This week: A glorious New Moon in Leeeeooooo finds us engrossed in being more truly ourselves. The Sun and Mars make brilliant, energizing aspects to Uranus. And April answers a listener question about solar houses; what are they, how do you use them for your chart, and why would you want to? The fourth annual Big Sky Pod-A-Thon begins September 4th, with special episodes Monday through Friday! We’d would love to feature your beautiful voices in the upcoming celebratory shows! Leave a message and tell us how you found us and why you listen! Read a full transcript of this episode. Have a question you’d like answered on the show?  Leave it here! Subscribe to April’s mailing list and get a free lunar workbook at each New Moon! Love the show? Make a donation! Timestamps [1:46] The Sun squares Uranus on Aug. 15 (7:34 PM PDT) at 23º00’ degrees Leo-Taurus – look for connections to last week's Venus-Uranus square at the same degrees. [3:27] Uranus’ Sabian symbol is 23 Taurus, A jewelry shop. You’ll sparkle more brightly as you get closer to your true identity, rather than playing a role. [4:36] Moon Report! The New Moon in Leeeeeeoooooo (Aug. 16, 2:38 AM PDT) is at 23º17’ Leo on the Sabian symbol 24 Leo, An untidy, unkempt man. The Sun and Moon conjunct Venus and square Uranus in Taurus; time to examine your worth and demand better treatment. [7:38] The New Moon in creative Leo is the season to ask, “What do you want to create in the year ahead?” [10:00] Mars at 22º53’ Virgo in a grand trine with Uranus and Pluto is an opportunity to tackle a project, possibly for the masses, in a precise, inspired way. [10:43] This New Moon begins a Lunar Phase Family Cycle that plays out over the next three years. The First Quarter Phase of this cycle is on May 15, 2024, the Full Moon is on Feb. 2025, and the Last Quarter is on Nov. 11, 2025. [13:11] Void-of-Course (VOC) Moon Periods. On Aug. 14th (12:46 AM PDT) the Moon in Cancer opposes Pluto. It's Void-of-Course for about three hours and then enters Leo (3:36 AM PDT). Make changes to emotional habits, particularly related to power, control and safety. [14:14] The Moon in Leo conjuncts the Sun on Aug. 16th (2:38 AM PDT). The Moon will be VOC for about 1 ½ hours before entering Virgo (4:14 PM PDT). How can we be a more authentic version of ourselves? [15:17] On Aug. 19 (1:51 AM PDT), the Moon in Virgo trines Pluto. It’s VOC for about three hours before it enters Libra (4:53 AM PDT). Think about exalting your day-to-day work and using it toward large and important work. Humble worker bees could get a gold star for the day! [16:36] Mars trines Uranus at 23º00’ Virgo-Taurus (Aug. 16, 6:53 am PDT). Mars is on the Sabian symbol 23 Virgo, An animal trainer, and Uranus is on 23 Taurus, A jewelry shop. If you have worked hard, shown self-discipline, and most importantly, have shown up for work, this is the time that the Muse should visit. [19:36] April answers listener Elodie’s question about solar houses. [25:01] If you’d like to have your question answered on a future episode, leave a message of one minute or less at speakpipe.com/bigskyastrologypodcast or email april(at)bigskyastrology(dot)com; put “Podcast Question” in the subject line. [25:32] If you like what you’re hearing, please subscribe, follow, like and share! This episode is brought to you by donors Suzanne O’Claire, Connie Cameron, and Anne Walder! [26:26] Love the podcast? You can offer much-appreciated financial support here!  A donation of $5 or more will get you access to the Cancer Solstice bonus episode for donors only!

This week: A glorious New Moon in Leeeeooooo finds us engrossed in being more truly ourselves. The Sun and Mars make brilliant, energizing aspects to Uranus. And April answers a listener question about solar houses; what are they, how do you use them for your chart, and why would you want to? The fourth annual Big Sky Pod-A-Thon begins September 4th, with special episodes Monday through Friday! We’d would love to feature your <a href="https://www.speakpipe.com/bigskyastrologypodcast" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">beautiful voices</a> in the upcoming celebratory shows! Leave a message and tell us how you found us and why you listen! <a href="https://www.bigskyastrology.com/transcript-ep-191" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Read a full transcript of this episode.</a> Have a question you’d like answered on the show?  <a href="https://www.speakpipe.com/bigskyastrologypodcast" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Leave it here</a>! <a href="https://www.bigskyastrology.com/subscribe" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Subscribe to April’s mailing list and get a free lunar workbook at each New Moon!</a> <a href="https://www.bigskyastrology.com/support-the-podcast/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Love the show? Make a donation!</a> Timestamps [1:46] The Sun squares Uranus on Aug. 15 (7:34 PM PDT) at 23º00’ degrees Leo-Taurus – look for connections to last week's Venus-Uranus square at the same degrees. [3:27] Uranus’ Sabian symbol is 23 Taurus, A jewelry shop. You’ll sparkle more brightly as you get closer to your true identity, rather than playing a role. [4:36] Moon Report! The New Moon in Leeeeeeoooooo (Aug. 16, 2:38 AM PDT) is at 23º17’ Leo on the Sabian symbol 24 Leo, An untidy, unkempt man. The Sun and Moon conjunct Venus and square Uranus in Taurus; time to examine your worth and demand better treatment. [7:38] The New Moon in creative Leo is the season to ask, “What do you want to create in the year ahead?” [10:00] Mars at 22º53’ Virgo in a grand trine with Uranus and Pluto is an opportunity to tackle a project, possibly for the masses, in a precise, inspired way. [10:43] This New Moon begins a Lunar Phase Family Cycle that plays out over the next three years. The First Quarter Phase of this cycle is on May 15, 2024, the Full Moon is on Feb. 2025, and the Last Quarter is on Nov. 11, 2025. [13:11] Void-of-Course (VOC) Moon Periods. On Aug. 14th (12:46 AM PDT) the Moon in Cancer opposes Pluto. It's Void-of-Course for about three hours and then enters Leo (3:36 AM PDT). Make changes to emotional habits, particularly related to power, control and safety. [14:14] The Moon in Leo conjuncts the Sun on Aug. 16th (2:38 AM PDT). The Moon will be VOC for about 1 ½ hours before entering Virgo (4:14 PM PDT). How can we be a more authentic version of ourselves? [15:17] On Aug. 19 (1:51 AM PDT), the Moon in Virgo trines Pluto. It’s VOC for about three hours before it enters Libra (4:53 AM PDT). Think about exalting your day-to-day work and using it toward large and important work. Humble worker bees could get a gold star for the day! [16:36] Mars trines Uranus at 23º00’ Virgo-Taurus (Aug. 16, 6:53 am PDT). Mars is on the Sabian symbol 23 Virgo, An animal trainer, and Uranus is on 23 Taurus, A jewelry shop. If you have worked hard, shown self-discipline, and most importantly, have shown up for work, this is the time that the Muse should visit. [19:36] April answers listener Elodie’s question about solar houses. [25:01] If you’d like to have your question answered on a future episode, leave a message of one minute or less at <a href="https://www.speakpipe.com/bigskyastrologypodcast" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">speakpipe.com/bigskyastrologypodcast</a> or email april(at)bigskyastrology(dot)com; put “Podcast Question” in the subject line. [25:32] If you like what you’re hearing, please subscribe, follow, like and share! This episode is brought to you by donors Suzanne O’Claire, Connie Cameron, and Anne Walder! [26:26] Love the podcast? You can offer much-appreciated financial support <a href="https://bigskyastrology.com/support-the-podcast/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">here</a>!  A donation of $5 or more will get you access to the Cancer Solstice bonus episode for donors only!

191 | Leo New Moon: Sparkle More Brightly!

This week: The Taurus Last Quarter Moon finishes up the lunar cycle that began at the July 17th Cancer New Moon. Venus is in the spotlight with a brilliant Solar conjunction and an exciting aspect to Uranus. And April answers a listener question about what she calls a Venus retrograde loophole: Can we happily buy used or sale items while the planet of money is retrograde? Plus: Making our own mistakes, feeding the ducks, and a debonair chapeau!  The fourth annual Big Sky Pod-A-Thon begins September 4th, with special episodes Monday through Friday! We’d would love to feature your beautiful voices in the upcoming celebratory shows! Tell us how you found us and why you listen! Read a full transcript of this episode. Have your question answered on the show - Email April or leave it here! Subscribe to April’s mailing list and get a free workbook at each New Moon! Love the show? Make a donation! Timestamps [1:52] Moon Report! The Last Quarter Moon (Aug. 8, 3:28 AM PDT) at 15º38’ Taurus conjoins Jupiter and Uranus, with all square Sun-Venus, trine Mars. [3:24] Consider this Last Quarter Moon a sneak peek into next year’s Jupiter/Uranus conjunction (April 20, 2024, 21º49’ Taurus). This Last Quarter’s Sabian symbol is 16 Taurus, Old man attempting vainly to reveal the mysteries. [5:25] This is the last critical point in a Lunar Phase Family cycle that began at the May 11, 2021 New Moon. The First Quarter in the cycle was on Feb. 8, 2022 and the Full Moon (a lunar eclipse) was Nov. 8, 2022. [7:46] Void-of-Course (VOC) Moon periods. Aug. 9 (3:38 AM PDT), Moon in Taurus trines Pluto. It's VOC for about 1 ½ hours, then enters Gemini (6:05 AM PDT). Do you feel secure enough to expand your reach into other and more powerful connections? [9:29] On Aug. 11 (10:27 AM PDT), the Moon in Gemini squares Neptune. It’s VOC for about 5 ½ hours before entering Cancer (3:52 PM PDT). Spend some quality time with a book and a water feature. [10:41] Retrograde Venus meets Uranus (Aug. 9, 4:08 AM PDT) at 22°54’ Leo-Taurus, in the second of three squares (the others on July 2 and Sep. 29). [12:19] Uranus’ Sabian symbol at this square is A jewelry shop. All that glitters is not gold. Look to the inner qualities that really shine, if given a chance. [12:55] Also on Aug. 9 (5:47 PM PDT), Mercury trines Jupiter at 14º31’ Virgo-Taurus.  Mercury’s Sabian symbol is 15 Virgo, An ornamental handkerchief, and Jupiter’s is 15 Taurus, A man muffled up with a rakish silk hat. Make the very basic things useful, and then elegant and lovely. [15:04] On Aug. 13 (4:15 AM PDT), the Sun and Venus come together in a conjunction at 20º28’ Leo. When a planet is exactly conjoined the Sun, it’s said to be cazimi. [15:34] The Venus/Sun conjunction is also called the Venus Star Point. Follow these links for more about this powerful point: this article and a video interview. The Sabian symbol for this conjunction is 21 Leo, Chickens intoxicated. Let go of the negative internal chatter and get drunk on love. [16:20] Arielle Guttman, a specialist on the Venus Star Point, says the first 20 days after Venus turns retrograde is for emptying out what has been collected since the last retrograde. The last Venus-Sun conjunction near this degree was Aug. 15, 2015 at 22º39’ Leo. [18:27] Listener Dora asks about purchasing used and sale items while Venus is retrograde. [24:03] If you’d like to have your question answered on a future episode, leave a message of one minute or less at speakpipe.com/bigskyastrologypodcast or email april(at)bigskyastrology(dot)com; put “Podcast Question” in the subject line. [24:34] If you like what you’re hearing, please subscribe, follow, like and share! This episode is brought to you by donors Anastasia Molnar, Carrie LaRoche Sinay, and Kayla Grant! [25:43] Love the podcast? You can offer much-appreciated financial support here!  A donation of $5 or more will get you access to the Cancer Solstice bonus episode for donors only!

This week: The Taurus Last Quarter Moon finishes up the lunar cycle that began at the July 17th Cancer New Moon. Venus is in the spotlight with a brilliant Solar conjunction and an exciting aspect to Uranus. And April answers a listener question about what she calls a Venus retrograde loophole: Can we happily buy used or sale items while the planet of money is retrograde? Plus: Making our own mistakes, feeding the ducks, and a debonair chapeau! The fourth annual Big Sky Pod-A-Thon begins September 4th, with special episodes Monday through Friday! We’d would love to feature your <a href="https://www.speakpipe.com/bigskyastrologypodcast" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">beautiful voices</a> in the upcoming celebratory shows! Tell us how you found us and why you listen! <a href="https://www.bigskyastrology.com/transcript-ep-190" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Read a full transcript of this episode.</a> Have your question answered on the show - Email April or <a href="https://www.speakpipe.com/bigskyastrologypodcast" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">leave it here</a>! <a href="https://www.bigskyastrology.com/subscribe" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Subscribe to April’s mailing list and get a free workbook at each New Moon!</a> <a href="https://www.bigskyastrology.com/support-the-podcast/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Love the show? Make a donation!</a> Timestamps [1:52] Moon Report! The Last Quarter Moon (Aug. 8, 3:28 AM PDT) at 15º38’ Taurus conjoins Jupiter and Uranus, with all square Sun-Venus, trine Mars. [3:24] Consider this Last Quarter Moon a sneak peek into next year’s Jupiter/Uranus conjunction (April 20, 2024, 21º49’ Taurus). This Last Quarter’s Sabian symbol is 16 Taurus, Old man attempting vainly to reveal the mysteries. [5:25] This is the last critical point in a Lunar Phase Family cycle that began at the May 11, 2021 New Moon. The First Quarter in the cycle was on Feb. 8, 2022 and the Full Moon (a lunar eclipse) was Nov. 8, 2022. [7:46] Void-of-Course (VOC) Moon periods. Aug. 9 (3:38 AM PDT), Moon in Taurus trines Pluto. It's VOC for about 1 ½ hours, then enters Gemini (6:05 AM PDT). Do you feel secure enough to expand your reach into other and more powerful connections? [9:29] On Aug. 11 (10:27 AM PDT), the Moon in Gemini squares Neptune. It’s VOC for about 5 ½ hours before entering Cancer (3:52 PM PDT). Spend some quality time with a book and a water feature. [10:41] Retrograde Venus meets Uranus (Aug. 9, 4:08 AM PDT) at 22°54’ Leo-Taurus, in the second of three squares (the others on July 2 and Sep. 29). [12:19] Uranus’ Sabian symbol at this square is A jewelry shop. All that glitters is not gold. Look to the inner qualities that really shine, if given a chance. [12:55] Also on Aug. 9 (5:47 PM PDT), Mercury trines Jupiter at 14º31’ Virgo-Taurus.  Mercury’s Sabian symbol is 15 Virgo, An ornamental handkerchief, and Jupiter’s is 15 Taurus, A man muffled up with a rakish silk hat. Make the very basic things useful, and then elegant and lovely. [15:04] On Aug. 13 (4:15 AM PDT), the Sun and Venus come together in a conjunction at 20º28’ Leo. When a planet is exactly conjoined the Sun, it’s said to be cazimi. [15:34] The Venus/Sun conjunction is also called the Venus Star Point. Follow these links for more about this powerful point: <a href="https://www.opaastrology.org/publications/articles/68-great-cycles-in-astrology/212-the-venus-star-a-vibration-of-harmony-beauty" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">this article</a> and <a href="https://theastrologypodcast.com/2022/10/12/the-venus-star-point-cycle-with-arielle-guttman/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">a video interview</a>. The Sabian symbol for this conjunction is 21 Leo, Chickens intoxicated. Let go of the negative internal chatter and get drunk on love. [16:20] <a href="https://sophiavenus.com/venus-star-point/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Arielle Guttman</a>, a specialist on the Venus Star Point, says the first 20 days after Venus turns retrograde is for emptying out what has been collected since the last retrograde. The last Venus-Sun conjunction near this degree was Aug. 15, 2015 at 22º39’ Leo. [18:27] Listener Dora asks about purchasing used and sale items while Venus is retrograde. [24:03] If you’d like to have your question answered on a future episode, leave a message of one minute or less at <a href="https://www.speakpipe.com/bigskyastrologypodcast" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">speakpipe.com/bigskyastrologypodcast</a> or email april(at)bigskyastrology(dot)com; put “Podcast Question” in the subject line. [24:34] If you like what you’re hearing, please subscribe, follow, like and share! This episode is brought to you by donors Anastasia Molnar, Carrie LaRoche Sinay, and Kayla Grant! [25:43] Love the podcast? You can offer much-appreciated financial support <a href="https://bigskyastrology.com/support-the-podcast/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">here</a>!  A donation of $5 or more will get you access to the Cancer Solstice bonus episode for donors only!

190 | The Sun Meets Venus: Intoxicated with Love!

This week: The Aquarius Full Moon brings the hope of a new day; both the Sun and Mars connect with big-thinking, optimistic Jupiter; Saturn helps Mercury get down to business; and April answers a very helpful listener question about using astrology to make healthier choices and stick to them! Plus: Silver linings, playing hooky, and looking the part! Read a full transcript of this episode. Want your question answered on the show?  Email April or leave it here! Subscribe to April’s mailing list and get a free lunar workbook at each New Moon! Love the show? Make a donation!  Timestamps [1:08] Moon Report!  Beginning with an Aquarius Full Moon (Aug. 1, 11:32 am PDT) at 9º15’ Aquarius-Leo, featuring a T-square of the Sun, Moon, and Jupiter (Sun opposed Moon, both square Jupiter). [1:40] The Moon’s Sabian symbol is 10 Aquarius, A popularity that proves ephemeral; the Sun is on 10 Leo, Early morning dew. Popularity comes and goes, but as long as we have breath in our bodies, there’s reason to hope. [3:29] After the intense Cancer New Moon opposed Pluto (July 17), this milder Full Moon is welcome. Symbolically and literally, everything is visible at the Full Moon – in contrast with the dark nights around the New Moon. [5:13] This is also the Full Moon in a Lunar Phase Family Cycle that began with the Jan. 31, 2022 New Moon at 12º18’ Aquarius. The First Quarter in that cycle was on Oct. 31, 2022, and the Last Quarter phase comes on May 1, 2024. [7:52] Void-of-Course (VOC) Moon periods. On July 31, the Moon in Capricorn conjoins Pluto (7:13 PM PDT). It’s VOC for one hour and 45 minutes before it enters Aquarius (8:58 PM PDT). This is a chance to rebuild habits related to our ambitions. [9:06] The Moon in Aquarius opposes retrograde Venus in Leo on Aug, 2nd (2:15 PM PDT). It’s VOC for just under six hours before entering Pisces (8:05 PM PDT). Don’t judge your insides by other people’s outsides. [10:11] The Moon in Pisces sextiles Pluto in Capricorn on Aug. 4th (6:21 PM PDT). It’s VOC for just under two hours before entering Aries (8:19 PM PDT) for a chance to do something with all our Moon in Pisces imaginings. [11:27] On Aug. 6th, the Moon in Aries squares Pluto (9:13 PM PDT). It's VOC for just over two hours, then enters Taurus (11:24 PM PDT). Time to slow down and look more deeply into what we've been rushing to get done. [12:19] On Aug. 1st (1:44 PM PDT), Mars trines Jupiter at 13º46’ Virgo-Taurus. The Sabian symbol for Jupiter is 14 Taurus, Shellfish groping and children playing.  Go ahead…throw your cares to the wind and play hooky! [14:17] Also on Aug. 1 (7:18 PM PDT), Mercury opposes Saturn at 5º38’ Virgo-Pisces. Mercury’s Sabian symbol is 6 Virgo, A merry-go-round, and Saturn’s is 6 Pisces, Officers on dress parade. When it comes to getting noticed and receiving better opportunities, there’s a fine line between doing our best and being willing to play the game a little bit. [16:55] The Sun squares Jupiter on Aug. 6 (5:03 PM PDT) at 14º16’ Leo-Taurus. The Sabian symbol for the Sun is 15 Leo, A pageant, and Jupiter is on 15 Taurus, A man muffled up with a rakish silk hat. Ease up on the obstinance and lean into leadership flavored with heaping doses of generosity, inspiration and entertainment. [19:10] Listener Joshua asks about how to use astrology to make healthier choices and stick to them. [27:31] If you have a question you’d like answered on a future episode, please leave a message of one minute or less at speakpipe.com/bigskyastrologypodcast or email april(at)bigskyastrology(dot)com; put “Podcast Question” in the subject line. [27:57] If you like what you’re hearing, please subscribe, follow, like and share! This episode is brought to you by donors Bernice Harmyk, Katie Serda, and Leslie Wade! [29:01] Love the podcast? You can offer much-appreciated financial support here!  A donation of $5 or more will get you access to the Cancer Solstice bonus episode for donors only!

This week: The Aquarius Full Moon brings the hope of a new day; both the Sun and Mars connect with big-thinking, optimistic Jupiter; Saturn helps Mercury get down to business; and April answers a very helpful listener question about using astrology to make healthier choices and stick to them! Plus: Silver linings, playing hooky, and looking the part! <a href="https://www.bigskyastrology.com/transcript-ep-189" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Read a full transcript of this episode.</a> Want your question answered on the show?  Email April or <a href="https://www.speakpipe.com/bigskyastrologypodcast" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">leave it here</a>! <a href="https://www.bigskyastrology.com/subscribe" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Subscribe to April’s mailing list and get a free lunar workbook at each New Moon!</a> <a href="https://www.bigskyastrology.com/support-the-podcast/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Love the show? Make a donation!</a> Timestamps [1:08] Moon Report!  Beginning with an Aquarius Full Moon (Aug. 1, 11:32 am PDT) at 9º15’ Aquarius-Leo, featuring a T-square of the Sun, Moon, and Jupiter (Sun opposed Moon, both square Jupiter). [1:40] The Moon’s Sabian symbol is 10 Aquarius, A popularity that proves ephemeral; the Sun is on 10 Leo, Early morning dew. Popularity comes and goes, but as long as we have breath in our bodies, there’s reason to hope. [3:29] After the intense Cancer New Moon opposed Pluto (July 17), this milder Full Moon is welcome. Symbolically and literally, everything is visible at the Full Moon – in contrast with the dark nights around the New Moon. [5:13] This is also the Full Moon in a Lunar Phase Family Cycle that began with the Jan. 31, 2022 New Moon at 12º18’ Aquarius. The First Quarter in that cycle was on Oct. 31, 2022, and the Last Quarter phase comes on May 1, 2024. [7:52] Void-of-Course (VOC) Moon periods. On July 31, the Moon in Capricorn conjoins Pluto (7:13 PM PDT). It’s VOC for one hour and 45 minutes before it enters Aquarius (8:58 PM PDT). This is a chance to rebuild habits related to our ambitions. [9:06] The Moon in Aquarius opposes retrograde Venus in Leo on Aug, 2nd (2:15 PM PDT). It’s VOC for just under six hours before entering Pisces (8:05 PM PDT). Don’t judge your insides by other people’s outsides. [10:11] The Moon in Pisces sextiles Pluto in Capricorn on Aug. 4th (6:21 PM PDT). It’s VOC for just under two hours before entering Aries (8:19 PM PDT) for a chance to do something with all our Moon in Pisces imaginings. [11:27] On Aug. 6th, the Moon in Aries squares Pluto (9:13 PM PDT). It's VOC for just over two hours, then enters Taurus (11:24 PM PDT). Time to slow down and look more deeply into what we've been rushing to get done. [12:19] On Aug. 1st (1:44 PM PDT), Mars trines Jupiter at 13º46’ Virgo-Taurus. The Sabian symbol for Jupiter is 14 Taurus, Shellfish groping and children playing.  Go ahead…throw your cares to the wind and play hooky! [14:17] Also on Aug. 1 (7:18 PM PDT), Mercury opposes Saturn at 5º38’ Virgo-Pisces. Mercury’s Sabian symbol is 6 Virgo, A merry-go-round, and Saturn’s is 6 Pisces, Officers on dress parade. When it comes to getting noticed and receiving better opportunities, there’s a fine line between doing our best and being willing to play the game a little bit. [16:55] The Sun squares Jupiter on Aug. 6 (5:03 PM PDT) at 14º16’ Leo-Taurus. The Sabian symbol for the Sun is 15 Leo, A pageant, and Jupiter is on 15 Taurus, A man muffled up with a rakish silk hat. Ease up on the obstinance and lean into leadership flavored with heaping doses of generosity, inspiration and entertainment. [19:10] Listener Joshua asks about how to use astrology to make healthier choices and stick to them. [27:31] If you have a question you’d like answered on a future episode, please leave a message of one minute or less at <a href="https://www.speakpipe.com/bigskyastrologypodcast" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">speakpipe.com/bigskyastrologypodcast</a> or email april(at)bigskyastrology(dot)com; put “Podcast Question” in the subject line. [27:57] If you like what you’re hearing, please subscribe, follow, like and share! This episode is brought to you by donors Bernice Harmyk, Katie Serda, and Leslie Wade! [29:01] Love the podcast? You can offer much-appreciated financial support <a href="https://bigskyastrology.com/support-the-podcast/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">here</a>!  A donation of $5 or more will get you access to the Cancer Solstice bonus episode for donors only!

189 | Aquarius Full Moon: Let’s Play Hooky!

The Scorpio First Quarter Moon encourages taking action on something that began at last October's Solar Eclipse. Mercury joins Venus to summon voices from the past, connects with the North Node to set an agenda for the coming 18 months, and enters Virgo for a longer-than-normal stay. Pluto squares the Lunar Nodes for the first time since 2015, on the degree of last spring's Aries Solar Eclipse. And April answers a listener question about Lunar Node returns, throwing in the oppositions for good measure. Plus: A haircut, pocket-dialing, and defending your life! Full transcript of this episode. Have a question you’d like answered on the show?  Email April or leave it here! Subscribe to April’s mailing list and get a free lunar workbook at each New Moon! Love the show? Make a donation! Timestamps [1:12] Moon Report! The Scorpio First Quarter Moon (July 25, 3:07 PM PDT, 02º43’ Scorpio-Leo) is on the Sabian symbol 3 Scorpio, A house raising, with the Sun on 3 Leo, Woman having her hair bobbed. [2:03] The Scorpio First Quarter Moon is ruled by Mars, currently in Virgo. So that symbol of the “house raising” is a good example of taking practical action, especially toward things that will last. [3:11] This is the First Quarter in a Lunar Phase Family cycle that began with a New Moon/Solar Eclipse on October 25, 2022 at 2º Scorpio. Other important dates in this cycle are April 23, 2024 (Full Moon) and Jan. 21, 2025 (Last Quarter). [5:52] Void-of-Course (VOC) Moon Periods. On July 25, the Moon in Libra squares Pluto (8:05 AM PDT). It's VOC for an hour and 50 minutes before it enters Scorpio (9:55 AM PDT). A perfect time for changing emotional habits around relationships. [6:29] The Moon in Scorpio sextiles Pluto on July 27th (3:36 PM PDT). It is VOC for one hour and 48 minutes before it enters Sagittarius (5:24 PM PDT). Look for an opportunity to clear the air emotionally. [7:42] On July 29, the Moon in Sagittarius trines Venus in Leo (4:51 PM PDT). It’s VOC for just under four hours, and then enters Capricorn (8:44 PM PDT). Notice and appreciate the little things that bring you pleasure! [9:05] Mercury conjoins Venus at 28º11’ Leo on July 27 (8:16 AM PDT). Get in touch with someone from your past. [11:10] Mercury trines the Moon’s North Node on July 27 (9:47 PM PDT) at 29°00’ Aries-Leo. Consider how to use your talents, charisma, and leadership skills to achieve long-term goals. [12:32] Pluto squares the Lunar Nodes at 28°58’ Capricorn-Aries on July 28 (11:34 AM PDT). This is the last of three Pluto squares to the Nodes (July 22 and 25 were the others).  Pluto squares the North Node at the degree of April 30's Solar Eclipse, 29º50’ Aries. Challenges from an important relationship could bring pressure to move forward on our own and in our own direction. [15:38] On July 28 (2:31 PM PDT) Mercury enters one of its domiciles, Virgo. It'll spend more time than usual here (through Oct. 4) because Mercury is retrograde in Virgo from Aug. 23-Sep. 15. [16:59] Virgo speaks to that dimension of Mercury related to how we master the physical world with skills and tools. And Mercury in this sign excels at analyzing information. [18:38] Arrange your schedule in such a way that you have a little bit more time for the slow, methodical work of Virgo. And make sure to back up your computer and phone! [19:41] April replies to Listener Hallie’s question about Lunar Node returns. (Movie: Defending Your Life) [27:01] If you have a question you’d like April to answer on a future episode, please leave a message of one minute or less at speakpipe.com/bigskyastrologypodcast or email april(at)bigskyastrology(dot)com; put “Podcast Question” in the subject line. [27:25] If you like what you’re hearing, please subscribe, follow, like and share! This episode is brought to you by donors Colleen Moffett, Susan Hubbard, and Cathy Sullivan-Thompson! [28:30] Love the podcast? You can offer much-appreciated financial support here!  A donation of $5 or more will get you access to the Cancer Solstice bonus episode for donors only!

The Scorpio First Quarter Moon encourages taking action on something that began at last October's Solar Eclipse. Mercury joins Venus to summon voices from the past, connects with the North Node to set an agenda for the coming 18 months, and enters Virgo for a longer-than-normal stay. Pluto squares the Lunar Nodes for the first time since 2015, on the degree of last spring's Aries Solar Eclipse. And April answers a listener question about Lunar Node returns, throwing in the oppositions for good measure. Plus: A haircut, pocket-dialing, and defending your life! <a href="https://www.bigskyastrology.com/transcript-ep-188" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Full transcript of this episode.</a> Have a question you’d like answered on the show?  Email April or <a href="https://www.speakpipe.com/bigskyastrologypodcast" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">leave it here</a>! <a href="https://www.bigskyastrology.com/subscribe" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Subscribe to April’s mailing list and get a free lunar workbook at each New Moon!</a> <a href="https://www.bigskyastrology.com/support-the-podcast/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Love the show? Make a donation!</a> Timestamps [1:12] Moon Report! The Scorpio First Quarter Moon (July 25, 3:07 PM PDT, 02º43’ Scorpio-Leo) is on the Sabian symbol 3 Scorpio, A house raising, with the Sun on 3 Leo, Woman having her hair bobbed. [2:03] The Scorpio First Quarter Moon is ruled by Mars, currently in Virgo. So that symbol of the “house raising” is a good example of taking practical action, especially toward things that will last. [3:11] This is the First Quarter in a Lunar Phase Family cycle that began with a New Moon/Solar Eclipse on October 25, 2022 at 2º Scorpio. Other important dates in this cycle are April 23, 2024 (Full Moon) and Jan. 21, 2025 (Last Quarter). [5:52] Void-of-Course (VOC) Moon Periods. On July 25, the Moon in Libra squares Pluto (8:05 AM PDT). It's VOC for an hour and 50 minutes before it enters Scorpio (9:55 AM PDT). A perfect time for changing emotional habits around relationships. [6:29] The Moon in Scorpio sextiles Pluto on July 27th (3:36 PM PDT). It is VOC for one hour and 48 minutes before it enters Sagittarius (5:24 PM PDT). Look for an opportunity to clear the air emotionally. [7:42] On July 29, the Moon in Sagittarius trines Venus in Leo (4:51 PM PDT). It’s VOC for just under four hours, and then enters Capricorn (8:44 PM PDT). Notice and appreciate the little things that bring you pleasure! [9:05] Mercury conjoins Venus at 28º11’ Leo on July 27 (8:16 AM PDT). Get in touch with someone from your past. [11:10] Mercury trines the Moon’s North Node on July 27 (9:47 PM PDT) at 29°00’ Aries-Leo. Consider how to use your talents, charisma, and leadership skills to achieve long-term goals. [12:32] Pluto squares the Lunar Nodes at 28°58’ Capricorn-Aries on July 28 (11:34 AM PDT). This is the last of three Pluto squares to the Nodes (July 22 and 25 were the others).  Pluto squares the North Node at the degree of April 30's Solar Eclipse, 29º50’ Aries. Challenges from an important relationship could bring pressure to move forward on our own and in our own direction. [15:38] On July 28 (2:31 PM PDT) Mercury enters one of its domiciles, Virgo. It'll spend more time than usual here (through Oct. 4) because Mercury is retrograde in Virgo from Aug. 23-Sep. 15. [16:59] Virgo speaks to that dimension of Mercury related to how we master the physical world with skills and tools. And Mercury in this sign excels at analyzing information. [18:38] Arrange your schedule in such a way that you have a little bit more time for the slow, methodical work of Virgo. And make sure to back up your computer and phone! [19:41] April replies to Listener Hallie’s question about Lunar Node returns. (Movie: <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Defending_Your_Life" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Defending Your Life</a>) [27:01] If you have a question you’d like April to answer on a future episode, please leave a message of one minute or less at <a href="https://www.speakpipe.com/bigskyastrologypodcast" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">speakpipe.com/bigskyastrologypodcast</a> or email april(at)bigskyastrology(dot)com; put “Podcast Question” in the subject line. [27:25] If you like what you’re hearing, please subscribe, follow, like and share! This episode is brought to you by donors Colleen Moffett, Susan Hubbard, and Cathy Sullivan-Thompson! [28:30] Love the podcast? You can offer much-appreciated financial support <a href="https://bigskyastrology.com/support-the-podcast/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">here</a>!  A donation of $5 or more will get you access to the Cancer Solstice bonus episode for donors only!

