neptune invites us to surrender to the flow.  To give up what no longer works.  The job, the relationship, the fight.  Wherever these two fall in your chart, you are being called to surrender with faith, and KNOW it will be all right.  It will all work out.  Ultimately, this time is about cleaning house and getting on the right path in order to evolve.  Move forward.

The quest for truth tide is unstoppable as the Sun joins Saturn in Sagittarius on November 22^nd, leading up to the Full Moon on the 26^th.  The Sun (our willpower), tightly bound to taskmaster Saturn and Messenger Mercury in Sagittarius opposite the Geminii Full Moon sends a powerfully potent message:  hop on the Truth Wagon once and for all.  The Gemini Moon will gather any information you need to help you forge a more meaningful and substantive life that aligns with your personal truths.  Straddling the Full Moon configuration is Neptune, yet again, wringing out all the dirt, making sure we stay honest and above board as we shift our priorities to align with our best selves.

A word of caution:  be aware of Neptune’s escapist desires.  Ask whether you are joining Neptune’s Great Escape by avoiding a situation, substance abusing; or, are you using Neptune’s higher strengths to clarify, reveal, cleanse the direction of your path.  You choose:  self-deception or authenticity.  One thing for sure is that the result of your choice will be spotlighted under the glaring Full Moon on November 25^th.  Run and hide if you must but know you will be found out and discovered.  Eventually.  Then what?

OF SPECIAL NOTE:   I am now certified as a Level 3 Reiki therapist.  I am thrilled to combine my astrological service with Reiki healing into a more integrated, holistic practice now known as Harley Holistic Healing.  Reiki is a Japanese technique for stress reduction and relaxation that also promotes healing.  It is administered by laying on hands to activate the life force energy that flows through each of us.  If our energy is low, we are susceptible illness or greater stress.  If our energy is high, we feel greater vitality and well-being.  I am slated to receive my Reiki Master certification in February 2016.  In addition to personal Reiki and chakra cleansing sessions, I am available for Reiki house cleansings to purify your current or new home or office of unwanted energies.

To book either an astrological reading or Reiki healing, please contact me at hilary@hilaryharley.com or visit www.hilaryharley.com

Truth Be Told: It's Decision Day

After the rock ‘em, sock ‘em cosmic ride of September, with double eclipses and Mercury retrograde, October will feel like an oasis of calm.  The next four weeks offer scant planetary activity, giving us a break from the constant push and pull tug of war we experienced last month.  Other than the Moon (which changes signs every two days), only one planet, Venus, switches signs during October while Messenger Mercury finally turns direct.  That’s it folks!

Good thing, too, that this month will be calm celestially.  I for one welcome it.  But it's not like we won't have anything to do.  No.  We will need every bit of peace and quiet as we walk out and survey the wreckage following September’s planetary storm.  September flipped over the tables.  Time to roll up your sleeves and get down to business.  While havoc may not have swept across your doorstep (good things do emerge now as well), quite a lot has been churned up for us to deal with and manage. Perhaps your entire approach to living requires adjustment since our perspective, the lens through which we look at life, has pivoted.  Maybe wildly.  So whether you are facing a big ol' TO DO list or figuring out how to put one foot in front of the other on this radically new landscape, we may feel daunted by what faces us.

To avoid feeling overwhelmed, start at the beginning, and start small:  What needs attention first, second and third in your life?  What pockets have you ignored?  Where have you lied or deceived yourself?  The good news is, first, with Saturn now firmly planted in truth-telling Sagittarius, we can clearly see the tasks ahead.  Let the great clean up begin!   Nothing like the Great Taskmaster Saturn to call us on the work to be done:  to hear our truth, speak our truth, live our truth.  Anything less will not stand.  Second, as a direct result of being who we really are, living our true selves, there are decisions to be made and followed through with.   A word of caution here:  do not expect to be liked or admired for some, any or all of your choices as you honor your soul.

As October opens, these two key directives are highlighted:  honoring personal truth and working through the consequences and choices of honoring your personal truth.  These directives remain the primary message the entire month long.  Saturn in Seeker Sagittarius helpfully aligns with the lunar North Node, calling us to step up and stick to our True Path.  All month, the North Node is at an attention-getting degree of Libra, bolstered by Messenger Mercury and the Sun (our will) to aid our decision-making.

In the light of day, as difficult as some of the choices confronting us are, it is essential, imperative really, to listen and follow your internal guidance, your natural GPS, otherwise known as intuition.  Ignore the Truth now at your peril.  For the next two years, Saturn in Sagittarius demands we honor our truth and promises consequences for those who do not.

