2nd Leo New Moon - Total Solar Eclipse

Second New Moon, Second Eclipse:
Change, Change, Change

Note: Also See The Blog: Do We Stay or Do We Go?

Eclipses are super-duper new or full moons that occur four to five times a year. This new moon's total eclipse of the sun (Monday, August 21 at 11:30 am. PDT) pours on the energy with the eclipsed sun in the unusual position of being the second new moon in the sign of Leo. This majestic sun, the very ruler of Leo, should completely command the moment. But, no! It is plays second fiddle to the moon.

Representing our will and action, the sun bows to the moon who completely covers it and provides a quiet break in overheated actions. The moon, representing our inner world, steps forward with soul yearnings, giving us a reality check on how we use our light. Are we shining our heart-light in our worldly actions or scorching the earth with overblown egos?

Stories and dramas spring from the misguided ego which is Leo's shadow. As frightening as it is to see the noon day sun disappear, it's equally as frightening to see the unconscious antics of our egos, who mistakenly think they are keeping us safe. But, the Leo Sun encourages taking risks and being visible, not as actors wearing masks, but as our true selves - golden hearts.

In the Pacific Northwest, the eclipse lasts two minutes and nineteen seconds. The Leo Moon in her moment says, “Quiet. Feel the longing of your heart. Reclaim your innocence and let love's radiance shine through you.”

Can we take this time, wherever we are, to contemplate the great mystery of our existence on this tiny planet? Can we consider what our one precious life can do when we come from love?

When the sun reappears, we can choose to return to 'normal' life. Or we could remember who we are and make life-affirming choices. We could trust that our simplest actions make all the difference in the world - when our heart-lights shine like the sun.

Horoscopes – August 21 – September 6

Leo, this month has brought you powerful energies that spiral out over the next two years. Use it to well. Find your courage to live the truth and integrity of your heart with your natural grace and dignity. When you do, you won't have time to waste because your presence inspires others.

Virgo, your mission to serve the collective isn't about out there. It is about serving from your inner love and knowing what to do naturally. With Mercury retrograde, review this viewpoint. What would the Goddess do? She's speaking to you, and, frankly, it's less than you think. Shh, listen.

Libra, consider how you bring beauty and harmony to your broader community. Art and humanities nurture people and understanding those principles empower people whether they are choosing public art or new nail polish. Spread the grace of a beautiful life even at work.

Scorpio, your mission is leading at work from a courageous heart whether you are the boss or not. Show us the transparent, powerful strategies of bringing everyone on stage. Take on big problems and use your piercing skills to empower others to follow your example, maybe even the boss.

Sagittarius, your mission is to broadcast the bright, light-bearing ideas, to expand horizons so your natural partners can collaborate in a future where no child or any other person is left out. Maybe, you can reclaim the earth and her animals in the process. Big mission, but you love it!

Capricorn, behind the scenes, use whatever power and authority you have to empower others. Be transparent and doing the right thing for employees, employer, clients, colleagues and friends and family. Top of the mountain is lonely without a productive party! Besides, you'll go further.

Aquarius, ah, you stand for the masses, but not at the expense of the heart day your dearest mates and honey. Let them inspire light-hearted leadership. Find the biggest, roundest table you can and fill it with open-hearted people solving society's problems, large and small. Then, do it again.

Pisces, work must feed your soul. If it doesn't, your mission plummets from compassion to self-pity. Sacrifice is old hat and hardens your heart. Take up the inner fight for the right to shine. Psst, you have powerful friends with their eyes on you. Shine on!

Aries, you need no urging to be yourself! Play full out, lean into it and make it fun and show us how we can, too. Playing for yourself alone empties the playing field and grandstands. Poof, no playmates! So bring us along on your adventure in a way that makes us think it's ours!

Taurus, eclipses over the next few years mean change, change, change at home and in your career. Pretend it's your idea and lead the parade, you'll need the practice come next spring! Even pragmatics need to show their tender hearts. Work colleagues and family respond with dividends.

Gemini, shine on in your neighborhood and daily circuit. Talk it up, chat with everyone, introduce neighbors to neighbors. This frivolous appearing activity builds society from the ground up and binds us together. See, we need you. Reflect on the realities of your house – remodel or repair?

Cancer, you know the value of your empathetic heart. Feel the love return and know you're worthy of it. Your mission of weaving us into a one-world family nurtures your heart and soul, even as you nurture ours. That's what care-taking is about, hearts and souls, not 'just' cooking!

