Taurus Monthly Horoscope May 2009 | Astrology Zodiac Sign: Taurus

(Apr 19 - May 20)

You're possessive by nature, despite your protestations. May 2nd may elevate your territorial nature. The 5th should calm things down nicely, settling an old gripe and making everyone involved pretty happy. May 7th, however, starts Mercury's retrograde period, which may feel longer than usual thanks to Mercury's notorious 'storm' period. So even though Mercury officially goes direct on May 30th, it remains unreliable and pesky until June 9th.

Plan trips, contracts and financial deals accordingly. There's no need to fight Mercury, just work with planetary rhythms and bypass a load of drama or disappointment. You might feel this more personally than most because on the 13th, Mercury backs into your sign again. This makes every financial issue seem personal. On the 17th and 18th, go with your gut. Others may attempt to fast-talk you into agreeing to terms or arrangements that make absolutely no sense to you. You are right to slam on the brakes and not cooperate. Either you're dealing with an incompetent person or you're being sold a bill of goods.

The 20th is important. You get a lot of frustration off your chest. You talk to a number of experts that offer their opinions. Finding two or three experts that agree with each other won't be easy. Chalk it up to Mercury, and make a mental note to not sign paperwork until after June 9th.

You finally get a nice break from stress, slippery business practices and what you see as unfairness between the 21st and 27th. This is a universally positive period for most people. The pressure seems to lift off your chest. If you get a job offer or any contact information regarding an opportunity during this phase, graciously keep the channels of communication open.

Because Neptune (currently sitting in your career and reputation sector) is retro between May 29 and November 4, you need to understand that business or financial concepts may require more time than you'd anticipated. Be patient and give a good idea all the time it requires. If you're expecting immediate results, you're setting yourself up for worry and tension. Think of the offers and opportunities presented as being works in progress – and all worth your consideration.

On the 31st, Mars moves into your sign, making you even more sexual, powerful, passionate and action-oriented than usual.

Monthly touchstone: Pigeon blood Ruby