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Cancer (June 21 - July 22)
Your May horoscope by Susan Miller
Life certainly has not been easy lately, dear Cancer. Saturn, the planet that brings hard life lessons, has finished almost half of its two-year orbit through your sign. By now you are coping with a range of new challenges and responsibilities, and undergoing a major life transition. The universe requires each of us *****bmit to a two-year tour of duty with Saturn every 29 years. Your period began in June 2003 and is set to end in July 2005.
Saturn is a little like a personal trainer. At first we don''t like a thing he says. He seems pushy and annoying. Everything he makes you do seems to make you hurt a little. However, soon you start to look and feel completely different ... and better. You begin to see that all the hard work Saturn has done on your life was good and necessary.
For a long time, Saturn centered most of its harsh tests on those Cancers born in June, but that has recently changed. Saturn''s orbit is speeding ahead and will now shift its attention to Cancers with birthdays from July 1 to 15. If your birthday is named, you will be dealing directly with Saturn from May through September 2004.
If your birthday falls later in the month, from July 15 to 22, you will be next in line and will deal directly with Saturn from September through December 2004.
If your birthday falls prior to June 30, you are finished with the hardest part of Saturn''s visit. Of course, Saturn is still in Cancer, so it''s not exactly party time yet, but life will be a little easier.
Saturn will begin to retrograde in November 2004, so this taskmaster planet will backtrack over part of its previous path. This means Cancers born from July 12 to July 22 will feel Saturn''s challenges again for the first half of 2005. To be fair, the universe makes sure everyone deals with Saturn for roughly the same number of months. Nobody is singled out for extra time.
Keep in mind that next year''s experience (2005) will be your easiest portion of this trend, no matter when your birthday falls. Last year, from June to December 2003, you weren''t yet coping with changes, but rather you were getting the lay of the land. And next year, 2005, when you reach the tail end of Saturn''s visit, to span January to July 2005, you will wrap up what you learned. The hardest portion of this trend almost always falls to the middle year, and that''s what you are in now. You can pass Saturn''s tests, dear Cancer! You are almost though the hardest part, so don''t give up!
You have not had much help from the other planets lately, but happily, you will start to get some solid assistance. The good news is that Mars will favor Cancer from May 7 to June 23, a period of roughly seven weeks.
Your sign is known to be a bit reserved, but Mars will make you feisty and uncharacteristically competitive. You seem tired of waiting for other people to make things happen for you. Mars will urge you to go out and make opportunities happen for yourself. You''ve correctly concluded that life won''t get better until you MAKE it better. That is one of Saturn''s lessons - not to lean on others but to be fully accountable for your life. Now you have a terrific chance to turn the tides to your favor. Endeavors started with Mars in your sign usually become extremely successful. With Mars at your side, you will more likely put in a great deal of effort to your plans, a powerful reason they will have an outstanding chance of success.
Mars rules any matter requiring a strenuous push - right now you are capable of more staying power than you might suppose. Your passion will be strong and will encourage people in authority to help you. So get to it, dear Cancer. You are now beginning a key two-year cycle. What you do now has legs and will be able to take you so very far.
Against this backdrop, this will also be quite an emotional month with a full moon lunar eclipse in your fifth house of true love on May 4. It will be a fortunate eclipse for you for it will fall in a compatible water sign, Scorpio. Having said that, I need to add that all eclipses add an element of surprise so you can''t always gauge precisely what will happen. With eclipses something always ends and something else begins.
You tend to be very sensitive to lunar eclipses because, as a Cancer, the moon rules your sign. One thing seems certain - an important relationship is about to reach a culmination, whether you had planned for this to happen or not.
How things turn out depends on how things have been going with this relationship over the past year or more. A truly great relationship will get even better, but a shaky one will likely crumble. Certain new facts will come to light. Although that sounds ominous, as said, if you have a strong relationship, the news may make you happy. Eclipses always bring clarity and insight by shedding light on a situation, changing its complexion completely.
The universe will bring outside circumstances to bear on your relationship that will force you to see it differently and to make a move. There is never any fence-sitting allowed when an eclipse is involved! This is a full moon eclipse, which will bring up memories and dreams, so you are likely to feel stirred up a bit, on a very deep level.
Some Cancers will decide to get engaged or married, making this a very happy, memorable time.
However, if things do not go in the direction you had hoped and you are confronted with a breakup, in your discussions try not to put too much emphasis on the past, dear Cancer. It will be tempting to use your history as a couple as a negotiating chit. ("We have been together ten years! How can you leave?" is irrelevant.) The topic of your eclipse should be your future, not your past. Focus on what has changed and how to fix that. Not all problems are fixable. Change what you can, and accept what you cannot.
As mentioned, this eclipse will fall in Scorpio, a possessive sign, suggesting your discussion might center on jealousy - yours or your partner''s. If you have been dating a short time but feel certain about your feelings, you might be upset if your partner wants to play the field or date someone else. This would be an example of different timetables colliding. If you''ve become too insistent about getting your way, you may have frightened your partner away.
The problem with this eclipse is that Neptune will be active, suggesting a miscommunication or misunderstanding is possible. But to get truth, you need to be willing to see it. In that regard, the eclipse will certainly try to show you what "is" as opposed to what "could have been."
Other Cancer readers may focus on a pregnancy (possibly a very joyous development) or the issue of ***ual faithfulness. I say this because the sign in which the eclipse falls, Scorpio, rules ***uality and reproduction.
I hope all goes smoothly, dear Cancer. Sometimes we have to go through a process to get to the fruit on the top branch of the tree. Other times we have to accept what is, and move on. Hopefully, you will enjoy this eclipse. Even if you don''t, you are due to benefit. Because of its position in a water sign, this eclipse will be supportive of your long-range plans. Remain philosophical.
It is hard to negotiate with a person who is giving you news at an eclipse. If you are tempted to change a decision (such as a breakup), try to let the dust settle and wait four months before coming back for a second try. (I say four months because in four months the Sun will "trine" the position of the eclipse, a favorable aspect.)
If your birthday falls on or near July 5, you will be singled out to benefit from the lunar eclipse, more so than other members of your sign.
Now let''s turn to some other developments this month. Jupiter will turn to direct orbit on the very day that the eclipse appears. Jupiter rules your house of health and well-being. If you''ve been trying to get yourself in better shape, Jupiter''s turn direct (which has many benefits) will also help your plans to increase your fitness. For best results, try beginning a cutback on calories on or near May 10.
Venus will retrograde from May 17 to June 29, and during that time life may take on a "no-frills" tone. Venus rules fun and love, but with Venus'' signal weakened, we will all have to shuffle along without her benefic rays.
Venus rules beauty and good looks as well as parties, adornment, fine clothes, jewelry and life''s other indulgences. This retrograde period would NOT be a positive time to schedule cosmetic surgery. It is also not a wise time to throw an important party or benefit, spend money on expensive jewelry or new clothes, or to schedule expensive spa or salon treatments (whether for men or women).
In your chart, Venus has sway over your home and real estate sector. You may find those matters hit snags and delays until Venus turns fully direct on June 29. If you are trying to sell or buy a house, you are likely to have better luck at the very end of June or in July.
Friends will play a large role in your life this month by linking you to new opportunities or making special introductions for you. This will happen in the days after the new moon, May 19.
Although as a shy Cancer you''d probably prefer to snuggle into your apartment and bolt the door, it would be better for you to get out and show your face to the world. Contacts you make while circulating at group functions could turn out to be amazingly helpful. If your birthday falls on or within days of July 19, you will benefit quite dramatically from the new moon in Taurus on May 19. Meet with anyone who is willing to open talks with you!
Travel could well be the cosmic treat of the month. Fantastic opportunities to get out of town may come up at four different points of the month. As a Cancer, you tend to stay home because you take your responsibilities so seriously, but everyone needs a break now and then. This month, you''d do well to find a way to pry yourself away, if only for a long weekend.
First, you may need to travel (or put a deposit on a trip) at the full moon eclipse, May 4. This would be a golden point because on this day Jupiter, the good luck planet, will move forward. Whether you choose to go now or later, near or far, for business or pleasure, you will love the trip you plan or take now.
Next, put a circle around Monday, May 17 as well as the preceding weekend. You may either take a quick, distant trip or hear excellent new from someone based at a distance. Either would send your spirits soaring.
A long weekend sure to bring a happy travel experience would be Friday, May 21 through Sunday, May 23. The moon will be in Cancer, favoring YOU. Also, Jupiter will send a sweet message to Mercury in your house of friendship on this weekend. If you travel that weekend, you''ll enjoy every moment of your trip.
Finally, the weekend of May 29 to May 31 is Memorial Day in the United States, a popular weekend for travel. While this weekend won''t glow quite as brightly as the previous weekend, it will be sweet, with your best day falling on Monday, May 31.
Last month Mercury was retrograde, marking a time of delays and cancellations, but Mercury has since moved forward, so there is no reason to hold back.
Just for clarification, we have been talking about a number of planets turning retrograde this month, but the key one to watch is Mercury (which, as just said is DONE with its retrograde motion). No other planet has the same frustrating effect when retrograde as Mercury.
Mercury rules intellect, communication, transportation, electronics, shipping, contracts and commerce. As you see, the world runs on Mercury, so this planet has a huge effect on everyday life. The next time Mercury will go out of phase will be from August 9 to September 2. If I were you, I''d plan to be away on vacation at that time. (You will have fabulous aspects to flee town.)
Speaking about retrograde planets, when a planet is sliding backwards, it is thought to be weaker in influence. Jupiter has been retrograde since January 3, but will bolt forward on May 4. Jupiter is now in your third house, so this means that your ability to communicate with others is about to take a big leap forward. If you think that''s nothing much, think again.
Sometimes we try and try to get others to take notice of us but the world ignores us. Then one day, we say the same thing in a different way - and suddenly we get results. Go figure. It has to do with the way the information reaches the mind of the person we are trying to persuade. Now, you will get better at this. Also, if you have been awaiting a contract or other paperwork to sign, it will likely show up shortly after May 4.
Your career is changing, too, due to the eclipse last month on April 19. You may already see positive changes shaping up. If nothing occurred, you may see some exciting developments take hold one month to the day after the eclipse due within five days of May 19.
If you did not read last month''s forecast, I think you might want to. In it, I speak a great deal about your work life. With more eclipses due in your work and home sector in October, you may want to start to track changes. (Every month you will find the hyperlink to the previous month''s forecast at the very bottom of this forecast.)
Finally, if you are paid for your ideas (or even if you are not), this month you can take a creative idea and run with it. Your ideas will be taken seriously and you will feel like a million dollars when news of a final approval arrives. The May 4 lunar eclipse in friendly Scorpio will help you on many levels. As they say, nothing ventured, nothing gained!
Summary:
The lunar full moon eclipse on May 4 will bring a change in your closest relationship. How things pan out now depends on your history as a couple. If you''re ready for more, you''ll grow closer and may even become engaged or married. If your relationship leaves much to be desired, it may be time to call a time out, or even quits. If you are not in not in a relationship, you could very likely meet someone new within four days of May 4, so look sharp!
Married Cancers may have that all-important "should-we-have-a-baby-now" talk. If you currently have no relationship, the May 4 eclipse may bring you the one you''ve hoped would come.
Mars will move into Cancer this month, too, a wonderful development that will give you added glitter and glow. Projects and alliances begun while Mars is in your sign usually hit the bull''s eye, so give it all you''ve got. This month the passive approach simply will not do!

Leo (July 23- August 22)
Your May horoscope by Susan Miller
Your home and family relationships will be a big focus near the May 4 total lunar eclipse. Changes are in the wind. With a full moon eclipse due on this date it appears you will be walking over a bridge to a new lifestyle. A home-related development is about to crystallize, one that may require a decision sooner than you expected.
For example, you may find out that you have to move, renovate, or need a new roommate. Maybe you will learn that your landlord is offering apartments for sale to the tenants as condos, and a quick decision looms.
No matter what comes up, the fact that Uranus, the planet of unexpected developments, will be so sweetly angled to this lunar eclipse means that you should be able to find a way to benefit from this eclipse. You should find surprisingly good options, even if you have to find them rapidly.
Saturn will also be outstandingly cooperative, another comforting thought. It signals that the decision you make now will be one you will live with for a long time. Most people want long-term results when it comes to home and property matters.
