George And Carrie

Note: I wrote this post on December 27, 2016. It discusses the loss of two stars in the entertainment business and the astrological events associated with this loss. The following year has been consistent - with the loss of other entertainment stars and tragic events at entertainment venues.

We lost two bright and shining stars this week - George Michael and Carrie Fisher. Both passed away at a relatively young age. These sorts of surprising and unexpected events tend to occur when the  planet of the unexpected, Uranus, switches directions. Uranus turns stationary direct very early on December 29 (on the West Coast). Carrie Fisher passed away on December 27 just days after having had a heart attack on a flight back from the UK (where she was on a book tour) on the 23rd. George Michael died in the UK at his home on Christmas morning (of heart failure).

George Michael is a double Cancer - natal Sun and Ascendant in the sign of the Moon child. His natal Moon is in Leo, giving him charisma and creativity. He has Mercury conjunct Venus (in Gemini), giving him a pleasant and even beautiful voice. His Mercury/Venus sextiles (60 degree angle - an easy/fortunate aspect) his natal Jupiter (the greater benefic) in Aries. My favorite song/hit of his is a duet with (Aries) Aretha Franklin. Transiting Pluto was transiting in opposition to his natal Ascendant at the time of his death. This type of transit can add a great deal of stress to one’s life. RIP George Michael.

Carrie Fisher has natal Saturn and the Moon’s North Lunar Node in her tenth house of career and public recognition. She was destined to be in the public eye. It is no surprise that she became famous as an actress in the motion picture industry as her natal Sun is conjunct her natal Neptune (ruler of that industry). This is how she shines (her light). It is also symbolic of her addiction to cocaine at one time. Her Sun/Neptune duo is located in her ninth house of air (and space) travel. One of her major successes was performing as Princess Leia in Star Wars. And, she had her heart (the Sun) attack in flight outside of LA flying over the ocean (Neptune). Carrie’s solar arc Pluto is conjunct her natal Sun/Neptune at this time.

Transiting Saturn is activating a couple of eclipses now - the solar eclipses of 9/12/15 and 3/08/16. Both eclipses occurred in conjunction or opposition to Carrie Fisher’s natal Jupiter/Venus in her eighth house of death. The 9/12/15 eclipse shows Neptune in the eighth house (in the Washington DC chart). The 3/08/16 eclipse occurred in Pisces (Neptune rules the sign), and I specifically stated that the eclipse could influence the motion picture industry in some way in my post describing that particular eclipse. RIP Carrie Fisher.

UPDATE: Debbie Reynolds, Carrie Fisher's mother, has now passed away as well. I may do a separate blog post for her.

Major Astrological Influences Of 2017

2017 promises to be a very interesting year. There will be more of the unexpected, more lessons to learn, more growth and opportunities with regard to our relationships, more dreams and ideals, and more transformational experiences. I’ll attempt to explains some of the major astrological influences of the year in the following paragraphs.

There are usually three Mercury retrograde periods every year. In 2017, however, there will be four, because Mercury will be in retrograde motion at the beginning of 2017. The planet turns stationary direct on January 8, 2017 at 1:43 AM PST. These periods are generally marked by miscommunications, misunderstandings, problems with communications equipment, travel delays, and plans that will later need to be revised or completely changed. It’s usually better not to make important decisions or to sign contracts or anything else if that is possible during these periods. Complications and problems are too easy to encounter, and often we don’t have all the information that we need. The best thing to do is to continue to collect this information throughout the period. How these periods will affect you personally depends on where it happens in your astrological chart(s). If you’d like to know, ask me.

There will be eclipses in February and then again in August of 2017. They occur in Aquarius, Leo, and Pisces. The Moon’s North Lunar Node enters Leo in May. Eclipses are intense and important events that often affect the masses. An eclipse will affect you personally if it hits one of your personal planets or points (within a two degree orb). Again, if you’d like to know if an eclipse will affect you personally, ask me. Most people will experience these eclipses as either a Full Moon or a New Moon.

Saturn will continue its transit through Sagittarius. It could influence the airline industry, higher education, the legal field, religion, outer space exploration, and anything foreign. This transit will affect you personally depending on where Saturn is transiting in your astrological chart(s) (its house placement and if it aspects any of your natal planets or points). If you’d like to know, ask me. At different times during the year, transiting Saturn will trine transiting Uranus (in Aries) and sextile Jupiter (in Libra). Those periods should be important and most likely beneficial.