188 | Pluto Meets the Lunar Nodes: Defending Your Life!

All hail the last Cancer New Moon opposed Pluto in Capricorn in our lifetimes! In other news: The lunar nodes shift into Aries and Libra; the Sun aspects Neptune and Pluto before entering its brilliant Leo season; Mercury gains inspiration from Jupiter and Uranus; Mars is blocked by Saturn; and Venus turns retrograde through Sep. 3! Plus: Dark shadows, Leo as a national holiday, and the quality of the conversation. For even more details about this action-packed week, purchase the replay of April’s July 16th Cancer New Moon Seasonal Webinar. Read a full transcript of this episode. Have a question you’d like answered on the show?  Email April or leave it here! Subscribe to April’s mailing list and get a free lunar workbook at each New Moon!  Timestamps [1:38] Moon Report!  Cancer New Moon (July 17, 11:32 AM PDT) is at 24º56’ Cancer on the Sabian symbol 25 Cancer, Dark shadow or mantle thrown suddenly over the right shoulder.  [2:04] The Sun’s opposition to Pluto on July 21 (8:52 PM PDT) at 29°07’ Cancer-Capricorn. What kind of responsibility will we take on? How can we finish up old, heavy Pluto in Capricorn business? [4:13] This important New Moon trines Neptune in Pisces, planet of healing and forgiveness. The Sun’s exact trine to Neptune is on July 20 (6:06 AM PDT), 27°35’ Cancer-Pisces. [5:09] This New Moon begins a Lunar Phase Family Cycle, with critical points on April 15, 2024 (First Quarter), Jan. 13, 2025 (Full Moon), and Oct. 13, 2025 (Last Quarter). Themes of power and responsibility continue through the July 15, 2026 New Moon. [7:23] The North Node enters Aries and the South Node enters Libra (July 17, 1:00 PM PDT) just hours after the New Moon. [8:06] The Nodal cycle is 18 years, and their natural motion is retrograde. The nodes have been in Taurus/Scorpio since Jan. 18, 2022.  [8:38] The Nodes were last in Libra-Aries (Libra North Node) between Feb. 18, 2014 – Nov. 11, 2015. They’ll be in these signs (Aries North Node) until Jan. 11, 2025. [9:18] During this nodal transit, release codependence and people-pleasing and embrace independence, pioneering, moving in new directions. [10:21] On July 22 (9:37 PM) transiting Pluto squares this nodal axis at 29º06’ Capricorn-Aries. Important relationships changes provide an encouraging shove toward independence. [12:37] Void-of-Course (VOC) Moon Periods. On July 17 (8:06 PM PDT), the Moon in Cancer opposes Pluto. It's VOC for about 1 ½ hours. Revisit emotional patterns related to safety and control. [13:26] The Moon in Leo conjuncts Venus on July 20 (7:08 AM PDT). It’s VOC for about three hours. What lights you up inside? [13:53] On July 22, the Moon in Virgo trines Pluto (9:06 PM PDT). It's VOC for just under two hours. Virgo conscientiousness is rewarded by higher-ups. [15:22] Mars opposes Saturn on July 20 (1:39 PM PDT) at 06º20’ Virgo and Pisces.  Feeling stymied in getting things done? Try to go with the Pisces flow.  [17:31] The Sun enters the sign of its rulership, Leoooooo, on July 22 (6:50 PM PDT).  Over the next month, it squares Jupiter and Uranus and conjoins Venus. [20:25] Mercury squares Jupiter on July 17 (5:49 AM PDT) at 11º53’ Leo-Taurus. Mercury is on the Sabian symbol, An evening lawn party. [20:55] Mercury squares Uranus on July 23 (2:39 PM PDT) at 22º32’ Leo-Taurus [21:54] Venus turns retrograde (Rx) on July 22 (6:33 PM PDT, 28º36’ Leo). When planets are Rx, go within for guidance in matters related to that planet (for Venus, that’s love and money). Venus is Rx through Sep. 3.  [23:32] Venus was last Rx in Leo between July 25-Sep. 6, 2015. Venus has an eight-year Rx cycle, so look back at eight-year intervals to find when Venus was Rx in this same part of the zodiac and in the same area of your chart. [25:10] Venus is Rx every 18 months for 40 days. Consider checking out April’s webinar for more details concerning Venus retrograde period.  [25:41] Have your question answered on a future episode! Leave a message of one minute or less at speakpipe.com/bigskyastrologypodcast or email april(at)bigskyastrology(dot)com; put “Podcast Question” in the subject line. [26:41] If you like what you’re hearing, please subscribe, follow, like and share! This episode is brought to you by donors Natori Moore, Francine Parling, and Liga Sirona! [27:53] Love the podcast? You can offer much-appreciated financial support here!  A donation of $5 or more will get you access to the Cancer Solstice bonus episode for donors only!

All hail the last Cancer New Moon opposed Pluto in Capricorn in our lifetimes! In other news: The lunar nodes shift into Aries and Libra; the Sun aspects Neptune and Pluto before entering its brilliant Leo season; Mercury gains inspiration from Jupiter and Uranus; Mars is blocked by Saturn; and Venus turns retrograde through Sep. 3! Plus: Dark shadows, Leo as a national holiday, and the quality of the conversation. For even more details about this action-packed week, purchase the replay of April’s July 16th <a href="https://bigskyastrology.com/learning/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Cancer New Moon Seasonal Webinar</a>. <a href="https://www.bigskyastrology.com/transcript-ep-187" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Read a full transcript of this episode.</a> Have a question you’d like answered on the show?  Email April or <a href="https://www.speakpipe.com/bigskyastrologypodcast" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">leave it here</a>! <a href="https://www.bigskyastrology.com/subscribe" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Subscribe to April’s mailing list and get a free lunar workbook at each New Moon!</a> Timestamps [1:38] Moon Report!  Cancer New Moon (July 17, 11:32 AM PDT) is at 24º56’ Cancer on the Sabian symbol 25 Cancer, Dark shadow or mantle thrown suddenly over the right shoulder.  [2:04] The Sun’s opposition to Pluto on July 21 (8:52 PM PDT) at 29°07’ Cancer-Capricorn. What kind of responsibility will we take on? How can we finish up old, heavy Pluto in Capricorn business? [4:13] This important New Moon trines Neptune in Pisces, planet of healing and forgiveness. The Sun’s exact trine to Neptune is on July 20 (6:06 AM PDT), 27°35’ Cancer-Pisces. [5:09] This New Moon begins a Lunar Phase Family Cycle, with critical points on April 15, 2024 (First Quarter), Jan. 13, 2025 (Full Moon), and Oct. 13, 2025 (Last Quarter). Themes of power and responsibility continue through the July 15, 2026 New Moon. [7:23] The North Node enters Aries and the South Node enters Libra (July 17, 1:00 PM PDT) just hours after the New Moon. [8:06] The Nodal cycle is 18 years, and their natural motion is retrograde. The nodes have been in Taurus/Scorpio since Jan. 18, 2022.  [8:38] The Nodes were last in Libra-Aries (Libra North Node) between Feb. 18, 2014 – Nov. 11, 2015. They’ll be in these signs (Aries North Node) until Jan. 11, 2025. [9:18] During this nodal transit, release codependence and people-pleasing and embrace independence, pioneering, moving in new directions. [10:21] On July 22 (9:37 PM) transiting Pluto squares this nodal axis at 29º06’ Capricorn-Aries. Important relationships changes provide an encouraging shove toward independence. [12:37] Void-of-Course (VOC) Moon Periods. On July 17 (8:06 PM PDT), the Moon in Cancer opposes Pluto. It's VOC for about 1 ½ hours. Revisit emotional patterns related to safety and control. [13:26] The Moon in Leo conjuncts Venus on July 20 (7:08 AM PDT). It’s VOC for about three hours. What lights you up inside? [13:53] On July 22, the Moon in Virgo trines Pluto (9:06 PM PDT). It's VOC for just under two hours. Virgo conscientiousness is rewarded by higher-ups. [15:22] Mars opposes Saturn on July 20 (1:39 PM PDT) at 06º20’ Virgo and Pisces.  Feeling stymied in getting things done? Try to go with the Pisces flow.  [17:31] The Sun enters the sign of its rulership, Leoooooo, on July 22 (6:50 PM PDT).  Over the next month, it squares Jupiter and Uranus and conjoins Venus. [20:25] Mercury squares Jupiter on July 17 (5:49 AM PDT) at 11º53’ Leo-Taurus. Mercury is on the Sabian symbol, An evening lawn party. [20:55] Mercury squares Uranus on July 23 (2:39 PM PDT) at 22º32’ Leo-Taurus [21:54] Venus turns retrograde (Rx) on July 22 (6:33 PM PDT, 28º36’ Leo). When planets are Rx, go within for guidance in matters related to that planet (for Venus, that’s love and money). Venus is Rx through Sep. 3.  [23:32] Venus was last Rx in Leo between July 25-Sep. 6, 2015. Venus has an eight-year Rx cycle, so look back at eight-year intervals to find when Venus was Rx in this same part of the zodiac and in the same area of your chart. [25:10] Venus is Rx every 18 months for 40 days. Consider checking out April’s <a href="https://bigskyastrology.com/learning/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">webinar</a> for more details concerning Venus retrograde period.  [25:41] Have your question answered on a future episode! Leave a message of one minute or less at <a href="https://www.speakpipe.com/bigskyastrologypodcast" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">speakpipe.com/bigskyastrologypodcast</a> or email april(at)bigskyastrology(dot)com; put “Podcast Question” in the subject line. [26:41] If you like what you’re hearing, please subscribe, follow, like and share! This episode is brought to you by donors Natori Moore, Francine Parling, and Liga Sirona! [27:53] Love the podcast? You can offer much-appreciated financial support <a href="https://bigskyastrology.com/support-the-podcast/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">here</a>!  A donation of $5 or more will get you access to the Cancer Solstice bonus episode for donors only!

187 | Cancer New Moon, Venus Retrograde, and the Nodes Shift Signs!

This week: A busy Aries Last Quarter Moon finds us leaping from our hammocks and scratching for resources; Mars enters Virgo, whose high standards make for excellent work and a touch of crankiness; Mercury opposes suspicious Pluto, then enters expressive Leo; a bright sextile between the Sun and Uranus offers reinvention. And April answers a couple of listener questions about what it means when the sign on a house cusp seems to contradict the meaning of the house itself. Plus: Bowling, odd bedfellows, and knotty problems! SIGN UP FOR APRIL'S CANCER NEW MOON WEBINAR! DETAILS AND REGISTRATION HERE Read a full transcript of this episode. Have a question you’d like answered on the show?  Email April or leave it here! Subscribe to April’s mailing list and get a free lunar workbook at each New Moon!  Timestamps [1:17] Moon Report! The Aries Last Quarter Moon (July 9, 6:47 PM PDT) is at 17º35’ Aries and Cancer, on the Sabian symbols 18 Aries, An empty hammock and 18 Cancer, A hen scratching for her chicks. [1:46] This is the Last Quarter Moon in the Gemini New Moon cycle that began June 17, 2023, with the Sun and Moon square Neptune and a certain amount of friction between clear and practical thinking versus what our intuition says is true. [3:15] It's also the Last Quarter in a Lunar Phase Family Cycle that began on the April 11th, 2021 Aries New Moon. We have seen results and can take final action on something that we conceived then. [4:44] Void-of-Course (VOC) Moon periods. On July 10 (4:11 PM PDT) the Moon in Aries squares Mercury in Cancer. It's VOC for 44 minutes before it enters Taurus (4:55 PM PDT). More conflict between the mind and the gut. [6:41] On July 12th (11:11 PM PDT), the Moon in Taurus trines Pluto. It’s VOC for about 1 ¼ hours before it enters Gemini on July 13 (12:26 AM PDT). This is a wonderful aspect and a really effective VOC Moon period for manifesting something in your life! [8:33] On July 15 (5:35 AM PDT) the Moon in Gemini squares Neptune. It's VOC for about 4 ½ hours before it enters Cancer (10:13 AM PDT). Contemplate what it is to verbalize versus experience our feelings. [10:50] Mars enters Virgo on July 10 (4:40 AM PDT). The Red Planet will be in Virgo until Aug. 27. Mars in Virgo says that we’ll rely on our skills and our wit for survival. [11:52] Mars is a planet of work, and while it's in Virgo, pay great attention to detail. Precision is valued in our work, and it's a great time to acquire a new skill. But don’t let the small stuff get to ya! [13:35] Mercury opposes Pluto at 29º23’ Cancer-Capricorn on July 10 (1:48 PM PDT). Suspicions are high but should dissipate when Mercury enters Leo. Try not to say anything that you’ll later regret. [15:32] Mercury enters Pizzazz Master Leeeeeooooo on July 10 (9:11 PM PDT) and will remain until it enters one of its domiciles, Virgo, on July 28th. Mark your calendars now: Mercury's next retrograde period is Aug. 23-Sep. 15! [18:05] The Sun sextiles Uranus at 22º15’ Cancer and Taurus on July 14 (4:02 PM PDT). The Sun’s Sabian symbol is 23 Cancer, A meeting of a literary society, and Uranus is on 23 Taurus, A jewelry shop. If we're willing to share our thoughts in an honest way, but equally willing to listen to the feedback from others, then we stand to gain something valuable. [20:44] Listeners Scout and Teresa ask about how to interpret contradictory house and sign combinations. [27:38] If you have a question you’d like April to answer on a future episode, please leave a message of one minute or less at speakpipe.com/bigskyastrologypodcast or email april(at)bigskyastrology(dot)com; put “Podcast Question” in the subject line. [28:13] If you like what you’re hearing, please subscribe, follow, like and share! This episode is brought to you by donors Jacinta Armstrong and Marina Vasilic! [29:14] Love the podcast? You can offer much-appreciated financial support here! A donation of $5 or more will get you access to the donors-only Cancer Solstice bonus episode!

This week: A busy Aries Last Quarter Moon finds us leaping from our hammocks and scratching for resources; Mars enters Virgo, whose high standards make for excellent work and a touch of crankiness; Mercury opposes suspicious Pluto, then enters expressive Leo; a bright sextile between the Sun and Uranus offers reinvention. And April answers a couple of listener questions about what it means when the sign on a house cusp seems to contradict the meaning of the house itself. Plus: Bowling, odd bedfellows, and knotty problems! <a href="https://bigskyastrology.com/product/live-cancer-new-moon-webinar/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">SIGN UP FOR APRIL'S CANCER NEW MOON WEBINAR! DETAILS AND REGISTRATION HERE</a> <a href="https://www.bigskyastrology.com/transcript-ep-186" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Read a full transcript of this episode.</a> Have a question you’d like answered on the show?  Email April or <a href="https://www.speakpipe.com/bigskyastrologypodcast" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">leave it here</a>! <a href="https://www.bigskyastrology.com/subscribe" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Subscribe to April’s mailing list and get a free lunar workbook at each New Moon!</a> Timestamps [1:17] Moon Report! The Aries Last Quarter Moon (July 9, 6:47 PM PDT) is at 17º35’ Aries and Cancer, on the Sabian symbols 18 Aries, An empty hammock and 18 Cancer, A hen scratching for her chicks. [1:46] This is the Last Quarter Moon in the Gemini New Moon cycle that began June 17, 2023, with the Sun and Moon square Neptune and a certain amount of friction between clear and practical thinking versus what our intuition says is true. [3:15] It's also the Last Quarter in a Lunar Phase Family Cycle that began on the April 11th, 2021 Aries New Moon. We have seen results and can take final action on something that we conceived then. [4:44] Void-of-Course (VOC) Moon periods. On July 10 (4:11 PM PDT) the Moon in Aries squares Mercury in Cancer. It's VOC for 44 minutes before it enters Taurus (4:55 PM PDT). More conflict between the mind and the gut. [6:41] On July 12th (11:11 PM PDT), the Moon in Taurus trines Pluto. It’s VOC for about 1 ¼ hours before it enters Gemini on July 13 (12:26 AM PDT). This is a wonderful aspect and a really effective VOC Moon period for manifesting something in your life! [8:33] On July 15 (5:35 AM PDT) the Moon in Gemini squares Neptune. It's VOC for about 4 ½ hours before it enters Cancer (10:13 AM PDT). Contemplate what it is to verbalize versus experience our feelings. [10:50] Mars enters Virgo on July 10 (4:40 AM PDT). The Red Planet will be in Virgo until Aug. 27. Mars in Virgo says that we’ll rely on our skills and our wit for survival. [11:52] Mars is a planet of work, and while it's in Virgo, pay great attention to detail. Precision is valued in our work, and it's a great time to acquire a new skill. But don’t let the small stuff get to ya! [13:35] Mercury opposes Pluto at 29º23’ Cancer-Capricorn on July 10 (1:48 PM PDT). Suspicions are high but should dissipate when Mercury enters Leo. Try not to say anything that you’ll later regret. [15:32] Mercury enters Pizzazz Master Leeeeeooooo on July 10 (9:11 PM PDT) and will remain until it enters one of its domiciles, Virgo, on July 28th. Mark your calendars now: Mercury's next retrograde period is Aug. 23-Sep. 15! [18:05] The Sun sextiles Uranus at 22º15’ Cancer and Taurus on July 14 (4:02 PM PDT). The Sun’s Sabian symbol is 23 Cancer, A meeting of a literary society, and Uranus is on 23 Taurus, A jewelry shop. If we're willing to share our thoughts in an honest way, but equally willing to listen to the feedback from others, then we stand to gain something valuable. [20:44] Listeners Scout and Teresa ask about how to interpret contradictory house and sign combinations. [27:38] If you have a question you’d like April to answer on a future episode, please leave a message of one minute or less at <a href="https://www.speakpipe.com/bigskyastrologypodcast" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">speakpipe.com/bigskyastrologypodcast</a> or email april(at)bigskyastrology(dot)com; put “Podcast Question” in the subject line. [28:13] If you like what you’re hearing, please subscribe, follow, like and share! This episode is brought to you by donors Jacinta Armstrong and Marina Vasilic! [29:14] Love the podcast? You can offer much-appreciated financial support <a href="https://bigskyastrology.com/support-the-podcast/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">here</a>! A donation of $5 or more will get you access to the donors-only Cancer Solstice bonus episode!

186 | Mars in Virgo: Untangling Knotty Problems!

This week, the Capricorn Full Moon grooves to the deliberate pace of Jupiter in Taurus; Mercury’s connections with Uranus and Neptune emphasize brilliant thinking and imaginative, lyrical self-expression; and April answers a listener question about how long a transiting planet influences your birth chart. Plus: An offer from Pluto that is difficult, but not impossible, to refuse; waiting for your ship to come in; and Mercury is out-of-bounds (and outside the box)! Read a full transcript of this episode. Have a question you’d like answered on the show?  Email April or leave it here! Subscribe to April’s mailing list and get a free lunar workbook at each New Moon! Love the show? Make a donation!  Timestamps [1:14] Moon Report! A Full Moon in Capricorn (July 3, 4:39 AM PDT) emphasizes Capricorn and Cancer and marks the midway point of the current Gemini New Moon cycle, as well as the halfway point of the year. [3:26] This Full Moon answers the “call” of the Dec. 23, 2022 Capricorn New Moon, which squared Jupiter in Aries and was packed with ambition and enthusiasm. This Full Moon, trine Jupiter in Taurus, is a lot more relaxed.  How can we actually tackle the intentions we made at that Capricorn New Moon? [5:10] This is the Full Moon in a Lunar Phase Family Cycle that began at the January 2, 2022 New Moon (12º20’ Capricorn). Other important dates in this cycle are Oct. 2, 2022 (First Quarter) and Apr. 1, 2024 (Last Quarter). [6:23] Void-of-Course (VOC) Moon periods. The Capricorn Moon conjoins Pluto on July 4 (9:45 AM PDT). It’s VOC for about 45 minutes before entering Aquarius (10:30 AM PDT).  If you’re in the United States and have to work on the 4th of July holiday, see if you can't get that work done in the morning. Enjoy the rest of the day, after the Moon enters Aquarius, having fun celebrating with people close to you. [8:47] On July 6th (6:42 AM PDT), the Moon in Aquarius opposes Mars in Leo, then is VOC for about 3 ¼ hours before entering Pisces (10:32 AM PDT). Watch out for heated online discussions about friends, the future and technology. [10:17] The Moon in Pisces sextiles Pluto on July 8th (11:22 AM PDT). It’s VOC for just under one hour before entering Aries (12:19 PM PDT). Will you accept an invitation to step into powerful emotions and a more powerful role? [11:30] This is Mercury’s week! In Episode 184, we learned that transiting Mercury is out-of-bounds through July 7th. Think and communicate outside the box but be mindful of others’ feelings. [12:42] On July 6 (9:54 PM PDT), Mercury sextiles Uranus at 21º57’ Cancer and Taurus. Mercury’s Sabian symbol is 22 Cancer, Woman awaiting a sailboat. Uranus is on 22 Taurus, White dove over troubled waters.  Do a little bit of brainstorming to tackle a creative, work or home project.  Brilliant ideas could arise! [15:25] On July 9 (4:57 PM PDT), Mercury trines Neptune at 27º39’ Cancer and Pisces. Neptune is on the Sabian symbol 28 Pisces, A fertile garden under a Full Moon.  Mercury is at 28 Cancer, A modern Pocahontas.  Head down to the beach with your musical instrument of choice and woo someone special under the bright, sparkling stars. [18:20] Listener Kyle asks how long a transiting planet has influence over your birth chart. It depends, but April offers some rules of thumb! [26:23] If you have a question you’d like April to answer on a future episode, please leave a message of one minute or less at speakpipe.com/bigskyastrologypodcast or email her at april(at)bigskyastrology(dot)com and put “Podcast Question” in the subject line. [26:55] If you like what you’re hearing, please subscribe, follow, like and share! This episode is brought to you by donors Judie Ricciardi and Lori Rodefer! [27:58] Love the podcast? You can offer much-appreciated financial support here!  A donation of $5 or more will get you access to the Cancer Solstice bonus episode for donors only!

This week, the Capricorn Full Moon grooves to the deliberate pace of Jupiter in Taurus; Mercury’s connections with Uranus and Neptune emphasize brilliant thinking and imaginative, lyrical self-expression; and April answers a listener question about how long a transiting planet influences your birth chart. Plus: An offer from Pluto that is difficult, but not impossible, to refuse; waiting for your ship to come in; and Mercury is out-of-bounds (and outside the box)! <a href="https://www.bigskyastrology.com/transcript-ep-185" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Read a full transcript of this episode.</a> Have a question you’d like answered on the show?  Email April or <a href="https://www.speakpipe.com/bigskyastrologypodcast" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">leave it here</a>! <a href="https://www.bigskyastrology.com/subscribe" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Subscribe to April’s mailing list and get a free lunar workbook at each New Moon!</a> <a href="https://www.bigskyastrology.com/support-the-podcast/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Love the show? Make a donation!</a> Timestamps [1:14] Moon Report! A Full Moon in Capricorn (July 3, 4:39 AM PDT) emphasizes Capricorn and Cancer and marks the midway point of the current Gemini New Moon cycle, as well as the halfway point of the year. [3:26] This Full Moon answers the “call” of the Dec. 23, 2022 Capricorn New Moon, which squared Jupiter in Aries and was packed with ambition and enthusiasm. This Full Moon, trine Jupiter in Taurus, is a lot more relaxed.  How can we actually tackle the intentions we made at that Capricorn New Moon? [5:10] This is the Full Moon in a Lunar Phase Family Cycle that began at the January 2, 2022 New Moon (12º20’ Capricorn). Other important dates in this cycle are Oct. 2, 2022 (First Quarter) and Apr. 1, 2024 (Last Quarter). [6:23] Void-of-Course (VOC) Moon periods. The Capricorn Moon conjoins Pluto on July 4 (9:45 AM PDT). It’s VOC for about 45 minutes before entering Aquarius (10:30 AM PDT).  If you’re in the United States and have to work on the 4th of July holiday, see if you can't get that work done in the morning. Enjoy the rest of the day, after the Moon enters Aquarius, having fun celebrating with people close to you. [8:47] On July 6th (6:42 AM PDT), the Moon in Aquarius opposes Mars in Leo, then is VOC for about 3 ¼ hours before entering Pisces (10:32 AM PDT). Watch out for heated online discussions about friends, the future and technology. [10:17] The Moon in Pisces sextiles Pluto on July 8th (11:22 AM PDT). It’s VOC for just under one hour before entering Aries (12:19 PM PDT). Will you accept an invitation to step into powerful emotions and a more powerful role? [11:30] This is Mercury’s week! In <a href="https://bigskyastrology.com/episode-184/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Episode 184</a>, we learned that transiting Mercury is out-of-bounds through July 7th. Think and communicate outside the box but be mindful of others’ feelings. [12:42] On July 6 (9:54 PM PDT), Mercury sextiles Uranus at 21º57’ Cancer and Taurus. Mercury’s Sabian symbol is 22 Cancer, Woman awaiting a sailboat. Uranus is on 22 Taurus, White dove over troubled waters.  Do a little bit of brainstorming to tackle a creative, work or home project.  Brilliant ideas could arise! [15:25] On July 9 (4:57 PM PDT), Mercury trines Neptune at 27º39’ Cancer and Pisces. Neptune is on the Sabian symbol 28 Pisces, A fertile garden under a Full Moon.  Mercury is at 28 Cancer, A modern Pocahontas.  Head down to the beach with your musical instrument of choice and woo someone special under the bright, sparkling stars. [18:20] Listener Kyle asks how long a transiting planet has influence over your birth chart. It depends, but April offers some rules of thumb! [26:23] If you have a question you’d like April to answer on a future episode, please leave a message of one minute or less at <a href="https://www.speakpipe.com/bigskyastrologypodcast" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">speakpipe.com/bigskyastrologypodcast</a> or email her at april(at)bigskyastrology(dot)com and put “Podcast Question” in the subject line. [26:55] If you like what you’re hearing, please subscribe, follow, like and share! This episode is brought to you by donors Judie Ricciardi and Lori Rodefer! [27:58] Love the podcast? You can offer much-appreciated financial support <a href="https://bigskyastrology.com/support-the-podcast/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">here</a>!  A donation of $5 or more will get you access to the Cancer Solstice bonus episode for donors only!

185 | Capricorn Full Moon and Mercury Outside the Box!

This week, the Libra First Quarter Moon prompts an equal exchange of views; Venus and Mars aspecting Uranus bring the unexpected in money and love; Mercury enters quiet Cancer; Saturn brings rewards; Neptune turns retrograde; and April answers a Listener Question about out-of-bounds planets. Plus: Zigging and zagging, well-dressed rabbits, and going rogue! Read a full transcript Want your question answered on the show?  Email April or leave it here! Subscribe to April’s mailing list and get a free lunar workbook at each New Moon! Love the show? Make a donation!  Timestamps [1:13] Moon Report! The Libra First Quarter Moon on June 26 (12:50 AM PDT) at 04º29’ Libra is on the Sabian symbol 5 Libra, Man teaching true inner knowledge. Share what you’ve been planning, but don’t forget to listen as well. [3:03] This First Quarter Moon makes an out-of-sign opposition to Neptune at 27°40’ Pisces. Have a conversation with a trusted person and rely on your gut. [4:32] Void-of-Course (VOC) Moon periods. The Moon in Libra squares Pluto on June 28 (1:19 AM PDT). It's VOC for 36 minutes before entering Scorpio (1:55 AM PDT). Is it more important to please other people or to be truly yourself? [6:34] On June 30 (7:20 AM PDT) the Moon in Scorpio sextiles Pluto. It's VOC for 39 minutes before entering Sagittarius (7:59 AM PDT). Keep an eye out for helpful and sensitive information; take this opportunity to gain mastery over strong emotions. [8:04] On July 2, the Moon in Sagittarius squares Neptune (6:33 AM PDT). It's VOC for 4 3/4 hours, then enters Capricorn (10:20 AM PDT). Avoid getting so invested in being right that you overlook the things of faith. [9:46] Mars squares Uranus on June 26 (2:23 AM PDT) at 21º29’ Leo and Taurus, on the Sabian symbols 22 Leo A carrier pigeon and 22 Taurus White dove over troubled waters. Move mindfully; embrace collaborations.  [11:43] Mercury enters Cancer (June 26, 5:24 pm PDT through July 10). Reach out to loved ones and err on the side of gentleness and caution. Enjoy creative writing projects and journaling. [14:21] The Sun and Mercury trine Saturn on (June 28, 6:42 PM PDT/June 29, 11:23 pm PDT, respectively). The Sun and Mercury are on the Sabian symbol 8 Cancer: Rabbits dressed in clothes and on parade. Saturn is on 8 Pisces, A girl blowing a bugle. Get gussied up and prepare to be acknowledged for your achievements, your leadership and your maturity!  [15:14] What obstacles have you experienced since the Sun squared Saturn on May 28? Look for your efforts to be rewarded. [17:01] Neptune stations retrograde on June 30 (2:06 PM PDT, 27º41’ Pisces, through Dec. 6, 2023). Look inside for faith and clarity and set aside time for devotional practices. [19:58] The Sun and Mercury come together on June 30 (10:06 PM PDT) at 09º08’ Cancer and sextile Jupiter on July 1 (12.10 am PDT and 3:26 am PDT, respectively). The Sabian symbol for the Sun and Mercury is 10 Cancer, A large diamond, not completely cut. Go ahead and ask for things, even ones you’re not sure you're ready or qualified for. [21:31] On July 2 (7:33 AM PDT), Venus squares Uranus at 21º46 Leo and Taurus.  Will you get what you want or will those efforts be interrupted by the unexpected? [23:23] Listener Deborah asks out-of-bounds planets via Speakpipe.  Here is a link to Astro.com’s 9,000 year ephemeris.  [29:09]  If you have a question you’d like April to answer on a future episode, please leave a message of one minute or less at speakpipe.com/bigskyastrologypodcast or email her at april(at)bigskyastrology(dot)com and put “Podcast Question” in the subject line. [29:42] If you like what you’re hearing, please subscribe, follow, like and share! This episode is brought to you by donors Shauna Hickey and Jolae Brocato! [30:42] Love the podcast? You can offer much-appreciated financial support here!  A donation of $5 or more will get you access to the Cancer Solstice bonus episode for donors only!

