current highlights: oob dark & new moon in Capricorn, first quarter moon in taurus

Art: Tracy Porter

💫Chiron Stations Direct in Aries: Forged in the Flame; Time to move on.

Chiron stations @ 22°35' in the 3rd house, the natural realm of Gemini ruled by Mercury. This is the house of awareness and side-by-side relation/partnerships. 

During retrograde, it was important for us to note patterns that may have been overlooked, as well as triggers too painful to previously face. 

Yet, if we reached for that higher thought and reminded ourselves it's all part of the process, then healing could take place without resistance. 

Chiron in Aries represents the wound of "self". Maybe something we don't want to face but can't be ignored if we want to experience growth. It's also important to run a biwheel to discover exactly how this placement will affect our own personal Chiron placement. 

If you're experiencing a Chiron-return, then the influence will differ from those who are not. 

Surrender was a good definition to remember when facing inadequacy, doubt, and low self-esteem/worth in order to rise above these issues. This may have been quite a challenge, especially if the wound was deep. And maybe we just scratched the surface, and healing is still in process. 

But for the escapists, there's going to come a time when we must clean our wounds in order to reach the summit. It will help to know that obstacles are typically of our own accord and that some pivoting of thoughts and/or beliefs are required. There is truth in the wound; there is also freedom.

Living with the negative effects of Chiron throughout our lives prevent us from reaching our full potential as humans. The transformation of our own wounds into something positive is crucial in understanding the overall process of energy transformation. Everything in the Universe begins with self, that includes the power of healing and transforming. 

So, what are wounds of self? Fear of abandonment. Betrayal. Unrequited Love. 

While all Chiron placements are painful, Aries is directly related to who we are as a person. 

This station, occurring in the house of awareness/ side-by-side relation/partnerships provides clues as to how this healing can take place. Most Aries are confident, courageous, daring, and strong. 

However, an unhealed Aries placed Chiron could reflect the opposite of these traits. We could experience anxiety, self-doubt, and fear. If we are experiencing any of these traits, then these are our Chiron wounds, asking to be healed on a deeper level. 

This is why pattern recognition, or awareness of triggers is vital. Examine whatever causes feelings of abandonment, betrayal, or unrequited love. Then flip through your life and see if the pattern has been repetitive. If not, then there's a good chance that we have closed ourselves to the potential experience. 

A former mentor, called "Old China", told me once that I guarded my heart like a precious vase that could be broken. But if I allowed it to break, I could sweep up the pieces and no longer fear. 

The Japanese art of kintsugi demonstrates the beauty of brokenness by fusing the pieces back together with gold. 

The scars that fuse on broken skin are stronger than skin itself. But we must be willing to tend the break in order for it to heal.

Late afternoon OOB S' Mercury conjunct Juno in Capricorn, conjoining Juno's relatedness principle with Mercury's mental expression, emphasizing the importance of mental and verbal communication in one's relationships. 

With Mercury OOB S' we may experience the capacity to articulate important ideas, concerns, and feelings to one's partner, thus contributing to sharing and intimacy, according to Demetra George. Or, we could experience difficulties articulating our feelings, which may lead to misunderstandings that produce conflict and potential manipulation and/or denigration of others. 

Whichever emotional realm we're in is what will be accentuated with this aspect. 

Deeper through the Decan & Tarot 

This station is occurring in the third decan of Gemini (20°-29°), ruled by the Sun and Saturn, and represented by the minor arcana tarot card, Ten of Swords. 

Unlike the first two decans of Gemini, which reflect discovery and exploration, this one reflects choices—as in judgements must be made utilizing awareness. Austin Coppock refers to this face as "An Executioner's Sword. . .to achieve actuality, a multitude of possibilities must be sacrificed." 

Here we must bear our weight learning to make life-and-death decisions; however, "this face teaches levity, the dual revelation of life as comedia/tragedia. For the wise laugh even as the executioner's blade descends," adds Coppock. 

Of course, "death" typically doesn't imply literal, but the ending of a cycle, perfectly depicting the wounded healer, Chiron, stationing direct after a long retrograde through the fiery furnace of Aries. Beginnings always ensue endings regardless of the type—even in physical Death there is a new spiritual beginning. 

