Recently, a reader asked what to do (and not to do) during the void-of-course moon. I suggest you avoid sending business-related e-mail, making xeroxes (there's always a proofing error I've overlooked), scheduling appearances or deciding on deadlines, and adding checks or monkeying with finances, including buying stock. But the VOC moon isn't always bad news. Good activities include writing first drafts or editing (not a final edit but a midpoint edit), doing arts and crafts, and "creative googling." You'll be pleasantly surprised at some of the byways the subconscious rambles through, and often VOC daydreaming leads to interesting projects.

Wednesday, Sept. 4 Waning moon in Leo. For the next few days, diminished purpose and desperate measures may be a default behavior. Leos may need to make a spectacular gesture of affection. It's also a good time for you lions to gamble (seriously, from now through midsummer). Taureans may need to "fix" others – like buy attire to bestow with the comment "You look so cute in green."

Thursday, Sept. 5 Waning moon in Leo. People may be stirred up about matters that don't matter and can't be helped. The longtime (or deep) reader of this column will just watch and say, "Uh-huh." Meetings have enthusiasm but no follow-through. It's a fabulous day for observing children. Leos, do you know the right questions to ask? Embrace your inner cub. Sagittarians, for next month, take action only during fire moons, and only cautious action. VOC 5:33 p.m. to 8:16 p.m.

Friday, Sept. 6 Dark of the moon in Virgo. The impulse to be persnickety about trifles overwhelms. (Though it's a great day for metal grinders or bioscientists who quantify everything in minute fractions. Also copy editors.) Virgos, it's a great day for a diagnosis, but whatever you're told won't be what you hear. Capricorns, look for proof, and take nothing at face value.

Saturday, Sept. 7 New moon in Virgo. Those of you in vacation mode may find you're much more interested in vacuuming the beach house than actually being at the beach. Sudden moves aren't recommended. Pisces, if you feel alone yet anxious around company, you need to ask yourself: do I know where I put my keys? Virgos, Mars is all over you, encouraging you to be pugnacious and outspoken. Can you enjoy this? (Read my stuff on the Web for more information). VOC 4:54 p.m. to 7:57 p.m.

Sunday, Sept. 8 Waxing moon in Libra. Everything adds up. Eventually. Good day for writing (poetry, briefs). Libras, how you conduct yourself over the next two days will really set the tone for the upcoming birthday month. Aries, no volunteering today, although March rams should cash in where they can (especially those born around March 28.)

Monday, Sept. 9 Waxing moon in Libra, Venus moves into Scorpio. Overcompensation may be today's theme – let me buy you dinner rather than the drink we discussed. Libras, your life starts to get more businesslike – from now through late November themes include P.R. in a big way. Geminis, concentrate on the problems, not the people who cause them. L'amour pour les Cancers? C'est bon. VOC 4:52 p.m. to 7:48 p.m.