May 20, 2016 Weekend Ricksterscope

5R’s – Incredible to 1R – Awful

The weekend begins with the Moon transiting intense and secretive Scorpio. The Sun moves into chatty Gemini early Friday morning. Communication becomes more important to us, and many will become more interested in what the media has to report (with regard to the election?). The Moon enters optimistic and adventurous Sagittarius late on Saturday morning. We become more open and enthusiastic about whatever is going on. We’re also more emotional as the Moon reaches its peak fullness mid-afternoon on Saturday. The Moon conjoins transiting Mars (retrograding in Sagittarius) about an hour and a half later. Some folks could become emotionally upset or angry. The Sun (in Gemini) opposes transiting Mars very early on Sunday morning. More tempers flare, and it could take quite a bit of self-discipline to remain calm. Try anyway. Transiting Mercury turns stationary direct early Sunday morning as well. Communications problems begin to clear up. Transiting Mercury (in Taurus) trines transiting Jupiter (in Virgo) Sunday evening. The power of positive thinking saves the weekend (finally).

Aries – You may need to spend some time with your significant other on Friday. And, you may need to come to some agreement regarding partnership finances before things get out of hand in that regard. You’ll have plenty to communicate during the next month.

The full Moon falls in conjunction to your ruling planet on Saturday, Mars. Any feelings of anger, irritation, or aggression are likely to surface. Fortunately, you’re pretty good at releasing those feelings. Try to do it in as positive a manner as possible. Perhaps, a workout. Clearly, you’re changing internally, and that could cause some surprising reactions from others.

Finally, Mercury turns direct on Sunday. You’ll be able to think more clearly regarding a financial matter. And, you might have an idea of how to increase your income on the job. Expect the unexpected during the evening hours. Next week: A force to be reckoned with.   RRRRR

Taurus – Defer to others on Friday. Let someone else decide and see the consequences of his or her actions. Nevertheless, you could get a new start with regard to a relationship. Let this person know how you feel. You might want to work on the budget during the next month.

A partner might be on the warpath on Saturday - perhaps over a financial issue. Spend more time with this person in an effort to reach an acceptable agreement. Try not to become the proverbial bull in the china shop.

Beginning Sunday, you’ll be able to communicate more effectively. Your thinking is likely to be more optimistic and expansive as well. You’ll likely be in a good mood and possibly indulgent as well. Go out and have yourself a ball. Next week: A new sense of freedom leads to a new adventure. RRRR

Gemini – It looks like you’ll have quite a bit of work to get done on Friday. You have the energy, but you’d clearly rather be doing something else. You’re time will come. At any rate, your emotions are discordant, and you could become quite quarrelsome.

The full Moon falls on your partnership sign. A partner or loved one could be out of sorts and more than a little irritable. Try and maintain your equilibrium. It could be that one of the two of you needs more freedom.

Finally, your ruling planet, Mercury, turns direct. Just in time - happy birthday! Let others dote on you. Next week: Quality time with a favorite person.  RRR

Cancer – Your playfulness could encourage many on Friday. You’re more formidable than many others know. Head out and have some fun during the evening hours. You’re in touch with your feelings and can express them appropriately.

You might decide to get moving on your to do list on Saturday. You’ll have a lot to get done, and might feel a sense of irritation about it. Dig in to the tasks at hand and that feeling will dissipate. Extreme emotionalism punctuates your day. During the evening, your more romantic and erotic feelings surface.

A behind the scenes matter could be a bit of a concern on Sunday. Nevertheless, your thinking and communications are positive and optimistic. A partner responds in kind, although later in the day you might feel a sense of loneliness and/or isolation. It’ll pass fairly quickly. Next week: Defer to others.  RRRRR

Leo – You might want to work from home if you can on Friday. That is certainly where you’d rather be. You could be a bit more emotional than usual now. Your friends and your longterm goals become more important during the next month.

On Saturday, it’s time for the very playful lion/lioness to come out and have some fun. Almost no one knows how to have a good time like you, so let ‘er rip. Of course, others will want to join in. You could meet someone new and exciting. It’s better not to have any expectations beyond that for now.