Helping us sort through our lives the first week of October, Generous Jupiter and Motivating Mars pair up in industrious, health conscious Virgo and align beautifully with transformer Pluto in pragmatic Capricorn.  Projects, work, health care concerns offer promise now if we apply ourselves.  Virgo rules the future and we are assured a stable and healthier life if we commit to a plan during this time.  Sketch out ideas, create a pro-con list, outline a step-by-step guide to your goal(s).  Then once Mercury turns direct motion on October 9^th, sign the deal, move ahead with your plans. 

The very same day that Messenger Mercury turns direct, Venus changes signs from dramatic Leo to reliable Virgo, joining the Jupiter-Mars duo.  This troika in hard-working Virgo offers abundant opportunity by underscoring the need to form good habits and healthy routines now.  Your efforts will be rewarded so go to it!    One rather large stickler to this energetic trio is their opposition to nebulous Neptune.  This is tricky stuff.  On one hand, at its best Neptune clarifies even further the work to be done by the three planets in Virgo.  At its worst, Neptune wants to do what it likes most:  run for the hills and escape the quest for perfectionism and honest details insisted on by the Virgo trio.   However, it will be really hard to run away from the work at hand this month as it is glaringly, unmistakably HUGE.  Remember that massive to do list from September’s storm?  If left unattended, it will only pile up.  So as always with planetary challenges:  balance.  If you do the work, one bit at a time, Neptune will welcome you with relaxation, music, tranquility. 

Meanwhile, it only gets harder to ignore the work in front of us.  Saturn in Sagittarius insists on the Truth.  Won’t let us get away with a thing, much less escape into Neptune’s hazy mists.  There is not a lot of room for deceit now.  Little to no wiggle room to wiggle away from reality – harsh as it may be.  Venus’ challenge to Saturn at this same time, October 9-12, guarantees that.  Our relationships and money (Venus rules worth and self-worth) may be picked apart in finite detail (Virgo) as Sagittarius Saturn seeks to weed out the Truth of what’s really going on with our bank account and relationships.   In other words, the very essence, building blocks and cornerstone(s) of our lives are under scrutiny and possibly up for grabs if we stand by and do nothing to fix what needs attention.  After the turmoil of September, the New Moon on October 12^th offers us a clean slate.  So set your intentions with honor, integrity and soul baring truth.

The Virgo drive for accurate information and attention to detail increases at mid-month when Jupiter and Mars tightly conjoin from October 15-19^th, offering greater purity, clarity, pristine understanding of yourself and the situation(s) you find yourself in.  Healer Chiron in Pisces directly opposes Jupiter-Mars, gently insisting on the highest and best interest for us to mend our deepest wounds.  Where do you need to connect (or re-connect) to your hurt, abandoned child?  It is not only OK to take care of yourself and your needs, it is essential now – critical mass as they say.  Past high time.  Yes, you may surprise some and tread on the toes of others who expect you to stick to the same old drill.  So if you make changes, put yourself first, being disliked is part of the process.  Really, truly,it is more than all right to lose parts of your life where you are taken for granted.  But to stay the course and risk lack of growth, to wither on the vine, what could be worse?

From a different angle, using different words, Chiron underscores the same theme Saturn in Sagittarius harkens to. Where Chiron says “attend to your deepest needs”, Saturn says “honor thy truth”.  Do it.  This energy only continues to build during the third week of October, 20-27, as we approach the Full Moon.  It is incredibly important to stay grounded now.  The Full Moon in Taurus greatly helps keep our feet firmly planted, helped by the convergence of Venus, Mars and Jupiter in down-to-earth, pragmatic Virgo.  Wherever Virgo falls in your chart, good health and work habits soak up a great deal of our energy at this time.  Remember:  the purpose is to bring each of us to our highest and best Self.  Honor your Path.  Do the Work.  Your soul’s work.  There is nothing less at stake.

September Celestial Mash-up: Double Eclipse and Mercury Retrograde. Whew!

Some months are crazier than others, both celestially and by human calendar.  With back to school and return from vacation, September is typically a very busy month.  But to the usual mix on tap this month, add more cosmic twists and turns, pushing and pulling us every which way and make us pine for quieter weeks.   Whew!  Only we will just have to wait until October for a calm stretch.   Because in the next four weeks we have two eclipses with Mercury retrograde wedged in between, plus Venus and Pluto turning direct motion like book ends at the beginning and end of September. So what does all this celestial activity mean and how will it affect you personally?  Let’s take a look.

