Great American Eclipse 2017: Saros Cycle 145

Before there are any misunderstandings, a little disclaimer. . .I know that when we (astrologers) look at events around eclipses, we need to take into account bigger chunks of time rather than a specific day (and I think this article shows this). But I just wanted to do a little experiment by investigating events that happen on the actual day of the solar eclipse in a particular Saros cycle. I'm not trying to create new rules or anything, I'm just trying decide if I want to do more research.

I have to admit I have my hands so busy with other things that I don't get time (or the inclination) to research everything that catches my astrological fancy. But during my time off of Facebook, I've managed to clear some writing projects and as I woke up early on a Saturday morning, I thought I'd hit the laptop with some research on the upcoming eclipse. 

The first thing to catch my eye is that I know a lot of folks are hoping a certain someone is going to be eclipsed in a few days!

I have to admit to not doing too much of my own research into eclipses. I kind of take other people's word for it when it comes to eclipses--you know let them do the hard work so I can just quote them and get on with educating eager minds and doing my own thing with astrology and education.

But it seems like every astrologer I know is talking about the eclipse, about a certain someone in a big white house and even non astrologers are starting to get their hopes up. Pah, I thought. We can all live in hope (I'm a little off astrology predications since a little incident that happened in CA late last year).

There are lots of links to a variety of opinions on eclipses these days. And plenty more besides these.

And then there's this:

 

However, eclipses are components of bigger cycles and astrologers point out that events that happen near in time to them are related and over a long period of time, they sort of tell a story. Those cycles are called Saros cycles and here is the full, nerdy definition: A Saros is a period of approximately 223 synodic months (approximately 6585.3211 days, or 18 years, 11 days, 8 hours), that can be used to predict eclipses of the Sun and Moon. One Saros after an eclipse, the Sun, Earth and Moon turn to approximately the same relative geometry, a near straight line, and a nearly identical eclipse will occur, in what is referred to as an eclipse cycle. A sar is one half of a saros. A series of eclipses that are separated by one saros is called a saros series.
(from RH van Gent's "A Catalogue of Eclipses", pilfered from Wikipedia)

Saros series are numbered and the eclipse that is coming up, "The Great American Eclipse" is the 22nd one of Saros Series 145 (according to David or S.S. 19 South according to Bernadette Brady). So I was poking around one of David Cochrane's posts on Facebook and came across the charts he did from his astrology software that lists all the eclipses in this Saros cycle.

Now most astrologers I know are aware that Charles and Diana married on an eclipse but the upcoming eclipse is the same Saros cycle as the one the day after their wedding. And what should come up in my newsfeed? All the speculation that Prince Harry is about to pop the question to his girlfriend Megan Markle.

So that just made me more curious. And on this cloudy Saturday, I started looking at events that happen near to the day of the eclipses (even though astrologers usually consider a much longer period of time for the effect of the eclipse to kick in). There's another reason for my curiosity: the Saros cycle picks up a lot of my natal planets and the Great American Eclipse is bang on my natal Moon ("The Throne Room" for you Siderealists).

Bernadette Brady, from The Eagle and the Lark, says: "This is a family of eclipses that brings with it the element of surprise. Sudden happiness, a joyful event, the lucky break, the lucky win. The events can be believed and can positively change the person's life."

Well yes please then.

Bernadette has recently done a podcast with Chris Brennan which can he found here.

But to be honest, it doesn't really look like too many nice things happen on the days of the Saros Series 145 eclipses.

Here's a BRIEF summary. Before we get too excited, let me just say this is just a LITTLE test run before I decide if I want to take on another full scale research project (especially when I really do have enough nerdery on my plate at the moment).

11 August 1999

9 August 1999: Boris Yeltsin dismisses his Prime Minister Sergei Stepashin as well as his entire cabinet (for the 4th time)
10 August: A Pakistani Navy plane is shot down in India, sparking tensions between the two countries.
August 19 1999  In Belgrade, tens of thousands of Serbians rally to demand the resignation of Yugoslav president Slobodan Milosevic. (a little far away from being exact to the day but I thought it was interesting).

30 July 1981

29 July 1981 wedding of Charles and Diana

On 30 July 1981, Dawda Jawara, the president of the Gambia is deposed in a coup whilst a guest at the royal wedding in the UK

19 July 1963
Colonel Jassem Alwan of the Syrian army leads an attempt to overthrow the government in Syria. Hundreds of people were killed in the battle that followed.

