The Week Ahead

Monday, January 25th through Sunday, January 31st

Astrological Highlights for the week: Mercury and Uranus ignite sparks of brilliance on Monday; the Sun conflicts with Uranus on Tuesday; Full Moon in Leo with the Sun joining Jupiter on Thursday; Venus is transformed by a merger with Pluto on Thursday; and Mercury stations retrograde in Aquarius on Saturday

It�s another week of changes and great fluctuations in the cosmos. The New Moon on January 12th with the Moon and Sun in Capricorn, under the mesmerizing spell of the powerful and transformative planet of Pluto, strongly suggested this would be a memorable Lunar Cycle. So far, it hasn�t disappointed! The next mile marker in the Lunar cycle occurs Thursday with the Full Moon in Leo. This also is a standout performance.

Astrologically speaking the Full Moon is part of a T-Square in the Fixed Signs. Think loyal, faithful, and persevering. The Sun in forward-leaning Aquarius is flanked on either side by Saturn and Jupiter � temporary allies and best friends. These three are forming conflicting squares with revolutionary Uranus and its current roommate, Mars, both in devoted, steadfast, and patient Taurus. Enter the Moon in regal and commanding Leo. The Moon has the dubious honor of opposing the Sun, Jupiter, and Saturn trio and squaring Mars and Uranus in Taurus. (Scorpio is the 4th and �missing� corner of this configuration. If you have a birthday in the early part of Scorpio � approximately October 28th through the 4th of November, give or take a few days � you are probably feeling the squeeze. Listen for important messages and cosmic omens this week.)  

This dizzying array of aspects start early on Thursday and continue to develop, and burst, like a well-orchestrated fireworks display from early morning through evening. The ending crescendo occurs Thursday when the Sun merges with expansive Jupiter in Aquarius.

Each and every one of these singular aspects has a specific effect, but when appearing in combination this way, it may be best to intuit an overall influence weaving the individual energies together into a pattern. A Leo Full Moon embodies the desire to lead and influence (Fire) indicative of self-expressive and royal Leo. It can be a tricky combination of warmth and generosity with a strong need for respect. �Boundaries, please! No touching or fondling of the performers!� Emotionally we can run both hot and cold. We are coming from our hearts and not from the rational part of ourselves. Our passions and will are highly engaged.
 
The multitude of conflicting and cooperating aspects bouncing between the planets in Fixed signs creates a dynamic and changing situation. The world is in flux! Recognizing the fluidity of this time is imperative to making wise choices and maintaining peace of mind. Emotions are likely to be extreme and highly changeable. It is important to try to differentiate between what we want to be true, and what is true.

There is some part of us that wants to lead, control, exert power or have an influence over a situation or others. The shadow side of these fixed signs is arrogance and pushing to be right at all costs. Situations are in flux. What seems real or permanent may quickly reverse or change. Before attempting to take the controls in our hands we must be willing to make a clear assessment of our readiness to lead and our credibility as an influencer. Desire does not equal ability. But true desire can prod us toward the acquisition of knowledge and skills in the area of our interest. The Sun�s merger with Jupiter soon after the Full Moon can raise hopes exponentially but can also be a sign of true desire and willingness to be part of the solution that will positively change the world.

Occurring concurrently with the Full Moon is the powerful pairing of Venus and Pluto in Capricorn. This is an annual event with the subtlety of a high-speed train. Please don�t skip the write-up on Thursday.

Another highlight this week is Mercury�s moving into a retrograde pattern in progressive and social reforming Aquarius. Saturday the planet of thinking and communication looks back over its shoulder (metaphorically) and travels back to the ideas, events and interactions occurring from January 15th through this week. A lot to ponder, review and re-evaluate. On February 20th Mercury will return to direct motion and on March 15th will leave Aquarius for Pisces. (Guess he likes hanging around with Jupiter in Aquarius!) For more details please see the write-up for Saturday.

Keep breathing and foster hope; these are exciting times we live in.

Until next week, let go and wear loose clothes.

MONDAY
January 25
Moon in Gemini/Cancer
Void of Course Moon enters Cancer at 10:52am

The Moon is void of course in Gemini during the early portion of the morning. Words should be carefully chosen if effective communication is our purpose. The Moon�s entry into nurturing Cancer mid-day turns our focus toward more positive and life-affirming feelings which can be easily translated into cooperation with others, especially if we are working toward shared goals. A moment of vulnerability tempts us to withdraw or hibernate this evening when the Moon squares Chiron transiting through independent Aries. Awareness of our own hot buttons can help us avoid people, situations or topics that might invite offense.

Tonight Mercury in progressive and independent Aquarius makes a Quintile connection to Uranus in Taurus. This 72 degree aspect is considered a minor aspect by many astrologers, but the ones who follow it are true believers in its ability to generate unusual and extraordinary creativity. This one certainly fits the description with Mercury the thinker and Uranus, the revolutionary, being involved.

