kmartin60
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Posted Tue Aug 20, 2019 9:13 pm...
Astrological Highlights for the week:
Venus enters Virgo on Wednesday; Sun enters Virgo on Friday; Venus and Mars are looking for a quiet retreat together on Saturday.
Virgo is ready to take charge of the cosmos this week as the Sun and Venus enter this detailed, discriminating, and organized earth sign. It?s still very much summer but hints of the crispness of Autumn are filtering into our hearts and minds. Virgo is the third and final month, or solar cycle, of the summer season and is the time of harvest and preparation for transition to autumn. As a mutable sign, Virgo is a time of duality and change. We have one foot in summer while still anticipating fall. Mars is already re-organizing kitchen cabinets, and making to do lists as he is wasting no time in this efficient sign. Falling forward to August 30th and the New Moon in Virgo, it will be a full house that also includes Mercury. He?s powerful in this sign as the planetary ruler.
When I think of Virgo I imagine a woman in a smart tailored gray suit with all the tools of her trade ? a calculator, laptop, reference book of the habits and uses of the world?s plants and medicinal herbs, an activity tracker, some garden shears for harvesting and pruning, a kitchen apron and broom, and of course, a personal journal to record her thoughts and insights. She is the epitome of composure and self-determination.
Clear communication is important to Virgo ? her ruling planet is Mercury, after all. She is meticulous about the details and borrowing from her next door neighbor, Libra, etiquette and good manners are important. Venus in Virgo understands and believes function is as important as appearances. Solid, down-to-earth relationships are what this girl is looking for. She won?t shun romantic gestures; but she also will not be satisfied with a story-book romance or quickie affair without substance. She has high ideals for herself and for everyone else. If you hope to be part of her inner circle, you?ll have to have more than just glib conversation skills or superficial intentions. You?ll certainly get her attention if you are on the board of directors of a charitable service organization, or a part-time volunteer at the local animal shelter.
While Gemini (also ruled by Mercury) uses Mercury?s strengths to brainstorm, gather information and communicate, Virgo harnesses and grounds this energy in the ability to analyze information, discriminate between things, and discern the truth.
This is the sign of solitude and the sign most often associated with service to others. As the Sun, Venus, Mars (and soon Mercury) take their appointed journeys through this grounded earth sign we might feel split between these two competing desires ? time for self and time for others. This is always Virgo?s dilemma. As a mutable sign she has two sides; but this also makes her able to resonate with multiple people and she has the ability to flex and adapt to changing conditions and needs.
During the next month, a little alone time is in order. Where possible, take a break from your usual routine and schedule. One thing Virgo can definitely teach us is how to savor and protect our private space and time for ourselves. We deserve to indulge in our passions, whatever they may be, without an audience or need for others? approval. This can be a rich and fertile time for sorting things out ? physically clutter clearing and re-organizing ? and also mentally clearing our minds.
This is a time we naturally leap to ideas like ?back to school.? We may be anxious to learn something new, improve our skills or add to our abilities. But before we do, we probably need to clear out a few things. Let the disciplined, exacting, and humble energy of Virgo be your guide. Grab your apron and broom and get busy.
Until next week, let go and wear loose clothes.
MONDAY
August 19
Moon in April
The Aries Moon is pretty gung ho today, but not quite as intent on going it alone as yesterday. Today the Moon aligns with the communicator Mercury, Saturn the disciplinarian, and with Jupiter the planet of expansion. Breakfast and morning meetings are energetic, stimulating, and communication flows. New ideas are abundant but not necessarily fully fleshed out. It?s a good time for brainstorming without the need to prematurely judge the value of an idea. Encourage the free expression of ideas for more authentic creativity.
This afternoon when the Moon benefits from connections to Saturn and Neptune we not only think expansively, but feel more optimistic about future possibilities. Focus on increasing your reach and influence by aligning with others of like mind. This is a day to generate ideas and strategies. Evaluating their practicality can come later. We get more done today together than alone.
