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Greetings Earthlings,

I wake early to the sound of the quail sentry calling from his high point. The sun kisses the top of the mesa and its broad lush beams caress the field. It seems that everything glows. I take my cues from nature and practice the patience of trees. There is not much to control. Most things have been stripped from my hands, and most likely, from yours also. All I can do is center in routine and silence. I try for silence, but as I write my new neighbor rips up his land with a giant machine, the roar is magnificent and alarming. It’s time to practice what I preach. For the first time in years, I’m resting and renewing at a deep cellular level. I thank my yoga teacher Demi for her Zoom classes and the yoga nidra she ends each practice with.

If your life permits it, let yourself slow down. This month is full of retrogrades which is the cosmos’s way of slowing down. Why should we be any different?

In the middle of an intense year we have the pivotal month of June. This month Mercury retrogrades and there are two eclipses. That’s astro-babble for “keep your wits about you.”

Gemini energy predominates until summer solstice on the 21^st when the Sun enters Cancer and begins the second half of the year. Gemini is effervescent and its celestial charge is to spread seeds. Use this month to gather information and share ideas; it’s what Gemini does best. Ignite your curiosity. Do it with amusement.

As Venus is currently retrograde and “descending” (see my Venus articles below) into the light of the Sun, your journey is interior. With the cosmic signature of these times being Pluto, Saturn, and Jupiter conjunct and now currently retrograde, this inner journey is one of vital importance. The course of your life may change this year and wisdom gleaned from your inner world is a priceless treasure.

The month begins with a nice blend of energies. You’re off on the right foot. Pay close attention because on June 3^rd, Venus and the Sun connect. This is a profound moment in the retrograde Venus cycle and when plotted over time reveals a five-pointed star in your chart. Look beyond the obvious – old loves and memories – which are likely to emerge, so if you’re yearning for your old flame, he or she may appear. But keep in mind that this deep dive is also a discovery and has everything to do with your values and your inner wealth.

Mark your calendars June 5th to June 13th as days to practice relaxed awareness. Here’s why:

The energy is high and builds to the Sagittarius Full Moon eclipse on June 5^th around 1:00 PM MT (thus we won’t see it here in the north). This lunation mimics the axis points in the USA chart and is squared by Mars making this a hot-headed impulsive time of overload. Lay low, unless you have a big project you want to push forward on. Be cautious anyway.

The eclipse/Full Moon energy persists and magnifies over the following days to June 8^th, as Mars continues to square the Sun. The Sun represents authority and leaders may react without notice. Again, another period of time in which to lay low, or to exert yourself with caution and prudence. Mars is a competitive energy. Notice where you want to exert your ego and what you want to win.

Over the next week we move from the aggression of Mars to the dreamy fog of Neptune as we ask, “what just happened?” The Sun squares Neptune from the 9^th to the 11^th, exact early on the 11^th. This is a magical, dreamy time, but given the bizarreness of this year, I recommend protecting your immune system. Use these days to paint, create, make love, hang out in water. Mars joins Neptune on the 12^th and 13^th. Stay away from drugs and alcohol. Instead, allow yourself to strengthen with visualization and stay hydrated. The Moon joins Mars and Neptune on the 13^th suggesting there may be a global occurrence of some kind. Perhaps a vaccine is discovered. The speed of it, Mars, and its uncertainty, Neptune, mean we should treat its emergence cautiously but with hope.

There follows a week of relative calm. Use it to catch up and recover. The Moon travels across tender points to eventually stabilize in Taurus just before Mercury turns retrograde late on the 18^th.  It turns direct July 12th. Again, more of an opportunity to pause and slow down. In Cancer, Mercury invites you to care for your home even more than you have been.

On the 18^th as well, the Moon meets Venus in Gemini. This is a celestial reminder to connect with siblings, especially sisters and to take care of your financial matters.

We begin to enter yet another magical window. The Moon is growing dark preparing to be born anew and the Sun is leaving Gemini for Cancer and the longest day of the year.

On June 20^th at 4:00 PM MT, the Sun enters Cancer marking summer solstice here in the north, and the longest day of the year. A few hours later, shortly after mid-night (MT) on June 21^st, there’s a solar New Moon eclipse in Cancer. If the planets could look down and talk to us they’d be saying this is a new beginning. Treat it as such. But carefully. You would never expect a baby to get up and walk moments from birth. Let this beginning start slow and build over time. Make a note of your hopes and put them under your pillow. Sleep on it.

We’re now in a watery realm of emotion with high needs for safety and approval. Cancer energy runs deep as does Pisces with both Mars and Neptune in that sign. On the 23^rd, Neptune retrogrades putting your delusions and fantasies on hold until it turns direct in late November of this year.

We’re starting to feel the energy shift, especially on the 25^th when lovely Venus makes her return journey. Matters of the heart, finances and aesthetics begin to stabilize.

Get ready for the big leap when Mars leaves watery Pisces for its home sign of Aries late on the 27^th. This is great mojo and helps give everything a big kick in the derrière. It’s time to get going, but cautiously please because come September Mars will retrograde in Aries until mid-November and all the plans of mice and men may go astray. Doesn’t life happen when you’re busy making plans?

June 29^th Jupiter and Pluto make another exact conjunction giving us the heads up that big shifts are at work. Take note. The month ends as Mercury and the Sun connect in loving Cancer. This feels so good. 

We’re still in the thick of it my friends. Practice equanimity, maintain an attitude of curiosity and stay amused, as my friends Laura and Skip would say.

I’ll see you back here in July for more eclipses (one on July 4^th) and Mercury’s direct motion on July 12^th.

Blessings, and remember, you matter; we are all connected, Earth is our home and love is our destination.

Your astrologer,

Dulce

Greetings Earthlings,

As I write, the wind blows through the trees and they toss themselves about in a green hued dance. The wind cleans and purifies. It also terrorizes. It’s the voice of Spirit my spiritual teacher told me once when I whined about it. We were on the phone and I was walking in the desert beside my home. The wind was throwing my voice away and flinging fine sparks of sand. Wind is the Voice of Spirit… I hear it now, gusting against the house.

Anywho… the reason I’m writing is because I want to talk about the incredibly special window of time we’re in right now: Venus’s retrograde in Gemini, going on now until June 25th, and the Gemini New Moon on May 22nd. 

Venus is one of the original Goddess archetypes in our collective consciousness. She’s Innana, or Ishtar, the Sumerian Goddess. Her story of descent is one our oldest stories and has shaped us in mysterious ways. Venus’s retrograde is the part of her cycle where she meets her sister Ereshkigal in the under world. Her sis is none too happy to see her and hangs her on a hook on the wall. Luckily, little Enki (Mercury) is sent down to get her. There proceeds an exciting adventure of escape. 

Coming up on May 22nd, at 11:38 AM (MT) Venus will conjunct Mercury (little Enki who rescued her from her sister’s grip in the underworld) at 20 degrees Gemini the very moment the Moon connects with the Gemini Sun at the annual Gemini New Moon. So my dearlings this is a magical, magical time. Enjoy yourself. Cherish the channel to which you are tuned. As Van Morrison sings, “Turn it Up!” Do this in your own unique, dualistic way. This is a rare time when your two halves come together. Imagine the two globes of your brain and the corpus callosum, that incredible super highway in your midbrain across which neurons leap and dance. Venus’s retrograde invites you come to a place of unity. It allows you to reclaim your value. Use the Gemini New Moon this Friday 5/22 to create a ritual around your values and your integration. 

To some this may feel like a spiritual emergency, as Christina Grof called it. The Spirit becomes so big in the human body, so attuned to it, that there is a profound rewiring. This is felt mostly in the chest area. Re-wiring and re-integration are important aspects of this New Moon/Venus retrograde in Gemini. Gemini is the sign that rules the nervous system.

This attune-ment is important because we’re dealing with a lot of human karma. Pluto, Jupiter and Saturn conjunct constitute the transpersonal signature of our time. These three together are the celestial marker of Covid 19. In Capricorn specifically, these three represent the bones of humanity that are with us. So are the slaughtered bodies of the animals we’ve eaten. It’s all there — our wars, our battles, our jealousies, come back to be with us. And it’s up to us to truly understand this. 

