The Taurus moon tends toward materialism and with the Sagittarius sun taking everything to the extreme, those inclined to shop may go a bit nuts. To prevent damage, slow down to the pace of a lazy cow (instead of a charging bull) and be sure to stick to a strict set of rules. For instance, plan first and don't get anything that's not on your list.

ARIES (March 21-April 19). You're tempted to name something a blessing or a curse, but neither of those extremes will fit exactly. So instead you relax and declare that it is what it is. It's strangely liberating not to have a judgment.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20). You're looking for a straight shooter, just like you. You're clear about where you stand, especially in matters of love. The rules are laid out and you've stuck to them. Role-playing or mind games hold no appeal.

GEMINI (May 21-June 21). You are intelligent, versatile and adaptable, and you'll be using all three of those traits to turn a money-losing proposition into a bonanza. Your alliances will help you sort out the best financial route.

CANCER (June 22-July 22). You don't need to spend the amount of money that you think you do in order to make your environment warm and welcoming. You'll be more creative on a tight budget than you would be with all the money in the world to spend.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22). Your style is to be direct, but it serves you better to soften your approach today. Do some fancy footwork. Dance around a subject like a prima ballerina while you feel out where the other person is coming from.

TODAY'S BIRTHDAY (DECEMBER 9). You're so appreciative of what you have that the universe doubles it up this year. In January, reorganize your schedule, materials and priorities. February brings new personalities into your life. Family events in spring bring distant folks together. In April there is special training that will allow you to make more money. Scorpio and Libra adore you. Your lucky numbers are: 11, 4, 33, 9 and 20.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22). Your nervous system has been delicate and physical exertion takes the edge off. Recreation is important and you'll have playful company to join you in your favorite activities.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 23). You feel more comfortable giving than receiving, but it's essential to do both. Get relationships back in balance. Encourage others to contribute to you and tell them how they can make you happy.

SCORPIO (Oct. 24-Nov. 21). Because you believe in harmony and tact, you only say about 10 percent of what you would like to say. Perhaps you've been holding back more than is good for you, though. And why deprive the world of your snappy attitude?

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21). You like everyone, but some people you like especially well. Your ebullient mood is attractive. Don't be afraid to inject conversations with flattery. You can be so subtle that no one can accuse you of flirting!

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19). You always value loyalty in yourself and others and now it is the top quality you require. People who praise and promote you, in some cases when you're not in the room, will win your heart.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18). You can't understand why some people seek drama. Avoid those types. You're looking for relationships that contribute to a sense of stability in your life. If they do the opposite, their whole purpose is defeated.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20). Most of the time you are versatile, fluid and as flexible as a fish. However, when the situation is extremely important to you, your iron will comes out. You're like a salmon swimming upstream and you will make it.

SHOPPING UNDER THE TAURUS MOON: The moon in Taurus is a favorable time to shop. We are in touch with our appetites and needs during this lunar phase and tuned in to the best ways to fulfill them. However, in the heat of the holiday rush, and under the influence of expansive, ambitious Sagittarius, the stage is set for some crazy spending. To prevent mistakes and regrets, do what Santa does: Make your list and check it twice. Getting a plan down in writing will focus your mind on how your shopping fits into your goals for the season and also how it fits into the overall vision of your life. You'll realize how much you have to spend before you enter a store and this will start your mind churning with creative ideas. Otherwise you're likely to buy your gifts backward — to see an item and pick it up for someone regardless of relevance and before considering what that person would really want or need that is within your budget. Another note about Taurus moon shopping is that it's quite pleasurable when kept to a slow pace. Nothing has to be accomplished all in one day. Take your time, enjoy the sights and sounds of the holiday, and spread good cheer wherever you go.

CELEBRITY PROFILES: Emmy winner Felicity Huffman's birthday is only one day away from her "Desperate Housewives" co-star Teri Hatcher's birthday. Though the two were born in different years, there are many similarities in their natal charts. Each has two planets in sexy Scorpio. These passionate Sagittarian actresses (and mothers!) share a friendly bond and mutual admiration for the other's talent.

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