Uranus, the planet of change and the unexpected, will continue to transit Aries in 2017. Transiting Uranus could affect the high technology industry, astrology/astrologers, civil rights issues, and other humanitarian interests. If you’d like to know how this transit of Uranus will affect you, ask me. The first part of the year, Uranus will (widely) square transiting Pluto (in Capricorn). There could be and probably will be more uprisings, human rights protests, and pushes for societal change. Pluto rules those who possess enormous power and wealth such as multinational corporations and big businesses as well as persons with great wealth. Therefore, I expect that the income disparity issue will continue to be an issue this year. In addition, transiting Uranus will square the USA’s natal Pluto (in Capricorn). Both planets symbolize change - Uranus is sudden and surprising (perhaps disruptive) change and Pluto is slow and transformative change. So, it appears that there will be big changes for the nation next year, and virtually everyone in the USA will be affected. Because of the square aspect, there will be very strong resistance to these changes.

We also have a Venus retrograde period in 2017. Relationship (romantic, platonic, familial, and/or business) issues are up for review during these periods. Venus is in retrograde motion from early March through mid April of 2017.

Jupiter will be providing more opportunities with regard to relationship matters, and especially romantic relationships. Other relationships benefit as well. However, there could be some issues to work out as transiting Jupiter will oppose transiting Uranus and will square transiting Pluto during various periods during the year. Transiting Jupiter will enter the sign of Scorpio the second week of October, and all things Scorpio (intimate/intense relationships, sex, partnership finances, etc.) will be favored from this benefic transit.

Neptune will continue its transit through its home sign of Pisces in 2017. This year, it will not be hampered or blocked by a square from Saturn, therefore spiritual and artistic matters will proceed more smoothly. In addition, we should be better able to differentiate between fantasy and reality (for better or worse as we could discover that inability has caused us some problems in 2016).

Miscellaneous Astrological Musings - December, 2016

Flight 837:

United flight 837 took off from San Francisco International Airport at 11:36 AM PST on November 28 bound for Tokyo. Shortly after takeoff, one of the 747’s four engines burst into flames. The plane circled the airport, dumped excess fuel into the ocean outside of Monterey (unfortunately) and landed back at SFO at 1:36 PM safely. There were no injuries. The astrological chart for takeoff at SFO shows transiting Mars on the Ascendant. Transiting Jupiter was also trining the Ascendant in this chart.

The Electoral College:

The Electoral College meets on December 19, 2016 to vote for the incoming president of the USA. There might be a bit more excitement and confusion this year. Transiting Mars is in opposition to President-Elect Trump’s natal Ascendant and progressed Sun on that day. In addition to that, transiting Mercury also turns stationary retrograde. It’s possible that they might not finish their business on that day as a result. Nevertheless, I don’t expect anything to really change much. It’s still extremely likely that President-Elect Trump will be sworn into office on January 20, 2017.

Uranus Direct:

Retrograding Uranus turns stationary direct on December 28. Look for some big surprises and events around that time. In addition to that, transiting Mars will activate the September 1, 2016 solar eclipse at the end of the year. Therefore, the end of the year should be more eventful than in years past. Be careful if you’re out and about on New Year’s Eve.

Frequent Flyer Winnings:

I finally won something. I almost never win anything in any game of chance. But, now I’ve won 25K frequent flyer miles.

On November 22 I received an email message from the airline that I usually fly when traveling. It seems that I had won a frequent flyer miles sweepstakes that I had entered earlier in the year. I had won 25K frequent flyer miles. On that day, the Sun (in Sagittarius - the sign that rules air travel) sextiled (60 degree angle) my natal Jupiter (the ruler of air travel). Jupiter was in a wide square to my natal Mercury (ruler of my ninth house of air travel). And, Venus was conjunct my natal Mercury. My progressed Venus is trining my natal Uranus, and Uranus rules my fifth house of gambling and lucky chances.

December 7, 2016 is the 75th anniversary of the Pearl Harbor Attack, which brought the United States into WWII.

In drawing up the astrological chart for the attack, we find the Ascendant on Capricorn and in opposition to Venus, Jupiter, and the Sun in the USA's natal chart. Asteroid Icarus is rising (and, conjunct the Ascendant). Astrologer Al H. Morrison describes the effects of this asteroid this way: "Abrupt triumph and downfall. Like running into a pothole the size of a delivery truck." Transiting Mars is on the IC (bottom of the chart) showing the bombing and the fires on the ground. The Sun is in the twelfth house of death and loss and opposed by transiting Jupiter. The loss of life was enormous. The Moon (the people) is conjunct transiting Pluto (death).

