Pluto is the planet of destruction and regeneration, and now that it is in retrograde motion (beginning April 9, 2011, it will be retrograde until September 16) we will spend the next nearly six months re-examining old patterns in our lives. Retrograde periods don't have to be scary (as I've often extolled about periods of Mercury retrograde); instead, while things have a tendency to get muddled with other retrograde planets (with Mercury, for example, the ruler of communication, things in that arena tend to go haywire), Pluto retrograde is a time of slowing down to experience internal reflection. Retrograde periods are time to break out the "re:" regeneration, renewal, reflection….you

This New Moon in Aries occurred yesterday, April 3 at 10:32 am EDT (10:32 pm GMT) at 13 degrees. New moons signify a new cycle, new beginnings, and rebirth. This new moon will highlight the Aries qualities of confidence and independence. Being that there are a number of planets in Aries (Mercury, Mars, Jupiter, and Uranus, along with the Sun and the Moon), the Aries energy will be intense and lingering. The fiery energy of Aries could push us to start something new with this New Moon, something that will push us outside of our personal comfort zones when it comes to being assertive and confident. You may find yourself taking a new class, starting a new hobby, or creating a sassy new

Run for cover! (Really, just kidding.) Mercury has turned retrograde today at 25 degrees Aries, and will remain retrograde until April 23, when it again turns direct. Since Mercury is so slow-moving, the effects of this retrograde period could potentially be felt for a few weeks afterward (until the end of April). I’ve stated many times before that Mercury retrograde is truly not to be feared. While periods of Mercury retrograde are not ideal times to begin new ventures (and you should be extra careful with details of communication, travel, and finances), they are still powerful times of “re:” renewal, reflection, redoing, recovery, etc. This is a time to use the powerful

Aries, The Ram March 20 to April 19 Modality: Cardinal Element: Fire Ruler: Mars Keywords: Initiative, action, adventurous, enthusiastic, dynamic, impatient As an Aries you are a born leader, eager to take the initiative and be a leader. Be careful, though, as you tend to be impatient; this trait can get the better of you at times. You are energetic, and fiery Mars ensures that you are good at what you try. Sports and exercise for you are relaxing and help you free your mind. You have a wide social circle, though it is mostly comprised of acquaintances, rather than close friends. Your love life is nurtured by your energy and enthusiasm, which is helpful being that you place a