The retrograde shadow consists of a few days before and a few days after the retrograde period. Mercury enters the shadow period initially when it crosses the degree it will later make its station direct. The post-retrograde period is after Mercury has gone direct, and ends once it crosses the degree it went retrograde. This time, Mercury entered its pre-retrograde shadow on February 9th (5 degrees Pisces). It then went retrograde on February 23 @ 19.52 degrees Pisces. It went direct at 5 degrees Pisces on the 17th, and will be in the post retrograde period until April 6-7.
Ugh, yesterday, my dad and sister got into a horrible argument that left both of them in tears! It was due to major communication problems. It was such a stupid argument, and now things are tense. Ugh. My TV seems to have conked out suddenly today, too. And my phone's Internet browser isn't working, either.
I've enjoyed the retrograde overall. I felt better once Mars entered Aries. I reconnected with my friends (Mercury retrograde in my 3rd house). I've found it difficult to concentrate, though.
I really don't like the energy right now, though.. Mercury stationed direct exactly square my natal Chiron in the 6th house, so I've been quite anxious and jumpy lately. Mercury is taking forever to pick up speed. It'll be out of orb of my Chiron by the 22nd, and I'm looking forward to it!