For Thursday, Oct. 28, 2004. Those with birthdays today: You define your boundaries this year. Others often ask more from you than you can give. You need to say “no” more often. Spreading yourself too thin could cause a problem in your domestic life or with roommates. You also might discover a skeleton in your family’s closet that could unnerve you. If you are single, you could meet someone through your work. Just be sure he or she is emotionally available and not married. Toward your next birthday, someone special will enter your life. If you are attached, share more quiet time together. Private moments and weekends away warm up your bond.

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)

• An associate only adds confusion to the mix. You might not want to follow his or her lead, as it (1) might not be practical or (2) could cost a lot. Tonight: Your treat.

• Use your charisma to downplay yesterday’s uproar. Others appreciate your efforts, though a boss or parent could be wifty. Tonight: Just smile and ask.

• Carefully listen to someone you care about. Money matters involving others might be a bit hazy. Don’t make decisions just yet. Tonight: Among the maddening crowds.

Leo (July 23-Aug. 22)

• Despite another’s flak or confusion, you assume your place as a natural leader. Use your innate charm and creativity to solve some problems that have popped up out of the blue. Tonight: Could be late.

• Take an overview when others can’t. How you deal with others could make a big difference in their responses. Express kindness. Tonight: Choose a mind escape.

Libra (Sept. 23-Oct. 22)

• What an associate or partner says doesn’t jibe with what you have been thinking. Weigh the pros and cons, but avoid taking risks. Tonight: Spend time with a friend.

• You might not have the whole story. Check out your home to see if there is a leak. Don’t be surprised by what someone reveals. He or she might have been hiding it for years. Tonight: Dinner out.

Sagittarius (Nov. 22-Dec. 21)

• Your strong work ethic comes through one more time. Write down ideas that pop up out of the blue. Be careful with communication; people seem to misunderstand you. Tonight: Do something just for yourself.

• Your smile and imagination lead you in the right direction. “No” is an unacceptable answer. You can find a way to get what you want. Tonight: Add some spice to your life.

• What you hear might not coincide with what you feel. Work with givens rather than use your intuition. A dear friend takes time to express his or her caring. Realize how important this person is in your life. Tonight: “Quality time” with that special friend.