This is the fourth in my series “Astrologers Across America”

Tom Jacobs is an evolutionary astrologer, medium and channel in Tucson, AZ with an active private practice with clients around the country and around the globe. A member of evolutionary astrologer Steven Forrest’s Apprenticeship Program since 2004, his work supports people to uncover and connect deeply with what their souls are here to do.

Tom is the author of the books Living Myth: Exploring Archetypal Journeys and Seeing Through Spiritual Eyes: A Memoir of Intuitive Awakening. His writings on astrology and spirituality have appeared in Dell Horoscope Magazine, Aspects Magazine, and InnerChange Magazine. Contact Tom via www.tdjacobs.com.

“For me, astrology is only a spiritual tool; it’s a language.”

“In 2004 I made the very wise decision to attend an OPA retreat…and really got support and encouragement there.”

Dianne Eppler Adams, CAP, has a full-time consulting practice in Alexandria, VA since 1995. Using a Western psychological-spiritual approach, her life-enhancing insights aid each Soul’s unique journey to Oneness by bringing Spirit into their everyday life. She is certified by the International Society for Astrological Research and a member of the National Committee for Geocosmic Research (NCGR), and the Organization for Professional Astrology (OPA). She writes a popular monthly New Moon newsletter and you can signup at www.SpiritinMatters.com.

Stella Starsky, Ron Archer, and Quin Cox next to the large-print edition of "Cosmic Coupling"

This past Tuesday night was a chilly evening in Miami but things heated up at the new W on South Beach where I caught up with Stella Starsky and Quin Cox. They were in town to promote their latest book Cosmic Couplings. This survey of the astrological combinations is an engaging, smart, and, at times, naughty look at how our signs and sex mix and mingle.

Their first book, Sextrology examines each sign from a male and female perspective and aptly captures the subtle difference between the sexes. It’s a great reference book you’ll check again and again and come to rely on for its witty, insightful and accurate profiles.

“I can’t go on being the shy, quiet me,” she said. “I need to stand up.”

This summer Uranus, planet of liberation, rebellion, an revolution makes its ingress into Aries. While that will be enough to rouse individuals to make sweeping changes in their lives, it will also make a square aspect to Pluto, planet of power and evolution. When these two planets aspect one another we can expect social and cultural revolutions to burst forth.

Uranus and Pluto were conjunct, or together, in the sky in the mid-1960s. During that time we witnessed a major revolution in social norms, political policies, and cultural traditions. But that was just the beginning of the cycle. Now as these two approach their first quarter square we’re likely to see people begin to take action to manifest the social changes initiated in the ’60s.

With Pluto now in Capricorn, the sign that rules social structures and governments, it’s clearly a time for change in how these systems work. The Tea Party movement, while it may be disturbing for those of us who are more centrist or liberal in our views, is really only the beginning of a shift that will happen over the next ten years. The “right” may be organizing now (probably because of the lack of power of their party) but soon enough all of us will be pledging our allegiances to one or another social movement in order to bring about widespread and authentic changes to our government and our country. Watch this space for more as it develops!

I’m a month and a half into the new year I feel great about the progress I’m making on my goals. Last month I talked about the personal board of directors I formed to help me become more successful and one of my goals is to launch a line of pet products. After the last few years of fits and starts it’s amazing that I’m starting to see things moving forward. Being able to plug into the knowledge of my board and use them as a sounding board has made all the difference (thanks Duane, James, Keith, and Rick!)

Last month with the new moon in Capricorn I talked about what we need to consider in order to be successful. Capricorn rules achievement because of its ability to wisely use its resources and remain committed to its goals. Aquarius follows because we soon realize that to maintian any level of success we need each other.

The Astrology of the New Moon

This month’s new moon occurs on February 13, 2010 at 25° of Aquarius. Aquarius is called the water bearer because he appears to be pouring water from a large vessel but it’s actually an air sign, which means it experiences life through  thoughts, concepts, and principles. The water that is being poured out is often described as the collective consciousness- those ideas, stories, and myths we share as human beings.

Water is a symbol for healing and this constellation may represent the healing that comes to humanity when we can collectively acknowledge and accept one another and our shared experiences. Our ability to think collectively and speak individually contributes to our continued evolution both as a species and as a reflection of divine consciousness.

The new moon is less than 1° from the planet Neptune. Neptune is less about concrete reality and more about etheral experiences and a state of transcendance. Neptune blurs the boundaries between us and our environment giving us an accute sensitivity to others.

