Negotiating what matters

Todays moon is in Taurus, a sign that symbolizes our physical body, our tangeble assets and what we value. Our moon makes angles to Saturn and Pluto which aren't always easy to take. I would anticipate adjustments, for some people quite big, in finances. Work and family obligations factor, you may be negotiating child support, or the dissolution of some former partnership and/or a change in authority figures.
These days mercury ( ruling thinking, paperwork, commuting, general movement, school and siblings) is in retograde motion which can indicate a revisiting of past matters and also a need to go over all fine print, save paperwork, plan clauses for future turn(s) of fortune. Things that may have been resisted in the past are now rearing thier heads and wanting attention. Saturn adds a serious note and sometimes indicates a somewhat karmic element so don't take it all personally. Saturn shows us where we have goofed up in the past and sometimes in the present we cannot see this. Pluto's involvement makes us defensive and helps us see the cracks, penetrate any fuzzy logic in personal matters.
For the time being there can be some anger/aggression-- take it out at the gym and forget it at the talk table. In good ways, hard work will be noticed and offers may come.
Best regards

-K

Venus good and bad

It's not just venus, it's a strong dose of neptune added (the early demise of the young American actress will likley be found to be over indulgences) Since the moon is in Pisces ( also a neptunian influence) for 2 days or more I wanted to give a short shout and just say be aware of those who are fuzzy, unclear or outright scheming. Venus is in influence with both Neptune and Uranus and there is great potential for lots of goodness, generosity and wish fullfillment but please watch for those who would fill thier wishes at your expense. Keepsafe valuables, be aware of where you keep credit cards and the like. Sadly tis' the season where some will try to take advantage. The Neptune piscean influence can be just shady or can bring us lots of real indulgence. Watch blood sugar, and alcohol. There is opportunity for new relationship conversations too, they can be quite healing and overall bring the quality of things up higher than before. All these are some possibilities but since I had the occasion to hear some personal stories of wallets left behind needing to be "overnighted" (if they can be found) and similar potential losses I would want you to take care not mistaking pigs ear for a silk purse ;) All the best for a charmed holiday time !

-K

ending 2009

Readers, friends, fellow astro's ,
Like you I too have a full plate this holiday season and will try to give an overview for the rest of the month. I hope to also give updates during the holiday rush. People are busy and lots of changes are due. Two big phenomena are Mars going retrograde Dec 19/20th and then Mercury retrograde the 25/26th. Things due for a change will demand it and we will be given the opportunity to reflect on it.
We just had a new moon in Sag(new initiatives, starting things to have a blossoming later) at the heart of our Galaxy, not just the solar system but the heart of hearts of our galaxy. Our hearts and minds are about to be opened to truth. Whether we see it as good or bad, the nature of reality is truth. We may receive some extra comprehension in this as well. Sag is about the bigger picture, larger concepts and truths- be sure to remember our truths may not be Ultimate truth.
Next, Mars travel in an apparently (not actually) reverse motion. As he sits in the middle of the sign Leo and opposes the planets in Aquarius this is significant for change- changing desires, energy, action (as mars represents these) changes of heart (as Leo represents the heart, spine and will- as well as family and children). This pattern of Mars lasts several months and will offer a boost to those who make and keep new years resolutions. Friends and family are highlighted. There could be a letting go for some - communications may need adjustment, watch for neglect of the young and old. A call to action may come. Fantasy may suddenly take over or we may be knocked out of any ongoing unrealistic ideologies. Gamers, teams and clubs may notice this too.
Then, Mercury, the planet of travel, communication, mind ( health wise it rules lungs, arms, hands) will retrograde just on Christmas day if you celebrate the Christian holidays. This could snag travel plans. Either by direct travel disruption or a family member may get a winter illness and plans my need tweaking. On the eve of the holiday partner issues may arise. Engagements that happen for Christmas have a higher chance of reversal in my opinion. If this happens it is a reflection of personal inner seeking and changes- don't take it completely personally. Mercury can also indicate a great deal of gifts being returned on the day after the holiday. Also it is quite common to run into old friends and long lost contacts around a Mercury retro so people can come back that you thought you might bump into.
At this time hearts are kindly open. Generosity and sudden gifting could happen in the days surrounding the winter solstice as Venus will reach the heart of the galaxy also around that time. True love may be realized, great generosities witnessed (note the recent large kidney transplant chain reaction), a spiritual openness may be felt.
The economy will continue to be unpredictable. Save receipts !! People are very ready and very serious about regaining employment and improving those odds. All of us are being challenged to find what feel like really big solutions and it is time to act in possibly radical and improved ways to get results. With all the factors involved we may also see things like new medical and/or energy breakthroughs being announced which could have a personal impact for some.