So, thus, are patterns we choose to end. Associations we choose to terminate. And awareness we opt to heed.  Just as the year of the Snake in Chinese astrology is the year of old skins cracking open, shedding and deep emotional clearing, so Chiron stops looking back and decides to step forward in whatever choice we've made for ourselves. 

May we each discover the magic of transformation and courage of Aries face truth and freedom in the wound—both waiting to be released. 

Art: Lucy Campbell

💫Full OOB Wolf Moon in Cancer @ 5:03 AM, EST, 8th house, the natural realm of Scorpio co-ruled by Mars & Pluto. 

The first Full Moon of the 2026 Gregorian calendar comes in not only howling but out-of-bounds as well. Known as the Wolf Moon, "Emotionally Tenacity" is the key phrase. 

What is more interesting about this celestial event is that in addition to the Moon, both Mercury and Mars (co-rulers of this decan) are also out-of-bounds south, whereas the Moon is north. 

Note: There is a distinction here between OOB North and South—North is more outward expression/behavior while South is more inward observation and reflection. 

OOB Planets

OOB planets can go one of two ways: firstly, they can produce exceptional creativity exceeding the potential of expectations; secondly, they can be erratically unpredictable and go to extremes that can detrimentally affect others, including themselves.  

Those with OOB planets, to put it simply, like coloring outside the lines. That can be considered a creative genius or dangerous liability. Whether the declination is North or South is equally important. The North N' is considered more outgoing whose actions affect the world, while the South S' is more internalized and expressed through communication such as writing or speaking.

An OOB Moon is a luminary of emotions and instincts which will provoke intrigue of the unknown. We should guard against becoming too indistinct or far-fetched. Our challenge will be to associate within the confines of safety rather than seclusion. 

Moon in Cancer

The Moon is dignified in Cancer, so this will strengthen its influence as well as our response. When a planet is dignified, it enables us to control our circumstances, which is perfect, as the Full Moon is the time of greatest power and corresponds with the intentions did you set for the New Moon in Sagittarius December 19th, 2025.  

When occupying Cancer, whatever has been buried will come to the surface, accentuated via the 8th house signature—delving into the depths of transformational truths to regenerate. It can be an incredible time for awakenings, deep healing, forgiveness, and pouring emotional momentum behind manifestations or release. 

Cancer is associated with maternal nurturing, but at times can be patronizing and apprehensive about matters outside of their control. Their primary attachment is to home and family; therefore, this Moon will touch on all our relationships and living space, urging us to process and practicing release of emotions to avoid blocks and maintain a healthy flow of energy.

This lunation can send our intuition and psychic sensitivity into overdrive. If we don't maintain boundaries, impositions could lead to deep resentment. Remember, this Moon is dignified, which enables us to control our own circumstances. Adhering to our boundaries is imperative. 

Deeper through the Decan & Tarot 

The second decan of Cancer is co-ruled by Mercury and Mars, and encompasses sanctuary and protective nurturing regarding our creations, according to Nicola Allan, astrologer, author, & illustrator of "The Wild Way Oracle Book." Mars asserts his co-rulership here through fostering relationships, passions, and projects are necessary means to build effective boundaries.  

The minor arcana tarot card associated with this decan is the Three of Cups. Cups represent the element of Water: Emotions, relationships, intuition, and love. 

In this auspicious card three women dance in spontaneous delight, filled with joy expounded by friendship and sharing. The pumpkins symbolize a time of ripeness and thanksgiving. Our relationships ripen and grow when you openly celebrate them, an indicator of the presence of Mercurial magic adding to the merriment. 

Austin Coppock refers to this decan as "A Walled Garden", adding that "the great secret. . .is the power of right incubation . . .where something precious is kept." 

This is evident by the overflowing cups (Golden Art Nouveau Tarot) that the harvest of effort is the celebration. 

These two planetary influences (Fire & Air) have an interesting relationship within this watery decan and work cooperatively to provide safety (Mars) within celebration (Mercury). We are also ourselves when we feel secure with others, allowing our true natures to be revealed amongst trusted companions. 