The astrological meaning of Aquarius is also heavily infuenced by the mythology of Prometheus, the trickster god who stole fire from the gods and gave it to the humans. The new moon in Aquarius is also a great time for being innovative and unique and for being recognized as an original thinker.

Saturn rules Aquarius and Saturn’s having a hard time keeping it together right now. It’s retrograde until the very end of May, which makes its expression less direct in the physical world and more internalized. With Saturn in Libra, the sign of the scales (an instrument used to both measure weight and ensure fairness) it’s time to recalibrate the tools we use in our lives- from our ability to judge and intuit to our ability to rationalize and reason.

Saturn is also squaring Pluto in the early degrees of Capricorn. This is the setup for a much more powerful aspect among Pluto, Uranus, and Saturn that will be close to exact in August 2010 (and which will reappear in 2011 sans Saturn) and is now beginning to move into orb (meaning they’re close enough to one another by a number of degrees to be considered in effect).

Pluto and Uranus transits are traditionally understood to be a time of cultural revolution. But until we recalibrate ourselves as individuals we can’t expect the systems and structures we’ve created to support us to change either. It’s important to remember that we are the force behind economies, governments, and insitutions; and not powerless to make a difference. The basis for this revolution is fueld by the Aquarian vision of a humanity that recognizes each other and respects our mutual existance.

And until that happens we may need to be more open and receptive to constructive criticism in order to help us recalibrate. What do I mean by recalibrate? I think we’re being called collectively to re-evaluate and reconsider our priorities and we can do that only through hearing objective feedback. The current conditions are favorable for confronting our insecurities in order to build competance- both aspects of Saturn, but in different expressions.

On the bright side, Venus and Jupiter are coming together in Pisces on February 16. Amidst the current challenges this meeting of the two benfics in the sign of Jupiter’s rulership and Venus’s exaltation may offer us an opportunity to renew our optimism and meet the world more confidently.

I’m excited to see progress on my project and that alone builds confidence. The warm reception I’ve received in reaching out to people for advice and support also strengthens my resolve to actualize this goal. Keep pushing forward with your goals and remember to use your network- the collective body of knowledge all around you and available through the people around you.

Namaste’

Frederick Woodruff

Ron A.: Good afternoon, Frederick, and thanks for participating and being the first
interview in my new blog series, “Astrologers Across America.”

Frederick Woodruff: You’re welcome.

RA: Is astrology a full time business for your or is it a part time?

FW: It’s definitely part time. I don’t know if I could do it full time just
because of the level of intensity involved.

RA: You give very intense readings?

FW:  Well, (laughs) my style of working with clients is informed by the
Diamond Approach, a spiritual school that was started in Berkeley,
California in the 70s by Hameed Ali. Folks might be familiar with his books
that he writes under the pen name of A.H. Almaas.

RA: How does the Diamond Appraoch fit into your work with clients?

FW: Well, the Diamond Approach is a contemporary spiritual path that fosters
self-realization. You could say that beneath all the defenses and filters of
the personality lies the True Self. I try to assist my clients in forging a
more conscious, vital connection with that sense of self, one’s unique,
personal expression of True Nature.

RA: And you use the natal chart to uncover those personality filters?

FW: Yes, but primarily I work with the chart to begin active conversations
about the self. Often people are clueless as to what is driving them in
life. Or conversely, they aren’t clear about what’s important to them; what
they really want from life. But yes, it’s definitely about understanding the
difference between personality — our acquired sense of self — and our
genuine and unique self, the self that is of our essence.

RA: Who are your typical clients?

FW: Generally people who are spiritual students, on some path or way. Also
artists, musicians, people dealing with blocks to their creativity. But
generally my clients are folks that are involved in some process of
self-awareness.  I tend to pass on clients that come to me for predictive
work. There are astrologers who do that much better than myself.

RA: When you say you don’t prognosticate about certain things is that
because it’s not the kind of service you offer or you prefer not to
“dabble”…

FW: I like to give people their money’s worth. So I suppose I’m conducting
sessions the way I consider a session to be valuable. I have found that what
is most satisfying for someone is when they genuinely get in touch with
their core, with their true nature — in the end that means more than having
half-baked notions about the future. Ideas that may or may not come to pass
for the client. I don’t think astrology can tell the future. Astrology can
catalog trends, but, there are no specifics. I think it’s a waste of time
really to predict. I know that sounds scandalous coming from an astrologer,
but, well — there it is.

