Applications for unemployment made a huge jump this week, sending financial markets and those who believed things were improving into a tailspin. But, that came as no surprise to those who read my posts and follow astrology, as Jupiter opposes Saturn this week, setting the stage for negative financial news. Furthermore, Mercury, the planet of communication officially retrogrades today in the sign Virgo, ruling jobs, job news, health, healthcare and matters connected to the earth. When Mercury retrogrades previously unknown issues come to the forefront, both on the world stage and in our personal lives.

Scientists are now reporting existence of a 22 mile underwater plume somewhere in the Gulf of Mexico that is deadly to sea life. BP has been putting distance between themselves and the Gulf disaster for weeks now. It is questionable if they will live up to their promises to make the Gulf area whole again. I believe not only is it questionable, it is absolute they will do as little as possible to avoid spending more money on the 'little people,' whose lives have been wiped out as a result of the largest marine disaster Americans have known. It has been reported for some time, BP has been 'buying up,' scientists who study and work with oil related disasters and forcing them to sign contracts agreeing to NOT reveal their findings to the public. The Gulf disaster had not gone away and we will be dealing with the ramifications for generations.

Another question that has arisen is the safety of the dispersants used in getting rid of the oil in the Gulf. I have seen reports that claim the chemical toxicants BP used are dangerous to sea life and to humans, and that the chemicals have found their way into the food chain. Last night I picked up a frozen package of shrimp at the grocery store. The first thing I noticed was the price that was probably up 30%. The package was almost half the size it used to be. Two strikes. Then I noticed the packaging- "Gulf Shrimp." I had to think a few minutes. Buying it would help the fisherman, I like shrimp, and what the heck. Then I thought about the chemical dispersants and the reports from credible agencies about our food chain being altered. I put it back in the freezer. I would like to buy American products and help the Gulf and the fishermen. The Government says the food is safe. The Government also backed BP when they said the well was only pumping out 5,000 gallons of toxic oil a day into our oceans. BP is buying up scientists and 'judge shopping,' for future trials that will involve criminal offenses. Enough said.

We have made it through the cosmic square, or the T-Square that we astrologers have been writing about for some time now. Officially - Uranus has moved back into Pisces for 7 more months, changing the energy again, and giving us one last chance to understand the lessons of Uranus in the sign that rules the twelfth house of the zodiac. The twelfth house is the unknown, secrets and matters that are hidden from view, and the unconscious. Pisces is the ruler of spirituality, creativity, psychic abilities, drugs and alcohol, the seamy side of life, prostitutes and preachers. It is a complex planet, and it rules water - The oceans are being polluted, and a large part of Pakistan is flooded and headed for a major humanitarian crisis. China is still under mud slides even though you have to look for the news about that situation. If the US can't clean up a major oil spill, does anyone believe China can? And where is the news of that situation? It is all about water and as Pisces ends its 15 year cycle in this sign it will bring further issues involving water to the forefront. It will take some time to completely assimilate the changes that have occurred under this major astrological configuration. Many well known astrologers called for global disasters during this time that would affect the earth. We have seen the Gulf oil spill, the China Oil spill, the Michigan oil spill, flooding of Pakistan, mud slides in China, fires in Russia and the decimation of Haiti. Next spring the same square between Saturn, Pluto and Uranus will return. It is not being written about the planets are not as close to each other as the last one was. It is a mistake to ignore however, as the planets do not have to be exact with each other for major events to occur.

But, Saturn and Pluto are still squaring each other, and the energy of this square will continue into next month. Saturn in Libra and Pluto in Capricorn deals with issues connected to the earth, business, partnerships among people and entities, the government and banking. It is harsh energy and has the potential to spark nuclear incidents, power struggles and military incidents. It also deals with issues connected to crime and to sex. It affects our personal lives as well and issues in relationships, especially sexual ones. If your relationship has been limping along this energy may force it over the edge or bring issues out into the open that may have been there for some time.

The last full moon of the summer is at 1 degree of Pisces on August 24. It is conjunct Uranus (in a parallel) bringing up situations-is sees that are unexpected. We will likely see water related situations, and events that will deal with women. On the positive end this could be an exciting time, when you may try something new, or approach situations in a new and exciting way.

Happy End of Summer!

If I had to sum up the astrological transits this week in one word, it might be frustrating. Jupiter, the planet of expansion opposes Saturn, the planet of contraction. The end result is a push-pull type of energy that may prove frustrating on both an individual and world level. It will be hard to expand your affairs this week, and if things can be maintained at a normal level count yourself lucky. Astrologer Mitch Lewis writes, "Because it {Saturn-Jupiter} is part of the Great T-Square we have been discussing I don't think you can separate this and view it only as the energy it possesses. The cumulative results of this period will be looked upon as a time of frustration and limitations; a redefining of values and a more realistic (Saturn) view of that the world really is. This opposition first completed on May 23rd 2010, in the mutable signs of Pisces and Virgo. Now it is completing at zero degrees cardinal in Aries and Libra. It will complete on more time in these cardinal signs in late March 2011, and that is when we will see the final results of this aspect. The key to working with these two diametrically opposes forces is to move slowly and steadily towards your goals. If you attempt to rush things or don't create enough support your projects will not come to fruition.” The transit is not favorable for the financial markets or positive news about money or finance.

On Friday/Saturday, August 20-21 the Sun opposes Neptune. This is a tiring transit and some people may not even feel like getting out of bed. It can create a lot of insecurity and confusion. It may generate a feeling of listlessness or giving up and exhaustion, as well as a feeling that it is futile to go on. It represents the possibility of mis-communication or lies and deception. On the positive end it can create the energy for big things on a creative/psychic level, or it could represent an intuitive moment or a 'religious experience.' It is best used in helping those less fortunate than yourself. Neptune always calls for sacrifice. The transit also represents oil and water and we will likely see a continuation of disruptive weather events, or more news about the three oil spills occurring in the world at this time.-the Gulf, China and Michigan. One fifth of Pakistan is under water as this is written, and China is consumed in mud slides. Thousands have died and while there is not an overabundance of news on major US networks, these situations represent major catastrophic world/earth events.