8 July 1945
Allied forces celebrate victory in Berlin (6 July 1945)
Norway declares war on Japan (6 July 1945)
Kalagong massacre by Japanese soldiers in Burma (7 July 1945)
Australian troops land in Borneo (8 July 1945)
Utah prisoner of war massacre (8 July 1945)

Funeral of John Curtin, Prime Minister of Australia (9 July 1945)

28 June 1927
Japanese leaders meet to discuss long range strategy for the conquest of China and possibly the world (27 June 1927)

16 June 1909
Alfonso Pena dies on 14 June and a replacement is sworn in on 15 June 1909

5 June 1891
John MacDonald, Canadian Prime Minister dies

25 May 1873
President Thiers resigns and the right-wing monarchist candidate Marshal Marie Edme MacMahon is elected president (24 May 1873)

14 May 1855
The Italian revolutionary Pianori is executed in Paris for attempting to assassinate Napoleon III

3 May 1837
Panic of 1837: A financial crisis in the US that led to banks stopping redemption of paper currency to its full value in 10 May 1837

23 April 1819
(haven't found anything significant yet)

11April 1801
(haven't found anything significant yet)

31 March 1783
(haven't found anything significant yet)

20 March 1765
(haven't found anything significant yet)

9 March 1747
(haven't found anything significant yet)

26 February 1729
(haven't found anything significant yet)

16 February 1711
(haven't found anything significant yet)

3 February 1693
(haven't found anything significant yet)

24 January 1675
(haven't found anything significant yet)

13 January 1657
(haven't found anything significant yet)

2 January 1639
(haven't found anything significant yet)

So obviously A LOT of holes in the research that need to be filled. But it also needs to be said those holes don't mean nothing happened either. We all know news travels much, much faster these days. I also have to say, I didn't find eclipses to have a significant result in my research on adolescent behaviour and lunar phase. However, this was a bit of fun on a Saturday but I don't think I have the time or energy to check into bigger stretches of time. BUT I'm happy to collaborate if anyone wants to help.

Any takers?

In other news, I'm gearing up for my UK tour, including the Scottish Astrological Association. And I'm over the Moon to be a bridesmaid in Ana Carrapichano and Nick Dagan Best's wedding in Cape Town in early 2018. I couldn't be happier for them, for me (!) and for all the other family, friends and tribesmen who will be gathering to help them celebrate. Astrological wedding of the century! I've never been a bridesmaid before so I'm doubly excited.

MIAA

The morning after being locked out of Facebook. . .note smile

So for the past month I've been MIAA (missing in astrological action) because I was locked out of Facebook. I wasn't really out of action because I do have a website but comically, with T Uranus square my Sun I was also locked out of this at one point (all resolved)!

I didn't realise what a problem all this was going to be until my return to London when my email inbox was FLOODED with demands to know where I was. I was scolded by quite a few lurkers for not being more on the ball in letting folks know I had landed safely (guys, I'm not Buddy Holly!). How was I to know so many people follow my adventures when they don't like or comment on my posts? Fortunately, there's good old blogger and it kind of took the pressure off of having to answer so many emails just to be able to post that I really had landed safely.

But back to Facebook. . .

It was a bit of a bummer to get locked out of Facebook. I tried not to make a big deal out of of it but I realised what a problem it was when it dawned on me what a lot of work it was to respond to individual emails or to pick up the phone to actually talk to people.

And here's where we get to the source of the problem: my hearing ain't so good. I can't hear on phones unless I have earbuds in--and what a drag it is to know the phone is vibrating but not being able to get the buds out in time to answer the phone. And then to have to hear the message (and lately I get an awful lot of JUNK messages). Anyway, I decided that if folks want to talk to me, they could do it via written messages so I ditched the phone (actually the battery blew and I couldn't be bothered to replace it). I didn't bother to update the cell phone number stored on Facebook because wtf, why would I need to do that?

Anyhoo. . .with all the travelling, I guess Facebook wanted to make sure my account was safe and secure by sending codes to this old cell phone number (which I no longer had access to). And as there seem to be no humans one can reach on Facebook, I just had to be patient. As Tom Petty once said "The Waiting is the Hardest Part"!

I even went through the 5 stages of grief:

1) Denial: I kept compulsively trying to log in and then checking to see if I really was locked out

2) Anger: I try not to swear because as a teacher that is definitely not a habit I need to cultivate. But I did a lot of swearing in Facebook's direction

3) Bargaining: Well, I told myself, if I can't access my old account, I can always start from scratch (actually I couldn't because when I gave in and tried to start a new account. . .Facebook sent more codes to the old number!!). That was a bummer of a day.

4) Depression: Kubler-Ross herself said that the stages of grief didn't always follow the same order nor did they necessarily happen at all. I wasn't depressed but I was pretty frustrated.

5) Acceptance: Of course eventually, I just let it all go. I reckoned I played on Facebook far too often and I just focused on my work. And good goddess, I had a PILE of stuff to get on with. And I finished most of it before Facebook sent me an email with a link to help me.

Almost straightaway, I got access to my account again. I was delighted to see so many of my friends had been campaigning for my return! Gosh! Thank you!

Tea at the Queen's house (yes I do have permission to use their photos!)

