One of the things that matters most to you is keeping your promises. That will go double in early 2006, as a friend will undoubtedly rely on you for something quite important. You've reassured them for months now that they have nothing to worry about, but as soon as the year begins, you'll have a chance to prove that your word truly is your bond.
At the same time -- and straight through mid-March -- you'll also find that several high-ranking, influential coworkers and authority figures will be looking to you to follow through on your word. They may even need a bit more of a commitment from you. Not to worry though. The heavens will be more than happy to help you keep on task, and you'll be rewarded for your honesty, integrity and hard work in a very big way. Sit tight, do everything exactly as you know you should and prepare to experience a wonderful feeling: well-earned, justified pride in yourself.
Obviously, after all that hard work and discipline, you'll be more than ready to have some serious fun -- and the universe has some of that in mind for you too. You'll have all kinds of chances to do some long-distance traveling this year, and if there's any way at all that you can make a reality of one of those trips, don't pass it up. You've probably been itching either to go home for a visit or to return to a place you've always loved. Do it now, and take your favorite travel buddy along. (Just be sure to carry everything you need right on your person, in case of luggage delays or other annoyances.)
If you feel like a relationship is changing -- and not for the worse, so don't worry -- you could well be 100 percent right. Things between you and a certain someone will deepen considerably by the end of the year, if not before. If you don't already have someone in mind, a family member may introduce you to a potential sweetie -- someone they've been telling you is 'just perfect' for you -- around the end of July. You may have to put up with an I-told-you-so after a few weeks, but if things are going along that well, grin and bear it. It will be well worth it when you take a look around you by New Year's and realize that you've got everything you could possibly wish for!
Cupid will reward you for this year of personal discovery and good behavior -- you've been paying all your dues and working hard! In all, your pride in your work will give you a sense of calm assurance that will be extremely appealing to that special someone. The universe will be tossing you opportunities for fun all year long, leaving you laughing and full of quirky stories that will keep anyone intrigued.
If you are single in the midst of swimsuit season, be open to blind dates set up by those you trust, because it's quite likely that one of those awkward moments could turn into a deep and joyful relationship. Sure, you'd have to put yourself on the line -- but with the rest of your life going so swimmingly, it's a small thing to risk! Besides, your success at work and your loving friends will keep you busy and make you even more desirable.
If you are already in a relationship, your radar will start to pick up some interesting changes between the two of you. Don't be afraid, even if you like how things stand. By the end of the year, if you embrace those changes, you could find that a good relationship has ripened into something truly terrific.
Whether you're single or committed or somewhere in between, this year will bring self-confidence and wildly attractive relationship opportunities. You may even get to travel and send lovelorn letters to your sweetie from exotic locales. That is, if you aren't traveling together, which is also a possibility. In that case, you may find that hunting for sunblock and trying out strange new foods gives you both a serious case of lovesickness. And far from home, you'll feel uninhibited about expressing your devotion or enjoying your partner's high praise. So let yourself be rewarded as you deserve.
Zach a.k.a. Garfield