A friend or loved one could act out on Sunday. It appears that the full Moon has stirred up some intense emotions. Try to be understanding and non-judgmental. Your libido is strengthened under today’s influences as well. How you choose to deal with that is as always up to you. Next week: Working hard.  RRRRR

Virgo – Speak your mind on Friday, and your words will not fall on deaf ears. Others are quite interested in what you have to say, so make it count. You’ll be able to make your friends and loved ones feel good about your plans. Career concerns will occupy your mind and dictate your actions during the next month.

Respond to email and text messages and return phones calls early in the day on Friday. By the afternoon, you’ll want to relax at home and enjoy family. A family situation calls for patience and perseverance.

Home is where your heart is on Sunday as well. It could be that a family member is out of sorts. Be kind to this person and the situation will likely calm down. You could feel a bit blocked during the afternoon, but your words are optimistic and encouraging during the evening hours. Next week: Let your hair down and have some fun.  RRRR

Libra – You’ll need to spend some time working on your finances on Friday. Pay bills before heading out. You could be a bit possessive during the evening hours. You might want to think about a summer vacation of holiday. Make some plans during the next month.

The Full Moon falls in your communications sector, and you might sound a bit more emotional and defiant than you mean to. Weigh your words, but say what needs to be said. Be careful if you’re out on the road. A female member of your family might be able to teach you something about yourself.

A neighbor or sibling might throw a hissy fit on Sunday. Allow this person to let off some steam. Your understanding helps. A parent or other family member comes to your aid later in the evening. You might want to learn about something new, and might consider taking a class. Next week: Warm and cozy at home. RRRRR

Scorpio – It’s your time to shine on Friday. What would make you smile? It’s time to go for it as you’re energetic and self-assured. In addition, a relationship could deepen during the next month. If attached, you may also need to deal with partnership finances.

Go for what would make you happy in the early morning hours on Saturday. Around noon, the focus shifts to your finances. Make sure your checkbook is in order and balances. You most likely feel your love for someone very strongly today. And, the Full Moon makes your emotions even more intense.

You could be a bit emotional and irritable about money on Sunday. You might also have a case of the green-eyed monster. Try to maintain some perspective. On the other hand, you could have some beautiful daydreams. Remember that beauty does not need to be justified. Next week: You’ll likely have a lot to say.  RRRR   

Sagittarius – It could take you a while to get into weekend mode this weekend. Lay low on Friday, and do something for yourself. A bit of down time will do you good. And, you’ll experience the power of love today.

You might want to sleep in late on Saturday. However, by noon, you are likely raring to go. Go for what you want and then some. At the same time, the Full Moon is likely to make you both more emotional and more energized. If you feel angry, get some exercise. You’ll need to be realistic regarding a relationship matter.

Either you or a partner seems determined to stir things up today, and patience is not one of your greatest attributes at this time. Try to stay calm. Later in the day, an expansive idea could lead to greater income. You might want to spend the evening hours at home with someone you deem very special. Next week: You’ll need to deal with financial issues. RRRRR

Capricorn – Friday is a good time to hold meetings and to delve into group think. Group endeavors are favored, Find your friends on Friday night. The unexpected happens, and it might throw you off a bit. Hang in there.

You might want to lay low on Saturday. Get some R & R and recharge your batteries. The Full Moon could signal some troubling behind the scenes events or affairs. This is a good day to get your personal life organized as you’re disciplined and focused.

Again, stay out of the limelight on Sunday. Others are out of sorts and are probably difficult to deal with. Why knock your head against a brick wall? Don’t obsess on something that you cannot do anything about. Next week: Monday and Tuesday are your power days. RRR

Aquarius -- You’re in the spotlight on Friday, so put your best foot forward. You may need to take control of a project. This is a time of emotional and psychological equilibrium in your life, so you can get more accomplished.

Group endeavors are favored on Saturday. Find your friends and join in on the fun and games. You can always let your hair down with your friends. However, one friend might be out of sorts, so be sympathetic toward this person. You might manifest a wish or dream with the Full Moon. You can also increase your understanding of yourself and your goals. Look within.

You might want to steer clear of a friend or loved one who seems angry. If attached, have a discussion with your significant other during the evening hours. Optimism and positive thinking are fruitful. Next week: Lay low till later in the week.  RRRRR

Pisces -- Daydreaming can be fun on Friday. Listen to someone’s point of view. You don’t have to agree, but this person will appreciate your listening and being interested. Don’t launch any daring or risky projects today. The influences could seem restrictive. You could be quite indulgent during the evening, but you’ll have fun.