This week, the Libra First Quarter Moon prompts an equal exchange of views; Venus and Mars aspecting Uranus bring the unexpected in money and love; Mercury enters quiet Cancer; Saturn brings rewards; Neptune turns retrograde; and April answers a Listener Question about out-of-bounds planets. Plus: Zigging and zagging, well-dressed rabbits, and going rogue! <a href="https://www.bigskyastrology.com/transcript-ep-184" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Read a full transcript</a> Want your question answered on the show?  Email April or <a href="https://www.speakpipe.com/bigskyastrologypodcast" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">leave it here</a>! <a href="https://www.bigskyastrology.com/subscribe" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Subscribe to April’s mailing list and get a free lunar workbook at each New Moon!</a> <a href="https://www.bigskyastrology.com/support-the-podcast/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Love the show? Make a donation!</a> Timestamps [1:13] Moon Report! The Libra First Quarter Moon on June 26 (12:50 AM PDT) at 04º29’ Libra is on the Sabian symbol 5 Libra, Man teaching true inner knowledge. Share what you’ve been planning, but don’t forget to listen as well. [3:03] This First Quarter Moon makes an out-of-sign opposition to Neptune at 27°40’ Pisces. Have a conversation with a trusted person and rely on your gut. [4:32] Void-of-Course (VOC) Moon periods. The Moon in Libra squares Pluto on June 28 (1:19 AM PDT). It's VOC for 36 minutes before entering Scorpio (1:55 AM PDT). Is it more important to please other people or to be truly yourself? [6:34] On June 30 (7:20 AM PDT) the Moon in Scorpio sextiles Pluto. It's VOC for 39 minutes before entering Sagittarius (7:59 AM PDT). Keep an eye out for helpful and sensitive information; take this opportunity to gain mastery over strong emotions. [8:04] On July 2, the Moon in Sagittarius squares Neptune (6:33 AM PDT). It's VOC for 4 3/4 hours, then enters Capricorn (10:20 AM PDT). Avoid getting so invested in being right that you overlook the things of faith. [9:46] Mars squares Uranus on June 26 (2:23 AM PDT) at 21º29’ Leo and Taurus, on the Sabian symbols 22 Leo A carrier pigeon and 22 Taurus White dove over troubled waters. Move mindfully; embrace collaborations.  [11:43] Mercury enters Cancer (June 26, 5:24 pm PDT through July 10). Reach out to loved ones and err on the side of gentleness and caution. Enjoy creative writing projects and journaling. [14:21] The Sun and Mercury trine Saturn on (June 28, 6:42 PM PDT/June 29, 11:23 pm PDT, respectively). The Sun and Mercury are on the Sabian symbol 8 Cancer: Rabbits dressed in clothes and on parade. Saturn is on 8 Pisces, A girl blowing a bugle. Get gussied up and prepare to be acknowledged for your achievements, your leadership and your maturity!  [15:14] What obstacles have you experienced since the Sun squared Saturn on May 28? Look for your efforts to be rewarded. [17:01] Neptune stations retrograde on June 30 (2:06 PM PDT, 27º41’ Pisces, through Dec. 6, 2023). Look inside for faith and clarity and set aside time for devotional practices. [19:58] The Sun and Mercury come together on June 30 (10:06 PM PDT) at 09º08’ Cancer and sextile Jupiter on July 1 (12.10 am PDT and 3:26 am PDT, respectively). The Sabian symbol for the Sun and Mercury is 10 Cancer, A large diamond, not completely cut. Go ahead and ask for things, even ones you’re not sure you're ready or qualified for. [21:31] On July 2 (7:33 AM PDT), Venus squares Uranus at 21º46 Leo and Taurus.  Will you get what you want or will those efforts be interrupted by the unexpected? [23:23] Listener Deborah asks out-of-bounds planets via Speakpipe.  Here is a link to <a href="http://Astro.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Astro.com</a>’s 9,000 year <a href="https://www.astro.com/swisseph/ae/2000/ae_2023d.pdf" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">ephemeris</a>.  [29:09]  If you have a question you’d like April to answer on a future episode, please leave a message of one minute or less at <a href="https://www.speakpipe.com/bigskyastrologypodcast" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">speakpipe.com/bigskyastrologypodcast</a> or email her at april(at)bigskyastrology(dot)com and put “Podcast Question” in the subject line. [29:42] If you like what you’re hearing, please subscribe, follow, like and share! This episode is brought to you by donors Shauna Hickey and Jolae Brocato! [30:42] Love the podcast? You can offer much-appreciated financial support <a href="https://bigskyastrology.com/support-the-podcast/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">here</a>!  A donation of $5 or more will get you access to the Cancer Solstice bonus episode for donors only!

184 | Libra First Quarter Moon: The True Inner Knowledge!

This week, the Sun enters Cancer and reaches its Summer Solstice in the Northern Hemisphere and Winter Solstice in the Southern Hemisphere. Jupiter and Saturn make their first major aspect since their Dec. 2020 conjunction. The Sun takes a magic carpet ride but is diverted by a North Node wakeup call. And April answers a Listener Question about how to integrate the astrology you hear in podcasts, like this one, into your daily life. Plus: Farmland quilts, the cobbler’s shoeless children, and feeling safe in an unsafe world.  Read a full transcript of this episode. Have a question you’d like answered on the show?  Email April or leave it here! Subscribe to April’s mailing list and get a free lunar workbook at each New Moon! Love the show? Make a donation!  Timestamps [1:12] Jupiter sextiles Saturn on June 19th (8:53 AM PDT) at 07°12’ Taurus and Pisces.  This is the first major aspect Jupiter and Saturn have made since they conjoined on the Winter Solstice, December 21st, 2020 at 00°29’ Aquarius. [2:47] Jupiter-Saturn aspects in general are about how we calibrate the urge to expand with the need to be cautious and deliberate.  We are driving with one foot on the gas and then one foot on the brake, coordinating back and forth between the two. Episode 61 covered the 2020 Jupiter-Saturn conjunction. [5:26] The Sun enters Cancer on June 21st (7:58 AM PDT). This transit marks the Summer Solstice in the Northern Hemisphere and the Winter Solstice in the Southern Hemisphere. [6:09] We planted seeds at the Aries Equinox, gathered resources under the Taurus Sun, and cross-pollinated during Gemini season. Now, as the Sun enters Cancer, we sit in the nest and wait for things to hatch. [9:02] Mercury sextiles Mars on June 21st (8:23 AM PDT) at 18°39’ of Gemini and Leo.  Put ideas into dramatic and creative action! [10:10] On June 23rd (8:55 AM PDT), the Sun makes a sextile to the North Node of the Moon at 01°56’ Cancer and Taurus. The Sabian symbol for the Sun at this sextile is 2 Cancer, A man on a magic carpet hovers over a large area of land.  The Sabian symbol for the North Node is 2 Taurus, An electrical storm. [12:09] A sextile aspect represents an opportunity, invitation, or a thought. It brings benefits if you make an effort to take advantage of opportunities. Use the reflective quality of Cancer season to get more perspective on what is available. [13:22] Moon Report!  There are no major lunations this week, so let’s focus on the Void-of-Course (VOC) Moon periods.  On June 20th (2:43 PM PDT), the Moon in Cancer opposes Pluto in Capricorn.  It will be VOC for 21 minutes before entering Leo (3:04 PM PDT).  This is the first time the Moon in Cancer has made an opposition to Pluto since March 3, 2023.  This is a time to go back and visit some emotional patterns that we might have thought we had worked through and gotten past. [15:14] On June 22nd (10:00 AM PDT), the Moon in Leo squares Uranus in Taurus.  This kicks off a VOC Moon period that lasts for 17 ½ hours (!!!). The Moon enters Virgo on June 23rd (3:35 AM PDT).  Ask yourself during this VOC Moon period, “Am I willing to risk feeling uncomfortable in order to pursue my passion?” [17:00] The Moon in Virgo trines Pluto in Capricorn on June 25th (3:54 PM PDT).  It will be VOC for just a little over a half an hour before entering Libra (3:57 PM PDT).  Think less about being perfect and more about being helpful. [19:09] Listener Edna asks about how to integrate the astrology you hear in podcasts into daily life.  You may want to consider an astrological journal such as the Honeycomb Collective Astrological Almanac. Check out April’s Working with the Moon workbook as well - free at each New Moon for subscribers! [25:39] If you have a question you’d like April to answer on a future episode, please leave a message of one minute or less at speakpipe.com/bigskyastrologypodcast or email her at april(at)bigskyastrology(dot)com and be sure to put “Podcast Question” in the subject line. [26:10] If you like what you’re hearing, please subscribe, follow, like and share! This episode is brought to you by donors Charlotte Benzinger and Priscilla Orta-Wenner! [27:07] Love the podcast? You can offer much-appreciated financial support here!  A donation of $5 or more will get you access to the Aries Equinox and Cancer Solstice bonus episodes for donors only!

This week, the Sun enters Cancer and reaches its Summer Solstice in the Northern Hemisphere and Winter Solstice in the Southern Hemisphere. Jupiter and Saturn make their first major aspect since their Dec. 2020 conjunction. The Sun takes a magic carpet ride but is diverted by a North Node wakeup call. And April answers a Listener Question about how to integrate the astrology you hear in podcasts, like this one, into your daily life. Plus: Farmland quilts, the cobbler’s shoeless children, and feeling safe in an unsafe world. <a href="https://www.bigskyastrology.com/transcript-ep-183" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Read a full transcript of this episode.</a> Have a question you’d like answered on the show?  Email April or <a href="https://www.speakpipe.com/bigskyastrologypodcast" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">leave it here</a>! <a href="https://www.bigskyastrology.com/subscribe" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Subscribe to April’s mailing list and get a free lunar workbook at each New Moon!</a> <a href="https://www.bigskyastrology.com/support-the-podcast/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Love the show? Make a donation!</a> Timestamps [1:12] Jupiter sextiles Saturn on June 19th (8:53 AM PDT) at 07°12’ Taurus and Pisces.  This is the first major aspect Jupiter and Saturn have made since they conjoined on the Winter Solstice, December 21st, 2020 at 00°29’ Aquarius. [2:47] Jupiter-Saturn aspects in general are about how we calibrate the urge to expand with the need to be cautious and deliberate.  We are driving with one foot on the gas and then one foot on the brake, coordinating back and forth between the two. <a href="https://bigskyastrology.com/episode-61/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Episode 61</a> covered the 2020 Jupiter-Saturn conjunction. [5:26] The Sun enters Cancer on June 21st (7:58 AM PDT). This transit marks the Summer Solstice in the Northern Hemisphere and the Winter Solstice in the Southern Hemisphere. [6:09] We planted seeds at the Aries Equinox, gathered resources under the Taurus Sun, and cross-pollinated during Gemini season. Now, as the Sun enters Cancer, we sit in the nest and wait for things to hatch. [9:02] Mercury sextiles Mars on June 21st (8:23 AM PDT) at 18°39’ of Gemini and Leo.  Put ideas into dramatic and creative action! [10:10] On June 23rd (8:55 AM PDT), the Sun makes a sextile to the North Node of the Moon at 01°56’ Cancer and Taurus. The Sabian symbol for the Sun at this sextile is 2 Cancer, A man on a magic carpet hovers over a large area of land.  The Sabian symbol for the North Node is 2 Taurus, An electrical storm. [12:09] A sextile aspect represents an opportunity, invitation, or a thought. It brings benefits if you make an effort to take advantage of opportunities. Use the reflective quality of Cancer season to get more perspective on what is available. [13:22] Moon Report!  There are no major lunations this week, so let’s focus on the Void-of-Course (VOC) Moon periods.  On June 20th (2:43 PM PDT), the Moon in Cancer opposes Pluto in Capricorn.  It will be VOC for 21 minutes before entering Leo (3:04 PM PDT).  This is the first time the Moon in Cancer has made an opposition to Pluto since March 3, 2023.  This is a time to go back and visit some emotional patterns that we might have thought we had worked through and gotten past. [15:14] On June 22nd (10:00 AM PDT), the Moon in Leo squares Uranus in Taurus.  This kicks off a VOC Moon period that lasts for 17 ½ hours (!!!). The Moon enters Virgo on June 23rd (3:35 AM PDT).  Ask yourself during this VOC Moon period, “Am I willing to risk feeling uncomfortable in order to pursue my passion?” [17:00] The Moon in Virgo trines Pluto in Capricorn on June 25th (3:54 PM PDT).  It will be VOC for just a little over a half an hour before entering Libra (3:57 PM PDT).  Think less about being perfect and more about being helpful. [19:09] Listener Edna asks about how to integrate the astrology you hear in podcasts into daily life.  You may want to consider an astrological journal such as the <a href="https://www.honeycomb.co/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Honeycomb Collective Astrological Almanac</a>. Check out April’s <a href="https://bigskyastrology.com/subscribe/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Working with the Moon</a> workbook as well - free at each New Moon for subscribers! [25:39] If you have a question you’d like April to answer on a future episode, please leave a message of one minute or less at <a href="https://www.speakpipe.com/bigskyastrologypodcast" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">speakpipe.com/bigskyastrologypodcast</a> or email her at april(at)bigskyastrology(dot)com and be sure to put “Podcast Question” in the subject line. [26:10] If you like what you’re hearing, please subscribe, follow, like and share! This episode is brought to you by donors Charlotte Benzinger and Priscilla Orta-Wenner! [27:07] Love the podcast? You can offer much-appreciated financial support <a href="https://bigskyastrology.com/support-the-podcast/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">here</a>!  A donation of $5 or more will get you access to the Aries Equinox and Cancer Solstice bonus episodes for donors only!

183 | Cancer Solstice, Jupiter and Saturn: Better Driving Through Sextiles!

This week: A Gemini New Moon with a heavy dash of Neptune awakens us from sleepwalking. Mercury aspects Saturn, which adds perseverance to mental agility. Saturn turns retrograde, sending us inward for authority and guidance. And April answers a Listener Question about what to do when someone judges you based on your Sun sign (how rude!). Plus: Toe-nibbling crabs, walking it like we talk it, and seriously: signs are not people.  Read a full transcript of this episode. Have a question you’d like answered on the show?  Email April or leave it here! Subscribe to April’s mailing list and get a free lunar workbook at each New Moon! Love the show? Make a donation! Timestamps [1:03] Mercury squares Saturn (June 15, 9:09 AM PDT) at 07°12’ Gemini and Pisces. The Sabian symbol for Mercury is 8 Gemini, An industrial strike, and Saturn is on 8 Pisces, A girl blowing a bugle.  Wake up, and apply Saturn’s stick-to-itiveness to intellectual projects. [3:15] Mercury sextiles Venus (June 17, 8:29 AM PDT) at 10°49’ Gemini and Leo. The Sabian symbol for Venus is 11 Leo, Children on a swing in a huge oak tree, and Mercury is on 11 Gemini, A new path of realism in experience. This is a wonderful aspect to take advantage of opportunities for expressing yourself through writing or maybe through your very own podcast! [4:56] Saturn stations to turn retrograde (June 17, 10:27 AM PDT) at 07°12’ Pisces, on the Sabian symbol, 8 Pisces, A girl blowing a bugle. Look inward for a sense of authority, and revisit themes from March 7 - June 17, 2023. Saturn will turn direct on November 4th at 00°30’ Pisces. [7:19] Moon Report!  The Gemini New Moon (June 17, 9:37 PM PDT) is at 26°43’ Gemini. The chart of this New Moon features the Sun and Moon square Neptune in Pisces while Venus and Mars in Leo approach squares to Uranus in Taurus. [8:27] The Sun squares Neptune at 27°39’ of Gemini and Pisces on June 18 (8:54 PM PDT). The Sabian symbol for the Sun is A man declared bankrupt. When we've lost everything, we have many more options available to us and a greater sense of freedom. [9:32] Need a few ideas of what to put behind your New Moon intentions? Reboot and come up with a fresh way of communicating. Tell a new story about who you are.  Learn a new language, such as astrology. Play outside more! [10:56] This New Moon begins a new Lunar Phase Family Cycle. The First Quarter Moon in the cycle is on March 16, 2024 at 27°03’ Gemini, the Full Moon is on December 15, 2024 at 20°52’ Gemini, and the Last Quarter Moon comes on September 14, 2025 at 21°52’. [12:33] Void-of-Course (VOC) Moon Periods. On June 13 (11:27 AM PDT), the Moon in Aries squares Pluto at 29°57’ Aries and Capricorn. It's VOC for only four minutes before it enters Taurus (11:31 AM PDT). This aspect triggers themes from the April 20, 2023 Solar Eclipse at 29°50’ Aries.  Ask, “How can I change my emotional habits so that I'm less impulsive, but also less hidebound by tradition and the way things ‘have to be’ done?" [14:18] On June 15th (6:36 PM PDT), the Moon in Taurus trines Pluto in Capricorn.  It's VOC for just nine minutes before it enters Gemini (6:45 PM PDT). Consider this affirmation:  "Because of the things that I've done, I'm in a better, stronger position. I know my own mind a little bit better. I'm in control of my emotions." [15:02] On June 17th, the Moon in Gemini squares Neptune (11:24 PM PDT). It's VOC for four and a half hours before it enters Cancer on June 18 (3:58 AM PDT). Before you hit the hay, make an intention to capture your dreams for later translation. [17:06] Listener Lady Vuvuzela asks about what to do when someone judges you based on your Sun sign. [24:13] If you have a question you’d like April to answer on a future episode, please leave a message of one minute or less at speakpipe.com/bigskyastrologypodcast or email her at april(at)bigskyastrology(dot)com and be sure to put “Podcast Question” in the subject line. [24:50] If you like what you’re hearing, please subscribe, follow, like and share! This episode is brought to you by donors David Ianni and Christine Flanagan! [25:49] Love the podcast? You can offer much-appreciated financial support here!  A donation of $5 or more will get you access to the Aries Equinox and Cancer Solstice bonus episodes for donors only!

This week: A Gemini New Moon with a heavy dash of Neptune awakens us from sleepwalking. Mercury aspects Saturn, which adds perseverance to mental agility. Saturn turns retrograde, sending us inward for authority and guidance. And April answers a Listener Question about what to do when someone judges you based on your Sun sign (how rude!). Plus: Toe-nibbling crabs, walking it like we talk it, and seriously: signs are not people. <a href="https://www.bigskyastrology.com/transcript-ep-182" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Read a full transcript of this episode.</a> Have a question you’d like answered on the show?  Email April or <a href="https://www.speakpipe.com/bigskyastrologypodcast" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">leave it here</a>! <a href="https://www.bigskyastrology.com/subscribe" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Subscribe to April’s mailing list and get a free lunar workbook at each New Moon!</a> <a href="https://www.bigskyastrology.com/support-the-podcast/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Love the show? Make a donation!</a> Timestamps [1:03] Mercury squares Saturn (June 15, 9:09 AM PDT) at 07°12’ Gemini and Pisces. The Sabian symbol for Mercury is 8 Gemini, An industrial strike, and Saturn is on 8 Pisces, A girl blowing a bugle.  Wake up, and apply Saturn’s stick-to-itiveness to intellectual projects. [3:15] Mercury sextiles Venus (June 17, 8:29 AM PDT) at 10°49’ Gemini and Leo. The Sabian symbol for Venus is 11 Leo, Children on a swing in a huge oak tree, and Mercury is on 11 Gemini, A new path of realism in experience. This is a wonderful aspect to take advantage of opportunities for expressing yourself through writing or maybe through your very own podcast! [4:56] Saturn stations to turn retrograde (June 17, 10:27 AM PDT) at 07°12’ Pisces, on the Sabian symbol, 8 Pisces, A girl blowing a bugle. Look inward for a sense of authority, and revisit themes from March 7 - June 17, 2023. Saturn will turn direct on November 4th at 00°30’ Pisces. [7:19] Moon Report!  The Gemini New Moon (June 17, 9:37 PM PDT) is at 26°43’ Gemini. The chart of this New Moon features the Sun and Moon square Neptune in Pisces while Venus and Mars in Leo approach squares to Uranus in Taurus. [8:27] The Sun squares Neptune at 27°39’ of Gemini and Pisces on June 18 (8:54 PM PDT). The Sabian symbol for the Sun is A man declared bankrupt. When we've lost everything, we have many more options available to us and a greater sense of freedom. [9:32] Need a few ideas of what to put behind your New Moon intentions? Reboot and come up with a fresh way of communicating. Tell a new story about who you are.  Learn a new language, such as astrology. Play outside more! [10:56] This New Moon begins a new Lunar Phase Family Cycle. The First Quarter Moon in the cycle is on March 16, 2024 at 27°03’ Gemini, the Full Moon is on December 15, 2024 at 20°52’ Gemini, and the Last Quarter Moon comes on September 14, 2025 at 21°52’. [12:33] Void-of-Course (VOC) Moon Periods. On June 13 (11:27 AM PDT), the Moon in Aries squares Pluto at 29°57’ Aries and Capricorn. It's VOC for only four minutes before it enters Taurus (11:31 AM PDT). This aspect triggers themes from the April 20, 2023 Solar Eclipse at 29°50’ Aries.  Ask, “How can I change my emotional habits so that I'm less impulsive, but also less hidebound by tradition and the way things ‘have to be’ done?" [14:18] On June 15th (6:36 PM PDT), the Moon in Taurus trines Pluto in Capricorn.  It's VOC for just nine minutes before it enters Gemini (6:45 PM PDT). Consider this affirmation:  "Because of the things that I've done, I'm in a better, stronger position. I know my own mind a little bit better. I'm in control of my emotions." [15:02] On June 17th, the Moon in Gemini squares Neptune (11:24 PM PDT). It's VOC for four and a half hours before it enters Cancer on June 18 (3:58 AM PDT). Before you hit the hay, make an intention to capture your dreams for later translation. [17:06] Listener Lady Vuvuzela asks about what to do when someone judges you based on your Sun sign. [24:13] If you have a question you’d like April to answer on a future episode, please leave a message of one minute or less at <a href="https://www.speakpipe.com/bigskyastrologypodcast" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">speakpipe.com/bigskyastrologypodcast</a> or email her at april(at)bigskyastrology(dot)com and be sure to put “Podcast Question” in the subject line. [24:50] If you like what you’re hearing, please subscribe, follow, like and share! This episode is brought to you by donors David Ianni and Christine Flanagan! [25:49] Love the podcast? You can offer much-appreciated financial support <a href="https://bigskyastrology.com/support-the-podcast/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">here</a>!  A donation of $5 or more will get you access to the Aries Equinox and Cancer Solstice bonus episodes for donors only!

182 | Gemini New Moon: The Sleepwalker Awakens!

Real astrology for real people, with astrologer/author April Elliott Kent of BigSkyAstrology.com.

This is a richly intimate podcast that warms the soul and livens the spirits! It is like a big hug from a dear friend. The content possesses a relatable depth making it welcoming and appealing to both beginner and seasoned astrologers from all walks of life.

My stars!

You ladies were just what I needed this holiday Monday morning!

Calming laughter.

Real astrology for real people, with astrologer/author April Elliott Kent of <a href="http://BigSkyAstrology.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">BigSkyAstrology.com</a>.

Big Sky Astrology Podcast

Begin your list of 2020 goals, because Mercury moves into Capricorn this week! April and Jen spend the rest of this jumbo-sized episode discussing the upcoming Solar Eclipse, and in general what eclipses mean, how they work, and why we use them. Read more about this week’s astrology at the Big Sky Astrology website. Subscribe to the podcast and April's mailing list. Follow Big Sky Astrology on IG, Twitter, and FB @BigSkyAstrology Download a full transcript of this episode (PDF).  Episode links: 01:21 – The quote of the week comes from April: “We go nowhere, we see no one, and we do nothing.” Points if you can guess what she’s talking about! 03:19 – Jen is very fancy: She has a basement in her house! (But not a cellar.) 06:28 – What else has nothing to do with astrology? Murphy beds! 06:54 – April is also fancy with her new front path!  07:16 – Jen urges April to take a bite out of the Minneapple. Again. 07:49 – We finally remember we’re supposed to be talking about astrology and get down to business, starting with Mercury moving into Capricorn. We’re pretty sure Capricorn has a basement, but maybe not a Murphy bed. 09:47 – New Moon Solar Eclipse in Capricorn! Depending on your time zone, this will be happening on Christmas Day (December 25th) or… 10:10 – …on Boxing Day (December 26th). Or is it Unboxing Day? 14:04 – April recounts her checkered history of eclipses aspecting her natal Venus, ranging from the ridiculous to the sublime. Venus asks: Do you deserve this treatment? In the end: You love you. 16:53 – What is an eclipse? Solar vs. Lunar Eclipses and what they mean astrologically. 22:42 – Don't call me Shirley! 23:30 – This eclipse is tied to the solar eclipse from December 25th, 2000. We learn about the Metonic cycle and how this eclipse activates the same points in your chart. 25:44 – Eclipses in the house(s)! 27:53 – Eclipses move backwards through the chart – that is to say, clockwise. So forward motion is counterclockwise, which makes no sense… until you learn that the planets orbit the Sun counterclockwise. Aha! 34:50 – We love us some Pema Chödrön! 35:05 – Eclipses in aspect to natal planets! 44:15 – The few aspects April uses in eclipse work, and why. 45:47 – April’s interview about eclipses on Melissa LaFara’s Energetic Principles podcast! 46:18 – Shameless plug for April’s Followed by a Moonshadow Eclipse Report – special promo code for podcast listeners! Use code podcasteclipse5 at checkout to get a $5 discount (through December 27, 2019). Order here!

Begin your list of 2020 goals, because Mercury moves into Capricorn this week! April and Jen spend the rest of this jumbo-sized episode discussing the upcoming Solar Eclipse, and in general what eclipses mean, how they work, and why we use them. Read more about <a href="https://www.bigskyastrology.com/category/weekly-highlights/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">this week’s astrology at the Big Sky Astrology website</a>. Subscribe to the podcast and <a href="https://www.bigskyastrology.com/subscribe/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">April's mailing list</a>. Follow Big Sky Astrology on <a href="https://www.instagram.com/bigskyastrology/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">IG</a>, <a href="https://twitter.com/bigskyastrology" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Twitter</a>, and <a href="https://www.facebook.com/bigskyastrology" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">FB</a> @BigSkyAstrology <a href="https://mcdn.podbean.com/mf/web/azreq6/BSA_Ep_5_transcript.pdf" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Download a full transcript of this episode (PDF)</a>. Episode links: 01:21 – The quote of the week comes from April: “We go nowhere, we see no one, and we do nothing.” Points if you can guess what she’s talking about! 03:19 – Jen is very fancy: She has a basement in her house! (But not a cellar.) 06:28 – What else has nothing to do with astrology? <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Murphy_bed" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Murphy beds</a>! 06:54 – April is also fancy with her <a href="https://mcdn.podbean.com/mf/web/sm644y/path-pod.jpg" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">new front path</a>! 07:16 – Jen urges April to take a bite out of the Minneapple. Again. 07:49 – We finally remember we’re supposed to be talking about astrology and get down to business, starting with Mercury moving into Capricorn. We’re pretty sure Capricorn has a basement, but maybe not a Murphy bed. 09:47 – New Moon Solar Eclipse in Capricorn! Depending on your time zone, this will be happening on Christmas Day (December 25th) or… 10:10 – …on <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/dec/26/why-is-it-called-boxing-day" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Boxing Day</a> (December 26th). Or is it <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xSUuO84BTSA" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Unboxing Day</a>? 14:04 – April recounts her checkered history of eclipses aspecting her natal Venus, ranging from the ridiculous to the sublime. Venus asks: Do you deserve this treatment? In the end: You love you. 16:53 – What is an eclipse? Solar vs. Lunar Eclipses and what they mean astrologically. 22:42 – <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ixljWVyPby0" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Don't call me Shirley</a>! 23:30 – This eclipse is tied to the solar eclipse from December 25th, 2000. We learn about the <a href="https://www.britannica.com/science/Metonic-cycle" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Metonic cycle</a> and how this eclipse activates the same points in your chart. 25:44 – Eclipses in the house(s)! 27:53 – Eclipses move backwards through the chart – that is to say, clockwise. So forward motion is counterclockwise, which makes no sense… until you learn that the <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=libKVRa01L8" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">planets orbit the Sun counterclockwise</a>. Aha! 34:50 – We love us some <a href="https://amzn.to/2Zibkf5" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Pema Chödrön</a>! 35:05 – Eclipses in aspect to natal planets! 44:15 – The few aspects April uses in eclipse work, and why. 45:47 – April’s interview about eclipses on Melissa LaFara’s <a href="http://bit.ly/2EIXEAq" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Energetic Principles</a> podcast! 46:18 – Shameless plug for April’s Followed by a Moonshadow Eclipse Report – special promo code for podcast listeners! Use code podcasteclipse5 at checkout to get a $5 discount (through December 27, 2019). Order <a href="https://www.bigskyastrology.com/product/eclipse-astrology-report/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">here</a>!

005 | Unboxing Eclipses

It’s an epic week in the Big Sky, and April and Jen bring you the down-low on the up-high: Jupiter meets the South Node, Uranus brings extra tumult to a highly-charged Lunar Eclipse, and we sound a final “all aboard” for the S.S. Saturn/Pluto Conjunction. Plus: more new (fictional) sponsors than you can shake a stick at, and April takes any opportunity to discuss her latest TV obsession. Want to learn more about eclipses based on your individual birth chart? Check out April’s Moonshadow Eclipse Report! Read more about this week’s astrology at the Big Sky Astrology website. Subscribe to the podcast and April's mailing list. Follow Big Sky Astrology on IG, Twitter, and FB @BigSkyAstrology Download a full transcript of this episode (PDF).  Episode links: 00:45 – April enthuses about her new personalized astrological almanac from Honeycomb Collective! 02:22 – She also can’t get enough of The Repair Shop, which is now available on Netflix.  Apparently, English people fixing stuff is just what her life has been missing. 03:58 – Jupiter takes the Saturn/Pluto-ravaged South Lunar Node to the cosmic repair shop (Jan. 8). For our discussion of Jupiter in Capricorn, lend your ears to Episode 2, Falstaff in a Business Suit. 04:30 – What are the Lunar Nodes, anyway? Jen demonstrates her molecular recall of BSA’s first six episodes by immediately identifying our discussion of the topic in Episode 5, Unboxing Eclipses. 7:37 – The Japanese art of fixing broken pottery with powdered gold is called Kintsugi. Find strength in your frailties. 08:29 – Buckle up for a potent Full Moon/Lunar Eclipse on the Sabian Symbol degree A prima donna singing. Includes a quick explanation of these cryptic symbols, which originated in April’s fair city. 11:24 – As promised: This world map locates the Lunar Eclipse’s path of visibility. 14:50 – A recap of other eclipse points near 20 Cancer over the years. Hint: Look for planets and points in your birth chart between 16-24 of the Cardinal signs. And just as Jen breathes a sigh of relief over remembering to mention Aries, she overlooks poor Capricorn. Sorry, Seagoats!! 18:40 – April’s new front path provides a useful metaphor for the planetary lineup in Capricorn during this eclipse. Shockingly, The Repair Shop is not mentioned. 19:43 – Wake up! Uranus stations direct within six hours of the eclipse, boosting the day’s unsettling weirdness quotient. This oddball planet rotates on its side - and we love him for it. 22:12 – At last: the Saturn/Pluto conjunction! Jen compares it to the phoenix rising. And April salutes astrologer Blain Bovee’s lyrical take on the conjunction’s Sabian Symbol, Two awards for bravery in war. (For a full discussion of this important transit, check out last week’s Episode 6, Eat More Crunchy Things.) 24:20 – April’s take on Pluto transits and how even the most devastating events can move us in powerful and positive directions. (Curious about Jen’s injury? Listen to our 10-minute preview.) 26:03 – Demonstrating her Catholic grade school bona fides, April busts a quote from Matthew 26:39. Not that she could have cited the book, chapter, or verse (no one said she was a good student). Duration: 29:23

It’s an epic week in the Big Sky, and April and Jen bring you the down-low on the up-high: Jupiter meets the South Node, Uranus brings extra tumult to a highly-charged Lunar Eclipse, and we sound a final “all aboard” for the S.S. Saturn/Pluto Conjunction. Plus: more new (fictional) sponsors than you can shake a stick at, and April takes any opportunity to discuss her latest TV obsession. Want to learn more about eclipses based on your individual birth chart? Check out April’s <a href="https://www.bigskyastrology.com/product/eclipse-astrology-report/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Moonshadow Eclipse Report</a>! Read more about <a href="https://www.bigskyastrology.com/category/weekly-highlights/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">this week’s astrology at the Big Sky Astrology website</a>. Subscribe to the podcast and <a href="https://www.bigskyastrology.com/subscribe/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">April's mailing list</a>. Follow Big Sky Astrology on <a href="https://www.instagram.com/bigskyastrology/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">IG</a>, <a href="https://twitter.com/bigskyastrology" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Twitter</a>, and <a href="https://www.facebook.com/bigskyastrology" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">FB</a> @BigSkyAstrology <a href="https://mcdn.podbean.com/mf/web/4mqxds/BSA_Ep_7_transcript_final.pdf" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Download a full transcript of this episode (PDF)</a>. Episode links: 00:45 – April enthuses about her new personalized astrological almanac from <a href="https://honeycomb.co/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Honeycomb Collective</a>! 02:22 – She also can’t get enough of <a href="https://www.netflix.com/title/81224128" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">The Repair Shop</a>, which is now available on Netflix.  Apparently, English people fixing stuff is just what her life has been missing. 03:58 – Jupiter takes the Saturn/Pluto-ravaged South Lunar Node to the cosmic repair shop (Jan. 8). For our discussion of Jupiter in Capricorn, lend your ears to <a href="https://bigskyastrology.podbean.com/e/2-falstaff-in-a-business-suit/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Episode 2,</a> Falstaff in a Business Suit. 04:30 – What are the Lunar Nodes, anyway? Jen demonstrates her molecular recall of BSA’s first six episodes by immediately identifying our discussion of the topic in <a href="https://bigskyastrology.podbean.com/e/005-unboxing-eclipses/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Episode 5, Unboxing Eclipses</a>. 7:37 – The Japanese art of fixing broken pottery with powdered gold is called <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kintsugi" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Kintsugi</a>. Find strength in your frailties. 08:29 – Buckle up for a potent Full Moon/Lunar Eclipse on the <a href="https://cafeastrology.com/sabiansymbols_degreemeanings.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Sabian Symbol</a> degree A prima donna singing. Includes a quick explanation of these cryptic symbols, which originated in April’s fair city. 11:24 – As promised: <a href="https://www.timeanddate.com/eclipse/lunar/2020-january-10" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">This world map locates the Lunar Eclipse’s path of visibility</a>. 14:50 – A recap of other eclipse points near 20 Cancer over the years. Hint: Look for planets and points in your birth chart between 16-24 of the Cardinal signs. And just as Jen breathes a sigh of relief over remembering to mention Aries, she overlooks poor Capricorn. Sorry, Seagoats!! 18:40 – April’s <a href="https://mcdn.podbean.com/mf/web/sm644y/path-pod.jpg" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">new front path</a> provides a useful metaphor for the planetary lineup in Capricorn during this eclipse. Shockingly, The Repair Shop is not mentioned. 19:43 – Wake up! Uranus stations direct within six hours of the eclipse, boosting the day’s unsettling weirdness quotient. This <a href="https://solarsystem.nasa.gov/planets/uranus/overview/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">oddball planet rotates on its side</a> - and we love him for it. 22:12 – At last: the Saturn/Pluto conjunction! Jen compares it to the <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Phoenix_%28mythology%29" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">phoenix rising</a>. And April salutes astrologer <a href="http://www.boveeastrology.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Blain Bovee</a>’s lyrical take on the conjunction’s Sabian Symbol, Two awards for bravery in war. (For a full discussion of this important transit, check out <a href="https://bigskyastrology.podbean.com/e/006-eat-more-crunchy-things/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">last week’s Episode 6, Eat More Crunchy Things</a>.) 24:20 – April’s take on Pluto transits and how even the most devastating events can move us in powerful and positive directions. (Curious about Jen’s injury? Listen to <a href="https://bigskyastrology.podbean.com/e/preview-the-big-sky-astrology-podcast/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">our 10-minute preview</a>.) 26:03 – Demonstrating her Catholic grade school bona fides, April busts a quote from <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Matthew_26" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Matthew 26:39</a>. Not that she could have cited the book, chapter, or verse (no one said she was a good student). Duration: 29:23

