How to Spot a Romantic Deceiver

Pic by http://ineedchemicalx.deviantart.com/

Pic by http://ineedchemicalx.deviantart.com/

Excerpt from my latest Sasstrology article (please leave comments on Sasstrology site):

“Wouldn’t it be great if there was a way to spot a romantic deceiver? There is, if you can have a look at their birth chart. Read on for some astrological red flags of the guy or gal who is so good at drawing you in, then letting you down. Some of these aspects will be obvious, some not. One caveat: although these aspects can be associated with manipulation or deceit, every person with these sign/planet combinations is not guaranteed to manifest their negative expressions. Everyone has a choice about how they use the energies in their chart. So if you have one of the aspects listed here, and you’re an upstanding partner — great! Speak up in the comments section with examples of how you use your powers for good.”

Posted in Published Articles, Relationships | Leave a comment

A Tarot Card For Gemini

"The Lovers: from the Rider-Waite Tarot

“The Lovers: from the Rider-Waite Tarot

The Sun entered Gemini today (joining Mercury, Venus and Jupiter). Now that we’re full-on into this sign, let’s look at the Tarot card associated with Gemini.

At first glance, The Lovers seems to be about The Big Love. But look at the card. See the snake behind the woman? The tree of flame behind the man? This is about more than romance. This card is about The Big Choice. When it’s pulled, it means that you must make a decision, and it won’t be easy. Your choices will both be tempting, or they’ll both be harsh. One may be safe/morally correct, but the other will be absolutely gorgeous. And you’ll have to pick one. It wouldn’t be an issue if one option was a no-brainer.

This card can be about love, but it can just as easily be about two jobs. Or two choices about your health. The surrounding cards will tell you more, but know that it’s a big deal. And you won’t go anywhere until you make that choice.

The Lovers reminds us that Gemini (the sign of the Twins) is about choice. And it’s not cut and dried. There’s lots of information buzzing around now, and you may be confronted with some confusing forks in the road. Left, or right? Door A or B? Gemini is blessed/cursed with the ability to see both sides of everything.

When in doubt, gather as much information as you can about your choices. Gemini is also the sign of the student/teacher. There is a lesson plan out there for you.

Posted in Tarot | 5 Comments

Horoscopes for May 19th to May 26th

Picture by Arthur Rackham

Picture by Arthur Rackham

Overview

The Sun moves into Gemini on May 20th, squaring Neptune in Pisces from May 20th to May 26th. Goals, choices, messages and information can all be confusing or double-sided. If you find yourself vacillating/questioning your next move, the May 25th Full Moon eclipse in Sagittarius will give you an answer. This eclipse will also square Neptune, so results may be less than you hoped for. But there’s still tons of potential (especially with a win-win conjunction of Venus and Mercury in Gemini on May 24th). This eclipse’s energy is perfect for releasing control (to make room for something better), seeing the possibilities, and making the most of what’s presented to you.

Aries:

The Sun enters your communication sector, but the doubtful square from Neptune will shift ideas, meanings or your overall focus. Secrets, half-understood motivations or dreams about what “could be” may throw you off track. These themes will culminate on the Full Moon eclipse, and will add a hopeful/idealistic energy to matters involving long distance issues (travel, romance) education or publishing. You’ll see the potential for so much more, but what actually unfolds may fall short of the mark, or you may miscalculate and reach too far. Rather than dwelling on missed opportunities or disappointments, look at what you have, right in front of you. Alternatively, this energy is excellent for making amends or releasing grudges/bitterness.

Taurus:

The Sun enters your security sector (and is squared by Neptune), setting the stage for big dreams/goals about money or satisfaction. You’ll be wanting more, and the eclipse will bring home the results of your efforts (0ver the past month). Joint finances, loans, debts, taxes or intimacy issues may feel discouraging, or amount to less than you imagined. This will be the time to check if you did the work to manifest what you wanted, or just assumed things would magically unfold. Nonetheless, Venus (your ruler) will have united with Mercury (in your security sector) a few hours earlier, suggesting there will be potential to get some of what you want, as long as you have vocalized your desires. Alternatively, this eclipse could bring relief as it helps you release neediness, jealousy or resentment; keeping your grip on something/someone may not matter anymore.