So to update on what I'm doing now. . .I am deep, deep, deep undercover as a teacher of English as a foreign language. A lot of teachers are too knackered to work over the summer (and they get paid anyway) but as a working job teacher, I'm both lucky enough and experienced enough to be able to walk into any school and just get on with it. I've got a good gig going on in an ultra plush school in a VERY nice part of London. I've seen a West End show ("School of Rock" thank you very much!), went to Harry Potter World, Arsenal Football stadium (this experience is for another post!), every museum in town and Shakespeare's Globe Theatre. I even had tea with the Queen (OK maybe I pushed it a bit there--I did the tour of Buckingham Palace and had tea in the garden with all the other tourists including my pupils).

Oh and I have to give a MASSIVE shout out to Chris Renstrom!!! I've been using his daily horoscopes to teach English idioms and new vocabulary!! Astrologers always ask me how I squeeze astrology into education and when one has 20+ teenagers reading out their daily horoscopes, the only option is to stand back and admire the beauty of the heavens in the classroom! And I could not have wished for a better astrologer than Chris. Thanks buddy and I can't wait to see you in INDIA!!

I have to keep reminding myself that I'm in the quiet before the storm. The KIA/IVC conference in India is like 5 months away and very shortly, I'm going to be BURIED in academic papers. Good job I'm a teacher, eh?

More news on our great connections a bit later. . .

On the Chris Flisher Show

One of the biggest surprises of my recent tour to the US was being a guest of Chris Flisher on his show, "The Turning of the Wheel"! It was a very unexpected chance meeting that just happened to perfectly slot into our busy schedules. Chris gave me plenty of freedom to run my big mouth on astrology and education and how we're letting our children down by not understanding their needs or knowing when they need the extra support. I have a lot to say about the so-called modern educational system so you might want to have a listen if you have school age children.

Chris has been interviewing astrologers for decades and past shows featured Jeff Jawer, Steven Forrest, Dorothy Oja, A.T. Mann, Glenn Perry, Eric Meyers and many, many others. Our hour together just flew by and what a thrill to be interviewed by one of the best.

You can hear the show on Apple iTunes by going to this page

Interested unlearning more about how you can help your children to develop into strong and confident adults? My book "Growing Pains" is due to be re-published very, very soon.

 Contact me at www.alextrenoweth.com or Skype AstroAlex1984

Unpacking

I don't know why I expect things to be completely different when I come home after being away for six weeks. Perhaps it's because so much has changed for me that I think everyone and everything else would have changed too. At least my lunar gardening experiment has changed. . .

I pondered this on my back step as I shared a chicken sandwich with my cat Perseus and procrastinated on unpacking my luggage (I love packing but it can take me WEEKS to unpack). 

Sensing he was missing out on something, my other cat Mr Bubbles decided he was going to stop pretending he didn't miss me and come out for a bite of the sandwich. Did I mention it was 6am in the morning of my first day back in London? Nothing like good old jet lag to throw my sleeping and eating schedule way out of whack. I had showered, dressed, had nearly finished "dinner" as well as had consumed about 5 cups of tea since I had given up on getting some sleep before heading back to the classroom. Why do I always underestimate the jet lag? It was a good job I had so much time to consider these important questions. The way things were going I'd fall asleep before break.

I shouldn't waste my time worrying about the small things as they always prove to be nothing to worry about at all: my job at a summer English Language School is off to a great start (I managed to stay awake for the every single lesson!!), I have things to catch up with at home but nothing unmanageable, the cats are well (judging by how much of my sandwich they had eaten), I have articles appearing in magazines all over the place--at the request of paying editors (what the hell was I thinking giving my good stuff away for free?), I had two great interviews coming out soon: one with Chris Flisher (arranged by the amazing Carol Dimitrov) and the other Sheri Horn Hasan of Karmic Evolution. I'll post the links once the programmes are out. And there will be a follow up interview with Sheri at the end of August. Oh and if you think you've heard everything there is to hear about "Growing Pains" then you would be very wrong. "The Wolf You Feed" is coming on nicely too so watch this space.

Now, I'm having a few problems with Facebook as evidenced by a DELUGE of emails asking me if I landed safely so there are a few things I need to put to rest. I'm so sorry to have made so many people worry!! 

I'm not sure what Facebook is doing with my account--all but personal page are absolutely fine. Facebook is looking into it and I hope things will be back to normal soon. Thanks so much for all the concern expressed--clearly I have landed safely. All really is well--I've just been so busy unpacking and I really didn't think anyone was missing me or I would have updated a lot earlier!!

Is this the most totally cool banner ever?

San Francisco was a total blast! Linea Van Horn (and family) is a total hoot--and even better, she laughs at my stupid jokes. My talk for the San Francisco Astrological Society went extremely well. And how long have I waited for this banner?

Me and Ra after my talk

How cool is that? 

I remember seeing way more famous astrologers with this banner and I used to think "one day it might be me". And now it is!! Many thanks to Linea for starting the group all those years ago and to my astro brother Ian Waisler (more on him in a minute) for carrying the flame and inviting me to speak way back at ISAR 2016!