It has the potential in triplicate to help us to recognize dogma, breakthrough fundamentalism, and look at ourselves and situations with fresh eyes. If only for a short while there is a window in which we may be able to recognize novel solutions or potentials that otherwise are hidden, especially if we tend to see only what fits into our preconceived ideas about the way the universe works. It might feel like looking at a three dimensional picture, aka stereogram or Magic Eye Illusion. Change your focus and you are able to identify the hidden picture within the picture. It might be interesting to think back to the 12th of the month when Mercury was in a conflicting square to Uranus. An issue or problem that emerged at that time might be amenable to a solution that presents today or tonight.  

Daily Muse: To do much clear thinking a person must arrange for regular periods of solitude when they can concentrate and indulge the imagination without distraction. (Thomas A. Edison � Sun, Mercury and Neptune in Aquarius)

TUESDAY
January 26
Moon in Cancer

The expression �don�t throw the baby out with the bathwater� may be a tired old clich� but can you think of a better more apt expression when it comes to dramatically making a clean sweep only to realize in our excitement we may have been a bit too excessive? This is our tendency today, to be zealous and maybe a bit fanatical with the Sun squaring Uranus shortly before dawn. The feeling may be even more compelling an hour later when the Moon in protective Cancer makes a strengthening connection to Mars in Taurus. We will rise to the occasion, especially if we feel personally endangered or feel defensive of home, family, team, community or country.

Uranus resonates with our desire to liberate ourselves from anything � ideas, habits, conditions, relationships, rules and etc � that feel limiting or restricting. The Sun in Aquarius is totally on board. You are not the boss of me! Although there are often good reasons to protest or challenge, be thoughtful. Before ripping a relationship apart, quitting a job, or behaving rashly, consider the consequences. A strategic plan at this time will serve us better than an abrupt departure. We react spontaneously to a provocation rather than devising a response to a situation that needs revision and reform. Not to mention our innate desire to assign blame rather than taking responsibility for what isn�t working in our lives. We are not victims; we are creators. We are looking for breakthroughs not breakdowns.

Late-night the Moon�s harmonizing connection to Neptune can help us find acceptance and compassion for ourselves and others. Be gentle with others and you are likely to find tenderness for yourself.

Daily Muse: It is not possible to preserve one's identity by adjusting for any length of time to a frame of reference that is in itself destructive to it. It is very hard indeed for a human being to sustain such an 'inner' split - conforming outwardly to one reality while trying to maintain inwardly the value it denies. (Betty Friedan Sun and Mercury in Aquarius; Uranus in Pisces conjunct Mercury)

WENSDAY
January 27
Moon in Cancer/Leo
The Moon Goes Void of Course at 9:55am enters Leo at 6:54pm

We may be looking for love in all the wrong places this morning with the Moon in sensitive Cancer opposing Venus in faithful but demanding Capricorn. Emotions grow more intense mid-morning when the Moon opposes cathartic Pluto, also in Capricorn. Whenever the Moon is involved so are our feelings and emotional expression. The situation is brief, but nevertheless can leave a lasting impression. This may be particularly true for the receptive Cancer Moon that feels things deeply and personally.

If the energy feels oppressive or like you just can�t seem to get something right, focus on the Cancerian strengths of dedication and nurturing. Doing something for someone else helps lift our spirits and can pull us out of a self-absorbed funk. And don�t forget to nurture yourself while you are at it. Possibly we have been thinking of everybody else over the last couple of days and ignoring our own needs. The energy this morning and throughout the day can feel like �nobody GETS me.� We might feel misunderstood or ignored. If so, remember it�s temporary. And besides, maybe this isn�t such a bad thing. If we find ourselves mostly conforming to the will of the group, maybe it�s time to embrace our uniqueness and give more value our own thoughts and ideas.  

The Moon�s entry into noble Leo this evening can help us roar more authentically. This is no guarantee spirits will automatically turn sunny; but fortunately, we care just a little bit less about others� approval. We may find doing the opposite of what we think will win favor can turn the situation around. Like chasing the elusive butterfly, when we quit trying to win someone�s approval and focus instead on authenticity we often receive the attention we are seeking.

The Leo Moon wants to be seen and heard, and whenever possible, recognized and applauded. However, there is an innate authenticity about Leo and a desire to build self-confidence. Sooner or later the self-expressive Leo realizes the joy is in the performance itself � not in the audience response. Doing something we love rather than to please others or get their attention feels more in alignment with who we are when Leo is leading our hearts. And in a twist of irony, we are likely to find when we are expressing ourselves with integrity and honesty it�s our own approval that feels the most rewarding and satisfying.

Daily Muse: It's the action, not the fruit of the action, that's important. You have to do the right thing. It may not be in your power, may not be in your time, that there'll be any fruit. But that doesn't mean you stop doing the right thing. You may never know what results come from your action. But if you do nothing, there will be no result. (Mahatma Gandhi � Moon and North Node of the Moon in Leo.)

