In ancient times the first Astrologers would get their information by looking up at the sky. And while a star-gazer does not see the entire sky at one time, they do see the actual planets and where they are in relation to the rest of the fixed sky.
Somewhere along the line the ancient Greeks figured out a way to make a MAP of the planets in the sky by using a wheel with the earth at the center. These maps were called Horoscopes or The Zodiac. To put it simply the Zodiac is the Horoscope wheel and the signs on that wheel. This was great at the time, because it allowed Astrologers to see what the stars were doing - even in bad weather conditions. But there was one problem with this, these maps were 2 dimensional, while the actual sky is 3 dimensional. But Horoscopes, or the Zodiac became extremely popular. So popular in fact, that it wasn’t long before people forgot to look at the sky altogether when consulting Astrology.
They lost crucial information at that time however, and it still hasn’t been returned to it’s place in the world of Astrology. The information that was lost was the declination or if you prefer the elevation of a planet in relation to the equator of the Earth. This elevation is responsible for many things including the Winter and Summer Solstices and the Fall and Spring equinox’s.
There is a debatable phenomenon that I will be holding an experiment about on the September 22nd (Pacific Time) Equinox. We will test the theory that an egg can be balanced on end during the Equinox. As of today, both Lennie and I have tried to balance eggs on end with no success. I have succeeded before - easily I might add - during an Equinox. While there were witnesses to that Equinox balancing (one who was very skeptical too) that just isn’t good enough. So we will film our experiment to see if it can be done, and if there is a difference before or after the actual Equinox. I will add, that when I balanced my egg before, I was able to balance every egg in my cousin’s refrigerator on a wide variety of surfaces. I then went home and balanced every egg in my own refrigerator on my kitchen counter. I even left one stading there overnight. When I came down in the morning it had fallen over and broken on the floor. So, let’s see what happens. Sign up in the blue box at the bottom of the page to be updated on this experiement. And please, try it yourself. Take an egg and see what you can and can’t do with it. There’s no better proof than that. All I ask is that you refrain from making a decision until all the research has been collected. Stay tuned, I will post the results here on my blog.
When I use the whole sky in my Astrology, I am able to see important things, like when two planets (like Jupiter and Venus) eclipse each other - an extremely powerful phenomenon. Most of us would have to go back to looking at the sky in order to get this missing information, but thanks to the magic of modern computers I can give you the whole picture when I read your chart, and in my discussions and Horoscope columns. It is truly 100% Astrology - leaving nothing out. Remember, don’t leave the eggs out of your cakes, and don’t leave the sky out of your Astrology.
In early August, more creative solution finding is in order. In the first week of August the Sun tangles with Saturn and Uranus, which could lead to a very public humiliation of a recognized authority figure or leader, bad reputations and scandal abound in this atmosphere – some of which has even been earned by the accused. The Sun-Saturn Eclipse in the First week of August is a warning to all of us. Be wary of institutions of control and domination. My best suggestion is not to sign or start anything important until the 13th The first half of the month is filled with battles of control and power, do I even need to mention the Middle East Crisis? Unresolved and overlooked problems make themselves so very obvious that unless heads are in deep quicksand they will require being dealt with – or backlash will ensue. Perhaps the best thing I can say about this month’s influences is that when systems break down, true leaders find themselves jumping in to rebuild. People in those types of businesses will fare best in August with many opportunities to pick up leftover pieces.
Business opportunities present themselves in the first half of August especially in the areas of patents, Intellectual properties and marketing. But contracts signed this month are better for short-term commitments, not long-range ones – unless they deal with the public or celebrities. Somehow this Month, the geeks have it, and the world finds them sexy (at least more so than usual). So break out your black-rimmed glasses and pocket protectors!
Escalating oil and cost of living prices will hurt some long-term investments by the end of the month. The cost of a head of lettuce begins to get out of hand – this is a good time to plant your own! Precariously balanced structures can’t bear the strain after the 20th. The end of August brings big challenges; I don’t like the earthquake planets (both literally and metaphorically) – forewarned is forearmed. Now is the time to have a crisis plan prepared and do what you can to protect your stability.