RA: You live on Vashon Island, Washington- what’s that like?

FW: Vashon. Wow. It’s a little of everything and everyone. People that move
to an island tend to have a certain interiority. They like the privacy and
being away from the urban grind.

RA: More eccentric than your typical town?

FW: Yes, there are a lot of artists here, we’ve a big artists community,
several retreat centers; lots of organic farmers, hippies roaming the hills.
It’s fairly madcap and eccentric. Island life fosters that kind of
atmosphere.

RA: How many poeple live there?

FW: There’s about 10,000 residents. And what’s great about Vashon is you can hop a
boat and be in downtown Seattle in 30 minutes. I do enjoy theater and good
food so I’ll go over to the city and get my taste of that and then come home
and and chill in the country.

RA: I really like your website — your writing is personal and conversational.
Most of my content revolves around the specifics of
astrology and how to use it practically – “here’s what’s happening in the sky,
how it may affect the circumstances around us, and here’s something
practical to do with it…” But it’s even taken me awhile to begin writing in
the first person! Have you been blogging for a while?

FW: I’ve always written and when I first moved to Seattle I started this
crazy job as a telephone psychic.

RA: Tell me about that.

FW: I moved here from Hawaii and and quickly burned through my savings and I
had a friend who was working for one of those networks. He hooked me up with
a manager. And I was hired on the spot. I answered lines for, god, I can’t
believe I did it for about a year and a half.

RA: Now doesn’t this sounds polar opposite to what you just said about your
current clients?

FW: You know, that actually informed the direction that I ended up taking
because I felt like I paid off all my karma for loving reality tv shows
(laughs). It was grinding work though, acting as a kind of kind of oracular
astrologer. You can image all of the questions, “Will I have a boyfriend?
Will I win the lottery next week? Am I going to be sick?” It was a challenge
to find a way to work with questions like that.

RA: Did you work at home?

FW: In the old days of the lines they would have boiler rooms — you know
what those are?

RA: No.

FW: It’s where everyone had to come in and sit in cubicles and then as
technology got better they could route calls right to your house. So I had a
headset and worked out of my bedroom. The phone rang constantly. I’ll send
you a copy of the book I wrote, Secrets of a Telephone Psychic.

RA: When I think of someone who calls a psychic hotline I picture someone
who is up late watching a talk show or sketch comedy show. Is that really
the audience or am I misperceiving them?

FW: Well Ron, at the end of my run I’m sure I’d talked to every trailer park
denizen in America. It was difficult because I felt like I was dealing with
a lot of uneducated people; superstitious people; desperate people. I mean,
I kept a list of 800 numbers right by the phone because I’d get calls like
“…my husband is an alcoholic, he is beating me, will we finally start to
love me?” And I’d interrupt her and pass along a domestic abuse number. God,
it was such a kaleidoscope of the collective unconscious.

RA: Sounds like very “twelfth house” type of stuff.

FW: Very much. Well my Sun is in the 12th, so it’s no surprise I did a stint
as phone psychic. But I’d say about one out of every twenty calls was from
someone genuinely interested in astrology or Tarot. They were educated about
what was possible. So, it was that kind of a mix.

RA: How did you bud as a young astrologer? If you read on my website I was
always fascinated with astrology, but we were raised very Catholic and I was
forbidden from reading astrology in the paper, but it sounds like for you,
it was something you were exposed to early and often. Who were the two women
you studied with?

FW: Well my main teacher was Ivy Goldstein Jacobson. Gosh, when I look back
on it now it would be the equivalent of having Liz Greene taking you under
her wing. I mean Ivy was that established and respected within the
community.

RA: And you found her just by writing to her?

FW: I wrote to the AFA and I got a list of astrologers in California. I
think I was about 13 when I did this. They sent me a list and then my
hellbent Moon in Scoprio took over from there. I sat there at my old
Underwood and typed out letters to every astrologer on that list, asking if
they’d teach a young kid the craft! Ivy responded and said “…it’s great
you’re only thirteen, it’s the perfect time to learn astrology. I’ll offer
you my courses. And oversee your instruction.” I worked with her through her
correspondence course for about two years.

I also attended classed taught by Margaret Latvala, one of Ivy’s students,
who taught astrology above her garage in LA. Have you ever ready Jacobson’s
book?

RA: I have not.