007 | Saturn and Pluto Go to The Repair Shop

So far, our planet appears to have narrowly survived the Week That Will Live In Infamy (see Episode 7!), and the Sun decides Saturn and Pluto need a party. April and Jen use Venus entering Pisces as an opportunity to spread the loving gospel of Mister Rogers, and April assures Jen that Mercury is far more excellent in Aquarius than seems plausible. This week’s Moonwatch segment is brought to you by the Last Quarter Moon in Libra and April and Jen humming doo-doo-doo. Plus: Bob Ross, people. Bob. Ross. Read more about this week’s astrology at the Big Sky Astrology website. Subscribe to the podcast and April's mailing list. Follow Big Sky Astrology on IG, Twitter, and FB @BigSkyAstrology Download a full transcript of this episode (PDF).  Episode links: 00:34 – The word of the week is “portmanteau.”  And – recollecting that April has previously deployed the gallicisms bonhomie to describe The Repair Shop (see Episode 6) and bon vivant to describe Jupiter (see Episode 2) – Jen wonders whether her podpal is secretly fluent in French. [“Non.” ~ April] 01:12 – Podkeeping: The BSA podcast arrives in your podcatcher each Monday morning… and if you are enjoying the podcast, please take one second to give us a 5-star review (it helps spread the word)! 02:20 – As the dust settles after the intense Lunar Eclipse (see Episode 7) on the 10th and the epic Saturn/Pluto conjunction (Episode 6 &amp; 7) on the 12th, the Sun joins the soirée. The “official” story behind those celestial fireworks is unveiled; how is it playing out for you personally? 04:44 – What are rulerships? A brief, but hardly concise, description. 7:57 – Also on the 13th, Venus enters Pisces, where she is… 08:37 – …exalted. Jen asks: What is this “exalted” business anyway, how do we know each planet’s sign of exaltation, and will this be on the test? April shares a beautiful example of Venus in Pisces (thanks, Mom), and Jen is reminded of Fred Rogers and the podcast Finding Fred. This cosmic dictate is strong right now: Be gentle, be loving, be kind. 12:40 – Will April and Jen ever do an episode on Chiron? April will have to collect her peanuts first. 15:59 – Mercury dons his lab coat/Geek Squad shirt and enters Aquarius on January 16th. And April explains (and possibly demonstrates) why Mercury is a little too comfortable in Leo. 21:11 – Mercury, moving quickly, squares Uranus on the 18th and spills the real beans on the Sun’s recent conclave with Saturn/Pluto. 21:45 – Uranus is the “higher octave” of Mercury. Neptune and Pluto practice their scales, too, as they are the cosmic collaborators of Venus and Mars. 23:57 – Breaking News! In this week’s Moonwatch segment, we consider the Last Quarter Moon at 27 degrees Libra on the Sabian Symbol (see Episode 7), “An airplane hovering overhead.” What’s capturing your attention? (For Jen, it’s the fact that Blain Bovee looks like one of her favorite movie stars of all time, Jimmy Stewart.) 26:30 – How did the first month of the year get its name? His name is Janus. 26:43 – A plug from Jen: Subscribe for free to April’s awesome mailing list, won’t you? Subscribers get a free “Working with the Moon” workbook, updated each month! This is a 10+ page PDF that you’d pay big bucks for elsewhere! And it’s a real treat – lots of valuable information on the Moon’s cycle and phases that month, specifically what to initiate and release, where the focus is in your chart, and how to set intentions for the New Moon. Plus, cool artwork and free frozen custard! (Okay, the frozen custard part is a lie. But everything else is true! 😊) [“Any mention of frozen custard is proof that: 1) Jen wrote the show notes, and 2) She’s originally from Milwaukee.” ~ April] 28:28 – Two words: Bob Ross! 28:29 – No, Bob does not have Venus in Pisces. 29:44 – April gives a shoutout to returning fictional sponsor Netflix and their excellent film, The Two Popes! Find out how the movie connects with the Saturn/Pluto conjunction. Because sooner or later, everything does.

So far, our planet appears to have narrowly survived the Week That Will Live In Infamy (see <a href="https://bigskyastrology.podbean.com/e/007-saturn-and-pluto-go-to-the-repair-shop/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Episode 7</a>!), and the Sun decides Saturn and Pluto need a party. April and Jen use Venus entering Pisces as an opportunity to spread the loving gospel of Mister Rogers, and April assures Jen that Mercury is far more excellent in Aquarius than seems plausible. This week’s Moonwatch segment is brought to you by the Last Quarter Moon in Libra and April and Jen humming doo-doo-doo. Plus: Bob Ross, people. Bob. Ross. Read more about <a href="https://www.bigskyastrology.com/category/weekly-highlights/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">this week’s astrology at the Big Sky Astrology website</a>. Subscribe to the podcast and <a href="https://www.bigskyastrology.com/subscribe/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">April's mailing list</a>. Follow Big Sky Astrology on <a href="https://www.instagram.com/bigskyastrology/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">IG</a>, <a href="https://twitter.com/bigskyastrology" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Twitter</a>, and <a href="https://www.facebook.com/bigskyastrology" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">FB</a> @BigSkyAstrology <a href="https://mcdn.podbean.com/mf/web/rws2a3/Transcript_Ep_8_final_BSA.pdf" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Download a full transcript of this episode (PDF)</a>. Episode links: 00:34 – The word of the week is “portmanteau.”  And – recollecting that April has previously deployed the gallicisms bonhomie to describe The Repair Shop (see <a href="https://bigskyastrology.podbean.com/e/006-eat-more-crunchy-things/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Episode 6</a>) and bon vivant to describe Jupiter (see <a href="https://bigskyastrology.podbean.com/e/2-falstaff-in-a-business-suit/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Episode 2</a>) – Jen wonders whether her podpal is secretly fluent in French. [“Non.” ~ April] 01:12 – Podkeeping: The BSA podcast arrives in your podcatcher each Monday morning… and if you are enjoying the podcast, please take one second to give us a 5-star review (it helps spread the word)! 02:20 – As the dust settles after the intense Lunar Eclipse (see <a href="https://bigskyastrology.podbean.com/e/007-saturn-and-pluto-go-to-the-repair-shop/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Episode 7</a>) on the 10th and the epic Saturn/Pluto conjunction (<a href="https://bigskyastrology.podbean.com/e/006-eat-more-crunchy-things/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Episode 6</a> &amp; 7) on the 12th, the Sun joins the soirée. The “official” story behind those celestial fireworks is unveiled; how is it playing out for you personally? 04:44 – What are rulerships? A brief, but hardly concise, description. 7:57 – Also on the 13th, Venus enters Pisces, where she is… 08:37 – …exalted. Jen asks: What is this “exalted” business anyway, how do we know each planet’s sign of exaltation, and will this be on the test? April shares a beautiful example of Venus in Pisces (thanks, Mom), and Jen is reminded of Fred Rogers and the podcast <a href="https://www.iheart.com/podcast/1119-finding-fred-51090582/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Finding Fred</a>. This cosmic dictate is strong right now: Be gentle, be loving, be kind. 12:40 – Will April and Jen ever do an episode on Chiron? April will have to collect her peanuts first. 15:59 – Mercury dons his lab coat/Geek Squad shirt and enters Aquarius on January 16th. And April explains (and possibly demonstrates) why Mercury is a little too comfortable in Leo. 21:11 – Mercury, moving quickly, squares Uranus on the 18th and spills the real beans on the Sun’s recent conclave with Saturn/Pluto. 21:45 – Uranus is the “higher octave” of Mercury. Neptune and Pluto practice their scales, too, as they are the cosmic collaborators of Venus and Mars. 23:57 – Breaking News! In this week’s Moonwatch segment, we consider the Last Quarter Moon at 27 degrees Libra on the Sabian Symbol (see <a href="https://bigskyastrology.podbean.com/e/007-saturn-and-pluto-go-to-the-repair-shop/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Episode 7</a>), “An airplane hovering overhead.” What’s capturing your attention? (For Jen, it’s the fact that <a href="http://www.boveeastrology.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Blain Bovee</a> looks like one of her favorite movie stars of all time, <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/James_Stewart" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Jimmy Stewart</a>.) 26:30 – How did the first month of the year get its name? His name is <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Janus" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Janus</a>. 26:43 – A plug from Jen: Subscribe for free to <a href="https://www.bigskyastrology.com/subscribe/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">April’s awesome mailing list</a>, won’t you? Subscribers get a free “Working with the Moon” workbook, updated each month! This is a 10+ page PDF that you’d pay big bucks for elsewhere! And it’s a real treat – lots of valuable information on the Moon’s cycle and phases that month, specifically what to initiate and release, where the focus is in your chart, and how to set intentions for the New Moon. Plus, cool artwork and free frozen custard! (Okay, the frozen custard part is a lie. But everything else is true! 😊) [“Any mention of frozen custard is proof that: 1) Jen wrote the show notes, and 2) She’s originally from Milwaukee.” ~ April] 28:28 – Two words: <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bob_Ross" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Bob Ross</a>! 28:29 – No, <a href="https://www.astrotheme.com/astrology/Bob_Ross" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Bob does not have Venus in Pisces</a>. 29:44 – April gives a shoutout to returning fictional sponsor Netflix and their excellent film, <a href="https://www.netflix.com/Title/80174451" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">The Two Popes</a>! Find out how the movie connects with the Saturn/Pluto conjunction. Because sooner or later, everything does.

008 | Saturn and Pluto Need a Party

It’s relationship week on the BSA podcast, with a Full Moon in Gemini and Venus’s close encounter with the Sharks AND the Jets. Plus: Mercury enters Sagittarius and leaves his shadow, Mars trines Neptune, Jupiter trines Uranus, and April and Jen tell Alexa to mind her own business. Read more about this week’s astrology at the Big Sky Astrology website. Subscribe to the podcast and April's mailing list. Follow Big Sky Astrology on IG, Twitter, and FB @BigSkyAstrology Download a full transcript of this episode (PDF).  Episode links: 00:52 – Mercury entered Sagittarius on December 9th and enters the wide end of a frustrating funnel. Appropriately, April labors to explain Mercury’s shadow period. 05:50 – Jen risks the wrath of Aries, even as she sports their team color – betraying her secret love for her opposite sign. 08:45 – Venus mingles with the Sharks and the Jets (she stays cool, boy). April misses a golden opportunity to grill Jen about her high school appearance in West Side Story. 16:11 – Aww, Pluto has a heart after all! 17:11 – The Gemini Full Moon reveals all. What information will come to light for you? 22:05 – Mars connects with Neptune while April wades into water signs. Jen wins the lightning round as we play The Anatomy of a Fish… because she’s got sole and is not koi! 26:44 – Is Friday the 13th really unlucky? April and Jen discuss how the days of the week got their names. April gets the origin slightly wrong, but details abound in this article at the website. 29:50 – Jupiter trines Uranus and triggers the upcoming Solar Eclipse later this month. It’ll be a biggie! 32:52 – The Scorpionic duo discuss their generally distrustful natures and their specific wariness of Alexa. This inspires Jen to reflect on earbuds that translate, with a natural segue into this week’s media shout-out, Better Off Ted. 35:55 – April name-checks a Stephen Stills hit from the year of Jen’s birth. Because we’re keepin’ those musical references fresh.

It’s relationship week on the BSA podcast, with a Full Moon in Gemini and Venus’s close encounter with the Sharks AND the Jets. Plus: Mercury enters Sagittarius and leaves his shadow, Mars trines Neptune, Jupiter trines Uranus, and April and Jen tell Alexa to mind her own business. Read more about <a href="https://www.bigskyastrology.com/category/weekly-highlights/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">this week’s astrology at the Big Sky Astrology website</a>. Subscribe to the podcast and <a href="https://www.bigskyastrology.com/subscribe/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">April's mailing list</a>. Follow Big Sky Astrology on <a href="https://www.instagram.com/bigskyastrology/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">IG</a>, <a href="https://twitter.com/bigskyastrology" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Twitter</a>, and <a href="https://www.facebook.com/bigskyastrology" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">FB</a> @BigSkyAstrology <a href="https://mcdn.podbean.com/mf/web/uaweqk/BSA_Ep_3_transcript_final.pdf" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Download a full transcript of this episode (PDF).</a> Episode links: 00:52 – Mercury entered Sagittarius on December 9th and enters the wide end of a frustrating funnel. Appropriately, April labors to explain Mercury’s shadow period. 05:50 – Jen risks the wrath of Aries, even as she sports their team color – betraying her secret love for her opposite sign. 08:45 – Venus mingles <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wugWGhItaQA" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">with the Sharks and the Jets</a> (she stays cool, boy). April misses a golden opportunity to grill Jen about her high school appearance in West Side Story. 16:11 – Aww, Pluto <a href="https://solarsystem.nasa.gov/resources/852/pluto-in-high-resolution/?category=planets/dwarf-planets_pluto" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">has a heart</a> after all! 17:11 – The Gemini Full Moon reveals all. What information will come to light for you? 22:05 – Mars connects with Neptune while April wades into water signs. Jen wins the lightning round as we play The Anatomy of a Fish… because she’s got sole and is not koi! 26:44 – Is Friday the 13th really unlucky? April and Jen discuss how the days of the week got their names. April gets the origin slightly wrong, but <a href="https://www.bigskyastrology.com/everyday-astrology-the-days-of-the-week/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">details abound in this article at the website</a>. 29:50 – Jupiter trines Uranus and triggers the upcoming Solar Eclipse later this month. It’ll be a biggie! 32:52 – The Scorpionic duo discuss their generally distrustful natures and their specific wariness of Alexa. This inspires Jen to reflect on <a href="https://nam11.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.startribune.com%2Fpilot-can-translate-languages-in-real-time%2F394494161%2F&amp;data=02%7C01%7C%7Cc3d4713fb69e45ac541b08d779c56f3f%7C84df9e7fe9f640afb435aaaaaaaaaaaa%7C1%7C0%7C637111761184176833&amp;sdata=U11mRIOOMNYHaZLeR3Z3Mr4%2BWsXvZCyA%2BsuqQYXsgqA%3D&amp;reserved=0" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">earbuds that translate</a>, with a natural segue into this week’s media shout-out, <a href="https://www.imdb.com/title/tt1558882" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Better Off Ted</a>. 35:55 – April name-checks a <a href="https://youtu.be/HH3ruuml-R4" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Stephen Stills hit</a> from the year of Jen’s birth. Because we’re keepin’ those musical references fresh.

003 | Gemini Full Moon: Alexa, Play “Love the One You’re With”

Is Mercury retrograde in Pisces making you fuzzy-headed and tongue-tied? Come and sit next to April &amp; Jen, whose struggles to stay in a lane – any lane – this week will make you feel right at home. What this episode lacks in a major lunation and a Moonwatch theme, it makes up for with an overworked Aries Moon and a vintage movie intermission jingle that your mind will be singing all week long. Plus: a Sun/Mars/Node traffic jam, Venus faces off with Pluto, planetary rulerships, and a discussion of final dispositors that proves what we already knew: it all comes back to Saturn in the end. Please support the BSA podcast by making a contribution of any amount! April &amp; Jen thank you. 😊 To join the podcast conversation and leave a comment for April &amp; Jen, go to www.BigSkyAstroPod.com. Read more about this week’s astrology at the Big Sky Astrology website. Subscribe to the podcast and April's mailing list. Follow Big Sky Astrology on IG, Twitter, and FB @BigSkyAstrology Read a full transcript of this episode.  Episode links: 02:30 – Mercury is still retrograde in Pisces! Are people born during times of Mercury retrograde less affected by it? 04:29 – If your Mars in Capricorn wants to get stuff done while Mercury is being retrograde-y, try starting your day with a list of your three "Most Important Tasks". 04:55 – Learn why April loves the numbers 5 and 8! 05:33 – Mercury joins up with the Sun (cazimi!) in an inferior conjunction on Feb. 25th at 7 degrees Pisces. Head over to Episode 8 for a refresher on the hazards of Mercury drinking the Sun’s Kool-Aid. 07:48 –When two planets come together, they begin a new cyclical dance. April and Jen talk about lunar cycles every week, of course, but the whole cosmos tangos to a similar rhythm. 10:33 – ** Moonwatch**! There are no major lunations this week, but keep an eye on the Moon as it moves through Aries (Feb. 25-27). Also, the Moon in Gemini opens a window on March 1 and airs things out a little bit. 13:41 – Thanks to April’s imaginative coda to last week’s stimulating conversation about her backyard gopher civilization, Jen now pictures the enterprising rodents sporting powdered wigs and brocade finery. 14:00 – The Sun sextiles Mars on Feb. 24, offering an opportunity to express yourself more fully and fearlessly. The Sun’s trine to the North Node, with Mars on the South Node (Feb. 25), asks: What’s holding you back from growth? Time to let that go, maybe. 16:59 – If you’re feeling self-critical and – oops! – lapse into negative self-talk, remember Jen’s household rule: Say three good things about yourself! 17:40 – Two meaningful quotes on anger that Jen likes: “I sat with my anger long enough, until she told me her name was grief” (unknown). And a second one, ascribed to Liza Palmer, “Angry is sad’s bodyguard.” And the Byron Katie book Jen recommends is Loving What Is. 18:32 – Early in the week, Mars passes over the degree of the Dec. 25 Solar Eclipse at 4 degrees Capricorn. April explains how fast-moving planets can act as “activation points” for prior eclipses. (Check out Episode 5, “Unboxing Eclipses,” to hear more about that Solar Eclipse, and eclipses in general.) 20:02 – Venus squares Pluto on Feb. 28th, when something that was conceived in mid-December (listen to Episode 3 for details) now demands action. Consider this the first intermission in a Venus/Pluto 4-act play - hum along as we go out to the lobby for a treat! 23:57 – Through the sorcery of planetary rulerships, Jen demonstrates that all the current transiting planets ultimately answer to either Saturn or Neptune. April makes the case for using traditional rulers instead and helps Jen understand what “final dispositors” are. (Aha! So THAT’S why Jen feels uber-Virgo sometimes!) And take a look at this free rulership handout that April created just for you! Yes, YOU! 26:05 – To hear mutual reception explained using a valiant but doomed housesitting analogy, lend your ears to Episode 4. 26:39 – A quick rundown of which planets rules which signs. 28:00 – We were well into this rulership chit-chat before we thought to mention it was prompted by a listener question. Might have been good to have led with that. (We blame Mercury.) Which reminds us: Do you have a question that you’d like to ask April and Jen? Go to www.bigskyastropod.com and add a comment! (Hint: Your question is more likely to be read if it’s a general question that applies to everyone. 😊) 29:01 – April’s pal Christopher Renstrom’s website on ruling planets is here. 29:45 – If you’re enjoying the show, please take a sec to give us a 5-star rating, and/or subscribe, and/or toss us a dollar or ten to help keep the show going. Those befrocked Victorian gals are, yes, April and Jen. In some past life, where we were wan and sober sisters. And April wore brooches. And Jen snuck pants under her skirt.

Is Mercury retrograde in Pisces making you fuzzy-headed and tongue-tied? Come and sit next to April &amp; Jen, whose struggles to stay in a lane – any lane – this week will make you feel right at home. What this episode lacks in a major lunation and a Moonwatch theme, it makes up for with an overworked Aries Moon and a vintage movie intermission jingle that your mind will be singing all week long. Plus: a Sun/Mars/Node traffic jam, Venus faces off with Pluto, planetary rulerships, and a discussion of final dispositors that proves what we already knew: it all comes back to Saturn in the end. <a href="https://www.bigskyastrology.com/product/support-the-bsa-podcast/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Please support the BSA podcast by making a contribution of any amount</a>! April &amp; Jen thank you. 😊 To join the podcast conversation and leave a comment for April &amp; Jen, go to <a href="http://www.BigSkyAstroPod.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.BigSkyAstroPod.com</a>. Read more about <a href="https://www.bigskyastrology.com/category/weekly-highlights/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">this week’s astrology at the Big Sky Astrology website</a>. Subscribe to the podcast and <a href="https://www.bigskyastrology.com/subscribe/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">April's mailing list</a>. Follow Big Sky Astrology on <a href="https://www.instagram.com/bigskyastrology/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">IG</a>, <a href="https://twitter.com/bigskyastrology" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Twitter</a>, and <a href="https://www.facebook.com/bigskyastrology" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">FB</a> @BigSkyAstrology <a href="https://www.bigskyastrology.com/transcript-episode-14" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Read a full transcript of this episode.</a> Episode links: 02:30 – Mercury is still retrograde in Pisces! Are people born during times of Mercury retrograde less affected by it? 04:29 – If your Mars in Capricorn wants to get stuff done while Mercury is being retrograde-y, try starting your day with a list of <a href="https://nam12.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fzenhabits.net%2Fpurpose-your-day-most-important-task%2F&amp;data=02%7C01%7C%7C2d1e212ec883424ad56708d7b64dd165%7C84df9e7fe9f640afb435aaaaaaaaaaaa%7C1%7C0%7C637178317641749092&amp;sdata=SS0NCXk6wKuSSdQZWSwnWcsW4Yzt0QoeiLOUzlSUPrw%3D&amp;reserved=0" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">your three "Most Important Tasks"</a>. 04:55 – Learn why April loves the numbers 5 and 8! 05:33 – Mercury joins up with the Sun (<a href="https://nam12.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.astro.com%2Fastrology%2Fivccn_article180927_e.htm&amp;data=02%7C01%7C%7C2d1e212ec883424ad56708d7b64dd165%7C84df9e7fe9f640afb435aaaaaaaaaaaa%7C1%7C0%7C637178317641739092&amp;sdata=P4yIx5DtN1DwKBzkRgEVr%2BxxUOSNkER4zotFwwYz2Ao%3D&amp;reserved=0" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">cazimi</a>!) in an <a href="https://www.britannica.com/science/conjunction-astronomy" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">inferior conjunction</a> on Feb. 25th at 7 degrees Pisces. Head over to <a href="https://bigskyastrology.podbean.com/e/008-saturn-and-pluto-need-a-party/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Episode 8</a> for a refresher on the hazards of Mercury drinking the Sun’s Kool-Aid. 07:48 –When two planets come together, they begin a new cyclical dance. April and Jen talk about lunar cycles every week, of course, but the whole cosmos tangos to a similar rhythm. 10:33 – ** Moonwatch**! There are no major lunations this week, but keep an eye on the Moon as it moves through Aries (Feb. 25-27). Also, the Moon in Gemini opens a window on March 1 and airs things out a little bit. 13:41 – Thanks to April’s imaginative coda to <a href="https://bigskyastrology.podbean.com/e/013-pisces-season-gopher-it/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">last week’s stimulating conversation</a> about her backyard gopher civilization, Jen now pictures the enterprising rodents sporting <a href="https://pin.it/tHLIj2z" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">powdered wigs and brocade finery</a>. 14:00 – The Sun sextiles Mars on Feb. 24, offering an opportunity to express yourself more fully and fearlessly. The Sun’s trine to the North Node, with Mars on the South Node (Feb. 25), asks: What’s holding you back from growth? Time to let that go, maybe. 16:59 – If you’re feeling self-critical and – oops! – lapse into negative self-talk, remember Jen’s household rule: <a href="https://bigskyastrology.podbean.com/e/004-it-s-frequently-sunny-in-minneapolis/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Say three good things about yourself</a>! 17:40 – Two meaningful quotes on anger that Jen likes: “I sat with my anger long enough, until she told me her name was grief” (unknown). And a second one, ascribed to <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/quotes/1503657-angry-is-just-sad-s-bodyguard" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Liza Palmer</a>, “Angry is sad’s bodyguard.” And the Byron Katie book Jen recommends is <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/9762.Loving_What_Is" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Loving What Is</a>. 18:32 – Early in the week, Mars passes over the degree of the Dec. 25 Solar Eclipse at 4 degrees Capricorn. April explains how fast-moving planets can act as “activation points” for prior eclipses. (Check out <a href="https://bigskyastrology.podbean.com/e/005-unboxing-eclipses/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Episode 5</a>, “Unboxing Eclipses,” to hear more about that Solar Eclipse, and eclipses in general.) 20:02 – Venus squares Pluto on Feb. 28th, when something that was conceived in mid-December (listen to <a href="https://bigskyastrology.podbean.com/e/003-alexa-play-love-the-one-you-re-with/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Episode 3</a> for details) now demands action. Consider this the first intermission in a Venus/Pluto 4-act play - <a href="https://nam12.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.youtube.com%2Fwatch%3Fv%3D40cT6I21JV4&amp;data=02%7C01%7C%7C2d1e212ec883424ad56708d7b64dd165%7C84df9e7fe9f640afb435aaaaaaaaaaaa%7C1%7C0%7C637178317641729098&amp;sdata=4GLTFQpPVsDQT9DTpoHZyxXnp2%2FN9cA413IKdB2HBQE%3D&amp;reserved=0" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">hum along as we go out to the lobby for a treat</a>! 23:57 – Through the sorcery of planetary rulerships, Jen demonstrates that all the current transiting planets ultimately answer to either Saturn or Neptune. April makes the case for using traditional rulers instead and helps Jen understand what “final dispositors” are. (Aha! So THAT’S why Jen feels uber-Virgo sometimes!) And take a look at this free <a href="https://www.bigskyastrology.com/bsa_rulerships-dignities/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">rulership handout</a> that April created just for you! Yes, YOU! 26:05 – To hear mutual reception explained using a valiant but doomed housesitting analogy, lend your ears to <a href="https://bigskyastrology.podbean.com/e/004-it-s-frequently-sunny-in-minneapolis/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Episode 4</a>. 26:39 – A quick rundown of which planets rules which signs. 28:00 – We were well into this rulership chit-chat before we thought to mention it was prompted by a listener question. Might have been good to have led with that. (We blame Mercury.) Which reminds us: Do you have a question that you’d like to ask April and Jen? Go to <a href="http://www.bigskyastropod.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.bigskyastropod.com</a> and add a comment! (Hint: Your question is more likely to be read if it’s a general question that applies to everyone. 😊) 29:01 – April’s pal Christopher Renstrom’s <a href="https://www.rulingplanets.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">website on ruling planets is here</a>. 29:45 – If you’re enjoying the show, please take a sec to give us a 5-star rating, and/or subscribe, and/or <a href="https://www.bigskyastrology.com/product/support-the-bsa-podcast/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">toss us a dollar or ten to help keep the show going</a>. Those befrocked Victorian gals are, yes, April and Jen. In some past life, where we were wan and sober sisters. And April wore brooches. And Jen snuck pants under her skirt.

014 | Retrograde Minds, Cazimi Hearts, Can’t Lose

As April bravely endures a bone-chilling, 55-degree day in San Diego, she and Jen discuss the Capricorn Solstice, Venus in Aquarius (she wants her space), and this week’s Last Quarter Moon. Plus: Podpets on the move, more about square aspects, a preview of the upcoming eclipse, and a courageous attempt to explain mutual reception with a housesitting analogy. Read more about this week’s astrology at the Big Sky Astrology website. Subscribe to the podcast and April's mailing list. Follow Big Sky Astrology on IG, Twitter, and FB @BigSkyAstrology Download a full transcript of this episode (PDF).  Episode links: 01:50 – What do fireplaces, Girl Scouts, Richard Nixon, and Vienna sausages have in common? 05:18 – Last Quarter Moon in Virgo is time for taking stock and assessing progress. It’s a melancholy, self-critical phase, so take it easy and… 06:52 – Say three good things about yourself! 10:47 – What was the Lunar Phase at your birth? New Mooner Jen marches to her own drummer, and Last Quarter-born April is always looking over her shoulder. 13:40 – Mercury square Neptune is like trying to do math when you’re still waking up from a nap. 17:38 – Venus + Uranus = Independence, space, and breathing room. And here is the link to April’s Venus in Aquarius article. 20:00 – All this talk of independence has our podpets on the move! What Venus and Uranus share in common, how they’re different, and what mutual reception has to do with housesitting. 23:38 – Here comes the Winter Solstice in the northern hemisphere, and the Summer Solstice for the southern hemisphere! 25:57 – The Sun reaches its minimum elevation at noon in the northern hemisphere. From here, there’s nowhere to go but up. 28:41 – April and Jen set you up a little for the upcoming solar eclipse on December 25th. Calculate your birth chart here. And this blog post will help you find where the eclipse falls in your birth chart. 32:01 – Shameless plug for April’s personal eclipse report. Read all about it! 33:55 – If you’d like to give April and Jen something nice to say about themselves, please rate this podcast 5 stars, write a happy little review, and be sure to subscribe so you’ll get all future episodes.

As April bravely endures a bone-chilling, 55-degree day in San Diego, she and Jen discuss the Capricorn Solstice, Venus in Aquarius (she wants her space), and this week’s Last Quarter Moon. Plus: Podpets on the move, more about square aspects, a preview of the upcoming eclipse, and a courageous attempt to explain mutual reception with a housesitting analogy. Read more about <a href="https://www.bigskyastrology.com/category/weekly-highlights/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">this week’s astrology at the Big Sky Astrology website</a>. Subscribe to the podcast and <a href="https://www.bigskyastrology.com/subscribe/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">April's mailing list</a>. Follow Big Sky Astrology on <a href="https://www.instagram.com/bigskyastrology/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">IG</a>, <a href="https://twitter.com/bigskyastrology" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Twitter</a>, and <a href="https://www.facebook.com/bigskyastrology" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">FB</a> @BigSkyAstrology <a href="https://mcdn.podbean.com/mf/web/4sthek/transcript_Episode_4_final.pdf" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Download a full transcript of this episode (PDF).</a> Episode links: 01:50 – What do fireplaces, <a href="https://www.bigskyastrology.com/capricorn-new-moon-merit-badge/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Girl Scouts</a>, Richard Nixon, and Vienna sausages have in common? 05:18 – Last Quarter Moon in Virgo is time for taking stock and assessing progress. It’s a melancholy, self-critical phase, so take it easy and… 06:52 – Say three good things about yourself! 10:47 – What was the Lunar Phase at your birth? New Mooner Jen marches to her own drummer, and Last Quarter-born April is always looking over her shoulder. 13:40 – Mercury square Neptune is like trying to do math when you’re still waking up from a nap. 17:38 – Venus + Uranus = Independence, space, and breathing room. And <a href="https://www.bigskyastrology.com/highlights-for-feb-25-march-3-2019/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">here is the link to April’s Venus in Aquarius article</a>. 20:00 – All this talk of independence has our podpets on the move! <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/2016/10/18/science/planets-spinning-the-wrong-way.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">What Venus and Uranus share in common</a>, how they’re different, and what <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mutual_reception" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">mutual reception</a> has to do with housesitting. 23:38 – Here comes the <a href="https://www.skyandtelescope.com/press-releases/the-winter-solstice-and-the-suns-rebirth/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Winter Solstice</a> in the northern hemisphere, and the Summer Solstice for the southern hemisphere! 25:57 – The <a href="http://www.physicalgeography.net/fundamentals/6h.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Sun reaches its minimum elevation</a> at noon in the northern hemisphere. From here, there’s nowhere to go but up. 28:41 – April and Jen set you up a little for the upcoming solar eclipse on December 25th. <a href="https://www.bigskyastrology.com/learning/your-birth-chart/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Calculate your birth chart here</a>. And <a href="https://www.bigskyastrology.com/astrology-qa-where-does-the-transit-fall-in-my-chart/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">this blog post</a> will help you find where the eclipse falls in your birth chart. 32:01 – Shameless plug for April’s <a href="https://www.bigskyastrology.com/product/eclipse-astrology-report/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">personal eclipse report</a>. Read all about it! 33:55 – If you’d like to give April and Jen something nice to say about themselves, please rate this podcast 5 stars, write a happy little review, and be sure to subscribe so you’ll get all future episodes.