Daily Muse: When people are intimidated about having their own opinions, oppression is at hand. (Jimmy Carter ? Venus, Neptune, and North Node in Leo, Mercury in Virgo)
TUESDAY
August 20
Moon in Aries/Taurus
Moon Goes Void of Course 9:06pm enters Taurus at 9:37pm
The Moon is in eager and headstrong Aries until late tonight. Favorable lunar connections to the Sun and Venus in fellow fire sign, Leo, amp up the excitement and energy. An important thing to remember about Aries is this is the sign of the pioneer and the warrior. Under this fearless and independent influence we are usually happiest when we have a challenge to tackle. Fortunately for us, there may be a number of them today! Imagine the Knights of the Round Table dashing off on one errand or another, in search of a wrong to right, or to save a damsel in distress. Now you have the picture. If things are going too smoothly, an Aries Moon gets restless!
The cosmos will supply the necessary challenge as Mercury the communicator takes his turn confronting Saturn in Capricorn. (You may remember, the Sun, Venus, and Mars in Leo each had their bout with the planet of authority over the last couple of weeks). Try not to go on the defensive at the first sign of trouble or a disagreement. If we are looking for a fight, we are bound to find one. Instead, try not to take things personally. As much as possible, just chill. If we let negative emotions get the best of us ? anger, frustration, annoyance ? we?ll be less able to problem solve any real issues that may arise. Keep a cool head.
This is an energy that can help us sharpen our listening skills and our persuasion skills too if we can remain calm and attentive. We improve our skills as we match ourselves against others who are better. If you find yourself feeling challenged in your thoughts, beliefs, or communications, take a moment or two to consider if you could learn something new that might take you to a higher level. Don?t take this to mean you have to surrender to someone else?s ideas or ways of thinking. Just be open to learning.
Daily Muse: I've been traveling all over the world for 25 years, performing, talking to people, studying their cultures and musical instruments, and I always come away with more questions in my head than can be answered?It took me way beyond what I knew, into places of which I was totally scared, but as I became less frightened, I welcomed new ways of thinking and approaching something. It made me an infinitely richer person, and I think a better musician.
(Yo-Yo Ma ? Mars in Virgo)
WENSDAY
August 21
Moon in Taurus
Venus enters Virgo 2:07am
The Moon moved into placid and good-natured Taurus late last night; and sleeping dreams are filled with adventure as Mercury aligns with expansive Jupiter in the early morning hours. The energy may quickly dissipate as the Sun rises; but nevertheless, we might wake up feeling inspired or excited about something. An idea that comes through a dream may guide our steps toward an area of personal growth.
Also in the dark of night, Venus said goodbye to the footlights of the Leo stage and entered dutiful Virgo. This is the sign of solitude and the sign most often associated with service to others. As Venus takes a four-week spin through this grounded earth sign we might feel split between these two competing desires ? time for self and time for others. This is always Virgo?s dilemma. As a mutable sign she has two sides; but this also makes her able to resonate with multiple people and she has the ability to flex and adapt.
Clear communication is important to Venus in Virgo ? her ruling planet is Mercury, after all. She is also meticulous about the details and borrowing from her next door neighbor, Libra, etiquette and good manners are important. Venus in Virgo understands and believes function is as important as appearances. Solid, down-to-earth relationships are what this girl is looking for. She won?t shun romantic gestures; but she also will not be satisfied with a story-book romance or quickie affair without substance. She has high ideals for herself and for everyone else. You?ll certainly get her attention if you are on the board of directors of a charitable service organization, or a part-time volunteer at the local animal shelter.
In late evening the Moon connects with eccentric Uranus in sensual Taurus. We are open to surprises and might be hankering for a physical pleasure or delight. Consider something out-of-the box to appease your desire. The rules may say no eating before bed, but maybe a quick trip to the all night Pie Palace could be exactly what will scratch the itch. Obviously, food is not the only option here; be creative! Breaking the rules every once in awhile is a positive message to our psyches that we are in charge of the script!
Daily Muse: At the end of the day, if the guy is going to write the girl a letter, whether it's chicken scratch or scribble or looks like a doctor's note, if he takes the time to put pen to paper and not type something, there's something so incredibly romantic and beautiful about that. (Meghan Markle, Duchess of Sussex - Sun in Leo, Venus in Virgo)
THURSDAY
August 22
Moon in Taurus
Moon Goes Void of Course 2:32pm enters Gemini Friday at 7:34am
No sleeping in this morning with the dazzling Full Moon lighting up the skies (5:29 am Pacific Time) in forward-thinking Aquarius. Full Moons occur when the Moon is in perfect opposition to the Sun. Being across the zodiac from each other, the Moon becomes a perfect surface to reflect the sunlight back to earth. Metaphorically speaking, this opposition of Ego (Sun) and Heart (Moon) is much more than visually stunning. There is a deeper reason it inspires awe. It wakes up a natural dynamic within our psyches. Once a month we are encouraged to examine this dichotomy and consider how best to balance opposing forces and desires within ourselves.
