Things aren't what they seem when Mercury is retrograde. For whatever reason, these retrograde periods always coincide with mass confusion and faulty assumptions.

For example, Mercury was retrograde when George W. Bush made his infamous landing on an aircraft carrier to declare victory in Iraq.

Eventually he had to eat his words -- which is something everyone does if they shoot their mouths off while Mercury is retrograde.

Misinformation, misstatements, and mental lapses are classic symptoms of a retrograde Mercury. And we can add malfunctions to the list.

Mechanical failures are common, especially involving the areas Mercury "rules," like transportation and communication.

Decision-making is also affected because decisions are based on insufficient facts and even outright lies.

Accordingly, this is a risky time to sign a contract or to make a binding commitment. Chances are, you'll change your mind later, although it could also indicate revisions in the agreement the next time Mercury turns retrograde (which happens three times a year).

Above all, don't change horses in midstream. This is a chancy time to start a new job or to move to a new location (you'll end up returning or wishing that you could). The same holds true for changing partners.

Old faces may return from the past during Mercury's retrograde period -- and remind you why they became an old face in the first place.

The effect is most pronounced around the time Mercury changes direction. It is equally intense when Mercury turns direct. Even though this is a sign that things are returning to normal, it is also an adjustment to new realities.

More often than not, that readjustment is gradual. Astrological influences are not like throwing a light switch. They are more like sunrise and sunset; they don't always happen in a flash.

There are more Don'ts than Do's with Mercury retrograde. Don't change jobs, don't sign on the dotted line, don't overload your schedule, and don't believe everything you hear.

Do expect misunderstandings, malfunctions, and misdirected messages. Give yourself extra time for everything and don't overload your schedule. Above all, listen carefully, check your facts, and don't take anything for granted.

The table below lists Mercury's retrograde periods for 2009.  Ordinarily, Mercury turns retrograde three times a year but this year it is four.