Thanksgiving Day 2016

On Thanksgiving Day 2016, the Moon is transiting the sign of diplomatic and peace loving Libra. We are in the mood for pleasant times and/or love. Partnership matters surface. Transiting Jupiter squares transiting Pluto in the afternoon hours. Try to avoid power plays. The Moon conjoins transiting Jupiter during the evening hours (7:21 PST on the West Coast). We feel a sense of joy and well being then. Happy Thanksgiving!

Aries –  Let your partner or significant other take the lead this Thanksgiving Day. It will give you a chance to chill out and relax a bit. You don’t always have to be in charge. As a matter of fact, you might enjoy kicking back today. Steer clear of a boss, higher up, or authoritarian family member or parent, however.  

Taurus – You might find that you have quite a bit on your to do list this Thanksgiving. Get to  work and get it all done so that you can relax and enjoy special time with others. You might also have a minor health issue to deal with as well. It’ll be fine. Someone at a distance seems a bit controlling. Ignore this person.

Gemini – Your creativity as well as your playfulness surfaces this Thanksgiving Day. Others will likely enjoy being around you in this gregarious mood, especially since you might not have been that up and optimistic recently. Enjoy yourself to the max. A partner’s mood might be a bit heavy or depressed for your taste. Try to cheer him or her up. An unpredictable friend could help.

Cancer – This year, you are likely to enjoy your home and your family even more than usual. A boss or higher up has been unpredictable while a partner, spouse, or significant other has been intense or controlling. However, you are the star of the show on Thanksgiving Day (as usual), and you’ll love it because you love good food and warm times with family. It’s your kind of day. Celebrate.

Leo – It seems that you have a lot to say this Thanksgiving Day. And, your words are likely to be optimistic and encouraging. You’re good at cheering folks up and giving them a reason to be hopeful. Have fun and take a look at all the love that surrounds you. It will warm your heart and keep you going for quite a while.

Virgo – You may need to deal with some financial issues this Thanksgiving Day. Getting a money issue taken care of could lead to a pleasant surprise. You might have more money than you thought. Lucky you. However, if you give in to a child or other loved one, it could take a toll on your finances. Proceed carefully in this area. You’ll be on the go and working hard today. Try to slow down and enjoy being with family members; some who might be out of sorts.

Libra – This is one of your best days this month, so go for what you want on Thanksgiving Day. Your optimism and enthusiasm are impressive. However, steer clear of a controlling family member who might be trying to bring you down. Your diplomatic manner will save the day if need be. You might want to take action with regard to a creative project as you have the energy to see it through. Be thankful for your blessings this year with jolly Jupiter transiting your sign.

Scorpio – For some reason, you do not seem to be in the mood to celebrate Thanksgiving. Perhaps heaviness or difficulty on the financial or money front has you in this mood. Whatever the case may be, don’t force yourself to smile if you do not want to. On the other hand, be kind to others who may be feeling differently than yourself. Perhaps, just be a bit incognito. You’re going to be much happier over the weekend. Promise.

Sagittarius – Friends and groups of people figure prominently in your Thanksgiving forecast. You might not be in the mood for it all at first, but friends seem to be able to cheer you up. Before long, you’ll notice how much you have to be thankful for today. Be careful with your finances as it’s easy to spend more than you had planned to. A home or family issue continues to be a bit confusing. You might not have all the information.

Capricorn – It looks like you’re in charge this Thanksgiving, and you’re a force to be reckoned with. Clearly, your management and leadership skills are needed. Be careful about being too serious and/or controlling, however. The day is for relaxing, enjoying the day, and expressing thanks. It’s not a work project in which everyone needs to hustle. Take some cues from your partner or significant other. It’ll all work out.

Aquarius – You could be travelling this Thanksgiving, whether it’s traveling physically or only in your mind. Do let your mind wander. Anything different or out of the ordinary will interest you. Perhaps, take an overview of the situation as you’re better able to see the big picture these days. Afterwards, you’ll likely be in a much more optimistic state of mind. Get some exercise if you get a chance to. Transiting Mars adds to your energy level and your interest in sex.

Pisces -- Spend some time with someone you deem special on Thanksgiving Day. This is likely what will cause you to give thanks as opposed to having a big party with a large group of people. The warm feelings will grow and expand with this togetherness. Others will understand, although a friend could seem a bit pushy. Don’t let it bother you. Your more spiritual nature continues to emerge.