Aquarius Full Moon - Lunar Eclipse

Eclipse Season Heats Up

Eclipse season surrounding the lunar eclipse (Monday, August 7, 11:10 am, PDT) and “The Great American Total Solar Eclipse” on August 21 interrupts summer. Eclipses carry extra potent energies that block our normal flow so we can fine-tune and reset our direction. Lunar eclipses close twenty-year cycles as life comes full circle. Some people leave, some reappear. The Earth's shadow covers the moon giving our sensitive, feeling nature privacy to reflect on what has passed and what lies ahead.

The energy of the Women's March of last winter appears in both eclipses in the form of four asteroid goddesses, all in earth signs, calling on the power of the feminine in all people. They remind us that our bodies, our earth, and our society need heart-centered care.

Their mission supports Leo's which helps us open our hearts and act from its instinctive kindness. The lion lends us courage to dare the risk of showing up as the Light itself. Our hearts know what is right and true and good and we ignore those truths at our peril. When we live from our generous hearts, we are equipped to join in discussions concerning society's enlightened future (Aquarian). Acting from false egos, we are unable to see how to care for ourselves, our fellow humans, and our earth. We are 'en-deadened' and act out in ugly, unconscious group behavior. Perhaps this is the current fascination with zombies.

In mundane astrology, the moon represents the masses and the sun stands for the king, chief, or president. The people's moon in the US chart is in Aquarius! Therefore we, the people, demand doctrines and policies of inclusivity that align with Aquarian principles. With the moon (the people) unable to reflect the sun (president), the question of this moon's eclipse is: How fast can you find your Light and offer it to the betterment of people and earth?

Horoscopes August 7 – 21

Leo, a new two-year Mars cycle brings action and energy to your interconnection with the world. Add in the Leo/Aquarius eclipse cycles in the area of dear relationships and you are knee deep in learning how to be you IN relationships and letting them be equally as radiant.

Virgo, time in deep silence helps in many ways. Balancing the quiet within with activity at work and in daily routines is a major lesson from the Leo/Aquarius eclipse cycle. Progressive ideas on how to nurture yourself everyday abound! Mercury retrogrades starts August 13. Relax. Review. Rethink.

Libra, good heavens, you know everybody! Find the ones who are fun, creative, expressive and fired up. Go play with them. Try something new and different. Suddenly, you are seen as the great nurturer. Give of your heart and listen to their needs. Your circle expands.

Scorpio, consider yourself discovered. You need time at home to balance the multitudes who are applauding what ALL you have to offer. Applause is grand but remember to seek and pursue that which is YOUR passion and desire. It's the start of a new two-year cycle. Don't waste it on...whatever!

Sagittarius, the closer you get to your goal, the more important each step is. What have you accomplished the last two years? What needs to be done to meet your goal? Remember the six-degrees of Kevin Bacon? Who knows who who can help you get to your endgame. Keep network expanding.

Capricorn, you have behind the scene power. Use it wisely. Remember there is a power and great value in receptivity, kindness and including everyone in the game of life. You are a power player but your transformation is learning a new value system: everyone counts. Teach other leaders this.

Aquarius, here's an interesting point: other people are interested in the betterment of people, too and you, yes, you, don't have to carry the banner alone. In fact, you must include everyone as a point of demonstration. Reach higher, feel more, include others – even those with power.

Pisces, while you are strutting your stuff at work (and, boy, is work fired up!) you need quieter times to stay in touch with more progressive messages. The masses carry weight and no sacrifice is needed, just every hand on the wheel turning the wheel of life. It feels radical when you put down the burden.

Aries, if born mid-April on, you're singing from the roof tops, and mountain tops – I gotta be me. All Aries are starting a new Mars cycle, plus with the eclipse cycle, your fire is lit and blazing. You will be you or explode in the attempt! Why? Love of self, others and planet, AND it's fun!

Taurus, work can't be impersonal, detached and intellectual 24/7 or you will lose your fan base at home. Activate your affection and caring and clean up any messes you've made. Bring your fun self home, play with the kids, the dog, the wife, for no reason whatsoever. Invest at home.

Gemini, go see the Total Eclipse of the Sun, talk to everyone else standing around waiting for the point of totality. This is what you are made for: an event with lots of people and no reason to be quiet. Shine your light on them and watch them light up. Fun!! (Oh, Mercury retrograde on the 10th.)

