Today’s Birthday (08/17/12).

You’re at the center of the action this year, and your networks grow and expand. Take on community leadership, and strive to resolve family difficulties for freedom. Summer ease shifts into autumn home projects. Share the 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 7 — Everything points to relaxation and fun. Make sure someone’s minding the store. A new responsibility presents itself. Use your emotional energy to get things done.

Taurus (April 20-May 20) —

Today is a 7 — Fix up your place nicely. It doesn’t have to cost a lot. Creatively repurpose materials. Get into a cuddly phase. Let the project move at its own pace.

Gemini (May 21-June 20) —

Today is a 6 — The information you provide is valuable, and so is the information others give you. Open your ears. Make time for family, do what you promised and then take a break from everything.

Cancer (June 21-July 22) —

Today is a 5 — Reinvent who you are. Now’s a great time to take the next steps in your education. Start by memorizing the rules, then inspire your team to victory. Fulfill your personal responsibilities, too.

Leo (July 23-Aug. 22) —

Today is a 7 — Bring in the money over the weekend. A home renovation project develops. What worked before works again. Others ask for your advice, since you have such a golden touch.

Virgo (Aug. 23-Sept. 22) —

Today is a 5 — The limitations you’ve set for yourself are more clear now. Take the opportunity to break through and expand your limits, or shatter them altogether. Friends help.

Libra (Sept. 23-Oct. 22) —

Today is a 6 — Organization results in increased efficiency, and you’re going to need it to get everything done. Make a good impression by checking things off your list. Be objective.

Scorpio (Oct. 23-Nov. 21) —

Today is a 6 — There’s more work to do. Slow down and step back so you can gain perspective. Then make necessary corrections. Associates provide good input. Resolve confusion at home.

Sagittarius (Nov. 22-Dec. 21) —

Today is a 6 — Others rely on you for leadership. Take the first step of your next adventure. Discover yourself. Things go smoothly now, but there will be pop quizzes soon.

Capricorn (Dec. 22-Jan. 19) —

Today is a 5 — Conditions look good for travel and romance. Take a trustworthy partner. They’re your power source. Let them know what you need. Keep it practical, and results shine.

Aquarius (Jan. 20-Feb. 18) —

Today is a 6 — Full speed ahead. You’re entering a cycle of transformation in relationships. Get a good recommendation from someone who appreciates you. Test a fantasy against reality.

Pisces (Feb. 19-March 20) —

Today is a 5 — Invest in efficiency, delegate responsibilities and advance to the next level. Check all equipment. Make sure you understand what’s being requested.