THURSDAY
January 28
Full Moon 9� Leo 11:16am

The New Moon on January 12th with the Moon and Sun in Capricorn, under the mesmerizing spell of the powerful and transformative planet of Pluto, strongly suggested this would be a memorable Lunar Cycle. As promised, the Full Moon perfect today at 11:16 am (Pacific Time) is also a standout.

There are a dizzying number of planets attending this Full Moon party creating an abundance of interactions � enough to send our minds and hearts spinning. Astrologically speaking the cosmos is arranged in a T-square with planets in three of the four Fixed signs � Sun, Jupiter, and Saturn in mental Aquarius; Mars and Uranus in grounded Taurus, and the Moon in fiery and willful Leo. (Scorpio is the 4th and �missing� corner of this configuration. If you have a birthday in the early part of Scorpio � approximately October 28th through the 4th of November, give or take a few days � you are probably feeling the squeeze.)

Although the Full Moon occurs shortly before Noon (Pacific Time) the multitude of accompanying planetary oppositions, squares, and conjunctions start early in the day and continue to develop, and burst, like a well-orchestrated fireworks display from early morning through early evening. (The Moon opposes Saturn and squares Uranus this morning, and this afternoon the Moon opposes Jupiter and squares, Mars.) The ending crescendo occurs this evening when the Sun merges with expansive Jupiter in Aquarius.

Each and every one of these singular aspects has a specific effect, but when appearing in combination this way, it may be best to intuit an overall influence weaving the individual energies together into a pattern. My take is the following.

A Leo Full Moon embodies the desire to lead and influence (Fire) indicative of self-expressive and royal Leo. It can be a tricky combination of warmth and generosity with a strong need for respect. Emotionally we can run both hot and cold. We are coming from our hearts and not from the rational part of ourselves. Our passions and will are highly engaged.
 
The multitude of conflicting and cooperating aspects bouncing between the planets in Fixed signs creates a dynamic and changing situation. The world is in flux! Recognizing the fluidity of this time is imperative to making wise choices and maintaining peace of mind. Emotions are likely to be extreme and highly changeable. It is important to try to differentiate between what we want to be true, and what is true.

Another powerful planetary pairing is in effect today. Venus the planet of values has her annual meet-up with Pluto in Capricorn. There is nothing subtle about this hookup! It has a profoundly intense, passionate, and even compulsive quality. This influences attitudes and behavior towards everything we find attractive, valuable, and worthwhile which includes lovers, partners, finances, resources and generally our �stuff.� It�s often deeply emotional and even life-changing. We are not lukewarm about our desires and feelings and therefore, this can represent strong desires for attachment or even the opposite � a time we decide to unhook from a partnership or situation that feels stifling, manipulative, or obsessive. We gain clarity around our attachments and how these �loves� are influencing our lives either precipitating positive or less than desirable effects in our lives. This could be a moment of awakening that drives an important decision regarding love and/or finances.

Bottom line: this is an emotionally changing and intense day but one that can lead us to greater clarity about many things in our lives. Understand the emotional energy is probably stronger than the rational mind at this time. The Sun�s hookup with Jupiter this evening might send the energy over the top. This is considered a very hopeful and cheerful connection as we are able to expand our vision of what�s possible and seem to have unlimited energy to make things happen. The shadow is what you might expect � excessive behavior, craving luxury and extravagance, lack of discipline and over-promising. Moderation is in short supply; but isn�t it good to have the opportunity to feel really good and hopeful?

Daily Muse: If Socrates leaves his house today he will find the sage seated on his doorstep. If Judas go forth tonight it is to Judas his steps will tend. Every life is many days, day after day. We walk through ourselves, meeting robbers, ghosts, giants, old men, young men, wives, widows, brothers-in-law. But always meeting ourselves. (James Joyce � Sun in Aquarius and Moon in Leo.)

FRIDAY
January 29
Moon in Leo
The Moon goes Void of Course at 5:53pm

The cosmic interactions are on pause during the day with a single lunar opposition to Mercury this evening. We can certainly use a day to consider and absorb some of the changes happening around us and in our psyches. If possible take a time out today from the news, social media, and other forms of distraction. The stars are more visible and stunning on a dark night away from artificial light. Likewise, we are often at our most intuitive and rationally clear when we pull away from the onslaught of input and simply listen to what�s going on in our minds and in our hearts. The Leo Moon agrees as she is on sabbatical until this evening.

When the Moon is ready to reappear on stage this evening, we are also ready to take on the opposition to Mercury in Aquarius. As Mercury is towards the end of the sign, it was out of range to have a significant influence on yesterday�s Full Moon. But tonight he re-enters the equation in a provocative way encouraging us to be diligent in seeking the truth. In Aquarius, Mercury wants to be a way-shower running ahead of the crowd. Opposing the Moon in Leo, we may have a hard time believing something is true if our heart doesn�t want to go there. Likewise, we may generally find it a challenge to balance the truth of the heart with the rational facts presented by the mind. We tend to be independent in our thinking and also intensely passionate about what we believe.

