Hi Everyone

Last month 2 planets changed direction. This month it’s three and then things settle for May.

I’m sure you’ll be pleased to know that Mercury goes direct on the 15^th at 5:21 a.m. EDT. He’ll be at 4⁰ Aries. It’s same day as the New Moon, which will occur that evening at 26⁰ Aries. So communication, travel and hopefully thinking will move more smoothly, and we will act on the insights gained during his retrograde period, which was a time to re-group, re-flect, and re-treat.

Saturn and Pluto both begin their retrograde motion within a few days of each other, so the week of April 16 could be a little unsettled. Saturn begins his 5-month retrograde motion on the 17^th at 9:47 p.m. EDT. He’ll be at 9⁰ Capricorn. Also in Capricorn (has been there for a long time!) is Pluto who will station retrograde on the 22^nd at 11:23 a.m. He’ll be at 21⁰ Capricorn.  Both planets will end their retrograde motion in September. Those with planets in cardinal signs (Aries, Libra, Cancer, Capricorn) may feel the impact of this shift in direction more acutely. Capricorn generally deals with the status quo, institutions and systems, and Saturn is very strong in his own sign. There could be greater entrenchment and unwillingness (fear) to change as these two powerful planets change the direction of their dance in the heavens. On a more positive note, Capricorn is the sign of the spiritual initiate. Saturn points out those areas that need to be brought to the light to be healed and Pluto shines the light of truth into the dark places in our soul that we may not want to look at. Jupiter is retrograde in Scorpio, which Pluto rules, providing opportunities for deep internal growth – wonderful and challenging all at the same time! And Uranus, the planet of rebellion and higher-level insight, continues his transit of Aries, god of war, but on a personal level can assist in our quests to know High Self.

To add to the earth element this month, the Sun goes into slow-moving Taurus on the 19^th at 11:13 p.m. EDT. Taurus’ message is to slow down, enjoy the flowers, and be aware of the processes of the natural world and its beauty. While Taurus is the most earthbound of the signs, it is also deeply connected to Mother Earth, with great respect for her and her cycles. We should take note. . .

Again this month there are no planets in air, until the 25^th when Venus goes into Gemini. This is not a time for mental activity, but for repose and deep reflection – a lot of earth and two planets in water (Jupiter and Neptune).

Enjoy the spring!

Peace and abundant blessings,

Margaret