I also got to attend a Summer of Love exhibition with my buddy Ra who travelled all the way from Los Angeles to come to my talk!  Ra is also speaking in India so we had a chance to bounce some ideas off of each other. Here are a few photos. . .

So here I am all blissed out and listening to my beloved Janis Joplin on a beanbag chair during a psychedelic light show in San Francisco during the 50th anniversary of the Summer of Love. . .

My astro brother Ian Waisler is coming to visit me in London!! How much do I love this guy? There will be another reunion and more photos of fun and frivolity. I don't want to give too much away but let "Glastonbury" be a hint! Here's a photo of us looking all cute and innocent: 

So it's Cancerian season and you know what that means!! My birthday is coming up! I've had the most outstanding year of my life packed full of incredible achievements (that I never could have done without such outstanding support from friends and others who had faith in me) and opportunities, a near miss or two (I wish I had trusted Julija Simas' intuition because my gullible "everyone is really nice" attitude nearly led me to making some exceptionally bad choices--but hey, I did learn a few things) and in fact, I think I can honestly say, things went far better than I ever could have hoped to imagine!

So how 'bout that solar return??

Dear me. . .let me TRY to summarise: I've had P Sun and Mercury on my natal Ur/Pl coming up to partile conjunction for a couple of years. My P Moon and P Venus have both changed signs and my P Jupiter is on my N Sun! And that P Venus is cj the MC of my solar return--and my solar return Moon is cj my natal ascendant! I do have Venus opposite Saturn in my solar return but hell, if I haven't learned how to handle harsh aspects between these two planets by now then there's no hope.

So I end this wonderful year with absolutely no regrets or bitterness or wishes that I should have done things differently.

I've unpacked a very full suitcase and found "only" joy, satisfaction, acceptance and deep contentment and above all gratitude.

About the Astrologer

Alex Trenoweth was voted Best International Astrologer, 2015 for her dynamic presentation on her innovative and original research into Astrology and Education. Her book, "Growing Pains" is an exciting development in astrology as it combines classroom teaching experience, sound investigation and the potential to have a positive impact on struggling adolescents, parents, teachers and those who have been labelled "at risk". She writes the weekly and monthly horoscopes and other articles for the Cosmic Intelligence Agency, one of the largest astrological social media groups on the web and was also a speaker for the AstroSummit, a guest lecturer for the London School of Astrology and has spoken at several UK local astrology groups. Past international events include United Astrology Conference (2008) ISAR, State of the Art Astrology conference, the Kepler Conference, Congresso Internacional de Astrologia (Portugal), Kepler College, the Mercury Internet School of Psychological Astrology, Astrology Restored in Cape Town,  the International Academy of Astrology and NORWAC.  Upcoming events include San Diego, Las Vegas, the San Francisco Astrology Society and the Scottish Astrological Association.  Alex is also Vice Principal and Secretary General of International Affairs for the Krishnamurti Institute of Astrology and will will be taking up her residential post in India 2017. For queries, consultations or syndications, please contact Alex via www.alextrenoweth.com or leave a message in the comment section.

"Growing Pains" can be purchased in paperback or kindle format on Amazon or can be signed and posted directly to you by Alex.

About the New Book

There are two wolves fighting inside of me, the old story goes, one wolf is good and the other is evil. “But Grandfather,” asked the child, “Which one wins?” The Grandfather answered, “The wolf I feed.”

We might like to think that being good is a natural instinct. In fact, doing the right thing takes a conscious decision. Every day, we are met with temptation to get ahead at the expense of someone else, to get away with something we know is wrong or to cut corners if we think no one is watching.

Following on from her powerful book on astrology and Education, “Growing Pains”, Alex Trenoweth explores the benefits of using “the bad guy” of the solar system: Saturn. Often avoided and seldom understood, if we understand our own Saturn then we can help others to understand theirs. Using case studies of  highly successful people contrasted with convicted serial killers, Trenoweth deftly demonstrates the dire consequences of feeding the wrong wolf.

Birdwatching

In the early hours of this morning, my progressed moon slipped in Cancer. Since the New Moon in Cancer a week or so ago, I've been feeling decidedly quiet and reflective, thinking about my next moves and just generally contemplating my "needs" for security. (Don't worry my needs are cheap and easy). It's the end of the road for this tour and what a ride it's been. So many new contacts, new ideas, seeing family, fortifying friendships and the developing confidence and courage to get from one place to another without getting lost, losing something important or getting hurt or sick. 

Just imagine what I could achieve if I actually had more specific goals in mind!

Things got quiet for me in Las Vegas and for that I am grateful because there were about 10 days when things were hyper-exciting (in the best possible ways) but since that New Moon I've needed quiet moments and how fortunate I was to be able to spend time with my friend Carol, who is a powerhouse of good energy in the astrology world. On top of taking me on the most spectacular tour of the Vegas casinos (neither of us gamble), she taught me some very important lessons.