Objectivity is not our strong suit tonight, but we can take this opportunity to examine the intensity of our feelings and beliefs and see them and ourselves in more detail.

Daily Muse: Being ignorant is not so much a shame, as being unwilling to learn. (Benjamin Franklin � Mercury in Aquarius)

SATURDAY
January 30
Moon in Leo/Virgo
Void of Course Moon enters Virgo at 12:02am

The Moon inauspiciously slips into hard-working Virgo under the cover of darkness shortly after midnight (Friday night). This close to the Full Moon (two days ago) this Virgo Moon is at her best. Dedication has helped sharpen her expertise and experience has taught her how to be of service without losing herself in the process. This can be a beautiful time to behold as we embrace service with grace and emotional balance � no strings attached! We willingly accept responsibility without pressure or obligation. Using our talents is joyful and a privilege.

The Virgo Moon finds clever and unique ways of doing things by consulting with Uranus mid-day. A positive lunar alignment with inspirational Mars this evening provides a late night energy surge. It may be hard to wind down and instead we find ourselves running to the grocery store, indulging in a midnight snack, learning a new skill on YouTube, or tackling a work or home project. It happens! Although Virgo is usually a creature of habit, she�s not averse to shaking up the schedule now and then.

Today is also notable because Mercury, the planet of thinking and communication stations retrograde at 26 Aquarius. This will extend Mercury�s transit in this progressive sign which already has proven to be a pivotal energetic influence in 2021. Mercury will travel back to 11 Aquarius, essentially encouraging us to review thoughts and events of the last few weeks � specifically back to January 15th, but no need to be a stickler on the timing. On February 20th Mercury will return to direct motion and on March 15th will leave Aquarius for Pisces. (Guess he likes hanging around with exciting Jupiter in Aquarius!)

Sounds like a joke, but there is a nugget of truth in this idea. Not that planets have human personalities or traits, but this retrograde will allow Mercury to interact with expansive Jupiter for multiple weeks instead of one or two days. This makes the retrograde pattern even more potent as our willingness to entertain new ideas and concepts is heightened. This will also be an auspicious couple of months for separating useful and productive ideas from ingrained habits and preconceived notions that keep our minds running on a circular track. There is nothing like a Mercury retrograde pattern, especially in forward thinking and progressive Aquarius to shake some things loose.

Daily Muse: You lose nothing when fighting for a cause ... In my mind the losers are those who don't have a cause they care about. (Muhammad Ali � Moon, Mercury and Venus in Aquarius)

SUNDAY
January 31
Moon in Virgo

Today is off to a slow and dreamy start with the Moon in Virgo slowed down by an opposition to Neptune in Pisces. If the lunar connection to Mars kept you up late � maybe all night � this is a good time to sleep in or take it easy. Life has a way of balancing things out. Throughout the day we are motivated but prefer to pace ourselves. Avoid the urge to be lazy or unproductive, although a Virgo Moon hardly allows that. Instead set an agenda or a goal and work carefully and thoughtfully towards it. Today there should be no rush.

Tonight the Moon makes a very productive connection to Pluto in Capricorn. This can manifest in a number of ways, but favors cleaning out and paring down. Keeping this in mind, this is a perfect day to do clutter clearing and/or sorting through clothes, household items and etc that deserve a new home. Pluto helps us eliminate the non-essential in our life focusing on quality over quantity.

The Sun in Aquarius is heading towards a confrontation with Mars, the planet of energy several hours after midnight (Sunday night). We might feel this influence if we are running out of energy after a physically demanding day or reaching for the pain reliever to dull muscle aches. Listen to your body. It will tell you when your energy has been drained and it�s time to rest, restore and recuperate.  

Daily Muse: One drop of joy plus courage becomes passion, which enables you to take effective action without thought. One drop of joy plus discipline becomes empathy, the ability to know that your emotions are real and all those around you are real, which then restores your God-consciousness. (Shirley MacLaine � Moon conjunct Neptune in Virgo)

The Week Ahead

Monday, February 1st through Sunday, February 7

Astrological Highlights for the week: Venus enters Aquarius on Monday, joins Saturn on Friday and squares Uranus on Saturday.

Venus is in the spotlight this week, so let�s talk about the goddess of love. Venus is the planet that is most closely associated with our desire and need to relate. Relate to ourselves, other people, the planet, events and etc. She represents what we find desirable, how we make ourselves attractive, and our attitudes towards what we find most valuable. She also is a big influence on our attitudes about beauty and how we express our unique creativity.
Venus encourages us to honor our natural desires, affinities, and interests. When we respond to kinship with someone or something, we are listening to the voice of Venus.