The US Election

Many of you have not heard much from me since the election. Part of the reason for that is that I had planned a trip to Los Angeles the Thursday after the election. I had planned to celebrate Clinton’s victory while there. Of course, that victory celebration did not happen, although I did have a great time there with friends and others.

Yes, my prediction for the presidential election was incorrect. As a matter of fact, upwards of eighty percent of the astrological community got it wrong. Much of the polling was inaccurate as well. Many have put forth explanations for why and how they were wrong. I understand that because they (like me) take Astrology seriously. I don’t personally feel a need to explain anything, but I will give some analysis. But, it’s important for me first to say that I got it wrong. I got it wrong!

When I did my initial prediction, I tried to explain why US presidential elections do not lend themselves to an easy prediction. That is because it’s actually 51 (if we include DC, which we should) different elections, and it does not happen at an exact time. The campaign lasts for roughly one and a half years. And, we vote for about 45 days before the actual stated election date (this year, Nov. 8). Those early votes often matter - Obama won big on early voting in 2012, but lost by one point on election day that year. I tried to correct for that by looking at what I thought would be the three most important swing states - Florida, Ohio, and Virginia. They were the closest states in the 2012 election (except North Carolina, which I did not think would matter in the 2016 presidential election).

I got Virginia and Ohio correct - Clinton won Virginia and Trump won Ohio. I missed Florida (which is always very close). I was correct that Latinos came out in droves, and they did vote for Clinton. What I missed was that Clinton lost the White vote (especially the White working class) by more than Obama. This was especially true in the all important I-4 corridor. Astrologically, I focused on the Sun (leaders) and the Moon (the people). That analysis was consistent with my analysis of the demographic changes in Florida (i.e. many more Latinos - mostly from Puerto Rico). However, Florida has a stellium in Aquarius (Saturn, Neptune, Venus, and Mercury) that is also in trine aspect to Trump’s natal Uranus/Sun/NN in Gemini. Stelliums can produce quite a bit of energy and can sometimes overpower other influences that are strong in a chart. In addition, Astrotheme puts Florida’s Ascendant at 8 Gemini (admitted to the Union at 10:45 AM on March 3, 1845). That places the MC at 20 Aquarius, which also trines Trump’s natal Sun/Uranus/NN. The Moon passed over and conjoined all those planets on election day. I have also gained renewed interest and respect for progressed charts in the last few months. So, I looked at Florida’s progressed chart. It shows progressed Sun conjunct Trump’s natal Ascendant in late Leo (within a one degree orb). Trump was way behind in vote totals prior to election day (the early vote). But, he WAY overperformed on election day in the state and won by just a little over 100K votes (about one percent).

I clearly missed on the important swing states as well. I either picked the wrong ones, or I should have added three more - Pennsylvania, Wisconsin, and Michigan. None of those three states (PA, WI, and/or MI) voted for a GOP candidate for president in (at least) the previous six elections. So, who knew they would switch this election. We knew early on that Trump would go after Pennsylvania, but GOP candidates for president always do. Until this year, they always lost by five plus points (in the previous two elections anyway). So, the map has changed. It most likely will change even more in future elections because of demographic changes.

What will happen from here? Well, Trump has both very good (or easy) aspects and also some very difficult (or hard) ones right now. He is now experiencing his Jupiter return (which is probably one of the strongest positive aspects which contributed to his victory). I’m thinking it may cause him to over-reach in some ways, however. There already seems to be a lot of chaos with the transition team. Transiting Saturn will soon oppose his natal Uranus, Sun, and North Node. Saturn will also conjoin his natal Moon. Those aspects are very difficult. The transition will most likely not go smoothly, and Trump may be noticing that the presidency is not exactly a big fun party. That could lead to some emotional heaviness. Transiting Mars opposes his natal Ascendant/Mars on the day that the Electoral College meets to place their votes. The meeting could be contentious (for Trump) as some Electors may want to rebel. That rebellion is unlikely to be successful. It appears that he will push onward and be sworn into Office on January 20, 2017 (Inauguration Day).

Final Election Update Prior To Election Day

Donald Trump:

Transiting Saturn is in a sextile aspect to Trump’s natal Chiron on November 5 (and, though Election Day). Trump’s Chiron is in Libra and has been afflicted by a square aspect from transiting Pluto for months now. And, his natal Chiron is conjoined by natal Juno. So, this should be a supporting aspect with regard to his marriage to Melania. And, she may be instrumental in helping to heal him in some way (with regard to his views and attitudes toward women?). Transiting Jupiter is headed in that direction (toward a conjunction to his natal Chiron/Juno), and that should be helpful as well. Transiting Venus opposes his natal Sun on the 6th, and is within aspect on the 5th. He should have some very pleasant times with Melania and others this weekend.