The true nature of this decan and lunation is not so much what is being protected but what is being nurtured to fruition. Perhaps the intentions set during last month's new Moon aren't ready to manifest but require a nurturing greenhouse until firmly rooted and ready for transplant out in the world. 

Whether it's nurturing intentions or celebrating manifestation, this watery lunation brings to the surface what needs to be done, if we're brave enough to face the truth of ourselves while sharing with likeminded. 

Aspects (time & degrees below)

Early morning the OOB N' Moon in Cancer opposite OOB S' Mars in Capricorn, creating a brief period of dissonance that could affect our relationships. Tolerance becomes the keyword of the morning, and patience with things that wouldn't normally disturb us. Relationships with women in particular could be more challenging. This transit is brief, and awareness can be a wonderful tool to help us navigate rough waters. 

Midafternoon the OOB Moon conjunct Jupiter Rx in Cancer, ushering in relief from the previous aspect. Petty foibles no longer try our patience, and opening up to others becomes much easier if we take it slowly. This transit has a tendency to mirror what we give back unto us, so make sure its nurturing support. 

Tonight, the OOB Moon in Cancer square Chiron in Aries, presenting a wonderful opportunity to assist the healing of another or heal with the assistance of others if we do not allow fear to prevent us from opening up to vulnerability. 

Whether you're in a relationship or single, you may struggle due to past experiences that produced wounds. Yet, there is such an opportunity present for spiritual growth by facing these wounds by allowing them to surface so they can finally be addressed.

Courage (Mars) and open communication (Mercury) are essential prescriptions.

Native American legend

"Native American tribes have labeled full moons for many reasons. This particular full moon is called the Wolf Moon. It is said to be the time wolves howl loudly at the moon.

"They are crying out in hunger as the cold season has left them with fewer prey options. This has also been referred to as the Spirit Moon because it is the first full moon of the year, indicating the importance of setting intentions and goals.

"The wolf moon can evoke an animalist desire to be free, to be wild, untamed, to crave, and to pursue the things that we’re naturally drawn to. Even if it doesn’t make you money, even if it’s not particularly profound according to worldly standards, the full moon wants you to go after what your soul craves."

Being this is the first Full Moon of the year known also as "Spirit Moon", rituals are sacred investments in ourselves, our abilities, and healing through release (howling) the parts of us that have experienced negative circumstances such as betrayal, rejection, and alternate themes that are currently playing into the Chiron aspect. 

It's time to howl at the Moon. Perhaps a sacred salt bath. Spiritual music. White candles. And some of the most important releases and fostering intentions of the year.

💫✨

Art: Catherine Hyde

💫 Last Quarter Moon in Libra: Judge's Moon accompanied by an extended Void-of-Course. 

This lunar stage is often referred to as the last quarter square because it zeroes in on our outer wounds, or point of focus whenever we get triggered: it's a determiner that sets the gauge of how we react: do we tend to blame who or whatever triggered us rather than focusing on what needs healed within us?  

Spiritual maturity dictates that the recognition of our triggers or areas within us that need healed is all a part of our divine blueprint to nudge us onward. 

We KNEW what it would take to evict us out of our complacency—and just who or what it would take to honor the process. If some "one" or some "thing" appears to be a 'bane' of our existence, there is a purpose for that presence, and the lesson is imperative. 

Recognizing that the purpose is here to serve us is one of the first spiritually "coming-of-age" signs. Perhaps the situation is teaching us to set boundaries, use our voice, or take action. 

Drop down into the heart and listen. 

Last week's Full Moon in Cancer opened the door to release and forgiveness. This lunation will show us exactly where we still have more work to do. With the extended 17-hour void-of-course time, hovering between Saturday and Sunday, it's a time for inner work, not major life decisions or strong actions. 

Aspects (time & degrees below)

While this process will not be easy with the following aspects, it will be more rewarding if we suffer through. The fourth quarter moon in Libra embodies balance, harmony, and emotional well-being. Therefore, creating this balance and harmony through the reconciliation of polar energies and overcoming obstacles is required. 

