By Jack Fertig

CELEBRITY BIRTHDAY

Kate Middleton turns 30 on Monday. The new Duchess of Cambridge married Prince William and the entire world watched. The Royal Wedding was one of the biggest moments of 2011 and Middleton didn’t disappoint. As princess, she seems to be holding her own against the media and in a short time, has become a fashion icon due to her sophisticated fashion sense.

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THIS WEEK

Mars in Virgo quincunx to Eris can make people bitchy and competitive. As the sun aspects those two you can see better how to turn that energy to constructive self-criticism. Mercury conjoining Pluto in Capricorn focuses that energy and raises the stakes.

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CAPRICORN  Dec 21-Jan 19
Be very careful with your money. A deal that sounds too good to be true is. Set aside a little for an impulsive indulgence. If you can’t say anything nice, go chat with Virgo.

AQUARIUS  Jan 20-Feb 18
Check out an art show with someone very new and different, or rent the most outré movie you can find. It could inspire a new look, but test it with a trusted friend before taking it public.

PISCES  Feb 19-Mar 19
The deep personal insights you’re gaining should be kept private. Well, mostly. You may find earning power in skills you haven’t appreciated.

ARIES  Mar 20-Apr 19
Getting ahead depends on self-discipline, attention to details and questions of skill. Subtle hints from superiors save a lot of grief. The Golden Rule makes confusion more manageable.

TAURUS  Apr 20-May 20
Worrying about your career doesn’t help, but list concerns and look for answers. “Helpful” friends offer hundreds of ideas. A few are actually good. A relaxing time out helps you restore clarity.

GEMINI  May 21-Jun 20
Sexual frustration is about quality, not quantity. The need for emotional depth and commitment surprises you. If partnered, you’re overdue for a good talk.

CANCER  Jun 21-Jul 22
It’s easy to obsess on minutiae. Clear out garbage and clutter. Your partner or good friend will be glad to help you decide what needs to go. Let a sibling get saddled with the family keepsakes.

LEO  Jul 23-Aug 22
Being sensitive to others helps you get ahead, but keep boundaries clear. Confusion easily feeds into arguments. Keep a critical eye on yourself can fend off trouble.

VIRGO  Aug 23-Sep 22
A mad, passionate fling leaves you spinning and wanting more. It’s not love, so keep your expectations in check. Your wicked tongue is a potent weapon. Be careful where you aim that thing.

LIBRA  Sep 23-Oct 22
Would a tawdry affair make you feel cheap and used? That could be half the fun. Keep your eyes open and your mind clear. If you do get swept off your feet, you will have to pick up the mess.

SCORPIO  Oct 23-Nov 21
Pressure at work is largely in your own head. Plan long-term strategies but they have to be flexible. Burning off energy with some friends will help you from being a pain to your colleagues.

SAGITTARIUS  Nov 22-Dec 20
Do your best work and let it speak for itself. You don’t need to prove anything. When those nagging voices fill your brain, identify where they come from and get rid of them.

Jack Fertig can be reached at 415-864-8302 or Starjack.com

This article appeared in the Dallas Voice print edition January 6, 2012.