We’re not dealing with just three dimensions anymore. We’re not dealing with good ‘ole clock time. The stay-at-home edict began to change time for us. Time is the very thing that’s changing. Saturn is now in Aquarius for the first time in 29 years. Saturn is Father Time, old Cronus. Saturnalia in ancient Rome was a celebration of Saturn — they felt him to be earthy and essential. What’s happening now is that time is actually changing, our perception of time is shifting. 

This isn’t the first time it’s happened either. Industrialization and the alarm clock changed our sleeping habits. We used to have two sleeps a night but the alarm clock forced us into early rising and we lost our capacity for deep rest. Since industrialization we’ve been selling our time, not our value. Look at people on an assembly line (or in cubicles) and look at chickens in a chicken farm. Apart from species and activity, what’s the difference?

The pandemic (Pluto, Saturn, Jupiter) has broken the back of the assembly line. We’re at home, not in the work place. Pluto’s destruction may be serving us well. Are you using this time to rest and renew? Venus’s retrograde is another invitation to do just that. Venus will be retrograde until June 25 of this year. Use this period to turn inward, to be curious and amused about what is emerging in you. At the New Moon on the 22nd, Neptune will square Mercury and Venus – in other words, there’s an element of mystery, the hand of the Divine is at work. Rest and stillness heal you. 

This is a rare time. It’s Venus’s descent into the fire of the Sun, or is it the Son? Semantics — that’s Gemini — the way you write and tell things, your communication style and the way your mind works. Though the modern day ruler of Libra and Taurus, Venus’s first home is Gemini, its Gemini’s ancient ruling planet and thus the sign of the twins is a special resting place for Venus.

Bless you at this magical time. May you align with what means the most to you and may you come to a place of Oneness.

Your astrologer,

Dulce

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

The earth sings, and the trees ring with the sound of bees. The quail calls and the fly buzzes against the window. Welcome to the energy of Taurus my friends. The Earth and Taurus are synonymous with each other. We are so blessed to be Earthlings. 

Re-discover your friendship with nature and birdsong this month. Venus is the Goddess that rules this time. The breeze brings the smell of warming earth and the scent of lilacs. Luxuriate in this growing season. Taurus is your ground of being. Know your body and treat it as the loving friend it is. Without it… well, there is no life on Earth without the body.

Talking about relationship, what we’re doing is relationship, for stern Saturn is visiting Aquarius. Saturn is Aquarius’s ancient ruler. Friendships, commitments of the heart, socialization and so on, are all things of the people. Aquarius is charged with understanding the nature of society and science. I love Aquarians. My dad was one, my brother’s one, my granny was one, my grand-daughter is one. I have great friends who are Aquarians. I can’t get enough of them apparently. I bet you know some Aquarians, you probably are one.

In May we have two cycles to consider – Venus and Saturn. Love and lessons.

Venus retrogrades this month. Retrograding is part of her usual gig. Every eight years Venus orbits the Sun thirteen times while the earth orbits the sun eight times. During the 8-year cycle Venus passes between the sun and the earth five times, completing five synodic (getting back to where it started from relative to the Sun while seen from Earth) periods with each one lasting almost 18 months.

Venus switches positions during these retrogrades moving this time from an evening “star” to a morning one. She slowly draws closer and closer to the all consuming light of the Sun and is absorbed, vanishing from our vision. 

Here’s how May rolls along:

The whole Pluto, Jupiter, Saturn thing, indicators of the virus and economic standstill, is still something to deal with but it’s not active right now. The threat will return this October. (See my earlier columns for more.) But right now, we’re in a relative state of astrological peace.

Saturn, Venus and Jupiter all turn retrograde this month. This may feel a little like moving through molasses. Getting things going again is going to take time. The interior nature of a retrograde pulls the energy back inside. Let the next four months be ones of consideration and deliberation. Don’t make any hasty moves. Allow yourself to linger in that which you know to be important to you. 

Mercury changes signs twice this month, keeping you on your toes when communication skills are required. Mercury will turn retrograde in June so do what you can this month to be clear in your actions and purchases.

The month begins with a waxing Moon and a sense of possibility. Taurus energy is heavy, pun intended, in a solid grounding way. Both the Sun and Mercury are in this earth sign as the Moon in dramatic Leo opposes Mars in social Aquarius. It could be a feisty time and a stubborn one. May 1^st is Beltane – the halfway point between spring equinox and summer solstice. Celebrate!

The next few days encourage busy industry and order as the Moon travels through Virgo. Do what you need to do to clean things up. Make healthy choices. 

On the 4^th, Mercury and the Sun meet. Bold proclamations mark the day. We’re days from a Full Moon so listen and learn to both inner and outer messages.

Use diplomacy and fellowship with success over the next few days as the Moon travels through Libra. Diffuse potentially upsetting situations before the Scorpio Full Moon early on the 7^th. It may be hard to trust your emotions at this Full Moon; perhaps because they seem so intense. It’s time to release those deeper feelings or perhaps to understand them and the shadows they represent. Be patient with yourself. Let the storms of life pass through your clay body. Feel, release, heal. 

8^th and 9^th bring hope and life as the Moon travels through light-hearted Sagittarius. It’s time to take a little journey, see something new. This is especially true when the Moon opposes Venus on the 9^th. Take your time figuring out what’s best for you while remembering that nothing lasts forever and experiences are often well-worth having.

The Moon travels through Capricorn the 10^th through the 12^th. These are somber days meant for working hard and taking care of business. Mother’s Day on the 10^th is pleasant in its sacred duties as Mercury and Jupiter connect favorably. 

On May 10^th, Saturn turns retrograde until late September. The next four months give you further opportunity to ponder your path.

The energy shifts when Mercury enters its home sign of Gemini on the 11^th. People want to connect again, and messages fly through the airwaves. This energy takes a strange shape when Venus retrogrades in Gemini on the 13^th. Venus is Gemini’s ancient ruling planet so there’s an affinity here that bodes well but it’s an opportunity to practice prudence. Venus will be retrograde until June 25^th. From now and until then it’s best to avoid big love, money and art productions. Weddings, home remodels etc. don’t go well when the planet that rules such things is not available. This is a great time to evaluate your values, your financial position and to otherwise take care of your possessions and ideas. 

Also, on the 13^th, Mars leaves intellectual Aquarius and enters sensitive Pisces. Are things on or are they off? It’s hard to know under these skies and a lot of intuition is required and is available to you. Mars in Pisces is moody and intense. Johnny Cash was a Pisces with Mars in Pisces if that tells you anything.

The energy keeps shifting! On the 14^th Jupiter turns retrograde relaxing restrictions until October and giving us the opportunity to discover our inner domains. 

The next few days see the Taurus Sun moving in a favorable relationship to Pluto and then Jupiter, making it a good time to continue with your transformation and to add structure and pleasure to your activities. The 17^th is a particularly enjoyable and/or lucky day.

We’re in the last days of Taurus now. Use the time to develop your routine. Practice being grounded.

On the 20^th the Sun enters chit-chatty Gemini and the whole tone changes. We enter into a magical time, enhanced by the Gemini New Moon on the 22^nd. On this day there’s an exact Mercury Venus conjunction. Sweeter words were never spoken. This is a wonderful time for poetry and writing. The Sun and Saturn trine at this New Moon indicating that whatever begins now could have long term consequences. I’m excited to share my Journey Series with you. More info here: https://www.astrologybydulce.com/journey-series/

The energy of the New Moon lingers over the next few days. Make use of it by making meaningful connections with those you care about. Further your literary aims and prepare to receive back something you lost a long time ago.

Memorial Day may be more emotional than most. Spend it with family if you can and try not to be too needy. The Moon trines Mars in watery Pisces and that looks like memories of the past and tears released.

The mood lightens with the Leo Moon but shifts again on the 28^th. 

On the 28^th Mercury leaves chatty Gemini for gentle Cancer. It will turn retrograde in Cancer from the middle of June to the middle of July. Mercury in Cancer is emotional and can be somewhat child-like and dependent. Stay in touch with your feelings, for they have a lot to tell you, but stay rational.

The month ends as the Virgo Moon gives way to Libra helping you stay attuned to your agenda while serving others. As we’ve so recently discovered with Covid, we are all connected. Self-care is critical. 

Next month we face retrogrades and two eclipses. See you back here then. And remember, you matter, we are all connected. Earth is our home and love is our destination.

