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Dear Ones,

See yourself as a child. Follow the blooming tulips and the little grape hyacinths as they dot the garden stepping stones. In the northern hemisphere where I live, life is pressing its way into stems and leaves. Tiny green buds bead the thin twigs and birds sing as they busily weave their nests. This month nature herself shows you the way to go. 

We enter April coming out of the primordial ooze of Pisces and what seemed to me to be a timeless Mercury retrograde in a dreamy landscape. Time we spend lingering and dreaming shifts this month. 

April’s first cosmic pointer is the Sun in Aries. In terms of solar power, this is the time to put your foot on the road of this unfolding year. Aries is the first, the new, masculine, vibrant, ego-centered Ram energy of fire. Feeling it? It may be sensitive for you, or perhaps you sense the strength of it.

Ram with Golden Fleece by Francis Broomfield

Aries is ruled by Mars which is newly in Gemini. From now and through the next 60 days, Geminis and Sagittarians will be busy and doing some short travels; as will Virgos and Pisces to some extent. 

Despite the quickness of Mars in Gemini, the lingering Pisces dreamscape hangs on as the Moon nestles in Pisces, meeting Mercury and Neptune in the first few days of the month. The 2^nd is especially gentle and impressionable. 

All is quiet, preparing for the birth of the Aries New Moon early in the morning MT April 5^th.  This is an excellent time to begin your new venture. Angelic presence is strong and the power of active imagination works for you. Dream, create, pray your new seed into this good environment.

The Moon enters Taurus on the 6^th and things may feel more grounded. Over the next few days Mercury continues to pull away from Neptune while Venus draws closer to the God of the Sea. Inspiration, forgiveness, kindness, compassion, loss and beauty are greatly possible. So too is deception. Maintain a soft heart and a clear mind.

The 10^th is an unusual day and you may experience hope in the face of adversity as Venus and Neptune come into an exact conjunction while the Sun squares Saturn. 

Jupiter retrogrades on the 10^th also (until this August) giving you an opportunity to internalize an important lesson. 

Don’t blow things out of proportion on the 11^th when Mercury squares Jupiter. Keep a low profile and learn something.

Complexity on the 13^th as the Sun squares Pluto. How deep do you want to go? This could be difficult. Luckily the 14^th feels a little easier when the Sun and Jupiter trine. In other words, a little bit of wisdom and a dash of practical optimism easily dispel shadows. 

New vision and self-sufficiency comes with Mercury’s move into Aries on the 17^th. Start taking care of you and look for a new way. 

Look up on April 19th – Energy builds at the second Libra Full Moon of the year. At the last degrees of Libra, this Full Moon is a culmination and celebration of partnership. It’s a tender day as Mercury and Chiron connect. Feelings of loneliness and/or self-healing are likely. Be gentle with one another. Love mightily.

The very next day April 20^th, the energy shifts a great deal:  gracious Venus leaves the all-encompassing compassion of Pisces for the survivalist instincts of Aries. Watch out for yourself without being narcissistic. And the Sun enters earth-loving Taurus. Taurus invites us all to slow down and become the container in which growth occurs. Think about that. Better yet, feel it.

The 22^nd and 23^rd are active and sensitive. The Taurus Sun conjuncts Uranus on the 22^nd making for changes and surprises, while on the 23^rd Venus and Chiron connect in Aries. Ow! Love hurts sometimes. Gather support and be kind. It’s a good time for energy healing and rebirth. Egos may bruise easily. Take nothing personally.

Transformation goes underground when Pluto retrogrades in Capricorn on the 24^th. Sensibility reigns over the next few days as the Moon moves through Capricorn. 

Keep your immune system strong on the 27^th when Mars and Neptune square. Strengthen your auric shield too. This is an excellent time to catch up with yourself. Try journaling to receive important messages and connect the dots. Don’t engage in gossip.

The month ends as Mercury and Mars form a favorable connection. Communication is everything! Saturn turns retrograde at month’s end also. It’s okay to pause and evaluate. In fact, it’s a good thing.

That’s it for now. I’ll see you back here next month for the Taurus New Moon coming up on the 4^th.

Blessings, 

Your astrologer,

Dulce

Remember, you matter, we are all connected. Earth is our home and love is our destination.

Hello dear friends,

Of necessity this column is short on words and long on astro power. What an amazing month!

The first part of the month belongs to gentle Pisces, a reminder that forgiveness is an essential life practice. But on the 20^th the Sun enters Aries, the beginning point, shifting your focus and direction from the past to the present, and into the future.

The month begins with a darkening Moon. Things may feel as if they’re finishing up instead of beginning. But big things are coming – just you wait and see.

Chatty Mercury is on vacation (retrograde) from March 5^th to March 27^th and travels backwards from the last degree of Pisces to the middle of Pisces. This is a perfect time to repair relationships and to reflect on where you’re going. It’s not a good time to make big purchases or big decisions. Give yourself lots of wiggle room to download Spirit’s messages.

Mark your calendars for March 6^th. This is quite a day folk, make it special! It’s a beautiful Pisces New Moon and holds tremendous potential for forgiveness and healing. But wait, there’s more! At this New Moon change-agent Uranus enters earthy Taurus. This is a big move. Uranus takes 84 years to travel around the Sun and its last sojourn in Taurus, apart from a brief nip in and out last year, was in the 1930s. Some of the themes of this planetary move include increased consequences of climate change, the importance of growing your own food, changes with banking and money systems and overall shifts in aesthetics.

Uranus entering Taurus reminds me of a friend of mine who has two young men living in her basement. One of them is her son, yet the other young man has begun to take her for granted, treating her as if she were his mother. That’s what our relationship to the earth (Taurus) is like. She’s our mother. She gives and gives, and we take and take and one day we discover there’s an end to her tolerance because she literally has no more left to give.

Become conscious of your choices. Use your own bags at the store, recycle, take your own cup wherever you go. Forget plastic lids and straws. Are you a baby? Do you have to have a sippy cup? If so, use your own. Another friend keeps her reusable straw in her purse and pulls it out whenever she needs it. While it’s true that the plastic problem is enormous (floating islands of it in the oceans) our small daily choices do add up. Be brave – move forward with wisdom dear friends. We all need to grow up.

Taurus and Scorpio folk, and to a certain extent Aquarians and Leos, will all feel Uranus’ changing and quickening energy over the next seven years. Hold onto your hat!

March 9th and 10th I’m teaching the insightful work of Sacred Contracts developed by Caroline Myss. More info available here: https://www.astrologybydulce.com/events/

With Mercury retrograde, the Pisces dreamy feeling and a sense of loss haunts the next few weeks. But it also brings a new perspective. Stay attuned to subtle levels of meaning and vibration during this time. Try not to escape into drugs and alcohol. Play inspiring music. Scent your home with uplifting essential oils. Lift yourself up in prayer.

The energy shifts dramatically when the Sun enters Aries at spring equinox (March 20th); from the Pisces watery end of times energy to the Aries fiery beginning of things. We’re inspired and emboldened to activate our lives toward more authenticity. Things might get too hot and you might become impatient if it weren’t for the lingering Pisces undertones.

March 20th Spring equinox isn’t just the Sun entering Aries. The same day there’s also a really big (supermoon) Full Moon in Libra. I love the astro-synchronicity of a Full Moon at Equinox. Gorgeous. This Full Moon is about relationships and ego drives. Ask yourself if there’s a way to bring more balance into your life. The Sun connects with wounded healer Chiron and great tenderness abounds. Practice kindness. If you need to end something with someone, do it quickly and efficiently. 

