by Stephanie Dempsey

Now that the warm weather has finally arrived, it's time for outdoor pleasures. Eating al fresco affords a welcome opportunity to enjoy the Sun -- as well as some heavy flirting. If you're in the market for romance, tailor your pick-ups to a person's astrological sign. Not sure of your beloved's birthday? It's time you learned the difference between a robust Ram from a leisurely Libra. Here are some tips on telling one from the other.

Aries (March 21 - April 19)
When Aries isn't commandeering the grill, he or she is usually running after a ball or frisbee. This highly active sign prefers flexing their muscles to lolling about on a blanket. The Ram will periodically nip from a plate that's piled with food rather than just sit and savor their meal.

If you want to pick up this ball of fire, pour him or her a cool drink. Offer Aries a wet paper towel at half-time or between innings. Discuss your favorite sports teams, and then invite the Ram to the next big game.

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Taurus (April 20 - May 20)
Like Ferdinand the Bull, this sensuous sign loves lounging outdoors. You'll usually find Taurus lolling beneath a leafy tree, nibbling a delectable tidbit from the picnic basket. This sign is usually the first one in line for dessert, and likes to work off the calories with a leisurely stroll through a bucolic spot.

The best way to lure Taurus into your web of intrigue is to appeal to their love of nature. Ask this sign the name of surrounding plants, trees and flowers. He or she will be happy to enlighten you. You can also win the bull's affection by offering the most comfortable seat and presenting him or her with a plate of the choicest food.

Gemini (May 21 - June 20)
If you go to a barbeque and hear the sound of chattering, it's not necessarily a flock of sociable birds. It could very well be a Gemini holding forth about the hottest book, movie or headline. This talkative sign thrives on good friends and lively conversation. People born under the sign of the Twins enjoy gesturing with their hands.

Winning a Gemini's heart is a matter of posing provocative questions. Ask this sign for the five CDs they'd take to a desert island. Find out which historical figure they'd most like to be. Inquire about which three things they would do in an ideal universe. Your talent for stimulating talk will act like an aphrodisiac on loquacious Gemini.

Cancer (June 21 - July 22)
A barbeque is serious business to Cancer. Food is like a religion to this sign. Throw a cookout and the Crab will come with a tray of marinated meat, a tub of homemade potato salad, along with a fresh fruit pie. This sign also prizes the comforts of home, and can be trusted to remember the cutlery, condiments and napkins that would otherwise go forgotten.

Cancer is really a big kid at heart. If you'd like to pick up this sign, tell a few corny jokes. You'll know you're getting somewhere when you hear the Crab's loony laugh. Initiate a game of tag or prisoner's base. In the event there is a playground nearby, offer to push Cancer on the swings. Make a date, and then seal the deal with a dandelion necklace or flower crown.

Leo (July 23 - August 22)
Lions will use any excuse to go outside and soak up the rays of the Sun. While everybody else is busy fixing the food, this sign will be working on their tan. This sign is associated with royalty, so it should be no surprise they prefer their own folding chair to sitting on the ground on a blanket. Leo also likes to sport big movie-star sunglasses.

Flattery will get you everywhere with this regal sign. Begin by complimenting their flowing locks, sleek physique or glowing skin. Lions are also quite active, and enjoy a game of touch football or basketball. Be sure to give Leo a run for their money, as they are fierce competitors. Letting this person win at the last minute will cement your friendship.

Virgo (August 23 - September 22)
Although this sign loves nature, eating outdoors isn't their favorite activity. That's because it's such a messy prospect, and the Virgin hates mess. You'll often spot this sign brushing ants off the picnic table or swabbing their face with a moist towel. Virgo also enjoys taking charge of the grill, where he or she will ensure that the food will be cooked to perfection.

The fastest way to Virgo's heart is to make yourself useful. Volunteer to put out the plates and cutlery. Help clean up the mess after all the food's been eaten. Offer your sunscreen if you see the Virgin's skin getting red. (Never apply it yourself -- that would be too gauche for this sign's delicate sensibilities.) Virgo sets great store by good manners -- make a proper dinner invitation. Coy hints to meet for coffee will fall flat.

About the Author
Stephanie Dempsey is an accomplished author, feng shui practitioner and astrologer. Stephanie has authored a weekly home design column for Women.com, which combined the precepts of Astrology and feng shui. She has also contributed to such New Age titles as Love Signs and You: The Ultimate Astrological Guide to Love, Sex, and Relationships. Stephanie holds a degree in feng shui from the Mountain Institute of TRIBECA in New York City.