Namaste

~Karen

Gemini Full moon

To enhance other factors going on we have coming later today the full moon. A full moon is when the moon is an exact 180 degrees away from and in opposition to the position of the sun. It represents a ripening, an awareness, a fullness. It will be exact later today but effects can already be observed if we look. The Gemini/Sagittarius axis is-- facts, ideas, thought, opinion,trend, left brain as Gem, and Sag as right brain bigger concepts, broader concepts, strive for truth (remembering it's relativity)and naturalness. Gemini helps us be in the daily grind while Sag sees beyond the narrowness. They represent (Sag) our beliefs and how we communicate (Gem) said beliefs.
Sudden revelations, insights, knowledge is possible in the realms of recent mentionable- money, relations, secrets/mysteries, self discovery, creativity, children etc.
On top of this is the element of travel or distance- the axis is one that represents travel - commuting and or longer distances. Seems to me the longer distances carry more weight in this lunation as Sun and mercury both reside in Sag. News from afar, abroad or in the inner depths of ones being. Personally I recieved some insightful "downloads" by way of dream sequences recalled this morning and then some insights that came upon wakening and pondering the dream.
See what occurs for you , feel free to report back!

A few notes

Venus, the planet symbolizing love, affection, relations, our money and assets is still in Scorpio a sign that can be suspicious, deeply destructive at times, jealous, but also trans-formative and willing to unite with others. So we may see a few more days where people are cautious with money, suspicious of being unrealistically swept into a la-la land fantasy. This is good for influences are around that favor over indulgence. Money or even people that was previously unavailable may loosen up and start to flow by mid week. Still keep an eye on over exuberance but keep the flow going, our net worth is a means to an end it doesn't mean we are better or lesser people. On the other hand those who have been holding back may go for it.
Another happening this week is Uranus goes stationary/direct. This may be a quirky spontaneous influence that helps things suddenly happen or end- depending on the state of affairs to begin with. I sense this energy is reflected in the sad, sad shooting of 4 police officers here in the US today. While it's never just one planet that symbolizes potential events, though the effect of timing is often quite evident when these big "outer" planets change direction. Planets are neither good or bad, the actions reflected are a product of each individual.
There is emotional healing available, perhaps by way of expanding our thinking. Thinking more freely outside the box or just getting the mind out of a rut. Ideas may come suddenly, solutions and adjustments that were previously elusive may just pop into your mind. A sudden winter vacation may be in the wind before you know it. And if not literal, then it might be through reading or vicariously listening to others experiences. That is another Venus trait- the ability to truly hear what another is saying. Take time to do that more, ask questions that clarify if you hear what a person intended to say. This will make a difference. Sun still passes through Sag this time of year offering us faith and optimism, honesty and thinking big. Go for it! Wisely of course.

Take care, have fun!

-K

Turkey drug or real need for peace...