004 | The Capricorn Solstice is Frequently Sunny in Minneapolis

From a curious Gemini First Quarter Moon to a cat-of-many colors Sun/Neptune conjunction and all the hot Venus action in-between (changing signs, duking it out with Saturn, starting over with Uranus). But first…pie.  Plus: Planets at 0 and 29 degrees of a sign, 3rd house versus 9th house learning, and why April hates peaches. Please support the BSA podcast by making a contribution of any amount! April &amp; Jen thank you. To join the podcast conversation and leave a comment for April &amp; Jen, go to www.BigSkyAstroPod.com. Read more about this week’s astrology at the Big Sky Astrology website. Subscribe to the podcast and April’s mailing list. Follow Big Sky Astrology on IG, Twitter, and FB @BigSkyAstrology Read a full transcript of this episode.  Episode links: 00:37 – It’s time to make your Pi Day plans and preparations! And if you plan to send April a pie on Pi Day, take heed: Do not send peach. (Here is the link to Episode 1, which has the delicious pecan pie recipe!) 03:50 –  Moonwatch First Quarter Moon on March 2 is at 13 degrees Gemini and on the Sabian symbol, “A great musician at his piano.” It’s time to step into your curiosity, and get started with something that interests you. (And the reference to Groundhog Day in this discussion is a throw-back to Episode 10!) 07:59 – Jen wonders aloud, what’s the difference between learning when it comes to Gemini (3 house) versus Sagittarius (9th house)? Luckily, April’s superpower is explaining stuff just like this. 09:11 – Mercury, still moving backwards, jumps from the fish pond into the arms of the water-bearer this week (March 4-16)! Yay… let’s air the place out! (For a refresher on Mercury in Aquarius, set your sights on Episode 9.) 11:22 – Venus’s calendar is jam-packed this week! April proclaims her brand loyalty and will keep a close eye on her Venusian peeps, as it’s a big week for the Bulls and the Scales. 12:00 – Venus in Aries squares Saturn in Capricorn on March 3. Hey April, if your birth chart has big aspects between Venus and Saturn, does that matter? Hey April, when planets are at the ends of signs having aspects, is that important? Hey April, what does it mean if you’re born at 29 degrees of a sign? (Thank goodness for April, who also threw in what it means if you’re born with a planet at 0 degrees! This week’s tangent? Check.) 18:43 – Speaking of Venus (we were, at some point), she moves into Taurus on March 4 to stay for about a month. Breathe a sigh of relief and celebrate the beauty that’s yours for the taking. 20:40 – But wait! Venus joins up with Uranus on March 8/9 at 5 degrees Taurus on an ominous-sounding Sabian symbol. April recounts a personal story of this degree, while emphasizing that these symbols usually express themselves much less literally. Reset your own new Venus/Uranus relationship/money story now! (For more about rulerships and final dispositors, have a cup of joe with Episode 14. Alongside some breakfast pumpkin pie, maybe.) 25:15 – The week ends with the Sun’s annual meet-up with Neptune on March 8. Leave logic and rationality behind and meditate, write a poem, sing a song, have a nap. And remember: When one cycle ends, another begins! 29:00 – Do you like the show? Oh, good! Could you do us a favor? Go ahead and give us a 5-star rating, subscribe in iTunes, tell a friend, leave us a friendly comment, and/or toss us a dollar or ten to help keep the show going. Yay! Thanks!

From a curious Gemini First Quarter Moon to a cat-of-many colors Sun/Neptune conjunction and all the hot Venus action in-between (changing signs, duking it out with Saturn, starting over with Uranus). But first…pie.  Plus: Planets at 0 and 29 degrees of a sign, 3rd house versus 9th house learning, and why April hates peaches. <a href="https://www.bigskyastrology.com/product/support-the-bsa-podcast/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Please support the BSA podcast by </a><a href="https://www.bigskyastrology.com/product/support-the-bsa-podcast/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">making a contribution of any amount</a>! April &amp; Jen thank you. To join the podcast conversation and leave a comment for April &amp; Jen, go to <a href="http://www.bigskyastropod.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.BigSkyAstroPod.com</a>. Read more about <a href="https://www.bigskyastrology.com/category/weekly-highlights/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">this week’s astrology at the Big Sky Astrology website</a>. Subscribe to the podcast and <a href="https://www.bigskyastrology.com/subscribe/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">April’s mailing list</a>. Follow Big Sky Astrology on <a href="https://www.instagram.com/bigskyastrology/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">IG</a>, <a href="https://twitter.com/bigskyastrology" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Twitter</a>, and <a href="https://www.facebook.com/bigskyastrology" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">FB</a> @BigSkyAstrology <a href="https://www.bigskyastrology.com/transcript-episode-15" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Read a full transcript of this episode.</a> Episode links: 00:37 – It’s time to make your <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pi_Day" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Pi Day</a> plans and preparations! And if you plan to send April a pie on Pi Day, take heed: Do not send peach. (Here is the link to <a href="https://bigskyastrology.podbean.com/e/1-the-thanksgiving-in-our-stars/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Episode 1</a>, which has the delicious pecan pie recipe!) 03:50 – Moonwatch First Quarter Moon on March 2 is at 13 degrees Gemini and on the <a href="https://sabiansymbols.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Sabian symbol</a>, “A great musician at his piano.” It’s time to step into your curiosity, and get started with something that interests you. (And the reference to Groundhog Day in this discussion is a throw-back to <a href="https://bigskyastrology.podbean.com/e/010-neptune-the-zen-of-groundhog-day/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Episode 10</a>!) 07:59 – Jen wonders aloud, what’s the difference between learning when it comes to Gemini (3 house) versus Sagittarius (9th house)? Luckily, April’s superpower is explaining stuff just like this. 09:11 – Mercury, still moving backwards, jumps from the fish pond into the arms of the water-bearer this week (March 4-16)! Yay… let’s air the place out! (For a refresher on Mercury in Aquarius, set your sights on <a href="https://bigskyastrology.podbean.com/e/009-it-s-aquarius-season-charlie-brown/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Episode 9</a>.) 11:22 – Venus’s calendar is jam-packed this week! April proclaims her brand loyalty and will keep a close eye on her Venusian peeps, as it’s a big week for the Bulls and the Scales. 12:00 – Venus in Aries squares Saturn in Capricorn on March 3. Hey April, if your birth chart has big aspects between Venus and Saturn, does that matter? Hey April, when planets are at the ends of signs having aspects, is that important? Hey April, what does it mean if you’re born at 29 degrees of a sign? (Thank goodness for April, who also threw in what it means if you’re born with a planet at 0 degrees! This week’s tangent? Check.) 18:43 – Speaking of Venus (we were, at some point), she moves into Taurus on March 4 to stay for about a month. Breathe a sigh of relief and celebrate the beauty that’s yours for the taking. 20:40 – But wait! Venus joins up with Uranus on March 8/9 at 5 degrees Taurus on an ominous-sounding <a href="https://sabiansymbols.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Sabian symbol</a>. April recounts a personal story of this degree, while emphasizing that these symbols usually express themselves much less literally. Reset your own new Venus/Uranus relationship/money story now! (For more about rulerships and final dispositors, have a cup of joe with <a href="https://bigskyastrology.podbean.com/e/014-retrograde-minds-cazimi-hearts-can-t-lose/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Episode 14</a>. Alongside some breakfast pumpkin pie, maybe.) 25:15 – The week ends with the Sun’s annual meet-up with Neptune on March 8. Leave logic and rationality behind and meditate, write a poem, sing a song, have a nap. And remember: When one cycle ends, another begins! 29:00 – Do you like the show? Oh, good! Could you do us a favor? Go ahead and give us a 5-star rating, subscribe in iTunes, tell a friend, <a href="https://www.bigskyastrology.com/podcast/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">leave us a friendly comment</a>, and/or <a href="https://www.bigskyastrology.com/product/support-the-bsa-podcast/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">toss us a dollar or ten to help keep the show going</a>. Yay! Thanks!

015 | Venus + Pie: 0-29 Degrees of Separation

This week in the Big Sky, the Sun dons Charlie Brown’s shirt for a tour of Aquarius, where he’s joined by the New Moon in this future-oriented sign. And while Aquarius may be hip, this week is all about the squares: the Sun and Moon at odds with unpredictable Uranus, and a gentle Piscean Venus crossing paths with zealous Mars in Sagittarius. Plus, Tinkertoys, why Aquarius is not a water sign, and the inevitable home repair metaphor. Read more about this week’s astrology at the Big Sky Astrology website. Subscribe to the podcast and April's mailing list. Follow Big Sky Astrology on IG, Twitter, and FB @BigSkyAstrology Download a full transcript of this episode (PDF).  Episode links: 00:45 – With only momentary lapses into French, April and Jen effusively thank the listeners who’ve sent kind feedback about the podcast - and thrill to the news that they are one listener’s Bob Ross. Sacré bleu! 03:16 – Do check out www.bigskyastropod.com – the new BSA podcast site where you can easily comment on the episodes and access past episodes, show notes, and transcripts! 04:01 – More podkeeping: A plug for April’s weekly column and the Big Sky mailing list. If you’ve not yet signed up, check it out – and you’ll get a free “Working with the Moon” workbook each month! 05:44 – The Sun enters Aquarius, which reminds Jen of Charlie Brown’s shirt. (And now, you can’t unsee it.) 06:10 – Aquarius is symbolized by the water bearer, yet it’s an air sign. April describes air signs generally and Aquarius specifically. And this is how Jen imagines Aquarius. 08:05 – The Sun is in its detriment in Aquarius – because it places the planet of the self in the sign of the many. Employing wide-ranging examples that include Aquarian presidents and Tinkertoys, April explores the rich fabric of this contradictory sign - and impresses Jen with her prior knowledge of Ellen DeGeneres’ Aquarian provenance. 12:25 – As promised: A video of Ellen's DJ, tWitch, dancing! 😊 (Not an Aquarius, but a kindred Libra spirit.) 15:45 – What is “Sun Sign Astrology,” anyway? Jen breaks it down, and April explains how each sign has a particular relationship to your Sun sign. 18:25 – ***Moonwatch!*** This month, the New Moon degree is on the Sabian symbol “A council of ancestors.” (Check out Episode 7 for an explanation of the Sabian symbols.) The Sun squares Uranus in Taurus (January 22), carrying its unpredictability into the January 24 New Moon. 23:33 – Where Uranus is concerned, astrology advises, “Expect the unexpected.” Have you done the foundational work required by the recent eclipses (Episode 5) and Saturn/Pluto conjunction (Episode 6 and Episode 7)? And speaking of the unexpected: will Netflix officially become a sponsor of our show? 26:26 – When Venus Met Mars… We wind down with a discussion of Venus in Pisces squaring Mars in Sagittarius (January 26). If this week were a romantic comedy, this aspect would mark the moment when the two leads meet and take an instant dislike to one another – a sure sign they’ll wind up together by the end of the movie. This week, relationships of all stripe must grapple with this energetic signature… but both planets’ Sabian symbols feature Easter imagery of renewal and rebirth as well. More about that in next week’s episode!

This week in the Big Sky, the Sun dons Charlie Brown’s shirt for a tour of Aquarius, where he’s joined by the New Moon in this future-oriented sign. And while Aquarius may be hip, this week is all about the squares: the Sun and Moon at odds with unpredictable Uranus, and a gentle Piscean Venus crossing paths with zealous Mars in Sagittarius. Plus, Tinkertoys, why Aquarius is not a water sign, and the inevitable home repair metaphor. Read more about <a href="https://www.bigskyastrology.com/category/weekly-highlights/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">this week’s astrology at the Big Sky Astrology website</a>. Subscribe to the podcast and <a href="https://www.bigskyastrology.com/subscribe/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">April's mailing list</a>. Follow Big Sky Astrology on <a href="https://www.instagram.com/bigskyastrology/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">IG</a>, <a href="https://twitter.com/bigskyastrology" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Twitter</a>, and <a href="https://www.facebook.com/bigskyastrology" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">FB</a> @BigSkyAstrology <a href="https://mcdn.podbean.com/mf/web/ygnqms/Transcript_Ep_9_final_BSA.pdf" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Download a full transcript of this episode (PDF)</a>. Episode links: 00:45 – With only momentary lapses into French, April and Jen effusively thank the listeners who’ve sent kind feedback about the podcast - and thrill to the news that they are one listener’s Bob Ross. Sacré bleu! 03:16 – Do check out <a href="http://www.bigskyastropod.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.bigskyastropod.com</a> – the new BSA podcast site where you can easily comment on the episodes and access past episodes, show notes, and transcripts! 04:01 – More podkeeping: A plug for April’s weekly column and <a href="https://www.bigskyastrology.com/subscribe/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">the Big Sky mailing list</a>. If you’ve not yet signed up, check it out – and you’ll get a free “Working with the Moon” workbook each month! 05:44 – The Sun enters Aquarius, which reminds Jen of <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Charlie_Brown" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Charlie Brown’s shirt</a>. (And now, you can’t unsee it.) 06:10 – Aquarius is symbolized by the water bearer, yet it’s an air sign. April describes air signs generally and Aquarius specifically. And <a href="https://www.shutterstock.com/image-photo/village-man-carrying-two-buckets-yoke-677170858" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">this is how Jen imagines Aquarius</a>. 08:05 – The Sun is in its detriment in Aquarius – because it places the planet of the self in the sign of the many. Employing wide-ranging examples that include Aquarian presidents and <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tinkertoy" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Tinkertoys</a>, April explores the rich fabric of this contradictory sign - and impresses Jen with her prior knowledge of <a href="https://www.astro.com/astro-databank/DeGeneres,_Ellen" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Ellen DeGeneres’ Aquarian provenance</a>. 12:25 – As promised: A video of <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ul1NEJ5kPdw" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Ellen's DJ, tWitch, dancing</a>! 😊 (Not an Aquarius, but a kindred Libra spirit.) 15:45 – What is “Sun Sign Astrology,” anyway? Jen breaks it down, and April explains how each sign has a particular relationship to your Sun sign. 18:25 – ***Moonwatch!*** This month, the New Moon degree is on the <a href="https://sabiansymbols.com/the-sabian-symbols-story/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Sabian symbol</a> “A council of ancestors.” (Check out <a href="https://bigskyastrology.podbean.com/e/007-saturn-and-pluto-go-to-the-repair-shop/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Episode 7</a> for an explanation of the Sabian symbols.) The Sun squares Uranus in Taurus (January 22), carrying its unpredictability into the January 24 New Moon. 23:33 – Where Uranus is concerned, astrology advises, “Expect the unexpected.” Have you done the foundational work required by the recent eclipses (<a href="https://bigskyastrology.podbean.com/e/005-unboxing-eclipses/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Episode 5</a>) and Saturn/Pluto conjunction (<a href="https://bigskyastrology.podbean.com/e/006-eat-more-crunchy-things/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Episode 6</a> and <a href="https://bigskyastrology.podbean.com/e/007-saturn-and-pluto-go-to-the-repair-shop/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Episode 7</a>)? And speaking of the unexpected: will Netflix officially become a sponsor of our show? 26:26 – When Venus Met Mars… We wind down with a discussion of Venus in Pisces squaring Mars in Sagittarius (January 26). If this week were a romantic comedy, this aspect would mark the moment when the two leads meet and take an instant dislike to one another – a sure sign they’ll wind up together by the end of the movie. This week, relationships of all stripe must grapple with this energetic signature… but both planets’ Sabian symbols feature Easter imagery of renewal and rebirth as well. More about that in next week’s episode!

009 | It’s Aquarius Season, Charlie Brown!

Happy New Year! This week, Mars enters Sagittarius and the First Quarter Moon is in Aries. Otherwise, it’s a slow astrological news week - so April and Jen set you up for next week’s big Saturn/Pluto conjunction, which astrologers have been talking about forever! All this, plus: if planets were dogs, an iconic poison control spokescritter, and taking a bite out of the new year with lots of food references.   Read more about this week’s astrology at the Big Sky Astrology website. Subscribe to the podcast and April's mailing list. Follow Big Sky Astrology on IG, Twitter, and FB @BigSkyAstrology Download a full transcript of this episode (PDF).  Episode links: 00:30 – Did you know Capricorn is the resolutions sign? Are crunchy foods a resolution or a lifestyle choice? 02:03 – April gives a shout out to Honeycomb Collective and their awesome personal astrological almanacs! 02:55 – April finally accepts that someday she’ll move to Minneapolis. 😊 [“Can you tell Jen wrote the show notes?” ~ April] 03:41 – What does Mars mean astrologically? This week, he moves into Sagittarius, and like an ice cream sundae, gets a big plop of Jupiter chocolate sauce on his head. 05:18 – A nutshell of fixed signs: April’s Leo planets and Jen’s Scorpio planets are all, “I’m not stubborn, you’re stubborn!” 10:20 – Mars rules the noggin, so it’s appropriate to say: Head’s up! He’ll be retrograde this fall. 11:22 – The First Quarter Moon happens in action-oriented Aries, but a thundering herd of planets in Capricorn admonishes us not to run with scissors. Killjoys. 15:26 – Yep, April and Jen set you up for the gimungous Saturn/Pluto conjunction next week! You’re welcome. 17:26 – Jen is fairly certain that Saturn, if he were a dog, would be a Border Collie.  And here is a photo of Jen’s dog from back in the day. 18:30 – April shares the colors of Saturn and Pluto, while Jen misremembers the name of a 1970s Poison Control Center image. 21:20 – The North Node in Cancer reminds us to be inclusive. It’s a Big Sky, and there’s room for everyone! 28:18 – April’s Venus in Cancer likes to bake bread (sourdough, of course – her Venus is kissed by Pluto!).

Happy New Year! This week, Mars enters Sagittarius and the First Quarter Moon is in Aries. Otherwise, it’s a slow astrological news week - so April and Jen set you up for next week’s big Saturn/Pluto conjunction, which astrologers have been talking about forever! All this, plus: if planets were dogs, an iconic poison control spokescritter, and taking a bite out of the new year with lots of food references.   Read more about <a href="https://www.bigskyastrology.com/category/weekly-highlights/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">this week’s astrology at the Big Sky Astrology website</a>. Subscribe to the podcast and <a href="https://www.bigskyastrology.com/subscribe/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">April's mailing list</a>. Follow Big Sky Astrology on <a href="https://www.instagram.com/bigskyastrology/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">IG</a>, <a href="https://twitter.com/bigskyastrology" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Twitter</a>, and <a href="https://www.facebook.com/bigskyastrology" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">FB</a> @BigSkyAstrology <a href="https://mcdn.podbean.com/mf/web/mqzuwq/BSA_Ep_6_transcript.pdf" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Download a full transcript of this episode (PDF)</a>. Episode links: 00:30 – Did you know Capricorn is the resolutions sign? Are crunchy foods a resolution or a lifestyle choice? 02:03 – April gives a shout out to <a href="https://honeycomb.co/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Honeycomb Collective</a> and their awesome personal astrological almanacs! 02:55 – April finally accepts that someday she’ll move to Minneapolis. 😊 [“Can you tell Jen wrote the show notes?” ~ April] 03:41 – What does Mars mean astrologically? This week, he moves into Sagittarius, and like an ice cream sundae, gets a big plop of Jupiter chocolate sauce on his head. 05:18 – A nutshell of fixed signs: April’s Leo planets and Jen’s Scorpio planets are all, “I’m not stubborn, you’re stubborn!” 10:20 – Mars rules the noggin, so it’s appropriate to say: Head’s up! He’ll be retrograde this fall. 11:22 – The First Quarter Moon happens in action-oriented Aries, but a thundering herd of planets in Capricorn admonishes us not to run with scissors. Killjoys. 15:26 – Yep, April and Jen set you up for the gimungous Saturn/Pluto conjunction next week! You’re welcome. 17:26 – Jen is fairly certain that Saturn, if he were a dog, would be a <a href="http://www.animalplanet.com/breed-selector/dog-breeds/herding/border-collie.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Border Collie</a>.  And <a href="https://mcdn.podbean.com/mf/web/qqj3t4/Jen_s_border_collie_mix.jpg" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">here is a photo of Jen’s dog</a> from back in the day. 18:30 – April shares the colors of Saturn and Pluto, while Jen misremembers the name of <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mr._Yuk" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">a 1970s Poison Control Center image</a>. 21:20 – The North Node in Cancer reminds us to be inclusive. It’s a Big Sky, and there’s room for everyone! 28:18 – April’s Venus in Cancer likes to bake bread (sourdough, of course – her Venus is kissed by Pluto!).

006 | Saturn & Pluto Eat More Crunchy Things

Join us on a Virgo Full Moon Caravan, as Mercury mercifully turns direct at the end of Aquarius to help us get to our destination. Also, a flurry of planetary sextile aspects this week prompt April’s free mini-lesson on this friendly aspect, bringer of opportunities and information! Plus: Wise words of inspiration from our favorite leadership guru, Coach Taylor; and – wait for it – a Moonwatch theme! It’s April and Jen, saving time – for you. Please support the BSA podcast by making a contribution of any amount! April &amp; Jen thank you. 😊 To join the podcast conversation and leave a comment for April &amp; Jen, go to www.BigSkyAstroPod.com. Read more about this week’s astrology at the Big Sky Astrology website. Subscribe to the podcast and April's mailing list. Follow Big Sky Astrology on IG, Twitter, and FB @BigSkyAstrology Read a full transcript of this episode!  Episode links: 00:23  – April and Jen invite you to save time with them today. 01:25 – Coach Taylor reminds you: Clear eyes, full hearts, can’t lose! 02:02 – Here is Episode 14 with comments on final dispositors – thanks, listener Dora! 03:43 – Friends: Introducing our Moonwatch theme song! The March 9 Virgo Full Moon is at 20 degrees on the Sabian symbol, “An automobile caravan,” with the Sun at 20 degrees Pisces on the Sabian symbol, “A table set for an evening meal.” Both suggest moving ahead collectively toward a common destination, where we’ll sit together in fellowship (see Episode 13) for a common purpose. 09:17 – Mercury, the ruler of Virgo, stations to turn direct on March 9. Learn how that impacts this Full Moon. Here’s how to find where the Mercury retrograde and Full Moon action affect your birth chart. 10:53 – When planets appear to move backwards, do astrologers ever “round down” to the lower degree, instead of rounding up? (And for an explanation of the shadow period, or to hear why April and Jen don’t trust Alexa, head on over to Episode 3.) 12:32 – Please tip your server while listening back to our Jupiter-sized episode from the week of December 23 (Episode 5, Unboxing Eclipses). 13:00 – If it’s possible (and sometimes it’s not, because Mercury likes to paint us into a corner, just for fun), wait until Mercury leaves purgatory before finalizing big purchases or making life-changing decisions. (Have April and Jen mentioned they went to parochial school?) 13:59 – There are a flurry of sextile aspects this week: the Sun with Jupiter on March 11 and with Pluto on March 14; Mars sextile Neptune on March 14; Venus sextile the North Node on March 9. Which prompts… 15:53 – …A mini-lesson on the sextile aspect! And what’s the deal with orbs? (Here is the link to the blog post about dissociate aspects.) Includes a good insight about how aspects are similar to signs, courtesy of Bil Tierney via April’s friend and colleague Kelly O’Tillery. (And to hear about the elements, here’s Episode 13.) 22:15 – Enjoy Pi Day! 23:04 – If you’re enjoying the show, please give us a 5-star rating, and/or subscribe, and/or leave us a friendly comment, and/or toss us a dollar or ten to help keep the show going. Thanks thanks thanks!

Join us on a Virgo Full Moon Caravan, as Mercury mercifully turns direct at the end of Aquarius to help us get to our destination. Also, a flurry of planetary sextile aspects this week prompt April’s free mini-lesson on this friendly aspect, bringer of opportunities and information! Plus: Wise words of inspiration from our favorite leadership guru, Coach Taylor; and – wait for it – a Moonwatch theme! It’s April and Jen, saving time – for you. <a href="https://www.bigskyastrology.com/product/support-the-bsa-podcast/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Please support the BSA podcast by making a contribution of any amount</a>! April &amp; Jen thank you. 😊 To join the podcast conversation and leave a comment for April &amp; Jen, go to <a href="http://www.BigSkyAstroPod.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.BigSkyAstroPod.com</a>. Read more about <a href="https://www.bigskyastrology.com/category/weekly-highlights/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">this week’s astrology at the Big Sky Astrology website</a>. Subscribe to the podcast and <a href="https://www.bigskyastrology.com/subscribe/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">April's mailing list</a>. Follow Big Sky Astrology on <a href="https://www.instagram.com/bigskyastrology/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">IG</a>, <a href="https://twitter.com/bigskyastrology" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Twitter</a>, and <a href="https://www.facebook.com/bigskyastrology" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">FB</a> @BigSkyAstrology <a href="https://www.bigskyastrology.com/transcript-ep-16-lets-talk-about-sextiles" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Read a full transcript of this episode!</a> Episode links: 00:23  – April and Jen invite you to <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Daylight_saving_time" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">save time</a> with them today. 01:25 – Coach Taylor reminds you: <a href="https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0758745/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Clear eyes, full hearts, can’t lose</a>! 02:02 – Here is <a href="https://www.bigskyastrology.com/episode-14/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Episode 14 with comments</a> on final dispositors – thanks, listener Dora! 03:43 – Friends: Introducing our Moonwatch theme song! The March 9 Virgo Full Moon is at 20 degrees on the <a href="https://sabiansymbols.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Sabian symbol</a>, “An automobile caravan,” with the Sun at 20 degrees Pisces on the Sabian symbol, “A table set for an evening meal.” Both suggest moving ahead collectively toward a common destination, where we’ll sit together in fellowship (<a href="https://www.bigskyastrology.com/episode-13/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">see Episode 13</a>) for a common purpose. 09:17 – Mercury, the ruler of Virgo, stations to turn direct on March 9. Learn how that impacts this Full Moon. Here’s how to find <a href="https://www.bigskyastrology.com/astrology-qa-where-does-the-transit-fall-in-my-chart/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">where the Mercury retrograde and Full Moon action affect your birth chart</a>. 10:53 – When planets appear to move backwards, do astrologers ever “round down” to the lower degree, instead of rounding up? (And for an explanation of the shadow period, or to hear why April and Jen don’t trust Alexa, head on over to <a href="https://www.bigskyastrology.com/003-alexa-play-love-the-one-youre-with/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Episode 3</a>.) 12:32 – Please tip your server while listening back to our Jupiter-sized episode from the week of December 23 (<a href="https://www.bigskyastrology.com/005-unboxing-eclipses/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Episode 5, Unboxing Eclipses</a>). 13:00 – If it’s possible (and sometimes it’s not, because Mercury likes to paint us into a corner, just for fun), wait until Mercury leaves <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Purgatory" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">purgatory</a> before finalizing big purchases or making life-changing decisions. (Have April and Jen mentioned they went to parochial school?) 13:59 – There are a flurry of sextile aspects this week: the Sun with Jupiter on March 11 and with Pluto on March 14; Mars sextile Neptune on March 14; Venus sextile the North Node on March 9. Which prompts… 15:53 – …A mini-lesson on the sextile aspect! And what’s the deal with orbs? (<a href="https://www.bigskyastrology.com/dissociate-out-of-sign-aspects/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Here is the link to the blog post about dissociate aspects.</a>) Includes a good insight about how aspects are similar to signs, courtesy of <a href="https://www.amazon.com/DYNAMICS-ASPECT-ANALYSIS-2ND-ED/dp/0916360563" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Bil Tierney</a> via April’s friend and colleague <a href="https://www.kellyotillery.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Kelly O’Tillery</a>. (And to hear about the elements, here’s <a href="https://www.bigskyastrology.com/episode-13/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Episode 13</a>.) 22:15 – Enjoy <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pi_Day" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Pi Day</a>! 23:04 – If you’re enjoying the show, please give us a 5-star rating, and/or subscribe, and/or <a href="https://www.bigskyastrology.com/podcast/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">leave us a friendly comment</a>, and/or <a href="https://www.bigskyastrology.com/product/support-the-bsa-podcast/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">toss us a dollar or ten to help keep the show going</a>. Thanks thanks thanks!

016 | Let’s Talk About Sextiles

As April faces down her second Saturn return, we explore these important astrological rites of passage, as well as how astrocartography can help you find your place in the world. Plus, this week in the Big Sky: Mercury in Pisces, Venus in Aries, and a Leo Full Moon that reeks of Neptune – complete with disillusionment and drunken chickens. All in under thirty minutes! ***Special offer for podcast listeners: Want to learn more about your own Saturn return? Use the discount code bsapod10saturn at checkout for 10% off a 60-minute reading with April! Offer valid through Feb. 10, 2020.*** To join the podcast conversation and leave a comment for April &amp; Jen, go to www.BigSkyAstroPod.com. Read more about this week’s astrology at the Big Sky Astrology website. Subscribe to the podcast and April's mailing list. Follow Big Sky Astrology on IG, Twitter, and FB @BigSkyAstrology Read a full transcript at our website  Episode links: 00:35 –Check out April’s observations on astro*carto*graphy in this Shape magazine article! A shout-out, too, to BSA pal and astrolocality whiz Ralph MacIntyre. And a warm welcome to any new listeners who found the BSA podcast this way. 😊 03:01 – Using astro*carto*graphy, April suspects that when she lives in Minneapolis, she might have a Scorpio rising sign. [“Ascendant confirmed. Relocation confirmed only by Jen.” ~ April] 04:14 – Mercury enters Pisces on February 3rd, and like a fish out of water, he’s in the sign of his detriment. Be forewarned: He’s retrograde beginning February 17th. Still, we could all stand to emulate Fred Rogers in our communication style (see Episode 8); and in the cartoon thought balloon of Jen’s imagination, this Mercury sports a cardigan and comfy slippers. (Though we suspect the trickster will complete his ensemble with a hat like this.) 08:18 – Venus enters Aries on February 7th, and although Venus is in her detriment here, April convinces Jen that this can be a courtly and romantic placement – though Venus in Aries will always be Wonder Woman (or maybe Captain Marvel!) to Jen. 11:39 – ***Moonwatch!** A Full Moon on February 8/9 (click this link for time and date in your city) at 20 degrees Leo is on the Sabian symbol (see Episode 7) “Intoxicated chickens,” with the Sun on the opposite, less buoyant, but surprisingly related degree symbol. And here is the article about inebriated Minnesotan birds. You’re welcome. 14:58 – Talk of drunken chickens prompts April to wax nostalgic over a recipe from her pre-vegan days. And to French speakers yelling, “Tu ne peux pas parler français!” throughout this segment, we offer a sheepish “Pardonnez-nous!” 15:26 – Nothing stands in the way of the truth being shown, as this Full Moon is trine Mars in Sag. 16:21 – April hears the SATURN RETURN train a comin’! Hop aboard and learn about this important transit at ages 29 and 58, when Saturn in the current sky returns to its position in your birth chart. As April faces her second Saturn return, BSA is having its first (aw… ❤). How are the first and second Saturn returns similar and different? April and Jen reminisce about their own Saturnine experiences. Ask yourself: Is *this* how you want your life to look? If not, the cosmic principal will call you to his office to tell you, “You’re responsible for you, my friend.” For more about Saturn returns, here's an article at the website! 27:44 – If it suits your fancy, and you like the podcast, it sure would be nice if you took one second to give the BSA Podcast a 5-star rating, and maybe hit that “subscribe” button. And do join us over at https://www.bigskyastrology.com/episode-11/. Thank you!