FW: I would check them out. Ivy was very old school, nuts and bolts
astrology. She’ll put hair on your chest! She was an Aires and wrote and
taught with fierce conviction. And experience. I think you’d enjoy her
writing. Her book on horary is the best that’s out there. In total, her
books were very odd because, in true Arian spirit, she wouldn’t let anyone
else publish her work; she would type everything out herself, have it
photo-set, and then have THAT printed and hardbound into books. So you’re
actually reading HER typewritten words. When you encounter her books you’ll
see what I mean — they’re one of a kind!

RA: In your teens did you have other aspirations or did you know you wanted
to do astrology?

FW: I’m a genuine twelfth house Sun person. I never ever had any inkling
about life direction. And Neptune squares my Sun too. So I’d no notion of
what I was going to do with life. And yet I’ve done quite a lot. (I always
realize that after the fact) I’ve worked as an art director; I’ve written
for newspapers; I’ve painted modern art; I’ve taught astrology; I’ve driven
fork lifts. That’s the thing about Sun-Neptune contacts — there isn’t a
strong sense of self there. In fact that’s what their sense of self is all
about — that they don’t have a strong sense of self (laughs). So it’s all a
journey in learning to trust what unfolds, using reality as a guide to
finding out who one is.

Jung had that Sun Neptune square, and I think that’s why individuation was
such a key component to his form of psychology; because he was discovering
his sense of self with each inquiry into who he was.

RA: Do you use the nodes in your work?

FW: Absolutely!

RA: Where is your north node?

FW: In Sag.

RA: When you look at a chart, and I know you’re coming from a different
perspective with the Diamond Approach, you talked about those filter, are
there one or two you scan for first?

FW: The Sun to me is such a key because it represents how essence finds a
particular expression in life. I think the Sun is taken for granted in
astrology — maybe it’s fallout from Sun sign astrology? The Sun is that
heart or nucleus of the self. And it fuels everything. That life giving
principle, and how it’s configured in an individual, is such a major factor
to try and understand.

If I had to ‘read’ a chart in three minutes, I’d look at the natal Sun and
Saturn, and then what Uranus is doing by transit. That would allow me to
give someone a crazy-fast overview of what they’re about and what’s opening
up in their life in the moment. And the nodes, if I have time to spend time
in the chart. The nodes are probably the most mysterious points in a chart
and yet the most telling.

RA: Are you active in a local astrology club? Are there regional
organizations…?

FW: I’m pretty bad with that stuff. I’ve gone to conferences and it feels
like a lot of blowharding and posturing to me. I don’t know. I took an aim
this year to try to and push myself out there more and to do the Norwac
conference. Someone like Rob Hand I’d love to hear speak.

RA: I’d encourage you to. Our local club is very active and we bring in
speakers each month.

FW: I’m really into the British astrologers right now.

RA: Me too! If only I had the money to spend a summer in London and study!

FW: Really! A book you shouldn’t miss is a book by Dennis Ellwell called,
“Cosmic Loom,” He’s a UK astrologer, he must be about 85 now. That’s one of
the most brilliant, well executed astrology books I’ve read in thirty years!
It will turn your head inside out about astrology. You kind of have to
devote yourself to it because it’s so tightly written. It’s brilliant. It’s
actually back in print now.

All those UK astrologers amaze. The legendary folks like C.E.O Carter; he
represents such a sound bedrock of good astrological principals. And of
course you know Liz Greene, I know she’s a cliche for a lot of people
nowadays, but I think she’s awesome.

RA: That’s who I started reading as a new astrologer. She kind of brought
astrology back to life in a way.

FW: I know traditional astrologers take issue with her because her approach
becomes so psychology-oriented. But I think she really knows her shit. And
writes from that place. You know how so many astrology books feel like
you’re participating in a game of telephone. People passing along and
diluting information without offering anything original or groundbreaking to
the reader. I think Liz is someone who really writes from her being and from
her experiences in the therapeutic trenches.

At this point in my life, and with my ongoing love affair with astrology, I
try to do the same thing. Use the tradition and my experience to assist a
client in a way that helps him connect with who he truly is. I think we each
want that feeling of giving expression to our true self — who we are as
unique beings. Not what our parents wanted from us, or our teachers or
church — but what we essentially are as living beings. That’s astrology’s
greatest gift — helping us to become truly, uniquely ourselves. ¤

Frederick Woodruff can be reached at his website astroinquiry.com

As the first decade of the new millenium comes to a close and we hear more and more about 2012, a group of south Florida astrologers welcome the changes happening in the world around us. Those astrologers belong to the South Florida Astrological Association, one of the oldest astrology clubs in the state. “This club was the by-product of what was awakened in the 1960s at the last Saturn-Uranus oppostion,” says Brenda Brush, one of the earliest members and past president. “Groups had to form to contain the new energy that was released into our culture at that time.” And now, as Saturn and Uranus oppose each other, astrology and metaphysics are gaining interest again.