You’re in the public eye on Saturday. Make sure you’re at your best. You could be a force to be reckoned with. You could be a bit emotional and/or irritable regarding a professional issue. A personal relationship could be changing or transforming.

A boss or higher up could be on the warpath on Sunday. Give him or her plenty of space. Try not to be too discouraged if you feel blocked. A partner’s words are inspiring later in the evening. Next week: Your friends come to the rescue.  RRR

May 13, 2016 Weekend Ricksterscope

5R’s – Incredible to 1R – Awful

The weekend begins with the Moon transiting Leo, the sign of love, creativity, and children. Transiting Mercury conjoins transiting Venus (both in Taurus) around noon on Friday. We want to express our loving emotions verbally. Transiting Venus trines transiting Pluto (in Capricorn) early in the evening. We feel our love and our desires deeply. Love is transformational. The Moon moves into health conscious and cynical Virgo late in the evening. We're more practical and detail oriented now. Tempers could flare on Saturday morning as the Moon (in Virgo) squares Mars (in Sagittarius). Have some fun or just relax and enjoy the good life as the Moon trines Venus (in Taurus) on Sunday afternoon.

Aries –  Your playfulness might cost you more than you think on Friday. On the other hand, you’re inspired and others recognize your creativity. Let someone know that you care. Go out for some fun during the evening hours. Your testosterone level is off the charts, so let it all hang out.

You may have to deal with your to do list on Saturday. With your high energy level, you’ll get done what needs to be done. Your mind is on very serious issues, and you might be able to solve a problem that you hadn’t been able to before now.

Do something good for your health on Sunday. Go to the gym and get some exercise if you can. You might want to have an important discussion later. Turn in early and get ready for the week ahead. Next week: Others seek you out.  RRRR

Taurus – Work from home on Friday if you can. Home is where your heart is. You’ll likely have plenty to communicate about. You are likely to feel very protective toward friends and family. The influences soften your emotions.

Your playfulness emerges on Saturday. Go out for some fun. Fantasies and daydreams play a prominent role in your day.

The party continues on Sunday. You’ll have a ball, but don’t overdo. You’re creative today, and you could also find some fortuitous investments as well. Next week: Working hard. RRRRR

Gemini – You’ll likely have a lot to say on Friday. Speak your mind. Respond to email messages and return phone calls first. Hang out with friends and neighbors during the evening hours. Try not to be excessively self-involved, and remember not to step on others’ toes.

Stay close to home on Saturday. Have friends and family over for some fun. You’ll likely feel contented and at ease. Others enjoy seeing you this way.

You could be unsure whether to move forward with a home improvement project or to nix it altogether. You don’t have to make a decision right away. Wait till after the 22nd to decide. Next week: Playful as ever. Take Monday off if you can.  RRRR

Cancer – Pay bills and deal with other financial issues on Friday. A friend might disagree with you about a monetary matter. An agreement can be reached, although you might not feel that your interests are in accord with others..

Hang out with neighbors, siblings, and friends on Saturday. Chat away. Check your facebook timeline. Your emotions are in tune with your intentions today, which is not always the case.

Your phone could ring off the hook on Sunday. State your case to others as your vision is quite expansive. There is balance between the old and the new in your life now. You’re able to make changes within an established structure or the status quo. Next week: Preferably, happy at home. RRRR

Leo – Friday is your best day this weekend, so go for it today! It’s a very pleasant day, and career matters look very favorable for you. A higher up is likely impressed with your performance. In addition, you can put your point of view across vigorously and effectively.

You may need to deal with a financial matter or two today. Don’t take a risk with money that you do not have. Nebulous influences are in effect this evening. Money could slip through your fingers before you know it. And, your interactions with others could be rather confusing.

Today could be quite different than yesterday. You could benefit from the days influences if you play your cards right. On the other hand, you could be quite emotional regarding a relationship issue. Next week: You’ll have a lot to say. RRRR

Virgo – You could be slow to get going this weekend. Opt to work with others today. It would be best for you to lay low till late Friday night. Then and afterward, you’ll hit your stride.

You’re in the limelight on Saturday, so go for what you want. We know that many of you are cynics, and you could be feeling a bit negative over a relationship issue. Nevertheless,a bit more optimism and a smile will help you to reach your goals at this time. Confusing issues are present tonight.