Your astrologer,

Dulce

Greetings dear Ones,

Here’s April’s cosmic report. It’s a little late because I spent a great deal of time writing the 2020 report you’ll find when you scroll down. I’m posting this Sunday, April 5th under a waxing Virgo Moon. Virgo invites organization and healing but can also be quite sensitive. If you’re feeling a little out of sorts, and who isn’t given the circumstances, be kind to yourself and others over the next few days. Take it easy, clean up your junk, and think healthy thoughts.

Meditation and mindful self-compassion are powerful tools I highly recommend. Use them.

Please keep in mind, that though I may not mention everyday of this month the overarching theme of the Saturn/Pluto conjunction continues. In other words – be prudent, follow the instructions from the medical experts globally and nationally, and don’t break the law. Keep each other safe, please. In case you haven’t noticed, we’re in a pandemic and we’re trying to flatten that curve. 

The Libra Full Moon on the 7th is a good day to stay safe at home friends. That’s because Mars (ruling the Aries Sun) is square change agent Uranus and that’s a recipe for hotheadedness and impulsive action which could be dangerous. Full Moons are always times of overload and this year, whew!

Good news though – we’re slowly shifting gears toward a monumental change in our prevailing world view – the coming Great Mutation. This is the union of Jupiter and Saturn in the air sign Aquarius at winter solstice 2020. You can find the details in my last report. 

We can feel the changes this April as Saturn is briefly in Aquarius (until early July at which time it re-enters Capricorn). Mars is also in Aquarius for the first time in two years and it will retrograde this year also (in Aries Sept 9 to Nov 13, not good times for forward movement). 

Speaking of air — Venus is now in the air sign of Gemini (as of April 3).  Venus in Gemini is notoriously fickle, he loves me, he loves me not. Venus will retrograde in Gemini this summer. Venus retrograde is usually not a good thing as Venus rules love, aesthetics and finances and can really indicate problems with all three; and yet Venus is the ancient ruling planet of Gemini so my thought is that we may have things restored to us during the retrograde period: May 12 to June 25, and it won’t be too disruptive. 

The 9th and 10th are good days for love – long distance if needed – when Mars and Venus play kissy kissy.

Late on April 10th (MT),  Mercury finally leaves watery Pisces after a long sojourn there due to its retrograde period. On the 10th, Mercury enters Aries, a place of new vision and fresh starts. It’s time to think ahead and plan your new normal. This virus is not going away in a hurry. It’ll be with us through most of the year, so please continue to practice safe socializing. Wear the mask! Nonetheless, the seasons change and this is a time of beginnings as well as endings.

Be mindful and continue to stay home April 13th through to April 15th when the Sun squares first Pluto and then Jupiter. The Moon and Mars have an interaction too. We may see political parties attempt to push their agendas through. There’s a lot of posturing and power and control dynamics. Don’t be bullied! Stand up for yourself and common sense. Don’t over do it though. It’s a time of pragmatism above all else. Don’t bite it off if you can’t chew it, right?

There’s a breath of fresh air and stability when the Sun enters earthy Taurus on April 19th. Happy birthday Bull! This moment of peace is short lived and obstacles appear when the Sun squares Saturn the next day slowing things down once again by setting limitations.

The Taurus New Moon April 22nd, involves change agent Uranus. We know things will never quite be the same again. We know we have to address the issues of climate change and consumerism, loss of wilderness and poverty. Our values are being tested in places we really feel. This New Moon invites you to take control of what you can and let go of the rest. 

And the much needed break we’ve all been waiting for comes April 25th and 26th, when Pluto turns retrograde. There’s a reprieve until October 2020 when Pluto turns direct along with Saturn. It’s quite possible that during the next few months we may even forget what we’ve been through. I hope not. I hope we remember so we don’t have to go through it again when they turn direct. 

Also, on the 25th and 26th the Sun and Uranus connect in earthy Taurus at their annual meeting. Uranus always brings something new and innovative to the table. I hope that new environmental technologies and thought will overpower the old guard. No matter how much de-construction of environmental protections there are people no longer want to breath polluted air and eat bad food. Things begin to feel exciting but again, please stay aware and cautious. We’re not out of the woods yet.

On April 27th, little Mercury enters Taurus, encouraging us to continue the slow down that is the gift of this time of confinement. Mercury bumps into a square with Saturn over the next few days and communications can feel tough, even hard and isolating. But soon enough, as the month ends, excitement builds when Mercury connects with its higher octave – Uranus. Talk about innovation! Use the last few days of April to problem solve. Go through your stuff and recognize its value. Have fun!

May 1st is the celebration of Beltane when we dance around the May pole. Though we continue to bury and mourn our precious dead, we feel a new life, a new seed and we cherish it with songs of praise and dances of joy.

See you soon dear readers, and remember: you matter, we are all connected, Earth is our home and love is our destination.

Your astrologer,

Dulce

By Dulce Bell-Bulley MA CHT
March 29, 2020

This column is dedicated to Dale McClanahan.

Hello friends,

The June 2012 issue of Time magazine was dedicated to end of the world scenarios in a volume titled How To Die. It was 2012 after all and we were on the brink of existential oblivion thanks to the ending of the Mayan calendar. Of the top ten ways to go, pandemic was one of them. So here we are, in a pandemic. 

So, what’s going on up there? With the planets?

The Wanderers have a vision much broader than ours, but remember, WE, all of us TOGETHER are creating this reality. Breathe deeply, as much as you can. Fill up your toes and your back body. Love as much as you can — build the strength and field of your heart chakra. We’re confronting what we created earlier, letting it go onto the compost heap, out of which we are tending the tiny shoots of our brilliant future. The power is the present. As you read this article and go through this time, remember we are interconnected. We are the one body. Align yourself to something higher, truer, and Divine, whatever that is for you. At times of endings we fear great loss but our open hearts, aligned spirits and our collective awareness will see us safely through. 

The current major cosmic dance is a conjunction of slow-moving Pluto, he of the Underworld (an orbit around the Sun of 250 years), and Saturn, Father time and the planet in charge of reality as we know it (30-year orbit). Pluto’s modus operandi is to destroy, and Saturn’s is to maintain. This combo stresses existing structures and looking back in history we can see what that looks and feels like.

Alas, this cycle has taken us to dark places before – let’s start with WW1. Soldiers were confined to the trenches, when Saturn and Pluto met in Cancer (they’re in the opposite sign of Capricorn now). Think of our confinement now and their confinement in the trenches. How terrible that was for them. 

Pluto and Saturn connected again, in September 1939, the beginning of WW2 when Hitler invaded Poland, and France and England declared war on Germany. The two planets squared each other then. And on 9/11/2001 they opposed each other across a major axis of the USA chart.

You get the picture. And here we are again. Perhaps we can say that the symbol for this time might be the Notre Dame fire April 15, 2019 when Saturn and Pluto conjunct at south node. It was the first “episode”. 

If you’re feeling anxious, be kind to yourself. You are not alone. Saturn and Pluto together are associated with heaviness and loss. A tension. There’s an all-pervasive feeling of sadness. A lack of joy. What Carl Jung would call “the reality principle” and Nietzsche “the spirit of gravity.” An intense inner journey is at work. This is terrifying because it involves entering our shadow realm. Pluto is the guardian of the underworld after all. Think about the subterranean underbelly of the world – corruption, deceit, filth, yet also hidden gold, seeds of the future, and an enormous appetite for power and control, for rebirth. Pluto takes us on our death and birth journey. This journey into the depths takes us to our inner wealth, that which cannot be corrupted nor destroyed. With Saturn also present, we’re responsible for that journey. No one can save us but us. 

Added to the recipe of stress is abundant Jupiter (12- year orbit) and Mars (2-year orbit) joining Saturn and Pluto at the south node. These add oomph, and up the ante. If this rare alignment wasn’t enough, we have three significant eclipses to deal with this year and something ominously called the Great Mutation.  A bit more about that in a moment. Here are a few key words about the challenges Pluto offers:

Deconstruction and destruction

Fear of the hidden

The hidden coming up

Transpersonal/global forces

Sorrow – the world dying, species disappearing. 

Loss

Birth and death.

Life force

Power and control – (in Capricorn the power and control over the collective via government)

Surrender

Dictatorship – martial law. Taking charge. Putin having absolute rule for example. 

Flaws in structure/ government/leadership are revealed. Think Brexit. 

Secrets. Power behind the scenes.

(Keep breathing, nice and deep!)