Our first solar power group meets on the 23rd. I’m excited for it. Here’s more info here: https://www.astrologybydulce.com/events/

The 24^th is a fuzzy kind of day and things continue in a foggy kind of way for a while. You’ll need to rely on your intuition as the way may not seem clear.

On the 26^th Venus enters Pisces. This is the essence of compassion, a truly beautiful and boundless energy. This energy will linger for a month. Take advantage of it.

On the 27^th Mercury stations direct, clearing obstacles out the way, but it still has to traverse back through Pisces and for the rest of the month it also hangs out with dreamy Neptune. This could be confusing. It could also be very tender. What is the truth? Who said what? Maintain your boundaries. Don’t be surprised if you find yourself going over the same old ground. It’s okay. Watch your desire to escape. As an old preacher friend once told me, “Go to the Throne before you go to the phone.” Prayer works. Meditation works. Qi gong works. Energy is real.

The month ends as active Mars enters dualistic Gemini. Gemini and Sagittarius watch out. Mars will run you ragged if you let it. Maintain an even pace.

Friends, the power of these times is incredible. Enjoy the month of March by easing your way through it. Intuition, compassion, forgiveness and new directions are this month’s gift to you.

Blessings,

Dulce

P.S.Remember you matter, we are all connected. Earth is our home and love is our destination.

Greetings Earthlings,

The month of February belongs mostly to the civic-minded energy of socially intelligent Aquarius. It’s your time of year to connect with others and to pursue social action. February is a short middling month bookended by eclipses and a government shutdown in January and Mercury retrograde in March. February also contains a dangerous element designed to push you through the status quo with the planet Mars making key aspects to other cosmic players. We’ll feel the strangeness of this time as the month starts.

In the meantime, I invite those of you who are reaching for your best and higher selves to come to either my Sacred Contract class to get the deal your ego made with your soul; and/or the Solar Power group so you can go forward into the next few years with confidence. More info here: https://www.astrologybydulce.com/events/

Here’s how February goes:

1^st: Mars squares Pluto – watch out. Agendas clash. Avoid road rage. Practice peace. Complete a difficult task.

2^nd: Exciting day as Venus and Uranus trine. Anything can happen – new love affair, end to an old one, or even a shift in values. Watch the stock market and see what happens.

3^rd: The Super Bowl here in the good ‘ole USA and pretty Venus enters prudent Capricorn bringing everything down to earth. I sincerely hope the government shutdown is in the rear-view mirror by this time. Venus in Capricorn will put things to order and rightly so.

4^th: Aquarian New Moon mid-day (MT) sets us off on the right note. New friendships and adventures await you. Think about deepening your conversation and broadening your horizons. Ask yourself “what wants to make itself known to me?”

5^th: Chinese New Year! Time to celebrate as this occasion ushers in the Year of the Pig. In this overwhelmingly Saturnian/Plutonian environment, the Year of the Pig brings hope and stability.

6^th – 7^th: The Moon travels through dreamy Pisces as a harbinger of things to come. It’s time to meditate and tune in. Let your dreams guide you.

8^th – 9^th: The Moon travels through fiery Aries encouraging new possibilities. Again, we’re getting a portent of what’s to come over the next few weeks and months.

10^th: Mercury changes signs and enters nebulous Pisces. Mercury will retrograde in this sign from March 5^th to the 28^th. This makes for lack of clarity and discernment. Your job is to listen closely to your inner voice and to respond to life’s challenges with intuition. 

11^th – 12^th: The Moon enters earthy Taurus stabilizing the building energy. Stay on track. Mind your own business.

13^th: Use extreme caution. Feisty Mars connects with erratic Uranus at the last degree of Aries. Hotheads hit the breaking point. Danger abounds. Be careful when driving and using sharp objects and power tools. Accidents are likely. Practice peace and stay away from large groups of people.

14^th: Mars make the headlines again when it enters stable Taurus where it will remain for the next two months. This brings a measure of stability to Valentine’s Day while the Gemini Moon stirs up excitement.

15^th – 16^th: The Moon travels through emotional Cancer opposing stern Saturn and transformative Pluto. Things may feel hard. Take it in stride, this too shall pass.

17^th – 18^th: Things get a little dramatic as the waxing Moon travels through creative Leo and the Sun prepares to leave social Aquarius for dreamy Pisces. Acknowledge the energy shift and allow yourself to change along with it. Also, during these days, Venus connects with Saturn encouraging moderation in all things.

18^th: Energy shift as the Sun enters gentle Pisces. The next 30 days are for your inner voyage. Pay close attention to your feelings and dreams. This isn’t the first time this month that we’re getting this message. Also, wounded healer Chiron slips back into Aries complete with Pisces for the time being. This is a subtle move but a powerful one. Aries and Libra folks prepare to face wounds and heal them over the next several years. On this day, Mercury connects with dreamy Neptune – you may want to check out. Write a poem instead.

19^th: Big old Super Moon in Virgo today as the Moon comes close to Earth. Subtle energy abounds. Tune in. Make this a calm day. Pay attention to the details. Listen to your body. Eat mostly greens and grains. Rest.

20^th: Still resonating with the Full Moon. Keep writing and painting. 

21^st: The Moon enters egalitarian Libra encouraging diplomacy. We’re going to need it.

22^nd – 23^rd: Venus connects with powerful Pluto in Capricorn. Jealousy and secrets, money and things owed. If you can’t stand the heat stay out of the kitchen.

24^th – 25^th: Things feel intense with the fallout of the last few weeks. The Moon in Scorpio encourages you to hold your tongue.

26^th– 27^th: Mars and the Sun play kissy kissy. It’s a good time to shake off bad feelings and get something done. The 27^th is particularly active.

28^th: This short month ends with Mars and the Moon in harmony.

Whew, well that’s it folks. I’ll see you back here in March. Remember: you matter, we are all connected, Earth is our home and love is our destination.

Many blessings,

Dulce

Dear friends,

Happy New Year! Blessings for an incredible time ahead.

Here are the global and personal questions that await us all in 2019: Who’s the boss? Who has the power? What is dying? And, what is being born?

With three eclipses in Capricorn this year the global focus is on government and rules/regulations. In your chart the focus is on your business life, tradition, duty, family, father and profession.

2019 is prelude to and preparation for, the intense experiences awaiting us in 2020 through to the fall of 2023 as our nation goes through the process of a Pluto return (and a Pluto opposition to its Mercury). Humans would have to live 248 to 250 years to live the length of a Pluto cycle, so we never experience it. Yet, our nation will soon be old enough and energy steadily builds starting now. In 2020, transits to the USA chart show a massive focus (Jupiter, Pluto and Saturn conjunct in Capricorn) on two opposing points in the United States chart: Pluto in Capricorn and Mercury in Cancer. Fear is Pluto’s tool. Mercury is the messenger.  

There’s a huge power struggle ahead of us along with an attempt to create barriers and structures against the corruption, breakdown, and lawlessness we’ll see at the Government/structural/authoritarian level. Shadows emerge. We must insure they don’t predominate. Conversely, this energy can also be a return to the power of the people’s voice. Need I remind you, there’s a Presidential election in 2020 and it’s a big one given these transits.

As I write, the Government is on a partial shutdown in an attempt to force political agendas. Is this the way a government should be used? I’m not a politician but it doesn’t take one to see the incredible stresses and re-arranging this country has gone through both domestically and nationally. The most recent energy of deconstruction will continue and magnify over the coming months. 