As April faces down her second Saturn return, we explore these important astrological rites of passage, as well as how astrocartography can help you find your place in the world. Plus, this week in the Big Sky: Mercury in Pisces, Venus in Aries, and a Leo Full Moon that reeks of Neptune – complete with disillusionment and drunken chickens. All in under thirty minutes! ***Special offer for podcast listeners: Want to learn more about your own Saturn return? Use the discount code bsapod10saturn at checkout for 10% off a <a href="https://www.bigskyastrology.com/product/60-minute-astrology-session/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">60-minute reading with April</a>! Offer valid through Feb. 10, 2020.*** To join the podcast conversation and leave a comment for April &amp; Jen, go to <a href="http://www.BigSkyAstroPod.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.BigSkyAstroPod.com</a>. Read more about <a href="https://www.bigskyastrology.com/category/weekly-highlights/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">this week’s astrology at the Big Sky Astrology website</a>. Subscribe to the podcast and <a href="https://www.bigskyastrology.com/subscribe/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">April's mailing list</a>. Follow Big Sky Astrology on <a href="https://www.instagram.com/bigskyastrology/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">IG</a>, <a href="https://twitter.com/bigskyastrology" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Twitter</a>, and <a href="https://www.facebook.com/bigskyastrology" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">FB</a> @BigSkyAstrology <a href="https://www.bigskyastrology.com/transcript-ep-011-saturn-returns-weve-known-and-loved/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Read a full transcript at our website</a> Episode links: 00:35 –Check out April’s observations on astro*carto*graphy in <a href="https://www.shape.com/lifestyle/mind-and-body/astrocartography-astrology-of-travel" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">this Shape magazine article</a>! A shout-out, too, to BSA pal and astrolocality whiz <a href="http://www.astro-map-links.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Ralph MacIntyre</a>. And a warm welcome to any new listeners who found the BSA podcast this way. 😊 03:01 – Using astro*carto*graphy, April suspects that when she lives in Minneapolis, she might have a Scorpio rising sign. [“Ascendant confirmed. Relocation confirmed only by Jen.” ~ April] 04:14 – Mercury enters Pisces on February 3rd, and like a fish out of water, he’s in the sign of his detriment. Be forewarned: He’s retrograde beginning February 17th. Still, we could all stand to emulate <a href="https://www.astro.com/astro-databank/Rogers,_Fred" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Fred Rogers</a> in our communication style (<a href="https://bigskyastrology.podbean.com/e/008-saturn-and-pluto-need-a-party/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">see Episode 8</a>); and in the cartoon thought balloon of Jen’s imagination, this Mercury sports a cardigan and comfy slippers. (Though we suspect the trickster will complete his ensemble with a <a href="https://www.amazon.com/propeller-hat/s?k=propeller+hat" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">hat like this</a>.) 08:18 – Venus enters Aries on February 7th, and although Venus is in her detriment here, April convinces Jen that this can be a courtly and romantic placement – though Venus in Aries will always be <a href="https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0451279/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Wonder Woman</a> (or maybe <a href="https://www.imdb.com/title/tt4154664/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Captain Marvel</a>!) to Jen. 11:39 – ***Moonwatch!** A Full Moon on February 8/9 (<a href="https://www.timeanddate.com/worldclock/fixedtime.html?msg=Full+Moon+in+Leo&amp;iso=20200208T2333&amp;p1=770" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">click this link for time and date in your city</a>) at 20 degrees Leo is on the <a href="https://sabiansymbols.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Sabian symbol</a> (see <a href="https://bigskyastrology.podbean.com/e/007-saturn-and-pluto-go-to-the-repair-shop/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Episode 7</a>) “Intoxicated chickens,” with the Sun on the opposite, less buoyant, but surprisingly related degree symbol. <a href="https://blogs.mprnews.org/newscut/2018/10/thanks-to-early-frost-the-birds-are-hammered/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">And here is the article about inebriated Minnesotan birds</a>. You’re welcome. 14:58 – Talk of drunken chickens prompts April to wax nostalgic over a recipe from her pre-vegan days. And to French speakers yelling, “Tu ne peux pas parler français!” throughout this segment, we offer a sheepish “Pardonnez-nous!” 15:26 – Nothing stands in the way of the truth being shown, as this Full Moon is trine Mars in Sag. 16:21 – <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bDktBZzQIiU" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">April hears the SATURN RETURN train a comin’</a>! Hop aboard and learn about this important transit at ages 29 and 58, when Saturn in the current sky returns to its position in your birth chart. As April faces her second Saturn return, BSA is having its first (aw… ❤). How are the first and second Saturn returns similar and different? April and Jen reminisce about their own Saturnine experiences. Ask yourself: Is *this* how you want your life to look? If not, the cosmic principal will call you to his office to tell you, “You’re responsible for you, my friend.” <a href="https://www.bigskyastrology.com/saturn-returns/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">For more about Saturn returns, here's an article at the website!</a> 27:44 – If it suits your fancy, and you like the podcast, it sure would be nice if you took one second to give the BSA Podcast a 5-star rating, and maybe hit that “subscribe” button. And do join us over at <a href="https://www.bigskyastrology.com/episode-11/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.bigskyastrology.com/episode-11/</a>. Thank you!

011 | Saturn Returns We’ve Known and Loved

April and Jen recorded this episode early last week, at what now seems like a gentler moment - when citizens bravely assembled in public without respirator masks and toilet paper was plentiful. In a conversation that touches only briefly on the COVID-19, we spend a good amount of time talking about Saturn entering Aquarius, the Aries equinox, a planetary traffic jam in Capricorn, and time-traveling between the early 90s and 2023. And in the here and now, we’re wishing every one of you love and good health. As Saturn in Aquarius reminds us, we’re all in this together. Please support the BSA podcast by making a contribution of any amount!   April &amp; Jen thank you. 😊 To join the podcast conversation and leave a comment for April &amp; Jen, go to www.BigSkyAstroPod.com. Read more about this week’s astrology at the Big Sky Astrology website. Subscribe to the podcast and April's mailing list. Follow Big Sky Astrology on IG, Twitter, and FB @BigSkyAstrology Read a full transcript of this episode.  1:24     How will you celebrate the 27th Annual International Astrology Day? Sponsored by the Association for Astrological Networking (AFAN), this holiday celebrates astrology in all its forms with events around the globe! See this page for suggested events, including AFAN’s own free online Marathon: Saturday, March 21, from 10 am-6 pm Pacific time! Join April, other AFAN members, and a variety of international speakers – free and open to everyone! 3:32     ***Moonwatch!*** This week, we’re cautioned to be gentle with each other at a time of tension at the Last Quarter Moon in Sagittarius (March 16, 2:34 am PDT), which asks, “What can we learn from all this?” Which seems like exactly the right question for the moment! (And oops, Jen mis-remembered the first Last Quarter Moon episode! It was Episode 4. Did we mention that Mercury was stationing as we recorded this?) 5:17     April and Jen are pretty tired of talking about Mercury, which finds its way back into Pisces this week (March 16). And there was much rejoicing. For a more extensive discussion of Mercury in the sign o’ the fishes, you’ll find a thorough examination in Episode 11, Saturn Returns We’ve Known and Loved. (And if you crave even more, swim over to Episode 13 and Episode 14.) 6:27     Welcome the Aries Equinox (March 19, 8:49 pm PDT), the beginning of Spring in the Northern Hemisphere (Autumn down under) and the starting gate of the energetic New Year! Here’s what it looks like in the sky. And here’s what it looks like if you’re a Disney heroine in 1937! 7:42     Five out of ten planets in Capricorn call for reason and pragmatism on March 18, which is tough news for the Sun entering Aries the next day. Obstacles will appear, but put effort into what you want! 9:55     What’s a stellium? Several different planetary voices at one table talking about a single subject! April urges a visit to the late, great Donna Cunningham’s website, and specifically her eBook on the subject, which is now available in two parts here and here. (Note: the link to buy the ebook on Donna’s site is no longer active.) 13:01   Saturn enters Aquarius! (Mar. 21, 8:58 pm PDT). Looking ahead for three years of shaking up old structures, rebelling against restrictions, and setting forth into a bold future! If you were born when Saturn was previously in Aquarius (Jan. 1962-March 23, 1964 and Sep. 16, 1964-Dec. 16, 1964; Feb. 6, 1991-May 21, 1993 and June 30 1993-Jan. 28, 1994), you’ll be having a Saturn Return! More about that in episode 11, Saturn Returns We’ve Known and Loved. 15:13   April &amp; Jen share memories of how their lives changed the last time Saturn was in Aquarius. April rebelled against corporate America, and Jen was a Lady of Spain! [“Here is proof that April wrote the show notes this week; I would never refer to myself as a lady! 😂“ ~ Jen] 18:05   Will Capricorn planets get a twist of Aquarius as their ruling planet enters this zippy sign? You betcha! 19:03   Celebrating the collective, as Saturn in Aquarius reminds us: it’s not just about us, it’s about the future! A look back at big Saturn in Aquarius moments in recent history. 19:43   If you’d like to get a reading with April to talk more about your Saturn return, avail yourself of a discounted 1-hour reading! Through March 31, use this discount code at checkout: saturnaqu 20:24   Jen’s future-oriented 11th-house planets peek ahead to March 2023, as Saturn enters Pisces and Pluto enters Aquarius. What will that far-off future bring? In the U.S., much depends on how we weather our country’s first-ever Pluto return! (Exact dates: 2/20/22, 7/11/22, 12/28/22). 21:31   Mars makes a conjunction with Jupiter (March 20, 4:34 am PDT). Inevitably, the subject of the coronavirus comes up, and April connects it with January’s Saturn/Pluto conjunction. Jen points out April’s prescience in Episode 7, Saturn and Pluto go to the Repair Shop (although it’s actually  Episode 8, Saturn and Pluto Need a Party when she warned of a worse than usual flu season… have we blamed Mercury yet?) 23:55   Mars and Jupiter remind us of our potential for heroism during this time of worldwide tumult. Be brave, be optimistic, be generous! 26:09   Hear more about Jupiter’s current transit through Capricorn in Episode 2, Falstaff in a Business Suit, and about Mars in Capricorn in Episode 12, Mercury Retrograde: Where Are My Pants? 26:34   Mars comes together with Pluto (March 22/23, 2020, 8:08 pm PDT) for the first time since April 26, 2018. Mars, the warrior, can feel beaten before it even begins. Overcome the dark side with pleasure and positive brain food. And, if you’re April, avoid board games. 28:49   Donna Cunningham continues to influence us this week. Here’s her classic book Healing Pluto Problems. 30:07   The ever-future-oriented Jen looks ahead to Mars’ extended stay in its home sign of Aries later this year (June 27, 2020 – Jan. 6, 2021, retrograde Sep. 9-Nov. 13, 2020). What’s planted in the next few weeks as Mars conjoins Jupiter, Pluto, and Saturn will reach a critical point during those months. What lessons from this time will you be able to integrate later in the year?

April and Jen recorded this episode early last week, at what now seems like a gentler moment - when citizens bravely assembled in public without respirator masks and toilet paper was plentiful. In a conversation that touches only briefly on the COVID-19, we spend a good amount of time talking about Saturn entering Aquarius, the Aries equinox, a planetary traffic jam in Capricorn, and time-traveling between the early 90s and 2023. And in the here and now, we’re wishing every one of you love and good health. As Saturn in Aquarius reminds us, we’re all in this together. <a href="https://www.bigskyastrology.com/product/support-the-bsa-podcast/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Please support the BSA podcast by making a contribution of any amount</a>! April &amp; Jen thank you. 😊 To join the podcast conversation and leave a comment for April &amp; Jen, go to <a href="http://www.BigSkyAstroPod.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.BigSkyAstroPod.com</a>. Read more about <a href="https://www.bigskyastrology.com/category/weekly-highlights/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">this week’s astrology at the Big Sky Astrology website</a>. Subscribe to the podcast and <a href="https://www.bigskyastrology.com/subscribe/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">April's mailing list</a>. Follow Big Sky Astrology on <a href="https://www.instagram.com/bigskyastrology/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">IG</a>, <a href="https://twitter.com/bigskyastrology" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Twitter</a>, and <a href="https://www.facebook.com/bigskyastrology" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">FB</a> @BigSkyAstrology <a href="https://www.bigskyastrology.com/transcript-ep-17" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Read a full transcript of this episode.</a> 1:24     How will you celebrate the 27th Annual International Astrology Day? Sponsored by the Association for Astrological Networking (AFAN), this holiday celebrates astrology in all its forms with events around the globe! <a href="https://www.afan.org/international-astrology-day-iad/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">See this page for suggested events</a>, including AFAN’s own free online Marathon: Saturday, March 21, from 10 am-6 pm Pacific time! Join April, other AFAN members, and a variety of international speakers – free and open to everyone! 3:32     ***Moonwatch!*** This week, we’re cautioned to be gentle with each other at a time of tension at the Last Quarter Moon in Sagittarius (March 16, 2:34 am PDT), which asks, “What can we learn from all this?” Which seems like exactly the right question for the moment! (And oops, Jen mis-remembered the first Last Quarter Moon episode! It was <a href="https://www.bigskyastrology.com/004-its-frequently-sunny-in-minneapolis/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Episode 4</a>. Did we mention that Mercury was stationing as we recorded this?) 5:17     April and Jen are pretty tired of talking about Mercury, which finds its way back into Pisces this week (March 16). <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yciX2meIkXI" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">And there was much rejoicing</a>. For a more extensive discussion of Mercury in the sign o’ the fishes, you’ll find a thorough examination in <a href="https://www.bigskyastrology.com/episode-11/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Episode 11, Saturn Returns We’ve Known and Loved</a>. (And if you crave even more, swim over to <a href="https://www.bigskyastrology.com/episode-13/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Episode 13</a> and <a href="https://www.bigskyastrology.com/episode-14/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Episode 14</a>.) 6:27     Welcome the Aries Equinox (March 19, 8:49 pm PDT), the beginning of Spring in the Northern Hemisphere (Autumn down under) and the starting gate of the energetic New Year! <a href="https://www.farmersalmanac.com/spring-equinox-first-day-spring" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Here’s what it looks like in the sky</a>. And <a href="https://youtu.be/hQZ6zzLpoNQ" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">here’s what it looks like</a> if you’re a Disney heroine in 1937! 7:42     Five out of ten planets in Capricorn call for reason and pragmatism on March 18, which is tough news for the Sun entering Aries the next day. Obstacles will appear, but put effort into what you want! 9:55     What’s a stellium? Several different planetary voices at one table talking about a single subject! April urges a visit to the late, great <a href="https://skywriter.wordpress.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Donna Cunningham’s website</a>, and specifically her eBook on the subject, which is now available in two parts <a href="https://alabe.com/ProgramDocs/SolarFire_Stellium_Handbook-Part_One.pdf" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">here</a> and <a href="https://alabe.com/ProgramDocs/SolarFire_Stellium_Handbook-Part_Two.pdf" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">here</a>. (Note: the link to buy the ebook on Donna’s site is no longer active.) 13:01   Saturn enters Aquarius! (Mar. 21, 8:58 pm PDT). Looking ahead for three years of shaking up old structures, rebelling against restrictions, and setting forth into a bold future! If you were born when Saturn was previously in Aquarius (Jan. 1962-March 23, 1964 and Sep. 16, 1964-Dec. 16, 1964; Feb. 6, 1991-May 21, 1993 and June 30 1993-Jan. 28, 1994), you’ll be having a <a href="https://www.bigskyastrology.com/saturn-returns/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Saturn Return</a>! More about that in <a href="https://www.bigskyastrology.com/episode-11/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">episode 11, Saturn Returns We’ve Known and Loved.</a> 15:13   April &amp; Jen share memories of how their lives changed the last time Saturn was in Aquarius. April rebelled against corporate America, and Jen was a <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gV0-0UqF2Gk" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Lady of Spain</a>! [“Here is proof that April wrote the show notes this week; I would never refer to myself as a lady! 😂“ ~ Jen] 18:05   Will Capricorn planets get a twist of Aquarius as their ruling planet enters this zippy sign? You betcha! 19:03   Celebrating the collective, as Saturn in Aquarius reminds us: it’s not just about us, it’s about the future! A look back at big Saturn in Aquarius moments in recent history. 19:43   If you’d like to get a reading with April to talk more about your Saturn return, avail yourself of a <a href="https://www.bigskyastrology.com/product/60-minute-astrology-session/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">discounted 1-hour reading</a>! Through March 31, use this discount code at checkout: saturnaqu 20:24   Jen’s future-oriented 11th-house planets peek ahead to March 2023, as Saturn enters Pisces and Pluto enters Aquarius. What will that far-off future bring? In the U.S., much depends on how we weather our country’s first-ever Pluto return! (Exact dates: 2/20/22, 7/11/22, 12/28/22). 21:31   Mars makes a conjunction with Jupiter (March 20, 4:34 am PDT). Inevitably, the subject of the coronavirus comes up, and April connects it with January’s Saturn/Pluto conjunction. Jen points out April’s prescience in <a href="https://www.bigskyastrology.com/007-saturn-and-pluto-go-to-the-repair-shop/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Episode 7, Saturn and Pluto go to the Repair Shop</a> (although it’s actually  <a href="https://www.bigskyastrology.com/008-saturn-and-pluto-need-a-party/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Episode 8, Saturn and Pluto Need a Party</a> when she warned of a worse than usual flu season… have we blamed Mercury yet?) 23:55   Mars and Jupiter remind us of our potential for heroism during this time of worldwide tumult. Be brave, be optimistic, be generous! 26:09   Hear more about Jupiter’s current transit through Capricorn in <a href="https://www.bigskyastrology.com/002-falstaff-in-a-business-suit/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Episode 2, Falstaff in a Business Suit</a>, and about Mars in Capricorn in <a href="https://www.bigskyastrology.com/episode-12/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Episode 12, Mercury Retrograde: Where Are My Pants?</a> 26:34   Mars comes together with Pluto (March 22/23, 2020, 8:08 pm PDT) for the first time since April 26, 2018. Mars, the warrior, can feel beaten before it even begins. Overcome the dark side with pleasure and positive brain food. And, if you’re April, avoid board games. 28:49   Donna Cunningham continues to influence us this week. Here’s her classic book <a href="https://www.amazon.com/dp/B006LNDMNM" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Healing Pluto Problems</a>. 30:07   The ever-future-oriented Jen looks ahead to Mars’ extended stay in its home sign of Aries later this year (June 27, 2020 – Jan. 6, 2021, retrograde Sep. 9-Nov. 13, 2020). What’s planted in the next few weeks as Mars conjoins Jupiter, Pluto, and Saturn will reach a critical point during those months. What lessons from this time will you be able to integrate later in the year?

017 | Saturn in Aquarius: All in This Together

Whether you’re celebrating Valentine’s Day, Galentine’s Day, or the birthday of famed American suffragette Anna Howard Shaw, join April and Jen for a breakdown of the week’s astrological highlights: a Last Quarter Moon in Scorpio, Mars joining the Capricorn clown car, and Mercury turning retrograde in Pisces. Also: What goes well with Chinese food, who lost her pants, and this year’s criminally underreported Jupiter/Neptune sextile! ***Extending this special offer for podcast listeners: Want to learn more about your own Saturn return (See episode 11!)? Use the discount code bsapod10saturn at checkout for 10% off a 60-minute reading with April! Offer valid through Feb. 14, 2020.*** Please support the BSA podcast for as little as a buck! April &amp; Jen thank you. 😊 To join the podcast conversation and leave a comment for April &amp; Jen, go to www.BigSkyAstroPod.com. Read more about this week’s astrology at the Big Sky Astrology website. Subscribe to the podcast and April's mailing list. Follow Big Sky Astrology on IG, Twitter, and FB @BigSkyAstrology Read a full transcript of this episode.  Episode links: 00:40 – For the first time [“But not, I vow, the last.” ~ April], Jen regrets not living in San Diego. Because…gimongous Galentine's Day Mexican brunch! 01:09 – April digs into the history and astrology of Valentine’s Day, briefly unearthing Geoffrey Chaucer and name-checking Courtney Love along the way. 02:12 – Venus squares the Lunar Nodes (see Episode 7) just before V-Day. What’s missing is 8 degrees Libra – there’s a blazing fireplace in a deserted home at that point, so pull up a chair and stay awhile. 06:20 – Does your birth chart have a T-square? Here’s the lowdown on your missing table leg. 08:49 – Valentine’s Day features a Moon in Scorpio - a passionate Moon sign whose trust and loyalty must be earned! 10:00 - Hear the story of when April met Jonny on this episode of American Public Media’s TBTL podcast from last year! April appears in a segment that begins at the 25:40 minute mark. 10:36 – It’s ** Moonwatch** time! A Last Quarter Moon (Feb. 15) at 27 Scorpio lands on the Sabian symbol “A military band on the march.” The Sun is at 27 Aquarius on “An ancient pottery bowl filled with violets.” Need an explanation? Challenge accepted! 14:29 – Fear not: April has not forgotten about The Repair Shop! 15:56 – Just when you think the Capricorn clown car is filled to capacity, Mars grabs his hammer and nails and shoehorns his way into the sign of his exaltation (Feb. 16) for a six-week stay. 18:40 – All this talk of recent Capricornian history makes Jen think of the upcoming Jupiter/Neptune sextile (throughout 2020). Rose-colored glasses are optional, but wouldn’t a little hope and optimism feel good right about now? 21:47 – *We interrupt our regularly scheduled program to bring you a quote from Breaking Bad.* 21:51 – Mercury turns retrograde in Pisces on the 16th. This might feel like a long transit, as the planet closest to the Sun usually only stays in a sign for three weeks, and this time he’ll fog up his swim goggles for ten weeks! To learn – or, more appropriately, *re*learn – all about Mercury’s shadow period, check out Episode 3! 24:27 – Feeling lost at sea? Here’s some info from the Mayo Clinic on how to ground yourself. 27:18 – April’s Spidey senses tingle at open houses; maybe yours do too, if you have planets in water signs. 28:45 – Hi, you! Did you like the podcast today? Might you be willing to toss in a dollar or five to help keep the show going? Just look for the little frock-wearing Victorian depictions of April and Jen on the podcast page… it might be the only time you see your co-hosts in dresses!

Whether you’re celebrating Valentine’s Day, Galentine’s Day, or the birthday of famed American suffragette <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Anna_Howard_Shaw" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Anna Howard Shaw</a>, join April and Jen for a breakdown of the week’s astrological highlights: a Last Quarter Moon in Scorpio, Mars joining the Capricorn clown car, and Mercury turning retrograde in Pisces. Also: What goes well with Chinese food, who lost her pants, and this year’s criminally underreported Jupiter/Neptune sextile! ***Extending this special offer for podcast listeners: Want to learn more about your own Saturn return (<a href="https://bigskyastrology.podbean.com/e/011-saturn-returns-we-ve-known-and-loved/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">See episode 11</a>!)? Use the discount code bsapod10saturn at checkout for 10% off a <a href="https://www.bigskyastrology.com/product/60-minute-astrology-session/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">60-minute reading with April</a>! Offer valid through Feb. 14, 2020.*** <a href="https://www.bigskyastrology.com/product/support-the-bsa-podcast/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Please support the BSA podcast for as little as a buck</a>! April &amp; Jen thank you. 😊 To join the podcast conversation and leave a comment for April &amp; Jen, go to <a href="http://www.BigSkyAstroPod.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.BigSkyAstroPod.com</a>. Read more about <a href="https://www.bigskyastrology.com/category/weekly-highlights/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">this week’s astrology at the Big Sky Astrology website</a>. Subscribe to the podcast and <a href="https://www.bigskyastrology.com/subscribe/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">April's mailing list</a>. Follow Big Sky Astrology on <a href="https://www.instagram.com/bigskyastrology/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">IG</a>, <a href="https://twitter.com/bigskyastrology" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Twitter</a>, and <a href="https://www.facebook.com/bigskyastrology" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">FB</a> @BigSkyAstrology <a href="https://www.bigskyastrology.com/transcript-episode-12" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Read a full transcript of this episode.</a> Episode links: 00:40 – For the first time [“But not, I vow, the last.” ~ April], Jen regrets not living in San Diego. Because…gimongous <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N1ikySurAP0" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Galentine's Day</a> Mexican brunch! 01:09 – April digs into the history and astrology of Valentine’s Day, briefly unearthing <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Geoffrey_Chaucer" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Geoffrey Chaucer</a> and name-checking <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Courtney_Love" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Courtney Love</a> along the way. 02:12 – Venus squares the Lunar Nodes (<a href="https://bigskyastrology.podbean.com/e/007-saturn-and-pluto-go-to-the-repair-shop/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">see Episode 7</a>) just before V-Day. What’s missing is 8 degrees Libra – there’s <a href="https://sabiansymbols.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">a blazing fireplace in a deserted home</a> at that point, so pull up a chair and stay awhile. 06:20 – Does your birth chart have a T-square? Here’s the lowdown on your missing table leg. 08:49 – Valentine’s Day features a Moon in Scorpio - a passionate Moon sign whose trust and loyalty must be earned! 10:00 - <a href="https://www.apmpodcasts.org/tbtl/2019/02/love-is-on-the-air-a-tbtl-valentines-special/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Hear the story of when April met Jonny on this episode of American Public Media’s TBTL podcast from last year!</a> April appears in a segment that begins at the 25:40 minute mark. 10:36 – It’s ** Moonwatch** time! A Last Quarter Moon (Feb. 15) at 27 Scorpio lands on the <a href="https://sabiansymbols.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Sabian symbol</a> “A military band on the march.” The Sun is at 27 Aquarius on “An ancient pottery bowl filled with violets.” Need an explanation? Challenge accepted! 14:29 – Fear not: April has not forgotten about <a href="https://www.netflix.com/title/81224128" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">The Repair Shop</a>! 15:56 – Just when you think the Capricorn clown car is filled to capacity, Mars grabs his hammer and nails and shoehorns his way into the sign of his exaltation (Feb. 16) for a six-week stay. 18:40 – All this talk of recent Capricornian history makes Jen think of the upcoming Jupiter/Neptune sextile (throughout 2020). Rose-colored glasses are optional, but wouldn’t a little hope and optimism feel good right about now? 21:47 – *We interrupt our regularly scheduled program to bring you a quote from <a href="https://youtu.be/wMEq1mGpP5A?t=51" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Breaking Bad</a>.* 21:51 – Mercury turns retrograde in Pisces on the 16th. This might feel like a long transit, as the planet closest to the Sun usually only stays in a sign for three weeks, and this time he’ll fog up his swim goggles for ten weeks! To learn – or, more appropriately, *re*learn – all about Mercury’s shadow period, <a href="https://bigskyastrology.podbean.com/e/003-alexa-play-love-the-one-you-re-with/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">check out Episode 3</a>! 24:27 – Feeling lost at sea? <a href="https://www.mayoclinichealthsystem.org/hometown-health/speaking-of-health/5-4-3-2-1-countdown-to-make-anxiety-blast-off" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Here’s some info from the Mayo Clinic on how to ground yourself</a>. 27:18 – April’s <a href="https://en.wiktionary.org/wiki/Spidey-sense" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Spidey senses</a> tingle at open houses; maybe yours do too, if you have planets in water signs. 28:45 – Hi, you! Did you like the podcast today? <a href="https://www.bigskyastrology.com/product/support-the-bsa-podcast/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Might you be willing to toss in a dollar or five to help keep the show going</a>? Just look for the little frock-wearing Victorian depictions of April and Jen on the podcast page… it might be the only time you see your co-hosts in dresses!

012 | Mercury Retrograde: Where Are My Pants?

April and Jen parse this week’s intense Libra Full Moon, contemplate how to use this week’s innovative Mars/Uranus aspect to rethink how you’re doing things, and explore why Mercury entering Aries says it’s okay to think about yourself a bit. This Full Moon highlights Jen’s own birth Moon in a big way, prompting a mini-lesson on Lunar Returns… happy birthday, Moon! Plus: Hobnobbing about old-timey TV, spinning the Wheel of Fortune, and doing a feelings-check…because it’s a very lunar kinda week. Can you spare a dollar or ten to support the BSA podcast? April &amp; Jen thank you! To join the podcast conversation and leave a comment for April &amp; Jen, go to www.BigSkyAstroPod.com. Read more about this week’s astrology at the Big Sky Astrology website. Subscribe to the podcast and April's mailing list. Follow Big Sky Astrology on IG, Twitter, and FB @BigSkyAstrology Read a full transcript of this episode.  Episode links: 00:47 – Do you prefer The Twilight Zone in black-and-white or color? Of course Schitt's Creek is always colorful! 01:37 – How are April &amp; Jen doing? And hey, how are you doing? Perhaps you’d like to watch a timeless Brené Brown video. Or peruse these free practices, resources, and articles regarding the pandemic. And to hear techniques for staying in the moment, listen to Episode 18. 07:11 – ** Moonwatch** Here comes the Full Moon at 18.44 Libra (April 7), where much is revealed about our relationships! The Sabian symbol for 19 Libra is “the magic carpet” (Take me away!) while the Sun is at 19 Aries, “a gang of robbers in hiding.” (Jen pictures this movie, which she urges you to watch in the original B&amp;W - not color!) This Full Moon squares Jupiter and Pluto in Capricorn, which feels… like a lot. How will you get your life back in balance at this time? 11:11 – The Full Moon also squares the Lunar Eclipse point from January 10. You’ll want to review eclipse season midpoint info on Episode 19 (Jupiter Meets Pluto: Two Thumbs...Up?), or go all the way back to Episode 5 (Unboxing Eclipses) to learn about the Lunar Nodes and eclipses. 13:48 – Uranus stationed on the same day as the January Lunar Eclipse, and it is squaring Mars on the same day as this Full Moon. Also, Saturn entered Aquarius last week and is gearing up to square Uranus in Taurus. Has anyone noticed the growing tension between restrictions and freedoms? It will show up in relationships this week, too. 15:35 – Mars in Aquarius squares Uranus in Taurus (also April 7). This is a mix of “I want action!” with “unpredictable results.” Proceed with caution. This is the closing chapter of a story that began February 2019, and it winds down January 2021. 20:23 – Mercury (finally!) peels off his Pisces bathing trunks and signs up to run a 5K, entering Aries on April 10. Just the facts, please! 21:20 – New to the BSA podcast? When planets move into new signs, they change mood and quality. You know… that yin yang stuff! (Apologies to Jen’s friends who actually know Traditional Chinese Medicine! Her qi was off that day.) 24:06 – Mercury squares the Lunar Nodes on April 11/12 and asks, “What about me?”. The nodes are getting ready to move into Gemini/Sagittarius, but first they’re finishing up their journey in Cancer/Capricorn. Oh, and info on the nodes lives here: Episode 5 (Unboxing Eclipses). 26:15 – With cardinal signs (Aries, Cancer, Libra, Capricorn) emphasized, the Wheel of Fortune is spinning this week. (April gets to be Vanna!) 27:56 – A mini-lesson on Lunar Returns! It’s like your little-bitty Luna-versary: Each month, the Moon meets up with the patch of sky that the Moon was in, on the day we were born. It’s your Moon birthday! Where and how will you fill your empty cup over the next 28 days? (To hear all about Saturn Returns, go to Episode 11 (Saturn Returns We’ve Known and “Loved”). 35:27 – Regular listeners know that your co-hosts look for meaning in the world. But that’s probably why you’re listening, right? 35:49 – To help keep this meaning-full podcast going, might you be willing to become part of an ongoing base of community support that we can count on? Or perhaps contribute as little as a dollar? Thanks, podpals!!

