As I always preface this post, I check my horoscope once a year. That day is my birthday. Who doesn't like strangers predicting good things about your year ahead? We can also judge how they did last year. I mean, what are we without horoscope accountability? Really now.

The predictions that came out right: being on a wild ride, the value of showing restraint at work, verbalizing what I would have kept quiet in the past, having clear work objectives, having lots of teamwork (hello, Agile!), the importance of tackling issues head-on, largely not dating but emerging better for it (daring but accurate call, Jacqueline Bigar).

The predictions that came out wrong: making big decisions and finding long-term love in April, having touchy communication with a neighbor or relative, and "increased need for sexual union, as your passions are stirred and in general you meet with ease when attempting to satisfy your desires." CafeAstrology.com, sorry to fail at being a manwhore.

But now we move on!

Is my year at age 31 going to be about ambition or easy satisfaction? Let's turn to the Zodiac experts, as they make birthday predictions in print and online this morning. In one dubious note for the year ahead, Holiday Mathis and Eugenia Last agree on none of my lucky numbers.

Holiday Mathis: "Your competitive urges are a sign of health and vitality. It's only natural to want the best for yourself and your people. Keep your spirit of competition in check and channel it well, and July brings victory. There will be a windfall in August. A chase begins in September and lasts indefinitely. There's a heartfelt reunion in November. Taurus and Libra people adore you. Your lucky numbers are: 14, 38, 50, 32 and 27."

Jeraldine Saunders: "Smooth sailing and sunny celestial skies are something to be grateful for in the year to come. Expect that there will be few obstacles in the road to prevent you from realizing your growing ambitions. Optimism and a feeling of overall well-being will instill a fresh sense of purpose during August and September. That is a fine time to seek greener pastures, start something of importance or ask for favors. If there is something you truly need, such as a job, better health or a soul mate to make your heart glad, the universe will probably provide it. You can make ties and happiness permanent in the first half of next year and may feel younger and healthier than ever."

Sally Brompton: "A Sun-Jupiter aspect on your birthday is a fantastic influence, but to make the most of it you need to know precisely what it is you want out of life. What is your highest ideal? Aim for it and accept nothing less than total success."

Jacqueline Bigar: "This year, you experience a new beginning or accomplish a goal. Lady Luck rides with you, especially when dealing with friends and your ability to manifest more of what you want. Your immediate circle will expand, adding to your potential. If you are single, and if you want to change your status, you certainly will have the suitor to do it with! If you are attached, the two of you could realize a long-term dream. Work together to make it so. TAURUS comes through for you."

Phil Booth: "Sometimes, the most apparently difficult situations can be solved with a simple change in attitude. It comes down to a shift in consciousness. In the coming months you will find yourself magically empowered as your mental perspective goes through a dramatic transformation. It will allow you to create the future you have always dreamed of."

CafeAstrology.com: "The Sun in harmonious aspect to the Moon in your Solar Return chart is a pleasant aspect, suggesting that your domestic and career needs are not in competition with one another this year. Your inner needs tend to be mirrored by external events, and vice versa. You are likely to be on top of your game this year for the most part, and positive connections with others can be made fairly easily. A comfortable level of personal popularity helps keep conflict to a minimum. With the ability to handle your emotions successfully, there will be less stress on both your mind and body. Your self-confidence and positive attitude will reward you!"

Linda Black: "The activity level is high, and you're in the thick of it. Use your charm with authority figures, for smooth negotiating. Weddings and social events can both inspire and frustrate, so keep your patience and get into the romance of it."

Georgia Nichols: "Supreme Court Justice Sonia Sotomayor (1954) shares your birthday today. You have a clever mind, and you’re a genius at observing the human condition. You are naturally a nurturer, even if you hide this tender side. Despite your need for privacy, you’re very emotional in relationships. You also love your creature comforts. You have much to look forward to because the next year of your life could be one of the most powerful years you’ve ever had."

Eugenia Last: "Don’t let your emotions lead you down the wrong path. Not everything can follow a direction that suits your needs. Your willingness and ability to adapt will help you bypass setbacks and reach goals that appear to be inaccessible. Your numbers are 3, 17, 19, 22, 29, 34, 41."

There's one day a year I read my horoscope, and that day is today.

But first, we look back at last year. How did everyone do? Jeraldine Saunders pretty much nailed it ("Don't let your ambitions get the best of you between December and February," along with some very nice timeline work). Eugenia Last got the major themes right too. (Among them: "You may want to take a risk or entertain the thought of trying something new, but before you do, secure what you already have.")

So, birthdays on June 25, 2010. What's in the stars?

Astrology.com: "Happy birthday, Cancer baby! On the eve of the full Moon lunar eclipse, your emotions may feel all over the place … but the moon in Capricorn favors measured actions. You are certainly on a wild ride, but it doesn't mean you can accomplish your wildest dreams. You feel challenged to maintain your equanimity rather than just let your emotions take the wheel."

