This horoscope uses the passage of the moon as much as the sun to provide a forecast, and thus it's applicable to everyone. However, the specific signs mentioned in each day's forecast are receiving special attention from the universe. Each week all 12 signs will be mentioned, usually more than once.

When the moon is in your sun sign, you are beginning a new 28-day cycle. During that period expect really wide emotional swings. When the moon is opposite your sun sign, expect difficulties with your preferred gender, authority figures, and your better angel. When the moon is in Aries, it opposes Libra. Other oppositions are Taurus-Scorpio, Gemini-Sagittarius, Cancer-Capricorn, Leo-Aquarius, and Virgo-Pisces. The moon takes about two and a half days to cruise through a sign.

Still with me? Finally, as the moon changes sign, it will sometimes become "void of course." This means it ceases to make major angles to planets. Consider this a null time, and try to avoid business decisions until this period is over. If you've got to make a move, stay skeptical. But it's terrific for making art. Visit moonsigns.net for more information.

My friend Brandi was an LPN at a nursing home specializing in Alzheimer's patients and noted that patients were sensitive to a variety of lunar cycles. Both full and new phases caused agitation in the residents, though the diagnostics are different. "The people who aren't affected by the full moon act up during the new moon," she said. "And the people who act up during the full moon aren't bothered during the new moon." Learn something about your brain chemistry by observing your own mood swings this week. Are you anxious on Jan. 12?

Wednesday, January 9 Waning moon in Sagittarius. An excellent day for sampling different cultural traditions. Indian food, anyone? Sagittarians, if you do business with air signs, today is your day to speak up. Leos need to be especially patient with earth-sign folks – are you giving them enough time to talk? Geminis, your inamoratas just aren't moving as quickly as you are. What's the rush?

Thursday, January 10 Waning moon in Sagittarius. Assume the best. Which is that your life can be simpler, though this week that's tricky for Virgos. Sagittarians, be as flamboyant as you can; you'll cheer the rest of us up. Aquarians, now's the time to make wild claims or ask the strange questions. Leos, look to water-sign folks for solace or moving really, really fast.

Friday, January 11 Waning moon in Capricorn. The moon's void of course in the morning, which means it's not the time to try that shortcut. Capricorns, the vibe from Venus and Luna means you've earned two desserts, or whatever you consider a "treat." (That ascetic stuff goes only too far, and you are a year older.) Cancers, if you're feeling empty inside, steal dessert from a Capricorn. Virgos, wait until after the weekend to confront others. VOC 2 a.m. to noon.

Saturday, January 12 Dark of the moon in Capricorn. Blur is better than blurt. Mumble more. Slow down. Ask yourself, "Do I feel lucky?" when passing a scratch-ticket emporium. Capricorns, you've got the power. But do you have the amps? Love finds Libras preferring to chew over past transgressions, which is why second-time-around romance may be less satisfying this weekend. Pisces (especially those born after March 14), you've got to speak up for yourself today and this week.

Sunday, January 13 New moon in Capricorn-Aquarius. An all-day void-of-course moon means social engagements last a little longer and are a little more freewheeling than planned. This is an excellent day to commence home improvement, however, but only if you've already bought the paint, spackle, etc. Capricorns are lighter than usual, but Taureans need to watch out for a "they're against me" vibe. Aquarians, how available are you? Are you pretending you're not home, then bemoaning solitude? That's a little schizzy. VOC 2:30 p.m. to 10 p.m.

Monday, January 14 Waxing moon in Aquarius. Ideas are airborne. Don't you be the one saying, "We should look at the numbers," because no one wants to hear it. However, Aquarians (especially those born around Feb. 1) need to push forward. Everyone wants to hear your ideas. Scorpios, pedal to the metal on love stuff, particularly with air signs. Geminis, if the world's been against you for the past couple of weeks, the turning point is now.