- Square to Ceres (loving others until you feel resentful of them)
- Sextile to Eris (dramatic and independent in love)
- Square to Neptune (insecurity)
- Sextile to Jupiter (expressive and creative)
- Trine to Elatus (eloquent expression)
- Conjunct to Chaos (unexpected events)
- Quincunx to Pluto (insecurity and power struggles)
And then after all that she needs a damn break and enters Cancer! Wow. Girl, yes…have a snack and nap like a Cancer would!
May 1st is May Day or Beltane, the Gaelic festival of Spring. The major themes of Beltane are fire, flowers, and fertility. Bonfires were traditionally built and were thought to have protective powers. Households would extinguish their candles and lamps and relight them with the flame from the Beltane bonfire. Take this opportunity to either literally or figuratively throw stuff into the fire that you are done with. You can write them on a piece of paper and then burn it in the flame of a candle which you’ve blessed. Green is the preferred color of Beltane. I don’t know about you, but I think the idea of burning the old, protecting the present, and blessing the future holds a lot of appeal right now!
Pluto will begin its annual retrograde this week, kicking off the retrograde season, which coincides with eclipse season. Both happen every year so this isn’t anything new. Pluto’s retrograde is significant this year because we JUST got out of Pluto in Capricorn, and specifically Pluto at 29° of Cap…and his retrograde will take us back into those final degrees of Capricorn again. So we will continue to see members of the “ruling elite” or the Plutocracy, called out for their bullshit and knocked off their high horses. This is going to go on for the rest of this year. So we will be revisiting all kinds of issues regarding power and control and the structures of government. It has been interesting to see the protests and mantrums happening in congress. Much of that didn’t start until Pluto was in Aquarius, and now it’s a full blown battle for democracy as we know it. The harder the oppressed push back against their oppressors, the louder the oppressors whine about being oppressed themselves. It’s absurd and I am ready for our civil war to be over, but we have “miles to go before we sleep”.
The biggest news this week is another eclipse, this time in Scorpio. Lunar eclipses can bring about changes and sometimes endings or closure; all of these changes are necessary for us to advance to the next level. This happens on 5/5 at 14° Scorpio - 14 also reduces to a 5 - which is the number of change. So it might be Cinco de Mayo, but Scorpio brings a pretty serious energy to the party on and around this day. Scorpio rules the 8th house of transformation. The 8th house also rules “other people’s money”. 2 weeks ago we had an eclipse in Taurus, which is opposite Scorpio and relates to money we earn. Themes for this are: getting our finances in order, examining our value, what makes us feel valued, what makes us feel secure, what changes need to happen in order to transform the power balance in these areas of our lives.
As events and issues pop up in the wake of this eclipse, try to observe before judging it. Try not to over react. Stand in your power. Think like a Scorpio and be strategic when necessary. But ultimately, allow the transformation to take place.
It is fascinating to me that eclipses repeat to the exact degree every 19 years. Math - if I’d known how cool it was back in the day. Anyway, the last time we had this exact eclipse was May 4, 2004. The themes repeat, but not the exact circumstances. (In 2004 I had a 5 month old baby, and that was pretty much the influence of my life at that time. so…no.) Think about the themes during that time, and then apply the Scorpio themes and the themes of the house and axis of the eclipse.
Let’s use me as an example. The 2004 eclipse hit my 6th and 12th house axis of Scorpio and Taurus, respectively. (As an Aquarius, it would hit my solar 10th/4th houses, and this is why its a great idea to read your scopes for both your sun and rising sign.) I had a 5 month old baby, so my body (6th house) was healing (12th) and I was trying to figure out where I ended and baby began. I was breastfeeding, and at that time I was figuring it all out but finding a good routine. But, there was no sexual aspect to my breasts…it was all baby oriented. (That is all very 6th and Taurus, which rules the breasts but also Scorpio which is sexuality). I had zero interest in sex, which could be an indicator of my marriage, or could have been me and my body trying to navigate the healing process. (As an aside, I think we greatly underestimate the time it takes for the post partum body to heal! 6 weeks my ass!) My routine (6th house) was understandably a disaster because…newborn. I had just returned to work (10th house) by this time so I was juggling that with my new family responsibilities. If I extrapolate to the current circumstances, my body is healing from different things now (long covid, Shingles, chronic pain). I am working from home. I’m on the brink of menopause. And I’m trying to give that same baby life skills so he can go out on his own soon. Let’s not forget the financial themes of Taurus and Scorpio…in 2004 we were figuring out how to afford daycare and managing debt. In 2023, I am figuring out how to pay for college, and managing debt!