Gemini:

The Sun in your sign is squared by Neptune in your career sector, making you question future goals or present accomplishments. Even if you’re successful, you may still be worried (needlessly) that your accomplishments will dissolve. Or, you may lose the thread of a project or career focus; certain goals may not matter any more. The eclipse (in your partnership sector) can push you to confront your attitude towards success. Consider how you’ve been projecting your ideas of achievement onto everyone else, but have been losing sight of what you’ve done. Mercury (your ruler) and Venus unite in your sign a few hours before this eclipse, suggesting you really will get what you ask for (although you may overlook/undervalue it). Alternatively, a relationship could reach a turning point; disillusionment, or an illumination of who you’ve really been dealing with could fuel an ending or confrontation.

Cancer:

The Sun in your hidden sector is easily confused by Neptune, bringing dreams up close, while pushing certain realities far away. Perception is distorted, but your creativity/sensitivity is overflowing; channel this energy into art, mediation, spiritual work, a retreat or release. The eclipse can present a confrontation between the daily grind/duties versus escapism. Alternatively, you may be confronted with the facts on how much you’ve been giving ; there’s a difference between service and sacrifice. A health issue may also become your focus, as you confront details that you’d hoped to avoid.

Leo:

The Sun in your sector of friends/groups gets some mixed signals from Neptune. You may find yourself questioning where you belong, if you want to belong, or who you can trust. The eclipse brings it down to your personal goals versus how you’re perceived by others. Your vision of what makes you special/unique, or what you had a shot at, may be skewed. This eclipse will reveal the truth, and while everything you hear may not be to your liking, this energy is still ripe for socializing, parties and revelling in attention (you will get attention). You’re still a superstar. Enjoy, but keep the risk taking/overindulging to a minimum (it will be easy to overdo it).

Virgo:

The Sun lights up your career sector, and Venus’ union with Mercury (your ruler) suggests networking, professional contacts/conversations/emails can bring rewards. Neptune’s square may cause you to question yourself a bit more than usual, but know that the more you let go, the more room you leave for success. The eclipse can result in a job offer, prospect or business opportunity. You may feel undermined/confused by family/relationship responsibilities, but before you give something up for someone, double check if that’s what they really want. Family/partners have more support for you than you think, and much of what you’re projecting onto them are your own visions of sacrifice.

Libra:

The Sun in your opportunities sector (and Venus’ union with Mercury) opens some doors related to long distance romance, travel, publishing, education or legal matters. It is in your best interests to expand/explore, although the square from Neptune can muddle your priorities, or see you ready to pin all your hopes on one promise/development. Stay open and curious, but avoid the temptation to give (sacrifice) everything before you know the whole story. The eclipse will give you a clear answer, or push you to give your answer/choice.Watch for key messages, conversations or emails.

Scorpio:

The Sun in your sector of shared resources can open a dialogue/development related to loans, debts, taxes, your partner’s finances or emotional intimacy. The square from Neptune can make your choices misleading, so avoid signing financial papers or putting all your faith in a promise or declaration. The eclipse will bring matters to a head in the form of big expenses, the need to downsize (financially) or emotional overindulgence. Issues with neediness, lack of boundaries or overblown expectations in a relationship will be confronted. Consider if your partner is willing/able to give with the same intensity that you are. Alternatively, if you need to let go of a deep relationship hurt, this eclipse could help you release and move on.

Sagittarius:

The Sun in your partnership sector (squared by Neptune) can make relationship goals foggy. Is this really what you want? Are you both on the same page? The eclipse in your sign will bring things to a turning point; you’ll discover if your current dissatisfaction/doubts are connected to present circumstances, or echoes of past disappointments. The theme of this eclipse is partnership choices based on the truth, not some romantic ideal. This is where you decide if what you have is enough, or if you need more. Know that there is a difference between sacrificing what legitimately makes you happy, and being grounded. On the other hand, chasing after the unreachable, romantic dream is not the same as freedom.

Capricorn:

The Sun in your sector of work, health and duties is squared by Neptune in your communication sector, making ideas, solutions, tasks, and personal priorities tricky. You may not have enough time to do what needs doing, or are receiving mixed messages from others about what they need. The eclipse can give you an opportunity to pull back from everything and recharge, or it may push you to the brink with a flood of paperwork and information. Whatever happens, be open to more than one answer. Staying flexible and using different approaches for different people (one solution will not work for everyone) is your best bet.