The South Florida Astrological Association has a long history. As Brush recounts the story, Josephine Sabino was teaching astrology for the Dade County school system in the adult education program in North Miami Beach in the late 1960s. In 1968 she organized the first group of astrologers as the Hollywood Astrological Association. This early group would meet above Jaxson’s ice cream parlor in Hollywood and share astrological information with each other. Josephine’s strong spirit (Scorpio on the Midheaven) and caring nature (Cancer sun) laid the groundwork for nurturing astrologers from all over the world.

On July 3, 1971 the club was chartered as a 501c(3) giving it a non-profit status. The SFAA is the largest astrology club in south Florida and throughout its 41 years has nurtured, educated, and inspired countless astrologers and astrology-enthusiasts. The club holds monthly meetings and workshops lead by well-known astrologers on a variety of educational, topical, and enlightening subjects.

Brenda describes the chart for the club and how it aptly describes its mission. “Our Scorpio moon shows that we’re a group for the ’seekers’ of this esoteric knowledge, and yet the club continues to evolve. What was secret can longer be secret in the Age of Aquarius.

“The chart of the club also has Saturn in Gemini, which means the responsible distributor of information. We make information available to so people can think for themselves.”

Over the years the SFAA has been host to numerous well-known and respected astrologers including Ray Meriman, Isabelle Hickey, Ziphora Dobyns, Buzz Meyers, Rob Hand, and Michael Lutin. And regardless of your level of astrological knowledge the club has something for everyone.

The SFAA meets monthly from September through May and hosts one weekday evening lecture and a Saturday workshop. The club has been meeting at the Airport Hilton in Hollywood since 1990 has over 150 members, with about 50 active members participating each month.

Brenda considers the club an “incubator,” where ideas, knowledge, and commaraderie are free to grow. “No matter what level of interest, everyone walks away with something, and we all bring something to share.”

For more information, including meeting schedules and direction, visit our website at http://www.southfloridaastrologers.com/

A personal board of directors is a small group of trusted friends or colleagues with whom you share your goals for the purpose of creating accountability and considering other perspectives. I thought it was a great idea and I knew it could really help me to achieve more in 2010, so I emailed four close friends asking for their participation.

Each one of them enthusiastically agreed to be a part of my board and this past week we had our first monthly conference call. In it I outlined my high level goals for the year and some of the steps I think I should take to reach them. It was a really great call with input from everyone and my expectations around feeling heard, affirmed, and encouraged were definitely met. I believe, that for me, to be successful I need to be accountable and encouraged and  so I’m hoping this structure will work for me.

I share this with you because this month’s new moon is in Capricorn- the sign of achievement, ambition, and perseverance. This month offers all of us an opportunity to take that first step towards achieving our goals. Let’s take a look at the astrology of the new moon so that you can determine how to take advantage of this new monthly cycle.

The Astrology of the New Moon

The new moon occurs on January 15, 2010 at 25 degrees of Capricorn. As you may know the new moon is the time during which the sun and moon are together in the sky at the same degree of the zodiac. This is a symbol for “beginnings.” It doesn’t compel us to do anything, just as the spring weather doesn’t compel the farmer to plant. It’s simply a time when acting in concert with the universe supports your intentions, just as planting in the spring will yield better results than planting in the summertime. Even though the farmer may choose to wait until July he doesn’t because he wants to take advantage of the conditions. He also understands that time is actually an asset; whereas in our culture of instant gratification the thought of waiting or persevering may dissuade us from an otherwise successful venture.

But this new moon is special because it’s also a solar eclipse. Not only are the sun and moon at the same degree but they’re (close) to being on the same plane with the Earth- and when all three bodies are lined up it produces an eclipse. This new moon is near the north node and signifies a time when can welcome in the new, begin fresh, and press towards the future. It’s as though the universe is saying, “It can be different this time,” if we’re willing to step out and not look back.