I would also like to add this information for those of you who unconsciously assume eclipses will be negative events. I did a deep dive into my chart and looked at all the eclipses that have hit my Sun, Moon, or Ascendant directly in my lifetime. In the past when I have known this was coming it would give me a sense of dread knowing that the eclipse would hit me so directly and try as I might I could never find any meaningful information that would soothe me. I noted the big things going on during each of those periods and almost all of them were overwhelmingly positive. The hardest ones were the Lunar Eclipses on my ascendant, but even in those cases, I made a choice myself to exit a situation. So if you dread these things, trust me...it's going to be ok! In fact, things might be "very ok", or even great!
Let’s look at what’s in store for each sign. And I think I’ll pair each scope with a wine…because that seems appropriate!
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ARIES - The eclipse this week hits your 8th house of intimacy, money, and rebirth, and on that same axis, the 2nd house of money earned. Think back to May 2004 and see if there are variations of the themes that were present at that time. Meanwhile, Pluto will retrograde back into your 10th house of career and public image. You were just starting to feel like you knew where you belonged and no one was holding you back with Pluto in Aquarius…you felt the freedom of being under your own authority. Maybe now you have to deal with some old work/money issues, a crusty boss, a disappointing raise etc. Mercury is retrograding in that 2nd house too, asking you to examine what you need to feel secure. You know what you need to take care of in order to really move forward (if you don’t know, you will soon!). Venus in Gemini will have you very socially busy this week, or at least communicating a lot. You’re gonna need a wine that goes with everything, is easy to drink, and is perfect for being outside, so I’m suggesting a nice, crisp Pinot Grigio for you. Cheers, Bitch!
TAURUS - The eclipse this week hits your 7th house of partnership, and on that same axis, the 1st house of self image. Think back to May 2004 and see if there are variations of the themes that were present at that time. With Mercury retrograding in your sign, I would guess that maybe you’re feeling insecure and it is causing some ripples in your relationships. Meanwhile, Pluto will retrograde back into your 9th house of knowledge expansion and experience. You just got a taste of the freedom of Pluto in Aquarius in your career, and now you have to deal with some old issues around a partner, a legal issue, an unexpected work trip etc. Pluto will move back into Aquarius at the very end of this year, so this is just an opportunity to get your ducks in a row. Venus is very busy this week in your 2nd house, and that’s great news. She can help you make money and charm people. I’m suggesting a nice Spanish Tempranillo for you (9th house is foreign lands), because it seems bougie and might ease your stress and impress your guests! Cheers, Bitch!
GEMINI - The eclipse this week hits your 6th house of health, wellness and routine, and on that same axis, the 12th house of secrets and solitude. Think back to May 2004 and see if there are variations of the themes that were present at that time. It might be something like a change in work assignments or tasks will change your routine and you’ll need to adjust. Mercury is retrograding in your 12th house so there are probably some unconscious thoughts and/or behaviors that are holding you back. Meanwhile, Pluto will retrograde back into your 8th house of intimacy. You probably got a taste of the freedom of Pluto in Aquarius in your 9th house, and now you have to dive into those deep waters again. Meh! But this too shall pass. Venus is busy in your sign this week, so if you want to try a new haircut, get a little botox, or update your style, this is the week to do it! I’m suggesting Champagne or Sparkling wine for you this week. Celebrate you! Cheers, Bitch!