Aquarius:

The Sun in your sector of creativity and fun keeps the urge to celebrate/kick back/flirt/grab attention going. It’s your time to shine (or relax), even as the square from Neptune can push you take things a bit too far. Stay aware of any tendencies to exaggerate what you’re capable of. On the other hand, don’t allow doubts about your financial/emotional security to suck all the pleasure out of something nice. The eclipse can feature a successful culmination to a project or an exciting new romance/social connection. If the results have a little less sparkle than you hoped for, know that there’s still plenty to work with, and lots of room to grow.

Pisces:

The Sun in your sector of home and family is squared by Neptune in your sign, making domestic goals, relocations or family planning unclear. “Home” may be a tricky concept for you right now, as you’re torn between escaping and working with what you have. The eclipse brings these issues to a peak, as you’re faced with an opportunity to expand in your career versus home/family issues. Despite any confusion you may feel, this will be a definite call for you to move forward and take hold of your dream. It’s time to take the next step; your horizons are wide open.

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It’s Not Too Late: Saturn As Scheduler In Your Life

Pic by http://www.flickr.com/photos/alicepopkorn/

Pic by http://www.flickr.com/photos/alicepopkorn/

Ever get the feeling that you’re too late? That you waited too long to try____? Maybe your timing is just right.

I started thinking about this issue after discussions with a client. Often, the area of your life where you think you’ve put things off is the house (in your chart) where Saturn sits. You know Saturn causes delays. He pushes you to work, but he also slows things down. Sometimes, you don’t accomplish a goal until much later in life.

While it is entirely possible to procrastinate and miss opportunities, consider that some delays are meant to be. One of Saturn’s personas is Father Time; he sets the limits of what is possible, when it’s possible. Certain things are only meant to happen after you’ve reached a level of maturity, or have accomplished other goals. Saturn calls the shots, especially in the house that he occupies. Many people become acutely aware of this during their Saturn Returns (around ages 30 and 60), when transiting Saturn crosses over their natal Saturn.

So, check the house in your chart where your natal Saturn is. What activities are represented? I wrote a post on house themes here, if you’re not sure. If it’s taken you awhile to tackle the issues in that house (but you’re working on them now), consider the possibility that you’re not too late. You’re probably on Saturn’s schedule.

 

Posted in Natal Chart, Saturn | 36 Comments

Compassionate Release: Full Moon Eclipse in Sagittarius

Pic by http://www.flickr.com/photos/alicepopkorn/

Pic by http://www.flickr.com/photos/alicepopkorn/

Continuing the theme of confusion/idealism that I talked about here and here, there’s a Full Moon Lunar eclipse on May 25th at 4 degrees Sagittarius (opposing the Sun in Gemini). This eclipse will be…you guessed it…squaring Neptune in Pisces.

You just can’t get away from this energy. It will be a steadily intensifying theme between now and the eclipse. Lunar eclipses are culminations (and endings), but a square to Neptune can suggest disappointment. What you’ve been hoping for may fizzle. A big ending may be anti-climactic (Neptune dissolves what it touches). Alternatively, if you’ve been dishonest with others/yourself (or if you’ve been mislead) it will all come to a head.

The bright side? Mercury (communication, ideas)  and Venus (love, money, values) will form a conjunction in Gemini a few hours before. This suggests the potential to get some of what you want. What you say/think will be directly linked to what’s desired, so if you keep your expectations in check, it could go all right for you. Sagittarius is idealistic, but when it’s squared by Neptune, it’s crazy- idealistic.

What to do:

  • Suspend expectations (difficult, I know) 
  • Focus on compassion and letting go of disappointment
  • Focus on what you learn (Gemini/Sag is about learning/teaching, and Full Moon eclipses can be illuminating)

What not to do:

  • Focus on that fantasy/hope you’ve been nurturing 
  • Continue to overlook unpleasant details (in the time leading up to this eclipse); the more you avoid the truth, the harder you’ll be hit with it

This energy can be quite beautiful and forgiving. So it will also be an excellent time to  say you’re sorry, or just make the choice (Gemini) to forgive someone. The danger is that you may hope (Sagittarius) for more (a response, an acknowledgement) from the other party. Aim for healing yourself (by releasing the pain) but don’t lay your expectations on  them. Just walk away, and if something nice happens, it will be a bonus. 

