TODAY’S BIRTHDAYS

Actress Lois Smith is 88. Actress Monica Vitti is 87. Former Massachusetts Gov. Michael S. Dukakis is 85. Actor-dancer Ken Berry is 85. Actor Shadoe Stevens is 72. Singer Lulu is 70. Comedian-actress Roseanne Barr is 66. Actress Kate Capshaw is 65. Comedian Dennis Miller is 65. Actress Kathy Kinney is 65. Singer Adam Ant is 64. Directorscreenwriter Gary Ross is 62. Actor Dolph Lundgren is 61.

brilliance. Pisces (Feb. 19-March 20): A life without risk is a life without happiness. Though happiness isn’t always a risky proposition, sooner or later an element of danger will stand between you and your wishes. Today’s birthday (Nov. 3): You’ll run your life like a smart business owner runs a company, spending the most time serving top customers. It’s an approach that pays rich dividends on levels including personal, professional, financial and spiritual. Also notable will be an increased sense of control over your moods and the lift you give others. Virgo and Cancer adore you. Your lucky numbers are: 20, 3, 33, 37 and 41. Astrological question: “The muses must hate me. I’ve been trying to write a novel for three years. The story keeps changing and it seems like I’ll never finish it. How can an Aquarius author wannabe get inspired to finish a book?” I just talked to the muses and they assured me they do not hate you. That said, they would like to be courted. One thing to remember about the muses, who are the Greek goddesses of inspiration, is that they are sisters. Courting more than one at a time can lead to jealousy and complication. Hone in on one. If your novel is a comedy, go for Thalia. If it’s a drama, go for Melpomene. (And as long as you’re honing in on your muse, you may as well hone in on the genre of your novel. Inventive Aquarians sometimes forget to follow the formula of the genre they are trying to tackle. Sticking to the rules of your genre will help you focus the work.) Consistency will be key as you court your muse. Make a writing schedule and keep it. Never stand up your muse. Don’t make demands of her. Give her lots of gifts in the form of reading. She loves when you read and will reward you with inspiration!