Don’t forget to leave a comment and to sign up for 100% Astrology if you haven’t already. Free calls every month. Sign up in the blue box at the very bottom of this page. Aries (3/21-4/20)– This challenging Saturn Eclipse could actually land you with a promotion, upgrade or other recognition of your hard work and value. But it may come on the heels of problems left by someone else. The best news for you is that all month Mars hangs out in well-behaved, healthy and restrained Virgo. A new exercise or health program would work wonders for you this month, and Virgo’s influence may even curb the enthusiasm for war in the Middle East. End Aug with long-range solutions, you will be able to see the forest AND the trees then.
Taurus (4/21-5/21)– Teamwork, timing and organization gets it done in August, so build up your connections and don’t for a minute think that you could or should do it alone. Mid August is the time to solve nagging problems and limitations. August 13 is a day filled with such a huge and intense amount of information and busy-ness that you need a rest after it all! The world might seem to have gone topsy-turvy – at least temporarily. Try to remember that chaos precedes clarity and direction and take advantage of the fuss by taking care of yourself. When Venus joins Saturn on the 26th-27th a sense of restriction, budgets and limitations prevail. So squirrel away your money early in the month to provide a needed cushion at month’s end.
Gemini (5/22-6/22)– Timing and planning is everything for August opportunities. Budgets and strategies are most important now, especially if you intend to find a way to succeed in the currently unstable environment. You’re both in the chips – and in the middle of all the action around August 12-13. The scenario I imagine has you sitting at a high stakes poker table for 30+ hours straight while an entire revolution takes place on the TV screen. You are mesmerized by the events, but glued to your winning hands. After you win the tournament, you step out into a much-changed world and face a set of unexpected hurdles later in the month as personal problems or connection to difficult events arrives in your own living room. Set those extra chips aside for a while and wait for a good opportunity to use them.
Cancer (6/23-7/22)– Full Moon/New Moon: Aug 9 Aquarius/Aug 23 Virgo. Some shared responsibility ends in Early Aug leading to new neighbors, co-workers or news about siblings. If you choose to make a move the first week of August is NOT a good time to start a financial commitment or job, unless of course you enjoy the idea of becoming a slave to your job/car payment/mortgage/ fill-in-the-blank. You are much better off waiting another week – a few days of limbo could actually be fun after all, especially when playing the Mambo…. The New Moon in Virgo should bring psychological healing to a communication issue or problem that has been plaguing you. Perhaps you could even resolve some sibling rivalry or problems with co-workers or neighbors. Everybody needs a little bundle of love at home, is it time for a new Pet?
Leo (7/23-8/22)– Take extra care in early August, I don’t like to scare anybody, but this Saturn Eclipse is very nasty – so take extra steps to safeguard yourself, and your image. Your reputation could get tarnished, or at the very least people are inclined to misinterpret you this week and forgiveness is hard to get. Depending on your actual Birth Date, problems could range from trouble sleeping to an unexpected betrayal or act of underhanded aggression from someone to your own self-driven attitudes taking you to the edge of your own limitations. Now is a very good time to examine those driving, controlling and unkind voices and do the hard work of exorcising them from your life and your inner consciousness. Fortunately you have loved ones around you and family is supportive late August. Loving kindness heals all.
Virgo (8/23-9/22) Enlist financial support early August, but wait to sign contracts. A deal with a ‘big gun’ is promising, but pay close attention to any strings that come attached to the deal. Bigger isn’t always better, especially when the ‘big’ guy wants to push the ‘little guy’ around. Bullying in all forms is rampant in the world in the first week of August, so be on guard. You can get the support and teamwork you need though, especially if you protect your status and value, placing an accent on good service, health and well-being, as you usually do. Sometimes those who work hard and care for others must demand respect for it – and this might be the case for you in August. Take extra care after Aug 19 – new beginnings are delicate.