If you have planets/angles between 3-5 degrees Pisces, Virgo, Sagittarius or Gemini, you’ll feel this eclipse most strongly.

Posted in Eclipses, Lunar Eclipse, Sagittarius | 35 Comments

Depth Charge: 8th House Synastry

Photo by http://ineedchemicalx.deviantart.com/

Photo by http://ineedchemicalx.deviantart.com/

Excerpt from my latest Sasstrology article (please leave comments on the Sasstrology site):

“The 8th House is a deep, dark place. It’s one of the most sensitive areas in your chart, representing sexual and emotional intimacy. But it’s also where you hide your compulsions and obsessions. It’s the house of instinct, endings, and the rebirth that follows those endings. The 8th House is where you donot have complete control, so when someone’s planets fall in this area, it can be an intense experience.”

Posted in 8th House, Natal Chart, Published Articles, Relationships, Romantic Compatibility | 3 Comments

Horoscopes for May 12th to May 19th

Picture by http://ineedchemicalx.deviantart.com/

Picture by http://ineedchemicalx.deviantart.com/

Overview

Venus (love, money, values) in Gemini gets hit by a confusing square from Neptune in Pisces (May 12th to 13th). When Mercury (communication) enters Gemini (on May 15th) it will be hit by the same square (May 15th to 18th). Gemini is the sign of duality, multiple choices and new information. New developments will be plentiful, but unclear. This energy is best for exploring creative possibilities and remaining open to what others have to offer. But it’s not great for final decisions, commitments or signing on the dotted line. Expect more to be revealed regarding anything you learn this week.

Aries:

As Venus and Mercury advance into your communication sector, they’ll be muddled by a confusing square from Neptune (in your sector of secrets). Intriguing ideas, invitations, promises and conversations should not be taken at face value. What you hear will have an underlying meaning (or will not mean what you’re hoping it will). And the same goes for what you’re saying; unacknowledged impulses/desires will have a strong pull on your words, so think carefully before you speak or send that email. On the positive side, this energy is fantastic for creative inspiration and romantic/sensitive words. If you need to  express something with a bit more magic than usual, now’s your chance.

Taurus:

Venus (your ruler) and Mercury are drawing your attention to security/financial issues. But the square from Neptune will make you question what you want, or what your next step is. Are you satisfied with what you have? You may not even know this week, and that’s ok. Play with the options and allow yourself to consider a few “what ifs.” This is an excellent influence for exploring new ideas/possibilities about what might satisfy you (regarding a pay increase, additional income sources or relationship issues), but a very poor influence for final decisions.

Gemini:

Venus and Mercury (your ruler) in your sign are bringing you new ideas, attractions and opportunities. But Neptune’s influence (in your career sector) could throw you off course. It’s a good time to seek inspiration; imagine where you can go next. But future goals or plans/promises from management may be misguided this week, so (if possible) hold off on setting things in motion. Collect ideas, but wait to see how career developments will unfold. Be especially careful with work projects/details; it will be easy to overlook something important, and the oversight will cast a negative light on your reputation.

Cancer:

Venus and Mercury enter your sector of secrets, stirring up overlooked/under-appreciated/forgotten ideas. Should you? Could you? The square from Neptune (in your sector of opportunities) will nudge you forward with a tempting “Why not?” If you’re looking to open some creative/artistic doors (or overcome writer’s block) this is the influence for you. But definite plans involving education, travel or long-distance romance should not be cemented, just yet. There is so much more for you to learn about a particular issue; you’re only working  with half the information. Stay open, and wait for the truth to come out.

Leo:

Venus and Mercury in your sector of groups could introduce a new friend, associate romantic interest or flirtation. Key people will enter your life, but their intentions could be unclear, especially as the square from Neptune stirs up your fears/paranoia/desires. A particular person is significant, but not for the reasons you first think. Check all assumptions at the door and remain watchful. Alternatively, your financial entanglements (involving debts, taxes, loans or your partner’s finances) could temporarily push your big dreams off course. Take a step back (downsize, if you need to) and re-do the numbers. There’s still room to move, you’ll just have to adjust your expectations.

