This NASA artist’s concept gives a good sense of the Sun’s influence on Earth. No one argues with how the Sun exerts light and heat necessary for growth and life. Everyone knows the Moon controls the tides. But the energies of the other planets seem less obvious even though at times they are more profound. Enjoy the heat of Love on Valentine’s Day.

Happy Valentine’s Day on Monday, as the astro-energies signal true values for the day — follow your heart and communicate what is in it. Of course there are nerves involved with that… there always are with matters of Love. This is precisely why you need to open up inside, and outside. You took a risk on love. Will it pay off? This depends on many specific things, but in the end — being brave always gets you where you need to go. The key to honest growth in a relationship is first to get real about your own wants and needs, then to listen first to your mate before you seek to be understood. After both of you reveal your heart… you will know what is next.

“…what’s important now is that you revisit the foundation — what your relationships are based upon — then work forward from there.”

Tuesday rolls in with some lingering tensions in the air, astrologically speaking. Remember that there are always tensions, and that some kinds of stress are good — they key you up to get going and get things done. Today, Mercury (Communication) appears twice showing some disfavor with both the Moon (emotions) and Jupiter (growth). So, you will need to consider what emotions are preventing your key relationships from moving forward. Use this time for reflection and prayer — the time for action is ahead.

At mid-week we find two astro-energies showing harmony, while three more show some stress on Wednesday. Focus on the positives of new ideas that lead to growth. Is there a new way to approach a project at work? How about something you haven’t tackled before in your love relationship? Relationships at work and at home grow by taking on new tasks and challenges — think teamwork. That’s the Spirit. And Spirit is precisely what you need these days, so nurture it in yourself and those you care about.

Thursday gets busy with ten astro-aspects in play and brings an opportunity to consider your love life. What doesn’t feel just right about the way things are? What can you do to change things for the better? Communication seems a bit strained now, but as you know, all things will pass and you will move to the next phase. So, what’s important now is that you revisit the foundation — what your relationships are based upon — then work forward from there. This introspection will set you up well for your next step… when the time comes.

Earth and Moon do a celestial dance 24/7/365. We accept this as our reality, with little thought for the influences above… until we see the tides, and until we feel emotions peak during Full Moons. All is Light and all is Energy. As above, so below.

The week starts off on Monday with two harmonies, two tensions, and two blockages in terms of Astro-Energies. It’s a good day to get tasks done. You’re feel stronger today as your personality powers through objectives. Tension occurs in the areas of Health and Spirituality — two linked areas of your life. Take a moment to meditate meditation and pray in order to address this. You are likely to have minor blocks in communication as you try to break through to better understanding with a very important person. Make sure you trust your gut about the best approach, then listen and seek to understand before being understood.

“Life is not about relaxing all the time, and you have to “key up” to make things happen. Have Faith, knowing you can do it.”

Tuesday brings three harmonies and two tensions. The tensions in the area of new ideas for growth are actually a good thing. What…Stress… a good thing? Yes! Life is not about relaxing all the time, and you have to “key up” to make things happen. Have Faith, and you can do it. This is also a great day to enjoy romance, so plan an intimate lunch or dinner with your mate. Your mate can provide the inspiration you need to succeed.

At mid-week, we find that restrictions block our Communication on Wednesday. Get beyond those roadblocks. Is email not getting your point across? Meet in person. You may have a feeling you can transform a relationship or two today, but you have to negotiate the obstacles. Handle any discord with your close partner at work and at home, then move swiftly to clear your desk of any stressful correspondence and communication. Next, take a break and celebrate all that you accomplished thus far this week. You’ll then be in the right frame of mind to forge ahead toward a very entertaining weekend.

Thursday finds a mix of Astro-energies that show opportunities to share some future plans with your coworkers and family, and maybe even that very special someone. Just remember that people fear change, and so at first you may get some resistance. That’s ok. Different people adapt to change at different speeds. But life is all about change, so your new ideas, built on careful planning, will carry the day in the end. It can be draining, perhaps exhausting to a degree… but it’s worth it. Enjoy your day & prepare to have the most extraordinary time this weekend, certainly you make a huge hit with ‘new’ introductions.

