Today’s Birthday (01/13/13). The first half of the year promises achievement and accomplishment through service and communication; balance productivity with fun, great food and exercise. New special people enter after June, and it could get romantic. Changes keep your home life interesting … relationships spice autumn and winter with love.

To get the advantage, check the day’s rating: 10 is the easiest day, 0 the most challenging.

Aries (March 21-April 19)

— Today is a 9 — Increase your family’s comfort without buying toys. Play a game you already have. You dream of freedom from routine; try a spontaneous exercise adventure or a new food.

Taurus (April 20-May 20)

— Today is an 8 — Stick to (or create) a fundamental financial overview, that can shift. Dig for facts. Practical methods work best. Technical difficulties become apparent. Minimize risks with backup plans.

Gemini (May 21-June 20)

— Today is an 8 — Double-check data and maintain composure as the pressure rises to surprising developments. Respond with well-tested strategies and analysis to avoid breakdowns. Love enters the considerations. Use your quick wit.

Cancer (June 21-July 22)

— Today is a 7 — Safeguard family heirlooms without talking about them. There’s no need to discuss money now. Leap into action but not to conclusions. It’s easy to spend now. Stand pat.

Leo (July 23-Aug. 22)

— Today is an 8 — A disagreement about priorities and higher costs than expected could intimidate; don’t try new ideas. Keep routine. Consider all possibilities. Read between the lines, and take it slow.

Virgo (Aug. 23-Sept. 22)

— Today is an 8 — Draw up the plan. Surprise! Romance is part of the equation. Finish an activity, and agree to a new offer. Don’t flash your money around. Take it easy.

Libra (Sept. 23-Oct. 22)

— Today is a 7 — Money burns holes in your pockets. Get the basics first. It’s not a good time to travel. Your research pays off, and more study’s required. Shop for bargains.

Scorpio (Oct. 23-Nov. 21)

— Today is a 9 — Costs exceed expectations, and you may feel limited. Consult with experts in the field. Postpone an expensive gamble, and don’t touch savings. Bold, assertive action pays (especially romantically).

Sagittarius (Nov. 22-Dec. 21)

— Today is a 7 — Refine terms so you don’t give anything away. Expenses are higher than income; plug a leak. Watch where you’re going, to avoid an accident or controversy. Love distracts.

Capricorn (Dec. 22-Jan. 19)

— Today is a 6 — Are you doing what you love? There could be some confusion, or a surprise. It’s not a good time to spend. Provide support, and play by the rules.

Aquarius (Jan. 20-Feb. 18)

— Today is a 9 — Continue to review and revise your routines. An old way clashes with a new method. Discipline’s required. Expend more energy than money to trim costs. Completion is satisfying