The prevailing energy feels like we’re in the tight spot in an hourglass my husband says. Indeed. The United States of America is going through a birth canal and birth is painful my friends, as you know. Yet birth brings new life. We live in a culture that denies death and yet death is also a big part of the next few years. Pluto is the guardian of the underworld after all. It’s time to face the shadows and recognize they’re not nearly as big as they appear. It’s time to press forward into your new life. It’s not as hard as you think. Birth awaits.

BIG CHANGES IN 2019

This is the year in which to position yourself in the right spot for you, so you can not only ride out the coming storms but prosper and thrive also. I’m holding a Solar Power group to assist those in the metaphorical birth canal come forward into their waiting lives with the support and ingenuity of the collective. 

Jan 5th: Capricorn Solar Eclipse

January 20^th:  Please join me and others on January 20^th in Palisade CO to go through the hot spots and magic of 2019. It’s a fascinating year. Bring a calendar and your chart for general discussion. https://www.astrologybydulce.com/events/

Jan 20 8 – 10 PM: Leo Lunar Eclipse 

February 12: Danger! Mars and Uranus connect in the last degrees of Aries. Rash decision making. Anger. Incidents of road rage or war so please practice peace. Push through on difficult tasks. Stay centered. Keep your cool. Big fire coming on through.

March 7^th: Big changes occur as Uranus re-enters earth-based Taurus on March 7^th and stays there for the next seven years. Earth changes and capricious financial markets are par for the course during the next seven years.  Store water, grow your own food and see if you can diversify your income. Financial markets shift dramatically over this period and currency may change or alter. What to do about that IRA? Dave Ramsey, please weigh in.

July 2: Cancer Solar Eclipse

July 16: Capricorn Lunar Eclipse

November 11^th: Excitement! Drum roll please as little Mercury crosses the face of the Sun on November 11^th. The power of the pen and the Press are restored! The importance of the well-thought out turn of phrase is magnified.

Dec 2: Jupiter enters Capricorn

Dec 26: Capricorn solar eclipse

If you’d like closer attention and deeper planning to your life, or you feel something has to end and another part begin, please consider my up-coming monthly collective based on the transiting solar energy in your chart, and yourself as a fragment of the Sun. Though we’ll use astrological timing, the group will be much more than astrology. I’m very excited about it.

More information here: https://www.astrologybydulce.com/events/

PLAY BY PLAY FOR JANUARY

1^st: Somber beginnings to the New Year as the Sun conjuncts Saturn in Capricorn. News about an authority. Decorum and dignity. Difficulty and disappointment with Government. Seriousness prevails and yet there’s a feeling of optimism as Mars enters Aries bringing fresh energy. Action and commitment are required. Sort through your possibilities and get real about your circumstances. No pie in the sky! Great day for challenging the outdoors and downloading new ideas. 

2^nd – 4^th: the dark Moon encourages hibernation. Let your ideas and plans percolate. Possibilities abound. Think positively. 

5^th: There’s a total solar eclipse Jan 5^th. This is an important precursor to the next two years. The Sun, New Moon and Saturn are opposite the Sun in the United States chart. A new leader emerges. Use this energy personally by being the accountant and manager of your own life. Trim down excesses at this practical New Moon.

6^th: Uranus turns direct on the 6^th waking us up. Be brave. Know what’s important to you. Initiate some kind of change. Fallout from the eclipse lingers as the Moon connects with Pluto. Fear not!

7^th – 8^th:  Energy shift! Lift up your hearts and rejoice. Venus leaves intense Scorpio for optimistic Sagittarius and the Moon travels through social Aquarius, reminding us that it’s all about for the people, by the people. 

9th – 10^th: Dreamy days. Let inspiration guide you as the Moon connects with Neptune on the 10th. A poem waits to be written.

11^th: Action day. Time to face those shadows as the Sun meets Pluto. Bold but tender is the way to go.

11^th – 13^th: Time for sensible decision making as Mercury connects with business-minded Saturn. Family time is important.

13^th: Keep your head screwed on! Is it fact or fantasy? Can you actually achieve the things you’re inspired to do? Maybe, maybe not. (Jupiter square Neptune)

13^th – 14^th: Bold new initiatives and independent thought and action are encouraged as the Moon moves through Aries and connects with Mars and Uranus. Caution – don’t be careless!

15^th – 16^th: Easy does it. Keep making progress as the Moon moves through steady Taurus in harmony with the prevailing Capricorn energy. It is all working to your benefit!

17^th – 18^th: A little schizophrenia is possible. You may feel a little divided and unsure of which alluring path to take, as the quick and waxing Moon dashes through sparkling Gemini and opposite Venus and Jupiter. Have fun and learn something!

18^th: A day for love! Fire and electricity sizzle as the celestial lovers Mars and Venus trine. Bring something new into your marriage. Single folks get lucky. Powerful conversations are possible as Mercury connects with insightful Pluto.

19^th: Energy builds with the coming Super Moon and the Sun prepares to change signs. Do something practical. Family matters weigh in.

20^th: Big shifts and changes! Class with Dulce! The Sun leaves sensible Capricorn for egalitarian Aquarius and the Moon waxes to fullness at a lunar eclipse in Leo. Ideas for a more meaningful, creative and practical existence come through to you over the next few days.

21^st – 22^nd: Get moving though the way may feel tough. Be patient and stay focused as Mars squares Saturn. 

22^nd: Lucky day! Expand your horizons. Think positively. Don’t overspend but do invest in your travels and/or your education. Venus and Jupiter connect.

23^rd – 24^th: Get organized and keep things tidy. These days are excellent for fasting and letting go as the Moon travels through Virgo and opposes Chiron.

24^th: News travels! Mercury enters social, intellectual and stubborn Aquarius. Invest your mental energy in something that will reward you over time. Mercury will stay in Aquarius until February 10^th. 

25^th – 26^th: Flow and tension. Maximize the dynamic energy by doing qi gong or some other energy practice. Let your inner peace settle outer discord.

27^th: Inner tension leads to success in the outer world. Make peace with yourself as the Scorpio Moon squares Aquarian Mercury and Sun.

28th: Connect the dots. Insights highly likely as Mercury meets the Sun. Mental overstimulation possible. Talk to someone. Share ideas. Read (or write) a good book.

29^th – 30^th: Mood lifts! Freedom is possible. Get out and enjoy yourself as the Moon travels through gypsy Sadge and connects with abundant Jupiter and lady Venus. 

30^th – 31^st: The month ends on a tender note. Your manifestations want to come to life. Feed your dreams with practical action and commitments. (Saturn sextile Neptune)

That’s it folks, more to come in February. In the meantime, please keep the monthly collective gathering in mind. Uranus is the planet that rules group interactions and with its shift into Taurus a few weeks before the group begins on Saturday night, March 23rd we’re going to be grateful for the power, wisdom and energy of the collective to help shift each of us forward. https://www.astrologybydulce.com/events/

Stay tuned, thanks for reading and remember; you matter, we are all connected, earth is our home and love is our destination.

Your astrologer,

Dulce

P.S. If you like the new format of this cosmic blog thank my outspoken girlfriends Thea and Dawn. And to my soul friend Denise, as always, thanks for the editing. 

Greetings Earthlings!

December is the great holy month and the first three weeks belong to the wisdom of Sagittarius, long associated with ecology and wisdom. Most of 2019 belongs to Sadge too, as the teacher Jupiter makes its way through its home sign. In other words – think big picture this month and into the next year – your key word is Vision. Consider alternative realities. It’s going to be a full year for Centaurs and their opposite: Gemini twins.

The month opens with Venus poised at the last degrees of beautiful Libra in an opposition with change-agent Uranus. Anything can happen! Nothing feels stable. Everything is a crap shoot, values are shifting. Get grounded, know what you want deep down inside because the next month Venus will travel through the fecund depth of the scorpion and bring you exactly what you desire.