Multi-colored Kaleidoscope of energies: Newer image from NASA’s Galaxy Evolution Explorer completes a multi-wavelength, neon-colored portrait of the enormous Cartwheel galaxy after a smaller galaxy plunged through it. If the Moon controls the tides — just think what these energies do.

Astro-Weekend Update…

Happy May Day. The weekend rolls in with a quiet Saturday where the Moon shows some tension with the Sun and Mercury, as it squares off with Jupiter. Is all that negative? No, because you have free will, and “tensions” are what set things in motion, and keep order. So as you enjoy your weekend, take the opportunity to balance yourself by examine how you want to grow in your life, and what may be blocking your path. Life is about moving forward, and you can only do that when you are honest with yourself and those around you.

“Sometimes the “deadline”, or need to get things done feels restrictive, but it is also at the same time… a key to moving forward.”

Sunday brings the healing energies of Chiron to bear with influences from Neptune, Pluto, and Mercury. This potent brew offers an opening when you can talk to those you love from your spirit — from your heart — and listen from that place too. Then there is a real possibility of transformation. But it is never easy. We also find that there are some limits being set that block new ideas — not the best inspiration to get ahead, but you must persevere. It is precisely this give and take that life is all about.

Monday launches with an opening via good communication to balance the personalities in your career. Workplaces, with project deadlines, management structures, and people with very different goals, objectives and approaches, are sometimes stressful. Just realize that you can use that stress for two things: to listen to it and understand the source; and then to use it to “key up” for what you need to get done. Sometimes you cannot see this strategy because you are too busy working on tasks. Take a walk around the block on a fine Spring day and get a higher perspective on things.

They say that necessity is the mother of invention, and Tuesday might just prove that point for you. The Moon (emotional intelligence) is happy with both restrictions and growth today. Sometimes the “deadline”, or need to get things done feels restrictive, but it is also at the same time… a key to moving forward. Often under pressure is when the best new ideas occur to you. Don’t let any requirements get in your way emotionally, or stop you. Keep moving, respect the team, and honor principled growth — at work, and also at home.

Ultraviolet image of Venus’ clouds as seen by the Pioneer Venus Orbiter (February 26, 1979). The mechanism by which Venus’ clouds absorb ultraviolet is not well understood.

Welcome to Friday — today the Moon cooperates with three “Planets”… The Sun (Personality), Saturn (Restrictions), and Uranus (New Ideas).  And the Moon is also busy showing tension with four other planets.  This celestial interplay of energy makes for lively Friday where your own limits are likely to be tested at work as well as in your personal life.  Is there something, or someone, holding you back?  Often it appears that way.  But most of the “boxes” in life are actually self created.  And just as you made them, you can bust out of them — that’s the good news.  Much of the struggle is what we call “Life”.  I remember a local Blues band that went by the name of Tom Slayer Struggle.  Some days it feels like a “struggle” some days it flows easy. The important thing is to have a plan and keep moving. You can do it.

“Think very carefully about the questions you have about your life. …The answers will come, but only after you have focused on precisely what you need.”

Also on Friday, Venus (the planet of Love, Attraction & all that ‘we love’) turns RETROGRADE. And, when VENUS is RETROGRADE in ARIES, the actions that people take to create love, in their lives will be ‘slower’ perhaps even non existent — but that is not necessarily a bad thing. What this automatically does is ‘keep you in a place of suspension’ or status quo with those whom you are in love with, allowing more to be worked thru, providing a better perhaps more healthy outcome.

Earlier in the week, we saw a lot of harmony in the heavens.  The Moon (key to our emotional motivation), was hooking up with Jupiter, Mars, Chiron, Mercury and Neptune and anything you set your mind to can move forward — you’ve got the initiative, when you explain how your plans will make things smoother.  Of course there’s always some stress you’ll encounter when you present new ideas, but that’s ok.  People fear change.  As long as you organize what you present, and give solid reasons with a positive Spirit… it’s full steam ahead.