In astrology the sign of Capricorn represents a stage of development that is concerned with social security- no, not the kind your grandma gets. Cancer and Capricorn are concerned with issues around security, but from different ends of the spectrum. Whereas Cancer is a water sign and deals with emotional, or inner security, Capricorn is an earth sign and its function is to create security externally in the world. That security is experienced through rules, traditions, and laws that in turn provide a standard, or guage, against which we can judge our success.

We can also think about the mountain goat- the constellation for Capricorn. The mountain goat is capable of reaching the top of the mountain, but only after slow and careful climbing. Thus, the sign of Capricorn also represents the need to achieve, master, and persevere. A key phrase for Capricorn is “I use,” and is usually interpreted as the “management” of resources (like time, money, stuff, etc.)  but more directly it’s about using ones resources without prejudice- that is, using them because they were produced to be used for our progress and survival and not to be hoarded.

During the time of year when the sun is in Capricorn the northern hemisphere is having its winter. Our ancestors survived on the food and fuel they stored away after the harvest. They judiciously used it up to enable survival until spring when the cycle began again. It’s like a glass test tube with a cigarette sealed inside that says, “In case of emergency break glass.” It’s time to break the glass. Begin (Capricorn=cardinal energy) to use (Capricorn) support systems (Saturn) in order to move forward (new moon eclipse).

Speaking of Saturn…Saturn is now transiting the sign of Libra, and Saturn loves to be in Libra- the energy of creating structures that promote stability (Saturn) meshes nicely with Libra’s desire for fairness and balance. So Saturn is strong right now- discipline is paying ten to one. Do it.

On January 14, 2010 Saturn stations retrograde. When Saturn is retrograde it’s time to restructure- attitudes, habits, systems, schedules, or relationships. You said you were going to meditate more. Now build that into the structure of your day. You want to lose weight. Now build it into your daily schedule and routine. Take the step and by May 31, 2010 when Saturn turns direct these things will be an integrated part of yourself. Saturn materializes and fortifies.

The new moon in Capricorn is therefore a time when we can set our intentions around those things we want to achieve- and achievement means pulling out all the stops. Where you have Capricorn in your chart is the area of life where you will want to gain mastery, be in charge, and have better control over it.

For example, Capricorn rules my second house of earned income. At this new moon I set my intentions on gaining control of my finances, persevering at creating more income, and achieving a healthier fiscal position. This doesn’t mean that just because I wish for those things they will automagically happen. The new moon is simply an invitation. But because the new moon is in Capricorn and in my second house I know what the theme of the party is, should I accept. The cosmic conditions are right for me to take action around my finances, but it’s up to me to act.

My personal board of directors is good example of how one might use this energy. Calling upon my friends (one of my resources) for the management and use of my other resources (time, money, etc.) in order to achieve my goals and objectives.

If you know your chart look for the house that’s ruled by Capricorn. This is the area of life where the new moon will invite you to begin anew. If you don’t know your chart you can order a PDF copy here.

There are currently five planets in Capricorn: the sun, moon, Mercury, Venus and Pluto- so this month’s empahsis is clearly on setting goals and working towards achieving them. For help on setting goals check out this article http://www.selfgrowth.com/articles/TristanLoo5.html

Venus at 25 degrees of Capricorn is also conjunct, or next to, the new moon. This is significant because it means we need to ensure our goals are line with our values. Venus is also the planet of relating, and her place along side this lunation reminds us that our relationships will have a significant role in our ability to achieve our goals. For example, the relationship I have with my friends who are also on my personal board of directors.

Are there relationships- either personal or professional- that you can leverage to help you get to that next level? If so, reach out to them. Venus also aspects Uranus (at 23 degrees of Pisces) and this symbolizes an opportunity we have to socialize and network in ways that are unexpected or surprising. Uranus also rules the internet, so take advantage of your Facebook friends or LinkedIn connections this month. Uranus likes buzz.

Mercury has been retrograde for a few weeks and reveals ways in which we can become more mindful. Proof-read your emails, carefully read contracts, notice where you put your keys, and back up your computer. Mercury will station direct on January 16, the day after the new moon. Now is the time to reformulate, renegotiate, and review your plans. Then the power of the new moon will be more significant as you move forward towards achieving success.

When Mercury makes its square to Saturn at this new moon the emphasis is on mind over matter. Don’t become distratcted and do follow protocal. Don’t say you’re on the list when you’re not on the list. Don’t try to sweet-talk yourself past Go. Don’t look for shortcuts, but instead persevere. The victory will be that much sweeter.

So what do you need to be successful?