Transiting Mercury is in opposition to Trump’s MC on Election Day. This aspect indicates a focus on foundational issues - home, family, and emotions. I have maintained that this is what Trump should be doing all election cycle because Saturn is also transiting this area of his chart. He should be handling home and family issues … not running for the presidency. He may also be dealing with real estate investment issues as that is a fourth house issue as well. Transiting Mercury is also trining his natal Saturn (in his eleventh house of friends and large groups). He’ll be conversing with friends and large groups of people. It’s also likely he’ll view his chances to become the next president of the US in a realistic manner (not very good). The Moon opposes Trump’s natal Mars in the morning and enters Trump’s seventh house of partners and opponents during the early part of the afternoon (on the West Coast). He has not handled the hard aspects to his natal Mars/Ascendant very well this election cycle, so he may not concede (if he loses the election) - at least, not right away. Transiting Mars is also inconjunct his natal Ascendant on Election Day as it enters the sign of Aquarius. This is an awkward aspect, and it is likely to make him uncomfortable and irritable. Mercury squares his natal Mars on the 10th, so he might be on a continuous rant for a few days - rigged election, bad bad media, emailgate, etc. You get the idea.

Hillary Clinton:

Transiting Saturn trines Hillary’s natal Pluto on the 5th (and through Election Day). She is likely to be very effective and working very hard through Election Day (GOTV). Hillary is a Scorpio, so this is a very helpful aspect. Even so, the Sun is squaring her natal Mars as well, so she will need to be careful of potential accidents and anger issues. I’m not too worried as she handles these aspects quite well.

Transiting Mercury is conjunct her natal Mercury on the 6th. She is thinking clearly and communicating well. She’ll be able to get her point(s) across to others. Transiting Mercury is also squaring her natal Saturn, so she is likely to be quite careful with what she says, and she could be a bit pessimistic in her speech or her assessments of a situation. The Sun squares her natal Pluto as well on the sixth. She will probably need to slow down and get some rest by this time. She will have been working nonstop for days. This could also indicate that something or some situation needs to be fixed or dealt with, but she’ll be fine. Again, she handles these aspects quite well.

The Sun conjoins her natal Venus (and sextiles transiting Pluto) on the 7th. She’ll be pleasant and enjoying herself on this day. Her relationships will be quite positive and perhaps quite deep. Her likability factor will be high through Election Day, and this will help with the election results.

Transiting Venus will oppose her natal Uranus (in Gemini) during the morning hours on Election Day. The unexpected happens, and it might involve a partnership matter. At any rate, Hillary is likely to be seeking greater freedom and more excitement today. Since it’s Election Day, she’ll get plenty of excitement but I’m not too sure if she’ll get much freedom. She’ll be fine, and she can reclaim her freedom in the days to come. Transiting Mars sextiles her natal Jupiter on the 9th and is within aspect on Election Day. She’ll be full of optimism and energy as the day progresses. I suspect that we’ll be calling her Madam President by the day’s end.

The Election Overall:

Transiting Neptune has been conjunct the Moon’s South Lunar Node (and, opposite the North Node) and squaring Uranus in the nation’s natal chart. And, the Moon will conjoin transiting Neptune very early on the 9th. This seems to indicate that there will be some confusion and lack of clarity with some part of the election. I think that will not have to do with the presidency, but will involve the Senate. There are several Senate races that are very tight (according to the polls), and the probability of the Democrats taking control of the Senate is also very tight but on the positive side (according to the polling aggregators). I think it could be a day or two before we find out who controls the Senate (and, maybe more). And, this is important because GOP Senators have already stated that they will hold up all judicial nominations (including SCOTUS nominations) of a President Hillary Clinton (should she win). The nation’s business will likely grind to a halt, and our judiciary will be in crisis mode should the GOP maintain control of the Senate. Let’s hope that doesn’t happen, and I don’t think it will. A note to Bernie supporters: there is zero chance of Bernie’s agenda getting through a Congress controlled by the GOP, and that is why Bernie has been out on the campaign trail for Hillary AND for other Democrats on the ballot. GOTV!

