This week Jupiter changes sign after more than a year in Cancer. Jupiter is the zodiac's benign big daddy. Good things can happen when he's not paying attention, but when he is, roll out the red carpet. Now that this gas giant moves into Leo, lions (and to a lesser extent, other fire folk) improve their prospects vastly – love, attention, and dinero from late '02 to '03. (Those of you age 35 to 38, 28 to 30, and 22 to 23 get a watered-down version). The last time you cats had so many exciting opportunities and love-interests-with-a-purpose was the late summer of 1990 through the summer of 1991. (Read Sun Signs, available through www.moonsigns.net, for more.) Were you not fabulous then? Meditate on your charms while the moon wanes – reflection, not action is recommended this week.

Wednesday, July 31, waning moon in Taurus. Acquisitive instincts are sharpened. Who needs a microphone, necklace, halter top, antique bank, or exotic vocal music? Taureans, August may be a battleground, albeit one where you learn how to woof with the big dogs. Scorpios are in a mood to retreat and retrench. Let them. VOC 8 to 8:17 a.m. Don't be downloading just then.

Thursday, Aug. 1, last quarter moon in Taurus. Great day for really enjoying a grudge – you know what they say, you can't ditch those personality flaws until you stop enjoying them! Taureans, no new projects today, just old business. (Or new purchases of old things!) Scorpios, if there's a fire-sign person in your life making you crazy, they'll be extra-active today.

Friday, Aug. 2, waning moon in Taurus, Jupiter moves into Leo. This week Mars and Jupiter are pretty close in the sky, and astrologically speaking. Interpret thusly: acts of generosity will require a lot of thanks or attention. Taureans, you may be getting the wrong end of the lollypop here. Cancer and Pisces can make all kinds of things grow, especially nascent friendship. VOC 3 to 8 p.m.

Saturday, Aug. 3, waning moon in Gemini. Long-distance phone calls, sibling chats, and peer "check-ins" are either fast and furious or overly long. Geminis, you crave change, especially in the domestic sphere, yet your follow-through is compromised (good for those around you). Sagittarians, "talk" before you "do" (it's not your style, but try it). Virgos may need to dwell in worst-case scenarios.

Sunday, Aug. 4, waning moon in Gemini. A wonderful day for making impulse purchases that don't really work out or buying books that make you feel knowledgeable or sensitive. Geminis should be the leaders of the pack, but reluctant ones. And Libras are paying close attention, even if it looks like daydreaming.

Monday, Aug. 5, waning moon in Cancer. Homebodies unite – why not have a sick-out? Cancers may be more than usually sensitive to those who don't pay attention (or homage). Toughen up, and figure this is the universe's way of increasing your skepticism. Capricorns, written, not spoken, language is your friend right now. VOC 1 to 4 a.m.