April 25, 2004

Mercury’s retrograde status continues to create interesting obstacles, specifically in the path to clear communication. And it’s wonderful in the long view. After all, David was just another little guy with a slingshot until Goliath put him on map. The Aries moon gives you an extra dose of the courage needed to face your own mean ol’ giant.

ARIES (March 21-April 19). It’s no mystery why you’re popular at home now. You’ve nurtured a loving relationship, and now, you are rewarded with devoted loyalty. A family member makes questionable choices. Tonight is an exercise in tolerance.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20). Building relationship bonds simply can’t happen unless you make the conscious effort to do things together. A joint venture requires more planning than a solo one, but excellent company is worth the trouble.

GEMINI (May 21-June 21). As long as you’re into learning new things, you may as well soak in something unrelated to anything you’ve previously studied. Your diversity and unpredictable nature make you irresistible, even to the person you admire so much.

CANCER (June 22-July 22). It’s a lucky day for you. Make arrangements to do the thing you always wanted to do but secretly fear. Tonight, a small sacrifice ends up saving you big money. You’ll do a friend a favor and end up helping yourself in the process.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22). Social happenings could shake you out of your comfort zone. Pretend you’re confident, and remember what you already know. Your perception of how people see you and how they really do are two very different things.

TODAY’S BIRTHDAY (April 25). You’re setting your sights higher than ever, and that’s what makes this a remarkable year. Confidence comes from putting your neck out for career opportunities that come your way in the next six weeks. Whether you win or lose, you can take your new self-belief to the bank in August. Travel in June is divine. Lucky love signs are Virgo and Pisces. Your lucky numbers are: 10, 45, 39, 28 and 2.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22). You have a knack for finding the deal that everyone else misses. Being in the right place at the right time brings financial gain. Misunderstanding a loved one could result in hurt feelings. Make sure all is clear.

LIBRA (Sept.23-Oct.23). Boundaries are expanding to make room for a new person or responsibility in your life. Acknowledge your benefactors, and return favors, but realize that you are not indebted to people. You merely have much to give back.

SCORPIO (Oct. 24-Nov. 21). Giving every hour of your day to others will leave you tired and bitter. Be happy and grateful instead by allowing yourself more solitude. Art, music and literature will be like nectar from the gods to you. Use them to water your soul.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21). Socially, you’re strong now, and your influence is felt. New people, particularly younger ones, want to befriend you. Entertainment for the whole family tonight makes everyone feel comfortable and cozy.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19). You’ll feel a little bit of the "when in Rome" syndrome today. There are goals in the health and fitness area that are difficult to achieve due to the people around you doing something almost in opposition to your goal.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18). Let your eccentricity show instead of trying to hide it – you’re attractive because your action is so unexpected. Family gatherings are featured. You bring up the whole group with your playful energy.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20). Getting centered is challenging. Spend time in quiet thought to maintain your emotional equilibrium. A loved one may pull dramatic tricks because he or she needs attention. Avoid this by giving more attention than needed.

FORECAST FOR THE WEEK AHEAD: The sun and center of our planetary system enters the realm of Taurus, the bull, the practical enforcer, the planet of patient hard work. The early stages of this transit highlight some lesser-known qualities of Taurus, however, and there’s a hedonistic side to this sign, too. For instance, appetites are stimulated, not only for food but for the best that life can bring to our senses. Taurus is a sensual and discerning sign that challenges our measure of quality. Why settle for "good" when you can have "amazing" or, better yet, "perfect"? Whether it’s a symphony, a piece of chocolate or a view of the landscape, Taurus makes sure that we employ a full range of senses to experience the pleasure and that we don’t miss a thing. The new moon in Aries and the first solar eclipse of the year both take place on Monday. Since the moon was new in Aries last month, you probably already know what a running head start this aspect can give you. So apply the extra energetic blast to something worthwhile – an area of your life that could really use transformation. Friday’s friendly Gemini moon brings spur-of-the-moment invitations that could turn your weekend on its ear!

CELEBRITY PROFILES: Kate Hudson is an Aries with a fabulous career and an even more wonderful family. She’s a new mother and is married to Black Crowes front man Chris Robinson. Hudson’s mom, Goldie Hawn, is one of her biggest fans. Aries like Hudson are welcoming and warm, though very competitive. I predict an on-screen collaboration for mother and daughter later this year.

If you would like to write to Joyce Jillson, please go to www.creators.com and click on "Write the Author" on the Joyce Jillson page, or you may send her a postcard in the mail. To find out more about Joyce Jillson and read her past columns, visit the Creators Syndicate Web page at www.creators.com. – Copyright 2004 Joyce Jillson