This day would be quirky and/or sleepy without the holiday as the sun and moon are ending a square to one another in mutable signs. Mutable signs are readying us for change but we are unsure yet what we want and therefore perhaps cannot ask. The two involved are Sag and Pisces. Together these call for truth and healing, some combination of those. If one is unable to call upon those factors then overdoing might come into play. Perhaps you overspent while doing online shopping? Had a little too much wine at the table today? Honesty is called for but gently please.
Underlying these effects is the cause of greater beingness and understanding. We have a longing to feel some of the unconditional love that makes this universe. Connecting with others in various ways is still high on our list for a few reasons. First we can only ever know ourselves in relation to others, second is that a sense of incompleteness can overwhelm us, understandably. Being inclusive rather than exclusive is always a good thing, but will be more productive when everyone is clear on the concepts involved and what each expects of the other(s).
Healing and understanding come from knowing our true nature. When we know that we can easily see what is real. We can see that there is often very little to forgive. We do not blame a blind person for not seeing a step, so we should strive to improve our knowledge of truth rather than create needless worry and confusion- a product of our very own mind.

Overall I recommend resting up for the moon is in Aries shortly and we can expect bursts of energy, rambunctiousness and for those getting to healing stages less quickly, you may have some passive aggression . Either way the next 2 + days are for instinctivly doing, finding the middle ground, new solutions, new ideas, who can help and how, and acting on them. All can be very well, there is no perfection, just being, doing, living. Peace out.

Sag sun- Truth or blarney?

Sun moves into Sagittarius today and this can indicate a lightening up. If you have churned the deep marshes for what need transformation during Scorpio then now horizons can begin to open up. While it's not like flipping a switch , a gradual stepping up may be noticed. Venus still occupies Scorpio so we may still have cautions, secrets or feelings of limitation but overall progress is happening. Our deeper needs have presented themselves recently and we are pressed to find good solutions, innovate, to be a little sharper. There may still be some drama to deal withor emotional hangovers but deal we must. Sag opens up the perspective for broader ideas, new teachings and learning, optimism.
There seems to be some lag between what our deepest self wants an our actualizing those desires. Things may still be in a sticky flow or void-like place. Best approaches will cut through the Bull**** and be realistic, even if it means delayed gratification. Presenting optimism is great as long as it is done honestly. Looking once again toward Thanksgiving Day here in the U.S.- Thursday the 26th, possibly a day earlier-- there seems to be an avenue of great expression availible, people will come across very animated. Beyond that there is an element of grace and higher love that just happens effortlessly. However if your general expression is unpleasant or perhaps blaming in some manner, then the benefit of this energy will escape the day, espescially if you effortlessly over-imbibe at the holiday table (just saying). I would expect good news in retailing for a sucessful "Black Friday" seeing that the pleasant aspect will put many people in a generous mood and ready and willing for some holiday retail therapy. Competition heats up towards the 28th. Wish lists may include items that folks feel will help them present themselves in a more self sufficient manner while remaining loyal to personal expression.

-K

Wanting it all, getting what you need.

Well Venus has been in Scorpio for a while now. We are digging down deep into the corners of our hearts to find our important values and also our needs. Venus is our assets, net worth, also self worth and relationship needs. These days can be bubbling with concerns or ideas in these areas and whether we feel good and secure with our current situation. Angles from Mars and then Neptune are making things interesting as well. Mars is firing up our drive toward relationship - whether that be a relationship with a new job/employer, lover, a new car or our earnings- whatever is on our agenda. Neptune on the other hand can push things over the top or even the opposite, completely take the wind out of our sails.

So what's the best course? Keeping in mind that Sun and Mercury are in Sagittarius, an optimistic and broad thinking sign. It seems this may fuel very eager thinking, perhaps even over-optimism or just outright fantasy. So be sure to understand which category your ideas lie. Also be sure not to promise more than is realistic or believe every sales pitch that comes along these days. Protect your assets and interests while also just being engaged with life, people are feeling fun and flirty. Chances for good progress in any of the mentioned areas are quite possible if our foundations are solid. So if you go shopping and aren't paying attention, you may find yourself returning a few things that may end up being a tad overindulgent.