If it turns out your physical space or other property is NOT highlighted, it may be that your parents or other relatives will create the news in your life. Your mom and dad may decide to move out of the house where you grew up. Or you may have a problem with a relative that needs to be talked out because it has reached a crisis.
Full moon eclipses tend to bring emotions to a high level. If you were born on or near August 19, you will feel this eclipse more personally than most. While you may be a little jarred by developments, if this is your birthday (or you were born close to this date), you still should find a way to come out ahead.
Another, less likely example would be that your mom may not feel well and may need your assistance. (I say "mom" because this is a lunar eclipse, suggesting a focus on a female relative.) If this should be the case, be comforted in the knowledge that you can help her find excellent medical advice. As said, the aspects surrounding this particular eclipse are quite positive. Please don''t worry unnecessarily - the vast majority of Leos will see shifts in their living quarters or in regard to property matters.
The only planet that will not cooperate with this eclipse will be Neptune, in your house of partners. Hence, if you are married, you may find that your spouse is not helpful or needs to be convinced of your path. Or, Neptune''s harsh angle may indicate some confusion, particularly in regard to financial matters.
If you have to sign a lease or deed, make sure your lawyer has gone over things with a fine-tooth comb. If you are buying a house, make sure you have experts check for problems with water, whether related to water supply, flooding or possible water damage from other sources.
If you were born within striking distance of this eclipse - that is, within five days of August 6, your home or family relationship will almost certainly go through a transition. You may be challenged by developments but you appear ready to take them on. Thinking philosophically, it looks to me that you have known for some time that you would have to make some changes. Now that this matter is finally on the way to being solved, be glad.
There are other things going on in your chart. Mars will now move into a low-key, strategic position. This will allow you to step back, catch your breath and survey what you''ve accomplished.
Mars will ask you to plan your future course, a process that will take seven weeks. Once Mars moves into Leo on June 23, you will begin to move at the speed of light. Your life will explode with activity. Best of all, the seeds you plant at this time will likely bare great fruit. It would behoove you to wait for this period to begin projects that are most dear to you.
Once Mars moves into Leo on June 23 for a seven-week stay, you will be on your way to a new cycle. It will be necessary to have your blueprints ready. When the universe decides you are "on the air" of life you will have no time to fumble your lines.
Although early May could be a time of intense emotions and, at times complete exhaustion, the month will improve as it proceeds.
In regard to your career, you will have a big moment at the new moon, May 19, and in the two weeks that follow. It''s time for a step up in status, dear Leo. If you want to get a better job, this would be your time to interview. In fact, the days that follow May 19 will bring you some of the very best opportunities of the year.
There may be one obstacle that you encounter on the way to professional happiness. Uranus is in a hard angle to this new moon so while it is likely that you WILL get the salary you had hoped - it appears to be quite generous - the benefits package may not be good at all. (That would be the package that includes vacation, bonus, health insurance, severance, retirement and so forth.)
Still, I think you may want to take the job that comes your way. The promotion or new job will not be just a meaningless change of title for your business card. This new job will offer a substantial increase in responsibility and power, something you will want to at least consider. If you don''t take it, you won''t have another set of aspects this strong again until next year.
(You might want to check the forecast for your Sun sign in my book, "The Year Ahead 2004" and for your rising sign, too. The book covers the whole year, so perhaps you will have another aspect that might help you find a job sooner. You are a combination of your rising sign and Sun sign, so you should read forecasts for both. The rising sign can only be known by calculating your specific horoscope chart, with the known date and time and place of birth.)
Against this background, Venus will retrograde from May 17 to June 29. This will inevitably bring some delays in the very professional matters you are discussing. You may have to be patient. I say this because Venus is the natural ruler of your solar tenth house of career promotion. The way this may work out is that you will get your promotion or new job, but won''t start immediately. It may have to wait until July. Or, you may begin an interview process after the new moon on May 19 (a perfect time to do so) but because executives who will be out of town, the process may takes months, not weeks. Go with the flow.
While Venus is retrograde, this planet of beauty, good looks and fun will withhold her best powers from us. They will be sorely missed. This would not be a wise time to schedule plastic surgery or to spend large amounts of money on clothes, jewelry, spa treatments or other luxuries. Wait until you get to June 29 and the days that follow for those activities.
Financially, there are several wonder days to watch when things should go strongly in your favor. Here they are:
First, on May 17 a confidential conversation you have may lead to a great resolution concerning a complicated financial matter, thanks to Mars reaching a perfect angle *****rprising Uranus.
May 17 might also be a good day to buy an inexpensive scratch-off lotto game for a dollar. You have mild aspects, so you MIGHT win a small prize. (Never bet more than you can lose, of course.)
Salary news should be fantastic on May 21 thanks to the interplay between Mars and good-fortune Jupiter. The money you see on this day will be earned, not won, and could be tied to your glorious promotion.
Romantically, your prospects are looking up. If you are attached it appears you''ve been overly consumed with an old issue that has been hard to resolve. Now, with Jupiter''s move to direct speed early in May you will be able to get your romantic relationship back on track. (Jupiter has been retrograde since January 3 of this year, but no more!)
If you are single with no special someone, your prospects are exciting, particularly near May 4. Another interesting reason single Leos might be in a relationship sooner than you think is that Venus and Mars will orbit close to one another, always a sign that the spark of love could be bright. With Venus dallying in your eleventh house of friendship, someone who has been just a friend may start to become more than that. With Venus retrograde, the relationship would proceed slowly. Perhaps you are not sure whether you want to move forward. Time is on your side. By July the situation will be clearer.
Married? If you have wanted a baby but have delayed moving forward on that plan, con***ions will change in such a way as to make this time the right time. Your chart suggests you will have the confidence to make that decision - it looks like a yes!
Do you already have children? A plan or action you wanted to take on behalf of your child can now be done. Your personal life is progressing in so many ways.
Your best date nights: Your month will start out flirty and fabulous - the weekend of May 1-2 should be terrific.
Your next excellent romantic weekend will be May 15-16, when the moon will glide into Aries.
For weekday date nights, circle Thursday, May 6 when the moon will be in fellow fire-sign Sagittarius, and Monday, May 24, when the moon will add a spicy element thanks to the moon in Leo.
June will be a much bigger and more important month for romance and fun, but as you see, there is plenty to enjoy this month in the meantime!
Summary:
After months of being on the go, you will finally be able to step back and survey what you''ve accomplished. If you want to hibernate a little, be my guest. This will be the perfect month to dig in to finish up projects that have been hanging around. If you do, you''re likely to ace them. (There''s nothing better than having Mars in the twelfth house, a rare visit that means high productivity and excellent performance!)
Someone who was "just friends" with you for some time may now become something more. However, with Venus retrograde from May 17 to June 29, your relationship may have some unexpected fits and starts. Don''t expect things to proceed like a romantic movie script this month. Instead, see it as an adventure, which would be more interesting anyway. Learning to "dance" with your new special sweetie will take time, so take it slow and easy.
Your home or family life is due for a massive shift due to a lunar eclipse on May 4. Although adjustments may be stressful, luck is on your side. As you go along you may be quite surprised how easily the pieces of your puzzle will fit into place. If you need a loan, down payment or a mortgage, look for money from an unexpected source.
Your career will also require attention, especially in weeks after May 19. The outlook is mixed. On the plus side, your salary and reputation will be on the rise. On the minus side, managers and clients seem quite indecisive when it comes to approve plans you''ve submitted. Be patient - this will have a happy ending. If you work on performance basis, such as commission, royalty or bonus, check all your figures to make sure you are not being shortchanged.
P.S.
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Leo (July 23- August 22)
Your May horoscope by Susan Miller
Your home and family relationships will be a big focus near the May 4 total lunar eclipse. Changes are in the wind. With a full moon eclipse due on this date it appears you will be walking over a bridge to a new lifestyle. A home-related development is about to crystallize, one that may require a decision sooner than you expected.
For example, you may find out that you have to move, renovate, or need a new roommate. Maybe you will learn that your landlord is offering apartments for sale to the tenants as condos, and a quick decision looms.
No matter what comes up, the fact that Uranus, the planet of unexpected developments, will be so sweetly angled to this lunar eclipse means that you should be able to find a way to benefit from this eclipse. You should find surprisingly good options, even if you have to find them rapidly.
Saturn will also be outstandingly cooperative, another comforting thought. It signals that the decision you make now will be one you will live with for a long time. Most people want long-term results when it comes to home and property matters.
If it turns out your physical space or other property is NOT highlighted, it may be that your parents or other relatives will create the news in your life. Your mom and dad may decide to move out of the house where you grew up. Or you may have a problem with a relative that needs to be talked out because it has reached a crisis.
Full moon eclipses tend to bring emotions to a high level. If you were born on or near August 19, you will feel this eclipse more personally than most. While you may be a little jarred by developments, if this is your birthday (or you were born close to this date), you still should find a way to come out ahead.
Another, less likely example would be that your mom may not feel well and may need your assistance. (I say "mom" because this is a lunar eclipse, suggesting a focus on a female relative.) If this should be the case, be comforted in the knowledge that you can help her find excellent medical advice. As said, the aspects surrounding this particular eclipse are quite positive. Please don''t worry unnecessarily - the vast majority of Leos will see shifts in their living quarters or in regard to property matters.
The only planet that will not cooperate with this eclipse will be Neptune, in your house of partners. Hence, if you are married, you may find that your spouse is not helpful or needs to be convinced of your path. Or, Neptune''s harsh angle may indicate some confusion, particularly in regard to financial matters.
If you have to sign a lease or deed, make sure your lawyer has gone over things with a fine-tooth comb. If you are buying a house, make sure you have experts check for problems with water, whether related to water supply, flooding or possible water damage from other sources.
If you were born within striking distance of this eclipse - that is, within five days of August 6, your home or family relationship will almost certainly go through a transition. You may be challenged by developments but you appear ready to take them on. Thinking philosophically, it looks to me that you have known for some time that you would have to make some changes. Now that this matter is finally on the way to being solved, be glad.
There are other things going on in your chart. Mars will now move into a low-key, strategic position. This will allow you to step back, catch your breath and survey what you''ve accomplished.
Mars will ask you to plan your future course, a process that will take seven weeks. Once Mars moves into Leo on June 23, you will begin to move at the speed of light. Your life will explode with activity. Best of all, the seeds you plant at this time will likely bare great fruit. It would behoove you to wait for this period to begin projects that are most dear to you.
Once Mars moves into Leo on June 23 for a seven-week stay, you will be on your way to a new cycle. It will be necessary to have your blueprints ready. When the universe decides you are "on the air" of life you will have no time to fumble your lines.
Although early May could be a time of intense emotions and, at times complete exhaustion, the month will improve as it proceeds.
In regard to your career, you will have a big moment at the new moon, May 19, and in the two weeks that follow. It''s time for a step up in status, dear Leo. If you want to get a better job, this would be your time to interview. In fact, the days that follow May 19 will bring you some of the very best opportunities of the year.
There may be one obstacle that you encounter on the way to professional happiness. Uranus is in a hard angle to this new moon so while it is likely that you WILL get the salary you had hoped - it appears to be quite generous - the benefits package may not be good at all. (That would be the package that includes vacation, bonus, health insurance, severance, retirement and so forth.)
Still, I think you may want to take the job that comes your way. The promotion or new job will not be just a meaningless change of title for your business card. This new job will offer a substantial increase in responsibility and power, something you will want to at least consider. If you don''t take it, you won''t have another set of aspects this strong again until next year.
(You might want to check the forecast for your Sun sign in my book, "The Year Ahead 2004" and for your rising sign, too. The book covers the whole year, so perhaps you will have another aspect that might help you find a job sooner. You are a combination of your rising sign and Sun sign, so you should read forecasts for both. The rising sign can only be known by calculating your specific horoscope chart, with the known date and time and place of birth.)
Against this background, Venus will retrograde from May 17 to June 29. This will inevitably bring some delays in the very professional matters you are discussing. You may have to be patient. I say this because Venus is the natural ruler of your solar tenth house of career promotion. The way this may work out is that you will get your promotion or new job, but won''t start immediately. It may have to wait until July. Or, you may begin an interview process after the new moon on May 19 (a perfect time to do so) but because executives who will be out of town, the process may takes months, not weeks. Go with the flow.