Pluto also governs shadow, things we don’t know about, that we’ve buried in the subterranean depths of our psyche. PROJECTION – where we throw our nonsense onto someone else because we don’t want to look at it; where we blame someone else for what we’re doing covertly but won’t face up to. Pluto is also excrement (yep, shit). Fear of what’s coming out of us. “The great scythe swinging through the world cutting down” excess. 

And there’s Capricorn to consider — the sign Pluto and Saturn are traveling together in. Capricorn is associated with restrictions, government, rules and regs, protocol, authority, business, parents, tradition, commitment, duty. And cycles of development over time.

Finally, let’s take a peek at some of the key concepts for Saturn. It’s basically the same as Capricorn because Saturn rules Capricorn. These are: Scaffolding. Structure. Things to hold onto or the form and shape of society. Time. Limitation – lovers unable to get to each other; families separated. Obligations. Confinement – Think of people holed up together during this time; with both the negatives and the silver lining it provides should we choose to take it. 

Let’s talk conspiracy for a moment. Pluto’s presence suggests the possibility that some power, somewhere, let loose this beast in an effort to control the world in order to mine it for their own wealth and ego. That this power wants to have absolute control over the populace, via martial law and the virus is getting that in place. Let me debunk this conspiracy – Jupiter is present in this whole thing. Jupiter is a planet representing ethics and advanced learning. In Capricorn, as it is during this entire year until winter solstice when it enters Aquarius, Jupiter in Capricorn is overly cautious. Prudent and careful to the point of extreme fussiness. This has proved to be very helpful and led to quarantine and stay at home orders. So, if there were some kind of Plutonian/Uranian conspiracy, Jupiter brought it back to Earth and is keeping us as safe as possible given the circumstances. 

This global experience is teaching the lesson of Earth, where everything is right now. We understand RESOURCES in a different way. It’s the birth of pragmatism and renewal. Saving things, recycling. Making things last. Stop throwing things away. Stop buying cheap plastic throwaway s**t because we realize that nothing is actually cheap. There’s a cost to everything either measured in the quality of human experience and/or to the natural world, the environment. And the cost is breaking our hearts.

We become aware of true RESOURCES – Spiritual awareness. An inner radical responsibility for the health and magnificence of our own souls. 

Another thing we understand is that our care and love for one another is what we’re confined to and what we miss right now. Ask yourself, what is meaningful to you? Here’s what is meaningful to me: My physical and spiritual health; my family, friends, clients and animals; silence; my work and creative life; my garden, good food, my neighborhood, the library, community radio stations, wilderness, rivers, camping, music (lots of it) and really good beer and wine. 

We are face-to-face with what we love and yearn for. We’re confined (Saturn) my friends (Aquarius), cut off from certain things and those we cherish. Use Pluto positively by opening up the closed places – the heart, the soul, and the mind. The earth is healing right now! The earth starts to heal when we stop hurting it. Look at the pics of Whutan and the canals of Venice. Sky and water are clear. Birds and animals returning.

What an opportunity to let what needs to die, die and to let go. Birth what is healthy. What is that for you?

Regarding a primary love we all share – the health and wonder of wilderness. There’s been deregulation (Plutonian method) of all things that protect our environment also known as the ESSENTIALS – fresh water, air and healthy soil. I’m grateful for all those who bring food, oil and gas to me but not at the cost of wilderness and the loss of species, nor at the cost of our health because we’re already been there and done that. Enough already!

Okay, how about Trump and the USA chart? Trump and the USA have six planets that fit hand over glove. They are related to karma and basic needs, fears about safety, money and resources. Mars, the God of war and action, is particularly featured in both his chart and the USA chart. There’s a lot more here to discuss but I’ll save it for another time. The time we’re in transcends the individuals involved though they are players in the drama. (Remember, you are the creator, not the story).

When will there be reprieve? 

Soon. Let’s get through the Mars/Uranus square on April 7^th, that’s kind of impulsive and could be dangerous. April 26^th is a tentative green for go. Pluto turns retrograde April 26^th around the same time the Sun connects with change agent Uranus. This is a huge sigh of relief. It’s a time of recovery. But it’s slow. Continue to be patient and practice safe socializing. There’s a dramatic shift for better with a little madness, or innovation, thrown in, thanks to Uranus.  

The month of May looks like our best bet to go back to what we were doing before Covid 19 showed up. 

Three planets turn retrograde in May and things settle down. Saturn retrograde May 12, Venus retrograde May 14, Jupiter retrograde May 15.

We’re going to go back to what we were doing. It’ll be like old home week and then … 

A tricky period in June, a critical eclipse July 5^th and then Saturn and Pluto within days of one another will turn direct in October. They’ll be conjunct with Jupiter so the virus, or something related to it will return at that time. The rest of the year reveals continued caution. The eclipses ahead reveal market changes and periodic outbreaks of the virus. 

In a nutshell – Go slow. May is good, summer a bit tricky, October trouble returns. End of year an epoch shift. 

Let me expand on this timeline a little more:

I urge caution from the Full Moon lunar eclipse June 5^th through to June 19^th – especially the 19^th. Mars in Pisces conjuncts Neptune and the moon shows up. This is a cosmic recipe for poor immune systems. On the positive side it may also indicate the discovery of a vaccine. 

The Full Moon lunar eclipse at 15° Sadge on June 5^th has Venus both conjunct the Sun and retrograde. This speaks to financial matters and a possible resurge of old values.  

The solstices feature prominently this year. On June 21^st, for a new moon eclipse at 0° Cancer solstice point and again at winter solstice (in the northern hemisphere Dec 21, 2020) when the “Great Mutation” occurs. That’s the meeting of Saturn and Jupiter at 0° Aquarius, square Uranus. Both Saturn and Uranus rule Aquarius and they don’t get along. Uranus was Saturn’s dad and he ate him! This is a big game changer folks. 

The full moon lunar eclipse July 5^th at 13° Capricorn is an important eclipse and it has a lot to do with what we’re experiencing now. This eclipse features a tight Jupiter, Pluto conjunction and Saturn is nearby. This is what we’re experiencing as I write this in March 2020. These points activate planets in the USA chart, it’s personal for us. This could be the reignition of the virus or something closely associated with it. Thank God the planets are all retrograde! This diminishes their influence indicating that our old fears may surface but perhaps with no substance. There may be something we don’t know about covertly occurring behind the scenes. 

Caution!  August 13^th and October 9^th when Pluto and Mars square off.

Another full moon lunar eclipse on November 30^th at 8° Gemini contains the same conjunctions (energy) as the last eclipse. This one holds the potentials for market shifts. And finally, December 14^th at 23° Sagittarius. The same lineup – in other words we’re dealing with whatever comes up. The virus may well be back, or again, issues associated with it. Let’s not rule out possible government intervention. 

Caution! – December 23^rd when Mars and Pluto square off.

And then … the Great Mutation. Freaky term but it refers to a once in around 600-year cycle. It’s been +- 600 years since Jupiter and Saturn last met in Air signs. They meet once every 20 years anyway, and spend 10 cycles in one element, then move to another element. In this case from Earth to Air. This is a zeitgeist shift. It’s a very old cycle!

So, my bottom line, this will pass. The Saturn/Pluto conjunction in Capricorn followed by the Great Mutation heralds a shift of enormous magnitude. I stand by what I wrote in October 2016: invest locally, plant a garden, take up a hobby, and be patient. Life goes on this year. There are better times than others. I’ve listed here the ones to be aware of. Stay healthy. Keep your expenses down. Develop close bonds of love and care with others. Support the things that mean something to you.

What’s the antidote: 

Apart from medicine and healers the world over? LOVE.  Love is the antidote. Always has been, always will be. Love is the thing that unfreezes the hatred of projection and keeps your spirit well. Corvid 19 affects the lungs. Chinese medicine tells us grief lives in the lungs. We’ve been grieving a long time my friends. Maybe we still have the trenches of WW1 in our collective memory and its bubbling up now for healing. This time of confinement is for our benefit. We get to feel and when we feel, we heal.

I think you’ve got the picture of what’s going on right now with the planets. If you’ve got it in you, let’s turn our attention back to the Great Mutation. A happening event this winter solstice – December 21, 2020.