The Sun in Leo?s strength is its ability to find inner strength and build and demonstrate self-confidence through self-expression which often manifests as performance or leadership. Sometimes it?s both. Aquarius is a visionary hoping to provoke and nudge us into recognizing that personal ego can serve a higher good. Aquarius whole-heartedly believes in positive change and evolution and sees it as a group effort where everyone?s gifts and talents are intertwined and utilized.
During a Full Moon we are encouraged to look at both ends of the spectrum and seek a unique balance within ourselves. With Leo and Aquarius influences we might go overboard demanding our right to self-expression on our road to developing a healthy ego; but likewise we can become egomaniacs in our protestations we are selfless and only thinking of the greater good. With Venus sitting close to the Sun in Leo, and Mars and Mercury also lining up in the sign of the Lion, we are getting in touch with our inner values and trying out new ways and roles of self-expression and behavior. Willingness to make a few mistakes and rule out some unsatisfactory paths really does get us closer to our ideal.
We may not always feel comfortable as we attempt to reconcile what feels like dissimilar needs within ourselves. Remember the image of the Full Moon; without the Sun and Moon being on opposite sides of the zodiac, this spectacle would not exist. As we consider how to balance the competing needs of self with those of others, perhaps we can create a thing of beauty in our own minds and lives.
Daily Muse: Sometimes it takes a while to recognize that someone has a special ability to get us to believe in ourselves, to tie that belief to our highest ideals, and to imagine that together we can do great things. In those rare moments, when such a person comes along, we need to put aside our plans and reach for what we know is possible. (Caroline Kennedy ? Moon in Aquarius)
FRIDAY
August 23
Moon in Taurus/Gemini
Sun Enters Virgo 3:02am
Moon enters Gemini at 7:34am
Virgo is ready to take charge of the cosmos today as the Sun marches into this detailed, discriminating, and organized earth sign. Can?t you imagine her in a smart tailored gray suit with all the tools of her trade ? a calculator, laptop, reference book of the habits and uses of the world?s plants and medicinal herbs, an activity tracker, some garden shears for harvesting and pruning, and of course, a personal journal to record her thoughts and insights. She is the epitome of composure and self-determination.
She wastes no time in making an assessment and squaring the unsuspecting Moon newly arrived in Gemini. Despite Gemini and Virgo being 90 degrees apart, and thus a natural tendency of doing things differently, Virgo has a soft spot for Gemini. She has to; they both are ruled by Mercury. While Gemini uses Mercury?s strengths to brainstorm, gather information and communicate, Virgo harnesses and grounds this energy in the ability to analyze information, discriminate between things, and discern the truth.
This first day of the Sun in Virgo is also the harbinger of change. Virgo is the third and final month or solar cycle of the summer season and is the time of harvest and preparation for transition to autumn. I have a feeling today we feel a bit caught up short as the Moon in light-hearted Gemini is not feeling so buoyant with squares to both Venus and Mars this afternoon. This is definitely a day and time of adjustment, maybe sorting things out and considering significant changes coming soon.
A little alone time is in order. Where possible, take a break from your usual routine and schedule. One thing Virgo can definitely teach us is how to savor and protect our private space and time for ourselves. We deserve to indulge in our passions, whatever they may be, without an audience or need for others? approval.
Daily Muse: When I wasn't at school, I was experimenting at home, and became a bit of a Mad Scientist. I did hours of research on mayonnaise, for instance, and though no one else seemed to care about it, I thought it was utterly fascinating....By the end of my research, I believe, I had written more on the subject of mayonnaise than anyone in history. (Julia Child ? Sun in Leo, Mercury, Venus, and Mars in Virgo)
SATURDAY
August 24
Moon in Gemini
Moon Goes Void of Course 11:58pm enters Cancer Sunday at 2:05pm
It would appear as if the day is off to a great start with Venus and Mars, both in Virgo slipping away together for a private retreat. Don?t be surprised if this is truly a ?private? escape and you are feeling a need for a complete break from duties and responsibilities. This is a hard one for Virgo, since she is the sign of service. But nevertheless, she has a great need for solitude, privacy, and the opportunity to direct her own life. Too many duties, responsibilities and distractions can make us weary. Remember you have to put on your own oxygen mask before assisting others! This energy is also good for couples who want to get away together if only for the morning or a short trip.