While Venus is retrograde, this planet of beauty, good looks and fun will withhold her best powers from us. They will be sorely missed. This would not be a wise time to schedule plastic surgery or to spend large amounts of money on clothes, jewelry, spa treatments or other luxuries. Wait until you get to June 29 and the days that follow for those activities.
Financially, there are several wonder days to watch when things should go strongly in your favor. Here they are:
First, on May 17 a confidential conversation you have may lead to a great resolution concerning a complicated financial matter, thanks to Mars reaching a perfect angle *****rprising Uranus.
May 17 might also be a good day to buy an inexpensive scratch-off lotto game for a dollar. You have mild aspects, so you MIGHT win a small prize. (Never bet more than you can lose, of course.)
Salary news should be fantastic on May 21 thanks to the interplay between Mars and good-fortune Jupiter. The money you see on this day will be earned, not won, and could be tied to your glorious promotion.
Romantically, your prospects are looking up. If you are attached it appears you''ve been overly consumed with an old issue that has been hard to resolve. Now, with Jupiter''s move to direct speed early in May you will be able to get your romantic relationship back on track. (Jupiter has been retrograde since January 3 of this year, but no more!)
If you are single with no special someone, your prospects are exciting, particularly near May 4. Another interesting reason single Leos might be in a relationship sooner than you think is that Venus and Mars will orbit close to one another, always a sign that the spark of love could be bright. With Venus dallying in your eleventh house of friendship, someone who has been just a friend may start to become more than that. With Venus retrograde, the relationship would proceed slowly. Perhaps you are not sure whether you want to move forward. Time is on your side. By July the situation will be clearer.
Married? If you have wanted a baby but have delayed moving forward on that plan, con***ions will change in such a way as to make this time the right time. Your chart suggests you will have the confidence to make that decision - it looks like a yes!
Do you already have children? A plan or action you wanted to take on behalf of your child can now be done. Your personal life is progressing in so many ways.
Your best date nights: Your month will start out flirty and fabulous - the weekend of May 1-2 should be terrific.
Your next excellent romantic weekend will be May 15-16, when the moon will glide into Aries.
For weekday date nights, circle Thursday, May 6 when the moon will be in fellow fire-sign Sagittarius, and Monday, May 24, when the moon will add a spicy element thanks to the moon in Leo.
June will be a much bigger and more important month for romance and fun, but as you see, there is plenty to enjoy this month in the meantime!
Summary:
After months of being on the go, you will finally be able to step back and survey what you''ve accomplished. If you want to hibernate a little, be my guest. This will be the perfect month to dig in to finish up projects that have been hanging around. If you do, you''re likely to ace them. (There''s nothing better than having Mars in the twelfth house, a rare visit that means high productivity and excellent performance!)
Someone who was "just friends" with you for some time may now become something more. However, with Venus retrograde from May 17 to June 29, your relationship may have some unexpected fits and starts. Don''t expect things to proceed like a romantic movie script this month. Instead, see it as an adventure, which would be more interesting anyway. Learning to "dance" with your new special sweetie will take time, so take it slow and easy.
Your home or family life is due for a massive shift due to a lunar eclipse on May 4. Although adjustments may be stressful, luck is on your side. As you go along you may be quite surprised how easily the pieces of your puzzle will fit into place. If you need a loan, down payment or a mortgage, look for money from an unexpected source.
Your career will also require attention, especially in weeks after May 19. The outlook is mixed. On the plus side, your salary and reputation will be on the rise. On the minus side, managers and clients seem quite indecisive when it comes to approve plans you''ve submitted. Be patient - this will have a happy ending. If you work on performance basis, such as commission, royalty or bonus, check all your figures to make sure you are not being shortchanged.
P.S.
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Virgo (August 23 - September 22)
Your May horoscope by Susan Miller
This should be an unusually sunny month with a welcome change. You may have heard that you are the celestial favorite, but you sure haven''t felt like it. Jupiter, the planet of good fortune, growth and happiness, is in Virgo but has not been working very hard for you. (Having Jupiter in your sign is usually a major bonus!) That''s because Jupiter''s been napping and withholding its best powers. Hold on to your hat because from May 4 onward, Jupiter will wake up, have his coffee and begin to work hard on your behalf. Indeed, Jupiter is about to make up for lost time!
The dealings and projects that are "almost there" will start to come your way, and new opportunities will begin to show up. You''ll have to pick and choose the best, though the temptation will be to spread yourself too thin. This will be a wild and wonderful change of events! Your old energy and optimism will return. Influential people will be willing to extend themselves for you. Don''t be too shy to ask for a recommendation or reference - they can make all the difference in reaching your goals later on. Overall, you''ll begin to see the seeds you have planted in the last months of 2003 will show gentle signs of taking root. It''s a great time to be a Virgo.
Your health will improve this month, too. Jupiter, in your sign moving at top speed, will see to it. Jupiter has healing properties so if you have been concerned about a health problem, reach out and make an appointment to see a doctor. If you''ve been frustrated by not finding the right doctor for you, keep trying. May will be a terrific month. For the first three weeks, the Sun will glide through Taurus, a fellow earth sign.
You will have until the end of October to make the most of Jupiter''s glittering rays. At that time, Jupiter will move into Libra, ending your special favor. Don''t worry. This benefic planet will help you in other ways, mainly in terms of finances. (The financial benefits you will see are directly related to what you do between now and October.)
Your key moment in 2004 will come at the new moon on September 14, when four planets will stack up in Virgo. It will be a glorious time. You could easily see a big breakthrough if you work hard to set your ducks in a row. It will be the most memorable month of the year for you, dear Virgo. Make it the best it can be!
This month we will have a full moon lunar eclipse on May 4. You may recall we had an eclipse last month on April 19. For more information on that one, please click on the hyperlink on the bottom of this forecast marked "Last Month''s Forecast."
This eclipse will energize your third house of short distance travel this month and for many months to come. In May, you may travel to see a relative (most likely your sister, brother or cousin) or, less likely, a friend or business associate. If you need to take a trip this month, there appears to be something highly important to discuss with the person you will visit. You may actually go on your journey in early May or you may hear then that you have to take a trip at some point in the future.
Major life events tend to happen at eclipse time. Not all Virgos will feel this eclipse in a dramatic way, as the degrees of the moon have to touch your Sun or other planets. If you were born on September 6 or within five days of this date, you will feel this one for sure.
If you weren''t born near this date, you may still notice some developments. Rather than be directly affected by this eclipse, you may see that people around you feel it more. You seem to be more of an observer to others'' life changes, but it is not absolutely clear in your chart.
There is another way this might work out. You may sign an important contract, lease, deed or other agreement at the time of this eclipse. If so, with Neptune poorly angled, it will be vital that you show your document to a lawyer first in order to ferret out any clauses that are unclear that might give you problems later. Take your time.
Last month, your ruler, Mercury, was retrograde, so you could not sign documents in April. However by April 30, Mercury moved back to direct, powerful speed. Still, the eclipse is causing some static. If you can wait a week or so before you sign your papers, do.
Your very best day of the month to sign any document would be May 23, but I doubt you can wait that long! On Sunday, May 23 Jupiter will send a perfect, glittering ray to Mercury, planet of all agreements. It doesn''t get any better than this! If you can''t wait until then, just try to get some distance from the May 4 eclipse.
Speaking of retrograde planets, Venus will now turn retrograde from May 17 to June 29. Venus is in your house of career but rules your natural second house of earned income. Hence, you will experience a delay in career-and-salary matters, but it will only be temporary. In July life will normalize, thank goodness. Delays might benefit you, so take a deep breath and know that everything will work out.
While Venus retrogrades, this planet of good looks, romance, fun and socializing will withhold her best powers. Life takes on a more no-frills look and feel, but luckily Venus does not retrograde for long. (Venus retrogrades approximately every year-and-a-half.)
While Venus retrogrades, from May 17 to June 29, it would NOT be the time to have plastic surgery, buy expensive jewelry or clothing, schedule an important party or charity benefit, or indulge in any luxuries. If you were planning to get engaged, you might want to delay that monumental event to July.
While this all sounds a little dreary, it will not be. You will have Mars in your eleventh house of fun, friends and group activities through June 29, a wonderful development. First, it will take the pressure off you at work, which has been usually strong lately. Mars will introduce a lighter, sweeter mood, and allow you to relax and get a little more time off.
You may want to mark your calendar to note three outstandingly social days coming up this month:
First, let''s mark down Monday, May 17. Although this will be the day that Venus goes retrograde, Mars will send a nod to Uranus across the skies, creating an effervescent, happy episode involving a friend. A friend may go out of his or her way to be helpful, or you may enjoy an outstanding group event. If the club you belong to has a panel, lecture or other program that interests you on or near May 17, be sure to go. The moon will be in Taurus, too, an ideal spot for you, dear Virgo.
Another super-duper day will be Friday, May 21. Why not get a group of friends together to meet in a restaurant for lunch or dinner on this glorious day? This day brings over-the-top fun, thanks to Mars'' cheery attitude toward Jupiter.
Distant travel and pursuits toward gaining a higher education will get a big push forward on the happy-for-Virgo new moon on May 19. This will open a lovely influence that will last two weeks. If you can''t travel, this period will find a way to open your heart to a world without borders. Use your imagination. Suddenly your mind will open up to all kinds of possibilities.
Other areas of gain will include legal matters or publishing projects.
The only problem with this new moon will be its touchy relationship to Uranus, suggesting a partner may be difficult - unexpectedly so. This partner may be a spouse or, more likely, someone with whom you work closely. If your partner resists an idea of yours, you will simply have to be a little more persuasive. You can plan how you will present things in advance of this new moon, May 19.
New moons like the one set to arrive on May 19 bring two weeks of opportunity.
If you were born within five days of September 19, you will love the developments this new moon brings because the degrees of your birthday will coincide with it in a particularly strong and positive way.
A day to watch just after the new moon on May 19 will be May 23. Use this day to advance any ninth house goals (travel, legal matters, publishing, and higher education).
May 23 will be a Sunday, so if you would like to use this aspect for a weekday meeting, choose Friday, May 21, also a superb day when the moon will be in compatible Cancer.
No doubt about it, May 23 and the few days leading up to it will be sparkle like a handful of diamonds in the Sun. Use this time of the month for your biggest actions, on just about any level. With Mercury, your ruler, being given lucky candy by Jupiter, the sky will be the limit.
For single Virgo, now that Jupiter is moving quickly through Virgo, you will exude enormous magnetism. Jupiter visits Virgo every 12 years, and when it does, many important people enter your life, in all realms, people who are likely to stay for a long time. We tend to attract the right person during those magical, positive years. While Venus is retrograde, you still have Jupiter on your side and, as we discussed earlier, Mars!
Let''s list your best date nights:
You will like the weekend of May 8 to May 9 - it is sure to bring a chance for sweet relaxation. The moon will be in Capricorn, a good spot for you.
A more spectacular weekend will come in the third week of the month from Friday, May 21 *****nday, May 23. (Sunday will be your BEST day.) With Mercury in such an elegant conversation with Jupiter, I urge you to take a short trip out of town. If you can''t get away, perhaps you can book a reservation in a pretty restaurant.
Even career matters will glow near May 23. Mercury also rules the mail, so you might want to send by mail, email or fax a proposal to a client on the preceding Friday or over that weekend. If you do, you can be confident that the universe will be behind you one-hundred-percent! This weekend will glow brilliantly!
Finally, count on a fun Memorial Day weekend, May 29 to May 31 - Monday will be your best day.
Summary:
You may need to take a quick, unplanned trip for work or to settle family business near May 4. At the same time you may be presented with a contract. Before you sign, show the document to an attorney. There appear to be clauses that need to be changed or questioned. No worries - this deal appears to be in your best interest.
Now that Jupiter has changed from sleepy slow *****per quick orbit, dust off your wish list. The universe will be behind you one-hundred-percent. Me***ate about what you''d like to happen between now and the end of September, the span of your razzle-dazzle period. If you tried to launch an idea that fell flat sometime in the past six months, you will now be given a second crack to make a go of it. Be ready.
At month''s end, be determined to get out of your rut. All kinds of people will enter your world, some who have quite a destiny to play in your happiness. Star power this sterling is quite rare. Use it while you have it!