On the 2^nd Venus enters Scorpio charging the dynamic Sagittarian energy with a shot of passion and a viper’s sting. On the 2^nd and 3^rd, the Sun and Mars form an exact square, pushing the edges of tolerance. Mercury is retrograde until the coming New Moon and your job is to emanate love.

The 5^th through the 8^th is a power week. Mercury turns direct on the 6^th giving you the green light for go; and a new Moon is birthed in Sagittarius on the 7^th. 

On the 5^th the Sun and Neptune form a square and plans and energy may feel nebulous. Until the 8^th it’s a time of mercy and compassion. It’s time to write your prayer for yourself, your family and the world as Mars and Neptune conjunct. Get to the sea, hot springs or some other body of water during this possibly confusing Piscean time. Temperature changes or storms may shift schedules. Be cautious with mind-altering drugs. The veil between worlds is thin. Keep your spirit protected.

The Sagittarian New Moon just after mid-night, early on December 7^th (MST) holds powerful medicine for the dreamer. With squares to Neptune and Mars and support from Black Moon Lilith and Pluto, great magic can be done. Set your intention on life’s nectar. Enter the realm of spirit and give thanks as you plant your soul seeds.

A relatively quiet week follows with sobering duties to attend to on the 9^th as the Moon meets Saturn and then, some hours later, Pluto. The Aquarian Moon lightens the load until the 12^th when Mercury re-enters warm Sadge ready to say something. It’s time to make your opinion known. Write, chat, learn.

The next few days are tender and dreamy as the Moon floats through watery Pisces. Storms are possible, both emotionally and in the outer landscape. On the 15^th the Moon squares the Sun, and a few hours later meets intuitive Chiron, encouraging you to let go of the past. Remember – you only look in the rearview mirror 10% of the time. Let it go.

The 16^th and 17^th bring a rush of momentum as the Moon travels through Aries. It’s a great time to do what you want to do. Late on the 17^th (MT) expect break throughs in self-awareness as the Moon connects with Uranus and trines the Sun. 

On the 20^th Uranus and the Sagittarian Sun trine encouraging positive insights, life changes and bringing surprises. Be sure you know what your underlying needs and desires are to avoid shock. Mercury reconnects with wise Jupiter expanding your perception. Open! Grow! And remember, you don’t know it all so keep your proclamations personal. 

Then, my most favorite time of year, winter solstice for us here in the Northern Hemisphere. In the land of my birth December 21^st marks the summer solstice. Either way, celebrate! In the north this is the longest night of the year promising the return of the light as the following days grow incrementally longer. The Sun enters practical Capricorn now turning your attention to fundamentals, prudence and sensibility. The next month focuses your attention on the structures of your life: job, house and so on.  This winter solstice Venus and Neptune play kissy kissy making the day extra sweet. 

The following day on December 22nd, just after the Sun enters Capricorn, the Moon waxes to fullness in Cancer. This could be an emotional day and is best spent home pottering about and sorting things out. The Moon continues to travel through Cancer until Christmas Eve encouraging nesting and family connections. It’s time to slow down. Last minute gift purchases might be food related. Christmas Day the Moon is in warm and fun-loving Leo. Play games today. Laugh a lot. There’s a story about a monk who came rushing out of the inner sanctum where he’d been transcribing the sacred texts: “Big news! The word isn’t celibate! It’s celebrate!” I say Amen!

The last week of the year sees Mars in the final degrees of gentle Pisces and connecting with wounded healer Chiron. Use it to heal wounds of the spirit. The 29^th is a particularly tender day and a good one in which to cherish the men in your life. Mars enters its home sign of fiery Aries on New Year’s Eve – how cool is that! Fresh start, beginners mind. This helps us transition from homo sapiens to homo luminous – our ultimate goal.

Speaking of which – I have three offerings for you this coming year. One is an opportunity to discover your Sacred Contract. The other is an informal presentation of what to expect in 2019 and 2020, and another is a monthly group dedicated to using the wisdom of your astro map to affect change and live boldly. Here’s the link: https://www.astrologybydulce.com/events/

Remember: you matter, we are all connected, Earth is our home and love is our destination. 

Your astrologer,

Dulce

A LITTLE YEAR END POST SCRIPT:

As I wrote this month’s blog, the subtle snake-body of Ophiuchus wound its coils around the energy field of our planet. This 13^th sign has been axed from the mainstream as being too inconvenient to include in the status quo. I thought about all we’ve left out because our controlled environment — TV, endless gaming, meaningless work, addiction, chemically saturated food; you know — the hamster wheel of the mundane suppressed existence. As this year ends perhaps you might consider what have you cut out in order to make things fit in your programmed zeitgeist? Much of who you are is waiting in the wings preparing to step onto the stage of your life, changing it and global circumstances for the better. It’s not just the rich industrialists who are raping the wilderness, it’s us and our currently insatiable desire for more and our ignorance at its cost. 

When Uranus re-enters Taurus mid-year next year, we’ll feel it. Borrowing from Peter to pay Paul doesn’t work when you need water, fresh air, and silence. Do everything you can to minimize your impact upon our home dear friends, think about what you’re buying and eating. We belong here, this is our home, but we can’t live here in ignorance. 

Blessings abundant upon our beloved planet and all her beings and thank you for reading my work. 

Greetings Earthlings,

Welcome to a month of intensity. I trust you’re prepared to straddle the divide between despair and hope as we move from Scorpio to Sagittarius. Oh, if only we knew then what we know now! This because Jupiter, great font of wisdom and also known as Zeus, King of the Gods, leaves steamy Scorpio for zealous Sagittarius for the first time in 12 years giving Scorpios a reprieve and Sagittarians a boost. Jupiter rules Sadge and it finds a home amongst these expansive optimists.

In the meantime, Scorpio is the energy we need to go where we fear to go. Scorpio is the great detective, the psychiatrist, the charismatic leader. Its shadow self is a Jim Jones figure intent on taking everyone across the line between life and death. Ghoulish. Very Halloweenish it is through to November 22^nd when the Sun leaves Scorpio for Sagittarius. Use these 22 days to go deep.

Venus is still retrograde as the month begins. She will turn direct the very day (Nov 16) Mercury turns retrograde making this an interesting month for negotiations and love affairs. If you want more info on Venus, please scroll down to last month’s blog.

The month begins with the Moon opposite Mars, action and irritation in equal measure. Do something busy. Abundant Jupiter trines wounded healer Chiron on the 1^st also, giving you an opportunity to move things at a deep and healing level. Understanding and compassion are key.

Venus is opposite Uranus for the first few days of November charging the atmosphere with exciting and disconcerting energy. Anything can happen! Cherish love.

Sunday November 4^th the clocks fall back as Daylight Savings time ends. The Moon is getting smaller too. On the 5^th and 6^th the Scorpio Sun makes a trine with gentle Neptune making these two days good for prayer, forgiveness, art and inspiration. We’re in the dark of the Moon now and it’s time to plant those inspired seeds deep in the fertile earth of your unconscious. Uranus re-enters Aries in its retrograde motion giving you one last chance to make those energizing “I Am” statements. The 6^th is Election Day here in the USA and Uranus’ move back into Aries tries to keep “me first” agendas strong. Vote sensibly. Truly, nothing matters more than clean air and water. Without your health you have nothing.

On the 7^th the Scorpio New Moon connects with dreamy Neptune as abundant Jupiter poises at the last degree of the scorpion. It’s time to let the grudges go, brothers and sisters, even if you don’t get what you want. This is also an excellent time to purge clutter and to fast to give your digestive system a break.