September begins with a number of planetary pairings, four to be exact.  The first involves the Moon and Uranus in fiery Aries making a beautiful angle to Mars and Venus in passionate Leo.  This foursome encourages unusual alliances, emotional breakthroughs, creative connections both with others and/or your own imagination, and in some cases there will be high interpersonal drama.  You may find yourself buying clothes or makeup, getting a whole new look, a completely different hairstyle, splurging on yourself, your children or friends who feel like family, to an extent you would otherwise never…

This combination is wildly creative and inspired on all fronts:  emotionally, artistically/scientifically/ intellectually, athletically.  Decorating your home with a flair is highly possible, (think new wall colors, fabrics, furniture) or even buying a whole new house or second home on the spur of the moment.  With that in mind, the word of caution here is impulse.  Take heed. Particularly when it comes to spending large amounts of your heart or money, (like moving in with your new lover at the blink of an eye or buying that sports car you spied in the dealership), just stop. Take a breath.  Venus (love/money) is in the waning days of her retrograde as September opens, chasing the heels of Mercury (communication) about to turn retrograde, so try not to commit to anything that cannot be easily undone.

This is especially true as Neptune (deception and disillusionment) oppose the 3^rd planetary pairing, the Sun and Jupiter in down-to-earth Virgo.  Normally the annual conjunction of the Sun (our will) and Jupiter (abundance) brings about expansion, joy, growth and opportunity.  And it still does this year.  However, this pair’s challenge to Neptune strongly suggests we ground ourselves in practicality and the nitty-gritty details of precisely what we are getting ourselves into.  It is FABulous to be inspired, whether in work, relationships, major purchases (home, car, appliances), friendships, deals and ventures of any kind, but remember to keep your feet on the ground.  Sun/Jupiter in Virgo helps enormously to enter any decisions with eyes wide open.  Do not be afraid to ask any and all questions, even if they make the other person(s) uncomfortable or nervous.  Use your head.  This is absolutely a time to trust your gut instincts and intuition.  You have these for a reason!  You do not want to wake up the next day or down the road asking yourself “what was I thinking…?”

As September opens, the fourth and final planetary pairing finds Messenger Mercury joined to the lunar North Node (our directional focus) in Libra.  This is where accurate decision making really comes into play.  Libra is the Great Deliberator of the Zodiac:  this sign will sit on the fence trying to make up its mind, looking at the issue from every possible angle.  With Mercury (speech and writing) joining the North Node, it is imperative to follow your true north.   What feels most honest, right and true about the decision at hand, whether it is a job offer, a relationship (to enter into, continue or discontinue) or major purchase, etc.   Any planet bound to a lunar node carries extra weight; so with Mercury and the North Node, communication is key.  It is imperative to think things through before speaking or committing. Mean what you say and say what you mean as others will believe you now and take you literally for your word.  It is OK to step back and meditate on any decision.  Spend a good old-fashioned night sleeping on any matter of concern and see how you feel in the morning.  If it is intended to be for you, part of your life, it can wait 24 hours.   Possibly longer.

Life kicks into high gear the first weekend of the month, on Sunday, September 6^th, when Venus turns direct motion.  Finally.  After 40 days and 40 nights, the planet of love, money and beauty moves forward at a highly visible degree of Leo.  Still joined to Mars in Leo, both Venus and its male counterpart Mars harmoniously align with Radical Uranus in Aries, making this a bold, fearless Venus, totally game for anything, incredibly inventive and provocative.  Can you say Romance with a Capital R?  That also goes for Passion, Creativity, Risk-taking, and yes, Drama.   Leo is very direct and goes after its prey unashamedly.  With this troika we realize there are no barriers except those in our mind.   So what do you want?  Name it. Pursue it.  Claim it.  

The timing is ripe, as one week later we have a New Moon solar eclipse on Sunday, September 13^th.  At 20 degrees Virgo, the eclipse is a terrific second act to the all those grand gestures bestowed by Leo.  For the New Moon, sit perfectly still and meditate even for only 5 minutes whenever you are alone, in your home, car, place of worship, or best of all, outside in Nature.  Cast your intentions.  In your mind create a practical plan of how to accomplish the tasks ahead, perhaps 3-5 manageable goals so as not to overwhelm yourself.  Where do you see yourself this time next month, next season, next year?  Where do you want to be?  Whom do you want to be?