Early morning the Sun in Capricorn opposite Jupiter Rx in Cancer, requiring us to guard our positive energy from negatives such as arrogance or subordination. Honor previous commitments but establish boundaries against any request you know you will not be able to honor. 

Mid to late morning, Mars in Capricorn oppose Jupiter Rx in Cancer, Moon in Libra square Jupiter Rx in Cancer square Mars in Capricorn square Sun in Capricorn: This will be the most challenging time of the day. 

Required conscious about planning and performing honorably rather than egotistically prevents overestimating our abilities. 

Remaining within our own limits can bring success. Self-awareness is important regarding our actions to prevent smug self-righteousness or hasty decisions which could produce conflict with others. Overlooking slights will reduce a false perception of threats due to our own sensitivity.

Not everyone is out to attack us. 

Lastly, utilize patience regarding disruptions in routine or commute/travel issues if they arise. Don't take others for granted. If we have, it will most likely come to a head. Expressing ourselves without causing destruction is the challenge here, particularly with Mercury still OOB.  

Early-midafternoon the extended void-of-course kicks in until early Sunday morning. Also, the Libran Moon square Venus in Capricorn opposite Chiron in Aries. 

Nostalgia may overtake our thoughts during this time, which is fine as long as it doesn't cause us to overlook something pertinent in the present. 

Take care not to overindulge at lunch this afternoon. Alcohol may not be a wise choice at this time. Self-control will pay off in the near future and maintain current issues of self-worth or image that over-indulgence would just amplify. 

There is a profound opportunity here to face the aspects of ourselves we'd like to hide or hide from. Embracing the wound rather than rejecting it creates an atmosphere of profound healing. 

We have a powerful Super New Moon in Capricorn just around the corner. We're going to want to have as much of this behind us to take full advantage of what will be required in Saturn's realm. 

You designed this: You got this.

💫✨

Art: Wyn Abbot 

 💫 Dark OOB Moon in Capricorn @ 2:52 PM, EST, 8th House, the natural home of Scorpio co-ruled by Pluto & Mars.

This lunation precedes the New OOB Moon in Capricorn tomorrow afternoon. There is no void-of-course during this phase, so all rituals are a go in this 24-hour period.

Call upon mighty Hecate (Hekate), goddess of the Moon, crossroads, and magic to illuminate the torch of our understanding. Hekate is conjunct the Moon in Capricorn at the time of this perfection. It's a wide conjunction, but there, nonetheless. She is also conjunct Pholus, the centaur who represents healing, transformation, and the unexpected. He's also known to take the lid off to reveal what's inside.

Between Hekate's torches illuminating the darkness and Pholus taking the lid off, we can expect to be transformed by a truth within us if we choose to do the work, particularly with the 8th house signature of transformation through alchemy. 

It has been scientifically proven that the Moon affects the tides of the largest bodies on Earth through a gravitational force. If the largest bodies on Earth are affected by the Moon, how can our own not be? After all, our human bodies 50-75% water. It's during this movement that transformation can take place. 

To understand the astrological sign of Capricorn is to understand the nature of this lunation. While there is no cookie-cutter astrology, there are certain traits observed and recorded over thousands of years by astrologers who were come to known as masters of their craft. 

As a Cardinal sign, Capricorns appear to be ambitious, serious, and dedicated to duty. Life may seem difficult because they're ruled by disciplinarian Saturn, but ultimately, they triumph through self-discipline, responsibility and practical means; however, have a propensity for self-pity at times.

They seem to possess excellent reasoning ability and a strong sense of purpose and direction. They may appear somber and reserved in their dealings with others, but once they trust you, they are loyal and steadfast. Socially oriented and willing to work hard for anything they want, their self-esteem appears to be extremely important to them. 

On the other hand, the Moon represents the feminine aspect and is emotional and unpredictable, particularly when OOB. This intuitive luminary's influence in the chart is very important because it's closest to Earth and moves through the zodiac rapidly. Where you find the Moon in your chart is where you are subject to emotional ups and downs. 

It's also important to discover if your Moon, or any planets are OOB, as it adds an entirely different dynamic to the energy. 

