(10634,1,'2012-07-01 16:46:26','2012-07-01 23:46:26','<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?attachment_id=10632\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10632\"><img class=\"alignleft  wp-image-10632\" title=\"P1010112\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/P1010112-1024x768.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"393\" height=\"295\" /></a>Hi!  I’m Jennie aka Late Bloomer’s sister.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nWhen my sissy started a blog last year, she asked me if I would ever want to guest blog.  I said yes because, honestly, it’s easier sometimes to just say yes to her.  I figured she would forget and I would be off the hook…and I was…until now.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nMy sister and I are complete opposites.  If she’s Late Bloomer, I’m Early Bloomer.  I got married at 20, have 2 kids, live in the suburbs, drove a mini-van for a few years…get where I’m going with this?  Opposites!  I actually dodged the bullet during her Year of Living Curiously and pawned off that <strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2011/09/10/day-347-guest-post-from-worlds-most-precious-niece-2/\" target=\"_blank\">guest blog request on my daughter</a>.</strong>\n\n&nbsp;\n\nNow it’s the Year of Play and I’m pretty sure I’m the most unplayful (Is that a word? Sure, let’s say it is!) person my sister knows.  ‘She has kids!’ you may be thinking.  I have a teenage son and a tween daughter.  I’m totally uncool right now.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nSo, when Sissy asked again I thought, “Why is she asking the one year I’m NOT doing the <a href=\"http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8cfQhsWkOKI \" target=\"_blank\"><strong>48 Hour Film Project</strong></a>!” So, here I sit writing a blog for Sissy that she has coined “a sentimental piece”.  Let’s just hope she doesn’t fire me like she did when I was Frenchy in her <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/09/19/day-3-flashback-friday-grease-sing-along/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>“Grease” production</strong>.</a>\n\n&nbsp;\n\nWhen my beloved grandfather was moved to hospice care for the final days of his life, my mother texted me a photo of a little poodle visiting his room.  My mother told me that a group of volunteers come to visit the patients with their dogs.  Even though Papa was in a coma, he responded to the touch of the dog.\n\n&nbsp;\n\n<strong><span style=\"color: #008000; font-size: medium;\">I was so touched by this story and hearing how a visit from the animals lifted her spirits, I decided to explore this option with my dog in my grandfather’s memory.</span>  </strong>\n\n&nbsp;\n\nPenny is my rescue pup.  She’s a 45 pound Boxer/Jack Russell mix with velvety ears, eyes that will melt your heart and the silliest lop-sided tail.  When I heard of this program, I knew Penny would be the perfect dog for this type of work.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nAfter some google searches, dead ends, etc. I finally discovered a local group called <a href=\"http://www.caringcritters.org/  \" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Caring Critters</strong>.</a>  They hold workshops twice a year to certify new handlers and their pets.  A few weeks ago I attended the workshop where I learned all sorts of information on Animal Assisted Therapy.  By the end of the workshop, I committed to bringing Penny the following weekend for a temperament test.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nThis weekend was my first visit with Penny.  To prepare for the visit, she had her nails trimmed and a bath and was ready to go.  I posted on my Facebook status that I was ready for my first Pet Therapy visit and soon realized that some people may think I’m taking my dog to a shrink and leave a nasty comment including the f word.  (Note to self:  Always use the term Animal Assisted Therapy!)\n\n&nbsp;\n\n<strong>Penny and I arrived at the hospital and she met her teammates, Tucker (lab), Shasta and Reveille, a pair of direwolves.  </strong>\n\n&nbsp;\n\nOK, they are really Great Pyrenees, but if you watch Game of Thrones, they totally look like direwolves…which I called them for the rest of the visit.  Their parents did not seem as amused by this as I was.  Their loss!\n\n&nbsp;\n\nA hospital visit is a social visit where the team goes room to room to visit the patients.  The patient has the opportunity to decline the visit, but only one or two did.  I did notice a common trend of the visitors accepting the visit when the patient said no. Heh heh heh.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nAt first Penny was very curious and sniffy and I had to pull her over to the bed to be pet.  After about the 5<sup>th</sup> room, Penny finally realized that she wasn’t there to lick the floor, investigate the trash can, or stick her head in the bathroom.  All she had to do was walk up to the bed and let someone pet her and ooh and ahh…and she LOVED it.  Penny is all about love and attention and now she was in her element.\n\n&nbsp;\n\n<strong>By the last room, she jumped in the bed with the patient. </strong>\n\n&nbsp;\n\nYou see, Snoopy the Schnauzer arrived late due to bad weather and Snoopy gets to go on the bed, so Penny thought “why not?”\n\n&nbsp;\n\nPenny and I will be make 2-3 visits a month at a hospital and a nursing home.  I left the hospital knowing that just for a few minutes, that person forgot about feeling sick, hurt or pain.  They stroked Penny’s velvety ears and for a few minutes, their troubles were just a little bit less.  I realized when I got to the car that was probably the best part of their day.  I look forward to returning and giving someone a chance to benefit from what Penny gives me every day.\n\n&nbsp;\n\n<strong>So, there you have it, my sentimental, non-playful guest piece for my Sissy’s blog.  How did I do?  Let me know in the comments! </strong>\n\n&nbsp;\n\nBetter yet, skip the comments.  I’m a Cancer and we’re known for being sensitive.  :-)\n\n&nbsp;\n\n<em>(Note from Late Bloomer Sis:  Kindly ignore my sister and please DO cheer Jennie and Penny on in the comments section!)</em>\n\n&nbsp;\n\nOh, and the last patient that Penny joined in bed?  She laughed and asked if Penny could stay to keep her company and then I heard her talking on the phone about it.  :-)\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;','Playdate #19:  Guest Post from Sis and Her Therapy Pooch','','inherit','open','open','','10630-revision-2','','','2012-07-01 16:46:26','2012-07-01 23:46:26','',10630,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2012/07/01/10630-revision-2/',0,'revision','',0),(10635,1,'2012-07-01 16:48:10','2012-07-01 23:48:10','<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?attachment_id=10632\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10632\"><img class=\"alignleft  wp-image-10632\" title=\"P1010112\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/P1010112-1024x768.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"393\" height=\"295\" /></a>Hi!  I’m Jennie aka Late Bloomer’s sister.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nWhen my sissy started a blog last year, she asked me if I would ever want to guest blog.  I said yes because, honestly, it’s easier sometimes to just say yes to her.  I figured she would forget and I would be off the hook…and I was…until now.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nMy sister and I are complete opposites.  If she’s Late Bloomer, I’m Early Bloomer.  I got married at 20, have 2 kids, live in the suburbs, drove a mini-van for a few years…get where I’m going with this?  Opposites!  I actually dodged the bullet during her Year of Living Curiously and pawned off that <strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2011/09/10/day-347-guest-post-from-worlds-most-precious-niece-2/\" target=\"_blank\">guest blog request on my daughter</a>.</strong>\n\n&nbsp;\n\nNow it’s the Year of Play and I’m pretty sure I’m the most unplayful (Is that a word? Sure, let’s say it is!) person my sister knows.  ‘She has kids!’ you may be thinking.  I have a teenage son and a tween daughter.  I’m totally uncool right now.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nSo, when Sissy asked again I thought, “Why is she asking the one year I’m NOT doing the <a href=\"http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8cfQhsWkOKI \" target=\"_blank\"><strong>48 Hour Film Project</strong></a>!” So, here I sit writing a blog for Sissy that she has coined “a sentimental piece”.  Let’s just hope she doesn’t fire me like she did when I was Frenchy in her <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/09/19/day-3-flashback-friday-grease-sing-along/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>“Grease” production</strong>.</a>\n\n&nbsp;\n\nWhen my beloved grandfather was moved to hospice care for the final days of his life, my mother texted me a photo of a little poodle visiting his room.  My mother told me that a group of volunteers come to visit the patients with their dogs.  Even though Papa was in a coma, he responded to the touch of the dog.\n\n&nbsp;\n\n<strong><span style=\"color: #008000; font-size: medium;\">I was so touched by this story and hearing how a visit from the animals lifted her spirits, I decided to explore this option with my dog in my grandfather’s memory.</span>  </strong>\n\n&nbsp;\n\nPenny is my rescue pup.  She’s a 45 pound Boxer/Jack Russell mix with velvety ears, eyes that will melt your heart and the silliest lop-sided tail.  When I heard of this program, I knew Penny would be the perfect dog for this type of work.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nAfter some google searches, dead ends, etc. I finally discovered a local group called <a href=\"http://www.caringcritters.org/  \" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Caring Critters</strong>.</a>  They hold workshops twice a year to certify new handlers and their pets.  A few weeks ago I attended the workshop where I learned all sorts of information on Animal Assisted Therapy.  By the end of the workshop, I committed to bringing Penny the following weekend for a temperament test.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nThis weekend was my first visit with Penny.  To prepare for the visit, she had her nails trimmed and a bath and was ready to go.  I posted on my Facebook status that I was ready for my first Pet Therapy visit and soon realized that some people may think I’m taking my dog to a shrink and leave a nasty comment including the f word.  (Note to self:  Always use the term Animal Assisted Therapy!)\n\n&nbsp;\n\n<span style=\"color: #008000;\"><strong><span style=\"font-size: medium;\">Penny and I arrived at the hospital and she met her teammates, Tucker (lab), Shasta and Reveille, a pair of direwolves. </span> </strong></span>\n\n&nbsp;\n\nOK, they are really Great Pyrenees, but if you watch Game of Thrones, they totally look like direwolves…which I called them for the rest of the visit.  Their parents did not seem as amused by this as I was.  Their loss!\n\n&nbsp;\n\nA hospital visit is a social visit where the team goes room to room to visit the patients.  The patient has the opportunity to decline the visit, but only one or two did.  I did notice a common trend of the visitors accepting the visit when the patient said no. Heh heh heh.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nAt first Penny was very curious and sniffy and I had to pull her over to the bed to be pet.  After about the 5<sup>th</sup> room, Penny finally realized that she wasn’t there to lick the floor, investigate the trash can, or stick her head in the bathroom.  All she had to do was walk up to the bed and let someone pet her and ooh and ahh…and she LOVED it.  Penny is all about love and attention and now she was in her element.\n\n&nbsp;\n\n<span style=\"font-size: medium; color: #008000;\"><strong>By the last room, she jumped in the bed with the patient. </strong></span>\n\n&nbsp;\n\nYou see, Snoopy the Schnauzer arrived late due to bad weather and Snoopy gets to go on the bed, so Penny thought “why not?”\n\n&nbsp;\n\nPenny and I will be make 2-3 visits a month at a hospital and a nursing home.  I left the hospital knowing that just for a few minutes, that person forgot about feeling sick, hurt or pain.  They stroked Penny’s velvety ears and for a few minutes, their troubles were just a little bit less.  I realized when I got to the car that was probably the best part of their day.  I look forward to returning and giving someone a chance to benefit from what Penny gives me every day.\n\n&nbsp;\n\n<span style=\"font-size: medium; color: #008000;\"><strong>So, there you have it, my sentimental, non-playful guest piece for my Sissy’s blog.  How did I do?  Let me know in the comments! </strong></span>\n\n&nbsp;\n\nBetter yet, skip the comments.  I’m a Cancer and we’re known for being sensitive.  :-)\n\n&nbsp;\n\nOh, and the last patient that Penny joined in bed?  She laughed and asked if Penny could stay to keep her company and then I heard her talking on the phone about it.  :-)\n\n&nbsp;\n\n**********\n\n&nbsp;\n\n<span style=\"font-size: medium;\"><em>(Note from Late Bloomer Sis:  Kindly ignore my sister and please DO cheer Jennie and Penny on in the comments section!)</em></span>\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;','Playdate #19:  Guest Post from Sis and Her Therapy Pooch','','inherit','open','open','','10630-revision-3','','','2012-07-01 16:48:10','2012-07-01 23:48:10','',10630,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2012/07/01/10630-revision-3/',0,'revision','',0),(10636,1,'2012-07-01 16:48:42','2012-07-01 23:48:42','<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?attachment_id=10632\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10632\"><img class=\"alignleft  wp-image-10632\" title=\"P1010112\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/P1010112-1024x768.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"393\" height=\"295\" /></a>Hi!  I’m Jennie aka Late Bloomer’s sister.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nWhen my sissy started a blog last year, she asked me if I would ever want to guest blog.  I said yes because, honestly, it’s easier sometimes to just say yes to her.  I figured she would forget and I would be off the hook…and I was…until now.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nMy sister and I are complete opposites.  If she’s Late Bloomer, I’m Early Bloomer.  I got married at 20, have 2 kids, live in the suburbs, drove a mini-van for a few years…get where I’m going with this?  Opposites!  I actually dodged the bullet during her Year of Living Curiously and pawned off that <strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2011/09/10/day-347-guest-post-from-worlds-most-precious-niece-2/\" target=\"_blank\">guest blog request on my daughter</a>.</strong>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nNow it’s the Year of Play and I’m pretty sure I’m the most unplayful (Is that a word? Sure, let’s say it is!) person my sister knows.  ‘She has kids!’ you may be thinking.  I have a teenage son and a tween daughter.  I’m totally uncool right now.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nSo, when Sissy asked again I thought, “Why is she asking the one year I’m NOT doing the <a href=\"http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8cfQhsWkOKI \" target=\"_blank\"><strong>48 Hour Film Project</strong></a>!” So, here I sit writing a blog for Sissy that she has coined “a sentimental piece”.  Let’s just hope she doesn’t fire me like she did when I was Frenchy in her <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/09/19/day-3-flashback-friday-grease-sing-along/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>“Grease” production</strong>.</a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nWhen my beloved grandfather was moved to hospice care for the final days of his life, my mother texted me a photo of a little poodle visiting his room.  My mother told me that a group of volunteers come to visit the patients with their dogs.  Even though Papa was in a coma, he responded to the touch of the dog.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<strong><span style=\"color: #008000; font-size: medium;\">I was so touched by this story and hearing how a visit from the animals lifted her spirits, I decided to explore this option with my dog in my grandfather’s memory.</span>  </strong>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nPenny is my rescue pup.  She’s a 45 pound Boxer/Jack Russell mix with velvety ears, eyes that will melt your heart and the silliest lop-sided tail.  When I heard of this program, I knew Penny would be the perfect dog for this type of work.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAfter some google searches, dead ends, etc. I finally discovered a local group called <a href=\"http://www.caringcritters.org/  \" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Caring Critters</strong>.</a>  They hold workshops twice a year to certify new handlers and their pets.  A few weeks ago I attended the workshop where I learned all sorts of information on Animal Assisted Therapy.  By the end of the workshop, I committed to bringing Penny the following weekend for a temperament test.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nThis weekend was my first visit with Penny.  To prepare for the visit, she had her nails trimmed and a bath and was ready to go.  I posted on my Facebook status that I was ready for my first Pet Therapy visit and soon realized that some people may think I’m taking my dog to a shrink and leave a nasty comment including the f word.  (Note to self:  Always use the term Animal Assisted Therapy!)\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<span style=\"color: #008000;\"><strong><span style=\"font-size: medium;\">Penny and I arrived at the hospital and she met her teammates, Tucker (lab), Shasta and Reveille, a pair of direwolves. </span> </strong></span>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nOK, they are really Great Pyrenees, but if you watch Game of Thrones, they totally look like direwolves…which I called them for the rest of the visit.  Their parents did not seem as amused by this as I was.  Their loss!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nA hospital visit is a social visit where the team goes room to room to visit the patients.  The patient has the opportunity to decline the visit, but only one or two did.  I did notice a common trend of the visitors accepting the visit when the patient said no. Heh heh heh.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAt first Penny was very curious and sniffy and I had to pull her over to the bed to be pet.  After about the 5<sup>th</sup> room, Penny finally realized that she wasn’t there to lick the floor, investigate the trash can, or stick her head in the bathroom.  All she had to do was walk up to the bed and let someone pet her and ooh and ahh…and she LOVED it.  Penny is all about love and attention and now she was in her element.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<span style=\"font-size: medium; color: #008000;\"><strong>By the last room, she jumped in the bed with the patient. </strong></span>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nYou see, Snoopy the Schnauzer arrived late due to bad weather and Snoopy gets to go on the bed, so Penny thought “why not?”\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nPenny and I will be make 2-3 visits a month at a hospital and a nursing home.  I left the hospital knowing that just for a few minutes, that person forgot about feeling sick, hurt or pain.  They stroked Penny’s velvety ears and for a few minutes, their troubles were just a little bit less.  I realized when I got to the car that was probably the best part of their day.  I look forward to returning and giving someone a chance to benefit from what Penny gives me every day.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<span style=\"font-size: medium; color: #008000;\"><strong>So, there you have it, my sentimental, non-playful guest piece for my Sissy’s blog.  How did I do?  Let me know in the comments! </strong></span>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nBetter yet, skip the comments.  I’m a Cancer and we’re known for being sensitive.  :-)\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nOh, and the last patient that Penny joined in bed?  She laughed and asked if Penny could stay to keep her company and then I heard her talking on the phone about it.  :-)\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n**********\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<strong><span style=\"font-size: medium; color: #800000;\"><em>(Note from Late Bloomer Sis:  Kindly ignore my sister and please DO cheer Jennie and Penny on in the comments section! :-D )</em></span></strong>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;','Playdate #19:  Guest Post from Sis and Her Therapy Pooch','','inherit','open','open','','10630-revision-4','','','2012-07-01 16:48:42','2012-07-01 23:48:42','',10630,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2012/07/01/10630-revision-4/',0,'revision','',0),(10637,1,'2012-07-01 16:49:46','2012-07-01 23:49:46','<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?attachment_id=10632\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10632\"><img class=\"alignleft  wp-image-10632\" title=\"P1010112\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/P1010112-1024x768.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"393\" height=\"295\" /></a>Hi!  I’m Jennie aka Late Bloomer’s sister.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nWhen my sissy started a blog last year, she asked me if I would ever want to guest blog.  I said yes because, honestly, it’s easier sometimes to just say yes to her.  I figured she would forget and I would be off the hook…and I was…until now.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nMy sister and I are complete opposites.  If she’s Late Bloomer, I’m Early Bloomer.  I got married at 20, have 2 kids, live in the suburbs, drove a mini-van for a few years…get where I’m going with this?  Opposites!  I actually dodged the bullet during her Year of Living Curiously and pawned off that <strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2011/09/10/day-347-guest-post-from-worlds-most-precious-niece-2/\" target=\"_blank\">guest blog request on my daughter</a>.</strong>\n\n&nbsp;\n\nNow it’s the Year of Play and I’m pretty sure I’m the most unplayful (Is that a word? Sure, let’s say it is!) person my sister knows.  ‘She has kids!’ you may be thinking.  I have a teenage son and a tween daughter.  I’m totally uncool right now.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nSo, when Sissy asked again I thought, “Why is she asking the one year I’m NOT doing the <a href=\"http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8cfQhsWkOKI \" target=\"_blank\"><strong>48 Hour Film Project</strong></a>!” So, here I sit writing a blog for Sissy that she has coined “a sentimental piece”.  Let’s just hope she doesn’t fire me like she did when I was Frenchy in her <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/09/19/day-3-flashback-friday-grease-sing-along/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>“Grease” production</strong>.</a>\n\n&nbsp;\n\nWhen my beloved grandfather was moved to hospice care for the final days of his life, my mother texted me a photo of a little poodle visiting his room.  My mother told me that a group of volunteers come to visit the patients with their dogs.  Even though Papa was in a coma, he responded to the touch of the dog.\n\n&nbsp;\n\n<strong><span style=\"color: #008000; font-size: medium;\">I was so touched by this story and hearing how a visit from the animals lifted her spirits, I decided to explore this option with my dog in my grandfather’s memory.</span>  </strong>\n\n&nbsp;\n\nPenny is my rescue pup.  She’s a 45 pound Boxer/Jack Russell mix with velvety ears, eyes that will melt your heart and the silliest lop-sided tail.  When I heard of this program, I knew Penny would be the perfect dog for this type of work.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nAfter some google searches, dead ends, etc. I finally discovered a local group called <a href=\"http://www.caringcritters.org/  \" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Caring Critters</strong>.</a>  They hold workshops twice a year to certify new handlers and their pets.  A few weeks ago I attended the workshop where I learned all sorts of information on Animal Assisted Therapy.  By the end of the workshop, I committed to bringing Penny the following weekend for a temperament test.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nThis weekend was my first visit with Penny.  To prepare for the visit, she had her nails trimmed and a bath and was ready to go.  I posted on my Facebook status that I was ready for my first Pet Therapy visit and soon realized that some people may think I’m taking my dog to a shrink and leave a nasty comment including the f word.  (Note to self:  Always use the term Animal Assisted Therapy!)\n\n&nbsp;\n\n<span style=\"color: #008000;\"><strong><span style=\"font-size: medium;\">Penny and I arrived at the hospital and she met her teammates, Tucker (lab), Shasta and Reveille, a pair of direwolves. </span> </strong></span>\n\n&nbsp;\n\nOK, they are really Great Pyrenees, but if you watch Game of Thrones, they totally look like direwolves…which I called them for the rest of the visit.  Their parents did not seem as amused by this as I was.  Their loss!\n\n&nbsp;\n\nA hospital visit is a social visit where the team goes room to room to visit the patients.  The patient has the opportunity to decline the visit, but only one or two did.  I did notice a common trend of the visitors accepting the visit when the patient said no. Heh heh heh.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nAt first Penny was very curious and sniffy and I had to pull her over to the bed to be pet.  After about the 5<sup>th</sup> room, Penny finally realized that she wasn’t there to lick the floor, investigate the trash can, or stick her head in the bathroom.  All she had to do was walk up to the bed and let someone pet her and ooh and ahh…and she LOVED it.  Penny is all about love and attention and now she was in her element.\n\n&nbsp;\n\n<span style=\"font-size: medium; color: #008000;\"><strong>By the last room, she jumped in the bed with the patient. </strong></span>\n\n&nbsp;\n\nYou see, Snoopy the Schnauzer arrived late due to bad weather and Snoopy gets to go on the bed, so Penny thought “why not?”\n\n&nbsp;\n\nPenny and I will be make 2-3 visits a month at a hospital and a nursing home.  I left the hospital knowing that just for a few minutes, that person forgot about feeling sick, hurt or pain.  They stroked Penny’s velvety ears and for a few minutes, their troubles were just a little bit less.  I realized when I got to the car that was probably the best part of their day.  I look forward to returning and giving someone a chance to benefit from what Penny gives me every day.\n\n&nbsp;\n\n<span style=\"font-size: medium; color: #008000;\"><strong>So, there you have it, my sentimental, non-playful guest piece for my Sissy’s blog.  How did I do?  Let me know in the comments! </strong></span>\n\n&nbsp;\n\nBetter yet, skip the comments.  I’m a Cancer and we’re known for being sensitive.  :-)\n\n&nbsp;\n\nOh, and the last patient that Penny joined in bed?  She laughed and asked if Penny could stay to keep her company and then I heard her talking on the phone about it.  :-)\n\n&nbsp;\n\n**********\n\n&nbsp;\n\n<strong><span style=\"font-size: medium; color: #800000;\"><em>(Note from Late Bloomer Sis:  Kindly ignore my sister and please DO cheer Jennie and Penny on in the comments section! :-D )</em></span></strong>\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;','Playdate #19:  Guest Post from Sis and Her Therapy Pooch','','inherit','open','open','','10630-revision-5','','','2012-07-01 16:49:46','2012-07-01 23:49:46','',10630,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2012/07/01/10630-revision-5/',0,'revision','',0),(10638,1,'2012-07-01 16:50:02','2012-07-01 23:50:02','<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?attachment_id=10632\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10632\"><img class=\"alignleft  wp-image-10632\" title=\"P1010112\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/P1010112-1024x768.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"393\" height=\"295\" /></a>Hi!  I’m Jennie aka Late Bloomer’s sister.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nWhen my sissy started a blog last year, she asked me if I would ever want to guest blog.  I said yes because, honestly, it’s easier sometimes to just say yes to her.  I figured she would forget and I would be off the hook…and I was…until now.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nMy sister and I are complete opposites.  If she’s Late Bloomer, I’m Early Bloomer.  I got married at 20, have 2 kids, live in the suburbs, drove a mini-van for a few years…get where I’m going with this?  Opposites!  I actually dodged the bullet during her Year of Living Curiously and pawned off that <strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2011/09/10/day-347-guest-post-from-worlds-most-precious-niece-2/\" target=\"_blank\">guest blog request on my daughter</a>.</strong>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nNow it’s the Year of Play and I’m pretty sure I’m the most unplayful (Is that a word? Sure, let’s say it is!) person my sister knows.  ‘She has kids!’ you may be thinking.  I have a teenage son and a tween daughter.  I’m totally uncool right now.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nSo, when Sissy asked again I thought, “Why is she asking the one year I’m NOT doing the <a href=\"http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8cfQhsWkOKI \" target=\"_blank\"><strong>48 Hour Film Project</strong></a>!” So, here I sit writing a blog for Sissy that she has coined “a sentimental piece”.  Let’s just hope she doesn’t fire me like she did when I was Frenchy in her <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/09/19/day-3-flashback-friday-grease-sing-along/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>“Grease” production</strong>.</a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nWhen my beloved grandfather was moved to hospice care for the final days of his life, my mother texted me a photo of a little poodle visiting his room.  My mother told me that a group of volunteers come to visit the patients with their dogs.  Even though Papa was in a coma, he responded to the touch of the dog.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<strong><span style=\"color: #008000; font-size: medium;\">I was so touched by this story and hearing how a visit from the animals lifted her spirits, I decided to explore this option with my dog in my grandfather’s memory.</span>  </strong>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nPenny is my rescue pup.  She’s a 45 pound Boxer/Jack Russell mix with velvety ears, eyes that will melt your heart and the silliest lop-sided tail.  When I heard of this program, I knew Penny would be the perfect dog for this type of work.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAfter some google searches, dead ends, etc. I finally discovered a local group called <a href=\"http://www.caringcritters.org/  \" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Caring Critters</strong>.</a>  They hold workshops twice a year to certify new handlers and their pets.  A few weeks ago I attended the workshop where I learned all sorts of information on Animal Assisted Therapy.  By the end of the workshop, I committed to bringing Penny the following weekend for a temperament test.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nThis weekend was my first visit with Penny.  To prepare for the visit, she had her nails trimmed and a bath and was ready to go.  I posted on my Facebook status that I was ready for my first Pet Therapy visit and soon realized that some people may think I’m taking my dog to a shrink and leave a nasty comment including the f word.  (Note to self:  Always use the term Animal Assisted Therapy!)\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<span style=\"color: #008000;\"><strong><span style=\"font-size: medium;\">Penny and I arrived at the hospital and she met her teammates, Tucker (lab), Shasta and Reveille, a pair of direwolves. </span> </strong></span>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nOK, they are really Great Pyrenees, but if you watch Game of Thrones, they totally look like direwolves…which I called them for the rest of the visit.  Their parents did not seem as amused by this as I was.  Their loss!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nA hospital visit is a social visit where the team goes room to room to visit the patients.  The patient has the opportunity to decline the visit, but only one or two did.  I did notice a common trend of the visitors accepting the visit when the patient said no. Heh heh heh.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAt first Penny was very curious and sniffy and I had to pull her over to the bed to be pet.  After about the 5<sup>th</sup> room, Penny finally realized that she wasn’t there to lick the floor, investigate the trash can, or stick her head in the bathroom.  All she had to do was walk up to the bed and let someone pet her and ooh and ahh…and she LOVED it.  Penny is all about love and attention and now she was in her element.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<span style=\"font-size: medium; color: #008000;\"><strong>By the last room, she jumped in the bed with the patient. </strong></span>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nYou see, Snoopy the Schnauzer arrived late due to bad weather and Snoopy gets to go on the bed, so Penny thought “why not?”\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nPenny and I will be make 2-3 visits a month at a hospital and a nursing home.  I left the hospital knowing that just for a few minutes, that person forgot about feeling sick, hurt or pain.  They stroked Penny’s velvety ears and for a few minutes, their troubles were just a little bit less.  I realized when I got to the car that was probably the best part of their day.  I look forward to returning and giving someone a chance to benefit from what Penny gives me every day.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<span style=\"font-size: medium; color: #008000;\"><strong>So, there you have it, my sentimental, non-playful guest piece for my Sissy’s blog.  How did I do?  Let me know in the comments! </strong></span>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nBetter yet, skip the comments.  I’m a Cancer and we’re known for being sensitive.  :-)\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nOh, and the last patient that Penny joined in bed?  She laughed and asked if Penny could stay to keep her company and then I heard her talking on the phone about it.  :-)\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n**********\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<strong><span style=\"font-size: medium; color: #800000;\"><em>(Note from Late Bloomer Sis:  Kindly ignore my sister and please DO cheer Jennie and Penny on in the comments section! :-D )</em></span></strong>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;','Playdate #19:  Guest Post from Sis and Her Therapy Pooch','','inherit','open','open','','10630-revision-6','','','2012-07-01 16:50:02','2012-07-01 23:50:02','',10630,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2012/07/01/10630-revision-6/',0,'revision','',0),(10639,1,'2012-07-01 16:50:26','2012-07-01 23:50:26','<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?attachment_id=10632\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10632\"><img class=\"alignleft  wp-image-10632\" title=\"P1010112\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/P1010112-1024x768.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"393\" height=\"295\" /></a>Hi!  I’m Jennie aka Late Bloomer’s sister.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nWhen my sissy started a blog last year, she asked me if I would ever want to guest blog.  I said yes because, honestly, it’s easier sometimes to just say yes to her.  I figured she would forget and I would be off the hook…and I was…until now.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nMy sister and I are complete opposites.  