Solar eclipses mark beginnings.  In industrious Virgo, we find abundant pragmatic methods to achieve our aim.  Virgo is about health, work and service.  This eclipse asks us:  are you taking care of yourself, your health (including mental and emotional health)?  Are you working at a job that is fulfilling and serves your needs and ideally those of others?  With the continual gun violence in the United States and war around the world, we are asked to create a healthier, more humane, civilized planet for all.  Virgo also rules pets and the animal kingdom at large. In many respects the mere existence of animals teaches us compassion, to honor the rights of others, all living creatures, to be better human beings.  In the wake of the murder of Cecil the Lion, humanity is called to serve and protect all life unselfishly:  man, animal, plant, ocean, air.  It is far past time to recognize that the behavior of one affects each and all of us.

Only days following the eclipse, Mercury turns retrograde in Libra on Thursday, September 17.  Here comes that fence to climb up and sit on to deliberate.   For the next three weeks you may feel torn between two very distinct choices or courses of action:  to stay or go, to accept or decline, to speak up or stay silent, to buy or refrain.  Helping us to evaluate our options are the Sun-Jupiter pair in Virgo.  The key words for Virgo are:  I analyze.   Strap on your analytical hat and make a list:  pro-con.  Which list dominates?  If neither, do more Research – canvas the opinions of those you trust.  Read.  Use the Retrograde time for all the RE words:  review, recall, reflect, research, etc.   Ask:  are you missing anything?  Remember, during Mercury’s retrograde, until October 9th, it is wise to hold off signing on the dotted line for anything of significance.  If it is truly important, it, or they, can wait.

The very next day, the 19th, Saturn enters sagacious Sagittarius for the next two years.  Our focus and involvement will be drawn to education (your own, your children’s, or teaching others), writing, adventure and life experience, foreigners/foreign travel/foreign life, the law, higher consciousness, all forms of spirituality including established religions.  The differences between West and East will heighten to fever pitch now.  Isis continues to clash with anything Western, be it Christianity, Western values/morals/lifestyles or simply what is perceived as non-Muslim.  Saturn in Sagittarius is about understanding.  The key words for The Seeker Sagittarius are:  I understand.   It is not that we do understand.  It is that we now seek to understand.  Through education, educating ourselves and others we can bridge and overcome our differences.   To learn that we are not really all that different. That in fact, we are one. 

The 23^rd and 24^th finds the Sun (our will) and Motivating Mars switching signs.  The Sun joins Messenger Mercury and the North Node in Libra while Mars joins Jupiter in Virgo.  Mars is our elbow grease and energy, what makes us get out of bed in the morning.  In Virgo, it drives our analytical aptitude and worker bee talents.  Here, we are not afraid of hard work; we’ll get the job done and done right.  Applying our analytical mind, we can find answers and solutions to all those perplexing deliberations provoked by the Sun, North Node and Mercury in Libra.

Two days later on September 26^th, powerhouse Pluto turns direct motion in earthy Capricorn.  Pluto now makes a beautiful angle to Joyous Jupiter in Virgo, helpfully grounding all that airy Libra energy that muddles our direction and asks us which way should we turn?  Jupiter’s alliance with Pluto gives ample resources, useful information and people, and practical, realistic answers to meet our needs and desires.   The pairing of these two in earth signs could not come at a better time as we roll into the second eclipse of the month on September 27-28^th(EDT/GMT).  The Full Moon Lunar eclipse brings conclusion to events and/or relationships and wraps up loose ends.   Ideally, questions and decisions sparked by the Libra deliberations will be answered.  At month’s end, no matter what age we are,  we find ourselves standing at the crossroads of our lives.  Which way will you go?

Envision, empower, enlighten!

August opens with four planets turned retrograde motion, sparking more internal review than if these were operating directly.  Chief among these four, Venus moves back into the sign of Leo prompting review of our creativity, romantic life, sexuality and urge to take risks.  It is not a great time to get married during Venus’ retrograde or to initiate romantic pursuits.   All month long the planet of love, relationships and money cycles in reverse; so for the meantime, settle back and look over your spending habits (or overspending habits), how you can be a better partner/parent/participant, where you can be more creative, and how to put yourself out into the world in new and joyful ways.

In addition to Venus, three other planets pass through Leo during the first week.   Leo the showman takes center stage (exactly the place he enjoys being!) as four planets cycle through this passionate and pleasure-loving sign:  Generous Jupiter, Messenger Mercury, the Sun (our will) and Venus.  Leo is very direct, generous and fun-loving.  So the stickler during this first week is that the two helpful planets, Venus and Jupiter, challenge heavy-weight Saturn in Scorpio.  The effect thwarts or sparks our attempts at fun, creativity and romance.   Have you been selfishly self-absorbed?  Have you neglected or ignored your creative impulses and potential?  Have you been focused so much on pleasure at the expense of reality, budget or day to day concerns? 