Virgo:

Venus and Mercury (your ruler) in your career sector are increasing your chances to shine, reach out to those in authority or step up your career game. But the square from Neptune (in your partnership sector) could see you doubting/questioning yourself, especially when it comes to relationships with others. There’s an adjustment needed between what you actually have to offer, and your perception of what you have to offer. Before you draw a conclusion about your future prospects, professional status or impact on others, consider if you might be projecting certain ideals/fears. There’s a lot for you to work with, but you need to get clear on your goals, first.

Libra:

Venus (your ruler) and Mercury energize your sector of opportunities, introducing new/multiple choices in the areas of long distance travel, education, long distance romance or publishing. Key messages/people could bring intriguing news, but the square from Neptune suggests that you may have difficulty seeing how these developments truly fit into your daily life. These opportunities are legitimate, but the challenge will be for you to turn them into something you can actually work with. Health difficulties, low energy/ambition or confusing work schedules can also make it difficult for you to accept new developments. Work on addressing issues in your immediate environment before you broaden your horizons.

Scorpio:

As Venus and Mercury enter your sector of shared resources, intimacy or financial issues  appear to be on the upswing. However, the square from Neptune can inflate your hopes, or see you expecting more (money, love, attention) then someone is able to give. It’s time to dial back the fantasies and look at the facts. If you’re not sure what’s real and what isn’t, focus on what you actually know and refrain from reading between the lines. This is not the best time to sign financial documents or make large investments.

Sagittarius:

Venus and Mercury in your partnership sector are opening up relationship discussions, agreements and (for single Sagittarians) chances to meet someone new. But Neptune’s square can cloud your judgement, as habits/addictions/emotions that are based in the past make things confusing. Ensure you’re fully present when talking to your partner (or potential partner) and not following some outdated script. Alternatively, plans involving domestic routines or relocations may be difficult to clarify with your partner (during this influence). Make sure they truly want what you want.

Capricorn:

Venus and Mercury can bring multiple, positive developments/information involving health, work routines, co-worker relations or problem solving. The key will be keeping facts and duties clear, as the square from Neptune can introduce miscommunications. Things to watch for include overlooked details, missed phone calls/emails or incorrect diagnoses.  Also, there may be a temptation to let “little things” (especially unpleasant duties) slide. These are the issues that will come back to bite you. Focusing will be a challenge, so use your prioritizing skills and tackle what you know you need to take care of.

Aquarius:

Venus and Mercury add some sparkle to your sector of creativity and celebrations. Watch for inspiration, multiple flirtations/attractions or opportunities to promote your project/idea. This is the time to get out there and shine, but the square from Neptune suggests some of your motivations may be based on misguided desires. Before you cut loose, make sure you’re not chasing after old definitions of security or happiness. If you keep it light (especially when romance is involved) and remember that no one but you is responsible for your wellbeing, you’ll be ok. Be especially cautious about drinking or any  form of escapism; it will be easy to overdo it.

Pisces:

Neptune in your sign throws a confusing square to Venus and Mercury in your domestic sector. Issues with relocations, home businesses, mortgages or family discussions can be confusing. At the moment, you may not know what you want, or how to make others happy. Alternatively, family members could make multiple, confusing requests.  This is the time to explore your options, but not settle on a decision. Allow yourself room to imagine (and even escape for a bit, if you feel the need).

Posted in Weekly Horoscopes | 2 Comments

It’s Gemini Season: Expect More, Assume Nothing

Pic by http://www.flickr.com/photos/alicepopkorn/

Pic by http://www.flickr.com/photos/alicepopkorn/

Yesterday’s post about Gemini read as negative (to one of my Gemini readers). But the fact that I’m writing about this is one of the great things about Gemini.

There is a stereotype that all Geminis play fast and loose with the truth. As I pointed out in yesterday’s post, this is actually Gemini’s Shadow (which is currently being brought out by the square from Neptune in Pisces). But what I’m doing right now (addressing this issue) is also Gemini. More information on the topic. Two sides to every story. Nothing is set in stone during Gemini season, because this mutable sign constantly brings in fresh ideas.

The whole concept of duality, of questioning assumptions, is pure Gemini. The “liar” stereotype comes from Gemini’s ability to see both sides of every issue. They understand that ideas are fluid.  When someone makes a statement, Gemini says “Yes, but…” This is essential, because it keeps us moving. What was established in Taurus, will now be tested as the planets move through Gemini.  Mercury ruled Gemini is the Teacher, and the lesson plan is always interesting.

