Happy birthday. Life is about choices. You see this more clearly now than ever, and you take control at a new level. A partner helps you in this regard and steers you right in the next two months. July is good for your bank account. August brings an emotional healing. Youngsters figure into your success this fall.

ARIES (March 21-April 19): Today's proceedings will be like a recipe you follow exactly. Stick with the plan, and don't worry if it still comes out looking different. In the end, you'll "eat" and be satisfied.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20): A proverb suggests that you ask about your neighbors before you buy the house. Though you may not be purchasing real estate, you'll be getting into something new, and it will pay to know the others involved.

GEMINI (May 21-June 21): You have your ethos to which you adhere, and it has nothing to do with the rules of society, religion or your profession. When it comes to your work, you set the bar higher than anyone else.

CANCER (June 22-July 22): Once-and-for-all declarations are childish, as are most judgments, threats and ultimatums. You may hear such foolishness, and your compassionate response will help others to be better.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): You could think of yourself as a victor or a victim. In either scenario, you would be able to draw conclusive evidence that the role is true. Placing your mind on "victor" will create such an event.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): An extremely small percentage of the world's population has experienced the hospitality of a butler. You will wish for such a helper today, as there are many details you could use a hand with.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 23): In one study, a 10-minute conversation between basically honest strangers produced three lies. Applying more honesty than the average person, you'll build bonds.

SCORPIO (Oct. 24-Nov. 21): Your instinct to censor the world for your dear ones is admirable. In the case of the young and the old, it is necessary. As for other loved ones, they might be more sophisticated, aware and able than you realize.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): Only you can answer the bigger questions in your life. You'll gather information from others, but you'll find it mostly superfluous because you already know what you have to do.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): Your conscience will be chirping like Jiminy Cricket, so listen up. The others in your group may not be so aware of the voice inside their heads. You bear the moral imperative.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): One thing that's messing up your focus is the number of alternatives available. Eliminate one. It will clear your mind magnificently.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): There is power in comparison, and you can use it to persuade someone to your side. A contrasting view will make something seem better or worse than it would without the contrast.

Food on 06/18/2014