Virgo the Virgin (Aug. 22-Sept. 22)

This may be the favorite time of the year for you. The new moon in Virgo always occurs in September. The sign is especially devoted to organization, perfection and self-improvement. From the cosmic point of view, it is appropriate that this is the time of year in which we adjust our life routines, accommodating for new school and work schedules. Often we choose late August or early September to begin new exercise rituals and physical fitness programs.

For All Signs: Mercury, ruler of business, communications and everyday routines, will turn direct on Sept. 12. A retrograde period appears to last about three-and-a-half weeks. The truth of the matter is that the period actually lasts an additional two-and-a-half weeks on either side. Prior to the exact retrograde, Mercury gives the appearance of slowing its motion before actually becoming retrograde. The same thing happens after the direct motion begins. Mercury requires about two-and-a-half more weeks to return to its natural speed. So the whole process is actually a little more than eight weeks. Mercury's retrograde symbolic purpose is to pressure us to slow down, think and recheck everything, before proceeding with plans. It is ideal for those who meditate and who are working on self-study. It is not favorable for moving forward with new agendas because we will inevitably find something in error as we proceed.

Aries: As long as you can relax and "go with the flow," you will find pleasant experiences this week. Social and marital life flow well. Your creative side is in a groove now. Don't attempt to take control and run things or you will encounter more problems than you want.

Taurus: Venus, your ruling planet, has entered the 7th house of relationships and will be there until the year end. She brings significant focus to matters concerning your clientele, social life and partnerships. This week things flow smoothly with most of these matters. Traveling Bulls have favored aspects.

Gemini: While Mercury has been retrograde, the area of focus for you is related to property, family and issues of security. You are likely reworking things in one of these territories. Family members may have been erratic or hard to pin down so decisions could be made. As it turns direct on Sept. 12, the fog may begin to clear from these areas of your life.

Cancer: The new moon on the 8th suggests new beginnings concerning neighbors, siblings, roommates and contracts. You may feel a strong need to clean and polish your vehicle to the ninth degree. You and your partner continue to feel emotionally in sync. Life is good.

Leo: This is an unusually quiet week for the Lions. The new moon in your money/income house suggests that you are giving extra thought to matters of budget and planning for your financial future. If not looking to the future, you may be feeling the itch of money in your pockets. Take it easy.

Libra: This is a favorable week for love and social life. Venus, your planetary ruler, is in a favorable position in the sky. Often when Venus is prominent we become more interested in art forms and want to make things in the environment more attractive. We are prone to spend money on that which we consider beautiful.

Scorpio: Venus enters your sign this week and will be traveling "with you" through most of the rest of the year. Her presence gives you an air of poise and beauty, and people will simply like how you look. She has the power to turn introverts into extroverts for the journey. We have a greater need and desire to be with others, or they with us.

Sagittarius: Jupiter, your planetary ruler, is retrograding back to Pisces for the next few months. Domestic problems of the past may be improved or resolved during this period. Opportunities to improve and augment relationships to the family of origin will be presented. Home refurbishing may be on the agenda.

Capricorn: You have the opportunity during this period to expand your social territory. You may also be experiencing gifts and benefits offered to you from others. This generosity in turn is absorbed into your psyche and you want to share with those in your life who have been important.

Aquarius: Activities involving the law, travel, publishing, education and the Internet have favorable aspects. Taking an assertive position concerning any of these areas will prove to be in your favor. Notice: assertive, not "aggressive." In general others will respect your boundaries now because they are reasonable and rightfully yours.

Pisces: Your intuition is likely to be way more than usual on target this week. Those involved with the arts will have positive experiences. Jupiter moves back to your sign for the next five months. Your hope and optimism likely will be renewed and your thoughts will become more inspired.

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 charge). Blog: http//www.horoscopesbyvivian.com