Good news on the 8^th when abundant Jupiter enters the sign it rules – Sagittarius – for the first time in 12 years. This brings optimism and a certain amount of zealousness. Expect religious organizations and leaders to emerge over the next 12 months. Jupiter connects with the Moon today bringing an overload of hopeful emotions.

Venus and Mars play kissy-kissy on the 9^th making this a wonderful day for lovers. Optimism prevails through the 10^th but things sober up when the Moon enters practical Capricorn and connects with Saturn and then Pluto over the next few days. The 12^th in particular may bring a difficult but necessary duty. Buckle down and do it.

The afternoon of the 15^th (MST) the Moon accompanies Mars as Mars enters gentle Pisces for the first time in two years. Mars will remain in this spiritual (and escapist) sign until year’s end. It’s your opportunity to turn inward and to excavate the inner gold. Pisces is the energy of forgiveness and compassion. Cut yourself free of revenge and hate.

The next day (16^th) Venus turns direct and Mercury retrogrades in Sagittarius. (Mercury turns direct at the Sagittarius New Moon December 6^th). Use these next three weeks to regroup, reset and reorganize not just your life but your priorities and beliefs. According to classical astrology, Mercury in Sadge is in its detriment –- not so good. And being retrograde doesn’t help either. Yet, this placement has everything to do with questioning the big picture — like my truth-seeking, philosophical Sagittarian friend Denise who always asks the important questions.

Speaking of the big picture (Sagittarius), you know you’re dreaming, right? You know you’ve bought into the madness of the commercialized waste-full zeitgeist of the current day and this BS is killing the natural world. You can absolutely change that and empower yourself toward a completely different reality. Read Alberto Villodo’s “Courageous Dreaming: How Shamans Dream the World into Being.” Dare to dream your real dream! Set yourself free. You are in charge.

The 17^th is a tender, dreamy day as the Moon traverses through Pisces. The 18^th and 19^th Mars squares Jupiter giving you a chance to push forward on projects with the caution not to over-do. It’s easy to strain a muscle under these skies.

The 22^nd is a big day. Here’s why:

In the wee hours of the morning (MST) November 22^nd the Sun leaves Scorpio for Sagittarius and immediately connects with abundant Jupiter. There’s a lavish, lusciousness of Sadge in the air now. The centaur is everywhere. Preaching and wisdom fill the skies. Everyone has an opinion. God is omnipotent and in His Heaven. What you believe is who you are.

It’s Thanksgiving in the good ‘ole USA and I for one am so grateful for all I am, all that has been given me.

Late on the 22^nd the Gemini Moon culminates to fullness. Oh, it looks so large and bright! There are so many options. So many places to go and things to do, people to meet and books to read. Discussions could turn into arguments as Mars and Jupiter face off. Do a Gemini and change the subject. As always, when big old Jupiter is around, watch that tendency to over-do!

The next few days feel full. Take a class, study something and move your body.

On the 25^th the Sun and Jupiter conjunct. This is an auspicious day! Good news, good luck and optimism abound. However, others may seize the moment to take more than their fair share. Keep a check on your inner voice.

Oh dear, the 26^th and 27^th are simply over-the-top with all kinds of opinions and nay-sayers as retrograde Mercury squares Mars. Is resistance futile? Don’t believe everything you hear. Again, keep your mind clean. Mercury connects with the Sun and Jupiter over the next few days helping you sort the dross from the gold.

The month ends with Mercury poised to re-enter Scorpio, to share more secrets no doubt; and Venus is in opposition with Uranus once again. Change is in the air and revenge is possible. Don’t lose your love just because you have to be right.

Good luck my friends and I’ll see you back here next month. In the meantime, be well, and remember you matter, we are all connected, earth is our home and love is our destination.

Your astrologer,

Dulce

Greetings Earthlings,

October is all about relationships and love. Both are under stress as Aphrodite herself, AKA Venus, turns retrograde for much of the month, removing her beauty from the world for a short time. We’ll see her slowly disappear at twilight until there’s not much left of her to see –- just her “dark” side.  She’ll return early November as a morning star yet still retrograde. The retrograde period is part of her ancient cycle of retreat and renewal as she switches positions from evening to morning appearances and back again; either following behind the Sun at sunset or rising before the Sun at dawn. This occurs eight times every five years creating a mystical pattern that seduced the Mayans and the Rosicrucians alike.

The cycle of retreat and renewal is an important part of life on earth and the Venus cycle gives us all an opportunity to do the same. If you chose to retreat this month, do it with the intention of deep replenishment, Scorpio style, for that is the sign Venus retrogrades in.

Since Venus is closely associated with all things female and Scorpio with all things sexual, we’re likely to hear more stories of systemic sexual abuse. As I write this column, the national crisis over the Supreme Court nominee Kavanaugh awaits an FBI investigation. All kinds of women have been involved, from vocal protestors at elevators to Mormon Women For Ethical Government. All made their opinion known. The Mormon sisters want an investigation to ensure “our leaders are morally sound.” Amen sistah. It wasn’t too long ago that Mars was retrograde and the doings of Catholic priests in Pennsylvania were exposed. Oy vey; what times these are.

In the meantime, blessings of the autumn season to you. If you’re in the southern hemisphere, welcome to spring. We’ve entered a new cosmic terrain with the advent of fall equinox. The days are drawing shorter again (in the north) and the energy is focused on balance and relationship. Ethics are the hallmark of this period, as are decorum and dignity. This comes to us as the Sun travels through the leadership sign of Libra which is your annual opportunity to honor your key partnerships and to attend to them. The Sun leaves Libra for steamy Scorpio on the 23^rd making for yet another cosmic transition.

As already mentioned, the big news this month is Venus’ retrograde in the sign of her fall – steamy Scorpio. This is not good news for lovers or bankers or those wanting to get a good price on the things they are selling. Venus retrogrades from October 5^th to November 16^th. And guess what else happens on November 16^th? Mercury turns retrograde until the Sagittarius New Moon on December 6^th. So, my friends, we’re in another time period in which it feels like two steps forward and one back. Don’t get married during this period and stay away from home repair projects and major purchases. The exceptions would be ripping out old things (as opposed to putting in new) and dealing with old relationships. Oh yes, the old flame may come back. Is that scary or what?

The key to success with Venus retrograde in Scorpio is to look inside yourself for beauty and value. Rediscover your own worth and passion! 

Here’s the play-by-play for the month:

The 1^st is all systems go with great harmony between the Sun and Moon but on the 2^nd this changes as the Moon squares the Sun (and then Mercury) provoking tension and uncertainty. Also, on the 2^nd chatty Mercury squares secretive Pluto encouraging you to delve deeper into your own thought processes or the motivations of others.

On the 5^th Venus turns retrograde in Scorpio putting the kibosh on love plans and possibly inflating prices. Save your money and your best lingerie for a better time. Paired couples would do well to be nice to each other.

The Moon grows dark over the next few days to rebirth itself at the Libra New Moon on the 8^th. Despite the Venus retrograde, and Venus is Libra’s ruling planet, this a beautiful opportunity to find common ground with that special someone. Good business dealings are possible at this time also. The atmosphere feels light. This changes when Mercury enters Scorpio the next day, October 9^th bringing a sense of mystery and secretiveness.

The energy over the next few days feels like a lot of moving parts at work with many undertows. Venus squares Mars on the 10^th and on the 12^th the Sun squares Pluto. Keep your cool and stay centered in your values. This energy can work in your favor if you’re willing to go deep. 

