Mercury will turn retrograde the morning of December 2, when there will be twenty-two more shopping days until Christmas. The planet will be in the shadow of retrograde several days before that. Let’s make a note of how this affects the public as this backward motion brings some or all of the following: difficulty with transportation, slow down of the mail system, problems finding what you want, the need to return incorrectly shipped items, the tendency to doubt yourself or change your mind, canceled plans, difficulty with mechanical items (especially telephones and computers), incorrect or missed messages, and difficulties in all kinds of practical matters.

Let’s put these issues together with the demands of the holiday season. Unless I miss my guess, you will be doing some or all of the following: transporting yourself; shipping gifts; deciding what so-and-so wants or needs as a gift; partying; visiting with family, friends, and coworkers; and preparing for house gatherings and celebrations. So prepare for some hiccups in your plans. Following are some recommendations to help you through the tough spots.Remember Murphy’s Law. If something can go wrong, it will, at the worst possible moment. This was coined during one of Mercury’s retrograde phases, I’m sure. It certainly has been meant not only as a warning but to remind us to keep a good sense of humor. Where would all of our comics be if nothing went wrong? What about I Love Lucy and The Honeymooners?

Get your automobiles serviced in November, not December. Purchase all tickets — travel and theater — before December 2. When traveling, leave an extra fifteen minutes early and plan extra time between appointments.