On Sunday, May 23, hop in your car, alone or with the one you love, and treat yourself to time out of town.
On Friday, May 21 or Saturday, May 22, send out a proposal by courier, express mail or email. Mercury (the planet of the written word, news and agreements) will be in rare sync with Jupiter (luck, happiness). People in power will look favorably upon your ideas.

Virgo (August 23 - September 22)
Your May horoscope by Susan Miller
This should be an unusually sunny month with a welcome change. You may have heard that you are the celestial favorite, but you sure haven''t felt like it. Jupiter, the planet of good fortune, growth and happiness, is in Virgo but has not been working very hard for you. (Having Jupiter in your sign is usually a major bonus!) That''s because Jupiter''s been napping and withholding its best powers. Hold on to your hat because from May 4 onward, Jupiter will wake up, have his coffee and begin to work hard on your behalf. Indeed, Jupiter is about to make up for lost time!
The dealings and projects that are "almost there" will start to come your way, and new opportunities will begin to show up. You''ll have to pick and choose the best, though the temptation will be to spread yourself too thin. This will be a wild and wonderful change of events! Your old energy and optimism will return. Influential people will be willing to extend themselves for you. Don''t be too shy to ask for a recommendation or reference - they can make all the difference in reaching your goals later on. Overall, you''ll begin to see the seeds you have planted in the last months of 2003 will show gentle signs of taking root. It''s a great time to be a Virgo.
Your health will improve this month, too. Jupiter, in your sign moving at top speed, will see to it. Jupiter has healing properties so if you have been concerned about a health problem, reach out and make an appointment to see a doctor. If you''ve been frustrated by not finding the right doctor for you, keep trying. May will be a terrific month. For the first three weeks, the Sun will glide through Taurus, a fellow earth sign.
You will have until the end of October to make the most of Jupiter''s glittering rays. At that time, Jupiter will move into Libra, ending your special favor. Don''t worry. This benefic planet will help you in other ways, mainly in terms of finances. (The financial benefits you will see are directly related to what you do between now and October.)
Your key moment in 2004 will come at the new moon on September 14, when four planets will stack up in Virgo. It will be a glorious time. You could easily see a big breakthrough if you work hard to set your ducks in a row. It will be the most memorable month of the year for you, dear Virgo. Make it the best it can be!
This month we will have a full moon lunar eclipse on May 4. You may recall we had an eclipse last month on April 19. For more information on that one, please click on the hyperlink on the bottom of this forecast marked "Last Month''s Forecast."
This eclipse will energize your third house of short distance travel this month and for many months to come. In May, you may travel to see a relative (most likely your sister, brother or cousin) or, less likely, a friend or business associate. If you need to take a trip this month, there appears to be something highly important to discuss with the person you will visit. You may actually go on your journey in early May or you may hear then that you have to take a trip at some point in the future.
Major life events tend to happen at eclipse time. Not all Virgos will feel this eclipse in a dramatic way, as the degrees of the moon have to touch your Sun or other planets. If you were born on September 6 or within five days of this date, you will feel this one for sure.
If you weren''t born near this date, you may still notice some developments. Rather than be directly affected by this eclipse, you may see that people around you feel it more. You seem to be more of an observer to others'' life changes, but it is not absolutely clear in your chart.
There is another way this might work out. You may sign an important contract, lease, deed or other agreement at the time of this eclipse. If so, with Neptune poorly angled, it will be vital that you show your document to a lawyer first in order to ferret out any clauses that are unclear that might give you problems later. Take your time.
Last month, your ruler, Mercury, was retrograde, so you could not sign documents in April. However by April 30, Mercury moved back to direct, powerful speed. Still, the eclipse is causing some static. If you can wait a week or so before you sign your papers, do.
Your very best day of the month to sign any document would be May 23, but I doubt you can wait that long! On Sunday, May 23 Jupiter will send a perfect, glittering ray to Mercury, planet of all agreements. It doesn''t get any better than this! If you can''t wait until then, just try to get some distance from the May 4 eclipse.
Speaking of retrograde planets, Venus will now turn retrograde from May 17 to June 29. Venus is in your house of career but rules your natural second house of earned income. Hence, you will experience a delay in career-and-salary matters, but it will only be temporary. In July life will normalize, thank goodness. Delays might benefit you, so take a deep breath and know that everything will work out.
While Venus retrogrades, this planet of good looks, romance, fun and socializing will withhold her best powers. Life takes on a more no-frills look and feel, but luckily Venus does not retrograde for long. (Venus retrogrades approximately every year-and-a-half.)
While Venus retrogrades, from May 17 to June 29, it would NOT be the time to have plastic surgery, buy expensive jewelry or clothing, schedule an important party or charity benefit, or indulge in any luxuries. If you were planning to get engaged, you might want to delay that monumental event to July.
While this all sounds a little dreary, it will not be. You will have Mars in your eleventh house of fun, friends and group activities through June 29, a wonderful development. First, it will take the pressure off you at work, which has been usually strong lately. Mars will introduce a lighter, sweeter mood, and allow you to relax and get a little more time off.
You may want to mark your calendar to note three outstandingly social days coming up this month:
First, let''s mark down Monday, May 17. Although this will be the day that Venus goes retrograde, Mars will send a nod to Uranus across the skies, creating an effervescent, happy episode involving a friend. A friend may go out of his or her way to be helpful, or you may enjoy an outstanding group event. If the club you belong to has a panel, lecture or other program that interests you on or near May 17, be sure to go. The moon will be in Taurus, too, an ideal spot for you, dear Virgo.
Another super-duper day will be Friday, May 21. Why not get a group of friends together to meet in a restaurant for lunch or dinner on this glorious day? This day brings over-the-top fun, thanks to Mars'' cheery attitude toward Jupiter.
Distant travel and pursuits toward gaining a higher education will get a big push forward on the happy-for-Virgo new moon on May 19. This will open a lovely influence that will last two weeks. If you can''t travel, this period will find a way to open your heart to a world without borders. Use your imagination. Suddenly your mind will open up to all kinds of possibilities.
Other areas of gain will include legal matters or publishing projects.
The only problem with this new moon will be its touchy relationship to Uranus, suggesting a partner may be difficult - unexpectedly so. This partner may be a spouse or, more likely, someone with whom you work closely. If your partner resists an idea of yours, you will simply have to be a little more persuasive. You can plan how you will present things in advance of this new moon, May 19.
New moons like the one set to arrive on May 19 bring two weeks of opportunity.
If you were born within five days of September 19, you will love the developments this new moon brings because the degrees of your birthday will coincide with it in a particularly strong and positive way.
A day to watch just after the new moon on May 19 will be May 23. Use this day to advance any ninth house goals (travel, legal matters, publishing, and higher education).
May 23 will be a Sunday, so if you would like to use this aspect for a weekday meeting, choose Friday, May 21, also a superb day when the moon will be in compatible Cancer.
No doubt about it, May 23 and the few days leading up to it will be sparkle like a handful of diamonds in the Sun. Use this time of the month for your biggest actions, on just about any level. With Mercury, your ruler, being given lucky candy by Jupiter, the sky will be the limit.
For single Virgo, now that Jupiter is moving quickly through Virgo, you will exude enormous magnetism. Jupiter visits Virgo every 12 years, and when it does, many important people enter your life, in all realms, people who are likely to stay for a long time. We tend to attract the right person during those magical, positive years. While Venus is retrograde, you still have Jupiter on your side and, as we discussed earlier, Mars!
Let''s list your best date nights:
You will like the weekend of May 8 to May 9 - it is sure to bring a chance for sweet relaxation. The moon will be in Capricorn, a good spot for you.
A more spectacular weekend will come in the third week of the month from Friday, May 21 *****nday, May 23. (Sunday will be your BEST day.) With Mercury in such an elegant conversation with Jupiter, I urge you to take a short trip out of town. If you can''t get away, perhaps you can book a reservation in a pretty restaurant.
Even career matters will glow near May 23. Mercury also rules the mail, so you might want to send by mail, email or fax a proposal to a client on the preceding Friday or over that weekend. If you do, you can be confident that the universe will be behind you one-hundred-percent! This weekend will glow brilliantly!
Finally, count on a fun Memorial Day weekend, May 29 to May 31 - Monday will be your best day.
Summary:
You may need to take a quick, unplanned trip for work or to settle family business near May 4. At the same time you may be presented with a contract. Before you sign, show the document to an attorney. There appear to be clauses that need to be changed or questioned. No worries - this deal appears to be in your best interest.
Now that Jupiter has changed from sleepy slow *****per quick orbit, dust off your wish list. The universe will be behind you one-hundred-percent. Me***ate about what you''d like to happen between now and the end of September, the span of your razzle-dazzle period. If you tried to launch an idea that fell flat sometime in the past six months, you will now be given a second crack to make a go of it. Be ready.
At month''s end, be determined to get out of your rut. All kinds of people will enter your world, some who have quite a destiny to play in your happiness. Star power this sterling is quite rare. Use it while you have it!
On Sunday, May 23, hop in your car, alone or with the one you love, and treat yourself to time out of town.
On Friday, May 21 or Saturday, May 22, send out a proposal by courier, express mail or email. Mercury (the planet of the written word, news and agreements) will be in rare sync with Jupiter (luck, happiness). People in power will look favorably upon your ideas.

Libra (September 23 - October 22)
Your May horoscope by Susan Miller
Last month, on April 19, a solar eclipse in Aries highlighted your closest committed relationship. Now, two weeks later on May 4 we will have a lunar eclipse in your second house of earned income and possessions, which will likely trigger an important financial reorganization.
There are a number of ways this eclipse may work out. One way would be that you see one source of income end and a new one begin. (If these two events don''t dovetail precisely, no worries - you will find your new income soon if you are determined to start looking immediately.) Or, you may keep your present income but need to write a big check, perhaps to pay for tuition, buy a new car or cover another big expen***ure.
Alternatively, one of the best ways this eclipse could work out is that you would get final word concerning a pending raise or new job offer. If so, you seem very pleased. Thankfully, this will be a harmonious eclipse, as the moon will send a cheery message to Saturn, the planet of stability and responsibility. This aspect is great news, for it will bolster your career status.
Neptune will be cranky, but that only means that you must aim to be clear in all financial negotiations and in any paperwork you deliver or sign. Even though you THINK you have gone over all the details, there is probably something that you''ve overlooked, so look again. Make sure you don''t misunderstand the terms of the deal or that the other party doesn''t misunderstand you - Neptune has a way of clouding communication.
Mars will be a big help to you now, as this get-up-and-go planet is about to light up your tenth house of career honors from May 7 to June 23. You are about to begin a new two-year career cycle, and the seeds you plant now will be quite potent for future growth. If you''ve had problems getting the attention and approval of higher-ups, it should be a snap this month and in most of June. Indeed, this could be a time of thrilling professional breakthroughs.
If you are out of work, you will be applying for your new job at the very best time possible in 2004. Make a concerted effort by sending out resumes and letters, mixing at professional events and asking friends for their help. Your chart suggests that even family members may have a useful introduction.
After Mars leaves this sector on June 23, you will have a key new moon in your fame-and-honors career sector (where Mars will be located) on July 6. That means that what you do in May and June will add up to important developments in early July. (New moons create two weeks of forceful energy to use at your discretion.)
Don''t be tempted to take a vacation just yet. I would rather you keep working on your career matters. If you want to take a vacation, I would suggest you do so in early or mid-August. Your chart suggests that you might have taken time off last month - if so, it would have been the perfect time. If not, August and mid-to-late September would get my vote as good times for travel, as would late December.
Last month, Mercury was retrograde until April 30. If you had delayed signing important documents you can do so now. As discussed earlier, however, the eclipse will bring on some cloudy con***ions when it comes to agreements (blame Neptune), so I would suggest you avoid making your agreement close to that May 4 eclipse. I know that you don''t want to hear about any more delays! Nonetheless, try to put a week of separation between you and the eclipse before you sign or verbally agree to anything.
The adage in astrology is that one should not begin new ventures or sign agreements on or very close to an eclipse because it may not work out precisely as you intended. Try to give yourself some space from May 4 before you act, if possible. If it''s not, at least you have avoided Mercury retrograde, which is the more important of the two!