If she’s Late Bloomer, I’m Early Bloomer.  I got married at 20, have 2 kids, live in the suburbs, drove a mini-van for a few years…get where I’m going with this?  Opposites!  I actually dodged the bullet during her Year of Living Curiously and pawned off that <strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2011/09/10/day-347-guest-post-from-worlds-most-precious-niece-2/\" target=\"_blank\">guest blog request on my daughter</a>.</strong>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nNow it’s the Year of Play and I’m pretty sure I’m the most unplayful (Is that a word? Sure, let’s say it is!) person my sister knows.  ‘She has kids!’ you may be thinking.  I have a teenage son and a tween daughter.  I’m totally uncool right now.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nSo, when Sissy asked again I thought, “Why is she asking the one year I’m NOT doing the <a href=\"http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8cfQhsWkOKI \" target=\"_blank\"><strong>48 Hour Film Project</strong></a>!” So, here I sit writing a blog for Sissy that she has coined “a sentimental piece”.  Let’s just hope she doesn’t fire me like she did when I was Frenchy in her <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/09/19/day-3-flashback-friday-grease-sing-along/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>“Grease” production</strong>.</a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nWhen my beloved grandfather was moved to hospice care for the final days of his life, my mother texted me a photo of a little poodle visiting his room.  My mother told me that a group of volunteers come to visit the patients with their dogs.  Even though Papa was in a coma, he responded to the touch of the dog.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<strong><span style=\"color: #008000; font-size: medium;\">I was so touched by this story and hearing how a visit from the animals lifted her spirits, I decided to explore this option with my dog in my grandfather’s memory.</span>  </strong>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nPenny is my rescue pup.  She’s a 45 pound Boxer/Jack Russell mix with velvety ears, eyes that will melt your heart and the silliest lop-sided tail.  When I heard of this program, I knew Penny would be the perfect dog for this type of work.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAfter some google searches, dead ends, etc. I finally discovered a local group called <a href=\"http://www.caringcritters.org/  \" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Caring Critters</strong>.</a>  They hold workshops twice a year to certify new handlers and their pets.  A few weeks ago I attended the workshop where I learned all sorts of information on Animal Assisted Therapy.  By the end of the workshop, I committed to bringing Penny the following weekend for a temperament test.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nThis weekend was my first visit with Penny.  To prepare for the visit, she had her nails trimmed and a bath and was ready to go.  I posted on my Facebook status that I was ready for my first Pet Therapy visit and soon realized that some people may think I’m taking my dog to a shrink and leave a nasty comment including the f word.  (Note to self:  Always use the term Animal Assisted Therapy!)\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<span style=\"color: #008000;\"><strong><span style=\"font-size: medium;\">Penny and I arrived at the hospital and she met her teammates, Tucker (lab), Shasta and Reveille, a pair of direwolves. </span> </strong></span>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nOK, they are really Great Pyrenees, but if you watch Game of Thrones, they totally look like direwolves…which I called them for the rest of the visit.  Their parents did not seem as amused by this as I was.  Their loss!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nA hospital visit is a social visit where the team goes room to room to visit the patients.  The patient has the opportunity to decline the visit, but only one or two did.  I did notice a common trend of the visitors accepting the visit when the patient said no. Heh heh heh.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAt first Penny was very curious and sniffy and I had to pull her over to the bed to be pet.  After about the 5<sup>th</sup> room, Penny finally realized that she wasn’t there to lick the floor, investigate the trash can, or stick her head in the bathroom.  All she had to do was walk up to the bed and let someone pet her and ooh and ahh…and she LOVED it.  Penny is all about love and attention and now she was in her element.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<span style=\"font-size: medium; color: #008000;\"><strong>By the last room, she jumped in the bed with the patient. </strong></span>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nYou see, Snoopy the Schnauzer arrived late due to bad weather and Snoopy gets to go on the bed, so Penny thought “why not?”\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nPenny and I will be make 2-3 visits a month at a hospital and a nursing home.  I left the hospital knowing that just for a few minutes, that person forgot about feeling sick, hurt or pain.  They stroked Penny’s velvety ears and for a few minutes, their troubles were just a little bit less.  I realized when I got to the car that was probably the best part of their day.  I look forward to returning and giving someone a chance to benefit from what Penny gives me every day.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<span style=\"font-size: medium; color: #008000;\"><strong>So, there you have it, my sentimental, non-playful guest piece for my Sissy’s blog.  How did I do?  Let me know in the comments! </strong></span>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nBetter yet, skip the comments.  I’m a Cancer and we’re known for being sensitive.  :-)\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nOh, and the last patient that Penny joined in bed?  She laughed and asked if Penny could stay to keep her company and then I heard her talking on the phone about it.  :-)\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n**********\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<strong><span style=\"font-size: medium; color: #800000;\"><em>(Note from Late Bloomer Sis:  Kindly ignore my sister and please DO cheer Jennie and Penny on in the comments section! :-D )</em></span></strong>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;','Playdate #19:  Guest Post from Sis and Her Therapy Pooch','','inherit','open','open','','10630-revision-7','','','2012-07-01 16:50:26','2012-07-01 23:50:26','',10630,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2012/07/01/10630-revision-7/',0,'revision','',0),(10641,1,'2012-07-03 01:11:29','2012-07-03 08:11:29','&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[gallery order=\"DESC\"]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nHow do you envision a desert?  Like most people, do you picture a brown and barren wasteland?\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nYes, I live in a desert.  But don\'t forget that deserts contain oases!  My personal favorite Phoenician oasis is Saguaro Lake.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAll aboard!  Join Michelle and Kim as they tour Saguaro Lake via <a href=\"http://www.desertbelle.com/about/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>The Desert Belle.</strong></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<iframe src=\"http://www.youtube.com/embed/aX7U0V-RPGs\" frameborder=\"0\" width=\"480\" height=\"360\"></iframe>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI am not sure what\'s funnier about this video: My archaic \"video camera\" that produces a vintage look circa 1956 or my excessively animated reactions. It\'s a good thing that I don\'t embarrass easily. :-D\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nBonus points if you can name the score that starts playing around :50. Hint:  It\'s from a movie whose cinematography is equally as lush.  The score makes me melt every time I hear it. Sigh . . . .\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<span style=\"color: #0000ff; font-size: medium;\"><strong>Name That Tune in the comments section!</strong></span>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;','Playdate #20:  Desert Oasis','','publish','open','open','','playdate-20-desert-oasis','','','2012-07-03 20:28:10','2012-07-04 03:28:10','',0,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?p=10641',0,'post','',15),(10666,1,'2012-07-02 20:35:00','2012-07-03 03:35:00','&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[gallery]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nHow do you envision a desert?  Like most people, do you picture a brown and barren wasteland?\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nYes, I live in a desert.  But don\'t forget that deserts contain oases!  My personal favorite Phoenician oasis is Saguaro Lake.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAll aboard!  Join Michelle and Kim as they tour Saguaro Lake via <a href=\"http://www.desertbelle.com/about/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>The Desert Belle.</strong></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<iframe src=\"http://www.youtube.com/embed/aX7U0V-RPGs\" frameborder=\"0\" width=\"480\" height=\"360\"></iframe>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI am not sure what\'s funnier about this video: My archaic \"video camera\" that produces a vintage look via 1956 or my excessively animated reactions. It\'s a good thing that I don\'t embarrass easily. :-D\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nBonus points if you can name the score that starts playing around :50. Hint:  It\'s from a movie whose cinematography is equally as lush.  The score makes me melt every time I hear it. Sigh . . . .\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<span style=\"color: #0000ff; font-size: medium;\"><strong>Name That Tune in the comments section!</strong></span>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;','Playdate #20:  Desert Oasis','','inherit','open','open','','10641-revision-14','','','2012-07-02 20:35:00','2012-07-03 03:35:00','',10641,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2012/07/02/10641-revision-14/',0,'revision','',0),(10643,1,'2012-07-02 19:06:31','2012-07-03 02:06:31','','OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA','','inherit','open','open','','olympus-digital-camera-738','','','2012-07-02 19:06:31','2012-07-03 02:06:31','',10641,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/P5190043.jpg',0,'attachment','image/jpeg',0),(10644,1,'2012-07-02 19:06:49','2012-07-03 02:06:49','','OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA','','inherit','open','open','','olympus-digital-camera-739','','','2012-07-02 19:06:49','2012-07-03 02:06:49','',10641,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/P5190045.jpg',0,'attachment','image/jpeg',0),(10645,1,'2012-07-02 19:07:08','2012-07-03 02:07:08','','OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA','','inherit','open','open','','olympus-digital-camera-740','','','2012-07-02 19:07:08','2012-07-03 02:07:08','',10641,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/P5190050.jpg',0,'attachment','image/jpeg',0),(10646,1,'2012-07-02 19:07:24','2012-07-03 02:07:24','','OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA','','inherit','open','open','','olympus-digital-camera-741','','','2012-07-02 19:07:24','2012-07-03 02:07:24','',10641,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/P5190056.jpg',0,'attachment','image/jpeg',0),(10647,1,'2012-07-02 19:00:33','2012-07-03 02:00:33','','Playdate #20:  Desert Oasis','','inherit','open','open','','10641-revision','','','2012-07-02 19:00:33','2012-07-03 02:00:33','',10641,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2012/07/02/10641-revision/',0,'revision','',0),(10648,1,'2012-07-02 20:08:10','2012-07-03 03:08:10','[gallery]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nHow do you envision a desert?','Playdate #20:  Desert Oasis','','inherit','open','open','','10641-revision-2','','','2012-07-02 20:08:10','2012-07-03 03:08:10','',10641,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2012/07/02/10641-revision-2/',0,'revision','',0),(10652,1,'2012-07-02 20:12:10','2012-07-03 03:12:10','','OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA','','inherit','open','open','','olympus-digital-camera-742','','','2012-07-02 20:12:10','2012-07-03 03:12:10','',10641,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/P5190066.jpg',0,'attachment','image/jpeg',0),(10653,1,'2012-07-02 20:08:19','2012-07-03 03:08:19','[gallery]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nHow do you envision a desert?','Playdate #20:  Desert Oasis','','inherit','open','open','','10641-revision-3','','','2012-07-02 20:08:19','2012-07-03 03:08:19','',10641,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2012/07/02/10641-revision-3/',0,'revision','',0),(10654,1,'2012-07-02 20:13:24','2012-07-03 03:13:24','&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[gallery]\r\n\r\nHow do you envision a desert?','Playdate #20:  Desert Oasis','','inherit','open','open','','10641-revision-4','','','2012-07-02 20:13:24','2012-07-03 03:13:24','',10641,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2012/07/02/10641-revision-4/',0,'revision','',0),(10655,1,'2012-07-02 20:13:37','2012-07-03 03:13:37','&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[gallery]\r\n\r\nHow do you envision a desert?','Playdate #20:  Desert Oasis','','inherit','open','open','','10641-revision-5','','','2012-07-02 20:13:37','2012-07-03 03:13:37','',10641,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2012/07/02/10641-revision-5/',0,'revision','',0),(10656,1,'2012-07-02 20:22:08','2012-07-03 03:22:08','&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[gallery]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nHow do you envision a desert?  Like most people, do you picture a brown and barren wasteland?\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nYes, I live in a desert.  But don\'t forget that deserts contain oases!  My personal favorite Phoenician oasis is Saguaro Lake.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAll aboard!  Join Michelle and Kim as they tour Saguaro Lake via <a href=\"http://www.desertbelle.com/about/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>The Desert Belle.</strong></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<iframe width=\"480\" height=\"360\" src=\"http://www.youtube.com/embed/aX7U0V-RPGs\" frameborder=\"0\" allowfullscreen></iframe>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;','Playdate #20:  Desert Oasis','','inherit','open','open','','10641-revision-6','','','2012-07-02 20:22:08','2012-07-03 03:22:08','',10641,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2012/07/02/10641-revision-6/',0,'revision','',0),(10657,1,'2012-07-02 20:25:21','2012-07-03 03:25:21','&nbsp;\n\n[gallery]\n\n&nbsp;\n\nHow do you envision a desert?  Like most people, do you picture a brown and barren wasteland?\n\n&nbsp;\n\nYes, I live in a desert.  But don\'t forget that deserts contain oases!  My personal favorite Phoenician oasis is Saguaro Lake.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nAll aboard!  Join Michelle and Kim as they tour Saguaro Lake via <a href=\"http://www.desertbelle.com/about/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>The Desert Belle.</strong></a>\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\n<iframe width=\"480\" height=\"360\" src=\"http://www.youtube.com/embed/aX7U0V-RPGs\" frameborder=\"0\" allowfullscreen></iframe>\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\nI am not sure what\'s funnier about this video:  My archaic \"video camera\" that produces a vintage look via 1956 or my excessively animated reactions.  It\'s a good thing that I don\'t get embarrassed easily.  :-D \n\nBonus points if you can name the score that starts playing around :50.  That music makes me melt everytime I hear it.  Sigh . . . .   ','Playdate #20:  Desert Oasis','','inherit','open','open','','10641-revision-7','','','2012-07-02 20:25:21','2012-07-03 03:25:21','',10641,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2012/07/02/10641-revision-7/',0,'revision','',0),(10658,1,'2012-07-02 20:25:52','2012-07-03 03:25:52','&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[gallery]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nHow do you envision a desert?  Like most people, do you picture a brown and barren wasteland?\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nYes, I live in a desert.  But don\'t forget that deserts contain oases!  My personal favorite Phoenician oasis is Saguaro Lake.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAll aboard!  Join Michelle and Kim as they tour Saguaro Lake via <a href=\"http://www.desertbelle.com/about/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>The Desert Belle.</strong></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<iframe width=\"480\" height=\"360\" src=\"http://www.youtube.com/embed/aX7U0V-RPGs\" frameborder=\"0\" allowfullscreen></iframe>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI am not sure what\'s funnier about this video:  My archaic \"video camera\" that produces a vintage look via 1956 or my excessively animated reactions.  It\'s a good thing that I don\'t get embarrassed easily.  :-D \r\n\r\nBonus points if you can name the score that starts playing around :50.  That music makes me melt every time I hear it.  Sigh . . . .  \r\n\r\nName That Tune in the comments section! ','Playdate #20:  Desert Oasis','','inherit','open','open','','10641-revision-8','','','2012-07-02 20:25:52','2012-07-03 03:25:52','',10641,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2012/07/02/10641-revision-8/',0,'revision','',0),(10659,1,'2012-07-02 20:27:53','2012-07-03 03:27:53','&nbsp;\n\n[gallery]\n\n&nbsp;\n\nHow do you envision a desert?  Like most people, do you picture a brown and barren wasteland?\n\n&nbsp;\n\nYes, I live in a desert.  But don\'t forget that deserts contain oases!  My personal favorite Phoenician oasis is Saguaro Lake.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nAll aboard!  Join Michelle and Kim as they tour Saguaro Lake via <a href=\"http://www.desertbelle.com/about/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>The Desert Belle.</strong></a>\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\n<iframe src=\"http://www.youtube.com/embed/aX7U0V-RPGs\" frameborder=\"0\" width=\"480\" height=\"360\"></iframe>\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\nI am not sure what\'s funnier about this video: My archaic \"video camera\" that produces a vintage look via 1956 or my excessively animated reactions. It\'s a good thing that I don\'t embarrass easily. :-D\n\n&nbsp;\n\nBonus points if you can name the score that starts playing around :50. That music makes me melt every time I hear it. Sigh . . . .\n\n&nbsp;\n\n<span style=\"color: #0000ff; font-size: medium;\"><strong>Name That Tune in the comments section!</strong></span>\n\n&nbsp;','Playdate #20:  Desert Oasis','','inherit','open','open','','10641-revision-9','','','2012-07-02 20:27:53','2012-07-03 03:27:53','',10641,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2012/07/02/10641-revision-9/',0,'revision','',0),(10660,1,'2012-07-02 20:29:09','2012-07-03 03:29:09','&nbsp;\n\n[gallery]\n\n&nbsp;\n\nHow do you envision a desert?  Like most people, do you picture a brown and barren wasteland?\n\n&nbsp;\n\nYes, I live in a desert.  But don\'t forget that deserts contain oases!  My personal favorite Phoenician oasis is Saguaro Lake.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nAll aboard!  Join Michelle and Kim as they tour Saguaro Lake via <a href=\"http://www.desertbelle.com/about/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>The Desert Belle.</strong></a>\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\n<iframe src=\"http://www.youtube.com/embed/aX7U0V-RPGs\" frameborder=\"0\" width=\"480\" height=\"360\"></iframe>\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\nI am not sure what\'s funnier about this video: My archaic \"video camera\" that produces a vintage look via 1956 or my excessively animated reactions. It\'s a good thing that I don\'t embarrass easily. :-D\n\n&nbsp;\n\nBonus points if you can name the score that starts playing around :50. That music makes me melt every time I hear it. Sigh . . . .\n\n&nbsp;\n\n<span style=\"color: #0000ff; font-size: medium;\"><strong>Name That Tune in the comments section!</strong></span>\n\n&nbsp;','Playdate #20:  Desert Oasis','','inherit','open','open','','10641-revision-10','','','2012-07-02 20:29:09','2012-07-03 03:29:09','',10641,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2012/07/02/10641-revision-10/',0,'revision','',0),(10661,1,'2012-07-02 20:30:31','2012-07-03 03:30:31','&nbsp;\n\n[gallery]\n\n&nbsp;\n\nHow do you envision a desert?  Like most people, do you picture a brown and barren wasteland?\n\n&nbsp;\n\nYes, I live in a desert.  But don\'t forget that deserts contain oases!  My personal favorite Phoenician oasis is Saguaro Lake.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nAll aboard!  Join Michelle and Kim as they tour Saguaro Lake via <a href=\"http://www.desertbelle.com/about/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>The Desert Belle.</strong></a>\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\n<iframe src=\"http://www.youtube.com/embed/aX7U0V-RPGs\" frameborder=\"0\" width=\"480\" height=\"360\"></iframe>\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\nI am not sure what\'s funnier about this video: My archaic \"video camera\" that produces a vintage look via 1956 or my excessively animated reactions. It\'s a good thing that I don\'t embarrass easily. :-D\n\n&nbsp;\n\nBonus points if you can name the score that starts playing around :50. That music makes me melt every time I hear it. Sigh . . . .\n\n&nbsp;\n\n<span style=\"color: #0000ff; font-size: medium;\"><strong>Name That Tune in the comments section!</strong></span>\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;','Playdate #20:  Desert Oasis','','inherit','open','open','','10641-revision-11','','','2012-07-02 20:30:31','2012-07-03 03:30:31','',10641,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2012/07/02/10641-revision-11/',0,'revision','',0),(10662,1,'2012-07-02 20:32:28','2012-07-03 03:32:28','&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[gallery]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nHow do you envision a desert?  Like most people, do you picture a brown and barren wasteland?\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nYes, I live in a desert.  But don\'t forget that deserts contain oases!  My personal favorite Phoenician oasis is Saguaro Lake.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAll aboard!  Join Michelle and Kim as they tour Saguaro Lake via <a href=\"http://www.desertbelle.com/about/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>The Desert Belle.</strong></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<iframe src=\"http://www.youtube.com/embed/aX7U0V-RPGs\" frameborder=\"0\" width=\"480\" height=\"360\"></iframe>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI am not sure what\'s funnier about this video: My archaic \"video camera\" that produces a vintage look via 1956 or my excessively animated reactions. It\'s a good thing that I don\'t embarrass easily. :-D\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nBonus points if you can name the score that starts playing around :50. Hint:  It\'s from a movie whose cinematography is equally as lush.  The score makes me melt every time I hear it. Sigh . . . .\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<span style=\"color: #0000ff; font-size: medium;\"><strong>Name That Tune in the comments section!</strong></span>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;','Playdate #20:  Desert Oasis','','inherit','open','open','','10641-revision-12','','','2012-07-02 20:32:28','2012-07-03 03:32:28','',10641,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2012/07/02/10641-revision-12/',0,'revision','',0),(10663,1,'2012-07-02 20:34:39','2012-07-03 03:34:39','&nbsp;\n\n[gallery]\n\n&nbsp;\n\nHow do you envision a desert?  Like most people, do you picture a brown and barren wasteland?\n\n&nbsp;\n\nYes, I live in a desert.  But don\'t forget that deserts contain oases!  My personal favorite Phoenician oasis is Saguaro Lake.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nAll aboard!  Join Michelle and Kim as they tour Saguaro Lake via <a href=\"http://www.desertbelle.com/about/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>The Desert Belle.</strong></a>\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\n<iframe src=\"http://www.youtube.com/embed/aX7U0V-RPGs\" frameborder=\"0\" width=\"480\" height=\"360\"></iframe>\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\nI am not sure what\'s funnier about this video: My archaic \"video camera\" that produces a vintage look via 1956 or my excessively animated reactions. It\'s a good thing that I don\'t embarrass easily. :-D\n\n&nbsp;\n\nBonus points if you can name the score that starts playing around :50. Hint:  It\'s from a movie whose cinematography is equally as lush.  The score makes me melt every time I hear it. Sigh . . . .\n\n&nbsp;\n\n<span style=\"color: #0000ff; font-size: medium;\"><strong>Name That Tune in the comments section!</strong></span>\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;','Playdate #20:  Desert Oasis','','inherit','open','open','','10641-revision-13','','','2012-07-02 20:34:39','2012-07-03 03:34:39','',10641,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2012/07/02/10641-revision-13/',0,'revision','',0),(10664,1,'2012-07-02 20:36:08','2012-07-03 03:36:08','&nbsp;\n\n[gallery]\n\n&nbsp;\n\nHow do you envision a desert?  Like most people, do you picture a brown and barren wasteland?\n\n&nbsp;\n\nYes, I live in a desert.  But don\'t forget that deserts contain oases!  My personal favorite Phoenician oasis is Saguaro Lake.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nAll aboard!  Join Michelle and Kim as they tour Saguaro Lake via <a href=\"http://www.desertbelle.com/about/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>The Desert Belle.</strong></a>\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\n<iframe src=\"http://www.youtube.com/embed/aX7U0V-RPGs\" frameborder=\"0\" width=\"480\" height=\"360\"></iframe>\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\nI am not sure what\'s funnier about this video: My archaic \"video camera\" that produces a vintage look via 1956 or my excessively animated reactions. It\'s a good thing that I don\'t embarrass easily. :-D\n\n&nbsp;\n\nBonus points if you can name the score that starts playing around :50. Hint:  It\'s from a movie whose cinematography is equally as lush.  The score makes me melt every time I hear it. Sigh . . . .\n\n&nbsp;\n\n<span style=\"color: #0000ff; font-size: medium;\"><strong>Name That Tune in the comments section!</strong></span>\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;','Playdate #20:  Desert Oasis','','inherit','open','open','','10641-autosave','','','2012-07-02 20:36:08','2012-07-03 03:36:08','',10641,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2012/07/02/10641-autosave/',0,'revision','',0),(10665,1,'2012-07-02 20:37:17','2012-07-03 03:37:17','','OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA','','inherit','open','open','','olympus-digital-camera-743','','','2012-07-02 20:37:17','2012-07-03 03:37:17','',10641,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/P5190036.jpg',0,'attachment','image/jpeg',0),(10667,1,'2012-07-02 20:38:33','2012-07-03 03:38:33','[gallery order=\"DESC\"]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nHow do you envision a desert?  Like most people, do you picture a brown and barren wasteland?\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nYes, I live in a desert.  But don\'t forget that deserts contain oases!  My personal favorite Phoenician oasis is Saguaro Lake.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAll aboard!  Join Michelle and Kim as they tour Saguaro Lake via <a href=\"http://www.desertbelle.com/about/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>The Desert Belle.</strong></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<iframe src=\"http://www.youtube.com/embed/aX7U0V-RPGs\" frameborder=\"0\" width=\"480\" height=\"360\"></iframe>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI am not sure what\'s funnier about this video: My archaic \"video camera\" that produces a vintage look via 1956 or my excessively animated reactions. It\'s a good thing that I don\'t embarrass easily. :-D\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nBonus points if you can name the score that starts playing around :50. Hint:  It\'s from a movie whose cinematography is equally as lush.  The score makes me melt every time I hear it. Sigh . . . .\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<span style=\"color: #0000ff; font-size: medium;\"><strong>Name That Tune in the comments section!</strong></span>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;','Playdate #20:  Desert Oasis','','inherit','open','open','','10641-revision-15','','','2012-07-02 20:38:33','2012-07-03 03:38:33','',10641,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2012/07/02/10641-revision-15/',0,'revision','',0),(10668,1,'2012-07-02 20:39:03','2012-07-03 03:39:03','&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[gallery order=\"DESC\"]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nHow do you envision a desert?  Like most people, do you picture a brown and barren wasteland?\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nYes, I live in a desert.  But don\'t forget that deserts contain oases!  My personal favorite Phoenician oasis is Saguaro Lake.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAll aboard!  Join Michelle and Kim as they tour Saguaro Lake via <a href=\"http://www.desertbelle.com/about/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>The Desert Belle.</strong></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<iframe src=\"http://www.youtube.com/embed/aX7U0V-RPGs\" frameborder=\"0\" width=\"480\" height=\"360\"></iframe>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI am not sure what\'s funnier about this video: My archaic \"video camera\" that produces a vintage look via 1956 or my excessively animated reactions. It\'s a good thing that I don\'t embarrass easily. :-D\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nBonus points if you can name the score that starts playing around :50. Hint:  It\'s from a movie whose cinematography is equally as lush.  The score makes me melt every time I hear it. Sigh . . . .\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<span style=\"color: #0000ff; font-size: medium;\"><strong>Name That Tune in the comments section!</strong></span>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;','Playdate #20:  Desert Oasis','','inherit','open','open','','10641-revision-16','','','2012-07-02 20:39:03','2012-07-03 03:39:03','',10641,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2012/07/02/10641-revision-16/',0,'revision','',0),(10669,1,'2012-07-02 20:39:34','2012-07-03 03:39:34','&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[gallery order=\"DESC\"]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nHow do you envision a desert?  Like most people, do you picture a brown and barren wasteland?\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nYes, I live in a desert.  But don\'t forget that deserts contain oases!  My personal favorite Phoenician oasis is Saguaro Lake.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAll aboard!  Join Michelle and Kim as they tour Saguaro Lake via <a href=\"http://www.desertbelle.com/about/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>The Desert Belle.</strong></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<iframe src=\"http://www.youtube.com/embed/aX7U0V-RPGs\" frameborder=\"0\" width=\"480\" height=\"360\"></iframe>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI am not sure what\'s funnier about this video: My archaic \"video camera\" that produces a vintage look via 1956 or my excessively animated reactions. It\'s a good thing that I don\'t embarrass easily. :-D\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nBonus points if you can name the score that starts playing around :50. Hint:  It\'s from a movie whose cinematography is equally as lush.  The score makes me melt every time I hear it. Sigh . . . .\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<span style=\"color: #0000ff; font-size: medium;\"><strong>Name That Tune in the comments section!</strong></span>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;','Playdate #20:  Desert Oasis','','inherit','open','open','','10641-revision-17','','','2012-07-02 20:39:34','2012-07-03 03:39:34','',10641,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2012/07/02/10641-revision-17/',0,'revision','',0),(10670,1,'2012-07-02 20:40:27','2012-07-03 03:40:27','&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[gallery order=\"DESC\"]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nHow do you envision a desert?  Like most people, do you picture a brown and barren wasteland?\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nYes, I live in a desert.  But don\'t forget that deserts contain oases!  My personal favorite Phoenician oasis is Saguaro Lake.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAll aboard!  Join Michelle and Kim as they tour Saguaro Lake via <a href=\"http://www.desertbelle.com/about/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>The Desert Belle.</strong></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<iframe src=\"http://www.youtube.com/embed/aX7U0V-RPGs\" frameborder=\"0\" width=\"480\" height=\"360\"></iframe>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI am not sure what\'s funnier about this video: My archaic \"video camera\" that produces a vintage look circa 1956 or my excessively animated reactions. It\'s a good thing that I don\'t embarrass easily. :-D\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nBonus points if you can name the score that starts playing around :50. Hint:  It\'s from a movie whose cinematography is equally as lush.  The score makes me melt every time I hear it. Sigh . . . .\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<span style=\"color: #0000ff; font-size: medium;\"><strong>Name That Tune in the comments section!</strong></span>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;','Playdate #20:  Desert Oasis','','inherit','open','open','','10641-revision-18','','','2012-07-02 20:40:27','2012-07-03 03:40:27','',10641,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2012/07/02/10641-revision-18/',0,'revision','',0),(10671,1,'2012-07-04 01:11:53','2012-07-04 08:11:53','<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2012/07/04/playdate-21-ever-heard-of-the-mim/img00100-20120528-1109/\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10672\"><img class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-10672\" title=\"IMG00100-20120528-1109\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/IMG00100-20120528-1109.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"560\" height=\"303\" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nMy fair city is host to The Musical Instrument Museum -- \"The most extraordinary museum you\'ll ever hear\".\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI\'ve been to a lot of museums in my day, including The Met and the Uffizi Gallery in Florence.  The Musical Instrument Museum holds it own in the Wow Factor department.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nIf you ever visit The Valley of the Sun, make sure to include this on your itinerary.  You\'ll be enticed by instruments and music from over 200 countries AND you can refuel at an organic cafe with critically acclaimed delights.  I\'m not sure that any other museum like this exists anywhere.  If you know of one, please share.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI won\'t bore you with crappy photos taken with my even crappier Crackberry.  Instead, take a visual and audio tour <a href=\"http://www.themim.org/about/photo-video-gallery\" target=\"_blank\">here.