April 23, 2003

Next April when the poplar leaves are about the size of a squirrel's ear, we'll plant corn when the signs are in the feet; otherwise the corn will just shank and hang down.

– Charles Frazier, Cold Mountain

This week Mercury retrogrades in Taurus, so you'll want to be very careful about communication, purchasing appliances and jewelry, and gardening after April 26. Go ahead and plant that corn if the poplar leaves are saying yes. Just make sure it's not popcorn.

Wednesday, April 23 Last quarter moon in Aquarius. Look at your calendar. Today should mark a turning point for events that got really heavy around tax day. Are you feeling relieved? Aquarians, Mars is on your side until mid-June – big decisions are coming up. Get good counseling today. Libras, it's a good day to identify areas of bias.

Thursday, April 24 Waning moon in Aquarius; Armenian Genocide Remembrance Day. It's an excellent day for communicating with faraway friends or using new technology, especially some program that's been sitting around. Aquarians, you need to stay on the move, but it's a great day to speak to a group. Leos, all the forward momentum you've had in the past few months will turn into a gentle glide. Today is excellent for revamping expectations. VOC 10:19 p.m. to 7:02 a.m.

Friday, April 25 Waning moon in Pisces. See the quote? Pisces rules the feet. It's the last sign in the zodiac. Aries rules the head. Yes, it's a day for you to discover that what seemed like difficult or vague information is actually quite easily comprehended. Pisces, it's a home-improvement weekend; start now. Geminis, it's a "be anywhere but home" weekend. Make your plans. VOC until 7:02 a.m.

Saturday, April 26 Waning moon in Pisces; Mercury retrograde (until May 20). The truth will come out. In a roundabout way. Pisces, you may want to cozy up to loved ones – romance is yours if you want it. (Yes, unattached fishies can make more-intense-than-usual eye contact with the barrista.) Cancers, keep it light. Practice your soothing tone.

Sunday, April 27 Waning moon in Pisces. An all-day void-of-course makes life interesting, especially if you're traveling somewhere, buying shoes, or "meeting up" with someone new. Bring a map; wear a watch. Pisces, relaxation is what you need – don't get "guilted" into activities you don't care for. Virgos, you may feel it's always darkest before the dawn (or doing the laundry). VOC 9:18 p.m. to 5:54 p.m.

Monday, April 28 Waning moon in Aries. It's a day about fresh starts (using the same old material). Fire signs, demand attention and affection. Whims could strike the fire-sign folks, especially Aries – you'll have fun with this moon. Lady rams: make more of an effort with your wardrobe in the next few days. Libras, let others make the first move. Hanging back is safer. Aquarians (especially folks born in January), is money burning a hole in your pocket? Why?