Also on Friday, the planet of communication retrogrades and becomes 'the planet of mis-communication.' Mercury usually retrogrades three times a year and this time it is in the sign of Virgo at 19 degrees. Virgo is the natural ruler of the sixth house of health and work and it is in these areas we will face issues. It is best not to purchase major items, sign contracts or start new jobs during the next three weeks, but life being what it is sometimes we have no choice. I have tested this theory many times over and always end up the loser, Except once. I was purchasing a house and the owners discovered they had to sell a larger parcel of land with the house in that community, and I was able to get a bigger lot at a lower price. I always tell clients, with retrograde Mercury you can be a winner or a loser, depending upon the chart. Case in point: OJ Simpson. He was acquitted of the murder of his wife, Nichole, during a retrograde on October 3, 1995, with Mercury retrograde at 13 degrees of Libra. Jurors were later questioned, and most of them regretted the decision. He wasn't so lucky however, exactly 13 years to the day later on October 3, 2008, when he was convicted of armed robbery and kidnapping in Las Vegas. Mercury was retrograde that day at 18 degrees of Libra. Oh, well, karma is hell to pay, and he is still in prison.

So, if you can avoid major purchases, new jobs, and signing contracts it is best. Projects get slowed down, communication becomes more difficult and machines break, as do relationships, but usually only the ones that are at the breaking point anyway. Often new information regarding various situations in our lives is uncovered during retrograde Mercury.

What retrograde Mercury is actually good for is reflection, re-doing and re-thinking. Sometimes you can catch up with people from the past, and reconnect. This is the highest and best use of the energy, unless you are in a position to take time off, visit a retreat and truly reflect on the past. It is a time for planning, not taking action. And when you do take action it will probably change.

Mercury is currently stationary retrograde at 18 degrees of Virgo Tuesday, August 17. Author/astrologer Carol Rushman writes, "When Mercury stations in the sixth house or Virgo, the mental energy expresses itself in an analytical way. The mind is organized. Opinions are reached after much consternation and thought. The need for perfection, however, may delay decision making. During this stationing period, people will be exceptional picky and critical. They can be critical of others', but are usually hardest on themselves.”

Mercury will be stationary retrograde on September 11-15. It goes direct at 5 degrees of Virgo on September 12.

The weekend will get more interesting as Venus and Mars line up together at 13, 14 and 15 degrees of Libra on August 21,22 and 23. If this three degree range connects with a personal planet in your chart it will represent a somewhat significant event in your love life or your social life. It doesn't have to be the love of your life, but it should count for something! It is a good time for entertaining, and many will feel the spark of attraction. If it is connecting well in your chart, you could meet someone new. That said, Mars and Venus together create a certain amount of tension and sparks could fly either way. Venus is at home transiting the sign ruling relationships.

On Saturday, August 21, the Saturn-Pluto square that has been occurring all summer starts to separate. Astrologer Mitch Lewis writes, "There are more major wars begun while these two are in conflict in the sky. In 1914-15 Saturn was conjunct Pluto in Cancer as the First World War began. In 1939-40 Saturn in Taurus was in square to Pluto in Leo, to herald in the Second World War. In 1942 Saturn conjunct Uranus, first in Taurus, then in Gemini, guaranteeing a continued instability and explosiveness for years. In 1945 Saturn in Cancer squared Neptune in Libra causing a great deal of confusion and misrepresentation. The Battle of the Bulge was basically a Neptunian venture. There was little behind the German's bravado, yet they almost succeeded in tricking us into an armistice, rather than a complete surrender. The point is that when Saturn is afflicted by the outer planets there are usually world events. It's been getting trounced lately. This is what leads many of us in this business to expect serious world events. But they rarely come exactly on the aspect."

Leslie

Mars and Venus are the day to day rulers of your love life and when they make certain aspects in your chart this can indicate meeting someone, 'special.' Mars entered Libra, the sign of partnerships and relationships on July 30, and Venus enters Libra on August 8.

But, don't expect these planets to work their magic right off the bat! As a matter of fact Mars, the 'God of War,' may stir things up in an existing relationship, create tension or just remind you of lack in the relationship area if you aren't currently in one. Mars has conjuncted Saturn since July 30, and continues to do so today and this is harsh energy. August 4-7 Mars squares Pluto, making us obsessive, and bringing issues out in the open. Pluto is the ruler of things secret, hidden and can relate to issues about sex as well. This transit represents harsh, combative energy as well. On August 8-9 Venus opposes Uranus. Relationships make take some unexpected twists and turns. Some may end at this time. Anyone you meet may not be in the picture for the long term but it can be a day of fun and entertainment, if you don't take things too seriously. On August 11-12 Venus squares Pluto and opposes Jupiter creating obsessive moods, jealousies, competitiveness and friction. It is a transit of over-indulgence that can occur on many levels. On the other hand, if the energy is used constructively and maturely issues can be resolved at this time.

On August 10 we have a new moon in Leo, ruler of the fifth house of love affairs putting even more focus on the affairs of the heart.

After the complex squares and oppositions of Mars and Venus are over, these two planets will work well for Gemini, as the planets of love will be dancing through their fifth house of love affairs together through September 8. This combination will encourage Libra and those with a Libra ascendant to become more social and increase their chances of meeting someone or ramping up an existing relationship. Others' who will benefit from this combination are Aquarius, and Aries. Aquarians may meet someone on the internet or at a distance or through travel, and this is the perfect time for a trip or get-away. Leo will benefit from the Libra combination as well and may meet someone who lives close by, and communicate more with others. Air signs work well for Sagittarius who can increase their popularity and ability to make friends and will socialize more often. All of the above signs stand a greater chance of meeting someone significant, or just increasing their social contacts, but most of all Gemini and Libra.

