By Denise Guzzardo

This Week: The week begins with some bumpy starts as the full moon Aug. 24 1 degree of Pisces and Mercury retrograde kick in Aug. 20. This can leave us a bit exasperated. Pluto is quite active in a negative sense as well. We may be experiencing a loss or several losses at this time. Be extra cautious with loved ones—two- and four-legged—and take no chances. The small and the weak deserve extra care during this time frame. This would not be a good time to dig up old grievances, no matter how hard or how heavily they may be weighing on your mind. Bite your tongue, and save it for another time when you will have a better perspective. Extend your love and sincerity to those who are less fortunate. They won’t forget it.

Aries (March 21 to April 19)—Make sure you’re getting your fair share of exercise and recreation during this time. You will be feeling a bit hyper, and you need to blow off some steam somehow. Getting together with those of like mind will charge up your batteries as well. You’ve been lacking a little humor as of late; it’s time for a little bit of nonsense to set your mind at ease.

Taurus (April 20 to May 20)­—You may be reconsidering an action you took recently after some serious arm-twisting from a friend or co-worker. Your “burnout” factor could have been getting on your last nerve, but that doesn’t mean you have to throw the baby out with the bath water. You need some “you time.” Call upon your crazy friends, and take a night out on the town. This will do your heart good.

Gemini (May 21 to June 20)—Expect the best, and you will receive the best. Try not to worry about the interactions of family during this time. You have no control over the actions of others, only yourself. Keep that in mind, and all will go well. You may be placed in a position to defend another over the weekend. You can do this with diplomacy and grace. Validating a loved one’s feelings may be the only thing you need to do to fix a long-standing problem.

Cancer (June 21 to July 22)—You will shine like a star in large group settings. All eyes are on you, so dress for success. Expect the unexpected with romance. The past, present and future are standing before you this week. You have the opportunity to resolve old conflicts and move forward with a relationship that fits your lifestyle. Finances take a surprising turn for the better.

Leo (July 23 to Aug. 22)—Opportunities to expand your financial sector will be presented. Try not to focus on your past losses. This only gets in the way of your success. The perfect fit will arrive when the leaves begin to turn, providing emotional and spiritual fulfillment. Every connection you’ve made up to this point led you into the right direction. These were not failures; these were building blocks to the solid foundation you will acquire.

Virgo (Aug. 23 to Sept. 22)—Even though you may feel as though you have bitten off more than you can chew, trust the universe will manage things for you when you are taking a little R&R with friends and family. Understand that focusing on the worst-case scenario can draw this type of challenge toward us. Visualize everything healthy, well and prosperous, and that’s exactly what you will receive in the months to come.

Libra (Sept. 23 to Oct. 22)—A friend or family member could prove to be a major disappointment. Look to those around you who are willing to provide you with love and support. Avoid those individuals who may feel you need to pay for their unhappiness. This is not an issue of jealousy, this is an issue of deep insecurities. Connect with those who support your dreams and ambitions. Valuable information is provided at this time.

Scorpio (Oct. 23 to Nov. 21)—You feel like a kid again because of the company you’ve been keeping. This is such a positive aspect, you’ve stopped your grumbling and started laughing again. Outdoor activity and fresh air make all the difference in the world. Midweek, you’re making a connection with the right source to acquire a long-term goal. Do not allow old insecurities to stand in your way. Jump in with both feet.

Sagittarius (Nov. 22 to Dec. 21)—This weekend will mark a turning point with those around you and their lives to come. All of your wishes, hopes and dreams for your loved ones begin to fall into place. Now, it’s time to focus on you. You will be pleasantly surprised with the emotional support you receive. An unexpected windfall arrives shortly, and finances improve. Your physical appearance is changing for the better. This is a direct result of your emotional state.

Capricorn (Dec. 22 to Jan. 19)—Another may try to rain on your parade early this week. Try not to take this personally. Frustrations that are mounting for them could be misdirected toward you now. Midweek, a financial windfall can find its way toward you or a loved one. This will definitely take the “edge off” all of the financial pressure. Take some time to treat yourself to a little TLC. You won’t regret it.

Aquarius (Jan. 20 to Feb. 18)—Your financial sector is lighting up in your favor this week. This comes as a pleasant surprise from the past two years of rebuilding your financial foundation. You’re able to budget for the present, as well as plan for your future. Now would be a good time to begin to concentrate on your personal life. Many of you have let that sit on the back burner for way too long. You can’t hide forever.

Pisces (Feb. 19 to March 20)—You may still feel in a quandary about your living quarters. Feeling the need to shift, change or flee is weighing heavily on your mind. Consider your motives carefully before you take the plunge. A well-thought-out plan works in your favor, as opposed to a knee-jerk emotional reaction. An opportunity to upgrade your current work status is on the horizon. Be open for change.

For an extended astrological forecast or psychic consultation, contact Denise at (815) 398-3983.

From the Aug. 18-24, 2010 issue