Venus in Scorpio, with other factors, asks us to keep our feet on the ground while our head may sometimes be in the clouds. There can be some jealousy wafting around, perhaps "the grass is greener" effect ? Just be sure to ease up, scorpio energy can steam roll over and into what it wants rather than remembering a little tact can go a long way- diplomacy please! Watch for overindulgence in wine, women & song so to speak but also know that for the sincere of heart, goodness is present for us. This Thanksgiving time here in the U.S. seems to be lining up to be full of great affection and sharing with friends and/or family. There is a lot of truly selfless spirited energy to go around.

-K

Tidbits - coming soon....

In a day or 2 I'll talk about Venus' recent ingress to scorpio. She sextiles Pluto while Saturn squares. This suggests secret love and/or money issues. Time to stop secretly cheating at work! Karma is involved - good or bad. Some may be in for a shocking surpise. Protect online identity and purchases from fraud.

New moon on Nov. 16th. Always a good time to initiate thing to bear fruit later. Though Mercury enters Sagittarius also, so watch over-reporting the facts or storytelling.

Moon in Leo starts tommorow for 2.5 or so days so keep making the most out of shining as an individual without making others want to puke. Get it? , got it?, good! Talk soon!

Into the Flow- Inspiration or madness-- Neptune Direct

If you are sensitive you may notice a turning of the tide this week in an area. Neptune is in direct motion in the sign of Aquarius. This is a slow moving planet so things can often begin and unfold gradually over months. Neptune rules inspiration, dreams, confusion, delusion, fantasy, forces of nature, the actual ocean/tide, feelings of spirit, grace or divinity. We want and need to access that energy to get in touch with life, to move our spirit towards its purpose, and for healing, dreams, access to higher love and compassion. It symbolizes inspiration that seemingly comes from nowhere, being swept into one direction over another but significantly it also corresponds with loss of control or being less than able to steer a course of action. The spectrum can slip over to madness, substance abuse, chaos and dysfunction as so sadly witnessed in the shooting at the US military base today. The middle ground is to balance a loosening of ideas of complete perfection and control in order to keep a space open for the unknown to operate.
For the past several moths the planet has been in retrograde or seemingly backward motion. This may have given rise to a doubts over personal ability or desire to produce, achieve or maintain in some area or a lengthy time of reflection on just how to manage. Perhaps doubting your dreams or changing and upgrading them or doubting, reflecting and considering change in areas of dysfunction, considering what needs healing in your life with a neutral attitude, seeing through the fog of confusion. Now is the time that these things will progress. You may notice actual increase in the rememberance of your nightly dreams or something surrounding them changes. Doubts can clear, ideas refined, changes ready to implement. Solutions will become evident, which may be to give up fighting a loosing battle. Some will take on a new cause or spirituality.
Important to remember that if control is slipping in some area then consider that area up for review. Does it need more intervention or a breather? You may have no say in it, just be ok with letting go wherever this presents.  This could mean leaving a boring or negative situation for something better. Negatively some who are already in loss of control will lose even more, potentially due to trying to force the results they want against the tide. Prepare for some folks to abuse substances or it could be they finally get into rehab. For any of us, for better or worse, changes may just feel like a sacrafice or loss and some will no doubt experience such. Try to see that a retreat is not defeat especially if it improves the overall quality of your life. Accordingly we are reminded that everything is temporary in nature and endings are also a part of life.


namaste
~K

Taurus full moon tonight

Moon is full in the sign of Taurus. Reflecting all the intensity of the sun in Scorpio now the sign it is opposite from on the zodiac, even trivial matters can seem like life and death. If so then realize these are just symbols for a deeper struggle within us, see if you can recognize what's what. This pair reflects our values, worth, assets, self worth or inner dialog we have with ourselves. This prominently includes our ability to attract what we feel we need to get by and beyond that, turn our lives into something deeper, richer, happier or more satisfying.