Election Update - The Last Week Of October

Donald Trump:

Donald Trump enters the last week of October with an interesting and powerful aspect. Transiting Jupiter is now in a sextile aspect to his natal Pluto. Jupiter is transiting Trump’s second house of money and values, and his natal Pluto resides in his twelfth house. Pluto is the ruler of his fourth house of home and real estate concerns/interests. Interestingly, this aspect is exact on Wednesday this week, and on that day, Trump will be at a celebration to open his new hotel in Washington DC. The grand opening and ribbon cutting is to occur at 11 AM on the 26th. Because of this aspect, this hotel/property might actually result in some decent profits for Trump if he plays his cards right. It should definitely help. On the other hand, the Sun squares his progressed Saturn (in his progressed 10th house) on the 25th. This does not bode well for his public image or reputation.

On the other hand, transiting Chiron (in Trump’s seventh house) is squaring his natal Moon in the fifth house. He is probably feeling emotionally vulnerable now, and he may continue to have additional problems with more women coming forward and accusing him of unwanted sexual aggression toward them. This happens as transiting Pluto continues to square his natal Chiron in the second. He is probably continuing to experience financial woes which could limit his election campaign. Transiting Chiron is also squaring his progressed Uranus. His insistence to have things his way is likely resulting in his not getting much help from his “friends” in the Republican Party.

On the 29th, transiting Mercury trines Trump’s natal Mercury. He may be able to get his message out effectively on that date. However, transiting Mercury squares his natal Pluto the next day, and he may be obsessed with something unimportant or trivial in terms of the overall picture. Or, he may suffer from some behind the scenes power play. He could also receive public or media scorn for the way he uses his own power to hurt or disadvantage other people.

On the 31st, The Sun trines Trump’s natal Mercury in the eleventh house. He may receive words of encouragement from friends, or he might give an effective speech to a large gathering of people (a rally). Transiting Mars (in Trump’s fifth house) opposes his natal Saturn in the eleventh on that date as well. He may be seething in silence as a result of what a friend, lover, or one of his children has done. This might also result in more action with regard to the Trump University lawsuit as Mars had just squared transiting Uranus (in Trump’s ninth house), This is a very troubling aspect for him at a critical time in the campaign.

Hillary Clinton:

Hillary will experience her solar return on the 25th. Her birthdate is actually the 26th, but her solar return occurs on the 25th if we assume an 8:02 PM birth time. This is a time of renewed energy and of new beginnings. This is a powerful and positive aspect, and she’ll benefit from it. Mercury also conjoins her natal Sun. She’ll communicate well and positively. She’ll be able to make her points effectively.

On the 27th, Saturn will be in an exact trine to Hillary’s natal Mars. She will act in an effective and relentless manner. She’ll be a formidable opponent to Donald Trump at this time (even more so than usual). This aspect is good for planning, working, and managing a specific project and/or achieving a narrow objective.

Transiting Mars will sextile Hillary’s natal Mercury on the 28th. She will be a passionate speaker on that date, and she’ll be able to speak up for herself and defend herself if need be.

Transiting Venus will trine her natal Mars on the 29th. This aspect symbolizes a balance between the masculine and feminine qualities that we all have. She be able to be assertive when it is called for, and she’ll be pleasant and likable if need be as well. She will know when to hold her ground or when it would be better to compromise.

Transiting Venus will trine Hillary’s Pluto on the 30th. Hillary’s emotional experiences will be intensified by this aspect. She’ll need to be a bit careful as the compulsive quality of this aspect can cause a problem at times. I suspect that she will handle this well because she is a Scorpio. Scorpios like it intense.

A Marriage Proposal

Update 1: This original post was written in October of 2016. The happy couple are still together, and they still plan to wed, but haven't set a firm date. As I predicted, there have been complications (Mercury retrograde) and this engagement has been longer than most. If I had to guess when, I'd say probably Sept./Oct. of 2018 as transiting Jupiter opposes groom 1's natal Juno and groom 2's stellium in Taurus.

Update 2: As I previously forecast, the happy couple has scheduled their wedding for September 22, 2018. In addition to the above, Saturn is conjunct groom 1's natal Venus (adding longevity to the relationship). Jupiter is in opposition to groom 2's natal Venus (indicating a climax).

Update 3: The happy couple finally tied the knot on February 14, 2021. Interestingly, Mercury was also retrograde on that date.

Two of my male friends became engaged last month. The engagement was announced very early on September 11, 2016 PST. I don’t know the exact time of the proposal, but it most likely occurred late on the 10th or early on the 11th. Many of you probably know who I’m talking about, but since many others will likely read this, I am withholding their names for privacy reasons. I will refer to each of the men as Groom 1 and Groom 2.