Libra (9/23-10/22)– Worries, concerns over career only limit you – think bigger. If anyone has an awareness of the problems uncovered by the Saturn Eclipse early in August it is you, and you have some solutions in mind too. It is time to put your famous diplomacy to the test – because now it is sorely needed. And you can really shine as the peacemaker and bridge builder, especially through calm negotiation and discussion. Of course, you’ll have to carry a gun to the shootout, but I know you, and you will be able to charm them all into putting down their weapons. Don’t sign up for more work than you can (or should) handle around the 26th-27th when pressures are at their toughest.
Scorpio (10/23-11/22)– Your star is rising in August - keep your energy up to meet the demands on your time – people will listen and give you respect. But be careful about it too, the sword of Damacles cuts both ways. You may have truth, power and the law behind you, but if you don’t wield it carefully you could get cut yourself. Information, knowledge and wisdom of a deeper level is probably moving through you into the world now; but giving birth to such a thing may be very painful. Make sure you take plenty of time for yourself and your own needs. Even when Jonah was taking down the whale he rested for a minute or two on occasion. You’ll get your whale, no doubt about it.
Sagittarius (11/23-12/22)– The Saturn Eclipse won’t really hurt you, actually, it could provide you with rewards for past efforts and a sudden status item or goodie. Just don’t be unsympathetic to the problems of others. What may appear as great good luck and opportunity for you now, may also come at the expense of someone else. I’m not saying you shouldn’t take it, I am just reminding you to give back and remember next time the roles could be reversed, After Aug 8 you’re on a roll with teammates and you all get a lot done. Communication/short trips are rewarding mid August. Your optimism and way of expressing yourself is well-received now too, so you can influence people and get things done. Finish up public/internet projects by the end of August for best results.
Capricorn (12/23-1/21)– Early Aug. brings pressure from an imposing personality and possible ownership conflicts. But you’re no pushover, and the Eclipse shows you how to speak out and be taken seriously – especially if this has been difficult for you in the past. Either that or you find yourself at a crises point where you absolutely have no other choice than to deal with critical or cruel inner dialogue and be done with it once and for all. This could be caused by crisis, but will lead to healing. Be careful in communication and negotiations as August ends. A one-man-band focus will not work now, you must look at the needs of the many if you intend to get anywhere.
Aquarius (1/22-2/20)– Early August may not be a picnic for you, but you will get thgouth it by the 13th. Karmic partnership issues are on the table for you before that, and you can resolve them with a good attitude or a bad one. Taking responsibility for yourself and your actions will free you from the Karmic burden Saturn represents now. Otherwise, challenges get compounded. But the good news is that you finally begin to be able to break through the big obstacles by the end of the month. Aug. ends with you able to get a message out in a large way, you could even sway the masses.
Pisces (2/21-3/19)– Something connected to your business dealings or shared finances create an impassable obstacle in early August. Issues and questions of authority and control emerge now. Try to remember that the only useful control is that which provides more freedom for more people. A clash of wills or power struggle is not going to serve you or anybody else in the long run. A specific career opportunity peaks late July/early August, Aug 10 is a day when long-term plans flower, use it wisely. After the flower something begins to go to seed. The end of August brings pressures, and philosophical conflict. It could be time to re-invent yourself.
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Well of course there is always something disturbingly familiar about getting older every year, but that’s not quite the Deja Vu that I am talking about. This year those Leo’s born before August 13 - will experience the effects of Retrograde Mercury in their Birthday Chart and this will have a major impact on the next Solar year (the year between Birthdays) of your life.
Each year is a new page in life. On the day near your birthday (sometimes a few hours before, and sometimes a few hours after) the Sun returns to the exact degree in the sky where it was when you were born. If you were born at 9 degrees 18 minutes of Leo, then your Solar Return happens in the day, hour and minute when the Sun Returns to 9 degrees 18 minutes of Leo. The entire impact of a Solar Return happens over the course of about 5 days; two preceding the return to 9″18″ Leo and two following it, plus the actual day of the Return.
