Moonlight slanting / through the bamboo grove; / a cuckoo crying.

Matsuo Basho (1644-1694)

As the moon waxes this week, you may find matters that seemed minor around the first of the month loom ever larger. This is particularly true for Taureans and Scorpios. Leos and Aquarians (especially July and January models) are willing to take (foolish) risks. If your mom fits into the aforementioned category, do not neglect her on Mother's Day.

Wednesday, May 7 Waxing moon in Cancer. An all-day VOC means it's too easy to get the wrong idea and then run with it. Double-check everything, especially Sagittarians, and Pisces who are in a hurry. Cancers, fruitless flirtation could be a solace – remember how to do that? Taureans and Virgos may need to be the "parent" in their relationships. VOC all day until 5:46 p.m.

Thursday, May 8 Waxing moon in Leo. Accidental outspokenness comes easily, and some folks (Taureans, Aquarians, and Scorpios) could take comments the wrong way. Leos, are you feeling challenged? You should be, especially those of you born in July. For the most part, fire signs have good romance vibes coming at them, and Sagittarians are in line to be perceived as can-do people.

Friday, May 9 First quarter moon in Leo. Good for abrupt changes of plan and making purchases you hope to have for a while (durable attire). It's also an excellent night for parties. Leos, you can do it all, but don't be credit hogs – remember, noblesse oblige. Aries, you could be mavericks – more than is appropriate – so if you're offering "constructive criticism," bear in mind others may not want the kind of change you do. VOC 7:13 p.m. to 12:31 a.m.

Saturday, May 10 Waxing moon in Virgo. Being homebound comes easily, and if there are unglamorous tasks like spring cleaning or dealing with rooms with running water, you could attack them with vigor. Virgos, charge ahead but don't expect to be taken care of (and give yourselves a break, why don't you?). Pisces, be careful about your interactions with others (i.e., if you don't feel like it, don't do it!). Taureans, extravagance comes easily.

Sunday, May 11 Waxing moon in Virgo; Mother's Day. Call your mother, call your mother, call your mother, especially if you didn't send a card/candy/flowers. Why? When the moon is in Virgo, people pay attention, often more than they should. Earth-sign folks probably don't have to be reminded, but you air-, water-, and fire-sign folks might have let this holiday slip through the cracks. Actually, the best Mother's Day present you could give this weekend is to offer to clean out your junk from her crib. VOC 11:09 p.m. until 3:42 a.m.

Monday, May 12 Waxing moon in Libra. Lots of chatter going on but don't think you're not doing something. Sometimes communication is a job in itself. Libras, "get in touch with others" is your theme this week, even if you go overboard. Aquarians, attention to detail is critical right now – you're more in charge than you think you are.

Tuesday, May 13 Waxing moon in Libra. Good day for shopping, particularly for tools relating to communication, partnership enhancement, or wardrobe. Flirtation is a decent diversion, but Capricorns and Cancers should be wary – you may feel defensive if you sense you're being toyed with. Libras, have you taken on too much? Ease out gracefully today.