I know the exact birth time and place of Groom 1. He is an Aquarius with Pisces rising. He is Groom 1. At the time of the proposal, the Sun was exactly opposite his Ascendant (his Descendant). We often have dealings (sometimes important) with partners at such a time. Retrograding Mercury (the sign that rules his partnership house) was also in proximity to this point indicating communications with a partner.

The Sun was activating the September 12, 2015 solar eclipse in Virgo and conjunct Groom 1’s Descendant. This seems to be the culmination of that eclipse in his life. The Sun was also activating the March 8, 2016 solar eclipse in Pisces and conjunct Groom 1’s Ascendant.

Groom 1 has Saturn in Taurus and conjunct Groom 2’s natal Sun/Venus/Mercury. Some folks might interpret this aspect between the two charts as difficult. I don’t necessarily agree with that. It does connote serious matters between the two, but it also adds some solidity (some glue, if you will) to the partnership. It can make a partnership longer lasting. One thing can definitely be said about this partnership. It is NOT superficial.

At the time of the proposal, transiting Juno (the asteroid that rules civil marriage) was in opposition to Groom 1’s Saturn and Groom 2’s Sun. Transiting Uranus was opposing Groom 2’s natal Juno in Libra (the sign most closely associated with marriage). Transiting Mercury was in trine aspect to Groom 2’s Mercury/Venus. Groom 1’s natal Juno is conjunct Groom 2’s natal Venus/Mercury. Groom 2 made the proposal and initiated the engagement. Sometimes Uranus transiting in opposition to one’s Juno can indicate divorce or the breakup of a marriage, but it really just indicates a change in relationship status. In this case, it seems to have brought the two together in a closer bond.

The proposal occurred while the two were on vacation/holiday abroad. Transiting Jupiter was conjunct Groom 2’s Jupiter. Jupiter returns are usually very fortunate aspects, and often indicate traveling to foreign lands. It was a trip that he will not likely forget. Transiting Jupiter was conjunct Groom 1’s natal Pluto (ruler of his ninth house of foreign travel and foreign cultures).

Mercury was retrograde as was mentioned above. I don’t think that this means that either of the two will change his mind, although that’s possible. It could simply mean that the engagement will be more complicated than either of them wish. They are both very well known and have an abundance of friends and family. So, that seems likely.

Astrology And Politics: Debate No. 2

1 One of the most common things I heard after the second debate was about how angry Trump was, and how the debate itself was angry. Transiting Mars was in opposition to Trump’s natal Mercury and squared Trump’s progressed Mars at the time of the debate. Such aspects would make one want to tell off someone that s/he is pissed off at. And, Trump is not known for holding it in or restraining himself - whether he can or not is debatable. He was intensely angry, and everyone knew it.

2 The Sun was conjunct Trump’s natal Jupiter (in Libra). This aspect tends to make one feel good and believe that what is going down is good/positive. This aspect can also make one go overboard and be overconfident. Trump can be expected to go overboard almost all the time, and he is always confident (or, at least he appears to be). This aspect did, however, help him to perform better in this debate than the last one. He was coherent in making his points, although it was obvious that he did not know what he was talking about with regard to some issues - such as foreign affairs issues. Trump’s natal Jupiter is in a square aspect to his natal Saturn/Venus, so this aspect did not help him as much as it could have under other circumstances.

3 The Sun was in a trine aspect to Trump’s natal Uranus. The unexpected happened prior to the debate as Trump held a Facebook discussion with some women that feel that President Bill Clinton abused (sexual misconduct) or treated them badly. This was probably done to throw Hillary off balance. It might have, but she performed fairly well anyway.

4 Mercury was conjunct Trump’s natal Neptune (and squared his natal Mercury). He repeated more untruths (lies?) in this debate than even the last one. Whether he really believes all the things he said, I’m not sure. Maybe he does actually believe these things. Nevertheless, he stated many many things that are simply not true.

5 It was, again, the planet Venus that made aspect to Hillary’s natal planets. Venus was conjunct her natal Mercury, which again helped her to appear pleasant and speak in a likable and pleasant manner. Venus was squaring her natal Saturn, however. When the two first appeared on stage at the debate, Hillary seemed to give Trump the cold shoulder. That is probably understandable considering the circumstances, but it probably did not look good to some folks. And, she seemed to hold back at times. That could have been a good thing or a bad thing depending on the subject matter. She did seem to warm up and.or loosen up as the debate went on. Venus was also in a trine aspect to her natal Moon. We do not know how close the trine was because we are not certain of her exact birth time.

