ARIES (March 21 or 22 to April 19 or 20). Difficult days come on Jan. 12, 13, 20, 21, 27, and 28. Smoother sailing comes on January 1, 2, 5, 6, 10, 11, 14-16, 25, and 26. Weirdly transitional times are January 9, 19, and 26

And remember: "Difficult" can also mean "challenging, abundant with opportunity, interesting, and a risk-taker’s delight!"

The moon is in your sun sign on January 5 to 7.

Yes, I do list the days the moon is in your sun sign as both Difficult and Smooth – it’s up to you, but figure those two days basically provide a "blueprint" for the next month’s activities. People and projects that emerge then get larger play in your life over the next 28 or so days.

The general picture: The fixed signs, although you generally get along with Aquarius and Leo, who are under the most stress. Romance and friendship and all that stuff is not a big priority for you this month. Too much action in the earth signs and Venus in Capricorn could bring an episode of indolence for you. (However, if you’re being pursued by earth signs….)