The lunar opposition to Jupiter this morning has us questioning whether we are stretching ourselves too thin and a square to Neptune this afternoon creates doubts or emotional confusion. This is increased as Mercury the messenger is involved in a puzzling connection to Pluto. Although the mystery may be cleared up relatively quickly, if we are pushed to our limit. ?Enough is enough? we declare. This is a great day to take action, initiate, take a first step, or keep going on a plan.
Keeping busy, even with small but important tasks helps us clear our minds and be productive today. If life seems overwhelming or a goal too grand, divide it up. Take it one bite at a time. Virgo is a physical energy; do something with your body; keep those hands busy and you?ll work out the mental knots.
Daily Muse: I used to work in kitchens, doing 12 or more hours a day of physical labor, so today, eight to 12 hours of cooking, chatting or filming feels like a vacation. When I have a scheduled 'day off,' I spend several hours writing, then I clean until I crash from fatigue. I don't relax well?I like feeling like an ox at the end of the day. I like working hard. (Rachel Ray ? 7 planets in Virgo! This includes Sun, Moon, Mercury, Venus, Jupiter, Uranus and Pluto.)
SUNDAY
August 25
Moon in Gemini/Cancer
Moon enters Cancer at 2:05pm
This might be a good morning to read, write in your journal or share a quiet meal and conversation with a friend or loved one. The Moon is in chatty Gemini but we may not be feeling like our words carry much influence with the Moon void of course until this afternoon.
When the Moon eases into her home sign of Cancer this afternoon the mood may remain quiet, as comfort and nurturing seems to be the call of the day. The Moon makes favorable alliances with the Sun and Mars both in Virgo. A healthy meal, home-cooked might be ideal, is on the agenda for this evening. This is a great day to lighten your load, and keep a light agenda.
Daily Muse: I have this extraordinary life during the day, and then I get to come home to my sweet husband who loves to cook with me. I have a nice glass of wine, he has some scotch, we chat, we cook, and we hang out with the dog. I have an absolute dream life. (Rachel Ray - seven planets in Virgo)
Venus enters Virgo on Wednesday; Sun enters Virgo on Friday; Venus and Mars are looking for a quiet retreat together on Saturday.
Virgo is ready to take charge of the cosmos this week as the Sun and Venus enter this detailed, discriminating, and organized earth sign. It?s still very much summer but hints of the crispness of Autumn are filtering into our hearts and minds. Virgo is the third and final month, or solar cycle, of the summer season and is the time of harvest and preparation for transition to autumn. As a mutable sign, Virgo is a time of duality and change. We have one foot in summer while still anticipating fall. Mars is already re-organizing kitchen cabinets, and making to do lists as he is wasting no time in this efficient sign. Falling forward to August 30th and the New Moon in Virgo, it will be a full house that also includes Mercury. He?s powerful in this sign as the planetary ruler.
When I think of Virgo I imagine a woman in a smart tailored gray suit with all the tools of her trade ? a calculator, laptop, reference book of the habits and uses of the world?s plants and medicinal herbs, an activity tracker, some garden shears for harvesting and pruning, a kitchen apron and broom, and of course, a personal journal to record her thoughts and insights. She is the epitome of composure and self-determination.
Clear communication is important to Virgo ? her ruling planet is Mercury, after all. She is meticulous about the details and borrowing from her next door neighbor, Libra, etiquette and good manners are important. Venus in Virgo understands and believes function is as important as appearances. Solid, down-to-earth relationships are what this girl is looking for. She won?t shun romantic gestures; but she also will not be satisfied with a story-book romance or quickie affair without substance. She has high ideals for herself and for everyone else. If you hope to be part of her inner circle, you?ll have to have more than just glib conversation skills or superficial intentions. You?ll certainly get her attention if you are on the board of directors of a charitable service organization, or a part-time volunteer at the local animal shelter.
While Gemini (also ruled by Mercury) uses Mercury?s strengths to brainstorm, gather information and communicate, Virgo harnesses and grounds this energy in the ability to analyze information, discriminate between things, and discern the truth.