6 The Sun had already squared transiting Pluto and was still in aspect at the time of the debate. This aspect - one that could symbolize a power play - seems to me to symbolize the moment when Trump threatened to appoint a special prosecutor to look into Hillary’s emails and other issues and also to have her thrown in jail. It won’t get any better as we approach the third debate as transiting Mars conjoins transiting Pluto the morning of the 19th. The two planets will oppose Trump’s Mercury/Saturn midpoint and square his Chiron/Juno.

Miracle On The Hudson

US Airways Flight 1549 was scheduled for takeoff At 3:24 PM EST from New York’s LaGuardia Airport heading to Charlotte Douglas International Airport on January 15, 2009. The Airbus A320 took flight at 3:25 PM EST with 155 passengers and crew. A little over two minutes into the flight, the jet was hit by a flock of birds - Canadian geese - during its standard instrument departure climbout from LaGuardia. Pilots Captain Chesley Sullenberger and First Officer Jeffrey Skiles safely guided the plane to ditch in the Hudson River after multiple bird strikes caused both engines to fail. The aircraft hit the Hudson River at 3:31 PM EST. All 155 passengers and crew were evacuated and rescued by nearby watercraft. There were some injuries, but all 155 passengers and crew survived. The incident came to be known as the “Miracle on the Hudson.” Captain Sullenberger and crew were hailed as heroes.  

The astrological chart drawn over New York City at 3:31 PM EST on January 15, 2009 shows Uranus at the top of the chart (the MC at 18 Pisces) at 20 Pisces and Saturn at the bottom of the chart (the IC at 18 Virgo) at 21 Virgo. Airline disasters often happen during Uranus/Saturn hard aspect periods, and this opposition is certainly a hard aspect. The chart’s MC is on the sign of Pisces which rules large bodies of water such as the Hudson River. The Moon was transiting the fourth house and in a wide conjunction to Saturn there as well. Mercury (which rules birds) was in retrograde motion in early Aquarius (6 degrees) and conjunct Jupiter (ruler of air travel) at 2 Aquarius. Mercury/Jupiter are in a semisquare aspect (45 degree angle) to Uranus/MC in the chart. This aspect encompasses planetary energy that is in conflict and subtle determined tension. Control is required. And, Mercury/Jupiter are in a sesquiquadrate aspect (135 degree angle) to Saturn/IC in the chart. This aspect encompasses planetary energies that are in conflict and subtle determined tension. Calmness is required. The Sun (the leader - or, the pilot in this case) is in Capricorn (at 26 degrees) and is in a wide conjunction to Jupiter (air travel - or, the jet). They both trine (120 degree angle that is very fortunate) asteroid Pallas Athena in Gemini (at 4 degrees) and in the twelfth house. The pilot’s strategy to get the jet down safely succeeded. Yes, there was an element of luck here, but there was also great skill, planning, and strategy on the part of a very experienced pilot.

When a major event of this nature occurs, eclipse points are often activated. In this case Jupiter and Mercury were activating a solar eclipse that occurred on January 26, 2016 at 6 Aquarius. Saturn/Moon and Uranus were activating a solar eclipse that occurred on September 11, 2007.

The Captain, Chesley “Sully” Sullenberger, was born on January 23, 1951 at 5:06 AM in Denison, Texas. His Sun is placed at 3 Aquarius, and transiting Jupiter was in a conjunction to his Sun at the time of the event. This is a very fortunate aspect. His natal Mercury is in Capricorn and is conjunct asteroid Pallas Athena and is in opposition to his natal Uranus. His ability to think quickly and strategically certainly came in handy that day. His natal North Lunar Node is at 20 Pisces, which is at the top (the MC) of this event chart and conjunct Uranus (which rules his Sun sign). It seems that this event was his destiny (or, at least a part of it). Asteroid Hudson is also located in the tenth house of his natal chart.

Interestingly, asteroid 1549 (Mikko) is located at 15 Pisces in the chart and conjunct the MC and Uranus (the unexpected happened on flight 1549, and the event became widely known). And, asteroid Hudson is in Libra at 21 degrees and in the fourth house (of foundational issues -- or, the ground in this case). Venus rules Libra, and it was conjunct asteroid 1549 at 13 Pisces. The jet ditched into the Hudson River.

Pisces rules the motion picture industry, and in 2016 this event was made into a biographical drama film - simply named “Sully” - directed by Clint Eastwood. The film was released by Warner Brothers in the US on September 9, 2016 as the Sun again conjoined the IC in this event’s chart.