She reminds us to relate and to do it in beautiful and creative ways. The way that beauty and creativity looks and feels depends on the sign she is expressing through. The artistry of a perfectly choreographed car chase captured on film may be the work of Venus in Aries while an exquisite flower arrangement or gourmet meal might reflect the style of Venus in Taurus. In the words of astrologer Caroline W. Casey �We are the ambassadors of whatever we love.� What do we love? Look to Venus by sign and don�t forget to consider the element and modality. Aquarius is a loyal and stubborn Fixed sign in the mental, communicative Air element.  

As Venus changes roles on Monday and glides into Aquarius what do we love? A few ideas come to mind such as experimentation, invention, anything new, different, novel, unexpected, and futuristic. Living by tradition and abiding by conventional rules governing life, love, romance, finances, and creativity holds no allure! We crave freedom of expression, independence, and lots of personal space. It�s way more exciting to think of doing what hasn�t been done, inventing something new, and turning the world upside down.

As you can imagine, this could throw a wrench into existing relationships based on structured rules and strict adherence to traditional values. But the discomfort is balanced by the potential benefits. Venus in Aquarius is interested in creating more fairness, balance and equality in relationships. But equal does not mean identical partners. We desire relationships with people of like mind and with those who will challenge and stretch our thinking. As an Air sign Aquarius wants to connect, socialize, share information, and provoke.

We can have lots of fun with Venus in Aquarius if we value being free-spirited and unorthodox. Friendship is very important. In fact, when Venus is in Aquarius we may be more interested in our friends than in lovers. We are seeking true soul mates of the mind and spirit. This is a mental connection rather than a physical one.

And while we are on the subject, be advised. Venus now joins the Sun, Jupiter, Saturn and retrograding Mercury in Aquarius. This is where it�s happening in the cosmos! And there is a New Moon in Aquarius on the 11th of February. Better get on the train without rails or be left behind. Retrograding Mercury insures we go deeper than usual, evaluating the security of the past verses the potential gifts of the future.

There is a special quality to this February and planets gathering in humanitarian and socially reforming Aquarius. It�s powerful all on its own, but it ignites many sparks and debates as each of these planets form squares with Mars and Uranus in Taurus. Many changes and adjustments are inevitable and a number of factors need to be considered. Life is dynamic!

This week, we have a couple of excellent opportunities to learn and observe. Although that�s not quite accurate; observing from the sidelines is probably not a viable option with Venus joining Saturn on Friday and squaring Uranus on Saturday. This is auspicious energy calling us to make and/or break commitments in our lives. Please don�t skip these daily write-ups.

Before we close on Venus in Aquarius I�d like to highlight a person who may exemplify this energy by living his life and making decisions that are certainly unexpected, and in a world tightly controlled by tradition and expectations � Pope Francis (elected in 2013). He was born with both Moon and Venus in Aquarius so we shouldn�t be too surprised if he colors outside the lines! He started his tenure as head of the Catholic Church with a number of breakthroughs. He is the first Jesuit pope; the first Latin American pope from the America�s and the first non-European pope in more than 1,000 years.

He has surprised many with his assertions that the church should rethink some of its traditions. Wait? What? I grew up Catholic; this doesn�t sound very familiar. Although he has not necessarily broken with the church on issues of homosexuality and abortion, his attitudes are light years away from the historical positions of zero tolerance and judgment around these issues. He has even gone so far as to suggest �the church could support some types of civil unions�, and despite the church's opinions, �it does not have the right to interfere spiritually in the lives of gays and lesbians.� Reportedly in 2017 dozens of conservative Catholic scholars and clergy sent a letter to Pope Francis accusing him of spreading heretical positions on marriage and morality. I�m no expert, but this sounds like Aquarius energy on the path of progress.

I�m not offering these statements with a judgment of whether they are right or wrong but as an example of the energy of Aquarius. People guided by this energy are way showers with a willingness to shatter glass ceilings and breakthrough conventional ideas, habits, routines, and structures. Breakdowns often foreshadow Breakthroughs. It�s not always true, but sometimes when we witness the old guard crying �heretic� we know we are looking at an Aquarius with the spirit of Prometheus willing to defy the gods in order to forge a path into the future. Not all rebels are enlightened; but may we be slow to judge the heretics, dissenters and non-conformists, for they may be the visionaries imagining a new world the rest of us have yet to see.

Until next week, let go and wear loose clothes.

February 1
Moon in Virgo/Libra
Venus enters Aquarius 6:05am
The Moon goes Void of Course 3:10am enters Libra at 3:25am

Have you ever fought or disagreed with someone in a dream only to wake up being angry at them? Or maybe you have had the experience of waking up feeling frustrated and annoyed with no obvious reason or target for your feelings. This could describe this morning since the Sun in Aquarius made a jarring square with bold Mars in Taurus in the middle of the night. This lingering feeling of competition and needing to get our way regardless of the costs should dissipate fairly quickly. This connection is energizing but also tends to drain away our energy especially if we direct it in inappropriate ways. If you find yourself stomping around or being overtly aggressive you might want to stop and ask yourself if you like feeling and behaving this way. If the answer is �no� you are already on the path to realizing you can make a different choice.