</a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nFor the most moving exhibit from my day at the museum . . . .\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<iframe src=\"http://www.youtube.com/embed/bvFLKyAGzzI\" frameborder=\"0\" width=\"640\" height=\"360\"></iframe>\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n**********\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n<span style=\"font-size: medium;\"><strong>12 Hours Later . . . .</strong></span> Update: Sometimes I forget important things when I\'m drafting blog posts late at night. Here\'s an example:\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_10684\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"640\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2012/07/04/playdate-21-ever-heard-of-the-mim/img00109-20120528-1447/\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10684\"><img class=\"size-full wp-image-10684\" title=\"IMG00109-20120528-1447\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/IMG00109-20120528-1447.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"640\" height=\"480\" /></a> John Lennon composed \"Imagine\" on this piano. Verklempt.[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;','Playdate #21:  Ever Heard of The MIM?','','publish','open','open','','playdate-21-ever-heard-of-the-mim','','','2012-07-04 14:59:11','2012-07-04 21:59:11','',0,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?p=10671',0,'post','',2),(10672,1,'2012-07-03 20:08:52','2012-07-04 03:08:52','','IMG00100-20120528-1109','','inherit','open','open','','img00100-20120528-1109','','','2012-07-03 20:08:52','2012-07-04 03:08:52','',10671,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/IMG00100-20120528-1109.jpg',0,'attachment','image/jpeg',0),(10673,1,'2012-07-03 20:21:50','2012-07-04 03:21:50','<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?attachment_id=10672\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10672\"><img class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-10672\" title=\"IMG00100-20120528-1109\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/IMG00100-20120528-1109.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"560\" height=\"303\" /></a>\n\n&nbsp;\n\nMy fair city is host to The Musical Instrument Museum -- \"The most extraordinary museum you\'ll ever hear\".\n\n&nbsp;\n\nI\'ve been to a lot of museums in my day, including The Met and the Uffizi Gallery in Florence.  The Musical Instrument Museum holds it own in the Wow Factor department.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nIf you ever visit The Valley of the Sun, make sure to include this on your itinerary.  You\'ll be enticed by instruments and music from over 200 countries AND you can refuel at an organic cafe with critically acclaimed delights.  I\'m not sure that any other museum like this exists anywhere.  If you know of one, please share.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nI won\'t bore you with crappy photos taken with my even crappier Crackberry.  Instead, take a visual and audio tour <a href=\"http://www.themim.org/about/photo-video-gallery\" target=\"_blank\">here.</a>\n\n&nbsp;\n\nFor the most moving exhibit du jour . . . .\n\n&nbsp;','Playdate #21:  Ever Heard of The MIM?','','inherit','open','open','','10671-revision','','','2012-07-03 20:21:50','2012-07-04 03:21:50','',10671,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2012/07/03/10671-revision/',0,'revision','',0),(10674,1,'2012-07-03 20:22:28','2012-07-04 03:22:28','<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?attachment_id=10672\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10672\"><img class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-10672\" title=\"IMG00100-20120528-1109\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/IMG00100-20120528-1109.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"560\" height=\"303\" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nMy fair city is host to The Musical Instrument Museum -- \"The most extraordinary museum you\'ll ever hear\".\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI\'ve been to a lot of museums in my day, including The Met and the Uffizi Gallery in Florence.  The Musical Instrument Museum holds it own in the Wow Factor department.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nIf you ever visit The Valley of the Sun, make sure to include this on your itinerary.  You\'ll be enticed by instruments and music from over 200 countries AND you can refuel at an organic cafe with critically acclaimed delights.  I\'m not sure that any other museum like this exists anywhere.  If you know of one, please share.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI won\'t bore you with crappy photos taken with my even crappier Crackberry.  Instead, take a visual and audio tour <a href=\"http://www.themim.org/about/photo-video-gallery\" target=\"_blank\">here.</a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nFor the most moving exhibit du jour . . . .\r\n\r\n&nbsp;','Playdate #21:  Ever Heard of The MIM?','','inherit','open','open','','10671-revision-2','','','2012-07-03 20:22:28','2012-07-04 03:22:28','',10671,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2012/07/03/10671-revision-2/',0,'revision','',0),(10675,1,'2012-07-03 20:22:56','2012-07-04 03:22:56','<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?attachment_id=10672\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10672\"><img class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-10672\" title=\"IMG00100-20120528-1109\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/IMG00100-20120528-1109.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"560\" height=\"303\" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nMy fair city is host to The Musical Instrument Museum -- \"The most extraordinary museum you\'ll ever hear\".\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI\'ve been to a lot of museums in my day, including The Met and the Uffizi Gallery in Florence.  The Musical Instrument Museum holds it own in the Wow Factor department.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nIf you ever visit The Valley of the Sun, make sure to include this on your itinerary.  You\'ll be enticed by instruments and music from over 200 countries AND you can refuel at an organic cafe with critically acclaimed delights.  I\'m not sure that any other museum like this exists anywhere.  If you know of one, please share.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI won\'t bore you with crappy photos taken with my even crappier Crackberry.  Instead, take a visual and audio tour <a href=\"http://www.themim.org/about/photo-video-gallery\" target=\"_blank\">here.</a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nFor the most moving exhibit du jour . . . .\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<iframe width=\"640\" height=\"360\" src=\"http://www.youtube.com/embed/bvFLKyAGzzI\" frameborder=\"0\" allowfullscreen></iframe>','Playdate #21:  Ever Heard of The MIM?','','inherit','open','open','','10671-revision-3','','','2012-07-03 20:22:56','2012-07-04 03:22:56','',10671,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2012/07/03/10671-revision-3/',0,'revision','',0),(10678,1,'2012-07-03 20:24:59','2012-07-04 03:24:59','<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?attachment_id=10672\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10672\"><img class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-10672\" title=\"IMG00100-20120528-1109\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/IMG00100-20120528-1109.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"560\" height=\"303\" /></a>\n\n&nbsp;\n\nMy fair city is host to The Musical Instrument Museum -- \"The most extraordinary museum you\'ll ever hear\".\n\n&nbsp;\n\nI\'ve been to a lot of museums in my day, including The Met and the Uffizi Gallery in Florence.  The Musical Instrument Museum holds it own in the Wow Factor department.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nIf you ever visit The Valley of the Sun, make sure to include this on your itinerary.  You\'ll be enticed by instruments and music from over 200 countries AND you can refuel at an organic cafe with critically acclaimed delights.  I\'m not sure that any other museum like this exists anywhere.  If you know of one, please share.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nI won\'t bore you with crappy photos taken with my even crappier Crackberry.  Instead, take a visual and audio tour <a href=\"http://www.themim.org/about/photo-video-gallery\" target=\"_blank\">here.</a>\n\n&nbsp;\n\nFor the most moving exhibit du. . . .\n\n&nbsp;\n\n<iframe width=\"640\" height=\"360\" src=\"http://www.youtube.com/embed/bvFLKyAGzzI\" frameborder=\"0\" allowfullscreen></iframe>\n\n&nbsp;','Playdate #21:  Ever Heard of The MIM?','','inherit','open','open','','10671-revision-6','','','2012-07-03 20:24:59','2012-07-04 03:24:59','',10671,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2012/07/03/10671-revision-6/',0,'revision','',0),(10676,1,'2012-07-03 20:23:08','2012-07-04 03:23:08','<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?attachment_id=10672\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10672\"><img class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-10672\" title=\"IMG00100-20120528-1109\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/IMG00100-20120528-1109.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"560\" height=\"303\" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nMy fair city is host to The Musical Instrument Museum -- \"The most extraordinary museum you\'ll ever hear\".\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI\'ve been to a lot of museums in my day, including The Met and the Uffizi Gallery in Florence.  The Musical Instrument Museum holds it own in the Wow Factor department.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nIf you ever visit The Valley of the Sun, make sure to include this on your itinerary.  You\'ll be enticed by instruments and music from over 200 countries AND you can refuel at an organic cafe with critically acclaimed delights.  I\'m not sure that any other museum like this exists anywhere.  If you know of one, please share.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI won\'t bore you with crappy photos taken with my even crappier Crackberry.  Instead, take a visual and audio tour <a href=\"http://www.themim.org/about/photo-video-gallery\" target=\"_blank\">here.</a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nFor the most moving exhibit du jour . . . .\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<iframe width=\"640\" height=\"360\" src=\"http://www.youtube.com/embed/bvFLKyAGzzI\" frameborder=\"0\" allowfullscreen></iframe>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;','Playdate #21:  Ever Heard of The MIM?','','inherit','open','open','','10671-revision-4','','','2012-07-03 20:23:08','2012-07-04 03:23:08','',10671,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2012/07/03/10671-revision-4/',0,'revision','',0),(10677,1,'2012-07-03 20:23:08','2012-07-04 03:23:08','<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?attachment_id=10672\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10672\"><img class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-10672\" title=\"IMG00100-20120528-1109\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/IMG00100-20120528-1109.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"560\" height=\"303\" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nMy fair city is host to The Musical Instrument Museum -- \"The most extraordinary museum you\'ll ever hear\".\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI\'ve been to a lot of museums in my day, including The Met and the Uffizi Gallery in Florence.  The Musical Instrument Museum holds it own in the Wow Factor department.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nIf you ever visit The Valley of the Sun, make sure to include this on your itinerary.  You\'ll be enticed by instruments and music from over 200 countries AND you can refuel at an organic cafe with critically acclaimed delights.  I\'m not sure that any other museum like this exists anywhere.  If you know of one, please share.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI won\'t bore you with crappy photos taken with my even crappier Crackberry.  Instead, take a visual and audio tour <a href=\"http://www.themim.org/about/photo-video-gallery\" target=\"_blank\">here.</a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nFor the most moving exhibit du jour . . . .\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<iframe width=\"640\" height=\"360\" src=\"http://www.youtube.com/embed/bvFLKyAGzzI\" frameborder=\"0\" allowfullscreen></iframe>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;','Playdate #21:  Ever Heard of The MIM?','','inherit','open','open','','10671-revision-5','','','2012-07-03 20:23:08','2012-07-04 03:23:08','',10671,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2012/07/03/10671-revision-5/',0,'revision','',0),(10679,1,'2012-07-03 20:25:35','2012-07-04 03:25:35','&nbsp;\r\n<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?attachment_id=10672\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10672\"><img class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-10672\" title=\"IMG00100-20120528-1109\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/IMG00100-20120528-1109.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"560\" height=\"303\" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nMy fair city is host to The Musical Instrument Museum -- \"The most extraordinary museum you\'ll ever hear\".\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI\'ve been to a lot of museums in my day, including The Met and the Uffizi Gallery in Florence.  The Musical Instrument Museum holds it own in the Wow Factor department.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nIf you ever visit The Valley of the Sun, make sure to include this on your itinerary.  You\'ll be enticed by instruments and music from over 200 countries AND you can refuel at an organic cafe with critically acclaimed delights.  I\'m not sure that any other museum like this exists anywhere.  If you know of one, please share.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI won\'t bore you with crappy photos taken with my even crappier Crackberry.  Instead, take a visual and audio tour <a href=\"http://www.themim.org/about/photo-video-gallery\" target=\"_blank\">here.</a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nFor the most moving exhibit from my day at the museum . . . .\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<iframe src=\"http://www.youtube.com/embed/bvFLKyAGzzI\" frameborder=\"0\" width=\"640\" height=\"360\"></iframe>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n&nbsp;','Playdate #21:  Ever Heard of The MIM?','','inherit','open','open','','10671-revision-7','','','2012-07-03 20:25:35','2012-07-04 03:25:35','',10671,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2012/07/03/10671-revision-7/',0,'revision','',0),(10680,1,'2012-07-03 20:25:43','2012-07-04 03:25:43','&nbsp;\r\n<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?attachment_id=10672\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10672\"><img class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-10672\" title=\"IMG00100-20120528-1109\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/IMG00100-20120528-1109.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"560\" height=\"303\" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nMy fair city is host to The Musical Instrument Museum -- \"The most extraordinary museum you\'ll ever hear\".\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI\'ve been to a lot of museums in my day, including The Met and the Uffizi Gallery in Florence.  The Musical Instrument Museum holds it own in the Wow Factor department.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nIf you ever visit The Valley of the Sun, make sure to include this on your itinerary.  You\'ll be enticed by instruments and music from over 200 countries AND you can refuel at an organic cafe with critically acclaimed delights.  I\'m not sure that any other museum like this exists anywhere.  If you know of one, please share.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI won\'t bore you with crappy photos taken with my even crappier Crackberry.  Instead, take a visual and audio tour <a href=\"http://www.themim.org/about/photo-video-gallery\" target=\"_blank\">here.</a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nFor the most moving exhibit from my day at the museum . . . .\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<iframe src=\"http://www.youtube.com/embed/bvFLKyAGzzI\" frameborder=\"0\" width=\"640\" height=\"360\"></iframe>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n&nbsp;','Playdate #21:  Ever Heard of The MIM?','','inherit','open','open','','10671-revision-8','','','2012-07-03 20:25:43','2012-07-04 03:25:43','',10671,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2012/07/03/10671-revision-8/',0,'revision','',0),(10681,1,'2012-07-03 20:27:10','2012-07-04 03:27:10','&nbsp;\r\n<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?attachment_id=10672\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10672\"><img class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-10672\" title=\"IMG00100-20120528-1109\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/IMG00100-20120528-1109.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"560\" height=\"303\" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nMy fair city is host to The Musical Instrument Museum -- \"The most extraordinary museum you\'ll ever hear\".\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI\'ve been to a lot of museums in my day, including The Met and the Uffizi Gallery in Florence.  The Musical Instrument Museum holds it own in the Wow Factor department.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nIf you ever visit The Valley of the Sun, make sure to include this on your itinerary.  You\'ll be enticed by instruments and music from over 200 countries AND you can refuel at an organic cafe with critically acclaimed delights.  I\'m not sure that any other museum like this exists anywhere.  If you know of one, please share.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI won\'t bore you with crappy photos taken with my even crappier Crackberry.  Instead, take a visual and audio tour <a href=\"http://www.themim.org/about/photo-video-gallery\" target=\"_blank\">here.</a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nFor the most moving exhibit from my day at the museum . . . .\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<iframe src=\"http://www.youtube.com/embed/bvFLKyAGzzI\" frameborder=\"0\" width=\"640\" height=\"360\"></iframe>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n&nbsp;','Playdate #21:  Ever Heard of The MIM?','','inherit','open','open','','10671-revision-9','','','2012-07-03 20:27:10','2012-07-04 03:27:10','',10671,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2012/07/03/10671-revision-9/',0,'revision','',0),(10682,1,'2012-07-02 20:40:34','2012-07-03 03:40:34','&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[gallery order=\"DESC\"]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nHow do you envision a desert?  Like most people, do you picture a brown and barren wasteland?\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nYes, I live in a desert.  But don\'t forget that deserts contain oases!  My personal favorite Phoenician oasis is Saguaro Lake.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAll aboard!  Join Michelle and Kim as they tour Saguaro Lake via <a href=\"http://www.desertbelle.com/about/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>The Desert Belle.</strong></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<iframe src=\"http://www.youtube.com/embed/aX7U0V-RPGs\" frameborder=\"0\" width=\"480\" height=\"360\"></iframe>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI am not sure what\'s funnier about this video: My archaic \"video camera\" that produces a vintage look circa 1956 or my excessively animated reactions. It\'s a good thing that I don\'t embarrass easily. :-D\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nBonus points if you can name the score that starts playing around :50. Hint:  It\'s from a movie whose cinematography is equally as lush.  The score makes me melt every time I hear it. Sigh . . . .\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<span style=\"color: #0000ff; font-size: medium;\"><strong>Name That Tune in the comments section!</strong></span>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;','Playdate #20:  Desert Oasis','','inherit','open','open','','10641-revision-19','','','2012-07-02 20:40:34','2012-07-03 03:40:34','',10641,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2012/07/02/10641-revision-19/',0,'revision','',0),(10683,1,'2012-07-04 14:53:27','2012-07-04 21:53:27','&nbsp;\n<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?attachment_id=10672\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10672\"><img class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-10672\" title=\"IMG00100-20120528-1109\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/IMG00100-20120528-1109.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"560\" height=\"303\" /></a>\n\n&nbsp;\n\nMy fair city is host to The Musical Instrument Museum -- \"The most extraordinary museum you\'ll ever hear\".\n\n&nbsp;\n\nI\'ve been to a lot of museums in my day, including The Met and the Uffizi Gallery in Florence.  The Musical Instrument Museum holds it own in the Wow Factor department.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nIf you ever visit The Valley of the Sun, make sure to include this on your itinerary.  You\'ll be enticed by instruments and music from over 200 countries AND you can refuel at an organic cafe with critically acclaimed delights.  I\'m not sure that any other museum like this exists anywhere.  If you know of one, please share.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nI won\'t bore you with crappy photos taken with my even crappier Crackberry.  Instead, take a visual and audio tour <a href=\"http://www.themim.org/about/photo-video-gallery\" target=\"_blank\">here.</a>\n\n&nbsp;\n\nFor the most moving exhibit from my day at the museum . . . .\n\n&nbsp;\n&nbsp;\n\n<iframe src=\"http://www.youtube.com/embed/bvFLKyAGzzI\" frameborder=\"0\" width=\"640\" height=\"360\"></iframe>\n\n&nbsp;\n&nbsp;\n\n12 Hours LateUpdate:  Sometimes I forget important things when I\'m composing blog posts late at night.  Here\'s an example:','Playdate #21:  Ever Heard of The MIM?','','inherit','open','open','','10671-autosave','','','2012-07-04 14:53:27','2012-07-04 21:53:27','',10671,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2012/07/04/10671-autosave/',0,'revision','',0),(10684,1,'2012-07-04 14:53:58','2012-07-04 21:53:58','','IMG00109-20120528-1447','','inherit','open','open','','img00109-20120528-1447','','','2012-07-04 14:53:58','2012-07-04 21:53:58','',10671,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/IMG00109-20120528-1447.jpg',0,'attachment','image/jpeg',0),(10685,1,'2012-07-03 20:27:19','2012-07-04 03:27:19','&nbsp;\r\n<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?attachment_id=10672\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10672\"><img class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-10672\" title=\"IMG00100-20120528-1109\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/IMG00100-20120528-1109.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"560\" height=\"303\" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nMy fair city is host to The Musical Instrument Museum -- \"The most extraordinary museum you\'ll ever hear\".\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI\'ve been to a lot of museums in my day, including The Met and the Uffizi Gallery in Florence.  The Musical Instrument Museum holds it own in the Wow Factor department.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nIf you ever visit The Valley of the Sun, make sure to include this on your itinerary.  You\'ll be enticed by instruments and music from over 200 countries AND you can refuel at an organic cafe with critically acclaimed delights.  I\'m not sure that any other museum like this exists anywhere.  If you know of one, please share.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI won\'t bore you with crappy photos taken with my even crappier Crackberry.  Instead, take a visual and audio tour <a href=\"http://www.themim.org/about/photo-video-gallery\" target=\"_blank\">here.</a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nFor the most moving exhibit from my day at the museum . . . .\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<iframe src=\"http://www.youtube.com/embed/bvFLKyAGzzI\" frameborder=\"0\" width=\"640\" height=\"360\"></iframe>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n&nbsp;','Playdate #21:  Ever Heard of The MIM?','','inherit','open','open','','10671-revision-10','','','2012-07-03 20:27:19','2012-07-04 03:27:19','',10671,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2012/07/03/10671-revision-10/',0,'revision','',0),(10686,1,'2012-07-04 14:54:46','2012-07-04 21:54:46','<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?attachment_id=10672\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10672\"><img class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-10672\" title=\"IMG00100-20120528-1109\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/IMG00100-20120528-1109.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"560\" height=\"303\" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nMy fair city is host to The Musical Instrument Museum -- \"The most extraordinary museum you\'ll ever hear\".\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI\'ve been to a lot of museums in my day, including The Met and the Uffizi Gallery in Florence.  The Musical Instrument Museum holds it own in the Wow Factor department.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nIf you ever visit The Valley of the Sun, make sure to include this on your itinerary.  You\'ll be enticed by instruments and music from over 200 countries AND you can refuel at an organic cafe with critically acclaimed delights.  I\'m not sure that any other museum like this exists anywhere.  If you know of one, please share.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI won\'t bore you with crappy photos taken with my even crappier Crackberry.  Instead, take a visual and audio tour <a href=\"http://www.themim.org/about/photo-video-gallery\" target=\"_blank\">here.</a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nFor the most moving exhibit from my day at the museum . . . .\r\n<iframe src=\"http://www.youtube.com/embed/bvFLKyAGzzI\" frameborder=\"0\" width=\"640\" height=\"360\"></iframe>\r\n12 Hours Later . . . . Update: Sometimes I forget important things when I\'m composing blog posts late at night. Here\'s an example:\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2012/07/04/playdate-21-ever-heard-of-the-mim/img00109-20120528-1447/\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10684\"><img class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-10684\" title=\"IMG00109-20120528-1447\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/IMG00109-20120528-1447.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"640\" height=\"480\" /></a>','Playdate #21:  Ever Heard of The MIM?','','inherit','open','open','','10671-revision-11','','','2012-07-04 14:54:46','2012-07-04 21:54:46','',10671,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2012/07/04/10671-revision-11/',0,'revision','',0),(10687,1,'2012-07-04 14:54:46','2012-07-04 21:54:46','<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2012/07/04/playdate-21-ever-heard-of-the-mim/img00100-20120528-1109/\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10672\"><img class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-10672\" title=\"IMG00100-20120528-1109\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/IMG00100-20120528-1109.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"560\" height=\"303\" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nMy fair city is host to The Musical Instrument Museum -- \"The most extraordinary museum you\'ll ever hear\".\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI\'ve been to a lot of museums in my day, including The Met and the Uffizi Gallery in Florence.  The Musical Instrument Museum holds it own in the Wow Factor department.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nIf you ever visit The Valley of the Sun, make sure to include this on your itinerary.  You\'ll be enticed by instruments and music from over 200 countries AND you can refuel at an organic cafe with critically acclaimed delights.  I\'m not sure that any other museum like this exists anywhere.  If you know of one, please share.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI won\'t bore you with crappy photos taken with my even crappier Crackberry.  Instead, take a visual and audio tour <a href=\"http://www.themim.org/about/photo-video-gallery\" target=\"_blank\">here.</a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nFor the most moving exhibit from my day at the museum . . . .\r\n<iframe src=\"http://www.youtube.com/embed/bvFLKyAGzzI\" frameborder=\"0\" width=\"640\" height=\"360\"></iframe>\r\n12 Hours Later . . . . Update: Sometimes I forget important things when I\'m composing blog posts late at night. Here\'s an example:\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2012/07/04/playdate-21-ever-heard-of-the-mim/img00109-20120528-1447/\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10684\"><img class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-10684\" title=\"IMG00109-20120528-1447\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/IMG00109-20120528-1447.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"640\" height=\"480\" /></a>','Playdate #21:  Ever Heard of The MIM?','','inherit','open','open','','10671-revision-12','','','2012-07-04 14:54:46','2012-07-04 21:54:46','',10671,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2012/07/04/10671-revision-12/',0,'revision','',0),(10688,1,'2012-07-04 14:55:23','2012-07-04 21:55:23','<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2012/07/04/playdate-21-ever-heard-of-the-mim/img00100-20120528-1109/\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10672\"><img class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-10672\" title=\"IMG00100-20120528-1109\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/IMG00100-20120528-1109.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"560\" height=\"303\" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nMy fair city is host to The Musical Instrument Museum -- \"The most extraordinary museum you\'ll ever hear\".\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI\'ve been to a lot of museums in my day, including The Met and the Uffizi Gallery in Florence.  The Musical Instrument Museum holds it own in the Wow Factor department.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nIf you ever visit The Valley of the Sun, make sure to include this on your itinerary.  You\'ll be enticed by instruments and music from over 200 countries AND you can refuel at an organic cafe with critically acclaimed delights.  I\'m not sure that any other museum like this exists anywhere.  If you know of one, please share.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI won\'t bore you with crappy photos taken with my even crappier Crackberry.  Instead, take a visual and audio tour <a href=\"http://www.themim.org/about/photo-video-gallery\" target=\"_blank\">here.</a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nFor the most moving exhibit from my day at the museum . . . .\r\n<iframe src=\"http://www.youtube.com/embed/bvFLKyAGzzI\" frameborder=\"0\" width=\"640\" height=\"360\"></iframe>\r\n&nbsp;\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n12 Hours Later . . . . Update: Sometimes I forget important things when I\'m composing blog posts late at night. Here\'s an example:\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2012/07/04/playdate-21-ever-heard-of-the-mim/img00109-20120528-1447/\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10684\"><img class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-10684\" title=\"IMG00109-20120528-1447\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/IMG00109-20120528-1447.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"640\" height=\"480\" /></a>','Playdate #21:  Ever Heard of The MIM?','','inherit','open','open','','10671-revision-13','','','2012-07-04 14:55:23','2012-07-04 21:55:23','',10671,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2012/07/04/10671-revision-13/',0,'revision','',0),(10689,1,'2012-07-04 14:55:59','2012-07-04 21:55:59','<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2012/07/04/playdate-21-ever-heard-of-the-mim/img00100-20120528-1109/\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10672\"><img class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-10672\" title=\"IMG00100-20120528-1109\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/IMG00100-20120528-1109.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"560\" height=\"303\" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nMy fair city is host to The Musical Instrument Museum -- \"The most extraordinary museum you\'ll ever hear\".\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI\'ve been to a lot of museums in my day, including The Met and the Uffizi Gallery in Florence.  The Musical Instrument Museum holds it own in the Wow Factor department.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nIf you ever visit The Valley of the Sun, make sure to include this on your itinerary.  You\'ll be enticed by instruments and music from over 200 countries AND you can refuel at an organic cafe with critically acclaimed delights.  I\'m not sure that any other museum like this exists anywhere.  If you know of one, please share.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI won\'t bore you with crappy photos taken with my even crappier Crackberry.  Instead, take a visual and audio tour <a href=\"http://www.themim.org/about/photo-video-gallery\" target=\"_blank\">here.</a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nFor the most moving exhibit from my day at the museum . . . .\r\n<iframe src=\"http://www.youtube.com/embed/bvFLKyAGzzI\" frameborder=\"0\" width=\"640\" height=\"360\"></iframe>\r\n\r\n12 Hours Later . . . . Update: Sometimes I forget important things when I\'m composing blog posts late at night. Here\'s an example:\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_10684\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"640\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2012/07/04/playdate-21-ever-heard-of-the-mim/img00109-20120528-1447/\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10684\"><img class=\"size-full wp-image-10684\" title=\"IMG00109-20120528-1447\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/IMG00109-20120528-1447.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"640\" height=\"480\" /></a> John Lennon composed \"Imagine\" on this piano. Verklempt.[/caption]','Playdate #21:  Ever Heard of The MIM?','','inherit','open','open','','10671-revision-14','','','2012-07-04 14:55:59','2012-07-04 21:55:59','',10671,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2012/07/04/10671-revision-14/',0,'revision','',0),(10690,1,'2012-07-04 14:56:34','2012-07-04 21:56:34','<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2012/07/04/playdate-21-ever-heard-of-the-mim/img00100-20120528-1109/\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10672\"><img class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-10672\" title=\"IMG00100-20120528-1109\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/IMG00100-20120528-1109.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"560\" height=\"303\" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nMy fair city is host to The Musical Instrument Museum -- \"The most extraordinary museum you\'ll ever hear\".\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI\'ve been to a lot of museums in my day, including The Met and the Uffizi Gallery in Florence.  The Musical Instrument Museum holds it own in the Wow Factor department.