"You need a photo with a million dollars," she told me firmly on our first night in Sin City. We were just passing Binion's on our way to check out the light shows on the Fremont Street Experience. I sort of stood behind this pile of money encased in plastic.

'That's a real million dollars," the photographer coached, "Act like you want it!" So I kind of embraced the stash and gurned for the camera.

"Oh and here's a gold nugget!" Carol called, pointing at this massive thing behind a glass case. I looked around at all the security cameras who no doubt had armed police ready to shoot my poor ass

if I were to make a threatening move. Nevertheless, it was rather cool to be able to admire this big piece of solar metal.

This was my second trip to Las Vegas. The first time was taken over with my delight at meeting my buddy Tim but this trip really made me think about a lot of things: what we do for money, the people we connect with to do business, the risks we take, the hills and troughs of fame and fortune, what we sell and the prices we sell for. Everywhere we looked were the investments made from bad gambles: Murano glass displays, intricate flower arrangements, pretty people, lights, lights and more lights and jaw dropping free performances, shows that cost the earth to see, entertainers everywhere, cheap beer and wonderful food. Perfect stuff for preparing for the ruling planet of my second house as it progresses into well, its ruling sign. 

Over a year ago, my friend Marianthe in Melbourne AUS, took me out to breakfast. She reminded me of the importance of aiming high, of paying one's self what was deserved.

I've often joked that I'm the worse businesswoman in the world, that the usual laws of Economics don't apply to me and that in terms of finances, I'm the rather bouncy sort: money comes and goes, goes and comes with hardly any input on my part. When it comes to finances, I'm a "look at the birds" (Matthew 6:26) kind of girl. Other than a few very safe investments, I'm not the type to pinch and save at the cost of missing out on something interesting. 

I could even embrace $1,000,000 and a priceless gold nugget in Las Vegas and not feel any particular sorrow in letting go of it. Of course, I didn't make any big wins either.

They say travelling changes a person and I can definitely confirm that. My woeful problem is that I'm about to hit the classroom again as a "normal" teacher. On top of unlimited fulfilment, teaching provides the salary that allows me to travel.

Towards the end of this journey, I wonder if I haven't gotten things turned around back to front: maybe I should look at the idea that travelling allows me to teach, to find my grounding and inspiration.

I don't know what kind of birds Matthew was talking about when he said that they don't sow or reap or store up food. Clearly they weren't the kind of birds that dive bomb ice cream owners on hot summer days. Or the kind that dive-bombs 6 spicy buffalo wings on a Friday night after a few pints of the old brewskis. 

I think if I were the kind of person who wanted a million dollars, I would have had it by now. And in many, many ways I am a millionaire by my own standards. But I want to remain in control of who actually calls the shots!

"I'm not the kind of bird who will let some other bird make her nest," thus spake Alex Trenoweth, natal stellium in Cancer, P Moon in Cancer, P Jupiter cj N Sun in Cancer.

About the Astrologer

Alex Trenoweth was voted Best International Astrologer, 2015 for her dynamic presentation on her innovative and original research into Astrology and Education. Her book, "Growing Pains" is an exciting development in astrology as it combines classroom teaching experience, sound investigation and the potential to have a positive impact on struggling adolescents, parents, teachers and those who have been labelled "at risk". She writes the weekly and monthly horoscopes and other articles for the Cosmic Intelligence Agency, one of the largest astrological social media groups on the web and was also a speaker for the AstroSummit, a guest lecturer for the London School of Astrology and has spoken at several UK local astrology groups. Past international events include United Astrology Conference (2008) ISAR, State of the Art Astrology conference, the Kepler Conference, Congresso Internacional de Astrologia (Portugal), Kepler College, the Mercury Internet School of Psychological Astrology, Astrology Restored in Cape Town,  the International Academy of Astrology and NORWAC.  Upcoming events include San Diego, Las Vegas, the San Francisco Astrology Society and the Scottish Astrological Association.  Alex is also Vice Principal and Secretary General of International Affairs for the Krishnamurti Institute of Astrology and will will be taking up her residential post in India 2017. For queries, consultations or syndications, please contact Alex via www.alextrenoweth.com or leave a message in the comment section.

"Growing Pains" can be purchased in paperback or kindle format on Amazon or can be signed and posted directly to you by Alex.

About the New Book

There are two wolves fighting inside of me, the old story goes, one wolf is good and the other is evil. “But Grandfather,” asked the child, “Which one wins?” The Grandfather answered, “The wolf I feed.”

We might like to think that being good is a natural instinct. In fact, doing the right thing takes a conscious decision. Every day, we are met with temptation to get ahead at the expense of someone else, to get away with something we know is wrong or to cut corners if we think no one is watching.

Following on from her powerful book on astrology and Education, “Growing Pains”, Alex Trenoweth explores the benefits of using “the bad guy” of the solar system: Saturn. Often avoided and seldom understood, if we understand our own Saturn then we can help others to understand theirs. Using case studies of  highly successful people contrasted with convicted serial killers, Trenoweth deftly demonstrates the dire consequences of feeding the wrong wolf.