This is the sign of solitude and the sign most often associated with service to others. As the Sun, Venus, Mars (and soon Mercury) take their appointed journeys through this grounded earth sign we might feel split between these two competing desires ? time for self and time for others. This is always Virgo?s dilemma. As a mutable sign she has two sides; but this also makes her able to resonate with multiple people and she has the ability to flex and adapt to changing conditions and needs.
During the next month, a little alone time is in order. Where possible, take a break from your usual routine and schedule. One thing Virgo can definitely teach us is how to savor and protect our private space and time for ourselves. We deserve to indulge in our passions, whatever they may be, without an audience or need for others? approval. This can be a rich and fertile time for sorting things out ? physically clutter clearing and re-organizing ? and also mentally clearing our minds.
This is a time we naturally leap to ideas like ?back to school.? We may be anxious to learn something new, improve our skills or add to our abilities. But before we do, we probably need to clear out a few things. Let the disciplined, exacting, and humble energy of Virgo be your guide. Grab your apron and broom and get busy.
Until next week, let go and wear loose clothes.
MONDAY
August 19
Moon in April
The Aries Moon is pretty gung ho today, but not quite as intent on going it alone as yesterday. Today the Moon aligns with the communicator Mercury, Saturn the disciplinarian, and with Jupiter the planet of expansion. Breakfast and morning meetings are energetic, stimulating, and communication flows. New ideas are abundant but not necessarily fully fleshed out. It?s a good time for brainstorming without the need to prematurely judge the value of an idea. Encourage the free expression of ideas for more authentic creativity.
This afternoon when the Moon benefits from connections to Saturn and Neptune we not only think expansively, but feel more optimistic about future possibilities. Focus on increasing your reach and influence by aligning with others of like mind. This is a day to generate ideas and strategies. Evaluating their practicality can come later. We get more done today together than alone.
Daily Muse: When people are intimidated about having their own opinions, oppression is at hand. (Jimmy Carter ? Venus, Neptune, and North Node in Leo, Mercury in Virgo)
TUESDAY
August 20
Moon in Aries/Taurus
Moon Goes Void of Course 9:06pm enters Taurus at 9:37pm
The Moon is in eager and headstrong Aries until late tonight. Favorable lunar connections to the Sun and Venus in fellow fire sign, Leo, amp up the excitement and energy. An important thing to remember about Aries is this is the sign of the pioneer and the warrior. Under this fearless and independent influence we are usually happiest when we have a challenge to tackle. Fortunately for us, there may be a number of them today! Imagine the Knights of the Round Table dashing off on one errand or another, in search of a wrong to right, or to save a damsel in distress. Now you have the picture. If things are going too smoothly, an Aries Moon gets restless!
The cosmos will supply the necessary challenge as Mercury the communicator takes his turn confronting Saturn in Capricorn. (You may remember, the Sun, Venus, and Mars in Leo each had their bout with the planet of authority over the last couple of weeks). Try not to go on the defensive at the first sign of trouble or a disagreement. If we are looking for a fight, we are bound to find one. Instead, try not to take things personally. As much as possible, just chill. If we let negative emotions get the best of us ? anger, frustration, annoyance ? we?ll be less able to problem solve any real issues that may arise. Keep a cool head.
This is an energy that can help us sharpen our listening skills and our persuasion skills too if we can remain calm and attentive. We improve our skills as we match ourselves against others who are better. If you find yourself feeling challenged in your thoughts, beliefs, or communications, take a moment or two to consider if you could learn something new that might take you to a higher level. Don?t take this to mean you have to surrender to someone else?s ideas or ways of thinking. Just be open to learning.
Daily Muse: I've been traveling all over the world for 25 years, performing, talking to people, studying their cultures and musical instruments, and I always come away with more questions in my head than can be answered?It took me way beyond what I knew, into places of which I was totally scared, but as I became less frightened, I welcomed new ways of thinking and approaching something. It made me an infinitely richer person, and I think a better musician.
(Yo-Yo Ma ? Mars in Virgo)
WENSDAY
August 21
Moon in Taurus
Venus enters Virgo 2:07am
The Moon moved into placid and good-natured Taurus late last night; and sleeping dreams are filled with adventure as Mercury aligns with expansive Jupiter in the early morning hours. The energy may quickly dissipate as the Sun rises; but nevertheless, we might wake up feeling inspired or excited about something. An idea that comes through a dream may guide our steps toward an area of personal growth.