Cancer, the moon, there she is. Oops, she's gone. Take a break from your feelings and see what being detached feels like. Radical, eh? Finances, wills, insurance, and loans need a certain detachment but can increase security. Counselors who share your values can help. Let them.

O Stars Above: Leo New Moon

Leo's Heroic Quest: Re-igniting Our Courageous Hearts

The messy cosmic weather promised for the full moon of July 8 appeared in a sniper on a sailboat holding boaters, businesses and homes at bay in Bainbridge Island's Eagle Harbor. The sniper, whose activities began within minutes of the full moon, did not live to tell his tale, but his actions will fuel future stories of those who endured a frightful few hours.

Cosmic action unfolds like a matinee's serial adventure. Mars, co-starring with the last few moons, remains on stage ramping up adventures. With planets partying in playful and courageous Leo, we may rearrange our lives so we remember to delight in life and ourselves.

Leo's new moon (July 23 at 2:45 a.m. PDT) ruled by the Sun itself, focuses on our vitality and willingness to be seen. We must re-commit to what brings energy and lightness to our hearts where it is natural to express warmth and generosity of spirit.

Two new moons instead of the usual one add weight to Leo's urges. Additionally, a lunar (Aug 7) and solar (Aug 21) eclipse are on the horizon interrupting the Sun and Moon's normal light and function. The switch up shows us where our inner Leo lives in the light of awareness and the dark of denial – and reminds us of the cost of denial.

Leo's shadow shows up in bullying, pompousity and constant demands for attention. The perpetrator remains oblivious while observers cringe at his obvious ineptitude. Perhaps the pain and disappointment on our national stage acts as a cautionary tale reminding us of how we look when we fail to clean up our petty dramas.

Only we know where our hearts are broken and what we must do to mend them. Therein, lies the heroic quest of Leo. When we undertake this task, we return to the innocence of the true Leo, a Golden Child with a courageous heart and on fire with life.

Horoscopes July 23 – August 7

Leo, at center stage, spotlights show every flaw. Few dare stand there but amp-ed up courage lets you look deeper at your reflection in your audience's eyes and shadows. You know the work and integrity it takes to live your life with your heart open. Polish your image!

Virgo, give your to-do list away. The collective unconscious beams powerful messages to you in quiet times. They fuel your coming year. Some point to unfinished business and some you receive for the group. You can't 'think' this through. Peace. Be still...and charitable.

Libra, until autumn, opportunities abound. The best partnership work happens when you speak your truth. Stand in your heart and tell yourself what you really, really want. You know people who know people. Let them help you find your balance.

Scorpio, the sun shines on you at work thanks to your creativity. Take a bow and let this infusion of energy inspire you. Are you surprised to be so appreciated? Does it stir up longing for more? Radiance and shadow. Watch and learn, Grasshopper, about yourself.

Sagittarius, expand your horizon through fun, daring and discovery. Many are pulling for you. Don't step off the ledge until your squirrel suit is zipped tight but the winds can carry you far if you've prepared over the last two years. High flying, Rocky, and happy landing.

Capricorn, oh, lordy, will this transformation process never end? Digging too deep and tearing open old wounds could smack of hubris. Use your creativity to dig yourself out of a downer and find the hidden warmth and gold of your heart. Friends lighten your load.

Aquarius, the world will survive just fine if you take your dearest heart out to play. A date, a romance: hold hands, revisit the old haunts, stir the magic and fun of the two of you. Some months are about humanitarian visions. This one is about the two of you.

Pisces, among your colleagues, you are quite a star in small day-to-day ways. Creativity doesn't have to be 'art.' It can be how you put it together each shining piece of your life. Like making work fun, competitive and exciting for the whole group. Yep, they think you're fun!

Aries, wherever you go, you bring the party, and kids love you because you pay attention to them, play with them, and take them (and you) on grand adventures! This is the lesson you are relearning – life has to be fun and a little risky! No taking yourself seriously.

Taurus, diversify your resources by investing time with your family. Shine the light of your attention on them. Bring all of your radiance through the door to them at the end of the work day. Courage to live from your heart - at home - is the ultimate asset.

Gemini, get out, be seen and expand your neighborhood. Open your eyes to what you don't see daily just outside your door. People have their hearts open to you. Hang out, chat, feel the goodness of being alive. Daily life, little routines, you love this stuff! Don't miss it.

Cancer, do not waste any time, energy, or your brilliance on what you don't value – or with those who don't value you! You are a powerful force even when you can't see it. Can a lighthouse see its own light? No! But it shines it far and wide for the benefit of many. We flock at your feet.