This is the 20-year Jupiter/Saturn conjunction with a twist. This time they meet it’s called the Great Mutation. It’s given this gloomy name because Jupiter and Saturn will finally meet in air signs after 200 years of meeting up in earth signs (though they met in 1980/1981 in Libra, an air sign, it was considered a ‘preview’ – a natural part of the cycle). During their 200-year meeting in earth signs the focus was on materialism. It’s been +- 600 years since Jupiter and Saturn met in Air signs for their 200-year sojourn there.

2020 December 21^st (solstice) begins a whole new 20-year cycle when Jupiter and Saturn meet in Aquarius, the sign of society, of people, rebels and rule makers. The last conjunction was in 2000 and involved Uranus. This cycle involves Uranus as well – Uranus is the great destabilizer. Nothing is certain when this planet shows up. Uranus in Taurus will square the conjunction in Aquarius which it rules. 

This suggests mass protests against governments and rules. It’s a” don’t fence me in” attitude, a time of social unrest. A kind of FU to authority who may be trying to control the populace, maybe for good reasons. Perhaps this is helpful given that we’re in a phase where there’s a global tendency toward dictatorship. Mere mortals want to become Kings and take away freedoms. 

I’m heartened by this next cycle even though it is socially disruptive (though hopefully we’re not looking at mob mentality) because folks believe in personal rights. I endorse the rights of waterways, air, wilderness and animals as well as human rights. Though there will be a strong resistance from the ruling party ultimately the people will win. Teamwork triumphs. Re-discover your people. Love and take care of them in that special way you have, that only you can do. By the way, the KGB was dismantled last time Saturn was in Aquarius.

Also, the move from Earth (materialism, possessions, ostentatious wealth, agriculture – both local organic and corporate farms) to Air will totally shift our values away from all that and move it toward the arts, literature, ideas, technology and all matters associated with the intellect and internet. It’s likely there will be struggles over controlling the internet and social and intellectual freedoms. If those things are important to you, you’ll naturally keep an eye on them ensuring our collective body will continue to create the ever-evolving world wide web. Since Saturn is in Aquarius now, for a brief while, we’re already feeling the importance of connection via the internet thanks to Zoom, Skype, etc.

Interestingly enough, when Jupiter and Saturn conjunct in Aquarius in 1345 the plague, also known as the Black Death, came into being. Not a happy thought and yet we have come so far and hopefully, learned so much. Can we rely on each other? This time of group consciousness is also a time of personal accountability, isn’t it?  We are aware of ourselves, individually, as One body. We’re aware we are the collective. This is how nature works. It’s how birds fly in a flock, fish in a school, and grasses in the meadow. How beautiful is that?

I’ll be writing about the Aquarius energy headed our way and will share that with you. I also hope to get you an April cosmic play by play. We’ll see, check back often. I want to thank my astrology colleagues the world over who’re examining the same skies and whose research has helped me. Please see a list of resources at the end of this article.  Thanks also to my friend Karen, who mid-wifed this column. Together we pulled out the weeds and planted flowers in their stead.

In the meantime, take care out there. And remember, you matter, we are all connected. Earth is our home and love is our destination.

Your astrologer,

Dulce

P.S.

Message from my space buddies: YOU ARE NOT ALONE PLANET EARTH. DESPITE YOUR THICK HEADS WE STILL CARE FOR YOU. REPEAT – YOU ARE NOT ALONE. 

https://isarastrology.org/raymond-merriman-the-great-mutation-and-the-start-of-a-new-era-jupiter-and-saturn/

https://www.history.com/this-day-in-history/black-death-is-created-allegedly

https://www.astrologyuniversity.com/saturn-pluto-covid-19/

“Cosmos and Psyche: Intimations of a New World View” Richard Tarnas. Viking Press 2006

Greetings Earthlings,

In like a lamb out like a lion is the saying that goes with the month of March. There are two kinds of folks born in March. The first kind are watery Pisces – gentle and loving, fey and somewhat fickle. The latter are fiery Aries, bold, naïve, warm and occasionally impatient. In March we move from one season to another celebrating Equinox: Spring equinox here in the northern hemisphere and the Autumnal equinox in the southern hemisphere; two halves of the same world. We live on a dualistic plane of existence, subject to the vagaries and passions of this mortal coil. Pisces is the end of things (Omega) and yet is also the container for the seeds of Aries (Alpha). Enjoy yourself this month as Mercury turns direct and fresh winds clear your head. 

Stern, slow Saturn changes signs this March moving from government-centered Capricorn to people-centered Aquarius. Power returns to the people. Those born between 1990 and 1992 experience their first Saturn return while those turning 58 experience their second one. Please note, this is a process that can take as long as several months and is dependent on each individual chart. The Saturn return is a cosmic rite of passage that closes out a life chapter and initiates a new one. It can be difficult, but not always. It is always memorable, however.

The month begins on a steady note. There’s a waxing Moon and the leap year is in the rearview mirror. Mercury is still retrograde, and things continue to feel slightly fuzzy, but growth and progress are in the air as the Capricorn stellium of Jupiter, Mars, Saturn and Pluto dominate the cosmic landscape. Big things are happening folks. Enormous change is afoot. Keep looking deeper at your own life. Keep taking responsibility for your creations. Steer yourself and those you love toward the safe and fertile shores created by your imagination and Spirit’s guiding. You are after all, the God Self. We are in Pisces’ terrain now and dreaming is how we get through. Forgiveness and gratitude help tremendously as well. Pisces holds the energy of the past in the symbol of two fish eternally yoked together. Who are we without our past? And what can we become without it?

March 2^nd and there’s tension in the air. Loving Venus chides stern Saturn, or is it the other way round? Sometimes hard things go along with long-term commitments. There’s a price for doing things your own way. Test yourself if you like.

March 4^th and two planets change signs shifting the energy. Retrograde Mercury slips back into intellectual Aquarius giving you an opportunity to rethink things through. And Venus enters earthy Taurus, gives a big sigh and asks for a back rub. It’s time a little sensuality entered your life. Venus stays in her home sign of the Bull until early April. She will retrograde in Gemini late May through to late June so enjoy her direct presence now by clarifying your values, finances, sense of aesthetics, and love relationships.

Practice steadiness over the next few days as the Cancer Moon opposes the Capricorn stellium and heaviness may be felt. The Sun is fast approaching dreamy Neptune and when it gets there, love and rain fall from the heavens in a carpet of cherry blossoms.

The 6^th and 7^th resonate with the blossoming Leo Moon. It’s time for play. Creativity is your best friend now. 

The 7^th sees the Sun and Neptune up close and personal. The next two days are good for rest and music. Throw a little love in there too. Prayer, meditation, and all forms of creativity and spiritual practice flourish under these skies.

On the 8^th, Venus conjuncts Uranus upsetting the applecart. Oh oh. Watch out. Values could change. Do something energetic when you’re not napping. The Sun and Neptune continue to connect — softening and forgiving any sharp edges. Daylight savings starts today! Not my favorite thing.

Big Virgo Full Moon on the 9^th! Female shifts and changes are underway as Chiron and Black Moon Lilith connect and Venus blows Uranus a parting kiss. It looks like liberation to me but as with anything Virgo, please practice good discernment. Be moderate in your actions and reflective in your reactions. The Pisces Sun feels so much and the Virgo Moon assimilates it all. Rest your digestive system today with a light fast. Mercury turns direct today also. Clarity begins to return.

The 10th through the 11^th continues the fallout from the Full Moon. Pay attention.

There may be a few surprises on the 12^th when the Moon opposes Uranus.

13^th Mars approaches Jupiter increasing your chances for success. Keep planning and acting on your goals.

14^th through the 16^th the Sagittarian Moon lifts your spirits. Plan, or better yet, take an adventure.

Early on the 16^th Mercury re-enters Pisces bringing feelings and memories into everyday encounters.

Halfway through the 16^th and all the way through the 18^th, the traveling Moon connects with the Capricorn stellium bringing news of the government and its doings into every home and heart. This could be a sobering time.

Late on the 19^th (MT), the Sun slips into Aries marking the spring equinox and the shift of seasons. Spring has sprung in the northern hemisphere and the days and night are equal once again. Happy birthday Aries!

The 19^th through to the 20th, active Mars conjuncts abundant Jupiter. Move over Red Bull – this conjunction really gives you wings. This is strong energy folks. Use it to your advantage by being clear on your goals and values.

Listen close on the 21^st when Mercury and the Moon connect. Important messages come to you in your dreams and via art and poetry.