Life on the Starry Highway

After a week of sucking down $1 beers in my home town, it was time to get back to work. I mean, after all, that was the point of this tour, right?

Speaking of tours, I'm in the middle of my third tour in as many years. My first tour in 2014 stretched from ISAR in Phoenix to SOTA near NYC, the second from SOTA to Portland and CA to Cape Town to India and finished in Australia over a period of 5 months and the current one is from the San Francisco to Seattle to Detroit to the East Coast to the West Coast of the US. I have to say living out of a suitcase for extended periods isn't a bad way for someone with Saturn in Pisces to live: it certainly kept me focused! I've been lucky to see so many wonderful landmarks but I'm luckier still for all the wonderful people I've been able to get to know better and to spend time with on their home turf. Oh and, um, there's the food.

Good folks always ask me about what it's like on a tour and it's one of the reasons I like to post status updates--I also feel it's good for helping people to connect with each other. It makes me feel like I'm bringing a whole lot of you along with me too. Of course, if you're not interested you don't have to read!

My first stop of the "East Coast Leg" of this current tour was in Philadelphia with a branch of the National Council for Geocosmic Research (NCGR--an organisation that has branches all over the country). I had never spoken with a group of NCGR members but of course I had heard of them. So I was thrilled they wanted to book me to speak in Philadelphia. Unfortunately, as I was hammering out dates, I inadvertently was a little too keen to book my return flight to the UK and made a boo-boo that meant I'd be back in London before I actually spoke in Philly. Whoopsie. Fortunately for my sorry Saturn in Pisces ass, alternative arrangements were made so I could still meet with NCGR in Philly. And what a great night we had: how blessed am I to spend the night with such a great cook and outstanding food, great company, a beautiful kitty called Burroughs and. . .Jacqueline Janes.

Jackie and me talking serious

Jackie and I met at SOTA (State of the Art Astrology) 2014 at Niagara Falls US (as a side note, I accidentally booked my hotel room to be on the Canadian side of the Falls--but what a great walk to work!). Way back then, I was just cutting my teeth on the lecturing circuit. I regarded myself as being very lucky to have the cash to get as far as SOTA and I was looking at that US tour as a one-off.  I "knew" I'd be back to teaching in a few weeks where I'd crawl back under the rock I came from and get back to an ordinary life as a schoolteacher. In my mind, I was already unpacking. 

However, Jackie predicted I'd be "World Famous" and that the journey was just beginning.

As much as I wanted to believe that, I pretty much dismissed what she said as an act of kindness and encouragement. Never, ever in my wildest dreams did I think that less than two weeks later, I'd get the invitation to India. And I certainly never thought that just two months later someone would stick a tiara on my head. Two and half years and five continents later (and with an invitation to the 6th continent firmly in my calendar), I'd still seriously hesitate to call myself "world famous" but I never crawled back under that rock I came from. There's not a day that goes by that I can't believe all that has happened, or that I have not been grateful to the people who have helped me get to where I've gotten to--because I would not have gotten here on my own. That's for damn sure.

And most of the time I really still can't believe it. I say all this not only to remind myself of what I've achieved but also to remind myself of my responsibilities. A fellow teacher friend of mine reminded me that our students--past and present--follow us on social media whether we want them to or not. I never want to give out the idea that living my dreams was handed to me on a silver platter: it's taken time, effort and money. But more than that it takes a lot of courage to take the risk of making mistakes publicly and to get back up and get back out there when there's setbacks. And setbacks can often be the gods shining their grace and blessings on you! Near misses? I've had a few! I am lucky that I have a strong sense of purpose and as the world's worst businesswoman, I have to constantly be on the lookout for better opportunities, to be open about my victories (which is difficult for someone with Venus square Saturn, Moon in Leo or no). I don't so much as have a dream but a purpose. And that, for new readers, is to bring astrology to education and to engage young people in the Ancient Art of Astrology. That's it and it sustains me. 

But back to Jackie.

It was a deep honour to check in with her. I had forgotten about her prediction (because I didn't believe it at the time) but I could tell she was pleased with me when I met her again. It brought about a need within me to reflect on all that has happened because I need to keep it all in perspective. There's still a part of me who could easily drift back under that rock because I'm afraid I'm going to screw something up. But thank the Great Goddess it's all been good so far!! My reflections became my June Newsletter which really is a "pinch me" post so when I'm back in London teaching I can remember what it all was like so I can get back up there again--because once back in the routine of teaching, it can be easy to forget my purpose. It ain't easy living with Venus square Saturn!! So thank you Jackie for your faith in me!!