Leslie

We end the month of July with the volatile God of War (Mars) opposing Uranus/conjunct Saturn, and this explosive and repressive energy continues to stir up havoc and create unexpected situations around the world and in our personal charts through the first few days of August. Mars/Saturn transits generally refer to some type of police or military situation and we are at risk of explosive incidents popping up without warning. It is a dangerous aspect and Mars is 'setting off,' the T-square in the sky between Uranus, the planet of unexpected twists and turns and rebellions, Saturn, the taskmaster and Pluto, the God of the Underworld, the planet of vengeance and the harbinger of ultimate transformation. Take stock of your situation and use caution and prudence wherever you are.

We are officially living in the time astrologers have been talking and speculating about for a long time, and will be seeing events leading to change in the world around us. It will not be a smooth ride. That said, this configuration will cause the greatest stress for those who have personal planets that are being aspected, or those born in the early degrees of Cancer, Capricorn, Aries and Libra. If your chart is not being aspected life may well go along without major life altering upheaval, but there will be stress in some areas. Live your life, and increase your happiness and abundance wherever possible. We are living on a planet facing great changes, and some will thrive and prosper during this time, as in every historic period since the beginning of civilization. The energy of this time will continue to have its effect for years to come in terms of changes in laws and governments, the balance of power among nations, partnerships, oil, business and banking, and earth changes and disasters such as the Gulf Oil spill. American's have been 'asleep at the wheel' in terms of underestimating the damage that has been done to the oceans, the food chain, and the relationships between big oil and government and the economy. The Huffington Post Newspaper is reporting that scientists have confirmed the oil and dispersants used by BP have found their way into the food chain already. Meanwhile, one network news show is asking if BP critics have gone too far in their assessment of actual damage done. It is no wonder some are confused and complacent. Speaking of damaging the planet, what about the oil spill in China? Based on news reports the size of that spill exceeds or is equal to the Gulf Oil spill. The way we treat the earth will continue to come into focus.

Being asleep at the wheel however, plays right into the hands of entities-both corporate and government-who would have us not know what is really going on. Astrologically, this is symbolized by Neptune, the planet of illusion, confusion and delusion, conjunct the moon of America's chart. It will cross the moon and move into Pisces in April of 2011, and at that time the powers to be will no longer be dealing with a sleeping public.

Jupiter, the planet of money, gain and benevolence is retrograde and square Pluto until August 9. This transit relates to changes/struggles within politics, governments, foreign people, laws, the financial world, and it is associated with power plays in promoting philosophic/religious beliefs. It creates attitudes of arrogance, impatience and neglecting the small but important details, and relates to the desire to reform others while neglecting matters of primary importance. Large enterprises can be undertaken without laying the correct groundwork for success. The government(s) will have issue with oil companies. Arizona will continue to have issues with their immigration law and the federal mandate recently handed down.

On August 9-22 Jupiter opposes Saturn - This is a transit of trouble/frustration within governments and retraction, as opposed to expansion, in the financial world and markets. Second quarter figures have been released and the economy slowed down to 2.4% growth, the weakest in a year. The Democrats and Republicans are hopelessly at odds over issues. The transit represents poor timing in business and professional affairs, financial crisis and an increase in bankruptcy and foreclosures, issues with laws and the law, a lack of balance between radical and conservative attitudes. There is confusion over ethical/moral/religious issues and issues relating to laws and obstacles are caused by overly conservative, uncompromising attitudes.

August 3rd and 4th Mars/Jupiter squares Pluto -This is a transit of upheaval, friction, and anger, and power struggles in political and military or police affairs. It may involve foreign people, religion, educational, medical, financial entities. Impulsive action is the norm, power struggles and the need for regeneration in situations in the world and individually. News of criminal activities, conflict over financial and corporate matters, and there may be news of sexual violence or jealousies.

Venus enters Libra, the sign of relationships and partnerships on August 6 and for the next 3 days until August 9, conjuncts Saturn and opposes Uranus. This is a transit of swings and unexpected gains or losses in the financial markets. Venus rules money, love and values and well as women, attractiveness and beauty. Venus conjunct Saturn is will cement a situation or turn it cold and the two planets do not fit well together. Add Uranus to the mix and we have a period of instability in the financial world and issues concerning women. If you meet someone new, do not assume it will be lasting until the test of time proves it so. Venus-Uranus creates interesting but unstable relationships. Difficult and unstable relationships may end at this time.

August 9 Venus opposes Jupiter - This transit produces overextension, over optimism and creates feeling of inertia, and over indulgence. Feelings toward others will improve and become warmer.

August 10 New Moon is at 17 degrees of Leo, the natural ruler of the fifth house of children, entertainment and love affairs. Events and situations will occur on a grand scale and the theme of Leo is often drama. Venus is still within one degree of conjuncting Saturn and opposing Jupiter and Uranus, so while some fun may be in the air, relationship situations will not necessarily go smoothly. Bad situations may end altogether, even though it is a new moon, or relationships may move on to another level. Money matters are still in focus.

August 11 Venus squares Pluto - Negative financial news is possible as well as news about women, violence and sex. Produces feelings of intensity and potential jealousy in relationships.

August 15 Uranus retrogrades back into Pisces at 29 degrees for the next 7 months until March of 2011. The T-Square involving 4 planets is no longer exact, but the energy is still intense for a while and capable of producing upheaval. It will re-enter Aries on March 13, 2011 until March 9, 2019. The last time Uranus was in Aries was April 1927-March of 1935. Uranus cycles are 7 years.

August 17-22 Jupiter squares Pluto again at 2 degrees.