CANCER - The eclipse this week hits your 5th house of creativity and pleasure, and on that same axis, the 11th house of friends and dreams. Think back to May 2004 and see if there are variations of the themes that were present at that time. It might be something like a problem in your peer group that prompts you to find satisfaction and meaning in creativity or romance. Mercury is also retrograding in that 11th house so there’s already a re-assessment happening there. Meanwhile, Pluto will retrograde back into your 7th house of partnership. That romance could become serious now, or power dynamics might emerge in your relationship(s) that cause you to reassess. Venus in Gemini is currently in your 12th house of solitude, but this week after a blur of activity, she slips into your sign, making you the bell of the ball. I’m suggesting a Merlot for you. It’s a beloved classic, like you, that is easy to drink either for quiet pleasure or with friends. Cheers, Bitch!
LEO - The eclipse this week hits your 4th house of home and family, and on that same axis, the 10th house of career and public life. Think back to May 2004 and see if there are variations of the themes that were present at that time. Is work demanding more of your time and mental resources than you’d like? Maybe your family says you seem stressed out. This is the classic work-life balancing act, and you’re not alone. Mercury is retrograding in that 10th house as well, so there’s already a focus on re-doing something there. Meanwhile, Pluto will retrograde back into your 6th house of health, habit and routine. I don’t think it’s a coincidence that your attention is being called back to the physical routines that give structure to your life. Design your life and routines in a way that works for you, not in a way that works for everyone else! Venus in Gemini is likely to have you very busy this week. You’ll get a break next week. In the meantime, pick up a bottle of your favorite easy-to-drink Chardonnay. It’s the antithesis of drama, and even you could use that right now! Cheers, Bitch!
VIRGO - The eclipse this week hits your 3rd house of communication, and on that same axis, the 9th house of education and expansion. Think back to May 2004 and see if there are variations of the themes that were present at that time. It might be something like feeling like you’re a little out of your depth in a particular role, or like you haven’t received the education or knowledge on a subject you’re being asked to present. With Mercury in that 9th house, maybe you need to backtrack and review. It’s very likely you’re being too hard on yourself, as well! Meanwhile, Pluto will retrograde back into your 5th house of creativity and pleasure. Are the power dynamics in your romance the way that you want them? This is your chance to examine and correct that. Venus in Gemini will have you very busy with career issues, and you don’t get much of a break when she moves into Cancer in your 11th house of networking either. Have a glass of something as dependable as you are (plus delish) - a Zinfandel! Cheers, Bitch!
LIBRA - The eclipse this week hits your 2nd house of income, and on that same axis, the 8th house of debt. Think back to May 2004 and see if there are variations of the themes that were present at that time. Mercury is retrograding in that 8th house as well. So this might have something to do with budgeting, a debt repayment plan, discussing all of this with your partner. These same houses also point to feelings of security and worth, and intimacy and connection. If you rely too much on money for your self esteem and happiness, this is the Universe reminding you that you are worthy regardless of what’s in your bank account. Meanwhile, Pluto will retrograde back into your 4th house of home and family to examine the power and control issues there. Meanwhile, you could consider having control over some Rosé all day! Cheers, Bitch!
SCORPIO - The eclipse this week hits your 1st house of self. Despite your fears, this could actually align you to something better than where you are now. You could be “on the lookout”, but this isn’t something you will miss. On that same axis, the 7th house of relationships might give you a clue. If a partner is being demanding or acting weird and you protect your boundaries, the scales will adjust the balance of power. Think back to May 2004 and see if there are variations of the themes that were present at that time. Meanwhile, Pluto will retrograde back into your 3rd house of communications to make sure you have the voice to speak up for those boundaries. Venus in Gemini will be busy in your 8th house, suggesting some emotional intensity or intimacy this week. I selected a deep, moody wine for you - Pinot Noir. Cheers, Bitch!
SAGITTARIUS - The eclipse this week hits your 12th house of secrets and solitude, and on that same axis, the 6th house of health and habits. Think back to May 2004 and see if there are variations of the themes that were present at that time. In particular I feel your sleep habits might slap you around this week. The 12th house is the house of the unconscious mind, and a bunch of other abstract concepts. Do you dream? Do your daily habits include negative thinking? Are you being lazy about work? (Mercury is retrograde in that 6th house, so maybe business is slow, or maybe you are?) These are the things that can really hold you back from your best self. Meanwhile, Pluto will retrograde back into your 2nd house of income, which is no coincidence. If your income is meh, maybe you need to look into your habits and routine. Venus in Gemini will be in your 7th house, making you oh so charming and sexy to your partner (which might further derail your work habits, but in the best way). I suggest an exotic, adventurous wine for you…a Malbec. Cheers, Bitch!
