This is the full moon after-party, and the last day of Mercury's retrograde in Capricorn. In the morning, a lunar square with Mars makes sure to give us something to talk about the rest of the day, and later a trine with Saturn rather conveniently heals matters up or at least smooths them over so all can go to bed in good conscience.

ARIES (March 21-April 19). Hard work is a virtue. But what if you are only working hard because you can't figure out how to work smart? Go on and ask that lazy, brilliant person you know. It's about time you followed the path of least resistance.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20). The quirks make you smile. The thing that makes something beautiful is the same thing that makes it imperfect. You'll teach those younger than you with your all-embracing attitude.

GEMINI (May 21-June 21). Are you starting to realize that the way you've been telling your story doesn't really paint it in the most accurate or flattering way? Tweak it. Do a rewrite on your history.

CANCER (June 22-July 22). You are free to do as you please. How does that feel? Likely, you're figuring out that you don't exercise your liberties nearly enough. Take a risk. Turn some heads; raise twice as many eyebrows.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22). There are some people who make you feel older than you are — and not in a good way. Steer clear of the ones who complain too much about the "new" way things work these days.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22). You'll probably have to put something out of your mind in order to stay on task. Your ability to compartmentalize will be your biggest key to success. You could really get paid better for this, by the way!

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 23). It's interesting how you get through some things by facing them head-on and you get through other things by ignoring them soundly. You've an excellent instinct about which way to go with today's situation.

SCORPIO (Oct. 24-Nov. 21). Affirm that you're fine with the ebb and flow of relationships and everything gets easier. Be mindful of this dynamic: "Friends may come and go, but enemies accumulate." Thomas Jones.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21). Rub elbows with the one who makes you happy. This will help you maintain a healthy perspective. The morning snafu is meant to get your attention, not ruin your day.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19). Like all goats, you claim what's yours, and you'll butt anyone off who challenges your level. You don't like to be knocked off your rock, and today you'll dig in to make sure that it doesn't happen.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18). The urge to annoy others is stronger than you care to admit. This is not your fault. It may, in fact, be your calling at the moment. They need you to shake things up.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20). There will be mischief and madness thrown into your mix. Not all the antics will amuse you, at least not at first. Still, eventually, the only thing left to do will be to laugh.

TODAY'S BIRTHDAY (Jan. 24). Entrepreneurs talk about "building a better mousetrap," and you'll actually live this metaphor with your inventive take on everyday life. February brings more money to dedicate to your project. In June, an open door will lead to a surprising place. Right now you don't even know how big you can love: July will show you. Aries and Sagittarius adore you. Your lucky numbers are: 5, 23, 10, 2 and 16.

FORECAST FOR THE WEEK AHEAD: The wing-footed mischief-maker of the heavens will be taking a break from his cosmic roast starting tomorrow, the end of the first Mercury retrograde of the year. Are you going to miss the antics even a little? Maybe you already find humor in what's happened. There were some crossed lines, mixed messages, bad calls, dropped calls, catcalls, etc. (Mercury's favorite retrograde pastime is messing with calls in general.) There were a few embarrassing moments and awkward interactions. And what about those risk-takers who went ahead and made big purchases? It wasn't advisable, but, then again, who can put everything on hold for one measly retrograde planet? Those bold folks may still be dealing with the fine print of contracts, bad fits or things that just don't work quite as anticipated. That will be sorted out more easily and with better results once the momentum of the week kicks in. All in all, this week is about taking stock then making new declarations, intentions and goals. On Saturday Mercury will align with Pluto to invite unseen forces to aid the mission. You'll be surprised at the power that was lying dormant, just waiting for this opportunity.

CELEBRITY PROFILES: Aquarius Kristen Schaal has a full year ahead, sandwiching big comedy film releases in with starring roles in more than one hit television series, including "The Last Man on Earth." Aquarius is the sign of the future and also the sign of eclectic tastes and eccentric behavior. With Schaal's moon, Mars and Saturn all in Leo, the comedienne can't help but entertain with the fruit of her whimsical mind.

To write to Holiday Mathis, visit www.creators.com and click "Write the Author" on her page.

Photo credit: Paul Wilkinson