We get a lot of help clearing the cobwebs of conflict with the Moon gliding into agreeable Libra early this morning. This Libra Moon occurring a few days after the Full Moon (last Thursday) is social and a peace maker at heart. We lean into the idea of listening to both sides of a story. We may not agree with others but we are willing to cooperate and try to understand different perspectives. Mid-day when Luna makes a positive connection with Saturn it�s easier to find agreement with others, especially in business and professional situations. This evening, the Moon�s alignment with hopeful Jupiter bodes well for both learning and social activities.

Venus the planet of love and values makes an important change today, entering mental and independent Aquarius. The cosmos is building toward critical mass with the Sun, Mercury, Jupiter, Saturn, and now Venus joining the party in this progressive and forward-thinking sign. Like a tidal wave we either get on board or hunker down somewhere waiting for it to blow over. (Hint: With Jupiter and Saturn in Aquarius, this storm of change and push towards new foundations and norms is not going to dissipate anytime soon.)

Uranus-ruled Aquarius can be rebellious and revolutionary, but is also the sign of friendship. We tend to elevate relationships with people who think like us, and/or who stretch our minds and hearts toward something new. Venus in Aquarius is experimental and prefers unorthodox relationships and partners. (I can hear the parents of teenagers groaning and with good reason!) Independence and fairness is prized in relationships. We aspire to being free-spirited and are attracted to people, events, and ideas that feed our need to be unusual and aligned with the future.

Venus in autonomous Aquarius can feel disruptive to established relationships and social norms; but remember it�s simply one stop along the cosmic journey for Venus. Allow yourself and your partners more independence and freedom. Friendship at this time is paramount. Focus on the friendship aspects of your relationships with loved ones; and if you are so inclined you might also find your friends evolving toward a relationship of greater closeness or intimacy. Explore, experiment, and be open to the unfamiliar.

Daily Muse: Depicting the Pope as a sort of Superman, a star, is offensive to me. The pope is a man who laughs, cries, sleeps calmly and has friends like everyone else. A normal person. (Pope Francis Moon and Venus in Aquarius)

February 2
Moon in Libra
The Moon goes Void of Course 10:15pm

The harmony-building Libra Moon mostly gets her way today cruising through her agenda with no obvious or blatant challenges to her peace-making efforts. With no planetary aspects during daylight hours we might enjoy a relatively drama-free day. Well maybe. Little if any conflict occurs as we do our best to avoid any provocative conversations and interactions. We are more likely to walk away then to engage. This lunar energy considers it impolite and certainly rude to purposefully instigate conflict. Can�t we all just go to lunch or meet for a Zoom social hour and laugh?  

Our hearts are craving a respite and a little touch of heaven and synchronicity in the midst of challenging times. Even though we can�t resolve every issue, we can table some of our worries at least for a few hours. This is a great day for participating in the flow of life focusing on giving and receiving. If you have something to donate or pass on to someone else, do it. You might also facilitate a transaction linking a friend looking for something with the knowledge of how to acquire it or with someone looking to give or sell. You might make someone�s day through a purchase or receiving something they have to give. This is a day to share both our wants and our abundance. This includes knowledge, tips, and material goods too. If you want or need something, put the word out there.

On a personal note, my parents made a significant move this last week, leaving a home they had lived in for 40 years. Part of that move included giving away the trampoline Santa Clause brought to me and my siblings decades ago. I can�t even begin to count the hours of joy and the generations of adults and children who have interacted and laughed on this equipment. The neighbor children were in the right place at the right time. They were ecstatic when my brother asked them if they wanted it and their parents agreed. From the squeals coming from their yard, I have to imagine they are thoroughly enjoying their present!

The energy is a bit crankier tonight when the Moon bumps up against a square with inflexible Pluto in Capricorn. Those humanitarian ideals may temporarily come crashing down in the harsh light of cold reality. This is a good reminder life has many shades of gray, and all levels of compromise. Just because things aren�t perfect doesn�t mean we can�t hope and aspire to higher levels of cooperation. Thankfully the Moon also aligns with Mercury in Aquarius and a touch of optimism is restored before we call it a night. Take hold of your thoughts and mind � they are your greatest assets for creating your experience.  

