July 20, 2003 (Sunday)

Mercury and Neptune form an opposition that acts like image-editing software on our sense of reason. The pictures in our head are quite easily manipulated – brighten the color, stretch the scene, or enlarge a minuscule detail, and you’ve got a version that in no way resembles reality. It’s terrific for creativity but not so good for a solid plan of attack.

ARIES (March 21-April 19). Coincidence provides conversation with interesting new people. Change your outside to reflect how you feel on the inside. Donate things you haven’t used in a year to a favorite charity. New confidence attracts love.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20). An encounter with one you admire shows you the direction to grow toward. Vibes regarding work should be acted on immediately in some small way, even if it’s your day off. Stop a blame-passing chain at home.

GEMINI (May 21-June 21). Sweet harmony fills personal relationships. Romantic hopefuls who have had trouble breaking the ice become suave and sophisticated. Couples have the realization that rules need to be reinstated.

CANCER (June 22-July 22). It’s a lovely time to daydream. Settling down is on your mind, and you’ll be lucky in matters that involve moving property. Selling face to face is also lucky. Tonight, a good friend has an idea you can’t resist.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22). Focus on the needs of others, and suddenly, everyone is your friend. New skills help you deal with popularity – get on a fresh learning track. You and mate or partner cook up a big-money enterprise based on what you’re finding out.

TODAY’S BIRTHDAY (July 20). Your charisma has never been higher than it is this year. In the next 10 days, take a chance. This risk leads to winning in another area of your life. Through August, do what has been successful for you in the past, and watch your financial situation get much better. September gives you the time to enjoy the fruits of your labor. Your lucky numbers this year are: 6, 22, 55, 32 and 19.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22). Family unity requires more communication. A phony is easy for you to spot, but protect younger people who are more easily fooled. Investigate a suspicious action. This afternoon, a flirtation has you feeling on top of the world.

LIBRA (Sept.23-Oct.23). Seek variety, and change the status quo! An attractive stranger is sending a subtle signal of romantic interest. Reciprocate, and you’re off on a romantic journey. Friends, children and older people have a valid need of you tonight.

SCORPIO (Oct. 24-Nov. 21). Your direct style is admired, and you get results by tackling duties head on. Put your creative stamp on projects this afternoon, or be prepared for the credit to go to someone else. Tonight, kick up your heels.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21). A family member is out of your control. If you can find it in your heart to indulge someone’s ego, you’ll keep the peace. Financial tip: Learn all you can from those who’ve survived economic hardship in the past.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19). Attention to health and exercise makes you feel strong and capable. Don’t force your values on others, as a new love is easily alienated. Financial challenges let you sharpen your logic skills, which are sexier than you realize.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18). Call, write, and generally use your influence. Bringing people together is your forte. Zany pals buzz about you in a delightful mix. The mind must oversee the heart tonight – a steamy romantic impulse may be unwise.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20). You are almost convinced to throw good money after bad, but of course, you know better. Hide your skepticism regarding a loved one’s plan. This person needs your support. A secret admirer is plotting to get to know you better.

FORECAST FOR THE WEEK AHEAD: This week, use good style and good sense to put yourself in a position to claim what you want. The Taurus moon promises that our hard work finally adds up to something we can use to change the quality of our lives for years to come. The effects of change are swift and lasting, so you can stop yourself from thinking it could all disappear tomorrow. Tuesday, when the sun begins transiting through bighearted Leo, it’s hard to escape your drive for attention. Everyone needs his or her share and then some. Luckily, the spotlight is big enough for more than one player, and if you take turns, the needs of many can be satisfied. When the sun is in Leo, it’s like a homecoming for the center of our system. Thursday releases some of our anxiety and has everyone sharing on the social scene. Under the quick Gemini moon, ideas are the commodity exchanged; mental expansion and a lighter approach to life are the benefits. Casual plans and spontaneous decisions bring on a chain of lasting good fortune. Over the weekend, personal forces line up and amplify charisma. It’s a lucky time to increase earnings, enhance creative potential or attract a dreamy love.

CELEBRITY PROFILES: Matt LeBlanc married his longtime girlfriend at an exotic island getaway, and the stars turned out in droves. For years, I have predicted LeBlanc will break out as a serious actor in a much-acclaimed film role after the series "Friends" comes to a close. I stick by this, noting his Pisces moon, which lends unbelievable versatility to actors. Watch LeBlanc floor critics with a stealth attack on the movie world.

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Copyright 2003 Joyce Jillson