22^nd guard your immune system and stay away from angry people. Mars connects with powerful Pluto suggesting underhanded moves and existential threats. Jupiter is close enough to blow things out of proportion. The Moon connects with spiritual Neptune. To transform this energy and use its power for good, spend the day in prayer or meditation if you can. Write, make music and beam love.

The 22^nd through to the 24^th are tender. The Aries Sun connects with Chiron – don’t take anything personally! Venus is bright and beautiful during this time. Check her out in the West before you hit the sack.

The 24^th is a tender, tender Aries New Moon. Oh, the journey the little seed has to go through before it blossoms as its true Self! Be gentle dear Ones with the power and might of your bright hearts.

The 25^th to the 27^th Venus comes into a pleasing relationship with abundant Jupiter making the 27^th a particularly lucky day. The Moon gets in on it too. Celebrate the comforts and security of your home and family.

The rest of the month speeds by under the presence of the chatty Gemini Moon. It’s time to connect the dots and catch up on those conversations and until there’s a full stop. This happens March 31^st when Mars changes signs and meets Saturn.

31^st Mars enters egalitarian Aquarius – more power to the people! But it bumps into stern Saturn suddenly finding limits and boundaries. Use this time to focus your desires over the long term. Never give up!

The month ends with the sense that the times are changing once again. Remember, you matter, we are all connected, Earth is our home and love is our destination.

Your astrologer,

Dulce

Greetings Earthlings,

Are you ready to go two steps forward and one back? The energy this month shifts from the intellectual sign of Aquarius (think friends, discussion, debate) to the creative musings of Pisces (think art, poetry and dreaming). The two steps back is due in large part to Mercury’s entry and retrograde in Pisces, the most watery and confusing of the twelve signs. Pisces holds the keys to the future by mulling over the past. From February 9th on, the focus is on reflection, not analysis. You can still make progress this month just don’t expect too much. Real awareness occurs in your inner world so be sure to spend time there. 

The Sun travels in social and intellectual Aquarius until the 18^th, keeping the focus and vibe on group dynamics and here in the USA, debate and analysis over the impeachment hearings. 

We’re out of the tense woods for the moment. The tension coincided with the Saturn/Pluto conjunction and pressure on Mercury in the USA chart. Alas, we’re in for more drama and tension this year, and fairly soon. Pluto will connect with Mars and Jupiter next month, and will connect again with Saturn toward the end of summer giving us another window of tension and threat. But for this month, we’re in the clear. 

February gives you a unique opportunity to linger in the land of dreams and mulch –- the place before manifestation takes place. Consider it an opportunity for rest and a chance to regroup. Spend time by the water if you can. Pisces does not lend itself to a strong immune system so be sure to keep yourself healthy as well.

1^st – the month starts with a bit of a struggle as the Aquarian Sun squares the Taurus Moon bringing inner conflict to the foreground. Not everything is comfortable all the time. Bear with it. 

2^nd – and it’s Super Bowl Sunday. This is a more stable, maybe even an inert kind of day, as the Moon stabilizes in Taurus with support from Jupiter, Saturn and Pluto in Capricorn. Let yourself feel the weightiness of this time.

3^rd – the move we’ve been waiting for happens now, chatty Mercury enters gentle and dreamy Pisces. Mercury usually spends three weeks in a sign but will be ten weeks in this most sensitive and intuitive of signs giving you an opportunity to really process whatever it is you want to happen. Mercury in Pisces is also highly creative. Get your paint brushes out! 

3^rd to the morning of the 5^th  — energy quickens when the Moon enters chatty Gemini, harmonizes with the Aquarian Sun and opposes Mars. It’s time to get a move on in a positive manner.

5^th – the Moon enters watery Cancer and connects favorably with Mercury in dreamy and watery Pisces. Heed your dreams and feelings.

6^th — can feel emotional and full when the Moon opposes Jupiter. Pace yourself.

7^th – could feel heavy with lots of responsibility as the Moon opposes Saturn and Pluto but Venus enters Aries today helping you stand up for yourself and get what you want. Maybe that’s a little selfish but it could be needed right about now.

8^th – the Moon waxes to almost full and enters warm and confident Leo giving you the confidence you need to move forward independently.

Early on the 9^th – it’s a glorious Leo Full Moon! Time to celebrate and play. With favorable connections to Mars your confidence and will power is magnified. Enjoy yourself today.

10^th – 11^th – the Moon travels through finicky Virgo helping you get organized. With positive aspects to the Capricorn contingent you can get a lot done if you take your time, despite the Full Moon fallout. 

12^th – 13^th – you may strive for balance during these two days. The Moon in Libra opposes Venus and then enters Scorpio to oppose Uranus. It’s hard to please all the people all the time and sometimes it’s harder to know what you want. Practice patience and make changes you can live with.

14^th – Valentine’s Day – a tough holiday for those on their own and with the Moon in Scorpio this is especially so. Do something nice for yourself or a friend.

15^th – The Scorpio Moon and the Aquarian Sun create an impasse. Get outside if you can. Let nature heal you.

16^th – is a big day. Mercury turns retrograde until March 9^th. You know what this looks like —misunderstandings, travel plans go awry, etc. That’s the worst-case scenario while the best case is an opportunity to rest, reflect and dream. Enjoy!

Also, on the 16^th, active Mars enters sensible Capricorn. This is fabulous energy that will keep you going with your plans and help you actualize your goals. Mars stays in Capricorn until the end of March. Make hay while you can for Mars will retrograde in Aries later this year and that won’t be good for progress.

17^th – the Sagittarian Moon gives you wings.

18^th – another big cosmic shift. Today the Sun leaves egalitarian Aquarius for gentle Pisces. This is an energy shift that exacerbates Mercury’s retrograde but does magnify the creative, spiritual and intuitive vibe of this most sensitive and insightful of signs. Keep your immune system strong over the next thirty days as Pisces has no boundaries. The Moon and Mars conjunct today also, giving a little boost to most activities.

19^th – 20^th – tough, practical days as the Moon travels through no-nonsense Capricorn and connects with Jupiter, Saturn and Pluto. News from the Government makes headlines.

21^st – watch out! Mars trines Uranus making for sudden turns and changes. Do something interesting, maybe even a little risky, but do keep your head screwed on.

22^nd – prepare for the Pisces New Moon tomorrow by connecting with your pals before clearing your schedule.

23^rd – it’s a beautiful Pisces New Moon. New Moons are always opportunities to begin again, to start fresh. Pisces longs to escape. Try to switch out your addictions for healthier pursuits. You have an excellent chance to shake out demons, to forgive and let go. Try it.

24^th – it’s a dreamy day with the Moon conjunct Neptune. Protect your immune system. Get in the water if you can.

25^th – the Sun meets retrograde Mercury today giving leaders an opportunity to reflect on their past winnings. Take the time to record in your journal. There’s a Moon/Chiron conjunction today also. You can learn a lot if you listen to your heart.

26^th – The Sun and Mars form a favorable connection. It’s time to move forward.

27^th – 29^th — keep your wits about you as the Moon connects with Uranus and then Venus squares Pluto. Your desires may lead you astray.

This leap year ends with the promise that despite the prevailing atmosphere you can remain focused on that which means the most. Tune in to your inner landscape. It’s not a place to escape from, but a place to escape to.

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

Blessings,

Your astrologer, Dulce

Greetings Earthlings,

Here we are once again poised at the brink of a new year and the Chinese year of the Rat. Like other times in human history, this year holds potential for struggle and rebirth. In 2020, the stern energy of Saturn faces down the destructive power of transformative Pluto. Remember 9/11 and the Twin Towers? That’s when Saturn and Pluto opposed one another. This month they conjunct. Mark January 6^th through the 12^th on your calendars. Though we may live in separate countries we are one World and the Saturn/Pluto conjunction resonates throughout the Globe. It’s particularly germane to the USA as we’re experiencing a Pluto return. Our Founding Fathers argued, a lot. http://www.inquiriesjournal.com/articles/24/friendship-and-conflict-the-relationship-of-the-us-founding-fathers They framed the Constitution out of their fierce desire for personal and national freedom from Britain. You can see the struggle in the chart of the USA – Mercury (governing ideas and discourse) opposes Pluto (power and control). Our Pluto return will bring up the same struggle that is inherent in our country’s philosophical roots. The impeachment trial of Donald Trump brings these 244-year old arguments, and all the others that have followed it, to the foreground. Ordinary citizens are given the opportunity to fall in love with their Nation, the wisdom of its structure, and many will try to change it. 