Thursday found the Moon showing tension with five planets.  Remember that tension, or edginess, is often part of the motivation needed to get things moving and happening.  We also find our emotional selves working with healing Spiritual energy today.  So think of the tension to keep moving, while the Spirit is your refuge.  Sometimes in our busy lives filled with requests, jobs, projects and to-do items — it is important to give thanks for all that.  Huh?  Give things for all that work?  Yes.  It means you are living, growing, and succeeding in your career and personal life.  Checking off those items on your list.  But it is remembering to “count your blessings” that brings you the healing Spiritual energy you need… to keep going.

Saturday looks like a day of work — at least emotionally.  The Moon (key to the emotional tides within), shows some friction with Mercury, Saturn, Neptune and Pluto.  You feel you have something to say about Spiritual renewal… to your loved ones, a friend, and ultimately to yourself.  But you struggle to find the right way to get a handle on it.  Think very carefully about the questions you have about your life.  The important questions.  The answers will come, but only after you have focused on precisely what you need.

This new years party mask configuration is 114 million light years away in the swirling cores of two merging galaxies called NGC 2207 and IC 2163 in the distant Canis Major constellation

Happy holiday Friday — here’s wishing you a good Thanksgiving weekend. We’re still rolling with the inspirational energy of the Thanksgiving day New Moon, so maybe that will help you on your shopping trips. Friday turned out busy with Venus (Love) playing well with Uranus (New Ideas) — perfect to help you figure out what to get your loved ones. And the Moon (Emotions) was playing well with Neptune (Spirituality) — so listen to those old Christmas tunes, and get in the Spirit.

“It is strength of Spirit that nurtures us in sudden misfortune, and resolving hard feelings is often an act inspired by and motivated within your Spirit.”

Earlier this week, the Moon (Emotions), was dancing well with Saturn (Practicality), and Jupiter (Growth). This fostered a nice feeling of practical growth as Thanksgiving rolls around. If you think about it that’s appropriate since Thanksgiving is a practical holiday where people are well-fed, and not without a bit of growth! The Moon was also in Trine with Uranus, so I wouldn’t be surprised if you found yourself brainstorming some new ways to proceed — at work, and in your private life. Remember that New Moons are times for new beginnings… and that will work out well… even in “old” relationships.

Saturday shows Venus (Love) working well with Saturn (Restrictions) — so if you’ve got to set some limits on how you go about your Romance and family life, this is a good day to do it. Limits? Sure — everyone does better when clear boundaries are set. Maybe you need some more time for yourself. Maybe you need to tell the kids to respect parents’ time. Maybe it’s time for a chat with your partner about your own needs and desires. This can actually bring about a change for the better — a renewal in relationships — and the Moon’s energy is working with Pluto (energy of transformation) to facilitate it today.

Sunday finds the Moon (Emotions) at odds with the tides of Neptune (Spirituality). People are sometimes surprised that their emotions tap into the Spiritual at all, but much does go on beneath the surface, and in dreams. It is strength of Spirit that nurtures us in sudden misfortune, and resolving hard feelings is often an act inspired by and motivated within your Spirit. Neptune has also represented Religion, and Illusion at times. Interesting that those two go hand and hand. Much of the Spirit’s highest calling can be misrepresented in life, so it is best to pray for discernment.

Welcome to the full-Moon eclipse weekend!  Full Moons are noted for their potency. And the Lunar Eclipse occuring on Saturday heightens awareness.  Think, “powerful awareness,” and you have a recipe for a weekend of discovery — inward and outward.

Celesial events have been churning up the emotional tides. Remember this formula: Feel, Deal, Heal.

Earlier this week, the Moon was working well with Mercury (Communication), but showing some stress with the Sun (Personality). One thing this can mean is that while you feel you wish to talk about what is in your gut, your mind might be telling you to hold back.  What to do?  Take some time and consider carefully what your emotions are telling you.  Write what you learn in a journal.  Then, and only then, consider talking to the person your feelings concern — likely your romantic partner, though possibly someone at work.

