For Monday, July 26, 2004:

Those with birthdays today: Use your ability to zero in on the basics, and at the same time, learn to curb your temper with a touch more grace. More diplomacy could get you a lot further. Investigate ways to charge your energy so that you don’t come off too strong. Use the next month to increase your financial security. You become much more friendly in the fall. You will be sorely tempted to buy something expensive. If you are single, you will easily meet people. It is your call if you want to maintain that status this year. If you are attached, you will gain through more opulent sharing. Scorpio can make you very angry.

The stars show the kind of day you’ll have: 5-Dynamic; 4-Positive; 3-Average; 2-So-so; 1-Difficult

Aries (March 21-April 19)

• Work with others, though you could be explosive because of the level of frustration you experience. Distance yourself and observe. Try to understand what is happening with others. Tonight: Join in and have a good time.

• Others dominate, and you might have a difficult time dealing with power plays and games on the home front. Heading into work could be a relief. Others act up. You might shut down. Tonight: Togetherness is a relief.

Gemini (May 21-June 20)

• Get as much done at work as possible. You will have to screen your calls if you are to get anything done. Network toward the end of the day. Tonight: Out and about.

• Use your strong imagination, whether at work or with a fun happening. Don’t overspend, or you might be sorry later. Brainstorming renews ideas. Tonight: Add special ingenuity to your life.

• Be more in touch with your feelings with family or a real estate matter. You will have a meeting that helps solidify your feelings. Don’t lose your temper. Tonight: Nap and then decide.

• Use today to clear up a misunderstanding. How you say what you feel could make all the difference here. Good communication will clear the air. Tonight: Hang out with your pals.

• Deal with finances, not letting another push you too hard. Carefully review a personal matter that involves a loved one. Give yourself permission. Tonight: Order in.

Scorpio (Oct. 23-Nov. 21)

• You are in your prime during the daytime. Someone else might be negative and angry. Deal with what you must, and be happy with yourself. Tonight: Make yourself happy.

Sagittarius (Nov. 22-Dec. 21)

• Lie back, even if someone is contrary or giving conflicting information. Don’t make a general announcement just yet. Do your homework. Tonight: Nap and then decide.

• A meeting might be controversial, as a partner could verbalize his or her strong disagreement. Focus on long-term goals. Aim for more of what you want. Tonight: Mull over ideas.

• * You’re in the limelight. Others see life differently, and they tell you. Avoid a confrontation. Make a must appearance. Tonight: Out late.

Pisces (Feb. 19-March 20)

• You see what others don’t. Someone close could be threatened. Get your facts and figures straight before you decide to take a stand. Tonight: Let your mind wander.