Jeraldine Saunders: "Ambition is a good thing until it is taken too far. During the next few weeks you may have an urge to steamroll over anyone or anything that interferes with your success. Don't burn bridges now because the people or things you discard might be useful in the future and you may regret actions taken now. The same holds true for October and November when you may obsess about something or someone. For the best results wait until next spring, and especially April, to make decisions that have long range effects. That is when other people will appreciate your talents and attractions the most and is a very good time to begin a new job or find a special someone for long-term happiness."

Jacqueline Bigar: "This year, you often verbalize feelings that in the past you would have kept hush-hush. Unexpected realizations pop up out of nowhere. Avoid those who attempt to control you. You cannot win with them. Communication could be touchy with a neighbor or relative this year. If you are single, it will take a full year to get to know someone new. You will have surprises during the process. If you are attached, the two of you seem to connect on a very deep, soulful level. CAPRICORN can challenge the living daylights out of you."

Phil Booth: "What you're trying to accomplish is very important, so you can't afford to make any mistakes. Make sure you are clear about your objectives and your priorities at all times, this year. Not only will your ability to be decisive at critical moments be strong, but the stars will do everything they can to ensure the successful conclusion of anything you commence."

CafeAstrology.com: "A Full Moon in your Solar Return chart marks this as a year of great personal significance, when major new beginnings, endings, and activities occur. … You are likely to be actively involved with teamwork and collaboration with others this year. There may be an increased need for sexual union, as your passions are stirred and in general you meet with ease when attempting to satisfy your desires through positive connections with others."

Linda Black: "Love is a regular feature this year as you meet unique people who stimulate subconscious feelings in you. Listen to your dreams when social activities become peculiar or individuals seem too good to be true. True yourself up toward your passions."

Georgia Nichols: "You're intuitive about people. You have a fast mind and a great sense of humor. Many of you are highly original. Invariably, others believe in you, which allows you to achieve your dreams. Basically, you are kind and nurturing to loved ones. (No wonder they want to nurture you.) This year, you will learn something valuable to you."

Eugenia Last: "Emotional issues will be brought to the surface this year. Deal with pressing matters head-on. Allow others to know what you are thinking, and you will be surprised by the support and help you receive. Change is upon you, so embrace what lies ahead with open arms. Your numbers are 3, 7, 12, 23, 29, 33, 47."

Time now for the annual collection of the June 25 birthday horoscopes.

From last year's crop, high marks go to Linda Black ("This year is about changes, and there will be a lot of them"), Eugenia Last ("You may not be looking for change but it will find you this year") and Phil Booth ("It's easy to look back with 20/20 vision and chide ourselves for our mistakes. This year, however, will bring many penetrating insights.")

How is age 29 going to fare? And lucky number 13, twice, really? …

Jeraldine Saunders: "You are certain to have plenty of fun in the sun during the next several months because your romantically inclined heart is willing to paint a pretty picture of even the most mundane situations. In October you have a firmer grip on reality and can be successful in business pursuits, so that is a good time to set your plans into motion or look for a new job or position. Don't let your ambitions get the best of you between December and February and don't make major decisions or investments because your judgment and luck aren't at their best."

Phil Booth: "You will see the importance of something that seems irrelevant. A plan will emerge that can provide the inspiration to extricate yourself from a tricky situation. Happy birthday to Ricky Gervais, 48."

Eugenia Last: "You may want to take a risk or entertain the thought of trying something new, but before you do, secure what you already have. Be smart and refuse to be railroaded or misled. Be careful, frugal and set a budget that will enable you to feel less stress next year when you have far greater opportunities come your way. Your numbers are 1, 13, 19, 26, 33, 39, 46."

Holiday Mathis: "You will live daringly. When afraid, you'll summon the courage to push past your fear. July brings friendship and fun. Travel in October. There's financial luck in January. Gemini and Pisces adore you. Your lucky numbers are: 8, 50, 41, 4 and 13."

Linda Black: "Stash away as much as you can this year, for best results. The trick is in figuring out where to stash it. You can make wise investments, where your money increases quite nicely. Or, you can throw it away, with little or nothing to show. This part is up to you. Don't fret, you're up to the challenge."

Georgia Nichols: "Singer George Michael (1963) shares your birthday today. Your relationship with life and your surroundings is highly original. You march to your own drummer. You're skillful at making the most of opportunities that come your way. Because of this, it appears as if you're capable of making your dreams come true. Your year ahead will be social and fun-loving with partners and friends."

Sally Brompton: "Your head may be full of wonderful ideas but what's the point if you never do anything with them? That's an observation rather than a criticism but deep down you know it's time to turn inspiration into action. Aim high. Act now."

I'm not going to say last year's birthday predictions were totally accurate. "Perhaps a gym or interest in a new sport figures in your future" makes me question how well Jeraldine Saunders knows me.

But yet we have to return to the most fun you can have in newspaper horoscopes all year, and we throw in a Web one for good measure.

Holiday Mathis: "There's an enticing air of intrigue around you. You're not trying to be interesting, it's just that your dignified instinct is not to talk about the minutiae of your decision-making process, and so you're imbued with silent power. Continue to trust your private process. September brings a windfall. Leo and Sagittarius are mad about you. Your lucky numbers are 48, 20, 52, 37 and 31."