August 20 Mercury retrogrades at 19 degrees of Virgo. The Winged God flies backward for the next three weeks in the sign ruling work and health, causing delays, mis-communications, equipment breakdowns and problems and breakdowns of personal situations that are not working well. The most positive use of this energy is reflection on the past, and re-doing projects that need to be completed. It is not a time to move forward. Expect a focus on jobs and negative job news.

August 21 Sun opposes Neptune - Issues concerning oil and water. Can denote high creativity, inspiration, dreams, psychic events and service to others. Alternatively, it produces feelings of confusion, tiredness, and mis-communication, mis-understandings, and untruths, as well as lack of clarity. Believe half of what you hear and let the rest withstand the test of time.

August 21-23 Venus conjuncts Mars - This transit will create a focus on money, love, values and sexual attractions. Minor conflicts between the sexes may occur and these few days contain magical energies for meeting someone special, although it may only be just a sexual attraction.

August 24 Full Moon at 1 degree of Pisces - Pisces is the natural ruler of the twelfth house of things secret and hidden. It is ruled by Neptune the planet of spirituality, creativity and psychic awareness. It is conjunct Uranus in a parallel which denotes events that occur suddenly and unexpectedly, and wild mood swings can occur. News relating to women and weather/water/technology/aircraft. Otherwise, the highest use of the energy is spiritual, creative expansion and the service of others.

Leslie

This month's full moon is at 2 degrees of Aquarius on July 26 in the sign considered to represent collective humanity. The ruler of Aquarius is often overlooked. Uranus, the planet of unexpected events, and unusual/shocking twists and turns are the rule rather than the exception with this sign which is often present in revolutions, rebellions, wars and disasters. New governments are born out of wars, coups, and rebellions, and seldom throughout history has it been a stable process without great cost to many.

The co-ruler of Aquarius is Saturn, the taskmaster. It opposes the Sun in Leo creating the atmosphere for unexpected shifts, twists and turns of a dramatic nature.

Mercury is opposing Neptune July 26 and 27. We will hear more news of oil and weather related disasters. It could bring inspiration of you are creative or psychic, but otherwise believe half of what you hear and try and avoid making decisions until the planet of communications moves past the planet of illusion, delusion and confusion. Dreams may become prominent and this combination can make many people tired and confused.

Saturn Enters Libra-Diplomats to control their own armies?

On the first day of Saturn's entrance into Libra news reports state the US State department will be fielding their own army in Iraq. Libra is the natural ruler of the seventh house of relationships and partnerships/laws and governments, and Saturn opposes Uranus, and squares Pluto, creating a grand square among four major planets that will bring shifts in laws, governments and power structures in the world. To read the story click here. The state department is planning to experiment using civilian contractors rather than the US military when US troops are withdrawn by the end of 2011.

Pluto in Capricorn/Neptune in Aquarius = oil and water disasters

Another oil spill is being reported in China, off China's NE Coast. The slick, located near the oil port of Dalian, in Liaoning province was caused by the explosion of two oil pipelines and is now said to cover an area of 170 miles. News of the explosion that occurred last Friday is just recently being reported in the mainstream news. To read that story click here.
The oil spill in the Gulf is reported to be 50 miles long and 40 miles wide.

China faces a tough year. Like people, countries have birth charts and the birth date of The People's Republic of China is October 1, 1949, 3:01PM making the Sun of that country a 7 degree Libra. Saturn is now squaring Uranus, and within orb of conjuncting the Sun and will be exact by the end of September creating harsh situations, bad economic conditions and placing hardships upon the people. By October Saturn is conjunct Pluto/Neptune in China's chart and if the oil situation is not under control by then conditions will exacerbate and become much worse.

With Mercury opposing Neptune during this full moon oil spills will be in the news and we are at great risk of weather related accidents and problems, as well as lies and confusion about what is really going on.

Nearly 2,000 people are being moved away from the Deep Water Horizon site as storm trackers watch the path of Tropical Strom Bonnie get closer to the Gulf.

To read more about the Cardinal T square and Saturn in Libra click here.

Leslie

The planet of delays, restriction and structure enters the sign ruling relationships and partnerships for a two year stay until October 7, 2012. Saturn is leaving Virgo, the sign ruling work, the earth, health and healthcare for 30 years. Those born under the Sun Sign Virgo can breathe easier as Saturn leaves their first house, easing up the restrictions and responsibilities as it transits into Libra. Now Virgo’s will be able to see the results of all their labor over the past two and a half years.

For the next two years Libra's can expect more responsibility, and to work harder to achieve what they want, but the possibilities for great achievement are there. If you are 40 plus and Saturn is entering Libra for the second time in your life, it will be a period of starting over in some way, utilizing the knowledge and experience you gained during Saturn's first transit across your Sun. If you are a Libra and this is the first time Saturn has crossed your Sun prepare to buckle down and work hard for what you want in life.

Saturn first entered Libra this cycle October 30, 2009 for a five month stay until April 7, 2010, at which time it retrograded back into Virgo. Now, it will remain in Libra until fall of 2012.

Saturn was last in Libra September of 1980-August of 1983, and 30 years earlier November 1950-August of 1953. In some respects history repeats itself and we can reflect upon the past to understand the present. Of course, nothing will ever be exactly the same, but if you are old enough to remember Saturn's last transit through Libra you can forecast the areas of your life that Saturn will bring discipline, structure, and responsibility to.

Saturn entering Libra will change our focus individually and on the world stage. The 'taskmaster's' two year sojourn through the sign of partnerships, relationships, marriage and the law will bring shifts in power among countries, and laws, as well as shifts in power and structure in relationships. Gay marriage was recently made legal in Argentina and it will become a focus again in America, and other nations. Marriage and laws will change; power in the world will shift.