On the 14^th and 15^th, Mercury connects with Venus and conversations could center on value (money) and relationship pros and cons. Don’t say anything you’ll regret because Scorpio forgets nothing. With the Moon traveling through practical Capricorn it might be easy to forget the soft pieces that make life worthwhile.

The 19^th is a little tricky and you might have a hard time making up your mind as Mercury trines dreamy Neptune then squares feisty Mars. Take your time to think things through. It’s good to be inspired and then to take action. 

The energy deepens over the next few days as Mercury comes into an alignment with powerful Pluto. Problem solving comes easily to you. Stay with it.

The Sun changes signs early (MT) on the 23^rd leaving gracious Libra for intense and charismatic Scorpio. This is your annual opportunity to deepen your experiences here on Earth. Scorpio draws our attention to all things hidden. Take the time to dig deep, especially since the Taurus Full Moon occurs right after the Sun’s sign change.

On the 24^th the Moon waxes to fullness in the sign of the bull conjunct erratic Uranus, while the Sun conjuncts Venus and both oppose Uranus. Whew! It’s a game changer folks. Things could shift dramatically. If you’re done with your old love this could mark your final date. Financial market shifts are likely now even as the status quo would like to hang on. Full Moons can be times of overload and this one is certainly that. Expect a change, even better, initiate one yourself even if it’s moving the furniture around. Mercury is close to Jupiter – don’t make mountains out of mole hills and get some good rest.

The days preceding and following the Full Moon are full of energy and change, mostly due to the Sun’s opposition to Uranus. The 26^th in particular can feel like overload but it’s an excellent day in which to get to the bottom of the matter. Don’t be afraid of depth and intimacy. You can go there. It will help you in the long run.

On the 29^th Mercury conjuncts abundant Jupiter and the Moon trines the Sun. Feelings may be over the top. If you need support get it. Forgiveness goes a long way now and your understanding and wisdom are profound.

The energy shifts dramatically late on the 30^th when chatty Mercury enters exuberant Sagittarius. Watch for the Venus/Uranus opposition on Halloween (the 31^st) where you might do something different for a change. Venus re-enters her favorite sign of Libra that same day and things settle down once again as you remember how valuable harmony is.

I’ll see you back here in November as Venus turns direct and Mercury retrogrades. Be well, and remember: you matter, we are all connected, Earth is our home and love is our destination.

Your astrologer,

Dulce

Greetings Earthlings,

Whew! The summer from hell is behind us. I certainly hope that yours wasn’t as bad as ours. It was a time of unexpected illnesses, surgeries and death.

September is a rare gem of a month in a difficult last half of 2018. Both Mercury and Mars are direct in capable signs and stern Saturn turns direct also. This is the month to catch up with yourself and to bring order into your life. The Sun travels through discerning Virgo until the 22^nd giving you an opportunity to focus on the little things that make life sweeter. Yes, God is in the details. Let yourself enjoy the minutiae. Reduce, reuse, recycle. Clean out your closets, work in your garden, take care of your pets, and most importantly, take care of yourself. Get to the doctor, the therapist, get a massage, acupuncture, Matrix energetics, yoga class, or whatever you need to clear out the heat of summer. Allow the prevailing Virgo energy to take care of you as you take care of everything else.

The month opens with a steady Taurus Moon. It’s a great time for hiking, gardening and other earth-centered activities. Mercury is exuberant in creative Leo and Venus is in her home sign of classy Libra. Reach out and connect with someone. Make art. It’s a wonderful time for lovers.

Mercury enters its home sign of Virgo on the 5^th, just after the American holiday of Labor Day. This is great news because your attention naturally turns to the details of life. Balance your check book! Also, on the 5^th and through the 13^th, Venus opposes crazy Uranus. It’s a good idea to keep track of finances and love affairs as things can get a little wonky under these skies.

Venus and Mars square each other on the 6^th through the 8^th.  Oh, oh, trouble in paradise. It’s okay to disagree just don’t go to bed angry.

Keep your eyes open on the 7^th. The Sun opposes obscuring Neptune. Take extra anti-oxidants today to boost your immune system. Don’t over tax yourself. If you’re feeling frazzled, take a short break for meditation. Perhaps watch an inspiring movie.

After her confrontation with Mars, Venus enters secretive Scorpio before dawn (MT) September 9^th. She will retrograde in this sign on October 5^th, turning direct in Libra on November 16^th. Secret deals and covert financial laundering are possible during this period. Sex secrets and ‘other’ women are likely too. Jealously abounds! But so too does a determination to get what you want. Venus can be vindictive and cruel when in Scorpio. Please don’t turn mean. Yes, withdraw into yourself if you need to. Wear black lipstick and red underwear but don’t hurt anyone, least of all yourself! Got it? 

Later on the 9^th, there’s a precious Virgo New Moon. There’s lots of cosmic support, and just enough tension, to motivate you toward your goals. Now there’s no need to have something concrete in mind (example: I will lose 10# by …) though that works too. The idea rather, is to set a standard for yourself. For example: I will drink more water every day. This New Moon is an opportunity to create a healthy change that lasts a long time. Try it.

If you like, you can also use this powerful New Moon to heal your mind by doing the Mental Diet. This is a pearl of wisdom from the 1930’s that guides you on a seven day fast from negative thinking. It’s okay to feel sadness, grief, and other real emotions during your mental fast, but it’s not okay to entertain negative thinking, such as, I’m such an idiot, she’s a jerk etc. Give it try. See how it changes your life. If you get bogged down, stop the diet, give yourself a two-day break, and start again.

September 10^th, Mars re-enters social, egalitarian Aquarius. You might recall that Mars turned retrograde in this sign in late June of this year and turned direct in Capricorn on August 27^th. Look for increased social action and the power of the people to be expressed. Technological advancements are possible too.

Mars immediately squares Venus, again. Oh dear, the male/female thing is turning out to be a bit tense this month. It’s okay to disagree just don’t loose yourself in anger. Mars also squares change-agent Uranus until the 19^th making this an unpredictable time. Stay away from angry people but do press forward on projects.

September 11^th is a painful day in American history and we honor it this year with a waxing Libra Moon. Yet the Sun trines powerful Pluto this day encouraging our collective transformation.

On the 12^th through the 13^th Venus opposes Uranus upsetting the love and financial apple cart. But surprise encounters can occur which make this an intriguing time. Don’t be too impulsive.

On the 13^th bright little Mercury opposes dreamy Neptune and you wonder if you read too much into the encounter. Keep your head on straight but do escape into a little fantasy. It’s a great day to write a poem or two.

Overload is possible on the 14^th when the Scorpio Moon connects with abundant Jupiter. It’s a good day for a cleanse or some other replenishing activity. Mercury and Pluto form a trine on the 15^th indicating that you’re making good progress!

The next few days are caught up in the Mars/Uranus square which culminates on the 18^th. You can breathe a sigh of relief when that show-down is over. Mercury connects with Sun over the next few days making them excellent for skillful decision making.

This clarifying energy is supported by Mercury’s move to Libra on the 21^st. Mercury trines Mars bringing sophistication to conversation. Strategy is important and can be effective under this transit. At the same time and into the 23^rd, Mercury forms a Yod with Uranus and Chiron. Relationships need to change my friends, and the way to do that is with a kindly manner and great sensitivity.

There’s a profound energy shift just after sunset (MT) on the 22^nd when the Sun enters balanced Libra at fall equinox. Take a cue from this gracious sign and bring more beauty and harmony to your life. The Moon is waxing now and comes to fullness on the 24^th.