Speaking of retrograde planets, I am sorry to have to say that Venus will retrograde from May 17 until June 29. Venus rules love, beauty, adornment, jewelry, expensive clothes, parties and celebrations. When Venus naps in retrograde motion, all these areas suffer because this planet is not beaming her most powerful vibrations to us. Thus, this would not be a good time to schedule plastic surgery or to spend a great deal of money on salon or spa treatments. If you were thinking of getting engaged in late May or June, you might want to wait until July, a better time to do so.
While everyone will feel this vibration, you will notice Venus retrograde more than most, because Venus is your ruing planet. Projects you have been working on may now slow down. The money needed to fund those ventures may be held up for some reason, or someone who needs to give their final approval - such as your client - may be away for several weeks. Luckily, Venus retrogrades only for a short time. Delays might benefit you in that you will have extra time to study the proposals you send and receive.
In your chart, Venus also rules other people''s money, covered by your eighth house. This house includes taxes, commissions, royalties, insurance payments, child support, mortgages, cre*** cards and cre*** reports, scholarships and financial aid, inheritances, venture capital, sponsorships, grants and the like. These areas are likely to bring snags and delays until the end of June. There could be a mix-up or a question that has to be resolved, but after Venus goes direct, things should return to normal.
Luckily, the very same area of your chart, your eighth house, a financial area that covers the types of financial agreements covered above, will receive an important new moon, May 19. This means that although things will move slowly, you will nevertheless make progress. Keep focused on financial matters, pressing forward as you wish, even though you know that some elements of your plan will take time to nail down. In terms of your cre*** report, it might be a good idea to check that you have not been a victim of identity theft. With so much going on in your eighth house, which covers this sort of thing, such a fraud wouldn''t surprise me. If anyone has been using your good name, you will want to know about it sooner rather than later.
If you apply for a mortgage, it may take a long time for the bank to get back to you, but you still should not let that deter you from making the application in the first place. A new moon is very, very powerful, and we each house only gets one a year.
There will be some outstanding days in May for career and money matters - let''s list them now.
May 17 should be an outstanding day for career progress. Mars, now busy putting your name in lights, will contact Uranus, the planet of surprise, in your sixth house of projects. You may find that on this day you get singled out for a major assignment. Self-employed Libras will hear the phone ring with orders for their services or goods. This will be a fabulous day to get ahead, even though it''s the same day that Venus begins her retrograde orbit. Schedule a meeting with your boss or client on this day.
Your career will get another boost on Friday, May 21, when Mars reaches out to good-luck Jupiter. Jupiter is in a very low key, strategic part of the chart, suggesting that your meeting would be confidential. You may be working on company strategy or a new product launch, for example. Any behind-the-scenes meeting would likely go well.
Financial news that comes to you on May 22-23 would be outstanding. You may get a check in your mailbox, or you may even win a small raffle prize. This will be a golden weekend to take a trip. Mercury, the travel planet, will reach out to good fortune Jupiter. (In fact, this would be your best weekend of the month to go on a little excursion.)
What about romance? This month will be more about career and money than about love, but having said that, there will be a few sweet days along the way.
Your very best weekend will be May 1-2, when Jupiter and Saturn will send one another affirming signals and life will be stable and satisfying. The moon will be in Libra, too, a terrific place because it favors YOU. You''ll be a ***y standout - someone nearby won''t be able to get enough of you!
Your other four-star weekend will come over Memorial Day, May 28-31, when the moon will be in Libra once again. Considering the amount of work you have to do this month, you deserve a long, leisurely weekend to unwind and have fun - this is it!
Summary:
For the first time in two years, Mars will occupy the zenith position in your chart, setting off a remarkable chance to advance professionally. You will have seven weeks to make your mark, so get busy before these rare and golden rays fade.
Meanwhile, the eclipse May 4 could bring news of the end of one source of income and the beginning of another. Changes should work out to be positive. Even you find they are not to your liking, your chart shows you have the ability to turn things to your favor. Calmly plot a step-by-step career plan. By month''s end, you should be ready to reorganize financial terms and settle obligations. Month''s end will also be your ideal time to apply for a mortgage, scholarship or other source of funding.
This will not be the right time to be gone on vacation - too much is brewing at home base - but you CAN firm up plans for a sparkling trip that you will take August, mid-to-late September or in late December. You will be working long hours this month, so having an exciting trip on your agenda a few months from now will buoy your spirits.
In May, you may decide to rekindle a former relationship. Or, you may go over old ground with a present sweetie. If the latter is the case, you would be reopening talks on a problem you thought was closed long ago. You won''t have a fix on whether the relationship is a keeper or not until late June. In the meantime, dear Libra, keep in mind that not all things are up to you - BOTH of you need to be committed to the outcome to make it a success. See what happens

Libra (September 23 - October 22)
Your May horoscope by Susan Miller
Last month, on April 19, a solar eclipse in Aries highlighted your closest committed relationship. Now, two weeks later on May 4 we will have a lunar eclipse in your second house of earned income and possessions, which will likely trigger an important financial reorganization.
There are a number of ways this eclipse may work out. One way would be that you see one source of income end and a new one begin. (If these two events don''t dovetail precisely, no worries - you will find your new income soon if you are determined to start looking immediately.) Or, you may keep your present income but need to write a big check, perhaps to pay for tuition, buy a new car or cover another big expen***ure.
Alternatively, one of the best ways this eclipse could work out is that you would get final word concerning a pending raise or new job offer. If so, you seem very pleased. Thankfully, this will be a harmonious eclipse, as the moon will send a cheery message to Saturn, the planet of stability and responsibility. This aspect is great news, for it will bolster your career status.
Neptune will be cranky, but that only means that you must aim to be clear in all financial negotiations and in any paperwork you deliver or sign. Even though you THINK you have gone over all the details, there is probably something that you''ve overlooked, so look again. Make sure you don''t misunderstand the terms of the deal or that the other party doesn''t misunderstand you - Neptune has a way of clouding communication.
Mars will be a big help to you now, as this get-up-and-go planet is about to light up your tenth house of career honors from May 7 to June 23. You are about to begin a new two-year career cycle, and the seeds you plant now will be quite potent for future growth. If you''ve had problems getting the attention and approval of higher-ups, it should be a snap this month and in most of June. Indeed, this could be a time of thrilling professional breakthroughs.
If you are out of work, you will be applying for your new job at the very best time possible in 2004. Make a concerted effort by sending out resumes and letters, mixing at professional events and asking friends for their help. Your chart suggests that even family members may have a useful introduction.
After Mars leaves this sector on June 23, you will have a key new moon in your fame-and-honors career sector (where Mars will be located) on July 6. That means that what you do in May and June will add up to important developments in early July. (New moons create two weeks of forceful energy to use at your discretion.)
Don''t be tempted to take a vacation just yet. I would rather you keep working on your career matters. If you want to take a vacation, I would suggest you do so in early or mid-August. Your chart suggests that you might have taken time off last month - if so, it would have been the perfect time. If not, August and mid-to-late September would get my vote as good times for travel, as would late December.
Last month, Mercury was retrograde until April 30. If you had delayed signing important documents you can do so now. As discussed earlier, however, the eclipse will bring on some cloudy con***ions when it comes to agreements (blame Neptune), so I would suggest you avoid making your agreement close to that May 4 eclipse. I know that you don''t want to hear about any more delays! Nonetheless, try to put a week of separation between you and the eclipse before you sign or verbally agree to anything.
The adage in astrology is that one should not begin new ventures or sign agreements on or very close to an eclipse because it may not work out precisely as you intended. Try to give yourself some space from May 4 before you act, if possible. If it''s not, at least you have avoided Mercury retrograde, which is the more important of the two!
Speaking of retrograde planets, I am sorry to have to say that Venus will retrograde from May 17 until June 29. Venus rules love, beauty, adornment, jewelry, expensive clothes, parties and celebrations. When Venus naps in retrograde motion, all these areas suffer because this planet is not beaming her most powerful vibrations to us. Thus, this would not be a good time to schedule plastic surgery or to spend a great deal of money on salon or spa treatments. If you were thinking of getting engaged in late May or June, you might want to wait until July, a better time to do so.
While everyone will feel this vibration, you will notice Venus retrograde more than most, because Venus is your ruing planet. Projects you have been working on may now slow down. The money needed to fund those ventures may be held up for some reason, or someone who needs to give their final approval - such as your client - may be away for several weeks. Luckily, Venus retrogrades only for a short time. Delays might benefit you in that you will have extra time to study the proposals you send and receive.
In your chart, Venus also rules other people''s money, covered by your eighth house. This house includes taxes, commissions, royalties, insurance payments, child support, mortgages, cre*** cards and cre*** reports, scholarships and financial aid, inheritances, venture capital, sponsorships, grants and the like. These areas are likely to bring snags and delays until the end of June. There could be a mix-up or a question that has to be resolved, but after Venus goes direct, things should return to normal.
Luckily, the very same area of your chart, your eighth house, a financial area that covers the types of financial agreements covered above, will receive an important new moon, May 19. This means that although things will move slowly, you will nevertheless make progress. Keep focused on financial matters, pressing forward as you wish, even though you know that some elements of your plan will take time to nail down. In terms of your cre*** report, it might be a good idea to check that you have not been a victim of identity theft. With so much going on in your eighth house, which covers this sort of thing, such a fraud wouldn''t surprise me. If anyone has been using your good name, you will want to know about it sooner rather than later.
If you apply for a mortgage, it may take a long time for the bank to get back to you, but you still should not let that deter you from making the application in the first place. A new moon is very, very powerful, and we each house only gets one a year.
There will be some outstanding days in May for career and money matters - let''s list them now.
May 17 should be an outstanding day for career progress. Mars, now busy putting your name in lights, will contact Uranus, the planet of surprise, in your sixth house of projects. You may find that on this day you get singled out for a major assignment. Self-employed Libras will hear the phone ring with orders for their services or goods. This will be a fabulous day to get ahead, even though it''s the same day that Venus begins her retrograde orbit. Schedule a meeting with your boss or client on this day.
Your career will get another boost on Friday, May 21, when Mars reaches out to good-luck Jupiter. Jupiter is in a very low key, strategic part of the chart, suggesting that your meeting would be confidential. You may be working on company strategy or a new product launch, for example. Any behind-the-scenes meeting would likely go well.
Financial news that comes to you on May 22-23 would be outstanding. You may get a check in your mailbox, or you may even win a small raffle prize. This will be a golden weekend to take a trip. Mercury, the travel planet, will reach out to good fortune Jupiter. (In fact, this would be your best weekend of the month to go on a little excursion.)
What about romance? This month will be more about career and money than about love, but having said that, there will be a few sweet days along the way.
Your very best weekend will be May 1-2, when Jupiter and Saturn will send one another affirming signals and life will be stable and satisfying. The moon will be in Libra, too, a terrific place because it favors YOU. You''ll be a ***y standout - someone nearby won''t be able to get enough of you!
Your other four-star weekend will come over Memorial Day, May 28-31, when the moon will be in Libra once again. Considering the amount of work you have to do this month, you deserve a long, leisurely weekend to unwind and have fun - this is it!
Summary:
For the first time in two years, Mars will occupy the zenith position in your chart, setting off a remarkable chance to advance professionally. You will have seven weeks to make your mark, so get busy before these rare and golden rays fade.
Meanwhile, the eclipse May 4 could bring news of the end of one source of income and the beginning of another. Changes should work out to be positive. Even you find they are not to your liking, your chart shows you have the ability to turn things to your favor. Calmly plot a step-by-step career plan. By month''s end, you should be ready to reorganize financial terms and settle obligations. Month''s end will also be your ideal time to apply for a mortgage, scholarship or other source of funding.
This will not be the right time to be gone on vacation - too much is brewing at home base - but you CAN firm up plans for a sparkling trip that you will take August, mid-to-late September or in late December. You will be working long hours this month, so having an exciting trip on your agenda a few months from now will buoy your spirits.
In May, you may decide to rekindle a former relationship. Or, you may go over old ground with a present sweetie. If the latter is the case, you would be reopening talks on a problem you thought was closed long ago. You won''t have a fix on whether the relationship is a keeper or not until late June. In the meantime, dear Libra, keep in mind that not all things are up to you - BOTH of you need to be committed to the outcome to make it a success. See what happens

Scorpio (October 23 - November 21)
Your May horoscope by Susan Miller
This will be a highly emotional month. A full moon lunar eclipse in Scorpio will likely bring news that will pull at your heartstrings. Your partner in marriage or business will be your main focus, but in the process of dealing with relevant issues, your self-esteem will undergo a massive transformation.