Daily Muse: Well, all I know is this�nothing you ever learn is really wasted, and will sometime be used. (Julia Child Moon in Libra trine Uranus in Aquarius)

February 3
Moon in Libra/Scorpio
Void of Course enters Scorpio at 6:15am

Peace and harmony may be harder to conjure up today with the Moon diving into mysterious Scorpio. Not that Scorpio is conflicted; it�s just harder to read other people and sometimes motivations are far from obvious. With the Moon making conflicting squares with Venus this morning and Saturn this afternoon, we might be feeling some backlash. Getting into the spirit of all these planets in Aquarius we might be suggesting more independence and autonomy in our relationships. These attempts at giving relationships the room to evolve and grow may be met with a cold reception over the next two days. The Moon in sensuous and passionate Scorpio is likely to misinterpret these attempts as betrayal or rejection. As with most lunar connections, at least the effect is temporary. Recognize the Scorpio Moon is quick to pick up on any hint of rejection. Don�t be alarmed if well-intentioned ideas seem to hit the wrong mark.

On a more positive note, Mercury in Aquarius makes a clever and innovative connection to Uranus helping us find workarounds not only for hurt feelings but also for challenging dilemmas. This often manifests as a burst of insight that can be used effectively by those quick enough to grab it. This will help us rethink any misses we experienced today and deal with the Lunar opposition to Uranus this evening.

Tonight rather than trying to cooperate, we feel an urgency to go it alone, or at least take a time out. This is probably not the time for a cozy feel-good evening at home with friends or loved ones. If someone feels hurt or grumpy they are not likely to be talked out of their mood. They will respond positively to kindness and allowing them to work things out on their own.

Daily Muse: That�s why I�ll never run for office. Because you have to be too clean. I am not clean. I�ve had a lot of mud. Forget the skeletons, I�ve got the mud. And, know what? I don�t want to have to explain me to anybody. (Whoopi Goldberg � Sun Moon, Mercury and Saturn in Scorpio)

February 4
Moon in Scorpio
The emotional forecast is calling for grouchy with the possibility of outbursts. Eruptions are most likely to occur at the beginning and end of the day with the Moon in Scorpio fighting with Mars this morning and with Mercury late tonight. It�s hard to hide our frustration and annoyance. Tempers flare and we tend to be more selfish and self-centered (in the negative way) than usual. With the Sun in Aquarius also squaring the Moon mid-morning we take offense easily feeling misunderstood and maybe angry that others are not taking the time to appreciate our needs, preferences and desires.

The emotional winds are blowing with more gentleness mid-afternoon when the Moon aligns with Neptune in sensitive and compassionate Pisces. At least for awhile we may glimpse the hurt in ourselves and others and act more kindly. This may or may not linger through evening when the Moon squares Mercury in Aquarius. Telling someone what we really think with a lack of tact or diplomacy can get us into trouble.

Days with high emotional variability is like navigating a sailboat on the ocean � demanding but not without its perks. Even rough seas can prove thrilling with the right equipment and attitude. My repetitive but everlasting advice is look for happiness within yourself. Don�t expect others to be mind-readers (except on 12Listen.com LOL). When we wait for someone else to figure out what we want, take offense when they don�t understand or meet our needs, we are doomed to disappointment. Learning to deal with a full range of feelings in ourselves and others is part of the key to staying sane and functional. Know your personal triggers and recognize when you are going down the rabbit hole towards a full-blown upset.

Happiness is not controlling the emotional weather, but in learning to enjoy its abundant manifestations and quirks. And never forget, just like planetary weather, if you don�t like what�s happening, wait a minute. It�s bound to change.

Daily Muse: One of the things I learned when I was negotiating was that until I changed myself, I could not change others. (Nelson Mandela � Moon in Scorpio)

February 5
Moon in Scorpio/Sagittarius
The Moon goes Void of Course 1:20am enters Sagittarius at 9:15aM.

The emotional winds are blowing from a different direction today as the Moon glides into adventurous Sagittarius. We may not be quite as optimistic as sometimes, but we are passionate about being open to finding truth wherever it resides. This willful Moon energy makes harmonious and fortifying alignments with Venus and Saturn this evening which are the opening acts to a more auspicious hookup between Venus and Saturn this evening.  

Venus and Saturn come together about once a year � give or take a few months. (Unless it is a year in which Venus retrogrades which may create a repeat performance. This isn�t one of those years.) Personally, I really like this energy because it is clarifying and leads to important decisions and commitments around love and finances and anything else we find important and valuable.

There is a no-nonsense energy with Saturn being the planet of organization, structure, and discipline. It can separate us from previous decisions and commitments if its light reveals a lack of integrity or purpose in these previous alliances. Purpose is everything to Saturn! What is your goal? What do you want? Why? Are you willing to pay the price, do the work, and persevere to accomplish it? Do you have the patience to remain devoted over the necessary time for a step-by-step effort? Don�t attempt to argue with or fool Saturn in mental Aquarius. You will not be pleased with the results. This stern but dedicated task-master will show us the way to manifestation of our desires if we are willing to make the necessary commitment and follow through with loyalty and dedication.

