Horoscopes by Holiday by Holiday Mathis

This year, Punxsutawney Phil's special moment happens in the last hours of Neptune's transit in Aquarius, endowing the day with a feeling of significance and transition. If his shadow doesn't scare him, the chatter and hubbub around the Gemini moon just might. Everyone feels like sharing, exploring and hopping aboard the next trend.

ARIES (March 21-April 19). Anger can be the catalyzing emotion that brings about positive change. It can also cause unnecessary restriction, making you smaller than you could be. Cool down and consider how best to use your anger.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20). Waiting for permission in a matter could prevent forward movement. Calculate the risks involved. It may be worthwhile to act unsanctioned and ask for forgiveness later.

GEMINI (May 21-June 21). You'll say what's on your mind for what its worth, all the while realizing that your communication isn't really about content. It's about creating rapport and making a connection.

CANCER (June 22-July 22). Your first instinct may be to obey the rules, but there's a bit of mischief in you, too, especially when you notice that the rules don't apply to everyone. Have fun dancing through yesterday's limitations.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22). Don't pass up the chance to go for the laugh. Maybe it won't work, but if it does, it will put something wonderful into the world. Laughter is a kind of music. It's a sound that signals the harmony of souls.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22). Though you certainly have the most burdens to bear today, you don't have to play the part of the heavy. You can take a responsibility seriously without taking yourself seriously.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 23). Often you are subliminally influenced by your surroundings and the zeitgeist. Though your most stylish and artistic choices happen when you consciously and carefully choose your influences.

SCORPIO (Oct. 24-Nov. 21). A friend who can see you clearly and relate an accurate reflection of you is invaluable. You'll learn of one of your blind spots, and you'll find a way to avoid being ruined by this weakness.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21). You'll be excellent at reading body language, putting together evidence and sleuthing for answers. And though there are many ways to find out what someone is doing and thinking, but the best one is to ask directly.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan.

19). You'll appreciate best the one who rushes to your aid and is the first to get there. Maybe you won't need the help, but the effort reflects an affection and level of attention that you'll value.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18). What you thought would be a quick dance is turning out to be a long slog. What makes this so cumbersome is all of the baggage you have to carry from point A to point B. You'll consider dropping some of it.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20). The projects that you're involved with will come together because people cooperate so well when you're in the mix. You'll establish an environment where the truth is welcome.

TODAY'S BIRTHDAY (Feb. 2) You'll teach those with less experience. Many will carry on the legacy of your mentorship. You love competition and welcome the chance to hone your skills against a worthy competitor this month. Next month brings romance and intrigue. Investments pay in May and September. Educate yourself and earn in August. Aries and Gemini adore you. Your lucky numbers are: 10, 3, 2, 45 and 20.

CAPRICORN POWER RESOLUTION FOR 2012: How did it happen that when we ran this series last month, poor Capricorn somehow got skipped? Mea culpa dear Capricorn readers! You might take it as an omen that you are so wonderfully self-directed this year that you don't need an astrologer to tell you your best resolution. A new sense of self is taking hold, and you can already see evidence of the change in the improved reception you get from others. As you pursue your heart's desire, they either help you or step aside to give you room. Rest assured, your remarkable internal drive and shrewd sense of focus helps you navigate toward your best interests in the manner of style that is just so-you. No one else could have called this one for you.

As for your luckiest days of the year — well, I wouldn't deny you the opportunity to play your odds and win!

LUCKIEST DAYS OF THE YEAR: January 21, 22, 23; February 16, 17, 18; March 13, 14, 16; April 12, 13, 21; May 1, 5, 9; June 1, 4, 6; July 1, 2, 3; August 6, 8, 19; September 22, 23, 24; October 20, 21, 22; November 11, 12, 13; December 10, 11, 12.

CELEBRITY PROFILES: Columbian born pop star Shakira was just 12 years old when she released her first record, and her tenacity finally paid off in Grammys. The dancing Aquarian diva has been honored by the United Nations and other organizations for her extensive charitable contributions. Her natal moon in soulful Cancer reveals a strong intuitive sense and a powerful bond with family.

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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