That begs the question of what success means to you. If there’s something you’ve wanted to accomplish then now is the time to begin. And now is the time to use your resources, whether they be time, money, internet access, forty-five dollars, your Facebook friends, your website, or your reputation.

Capricorn’s association with the tenth house comes from its desire for recognition. The tenth house is how we’re seen by others- our public image. When the goat gets to the top of the mountain few can help but notice. The goat is also focused on a single goal- the mountain top! It’s much easier to make one change and integrate that into your routine than making two. Don’t be a hero, be successful. Start small. Then stick. to. it.

I wish you a happy and prosperous 2010. And if you’d like to schedule time to discuss your chart and how you can take advantage of this new cycle please contact me.

Namaste’

There has been lots of concern this past year, and rightly so, over the state of the economy. While we averted a major fiscal meltdown, the harm caused by the mortgage crises, the bank bailouts, and almost daily revelations of fraud and white-color crime has taken its toll on the spirit of many people.

An interesting side effect of this has been our desire to redefine what it means to be happy- and even redefine what it means to have enough. And the pop culture influence of books like “The Secret,” means that we’re all being encouraged to think positively, receive gratefully, and live authentically.

With the new moon in Sagittarius the word “abundance” comes to mind. Abundance falls within the realm of Sag for a few reasons, none of which are immediately obvious. First of all, when we think of abundance we think of money- and that’s usually represented by Taurus, or the second or eighth houses. Sagittarius is considered the sign of abundance because of its attitude- it tends towards optimism, is able to find the small pleasures in life, and sees each day as an ever expanding adventure. And it’s ruled by the planet Jupiter- the influence of growth, opportunity, and all that is overflowing.

Let’s look at the astrology of this new moon and then talk about how to utilize this cycle to bring more abundance into our lives.

Astrology of the New Moon

The new moon occurs on Wednesday, December 16 at 24 degrees of Sagittarius. Sagittarius is the sign of the archer, aiming high both morally and philosphically. Sag is a dual sign- his constellation is that of centaur, half horse and half man. That’s a symbol for our dual nature and descriptive of our base desires for freedom and pleasure and our aspirations toward developing the higher mind and purpose.

The new moon is a symbol for a beginning; an invitation from the universe to plant a seed, set an intention, or make a wish. With the new moon in Sagittarius appropriate intentions could involve higher education, travel, involvement in a spiritual or philosophical group, publishing (books or things on the internet), advertising, and other methods of spreading the word on a grand scale. All of these activities help to broaden our perspective- which is just another way of saying they help us to see and understand more of the world and the richness and connectedness all around us.

This new moon makes a trine aspect (120 degrees) to Mars in Leo, a fellow fire sign.  Mars is the planet of action, dynamite, and the pursuit of your desires. This is sure to add an extra measure of energy to whatever it is you begin at this time. In Leo that energy is expressed regally, proudly, and with a sense of flair. Leo wants recognition for its talents, and the actions you take now can bring you approval and appreciation from those around you.

The new moon also makes a square aspect (90 degrees) to Uranus at 22 degrees of Pisces. The energy of this month, while firey and active, could face some sudden reversals or unexpected slowdowns (Pisces is a water sign and mixed with fire could dampen the mood). Your best bet this month is to remain flexible- there are many ways to the top of the mountain and one of Sagittarius’s strengths is its ability to react to the changing current of life and remain optimistic about the outcome.

You can use this new cycle to bring more abundance into your life through a variety of ways. The first, and most important way, is to define abundance for yourself. Remember that abundance simply means fullness. What fills your life and brings you a sense of satisfaction? Spending time with your family? Collecting antique cars? Volunteering? Sagittarius is akin to The Fool in the tarot deck- that happy-go-lucky character with the wind at his heels with no particular direction in mind. He can make the most of any circumstance, but imagine the joy of charting a course and actually reaching your destination.

The next suggestion is to actively puruse (Mars) those things that are fun, engaging, and reflect what’s in your heart of hearts (Leo). In other words, be playful. Leo is the sign of play, and with Mars in Leo making an aspect to this new moon our pursuits should include a healthy dose of fun. Approaching things “playfully” changes our entire perspective. We’re no longer concerned about doing something the “right” way, but instead, doing something for the shear enjoyment of it. It could be argued that play and work are actually the same thing, the only difference is how you perceive it.

Sagittarius is also about discovering a higher purpose, finding a broader vista, and connecting with a nobler cause. Remembering that what we do and how we live affects others by potentially inspiring someone, liberating someone, or revealing a truth can bring us a deep and lasting sense of satisfaction.

