Horoscopes by Holiday by Holiday Mathis

The day has two distinct moods as the moon shifts from Cancer to Leo. Sticking around the house seems like an excellent way to get ready for the upcoming week, and there will be many domestic chores to keep us occupied. As the evening turns up our playfulness, creativity and need for entertainment, new pranks will come to mind.

ARIES (March 21-April 19). People have a habit of presenting themselves as they would like to be seen in an ideal world of their own creation. This is especially true online. You are more realistic, which others find refreshing.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20). You're sensitive now and may find that the bewildering tension in the air is something so tangible to you that you cannot let go of it. You'll pursue the truth that will relieve this discomfort.

GEMINI (May 21-June 21). You're smarter than the bright, shiny objects that demand your attention, and yet, it's all too tempting to follow the glint. The best way to stay on track today is to take precautions against distraction.

CANCER (June 22-July 22). You are not your emotions — a fact that's easily forgotten when supercharged feelings race through your veins. Separate yourself from what's going on to bear witness to your experience, and you'll have greater control.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22). You'll be in a quiet mood, inclined to speak only when you know that your words will improve the situation. It's a relief not to need the spotlight. Through observation, you'll obtain valuable information.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22). Your personality is attractive, and every time you share your charm with others, you polish it with a new layer of experience. You may get a chance to "work the room" today, and you'll certainly work a few key conversations.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 23). Keep changing up the routine. What you enjoy for a time or two may quickly get old. You'll be sensitive to other people's need for entertainment and excitement, as well. You're smart not to rely on old tricks.

SCORPIO (Oct. 24-Nov. 21). You like to test your projects quietly before you bring them into the public eye. This allows you to take more risks. If you're going to fail, you'd rather fail in obscurity. When you have consistent success, you'll tell the whole world.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21). You talk; people listen. You're quite aware of how your control over your voice adds to your personal power and influence, and you may even do a bit of rehearsing or vocal warm-ups before delivering a special message.

CAPRICORN (Dec.

22-Jan. 19). You will be called by the voice of conscience that resides inside your heart. Indeed, its dictates may not make practical sense, but that won't stop you from following. The heart needs what it needs.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18). Your signmate Jimmy Durante famously joked, "I hate music, especially when it's played." Moderation keeps you from tiring of something you really love and becoming jaded.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20). You're curious about people, which keeps your tasks interesting. You'll keep wondering what motivates others. You'll be surprised at what you learn by asking only one or two good questions.

TODAY'S BIRTHDAY (April 1). Your needs will be met! This month brings a serendipitous union that leads to money and opportunity. May brings obvious signs, which you'll heed to move your personal life in a positive direction. Social opportunities are plentiful through the summer. The financial scene is stellar in August. Singles could marry in September. Taurus and Gemini people adore you. Your lucky numbers are: 3, 20, 13, 38 and 17.

FORECAST FOR THE WEEK AHEAD: This week may begin on a foolish note, but the planets favor and support sensible action. April Fools' Day happens under a Cancer moon and, later, a Leo Moon. The antics get more elaborate as the day progresses.

On Tuesday, Venus slips into a Gemini mood inspiring trendiness, long chats, friendly sharing and a fair amount of romantic ambivalence. Some people will be downright fickle in matters of the heart, so it's best not to invest too much expectation in other people's promises (especially those you don't know well) or to over-promise yourself. This transit lasts through August 7.

Wednesday is a day we've been waiting for. Mercury stations to go direct and will continue to fly straight until July 14. It's a relief to anyone who's been suffering from misunderstandings, dropped calls, lost mail or computer issues. On the other hand, you've probably learned a lot that you wouldn't have known had the past few weeks been nothing but smooth sailing.

Friday's full moon in Libra will be gorgeous in the sky and also in your heart. Libra is the sign of partnership, friendship and harmonious relationships of all kinds, so take advantage of this sweet lunar phase.

CELEBRITY PROFILES: Happy birthday to Susan Boyle, the Aries songstress who rose to fame on "Britain's Got Talent." The ride from obscurity to musical millionaire is just the kind of thrill that Aries can handle like no other. This sign is always game for opportunity and is remarkably lucky in new situations, which helps in handling huge changes with grace. Boyle has Venus in Aries, as well.

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

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