The Aries Full Moon on the 24^th is also known as the Harvest Moon and a time to get some serious work done. This is a difficult lunation my friends. Both the Libra Sun and the full Aries Moon square stern Saturn, the taskmaster. Also, the Moon conjuncts delicate Chiron which opposes the Sun. Ouch! This can hurt. Perhaps there’s some serious news to digest. Whatever it is let this depressing energy solidify your connections and your values. It looks tough and reminds me of the Moon in USA solar return chart. It too is in Aries conjunct Chiron. Accept your part in it. Take responsibility and move on.

Chiron returns to Pisces on the 25^th continuing the healing journey of the spirit. The Sun trines Mars on the 27^th bringing much needed energy and enthusiasm your way. The month ends when Pluto turns direct. This powerful, yet subtle force, indicates your willingness to move on. There are no excuses, there is only love. And as the Gurus of old and modern times have told us, all you need is love.

I’ll see you back here in October in time for a Venus retrograde followed by Mercury retrograde in November.

Remember: you matter, we are all connected. Earth is our home and love is our destination.

Your astrologer,

Dulce

Greetings Earthlings,

Well, I wish I could write about glad tidings but I’m afraid it’s two steps forward and three back for most of the month, though August does end on a lovely high note. As August begins, both Mercury and Mars are retrograde putting the kibosh on forward momentum. That’s not to say your hands are bound; they are not. It’s more about going back and getting it done right this time. In the map of the cosmos, when Mars is retrograde your energy becomes internalized. Your will and the use of your will, is an inner process and is something to be considered and pondered over. This is not the month for easy light choices. If you must make any major decisions do it with great deliberation. Mercury turns direct on the 19^th and Mars on the 27^th.

Leo is the energy through much of August. This heart-centered sign encourages bravery which is quite different from bravado. Leo is the sign of courage and valor and rules the heart chakra, lower back and one’s hair. Leo invites play, recreation and fun. We get a renewed sense of confidence during this time of year but with Mars retrograde in the opposite sign of Aquarius the pride we usually feel is diminished. It’s time to take care of yourself, and to have fun with those you love.

The month opens on the heels of a resonating total lunar eclipse which occurred on July 27^th. Mars squares change-agent Uranus bringing things to a breaking point.  It’s change or perish. Where and how can you come to terms with your own hostility and how can you let it go in a peaceful way? How can you take back those carelessly flung arrows? As Kahlil Gibran wrote: “The moving finger writes and having writ moves on. Nor all thy piety nor wit shall lure it back to cancel half a line.”

Also on the 1^st, the Aries Moon connects with wounded healer Chiron and both trine the Sun. We can heal, we can start fresh, or we can blow ourselves up with hasty, impulsive narcissism. Please choose wisely!

There may be a surprise or two in store for us on the 3^rd when the Moon joins Uranus. Both trine stern Saturn letting you know that small changes made now can last a long time. From the 4^th to the 6^th and culminating on the 6^th, the Sun squares abundant Jupiter pushing things over the top and passed their limit. Practice moderation.

Also, on the 6^th gracious Venus leaves fastidious Virgo for Libra, the sign it rules. Decorum returns once again. Your dignity is still intact! Whew! Over the next few days Venus makes kissing soothing motions to Mars, settling down anger. Venus also aspects Uranus suggesting a sudden change or adjustment in your usual plans. On the 7^th, Uranus turns retrograde until early January next year taking your changes and personal growth inside where insights are possible.

The 9^th is a little somber as Venus and Saturn face off. Chin up!

In the midst of all the obstacles of the retrogrades comes the hope and courage of the Leo New Moon solar eclipse on August 11^th. This Supermoon (close to the Earth) tells you that you are the Creator of your life. With inconjuncts to Pluto this lunation reminds you to use your power wisely and in a heart-centered way. Celebrate!

On the 12^th Mars re-enters capable Capricorn restoring a sense of sanity and order.

This carries us forward over the next few days until Mercury turns direct on the 19^th.  What a relief! The 19^th is a beautiful day, not just because clarity returns with Mercury’s direct motion, but because Jupiter and Neptune form a delightful trine bringing peace and balm. This is a good day to celebrate love.

The energy shift holds, and beauty and hope continue to blossom. The 20^th especially is full of vim and vigor and you can get a lot done when the Sagittarian Moon connects with the Leo Sun.

Late on the 22^nd (MT), the Sun enters efficient Virgo. This is a distinct shift that helps you bring order, cleanliness and health into your life. On the 25^th the Sun, Saturn and Uranus meet in a grand earth trine lending incredible support to all practical ventures and bringing much needed stability.

Mars prepares to turn direct as Venus and Pluto form a square. Tension sometimes proceeds a birth. Pay attention to what is about to come forth. Signs may appear in your dreams at the Full Pisces Moon on the 26^th. This Full Moon occurs in the same degrees as the grand earth trine bringing whatever is needed your way. Hallelujah. Let gratitude overflow. Forgiveness is key in removing emotional blocks. Do it!

Yay! Celebrate! August 27^th Mars turns direct and things get moving once again. Mars is still in capable, pragmatic Capricorn. Put things in order and get back to work. Despite all the good news mind your p’s and q’s because chatty Mercury may get carried away as it squares over-the-top Jupiter. Don’t promise more than you can do. Keep things manageable.

The hard stuff is behind you. Remember, you only look in the review mirror ten percent of the time. There’s no need to hold onto the past. Virgo energy keeps you busy and focused.

Thanks for reading. I’ll see you back here in September and remember: you matter, we are all connected, Earth is our home and love is our destination.

Your astrologer,

Dulce

Greetings Earthlings,

If July is anything like the Full Moon at the end of June, it’s going to be quite the month! Back up your important files and stay focused on your goals and your vision.

There are two eclipses this month, one of which takes place around a SuperMoon. As you may know Mars is retrograde, and let’s add a Mercury retrograde to the mix also. Whew! Oh yes, and don’t forget – Happy Birthday USA! 

I’m sad to report that the solar return (birthday) chart for our country looks painful and contentious. We’re carrying on with America First, the Cancer Sun is in the first house; but our Moon (the people) is exactly conjunct wounded Chiron in Aries making everything very personal and painful. Chiron in Aries brings identity issues to the foreground and shows us the danger of acting only for one’s self. It also reminds the co-dependents amongst us to take care of their own business first. The Moon’s position will always be important in a USA chart because our Cancer nation is ruled by the Moon. Keep in mind we recently had two eclipses to the USA Moon one of which cast a moon shadow over the country. America truly is “we the people”. 

In the solar return chart there’s an exact Mercury/Mars opposition across our money houses. With Mars retrograde for the USA chart for the year ahead I take this to mean two steps forward, three steps back economically, especially for businesses who rely on international trading partners. The debate over gun violence continues accompanied by more mass protests. Every opinion is entrenched. 

Civic action is a big part of the USA’s year ahead. Get involved. The First Amendment is what makes us strong! Lift your voice! That’s what Mercury (communication) oppose Mars (action) is about. Net neutrality is a big subject this year. With Venus in Leo in the house of communication added to the theme of contentious conversation it appears as if money is to be made from communications. To see how this plays out in your chart look to the Leo/Aquarius axis – that’s where all the energy is. That’s also the place where your courage is needed.

There is some good news! There’s a lovely water trine between the Sun, Jupiter and Neptune. This can indicate a sense of hope and faith. Don’t compromise your vision of a healed world! Elect intelligent, reasonable people to office. Apathy will not work. A tremendous amount of progress can be made toward sustainable goals, but we must not resort to hate. Hate will take us all down. Please apply the six principles of non-violence when dealing with those who have different view points than yours. http://www.thekingcenter.org/king-philosophy 

If you don’t like Martin Luther King’s use of the concept of evil, switch it to something that works for you, but please, don’t hate. 