We will be keenly aware of these arenas the first week of the month especially as Sagacious Saturn turns direct motion on the 2^nd.   As the planet of karma and dharma moves forward into the final degrees of intense Scorpio, it beautifully aligns with Mars in nurturing Cancer.   We are asked to focus on family, food, home, profound self-care, Mom or mother-like people.   Have you been eating poorly?  Neglected elderly, children or other family members?  Does your apartment or house need repair?  Scorpio rules shared resources…so it is OK to invest in time and money in family, house and home.  Long-standing problems with trusts, family property, estates can be resolved now.  It is a terrific time to decide to eat healthier, exercise and avoid toxins.  This alliance is particularly wonderful for psychological healing, particularly of a long-standing nature, whether involving relatives, sexuality, self-care, etc.

This same week, revving our engine of ingenuity and out of the box thinking is the uber harmonious angle between Messenger Mercury (how we think and speak) and Radical Uranus, both in fire signs.  It is a fantastic combination with the Saturn-Mars alliance offering truly inventive and pioneering approaches to stubborn problems.  Mercury-Uranus says:  no idea is a bad idea, too crazy, too out there.  Just try it.   I just finished reading David McCullough’s book about the Wright brothers.  Literally everyone thought the Wrights were crazy-stupid trying to fly and guess what?  They created flight!  So make like the Wright brothers:  Apply some Saturn-Mars elbow grease, and Mercury-Uranus ingenuity, keep trying and voila!  Solutions abound.  Artists and scientists alike:  the first week of August promises amazing results.  Go to it!

The second week of August sign changes and shifts abound:  Messenger Mercury enters health and work-minded Virgo on Saturday, August 8.  The Sun in fiery Leo picks up where Mercury left off, aligning with Uranus.  Here, our will to see the big picture, power through and get things done is second to none.   Mars moves into Leo on August 9^th, stoking our energy and adding fuel to this incredible mix.  Last, Generous Jupiter joins Mercury in perfectionist Virgo on Tuesday August 11^th.  These two will see to every last single detail to make sure no stone is unturned, every nook and cranny is thoroughly examined and cleaned, every project is finished down to the last detail.  The sheer power of this second week is nothing short of extraordinary.  A note of caution:  given the strength of this week, be sure your energy is directed with an eye toward the highest and best intentions.  Avoid toxins and temptations.  Do your best.

All of this planetary force makes for an incredibly powerful New Moon on Friday, August 14^th.  What do you want?  Envision it and set your intentions.  Light a candle and ask/pray/wish for your vision to become real.  It won’t be hard on this New Moon to do so as Venus, the Moon (our emotions) and the Sun (our will) align with visionary Uranus.  The very next day, the Moon joins Generous Jupiter and Messenger Mercury nitpicking through all the details and laying out plans to follow through on that vision.  These three make a gorgeous angle to Pluto in enterprising Capricorn.  The following week, Sunday, August 23^rd, the Sun moves into Virgo, conjoining Jupiter and aligning with hardworking Saturn.   Now four planets are cycling through grounded, practical earth signs:  Sun, Jupiter, Mercury in Virgo and Pluto in Capricorn.  The time could not possibly be better for investment, in dreams, stocks, property, yourself, anything you hope to manifest.  Go for your desires.  So build baby build! 

By the end of the month, we have four key pairings of planets at the time of the Full Moon on August 29^th.  First, Mercury joins the moon’s north node (our true north direction) bearing very strong messages about relationship, beauty, love, balancing our lives, and honoring our true Self.  At the same time, interpersonal planets Venus and Mars (our relationships and energy) are tightly conjoined in Leo emphasizing creativity, passion for life and love, pleasure.   Third, the Sun (our will) and Generous Jupiter pair up in Virgo to heighten our industrious nature, both opposing the Full Moon tightly bound to purifying Neptune in Pisces.  Talk about cleaning house, getting healthy and working hard!  Full Moons have to do with culminations, endings and bringing things to fruition.   Four planetary pairings pack a punch and the message this Full Moon bears is that it is time to get serious about balancing the aspects of our lives:  health, work, play, home, partnerships/relationships, creativity.  It is a very tall order but we can do it.  Say yes.  Yes you can!