When the energies of the New Moon and Capricorn combine, we could feel drawn towards hard work or, with the OOB trajectory, we may eschew responsibility for the unexpected altogether.  

If more goal and/or career-oriented, focusing on the project/s we wish to finish most will serve us better when the New Moon perfects tomorrow evening. We’ll be in a position to manifest the motion of our ideal goal or career more than ever.  The New Moon is associated with spring tides, creating exceptionally high and low tides, making it one of the most pronounced phases for ocean tides. 

This energy can revitalize our dedication and commitment to intention-setting by visualizing them literally being received (high tide) and taken (low tide) far out into the ocean to manifest and returned during the Full Moon's higher tides. 

The OOB energy to break free is equal to the energy to stay put! So, it's going to take some determination and willpower on OUR part to overcome the fear of moving forward. 

A good question to ask during this time is not just what we want, but what we're willing to relinquish: a bad habit or pattern, toxic relationship, job, an illicit affair—whatever is holding us back from honoring our soul so that we can step into a life more aligned with our purpose. 

This is where we can apply knowledge and understanding to circumstance and bring about balance—that’s where Capricorn’s sure-footed nature can ground us and provide a practical viewpoint. 

DEEPER THROUGH THE DECAN & TAROT

Sure-footedness is reinforced by occurring in the third decan of Capricorn (20°-29°), ruled by the Sun and Mercury, representing Surety and Stability according to astrologer & author Nicola Allan. However, "Heavy is the head that wears the crown", because "positions of power come with expectations and obligations as well as the ability to increase our social status or bank balance," adds Allan. 

The minor Arcana tarot card associated with this decan is the Four of Pentacles, known in the Golden Dawn tradition as the "Lord of Earthly Power, " illustrating a seemingly powerful man not only crowned with riches, but riches cushion his feet and are nestled within his hands. It seems he has no room for anyone else in his life because money is the foundation and his primary love. Yet will he ever be satisfied without true connection to others? 

While the Sun and Mercury are excellent business partners, with commerce, trade and business partners combine with authority and recognition, the danger here is to not become so focused on attaining wealth that we overlook the importance of connections. 

Even more concerning is the propensity for greediness. 

T. Susan Chang refers to this decan as "Money in the bank. . .money is on his mind, in his heart, beneath his feet. He faces forward unflinchingly, for if he blinks, someone might filch a coin!" 

This face is also associated with downfalls from the weight of responsibility. Austin Coppock warns "only high places bring with them the danger of terrible falls." Equally interesting is that when this card is reversed, the weight of finances is upon the bearer. 

"It can get lonely at the top." 

DAILY ASPECTS

Early morning Venus in Capricorn sextile Neptune in Pisces followed by the Sun in Capricorn sextile Saturn in Pisces. Exposing ourselves to the arts will greatly enhance our creative abilities. Sensitivities are greatly magnified, particularly in relation to beauty, be it nature or manmade. 

A potential "soulmate" connection in relationships brings the potential for a soul-filled union. Enjoy it while it lasts because the latter sextile brings our focus to duty and responsibility. Our minds are ready to tackle complex tasks effortlessly. 

Sun in Capricorn trine Uranus in Taurus in the afternoon, heightening our discernment regarding the interrelatedness of our lives. Sudden epiphanies or unexpected discoveries seem to rise to the surface of our realization during this time. We feel at ease within our skin and possess the confidence to be ourselves. Esoteric study is also highly favored. 

Tonight, the OOB Moon in Capricorn opposite Jupiter Rx in Taurus, requiring reconciliation between the desire to freedom and potential pressure from others to conform to their wishes to avoid disagreements with partners, associates, or even friends. 

It's a good time to self-evaluate goals and aspirations born of a "spiritual disquiet" revealing a new trait, gift, or beneficial direction to consider.  

This Capricorn Moon is to be celebrated, as it provides the focused energy to manifest our goals and dreams while keeping us grounded in reason. Just remember those feelings and emotions also need attention.

💫✨

Art: Hajime Namiki

💫 New OOB Moon in Capricorn perfects @ 2:52 PM, EST, 9th House, the natural home of Sagittarius ruled by Jupiter. Here a desire is to shake up routine could become paramount. This may be at odds with the Moon's natural disposition to remain within the safety of the familiar. A good compromise is a comfortable day trip within known surroundings. 