With an angle from mars involved with this lunation cycle there can be underlying aggression or fear in matters of love or feeling cared for, or finances. Stay in a neutral corner if need be and watch out for any family feuds. There is also a physical side to these signs so issues of mating and sexuality can be in focus. What is important is to unite the real tangible elements of life with something transformational. The underlying sense is that we want to feel we are creating conditions that will allow us to feel essentially secure, valued and loved. This might be a new project, new job, love affair. The need to act upon this sense of need may feel overwhelming. If there are avenues of expression , great- take on that new assignment or goal, get together with the object of your attention.  Saturn's current transit asks us to be sure all our modes have the highest integrity now so it's not about demanding what you think you deserve but looking around to see if there are just rewards.

If these outlets aren't there then remember consequences before acting in haste, a secret affair or sudden displacement of anger to the wrong person can send your world reeling. For those inclined this is a good time for body/mind integration with things like yoga, meditation, or very physical activities that you harmonize your mind while doing. Swimming laps or saying a positive mantra while on a treadmill are some options.
Lastly there may actually be a seperation happening or a sudden realization that there is a big hole where you thought there was support which would bring up fears in these matters and if so then don't just sweep any emotions under the rug. I daresay you will be hard pressed to do so and will likely have to imbibe or otherwise use something to alter your mind should you try to force things away - remember that will only be a temporary fix . Talk things out with friends or loved ones and if you still find any lingering attachment to the negative then write it in a journal or otherwise use it in a personally expressive manner- poetry, singing, drawing,  etc. After that make a concrete plan to change whatever circumstance feel limiting to you. All the while loving yourself for all the good things you are. Write those down too!

-K

Moon Rhythms

Some words on the moon. I send out tweets just about every day on Twitter- you can see the link over in the sidebar. My tweets are based on the moon's position in the zodiac and any interactions with other planets (by means of a significant numerical angular alignment) it has for that day. The moon circles the earth in 28 days give or take half a day. During that time it passes through all the zodiac signs and constellations.
Why care about the moon? Well because it is the most personal indicator next to our sun. They are the Yin and Yang of things. However the moon changes signs in about 2 and a half days while the sun remains in a sign for thirty. This makes the rhythms of the moon more immediate to our daily grind. It is a symbol of reflectiveness, it has no light of it's own it merely reflects the sunlight that has shined on it. The moon grows from new to full and wanes back to the next cycle and disappears for three days prior to each new moon. It represents our inner emotional nature and deepest needs that will nourish us. The moon represents home and mother also.
So keeping an eye out for the sign the moon occupies can give us a clue as to how to approach things on a given day, especially if we head into rough goings on or unexpected issues. So learning the 12 signs, their meanings and general symbolism and then knowing where the moon is can give you a leg up or at least explain why the server got your order wrong or why your sibling, boss or partner is so mad again today or forgetful or goofy....
One last thing, the moon and the sun too for that matter are not technically planets they are known as luminaries because their natures. So while the tweets aren't a personal horoscope I encourage you to sign up and see what might be happening each day with the lunar rhythm. Let me know.


-Karen

Sun in Scorpio

The sun moved into Scorpio a few days ago on the 22nd and will stay for 30 days. Happy Birthday all you Scorpio babies!


Now everybody knows Scorpio's are "sexy" yes but don't you want to be more? Well of course if you are a scorpio you know you are more and you slyly cock your head and say to yourself  "sure just let them think that's all I am....."  with a devious inner grin Muuahahah. More like it? Yeah I thought so. If you agree and do not have a Scorpio sun then you certainly have a strong connection in your chart.
Secretive, how's that for a word? And more so they are survivors. This is not to say that no other group is, it's just that people born with a sun in Scorpio or many planets there are quite aware of what it takes to get by in life. They came here with a personal identity aligned with challenge, attaining the security and power they need in certain facets of their lives.
If you pay attention you will notice Scorpio is even more concerned with relationships than a Libra might be. For Libra they are a learning tool among other things but in Scorpio, or with a Scorpio sun, one learns that they can only obtain certain things by merging with other people. Whether it be a marriage for children, a job for prestige or a collaboration for more publicity, a roommate to save their hard earned cash , Scorpio energy is very savvy about it and figure out how to attract it. Then they jump in deeply and expect you to do the same. Once set on anything, there isn't much that will deter a dear Scorpio. Praise Scorpio for all the horror movies, slasher films and surge of vampire tales- all that deep, dark, scary, life threatening stuff flips the Scorpio switch quite easily. Fear? Bring it on, another challenge to conquer.
In this a Scoprio needs to be sure they aren't in overdrive or overkill so to speak in order to obtain thier hearts desire- plowing over everyone and leaving stab marks in every back-- well then again a good scorpio will know how to hide it all....what can I say. But really, manipulation is very best avoided, better to struggle a bit and feel insecure for a while than manipulate someone into something they know not of or settle for less than you had in mind. However if the bills are due- I suggest taking that job (for now) even if it bites.