My next stop was with my fellow Phillies fan Frank Piechosky. The last time I was in Philadelphia, Frank gave me the most outstanding tour of the town I could have ever asked for. And the best part is he lives just down the road from Citizens Bank Park where the Phillies get serious. As a kid, I loved the Phillies because my cousin Mike Schmidt played for them (well that's the story I told and I'm sticking to it!). Frank is also a wonderful cook. How good is he? Well, check this paella out. It even has a "hidden" astrological theme:

And just when I thought I had died and gone to heaven, Frank made me scrapple (don't ask what it is!!) for breakfast . . .and then literally gave me the shirt off his back! That's right, a Phillies shirt--with Mike Schmidt's name on the back!! I love Frank!! Thank you again--and thanks to the rest of the NCGR Philly crew for a wonderful few days in the heart of US political history.

I guess it isn't surprising that SOTA friends were on my agenda while I was in the neighbourhood. I instantly fell in love with Eric Pride at SOTA 2014 and when I returned the following year, he and I and a few others formed a merry band who tore the town apart near Niagara Falls! I've had a lot of good meals in my life (ahem) but this one at Weinkeller's was a doozy.

With the lovely Jason Williams back in 2014!

Luck smiled on us during our reunion a couple of weeks ago. We were sorry Jackie Menkes couldn't join us but again, what a fabulous dinner we had. And of course we toasted to our missing friend.

Note Jason (2017) on far right sans moustache!! Yummy!!!

As a kid, I used to think Hershey Pennsylvania must be heaven on earth. As an adult who has developed a refined taste for the flavours of the East (read "curry"), I'm not as enthusiastic. Nevertheless, when near Hershey, one must get to Hershey World where there really is a street called "Chocolate Avenue", the streetlights are made to look like chocolate kisses and the cows sing about their good fortune to produce milk for Hershey products (I guess it beats the hell out of producing a product for a burger chain!).

Oh and "snack size" has a peculiar meaning:

Thank you so much Eric, Jason (the unrequited love of my life!), Aaron and Josh!!! Come to England soon!!

Now I can't be 45 minutes from Baltimore without visiting my best friend since 8th grade Mike. I moved around a lot as a younger child but managed to settle in one school district (though we still moved house a lot) throughout my teens--and Mike has been a major part in all my teenage angst, "maturing" years and stupidity. Over the best seafood the East Coast can offer, we reminisced, laughed . . . and ate.

From Mike's house, I greyhounded it to New York City to meet (drumroll please) Ronnie Grishman of Dell Horoscope Magazine and Shelley Ackerman of ISAR. I haven't had the opportunity to spend much time with either of them before but what a girlie lunch was had!! Information was swapped, plans were made and kingdoms were conquered . . . and great advice was received. There will be lots more about this high powered business meeting so stay tuned for further developments!

Here we are looking our innocent best:

Oh and the food was fabulous!

Ronnie took time out of her busy schedule and saw me to the right train to the airport and raided my writing repertoire for goodies. We got plans. . .but let's just say I'll be back in NYC next year and you'll be hearing more about this meeting in the near future.

Some 9 hours later and I was back on the West Coast in beautiful San Diego (although I didn't realise it was as beautiful as it was until the morning). I was speaking at another NCGR group and what a group they were!! One hundred percent engaged, interested, supportive, fun. . .I wish I had more time to spend with them. But I did get to watch a glorious sunset with new friends, met more beautiful kitties and enjoyed. . .more food.

My visit to San Diego was very short but I just had to squeeze in a visit with April Elliott Kent who I met via the Jessica Adams show a few years ago--and also bumped into for about 10 seconds at ISAR 2015. So imagine my delight when she messaged me on Facebook to invite me to breakfast!

Over a casual breakfast information was swapped, plans were made and kingdoms were conquered . . . and great advice was received. Notice a pattern here? What is the point of a tour if world domination is just an option. And oh boy, April and I have plans.

And that's life for you on the starry highway! Food, friends. . .and gratitude! Just roll me off the plane at Heathrow. . .

All in the Family

My younger sister and I hatched this plan to surprise my parents with my visit to Michigan.

Now, before I go any further, there are a few things you need to know about my family that may not have been picked up on social media posts.

1. I'm working class all the way. I know, I know you thought I made so much money as a teacher, astrologer and author that I was not only rolling in the Benjamins (Benjamin Franklins that is--$5 bills/notes) but that I came from a classy background. Not so! I'm the daughter of a lorry driver, the recipient of a grant from the fresh air fund so I could go to university and someone who always has to be reminded not to wipe her mouth on the back of her hand. Oh and I put my elbows on the counter and always drop my neatly pressed napkin on the floor because I don't sit up straight at the dinner table in restaurants. Come to think of it, I also have the reputation for nicking pens from hotels--although I do this mainly to give to my forgetful pupils. "Would you like a pen from the Grand Canyon, one from NYC or LA?" I'll ask them. The pens that I manage to hold on to for the longest time are the ones the kids never choose to use, lol. Anyway, watch your pens around me!