On Sunday, your expansive mindset and attention to detail combine to make you almost unbeatable. Show others what you’re about. You’re cheerful and gregarious, so get out and about. You’ll enjoy yourself and most likely will feel renewed. Next week: Put your analytical skills to work with regard to your finances.  RRRRR

Libra – Group endeavors are favored on Friday. Hold meetings and deal with groups of people. Take the initiative in these meetings. Later in the evening, find your friends for some fun. They could help you to achieve a personal goal.

You might want to lay low the remainder of the weekend. You may have plans that you’d prefer not to discuss with others on Saturday. That’s perfectly fine as others have other things on their minds. And, you may need to let off some steam in the late afternoon.

You might want to get some R & R on Sunday. Rest up for the upcoming week. You could be planning an exciting and fortuitous change. Next week: Go for what you want on Monday and Tuesday.  RRRR

Scorpio – You’re in the spotlight on Friday. You may need to work or at least network late into the evening. You might want to smooth over ruffled feelings now, but be sure to voice any complaints that you have. Holding them in won’t be productive and could disadvantage you.

You might want to meet up with friends on Saturday for good times and/or to plan future strategy. Group endeavors are favored, but there are cloudy influences at play in the evening hours. You might want to seek out someone who’s wisdom you acknowledge and appreciate for advice.

Reach out to a friend. A cherished wish or dream could be manifested. You can let your hair down and relax today, Next week: Time for some R & R.  RRRRR

Sagittarius – Reach out to someone at a distance on Friday and have an important discussion, Later in the evening, look for something different and adventurous. Someone exotic could enter your life.

Somehow responsibility falls on you on Saturday. You may need to take the reins of an important project, even if it’s of a personal nature. You could feel a bit restless with regard to a relationship issue, and your confidence level could be low. This too will pass.

You’re in the spotlight on Sunday. Put your best foot forward. You’ll have intense and powerful experiences today. Dig deep for answers. Next week: Fun with friends. RRRR

Capricorn – Spend some quality time with someone that you deem special on Friday. Let this person know how much you care even if you think s/he already knows. This is a time of balance and equilibrium in your life, so you’ll most likely feel a bit more comfortable sharing your feelings.

You could be in a bad mood in the early AM hours on Saturday. Perhaps, do something different than you usually do on Saturday. You’re restless and you need some sort of new adventure. Perhaps a short trip would do the trick. Get your automobile serviced before heading out as Mercury continues to retrograde.

A change of scenery is good for you. Meet new people that you wouldn’t normally socialize with and listen to their views. You don’t have to agree. Just be receptive and listen. Afterwards, they will be more comfortable listening as you advance your own notions. Next week: All eyes are on you. RRRRR

Aquarius – As others seek you out on Friday, sort through invitations. Your popularity is again on the rise. You might want to sample what’s around. You could be the life of the party. You might also want to let a dear family member know that you care.

If you’re attached, spend time with your significant other. This time will bring you even closer. If you’re single, you might want to get to know someone of interest a bit better. Be careful with your funds during the evening hours.

Sunday could be a very special day for attached Aquarians. There is joy and happiness in the air. Next week: Think about taking a road trip.  RRRRR

Pisces -- It looks as if you’ll have plenty of work to do on Friday. Keep plugging away and you’ll get it all done so that you can enjoy the remainder of the weekend. Your mental agility is impressive.

Others seek you out on Saturday. Defer and you’ll likely have a ball as well. Your imagination is in full swing on Saturday night, although it could confuse a few folks.

Sort through invitations on Sunday. On the other hand, you might want to let someone else decide. Again, it’s better to defer today. However, by late evening you may need to let off some steam. G ahead. Next week:Special time with a favorite person.  RRRRR

Astrology And Politics: Presidential Election Prediction

The other day I did a search for US presidential predictions made by various astrologers. I found two predictions for Donald Trump and four for Hillary Clinton. Interestingly, most of those predictions were made prior to last week when Trump became the presumptive nominee of the GOP.

So, why the difference in predictions among astrologers? There are a number of reasons for that. Astrologers use various and different tools/charts to make predictions, and they focus more heavily on some of those tools and charts than others. The two astrologers that predicted Trump focused heavily on his progressed chart and transits of his progressed planets. The others focused much more heavily on planetary transits making aspects to the candidates natal planets and points during the presidential election and on election day. One of the two for Trump also focused on transiting Uranus which will be in a trine aspect to Trump’s natal Moon in November.

