The art of living is more like wrestling than dancing." Thanks to Marcus Aurelius for that bon mot. This December looks like it starts out fairly well, if not stupendously good for some of you. The only problem lies with what is coming up for the new year. Astrologically speaking of course, this would be a good New Years' celebration to avoid. And don't make any foolhardy resolutions you can't, or won't, keep. Gives one something to wrestle with, now doesn't it?

Aries: get that Christmas shopping done early. By the time the New Year rolls around for you, everyone else will seem to have a pinched and sour face. Don't worry about, as if you would, because it is other folks problems and not your own.

Taurus: although the month starts out with some difficulty in expressing your will, especially for some of you, it ends on a more cheery note: the holiday season looks as if it will treat you right. Whether or not you get what you want depends on your own budget.

Gemini: your inherent duality expresses itself this month as a conflict of interest: yours versus the rest of the world. If you had paid attention and learned some new swear words, you might find it easier to actively demonstrate how you are feeling these days.

Cancer: the latter part of the holiday is reminiscent of a P.J. O'Rourke book title. It's okay because the Universe is grooming you for what lies ahead. You have a date with destiny and you had better get ready. If this is too mystical then consider getting your resume in order: you will be looking a for a much better job.

Leo: you are ruled by the sun and the long winter is one of discontent. Add a few sweaters to your wardrobe. Watch out for water signs, especially Scorpio. You don't want anyone putting out your fire, particularly not in the middle of the winter. Make the most of the cold nights and party on!

Virgo: the problem seems to be moving: that is, you don't want to but the forces of nature and unusual expansive gestures are coercing you into considering a change of residence. Do you really want to have to pack it all up and move? Sure. Save some boxes from the holiday gift season-you'll be needing them coming up soon.

Libra: learn to go with the flow. Now. Quit arguing. Looks as if the last of the financial troubles are not over yet, but your outlook is improving. Think about travel.

Scorpio: aren't you glad the tough times are now over? From here, on into the real holiday seasons, you should be quite happy. If you didn't take off like a rocket ship, perhaps you didn't use all the available energy. Or maybe you didn't accept the changes gracefully.

Sagittarius: by the time you beginning reading this, you should be feeling quite energetic. There is a lot of activity going on around you, with you seeming to be right at the very heart of every situation. Enjoy the attention - it is most assuredly short-lived.

Capricorn: by the time the wrappings off the gifts, you should be the absolute center of attention. Kind of a drag having a birthday so close to Christmas-seems like you gift getting power is reduced. However, with everything you have coming up, the ball has just started to roll, get ready to play. You have a remarkable amount of energy now-use it wisely.

Aquarius: aren't you the lucky one as the planets start to line up much better for your life. About the only problems you might encounter would be learning how to receive love. It's a great time to consider taking an art appreciation class.

Pisces: while everyone else is walking around with a pinched face, you seem to come through this all unscathed.