On a personal level, 2020 is your opportunity for rebirth also. Great and benevolent Jupiter guides us through this year with practical advice and know-how. You may want to give everything up to run and save the dolphins, but Jupiter suggests that first you cut back on your use of plastic.

2020 opens and closes with Cancer Moons reminding this Cancer country that the quality of our home is not negotiable. And that all beings who live upon, in, under and above this beautiful land have the right to exist in peace in the habitats and migration routes they have used for centuries. Begin the year by honoring your home and by being grateful for the shelter it provides you. Cancer also evokes the feminine and reminds us that love and kindness are high vibration energies. 

IMPORTANT NOTE: I may update this month’s blog as I’m posting this just before the end of 2019. I wanted to squeeze it in. So please check back and refresh your screen every now and then.

New Post 01/07/2020: The USA drone attack on Iran officials seems to be the international event I saw in the astrology. My concern remains, especially for the Cancer Full Moon eclipse (01/10) which takes within 4 degrees of the USA Mercury. However, I think the greatest danger for the USA, or even for Iran (and the globe) is when transiting Mars opposes the USA Uranus between January 14 – 16th. Pray for peace, everyone. Prayer works.

COSMIC PLAY-BY-PLAY

January 1^st – lots of planets in Capricorn as the month opens. It’s a great opportunity to set your highest ideals while staying grounded. Question for the day and the New Year: how do I want to go forward?

Jupiter is in Capricorn for the first time in 12 years and is grouped with the Sun and south node at the opening of this year. Our country is experiencing a Jupiter opposition. Since Jupiter governs the field of law and Capricorn government, we know we’re entering a year of political struggle and debate.

2^nd – 4^th: The fiery Aries Moon takes us through these two days with courage and flair. It is a new year! We can do things differently. Mercury connects with Jupiter and big talk is possible. These are good days to restructure your plans. 

3^rd: active Mars leaves sultry Scorpio for sunny Sagittarius. This is an athletic and optimistic energy and brings vitality to all fire and air signs. Mars will be in Sadge until mid-February.

4^th: a good day for stable change, yes there is such a thing, as the Taurus Moon connects with Uranus and both trine all that Capricorn.

5^th – 6^th: good earth energy for work and creative projects. Stay focused for maximum results.

6^th – 10^th: Saturn and Pluto meet at 22° Capricorn. Notice where you are struggling to emerge from old rules and karma. What is the nature of your re-birth?

10^th:  full Moon Cancer lunar eclipse around 12:22 PM MST. Full Moons, especially eclipses of those Moons and watery Moons such as this, bring a lot of emotion. Keep yourself calm and carry on. Uranus turns direct today also allowing those inner changes to find expression in the outer world.

11^th – 12^th: drama abounds as the Moon slips into Leo while Mercury, the Sun, Ceres, Saturn and Pluto all meet tightly in Capricorn. It almost looks like the death of an international leader or a gathering of leaders. These are the days to walk your talk and to center in your truth. And it helps a lot to pray. Gratitude lifts your vibration too.

12^th: The pressure is on folks! It’s time to make those changes or, conversely, to root in even deeper than before. Today is a glorious alignment at 22° Capricorn – Sun, Ceres, Pluto, Saturn and little Mercury at 23°. I’m glad Ceres is there. This energy provides for the future and is the guardian of all that has been lost. Let’s hope there are no global disasters at this time. Certainly, there’ll be political shenanigans here in the good ole USA and perhaps a powerful new Renaissance. 

13^th: the fall-out continues. This isn’t going anywhere in a hurry. Venus picks this moment to enter gentle Pisces. Venus in Pisces has no boundaries and you may have difficulty saying no. Forgiveness works great. You don’t need to be a martyr unless the calling is very high.

13^th – 15^th the Virgo Moon helps you bring order into your life and health routine.

16^th: Mercury moves into Aquarius picking up the pace of the conversation. Everyone has an opinion now and rightfully so. This is your chance to share your ideas too. Mercury will be in Aquarius until early February.

17^th – 19^th: the watery Scorpio Moon helps you access your deepest feelings. Remember, gold is buried.

20^th: we leave some of the prudence of Capricorn behind as the Sun enters social Aquarius today. Power to the people! Keep your wits about you and don’t let the bastards get you down (as the Romans used to say). Also, today the Moon and Mars connect bringing vital energy to your endeavors.

21^st – 22^nd: days for optimism and action. Civil action and social connection flow well.

23^rd: The Sun squares Uranus creating a bit of turmoil. Get out and do something different. This is restless break-free energy. The Moon is traveling through the last degrees of Capricorn attuning you to the planet’s vibration. Do get grounded but don’t get heavy. Put your prayers for light and love into the world and remember to create something good with your thoughts.

24^th: a delightful Aquarian New Moon at sunset (MST). Here’s your chance to make new friends and embrace new concepts. There is much more to life than we have previously imagined.

25^th: Happy Chinese New Year! It’s the Year of the Rat, a shrewd business outlook and adaptability are hallmarks of this sneaky little creature because it survives, no matter what! This is another social day.

26^th – 28^th: Venus and Neptune connect in intuitive Pisces. You get inside info and direction now. Write down your dreams. Practice forgiveness. Intuition keeps flowing as the Moon travels through Pisces meeting Venus and Neptune. Tenderness is likely as is low energy when Mars squares Neptune. Rest.

29^th: heal up today and keep listening to your vibes.

30^th – 31^st: The month ends as the Aries Moon squares planets in Capricorn. A little resistance goes a long way to strengthening your muscles. Don’t you ever give up.

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

Your astrologer,

Dulce

Greetings Earthlings,

Here we are at the tail end of 2019 with all its hoop-las and holy-daze. December is a striking month in that the energy changes quite dramatically, mostly due to Jupiter’s move into stern Capricorn for the first time in 12 years and a Solar Eclipse on Christmas Day.

Hopefully, you’ve rooted yourself into your perfect spot. As I’ve written many times, 2020 is a problematic year, especially as six planets retrograde for long months at a time, delaying and obscuring the simplest of actions. Election Day USA November 3, 2020 is especially fraught with obstacles and confusion. Those of us who can read the cosmic maps (the gift of astrology) can see the way ahead, but life can only be lived in the present. Make this month count as you realize that the power is indeed, in the present.

Take advantage of the optimistic energy of Sagittarius and lean into the vision of your life. Sagittarius gives you the opportunity to find meaning and purpose for your life. Discover it this month as the Sun travels through this hopeful sign until winter solstice on December 21^st. There’s a lot of earth energy in the heavens this month, the Sun being the only celestial body in sunny Sadge as the month opens. So right off the bat you may feel grounded.

The month begins with Jupiter’s move into Capricorn on the 2^nd. Think back 12 years. What was happening for you in 2007? Planetary cycles tend to bring similar events to us so that we may learn and grow while on the earth plane. Jupiter’s warm abundant presence is curtailed in the heavy pragmatism of this most serious of earth signs and the forecast for 2020 is not warm and fuzzy. Nonetheless, Jupiter is always a feel-good energy so we can continue to expect and receive blessings though they may be tempered by the seriousness of the coming times.

On the 3^rd, Venus and Mars play well together making everything alright.

The 5^th is a tender day as the Aries Moon connects with sensitive Chiron. Do something that makes you feel better about yourself.

The 8^th could send some surprises your way when the Taurus Moon connects with wild Uranus. Mercury is at the tail end of its long sojourn through Scorpio so beware of heavy thinking. On the 9^th it makes the leap into Sagittarius and spirits lift. Mercury can be scattered in this sign so be alert over the next three weeks to sweeping statements and unclear outcomes.

11^th sees a Full Gemini Moon shining down, bringing the ability to connect the dots as you make sense of what you’re doing. There’s a square to Neptune at this Full Moon so don’t get yourself into a position where you’re being taken advantage of. Neptune invites dreams and dreaming so pay close attention to what comes through for you at this Full Moon. Saturn gets in on the Full Moon too stabilizing the situation and sending good business ideas your way.

The next few days (12^th – 14^th) see a flurry of cosmic activity including an intense Venus/Pluto conjunction which could evoke jealousy and intrigue; and a Mars/Neptune sextile which could see men and/or action plans promising more than they can deliver. 