I agree that Trump has an impressive progressed chart right now. A progressed chart is one that starts with one’s natal chart and then it is progressed one day for every year in one’s life. That puts Trump’s Sun on his progressed Ascendant in Leo (sign of the king). And, it’s also conjunct the fixed star, Regulus (the king maker). I would just make a couple of points. First, the Ascendant is the cusp of the first house and rules personality and appearance. While those things may support professional success, they do not guarantee it (at all). And, we do not elect kings in this country. The Office of the Presidency is one of service to the people, not the other way around. It’s definitely clear that Donald Trump wants to be king, but again, that is not how it works in this country.

I agree with astrologers who simply look at the transits to natal charts (and planets) here. And, I would not focus so much on transiting Uranus as I would transiting Saturn. Uranus is all about freedom and independence, not professional success or politics. Saturn, on the other hand, definitely deals with professional success. Saturn cycles are critical. And, Saturn is transiting Trump’s fourth house. That is at the bottom of his chart, and deals with home, family, and domestic issues. That is where the bulk of his attention should be focused right now - not politics and the presidency of the United States. In addition, in November (the election is on the eighth) transiting Saturn is in opposition (widely) to Donald Trump’s natal Sun in Gemini. That is a time of low energy and of completing past projects and issues rather a professional peak (which would involve the tenth house and the MC of a chart). I don’t think Trump’s very fine progressed chart can trump that Saturn cycle. He will not ascend to the presidency of the United States, in my view.

Our problem in discussing Hillary is that we do not have certainty regarding her actual time of birth. Some astrologers give her a Gemini ascendant and others a Scorpio ascendant. And, I’ve even heard one say that it is probably Taurus. We do, however, know where her planets are. She is a Scorpio. The Sun will be transiting Scorpio during the election. That alone gives her points - there is a reason that more Scorpios have been elected president in our country than any other sign. In November, transiting Uranus will be in a trine aspect to her natal Saturn (in Leo). She has the ability to work for change within the current established system, and she know what can be done and what cannot. This is important because the American people are demanding changes right now. With our (national) natal Moon in Aquarius, we usually want change more than a static situation or the status quo more often than not. Transiting Saturn is also in a trine aspect to her natal Pluto. She can work effectively, and she knows how to get the job done. For that reason, the powers that be support her. She has inner strength and intense charisma at this time.

Many astrologers do a comparison of the candidate’s chart to the USA’s natal chart. I agree that there should be some connection there. However, we do not elect presidents based on a national vote. We vote by state, and then send our delegates to the electoral college. It seems to me that a better way to analyze the election is to look at critical states (who has time to do an analysis of every single state in the union, however). As in the recent past, democrats start out with the advantage. So, I have looked at three critical swing states that Republicans will need to win in order to win the election/presidency. They are Florida, Ohio, and Virginia.

We start with Florida, and we can see a problem already. Florida has a very large Latino population. They will come out in droves to vote against Trump. Florida’s natal Moon is in Capricorn, and the state’s Sun is in Pisces. This state will go Hillary Clinton, and probably with a wider margin than Obama got either time in the state. The current HuffPost polling average for the state has Clinton up six. Florida has been allocated 29 electoral votes.

The next state is Ohio. The state has a fairly large African American population, which will make it difficult for Trump. The state’s natal Moon is in Gemini (very fortuitous for Trump) and the state’s Sun is in Pisces (better for Clinton). Trump could win Ohio, but it won’t be easy. The current HuffPost polling average has Clinton up three. Ohio has been allocated 18 electoral votes.

The last state is Virginia. The problem for Trump is the Washington DC suburbs. Loads of liberals and progressives live in those Northern Virginia suburbs. And, the region is growing rapidly. There is also a large African American population in Virginia. The state’s Moon is in Pisces (advantage Clinton). And, the state’s Sun is in Cancer (advantage Clinton). Trump will not win Virginia. He could lose it badly. The state gets bluer every year. The current HuffPost polling average has Clinton up twelve. Virginia has been allocated 13 electoral votes.

So, there you have it … my prediction for the US presidential election (for now). It will be Hillary Clinton. Madam President has a nice ring to it, don’t you think?

