For All Signs: Mars is finally direct and moving slowly toward the point at which it turned retrograde. That will occur on August 22. Now we can gradually move forward with activities associated with initiatives, repairs and anything that involves tools or guns. Mars is the ancient god of war. He represents the one inside of us that protects boundaries and the one that goes after new territory. If you have hesitated for a time to pursue any of "his" activities now is the time to re-evaluate whether that notion is the same or has changed. Collect the necessary tools and prepare to start in earnest in August.

Aries: Clear the cobwebs from old non-working solutions so that a fresh perspective can emerge. This is a time in which your partner is on your side and things are flowing well between you. It is a good period for coming to agreement on circumstances that have been issues in the past. Make new beginnings; forge new paths.

Taurus: Your ruling planet, Venus, is super-busy this week and it has complex relationships to the other planets. Your primary relationship is coming out of a darker place and showing signs of improvement. This may be true of others as well. Underneath, you have a restlessness that lends itself to boredom. It's OK to do something wild on occasion.

Gemini: You are happy in your nest of home and family at this time. You could be making a purchase to improve the appearance and workability of your house and/or car. Think carefully about what is truly important to you now at this time in your life. Don't allow old habits or rules from the past to make your decisions for you.

Cancer: Now is a good time to make a trip for a short vacation. A break from the routine of life and focusing on something different could make a good alternative. You are in a reasonably good place with yourself at this time. Your heart and mind are flowing together. Don't get in their way.

Leo: You can see encouraging progress from your diet or exercise routine. This also applies to any mental health improvements you have recently begun. You may also have a fresh idea for improving your income. Give that some time before announcing your intentions. Don't rush into things but stride steadily toward your goal.

Virgo: This is a really busy week. Your mood is expansive and optimistic. It is one of those "good luck" times that occasionally happen, even to Virgo. You have a grasp of the big picture and could use this energy to promote your projects and gain support. If you have any oral or written projects on your list this is the time to start. Do not overthink these projects. Once you start you will find ideas coming easier than you imagined.

Libra: Both income and relationships are favored at this time. Details and paperwork are like ducks nipping at your heels. Do what you must but don't cheat your relationships for those details. You are feeling restless and need to try something new. Commute by a different route or go somewhere you have never visited before.

Scorpio: This is a good time to cautiously move forward. Let yourself slide into the flow of things. Be flexible and adaptable. Cooperate with the group, whether that be two or 200. This is a good time to study any material because your thoughts are flowing. Read a book that usually wouldn't interest you. Travel may be on your agenda. Don't be afraid to get away for a few days. What you leave behind can wait.

Sagittarius: You have the green light on the pursuit of your goals at last but you are concerned about the cost of doing it. The money time and/or energy required may look ominous. Consider what you may negotiate now in order to reduce your concerns over risk. Take care that you don't promise way more than you can deliver.

Capricorn: Your plans and ideas may be challenged by another at this time. If you have done the necessary ground work you will emerge the winner. Do your best to generate a win-win situation out of the duel and avoid a frank battle of wills. You probably have the clout but running over a competitor does not win much worth having. Stay stubborn in your point but do not be overly prideful about it.

Aquarius: Backup your computer data. Aspects suggest you may have electrical problems this week, so be sure to unplug your compyter before any looming thunderstorms. Maintenance expenses may surface. Paperwork is a challenge. You are forced to fix previous errors so you can bring the present files up to date. It's a hassle but you will feel relieved when it is done.

Pisces: If you are in a committed relationship, now is the time to discuss the harder subjects on the table. Your partner is listening and so are you. It may not be so easy in romance. Topics may surface but one of you will dance around them. Go right at these topics and you will not regret it in the end. Your other half will be thankful for it, as well. If you are involved in creative work stick with it.

Are you interested in a personal horoscope? Vivian Carol may be reached at 704-366-3777 for private psychotherapy or astrology appointments. (There is a fee for services) www.horoscopesbyvivian.com.