By Minerva

Starcast

Good news! Expect the onestepforward, twoback sensation that’s plagued you to end as wayward Mercury gets his act together in Cancer, promising to be a better planet. Expect projects to move quickly to the front burner.

Aries (March 20April 18)

Love among the ruins scarcely qualifies as love. Still, with Mercury cavorting in your root cellar, what’s an Aries to do but play old tapes? Good news: A thoughtful Cancer stands ready to listen with you.

Taurus (April 19May 19)

Uhoh! Mercury sparks a moment of truth in your charmandchat room. Taurus plays the devil’s advocate so well, particularly in “sensitivity” situations. Don’t go getting bullish on us.

Gemini (May 20June 19)

Your brain’s wrapped around the money thing. Both personal income and shared resources are involved. Some Gems will get fabulous insights. Like how to genetically engineer a cash cow. Others will be thinking more like mad cow. Whatever, the time’s come to act.

Cancer ( June 20July 21)

Miraculous Mercury sits in your sign, adding a touch of magic here and there. True, there have been slow spots, but the pace is quickening. Make the absolute most of the weeks ahead.

Leo ( July 22Aug. 21)

With Mercury cavorting in your mystery house, you’re vulnerable. You may be a cosmic saint, but the head that wears the halo has been known to nod off. If you can’t be good, be careful.

Virgo (Aug. 22Sept. 21)

Cherished ideals are challenged as friends pull in all directions. Each wants a piece of you. A cherished dream can come true now, but you’ll need a leg up from a friend or colleague.

Libra (Sept. 22Oct. 21)

Mercury does a lap dance in your fame house. Is that a good thing? A word that comes quickly to mind is “famous.” Or could it be “infamous”? When contemplating the wild thing, the message is loud and clear: Keep your tutu covered.

Scorpio (Oct. 22Nov. 21)

Your patience is frayed both personally and professionally. Other people’s mood swings are such a drag. Mercury sends a message to speak up for yourself at home and in the great world. Time to do what you want to do rather than what others have come to expect.

Sagittarius (Nov. 22Dec. 20)

Some believe that Sajs have no hearts. You know better. Currently, a powerhouse Mercury blasts your hormone house. You’re an affair waiting to happen. Go ahead, shatter a few illusions. Isn’t it about time?

Capricorn (Dec. 21Jan. 18)

Sure, you goats are independent, ready and able to go the long haul alone. But is that the course you want to follow? The vibes are right for a “bigger than both of us” gamble. Consider, too, that partnerships come in many forms. Who said you had to do the twobytwo Noah’s ark thing? It’s your life!

Aquarius ( Jan. 19Feb. 17)

So you’re not a Trekkie. Maybe you don’t even remember “Star Trek.” Still, with Mercury commanding the Enterprise in your work zone, the tune “Fly Me to the Moon” resonates. Will you go where no Aries has gone before? Postcards, please.

Pisces (Feb. 18March 19)

You twinkle like a star as Mercury cavorts in your fun house. Ride your hobbyhorse for all it’s worth because a “just for kicks” someone or something can morph to super colossal. The week ahead is loaded with fun surprises.

Minerva’s Mailbag

Q: My guy is a cusp baby, born Oct. 23. He’s an amazing husband, father and boss and very likable. He seems to have the best qualities of Libra and Scorpio. Is this common for those born on the cusp?

A: I think cusp kids have the best of two worlds, drawing from each. But maybe I’m prejudiced, being one myself.

To ask Minerva a question, go to www.ask minerva.com or write to Minerva, Sunday Datebook, San Francisco Chronicle, 901 Mission St., San Francisco, CA 94103.