If until now you have had a very good relationship with your partner, things will get even better and you will grow closer. On the other hand, if the dynamic between you has been strained, it is about to get much worse. Eclipses always push things to extreme ends of the spectrum, which is why I say that anything is possible, from engagement ("Stay with me forever!") to an outright split ("I never want to see you again!").
If you were born on or within days of November 5, you will feel this eclipse in a more powerful, personal way than any other member of your sign. All Scorpios will feel some partner-related news - it would be hard NOT to with these aspects!
Your partner may (1) have an idea or proposal to show you, (2) have news in his or her own life that may influence your life, or (3) may become so difficult to deal with that you decide to leave the relationship.
If you have no partners at all in your life, it is also possible that a competitor will act up. You will have to get all hands on deck to combat his new strategy.
Eclipses are always the champions of truth. If there is anything you have not been aware of in your relationship, those facts are likely *****rface now. Even readers who are in a strong relationship may feel put upon by their partner''s expectations and demands, which lately have escalated so much it will become clear you need to get them back to earth.
The partner in question may be a steady date, spouse, business partner, agent, manager or other collaborator or expert (such as a lawyer).
This eclipse may finalize a chapter that has gone on for months. If things have indeed dragged on, it appears you are nearing the end of your rope. You certainly appear ready to lay down certain non-negotiable terms. Hopefully, your partner will respond in a manner that pleases you. There is a possibility of that, but your outlook is mixed. This eclipse has many positive aspects, but there are a number of harsh ones, too. You will need to be flexible. Eclipse time always brings on a feeling that events are moving at the speed of light. You may have to make decisions on the fly.
After this month is over, you will be able to plan your future with more certainty. Still, I doubt you will be able to get all the pieces of your puzzle in place just yet. Venus will be retrograde in a financial sector of your chart from May 17 to June 29, and that may hold up any sort of final settlement. After June 29, the coast will be clear.
Financial details still have to be worked out, but it appears much of what you need to agree to will be set on this eclipse. More work may need to be done at your next critical eclipse, October 28.
An eclipse will always bring an ending, but it will also bring a beginning. Eclipses almost never bring straight-line events, but tend to add unexpected twists and turns. An outside event over which you have no control will become a factor in the direction of your discussions, and that outside event - one that you probably have not yet factored in - is the wild card of this equation. A seemingly unrelated event or a casual comment from you or your partner might suddenly and unexpectedly reveal truths concerning what actually forms the base of your relationship. If you were to see any cracks in that foundation, they would show up on or within five days of May 4.
Some Scorpios won''t notice news about their relationship until June 4, one month (plus or minus four days) after the eclipse.
As said, this eclipse will be in Scorpio. Pluto, Scorpio''s ruler, is currently in your second house of earned income. Pluto''s placement tells me that money will play a big role in your discussions. The problem is that Pluto will adamantly oppose Mars, which also rules Scorpio, giving each extra prominence in this eclipse. Mars is currently in another financial house, your eight house of shared financial resources. Hence, the heart of the problem most likely will concern a tough financial tug-of-war. Luckily, Mars will rapidly move out of Pluto''s line of vision, but is still close enough to cause some heated arguments about money at eclipse time. Fortunately, both Mars and Pluto are in mutable signs, suggesting there will be some flexibility.
When the topic is money it begs the question, what does money symbolize to both parties? In some instances, money is power. At other times, money is security. For some, money represents the ability to provide for others.
For less evolved people (possibly your partner) money might be used as a weapon or a means of punishment. I am hoping that you won''t be at the mercy of this type of behavior, dear Scorpio.
There are many other attitudes toward money I haven''t even thought of here, but you may think of some specific to your situation. Ask yourself, what role does money play in the circumstances you face this month? Try to dig into the symbolism. Each party in the relationship is likely to view the role of money differently, so you will need to allow for that.
What if you are happy? If you are happy, you may sign an agent and go over the details of how the finances will work. You and your agent may not agree, so there may be some talk about how to word things.
If you are getting engaged or married, you may simply be trying to work out how you will handle the money in your relationship. It is also possible that a pre-nuptial arrangement may be presented. If so, expect negotiations.
For the next few paragraphs I will focus on those readers who are having a hard time, and less on those of you who are happy. (Happy Scorpios need less from me at this juncture.)
Dear Scorpio, no matter what your situation, May is never your easiest month of the year because it arrives six months away from your birthday. That puts the Sun as far away as it can get from your birthday (Sun sign), making May your personal astrological "winter." With the warmth of the Sun out of reach, life might feel a bit cold. You may feel isolated and lonely in the situation you are facing now. Once you get closer to the time of the year in which you were born, things will improve enormously. By then you will hold many more winning cards. You don''t have them all now, and that''s why I say compromise will be necessary.
At times, this might make you feel the situation is out of your control. Too many pieces of your puzzle rest in your partner''s hands. To a Scorpio, that doesn''t make you feel secure. You like to remain in the driver''s seat. Still, this is the situation - I am so sorry to say you will have to deal with it.
This month, thankfully the eclipse will be well angled to other planets, which will soften any news you should hear. Saturn, in particular, will add a stabilizing touch. Luckily, Saturn is based in your legal house, so if you are involved in a dispute that requires the courts or a lawyer, things should progress. Some of the results will be satisfying.
One of the hardest things about this eclipse is the emotion it will stir in you. Any full moon will bring in memories, dreams and deep feelings. All this will make it difficult to come to an objective decision.
Real estate or housing issues are likely to be difficult, too, due to the tough angle Neptune will hold in regard to this full moon eclipse on May 4. This suggests a home or property-related matter will be clouded. The problem seems hard to fully grasp, let alone solve.
If you can''t come to terms about that real estate matter now, you will get another chance at the next eclipse on October 28. At that time, you will be closer to your birthday month and, as we discussed earlier, that''s your best time of the year to get things your way.
With Neptune poorly placed this month you may suffer from some sort of water damage - Neptune also rules water and flooding.
There are other ramifications of a difficult Neptune. Neptune is the natural ruler of your fifth house of children, so there could be some sort of disagreement or confusion about what to do about a pregnancy. Or, it may disagree with a soon-to-be ex-spouse about child custody issues. Or, you may have a question regarding a present need to care for children you have now.
If this eclipse touches your professional life rather than personal affairs, a discussion about which direction to take a creative project may form part of the conversation.
If you look around, you will see that despite problems, you have much for which to be grateful. For one thing, your friends have been amazingly helpful all year, and they are about to become even more so.
On to other news, Jupiter has been retrograde for months but will now turn to direct speed on May 4. Jupiter, the planet of good fortune, will be able to help you in a much more obvious way - not only with friends, but in terms of your finances, too. Jupiter is IN your eleventh house of friendship, but RULES your solar second house of personal finances. Both areas will now begin to shine. Not only will you get even more support from friends, your financial situation is about to improve, too.
Eclipses are draining, so be very careful to take care of your health in May. Your resistance will be down, and you will need all your strength to get through this period, even if it is a happy one. Even joyous transitions, like marriage or having a baby, can wear you out.
Be careful of the medicine you take, as you could have a bad reaction to it. Check with your doctor ahead of time about any possible side effects. Neptune rules drugs and liquor, and neither will be especially good for you at eclipse time.
Ever since the eclipses began in the constellation of Scorpio and Taurus last year, you have been in the process of viewing yourself, your future and your partner in a new light. You know yourself better now, and you also have a better idea of the type of partner who is right for you, in both personal and professional affairs.
Your whole lifestyle may change rapidly before your eyes, and your old life will recede into history. That''s the job of eclipses, which is why they are so striking and dramatic. Rest assured. When all this is over, you will be in a better place.
Let''s look back for a moment on this family of eclipses. Eclipses fall in specific families of signs. The first one in the Scorpio-Taurus family arrived on May 15, 2003 and highlighted those Scorpios born on November 17. Another eclipse came by six months later on November 8, 2003, and highlighted Scorpios born within five days of that date. The full moon eclipse this month, on May 4, will continue discussions that came up last year and will touch Scorpios born on or within five days of November 5.
In October 2004, there will be two more eclipses, but only one will fall in the Taurus-Scorpio family. That one is set to arrive on October 28 and will highlight Scorpios born within five days of that date.
In 2005, there will be only one more eclipse in this series. It is set to arrive on April 24, 2005, and will touch those Scorpios born on or within five days of October 27.
Here is a key point. Even if the eclipses won''t always call out your birthday, each one that comes by will build upon the conversations you had on the date of the previous eclipse. In this way, eclipses are cumulative in their progress. Think back to November 8. Things discussed and planned then will move forward to a new level now.
By the time you get to 2005, you will have completed an impressive transition. After that, there will be no more eclipses in your sign until late 2012, 2013 and 2014.
Let''s look back at a few eclipses you would have gone through years ago for clues on how this series will touch you now and in the future. Keep in mind that the sky changes all the time. Because the other planets will not be in the same positions they were back then, you can never get an exact duplicate of events at past eclipses, though you will see some similarities.
Let''s look back anyway. Eclipses are repeated in the same sign and degree every 19 years. First, look back to May 5, 1985 for clues to what might come up now.
A more recent eclipse fell on May 10, 1994, but it was less similar because the mathematical degree of that eclipse was slightly different.
If anything stands out on these dates, a similar theme may emerge this month. If something bad happened, it does not necessarily mean it will again this month. Eclipses look for weak links and tend to hone in on them. If you have no weak link, you will pass through this period in much better form.
Also, if you were born on one of these dates, think back to the con***ions that were surrounding your birth - they will be recreated in some odd way now.
For much more specific information on eclipses, check my book, "The Year Ahead 2004."
Now let''s turn to the new moon in Taurus, due May 19, which will fall in the same partnership sector, your seventh house. A new moon will open a new path, so you may reach an agreement or strike a new approach to a partner.
From that point on, you will be able to initiate your plans because you will have a more complete picture. It is also possible that, at month''s end, your partner will respond to demands that were placed on him or her at the eclipse on May 4, after this new moon.
This new moon is not an eclipse, just a normal new moon, which will set up two full weeks of energy. For all Scorpios of any birthday, this new moon will usher in a much calmer period. It will reach out to Scorpios born on November 19.
If you are happy and feel ready to get engaged or bring a current relationship to a new level, you will be able to do so at the new moon on May 19. Keep in mind that you may experience this new moon in a business sense, too, and you may be ready to sign a business partner. As you see, there may be one partner you are focused on this month, or several.
Mars, your ruler, will move into your ninth house of long-distance travel, publishing and higher education on May 7 and remain in this house until June 23. In this new place in your chart, Mars will be VERY helpful, for it will tour Cancer, a highly compatible place for you. It seems very possible that this month you will either travel or plan a major trip for later in the year. Either would be very good for you now. Dear Scorpio, you need a rest, and having Mars in your ninth house will help you find ways to get it.
This same ninth house that Mars will energize also rules legal matters. If you are in the middle of a divorce, the talks will move into a new phase. I feel things will actually improve with this new placement of Mars, so stay optimistic.
One of the very best days of the month for legal, publishing or educational matters and meetings with university officials will be Friday, May 21 when Jupiter and Mars will be in elegant harmony, adding up to a very lucky day.
Also on this day, May 21, a friend will likely help you pull off an amazing coup. It will be your lucky day, thanks to a rare cooperation between Mars and Jupiter.
Romantically, you have a complicated but positive chart. If you have been dating someone happily, you may get engaged or even married just after the new moon on May 19.
It''s also possible that this eclipse will pull things apart. If so, it appears that you are moving to a better situation. Other Scorpios are simply happy with a new person you have met recently.
As mentioned earlier, Venus will be retrograde from May 17 to June 29. With the planet of love out to lunch, life will be a bit less sparkly for all of us. Venus retrograde is not a time to schedule plastic surgery, important parties or celebrations, or to spend a great deal of money on clothes or jewelry. If you were thinking of treating yourself to a spa package (no matter if you are a man or a woman), you might want to wait until July. If you are getting engaged, do so BEFORE May 17.
