Horoscopes by Holiday by Holiday Mathis

Venus just entered the harmonious station of Libra yesterday, and she's already causing trouble. She squares off with the misunderstood dwarf planet Pluto and produces some powerful relationship disturbances. Sometimes in order to heal and harmonize, we have to look at some uncomfortable issues, and that's what this transit is all about.

ARIES (March 21-April 19). It's funny how matters of design bring people together. A recent home improvement has unleashed a whole range of new possibilities. Brainstorm with loved ones about what the next move might be.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20). A misunderstanding leads to an unusual conversation. There may be a new opportunity for love in this, either for you or someone you know. This string of apparent coincidences has nothing to do with chance.

GEMINI (May 21-June 21). What you see as a physical problem or deficit is not so bad. Anyway, you're improving this on a daily basis. Keep seeing yourself as healthy and whole. You'll soon witness a small, personal and miraculous turnaround.

CANCER (June 22-July 22). An age-old family battle seems to be forgotten. It's unclear whether the shift is permanent, but in the meantime, the vibe significantly improves. Enjoy this wonderful, peaceful moment in the shade of your family tree.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22). You're not a dream chaser. You're more like a 'dream executor.' Your fancy runs long, but your clever mind and tenacious character are what have made those dreams come true, and it will continue to be so with today's work.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22). As a kid, you were more likely to carry an unwanted spider away from the house in a glass jar, rather than squish it. This regard for the little creatures and life in general is part of what makes you an exemplary human.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 23). If you still feel stuck in some way, donate some of your time. Consider volunteering for something you believe in. You'll be surprised at how much inner work is done when you're ostensibly working for others.

SCORPIO (Oct. 24-Nov. 21). Crashing up against your limits is never a pleasant experience. It is, however, a necessary one, especially if you want to grow. Hidden though it may be, your triumph is imminent. Stay focused.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21). Someone you know, perhaps a close friend, is the subject of gossip. Whether or not there's any truth to the charges, it hurts you to see others going through social turmoil.

Luckily, you can help.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19). Your heart is especially open right now. It seems like the littlest things set off a wash of emotions. A long talk with a trusted friend centers you on what's positive and good in your life.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18). In the past, you've said that you'd never do something again, only to repeat yourself soon after — that's what humans do! Something imperceptible has changed now, though. One of your resolutions is sticking. Well done.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20). Everything will come to you so easily that you might have to look way outside of your usual sphere of activities to find something that truly tests. You'll succeed there, too.

TODAY'S BIRTHDAY (Oct. 15). You are driven to show the world what you can do. Your commitment to work will be well compensated. Balance out the picture with loving relationships. The affection and care you exchange will support your climb to the top. The new year brings opportunities to be generous in ways that only you can be. Aquarius and Taurus people adore you. Your lucky numbers are: 4, 50, 43, 17 and 32.

VENUS, IF YOU WILL: Your natal chart shows where the planets were at your time of birth. This information can be found in astrology books and software, or by consulting an astrologer. Venus, the planet of love, provides clues about what fascinates you and brings you joy and excitement, as well as how you are likely to pursue your subjects of interest and objects of affection. Venus in CAPRICORN people stand out as powerful and in charge. This aspect indicates a driven individual who will do what it takes to achieve the prize of his or her choosing. They take their responsibilities seriously, and one of the ways they show their devotion to another person is to commit to that person's happiness and success as they do to their own. Ownership is important to Venus in Capricorn people, and it's a big part of romance. They will claim things with their love, and what they claim forever becomes a part of the couple's story. If you have Venus in Capricorn or love someone who does, it will seem that the world belongs to your twosome — cities, restaurants and songs seem created just for you.

CELEBRITY PROFILES: Libras are known for being tasteful, and Emeril Lagasse is a celebrity chef who dedicates his life to filling the world with great tastes. With his empire of media products and restaurants, he is determined to help cooks everywhere "kick it up a notch!" His fiery Aries moon draws him to the spicier side of life, and his natal Venus in Virgo indicates a personality that thrives on hard work.

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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