If you are currently in a relationship Saturn in Libra will bring structure to that relationship or it will test it. Libra is the sign ruling marriages, and for some, marriages will occur, and for others stressful situations will end during this period. Those who will be tested the most will be born under the Sun Signs of Cancer, Libra, Aries and Capricorn.

As Saturn enters Libra; it opposes Uranus, currently at 0 degrees of Aries, and will be squared by Pluto at 3-2 degrees of Capricorn. This is the fifth and final opposition over 18 months between the planet of delays, structure and obstacles opposing the planet of rebellion and unlimited freedom. Uranus at 0 degrees of Aries is considered the world point and events that occur at this time will affect the entire planet. Add Pluto to the mix and we are experiencing a grand square, sometimes called a cosmic cross or T-Square. Jupiter comes into play as well as it also squares Pluto, 'The God of the Underworld.' In other words, four powerful planets are all in the mix creating stressful angles to each other. The end result will be change in the world and change in our lives. This is the most important configuration of the year and will be occurring through mid-August. The most stressful period will be the last few days of July going into the first 20 days of August. New York astrologer-Author Mitch Lewis writes, "The Saturn - Uranus opposition has much to do with power struggles, the reversal of power and the redistribution of wealth. The last time Saturn opposes Uranus was 1965 – 7. It resulted in a huge escalation in the Vietnam War; the entitlement programs; and the end of the Johnson presidency. The transit took so much out of him that he simply could not run again.

It took until 1982, almost 16 years, to make more than a marginal new high and begin a new bull market. And that period was a cupcake compared to what we are facing now. No matter what the next decade holds for us, we as individuals and as a collective must find ways to enjoy life and to redefine our needs.

Jupiter retrogrades on July 23rd, and then squares Pluto the next day. Historically, when Jupiter retrogrades it represents a top for the stock market about 80% of the time. With the square to Pluto following immediately after I must assume this will be a very bad week for the markets. The stocks represent our collective wealth as much as anything can. Pluto rules all things held jointly, especially financial matters. When Pluto squares Saturn, the stock markets go down. When Pluto squares Jupiter, they can go in either direction, but usually exacerbating the prevailing one. In other words, if the markets have been going up they will go up faster. If they have been going down… well, you get the point.

When Jupiter opposes Saturn as it will August 16th 2010, historically the markets also go down. There are very few bullish signals, although a good trader could cherry-pick and find some strong investments opportunities.

Any of the major issues we have been watching, including the Gulf, the financial markets, the governmental infighting, to name a few, could be blown out of proportion now with the combination of transits. Remember, Jupiter does not always bring you good things. Usually it brings you more – of anything.

For example: All of the major issues we have been discussing are precariously perched on the side of an historic precipice. Our financial markets, the Gulf catastrophe, the recent insane Supreme Court decisions on election finances, gun control, etc. are all leading up to an internal power struggle the likes of which this country has only seen a few times. As we approach the changes that will be necessary to truly enter the Aquarian Age, the collective works in unconscious ways to further that event, including breaking down any situations, businesses or governments that are preventing that transition. We will see the reversal of power in a number of situations throughout the world, as we did in 1965-7, the last time Saturn opposes Uranus. This will set off a number of nation's charts as well as that of some national leaders. Mr. Obama has Venus at one and a half degrees Cancer. This won't pass without affecting his life severely.

Pluto rules oil, as I have proven through the years in my lectures and predictions. With Pluto about to square Saturn, Jupiter, Uranus and Mars, I don't think we are about to get any good news from the Gulf. The entire population of migrating birds in the Western Hemisphere, approximately one billion, stops in the Gulf of Mexico on their journey. ONE BILLION BIRDS. The government is paying farmers in the Gulf States to flood their fields north of the Gulf in the hopes that the birds will land there instead. One can pray, but do you think a species that has stopped in the same place for 25,000 years will suddenly make a detour because we put up a "Rest Area" sign somewhere else? Oh what schmucks these mortals be?

Leslie

July 2010 is a month of change in the world, and the way we live on planet Earth, but it will not be without turmoil, upheaval and unexpected events on the world stage that will affect our lives.

The June 26 lunar eclipse in Capricorn conjuncted Pluto making it an intense time with a multitude of events. Capricorn relates to the Earth, and the world saw massive flooding in Brazil leaving hundreds dead and many more homeless and injured. Tornadoes and hurricanes appeared in parts of the world that are normally free of such events, and the BP oil spill continued and still continues to take its toll on humanity and all life in its path. Events will be further complicated by rough seas and the hurricane, 'Alex,' as it makes landfall. Pluto is known as the 'God of the Underworld', and can relate to crime and underworld figures and within hours of the eclipse 10 alleged Russian spies were arrested by American Intelligence agencies, and the head of the Afghanistan war left his post under fire.

At this time we will be forced to look at new ways of doing things both individually and as a collective. Nowhere is it more apparent that we must find new ways of caring for the earth than the oil spill in the Gulf. I do not expect the spill to be contained any time in the near future and as all life in the sea (and human ways of life) continues to be wiped out, public outrage will increase. This is signified by Uranus entering Aries-the sign of the individual. Aries is ruled by Mars, the God of War, and in another time the collective might have 'taken up arms,' against BP. It is not out of the realm of possibility that individuals will 'take up arms,' and rebel against governments around the world that are no longer working for the people. Jupiter is in Aries as well, and whatever Jupiter touches it expands. We will see breakthroughs in science and technology, but Aries is ruled by Mars, the God of War and we are at risk of explosions, fires and unexpected outbreaks of war and violence throughout the summer.

The solar eclipse on July 11 is the companion eclipse to the previous one in Capricorn. Eclipses come in pairs, and we continue to experience eclipses in Capricorn/Cancer until next summer. Eclipses serve as guideposts showing us the direction and theme of events we will encounter for some time to come. Capricorn is the natural ruler of the tenth house of business, priorities and reputation and rules the Earth, business, banking, mining and the financial markets. Cancer is the natural ruler of the fourth house, the foundation, the home and the homeland and is called, 'the end of the matter.' Clearly, these eclipses deal with the end of an old way of life, and it is up to us to discover and invent new ways of life.

