A word of caution: Mercury retrograde can cause technology and communication breakdowns. Back up that hard drive, and prepare for possible misunderstandings in your inner circle. Be patient, and try not to take things personally. A relationship with a sibling or a close friend may have had its ups and downs this year. That’s because Saturn has been retrograde since New Year’s Eve in this part of your chart. On May 16th, Saturn goes direct (forward), helping you make amends with brothers, sisters and BFFs.

After May 20th, the Sun moves into your twelfth house of retreat, slowing down the pace. The twelfth house is ruled by the Water element (as is Cancer), so get to the beach for Memorial Day. Nothing soothes your sensitive soul more than waves lapping against the shore. Rent a beach house or take a day trip to the nearest body of water. Pack a notebook or journal, as the nurturing energy will inspire you to get a few things off your chest.

LOVE & ROMANCE:
You’re going from coach to first-class in your romantic choices, and the upgrade suits you. Love-planet Venus and sexy Mars are in your tenth house, which can bring a mature, possibly older suitor into your life. This person could be serious and commitment-minded, even a few steps ahead of you. You can’t rush your own maturity process, so take it slow and steady. Otherwise, you may put this person on a pedestal, creating an unequal dynamic that’s more parent-child than partnership. Don’t forget that you bring plenty to the table, too.

Coupled Cancers may find that you need to redraw some boundaries with your mate, or to put more structure into your life. Booking appointments for sex and dates may seem unromantic, but a busy girl’s gotta do what she’s gotta do!

On May 9th, the Scorpio full moon sizzles in your fifth house of romance and passion. Hot! This is definitely one of THE date nights of 2009. Just watch for drama, as emotions will run high. With Mercury retrograde in your foggy twelfth house that week, you may confuse lust for love. Try not to get your heart all tangled up in the bed sheets. Enjoy the sheer fantasy for what it is—if it’s meant to be more, you’ll find out soon enough.

MONEY & CAREER:
It’s an awesome month to get ahead, and your ambition is at an all-time high. Energetic Mars and magnetic Venus are both in Aries, your tenth house of leadership, career and fame. No playing the shrinking violet now. Be assertive, and you could see your name in lights; a promotion or a new title could even be in the stars. Don’t get all bent out of shape if you have to kiss a little corporate booty, Cancer. It’s called playing the game. Align yourself with the winning players, and you could soon be recruited for their team.

During the second week of May, choose your allies carefully. From May 8th-15th, Mercury retrograde visits your twelfth house of hidden agendas. A saboteur or backstabber could be lurking, so be cautious about whom you trust. Your own gossiping could come back to haunt you. Loose lips sink ships, so keep your comments professional and positive. Avoid sending dishy e-mails, which could end up in the wrong Inbox.

HEALTH & FITNESS:
It’s time to clear that psychic clutter, Cancer. Before you can truly move forward, you need to let go of the past. Subconscious blocks in your belief system can affect your health and energy levels. The Gemini Sun cycle (May 20th-June 21st) emphasizes your twelfth house of healing and spirituality. Don’t scoff at talk of chakras and meridians—those invisible energy centers could hold the keys to your well-being. Consider trying a holistic practitioner—think: acupuncture, Reiki, etc.  Since the twelfth house symbolizes release, a cleanse or detox could also help purify your system. Read up on ayurveda, as there are specific "astringent" foods to eat in the Spring that seasonally align your system.

The Taurus Sun emphasizes technology and teamwork until May 20th. Find a great class at the gym, or sample a few workout DVDs. Rent them from Netflix, or just watch them right on your laptop. Cancer rules the home, and you often do best working out in the comfort of your own environment. You might even hire a trainer or book a private Pilates session—keep an open mind.