Also in the dark of night, Venus said goodbye to the footlights of the Leo stage and entered dutiful Virgo. This is the sign of solitude and the sign most often associated with service to others. As Venus takes a four-week spin through this grounded earth sign we might feel split between these two competing desires ? time for self and time for others. This is always Virgo?s dilemma. As a mutable sign she has two sides; but this also makes her able to resonate with multiple people and she has the ability to flex and adapt.
Clear communication is important to Venus in Virgo ? her ruling planet is Mercury, after all. She is also meticulous about the details and borrowing from her next door neighbor, Libra, etiquette and good manners are important. Venus in Virgo understands and believes function is as important as appearances. Solid, down-to-earth relationships are what this girl is looking for. She won?t shun romantic gestures; but she also will not be satisfied with a story-book romance or quickie affair without substance. She has high ideals for herself and for everyone else. You?ll certainly get her attention if you are on the board of directors of a charitable service organization, or a part-time volunteer at the local animal shelter.
In late evening the Moon connects with eccentric Uranus in sensual Taurus. We are open to surprises and might be hankering for a physical pleasure or delight. Consider something out-of-the box to appease your desire. The rules may say no eating before bed, but maybe a quick trip to the all night Pie Palace could be exactly what will scratch the itch. Obviously, food is not the only option here; be creative! Breaking the rules every once in awhile is a positive message to our psyches that we are in charge of the script!
Daily Muse: At the end of the day, if the guy is going to write the girl a letter, whether it's chicken scratch or scribble or looks like a doctor's note, if he takes the time to put pen to paper and not type something, there's something so incredibly romantic and beautiful about that. (Meghan Markle, Duchess of Sussex - Sun in Leo, Venus in Virgo)
THURSDAY
August 22
Moon in Taurus
Moon Goes Void of Course 2:32pm enters Gemini Friday at 7:34am
No sleeping in this morning with the dazzling Full Moon lighting up the skies (5:29 am Pacific Time) in forward-thinking Aquarius. Full Moons occur when the Moon is in perfect opposition to the Sun. Being across the zodiac from each other, the Moon becomes a perfect surface to reflect the sunlight back to earth. Metaphorically speaking, this opposition of Ego (Sun) and Heart (Moon) is much more than visually stunning. There is a deeper reason it inspires awe. It wakes up a natural dynamic within our psyches. Once a month we are encouraged to examine this dichotomy and consider how best to balance opposing forces and desires within ourselves.
The Sun in Leo?s strength is its ability to find inner strength and build and demonstrate self-confidence through self-expression which often manifests as performance or leadership. Sometimes it?s both. Aquarius is a visionary hoping to provoke and nudge us into recognizing that personal ego can serve a higher good. Aquarius whole-heartedly believes in positive change and evolution and sees it as a group effort where everyone?s gifts and talents are intertwined and utilized.
During a Full Moon we are encouraged to look at both ends of the spectrum and seek a unique balance within ourselves. With Leo and Aquarius influences we might go overboard demanding our right to self-expression on our road to developing a healthy ego; but likewise we can become egomaniacs in our protestations we are selfless and only thinking of the greater good. With Venus sitting close to the Sun in Leo, and Mars and Mercury also lining up in the sign of the Lion, we are getting in touch with our inner values and trying out new ways and roles of self-expression and behavior. Willingness to make a few mistakes and rule out some unsatisfactory paths really does get us closer to our ideal.
We may not always feel comfortable as we attempt to reconcile what feels like dissimilar needs within ourselves. Remember the image of the Full Moon; without the Sun and Moon being on opposite sides of the zodiac, this spectacle would not exist. As we consider how to balance the competing needs of self with those of others, perhaps we can create a thing of beauty in our own minds and lives.
Daily Muse: Sometimes it takes a while to recognize that someone has a special ability to get us to believe in ourselves, to tie that belief to our highest ideals, and to imagine that together we can do great things. In those rare moments, when such a person comes along, we need to put aside our plans and reach for what we know is possible. (Caroline Kennedy ? Moon in Aquarius)
FRIDAY
August 23
Moon in Taurus/Gemini
Sun Enters Virgo 3:02am
Moon enters Gemini at 7:34am
Virgo is ready to take charge of the cosmos today as the Sun marches into this detailed, discriminating, and organized earth sign. Can?t you imagine her in a smart tailored gray suit with all the tools of her trade ? a calculator, laptop, reference book of the habits and uses of the world?s plants and medicinal herbs, an activity tracker, some garden shears for harvesting and pruning, and of course, a personal journal to record her thoughts and insights. She is the epitome of composure and self-determination.
