This is an excellent time for lunar observation, as the shadows on the moon's edge throw maria and mountains into sharp relief. You don't need a telescope; a pair of binoculars will reveal many features. Those on the eastern side of the moon have hopeful and positive names – Mare Serenitatis is the dark patch near the pole, and Mare Tranquillitatis is just below. Which is just the spirit you want to bring to the waxing-moon period.

Wednesday, June 12 Waxing moon in Cancer. Take your time; do a careful job; figure that quality counts. Cancers, as I've reminded you, the past two weeks and next week have some very potent astrology for cutting the deadwood off the tree of life. Take advantage of the universe's benevolence and don't retreat if you have a chance to say it like it is. Capricorns, the opposite is true for you: every scrap of love you get, you worked for, baby.

Thursday, June 13 Waxing moon in Cancer-Leo. Expect a slow start today, callers who waffle, data that wiggles, numbers that shimmy. But if you can party at night and get back in the swing of things early tomorrow, you're ahead of the game. Cancers, the past two weeks have been interesting romantically, haven't they? Haven't you felt loved, pursued, delighted in? Today it'll make you self-conscious. Leos, 2002 only gets better as it goes along for you. VOC 2 to 4 p.m.

Friday, June 14 Waxing moon in Leo. Early to work means early to leave. Today's splendid for shopping or upgrading your wardrobe. And if you don't need anything, wouldn't a haircut make you feel better? Hair treatments. Leos, Venus is easing into your sign in the next two weeks, so loved ones will cut you all kinds of slack. Taureans, "I'm late for a very important date" could be your subconscious mantra. Aries (especially April 1 through 10), small delays are likely – don't take it personally.

Saturday, June 15 Waxing moon in Leo, Venus moves into Leo. Superb ingredients for nuptials, according to folklore. As long as the cleanup crew doesn't get going too early – at least give the bride a chance to hurl that bouquet. Leos, you have substantial power over others' well-being, and it's up to you to decide whether Kingly or Bratty is your role. Scorpios, don't worry about giving in; compromise isn't that unbecoming. VOC 5 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.

Sunday, June 16 Waxing moon in Virgo, Father's Day. Here's the big daddy of transcendentalism: "A foolish consistency is the hobgoblin of little minds." Emerson was right, wasn't he, and Virgos periodically need to learn this lesson. Virgos, today and tomorrow the pressure is on you (from you) to be perfect. And authorities can't be pleased (especially for Sept. 12 through 15). Make of that what you will. Capricorns, stick with fire-sign folks who'll be charming so you don't have to be.

Monday, June 17 Waxing moon in Virgo. Criticism goes down particularly painfully today. Try to avoid actions that are in "someone else's best interests." Virgos, solitude and holding those calls (and avoiding e-mail) increase your productivity exponentially. Romance for Pisces and Cancers isn't a given – work that come-hither look, kids! VOC 4 to 10:30 p.m.