Georgia Nichols: "Singer Carly Simon (1945) shares your birthday today. You have a fine mind. You are quick to understand how human behavior works. You also have the capacity for being able to realize your dreams. (Be careful what you wish for.) You have excellent money savvy. Your personal relationships are quite passionate. You're an original thinker. Major changes, perhaps as significant as around 1999-2000, might take place this year."

Linda Black: "This year is about changes, and there will be a lot of them. If you've been thinking about implementing a few, work up your plans. You'll get your opportunity, so be prepared."

Unknown: "Look for some very interesting and unusual opportunities for expansion during the coming year. Build upon recent lessons and continue your climb up the ladder of success."

Sally Brompton: "Hard work will come easy to you over the next 12 months, and if you can combine it with serious thinking and careful planning there is every chance that by this time next year you will be a success in your chosen field of endeavor. You're a star in the making."

Eugenia Last: "Happy Birthday: You may not be looking for change but it will find you this year. If you can be accepting and not skip a beat, you stand to make headway in areas of your life you least expect. A proposal will change your life and your direction. Let your curiosity be your guide to better times. Your numbers are 4, 12, 19, 25, 38, 42."

Jeraldine Saunders: "You might feel as though you have the tiger by the tail all summer long where business, career or negotiations are concerned. Keep yourself in good physical condition and avoid being defensive. Keep your wits about you in August and November when common sense, rather than wishful thinking, should be your guide. Your best time to make new starts, initiate new contacts, or begin anything of importance is January when opportunities and kindness from others abounds."

Phil Booth: "It's easy to look back with 20/20 vision and chide ourselves for our mistakes. This year, however, will bring many penetrating insights. After all is said and done, you won't be able to hide a smile of satisfaction. Happy birthday to George Michael, 45."

CafeAstrology.com (longer 'scope linked): "Relationships, socializing, and creative expression are emphasized in your year ahead. Your ego is tied up in your social life and you have a chance to improve your relationships, although a tendency towards intense emotions and possessiveness can get you into hot water! Motivation levels vary, so it's best to take full advantage of any upswing in energy. For the most part, however, your concern for your future keeps you on track and able to meet your responsibilities. Mental pursuits thrive."

Your outlook is mixed, according to newspaper psychics.

Holiday Mathis: "You'll be singing a freedom song this year. No longer ruled by what you 'should' be doing, you make offbeat decisions that are perfect for you and your abundant future. Working with an equal partner in July, you build something you'll be enjoying for years to come. November brings a poignant reunion. Virgo and Scorpio people adore you. Your lucky numbers are 39, 40, 42, 15 and 22."

Georgia Nichols: "Baseball player/humanitarian Carlos Delgado (1972) shares your birthday today. Many of you tackle huge projects and successfully complete them. You are aware of trends in society; you are also a shrewd observer of the human condition. You love family and home. You have an excellent imagination that can border on the prophetic. Work hard to build something in the coming year."

Linda Black: "Don't mix love and money this year, or problems could develop. How to separate those two? Get your loved ones to help you be frugal. Working together, you can succeed."

Unknown: "A sense of internal peace will be reflected in your external world during the coming year. Approach the affairs of your life with optimism and positive vibrations, and attract abundance along with rewarding experiences. Your social and creative expressions deserve some attention."

Sally Brompton: "A Saturn-Neptune aspect on your birthday means you must take extra care with cash, both your own and other people's. Hard work will bring generous rewards and it is quite likely you will make a lot of money, but you could also make a silly mistake and lose it all again, so be careful."

Eugenia Last: "Happy Birthday: You can be a little more adventurous this year without worrying about the outcome. Utilize your creative talent and you will come up with some remarkable ideas that will help change your life. This is a wonderful year to get geared up and ready for a new phase in your life. Your numbers are 3, 8, 17, 21, 32, 44"

Jeraldine Saunders: "Your need to be in command or an authority figure could put you at a disadvantage during the next few weeks if you are too forceful or pushy. By September and October you will find appropriate channels for your ever-increasing energies. Perhaps a gym or interest in a new sport figures in your future. 'Work hard, play hard' should be your motto until the end of the year. Self-discipline, determination and attention to duty will win you admiration and bountiful rewards by the end of January when sincere prayers may be answered in a very surprising and providential way."

Washington Post, June 25, 2003: "If June 25 is your birthday: You're clearing out skeletons. On a psychological level, you're being taken to the cleaners, and your spiritual nature is being transformed. This year you can achieve the impossible as you embrace new responsibilities and make a major transition. Throw limitations to the wind; they're only in your mind. The undertone is honesty and behaving correctly. Love and money is October and November."

Washington Post, June 25, 2004: "If June 25 is your birthday: You should plan a special treat for Saturday. The focus of importance in your life has been making changes this year, and you are still in the process of altering your life in major ways. If your birthday celebration seems a little dull, know you have a lot of excitement to look forward to later this year."