This not only gets you away from domestic life but keeps you in a familiar area, especially if it's somewhere you've been before, such as a museum or art exhibit. Don't be surprised if you meet new people from different backgrounds. 

Mental study and/or imaginative journeys can also provide an escape within the confines of our surroundings. Delving into a topic that compels us will be easier during this time, as this lunar position creates a more businesslike and practical mindset. Because the future is important, we may choose to organize parts of our lives that we feel have become discombobulated. 

While this phase does indicate new beginnings, today is not a day to be too businesslike at the expense of emotional connections. Try creating something together. 

EARTH ENERGY

Earth energy, particularly Saturn-ruled Capricorn are cardinal authority figures possessing the "Ruler" archetype. While Capricorn is a passive principle, the planets within its domain contribute to business operations utilizing their own characteristics. From setting down rules to living by them, they exercise discipline in all things, respect tradition, and expect a return for their investment of time, knowledge, and expertise. 

I bring this up because there is a current buildup of Earth energy, with four planets and four asteroids occupying its territory. Today's four conjunctions, the most powerful aspect, in this Earthy sign can promote ideas for projects, new business ventures, organizational skills, and establishing boundaries. 

As stated above, remember not to go overboard on the businesslike attitude at the expense of others. 

This lunation also occurs in the third decan of Capricorn, explained in yesterday's Dark Moon in Capricorn post, but I'll repost in case readers may have missed it because it's very pertinent to this lunation. 

DECAN & TAROT

Sure-footedness is reinforced by occurring in the third decan of Capricorn (20°-29°), ruled by the Sun and Mercury, representing Surety and Stability according to astrologer & author Nicola Allan. However, "Heavy is the head that wears the crown", because "positions of power come with expectations and obligations as well as the ability to increase our social status or bank balance," adds Allan. 

The minor Arcana tarot card associated with this decan is the Four of Pentacles, known in the Golden Dawn tradition as the "Lord of Earthly Power," illustrating a seemingly powerful man not only crowned with riches, but riches cushion his feet and are nestled within his hands. It seems he has no room for anyone else in his life because money is the foundation and his primary love. 

Yet will he ever be satisfied without true connection to others? 

While the Sun and Mercury are excellent business partners, with commerce, trade and business partners combine with authority and recognition, the danger here is to not become so focused on attaining wealth that we overlook the importance of connections. Even more concerning is the propensity for greediness. 

T. Susan Chang refers to this decan as "Money in the bank. . .money is on his mind, in his heart, beneath his feet. He faces forward unflinchingly, for if he blinks, someone might filch a coin!" 

This face is also associated with downfalls from the weight of responsibility. Austin Coppock warns "only high places bring with them the danger of terrible falls." Equally interesting is that when this card is reversed, the weight of finances is upon the bearer. 

"It can get lonely at the top." 

OOB DARK MOON ASPECTS

Early morning Mercury conjunct Mars in Capricorn. While this aspect lends a powerful energy to our intellect, which in turn promotes inspiration as well as a desire for debate, which can be taken too far. Guard against egotistical behavior, defensiveness, and irritability that creates conflicts over trivial matters. Sometimes not defending our position to prove a point is the only defense it needs. 

Mid to late morning, the OOB Dark Moon in Capricorn Square Chiron in Aries conjunct Mercury in Capricorn. Intricate emotions fueled by insecurities. Creating a healthy self of self-worth includes holding space and nurturing our own wounds as we would others shapes the potential for healing growth. Seek information that influences our mood toward a more positive outlook will help. Communicating our feelings to someone we trust has a positive impact if we tend to overthink. 

Don't get sidetracked by trivial matters and lose focus on what's important. 

Early through midafternoon, the OOB Dark Moon sextile Saturn in Pisces conjunct the Sun in Capricorn. We may feel like self-isolating to balance emotional needs with our obligations. The New Moon conjunction can recharge energies and meld mind and heart. However, if we feel depleted, it's okay to rest. There's powerful energy at play here and it doesn't affect everyone the same. 