April and Jen parse this week’s intense Libra Full Moon, contemplate how to use this week’s innovative Mars/Uranus aspect to rethink how you’re doing things, and explore why Mercury entering Aries says it’s okay to think about yourself a bit. This Full Moon highlights Jen’s own birth Moon in a big way, prompting a mini-lesson on Lunar Returns… happy birthday, Moon! Plus: Hobnobbing about old-timey TV, spinning the Wheel of Fortune, and doing a feelings-check…because it’s a very lunar kinda week. <a href="https://www.bigskyastrology.com/support-the-podcast/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Can you spare a dollar or ten to support the BSA podcast?</a> April &amp; Jen thank you! To join the podcast conversation and leave a comment for April &amp; Jen, go to <a href="http://www.bigskyastropod.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.BigSkyAstroPod.com</a>. Read more about <a href="https://www.bigskyastrology.com/category/weekly-highlights/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">this week’s astrology at the Big Sky Astrology website</a>. Subscribe to the podcast and <a href="https://www.bigskyastrology.com/subscribe/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">April's mailing list</a>. Follow Big Sky Astrology on <a href="https://www.instagram.com/bigskyastrology/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">IG</a>, <a href="https://twitter.com/bigskyastrology" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Twitter</a>, and <a href="https://www.facebook.com/bigskyastrology" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">FB</a> @BigSkyAstrology <a href="https://www.bigskyastrology.com/transcript-ep-20" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Read a full transcript of this episode.</a> Episode links: 00:47 – Do you prefer The Twilight Zone in <a href="https://www.imdb.com/title/tt00052520/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">black-and-white</a> or <a href="https://www.imdb.com/title/tt2583620/?ref_=fn_al_tt_2" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">color</a>? Of course <a href="https://www.imdb.com/title/tt3526078/?ref_=fn_al_tt_1" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Schitt's Creek</a> is always colorful! 01:37 – How are April &amp; Jen doing? And hey, how are you doing? Perhaps you’d like to watch a timeless <a href="https://www.ted.com/talks/brene_brown_the_power_of_vulnerability" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Brené Brown video</a>. Or peruse these <a href="https://greatergood.berkeley.edu/article/item/greater_good_guide_to_well_being_during_coronavirus" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">free practices, resources, and articles regarding the pandemic</a>. And to hear techniques for staying in the moment, listen to <a href="https://www.bigskyastrology.com/episode-18/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Episode 18</a>. 07:11 – ** Moonwatch** Here comes the Full Moon at 18.44 Libra (April 7), where much is revealed about our relationships! The <a href="https://sabiansymbols.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Sabian symbol</a> for 19 Libra is “the magic carpet” (<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8yjGPgs0_S0" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Take me away!</a>) while the Sun is at 19 Aries, “a gang of robbers in hiding.” (Jen pictures <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Man_Who_Shot_Liberty_Valance" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">this movie</a>, which she urges you to watch in the original B&amp;W - not color!) This Full Moon squares Jupiter and Pluto in Capricorn, which feels… like a lot. How will you get your life back in balance at this time? 11:11 – The Full Moon also squares the Lunar Eclipse point from January 10. You’ll want to review eclipse season midpoint info on <a href="https://www.bigskyastrology.com/episode-19/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Episode 19 (Jupiter Meets Pluto: Two Thumbs...Up?)</a>, or go all the way back to <a href="https://www.bigskyastrology.com/005-unboxing-eclipses/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Episode 5 (Unboxing Eclipses)</a> to learn about the Lunar Nodes and eclipses. 13:48 – Uranus stationed on the same day as the January Lunar Eclipse, and it is squaring Mars on the same day as this Full Moon. Also, Saturn entered Aquarius last week and is gearing up to square Uranus in Taurus. Has anyone noticed the growing tension between restrictions and freedoms? It will show up in relationships this week, too. 15:35 – Mars in Aquarius squares Uranus in Taurus (also April 7). This is a mix of “I want action!” with “unpredictable results.” Proceed with caution. This is the closing chapter of a story that began February 2019, and it winds down January 2021. 20:23 – Mercury (finally!) peels off his Pisces bathing trunks and signs up to run a 5K, entering Aries on April 10. Just the facts, please! 21:20 – New to the BSA podcast? When planets move into new signs, they change mood and quality. You know… that <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Traditional_Chinese_medicine#Yin_and_yang" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">yin yang stuff</a>! (Apologies to Jen’s friends who actually know Traditional Chinese Medicine! Her <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Qi" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">qi</a> was off that day.) 24:06 – Mercury squares the Lunar Nodes on April 11/12 and asks, “What about me?”. The nodes are getting ready to move into Gemini/Sagittarius, but first they’re finishing up their journey in Cancer/Capricorn. Oh, and info on the nodes lives here: <a href="https://www.bigskyastrology.com/005-unboxing-eclipses/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Episode 5 (Unboxing Eclipses)</a>. 26:15 – With cardinal signs (Aries, Cancer, Libra, Capricorn) emphasized, the <a href="https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0072584/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Wheel of Fortune</a> is spinning this week. (April gets to be <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vanna_White" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Vanna</a>!) 27:56 – A mini-lesson on Lunar Returns! It’s like your little-bitty Luna-versary: Each month, the Moon meets up with the patch of sky that the Moon was in, on the day we were born. It’s your Moon birthday! Where and how will you fill your empty cup over the next 28 days? (To hear all about Saturn Returns, go to <a href="https://www.bigskyastrology.com/episode-11/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Episode 11 (Saturn Returns We’ve Known and “Loved”)</a>. 35:27 – Regular listeners know that your co-hosts look for meaning in the world. But that’s probably why you’re listening, right? 35:49 – To help keep this meaning-full podcast going, <a href="https://www.bigskyastrology.com/support-the-podcast/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">might you be willing to become part of an ongoing base of community support that we can count on? Or perhaps contribute as little as a dollar</a>? Thanks, podpals!!

020 | Libra Full Moon: A Magic Carpet Ride

Feisty Mars enters Aquarius this week and teams up with Saturn to start the work of serious social change. Venus in Gemini downloads some new eBooks, the First Quarter Moon in Cancer prompts our salute to The Fonz, and Mercury meets The Fog (Neptune). And Jupiter makes the first in a series of aspects to Pluto that promises to be...interesting. Plus: April &amp; Jen pull into Conjunction Junction (what's your function?) and learn how August-born April got her name.  While Venus in Gemini is at the bookstore for you, have her pick up April’s book, Astrological Transits! Can you spare a dollar or ten to support the BSA podcast? April &amp; Jen thank you! To join the podcast conversation and leave a comment for April &amp; Jen, go to www.BigSkyAstroPod.com. Read more about this week’s astrology at the Big Sky Astrology website. Subscribe to the podcast and April's mailing list. Follow Big Sky Astrology on IG, Twitter, and FB @BigSkyAstrology Read a full transcript of this episode.  Episode links:  00:53 – April shows off her sultry, good-cup-of-coffee (allergy attack?) voice. 02:15 – Mars leaves Capricorn and enters Aquarius' less grim neighborhood on March 30. (Read all about Saturn entering Aquarius here.) In a preview of December's coming attractions, we contemplate collectivism and what we want to create together. 04:05 – To hear techniques for staying in the moment, listen to Episode 18 (and take a gander at Episode 18’s helpful links/resources for dealing with stress while you’re at it). 05:42 – To hear more about the sign of Aquarius and Charlie Brown's evocative shirt, listen to Episode 9 (It’s Aquarius Season, Charlie Brown). 06:00 – The gas pedal meets the brakes as Mars immediately joins up with Saturn at 1° Aquarius on March 31. April reports from the trenches of Mars transiting her personal Saturn on the day we record this episode. Spoiler: It is aggravating. A-g-g-r-a-v-a-t-i-n-g. 09:27 – In December, Jupiter and Saturn will meet on the Sabian symbol 1 Aquarius, “An old adobe mission.” What will we take from the past into the future? 12:10 – At year's end, Jupiter and Saturn will begin new 20-, 200-, and 800-year cycles. An explanation of sorts about what the heck that means. 14:05 – Schoolhouse Rock offers another way to view conjunctions! 14:36 – ** Moonwatch**! This week we’re a-okay with a First Quarter Moon at 12°9’ Cancer on April 1! (And April's heard all the wisecracks you could possibly throw her way on that day, so just settle down.) 15:31 – How did April get her name? 16:03 – …Um, where were we? Right - contemplating the Moon's Sabian symbol, “One hand slightly flexed with a prominent thumb.” (The Fonz likes this one.) The Sun's symbol is, “An unsuccessful bomb explosion.” Maybe things aren’t as bad as we expected? 19:00 – Here’s the link to sign up for the Big Sky Astrology newsletter. Each month you will receive a free “Working with the Moon” e-book! For real. 19:22 – On April 3, Mercury and Neptune sit down at “A table set for an evening meal.” (See Episode 16 for more on that Sabian symbol.) Jen shares her family's experiment with communal meals at a virtual table. 21:56 – Venus grabs her writing materials and office supplies to sit for a spell in Gemini (April 3). She and Saturn take a ride on a “A glass-bottomed boat.” Peer into the depths, and be sure to grab a copy of April’s book, Astrological Transits, which would be an ideal way to learn right now. (Way back in Episode 1, Venus was our first topic, ever, because nobody puts Venus in the corner!)  25:25 – Venus entering an air sign is a cue to try some tactile learning, or learn via a physical activity. 26:52 – Jupiter and Pluto meet for the first of three times this year, at 25° Capricorn (April 4). Societal changes both great and small are the work of this combination. Here is Dana Gerhardt’s article on previous conjunctions of Jupiter/Pluto, which feature a history of pandemics. Here is Ray Merriman’s latest financial astrology column. 30:21 – You often can’t start something new without something else ending. To hear April &amp; Jen’s first conversation about life cycles, head over to Episode 7 (Saturn &amp; Pluto Go to The Repair Shop), and tune in to one of Jen’s favorite pieces of BSA podcast conversation, ever. 31:49 – Things are intense right now on planet Earth, and a sense of humor comes in handy. Yes, life is serious. And yes, it’s okay to laugh sometimes. 32:47 – The show goes on! To help April &amp; Jen keep the lights on, make a contribution of any amount, which would be supremely awesome! To help spread the word, subscribe and give the BSA podcast a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts, or a big Fonzie-style thumbs-up wherever you listen. Last but not least, to help April &amp; Jen feel toasty warm, write them a positive review on the BSA pod page. Thanks, friends!

Feisty Mars enters Aquarius this week and teams up with Saturn to start the work of serious social change. Venus in Gemini downloads some new eBooks, the First Quarter Moon in Cancer prompts our salute to The Fonz, and Mercury meets The Fog (Neptune). And Jupiter makes the first in a series of aspects to Pluto that promises to be...interesting. Plus: April &amp; Jen pull into Conjunction Junction (what's your function?) and learn how August-born April got her name. While Venus in Gemini is at the bookstore for you, have her pick up April’s book, <a href="https://www.bigskyastrology.com/astrological-transits/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Astrological Transits</a>! <a href="https://www.bigskyastrology.com/support-the-podcast/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Can you spare a dollar or ten to support the BSA podcast?</a> April &amp; Jen thank you! To join the podcast conversation and leave a comment for April &amp; Jen, go to <a href="http://www.bigskyastropod.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.BigSkyAstroPod.com</a>. Read more about <a href="https://www.bigskyastrology.com/category/weekly-highlights/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">this week’s astrology at the Big Sky Astrology website</a>. Subscribe to the podcast and <a href="https://www.bigskyastrology.com/subscribe/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">April's mailing list</a>. Follow Big Sky Astrology on <a href="https://www.instagram.com/bigskyastrology/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">IG</a>, <a href="https://twitter.com/bigskyastrology" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Twitter</a>, and <a href="https://www.facebook.com/bigskyastrology" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">FB</a> @BigSkyAstrology <a href="https://www.bigskyastrology.com/transcript-ep-19" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Read a full transcript of this episode.</a> Episode links: 00:53 – April shows off her sultry, good-cup-of-coffee (allergy attack?) voice. 02:15 – Mars leaves Capricorn and enters Aquarius' less grim neighborhood on March 30. (Read all about <a href="https://www.bigskyastrology.com/highlights-for-march-16-22-2020-tests-fallout-and-a-bold-future/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Saturn entering Aquarius here</a>.) In a preview of December's coming attractions, we contemplate collectivism and what we want to create together. 04:05 – To hear techniques for staying in the moment, listen to <a href="https://www.bigskyastrology.com/episode-18/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Episode 18</a> (and take a gander at Episode 18’s helpful links/resources for dealing with stress while you’re at it). 05:42 – To hear more about the sign of Aquarius and Charlie Brown's evocative shirt, listen to <a href="https://www.bigskyastrology.com/009-its-aquarius-season-charlie-brown/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Episode 9 (It’s Aquarius Season, Charlie Brown)</a>. 06:00 – The gas pedal meets the brakes as Mars immediately joins up with Saturn at 1° Aquarius on March 31. April reports from the trenches of Mars transiting her personal Saturn on the day we record this episode. Spoiler: It is aggravating. A-g-g-r-a-v-a-t-i-n-g. 09:27 – In December, Jupiter and Saturn will meet on the <a href="https://sabiansymbols.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Sabian symbol</a> 1 Aquarius, “An old adobe mission.” What will we take from the past into the future? 12:10 – At year's end, Jupiter and Saturn will begin new 20-, 200-, and 800-year cycles. An explanation of sorts about what the heck that means. 14:05 – <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RPoBE-E8VOc" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Schoolhouse Rock</a> offers another way to view conjunctions! 14:36 – ** Moonwatch**! This week we’re a-okay with a First Quarter Moon at 12°9’ Cancer on April 1! (And April's heard all the wisecracks you could possibly throw her way on that day, so just settle down.) 15:31 – How did April get her name? 16:03 – …Um, where were we? Right - contemplating the Moon's Sabian symbol, “One hand slightly flexed with a prominent thumb.” (<a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fonzie" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">The Fonz</a> likes this one.) The Sun's symbol is, “An unsuccessful bomb explosion.” Maybe things aren’t as bad as we expected? 19:00 – Here’s the link to sign up for the <a href="https://www.bigskyastrology.com/subscribe/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Big Sky Astrology newsletter</a>. Each month you will receive a free “Working with the Moon” e-book! For real. 19:22 – On April 3, Mercury and Neptune sit down at “A table set for an evening meal.” (See <a href="https://www.bigskyastrology.com/episode-16/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Episode 16</a> for more on that Sabian symbol.) Jen shares her family's experiment with communal meals at a virtual table. 21:56 – Venus grabs her writing materials and office supplies to sit for a spell in Gemini (April 3). She and Saturn take a ride on a “A glass-bottomed boat.” Peer into the depths, and be sure to grab a copy of April’s book, <a href="https://www.bigskyastrology.com/astrological-transits/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Astrological Transits</a>, which would be an ideal way to learn right now. (Way back in <a href="https://www.bigskyastrology.com/001-stars-over-thanksgiving/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Episode 1</a>, Venus was our first topic, ever, because <a href="https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0092890/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">nobody puts Venus in the corner</a>!)  25:25 – Venus entering an air sign is a cue to <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kinesthetic_learning" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">try some tactile learning</a>, or learn via a physical activity. 26:52 – Jupiter and Pluto meet for the first of three times this year, at 25° Capricorn (April 4). Societal changes both great and small are the work of this combination. Here is <a href="https://mooncircles.com/2020s-mind-blowing-jupiter-pluto-conjunction-shadow-light/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Dana Gerhardt’s article</a> on previous conjunctions of Jupiter/Pluto, which feature a history of pandemics. <a href="https://www.mmacycles.com/free-weekly-forecast/mma-weekly-column-march-23-2020/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Here is Ray Merriman’s latest financial astrology column.</a> 30:21 – You often can’t start something new without something else ending. To hear April &amp; Jen’s first conversation about life cycles, head over to <a href="https://www.bigskyastrology.com/007-saturn-and-pluto-go-to-the-repair-shop/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Episode 7 (Saturn &amp; Pluto Go to The Repair Shop)</a>, and tune in to one of Jen’s favorite pieces of BSA podcast conversation, ever. 31:49 – Things are intense right now on planet Earth, and a sense of humor comes in handy. Yes, life is serious. And yes, it’s okay to laugh sometimes. 32:47 – The show goes on! To help April &amp; Jen keep the lights on, <a href="https://www.bigskyastrology.com/product/support-the-bsa-podcast/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">make a contribution of any amount</a>, which would be supremely awesome! To help spread the word, subscribe and give the BSA podcast a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts, or a big Fonzie-style thumbs-up wherever you listen. Last but not least, to help April &amp; Jen feel toasty warm, <a href="https://www.bigskyastrology.com/podcast/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">write them a positive review on the BSA pod page</a>. Thanks, friends!

019 | Jupiter Meets Pluto: Two Thumbs...Up?

It’s a quieter week in the Big Sky, with only a First Quarter Moon in Taurus and Venus/Mars vs. Neptune on the cosmic agenda. So, finding themselves with a little time on their hands, your intrepid co-hosts roll up their jeans and wade into a Neptunian miasma of topics, including how January’s Big Astrological News hit Buckingham Palace and why astrology is like theater. Plus: Grab some popcorn and join April and Jen at the (decades-old) movies! To join the podcast conversation and leave a comment for April &amp; Jen, go to www.BigSkyAstrology.com/podcast. Read more about this week’s astrology at the Big Sky Astrology website. Subscribe to the podcast and April's mailing list. Follow Big Sky Astrology on IG, Twitter, and FB @BigSkyAstrology A full transcript of the episode is available here.  Episode links: Technical note: Apologies for some audio issues this week which left April sounding like Prince Albert in a can. We’ve isolated the problem and will return to form next episode! 00:53 – April (a Leo) admits to a fascination with royalty, as she and Jen link the astrology of the times with Meghan and Harry’s decision to step back from being senior royals. 07:27 – ***Moonwatch!** A First Quarter Moon (see Episode 2) on February 1st at 13 degrees Taurus is on the Sabian symbol “A man handling baggage.” Is this baggage physical or emotional? Is Jupiter carrying your bags? Why are airlines so hard on your baggage? And why are there a couple of different versions of the Sabian symbols out in the world? Plus: still no theme song, but much lively humming. 11:47 – Venus sinks into a soothing Neptunian bubble bath with a conjunction on January 27th. Is what you *think* you want what you *really* want? And the next day… 15:23 – … It’s Mars vs. Neptune! Having touched on planes during the Moonwatch segment, we move on now to trains - along with a raftload of other metaphors. Plus: Are you more like Joan of Arc or Don Quixote? 17:36 – The birth chart as a theater set… oops! Jen had no idea April used this analogy in her book The Essential Guide to Practical Astrology  (*takes sheepish glance at keyboard and hugs April’s book, which recently arrived, closer*). [“Probably not original to me, Jen. Hold your head high!” ~ April] One of your co-hosts loves theatre of all stripes, the other prefers her theatre in iambic pentameter. If you’re a regular listener with keen insight, you might just be able to figure this one out! 21:04 – “Okay, campers, rise and shine, and don’t forget your booties cause it’s cold out there!” Groundhog Day, oh Groundhog Day, how April and Jen do love you!! 22:52 – The plot of this episode’s eponymous film is belatedly laid out. Should April and Jen have led with that? Yeah, probably. They blame Neptune. (Note that April uses this film as an example of the 6th and 12th houses in her Followed by a Moonshadow eclipse report!) 25:36 – The history and symbolism of Groundhog Day. The holiday, not the movie. Think: fertility and purification. Did you know that February comes from the Latin term februum? 26:40 – Jen’s mini-monologue on movies about rebirth and redemption. She pivots briefly from Groundhog Day, makes a pitstop at It’s a Wonderful Life, and drives past The Wizard of Oz while she’s in the neighborhood. 27:20 – April makes the case for February’s vaguely Neptunian/12th house bona fides; Jen scratches her head and has many follow-up questions… it all sounds so Plutonian to her. Things gets deep.  30:11 – Why do we use the birth chart for astrology instead of a conception chart? April untangles that particular knot, first referenced all the way back in Episode 1. 31:33 – Realizing that it’s been ages – maybe four minutes! – since they’ve referenced anything from the 70s, 80s, or 90s, your co-hosts would like to thank you for joining them “At the Movies with April and Jen” (with apologies to Siskel and Ebert)! 32:25 – Hey you! Yeah, you! The one who must’ve not only listened to the podcast, but made it to the end of these show notes! 😊 Have you subscribed to the BSA podcast in your podcatcher? Have you taken one second to give us a 5-star review? You’ll do that, right? To help spread the word? Thank you, thank you!!

It’s a quieter week in the Big Sky, with only a First Quarter Moon in Taurus and Venus/Mars vs. Neptune on the cosmic agenda. So, finding themselves with a little time on their hands, your intrepid co-hosts roll up their jeans and wade into a Neptunian miasma of topics, including how January’s Big Astrological News hit Buckingham Palace and why astrology is like theater. Plus: Grab some popcorn and join April and Jen at the (decades-old) movies! To join the podcast conversation and leave a comment for April &amp; Jen, go to <a href="http://www.BigSkyAstrology.com/podcast" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.BigSkyAstrology.com/podcast</a>. Read more about <a href="https://www.bigskyastrology.com/category/weekly-highlights/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">this week’s astrology at the Big Sky Astrology website</a>. Subscribe to the podcast and <a href="https://www.bigskyastrology.com/subscribe/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">April's mailing list</a>. Follow Big Sky Astrology on <a href="https://www.instagram.com/bigskyastrology/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">IG</a>, <a href="https://twitter.com/bigskyastrology" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Twitter</a>, and <a href="https://www.facebook.com/bigskyastrology" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">FB</a> @BigSkyAstrology <a href="https://www.bigskyastrology.com/transcript-10/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">A full transcript of the episode is available here</a>. Episode links: Technical note: Apologies for some audio issues this week which left April sounding like Prince Albert in a can. We’ve isolated the problem and will return to form next episode! 00:53 – April (a Leo) admits to a fascination with royalty, as she and Jen link the astrology of the times with <a href="https://www.npr.org/tags/159740580/prince-harry" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Meghan and Harry’s decision to step back from being senior royals</a>. 07:27 – ***Moonwatch!** A First Quarter Moon (<a href="https://www.bigskyastrology.com/002-falstaff-in-a-business-suit/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">see Episode 2</a>) on February 1st at 13 degrees Taurus is on the <a href="https://sabiansymbols.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Sabian symbol</a> “A man handling baggage.” Is this baggage physical or emotional? Is Jupiter carrying your bags? Why are airlines so hard on your baggage? And why are there a couple of different versions of the Sabian symbols out in the world? Plus: still no theme song, but much lively humming. 11:47 – Venus sinks into a soothing Neptunian bubble bath with a conjunction on January 27th. Is what you *think* you want what you *really* want? And the next day… 15:23 – … It’s Mars vs. Neptune! Having touched on planes during the Moonwatch segment, we move on now to trains - along with a raftload of other metaphors. Plus: Are you more like <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Joan_of_Arc" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Joan of Arc</a> or <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Don_Quixote" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Don Quixote</a>? 17:36 – The birth chart as a theater set… oops! Jen had no idea April used this analogy in her book <a href="https://www.bigskyastrology.com/essential-guide-practical-astrology/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">The Essential Guide to Practical Astrology</a>  (*takes sheepish glance at keyboard and hugs April’s book, which recently arrived, closer*). [“Probably not original to me, Jen. Hold your head high!” ~ April] One of your co-hosts loves theatre of all stripes, the other prefers her theatre <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/William_Shakespeare" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">in iambic pentameter</a>. If you’re a regular listener with keen insight, you might just be able to figure this one out! 21:04 – “Okay, campers, rise and shine, and don’t forget your booties cause it’s cold out there!” <a href="https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0107048/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Groundhog Day</a>, oh Groundhog Day, how April and Jen do love you!! 22:52 – The plot of this episode’s eponymous film is belatedly laid out. Should April and Jen have led with that? Yeah, probably. They blame Neptune. (Note that April uses this film as an example of the 6th and 12th houses in her <a href="https://www.bigskyastrology.com/product/eclipse-astrology-report/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Followed by a Moonshadow eclipse report</a>!) 25:36 – The history and symbolism of Groundhog Day. <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Groundhog_Day" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">The holiday, not the movie</a>. Think: fertility and purification. Did you know that <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/February" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">February comes from the Latin term februum</a>? 26:40 – Jen’s mini-monologue on movies about rebirth and redemption. She pivots briefly from <a href="https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0107048/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Groundhog Day</a>, makes a pitstop at <a href="https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0038650/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">It’s a Wonderful Life</a>, and drives past <a href="https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0032138/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">The Wizard of Oz</a> while she’s in the neighborhood. 27:20 – April makes the case for February’s vaguely Neptunian/12th house bona fides; Jen scratches her head and has many follow-up questions… it all sounds so Plutonian to her. Things gets deep. 30:11 – Why do we use the birth chart for astrology instead of a conception chart? April untangles that particular knot, first referenced all the way back in <a href="https://www.bigskyastrology.com/001-stars-over-thanksgiving/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Episode 1</a>. 31:33 – Realizing that it’s been ages – maybe four minutes! – since they’ve referenced anything from the 70s, 80s, or 90s, your co-hosts would like to thank you for joining them “<a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/At_the_Movies_(1982_TV_program)" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">At the Movies</a> with April and Jen” (with apologies to Siskel and Ebert)! 32:25 – Hey you! Yeah, you! The one who must’ve not only listened to the podcast, but made it to the end of these show notes! 😊 Have you subscribed to the BSA podcast in your podcatcher? Have you taken one second to give us a 5-star review? You’ll do that, right? To help spread the word? Thank you, thank you!!

010 | Neptune & The Zen of Groundhog Day

As the world’s anxiety level is turned up to eleven, April and Jen share some mindfulness techniques to help you be here now. And in the Big Sky this week: the Aries New Moon, this year’s eclipse season midpoint, and Venus offers Jupiter and Pluto an earthy elbow-bump. Plus: monarch butterflies, tortilla chips, a new imaginary sponsor, and Larry, Moe, and Curly. Oh, and pie. Always, pie. Order your copy of the Followed by a Moonshadow Eclipse Report to understand 3 years of personalized eclipse cycles in your birth chart! Please support the BSA podcast by making a contribution of any amount! April &amp; Jen thank you. 😊 To join the podcast conversation and leave a comment for April &amp; Jen, go to www.BigSkyAstroPod.com. Read more about this week’s astrology at the Big Sky Astrology website. Subscribe to the podcast and April's mailing list. Follow Big Sky Astrology on IG, Twitter, and FB @BigSkyAstrology Read a full transcript of this episode.  Episode links: 01:10 – The word of the week is kerflooey! Or better yet, nibling! 02:11 – How to override your lizard brain and help keep your cool during times of stress. Three cheers for the almond-shaped amygdala! (If you prefer, you can join April and imagine this famous reptile.) 02:47 – To put the prefrontal cortex back in charge, count your breaths, pet your dog, or meditate. (Here's a free meditation for adults or kids. And if you have some extra buck, our newest imaginary sponsor Headspace offers a great app!) 03:44 – HELPFUL STUFF: Episode 12 features a method to ground yourself. In Episode 13 you’ll find a breathing technique. And here are many more useful articles and resources: "Guide to Well-Being During Coronavirus", "6 Steps for Getting Out of a Panic Spiral", "Taking the Fear Out of Coronavirus"  and creating a home retreat during difficult times. 06:55 – Is the future static, or are we co-creating it right now? In the present moment, April contends, is the seed of the future. (Hang on while Jen grabs a tissue…) 07:38 – Take April’s mom’s advice: When things get overwhelming, clean one drawer! What are the things on your list that you DO have control over? 09:48 – You definitely have control over what you’re grateful for! Try to focus on that. Just… stop, notice, breathe. There you go! You got it. 😊 10:20 – Let’s play the Moonwatch theme, which reminds April of dramatic chipmunk! 10:42 – ** Moonwatch**! There is a New Moon at 4°12’ Aries on March 24. This is our fifth New Moon on the BSA Podcast! (And listen to Episode 14 to find out why April loves the number 5!) 11:13 – The Sabian symbol is, “A triangle with wings.” Jen thinks of monarchs, the 3 Stooges, tortilla chips… and, of course, pie! April’s imagination summons the trine aspect, and in the season of the fast-moving Ram this speaks of the world’s accelerating pace. 13:40 – The Sun’s square to the Lunar Nodes (March 23) marks the midpoint between the December 25/26 Solar eclipse (4° Capricorn) and the upcoming June 21 Solar eclipse (at 0° Cancer). Any planets in your chart between 0-4° Aries, Cancer, Libra, or Capricorn? This New Moon kicks them in the shins. 16:01 – Don’t forget to order your Followed by a Moonshadow Eclipse Report! It’s exclusive. 19:25 – Doesn’t an open-air tabletop garden sound fun? If you’re not into terrariums, try starting seeds indoors. 20:00 – Venus and Jupiter meet in a cooperative aspect on March 27/28. With both in earth signs (cheat sheet on the elements here), this transit is generally a positive one … use it to reach out to people in generosity and fellowship. We always like fellowship (that story is in Episode 13)! And make sure to pick up a copy of April’s lovely book “Astrological Transits,” which is funny, accessible, eloquent… and you’ll learn a few things, too. 21:35 – Jen’s side note: Alert listeners know that we record a week in advance, and my get-together with friends took place before small gatherings were verboten. Now, as April discussed in Episode 5, “We go nowhere, we see no one, and we do nothing!” 21:40 – On March 28, Venus in Taurus trines Pluto in Capricorn. April shares the myth of Persephone with Pluto (also called Hades in Greek mythology). April shares Michelle Gould’s interpretation of this transit. Add something lovely to the parts of life that are difficult or trying. And hey, maybe channel your focus in a way that helps others. 26:29 – Jen enjoys the idea of Venus bringing the aspect to Pluto, not the other way around. It’s a useful way to think of transits. Thanks, April! 27:45 – April and Jen’s convivial elbow bump brings this episode to a close! But before you go, please do subscribe to the BSA podcast if you’re able, and tell a friend about us. If you’re enjoying the show, please consider leaving us a positive review, or write us a nice note! Finally, this week, give your dollar to someone in need. It’s intense here on planet Earth… so help someone out! Peace. ❤

As the world’s anxiety level is turned up to eleven, April and Jen share some mindfulness techniques to help you be here now. And in the Big Sky this week: the Aries New Moon, this year’s eclipse season midpoint, and Venus offers Jupiter and Pluto an earthy elbow-bump. Plus: monarch butterflies, tortilla chips, a new imaginary sponsor, and Larry, Moe, and Curly. Oh, and pie. Always, pie. Order your copy of the <a href="https://www.bigskyastrology.com/product/eclipse-astrology-report/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Followed by a Moonshadow Eclipse Report</a> to understand 3 years of personalized eclipse cycles in your birth chart! <a href="https://www.bigskyastrology.com/product/support-the-bsa-podcast/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Please support the BSA podcast by making a contribution of any amount</a>! April &amp; Jen thank you. 😊 To join the podcast conversation and leave a comment for April &amp; Jen, go to <a href="http://www.BigSkyAstroPod.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.BigSkyAstroPod.com</a>. Read more about <a href="https://www.bigskyastrology.com/category/weekly-highlights/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">this week’s astrology at the Big Sky Astrology website</a>. Subscribe to the podcast and <a href="https://www.bigskyastrology.com/subscribe/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">April's mailing list</a>. Follow Big Sky Astrology on <a href="https://www.instagram.com/bigskyastrology/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">IG</a>, <a href="https://twitter.com/bigskyastrology" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Twitter</a>, and <a href="https://www.facebook.com/bigskyastrology" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">FB</a> @BigSkyAstrology <a href="https://www.bigskyastrology.com/transcript-ep-18" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Read a full transcript of this episode.</a> Episode links: 01:10 – The word of the week is <a href="https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/kerflooey" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">kerflooey</a>! Or better yet, <a href="https://www.merriam-webster.com/words-at-play/words-were-watching-nibling" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">nibling</a>! 02:11 – How to override your lizard brain and help keep your cool during times of stress. <a href="https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/all-about-anxiety/201807/learn-love-your-amygdala" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Three cheers for the almond-shaped amygdala</a>! (If you prefer, you can join April and imagine <a href="https://www.geico.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">this famous reptile</a>.) 02:47 – To put the <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Prefrontal_cortex" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">prefrontal cortex</a> back in charge, count your breaths, pet your dog, or meditate. (<a href="https://free.healthjourneys.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Here's a free meditation for adults or kids</a>. And if you have some extra buck, our newest imaginary sponsor <a href="https://www.headspace.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Headspace</a> offers a great app!) 03:44 – HELPFUL STUFF: <a href="https://www.bigskyastrology.com/episode-12/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Episode 12</a> features a method to ground yourself. In <a href="https://www.bigskyastrology.com/episode-13/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Episode 13</a> you’ll find a breathing technique. And here are many more useful articles and resources: <a href="https://greatergood.berkeley.edu/article/item/greater_good_guide_to_well_being_during_coronavirus" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">"Guide to Well-Being During Coronavirus"</a>, <a href="https://www.curablehealth.com/blog/6-steps-for-getting-out-of-the-pain-cycle" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">"6 Steps for Getting Out of a Panic Spiral"</a>, <a href="https://www.joanborysenko.com/2020/03/taking-the-fear-out-of-coronavirus/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">"Taking the Fear Out of Coronavirus"</a>  and <a href="https://www.tarabrach.com/create-home-retreat/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">creating a home retreat during difficult times</a>. 06:55 – Is the future static, or are we co-creating it right now? In the present moment, April contends, is the seed of the future. (Hang on while Jen grabs a tissue…) 07:38 – Take April’s mom’s advice: When things get overwhelming, <a href="https://www.bigskyastrology.com/virgo-full-moon-clean-one-drawer/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">clean one drawer</a>! What are the things on your list that you DO have control over? 09:48 – You definitely have control over what you’re grateful for! Try to focus on that. Just… stop, notice, breathe. There you go! You got it. 😊 10:20 – Let’s play the Moonwatch theme, which reminds April of <a href="https://youtu.be/mfhBM_Yay6w" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">dramatic chipmunk</a>! 10:42 – ** Moonwatch**! There is a New Moon at 4°12’ Aries on March 24. This is our fifth New Moon on the BSA Podcast! (And listen to <a href="https://www.bigskyastrology.com/episode-14/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Episode 14</a> to find out why April loves the number 5!) 11:13 – The <a href="https://sabiansymbols.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Sabian symbol</a> is, “A triangle with wings.” Jen thinks of monarchs, <a href="https://www.imdb.com/name/nm1947784/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">the 3 Stooges</a>, tortilla chips… and, of course, pie! April’s imagination summons the trine aspect, and in the season of the fast-moving Ram this speaks of the world’s accelerating pace. 13:40 – The Sun’s square to the Lunar Nodes (March 23) marks the midpoint between the December 25/26 Solar eclipse (4° Capricorn) and the upcoming June 21 Solar eclipse (at 0° Cancer). Any planets in your chart between 0-4° Aries, Cancer, Libra, or Capricorn? This New Moon kicks them in the shins. 16:01 – Don’t forget to order your <a href="https://www.bigskyastrology.com/product/eclipse-astrology-report/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Followed by a Moonshadow Eclipse Report</a>! It’s exclusive. 19:25 – Doesn’t an <a href="https://www.wikihow.com/Make-a-Terrarium" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">open-air tabletop garden</a> sound fun? If you’re not into terrariums, try <a href="https://www.wikihow.com/Start-Seeds-Indoors" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">starting seeds indoors</a>. 20:00 – Venus and Jupiter meet in a cooperative aspect on March 27/28. With both in earth signs (<a href="https://www.bigskyastrology.com/bsa_elements/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">cheat sheet on the elements here</a>), this transit is generally a positive one … use it to reach out to people in generosity and fellowship. We always like fellowship (that story is in <a href="https://www.bigskyastrology.com/episode-13/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Episode 13</a>)! And make sure to pick up a copy of April’s lovely book “<a href="https://www.bigskyastrology.com/astrological-transits/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Astrological Transits</a>,” which is funny, accessible, eloquent… and you’ll learn a few things, too. 21:35 – Jen’s side note: Alert listeners know that we record a week in advance, and my get-together with friends took place before small gatherings were verboten. Now, as April discussed in <a href="https://www.bigskyastrology.com/005-unboxing-eclipses/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Episode 5</a>, “We go nowhere, we see no one, and we do nothing!” 21:40 – On March 28, Venus in Taurus trines Pluto in Capricorn. April shares the myth of Persephone with Pluto (also called Hades in Greek mythology). April shares <a href="https://heavenlywriting.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Michelle Gould</a>’s interpretation of this transit. Add something lovely to the parts of life that are difficult or trying. And hey, maybe channel your focus in a way that helps others. 26:29 – Jen enjoys the idea of Venus bringing the aspect to Pluto, not the other way around. It’s a useful way to think of transits. Thanks, April! 27:45 – April and Jen’s convivial <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Elbow_bump" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">elbow bump</a> brings this episode to a close! But before you go, please do subscribe to the BSA podcast if you’re able, and tell a friend about us. If you’re enjoying the show, please consider leaving us a positive review, or <a href="https://www.bigskyastrology.com/podcast/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">write us a nice note</a>! Finally, this week, give your dollar to someone in need. It’s intense here on planet Earth… so help someone out! Peace. ❤

