The ass-trologers tell me the rest of summer is a retrograde period. I pictured an old-fashioned downhill menses but went right to what that suggests: Put a hold on projects. Find the pace that gets things done. Postpone purchases.

How else can this be seen except one more affirmation to keep the ball rolling where spectating is the ball and rolling's just another word for don't fix it. Is this like writing your own report card or should I do the queen's wave and stay settled in?

The point of restoration is life extension so that's our final answer, Wink. While yawning at the apocalyptic warnings, the grades for choices that are safe, low risk and brief are A+ from the distended jaw, lighting the profile to appear content and right sized. No gloat intended, just an audition to check on the mojo.

Today's mash-up is Phillip Roth, Freud and something about a man who has the immense love of his mother is a conquistador. Sewing that together with retrograde, this Portnoy remains nouveau-fluffed with 25 ways to savor the seconds.