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nIf you ever visit The Valley of the Sun, make sure to include this on your itinerary.  You\'ll be enticed by instruments and music from over 200 countries AND you can refuel at an organic cafe with critically acclaimed delights.  I\'m not sure that any other museum like this exists anywhere.  If you know of one, please share.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI won\'t bore you with crappy photos taken with my even crappier Crackberry.  Instead, take a visual and audio tour <a href=\"http://www.themim.org/about/photo-video-gallery\" target=\"_blank\">here.</a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nFor the most moving exhibit from my day at the museum . . . .\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n<iframe src=\"http://www.youtube.com/embed/bvFLKyAGzzI\" frameborder=\"0\" width=\"640\" height=\"360\"></iframe>\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n12 Hours Later . . . . Update: Sometimes I forget important things when I\'m composing blog posts late at night. Here\'s an example:\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_10684\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"640\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2012/07/04/playdate-21-ever-heard-of-the-mim/img00109-20120528-1447/\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10684\"><img class=\"size-full wp-image-10684\" title=\"IMG00109-20120528-1447\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/IMG00109-20120528-1447.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"640\" height=\"480\" /></a> John Lennon composed \"Imagine\" on this piano. Verklempt.[/caption]','Playdate #21:  Ever Heard of The MIM?','','inherit','open','open','','10671-revision-15','','','2012-07-04 14:56:34','2012-07-04 21:56:34','',10671,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2012/07/04/10671-revision-15/',0,'revision','',0),(10691,1,'2012-07-04 14:57:28','2012-07-04 21:57:28','<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2012/07/04/playdate-21-ever-heard-of-the-mim/img00100-20120528-1109/\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10672\"><img class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-10672\" title=\"IMG00100-20120528-1109\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/IMG00100-20120528-1109.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"560\" height=\"303\" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nMy fair city is host to The Musical Instrument Museum -- \"The most extraordinary museum you\'ll ever hear\".\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI\'ve been to a lot of museums in my day, including The Met and the Uffizi Gallery in Florence.  The Musical Instrument Museum holds it own in the Wow Factor department.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nIf you ever visit The Valley of the Sun, make sure to include this on your itinerary.  You\'ll be enticed by instruments and music from over 200 countries AND you can refuel at an organic cafe with critically acclaimed delights.  I\'m not sure that any other museum like this exists anywhere.  If you know of one, please share.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI won\'t bore you with crappy photos taken with my even crappier Crackberry.  Instead, take a visual and audio tour <a href=\"http://www.themim.org/about/photo-video-gallery\" target=\"_blank\">here.</a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nFor the most moving exhibit from my day at the museum . . . .\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n<iframe src=\"http://www.youtube.com/embed/bvFLKyAGzzI\" frameborder=\"0\" width=\"640\" height=\"360\"></iframe>\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n12 Hours Later . . . . Update: Sometimes I forget important things when I\'m drafting blog posts late at night. Here\'s an example:\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_10684\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"640\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2012/07/04/playdate-21-ever-heard-of-the-mim/img00109-20120528-1447/\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10684\"><img class=\"size-full wp-image-10684\" title=\"IMG00109-20120528-1447\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/IMG00109-20120528-1447.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"640\" height=\"480\" /></a> John Lennon composed \"Imagine\" on this piano. Verklempt.[/caption]\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;','Playdate #21:  Ever Heard of The MIM?','','inherit','open','open','','10671-revision-16','','','2012-07-04 14:57:28','2012-07-04 21:57:28','',10671,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2012/07/04/10671-revision-16/',0,'revision','',0),(10692,1,'2012-07-04 14:58:03','2012-07-04 21:58:03','<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2012/07/04/playdate-21-ever-heard-of-the-mim/img00100-20120528-1109/\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10672\"><img class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-10672\" title=\"IMG00100-20120528-1109\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/IMG00100-20120528-1109.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"560\" height=\"303\" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nMy fair city is host to The Musical Instrument Museum -- \"The most extraordinary museum you\'ll ever hear\".\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI\'ve been to a lot of museums in my day, including The Met and the Uffizi Gallery in Florence.  The Musical Instrument Museum holds it own in the Wow Factor department.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nIf you ever visit The Valley of the Sun, make sure to include this on your itinerary.  You\'ll be enticed by instruments and music from over 200 countries AND you can refuel at an organic cafe with critically acclaimed delights.  I\'m not sure that any other museum like this exists anywhere.  If you know of one, please share.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI won\'t bore you with crappy photos taken with my even crappier Crackberry.  Instead, take a visual and audio tour <a href=\"http://www.themim.org/about/photo-video-gallery\" target=\"_blank\">here.</a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nFor the most moving exhibit from my day at the museum . . . .\r\n\r\n<iframe src=\"http://www.youtube.com/embed/bvFLKyAGzzI\" frameborder=\"0\" width=\"640\" height=\"360\"></iframe>\r\n**********\r\n<span style=\"font-size: medium;\"><strong>12 Hours Later . . . .</strong></span> Update: Sometimes I forget important things when I\'m drafting blog posts late at night. Here\'s an example:\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_10684\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"640\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2012/07/04/playdate-21-ever-heard-of-the-mim/img00109-20120528-1447/\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10684\"><img class=\"size-full wp-image-10684\" title=\"IMG00109-20120528-1447\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/IMG00109-20120528-1447.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"640\" height=\"480\" /></a> John Lennon composed \"Imagine\" on this piano. Verklempt.[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;','Playdate #21:  Ever Heard of The MIM?','','inherit','open','open','','10671-revision-17','','','2012-07-04 14:58:03','2012-07-04 21:58:03','',10671,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2012/07/04/10671-revision-17/',0,'revision','',0),(10693,1,'2012-07-04 14:58:42','2012-07-04 21:58:42','<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2012/07/04/playdate-21-ever-heard-of-the-mim/img00100-20120528-1109/\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10672\"><img class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-10672\" title=\"IMG00100-20120528-1109\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/IMG00100-20120528-1109.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"560\" height=\"303\" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nMy fair city is host to The Musical Instrument Museum -- \"The most extraordinary museum you\'ll ever hear\".\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI\'ve been to a lot of museums in my day, including The Met and the Uffizi Gallery in Florence.  The Musical Instrument Museum holds it own in the Wow Factor department.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nIf you ever visit The Valley of the Sun, make sure to include this on your itinerary.  You\'ll be enticed by instruments and music from over 200 countries AND you can refuel at an organic cafe with critically acclaimed delights.  I\'m not sure that any other museum like this exists anywhere.  If you know of one, please share.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI won\'t bore you with crappy photos taken with my even crappier Crackberry.  Instead, take a visual and audio tour <a href=\"http://www.themim.org/about/photo-video-gallery\" target=\"_blank\">here.</a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nFor the most moving exhibit from my day at the museum . . . .\r\n\r\n<iframe src=\"http://www.youtube.com/embed/bvFLKyAGzzI\" frameborder=\"0\" width=\"640\" height=\"360\"></iframe>\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n**********\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n<span style=\"font-size: medium;\"><strong>12 Hours Later . . . .</strong></span> Update: Sometimes I forget important things when I\'m drafting blog posts late at night. Here\'s an example:\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_10684\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"640\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2012/07/04/playdate-21-ever-heard-of-the-mim/img00109-20120528-1447/\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10684\"><img class=\"size-full wp-image-10684\" title=\"IMG00109-20120528-1447\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/IMG00109-20120528-1447.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"640\" height=\"480\" /></a> John Lennon composed \"Imagine\" on this piano. Verklempt.[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;','Playdate #21:  Ever Heard of The MIM?','','inherit','open','open','','10671-revision-18','','','2012-07-04 14:58:42','2012-07-04 21:58:42','',10671,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2012/07/04/10671-revision-18/',0,'revision','',0),(10694,1,'2012-07-05 01:11:14','2012-07-05 08:11:14','&nbsp;[caption id=\"attachment_10698\" align=\"alignleft\" width=\"300\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?attachment_id=10698\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10698\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-10698 \" title=\"IMG00127-20120602-1728\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/IMG00127-20120602-1728-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a> Me and the author, Chris Guillebeau. This photo is further proof that I am the most unphotogenic woman on the planet. Too bad that I didn\'t take a second shot with my eyes open. :-p[/caption]\r\n\r\nWell....First you need to pay $23 to purchase the book <a href=\"http://100startup.com/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>The $100 Startup</strong></a>.  ($26.95 for all of you Canucks out there.)\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nThen you need to plant your nose firmly in that book.  Expect Chris Guillebeau to teach you how to reinvent the way you make a living, do what you love, and create a new future.  All for around 100 buckaroos.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI will be reading the book/absorbing Chris\'s mojo by osmosis on the plane to Portland today for Chris\'s World Domination Summit.<strong>  </strong>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nEverybody calm down.  We will be plotting to take over the world through peaceful and creative means, not through violence.  You can read all about it <a href=\"http://worlddominationsummit.com\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>here.</strong></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nIn the meantime, <strong><a href=\"http://createasfolk.com/the-100-startup-passion-usefulness-success/\" target=\"_blank\">a fellow World Dominator created a teaser for the book</a> </strong>which this blogger\'s godsend because I need to get off the computer and go pack for WDS!  Enjoy!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;','Playdate #22:  The Best $100 You\'ll Ever Spend','','publish','open','open','','playdate-22-the-best-100-youll-ever-spend','','','2012-07-04 19:57:57','2012-07-05 02:57:57','',0,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?p=10694',0,'post','',1),(10695,1,'2012-07-04 19:00:27','2012-07-05 02:00:27','Well....First you need to pay $23 to purchase the book.  ($26.95 for all of you Canucks out there.)\n\n&nbsp;\n\nThen you need to plant your nose firmly in that book.  Expect Chris Guillebeau to teach you how to reinvent the way you make a living, do what you love, and create a new future.  All for  around 100 buckaroos.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nI will be reading the book/absorbing Chris\'s mojo by osmosis on the plane to Portland today for Chris\'s World Domination Summit.<strong>  </strong>\n\n&nbsp;\n\nEverybody calm down.  We will be plotting to take over the world through peaceful and creative means, not through violence.  You can read all about it <strong>here.</strong>\n\n&nbsp;\n\nIn the meantime, <strong><a href=\"http://createasfolk.com/the-100-startup-passion-usefulness-success/\" target=\"_blank\">a fellow World Dominator created a teaser for the book</a> which is great for me because I need to go pack!</strong>  Enjoy!\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;','Playdate #22:  The Best $100 You\'ll Ever Spend','','inherit','open','open','','10694-revision','','','2012-07-04 19:00:27','2012-07-05 02:00:27','',10694,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2012/07/04/10694-revision/',0,'revision','',0),(10696,1,'2012-07-04 19:00:51','2012-07-05 02:00:51','Well....First you need to pay $23 to purchase the book.  ($26.95 for all of you Canucks out there.)\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nThen you need to plant your nose firmly in that book.  Expect Chris Guillebeau to teach you how to reinvent the way you make a living, do what you love, and create a new future.  All for  around 100 buckaroos.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI will be reading the book/absorbing Chris\'s mojo by osmosis on the plane to Portland today for Chris\'s World Domination Summit.<strong>  </strong>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nEverybody calm down.  We will be plotting to take over the world through peaceful and creative means, not through violence.  You can read all about it <strong>here.</strong>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nIn the meantime, <strong><a href=\"http://createasfolk.com/the-100-startup-passion-usefulness-success/\" target=\"_blank\">a fellow World Dominator created a teaser for the book</a> which is great for me because I need to get off this computer and go pack for WDS!</strong>  Enjoy!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;','Playdate #22:  The Best $100 You\'ll Ever Spend','','inherit','open','open','','10694-revision-2','','','2012-07-04 19:00:51','2012-07-05 02:00:51','',10694,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2012/07/04/10694-revision-2/',0,'revision','',0),(10697,1,'2012-07-04 19:02:17','2012-07-05 02:02:17','Well....First you need to pay $23 to purchase the book.  ($26.95 for all of you Canucks out there.)\n\n&nbsp;\n\nThen you need to plant your nose firmly in that book.  Expect Chris Guillebeau to teach you how to reinvent the way you make a living, do what you love, and create a new future.  All for  around 100 buckaroos.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nI will be reading the book/absorbing Chris\'s mojo by osmosis on the plane to Portland today for Chris\'s World Domination Summit.<strong>  </strong>\n\n&nbsp;\n\nEverybody calm down.  We will be plotting to take over the world through peaceful and creative means, not through violence.  You can read all about it <strong>here.</strong>\n\n&nbsp;\n\nIn the meantime, <strong><a href=\"http://createasfolk.com/the-100-startup-passion-usefulness-success/\" target=\"_blank\">a fellow World Dominator created a teaser for the book</a> which is a blogging godsend because I need to get off this computer and go pack for WDS!</strong>  Enjoy!\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;','Playdate #22:  The Best $100 You\'ll Ever Spend','','inherit','open','open','','10694-revision-3','','','2012-07-04 19:02:17','2012-07-05 02:02:17','',10694,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2012/07/04/10694-revision-3/',0,'revision','',0),(10698,1,'2012-07-04 19:47:23','2012-07-05 02:47:23','','IMG00127-20120602-1728','Me and the author, Chris. This photo is further proof that I am the most unphotogenic woman on the planet.  Too bad that I didn\'t take a second one with my eyes open.  :-p ','inherit','open','open','','img00127-20120602-1728','','','2012-07-04 19:47:23','2012-07-05 02:47:23','',10694,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/IMG00127-20120602-1728.jpg',0,'attachment','image/jpeg',0),(10699,1,'2012-07-04 19:52:02','2012-07-05 02:52:02','[caption id=\"attachment_10698\" align=\"alignleft\" width=\"300\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?attachment_id=10698\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10698\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-10698 \" title=\"IMG00127-20120602-1728\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/IMG00127-20120602-1728-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a> Me and the author, Chris Guillebeau. This photo is further proof that I am the most unphotogenic woman on the planet. Too bad that I didn\'t take a second one with my eyes open. :-p[/caption]\n\nWell....First you need to pay $23 to purchase the book <a href=\"http://100startup.com/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>The $100 Startup</strong></a>.  ($26.95 for all of you Canucks out there.)\n\n&nbsp;\n\nThen you need to plant your nose firmly in that book.  Expect Chris Guillebeau to teach you how to reinvent the way you make a living, do what you love, and create a new future.  All for  around 100 buckaroos.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nI will be reading the book/absorbing Chris\'s mojo by osmosis on the plane to Portland today for Chris\'s World Domination Summit.<strong>  </strong>\n\n&nbsp;\n\nEverybody calm down.  We will be plotting to take over the world through peaceful and creative means, not through violence.  You can read all about it <strong>here.</strong>\n\n&nbsp;\n\nIn the meantime, <strong><a href=\"http://createasfolk.com/the-100-startup-passion-usefulness-success/\" target=\"_blank\">a fellow World Dominator created a teaser for the book</a> </strong>which is a blogger\'s godsend because I need to get off this computer and go pack for WDS!  Enjoy!\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;','Playdate #22:  The Best $100 You\'ll Ever Spend','','inherit','open','open','','10694-revision-4','','','2012-07-04 19:52:02','2012-07-05 02:52:02','',10694,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2012/07/04/10694-revision-4/',0,'revision','',0),(10700,1,'2012-07-04 19:52:14','2012-07-05 02:52:14','[caption id=\"attachment_10698\" align=\"alignleft\" width=\"300\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?attachment_id=10698\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10698\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-10698 \" title=\"IMG00127-20120602-1728\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/IMG00127-20120602-1728-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a> Me and the author, Chris Guillebeau. This photo is further proof that I am the most unphotogenic woman on the planet. Too bad that I didn\'t take a second shot with my eyes open. :-p[/caption]\r\n\r\nWell....First you need to pay $23 to purchase the book <a href=\"http://100startup.com/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>The $100 Startup</strong></a>.  ($26.95 for all of you Canucks out there.)\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nThen you need to plant your nose firmly in that book.  Expect Chris Guillebeau to teach you how to reinvent the way you make a living, do what you love, and create a new future.  All for  around 100 buckaroos.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI will be reading the book/absorbing Chris\'s mojo by osmosis on the plane to Portland today for Chris\'s World Domination Summit.<strong>  </strong>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nEverybody calm down.  We will be plotting to take over the world through peaceful and creative means, not through violence.  You can read all about it <strong>here.</strong>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nIn the meantime, <strong><a href=\"http://createasfolk.com/the-100-startup-passion-usefulness-success/\" target=\"_blank\">a fellow World Dominator created a teaser for the book</a> </strong>which is a blogger\'s godsend because I need to get off this computer and go pack for WDS!  Enjoy!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;','Playdate #22:  The Best $100 You\'ll Ever Spend','','inherit','open','open','','10694-revision-5','','','2012-07-04 19:52:14','2012-07-05 02:52:14','',10694,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2012/07/04/10694-revision-5/',0,'revision','',0),(10701,1,'2012-07-04 19:52:54','2012-07-05 02:52:54','[caption id=\"attachment_10698\" align=\"alignleft\" width=\"300\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?attachment_id=10698\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10698\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-10698 \" title=\"IMG00127-20120602-1728\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/IMG00127-20120602-1728-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a> Me and the author, Chris Guillebeau. This photo is further proof that I am the most unphotogenic woman on the planet. Too bad that I didn\'t take a second shot with my eyes open. :-p[/caption]\r\n\r\nWell....First you need to pay $23 to purchase the book <a href=\"http://100startup.com/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>The $100 Startup</strong></a>.  ($26.95 for all of you Canucks out there.)\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nThen you need to plant your nose firmly in that book.  Expect Chris Guillebeau to teach you how to reinvent the way you make a living, do what you love, and create a new future.  All for  around 100 buckaroos.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI will be reading the book/absorbing Chris\'s mojo by osmosis on the plane to Portland today for Chris\'s World Domination Summit.<strong>  </strong>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nEverybody calm down.  We will be plotting to take over the world through peaceful and creative means, not through violence.  You can read all about it <strong>here.</strong>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nIn the meantime, <strong><a href=\"http://createasfolk.com/the-100-startup-passion-usefulness-success/\" target=\"_blank\">a fellow World Dominator created a teaser for the book</a> </strong>which is a blogger\'s godsend because I need to get off this computer and go pack for WDS!  Enjoy!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;','Playdate #22:  The Best $100 You\'ll Ever Spend','','inherit','open','open','','10694-revision-6','','','2012-07-04 19:52:54','2012-07-05 02:52:54','',10694,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2012/07/04/10694-revision-6/',0,'revision','',0),(10702,1,'2012-07-04 19:53:43','2012-07-05 02:53:43','[caption id=\"attachment_10698\" align=\"alignleft\" width=\"300\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?attachment_id=10698\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10698\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-10698 \" title=\"IMG00127-20120602-1728\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/IMG00127-20120602-1728-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a> Me and the author, Chris Guillebeau. This photo is further proof that I am the most unphotogenic woman on the planet. Too bad that I didn\'t take a second shot with my eyes open. :-p[/caption]\r\n\r\nWell....First you need to pay $23 to purchase the book <a href=\"http://100startup.com/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>The $100 Startup</strong></a>.  ($26.95 for all of you Canucks out there.)\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nThen you need to plant your nose firmly in that book.  Expect Chris Guillebeau to teach you how to reinvent the way you make a living, do what you love, and create a new future.  All for around 100 buckaroos.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI will be reading the book/absorbing Chris\'s mojo by osmosis on the plane to Portland today for Chris\'s World Domination Summit.<strong>  </strong>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nEverybody calm down.  We will be plotting to take over the world through peaceful and creative means, not through violence.  You can read all about it <strong>here.</strong>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nIn the meantime, <strong><a href=\"http://createasfolk.com/the-100-startup-passion-usefulness-success/\" target=\"_blank\">a fellow World Dominator created a teaser for the book</a> </strong>which is a blogger\'s godsend because I need to get off this computer and go pack for WDS!  Enjoy!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;','Playdate #22:  The Best $100 You\'ll Ever Spend','','inherit','open','open','','10694-revision-7','','','2012-07-04 19:53:43','2012-07-05 02:53:43','',10694,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2012/07/04/10694-revision-7/',0,'revision','',0),(10703,1,'2012-07-04 19:55:13','2012-07-05 02:55:13','[caption id=\"attachment_10698\" align=\"alignleft\" width=\"300\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?attachment_id=10698\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10698\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-10698 \" title=\"IMG00127-20120602-1728\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/IMG00127-20120602-1728-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a> Me and the author, Chris Guillebeau. This photo is further proof that I am the most unphotogenic woman on the planet. Too bad that I didn\'t take a second shot with my eyes open. :-p[/caption]\r\n\r\nWell....First you need to pay $23 to purchase the book <a href=\"http://100startup.com/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>The $100 Startup</strong></a>.  ($26.95 for all of you Canucks out there.)\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nThen you need to plant your nose firmly in that book.  Expect Chris Guillebeau to teach you how to reinvent the way you make a living, do what you love, and create a new future.  All for around 100 buckaroos.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI will be reading the book/absorbing Chris\'s mojo by osmosis on the plane to Portland today for Chris\'s World Domination Summit.<strong>  </strong>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nEverybody calm down.  We will be plotting to take over the world through peaceful and creative means, not through violence.  You can read all about it <strong>here.</strong>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nIn the meantime, <strong><a href=\"http://createasfolk.com/the-100-startup-passion-usefulness-success/\" target=\"_blank\">a fellow World Dominator created a teaser for the book</a> </strong>which this blogger\'s godsend because I need to get off the computer and go pack for WDS!  Enjoy!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;','Playdate #22:  The Best $100 You\'ll Ever Spend','','inherit','open','open','','10694-revision-8','','','2012-07-04 19:55:13','2012-07-05 02:55:13','',10694,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2012/07/04/10694-revision-8/',0,'revision','',0),(10704,1,'2012-07-04 19:55:43','2012-07-05 02:55:43','[caption id=\"attachment_10698\" align=\"alignleft\" width=\"300\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?attachment_id=10698\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10698\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-10698 \" title=\"IMG00127-20120602-1728\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/IMG00127-20120602-1728-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a> Me and the author, Chris Guillebeau. This photo is further proof that I am the most unphotogenic woman on the planet. Too bad that I didn\'t take a second shot with my eyes open. :-p[/caption]\r\n\r\nWell....First you need to pay $23 to purchase the book <a href=\"http://100startup.com/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>The $100 Startup</strong></a>.  ($26.95 for all of you Canucks out there.)\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nThen you need to plant your nose firmly in that book.  Expect Chris Guillebeau to teach you how to reinvent the way you make a living, do what you love, and create a new future.  All for around 100 buckaroos.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI will be reading the book/absorbing Chris\'s mojo by osmosis on the plane to Portland today for Chris\'s World Domination Summit.<strong>  </strong>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nEverybody calm down.  We will be plotting to take over the world through peaceful and creative means, not through violence.  You can read all about it <a href=\"http://worlddominationsummit.com\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>here.</strong></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nIn the meantime, <strong><a href=\"http://createasfolk.com/the-100-startup-passion-usefulness-success/\" target=\"_blank\">a fellow World Dominator created a teaser for the book</a> </strong>which this blogger\'s godsend because I need to get off the computer and go pack for WDS!  Enjoy!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;','Playdate #22:  The Best $100 You\'ll Ever Spend','','inherit','open','open','','10694-revision-9','','','2012-07-04 19:55:43','2012-07-05 02:55:43','',10694,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2012/07/04/10694-revision-9/',0,'revision','',0),(10705,1,'2012-07-04 19:56:32','2012-07-05 02:56:32','&nbsp;[caption id=\"attachment_10698\" align=\"alignleft\" width=\"300\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?attachment_id=10698\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10698\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-10698 \" title=\"IMG00127-20120602-1728\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/IMG00127-20120602-1728-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a> Me and the author, Chris Guillebeau. This photo is further proof that I am the most unphotogenic woman on the planet. Too bad that I didn\'t take a second shot with my eyes open. :-p[/caption]\r\n\r\nWell....First you need to pay $23 to purchase the book <a href=\"http://100startup.com/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>The $100 Startup</strong></a>.  ($26.95 for all of you Canucks out there.)\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nThen you need to plant your nose firmly in that book.  Expect Chris Guillebeau to teach you how to reinvent the way you make a living, do what you love, and create a new future.  All for around 100 buckaroos.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI will be reading the book/absorbing Chris\'s mojo by osmosis on the plane to Portland today for Chris\'s World Domination Summit.<strong>  </strong>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nEverybody calm down.  We will be plotting to take over the world through peaceful and creative means, not through violence.  You can read all about it <a href=\"http://worlddominationsummit.com\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>here.</strong></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nIn the meantime, <strong><a href=\"http://createasfolk.com/the-100-startup-passion-usefulness-success/\" target=\"_blank\">a fellow World Dominator created a teaser for the book</a> </strong>which this blogger\'s godsend because I need to get off the computer and go pack for WDS!  Enjoy!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;','Playdate #22:  The Best $100 You\'ll Ever Spend','','inherit','open','open','','10694-revision-10','','','2012-07-04 19:56:32','2012-07-05 02:56:32','',10694,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2012/07/04/10694-revision-10/',0,'revision','',0),(10706,1,'2012-07-04 19:57:26','2012-07-05 02:57:26','&nbsp;[caption id=\"attachment_10698\" align=\"alignleft\" width=\"300\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?attachment_id=10698\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10698\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-10698 \" title=\"IMG00127-20120602-1728\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/IMG00127-20120602-1728-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a> Me and the author, Chris Guillebeau. This photo is further proof that I am the most unphotogenic woman on the planet. Too bad that I didn\'t take a second shot with my eyes open. :-p[/caption]\r\n\r\nWell....First you need to pay $23 to purchase the book <a href=\"http://100startup.com/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>The $100 Startup</strong></a>.  ($26.95 for all of you Canucks out there.)\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nThen you need to plant your nose firmly in that book.  Expect Chris Guillebeau to teach you how to reinvent the way you make a living, do what you love, and create a new future.  All for an investment of around 100 buckaroos.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI will be reading the book/absorbing Chris\'s mojo by osmosis on the plane to Portland today for Chris\'s World Domination Summit.<strong>  </strong>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nEverybody calm down.  We will be plotting to take over the world through peaceful and creative means, not through violence.  You can read all about it <a href=\"http://worlddominationsummit.com\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>here.</strong></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nIn the meantime, <strong><a href=\"http://createasfolk.com/the-100-startup-passion-usefulness-success/\" target=\"_blank\">a fellow World Dominator created a teaser for the book</a> </strong>which this blogger\'s godsend because I need to get off the computer and go pack for WDS!  Enjoy!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;','Playdate #22:  The Best $100 You\'ll Ever Spend','','inherit','open','open','','10694-revision-11','','','2012-07-04 19:57:26','2012-07-05 02:57:26','',10694,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2012/07/04/10694-revision-11/',0,'revision','',0),(10710,1,'2012-07-14 18:03:25','2012-07-15 01:03:25','','OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA','','inherit','open','open','','olympus-digital-camera-737','','','2012-07-14 18:03:25','2012-07-15 01:03:25','',10708,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/P6050082.jpg',0,'attachment','image/jpeg',0),(10711,1,'2012-07-14 18:34:04','2012-07-15 01:34:04','<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2012/07/15/playdate-23-astronomy-at-work/olympus-digital-camera-737/\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10710\"><img class=\"alignleft size-medium wp-image-10710\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/P6050082-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a> Remember when <a href=\"http://www.transitofvenus.org/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Venus passed between the Earth and the Sun</strong></a> about a month ago?  (Yes, I am <em>that</em> behind on this blog! <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2012/06/26/im-back-and-ready-to-plog/\" target=\"_blank\"> <strong>Waaaa!</strong></a>)\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAs you been privy to numerous times before, our stellar culture at Noble Publishing Superpower encourages stargazing, amongst other things.  Or in this case, Venus gazing.