Stars Above Kitsap: New Moon in Leo

An Invitation to Simply Be

In Honor of Cecil.

Did you see the dazzling display of Venus and Jupiter on the western horizon at sunset this summer? Stage center and shining their sparkling rays at us, they invited us to be as beautiful, radiant and unapologetic as they are. With the new moon (August 14 at 7:53 AM PDT), the Sun and Moon in Leo expand the invitation.

Leo offers courage as we attempt the simplest and hardest task of all – to be our radiant, self-expressive, vibrant selves. For all the bad press of Leo's arrogance and drama, Leo's true mission is simply to be ourselves with no hedging, dodging, or denying, and no self-aggrandizing or pomposity. Do that, and it will not only be enough, but it's all that is needed – for us and for our collective advancement.

Jupiter finished his year in Leo after offering expanded opportunities for self-discovery, joy and play. Now Venus is taking a sashay across Leo's stage spending four months there instead of her usual one month tour. She aids us in re-examining the territory of fun and pleasure Jupiter brought as we sort to find exactly which ones are our personal pleasures.

Fun here has a sense of personal value, is pleasurable and makes you feel expansive and content. It gets you up in the morning and makes your heart sings. This is part of the package Uranus in Aries shouts - wake up! Be you! The Leo Sun, Moon and Venus say do it with joy. As Mars slides into Leo, he can get down-right pushy about his needs for play!

If you had two days to live, what simple heartfelt gesture would tell us you are singing “I did it my way, I loved it and my heart bursts with joy?” Well, there you go. Surrender and be you – no drama needed.

Horoscopes for August 14 – August 29
Read your rising and moon signs, too.

Leo, a sense of self, vigorous self-assertion and sheer magnetism gives you many balls to juggle in the area of personal presentation. How DO people receive you? Where are you heading and are others opening doors you want to go through? Pay attention to your impact and fine-tune later.

Virgo, your behind-the-scene activities and personal sacrifice arena is active, baby. Can you catch yourself putting your foot in it? It's probably an unconscious habit you can fix. Cherish your privacy even as sociability runs high. Jupiter's kiss brings a trend of self-confidence.

Libra, social networks, organizations, informal gatherings of like-minded people run amok. You shine, feel empowered, and self-esteem rises. Don't take on projects unless they are near and dear to your heart and you love the activities you'll actually execute. This is a turning point.

Scorpio, the limelight isn't your natural area but the spotlight has you dancing on the roof and you are up for it! Reap your rewards, take a bow or two and parlay this career moment into your next big thing. You're a serious dude, but Venus is showing you where to play - a good life lesson.

Sagittarius, always the visionary, your read on what the masses want could have you swinging your professional weight for fabulous results. This year brings career highlights with less play but meaningful work that brings dreams to fruition. Baby steps and discipline. It's not a sprint!

Capricorn, enduring friendships and private matters need your masterful touch. You could be pulling more than your weight, but don't you love wielding skills and power for results? For you it's a form of play! Early January Goats are going through tear down stages...it's all good in the long run.

Aquarius, professional responsibilities could see you out networking and finding future friends. Financial finesse and research uses your analytical talents over the year. Tend to details. Current friends and partners need an audience and you're it! Take a bow yourself!

Pisces, pride at work, sensitivity to needs, and good taste make you a favorite colleague. A passion for order could shake it all up – or is it a new exercise plan? Generous mates, old and new, bear gifts and open doors. Be choosy about what works for you 'cuz this is a trend...

Aries, Leo brings you back to the deeply personal ways you fill your cup with fun and games. Children could be the bearer of your new torch, you big kid, you! Spontaneity and a little joie de vivre revive you and sets you up for more fun at work. Put your personal stamp on everything!

Taurus, Venus wants peace in the home arena but Mars is a burr in the saddle. Passive-aggressive, ambivalent? What!?! Go for a run, (quietly) write a blockbuster screen play about family drama. But watch yourself. Is it basic insecurity? Calm down, bucko. Give yourself (and us) a break!

Gemini, what not to say is as important as what to say - and when. You are all about communications and harmony with your 'peeps' and siblings - who may be a tad touchy. Back off a notch on what is normal for you but high-gear for others. Deep thinking about home.

Cancer, little claws cling. We won't say you are a hoarder, but you may be shocked at how much stuff you own - ancestors' stuff, the stuff grown kids left...stuff everywhere! What you keep AND let go is a form of self-expression. Keep the heartfelt. Let go of sentimentality. Give yourself room to grow.