Despite the waning Moon, the 14^th and 15^th are high jinx lucky days as Jupiter connects favorably with wild Uranus both in Earth signs. Try something new; for example work with and make art out of clay; or design things with rocks. It’ll be over eight years before Jupiter and Uranus will trine again so do make this a special time.

On the 17^th through the 19^th Mars connects favorably with stern Saturn making these great days for concerted effort and practical action.

The next few days sees Venus enter the final degrees of practical Capricorn while Saturn creeps up closer to Pluto. This conjunction will occur in early January 2020 and brings with it a foreshadowing of difficult times ahead.

Very early on the 20^th (MT), gracious Venus leaves prudent Capricorn for social Aquarius. Equality and fairness take center stage as personal relationships cool down for intellectual pursuits. 

Winter Solstice on the 21^st and the Sun leaves philosophical Sagittarius for Capricorn where most of the action is anyway. It’s time to turn your attention to the basic structure of your life – bill paying, medical insurance, and all that boring but really important stuff.

The 22^nd is a break away day as Venus square Uranus. It’s time to exert your freedom as you spread your wings and fly. New friendships and adventures await but can destabilize the status quo.

Christmas Eve brings new traditions as the Sun, newly in Capricorn, connects favorably with wild Uranus. This is on the heels of a New Moon solar eclipse on Christmas Day. Wow! Talk about opening a door to a higher portal. Jupiter is present at this lunation making wisdom and common sense available to all. Good business decisions and old friendships bring luck and good fortune.

Capricorn energy prevails over the next few days focusing your attention on your goals and plans. This becomes enhanced when chatty Mercury enters this most prudent, and also most lusty, of signs late on the 28^th. If you use this time wisely and strategize for the coming year, you’ll be well pleased. 

Mercury trines with Uranus during the last days of 2019 bringing fresh ideas and bold solutions to you. A little bit of re-structuring can help you immensely. The year ends as the Pisces Moon connects with Neptune. This can be melancholy but that’s what singing Auld Lang Syne is for. Don’t let yourself disappear. Dream a positive dream and connect to your highest self. 2020 brings many challenges but it’s not anything you can’t do. Au contraire mes frères et soeurs, we’re entering a time when we get to be and do what is most important to us.

Many blessings and remember — you matter, we are all connected, Earth is our home and love is our destination.

Your astrologer,

Dulce

Greetings Earthlings!

Can you feel Scorpio’s intense watery depths? They are magnified by Mercury’s retrograde in Scorpio (until 11/20), so we have no where to go but down and in. In our superficial world this deep dive isn’t going to hurt. Au contraire mon frère et ma soeur, it will heal you. The Sun in Scorpio (and Mercury’s retrograde) lends an air of vital energy to your activities and may even take you to the brink of life and death. Scorpio provides images to project upon and guidance/input from the Universe.

Mark your calendars for this is a magical month – Venus enters Sagittarius 11/1. Mercury will cross the face of the Sun in a rare transit on the 11^th. There’s a Taurus Full Moon 11/12; Mars enters Scorpio 11/18, the Sun enters Sagittarius 11/22; and on 11/24 Jupiter and Venus play kissy kiss while Mars opposes Uranus. That’s a truly big day! The Sagittarius New Moon is on 11/26 and Neptune turns direct on 11/27.

The month opens with Mercury’s retrograde. This is a reminder to turn inward, bringing emotional issues and relationships to a rational resting place. The month also starts off with a sensible dose of Capricorn as the Moon travels through Capricorn and connects with the somber duo of Saturn and Pluto. These two will make a spectacular connection next year and Jupiter will join them. This coincides with the USA race for the presidency. I see this as a time when the laws of the land will be challenged in an unprecedented way. This is already unfolding with Donald Trump’s presidency and the current impeachment hearings. Truly, these are difficult times and are expected to get more difficult in 2020. Pluto is the modern-day ruler of Scorpio (Mars the esoteric and ancient ruler) so this month gives us clues as to what to expect over the next year.

But, back to Scorpio and November 2019. On the 1^st, the Capricorn influence softens as Venus, Goddess of love and pleasure, enters optimistic Sagittarius bringing fun and adventure to romance. Venus trines gentle Chiron over the next few days, inviting you to heal your self-esteem.

The 3^rd through the 5^th the Moon travels through intellectual Aquarius bringing social issues to the fore – just in time for Election Day on the 5^th. This is a challenging day. Mars and Pluto square one another while Venus inconjuncts Uranus. Our values are not aligned and agendas conflict.

The 6^th through the 7^th the watery Pisces Moon soothes spirits and may even feel confusing. 

The 8^th is a special day for forgiveness and unity. Neptune trines the Sun; and Saturn and Neptune sextile. This is a rare connection and won’t occur again until 2031! Use it to bless all beings, forgive your family, and to connect with the Divine.

The next few days are fiery as the waning Moon travels through Aries connecting harmoniously with Venus and Jupiter. Use this time to be inspired and bold.

Veteran’s Day on the 11^th features a rare transit of Mercury across the face of the Sun. Occurring during a Mercury retrograde no less. The Sun represents authority and Mercury represents the message.  Pay attention to insights you receive today. http://www.eclipsewise.com/oh/tm2019.html 

The Taurus Full Moon on the 12^th exposes your emotions and hidden agendas. This is your cue to let go and let God. There are simply some things you can’t control. It’s time to acknowledge the end of a season in your life and to begin a time of deep resting. Again, listen to the message!

On the 13^th you may question reality when Venus squares Neptune. Watch out you don’t over-do on the 14^th when the Moon opposes Jupiter. There’s no need to accuse anyone or blow things out of proportion – not all the facts are available.

The energy is quite watery and emotional through to the 18^th as the Moon travels through Cancer in harmony with the Scorpio Sun. The 18^th to the 20^th the Moon in Leo strengthens your ego and confidence. This may also increase general stubbornness and a refusal to change. 

Early (MT) on the 19^th Mars enters its home sign of Scorpio giving you a regenerative boost and taking your agenda underground. Secrets abound and sexual energy is in the air.

The Virgo Moon over the next few days is both grounding and stimulating and provides a perfect backdrop for Mercury as it turns direct on the 20^th. Amen! Chaos subsides a little as Mercury finds its way again.

Things keep getting better when on the 22^nd the Sun leaves steamy Scorpio for hopeful Sagittarius. Our moods lift toward the coming holiday season whether we want to or not. On the shadow side, Sagittarius believes in its own opinions and we’re likely to see even more fundamentalism over the next 30 days as polarizing parties espouse doctrine.

Please be cautious on the 23^rd through the 24^th. Mars opposes Uranus during this period. This is a difficult and dangerous transit. Stay away from crowds and angry people. Push forward in a difficult project as long as it doesn’t involve sharp objects or weapons. Mars and Uranus connections are associated with accidents and risk-taking behavior. On the positive side, this transit brings a feeling of freedom and exploration. Do something different today.

The 24^th is a most unusual over-the-top day. Loving Venus connects with abundant Jupiter at the Galactic center while later that day Mars opposes Uranus. This is the day to meet a love partner or to go further with the one you love. Be prudent and sensible – don’t let the wild energy of this day lead you astray.

The 25^th is a day to come to your senses as the Moon disappears into darkness and Venus, Goddess of love, enters prudent and pragmatic Capricorn. This is a total energy shift. 

The Sagittarius New Moon on the 26^th (two days before Thanksgiving in the USA) encourages a change in plan, or at least in attitude. With a trine to Chiron and a quincux to Uranus this New Moon opens your spirit and mind to new possibilities. Think about the Big Picture of your life right now because next month Jupiter will leave Sagittarius and enter Capricorn for the first time in 12 years. This will be a significant shift  and you’ll need your vision.

The 27^th is optimistic with a fair dose of tradition thrown in. Neptune turns direct today waking you from the dream and inviting you to remember you’re a spiritual being having a human experience. 

Thanksgiving (11/28) is always a special day but this one, this year, is especially so. Today Mercury trines Neptune for the last time this year. And Jupiter reaches the Galactic Center preparing to leave its home sign, not to be back for another 12 years. Make memories today as the Moon (feelings) connects with Venus. 

The Moon continues to travel through Capricorn through to the end of the month making family your foundation. Big changes are coming. New energy, not necessarily any easier, is on its way.

Remember, you matter. We are all connected, earth is our home and love is our destination.

Your astrologer,

Dulce