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nOne of my illustrious colleagues is a member of the East Valley Astronomy Club.  He was ever-so-kind to haul his telescope to work to entertain and educate those of us ready to flee our cubes and see daylight.  Or in this case, daylight and Venus.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nDon\'t worry, Mom.  Looking through the telescope prevented sudden blindness.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2012/07/15/playdate-23-astronomy-at-work/olympus-digital-camera-745/\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10714\"><img class=\"alignleft size-medium wp-image-10714\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/P6050084-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>\r\n\r\n<img class=\"alignnone  wp-image-10713\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/P6050083-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" />\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nDid any of you catch a glimpse?\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nIf you didn\'t, you missed your chance!  The next transit won\'t take place until 2117!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAlthough....Another anonymous male colleague pointed out that viewing Venus through the telescope looked remarkably similar to seeing sperm through a microscope.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nEwww.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nBut there you have it.  Now you know what you missed!  :-D\r\n\r\n&nbsp;','Playdate #23:  Astronomy at Work','','inherit','open','open','','10708-autosave','','','2012-07-14 18:34:04','2012-07-15 01:34:04','',10708,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2012/07/14/10708-autosave/',0,'revision','',0),(10712,1,'2012-07-14 17:57:20','2012-07-15 00:57:20','','Playdate #23:  Astronomy at Work','','inherit','open','open','','10708-revision-2','','','2012-07-14 17:57:20','2012-07-15 00:57:20','',10708,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2012/07/14/10708-revision-2/',0,'revision','',0),(10713,1,'2012-07-14 18:14:47','2012-07-15 01:14:47','','OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA','','inherit','open','open','','olympus-digital-camera-744','','','2012-07-14 18:14:47','2012-07-15 01:14:47','',10708,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/P6050083.jpg',0,'attachment','image/jpeg',0),(10714,1,'2012-07-14 18:15:12','2012-07-15 01:15:12','','OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA','','inherit','open','open','','olympus-digital-camera-745','','','2012-07-14 18:15:12','2012-07-15 01:15:12','',10708,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/P6050084.jpg',0,'attachment','image/jpeg',0),(10715,1,'2012-07-14 18:08:49','2012-07-15 01:08:49','<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2012/07/15/playdate-23-astronomy-at-work/olympus-digital-camera-737/\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10710\"><img class=\"alignleft size-medium wp-image-10710\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/P6050082-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a> Remember when Venus passed between the earth and the sun about a month ago?  (Yes, I am <em>that</em> behind on this blog!  <strong>Waaaa!</strong>)\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAs you been privy to numerous times before, our stellar culture at Noble Publishing Superpower encourages stargazing, amongst other things.  Or in this case, Venus gazing.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nOne of my illustrious colleagues is a member of the East Valley Astronomy Club.  He was ever-so-kind to haul his telescope to work to entertain and educate those of ready to flee or cubes for an afternoon break.','Playdate #23:  Astronomy at Work','','inherit','open','open','','10708-revision-3','','','2012-07-14 18:08:49','2012-07-15 01:08:49','',10708,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2012/07/14/10708-revision-3/',0,'revision','',0),(10716,1,'2012-07-14 18:15:49','2012-07-15 01:15:49','<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2012/07/15/playdate-23-astronomy-at-work/olympus-digital-camera-737/\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10710\"><img class=\"alignleft size-medium wp-image-10710\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/P6050082-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a> Remember when Venus passed between the Earth and the Sun about a month ago?  (Yes, I am <em>that</em> behind on this blog!  <strong>Waaaa!</strong>)\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAs you been privy to numerous times before, our stellar culture at Noble Publishing Superpower encourages stargazing, amongst other things.  Or in this case, Venus gazing.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nOne of my illustrious colleagues is a member of the East Valley Astronomy Club.  He was ever-so-kind to haul his telescope to work to entertain and educate those of us ready to flee our cubes to see daylight.  Or in this case, Venus and the sun.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nDon\'t worry, Mom.  Looking through the telescope prevented blindness.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2012/07/15/playdate-23-astronomy-at-work/olympus-digital-camera-745/\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10714\"><img class=\"alignleft size-medium wp-image-10714\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/P6050084-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>','Playdate #23:  Astronomy at Work','','inherit','open','open','','10708-revision-4','','','2012-07-14 18:15:49','2012-07-15 01:15:49','',10708,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2012/07/14/10708-revision-4/',0,'revision','',0),(10719,1,'2012-07-14 18:21:15','2012-07-15 01:21:15','<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2012/07/15/playdate-23-astronomy-at-work/olympus-digital-camera-737/\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10710\"><img class=\"alignleft size-medium wp-image-10710\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/P6050082-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a> Remember when <a href=\"http://www.transitofvenus.org/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Venus passed between the Earth and the Sun</strong></a> about a month ago?  (Yes, I am <em>that</em> behind on this blog! <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2012/06/26/im-back-and-ready-to-plog/\" target=\"_blank\"> <strong>Waaaa!</strong></a>)\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAs you been privy to numerous times before, our stellar culture at Noble Publishing Superpower encourages stargazing, amongst other things.  Or in this case, Venus gazing.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nOne of my illustrious colleagues is a member of the East Valley Astronomy Club.  He was ever-so-kind to haul his telescope to work to entertain and educate those of us ready to flee our cubes to see daylight.  Or in this case, Venus and the sun.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nDon\'t worry, Mom.  Looking through the telescope prevented blindness.\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2012/07/15/playdate-23-astronomy-at-work/olympus-digital-camera-745/\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10714\"><img class=\"alignleft size-medium wp-image-10714\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/P6050084-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>\r\n\r\n<img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-10713\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/P6050083-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" />','Playdate #23:  Astronomy at Work','','inherit','open','open','','10708-revision-6','','','2012-07-14 18:21:15','2012-07-15 01:21:15','',10708,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2012/07/14/10708-revision-6/',0,'revision','',0),(10718,1,'2012-07-14 18:17:37','2012-07-15 01:17:37','<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2012/07/15/playdate-23-astronomy-at-work/olympus-digital-camera-737/\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10710\"><img class=\"alignleft size-medium wp-image-10710\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/P6050082-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a> Remember when <a href=\"http://www.transitofvenus.org/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Venus passed between the Earth and the Sun</strong></a> about a month ago?  (Yes, I am <em>that</em> behind on this blog! <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2012/06/26/im-back-and-ready-to-plog/\" target=\"_blank\"> <strong>Waaaa!</strong></a>)\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAs you been privy to numerous times before, our stellar culture at Noble Publishing Superpower encourages stargazing, amongst other things.  Or in this case, Venus gazing.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nOne of my illustrious colleagues is a member of the East Valley Astronomy Club.  He was ever-so-kind to haul his telescope to work to entertain and educate those of us ready to flee our cubes to see daylight.  Or in this case, Venus and the sun.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nDon\'t worry, Mom.  Looking through the telescope prevented blindness.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2012/07/15/playdate-23-astronomy-at-work/olympus-digital-camera-745/\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10714\"><img class=\"alignleft size-medium wp-image-10714\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/P6050084-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>','Playdate #23:  Astronomy at Work','','inherit','open','open','','10708-revision-5','','','2012-07-14 18:17:37','2012-07-15 01:17:37','',10708,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2012/07/14/10708-revision-5/',0,'revision','',0),(10720,1,'2012-07-14 18:29:13','2012-07-15 01:29:13','<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2012/07/15/playdate-23-astronomy-at-work/olympus-digital-camera-737/\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10710\"><img class=\"alignleft size-medium wp-image-10710\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/P6050082-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a> Remember when <a href=\"http://www.transitofvenus.org/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Venus passed between the Earth and the Sun</strong></a> about a month ago?  (Yes, I am <em>that</em> behind on this blog! <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2012/06/26/im-back-and-ready-to-plog/\" target=\"_blank\"> <strong>Waaaa!</strong></a>)\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAs you been privy to numerous times before, our stellar culture at Noble Publishing Superpower encourages stargazing, amongst other things.  Or in this case, Venus gazing.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nOne of my illustrious colleagues is a member of the East Valley Astronomy Club.  He was ever-so-kind to haul his telescope to work to entertain and educate those of us ready to flee our cubes and see daylight.  Or in this case, daylight and Venus.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAnother male colleague -- who would obviously prefer to remain anonymous -- concluded that the\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nDon\'t worry, Mom.  Looking through the telescope prevented blindness.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2012/07/15/playdate-23-astronomy-at-work/olympus-digital-camera-745/\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10714\"><img class=\"alignleft size-medium wp-image-10714\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/P6050084-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>\r\n\r\n<img class=\"alignnone  wp-image-10713\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/P6050083-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" />\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nDid any of you catch a glimpse?\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAnother male colleague -- who prefers to remain anonymous -- observed that viewing Venus through the telescope was strikingly similar to looking at sperm through a microscope.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;','Playdate #23:  Astronomy at Work','','inherit','open','open','','10708-revision-7','','','2012-07-14 18:29:13','2012-07-15 01:29:13','',10708,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2012/07/14/10708-revision-7/',0,'revision','',0),(10721,1,'2012-07-14 18:31:52','2012-07-15 01:31:52','<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2012/07/15/playdate-23-astronomy-at-work/olympus-digital-camera-737/\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10710\"><img class=\"alignleft size-medium wp-image-10710\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/P6050082-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a> Remember when <a href=\"http://www.transitofvenus.org/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Venus passed between the Earth and the Sun</strong></a> about a month ago?  (Yes, I am <em>that</em> behind on this blog! <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2012/06/26/im-back-and-ready-to-plog/\" target=\"_blank\"> <strong>Waaaa!</strong></a>)\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAs you been privy to numerous times before, our stellar culture at Noble Publishing Superpower encourages stargazing, amongst other things.  Or in this case, Venus gazing.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nOne of my illustrious colleagues is a member of the East Valley Astronomy Club.  He was ever-so-kind to haul his telescope to work to entertain and educate those of us ready to flee our cubes and see daylight.  Or in this case, daylight and Venus.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAnother male colleague -- who would obviously prefer to remain anonymous -- concluded that the\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nDon\'t worry, Mom.  Looking through the telescope prevented blindness.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2012/07/15/playdate-23-astronomy-at-work/olympus-digital-camera-745/\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10714\"><img class=\"alignleft size-medium wp-image-10714\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/P6050084-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>\r\n\r\n<img class=\"alignnone  wp-image-10713\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/P6050083-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" />\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nDid any of you catch a glimpse?\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nIf you didn\'t, you missed your chance!  The next transit won\'t take place until 2117!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAlthough....Another anonymous male colleague pointed out that viewing Venus through the telescope looked remarkably similar to seeing sperm through a microscope.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nEwww.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nBut there you have it.  Now you know what you missed!  :-D\r\n\r\n&nbsp;','Playdate #23:  Astronomy at Work','','inherit','open','open','','10708-revision-8','','','2012-07-14 18:31:52','2012-07-15 01:31:52','',10708,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2012/07/14/10708-revision-8/',0,'revision','',0),(10722,1,'2012-07-14 18:33:42','2012-07-15 01:33:42','<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2012/07/15/playdate-23-astronomy-at-work/olympus-digital-camera-737/\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10710\"><img class=\"alignleft size-medium wp-image-10710\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/P6050082-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a> Remember when <a href=\"http://www.transitofvenus.org/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Venus passed between the Earth and the Sun</strong></a> about a month ago?  (Yes, I am <em>that</em> behind on this blog! <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2012/06/26/im-back-and-ready-to-plog/\" target=\"_blank\"> <strong>Waaaa!</strong></a>)\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAs you been privy to numerous times before, our stellar culture at Noble Publishing Superpower encourages stargazing, amongst other things.  Or in this case, Venus gazing.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nOne of my illustrious colleagues is a member of the East Valley Astronomy Club.  He was ever-so-kind to haul his telescope to work to entertain and educate those of us ready to flee our cubes and see daylight.  Or in this case, daylight and Venus.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nDon\'t worry, Mom.  Looking through the telescope prevented sudden blindness.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2012/07/15/playdate-23-astronomy-at-work/olympus-digital-camera-745/\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10714\"><img class=\"alignleft size-medium wp-image-10714\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/P6050084-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>\r\n\r\n<img class=\"alignnone  wp-image-10713\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/P6050083-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" />\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nDid any of you catch a glimpse?\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nIf you didn\'t, you missed your chance!  The next transit won\'t take place until 2117!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAlthough....Another anonymous male colleague pointed out that viewing Venus through the telescope looked remarkably similar to seeing sperm through a microscope.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nEwww.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nBut there you have it.  Now you know what you missed!  :-D\r\n\r\n&nbsp;','Playdate #23:  Astronomy at Work','','inherit','open','open','','10708-revision-9','','','2012-07-14 18:33:42','2012-07-15 01:33:42','',10708,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2012/07/14/10708-revision-9/',0,'revision','',0),(10723,1,'2012-07-14 18:33:59','2012-07-15 01:33:59','<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2012/07/15/playdate-23-astronomy-at-work/olympus-digital-camera-737/\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10710\"><img class=\"alignleft size-medium wp-image-10710\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/P6050082-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a> Remember when <a href=\"http://www.transitofvenus.org/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Venus passed between the Earth and the Sun</strong></a> about a month ago?  (Yes, I am <em>that</em> behind on this blog! <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2012/06/26/im-back-and-ready-to-plog/\" target=\"_blank\"> <strong>Waaaa!</strong></a>)\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAs you been privy to numerous times before, our stellar culture at Noble Publishing Superpower encourages stargazing, amongst other things.  Or in this case, Venus gazing.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nOne of my illustrious colleagues is a member of the East Valley Astronomy Club.  He was ever-so-kind to haul his telescope to work to entertain and educate those of us ready to flee our cubes and see daylight.  Or in this case, daylight and Venus.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nDon\'t worry, Mom.  Looking through the telescope prevented sudden blindness.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2012/07/15/playdate-23-astronomy-at-work/olympus-digital-camera-745/\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10714\"><img class=\"alignleft size-medium wp-image-10714\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/P6050084-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>\r\n\r\n<img class=\"alignnone  wp-image-10713\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/P6050083-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" />\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nDid any of you catch a glimpse?\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nIf you didn\'t, you missed your chance!  The next transit won\'t take place until 2117!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAlthough....Another anonymous male colleague pointed out that viewing Venus through the telescope looked remarkably similar to seeing sperm through a microscope.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nEwww.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nBut there you have it.  Now you know what you missed!  :-D\r\n\r\n&nbsp;','Playdate #23:  Astronomy at Work','','inherit','open','open','','10708-revision-10','','','2012-07-14 18:33:59','2012-07-15 01:33:59','',10708,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2012/07/14/10708-revision-10/',0,'revision','',0),(10724,1,'2012-07-16 01:11:23','2012-07-16 08:11:23','<a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/vanessaberry/2109056559/\"><img class=\"alignleft size-medium wp-image-10730\" title=\"2109056559_44b65d1215\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/2109056559_44b65d1215-300x199.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"199\" /></a>No, that is not a typo.  I did intend to write the plural of Matchmaker.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n30 days ago, I knew ZERO real live Matchmakers.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nNow I have TWO -- yes, TWO -- working for me.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nOne of them I met at a party at a friend\'s house.  She added me to her database.  She knows of someone uber-smart, creative and fun who may just be my soulmate.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nThe other, the parent of former students and apparently now a Matchmaker, sent me a message through facebook which read something to the effect of, \"Ms. Michelle, are you single?  I\'m a Matchmaker, and you\'re too adorable to pass up!\"\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nTo which I replied something to the effect of \"Do you have a Javier Bardem clone in your database?\"\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI was kidding.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nNot really.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nO.k. Of course, I was joking. Ha ha ha.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<span style=\"font-size: medium; color: #993300;\"><strong>Here\'s what\'s not so funny.  My mother has actually said to me TWICE in the past few months something to the effect of, \"Michelle, maybe you\'re just one of those women who are meant to be alone forever.\"</strong></span>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nBefore my mother could hex me with yet another declaration of romantic doom, I logged onto the Internet and signed up on eHarmony faster than you can whistle, \"Matchmaker, Matchmaker, make me a match!\"\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nIt wasn\'t until after I signed up on eH that Fate decided to throw me an additional TWO matchmakers.  The universe must be rooting for me.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nSo now it\'s bound to happen, right?  I have eHarmony the Cyber-Matchmaker and two living breathing Matchmakers helping me find True Love!  It WILL happen, RIGHT???\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nBecause let me let you in on a little secret.  I wrote that quote that you see on the side of my web page.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n<div style=\"padding-bottom: 2px; line-height: 0px;\"><a href=\"http://pinterest.com/pin/109493834660614272/\" target=\"_blank\"><img src=\"http://media-cache-ec8.pinterest.com/upload/109493834660614272_eXZdJ5hI_c.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"225\" height=\"316\" border=\"0\" /></a></div>\r\n<div style=\"float: left; padding-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px;\">\r\n<p style=\"font-size: 10px; color: #76838b;\">Source: <a style=\"text-decoration: underline; font-size: 10px; color: #76838b;\" href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/\">diaryofalatebloomer.com</a> via <a style=\"text-decoration: underline; font-size: 10px; color: #76838b;\" href=\"http://pinterest.com/latebloomer365/\" target=\"_blank\">Michelle</a> on <a style=\"text-decoration: underline; color: #76838b;\" href=\"http://pinterest.com\" target=\"_blank\">Pinterest</a></p>\r\n\r\n</div>\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI never intended for anyone to see it.  Originally, it lurked in a heap of scribbly notes that I sent off to my web designer so that she could get a better feel for \"me\" when she designed my website.  She asked if she could include it in the design.  I was taken aback, but I agreed.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAnd even though all of my friends and family will tell you that I truly walk the walk with that quote,  I would still love nothing more than to share all things curious, interesting and playful with The One.  I\'m not going to put my life on hold and wait for him, but I would like nothing more than The One to show up and whisk me away already!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nBecause I sure as hell don\'t think that I\'m meant to be alone forever.  :-(\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nOh.  And one more thing:  Even though it may be exciting for you to live vicariously through me, I have no desire to date a string of men.  Frankly, I\'m <em>exhausted</em> from dating over the past eleven years.  I would like nothing more than The One to pull me off of eHarmony and kindly ask me to break up with my Matchmakers.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<span style=\"font-size: medium; color: #993300;\"><strong>Oh!  I almost forgot!  (And this is the last thing, I promise.)  The One will remain completely anonymous in this blog.  Just in case he is reading this.  </strong></span>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nO.k.  I\'m ready.  Let the Love begin!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nWish me luck!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nTo be continued . . . .\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;','Playdate #24:  Matchmakers, Matchmakers, Make Me a Match Already!','','publish','open','open','','playdate-24-matchmakers-matchmakers-make-me-a-match','','','2012-07-15 13:07:23','2012-07-15 20:07:23','',0,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?p=10724',0,'post','',14),(10725,1,'2012-07-14 18:54:04','2012-07-15 01:54:04','No, that is not a typo.  I did intend write the plural of Matchmaker.\n\n&nbsp;\n\n30 days ago, I knew 0 real live Matchmakers.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nNow I have TWO -- yes, TWO -- working for me.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nOne of them I met at a party at a friend\'s house.  The other, the parent of former students and now a Matchmaker,  sent me a message through facebook which read something to the effect of, \"Ms. Michelle, are you single?  I\'m a Matchmaker and you\'re too adorable to pass up!\"\n\n&nbsp;\n\nTo which I replied something to the effect of \"Do you have any Javier Bardem clones in your database?\"\n\n&nbsp;\n\nI was kidding.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nNot really.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nO.k. Of course, I was joking. Ha ha ha.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nHere\'s what\'s not so funny.  My mother has actually said to me TWICE in the past few months something to the effect of, \"Michelle, maybe you\'re just one of those women who are meant to be alone forever.\"\n\n&nbsp;\n\nI logged onto the Internet and signed up for eHarmony faster than you can whistle, \"Matchmaker, Matchmaker, make me a match!\"\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;','Playdate #24:  Matchmakers, Matchmakers, Make Me a Match','','inherit','open','open','','10724-revision','','','2012-07-14 18:54:04','2012-07-15 01:54:04','',10724,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2012/07/14/10724-revision/',0,'revision','',0),(10726,1,'2012-07-14 19:02:05','2012-07-15 02:02:05','No, that is not a typo.  I did intend write the plural of Matchmaker.\n\n&nbsp;\n\n30 days ago, I knew 0 real live Matchmakers.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nNow I have TWO -- yes, TWO -- working for me.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nOne of them I met at a party at a friend\'s house.  She added me to her database.  She knows of someone uber-smart, creative and fun who may just be my soulmate.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nThe other, the parent of former students and apparently now a Matchmaker, sent me a message through facebook which read something to the effect of, \"Ms. Michelle, are you single?  I\'m a Matchmaker and you\'re too adorable to pass up!\"\n\n&nbsp;\n\nTo which I replied something to the effect of \"Do you have a Javier Bardem clone in your database?\"\n\n&nbsp;\n\nI was kidding.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nNot really.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nO.k. Of course, I was joking. Ha ha ha.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nHere\'s what\'s not so funny.  My mother has actually said to me TWICE in the past few months something to the effect of, \"Michelle, maybe you\'re just one of those women who are meant to be alone forever.\"\n\n&nbsp;\n\nBefore she could hex me with yet another declaration of romantic doom, I logged onto the Internet and signed up for eHarmony faster than you can whistle, \"Matchmaker, Matchmaker, make me a match!\"\n\n&nbsp;\n\nSo now it\'s bound to happen, right?  I have the eHarmony the Cyber-Matchmaker and two living breathing Matchmakers helping me find True Love!  It WILL happen, RIGHT???\n\n&nbsp;\n\nBecause let me let you in on a little secret.  I wrote that quote that you see on the side of my web page.  I never intended for anyone to see it.  Originally, it lurked in a heap of scribbly notes that I sent off to my web designer to get a better feel for \"me\" when she designed my website.  She asked if she could include it in the design.\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;','Playdate #24:  Matchmakers, Matchmakers, Make Me a Match','','inherit','open','open','','10724-revision-2','','','2012-07-14 19:02:05','2012-07-15 02:02:05','',10724,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2012/07/14/10724-revision-2/',0,'revision','',0),(10727,1,'2012-07-14 19:04:05','2012-07-15 02:04:05','No, that is not a typo.  I did intend write the plural of Matchmaker.\n\n&nbsp;\n\n30 days ago, I knew 0 real live Matchmakers.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nNow I have TWO -- yes, TWO -- working for me.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nOne of them I met at a party at a friend\'s house.  She added me to her database.  She knows of someone uber-smart, creative and fun who may just be my soulmate.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nThe other, the parent of former students and apparently now a Matchmaker, sent me a message through facebook which read something to the effect of, \"Ms. Michelle, are you single?  I\'m a Matchmaker and you\'re too adorable to pass up!\"\n\n&nbsp;\n\nTo which I replied something to the effect of \"Do you have a Javier Bardem clone in your database?\"\n\n&nbsp;\n\nI was kidding.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nNot really.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nO.k. Of course, I was joking. Ha ha ha.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nHere\'s what\'s not so funny.  My mother has actually said to me TWICE in the past few months something to the effect of, \"Michelle, maybe you\'re just one of those women who are meant to be alone forever.\"\n\n&nbsp;\n\nBefore she could hex me with yet another declaration of romantic doom, I logged onto the Internet and signed up for eHarmony faster than you can whistle, \"Matchmaker, Matchmaker, make me a match!\"\n\n&nbsp;\n\nSo now it\'s bound to happen, right?  I have the eHarmony the Cyber-Matchmaker and two living breathing Matchmakers helping me find True Love!  It WILL happen, RIGHT???\n\n&nbsp;\n\nBecause let me let you in on a little secret.  I wrote that quote that you see on the side of my web page.\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\nI never intended for anyone to see it.  Originally, it lurked in a heap of scribbly notes that I sent off to my web designer to get a better feel for \"me\" when she designed my website.  She asked if she could include it in the design.\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;','Playdate #24:  Matchmakers, Matchmakers, Make Me a Match','','inherit','open','open','','10724-revision-3','','','2012-07-14 19:04:05','2012-07-15 02:04:05','',10724,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2012/07/14/10724-revision-3/',0,'revision','',0),(10728,1,'2012-07-14 19:04:14','2012-07-15 02:04:14','No, that is not a typo.  I did intend write the plural of Matchmaker.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n30 days ago, I knew 0 real live Matchmakers.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nNow I have TWO -- yes, TWO -- working for me.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nOne of them I met at a party at a friend\'s house.  She added me to her database.  She knows of someone uber-smart, creative and fun who may just be my soulmate.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nThe other, the parent of former students and apparently now a Matchmaker, sent me a message through facebook which read something to the effect of, \"Ms. Michelle, are you single?  I\'m a Matchmaker and you\'re too adorable to pass up!\"\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nTo which I replied something to the effect of \"Do you have a Javier Bardem clone in your database?\"\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI was kidding.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nNot really.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nO.k. Of course, I was joking. Ha ha ha.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nHere\'s what\'s not so funny.  My mother has actually said to me TWICE in the past few months something to the effect of, \"Michelle, maybe you\'re just one of those women who are meant to be alone forever.\"\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nBefore she could hex me with yet another declaration of romantic doom, I logged onto the Internet and signed up for eHarmony faster than you can whistle, \"Matchmaker, Matchmaker, make me a match!\"\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nSo now it\'s bound to happen, right?  I have the eHarmony the Cyber-Matchmaker and two living breathing Matchmakers helping me find True Love!  It WILL happen, RIGHT???\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nBecause let me let you in on a little secret.  I wrote that quote that you see on the side of my web page.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<div style=\'padding-bottom: 2px; line-height: 0px\'><a href=\'http://pinterest.com/pin/109493834660614272/\' target=\'_blank\'><img src=\'http://media-cache-ec8.pinterest.com/upload/109493834660614272_eXZdJ5hI_c.jpg\' border=\'0\' width=\'225\' height =\'316\'/></a></div><div style=\'float: left; padding-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px;\'><p style=\'font-size: 10px; color: #76838b;\'>Source: <a style=\'text-decoration: underline; font-size: 10px; color: #76838b;\' href=\'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/\'>diaryofalatebloomer.com</a> via <a style=\'text-decoration: underline; font-size: 10px; color: #76838b;\' href=\'http://pinterest.com/latebloomer365/\' target=\'_blank\'>Michelle</a> on <a style=\'text-decoration: underline; color: #76838b;\' href=\'http://pinterest.com\' target=\'_blank\'>Pinterest</a></p></div>\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI never intended for anyone to see it.  Originally, it lurked in a heap of scribbly notes that I sent off to my web designer to get a better feel for \"me\" when she designed my website.  She asked if she could include it in the design.