Now let''s look at your best date nights. If you are single, look your best on May 17 when you could run into a hot new someone, thanks to Mars'' perfect alignment with surprise-a-minute Uranus. You may also want to circle the previous weekend Saturday, May 15 *****nday, May 16, another time when sweet vibrations will be heightened.
If you are involved, the weekend of May 22 and May 23 will also be divine, perfect for a romantic trip with someone you care about. Single Scorpios will love this weekend as well.
Dear Scorpio, get through this month and I promise the ones that come after will be easier. Eclipses are always in a hurry to move us along the road of life. When they arrive they seem to pick us up like tornadoes. And when they drop us down, it''s in a whole new place, the place we are meant to be. The universe wants you to be happy, dear Scorpio. Sometimes we need to go through a process before we get to the sweet spot on the other side of the bridge.
I will leave you with this: Next year, in November 2005, Jupiter, the planet of good luck and happiness, will enter Scorpio for the first time in the decade. This will herald the happiest time in your life. This is a whole story unto itself that is due to unfold late next year. Trust in the future, dear Scorpio. You are heading in the right direction!
Summary
Recent romantic ups and downs have left you weary, but unresolved issues will be largely settled as a result of the lunar eclipse in Scorpio on May 4. Over the past year, you have come to understand yourself better, and you also have come to know what you need from a partner. This can only help to strengthen your future relationships. Even if you suffered a romantic heartbreak recently, you have many reasons to be optimistic about your future.
If you are attached, you will now move to find ways to make something more substantive of your alliance. For example, you may decide to have a baby or choose a goal to work on as a couple - and if so, this will occur just after the new moon on May 19.
Meanwhile, Mars'' move into your ninth house suggests you have become restless with your present routine. Travel, books, tickets to cultural events, or classes after work would bring the jolt of stimulation and welcome distraction you crave. Indulge - you need the change.
Financially, your earning power is about to increase in the months ahead now that Jupiter will regulate its orbit. Friends will become more helpful, too, providing tips, contacts and invitations.
In every way, dear Scorpio, life is on an upswing.

Scorpio (October 23 - November 21)
Your May horoscope by Susan Miller
This will be a highly emotional month. A full moon lunar eclipse in Scorpio will likely bring news that will pull at your heartstrings. Your partner in marriage or business will be your main focus, but in the process of dealing with relevant issues, your self-esteem will undergo a massive transformation.
If until now you have had a very good relationship with your partner, things will get even better and you will grow closer. On the other hand, if the dynamic between you has been strained, it is about to get much worse. Eclipses always push things to extreme ends of the spectrum, which is why I say that anything is possible, from engagement ("Stay with me forever!") to an outright split ("I never want to see you again!").
If you were born on or within days of November 5, you will feel this eclipse in a more powerful, personal way than any other member of your sign. All Scorpios will feel some partner-related news - it would be hard NOT to with these aspects!
Your partner may (1) have an idea or proposal to show you, (2) have news in his or her own life that may influence your life, or (3) may become so difficult to deal with that you decide to leave the relationship.
If you have no partners at all in your life, it is also possible that a competitor will act up. You will have to get all hands on deck to combat his new strategy.
Eclipses are always the champions of truth. If there is anything you have not been aware of in your relationship, those facts are likely *****rface now. Even readers who are in a strong relationship may feel put upon by their partner''s expectations and demands, which lately have escalated so much it will become clear you need to get them back to earth.
The partner in question may be a steady date, spouse, business partner, agent, manager or other collaborator or expert (such as a lawyer).
This eclipse may finalize a chapter that has gone on for months. If things have indeed dragged on, it appears you are nearing the end of your rope. You certainly appear ready to lay down certain non-negotiable terms. Hopefully, your partner will respond in a manner that pleases you. There is a possibility of that, but your outlook is mixed. This eclipse has many positive aspects, but there are a number of harsh ones, too. You will need to be flexible. Eclipse time always brings on a feeling that events are moving at the speed of light. You may have to make decisions on the fly.
After this month is over, you will be able to plan your future with more certainty. Still, I doubt you will be able to get all the pieces of your puzzle in place just yet. Venus will be retrograde in a financial sector of your chart from May 17 to June 29, and that may hold up any sort of final settlement. After June 29, the coast will be clear.
Financial details still have to be worked out, but it appears much of what you need to agree to will be set on this eclipse. More work may need to be done at your next critical eclipse, October 28.
An eclipse will always bring an ending, but it will also bring a beginning. Eclipses almost never bring straight-line events, but tend to add unexpected twists and turns. An outside event over which you have no control will become a factor in the direction of your discussions, and that outside event - one that you probably have not yet factored in - is the wild card of this equation. A seemingly unrelated event or a casual comment from you or your partner might suddenly and unexpectedly reveal truths concerning what actually forms the base of your relationship. If you were to see any cracks in that foundation, they would show up on or within five days of May 4.
Some Scorpios won''t notice news about their relationship until June 4, one month (plus or minus four days) after the eclipse.
As said, this eclipse will be in Scorpio. Pluto, Scorpio''s ruler, is currently in your second house of earned income. Pluto''s placement tells me that money will play a big role in your discussions. The problem is that Pluto will adamantly oppose Mars, which also rules Scorpio, giving each extra prominence in this eclipse. Mars is currently in another financial house, your eight house of shared financial resources. Hence, the heart of the problem most likely will concern a tough financial tug-of-war. Luckily, Mars will rapidly move out of Pluto''s line of vision, but is still close enough to cause some heated arguments about money at eclipse time. Fortunately, both Mars and Pluto are in mutable signs, suggesting there will be some flexibility.
When the topic is money it begs the question, what does money symbolize to both parties? In some instances, money is power. At other times, money is security. For some, money represents the ability to provide for others.
For less evolved people (possibly your partner) money might be used as a weapon or a means of punishment. I am hoping that you won''t be at the mercy of this type of behavior, dear Scorpio.
There are many other attitudes toward money I haven''t even thought of here, but you may think of some specific to your situation. Ask yourself, what role does money play in the circumstances you face this month? Try to dig into the symbolism. Each party in the relationship is likely to view the role of money differently, so you will need to allow for that.
What if you are happy? If you are happy, you may sign an agent and go over the details of how the finances will work. You and your agent may not agree, so there may be some talk about how to word things.
If you are getting engaged or married, you may simply be trying to work out how you will handle the money in your relationship. It is also possible that a pre-nuptial arrangement may be presented. If so, expect negotiations.
For the next few paragraphs I will focus on those readers who are having a hard time, and less on those of you who are happy. (Happy Scorpios need less from me at this juncture.)
Dear Scorpio, no matter what your situation, May is never your easiest month of the year because it arrives six months away from your birthday. That puts the Sun as far away as it can get from your birthday (Sun sign), making May your personal astrological "winter." With the warmth of the Sun out of reach, life might feel a bit cold. You may feel isolated and lonely in the situation you are facing now. Once you get closer to the time of the year in which you were born, things will improve enormously. By then you will hold many more winning cards. You don''t have them all now, and that''s why I say compromise will be necessary.
At times, this might make you feel the situation is out of your control. Too many pieces of your puzzle rest in your partner''s hands. To a Scorpio, that doesn''t make you feel secure. You like to remain in the driver''s seat. Still, this is the situation - I am so sorry to say you will have to deal with it.
This month, thankfully the eclipse will be well angled to other planets, which will soften any news you should hear. Saturn, in particular, will add a stabilizing touch. Luckily, Saturn is based in your legal house, so if you are involved in a dispute that requires the courts or a lawyer, things should progress. Some of the results will be satisfying.
One of the hardest things about this eclipse is the emotion it will stir in you. Any full moon will bring in memories, dreams and deep feelings. All this will make it difficult to come to an objective decision.
Real estate or housing issues are likely to be difficult, too, due to the tough angle Neptune will hold in regard to this full moon eclipse on May 4. This suggests a home or property-related matter will be clouded. The problem seems hard to fully grasp, let alone solve.
If you can''t come to terms about that real estate matter now, you will get another chance at the next eclipse on October 28. At that time, you will be closer to your birthday month and, as we discussed earlier, that''s your best time of the year to get things your way.
With Neptune poorly placed this month you may suffer from some sort of water damage - Neptune also rules water and flooding.
There are other ramifications of a difficult Neptune. Neptune is the natural ruler of your fifth house of children, so there could be some sort of disagreement or confusion about what to do about a pregnancy. Or, it may disagree with a soon-to-be ex-spouse about child custody issues. Or, you may have a question regarding a present need to care for children you have now.
If this eclipse touches your professional life rather than personal affairs, a discussion about which direction to take a creative project may form part of the conversation.
If you look around, you will see that despite problems, you have much for which to be grateful. For one thing, your friends have been amazingly helpful all year, and they are about to become even more so.
On to other news, Jupiter has been retrograde for months but will now turn to direct speed on May 4. Jupiter, the planet of good fortune, will be able to help you in a much more obvious way - not only with friends, but in terms of your finances, too. Jupiter is IN your eleventh house of friendship, but RULES your solar second house of personal finances. Both areas will now begin to shine. Not only will you get even more support from friends, your financial situation is about to improve, too.
Eclipses are draining, so be very careful to take care of your health in May. Your resistance will be down, and you will need all your strength to get through this period, even if it is a happy one. Even joyous transitions, like marriage or having a baby, can wear you out.
Be careful of the medicine you take, as you could have a bad reaction to it. Check with your doctor ahead of time about any possible side effects. Neptune rules drugs and liquor, and neither will be especially good for you at eclipse time.
Ever since the eclipses began in the constellation of Scorpio and Taurus last year, you have been in the process of viewing yourself, your future and your partner in a new light. You know yourself better now, and you also have a better idea of the type of partner who is right for you, in both personal and professional affairs.
Your whole lifestyle may change rapidly before your eyes, and your old life will recede into history. That''s the job of eclipses, which is why they are so striking and dramatic. Rest assured. When all this is over, you will be in a better place.
Let''s look back for a moment on this family of eclipses. Eclipses fall in specific families of signs. The first one in the Scorpio-Taurus family arrived on May 15, 2003 and highlighted those Scorpios born on November 17. Another eclipse came by six months later on November 8, 2003, and highlighted Scorpios born within five days of that date. The full moon eclipse this month, on May 4, will continue discussions that came up last year and will touch Scorpios born on or within five days of November 5.
In October 2004, there will be two more eclipses, but only one will fall in the Taurus-Scorpio family. That one is set to arrive on October 28 and will highlight Scorpios born within five days of that date.
In 2005, there will be only one more eclipse in this series. It is set to arrive on April 24, 2005, and will touch those Scorpios born on or within five days of October 27.
Here is a key point. Even if the eclipses won''t always call out your birthday, each one that comes by will build upon the conversations you had on the date of the previous eclipse. In this way, eclipses are cumulative in their progress. Think back to November 8. Things discussed and planned then will move forward to a new level now.
By the time you get to 2005, you will have completed an impressive transition. After that, there will be no more eclipses in your sign until late 2012, 2013 and 2014.
Let''s look back at a few eclipses you would have gone through years ago for clues on how this series will touch you now and in the future. Keep in mind that the sky changes all the time. Because the other planets will not be in the same positions they were back then, you can never get an exact duplicate of events at past eclipses, though you will see some similarities.
Let''s look back anyway. Eclipses are repeated in the same sign and degree every 19 years. First, look back to May 5, 1985 for clues to what might come up now.
A more recent eclipse fell on May 10, 1994, but it was less similar because the mathematical degree of that eclipse was slightly different.
If anything stands out on these dates, a similar theme may emerge this month. If something bad happened, it does not necessarily mean it will again this month. Eclipses look for weak links and tend to hone in on them. If you have no weak link, you will pass through this period in much better form.
Also, if you were born on one of these dates, think back to the con***ions that were surrounding your birth - they will be recreated in some odd way now.
For much more specific information on eclipses, check my book, "The Year Ahead 2004."
Now let''s turn to the new moon in Taurus, due May 19, which will fall in the same partnership sector, your seventh house. A new moon will open a new path, so you may reach an agreement or strike a new approach to a partner.
From that point on, you will be able to initiate your plans because you will have a more complete picture. It is also possible that, at month''s end, your partner will respond to demands that were placed on him or her at the eclipse on May 4, after this new moon.