On Friday, as if the coming eclipse wasn’t enough, the Moon was very busy show stress with six planets:  Uranus (New Ideas), Mercury (Communication), Saturn (Restrictions), Venus (Love), Mars (Initiative), and Pluto (Transformation). Wow.  A potent mix of emotional soup.  Don’t worry, this “percolating” is what’s necessary at times in life to brew up something good.  Advertising people have long understood the emotions drive all key decisions.  Oh… and, Astrologers too.  Remember that the full Moon gives you the power to deal with whatever comes up.  Let’s concentrate on just three powerful ideas for Friday:  New Ideas, Communication, Transformation.  What new things are you feeling you’d like to try?  When you communicate those to important people in your life — you’ll find it can renew your life.

On Saturday, in addition to the awareness raised by the eclipse, the Moon (Emotion) also finds itself in conjunction with Chiron — the healer.  That’s a good sign.  Celesial events have been churning up the emotional tides.  Remember this formula:  Feel, Deal, Heal.  If you think about it, all of the important lessons, and resulting growth, involve some pretty intense emotion.  Go with the eclipse awareness energy and learn from what you are feeling.  You’re ready to enter a new and better phase in your life.

Learn about the Current Moon and its Purpose in our lives…

The Moon, currently in the Last Quarter, is an important influence in day to day events.

Are you struggling with ways to express what is in your heart? Friday was an interesting Day, celestially speaking. The Moon (Emotions) squared off with Mercury (Communication) and this can make it tough to talk about your feelings. The Moon also squared off with the Sun (Personality) which can bring about a conflict between what you think… and what you feel. Ever think a lot about how you’re feeling in a love relationship, but can’t quite “sort it out”? That’s natural. “Relational astrology” can work for you. Allow me to help you identify the challenges and arrive at a solution. I can help you communicate better and in the language that s/he will perceive well, and non threatening, guaranteeing a result that is beneficial for you both.

Then there’s the last quarter moon, which can bring about a challenge or test for your spirit. The energy of the full moon is ebbing toward the new moon. So there’s a sort of dispersing of energy at this time which means it is crucial to figure out what you need to focus upon. Don’t get scattered. Sure, there’s also some playful energy here… The Last Quarter Moon is in Taurus, square (90 degrees) the Sun in Leo. Taurus is ruled by Venus. Venus currently is in Leo having fun. And Venus is the planet of Love and Romance. So enjoy that this weekend.

Looking into the weekend, on Saturday, Mercury (Communication) has a tug-of-war with Mars (Initiative). Recall that Mars is also an indicator of the male energy (remember, “Men are from Mars, Women are from Venus”?). This can indicate difficulty communicating with a man you are close to, and also some uncertainty about taking charge. Meanwhile, the Moon (emotions) is playing well with both Mars and Saturn (practicality), which means you should look for a practical solution and make it happen. Your gut knows you can do it, but your head may be holding you back. Let go and get ‘er done.

It has been an interesting week, where you might have noticed more than one occasion when it was difficult to expres your feelings. Now, on Sunday, Mercury (Communication) is in position to synchronize nicely with the Moon (Communication). Finally. Take advantage and seize the moment. Prepare yourself to say what you have been wanting to say. How? Well, you listen to what you have been feeling. Deal with it. Then work out the right thing to do based on those feelings.

We honor those who stand for all we value.

Here’s to the blessings for, and the blessings we count as a result of all the brave men and women in our armed forces. It’s a powerful Memorial Day, celestially speaking, with a Mercury Retrograde and Neptune Retrograde kicking off your holiday. Mercury (Communication) in Retrograde makes for mischief and mistakes in correspondence, negotiations, and even face-to-face relationships. Meanwhile, Neptune (Spirituality) has a Retrograde which makes for a challenge in your belief systems. Just remember that challenges also bring opportunities. In a Mercury Retrograde the opportunity is to put off important business transactions until everything is right and double-checked — due diligence is in order. And Spiritual challenges are what builds character.