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;','Playdate #24:  Matchmakers, Matchmakers, Make Me a Match','','inherit','open','open','','10724-revision-4','','','2012-07-14 19:04:14','2012-07-15 02:04:14','',10724,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2012/07/14/10724-revision-4/',0,'revision','',0),(10729,1,'2012-07-14 19:09:26','2012-07-15 02:09:26','No, that is not a typo.  I did intend write the plural of Matchmaker.\n\n&nbsp;\n\n30 days ago, I knew 0 real live Matchmakers.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nNow I have TWO -- yes, TWO -- working for me.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nOne of them I met at a party at a friend\'s house.  She added me to her database.  She knows of someone uber-smart, creative and fun who may just be my soulmate.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nThe other, the parent of former students and apparently now a Matchmaker, sent me a message through facebook which read something to the effect of, \"Ms. Michelle, are you single?  I\'m a Matchmaker and you\'re too adorable to pass up!\"\n\n&nbsp;\n\nTo which I replied something to the effect of \"Do you have a Javier Bardem clone in your database?\"\n\n&nbsp;\n\nI was kidding.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nNot really.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nO.k. Of course, I was joking. Ha ha ha.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nHere\'s what\'s not so funny.  My mother has actually said to me TWICE in the past few months something to the effect of, \"Michelle, maybe you\'re just one of those women who are meant to be alone forever.\"\n\n&nbsp;\n\nBefore she could hex me with yet another declaration of romantic doom, I logged onto the Internet and signed up for eHarmony faster than you can whistle, \"Matchmaker, Matchmaker, make me a match!\"\n\n&nbsp;\n\nSo now it\'s bound to happen, right?  I have the eHarmony the Cyber-Matchmaker and two living breathing Matchmakers helping me find True Love!  It WILL happen, RIGHT???\n\n&nbsp;\n\nBecause let me let you in on a little secret.  I wrote that quote that you see on the side of my web page.\n\n&nbsp;\n<div style=\"padding-bottom: 2px; line-height: 0px;\"><a href=\"http://pinterest.com/pin/109493834660614272/\" target=\"_blank\"><img src=\"http://media-cache-ec8.pinterest.com/upload/109493834660614272_eXZdJ5hI_c.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"225\" height=\"316\" border=\"0\" /></a></div>\n<div style=\"float: left; padding-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px;\">\n<p style=\"font-size: 10px; color: #76838b;\">Source: <a style=\"text-decoration: underline; font-size: 10px; color: #76838b;\" href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/\">diaryofalatebloomer.com</a> via <a style=\"text-decoration: underline; font-size: 10px; color: #76838b;\" href=\"http://pinterest.com/latebloomer365/\" target=\"_blank\">Michelle</a> on <a style=\"text-decoration: underline; color: #76838b;\" href=\"http://pinterest.com\" target=\"_blank\">Pinterest</a></p>\n\n</div>\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\nI never intended for anyone to see it.  Originally, it lurked in a heap of scribbly notes that I sent off to my web designer to get a better feel for \"me\" when she designed my website.  She asked if she could include it in the design.  I was taken aback, but agreed.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nAnd even though all of my friends and family will tell you that I truly walk the walk with that quote,  I would still like for the fairy tale to happen.  I\'m not going to put my life on hold and wait for it, but I would like nothing more than The One showing up already!\n\n&nbsp;\n\nBecause I sure as hell don\'t think that I\'m meant to be alone forever.  :-(\n\n&nbsp;\n\nWish me luck!\n\n&nbsp;\n\nTo be continued . . . .\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;','Playdate #24:  Matchmakers, Matchmakers, Make Me a Match','','inherit','open','open','','10724-revision-5','','','2012-07-14 19:09:26','2012-07-15 02:09:26','',10724,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2012/07/14/10724-revision-5/',0,'revision','',0),(10730,1,'2012-07-14 20:02:07','2012-07-15 03:02:07','','2109056559_44b65d1215','','inherit','open','open','','2109056559_44b65d1215','','','2012-07-14 20:02:07','2012-07-15 03:02:07','',10724,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/2109056559_44b65d1215.jpg',0,'attachment','image/jpeg',0),(10731,1,'2012-07-14 20:05:28','2012-07-15 03:05:28','<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?attachment_id=10730\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10730\"><img class=\"alignleft size-medium wp-image-10730\" title=\"2109056559_44b65d1215\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/2109056559_44b65d1215-300x199.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"199\" /></a>No, that is not a typo.  I did intend write the plural of Matchmaker.\n\n&nbsp;\n\n30 days ago, I knew 0 real live Matchmakers.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nNow I have TWO -- yes, TWO -- working for me.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nOne of them I met at a party at a friend\'s house.  She added me to her database.  She knows of someone uber-smart, creative and fun who may just be my soulmate.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nThe other, the parent of former students and apparently now a Matchmaker, sent me a message through facebook which read something to the effect of, \"Ms. Michelle, are you single?  I\'m a Matchmaker and you\'re too adorable to pass up!\"\n\n&nbsp;\n\nTo which I replied something to the effect of \"Do you have a Javier Bardem clone in your database?\"\n\n&nbsp;\n\nI was kidding.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nNot really.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nO.k. Of course, I was joking. Ha ha ha.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nHere\'s what\'s not so funny.  My mother has actually said to me TWICE in the past few months something to the effect of, \"Michelle, maybe you\'re just one of those women who are meant to be alone forever.\"\n\n&nbsp;\n\nBefore she could hex me with yet another declaration of romantic doom, I logged onto the Internet and signed up for eHarmony faster than you can whistle, \"Matchmaker, Matchmaker, make me a match!\"\n\n&nbsp;\n\nSo now it\'s bound to happen, right?  I have eHarmony the Cyber-Matchmaker and two living breathing Matchmakers helping me find True Love!  It WILL happen, RIGHT???\n\n&nbsp;\n\nBecause let me let you in on a little secret.  I wrote that quote that you see on the side of my web page.\n\n&nbsp;\n<div style=\"padding-bottom: 2px; line-height: 0px;\"><a href=\"http://pinterest.com/pin/109493834660614272/\" target=\"_blank\"><img src=\"http://media-cache-ec8.pinterest.com/upload/109493834660614272_eXZdJ5hI_c.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"225\" height=\"316\" border=\"0\" /></a></div>\n<div style=\"float: left; padding-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px;\">\n<p style=\"font-size: 10px; color: #76838b;\">Source: <a style=\"text-decoration: underline; font-size: 10px; color: #76838b;\" href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/\">diaryofalatebloomer.com</a> via <a style=\"text-decoration: underline; font-size: 10px; color: #76838b;\" href=\"http://pinterest.com/latebloomer365/\" target=\"_blank\">Michelle</a> on <a style=\"text-decoration: underline; color: #76838b;\" href=\"http://pinterest.com\" target=\"_blank\">Pinterest</a></p>\n\n</div>\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\nI never intended for anyone to see it.  Originally, it lurked in a heap of scribbly notes that I sent off to my web designer to get a better feel for \"me\" when she designed my website.  She asked if she could include it in the design.  I was taken aback, but agreed.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nAnd even though all of my friends and family will tell you that I truly walk the walk with that quote,  I would still like for the fairy tale to happen.  I\'m not going to put my life on hold and wait for it, but I would like nothing more than The One to show up and whisk me away already!\n\n&nbsp;\n\nBecause I sure as hell don\'t think that I\'m meant to be alone forever.  :-(\n\n&nbsp;\n\nWish me luck!\n\n&nbsp;\n\nTo be continued . . . .\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;','Playdate #24:  Matchmakers, Matchmakers, Make Me a Match','','inherit','open','open','','10724-revision-6','','','2012-07-14 20:05:28','2012-07-15 03:05:28','',10724,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2012/07/14/10724-revision-6/',0,'revision','',0),(10732,1,'2012-07-14 20:11:28','2012-07-15 03:11:28','<a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/vanessaberry/2109056559/\"><img class=\"alignleft size-medium wp-image-10730\" title=\"2109056559_44b65d1215\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/2109056559_44b65d1215-300x199.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"199\" /></a>No, that is not a typo.  I did intend write the plural of Matchmaker.\n\n&nbsp;\n\n30 days ago, I knew 0 real live Matchmakers.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nNow I have TWO -- yes, TWO -- working for me.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nOne of them I met at a party at a friend\'s house.  She added me to her database.  She knows of someone uber-smart, creative and fun who may just be my soulmate.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nThe other, the parent of former students and apparently now a Matchmaker, sent me a message through facebook which read something to the effect of, \"Ms. Michelle, are you single?  I\'m a Matchmaker and you\'re too adorable to pass up!\"\n\n&nbsp;\n\nTo which I replied something to the effect of \"Do you have a Javier Bardem clone in your database?\"\n\n&nbsp;\n\nI was kidding.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nNot really.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nO.k. Of course, I was joking. Ha ha ha.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nHere\'s what\'s not so funny.  My mother has actually said to me TWICE in the past few months something to the effect of, \"Michelle, maybe you\'re just one of those women who are meant to be alone forever.\"\n\n&nbsp;\n\nBefore she could hex me with yet another declaration of romantic doom, I logged onto the Internet and signed up for eHarmony faster than you can whistle, \"Matchmaker, Matchmaker, make me a match!\"\n\n&nbsp;\n\nSo now it\'s bound to happen, right?  I have eHarmony the Cyber-Matchmaker and two living breathing Matchmakers helping me find True Love!  It WILL happen, RIGHT???\n\n&nbsp;\n\nBecause let me let you in on a little secret.  I wrote that quote that you see on the side of my web page.\n\n&nbsp;\n<div style=\"padding-bottom: 2px; line-height: 0px;\"><a href=\"http://pinterest.com/pin/109493834660614272/\" target=\"_blank\"><img src=\"http://media-cache-ec8.pinterest.com/upload/109493834660614272_eXZdJ5hI_c.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"225\" height=\"316\" border=\"0\" /></a></div>\n<div style=\"float: left; padding-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px;\">\n<p style=\"font-size: 10px; color: #76838b;\">Source: <a style=\"text-decoration: underline; font-size: 10px; color: #76838b;\" href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/\">diaryofalatebloomer.com</a> via <a style=\"text-decoration: underline; font-size: 10px; color: #76838b;\" href=\"http://pinterest.com/latebloomer365/\" target=\"_blank\">Michelle</a> on <a style=\"text-decoration: underline; color: #76838b;\" href=\"http://pinterest.com\" target=\"_blank\">Pinterest</a></p>\n\n</div>\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\nI never intended for anyone to see it.  Originally, it lurked in a heap of scribbly notes that I sent off to my web designer so that she could get a better feel for \"me\" when she designed my website.  She asked if she could include it in the design.  I was taken aback, but I agreed.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nAnd even though all of my friends and family will tell you that I truly walk the walk with that quote,  I would still love nothing more for the fairy tale to happen.  I\'m not going to put my life on hold and wait for him, but I would like nothing more than The One to show up and whisk me away already!\n\n&nbsp;\n\nBecause I sure as hell don\'t think that I\'m meant to be alone forever.  :-(\n\n&nbsp;\n\nWish me luck!\n\n&nbsp;\n\nTo be continued . . . .\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;','Playdate #24:  Matchmakers, Matchmakers, Make Me a Match','','inherit','open','open','','10724-revision-7','','','2012-07-14 20:11:28','2012-07-15 03:11:28','',10724,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2012/07/14/10724-revision-7/',0,'revision','',0),(10733,1,'2012-07-14 20:11:56','2012-07-15 03:11:56','<a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/vanessaberry/2109056559/\"><img class=\"alignleft size-medium wp-image-10730\" title=\"2109056559_44b65d1215\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/2109056559_44b65d1215-300x199.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"199\" /></a>No, that is not a typo.  I did intend write the plural of Matchmaker.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n30 days ago, I knew 0 real live Matchmakers.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nNow I have TWO -- yes, TWO -- working for me.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nOne of them I met at a party at a friend\'s house.  She added me to her database.  She knows of someone uber-smart, creative and fun who may just be my soulmate.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nThe other, the parent of former students and apparently now a Matchmaker, sent me a message through facebook which read something to the effect of, \"Ms. Michelle, are you single?  I\'m a Matchmaker and you\'re too adorable to pass up!\"\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nTo which I replied something to the effect of \"Do you have a Javier Bardem clone in your database?\"\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI was kidding.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nNot really.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nO.k. Of course, I was joking. Ha ha ha.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nHere\'s what\'s not so funny.  My mother has actually said to me TWICE in the past few months something to the effect of, \"Michelle, maybe you\'re just one of those women who are meant to be alone forever.\"\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nBefore she could hex me with yet another declaration of romantic doom, I logged onto the Internet and signed up for eHarmony faster than you can whistle, \"Matchmaker, Matchmaker, make me a match!\"\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nSo now it\'s bound to happen, right?  I have eHarmony the Cyber-Matchmaker and two living breathing Matchmakers helping me find True Love!  It WILL happen, RIGHT???\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nBecause let me let you in on a little secret.  I wrote that quote that you see on the side of my web page.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n<div style=\"padding-bottom: 2px; line-height: 0px;\"><a href=\"http://pinterest.com/pin/109493834660614272/\" target=\"_blank\"><img src=\"http://media-cache-ec8.pinterest.com/upload/109493834660614272_eXZdJ5hI_c.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"225\" height=\"316\" border=\"0\" /></a></div>\r\n<div style=\"float: left; padding-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px;\">\r\n<p style=\"font-size: 10px; color: #76838b;\">Source: <a style=\"text-decoration: underline; font-size: 10px; color: #76838b;\" href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/\">diaryofalatebloomer.com</a> via <a style=\"text-decoration: underline; font-size: 10px; color: #76838b;\" href=\"http://pinterest.com/latebloomer365/\" target=\"_blank\">Michelle</a> on <a style=\"text-decoration: underline; color: #76838b;\" href=\"http://pinterest.com\" target=\"_blank\">Pinterest</a></p>\r\n\r\n</div>\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI never intended for anyone to see it.  Originally, it lurked in a heap of scribbly notes that I sent off to my web designer so that she could get a better feel for \"me\" when she designed my website.  She asked if she could include it in the design.  I was taken aback, but I agreed.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAnd even though all of my friends and family will tell you that I truly walk the walk with that quote,  I would still love nothing more than to share my life with The One.  I\'m not going to put my life on hold and wait for him, but I would like nothing more than The One to show up and whisk me away already!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nBecause I sure as hell don\'t think that I\'m meant to be alone forever.  :-(\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nWish me luck!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nTo be continued . . . .\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;','Playdate #24:  Matchmakers, Matchmakers, Make Me a Match','','inherit','open','open','','10724-revision-8','','','2012-07-14 20:11:56','2012-07-15 03:11:56','',10724,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2012/07/14/10724-revision-8/',0,'revision','',0),(10734,1,'2012-07-14 20:12:13','2012-07-15 03:12:13','<a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/vanessaberry/2109056559/\"><img class=\"alignleft size-medium wp-image-10730\" title=\"2109056559_44b65d1215\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/2109056559_44b65d1215-300x199.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"199\" /></a>No, that is not a typo.  I did intend write the plural of Matchmaker.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n30 days ago, I knew 0 real live Matchmakers.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nNow I have TWO -- yes, TWO -- working for me.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nOne of them I met at a party at a friend\'s house.  She added me to her database.  She knows of someone uber-smart, creative and fun who may just be my soulmate.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nThe other, the parent of former students and apparently now a Matchmaker, sent me a message through facebook which read something to the effect of, \"Ms. Michelle, are you single?  I\'m a Matchmaker and you\'re too adorable to pass up!\"\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nTo which I replied something to the effect of \"Do you have a Javier Bardem clone in your database?\"\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI was kidding.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nNot really.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nO.k. Of course, I was joking. Ha ha ha.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nHere\'s what\'s not so funny.  My mother has actually said to me TWICE in the past few months something to the effect of, \"Michelle, maybe you\'re just one of those women who are meant to be alone forever.\"\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nBefore she could hex me with yet another declaration of romantic doom, I logged onto the Internet and signed up for eHarmony faster than you can whistle, \"Matchmaker, Matchmaker, make me a match!\"\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nSo now it\'s bound to happen, right?  I have eHarmony the Cyber-Matchmaker and two living breathing Matchmakers helping me find True Love!  It WILL happen, RIGHT???\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nBecause let me let you in on a little secret.  I wrote that quote that you see on the side of my web page.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n<div style=\"padding-bottom: 2px; line-height: 0px;\"><a href=\"http://pinterest.com/pin/109493834660614272/\" target=\"_blank\"><img src=\"http://media-cache-ec8.pinterest.com/upload/109493834660614272_eXZdJ5hI_c.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"225\" height=\"316\" border=\"0\" /></a></div>\r\n<div style=\"float: left; padding-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px;\">\r\n<p style=\"font-size: 10px; color: #76838b;\">Source: <a style=\"text-decoration: underline; font-size: 10px; color: #76838b;\" href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/\">diaryofalatebloomer.com</a> via <a style=\"text-decoration: underline; font-size: 10px; color: #76838b;\" href=\"http://pinterest.com/latebloomer365/\" target=\"_blank\">Michelle</a> on <a style=\"text-decoration: underline; color: #76838b;\" href=\"http://pinterest.com\" target=\"_blank\">Pinterest</a></p>\r\n\r\n</div>\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI never intended for anyone to see it.  Originally, it lurked in a heap of scribbly notes that I sent off to my web designer so that she could get a better feel for \"me\" when she designed my website.  She asked if she could include it in the design.  I was taken aback, but I agreed.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAnd even though all of my friends and family will tell you that I truly walk the walk with that quote,  I would still love nothing more than to share my life with The One.  I\'m not going to put my life on hold and wait for him, but I would like nothing more than The One to show up and whisk me away already!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nBecause I sure as hell don\'t think that I\'m meant to be alone forever.  :-(\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nWish me luck!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nTo be continued . . . .\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;','Playdate #24:  Matchmakers, Matchmakers, Make Me a Match','','inherit','open','open','','10724-revision-9','','','2012-07-14 20:12:13','2012-07-15 03:12:13','',10724,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2012/07/14/10724-revision-9/',0,'revision','',0),(10735,1,'2012-07-15 12:18:56','2012-07-15 19:18:56','<a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/vanessaberry/2109056559/\"><img class=\"alignleft size-medium wp-image-10730\" title=\"2109056559_44b65d1215\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/2109056559_44b65d1215-300x199.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"199\" /></a>No, that is not a typo.  I did intend write the plural of Matchmaker.\n\n&nbsp;\n\n30 days ago, I knew 0 real live Matchmakers.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nNow I have TWO -- yes, TWO -- working for me.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nOne of them I met at a party at a friend\'s house.  She added me to her database.  She knows of someone uber-smart, creative and fun who may just be my soulmate.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nThe other, the parent of former students and apparently now a Matchmaker, sent me a message through facebook which read something to the effect of, \"Ms. Michelle, are you single?  I\'m a Matchmaker and you\'re too adorable to pass up!\"\n\n&nbsp;\n\nTo which I replied something to the effect of \"Do you have a Javier Bardem clone in your database?\"\n\n&nbsp;\n\nI was kidding.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nNot really.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nO.k. Of course, I was joking. Ha ha ha.\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\n<span style=\"font-size: medium; color: #993300;\"><strong>Here\'s what\'s not so funny.  My mother has actually said to me TWICE in the past few months something to the effect of, \"Michelle, maybe you\'re just one of those women who are meant to be alone forever.\"</strong></span>\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\nBefore my mother could hex me with yet another declaration of romantic doom, I logged onto the Internet and signed up for eHarmony faster than you can whistle, \"Matchmaker, Matchmaker, make me a match!\"\n\n&nbsp;\n\nAfter I signed up on eH, this is when Fate decided to throw me an additional TWO matchmakers.  The universe must be rooting for me.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nSo now it\'s bound to happen, right?  I have eHarmony the Cyber-Matchmaker and two living breathing Matchmakers helping me find True Love!  It WILL happen, RIGHT???\n\n&nbsp;\n\nBecause let me let you in on a little secret.  I wrote that quote that you see on the side of my web page.\n\n&nbsp;\n<div style=\"padding-bottom: 2px; line-height: 0px;\"><a href=\"http://pinterest.com/pin/109493834660614272/\" target=\"_blank\"><img src=\"http://media-cache-ec8.pinterest.com/upload/109493834660614272_eXZdJ5hI_c.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"225\" height=\"316\" border=\"0\" /></a></div>\n<div style=\"float: left; padding-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px;\">\n<p style=\"font-size: 10px; color: #76838b;\">Source: <a style=\"text-decoration: underline; font-size: 10px; color: #76838b;\" href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/\">diaryofalatebloomer.com</a> via <a style=\"text-decoration: underline; font-size: 10px; color: #76838b;\" href=\"http://pinterest.com/latebloomer365/\" target=\"_blank\">Michelle</a> on <a style=\"text-decoration: underline; color: #76838b;\" href=\"http://pinterest.com\" target=\"_blank\">Pinterest</a></p>\n\n</div>\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\nI never intended for anyone to see it.  Originally, it lurked in a heap of scribbly notes that I sent off to my web designer so that she could get a better feel for \"me\" when she designed my website.  She asked if she could include it in the design.  I was taken aback, but I agreed.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nAnd even though all of my friends and family will tell you that I truly walk the walk with that quote,  I would still love nothing more than to share my life with The One.  I\'m not going to put my life on hold and wait for him, but I would like nothing more than The One to show up and whisk me away already!\n\n&nbsp;\n\nBecause I sure as hell don\'t think that I\'m meant to be alone forever.  :-(\n\n&nbsp;\n\nOh.  And one more thing:  Even though it may be fun for you to live vicariously through me, I have no desire to date a string of men.  Frankly, I\'m <em>exhausted</em> from dating over the past eleven years.  I would like nothing more than The One to pull me off of eHarmony and kindly ask me to break up with my Matchmakers.\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\n<span style=\"font-size: medium; color: #993300;\"><strong>Oh!  I almost forgot!  (And this is the last thing, I promise.)  The One will remain completely anonymous in this blog.  Just in case he is reading this.  </strong></span>\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\nO.k.  I\'m ready.  Let the Love begin!\n\n&nbsp;\n\nWish me luck!\n\n&nbsp;\n\nTo be continued . . . .\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;','Playdate #24:  Matchmakers, Matchmakers, Make Me a Match Already!','','inherit','open','open','','10724-autosave','','','2012-07-15 12:18:56','2012-07-15 19:18:56','',10724,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2012/07/14/10724-autosave/',0,'revision','',0),(10736,1,'2012-07-18 01:11:49','2012-07-18 08:11:49','<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2012/07/17/playdate-25-life-after-trading-spaces/trading-spaces-016/\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10752\"><img class=\"alignleft size-medium wp-image-10752\" title=\"My 15 Minutes of Fame\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/Trading-Spaces-016-300x224.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"224\" /></a>Once upon a time, I was on a TV show called <em>Trading Spaces.</em>  My 15 minutes of fame is a great conversation piece at parties.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<span style=\"color: #008000;\"><strong>Most frequently asked question:</strong> </span> \"Do you like your room?\"\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nLike?  No.  I LOVE my room a la Genevieve!  She tossed my Target particle board office furniture and replaced it with French Country shabby chic.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<span style=\"color: #008000;\"><strong>Second most frequently asked question:</strong>  </span>\"How did your neighbor\'s room turn out?\"\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nMy neighbor LOVES her bedroom sanctuary!  I had to fight Kia all the way through the process, but it was well worth the exhaustion and the tears.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<span style=\"color: #008000;\"><strong>Third most frequently asked question:</strong> </span> \"Oh my word, woman!  How did you get on a show like <em>Trading Spaces?</em>??\"\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI applied online.  I creatively and quirkily filled out the application.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<span style=\"font-size: medium; color: #008000;\"><strong>I also had a pitch:  \"Enough of the boring married couples!  How about <em>Trading Spaces</em> meets <em>Sex and the City</em>?\"</strong></span>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nThe producers called me, and the rest is history.  Four girlfriends teamed up to flirt with <a href=\"http://www.carteroosterhouse.com/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Carter</strong></a> and <a href=\"http://faberdewar.com/news/index/11\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Faber.</strong></a>  (And we painted and hammered when needed.)\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_10766\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"300\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2012/07/17/playdate-25-life-after-trading-spaces/p20301821-300x225/\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10766\"><img class=\"size-full wp-image-10766  \" title=\"My Trading Spaces Room!  :-)\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/P20301821-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a> My famous office[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<span style=\"font-size: medium; color: #008000;\"><strong>Fast forward to Playdate #25</strong></span>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nIronically, I\'m not much of a TV watcher.  In fact, I cancelled my cable a couple of months ago.  I know, I know.  You\'re probably breaking out into hives at the thought of this.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nGuess what?  I haven\'t missed cable a bit.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n(Confession:  You may recall that I still have Apple TV/Netflix.  I am currently engrossed in <em>The Tudors.  </em>I fondly refer to it as \"costume drama porn\".  Yowza!  This historical drama makes <em>Sex and the City</em> look prudish!  )\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<span style=\"font-size: medium; color: #008000;\"><strong>Oddly, despite my lack of cable, I DO have an idea for a brand-spanking-new reality TV show that could be even more of a hoot than <em>Trading Spaces</em>!</strong></span>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nThe idea originally came to me this winter when <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2011/12/26/and-the-winner-for-name-that-italian-is/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>The Ex Formerly Known as Romeo Mio</strong></a> and I dreamed up a biz collaboration.  Since The Ex is now out of the picture, I needed to fine tune my idea without him.  His loss.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI must say . . . . The Idea evolved into supreme juiciness!  Hoorah!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI pitched The Idea to my family.  They LOVED it!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI pitched The Idea to my girlfriends.  They ADORED it!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<span style=\"font-size: medium; color: #008000;\"><strong>I pitched the The Idea to my lone Hollywood friend with reality TV street cred.  He IGNORED it!</strong></span>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nHuh?\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n\"Finish your screenplay,\" he urged.  \"It\'s not a bad idea, but it will still be there in 6 months.  Stop procrastinating.  One thing at a time.\"\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nHmph.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nLone Hollywood friend is right.  I do tend to be a bit ADD with my creative ideas.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI\'ll pitch The Idea to you in 6 months.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n**********\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nHow about you?  Are you similarly ADD when it comes to creative projects?  How do you keep yourself focused?  How do you \"do it all\" sanely and manageably?\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;','Playdate #25:  Life After Trading Spaces','','publish','open','open','','playdate-25-life-after-trading-spaces','','\nhttp://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2011/12/26/and-the-winner-for-name-that-italian-is/','2012-07-18 13:23:57','2012-07-18 20:23:57','',0,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?p=10736',0,'post','',6),(10737,1,'2012-07-14 20:59:41','2012-07-15 03:59:41','','Auto Draft','','inherit','open','open','','10736-revision','','','2012-07-14 20:59:41','2012-07-15 03:59:41','',10736,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2012/07/14/10736-revision/',0,'revision','',0),(10738,1,'2012-07-14 20:12:43','2012-07-15 03:12:43','<a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/vanessaberry/2109056559/\"><img class=\"alignleft size-medium wp-image-10730\" title=\"2109056559_44b65d1215\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/2109056559_44b65d1215-300x199.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"199\" /></a>No, that is not a typo.  I did intend write the plural of Matchmaker.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n30 days ago, I knew 0 real live Matchmakers.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nNow I have TWO -- yes, TWO -- working for me.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nOne of them I met at a party at a friend\'s house.  She added me to her database.  She knows of someone uber-smart, creative and fun who may just be my soulmate.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nThe other, the parent of former students and apparently now a Matchmaker, sent me a message through facebook which read something to the effect of, \"Ms. Michelle, are you single?  I\'m a Matchmaker and you\'re too adorable to pass up!\"\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nTo which I replied something to the effect of \"Do you have a Javier Bardem clone in your database?\"\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI was kidding.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nNot really.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nO.k. Of course, I was joking. Ha ha ha.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nHere\'s what\'s not so funny.  My mother has actually said to me TWICE in the past few months something to the effect of, \"Michelle, maybe you\'re just one of those women who are meant to be alone forever.\"\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nBefore she could hex me with yet another declaration of romantic doom, I logged onto the Internet and signed up for eHarmony faster than you can whistle, \"Matchmaker, Matchmaker, make me a match!\"\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nSo now it\'s bound to happen, right?  I have eHarmony the Cyber-Matchmaker and two living breathing Matchmakers helping me find True Love!  It WILL happen, RIGHT???\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nBecause let me let you in on a little secret.  I wrote that quote that you see on the side of my web page.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n<div style=\"padding-bottom: 2px; line-height: 0px;\"><a href=\"http://pinterest.com/pin/109493834660614272/\" target=\"_blank\"><img src=\"http://media-cache-ec8.pinterest.com/upload/109493834660614272_eXZdJ5hI_c.