So where does the sexy part figure in? Well it's just another attraction avenue only it has to be out front in order to get the "goods". So scorpio wants to survive and thrive and should avoid underhanded means of getting thier way but if you ever need someone to stick in there thick and thin it may well be a scorpio.

Astrology "works"

This link click here is to an article about power struggles in relationships.  Exactly on time and on target to the skyward view of things.  We've been talking about Saturn in Libra and relationship (im)balance.  Pluto's added effect is the struggle for power.  So does the writer of that article follow astrology or is it merely more 'proof' that astrology cycles are valid?

Saturn in Libra

By month's end we will be seeing Saturn change signs and move into Libra. Previously in Virgo, Saturn's measures may have felt exacting, now the balance must be found. Focus will be on the rules, obligations, building or being blocked in the area of relationships particularly, money issues may also be involved. I cannot say which way any one person might feel this effect without a chart and knowing current life conditions so I will talk about some various manifestations that are possible. Over the past 2 years imperfections and areas of insufficiency have been exposed for us- personally as well as at a societal level (just look to our government and financial system ). Moving on, now it is action time. It will be felt by many that it is time for a change somewhere in the balance of your life and it starts with you first. Time to start the changes that will address needs, wants and outright dysfunction.
One note -- it is fair to assume that anyone born near the 20th of Sept., Dec., March, or June will be feeling effects quite significantly over the next 6 months and beyond. But also many others with sensitive points in the same degrees as those mentioned.

So Saturn is boundaries and Libra is our interrelationships- work, school, love, self. The thing to watch in Libra is extremes and imbalance- often by way of one side giving too much by way of compromise and the other giving none at all. With an added point of intersection with Pluto being throw in for intense measure some may become almost obsessed with some issue or another (perhaps making money) but this type of extreme is to be avoided because the consequences will eventually undo much of the perceived gains if you overstep boundaries. Rather than making more money the cure-all, see if you might also cut back or be more efficient in other areas- look for varied solutions not just one big fix. Some may slip into, or remain within obsessive relationship attachments out of dependency - real or percieved. On the positive side, if you have been working diligently toward a position of greater authority, autonomy and authenticity this can be a period of great fruition and ability to attract resources and gain a powerful reputation in your field.
In life matters we should expect to see a time of increased responsibility, changes in authority figures, bosses, teachers and the like. It could be a time for some to step down from positions of power and let change occur or just let go of what is ready to go from your life for fresh horizons. Those who have abused a position of authority over others may be held to great measures of accountability or exposed suddenly. Some might marry, expand their family, divorce or separate. If any of these more traumatic changes happen see the opportunity for correction of course in your life. If something happens that makes you insecure it is a push towards self growth and improved trust in ones ability to act. It may not feel great at first but all processes take time. This time, the next 2 +/- years, will be teaching us in the areas self discipline, fairness, and equality among others.

These issues may not immediately jump out at us but by the end of 2009 there will be signals if not initial plans for change already in the works. If change comes that feels unsettling give it time- throughout Jan., Feb., and March will be a time to reflect and see if things are working well. Best regards for the best outcome. If you have any questions feel free to use the comment section.