CAPRICORN - The eclipse this week hits your 11th house of people you know, and on that same axis, the 5th house of creativity and pleasure. I think even you would admit you are better at working than at playing. When was the last time you took up a new hobby? New friendships are possible when you step out of the box. Think back to May 2004 and see if there are variations of the themes that were present at that time. Meanwhile, Pluto will retrograde back into your 1st house of Oh My God Capricorns are so fucking over this shit. This is your friendly, Plutonian reminder not to give away too much of your power. Go after what you want! Yes, make it about you! Venus in Gemini will have you busy at the office this week, which is another reminder that you should do more work for yourself than for anyone else. This is serious shit, but calls for a good, solid, dependable (much like you) wine - Cabernet Sauvignon! Cheers, Bitch!
AQUARIUS - The eclipse this week hits your 10th house of career and public image, and on that same axis, the 4th house of home and family (where Mercury is retrograding, possibly making your appliances and/or relatives do weird things). Think back to May 2004 and see if there are variations of the themes that were present at that time. This is that work-life balance issue that we all deal with now and then. But deeper than that, do you like what you do? Is it meaningful to you? Nothing is sadder (or more toxic) than an unfulfilled Aquarius. Meanwhile, Pluto will retrograde back into your 12th house of the unconscious. Where and how do you screw yourself over? You have the rest of this year to figure it out and stop doing it so that you can be a fulfilled badass rather than an unfulfilled ass. Venus in Gemini will be busy in your 5th house, so your creativity should be high this week. In a wholly self serving way, I’m suggesting my favorite wine for you - Shiraz. It’s plummy and jammy and big…like your dreams. Cheers, Bitch!
PISCES - The eclipse this week hits your 9th house of education and experience, and on that same axis, the 3rd house of communication. You might be due for an adventure. That could be a literal trip to somewhere exotic, or it might just be out of your comfort zone. The 3rd house also rules publishing, and Mercury is retrograde there. Are you revising a book or other project? Good! Launch it into the places you feel too humble to admit you want. Think back to May 2004 and see if there are variations of the themes that were present at that time. Meanwhile, Pluto will retrograde back into your 11th house of people you know, giving you networking power galore! Venus will have you busy at home or with family this week, and whether that’s good or bad, a sweet treat is good for the soul. So drink some Riesling as your dessert. Cheers, Bitch!
PLANETS THIS WEEK
SUN - Taurus
MERCURY - Taurus (Rx)
VENUS --> Cancer
MARS - Cancer
JUPITER - Aries
SATURN - Pisces
URANUS - Taurus
NEPTUNE - Pisces
PLUTO - Aquarius (Rx)
CHIRON - Aries
CHARIKLO - Aquarius
CHAOS - Gemini
N. NODE - Taurus
CERES - Virgo (Rx)
PALLAS - Cancer
JUNO --> Gemini
VESTA - Aries
LILITH - Leo
ERIS - Aries
SIRIUS- Cancer (fixed)
TRANSITS AND ASPECTS THIS WEEK
Monday 01 May
Venus square Ceres
Juno enters Gemini (direct)
Pluto turns retrograde
Sun conjunct Mercury
Tuesday 02 May
Pluto trine Juno
Venus sextile Eris
Wednesday 03 May
Sun square Lilith
Pluto opposite Pallas
Sun square Chariklo
Thursday 04 May
Venus square Neptune
Venus sextile Jupiter
Friday 05 May
Mercury conjunct Vesta
Venus trine Elatus
Full Moon Penumbral Lunar Eclipse in Scorpio 14° 10:34 am PDT
Saturday 06 May
Venus conjunct Chaos @29° Gemini
Sunday 07 May
Venus quincunx Pluto
Venus enters Cancer