The New Moon/solar eclipse is at 19 degrees of Cancer on July 11, 2010 at 3:40 PM EST. Cancer is an emotional sign and ruler of the home and homeland. It's ruler is the moon, the luminary body that changes every 24 hours. The US is a Cancer country and we will be dealing with events that affect the fourth-tenth houses. In other words, our home/homeland and priorities. Mercury trines Jupiter giving the day potential for upbeat communication in general and communication regarding the government (s). But, Venus is conjunct Saturn in a parallel (similar to a conjunction where the two planets are together at the same degree) creating a somber mood. Author/Astrologer Celeste Teal calls this eclipse, 'Victory Over Obstacles,' and states, 'Cancer eclipse spotlights interests relating to domestic issues, homes land and the crops. Eclipse falls in degree of fixed star Castor: of a wicked influence; associated with decapitation, fevers, rape and murder. For the USA eclipse brings emphasis to foreign affairs, long distance travel, higher education, publishing and religion. There is practical problem solving. Financial stress present with delay of new opportunity for expansion and growth. Banks and markets subject to fluctuation. Unusual trends in pursuit of pleasure, romance and entertainment; restrictions apply. New educational programs are costly. This eclipse is of emphasis to the White House, the UK, Vatican City, Los Angeles, Manhattan, NYC and Roswell, NM." Those signs most affected by the eclipse will be Cancer, Capricorn, Aries and Libra, or those who have personal planets in a sign being aspected by the new moon.

Of course, the most important event in July and the entire year is Saturn's entrance into Libra on July 22. It will remain in the sign ruling laws, governments, relationships and partnerships of all types until October of 2012. Saturn gives us structure and stability, but not without restrictions delays and hardships. Any gain through Saturn is earned, not given.

As Saturn enters Libra it opposes Uranus and Jupiter at 0 and three degrees of Aries, respectively. It creates a square to Pluto at 3 degrees of Capricorn and forms a configuration known as a T-square. This is a complex astrological pattern that does not occur often, and is a harbinger of change, disruption and unexpected events in the world. We can expect to see change in terms of governments and partnerships among nations, laws and business, the financial markets and unexpected situations will occur in the US and around the world. There will be struggles over laws, partnerships, individuals and corporations, and the potential for additional Earth changes/events. If the Gulf Oil spill has not been stopped it will reach a critical mass. This aspect will be present until mid-August, and it does not have to be exact for events to occur.

The last time this configuration occurred was in 1930. Three months after the Stock Market crash of 1929, Pluto was in Cancer, Saturn was in Capricorn and Uranus was in Aries, as it is today. The transit occurred again in 1932. During that year there was a massive famine in the Ukraine and four million people starved to death between winter of 1932 and summer of 1933, and of course it was the decade of the Great Depression that lead up to the events of WWII. We are at risk of food shortages globally.

The most prominent dates in July are July 30-31 as Mars conjuncts Saturn in Libra setting off the T-Square. Mars/Saturn typically relates to police or military action and Libra rules laws and governments, although the Libra energy is conducive to balance. Mars will square Pluto the 'God of the Underworld,' August 2-6. This is a difficult transit and will create struggles and problems in business and the financial markets as well as events that relate to the Earth, and the government (s). There will be power struggles involving relationships, political, professional and military affairs and in the US we will see events transpire overseas that affect America. It is a dangerous transit and relates to underworld activity, violence, criminals and creates conflict over joint finances, the tax system, banking and debt. In the US chart it creates a square to the financial planets resulting in the potential for problems in the financial markets, problems overseas and with laws. August 7-9 Venus conjuncts Saturn and opposes Uranus. This is basically an unsettling financial transit which can cause fluctuations. On October 29, 1929, 'Black Tuesday,' Venus opposed Uranus at 10 degrees of Libra. Jupiter opposing Uranus creates financial fluctuations as well, and wealth can be suddenly created or destroyed as Uranus is the planet of unpredictability. With Uranus, we can always expect the unexpected.

In US President Obama's chart this configuration creates a grand square to his Venus. Venus rules money, financial markets, values and women. Pluto is within 2 degrees of opposing his Venus, meaning he has issues and obstacles relating to money and defining his actual values, which have been changing. Saturn squares his Venus indicating he is not in a favorable time where his popularity is concerned. Uranus in Aries also squares his Venus indicating problems with monetary issues and women in particular, as well as laws, and getting laws passed. This Grand Cross is set off as Mars conjuncts Saturn at the end of the month, and it will be a memorable time for America's President as he is faced with mounting debt and monetary issues, laws and bills, extreme opposition and volatility in the world.

July's full moon occurs on August 26 at 2 degrees in Aquarius. Aquarius rules the collective, the 'we' on planet earth. It also rules corporations, and it is the natural ruler of the 11th house of friends, hopes and wishes. It conjuncts Neptune in a parallel and Mercury opposes Neptune, ruling water and oil, and we may see unusual weather conditions. Neptune is the planet of illusion, confusion and delusion as well as lies and deception. It is likely we will hear more news of the oil spill, or conditions relating to water/oil and if BP officials are being interviewed by the media we can safely assume they are lying. Trust nothing you hear and wait for the transit to pass before making important decisions. We will likely hear financial news about taxes, banking, debt and the financial markets in general.