Stars Above Kitsap/Aries Total Lunar Eclipse

Alert! Do NOT unfasten your seat belt! The trip to healing and wholeness is not a free ride, and we have work to do before arrival. The stars are shouting, “Wake up - now - express your god-inspired ideas, and quit playing small and petty. Pick up the reins of your life and steer a path closer to your heart's desires.”

Eclipses trace twenty-year cycles which set up life themes. Think back to what you were doing in 1995. What did you drop then that you'd like to pick up again? A lunar eclipse moves security issues and unconscious patterns aside and gives us time to evaluate un-emotionally how we must move forward.

Aries is the initiating, life-giving energy of the Zodiac. It's the 'I'm in!' and 'Let's get 'er done!' excitement. The shadow side of Aries is...well, rude and dominating. This eclipse points to finding ways to express the dynamics of Aries leadership within collaborative partnerships (Libra) so all can move forward harmoniously. Speaking our truth with courage and courtesy could work miracles now.

On April 5-8 the stars illuminate important insights to the questions and uncertainties the past few years unleashed. We have worked too hard to miss the message, so tune in, focus on the future, and listen for directions.The Winter of 2015 charts guided us through an endgame equivalent to the final chapters of the The Lord of the Rings trilogy. There is no going back: bridges were burned, systems demolished. It will take the noble qualities of 'The Fellowship of the Ring' participants who battled together to rebuild a better future. Those archetypes exist in each of us. Activate them now – starting with the future-facing courage of Strider, the Aries warrior-king.

Horoscopes – April 4-18
Note: Read your Rising sign or Ascendant, and your Moon, if you know them, too.

Aries, such exciting times for you and a new year to boot. You can't go it alone so seek your natural buddies. Your go-get-'em personality is on fire so pick your target and don't throw that energy around all wily-nily! Initiate through deliberate action, cowboy.

Taurus, Mars comes to visit -use it to plod forth knocking on doors and being seen by those you want the attention of. Colleagues are congenial and helpful. Take time to review last year. Resolve what needs attention and look at how you undermine yourself. (Yea, you!)

Gemini, Mercury in fire inspires you to spread your wings and fly. Shake the networking tree - friends can facilitate changes you seek. Once the door opens, be deliberate to get what you want. Dreams are talking to you. Clever you, change AND relaxation!

Cancer, so much going on at work, so much desire to be home. This eclipse says re-invent yourself at work. Ask for help. It feels risky, but you more than pull your weight and there are those who will help. Be brave, ask - you could get home sooner.

Leo, oh, my goodness, you want a spring break. Take it if at all possible and watch new ideas ignite. You worked hard all winter setting cement at the foundation of your chart. Finally, you are getting noticed. Can't leave? Adventures of the mind work - gather friends on a sunny deck.

Virgo, part of intimacy is speaking up for yourself. Sometimes it just seems you have to yell to be heard. Lower your voice, pick your moments and ask your guardian angel to help. (Really! Who do you think helps with your to-do-lists?) A little future dreaming together works.

Libra, your full moon in eclipse and your partners or clients looking to you for what- everything!? Try to see their point of view even though you feel vulnerable. Deep-seated patterns are coming into sight. Easy does it. A time-out and quiet reflection may be the ticket.

Scorpio, man, it's all about work lately. Work, work, work with its strategies and intrigues is fun for you. Be sure health routines can sustain the extreme sport of work. Oh, 'honey' does need attention, if you don't want 'honey' hot and bothered. Well, maybe you do.

Sagittarius, you are hyped up for adventures with sporty-types. Saturn, the task master, let up a bit, but you know in your heart you're about to embark on a journey that will call forth your inspiring self. Find your mission and embark. The Earth needs you!

Capricorn, such deep changes over the past few years, but rebirth is at hand. Retreating home is a necessity. Still, you're digging to find your true voice and act on it. Work-wise, diplomacy and some mental health days are called for. You deserve it!

Aquarius, okay, Chatty Cathy, it's all about you! Places to go, people to see – it's simply inspiring to be you and that is okay. Remember to include your significant one and listen to other points of view. Are you blogging? Publishing? What's the new focus?

Pisces, frankly, the more you take charge, the more money you make. And the better you feel about yourself which leads to new ventures. Chat openly with a best friend who helps you clarify your intentions so even you are clear.