“Why block emotions? It’s human to avoid strong feelings. But only after raising them and dealing with what comes (let them teach you what you need to know)…”

Monday also sees Saturn (Practicality) squaring off with Venus (Romance) so your love vibes may have to be put on hold in favor of more pressing matters. That’s priorities for you. But you know, if there’s one thing military people understand… it’s priorities, so we can take a que from them and get things in order. And just as the pull and gravities of the great celestial planets are quite powerful, so are times and tides of our people on Earth. Memorial Day was first observed after the Civil War to honor the dead in that epic struggle.

We have two retrograde planets today, where retrograde means that they reverse their usual motion accross our sky (as it appears to us). This signal is interpreted as a period of caution when the planetary energy is in a stressful position. Reversals. Stress. Squaring off. Such is life, and such is how our lives and relationship orbits echo the forces above. And of course the harmonic periods are also ours to enjoy.

On Tuesday, the Moon (Emotion) squares off with both the Sun (Personality), and Venus (Romance), so your challenge will be to deal with your emotions which may be holding you back, or blocking where you need to go in your relationships. Why block emotions? It’s human to avoid strong feelings. But only after raising them and dealing with what comes (let them teach you what you need to know), can you get to the next phase of your life. Feel, heal, deal. And, it’s a great feeling when you make that happen.

Our Nations were formed in the heat of many battles. And our soldiers know how to stand tough, when to laugh, when to cry, and when to celebrate. We thank and pray for them, as we continue to live and grow through the tides in our own lives.

We often think of the Moon’s influence on Earth as primarily the gravitational affect like it exerts on the Oceans, but the Moon also emits magnetic fields and pulses as shown above from the Lunar Prospector electron reflectometer experiment.

Friday is an interesting day, since Mercury (Communication) works with (Trines) both Neptune (Ideals), and Saturn (Practicality) today. You can think clearly about what must be done on your projects, and in your relationships. And, it’s a good day for a meeting to talk things over. Saturn’s influence can feel restrictive at time, so communicating about big picture goals and plans can be a welcome break.

“Sun in Taurus (the “lovers sign” — ruled by Venus) on Saturday, with a Scorpio Full Moon on Sunday makes for a very love prone weekend.”

The week has been interesting, with the Moon is squaring off with Neptune Thursday leaving a feeling of unease about possible deception. That’s OK. The world is a tricky place at times, and discernment is always a vital skill. How do you learn what to believe, and of what to remain skeptical? Trust your gut. Study in the school of hard knocks. Pray and ask for spiritual guidance. You are after the truth, in business, in relationships, and life. That’s how you find freedom. The weekend continues an undercurrent of possible mistakes and misperceptions even as it looks like a wonderful time for romance.

At play, as ever, is our Moon, ruler of emotions, ruler of Cancer, and associated forever with Water — the ruler of Tides, as well. It circles our planet about once every 28 days, spending 2.3 days in each of the signs of the Zodiac. How it is positioned — in struggle or cooperation — relative to the other planets tells a lot about the energy tides on our earth. The Moon is also said to guide and influence one’s unconscious rythyms, habits, moods and memories. And this weekend, we encounter a Full Moon.

Sun in Taurus (the “lovers sign” — ruled by Venus) on Saturday, with a Scorpio Full Moon on Sunday makes for a very love prone weekend. Full moons bring much potency to your emotional life, and there is much erotic passion in Scorpio — so get ready for a weekend designed for hot romance. Remember that the Moon, when Full, is a time of power, and that you will have energy to work on projects that you have been wanting to finish (if you take time out from the romantic fun). Be aware that powerful emotional tides can set up deception — on the part of others, and even self-deception. You can avoid this by thinking things through, and taking time out to meditate and get in touch with higher sources of truth. The trick is to balance out passion with logic and principles in your life… and enjoy the ride.