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"225\" height=\"316\" border=\"0\" /></a></div>\r\n<div style=\"float: left; padding-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px;\">\r\n<p style=\"font-size: 10px; color: #76838b;\">Source: <a style=\"text-decoration: underline; font-size: 10px; color: #76838b;\" href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/\">diaryofalatebloomer.com</a> via <a style=\"text-decoration: underline; font-size: 10px; color: #76838b;\" href=\"http://pinterest.com/latebloomer365/\" target=\"_blank\">Michelle</a> on <a style=\"text-decoration: underline; color: #76838b;\" href=\"http://pinterest.com\" target=\"_blank\">Pinterest</a></p>\r\n\r\n</div>\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI never intended for anyone to see it.  Originally, it lurked in a heap of scribbly notes that I sent off to my web designer so that she could get a better feel for \"me\" when she designed my website.  She asked if she could include it in the design.  I was taken aback, but I agreed.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAnd even though all of my friends and family will tell you that I truly walk the walk with that quote,  I would still love nothing more than to share my life with The One.  I\'m not going to put my life on hold and wait for him, but I would like nothing more than The One to show up and whisk me away already!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nBecause I sure as hell don\'t think that I\'m meant to be alone forever.  :-(\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nWish me luck!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nTo be continued . . . .\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;','Playdate #24:  Matchmakers, Matchmakers, Make Me a Match Already! ','','inherit','open','open','','10724-revision-10','','','2012-07-14 20:12:43','2012-07-15 03:12:43','',10724,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2012/07/14/10724-revision-10/',0,'revision','',0),(10739,1,'2012-07-14 21:00:39','2012-07-15 04:00:39','<a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/vanessaberry/2109056559/\"><img class=\"alignleft size-medium wp-image-10730\" title=\"2109056559_44b65d1215\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/2109056559_44b65d1215-300x199.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"199\" /></a>No, that is not a typo.  I did intend write the plural of Matchmaker.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n30 days ago, I knew 0 real live Matchmakers.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nNow I have TWO -- yes, TWO -- working for me.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nOne of them I met at a party at a friend\'s house.  She added me to her database.  She knows of someone uber-smart, creative and fun who may just be my soulmate.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nThe other, the parent of former students and apparently now a Matchmaker, sent me a message through facebook which read something to the effect of, \"Ms. Michelle, are you single?  I\'m a Matchmaker and you\'re too adorable to pass up!\"\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nTo which I replied something to the effect of \"Do you have a Javier Bardem clone in your database?\"\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI was kidding.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nNot really.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nO.k. Of course, I was joking. Ha ha ha.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nHere\'s what\'s not so funny.  My mother has actually said to me TWICE in the past few months something to the effect of, \"Michelle, maybe you\'re just one of those women who are meant to be alone forever.\"\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nBefore she could hex me with yet another declaration of romantic doom, I logged onto the Internet and signed up for eHarmony faster than you can whistle, \"Matchmaker, Matchmaker, make me a match!\"\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nSo now it\'s bound to happen, right?  I have eHarmony the Cyber-Matchmaker and two living breathing Matchmakers helping me find True Love!  It WILL happen, RIGHT???\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nBecause let me let you in on a little secret.  I wrote that quote that you see on the side of my web page.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n<div style=\"padding-bottom: 2px; line-height: 0px;\"><a href=\"http://pinterest.com/pin/109493834660614272/\" target=\"_blank\"><img src=\"http://media-cache-ec8.pinterest.com/upload/109493834660614272_eXZdJ5hI_c.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"225\" height=\"316\" border=\"0\" /></a></div>\r\n<div style=\"float: left; padding-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px;\">\r\n<p style=\"font-size: 10px; color: #76838b;\">Source: <a style=\"text-decoration: underline; font-size: 10px; color: #76838b;\" href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/\">diaryofalatebloomer.com</a> via <a style=\"text-decoration: underline; font-size: 10px; color: #76838b;\" href=\"http://pinterest.com/latebloomer365/\" target=\"_blank\">Michelle</a> on <a style=\"text-decoration: underline; color: #76838b;\" href=\"http://pinterest.com\" target=\"_blank\">Pinterest</a></p>\r\n\r\n</div>\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI never intended for anyone to see it.  Originally, it lurked in a heap of scribbly notes that I sent off to my web designer so that she could get a better feel for \"me\" when she designed my website.  She asked if she could include it in the design.  I was taken aback, but I agreed.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAnd even though all of my friends and family will tell you that I truly walk the walk with that quote,  I would still love nothing more than to share my life with The One.  I\'m not going to put my life on hold and wait for him, but I would like nothing more than The One to show up and whisk me away already!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nBecause I sure as hell don\'t think that I\'m meant to be alone forever.  :-(\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nWish me luck!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nTo be continued . . . .\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;','Playdate #24:  Matchmakers, Matchmakers, Make Me a Match Already!','','inherit','open','open','','10724-revision-11','','','2012-07-14 21:00:39','2012-07-15 04:00:39','',10724,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2012/07/14/10724-revision-11/',0,'revision','',0),(10740,1,'2012-07-15 11:55:42','2012-07-15 18:55:42','<a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/vanessaberry/2109056559/\"><img class=\"alignleft size-medium wp-image-10730\" title=\"2109056559_44b65d1215\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/2109056559_44b65d1215-300x199.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"199\" /></a>No, that is not a typo.  I did intend write the plural of Matchmaker.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n30 days ago, I knew 0 real live Matchmakers.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nNow I have TWO -- yes, TWO -- working for me.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nOne of them I met at a party at a friend\'s house.  She added me to her database.  She knows of someone uber-smart, creative and fun who may just be my soulmate.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nThe other, the parent of former students and apparently now a Matchmaker, sent me a message through facebook which read something to the effect of, \"Ms. Michelle, are you single?  I\'m a Matchmaker and you\'re too adorable to pass up!\"\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nTo which I replied something to the effect of \"Do you have a Javier Bardem clone in your database?\"\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI was kidding.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nNot really.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nO.k. Of course, I was joking. Ha ha ha.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nHere\'s what\'s not so funny.  My mother has actually said to me TWICE in the past few months something to the effect of, \"Michelle, maybe you\'re just one of those women who are meant to be alone forever.\"\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nBefore she could hex me with yet another declaration of romantic doom, I logged onto the Internet and signed up for eHarmony faster than you can whistle, \"Matchmaker, Matchmaker, make me a match!\"\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nFate then threw me and additional TWO matchmakers.  (Although no matches as of yet.)\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nSo now it\'s bound to happen, right?  I have eHarmony the Cyber-Matchmaker and two living breathing Matchmakers helping me find True Love!  It WILL happen, RIGHT???\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nBecause let me let you in on a little secret.  I wrote that quote that you see on the side of my web page.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n<div style=\"padding-bottom: 2px; line-height: 0px;\"><a href=\"http://pinterest.com/pin/109493834660614272/\" target=\"_blank\"><img src=\"http://media-cache-ec8.pinterest.com/upload/109493834660614272_eXZdJ5hI_c.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"225\" height=\"316\" border=\"0\" /></a></div>\r\n<div style=\"float: left; padding-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px;\">\r\n<p style=\"font-size: 10px; color: #76838b;\">Source: <a style=\"text-decoration: underline; font-size: 10px; color: #76838b;\" href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/\">diaryofalatebloomer.com</a> via <a style=\"text-decoration: underline; font-size: 10px; color: #76838b;\" href=\"http://pinterest.com/latebloomer365/\" target=\"_blank\">Michelle</a> on <a style=\"text-decoration: underline; color: #76838b;\" href=\"http://pinterest.com\" target=\"_blank\">Pinterest</a></p>\r\n\r\n</div>\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI never intended for anyone to see it.  Originally, it lurked in a heap of scribbly notes that I sent off to my web designer so that she could get a better feel for \"me\" when she designed my website.  She asked if she could include it in the design.  I was taken aback, but I agreed.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAnd even though all of my friends and family will tell you that I truly walk the walk with that quote,  I would still love nothing more than to share my life with The One.  I\'m not going to put my life on hold and wait for him, but I would like nothing more than The One to show up and whisk me away already!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nBecause I sure as hell don\'t think that I\'m meant to be alone forever.  :-(\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nOh.  And one more thing:  Even though it may be fun for you to live vicariously through me, I have no desire to date a string of men.  I\'m exhausted from dating over the past ten years.  I would like nothing more than The One to pull me off of eHarmony and have me break up with my Matchmakers.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nOh!  I almost forgot!  And this is the last thing, I promise.  The One will remain completely anonymous in this blog.  Just in case he is reading this.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nO.k.  I\'m ready.  Let the Love begin!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nWish me luck!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nTo be continued . . . .\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;','Playdate #24:  Matchmakers, Matchmakers, Make Me a Match Already!','','inherit','open','open','','10724-revision-12','','','2012-07-15 11:55:42','2012-07-15 18:55:42','',10724,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2012/07/15/10724-revision-12/',0,'revision','',0),(10741,1,'2012-07-15 11:57:36','2012-07-15 18:57:36','<a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/vanessaberry/2109056559/\"><img class=\"alignleft size-medium wp-image-10730\" title=\"2109056559_44b65d1215\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/2109056559_44b65d1215-300x199.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"199\" /></a>No, that is not a typo.  I did intend write the plural of Matchmaker.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n30 days ago, I knew 0 real live Matchmakers.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nNow I have TWO -- yes, TWO -- working for me.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nOne of them I met at a party at a friend\'s house.  She added me to her database.  She knows of someone uber-smart, creative and fun who may just be my soulmate.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nThe other, the parent of former students and apparently now a Matchmaker, sent me a message through facebook which read something to the effect of, \"Ms. Michelle, are you single?  I\'m a Matchmaker and you\'re too adorable to pass up!\"\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nTo which I replied something to the effect of \"Do you have a Javier Bardem clone in your database?\"\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI was kidding.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nNot really.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nO.k. Of course, I was joking. Ha ha ha.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nHere\'s what\'s not so funny.  My mother has actually said to me TWICE in the past few months something to the effect of, \"Michelle, maybe you\'re just one of those women who are meant to be alone forever.\"\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nBefore she could hex me with yet another declaration of romantic doom, I logged onto the Internet and signed up for eHarmony faster than you can whistle, \"Matchmaker, Matchmaker, make me a match!\"\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAfter I signed up on eH, Fate then threw me an additional TWO matchmakers.  (Although no matches as of yet.)\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nSo now it\'s bound to happen, right?  I have eHarmony the Cyber-Matchmaker and two living breathing Matchmakers helping me find True Love!  It WILL happen, RIGHT???\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nBecause let me let you in on a little secret.  I wrote that quote that you see on the side of my web page.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n<div style=\"padding-bottom: 2px; line-height: 0px;\"><a href=\"http://pinterest.com/pin/109493834660614272/\" target=\"_blank\"><img src=\"http://media-cache-ec8.pinterest.com/upload/109493834660614272_eXZdJ5hI_c.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"225\" height=\"316\" border=\"0\" /></a></div>\r\n<div style=\"float: left; padding-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px;\">\r\n<p style=\"font-size: 10px; color: #76838b;\">Source: <a style=\"text-decoration: underline; font-size: 10px; color: #76838b;\" href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/\">diaryofalatebloomer.com</a> via <a style=\"text-decoration: underline; font-size: 10px; color: #76838b;\" href=\"http://pinterest.com/latebloomer365/\" target=\"_blank\">Michelle</a> on <a style=\"text-decoration: underline; color: #76838b;\" href=\"http://pinterest.com\" target=\"_blank\">Pinterest</a></p>\r\n\r\n</div>\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI never intended for anyone to see it.  Originally, it lurked in a heap of scribbly notes that I sent off to my web designer so that she could get a better feel for \"me\" when she designed my website.  She asked if she could include it in the design.  I was taken aback, but I agreed.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAnd even though all of my friends and family will tell you that I truly walk the walk with that quote,  I would still love nothing more than to share my life with The One.  I\'m not going to put my life on hold and wait for him, but I would like nothing more than The One to show up and whisk me away already!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nBecause I sure as hell don\'t think that I\'m meant to be alone forever.  :-(\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nOh.  And one more thing:  Even though it may be fun for you to live vicariously through me, I have no desire to date a string of men.  I\'m exhausted from dating over the past ten years.  I would like nothing more than The One to pull me off of eHarmony and have me break up with my Matchmakers.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nOh!  I almost forgot!  (And this is the last thing, I promise.)  The One will remain completely anonymous in this blog.  Just in case he is reading this.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nO.k.  I\'m ready.  Let the Love begin!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nWish me luck!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nTo be continued . . . .\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;','Playdate #24:  Matchmakers, Matchmakers, Make Me a Match Already!','','inherit','open','open','','10724-revision-13','','','2012-07-15 11:57:36','2012-07-15 18:57:36','',10724,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2012/07/15/10724-revision-13/',0,'revision','',0),(10742,1,'2012-07-15 11:59:33','2012-07-15 18:59:33','<a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/vanessaberry/2109056559/\"><img class=\"alignleft size-medium wp-image-10730\" title=\"2109056559_44b65d1215\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/2109056559_44b65d1215-300x199.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"199\" /></a>No, that is not a typo.  I did intend write the plural of Matchmaker.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n30 days ago, I knew 0 real live Matchmakers.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nNow I have TWO -- yes, TWO -- working for me.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nOne of them I met at a party at a friend\'s house.  She added me to her database.  She knows of someone uber-smart, creative and fun who may just be my soulmate.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nThe other, the parent of former students and apparently now a Matchmaker, sent me a message through facebook which read something to the effect of, \"Ms. Michelle, are you single?  I\'m a Matchmaker and you\'re too adorable to pass up!\"\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nTo which I replied something to the effect of \"Do you have a Javier Bardem clone in your database?\"\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI was kidding.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nNot really.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nO.k. Of course, I was joking. Ha ha ha.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<strong>Here\'s what\'s not so funny.  My mother has actually said to me TWICE in the past few months something to the effect of, \"Michelle, maybe you\'re just one of those women who are meant to be alone forever.\"</strong>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nBefore she could hex me with yet another declaration of romantic doom, I logged onto the Internet and signed up for eHarmony faster than you can whistle, \"Matchmaker, Matchmaker, make me a match!\"\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAfter I signed up on eH, Fate then threw me an additional TWO matchmakers.  (Although no matches as of yet.)\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nSo now it\'s bound to happen, right?  I have eHarmony the Cyber-Matchmaker and two living breathing Matchmakers helping me find True Love!  It WILL happen, RIGHT???\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nBecause let me let you in on a little secret.  I wrote that quote that you see on the side of my web page.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n<div style=\"padding-bottom: 2px; line-height: 0px;\"><a href=\"http://pinterest.com/pin/109493834660614272/\" target=\"_blank\"><img src=\"http://media-cache-ec8.pinterest.com/upload/109493834660614272_eXZdJ5hI_c.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"225\" height=\"316\" border=\"0\" /></a></div>\r\n<div style=\"float: left; padding-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px;\">\r\n<p style=\"font-size: 10px; color: #76838b;\">Source: <a style=\"text-decoration: underline; font-size: 10px; color: #76838b;\" href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/\">diaryofalatebloomer.com</a> via <a style=\"text-decoration: underline; font-size: 10px; color: #76838b;\" href=\"http://pinterest.com/latebloomer365/\" target=\"_blank\">Michelle</a> on <a style=\"text-decoration: underline; color: #76838b;\" href=\"http://pinterest.com\" target=\"_blank\">Pinterest</a></p>\r\n\r\n</div>\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI never intended for anyone to see it.  Originally, it lurked in a heap of scribbly notes that I sent off to my web designer so that she could get a better feel for \"me\" when she designed my website.  She asked if she could include it in the design.  I was taken aback, but I agreed.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAnd even though all of my friends and family will tell you that I truly walk the walk with that quote,  I would still love nothing more than to share my life with The One.  I\'m not going to put my life on hold and wait for him, but I would like nothing more than The One to show up and whisk me away already!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nBecause I sure as hell don\'t think that I\'m meant to be alone forever.  :-(\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nOh.  And one more thing:  Even though it may be fun for you to live vicariously through me, I have no desire to date a string of men.  I\'m exhausted from dating over the past ten years.  I would like nothing more than The One to pull me off of eHarmony and kindly ask me to break up with my Matchmakers.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<strong>Oh!  I almost forgot!  (And this is the last thing, I promise.)  The One will remain completely anonymous in this blog.  Just in case he is reading this.  </strong>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nO.k.  I\'m ready.  Let the Love begin!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nWish me luck!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nTo be continued . . . .\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;','Playdate #24:  Matchmakers, Matchmakers, Make Me a Match Already!','','inherit','open','open','','10724-revision-14','','','2012-07-15 11:59:33','2012-07-15 18:59:33','',10724,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2012/07/15/10724-revision-14/',0,'revision','',0),(10743,1,'2012-07-15 12:00:22','2012-07-15 19:00:22','<a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/vanessaberry/2109056559/\"><img class=\"alignleft size-medium wp-image-10730\" title=\"2109056559_44b65d1215\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/2109056559_44b65d1215-300x199.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"199\" /></a>No, that is not a typo.  I did intend write the plural of Matchmaker.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n30 days ago, I knew 0 real live Matchmakers.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nNow I have TWO -- yes, TWO -- working for me.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nOne of them I met at a party at a friend\'s house.  She added me to her database.  She knows of someone uber-smart, creative and fun who may just be my soulmate.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nThe other, the parent of former students and apparently now a Matchmaker, sent me a message through facebook which read something to the effect of, \"Ms. Michelle, are you single?  I\'m a Matchmaker and you\'re too adorable to pass up!\"\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nTo which I replied something to the effect of \"Do you have a Javier Bardem clone in your database?\"\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI was kidding.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nNot really.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nO.k. Of course, I was joking. Ha ha ha.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<strong>Here\'s what\'s not so funny.  My mother has actually said to me TWICE in the past few months something to the effect of, \"Michelle, maybe you\'re just one of those women who are meant to be alone forever.\"</strong>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nBefore she could hex me with yet another declaration of romantic doom, I logged onto the Internet and signed up for eHarmony faster than you can whistle, \"Matchmaker, Matchmaker, make me a match!\"\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAfter I signed up on eH, Fate then threw me an additional TWO matchmakers.  (Although no matches as of yet.)\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nSo now it\'s bound to happen, right?  I have eHarmony the Cyber-Matchmaker and two living breathing Matchmakers helping me find True Love!  It WILL happen, RIGHT???\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nBecause let me let you in on a little secret.  I wrote that quote that you see on the side of my web page.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n<div style=\"padding-bottom: 2px; line-height: 0px;\"><a href=\"http://pinterest.com/pin/109493834660614272/\" target=\"_blank\"><img src=\"http://media-cache-ec8.pinterest.com/upload/109493834660614272_eXZdJ5hI_c.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"225\" height=\"316\" border=\"0\" /></a></div>\r\n<div style=\"float: left; padding-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px;\">\r\n<p style=\"font-size: 10px; color: #76838b;\">Source: <a style=\"text-decoration: underline; font-size: 10px; color: #76838b;\" href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/\">diaryofalatebloomer.com</a> via <a style=\"text-decoration: underline; font-size: 10px; color: #76838b;\" href=\"http://pinterest.com/latebloomer365/\" target=\"_blank\">Michelle</a> on <a style=\"text-decoration: underline; color: #76838b;\" href=\"http://pinterest.com\" target=\"_blank\">Pinterest</a></p>\r\n\r\n</div>\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI never intended for anyone to see it.  Originally, it lurked in a heap of scribbly notes that I sent off to my web designer so that she could get a better feel for \"me\" when she designed my website.  She asked if she could include it in the design.  I was taken aback, but I agreed.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAnd even though all of my friends and family will tell you that I truly walk the walk with that quote,  I would still love nothing more than to share my life with The One.  I\'m not going to put my life on hold and wait for him, but I would like nothing more than The One to show up and whisk me away already!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nBecause I sure as hell don\'t think that I\'m meant to be alone forever.  :-(\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nOh.  And one more thing:  Even though it may be fun for you to live vicariously through me, I have no desire to date a string of men.  Frankly, I\'m <em>exhausted</em> from dating over the past eleven years.  I would like nothing more than The One to pull me off of eHarmony and kindly ask me to break up with my Matchmakers.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<strong>Oh!  I almost forgot!  (And this is the last thing, I promise.)  The One will remain completely anonymous in this blog.  Just in case he is reading this.  </strong>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nO.k.  I\'m ready.  Let the Love begin!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nWish me luck!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nTo be continued . . . .\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;','Playdate #24:  Matchmakers, Matchmakers, Make Me a Match Already!','','inherit','open','open','','10724-revision-15','','','2012-07-15 12:00:22','2012-07-15 19:00:22','',10724,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2012/07/15/10724-revision-15/',0,'revision','',0),(10745,1,'2012-07-15 12:01:32','2012-07-15 19:01:32','<a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/vanessaberry/2109056559/\"><img class=\"alignleft size-medium wp-image-10730\" title=\"2109056559_44b65d1215\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/2109056559_44b65d1215-300x199.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"199\" /></a>No, that is not a typo.  I did intend write the plural of Matchmaker.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n30 days ago, I knew 0 real live Matchmakers.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nNow I have TWO -- yes, TWO -- working for me.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nOne of them I met at a party at a friend\'s house.  She added me to her database.  She knows of someone uber-smart, creative and fun who may just be my soulmate.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nThe other, the parent of former students and apparently now a Matchmaker, sent me a message through facebook which read something to the effect of, \"Ms. Michelle, are you single?  I\'m a Matchmaker and you\'re too adorable to pass up!\"\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nTo which I replied something to the effect of \"Do you have a Javier Bardem clone in your database?\"\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI was kidding.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nNot really.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nO.k. Of course, I was joking. Ha ha ha.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<span style=\"font-size: medium; color: #993300;\"><strong>Here\'s what\'s not so funny.  My mother has actually said to me TWICE in the past few months something to the effect of, \"Michelle, maybe you\'re just one of those women who are meant to be alone forever.\"</strong></span>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nBefore she could hex me with yet another declaration of romantic doom, I logged onto the Internet and signed up for eHarmony faster than you can whistle, \"Matchmaker, Matchmaker, make me a match!\"\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAfter I signed up on eH, Fate then threw me an additional TWO matchmakers.  (Although no matches as of yet.)\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nSo now it\'s bound to happen, right?  I have eHarmony the Cyber-Matchmaker and two living breathing Matchmakers helping me find True Love!  It WILL happen, RIGHT???\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nBecause let me let you in on a little secret.  I wrote that quote that you see on the side of my web page.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n<div style=\"padding-bottom: 2px; line-height: 0px;\"><a href=\"http://pinterest.com/pin/109493834660614272/\" target=\"_blank\"><img src=\"http://media-cache-ec8.pinterest.com/upload/109493834660614272_eXZdJ5hI_c.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"225\" height=\"316\" border=\"0\" /></a></div>\r\n<div style=\"float: left; padding-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px;\">\r\n<p style=\"font-size: 10px; color: #76838b;\">Source: <a style=\"text-decoration: underline; font-size: 10px; color: #76838b;\" href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/\">diaryofalatebloomer.com</a> via <a style=\"text-decoration: underline; font-size: 10px; color: #76838b;\" href=\"http://pinterest.com/latebloomer365/\" target=\"_blank\">Michelle</a> on <a style=\"text-decoration: underline; color: #76838b;\" href=\"http://pinterest.com\" target=\"_blank\">Pinterest</a></p>\r\n\r\n</div>\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI never intended for anyone to see it.  Originally, it lurked in a heap of scribbly notes that I sent off to my web designer so that she could get a better feel for \"me\" when she designed my website.  She asked if she could include it in the design.  I was taken aback, but I agreed.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAnd even though all of my friends and family will tell you that I truly walk the walk with that quote,  I would still love nothing more than to share my life with The One.  I\'m not going to put my life on hold and wait for him, but I would like nothing more than The One to show up and whisk me away already!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nBecause I sure as hell don\'t think that I\'m meant to be alone forever.  :-(\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nOh.  And one more thing:  Even though it may be fun for you to live vicariously through me, I have no desire to date a string of men.  Frankly, I\'m <em>exhausted</em> from dating over the past eleven years.  I would like nothing more than The One to pull me off of eHarmony and kindly ask me to break up with my Matchmakers.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<span style=\"font-size: medium; color: #993300;\"><strong>Oh!  I almost forgot!  (And this is the last thing, I promise.)  The One will remain completely anonymous in this blog.  Just in case he is reading this.  </strong></span>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nO.k.  I\'m ready.  Let the Love begin!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nWish me luck!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nTo be continued . . . .\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;','Playdate #24:  Matchmakers, Matchmakers, Make Me a Match Already!','','inherit','open','open','','10724-revision-17','','','2012-07-15 12:01:32','2012-07-15 19:01:32','',10724,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2012/07/15/10724-revision-17/',0,'revision','',0),(10744,1,'2012-07-15 12:01:00','2012-07-15 19:01:00','<a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/vanessaberry/2109056559/\"><img class=\"alignleft size-medium wp-image-10730\" title=\"2109056559_44b65d1215\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/2109056559_44b65d1215-300x199.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"199\" /></a>No, that is not a typo.  I did intend write the plural of Matchmaker.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n30 days ago, I knew 0 real live Matchmakers.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nNow I have TWO -- yes, TWO -- working for me.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nOne of them I met at a party at a friend\'s house.  She added me to her database.  She knows of someone uber-smart, creative and fun who may just be my soulmate.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nThe other, the parent of former students and apparently now a Matchmaker, sent me a message through facebook which read something to the effect of, \"Ms. Michelle, are you single?  I\'m a Matchmaker and you\'re too adorable to pass up!\"\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nTo which I replied something to the effect of \"Do you have a Javier Bardem clone in your database?\"\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI was kidding.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nNot really.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nO.k. Of course, I was joking. Ha ha ha.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<span style=\"font-size: medium; color: #993300;\"><strong>Here\'s what\'s not so funny.  My mother has actually said to me TWICE in the past few months something to the effect of, \"Michelle, maybe you\'re just one of those women who are meant to be alone forever.\"</strong></span>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nBefore she could hex me with yet another declaration of romantic doom, I logged onto the Internet and signed up for eHarmony faster than you can whistle, \"Matchmaker, Matchmaker, make me a match!\"\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAfter I signed up on eH, Fate then threw me an additional TWO matchmakers.  (Although no matches as of yet.)\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nSo now it\'s bound to happen, right?  I have eHarmony the Cyber-Matchmaker and two living breathing Matchmakers helping me find True Love!  It WILL happen, RIGHT???\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nBecause let me let you in on a little secret.  I wrote that quote that you see on the side of my web page.