And if there was a catchword for Gemini, it would be “interesting”. They question, they seek answers, and the answers lead to more questions. Everything is of interest to them, because their goal is to exchange information. The highest expression of this sign is the neutral observer, the impartial conduit for ideas. No judgements, just a presentation of the facts (spun in lively and exciting ways…this is also the sign of the Storyteller).

So what’s the lesson here, for Gemini season? Check your assumptions. Gather information and stay open. If there is a positive to the Neptune square, it’s that it will dissolve narrow viewpoints and allow fresh information in. You can dream big and play with the possibilites.

Ask yourself:

  • What do I “know”, and is there room to expand on that?
  • Could I be capable of X?

It may not be time to commit or settle on one option (that will happen after June 7th) but  it’s definitely time to look at what else is out there. 

 

Posted in Gemini | 20 Comments

Gemini, Season of the Trickster and the Teacher

Picture by http://autumnsgoddess.deviantart.com/

Picture by http://autumnsgoddess.deviantart.com/

Gemini season approaches, and the truth becomes questionable.

I say this because as each planet (Venus, Mercury, The Sun, Mars) enters Gemini (the sign of information) it will be hit by a confusing square to Neptune (at 5 degrees Pisces).

Gemini is slippery at the best of times. Always juggling the options. Skimming the surface. Quick, but elusive. Add a Neptune square, and Gemini’s Shadow emerges: the Trickster. He could manifest as outright deception, or a gentle avoidance of the hard facts. Doubts about your choice, or hesitation in making any choice. Focus? Out the window. And miscommunication will be rampant, so triple check your words/emails to make sure the other person is absorbing what you’re actually saying.

But still. Gemini brings messengers (in the form of key people), and you can learn from them. Gemini is also the sign of the teacher. What they don’t tell you, can tell you a lot about them. What you don’t want to look closely at, can tell you a lot about yourself. What’s left out is the teacher. See?

There’s no guarantee that people will lie to your face, but you should be very careful about promises/commitments, especially during the Neptune square dates (listed below).  Also, between May 26th to 28th, Mercury and Venus in Gemini will meet with happy, jolly Jupiter (at 23 degrees). So not only will things be confusing, you won’t even care! This is the “sugar coated words” influence. Or the “siren song.” Lots of sparkle, but no substance. Details could be overlooked. Something better may come along (and then dissolve). Keep your mind/eyes/ears open, but don’t say “Yes” just yet.

Squares to Neptune:

  • Venus in Gemini: May 9th to May 13th
  • Mercury in Gemini: May 15th to May 18th
  • Sun in Gemini: May 20th to May 26th
  • Mars in Gemini: May 31st to June 7th

If you have planets/angles between 1-5 degrees Pisces or Gemini, be extra careful about what you’re hearing or saying over the next month. 

Posted in Gemini, Neptune, Transits | 23 Comments

The South Node in Taurus and the New Moon Eclipse

Pic by http://www.flickr.com/photos/alicepopkorn/

Pic by http://www.flickr.com/photos/alicepopkorn/

Lots of talk about how tonight’s New Moon eclipse (exact at 8:25 PM EDT) is a bit of a mind bender. It falls close to the transiting South Node in Taurus (at 16 degrees).

South Node equals the past. The New Moon eclipse equals beginnings. Confusing?

There’s still going to be a new chapter. It’s unavoidable; eclipses set the agenda, like it or not. But the SN energy suggests you’ll be revisiting a past habit (Taurus) or scenario. This could mean unfinished business (and a chance to do it right, this time). What’s unfinished may or may not be obvious; depends if you’re tuned into the transiting South Node.

But remember this: the area of your chart where the transiting SN is only represents the apparent issue that you need to release. The actual issue is represented by the location of your natal Venus (not transiting Venus). I wrote an article about that, here.

So it’s still in your best interests to start something new. If nothing “old” pops up, don’t sweat it. But be aware of any tendencies to slip back into limiting routines/attitudes. We’re all creatures of habit, so everything is based on what’s come before. But this eclipse will be an opportunity to correct yourself.

Posted in Eclipses, North and South Nodes, Solar Eclipse, Taurus | 55 Comments