And lastly, if you know your chart, wherever you have Sagittarius is where you might focus your energy this month. For example, I have 24 degrees of Sagittarius in my first house of self-interest, attitudes, and outlook on life. This is a great time for me to take a more optimistic outlook, broaden my attitudes, and get motivated by my personal interests. A new moon in the first house is about establishing one’s self and taking the first step on a new journey of stepping out in the world.

I challenge each of you this holiday season to define abundance and look for new ways that you can actively, playfully, and vigorously bring more of it (whatever “it” is) into your life.

May you have a safe and prosperous new year!
Namaste’

You will when you’re clear about what you need to be doing and what will bring you the most joy. Taurus is a workhorse. I know you’re not working because you’re not capable or willing. But right now your spirit is low because what you’ve done before no longer inspires you. It’s difficult because Taurus doesn’t welcome change, and with Sherri’s natal sun in the 8th house there is a tendancy to really focus on the survival aspects of life.

Let’s look at Sherrie’s chart more closely (Sherrie-Work-Biwheel). Sherrie is a Taurus with Venus and the moon close to her sun. Virgo, the ruler of her ascendent is also in Taurus. She has seven planets in fixed signs- this is someone who holds on and isn’t quick to change courses. The elements in astrology aptly describe our basic nature- whether that is energetic and active (like fire) or sensitive and emotional (like water). Fixed signs are also very much about security- and the less things change the greater the sense of security. But Taurus need to remember that that isn’t always the case- change is often necessary for renewal and building fortitude.

But over the last few years Sherrie has had her progressed Uranus and progressed Sun move over her MC, or career area. And in addition to those planets we find transiting Pluto squaring the whole lot at the end of his stay in Sagittarius. These are all major transits, and ones that coincide with a person desiring change, liberation, and fulfillment from his or her career. And because it’s affecting one angle (the MC in this case) also implies that it’s had a domino effect in the other angular areas of her life- her home (the IC), relationships (the Descendent), and how she approaches the world (Ascendent).

Sherrie has Gemini on the MC- so first of all it’s very likely that you’ll have multiple careers in your lifetime, as Gemini is the sign of twins. Gemini is also about speaking, writing, and learning. I’d venture to guess that Sherrie’s careers up to this point have involved at least some of those activities. The ruler of Gemini, Mercury, is also in Taurus in the 8th house, so perhaps her career involved teaching or sales. Taurus in the 8th makes me think of an insurance salesman or someone who sells financial instruments of one kind or another. Or perhaps she is an artist – doesn’t know it yet.

To answer your question directly- yes, you will find steady work again. The tumult of these past few years was to wake you up- to help you get in touch with something deeper inside of yourself that you’ve kept buried for too long. The transits of the outer planets, like Pluto, Neptune, or Uranus, are about helping us step outside of our comfortable egos and really get to the heart of the matter.

Transiting Neptune has also been squaring Sherrie’s progressed MC, which is now in Leo in the 11th house. Neptune’s function is to dissolve in order to get to the essense of something. Leo- another artist sign- is where both the progressed MC and the progressed moon are right now. The progressed moon is like a flashlight into our lives, and where it spends 30 months in a sign is where we’ll turn our focus. The progressed moon in Leo in the 11th house- that sounds like someone who is learning to express herself a little more among groups. Or it could be someone who is learning to become the leader of a group. Either way, you need the energy and attention of other like minded people right now- and whehter you find that in a local actors workshop or through a cause you truly believe in, I would encourage you to get involved.

And, the more you’re able to network the more likely you’ll come across more potential job leads.

Keep in mind, Sherrie that you’re also in a new progressed lunar phase. About two to two and a half years ago you turned a major chapter in your life. Now you’re at the start of a new 30 year cycle, so it’s natural to be apprehensive and unsure at this part of the journey- you’ve stepped onto a road you’ve never been down before. Over the next few years you’ll have the opportunity to make a clearer choice about which direction you want to take, so now that you have some time on your side I’d encourage you to do some real soul searching. It’s an astrological spring time in your life- what do you want to plant? What kinds of things do you want to harvest in about 13 years when you have your progressed full moon?

You will be productive again, Sherrie. That’s no doubt. But don’t look to the past of what you’ve been used to to provide it for you. It’s time to step out, be innovative, and seize the moment.

I wish you much success and do let us know how things work out!

Namaste’