She wastes no time in making an assessment and squaring the unsuspecting Moon newly arrived in Gemini. Despite Gemini and Virgo being 90 degrees apart, and thus a natural tendency of doing things differently, Virgo has a soft spot for Gemini. She has to; they both are ruled by Mercury. While Gemini uses Mercury?s strengths to brainstorm, gather information and communicate, Virgo harnesses and grounds this energy in the ability to analyze information, discriminate between things, and discern the truth.
This first day of the Sun in Virgo is also the harbinger of change. Virgo is the third and final month or solar cycle of the summer season and is the time of harvest and preparation for transition to autumn. I have a feeling today we feel a bit caught up short as the Moon in light-hearted Gemini is not feeling so buoyant with squares to both Venus and Mars this afternoon. This is definitely a day and time of adjustment, maybe sorting things out and considering significant changes coming soon.
A little alone time is in order. Where possible, take a break from your usual routine and schedule. One thing Virgo can definitely teach us is how to savor and protect our private space and time for ourselves. We deserve to indulge in our passions, whatever they may be, without an audience or need for others? approval.
Daily Muse: When I wasn't at school, I was experimenting at home, and became a bit of a Mad Scientist. I did hours of research on mayonnaise, for instance, and though no one else seemed to care about it, I thought it was utterly fascinating....By the end of my research, I believe, I had written more on the subject of mayonnaise than anyone in history. (Julia Child ? Sun in Leo, Mercury, Venus, and Mars in Virgo)
SATURDAY
August 24
Moon in Gemini
Moon Goes Void of Course 11:58pm enters Cancer Sunday at 2:05pm
It would appear as if the day is off to a great start with Venus and Mars, both in Virgo slipping away together for a private retreat. Don?t be surprised if this is truly a ?private? escape and you are feeling a need for a complete break from duties and responsibilities. This is a hard one for Virgo, since she is the sign of service. But nevertheless, she has a great need for solitude, privacy, and the opportunity to direct her own life. Too many duties, responsibilities and distractions can make us weary. Remember you have to put on your own oxygen mask before assisting others! This energy is also good for couples who want to get away together if only for the morning or a short trip.
The lunar opposition to Jupiter this morning has us questioning whether we are stretching ourselves too thin and a square to Neptune this afternoon creates doubts or emotional confusion. This is increased as Mercury the messenger is involved in a puzzling connection to Pluto. Although the mystery may be cleared up relatively quickly, if we are pushed to our limit. ?Enough is enough? we declare. This is a great day to take action, initiate, take a first step, or keep going on a plan.
Keeping busy, even with small but important tasks helps us clear our minds and be productive today. If life seems overwhelming or a goal too grand, divide it up. Take it one bite at a time. Virgo is a physical energy; do something with your body; keep those hands busy and you?ll work out the mental knots.
Daily Muse: I used to work in kitchens, doing 12 or more hours a day of physical labor, so today, eight to 12 hours of cooking, chatting or filming feels like a vacation. When I have a scheduled 'day off,' I spend several hours writing, then I clean until I crash from fatigue. I don't relax well?I like feeling like an ox at the end of the day. I like working hard. (Rachel Ray ? 7 planets in Virgo! This includes Sun, Moon, Mercury, Venus, Jupiter, Uranus and Pluto.)
SUNDAY
August 25
Moon in Gemini/Cancer
Moon enters Cancer at 2:05pm
This might be a good morning to read, write in your journal or share a quiet meal and conversation with a friend or loved one. The Moon is in chatty Gemini but we may not be feeling like our words carry much influence with the Moon void of course until this afternoon.
When the Moon eases into her home sign of Cancer this afternoon the mood may remain quiet, as comfort and nurturing seems to be the call of the day. The Moon makes favorable alliances with the Sun and Mars both in Virgo. A healthy meal, home-cooked might be ideal, is on the agenda for this evening. This is a great day to lighten your load, and keep a light agenda.
Daily Muse: I have this extraordinary life during the day, and then I get to come home to my sweet husband who loves to cook with me. I have a nice glass of wine, he has some scotch, we chat, we cook, and we hang out with the dog. I have an absolute dream life. (Rachel Ray - seven planets in Virgo)