OOB NEW MOON ASPECTS

Late afternoon, the Sun/Neptune sextile creates an easier opening to give and receive. With the Moon now inbound, a heightened intuition, spirituality becomes important to us, and we must just realize that helping those less fortunate rescues us from insecurity and doubt. 

Tonight, the New Moon conjunct Venus in Aquarius. The energy has shifted from Earth to Air; therefore, we may feel like socializing. Existing relationships receive a boost, and domestic beautification appeals to us. Guard against overindulgence, whether shopping, eating, or drinking. 

💫✨

Art: Alireza Karimi Moghaddam 

Taurus is uncomplicated and focuses on the desire to sate its sensualities. We want a comfortable and safe home, to feel fulfilled from a satisfying meal, and money in the bank to take care of our needs. 

Everyone wants most of these things daily; however, these desires are amplified and magnetic while the Moon transits Taurus, and especially within the intensity of the 8th house.  

Venus-ruled Taurus appreciates beauty, and the simple things life has to offer. We may engage in more play at this time and are sensitive to the beauty of the Earth. 

Or feel more accepting of ourselves just as we are and even partake in childhood joys. 

Avoid indolence and obstinance and don't focus on changing others, or situations we have no control of. In acceptance lieth peace, contentment, and balance.

FIRST QUARTER MOON IN TAURUS

Many heed New and Full Moons; however, overlook alternative phases such as the First Quarter Moon. I have always viewed the first quarter phase as a reminder to keep nurturing whatever it is you've planted: dream or garden.

Keep nurturing, even when all you can see is half-light. BTW, many refer to this phase as the "Half Moon" because only half of the moon is illuminated. 

This phase is a crucial phase for growth, which takes strength for a plant to break through the earth; or a human to break through a challenge. Being it's the phase after setting New Moon intentions, it's a reminder that light is inching its way across the horizon of circumstance and will soon fully illuminate the situation. 

It can be compared to Yang energy - a determined resolutely to acquire those intentions set during the New Moon phase. 

The moon is moving towards its full brightness in this “yang” phase of development, determined to get from where it is now to where it finally wants to be, full of potential. 

Inch with the light and ask for strength, not just physical strength, but the spiritual strength to believe in the manifestation of your intentions despite only seeing half the light. This will take not only strength but focus and determination.

Pull in that Yang energy to compliment the Yin.

View this phase as a training ground, one that gauges your resolve in reference to your desires. Are you willing to do the work required to attain your goals? Are you influenced by those around you, or do you follow your heart? 

Lastly, the inching light is not a sudden flash, blinding you on your path. It's a slow, steady process that allows you time to contemplate your next step. 

Whether that next step is a sacred pause to check the compass and gauges of your heart, or a clear and resolute knowing the direction to turn, both are considered moving forward. 

Just don't give up. First Quarter Moon in Taurus: Seek alternatives to release tension rather than a barrage of missiles that will come home to roost.

ASPECTS (Times & degree)

VC Moon conjunct Chiron in Aries early morning. Remember during a lunar VC period things may not appear as they truly are. Rather than feed the flames of emotional doubt and insecurity, now's a great time to look back and see just how far you've come—even if it's only an inch.

Late afternoon through tonight the Moon in Taurus square Mars, Pluto, and the Sun in Aquarius. Keep in mind that while squares are the most challenging of aspects, their silver lining contains the greatest potential for growth. 

Evaluate disputes. Ask yourself if it's worth the energy. Is there an alternative to release tension rather than a barrage of words or impulsive actions that will come home to roost in the future?  Make certain you're not avoiding an issue you need to face—just face it with as much grace as possible, not with a torpedo launcher.

The Plutonian square enables us to delve deeply within ourselves for answers. Avoid power-struggles, domineering behavior or Vicky the victim mentality or manipulation—it's certain to backfire. 

These transits produce challenges to current foundations: careers, domestic life, relationships, particularly with the Solar square. Don't make mountains our of molehills, especially if you feel taken for granted. Utilize this energy toward creative endeavors rather than combative declarations. 

💫✨