This new moon is not an eclipse, just a normal new moon, which will set up two full weeks of energy. For all Scorpios of any birthday, this new moon will usher in a much calmer period. It will reach out to Scorpios born on November 19.
If you are happy and feel ready to get engaged or bring a current relationship to a new level, you will be able to do so at the new moon on May 19. Keep in mind that you may experience this new moon in a business sense, too, and you may be ready to sign a business partner. As you see, there may be one partner you are focused on this month, or several.
Mars, your ruler, will move into your ninth house of long-distance travel, publishing and higher education on May 7 and remain in this house until June 23. In this new place in your chart, Mars will be VERY helpful, for it will tour Cancer, a highly compatible place for you. It seems very possible that this month you will either travel or plan a major trip for later in the year. Either would be very good for you now. Dear Scorpio, you need a rest, and having Mars in your ninth house will help you find ways to get it.
This same ninth house that Mars will energize also rules legal matters. If you are in the middle of a divorce, the talks will move into a new phase. I feel things will actually improve with this new placement of Mars, so stay optimistic.
One of the very best days of the month for legal, publishing or educational matters and meetings with university officials will be Friday, May 21 when Jupiter and Mars will be in elegant harmony, adding up to a very lucky day.
Also on this day, May 21, a friend will likely help you pull off an amazing coup. It will be your lucky day, thanks to a rare cooperation between Mars and Jupiter.
Romantically, you have a complicated but positive chart. If you have been dating someone happily, you may get engaged or even married just after the new moon on May 19.
It''s also possible that this eclipse will pull things apart. If so, it appears that you are moving to a better situation. Other Scorpios are simply happy with a new person you have met recently.
As mentioned earlier, Venus will be retrograde from May 17 to June 29. With the planet of love out to lunch, life will be a bit less sparkly for all of us. Venus retrograde is not a time to schedule plastic surgery, important parties or celebrations, or to spend a great deal of money on clothes or jewelry. If you were thinking of treating yourself to a spa package (no matter if you are a man or a woman), you might want to wait until July. If you are getting engaged, do so BEFORE May 17.
Now let''s look at your best date nights. If you are single, look your best on May 17 when you could run into a hot new someone, thanks to Mars'' perfect alignment with surprise-a-minute Uranus. You may also want to circle the previous weekend Saturday, May 15 *****nday, May 16, another time when sweet vibrations will be heightened.
If you are involved, the weekend of May 22 and May 23 will also be divine, perfect for a romantic trip with someone you care about. Single Scorpios will love this weekend as well.
Dear Scorpio, get through this month and I promise the ones that come after will be easier. Eclipses are always in a hurry to move us along the road of life. When they arrive they seem to pick us up like tornadoes. And when they drop us down, it''s in a whole new place, the place we are meant to be. The universe wants you to be happy, dear Scorpio. Sometimes we need to go through a process before we get to the sweet spot on the other side of the bridge.
I will leave you with this: Next year, in November 2005, Jupiter, the planet of good luck and happiness, will enter Scorpio for the first time in the decade. This will herald the happiest time in your life. This is a whole story unto itself that is due to unfold late next year. Trust in the future, dear Scorpio. You are heading in the right direction!
Summary
Recent romantic ups and downs have left you weary, but unresolved issues will be largely settled as a result of the lunar eclipse in Scorpio on May 4. Over the past year, you have come to understand yourself better, and you also have come to know what you need from a partner. This can only help to strengthen your future relationships. Even if you suffered a romantic heartbreak recently, you have many reasons to be optimistic about your future.
If you are attached, you will now move to find ways to make something more substantive of your alliance. For example, you may decide to have a baby or choose a goal to work on as a couple - and if so, this will occur just after the new moon on May 19.
Meanwhile, Mars'' move into your ninth house suggests you have become restless with your present routine. Travel, books, tickets to cultural events, or classes after work would bring the jolt of stimulation and welcome distraction you crave. Indulge - you need the change.
Financially, your earning power is about to increase in the months ahead now that Jupiter will regulate its orbit. Friends will become more helpful, too, providing tips, contacts and invitations.
In every way, dear Scorpio, life is on an upswing.

Sagittarius (November 22 - December 21)
Your May horoscope by Susan Miller
Your career is about to take off like a rocket now that Jupiter, the jolly Santa Claus planet, protector of Sagittarius and bearer of good luck, is about to turn to speedy direct motion on May 4. Jupiter will remain in that mode for the rest of the year, so you will have some very powerful help behind you for long enough to get ahead professionally, dear Sagittarius!
Jupiter''s been in sleepy mode since January 3, so although you may have read that 2004 was supposed to be your big professional year, you have seen little evidence of this so far. Now all that will change! You are about to be quite sought after in your industry and will finally be able to set the pace rather than bend to the dictates of a buyer''s market.
Get your resume polished up and be ready to show it to the world. Your biggest moment for career success will come in mid-September, but actions you take now will lead to quite a big victory at that time. In September you will have some of the brightest aspects in over a decade. Be ready to score a major victory! Don''t let this grand opportunity pass you by!
This month there will be two outstanding days to see progress in matters related to money and status.
First, mark down May 17 as an outstanding day to create a massive financial victory. Uranus, planet of surprise, will beam a ray to Mars, the planet of energy, in your financial eighth house. You may even win a small prize.
For career victories that also bring impressive financial benefits, it will be hard to beat May 21. Energetic Mars and Jupiter will collaborate and you will be the beneficiary! Everyone will love this day, but you will love it more because Jupiter is your ruling planet and will work hard on your behalf. On the same day Uranus will work closely with Mercury - news should be unexpectedly positive.
Now let''s turn to the arrival of the lunar eclipse, due May 4.
This month''s eclipse will fall in Scorpio in your twelfth house of secrets and behind-the-scenes activities. A project that you have been working on that has been under wraps is apparently nearly ready to unveil. This month it will near completion and you will add the final touches.
At the same time, this eclipse may reveal gossip or news that someone hoped you would never discover. This information may come in handy or it may distress you, depending on why the person didn''t want you to know the truth.
The twelfth house is associated with confinement, so there is another way this eclipse might deliver its message. Someone you know may be hospitalized for a short while under this eclipse, or you may decide to go in for a medical or dental procedure. This part of your chart also rules your subconscious, so if you have anything you need to discuss with a therapist, you may feel compelled to make the appointment now. It will be a perfect time to do so. You also might decide to delete a bad habit from your lifestyle. If you do, expect superb results.
Eclipses reveal weaknesses that exist in any area of our lives. By knowing about those areas, we are given an opportunity to strengthen them.
This seems to be a huge month for physical and psychological transformations. Health and well-being will be a strong theme, too, especially after the new moon in your sixth house on May 19.
If you have wanted to shape up and lose weight, you will have a golden opportunity to do so in the two weeks that follow May 19. I always think it so silly that everybody tries to get in shape on January 1, regardless of the astrological dynamic on that date. People should start at the new moon in their sixth house, as you have it now. It gives you the best chance for success!
Here''s your shape-up plan:
First, begin exercising as soon as the face of that new moon appears on May 19. Then, on June 7 begin to cut back on food portions. Decrease fat intake, too, but make sure to follow a sensible plan that doesn''t leave you hungry. Food is fuel!
As I always say, if God made it, it''s OK to eat because it has been made by Nature for our bodies. If man made the food, it''s processed and it will probably mess you up. (Ad***ives and artificial flavors in processed foods have to be broken down by the liver, which needs to do other things!) If you are a woman (or a smaller person), eat an appropriately sized portion; of course if you are a man (or a bigger person), a slightly more generous portion is appropriate. Restaurants give people of every *** and size the same amount of food. That is not necessarily good for everyone because women (or small people) end up eating men''s sized meal. Also, try to eat a snack every three hours or so. Make sure your selection includes a small amount of protein with fruit or whatever you''d like.
This new moon can also be used to help you resolve any lingering health matters. While you are at it, you might as well have your teeth cleaned, eyes examined, blood pressure measured, and the host of other little annual health checks taken care of.
Also on this same May 19 new moon, you may see changes at work. You may get some new software, a new computer, or you may be given a plum new assignment. Self-employed Sagittarius will find it is easier to develop new business - your phone should start to ring.
This new moon will tie into Jupiter''s new resolve to help your career status. On a very basic level and in the best sense, your career is turning inside out. The changes shaping up late this month are quite exciting and will move you into a whole new realm. Keep in mind you won''t see the biggest and best news until mid-to-late September 2004. You will begin the process now and reap the rewards then.
Venus'' impending retrograde motion from May 17 to June 29 may cause you to put the brakes on a relationship to get some breathing room. If you have not been happy in the relationship, you may be tempted to leave altogether. You might want to give this alliance a little more time, for at the end of June you will likely see a clearer picture of your situation and have a better idea of what to do. Venus retrograde may also cause you to go over an old problem with your partner. It will be a good time to delve into matters that seem to defy solutions. Venus in your relationship house, even retrograde, will see to it that you always are mindful of the ties that bind you. Try to work things out - you may be surprised at the warm response you get from your partner.
Venus is the planet of fun and love, as well as good looks, luxury and sensual experiences. Alas, with Venus retrograde, the world will go through a no-frills, Spartan phase. Your busy work life will be your first priority.
The second half of May through June would not be the time to schedule plastic surgery or pampering treatments in a fancy spa. Hold off buying expensive jewelry or clothing at this time as well. If you want to throw a festive party, it would be more of a hit you if you do so prior to May 17 or delay doing so until after June 29. Venus will not retrograde again until the end of December 2005, about a year-and-a-half from now, so you will have an open road to act.
Single Sagittarius, last month a solar eclipse in Aries on April 19 may have brought interesting developments in your love life. This same April eclipse might have brought up a discussion in regard to a pregnancy or the care of present children.
As discussed in last month''s forecast (still available at the bottom of this page) you will likely begin a new relationship or see a new development with someone you are dating now.
If you did not feel any changes as a result of that eclipse, keep watch over the days surrounding May 19 plus or minus five days. Some eclipses don''t deliver their messages for a full month.
Even though work will occupy you, you still will have some special date nights this month. They will fall on the following dates:
Saturday, May 1 should be terrific, when the moon will glide in Libra and your ruler, Jupiter, will send a lovely note to Saturn. This would be a great day for discussing or agreeing on long range plans or even for having an engagement or wedding. It should be quite a happy day.
From Saturday, May 15 to Monday, May 17 the moon will be will be in Aries - a wildly compatible placement - and will fall within the path of the favorable eclipse of April 19 (using the one-month-to-the-day-later rule, plus or minus five days).
For a short trip, you can''t beat May 22 and May 23, where Mercury, the travel planet, will work with lucky Jupiter. It doesn''t get any better than this!
Memorial Day will fall from May 29 to May 31. With the moon in Libra for most of the weekend, you will be all set for a fun time. I like the previous weekend a bit better for travel, but this weekend could bring you the sweet relaxation you need.
Summary
This month you''ll be on a track of self-improvement and transformation, no small task. In this made-for-you month, no goal is too grand, no obstacle impossible *****rmount. It''s time to bust down doors and banish old habits that have separated you from success, happiness or health, dear Sagittarius.
With a full moon eclipse shedding light on your subconscious, and with Jupiter, your ruler, about to go full speed ahead on May 4, you''ll see gratifying progress on many fronts.
As swimsuit season gets closer, after the new moon May 19 you will want to make being slim and fit more of a priority. Dive into your fitness program with gusto - you won''t have a better moment in all of 2004 to do so.
With Venus retrograde in your seventh house of committed relationships, you may have second thoughts about a long-term tie. Or, you may have a disagreement with a present squeeze about an issue you thought you had settled long ago. Take a courteous, patient approach - Venus will see to it that you both will find the closure, and closeness, you need.
After your ruler Jupiter awakens from its nap on May 4, daily life will take on a brighter glow. Projects that were bogged down in red tape will move forward - you will let out a sigh of relief. Intriguing career opportunities will be presented and from now on, your professional life will begin to show impressive progress. While your biggest month of the year for professional matters will be September, know that all the decisions and actions you take now will count toward your promotion then.
News about your career on Friday, May 21 should thrill you. Schedule a meeting for this golden-for-Sagittarius-day! Your name will soon be in lights