UPDATE on 5/11/16:

The polling averages will change as the election calendar proceeds this year. We just got a Quinnipiac poll which changes the above averages. I believe that this poll under-samples minority voters, however it's important to keep all legitimate polls in the average. This brings the Florida polling average down to Clinton plus three. The Ohio polling average changes to Clinton plus two. The Virginia polling average is now Clinton plus 10.

UPDATE on 9/23/16:

The HuffPost polling average for Florida now is Clinton plus 1.4 points. The Ohio polling average is now Trump plus 0.4 points. The Virginia polling average is now Clinton plus 6.9 points. Nationwide, it's Clinton plus 2.3 points in the 4 way race. In the 2-way polls, it's Clinton plus 4.1 points. Some have expressed optimism that Trump could win in Colorado and/or Pennsylvania. Clinton is up in Colorado by 4.1 points, and in Pennsylvania by 5.9 points. So, that scenario is highly unlikely at this point.

Miscellaneous Astrological Musings

Mercury Retrograde:

Mercury turned stationary retrograde April 28, and will be retrograde for three weeks plus (till May 22). Expect communications snafus, miscommunications, and misunderstandings. Don't be surprised if you have to repeat yourself to get your point across effectively. I sometimes have computer problems during these periods. And, I usually get more "wrong number" phone calls. Important persons from your past could reenter your life for a time. With five planets in retrograde motion, life in general may seem to slow down. Seems like a good time to take a vacation. But, if you do, expect a delay or two in traveling.

Prince:

Prince was/is a Gemini with Scorpio rising. It's an odd combination. Gemini is very outgoing, sociable, and cerebral. Scorpio is more quiet, mysterious, and even secretive. Scorpio is much more emotional. He probably felt that polarization. His Moon was in Pisces. He had very deep emotions - like an ocean in depth. I heard that in his biggest hit - "When Doves Cry."

At the time of Prince's death: Transiting Saturn was in opposition to his natal Sun (in the eighth house of death and rebirth). Saturn was transiting his first house of body (and its condition). This period of time is usually marked by very low energy and low resistance to illness. It is oftentimes a period of sadness or depression (but, not clinical). Transiting Uranus was in opposition to his natal Jupiter (in Libra). He may have had kidney and/or liver issues. According to new reports, he did have issues with a hip (or both). Neptune had been in hard aspect to his natal Mercury in Gemini. And, the Sun had opposed his natal Neptune in Scorpio and his twelfth house of death and losses. The Moon reached maximum fullness later in the night and conjunct his natal Neptune. It's likely that drugs (prescribed or otherwise) was an issue, but might or might not have been the actual cause of death. Mars in retrograde motion in his first house may have caused him not to take action when he should have (i.e. go see a doctor) or it could have lead him to take inappropriate action of some kind. With the Moon transiting close to his twelfth house cusp, it's likely that he wanted to transition alone. RIP.

Mars Retrograde:

Mars turned retrograde very early April 17 (on the West Coast). Does that mean that the planet Mars actually stops in mid-orbit around the Sun and starts moving in reverse motion? Of course not. It simply appears that way from Earth (if we look up at Mars moving through the sky). I usually explain this by the term "relative motion." But, this article explains this in greater detail and gives us some history of how this apparent planetary backward motion confused the ancient Greeks. And, then Copernicus discovered the answer to the riddle in 1543. Mars will turn stationary direct on June 29.  

Transiting Mercury in Taurus trine transiting Jupiter in Virgo:

This was the aspect of the day on April 14. Mercury will retrograde back to within one degree of this same aspect before turning direct on May 22. We have the power of positive thinking working for us today (if we'll use it). A sense of humor works. Think big, and keep your eye on the big picture or the final goal. Be generous and optimistic. The right words can help with the healing process.

This is part of the grand trine in earth signs that we have going on most of the month that the Sun is transiting Taurus. The other inner planets (Mercury and Venus and the Moon) will also transit Taurus and will trine transiting Jupiter in Taurus and transiting Pluto in Capricorn. If you pay attention, you can make progress in most practical matters.

May 6, 2016 New Moon:

New Moon in Taurus today. Slow down and smell the roses. It's included in a grand trine in earth signs. Some very favorable financial deals could be made today. Practical matters should work out smoothly and well. Chocolate ice cream sounds good.