018 | Aries New Moon and a Kerflooey World

April and Jen would like to buy a vowel or two, please, as they paddle furiously against the muddy Mercury Rx in Pisces conversational tide. This week in the Big Sky: A New Moon in Pisces, the Jupiter/Neptune sextile, and Venus and Jupiter in joyful, excessive cahoots. All of this, plus gophers, the four elements, Lady Gaga, kites, Game of Thrones, and more! Please support the BSA podcast for as little as a buck! April &amp; Jen thank you. 😊 Read more about this week’s astrology in April's weekly column!. Subscribe to the podcast and April's mailing list. Follow Big Sky Astrology on IG, Twitter, and FB @BigSkyAstrology Read a full transcript of this episode  Episode links:  01:05 – A big thank you to listeners who have left such lovely comments! Please keep them coming, and perhaps your co-hosts will read your comment aloud in a future episode! Because we are all about fellowship. 01:40 – More than you probably wanted to know about April’s affinity for Bob Ross in Episode 8! 03:36 – If you love the podcast, please consider kicking in a few dollars to help keep it going! Thanks thanks thanks!!! 04:59 – The Sun wades into Pisces on Feb. 18th, sextiling Uranus on the 22nd and Mars on the 24th. Fire sign April attempts to describe water signs here (more on them in Episode 3!). 05:58 – A description of the four elements: fire, earth, air, and water. 08:18 – Free cheat sheet on the elements!! Grab it here. And while you’re at it, wouldn’t you like to sign up for April’s fantabulous newsletter? 09:19 – Jen wonders whether the Sun/Mercury in Pisces and no planets in air signs right now are making it harder to think clearly? (Because something is!) April gives her two cents, which are worth at least a dollar. 09:58 – Jen is fascinated by April’s casual mention of the gopher civilization taking over her backyard. Plus, hello? The “coincidence” of the connection between April’s backyard and the University of Minnesota's mascot surely means April is meant to move to Minneapolis… which, happily, April realizes on her own. 10:40 – What does it mean if you are missing one of the four elements in your birth chart? 12:06 – Jen shares an exercise called box breathing as a possible remedy to the current lack of planets in air signs. (Could be helpful, too, if your birth chart is light on this element!). And if earth is what you need, listen to Episode 12 for a quick grounding exercise. 13:10 – Lady Gaga is the avatar of the moment! 14:38 – It’s ** Moonwatch** time! A New Moon (Feb. 23rd) at 4.28 Pisces is on the Sabian symbol “a church bazaar.” (And though April seems to picture it as a Midwestern Mayberry, Minneapolis is a fairly large city, and is officially a terrific place to live!) [“Hey, San Diego is a good-sized city, too, and we have church bazaars!” ~ April] 19:24 – If you have a planet or point at 5 Virgo, go fly a kite! And more about chart configurations. 20:55 – *We interrupt our regularly scheduled program to bring you a fleeting Game of Thrones reference.* 23:47 – Listen to last week’s Episode 12 for more about the Jupiter/Neptune sextile, in effect throughout 2020! 24:40 – Venus squares Jupiter on Feb. 23rd… curb your indulgences and know your return policies! Plus, a mini-lesson on astrological grammar. 26:52 – Want to hear more on Jupiter in Capricorn? Check out Episode 2! 29:18 – Check out Episode 3 to hear about Friday the 13th and days of the week.

April and Jen would like to buy a vowel or two, please, as they paddle furiously against the muddy Mercury Rx in Pisces conversational tide. This week in the Big Sky: A New Moon in Pisces, the Jupiter/Neptune sextile, and Venus and Jupiter in joyful, excessive cahoots. All of this, plus gophers, the four elements, Lady Gaga, kites, Game of Thrones, and more! <a href="https://www.bigskyastrology.com/product/support-the-bsa-podcast/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Please support the BSA podcast for as little as a buck</a>! April &amp; Jen thank you. 😊 Read more about <a href="https://www.bigskyastrology.com/category/weekly-highlights/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">this week’s astrology in April's weekly column!</a>. Subscribe to the podcast and <a href="https://www.bigskyastrology.com/subscribe/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">April's mailing list</a>. Follow Big Sky Astrology on <a href="https://www.instagram.com/bigskyastrology/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">IG</a>, <a href="https://twitter.com/bigskyastrology" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Twitter</a>, and <a href="https://www.facebook.com/bigskyastrology" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">FB</a> @BigSkyAstrology <a href="https://bigskyastrology.com/transcript-episode-13" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Read a full transcript of this episode</a> Episode links: 01:05 – A big thank you to listeners who have left such lovely comments! Please keep them coming, and perhaps your co-hosts will read your comment aloud in a future episode! Because we are all about fellowship. 01:40 – More than you probably wanted to know about April’s affinity for Bob Ross in <a href="https://bigskyastrology.podbean.com/e/008-saturn-and-pluto-need-a-party/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Episode 8</a>! 03:36 – If you love the podcast, please consider <a href="https://www.bigskyastrology.com/product/support-the-bsa-podcast/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">kicking in a few dollars to help keep it going</a>! Thanks thanks thanks!!! 04:59 – The Sun wades into Pisces on Feb. 18th, sextiling Uranus on the 22nd and Mars on the 24th. Fire sign April attempts to describe water signs here (more on them in <a href="https://bigskyastrology.podbean.com/e/003-alexa-play-love-the-one-you-re-with/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Episode 3</a>!). 05:58 – A description of the four elements: fire, earth, air, and water. 08:18 – Free cheat sheet on the elements!! <a href="https://www.bigskyastrology.com/bsa_elements" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Grab it here</a><a href="https://www.bigskyastrology.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/BSA_Elements.pdf" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">.</a> And while you’re at it, wouldn’t you like to sign up for <a href="https://www.bigskyastrology.com/subscribe/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">April’s fantabulous newsletter</a>? 09:19 – Jen wonders whether the Sun/Mercury in Pisces and no planets in air signs right now are making it harder to think clearly? (Because something is!) April gives her two cents, which are worth at least a dollar. 09:58 – Jen is fascinated by April’s casual mention of the gopher civilization taking over her backyard. Plus, hello? The “coincidence” of the connection between April’s backyard and <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Goldy_Gopher" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">the University of Minnesota's mascot</a> surely means April is meant to move to Minneapolis… which, happily, April realizes on her own. 10:40 – What does it mean if you are missing one of the four elements in your birth chart? 12:06 – Jen shares an exercise called <a href="https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/crazy-life/201809/how-reduce-anxiety-so-you-can-feel-calm-think-clearly-0" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">box breathing</a> as a possible remedy to the current lack of planets in air signs. (Could be helpful, too, if your birth chart is light on this element!). And if earth is what you need, listen to <a href="https://bigskyastrology.podbean.com/e/012-mercury-retrograde-where-are-my-pants/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Episode 12</a> for a quick grounding exercise. 13:10 – <a href="https://www.astro.com/astro-databank/Lady_Gaga" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Lady Gaga</a> is the avatar of the moment! 14:38 – It’s ** Moonwatch** time! A New Moon (Feb. 23rd) at 4.28 Pisces is on the <a href="https://sabiansymbols.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Sabian symbol</a> “a church bazaar.” (And though April seems to picture it as a Midwestern <a href="https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0053479/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Mayberry</a>, Minneapolis is a fairly large city, and is officially a <a href="https://www.minneapolis.org/media/facts-and-research/accolades/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">terrific place to live</a>!) [“Hey, San Diego is a good-sized city, too, and we have church bazaars!” ~ April] 19:24 – If you have a planet or point at 5 Virgo, go fly a kite! And more about <a href="https://cafeastrology.com/articles/aspectpatterns.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">chart configurations</a>. 20:55 – *We interrupt our regularly scheduled program to bring you a fleeting <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/First_of_His_Name" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Game of Thrones</a> reference.* 23:47 – Listen to last week’s <a href="https://bigskyastrology.podbean.com/e/012-mercury-retrograde-where-are-my-pants/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Episode 12</a> for more about the Jupiter/Neptune sextile, in effect throughout 2020! 24:40 – Venus squares Jupiter on Feb. 23rd… curb your indulgences and know your return policies! Plus, a mini-lesson on astrological grammar. 26:52 – Want to hear more on Jupiter in Capricorn? Check out <a href="https://bigskyastrology.podbean.com/e/2-falstaff-in-a-business-suit/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Episode 2</a>! 29:18 – Check out <a href="https://bigskyastrology.podbean.com/e/003-alexa-play-love-the-one-you-re-with/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Episode 3</a> to hear about Friday the 13th and days of the week.

013 | Pisces Season: Gopher It!

Stroll down memory lane with April and Jen as we celebrate the BSA Podcast’s 6-month half-birthday! It’s a busy week: the Sun joins the ongoing Gemini party and teams up with the Moon for a stabilizing, yet energizing new lunar cycle; Mercury translates for Venus as she makes her second of three aspects to nebulous Neptune; and Mars and Uranus team to up to offer new opportunities and unexpected gifts. Also, eclipse season will be upon us soon enough (June 5), and a little prep never hurt anyone! Plus: Christmas in springtime, deliciously dangerous potstickers, and composting gophers.  Prepare for the eclipses by ordering a personalized Followed by a Moonshadow eclipse report! To join the podcast conversation and leave a comment for April &amp; Jen, go to www.BigSkyAstroPod.com. Read more about this week’s astrology at the Big Sky Astrology website, and sign up for April's mailing list! Follow Big Sky Astrology on IG, Twitter, and FB @BigSkyAstrology Read a full transcript of this episode.  Episode links: 00:30 – Friends: April and Jen are officially half a year into our podcasting adventure! Celebrate with us! Who can forget April’s love for Bob Ross, The Repair Shop being name-dropped approximately 100 times, or Jen’s charming parents? Your intrepid co-hosts’ favorite episodes include frequent laughter, teachable moments, and delightful titles – and they are: Episode 5, Unboxing Eclipses (Winner, First Uncontrollable Laughing Fit) Episode 7, Saturn &amp; Pluto Go to The Repair Shop (Winner, April’s Favorite Netflix Show Finally Makes It into a Title) Episode 8, Saturn and Pluto Need a Party (Winner, Jen’s Biggest Belly-Laugh) Episode 12, Mercury Retrograde: Where Are My Pants? (Winner, Best Title Ever) Episode 14, Retrograde Minds, Cazimi Hearts, Can’t Lose (Winner, Most Love for “Friday Night Lights”) Episode 21, Cardinal, Fixed, &amp; Mutable: Signs a la Mod-alities (Winner, Loveliest Teachable Moment) Episode 22, Taurus New Moon and Venus Gone Wild (Winner, Sweetest Moment with Parental Cameo)  And here’s the link to read Jen's essay, "Scorpio Full Moon: Life Lessons on Letting Go" – her personal journey with her injury. . 07:18 – If you enjoy the podcast, April &amp; Jen have a request: Please take one second and give the podcast a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts (or wherever you listen). Bonus points if you leave a positive review! It helps others find the show. Thanks! . 08:28 – Welcome airy, adaptable, communicative Gemini season! The Sun strolls into the sign of the Twins on May 20 and joins Mercury, Venus, the North Node – and soon, the Moon as well. . 10:47 – The Sun connects with Saturn in Aquarius on the May 22. The Sabian symbol for 2 Gemini is “Santa Claus Filling Stockings Furtively.” Good things coming our way? Learn how April views this symbol – it’s her descendant degree! . 12:35 – Venus squares Neptune for the second time on May 20: an opportunity to take a fresh approach to how we relate to our closest peeps. (To revisit Venus’s first square, go to Episode 23, Talkin’ Taurus and the Void (Of Course!) Moon. To hear even more about Venus, listen to episodes 21 &amp; 22 – see above for the link.) . 15:11 – ** Moonwatch**! The New Moon (May 22) is at 2°04’ Gemini. It’s on one of Sabian symbol expert Lynda Hill’s favorites, “The Garden of the Tuileries,” referencing the fascinating Parisian garden and park. This is about beauty and leisure, or maybe literally getting a garden going. (Should the Kents persist with their home composting project, or simply move to Minneapolis, where their compost would be picked up at home?) The New Moon offers a nice combo of flow and conflict, with squares for character and grit, and trines to help us build something dear to our hearts. . 23:30 – Mercury and Venus are united, and together they square Neptune in the New Moon chart. Mercury brings a realization or awareness of something related to the ongoing Venus/Neptune square. And remember: the birth chart shows everything possible, so don’t pigeonhole someone because of any one aspect. Lecture over. As you were. . 26:33 – Hey, where’s the fire? There’s none in the sky, but keep a close eye on the stove… and keep your fire extinguishers close! And freebie: Don’t forget to subscribe to the Big Sky mailing list – your free monthly workbook shows you where the Moon is every day! . 31:10 – We are two weeks away from the June 5 eclipse at 15 Sagittarius! If you have any planets or points between 11-19 of mutable signs (Gemini, Virgo, Sagittarius, or Pisces), this is an important eclipse for you. This eclipse will mark the beginning of a series of eclipses falling in Gemini/Sag over the next year and a half, with a focus on what you know and what you need to learn. Revisit Episode 24, Scorpio Full Moon &amp; Lunar Nodes for Grasshoppers to brush up. And make sure to grab your personalized copy of Followed by a Moonshadow eclipse report, which will outline what is going on for you. Yes, you! . 35:17 – Action-oriented Mars in gentle, kind Pisces makes an opportunity aspect to unpredictable Uranus in earthy Taurus (May 24). Uranus is on the Sabian symbol “A Christmas tree.” It’s a good time to help people or causes that are important to you, and perhaps an unexpected gift will land at your feet. (For a review on this aspect, head on over to Episode 16, Let's Talk About Sextiles.) . 38:36 – And… it’s official! April and Jen are 26 episodes in! We had no idea what we were getting ourselves into when we started… podcast archaeology, that’s all it is, friends, and we’re digging it! 😉 . 40:04 – April and Jen’s podcast semi-birthday request: If you can afford it – donate to a good cause this week! Can’t you just see the ripple of love and groovy vibes flowing from the podcast out into the world? To help the podcast at no cost to you, please SUBSCRIBE, RATE &amp; REVIEW! (That’s not yelling; it’s just excitement! 😊) And… thanks for listening! For real. We wouldn’t be here if you weren’t tuning in. We appreciate you! We embrace you!  

Stroll down memory lane with April and Jen as we celebrate the BSA Podcast’s 6-month half-birthday! It’s a busy week: the Sun joins the ongoing Gemini party and teams up with the Moon for a stabilizing, yet energizing new lunar cycle; Mercury translates for Venus as she makes her second of three aspects to nebulous Neptune; and Mars and Uranus team to up to offer new opportunities and unexpected gifts. Also, eclipse season will be upon us soon enough (June 5), and a little prep never hurt anyone! Plus: Christmas in springtime, deliciously dangerous potstickers, and composting gophers. Prepare for the eclipses by ordering a personalized <a href="https://www.bigskyastrology.com/product/eclipse-astrology-report/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Followed by a Moonshadow eclipse report</a>! To join the podcast conversation and leave a comment for April &amp; Jen, go to <a href="http://www.bigskyastropod.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.BigSkyAstroPod.com</a>. Read more about <a href="https://www.bigskyastrology.com/category/weekly-highlights/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">this week’s astrology at the Big Sky Astrology website</a>, and sign up for <a href="https://www.bigskyastrology.com/subscribe/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">April's mailing list</a>! Follow Big Sky Astrology on <a href="https://www.instagram.com/bigskyastrology/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">IG</a>, <a href="https://twitter.com/bigskyastrology" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Twitter</a>, and <a href="https://www.facebook.com/bigskyastrology" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">FB</a> @BigSkyAstrology <a href="https://www.bigskyastrology.com/transcript-ep-26/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Read a full transcript of this episode.</a> Episode links: 00:30 – Friends: April and Jen are officially half a year into our podcasting adventure! Celebrate with us! Who can forget April’s love for Bob Ross, The Repair Shop being name-dropped approximately 100 times, or Jen’s charming parents? Your intrepid co-hosts’ favorite episodes include frequent laughter, teachable moments, and delightful titles – and they are: <ul><li><a href="https://www.bigskyastrology.com/005-unboxing-eclipses/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Episode 5, Unboxing Eclipses</a> (Winner, First Uncontrollable Laughing Fit)</li> <li><a href="https://www.bigskyastrology.com/007-saturn-and-pluto-go-to-the-repair-shop/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Episode 7, Saturn &amp; Pluto Go to The Repair Shop</a> (Winner, April’s Favorite Netflix Show Finally Makes It into a Title)</li> <li><a href="https://www.bigskyastrology.com/008-saturn-and-pluto-need-a-party/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Episode 8, Saturn and Pluto Need a Party</a> (Winner, Jen’s Biggest Belly-Laugh)</li> <li><a href="https://www.bigskyastrology.com/episode-12/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Episode 12, Mercury Retrograde: Where Are My Pants?</a> (Winner, Best Title Ever)</li> <li><a href="https://www.bigskyastrology.com/episode-14/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Episode 14, Retrograde Minds, Cazimi Hearts, Can’t Lose</a> (Winner, Most Love for “Friday Night Lights”)</li> <li><a href="https://www.bigskyastrology.com/episode-21/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Episode 21, Cardinal, Fixed, &amp; Mutable: Signs a la Mod-alities</a> (Winner, Loveliest Teachable Moment)</li> <li><a href="https://www.bigskyastrology.com/episode-22/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Episode 22, Taurus New Moon and Venus Gone Wild</a> (Winner, Sweetest Moment with Parental Cameo)</li> </ul> And here’s the link to read <a href="https://www.bigskyastrology.com/scorpio-full-moon-life-lessons-on-letting-go/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Jen's essay, "Scorpio Full Moon: Life Lessons on Letting Go"</a> – her personal journey with her injury. . 07:18 – If you enjoy the podcast, April &amp; Jen have a request: Please take one second and give the podcast a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts (or wherever you listen). Bonus points if you leave a positive review! It helps others find the show. Thanks! . 08:28 – Welcome airy, adaptable, communicative Gemini season! The Sun strolls into the sign of the Twins on May 20 and joins Mercury, Venus, the North Node – and soon, the Moon as well. . 10:47 – The Sun connects with Saturn in Aquarius on the May 22. The <a href="https://sabiansymbols.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Sabian symbol</a> for 2 Gemini is “Santa Claus Filling Stockings Furtively.” Good things coming our way? Learn how April views this symbol – it’s her descendant degree! . 12:35 – Venus squares Neptune for the second time on May 20: an opportunity to take a fresh approach to how we relate to our closest peeps. (To revisit Venus’s first square, go to <a href="https://www.bigskyastrology.com/episode-23/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Episode 23, Talkin’ Taurus and the Void (Of Course!) Moon</a>. To hear even more about Venus, listen to episodes 21 &amp; 22 – see above for the link.) . 15:11 – ** Moonwatch**! The New Moon (May 22) is at 2°04’ Gemini. It’s on one of Sabian symbol expert <a href="https://sabiansymbols.com/about-lynda-hill/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Lynda Hill’s</a> favorites, “<a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tuileries_Garden" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">The Garden of the Tuileries</a>,” referencing the fascinating Parisian garden and park. This is about beauty and leisure, or maybe literally getting a garden going. (Should the Kents persist with their home composting project, or simply <a href="http://minneapolismn.gov/solid-waste/organics/acceptable-organics" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">move to Minneapolis, where their compost would be picked up at home</a>?) The New Moon offers a nice combo of flow and conflict, with squares for character and grit, and trines to help us build something dear to our hearts. . 23:30 – Mercury and Venus are united, and together they square Neptune in the New Moon chart. Mercury brings a realization or awareness of something related to the ongoing Venus/Neptune square. And remember: the birth chart shows everything possible, so don’t pigeonhole someone because of any one aspect. Lecture over. As you were. . 26:33 – Hey, where’s the fire? There’s none in the sky, but keep a close eye on the stove… and keep your fire extinguishers close! And freebie: Don’t forget to subscribe to <a href="https://www.bigskyastrology.com/subscribe/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">the Big Sky mailing list</a> – your free monthly workbook shows you where the Moon is every day! . 31:10 – We are two weeks away from the June 5 eclipse at 15 Sagittarius! If you have any planets or points between 11-19 of mutable signs (Gemini, Virgo, Sagittarius, or Pisces), this is an important eclipse for you. This eclipse will mark the beginning of a series of eclipses falling in Gemini/Sag over the next year and a half, with a focus on what you know and what you need to learn. Revisit <a href="https://www.bigskyastrology.com/episode-24/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Episode 24, Scorpio Full Moon &amp; Lunar Nodes for Grasshoppers</a> to brush up. And make sure to grab your personalized copy of <a href="https://www.bigskyastrology.com/product/eclipse-astrology-report/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Followed by a Moonshadow eclipse report</a>, which will outline what is going on for you. Yes, you! . 35:17 – Action-oriented Mars in gentle, kind Pisces makes an opportunity aspect to unpredictable Uranus in earthy Taurus (May 24). Uranus is on the Sabian symbol “A Christmas tree.” It’s a good time to help people or causes that are important to you, and perhaps an unexpected gift will land at your feet. (For a review on this aspect, head on over to <a href="https://www.bigskyastrology.com/episode-16/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Episode 16, Let's Talk About Sextiles</a>.) . 38:36 – And… it’s official! April and Jen are 26 episodes in! We had no idea what we were getting ourselves into when we started… podcast archaeology, that’s all it is, friends, and we’re digging it! 😉 . 40:04 – April and Jen’s podcast semi-birthday request: If you can afford it – donate to a good cause this week! Can’t you just see the ripple of love and groovy vibes flowing from the podcast out into the world? To help the podcast at no cost to you, please SUBSCRIBE, RATE &amp; REVIEW! (That’s not yelling; it’s just excitement! 😊) And… thanks for listening! For real. We wouldn’t be here if you weren’t tuning in. We appreciate you! We embrace you!

026 | Gemini New Moon and Six Months In!

This week in the Big Sky: Mercury dashes unsupervised into Gemini, and Mars winds up in Pisces quicksand; April and Jen examine a perfectly formed Aquarius Last Quarter Moon; and Venus and Jupiter square dance their way onto Team Retrograde! Also: learn who’s Best in Show…and, has it really been a dozen episodes since April last considered moving to Minneapolis?!      Can you spare a dollar or ten to support the BSA podcast? April &amp; Jen thank you! To join the podcast conversation and leave a comment for April &amp; Jen, go to www.BigSkyAstroPod.com. Read more about this week’s astrology at the Big Sky Astrology website, and sign up for April's mailing list! Subscribe to the podcast in iTunes, Stitcher, or wherever you listen to podcasts! Follow Big Sky Astrology on IG, Twitter, and FB @BigSkyAstrology Read a full transcript of this episode.      Episode links: 01:15 – Mercury dons his sparkly jester costume as he enters Gemini (May 11-28), the sign of his rulership. (And for more on rulerships, visit the episode with one of our favorite titles - Episode 14, Retrograde Minds, Cazimi Hearts, Can’t Lose.) . 4:20 – Mercury joins Venus in the out-of-bounds club (May 16)! (Review Episode 22, Taurus New Moon &amp; Venus Gone Wild to hear about out-of-bounds planets.) . 06:35 – Mercury squares Mars on his way out of Taurus (May 11), gasses up his fast car, and speeds into the house of the Twins. . 07:14 – Mars, the warrior planet, jumps in a meandering Pisces canoe (May 12 – June 27). With Pisces’s connection to infectious disease and viruses, Mars is definitely wearing his face mask while on deck! . 12:01 – First Pluto, then Saturn… and now Venus turns retrograde at 22 degrees Gemini! REevaluate RElationships, REegotiate, REvisit, REdo... words that begin with the letters “RE” are favored during REtrograde times! And, it’s a perfect time for Jen to RE-lobby April to move to Minneapolis… the home of the Twins, no less! How perfect is that for Gemini season? . 14:56 – The Sabian symbol where Venus turns retrograde is, “A barn dance.” This speaks of retracing your steps and an awareness of what it’s like to be in another person’s shoes. And hey, while Venus is moving backwards, standard astro-wisdom holds that you might want to avoid major decisions related to money, relationships, and your appearance. Just sayin’. . 20:11 – ** Moonwatch**! The Last Quarter Moon is at 24°13’ Aquarius (May 14) on the Sabian symbol, “A butterfly with the right wing more perfectly formed.” This speaks of minor imperfections and imbalance… but that right wing is really exquisite. The Sun is on, “A large well-kept public park.” (This Sabian symbol was last seen when Pluto stationed to go retrograde – REvisit Episode 22, Taurus New Moon &amp; Venus Gone Wild.) And put on your leisure suit while you’re at it – these are lovely, pretty, slow symbols, with open space for R&amp;R. . 24:57 – The retrograde parade marches on! Jupiter reverses direction this week as well (May 14 – Sept 12). When the outer planets turn around, we usually notice it a couple of days before and after. This is a good retrograde for self-awareness, inner growth, and self-guided studies. . 29:10 – FYI: April’s book, Astrological Transits, is listed as unavailable on Amazon.com through July … but it’s not being revised! So if you can find a used copy, go for it! And if you can’t find one anywhere, contact April [April (at) bigskyastrology (dot) com] – she might have a few copies for sale. (It’s also available in Kindle format.) . 31:02 – Podpals: Could you help April &amp; Jen out – at no cost to you – by subscribing, rating &amp; reviewing, and telling a friend about the podcast? Or, if you’d like to celebrate April &amp; Jen’s silver podcasting episode-iversary, donate a little funding to help cover costs. Thanks! 😃

This week in the Big Sky: Mercury dashes unsupervised into Gemini, and Mars winds up in Pisces quicksand; April and Jen examine a perfectly formed Aquarius Last Quarter Moon; and Venus and Jupiter square dance their way onto Team Retrograde! Also: learn who’s Best in Show…and, has it really been a dozen episodes since April last considered moving to Minneapolis?! Can you spare <a href="https://www.bigskyastrology.com/support-the-podcast/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">a dollar or ten to support the BSA podcast?</a> April &amp; Jen thank you! To join the podcast conversation and leave a comment for April &amp; Jen, go to <a href="http://www.bigskyastropod.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.BigSkyAstroPod.com</a>. Read more about <a href="https://www.bigskyastrology.com/blog/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">this week’s astrology at the Big Sky Astrology website</a>, and sign up for <a href="https://www.bigskyastrology.com/subscribe/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">April's mailing list</a>! Subscribe to the podcast in iTunes, Stitcher, or wherever you listen to podcasts! Follow Big Sky Astrology on <a href="https://www.instagram.com/bigskyastrology/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">IG</a>, <a href="https://twitter.com/bigskyastrology" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Twitter</a>, and <a href="https://www.facebook.com/bigskyastrology" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">FB</a> @BigSkyAstrology <a href="https://www.bigskyastrology.com/transcript-ep-25/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Read a full transcript of this episode.</a> Episode links: 01:15 – Mercury dons his sparkly jester costume as he enters Gemini (May 11-28), <a href="https://www.bigskyastrology.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/BSA_Rulerships-Dignities.pdf" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">the sign of his rulership</a>. (And for more on rulerships, visit the episode with one of our favorite titles - <a href="https://www.bigskyastrology.com/episode-14/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Episode 14, Retrograde Minds, Cazimi Hearts, Can’t Lose</a>.) . 4:20 – Mercury joins Venus in the out-of-bounds club (May 16)! (Review <a href="https://www.bigskyastrology.com/episode-22/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Episode 22, Taurus New Moon &amp; Venus Gone Wild</a> to hear about out-of-bounds planets.) . 06:35 – Mercury squares Mars on his way out of Taurus (May 11), gasses up his <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AIOAlaACuv4" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">fast car</a>, and speeds into the house of the Twins. . 07:14 – Mars, the warrior planet, jumps in a meandering Pisces canoe (May 12 – June 27). With Pisces’s connection to infectious disease and viruses, Mars is definitely wearing his face mask while on deck! . 12:01 – First Pluto, then Saturn… and now Venus turns retrograde at 22 degrees Gemini! REevaluate RElationships, REegotiate, REvisit, REdo... words that begin with the letters “RE” are favored during REtrograde times! And, it’s a perfect time for Jen to RE-lobby April to move to Minneapolis… the home of the Twins, no less! How perfect is that for Gemini season? . 14:56 – The <a href="https://sabiansymbols.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Sabian symbol</a> where Venus turns retrograde is, “A barn dance.” This speaks of retracing your steps and an awareness of what it’s like to be in another person’s shoes. And hey, while Venus is moving backwards, standard astro-wisdom holds that you might want to avoid major decisions related to money, relationships, and your appearance. Just sayin’. . 20:11 – ** Moonwatch**! The Last Quarter Moon is at 24°13’ Aquarius (May 14) on the <a href="https://sabiansymbols.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Sabian symbol</a>, “A butterfly with the right wing more perfectly formed.” This speaks of minor imperfections and imbalance… but that right wing is really exquisite. The Sun is on, “A large well-kept public park.” (This Sabian symbol was last seen when Pluto stationed to go retrograde – REvisit <a href="https://www.bigskyastrology.com/episode-22/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Episode 22, Taurus New Moon &amp; Venus Gone Wild</a>.) And put on your leisure suit while you’re at it – these are lovely, pretty, slow symbols, with open space for R&amp;R. . 24:57 – The retrograde parade marches on! Jupiter reverses direction this week as well (May 14 – Sept 12). When the outer planets turn around, we usually notice it a couple of days before and after. This is a good retrograde for self-awareness, inner growth, and self-guided studies. . 29:10 – FYI: April’s book, <a href="https://www.bigskyastrology.com/astrological-transits/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Astrological Transits</a>, is listed as unavailable on <a href="http://Amazon.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Amazon.com</a> through July … but it’s not being revised! So if you can find a used copy, go for it! And if you can’t find one anywhere, contact April [April (at) bigskyastrology (dot) com] – she might have a few copies for sale. (It’s also available in Kindle format.) . 31:02 – Podpals: Could you help April &amp; Jen out – at no cost to you – by subscribing, rating &amp; reviewing, and telling a friend about the podcast? Or, if you’d like to celebrate April &amp; Jen’s silver podcasting episode-iversary, <a href="https://www.bigskyastrology.com/support-the-podcast/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">donate a little funding</a> to help cover costs. Thanks! 😃

025 | The Retrograde Parade!

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