The Cosmic Intelligence Agency in Melbourne, Australia has produced an impressive video about the summer eclipses, and national and international events. Well worth watching! http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rxadTRd7p8w

Leslie

Former Vice-President/Activist Al Gore and his wife Tipper, politics' most seemingly stable couple announced Wednesday they were calling it quits after 41 years of marriage. Al Gore is a 10 degree Aries, born 3-31-1948 at 12:53PM in Washington, DC. Tennessean Al Gore's split with wife Tipper can be blamed in part, planet-wise, at least, on the final opposition of Uranus to Saturn in Virgo. He is not alone, many facing unsatisfactory marriages and relationships have separated during this difficult transit. Uranus and Saturn opposed each other in Pisces-Virgo for the final time in May, and it fell exact on his Jupiter in his fifth house of love (and love affairs). Ironically, Saturn opposes Uranus every 40 years or so, and it is reported that Al met Tipper at his senior prom. That being the case, he met her and the two became involved during the last Saturn-Uranus opposition when Saturn was in Pisces and Uranus was in Virgo. Saturn-Uranus can both give and take away, and as it turns out those two planets have played the most important part in their lives together, and this final Saturn-Uranus opposition represents the end of their cycle of life together.

Saturn is currently conjunct Gore's Jupiter, and it is likely the couple are ironing out legal details of the split at this time. Al Gore's moon, representing his emotions and the women in his life is at 3 degrees of Capricorn, and Pluto is within one degree of being conjunct. Pluto is the ultimate planet of transformation, and its influence will change a situation or destroy it. It is a harsh combination, and men with Pluto conjunct their moon are often forced to confront their feelings and emotional life in ways they haven't done so before. Neptune, the planet of illusion, confusion and delusion is transiting the former Vice-President's seventh house of marriage squaring his Venus, the planet of love. This transit can cause a relationship to fade out and generally creates a great deal of confusion. At times it can bring another party into the marriage/relationship, as well.

It is likely marriage troubles started several years ago, when Saturn opposed Uranus from his eighth to second house of joint resources, sex and feelings. Over the past several years Uranus has squared Uranus in Gore's chart, a generational transit that deals with moving into the next phase of life and often brings about changes of mood, and the desire to change lifestyles. In 2007-08 Pluto conjuncted Jupiter in his fifth house of love affairs changing his ideas and values where love are concerned. The eclipse in Cancer on June 26 falls in his fourth house, the end of the matter. Next year, 2011 Jupiter will conjunct Gore's Sun and he will find a way to re-create himself in many ways.

Tipper Gore was born 9-19-1948 at 2:40 AM in Washington, DC. She was born with a Sun and Saturn at 26 degrees of Leo. Those born with Saturn in the first house usually lead a life dedicated to putting responsibility ahead of all else. They are serious people and their obligations and responsibilities are most important. Her moon, representing her emotional life, is at 21 degrees of Aquarius, giving her an open minded emotional outlook with a somewhat of a world view. She is a fireball, and her two Leo planets lie in her soon to be ex's fifth house of love affairs, meaning it was a marriage of love at one time, with serious ideas and dreams.

Al and Tipper's comparative planets indicate they clashed more often than their public persona may have indicated. Tipper's moon at 21 degrees of Aquarius opposes Al's Mars and Saturn at 18 and 16 degrees of Leo. Saturn-Moon combinations may generate longevity, but often emotions aren't expressed easily. The moon individual (Tipper) can regard the Saturn individual as unkind and unsympathetic. Al's Mars also opposes Tipper's moon and this is a combination of emotional conflict and not generally considered favorable for marriage. It is a comparative transit that generates a great many fireworks. It is surprising the marriage lasted as long as it did, and all likelihood Tipper's views of putting responsibility first contributed to the longevity.

The Saturn-Uranus opposition in May created a square to Tipper's Uranus at 29 degrees of Gemini in her twelfth house of things secret and hidden and divorce. She too, is undergoing a generational transit that creates a desire to reassess and re-evaluate as she moves forward to her next phase of life.

Neptune the planet of illusion and confusion plays a large role in the divorce as it is currently transiting her seventh house of marriage and opposing both her Sun and Saturn. It will be, and has been, a difficult transition for her as Saturn-Neptune is referred to as "the dark night of the soul." There is often a feeling of having been not treated fairly. As with Al, it is likely she gave serious consideration to the split as she experienced a Neptune-Moon conjunction in 07 and 08. This transit often creates emotional confusion, and depression. She may have believed Al was not being faithful.

Being a Cancer ascendant, Saturn is transiting through Tipper's fourth house, often an indication of a change of home and lifestyle. Late 2010 and 2011 will be a difficult period for her as Saturn conjuncts her Neptune and Mars causing depression, and possibly anger, as well as a great deal of hard work. 2011 will bring planetary help as Jupiter transits through Aries creating positive to angles to six of her 10 planets. It is more than possible she too, will create a new job for herself. Her transformation will start when Neptune crosses her Saturn for the final time later this fall showing her new truths about herself, her situation and her life that will serve her well as she moves into the future as a single lady.

Sarah Ferguson, the Duchess of York, was caught up in a tabloid sting last week selling access to her ex-husband Prince Andrew of England to an undercover tabloid reporter for the equivalent of $750,000 US dollars. Video surfaced showing Fergie accepting an initial payment of $60,000 US dollars.

The Duchess has been in some very public scrapes in the past, and this time the consequences are going to be severe where royal family ties are concerned. Sarah's Mercury and Neptune lie in the twelfth house of her chart, making Sarah herself, her own worst enemy at times. The twelfth house can represent self undoing and Mercury conjunct Neptune in Scorpio individuals have a way of looking at situations that does not fall within what would be considered normal by most people. They often march to the beat of their own drummer. These people usually deal with circumstances in their life that involve unusual, if not deceptive circumstances involving partner's or other people's money, as well as issues relating to sex. This aspect can represent a certain naiveté on one end, or deception/compulsive lying on the other end of the spectrum. They can be deceptive in their dealings with others or they can be deceived themselves. Often the truth lies in the middle. It is important for these individuals to keep all dealings with money and the opposite sex strictly above board. They are often intuitive and have a sixth sense of their own that can be confusing until they learn to interpret the many psychic signals they receive, at which time they can learn to read people and intuit their true motivations.