In the USA natal chart we are bang smack in a Saturn opposition to our Jupiter and Venus (restrictions of value and ideology. Loss of aesthetics. Financial hardship. Stern father. Family matters.). Saturn will oppose the USA Sun early in 2019 and remain there for much of 2019. This will be a hard time for our country,a time when we will have to work hard for not much. Like most Saturn transits though, we will emerge at the end of it with a clear sense of personal responsibility. Saturn opens our eyes to our karma and our nation’s karma (Saturn) is in Libra (partnerships). This can be a good time folks, it really can, but it will be tough. Shop local, vote smart, reduce your carbon footprint, and treat water like the true wealth it is.

In the natal Sibly chart, wounded healer Chiron straddles the nadir, or root of the chart. We are breaking apart before we can come back together. Yes, it’s as painful as it sounds. I see all of this through the lens of Radical Forgiveness (thank you Colin Tipping).  A giant toxic pimple that’s been festering underneath society since the birth of this nation is bursting. Issues of slavery, separation, racism, lack of compassion, intolerance, ignorance, and greed to name a few, are emerging into the light for healing. Please scroll down to the article I wrote in October 2016, just before the last election. As I wrote there, we’re approaching our Pluto return. This will occur in 2020. There’s a tremendous amount of energy then, much of it in Capricorn opposite key celestial bodies in the USA chart. We must be mindful of restrictive beliefs, fascism, reductionist tendencies, fear mongering and lack of tolerance. 

The month of July features the energy of Cancer, the archetype of the Mother, nurturing, kind, interested in food and farming, Cancer is the energy that helps make a home a home. Happy birthday to all you Cancers. You are special to us. 

It’s beyond belief that our Cancer country has taken children from their parents. The only way that can occur is to dehumanize them. Yes of course people need to enter the country legally, no-one’s in favor of illegal entry but this… this is unconscionable. President Trump’s Saturn (karma) is in Cancer conjunct his ruling planet Mercury (he’s a Gemini born at a Full Sagittarian Moon). His actions exhibit the shadow of Cancer – the use of fear as a means of protection – think ‘wall’. Trump’s mother was a Scottish immigrant and worked as a domestic. This is a nation of immigrants – including him! 

On a personal note, sometimes when I wake in the morning the first thing I feel is the pain of the world. I worry about little children, about wild animals losing habitat; I think of the island of plastic three times the size of France and sea horses clinging to plastic Q Tips and I don’t want to get up. And then, despite the pain in my heart and the sadness of my soul, I hear the birds singing, I see the sun’s rays and I begin to fill my mind with gratitude. Little by little I count my many blessings and I remember that my spirit incarnated at this time for a reason. I recommit to using my gifts and talents for the highest good. I remember I am not alone. I feel the millennia of spiritual evolution that lies behind us; and the spark of light that never goes out flares inside of me. It’s then I know huge spiritual work is occurring on our beautiful planet and I thank all that is for all that is. 

July opens with Mars inconjunct the Cancer Sun which can feel a little frustrating. Perhaps whatever it is you need to get moving isn’t working that well; Mars is retrograde after all. Rest up instead. The 3^rd feels much better when the Sun, Moon, Neptune and Jupiter meet in a delightful trine. This watery energy continues on the 4^th providing a backdrop of hope and compassion.

Happy birthday on the 4^th USA! As discussed, it’s a bit tough. To top it off, Chiron turns retrograde for the next four months. We’ve got some serious healing to do, as individuals, a nation and a world. There’s an exact Sun/Jupiter trine on the 5^th –  very good news comes your way! But, be cautious with your words as Mercury and Mars oppose each other and things could get blown out of proportion.

The Sun and Neptune trine each other over the next couple of days hopefully bringing rain to the desert southwest. This is a soft and gentle transit and is most welcome. Try not to overindulge on the 8^th when the Taurus Moon opposes abundant Jupiter. 

The evening of the 9^th (MT) Venus leaves confident Leo for finicky Virgo and takes all the fun out of the party. It’s not that Virgo isn’t fun, it’s just that Venus in Virgo has a lot of dishes to wash and things to clean up. The next weeks are good for exactly that.

Jupiter turns direct on the 10^th. Hallelujah, good luck flows again, though Jupiter is in intense Scorpio and we may get more depth than we bargained for. Venus trines change-agent Uranus on the 10^th and 11^th shaking things up in a good way. On the 11^th the Sun opposes Pluto indicating a power shift. 

The partial solar eclipse Cancer New Moon July 12^th is transitional! It’s a SuperMoon (closer to Earth than usual) and is opposite transformative Pluto, oh my! Something is trying to emerge. Someone or something wants control, and it looks like birth pangs to me. This energy is more than a little over the top and may have something to do with the child camps, housing market, refugees and/or homelessness. On a personal level it’s a good time to fast and cleanse.

The 13^th and 14^th feel supportive with a nice earth trine between Venus, Saturn and Uranus. It’s a good time to be out in the garden. Take care of the things that matter to you, move them around, being new life into your space. Organization and cleaning up continue over the next two days as the Moon enters Virgo and connects with Venus and then trines Pluto. It feels so good to declutter!

On the 17^th the Moon squares Saturn, and on the 18^th squares Pluto – don’t be despondent! Count your blessings instead. On the 20^th the Scorpio Moon connects with Jupiter, another opportunity to practice moderation. 

The afternoon of the 22^nd the Sun leaves motherly Cancer for royal Leo. Things heat up even more under the power of the Sun in its home fire sign. Happy birthday Leo! It’s time to play, create and enjoy life. Get out there and socialize.

Through the 24^th the Moon travels through optimistic, and sometimes dogmatic Sagittarius, in harmony with Mercury and the Sun, both of which are in Leo. This can be an enjoyable time and perhaps you might take a little trip somewhere or throw a party. Be warned though: Venus and Neptune oppose each other on the 24^th – what you see may not be what you get. Be discerning!

Things get tricky on the 25^th when the Sun squares Uranus – things can change quickly under these skies – and Mercury turns retrograde (yes, again). Now both Mars and Mercury are retrograde. Good luck getting anything right. It’s time to go on holiday. Mercury turns direct August 19^th, about a week before Mars turns direct. 

Over the next few days the cosmic environment may feel intense, blocked and/or frustrating as the Sun opposes Mars and both square Uranus. There’s a lot of Leo energy now that Mercury is going backwards in that sign. Drama abounds! Is it more ego related, or are you okay not taking it personally? The Moon is getting very full and fat as it prepares for a total lunar eclipse on the 27^th. 

The Aquarian Full Moon lunar eclipse features two earth trines, one between Venus and Pluto, and the other between Saturn and Uranus. Aquarius lunations are social affairs and there may be gatherings or protests centered on care for the Earth, climate change, innovation and so on. Get involved if you like. Again, the energy may be a bit over the top, so perhaps some on-line activism followed by a nap may work better for you.

Mars square Uranus makes for volatile times. Please be careful out there. Even though Mars is retrograde it’s no less hostile, just a little more repressed. Use the energy to push forward on projects. Encourage yourself, keep your spirits up.

The month ends on a gentle Pisces Moon. Dreams bring mercy and insight. August is up next with a partial solar eclipse and planets turning direct. Keep taking care of our Mother. Be mindful of wasting water – don’t run the tap unconsciously. Here in Colorado we’re deep in a drought and the planet is getting hotter. Catch that water and put it on your plants. Plant trees, paint your roof white, wear a hat. And remember, you matter, we are all connected, Earth is our home and love is our destination.

Your astrologer,

Dulce