These 5 days are very powerful and potent. You can - and should use them to set an intention for the whole next year of your life. Take some time to meditate or walk alone and contemplate what you want to do, be and accomplish this year. The influences will be felt for the entire next year of your life. It is as if the Universe has handed you a set of tools and materials and said. “Here are your resources for the next 12 months - do what you can with them.” But of course, it is up to you to use them constructively. We can use an electric saw to build a house, or we can use it to cut down the only bridge into town. The choice is ours.
This year almost all of the Leo’s in the world will feel the impact of the Retrograde Mercury in their Solar Return Chart. This makes it a very unusual and important year for Leo’s. You have been handed a special tool to use this year called Retrograde Mercury. It is up to you how you use it! But there will definitely be a set of experiences that come along with this tool. It is different to use an electric saw than it is to use a set of knitting needles! I can promise you that this is true, since I have used both of these. But don’t underestimate knitting needles - they were the subject of a rather nasty murder fantasy scene on ‘Desperate Housewives,’ and Airlines will no longer allow them on board a commercial flight. So much for harmless fun! In fact it would be easier to smuggle a power saw onto your next flight.
What has this got to do with you? A lot. This year Leo’s have been handed a set of knitting needles. And your thoughts (Mercury) will determine what those needles create. This particular set is kind of boomerang shaped, and will bring things back to you. You know how a boomerang works right? The harder you throw it away from you, the faster and more furiously it returns. This year your thoughts and beliefs will operate in much the same way. People from the past return. Old conversations come back around. And the feelings that you have towards others land back in your own lap. It’s Deja Vu, all over again.
When contemplating writing this message for you I was shown two animals - these are the Totems representing the energy you will confront this year. First is the Mountain Lion - much like your Leo symbol. This is showing me that you must face any fears, questions and issues that stand in the way of you taking a position of leadership. Lead with your heart, find your courage and speak your truth. Issues of power and abuse of power may confront you. Your job is to be a leader, hold compassion (especially for those who attack you) and act with the utmost respect for yourself and all living things. Above all, do not fall into the trap of stooping to the level of petty tyrants - even if they plague you at every turn. Yes, you may very well have to deal with a syndrome that I call PTS - Petty Tyrant Syndrome. The other side of this coin is that by rising above PTS, can can will rightfully magnetize your proper community and tribe of people around you. And there is power in numbers.
The second totem is Raven. This is power, sorcery and magic. Something of great mystery, the unknown and mysticism is possible - in fact it is necessary for you this year. Raven asks you to confront any fears that you project outwardly onto others, and demystify them. Confront your inner demons. Be ready to experience and embrace the magic and mystery in life. A super consciousness experience is very likely, and such a moment will change and open your entire outlook on the world and how it really works. It’s through the looking glass for you my friend! And if Up is Down and down is Left, then what is Right? The only possible answer to that question is: whatever lights up your heart and makes you feel joy, love and courage. The great gift of Raven is to remind you that miracles are everywhere; especially now. Never give up on your dreams or destiny.
So we can boil it down to a few key elements for your year: pride vs courage/compassion and fear vs magic. Living in the realm of courageous and compassionate magic is the sweet spot for you Leo’s for the next 12 months. May tenderness, joy and self-respect rain down upon you this year and bring you the tribe of cubs that rightfully belong in your Lion’s Den!
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I am very happy to announce my new column “Stripping by the Stars” to appear in the New Glossy Las Vegas Publication Nude Ambition starting in September with their first edition. Since they are launching in September the magazine will be a Virgo - both smart and seductive. Virgo’s have the hottest bodies in the world - and you will find them in Nude Ambition. This Cheeky, sexy column is geared towards the ’strip’ of Las Vegas - burlesque style. You will be able to find the column here each month but don’t forget to pick up the magazine the next time you go to Vegas, and check out “Stripping by the Stars” for all the hottness the stars have to offer you - and then enjoy a saucy romantic, star-filled night on the ‘Strip’ - tease that is.