The twelfth house also relates to the part of the chart that reveals secret enemies. While the seventh house represents known enemies the twelfth house relates to unknown individuals whose motivations remain hidden. Sarah will always have to deal with people who do not have her best interest at heart.

The moon is prominent in Sarah's chart and it is at six degrees of Aries in the fourth house, making her an impetuous character prone to acting on impulse. It is in a cardinal sign, making her actions and her family public, giving her spark, wit, friendliness, and those with an Aires moon can sometimes act without thinking matters though carefully. Her moon lies next to the nadir, or the fourth house cusp, representing family relations and the home life. She was born to be a member of a well known family.

Moon in the fourth house individuals place a great emphasis on family and home, which can change throughout the individual's lifetime and be a great source of happiness or disruption. There can be gain through the family. Her moon is squared by Saturn, indicating childhood disappointments, divorce between her parents as a young person, and a tendency to encounter familial estrangements, and even sorrow or poverty due to family affairs. The major focus over the next several years in Sarah's chart centers around her moon-emotional and domestic situations.

Pluto is squaring Sarah's moon in Aries at 4 degrees of Capricorn. Pluto transits are lengthy, and while transiting the moon our emotions, women, home and emotional makeup come to the forefront. Psychological complexes and patters from the past can come back to haunt us. This transit will bring about some extreme emotional reactions, emotional conflicts with authority or family members representing authority, as well as disagreements over joint finances and with women. This time requires caution in all financial dealings, for reasons that are now obvious to Sarah. It represents forces beyond our ability to control and it can cause disruption in our personal lives by large scale situations. It is likely that Sarah's relationships with her former family members and the Queen will be irrevocably damaged. Pluto transits make three or four passes and this transit will occur again late November-December of this year, and late August-September of 2011.

Saturn, the planet of restriction, delays and sorrow will oppose Sarah's moon late August into September of this year. Again, those things represented by the moon will be the focus in Sarah's life at this time. Saturn-Moon transits represent times of emotional depression, loneliness and coldness in family and spousal relationships. Sometimes women of note leave our lives at this time. There is often a lack of sympathy from or toward family members-especially women, and there can be burdensome family and domestic responsibilities. It is unfavorable for dealing with those in established positions of power. It can represent a change of home, and is not conducive to any type of emotional happiness. August in general will be a stressful time for Sarah, especially around the second week as Uranus, Saturn and Pluto form a T-Square within 5 degrees of her moon, along with a mars opposition creating very stressful/emotional conditions, indicative of a breaking off of family relationships, or at the very least a very emotional and discordant time.

Uranus enters Aries on May 28, to begin the first three month stay in that sign, for an overall period of seven years. It will be within a five degree orb of her moon, meaning it is close enough to be considered active, especially with the other transits already 'activating' her moon. Moon-Uranus transits tend toward unexpected, volatile and emotional situations involving women, the family and the emotional life. It tends toward sudden, abrupt and unexpected change regarding family members, unexpected events altering domestic affairs, and sudden gains and losses, and altogether an emotional roller coaster. Uranus will retrograde back into Pisces in September 2010, returning again in March of 2011. It will be exact on her moon for the first time in April of 2012, and the final pass isn't until February of 2013.

Pluto-moon transits create death and ultimately rebirth situations of the emotional and or family life in some form. When things aren't working we often undergo a change of lifestyle or home. Pluto transit are about letting go, and breaking free of that which is holding us back, and dealing with fear. We often have to confront our 'dark' side. It is all about evolution, and ultimately the chance to rebirth ourselves emotionally.

-Saturn-Moon transits are about the material world, what we have or don't have, and require us to face or deal with a reality that may not be of our choosing. It is the 'dark night of the soul,' and we may feel left out, uncared for, alone in the world and experience separations. Business deals may go south, and progress is slow if at all. Fears and insecurities can be magnified and life burdensome. We may be called out on past actions. It is time to withdraw from the world for a while and refocus on spiritual priorities.

Uranus-Moon transits represent change, often unexpected in the home and emotional life. It is a time during which we when we cannot expect stability as there are too many shifts occurring. We may change our home, emotional outlook and family situation. Other's may create or demand change, and family members are often unreliable. It is usually an emotionally trying time, but ultimately it can be a time of freeing oneself in some way.

In the now infamous video of Sarah accepting money from the tabloid reporter she stated that her finances were 'under stress.' There is no doubt this is the case, as Pluto has conjuncted Sarah's Saturn for the past several years and will come within one degree of conjuncting it again this summer. Saturn-Pluto transits are harsh and indicative of money shortages, worry, and the possibility of some type of government restriction. Late July, Saturn squares Sarah's Saturn in her second house of money and possessions. Uranus is also squaring Saturn in her chart, another transit indicative money issues and breaking away from old situations. July represents a major financial/emotional low point.

One UK writer states the failure of the Queen and the royal family to provide her with a reasonable divorce settlement has now embarrassed them both. It is reported that Sarah receives only about $30,000 US dollars a year, no doubt a paltry settlement for a once royal person. Whatever the case, it will be a time of restriction, worry and concern over debt.

Sarah's sun sign is Libra and as Saturn re-enters Libra late July it will be in this sign until October of 2012. Sarah will go through many trials and tribulations as Saturn transits her own sign for the first time since 1980-1983. Saturn through the first house brings about a new found sense of personal self responsibility and reliance, and often represents a period of obscurity lasting for about seven years. There will be obstacles and blockages, but as Saturn completes its cycle through the first house the individual often becomes stronger and changes and decisions made during this period are usually of lasting consequence and importance. The individual can emerge a more somber and responsible person with a new found sense of stability.