2. I'm mixed race. My dad is from a European background and my mom is a full-blooded, card-carrying band member of the Saugeen Indian Reservation (we're Ojibwa to save you googling it). I've spent all my life explaining how this song both describes and doesn't come close to describing my life as a half breed: 

Just suffice to say it's been an interesting life but I don't ride around on horses in my underwear. Although someone did once ask me about that!

3. In an effort to escape the stigma of being a half breed, I moved to England. And made the problem a whole lot worse, innit?

4. Despite all the flying I do, I really hate it. To get me on a plane usually involves an hour or so in the bar--with my elbows on the counter.

5. For the flight to Michigan from Seattle, my west coast friends made an alternative suggestion to the pub. I don't want to give too much away but here's a hint:

Best flight ever!

6. My family can't keep secrets! It was decided that surprising both parents might lead to the demise of one or both of them so my mom was informed I was on my way.

At Seatac airport when my mom asked on Facebook (on my public wall) what time my flight was, I got a fit of the giggles. In fact, I was giggling so much I was a little worried I wouldn't be allowed on the flight. Someone actually asked me if I was OK (where was the Seattle Freeze I wondered again?). Which of course only made me giggle more. I was giggling so much, I also set my sister in Detroit off via Messenger--so much so that she had to pull over so she could take her eyes of the road and throw her head back and laugh properly.

Fortunately after a nap on the plane, I was in a frame of mind for the landing, the luggage re-claim and another round of waiting in a strange place to be picked up. I'm happy to say there were no problems and I found my family without incident.

As a Cancerian, no matter how things might appear otherwise on social media, I'm a pretty private person. I have my life on the stage and off the stage. Nonetheless, the Moon in Leo in me can't help but boast about a few things.

My dad was surprised and he nearly jumped out of skin when he saw me. Mission Accomplished.

After three beautiful daughters, my sister is finally going to fulfil her Freudian mission to produce a penis: my nephew is due on the Autumn Equinox! None of us feel boy babies are better than girl babies but we can't help but celebrate the fact that this boy is going to get a good solid dose of Girl Power!

I got to see lots of family and friends including my cousins from the reservation, one of my oldest and dearest friends Chris and the totally divine, utterly gorgeous Barbara Payton who I am delighted to announce is coming to India! Here we are together in Port Huron. Clearly her gorgeousness almost rubbed off on me:

Although my eyes never really left London (another terrorist attack left me feeling pretty shocked and I nearly beat up a preacher I had to tolerate the following morning) I left Port Huron filled with memories and family love. Sure there were a few things I didn't quite manage (Sorry Kalamazoo crew--we'll get it right next year!) but it was perfect down time and I'm so grateful for all the love, the challenges, the lessons. I was particularly glad to be reminded that the women in my family are bad MFs.

I sign this blog post off with a photo of me as a baby with my Ojibwa grandmother and great-grandmother. The tales they could tell would make your hair stand on end. So just to remind me when I think the going is getting tough:

About the Astrologer

Alex Trenoweth was voted Best International Astrologer, 2015 for her dynamic presentation on her innovative and original research into Astrology and Education. Her book, "Growing Pains" is an exciting development in astrology as it combines classroom teaching experience, sound investigation and the potential to have a positive impact on struggling adolescents, parents, teachers and those who have been labelled "at risk". She writes the yearly horoscopes and other articles for the Cosmic Intelligence Agency, one of the largest astrological social media groups on the web and was also a speaker for the AstroSummit, a guest lecturer for the London School of Astrology and has spoken at several UK local astrology groups. Past international events include ISAR, State of the Art Astrology conference, the Kepler Conference, Congresso Internacional de Astrologia (Portugal), Kepler College, the Mercury Internet School of Psychological Astrology, Astrology Restored in Cape Town,  the International Academy of Astrology and NORWAC.  Upcoming events include San Diego, Las Vegas, the San Francisco Astrology Society and the Scottish Astrological Association.  Alex is also Vice Principal and Secretary General of International Affairs for the Krishnamurti Institute of Astrology and will will be taking up her residential post in India 2017. For queries, consultations or syndications, please contact Alex via www.alextrenoweth.com or leave a message in the comment section.

"Growing Pains" can be purchased in paperback or kindle format on Amazon or can be signed and posted directly to you by Alex.

About the New Book

There are two wolves fighting inside of me, the old story goes, one wolf is good and the other is evil. “But Grandfather,” asked the child, “Which one wins?” The Grandfather answered, “The wolf I feed.”

We might like to think that being good is a natural instinct. In fact, doing the right thing takes a conscious decision. Every day, we are met with temptation to get ahead at the expense of someone else, to get away with something we know is wrong or to cut corners if we think no one is watching.

Following on from her powerful book on astrology and Education, “Growing Pains”, Alex Trenoweth explores the benefits of using “the bad guy” of the solar system: Saturn. Often avoided and seldom understood, if we understand our own Saturn then we can help others to understand theirs. Using case studies of  highly successful people contrasted with convicted serial killers, Trenoweth deftly demonstrates the dire consequences of feeding the wrong wolf.