When Saturn and Venus meet tonight there could be some disappointment. Old goals may not have materialized and will be recycled or composted in favor of applying our energies to what we most desire NOW. Saturn clears the way for new commitments and loyalties. Enter into an agreement today with the power of Venus and Saturn and be ready for action. Clarifying and agreeing to an intention sets it in motion. This is a powerful and auspicious time; don�t treat it with indifference. Unless of course, you are not interesting in taking the reins and directing your path. Engagements and weddings are forthcoming for those so inclined.

Daily Muse: It's fine to celebrate success but it is more important to heed the lessons of failure� Headlines, in a way, are what mislead you because bad news is a headline, and gradual improvement is not. (Bill Gates � Venus and Saturn tightly conjunct in Scorpio)

February 6
Moon in Sagittarius
Moon Goes Void of Course at 10:16pm

We are feeling positive and motivated, especially toward decisions we made yesterday under the influence of the Venus Saturn conjunction. We are already considering strategies and making plans. Today the Moon in hopeful Sagittarius connects with expansive Jupiter early this morning boosting our enthusiasm. It should be relatively smooth sailing through late afternoon when the Sun in Aquarius also makes a positive connection to the Moon adding a sense of credibility to our choices.

However, a feeling of doom and gloom may be building. Our enthusiasm and confidence starts to wane with doubts in early evening when the Moon squares dreamy Neptune in Pisces. Were our hopes and dreams nothing more than illusions and fantasies? Were we �under the influence� yesterday when we made this commitment? This is followed by a daunting square between Venus and Uranus mid-evening. No doubt, this connection can be fickle, unpredictable, and indecisive. Am I making a mistake? I agreed, accepted his proposal, decided to sell or buy a house, move, or quit a job; what was I thinking? Am I ready for this compromise, commitment, or change in my life?

It�s quite fascinating, really, that a disruptive square between Venus and Uranus would occur so quickly following the solidifying conjunction of Venus with Saturn. We might be lucky that this obstacle occurs so early in the process. We can deal with it and move on. Even though there is a possibility we did act rashly around a decision, it�s more likely we are simply letting its gravity sink into our brains and hearts.

It�s natural to feel unsure or scared making life-changing decisions. My instinct says most decisions made on Friday were sound and worthwhile. Deal with the discomfort and look at any negative feelings that come up which could be nothing more than responding to unfamiliar territory. Excitement and anxiety are nearly identical feelings! If you are really not ready to follow-though then listen to that.

Venus square Uranus makes us want to escape! But for most, adopting a plan and strategy and dealing with challenges will be a natural and even enjoyable part of a new path. If you want absolute certainty you are on the wrong planet. (Maybe you should have read the fine print on the Earth brochure.) We do feel somewhat reassured in late evening when the adventurous Sagittarius Moon connects with Mercury in forward-leaning Aquarius.

Remember Mercury is moving retrograde so there are some adjustments we need to make to our thinking and to our plan. Edits and revisions are to be expected. Our path lies ahead, not behind. Trust yourself and trust the power of a thoughtful plan with enough structure to withstand obstacles and enough flexibility to adjust as needed. Think of all those buildings and structures that have been designed to withstand high winds and even earthquakes. Strength does not preclude flexibility.  

Daily Muse: It's very satisfying. To perform the way you want to. And the way you know that you can. (Aretha Franklin � Venus in Aquarius square both Saturn and Uranus conjunct in Taurus)

February 7
Moon in Sagittarius/Capricorn
Void of Course Moon enters Capricorn at 12:52pm

We are emotionally ready or at least willing to put indecision behind us mid-day when the Moon moves into pragmatic and dedicated Capricorn. (Ruled by Saturn!) Maybe Saturn is having the last say in this week�s cosmic debate. This Moon makes no planetary connections until early tomorrow morning, so it has pretty much free reign to exert its influence.  

We are tempering the Sagittarius enthusiasm of the last few days with the serious pragmatism of Capricorn�s view of reality. The scales seem to be swinging to the extreme; but don�t worry; they will find their natural center and balance. Having weathered the storm of doubt yesterday, if we are still committed to a path we are even more devoted now. Assessing our resources and calculating what we will need in the future is part of the necessary planning. We may go a bit overboard today with thinking we need to plan every detail and account for every penny. We are serious and sober today about our ideas and plans for the future.

Probably not the best time to suggest an increase in an allowance, a bonus at work or ask someone to foot the bill for an expensive or lavish wedding or celebration. We are feeling cautious and responsible with our finances. It is a good time to look at our attitudes toward scarcity and abundance and the attachments we have to money and resources. Do we equate them with self-esteem or try to trade them for recognition, approval or love? We might want to consider what it means to �respect� money and consider how we judge ourselves positively or negatively around our financial decisions. Doesn�t sound like much fun does it! But it can be satisfying to take more responsibility if we have been too cavalier, or to be generous if we have been too miserly.  

Daily Muse: Few people have the virtue to withstand the highest bidder. (George Washington � Moon in Capricorn)