-K

Desire plus willpower

With so much going on in the sky let's focus on mars for that's where the action is. If you have noticed a revving up in some areas that could be where mars is traveling in your chart. There's a lot of juice in this one and it will last many months, approximately seven.
And that is what mars in Leo is about, where is our gold? Creative juices flow, as does libido so be judicious about using birth control. Mars has the drive and Leo has the vision so projects take on great forward momentum. There is a lot of self pumped into efforts, we are closely identified with our creations- their our lil babies after all. Whether you are churning out a novel, a dinner feast or making a baby there is a wellspring of passion for what we are doing. Achievement, recognition, leadership, even parenting/family are all possible avenues for the expression of this energy, it's nearly orgasmic....did I say that? well yes.

Do watch out for egos clashing for more than one person may want recognition or seemingly great ideas are spurned. If you have a grand plan for a new invention consider copy-writing or otherwise protecting your personal ideas. Leo is also about existing family so their can be conflict and jealousy if mars energy gets overworked. Everyone may want to be the Chief. Be sure to recognize each individual contribution to any group projects and collaborations and keep a modicum of humility about achievements.
So whether it is interpersonal relations, family, work projects or personal creativity pay attention to the energy you have and where it needs to be focused. Take up something new and inspirational to you if there seems to be a void. A new hobby, exercise routine, love affair, or adult ed. class to pour your heart into. Finances may be able to be enhanced through creative endeavors or there could be an increased responsibility necessitating more effort.
One note is that a turning point called a retrograde will be in store a few months from now so all that glitters may not be gold. Or that book may need serious editing, or their might be a change of heart or changing loyalties down the road. More posts when that time gets closer though if you can wrap things up by the end of the year then the remaining time is well spent in reflecting, editing, retouching details, resubmitting or just considering if any changes are needed. Some projects may well halt altogether for one reason or another.

-K

Picking up speed

Ok so we are in the ebb tide, waiting on new moon energy. This is a restless time while the moon finishes a pass through Virgo- which can be downright on a razor's edge at times- and then drifts into Libra and only meets the new moon phase in the last degrees. Meanwhile Mars (the planet of how we act on things) in bounding into Leo, a fiery, creative sometimes- me-me-me sign, so.... there can be short tempers, impatience with the changing pace and the like.
However once into Libra, objectivity comes into focus and movement can initiate a little easier but extremes may be experienced before the expected balance is seen. Depending on where this is happening in your chart it can be in any area of life. Hierarchical relationships are highlighted. With the special angle this new moon makes to Cancer/Capricorn we can see Capricornian themes emerge such as the protest over French Vogue pushing the racial sensitivity button with a recent spread or the Justice-of- the- Peace somewhere in the southeast U.S. declining to wed interracial couples. Capricorn rules authority and not surpisingly represents melanin in the skin that produces the black skin tones of African decent. (as skin is a barrier also represented in saturn/capricorn) So we see the whole pot being stirred with racial issues, the memory of slavery - a completely hierarchical/power abuse/imbalance issue.
Libra, being social, artistic and wanting harmony we can see how the fashion photography is involved, the issue of marriage and people wanting no compromises to getting social harmony. So we are seeing some previews on the movement of the planet Saturn (linked to Capricorn) in less than a few weeks will enter the sign of Libra- which is all about imbalances and creating harmony among others. One drawn out preview is that of John & Kate of that reality series. Note the whole scandalous mess is getting to deeper layers now- John claiming injustice for the kids, taking funds (power imbalance). being told to return them....yup this is all the juicier version.
Another movement to have an eye toward now is the movement of Mars into Leo, this creates an environment with abundant personal pride, achievement, honor, creativity and self identity and also a good sense of fun and playfulness if done right. Mars will be spending longer than usual in Leo (more on that retrograde on down the road) which can and may fill people with a sense of a very personal mission. Perhaps at times a sense of indigence at injustices. Keep an eye for this. With the sun to be in Scorpio before months end I expect some serious brew -ha-ha

