Leo The Lion (July 22-Aug. 22): This is a good week to bring to fruition a home improvement project that was conceived in the fall of 2012. Saturn always gives us what we deserve. So if you have put work and time into your effort, you will be rewarded. If not, you may be hit with a repair for property.
For All Signs: As Mercury begins to regain its normal speed, it will be easier to move ahead with plans that have been pending. Have patience with the flurry of phone calls and changed appointments that always accompany this planet's shift in directions. Decisions are also subject to change. The after-shadow period is complete on Aug. 2 and this interference will become clear.
Aries: Your energies are high and you can accomplish a great deal of work now. Keep in mind that you are the one with the energy, so don't criticize others if they can't match it. Avoid antagonizing those in power during this period or you may lose a battle.
Taurus: You are under the veil of illusion concerning relationships. You may be perceiving yourself as selfless or the other as "too good to be true." Add a touch of realism here and you will be more accurate. You are offered support from authority figures and long-term friends. Express whatever pain you feel through the arts or music.
Gemini: You are experiencing a change in the areas of shared resources, investments, alimony or inheritance. At this time, you are mentally quarreling with yourself or with others over finding a solution to the problem.
Cancer: It may feel very important to say your piece in a conflict, but if the other has more literal power, you will lose. Ego battles for the sake of "who is on top" will use a lot of psychic energy and prove very little in the end. Use your positive thinking and persuasion to gain a powerful ally.
Virgo: You need closeness and as you reach out, the "other" just seems to evaporate or evade you. This is truly disappointing. You may have attracted a vampire, one who takes energy but can't give it back. You are worth much more than that. You could find consolation in the world of art, beauty and music.
Libra: Beware the temptation to feel sorry for yourself this week. If you want attention then ask for it, rather than sulking. Another option is to give what you want to receive. Support your personal authorities from behind the scenes. This will have favorable results.
Scorpio: You will be more than a little bit tempted to pour everything you've got into your objectives now. This energy requires tender handling. If you push too hard or too fast, you will find others are shoving back. Use your powers of persuasion to get others on board, so that they add to the energy for good.
Sagittarius: Over the weekend, an opportunity to expand your social life brings smiles. You may be invited to a party or you might meet someone new. This aspect is from Venus, goddess of love and creativity. The muse may be at your side as you produce a particularly creative idea or solution to a problem.
Capricorn: This summer it will serve you well to allow someone else to be the apparent leader, even if you are the one who holds the power from behind the curtain. If your control becomes too visible, you will lose your supporters. This period calls for group strength. That will win the battle.
Aquarius: Your partner (business or personal) may be either a powerful ally or a pain this week. If the "other" is an arrogant critic right now, it is good to consider the point(s) they are making. The delivery may be overdone, but if you can get past that, there is useful information.
Pisces: Beware of any martyr-like thoughts in relation to your partner(s). You could be seeing yourself as all-giving and all-loving. No one is really like that. Give what you are willing to give because you love the other. Don't do it so that someone will see your actions and think you are wonderful.
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
