It isn't really an encounter. More like a spell cast of yearning, thoughtlessly tossed into the wind by a changing mind and a shifting heart. Mars in his twin skin and out of bounds. Venus in Aries taking her leave from the world of men. Their sextile a long distance conversation without voices. Their mutual reception a sleepover at each other's houses while the other is away.

Hump day lands with more than a smidge of niggle and snark trailing. Even as Venus prepares for her meeting and rebirth through the heart of the sun. Even as the fresh fire of Aries dries up all the rain, if not the tears. Even as the Leo moon bolsters hearts and tosses manes. Grumpy doesn't begin to describe it. Lingering irritation, frustrating limits and finally tumbling out hard truths could all make their needling presence felt today, as Merc and Mars square off from their corners of the zodiac.

A welcome change in the planetary weather today as Mars finally departs his truculent time in Taurus for the fresh air of Gemini. All the better to fan his flames and bust the regular ruts we may have found ourselves stuck in, spinning wheels and digging further into the same old ground.

In the midst of the dark moon and the dour imperatives from Capricornia, Mars' move into Gemini late last weekend has delivered some welcome fresh air and fuel for his fire. Ours too darklings, even if the kindling still feels wet and heavy.