What to do personally? Whether you have ongoing issues or not the best thing is to keep a level picture in your mind of the truths underlying your world. Yes things are personal but take a step back and detach for a moment, pretend it is someone else you are giving advise to in order to have a sense of neutrality. Best not to grasp and cling but do and ask for the right thing to be done. A sense of fairness will go a long way, as will understanding the views of "the other guy". Seek an atmoshpere of cooperation in all but solo endeavors, and well , even then cooperate with yourself!! Speaking of which, any solo projects, from art, to learning or writing, to meditation can have strong results and a positive impact. Wishing you great beginnings!
-Karen

Upcoming new moon Oct 18th

New moons are a time when new impulses come into the conscious awareness though we may not know where they come from or what to do with them.  Prior to the new moon there can be an ebb of energies, a sense of void, inner quietness and self searching, then suddenly an A-ha! moment may arrive. Thus they are known as a good time to start new initiatives.  There may be just an instinctive desire present. This usually works itself out and is made more obvious at full moon times.

Next new moon is Oct 18th and is in a special angle, heightening issues that come up. These will tend to be relationship themed, with parent/child dynamics especially prominent for some. This is all good because it will prepare us for the next 2-2.5 years that will have extra emphasis on all our relationships. We may become obsessed with the particulars, settling down, changes in relationship authority (such as workplace heirarchies).

Exposure can be made of power imbalances and where things need to be brought back to center from extremes. There may be made known a true desire to be more settled, defined, progress to the next step.  Some things may be let go of in order to truly have what fullfills us, what makes us feel connected.
Too much work, not enough play?, overspending?, attracting insufficient job offers or dating options...all these and more are to be contemplated and addressed over time. However the time is ripening for these changes and the theme will be on inner and outer balance whether it's home/work, school/friendships, needs/resources.  What is or isn't working and needs correction? That is the bottom line litmus test -- is this working out and meeting the needs of each party?

Reflecting on a solar retun

Yeah , fancy way of saying it's my birthday! 
Why should we care.  For me a solar return is a person's personal New Years Day.  Much more significant than January 1st.  It is the renewal of our solar energy, our very center, core self that we carry forth in the world.

What's the skyward perspective for this time?  Emotional intensity, processing and renewal.  The moon opposes pluto in cancer/capricorn.  These planets indicate an awareness, a flowering - possibly not the most gentle-  of deep emotions.  The signs- Cancer and Capricorn are significators of emotional and general development and processes.  So we can see that it's time to generate some deep changes in our emotional body (even moreso if you are born in the surrounding days).  Pluto searches deeply for what is old, outworn and in need of improvement in order for the soul to manifest itself.  The moon is contact and experience at it's most personal, our inner core.

At this time awareness may come to you that something needs changing at a personal level and there will be the ability to recognize and act. At the same time the mind is very stimulated and open to new ideas and even higher aspects of Universal truths and Love.  It's an exciting time! However, addressing the restless connection between the mind and feelings will bring the best outcomes. 

Indications are that the deep personal self/emotions should be brought out, manifested but in a particular way that allows for greater self awareness, control and authority over the overall conditions of daily life.  Mental scrutiny of bubbling feelings should be with a neutral and compasionate mind.  Deeper truth and spirituality can be accessed, particularly through means of daily practice and devotion to these practices.  Yoga, meditation, tai chi and other systems - innovate!-  that allow more connecting the body-mind are particularly well suited now with good results.  Overall it means bringing the calm focused mind to bear on the authenticity of our inner feelings,  seeing them truthfully without judgement and improving ones ability to function as the voice of our own inner authority.

This applies to many facets of daily life from money worries, relationship doubts, issues of self worth, social obligations and more.  Stick with your routines that don't seem connected to money issues or love life concerns.  Keep up dedication to your meditation, your fitness routine,  or self reflecting in a journal as well as any of the above mentioned possibilities and the other issues will flow easier.  Answers will come to you clearer by taking a swim at the Y or repeating a mantra each morning than by focusing on the problem like it's a brick wall to be plowed through.
Best regards for the upcoming weekend.

-Karen