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n<div style=\"padding-bottom: 2px; line-height: 0px;\"><a href=\"http://pinterest.com/pin/109493834660614272/\" target=\"_blank\"><img src=\"http://media-cache-ec8.pinterest.com/upload/109493834660614272_eXZdJ5hI_c.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"225\" height=\"316\" border=\"0\" /></a></div>\r\n<div style=\"float: left; padding-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px;\">\r\n<p style=\"font-size: 10px; color: #76838b;\">Source: <a style=\"text-decoration: underline; font-size: 10px; color: #76838b;\" href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/\">diaryofalatebloomer.com</a> via <a style=\"text-decoration: underline; font-size: 10px; color: #76838b;\" href=\"http://pinterest.com/latebloomer365/\" target=\"_blank\">Michelle</a> on <a style=\"text-decoration: underline; color: #76838b;\" href=\"http://pinterest.com\" target=\"_blank\">Pinterest</a></p>\r\n\r\n</div>\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI never intended for anyone to see it.  Originally, it lurked in a heap of scribbly notes that I sent off to my web designer so that she could get a better feel for \"me\" when she designed my website.  She asked if she could include it in the design.  I was taken aback, but I agreed.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAnd even though all of my friends and family will tell you that I truly walk the walk with that quote,  I would still love nothing more than to share my life with The One.  I\'m not going to put my life on hold and wait for him, but I would like nothing more than The One to show up and whisk me away already!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nBecause I sure as hell don\'t think that I\'m meant to be alone forever.  :-(\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nOh.  And one more thing:  Even though it may be fun for you to live vicariously through me, I have no desire to date a string of men.  Frankly, I\'m <em>exhausted</em> from dating over the past eleven years.  I would like nothing more than The One to pull me off of eHarmony and kindly ask me to break up with my Matchmakers.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<span style=\"font-size: medium; color: #993300;\"><strong>Oh!  I almost forgot!  (And this is the last thing, I promise.)  The One will remain completely anonymous in this blog.  Just in case he is reading this.  </strong></span>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nO.k.  I\'m ready.  Let the Love begin!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nWish me luck!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nTo be continued . . . .\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;','Playdate #24:  Matchmakers, Matchmakers, Make Me a Match Already!','','inherit','open','open','','10724-revision-16','','','2012-07-15 12:01:00','2012-07-15 19:01:00','',10724,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2012/07/15/10724-revision-16/',0,'revision','',0),(10746,1,'2012-07-15 12:15:03','2012-07-15 19:15:03','<a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/vanessaberry/2109056559/\"><img class=\"alignleft size-medium wp-image-10730\" title=\"2109056559_44b65d1215\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/2109056559_44b65d1215-300x199.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"199\" /></a>No, that is not a typo.  I did intend write the plural of Matchmaker.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n30 days ago, I knew 0 real live Matchmakers.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nNow I have TWO -- yes, TWO -- working for me.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nOne of them I met at a party at a friend\'s house.  She added me to her database.  She knows of someone uber-smart, creative and fun who may just be my soulmate.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nThe other, the parent of former students and apparently now a Matchmaker, sent me a message through facebook which read something to the effect of, \"Ms. Michelle, are you single?  I\'m a Matchmaker and you\'re too adorable to pass up!\"\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nTo which I replied something to the effect of \"Do you have a Javier Bardem clone in your database?\"\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI was kidding.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nNot really.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nO.k. Of course, I was joking. Ha ha ha.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<span style=\"font-size: medium; color: #993300;\"><strong>Here\'s what\'s not so funny.  My mother has actually said to me TWICE in the past few months something to the effect of, \"Michelle, maybe you\'re just one of those women who are meant to be alone forever.\"</strong></span>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nBefore she could hex me with yet another declaration of romantic doom, I logged onto the Internet and signed up for eHarmony faster than you can whistle, \"Matchmaker, Matchmaker, make me a match!\"\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAfter I signed up on eH, Fate then threw me an additional TWO matchmakers.  (Although no matches as of yet.)\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nSo now it\'s bound to happen, right?  I have eHarmony the Cyber-Matchmaker and two living breathing Matchmakers helping me find True Love!  It WILL happen, RIGHT???\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nBecause let me let you in on a little secret.  I wrote that quote that you see on the side of my web page.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n<div style=\"padding-bottom: 2px; line-height: 0px;\"><a href=\"http://pinterest.com/pin/109493834660614272/\" target=\"_blank\"><img src=\"http://media-cache-ec8.pinterest.com/upload/109493834660614272_eXZdJ5hI_c.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"225\" height=\"316\" border=\"0\" /></a></div>\r\n<div style=\"float: left; padding-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px;\">\r\n<p style=\"font-size: 10px; color: #76838b;\">Source: <a style=\"text-decoration: underline; font-size: 10px; color: #76838b;\" href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/\">diaryofalatebloomer.com</a> via <a style=\"text-decoration: underline; font-size: 10px; color: #76838b;\" href=\"http://pinterest.com/latebloomer365/\" target=\"_blank\">Michelle</a> on <a style=\"text-decoration: underline; color: #76838b;\" href=\"http://pinterest.com\" target=\"_blank\">Pinterest</a></p>\r\n\r\n</div>\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI never intended for anyone to see it.  Originally, it lurked in a heap of scribbly notes that I sent off to my web designer so that she could get a better feel for \"me\" when she designed my website.  She asked if she could include it in the design.  I was taken aback, but I agreed.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAnd even though all of my friends and family will tell you that I truly walk the walk with that quote,  I would still love nothing more than to share my life with The One.  I\'m not going to put my life on hold and wait for him, but I would like nothing more than The One to show up and whisk me away already!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nBecause I sure as hell don\'t think that I\'m meant to be alone forever.  :-(\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nOh.  And one more thing:  Even though it may be fun for you to live vicariously through me, I have no desire to date a string of men.  Frankly, I\'m <em>exhausted</em> from dating over the past eleven years.  I would like nothing more than The One to pull me off of eHarmony and kindly ask me to break up with my Matchmakers.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<span style=\"font-size: medium; color: #993300;\"><strong>Oh!  I almost forgot!  (And this is the last thing, I promise.)  The One will remain completely anonymous in this blog.  Just in case he is reading this.  </strong></span>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nO.k.  I\'m ready.  Let the Love begin!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nWish me luck!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nTo be continued . . . .\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;','Playdate #24:  Matchmakers, Matchmakers, Make Me a Match Already!','','inherit','open','open','','10724-revision-18','','','2012-07-15 12:15:03','2012-07-15 19:15:03','',10724,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2012/07/15/10724-revision-18/',0,'revision','',0),(10747,1,'2012-07-15 12:16:22','2012-07-15 19:16:22','<a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/vanessaberry/2109056559/\"><img class=\"alignleft size-medium wp-image-10730\" title=\"2109056559_44b65d1215\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/2109056559_44b65d1215-300x199.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"199\" /></a>No, that is not a typo.  I did intend write the plural of Matchmaker.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n30 days ago, I knew 0 real live Matchmakers.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nNow I have TWO -- yes, TWO -- working for me.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nOne of them I met at a party at a friend\'s house.  She added me to her database.  She knows of someone uber-smart, creative and fun who may just be my soulmate.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nThe other, the parent of former students and apparently now a Matchmaker, sent me a message through facebook which read something to the effect of, \"Ms. Michelle, are you single?  I\'m a Matchmaker and you\'re too adorable to pass up!\"\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nTo which I replied something to the effect of \"Do you have a Javier Bardem clone in your database?\"\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI was kidding.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nNot really.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nO.k. Of course, I was joking. Ha ha ha.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<span style=\"font-size: medium; color: #993300;\"><strong>Here\'s what\'s not so funny.  My mother has actually said to me TWICE in the past few months something to the effect of, \"Michelle, maybe you\'re just one of those women who are meant to be alone forever.\"</strong></span>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nBefore my mother could hex me with yet another declaration of romantic doom, I logged onto the Internet and signed up for eHarmony faster than you can whistle, \"Matchmaker, Matchmaker, make me a match!\"\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAfter I signed up on eH, Fate then threw me an additional TWO matchmakers.  (Although no matches as of yet.)\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nSo now it\'s bound to happen, right?  I have eHarmony the Cyber-Matchmaker and two living breathing Matchmakers helping me find True Love!  It WILL happen, RIGHT???\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nBecause let me let you in on a little secret.  I wrote that quote that you see on the side of my web page.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n<div style=\"padding-bottom: 2px; line-height: 0px;\"><a href=\"http://pinterest.com/pin/109493834660614272/\" target=\"_blank\"><img src=\"http://media-cache-ec8.pinterest.com/upload/109493834660614272_eXZdJ5hI_c.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"225\" height=\"316\" border=\"0\" /></a></div>\r\n<div style=\"float: left; padding-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px;\">\r\n<p style=\"font-size: 10px; color: #76838b;\">Source: <a style=\"text-decoration: underline; font-size: 10px; color: #76838b;\" href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/\">diaryofalatebloomer.com</a> via <a style=\"text-decoration: underline; font-size: 10px; color: #76838b;\" href=\"http://pinterest.com/latebloomer365/\" target=\"_blank\">Michelle</a> on <a style=\"text-decoration: underline; color: #76838b;\" href=\"http://pinterest.com\" target=\"_blank\">Pinterest</a></p>\r\n\r\n</div>\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI never intended for anyone to see it.  Originally, it lurked in a heap of scribbly notes that I sent off to my web designer so that she could get a better feel for \"me\" when she designed my website.  She asked if she could include it in the design.  I was taken aback, but I agreed.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAnd even though all of my friends and family will tell you that I truly walk the walk with that quote,  I would still love nothing more than to share my life with The One.  I\'m not going to put my life on hold and wait for him, but I would like nothing more than The One to show up and whisk me away already!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nBecause I sure as hell don\'t think that I\'m meant to be alone forever.  :-(\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nOh.  And one more thing:  Even though it may be fun for you to live vicariously through me, I have no desire to date a string of men.  Frankly, I\'m <em>exhausted</em> from dating over the past eleven years.  I would like nothing more than The One to pull me off of eHarmony and kindly ask me to break up with my Matchmakers.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<span style=\"font-size: medium; color: #993300;\"><strong>Oh!  I almost forgot!  (And this is the last thing, I promise.)  The One will remain completely anonymous in this blog.  Just in case he is reading this.  </strong></span>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nO.k.  I\'m ready.  Let the Love begin!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nWish me luck!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nTo be continued . . . .\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;','Playdate #24:  Matchmakers, Matchmakers, Make Me a Match Already!','','inherit','open','open','','10724-revision-19','','','2012-07-15 12:16:22','2012-07-15 19:16:22','',10724,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2012/07/15/10724-revision-19/',0,'revision','',0),(10748,1,'2012-07-15 12:19:10','2012-07-15 19:19:10','<a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/vanessaberry/2109056559/\"><img class=\"alignleft size-medium wp-image-10730\" title=\"2109056559_44b65d1215\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/2109056559_44b65d1215-300x199.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"199\" /></a>No, that is not a typo.  I did intend write the plural of Matchmaker.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n30 days ago, I knew 0 real live Matchmakers.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nNow I have TWO -- yes, TWO -- working for me.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nOne of them I met at a party at a friend\'s house.  She added me to her database.  She knows of someone uber-smart, creative and fun who may just be my soulmate.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nThe other, the parent of former students and apparently now a Matchmaker, sent me a message through facebook which read something to the effect of, \"Ms. Michelle, are you single?  I\'m a Matchmaker and you\'re too adorable to pass up!\"\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nTo which I replied something to the effect of \"Do you have a Javier Bardem clone in your database?\"\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI was kidding.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nNot really.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nO.k. Of course, I was joking. Ha ha ha.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<span style=\"font-size: medium; color: #993300;\"><strong>Here\'s what\'s not so funny.  My mother has actually said to me TWICE in the past few months something to the effect of, \"Michelle, maybe you\'re just one of those women who are meant to be alone forever.\"</strong></span>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nBefore my mother could hex me with yet another declaration of romantic doom, I logged onto the Internet and signed up for eHarmony faster than you can whistle, \"Matchmaker, Matchmaker, make me a match!\"\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nIt wasn\'t until after I signed up on eH, that Fate decided to throw me an additional TWO matchmakers.  The universe must be rooting for me.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nSo now it\'s bound to happen, right?  I have eHarmony the Cyber-Matchmaker and two living breathing Matchmakers helping me find True Love!  It WILL happen, RIGHT???\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nBecause let me let you in on a little secret.  I wrote that quote that you see on the side of my web page.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n<div style=\"padding-bottom: 2px; line-height: 0px;\"><a href=\"http://pinterest.com/pin/109493834660614272/\" target=\"_blank\"><img src=\"http://media-cache-ec8.pinterest.com/upload/109493834660614272_eXZdJ5hI_c.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"225\" height=\"316\" border=\"0\" /></a></div>\r\n<div style=\"float: left; padding-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px;\">\r\n<p style=\"font-size: 10px; color: #76838b;\">Source: <a style=\"text-decoration: underline; font-size: 10px; color: #76838b;\" href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/\">diaryofalatebloomer.com</a> via <a style=\"text-decoration: underline; font-size: 10px; color: #76838b;\" href=\"http://pinterest.com/latebloomer365/\" target=\"_blank\">Michelle</a> on <a style=\"text-decoration: underline; color: #76838b;\" href=\"http://pinterest.com\" target=\"_blank\">Pinterest</a></p>\r\n\r\n</div>\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI never intended for anyone to see it.  Originally, it lurked in a heap of scribbly notes that I sent off to my web designer so that she could get a better feel for \"me\" when she designed my website.  She asked if she could include it in the design.  I was taken aback, but I agreed.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAnd even though all of my friends and family will tell you that I truly walk the walk with that quote,  I would still love nothing more than to share my life with The One.  I\'m not going to put my life on hold and wait for him, but I would like nothing more than The One to show up and whisk me away already!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nBecause I sure as hell don\'t think that I\'m meant to be alone forever.  :-(\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nOh.  And one more thing:  Even though it may be fun for you to live vicariously through me, I have no desire to date a string of men.  Frankly, I\'m <em>exhausted</em> from dating over the past eleven years.  I would like nothing more than The One to pull me off of eHarmony and kindly ask me to break up with my Matchmakers.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<span style=\"font-size: medium; color: #993300;\"><strong>Oh!  I almost forgot!  (And this is the last thing, I promise.)  The One will remain completely anonymous in this blog.  Just in case he is reading this.  </strong></span>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nO.k.  I\'m ready.  Let the Love begin!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nWish me luck!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nTo be continued . . . .\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;','Playdate #24:  Matchmakers, Matchmakers, Make Me a Match Already!','','inherit','open','open','','10724-revision-20','','','2012-07-15 12:19:10','2012-07-15 19:19:10','',10724,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2012/07/15/10724-revision-20/',0,'revision','',0),(10749,1,'2012-07-15 12:19:54','2012-07-15 19:19:54','<a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/vanessaberry/2109056559/\"><img class=\"alignleft size-medium wp-image-10730\" title=\"2109056559_44b65d1215\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/2109056559_44b65d1215-300x199.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"199\" /></a>No, that is not a typo.  I did intend write the plural of Matchmaker.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n30 days ago, I knew 0 real live Matchmakers.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nNow I have TWO -- yes, TWO -- working for me.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nOne of them I met at a party at a friend\'s house.  She added me to her database.  She knows of someone uber-smart, creative and fun who may just be my soulmate.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nThe other, the parent of former students and apparently now a Matchmaker, sent me a message through facebook which read something to the effect of, \"Ms. Michelle, are you single?  I\'m a Matchmaker, and you\'re too adorable to pass up!\"\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nTo which I replied something to the effect of \"Do you have a Javier Bardem clone in your database?\"\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI was kidding.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nNot really.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nO.k. Of course, I was joking. Ha ha ha.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<span style=\"font-size: medium; color: #993300;\"><strong>Here\'s what\'s not so funny.  My mother has actually said to me TWICE in the past few months something to the effect of, \"Michelle, maybe you\'re just one of those women who are meant to be alone forever.\"</strong></span>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nBefore my mother could hex me with yet another declaration of romantic doom, I logged onto the Internet and signed up for eHarmony faster than you can whistle, \"Matchmaker, Matchmaker, make me a match!\"\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nIt wasn\'t until after I signed up on eH that Fate decided to throw me an additional TWO matchmakers.  The universe must be rooting for me.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nSo now it\'s bound to happen, right?  I have eHarmony the Cyber-Matchmaker and two living breathing Matchmakers helping me find True Love!  It WILL happen, RIGHT???\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nBecause let me let you in on a little secret.  I wrote that quote that you see on the side of my web page.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n<div style=\"padding-bottom: 2px; line-height: 0px;\"><a href=\"http://pinterest.com/pin/109493834660614272/\" target=\"_blank\"><img src=\"http://media-cache-ec8.pinterest.com/upload/109493834660614272_eXZdJ5hI_c.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"225\" height=\"316\" border=\"0\" /></a></div>\r\n<div style=\"float: left; padding-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px;\">\r\n<p style=\"font-size: 10px; color: #76838b;\">Source: <a style=\"text-decoration: underline; font-size: 10px; color: #76838b;\" href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/\">diaryofalatebloomer.com</a> via <a style=\"text-decoration: underline; font-size: 10px; color: #76838b;\" href=\"http://pinterest.com/latebloomer365/\" target=\"_blank\">Michelle</a> on <a style=\"text-decoration: underline; color: #76838b;\" href=\"http://pinterest.com\" target=\"_blank\">Pinterest</a></p>\r\n\r\n</div>\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI never intended for anyone to see it.  Originally, it lurked in a heap of scribbly notes that I sent off to my web designer so that she could get a better feel for \"me\" when she designed my website.  She asked if she could include it in the design.  I was taken aback, but I agreed.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAnd even though all of my friends and family will tell you that I truly walk the walk with that quote,  I would still love nothing more than to share my life with The One.  I\'m not going to put my life on hold and wait for him, but I would like nothing more than The One to show up and whisk me away already!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nBecause I sure as hell don\'t think that I\'m meant to be alone forever.  :-(\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nOh.  And one more thing:  Even though it may be fun for you to live vicariously through me, I have no desire to date a string of men.  Frankly, I\'m <em>exhausted</em> from dating over the past eleven years.  I would like nothing more than The One to pull me off of eHarmony and kindly ask me to break up with my Matchmakers.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<span style=\"font-size: medium; color: #993300;\"><strong>Oh!  I almost forgot!  (And this is the last thing, I promise.)  The One will remain completely anonymous in this blog.  Just in case he is reading this.  </strong></span>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nO.k.  I\'m ready.  Let the Love begin!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nWish me luck!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nTo be continued . . . .\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;','Playdate #24:  Matchmakers, Matchmakers, Make Me a Match Already!','','inherit','open','open','','10724-revision-21','','','2012-07-15 12:19:54','2012-07-15 19:19:54','',10724,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2012/07/15/10724-revision-21/',0,'revision','',0),(10751,1,'2012-07-15 12:23:48','2012-07-15 19:23:48','Once upon a time, I was on a TV show called Trading Spaces.  My 15 minutes of fame is a great conversation piece at parties.','Playdate #25:  My 2nd 15 Minutes of Fame?','','inherit','open','open','','10736-revision-2','','','2012-07-15 12:23:48','2012-07-15 19:23:48','',10736,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2012/07/15/10736-revision-2/',0,'revision','',0),(10752,1,'2012-07-15 12:27:03','2012-07-15 19:27:03','','Trading Spaces 016','','inherit','open','open','','trading-spaces-016','','','2012-07-15 12:27:03','2012-07-15 19:27:03','',10736,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/Trading-Spaces-016.jpg',0,'attachment','image/jpeg',0),(10753,1,'2012-07-15 12:21:05','2012-07-15 19:21:05','<a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/vanessaberry/2109056559/\"><img class=\"alignleft size-medium wp-image-10730\" title=\"2109056559_44b65d1215\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/2109056559_44b65d1215-300x199.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"199\" /></a>No, that is not a typo.  I did intend write the plural of Matchmaker.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n30 days ago, I knew 0 real live Matchmakers.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nNow I have TWO -- yes, TWO -- working for me.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nOne of them I met at a party at a friend\'s house.  She added me to her database.  She knows of someone uber-smart, creative and fun who may just be my soulmate.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nThe other, the parent of former students and apparently now a Matchmaker, sent me a message through facebook which read something to the effect of, \"Ms. Michelle, are you single?  I\'m a Matchmaker, and you\'re too adorable to pass up!\"\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nTo which I replied something to the effect of \"Do you have a Javier Bardem clone in your database?\"\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI was kidding.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nNot really.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nO.k. Of course, I was joking. Ha ha ha.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<span style=\"font-size: medium; color: #993300;\"><strong>Here\'s what\'s not so funny.  My mother has actually said to me TWICE in the past few months something to the effect of, \"Michelle, maybe you\'re just one of those women who are meant to be alone forever.\"</strong></span>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nBefore my mother could hex me with yet another declaration of romantic doom, I logged onto the Internet and signed up on eHarmony faster than you can whistle, \"Matchmaker, Matchmaker, make me a match!\"\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nIt wasn\'t until after I signed up on eH that Fate decided to throw me an additional TWO matchmakers.  The universe must be rooting for me.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nSo now it\'s bound to happen, right?  I have eHarmony the Cyber-Matchmaker and two living breathing Matchmakers helping me find True Love!  It WILL happen, RIGHT???\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nBecause let me let you in on a little secret.  I wrote that quote that you see on the side of my web page.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n<div style=\"padding-bottom: 2px; line-height: 0px;\"><a href=\"http://pinterest.com/pin/109493834660614272/\" target=\"_blank\"><img src=\"http://media-cache-ec8.pinterest.com/upload/109493834660614272_eXZdJ5hI_c.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"225\" height=\"316\" border=\"0\" /></a></div>\r\n<div style=\"float: left; padding-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px;\">\r\n<p style=\"font-size: 10px; color: #76838b;\">Source: <a style=\"text-decoration: underline; font-size: 10px; color: #76838b;\" href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/\">diaryofalatebloomer.com</a> via <a style=\"text-decoration: underline; font-size: 10px; color: #76838b;\" href=\"http://pinterest.com/latebloomer365/\" target=\"_blank\">Michelle</a> on <a style=\"text-decoration: underline; color: #76838b;\" href=\"http://pinterest.com\" target=\"_blank\">Pinterest</a></p>\r\n\r\n</div>\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI never intended for anyone to see it.  Originally, it lurked in a heap of scribbly notes that I sent off to my web designer so that she could get a better feel for \"me\" when she designed my website.  She asked if she could include it in the design.  I was taken aback, but I agreed.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAnd even though all of my friends and family will tell you that I truly walk the walk with that quote,  I would still love nothing more than to share my life with The One.  I\'m not going to put my life on hold and wait for him, but I would like nothing more than The One to show up and whisk me away already!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nBecause I sure as hell don\'t think that I\'m meant to be alone forever.  :-(\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nOh.  And one more thing:  Even though it may be fun for you to live vicariously through me, I have no desire to date a string of men.  Frankly, I\'m <em>exhausted</em> from dating over the past eleven years.  I would like nothing more than The One to pull me off of eHarmony and kindly ask me to break up with my Matchmakers.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<span style=\"font-size: medium; color: #993300;\"><strong>Oh!  I almost forgot!  (And this is the last thing, I promise.)  The One will remain completely anonymous in this blog.  Just in case he is reading this.  </strong></span>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nO.k.  I\'m ready.  Let the Love begin!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nWish me luck!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nTo be continued . . . .\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;','Playdate #24:  Matchmakers, Matchmakers, Make Me a Match Already!','','inherit','open','open','','10724-revision-22','','','2012-07-15 12:21:05','2012-07-15 19:21:05','',10724,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2012/07/15/10724-revision-22/',0,'revision','',0),(10754,1,'2012-07-15 13:01:00','2012-07-15 20:01:00','<a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/vanessaberry/2109056559/\"><img class=\"alignleft size-medium wp-image-10730\" title=\"2109056559_44b65d1215\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/2109056559_44b65d1215-300x199.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"199\" /></a>No, that is not a typo.  I did intend to write the plural of Matchmaker.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n30 days ago, I knew 0 real live Matchmakers.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nNow I have TWO -- yes, TWO -- working for me.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nOne of them I met at a party at a friend\'s house.  She added me to her database.  She knows of someone uber-smart, creative and fun who may just be my soulmate.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nThe other, the parent of former students and apparently now a Matchmaker, sent me a message through facebook which read something to the effect of, \"Ms. Michelle, are you single?  I\'m a Matchmaker, and you\'re too adorable to pass up!\"\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nTo which I replied something to the effect of \"Do you have a Javier Bardem clone in your database?\"\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI was kidding.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nNot really.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nO.k. Of course, I was joking. Ha ha ha.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<span style=\"font-size: medium; color: #993300;\"><strong>Here\'s what\'s not so funny.  My mother has actually said to me TWICE in the past few months something to the effect of, \"Michelle, maybe you\'re just one of those women who are meant to be alone forever.\"</strong></span>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nBefore my mother could hex me with yet another declaration of romantic doom, I logged onto the Internet and signed up on eHarmony faster than you can whistle, \"Matchmaker, Matchmaker, make me a match!\"\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nIt wasn\'t until after I signed up on eH that Fate decided to throw me an additional TWO matchmakers.  The universe must be rooting for me.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nSo now it\'s bound to happen, right?  I have eHarmony the Cyber-Matchmaker and two living breathing Matchmakers helping me find True Love!  It WILL happen, RIGHT???\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nBecause let me let you in on a little secret.  I wrote that quote that you see on the side of my web page.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n<div style=\"padding-bottom: 2px; line-height: 0px;\"><a href=\"http://pinterest.com/pin/109493834660614272/\" target=\"_blank\"><img src=\"http://media-cache-ec8.pinterest.com/upload/109493834660614272_eXZdJ5hI_c.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"225\" height=\"316\" border=\"0\" /></a></div>\r\n<div style=\"float: left; padding-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px;\">\r\n<p style=\"font-size: 10px; color: #76838b;\">Source: <a style=\"text-decoration: underline; font-size: 10px; color: #76838b;\" href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/\">diaryofalatebloomer.com</a> via <a style=\"text-decoration: underline; font-size: 10px; color: #76838b;\" href=\"http://pinterest.com/latebloomer365/\" target=\"_blank\">Michelle</a> on <a style=\"text-decoration: underline; color: #76838b;\" href=\"http://pinterest.com\" target=\"_blank\">Pinterest</a></p>\r\n\r\n</div>\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI never intended for anyone to see it.  Originally, it lurked in a heap of scribbly notes that I sent off to my web designer so that she could get a better feel for \"me\" when she designed my website.  She asked if she could include it in the design.  I was taken aback, but I agreed.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAnd even though all of my friends and family will tell you that I truly walk the walk with that quote,  I would still love nothing more than to share my life with The One.  I\'m not going to put my life on hold and wait for him, but I would like nothing more than The One to show up and whisk me away already!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nBecause I sure as hell don\'t think that I\'m meant to be alone forever.  :-(\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nOh.  And one more thing:  Even though it may be fun for you to live vicariously through me, I have no desire to date a string of men.  Frankly, I\'m <em>exhausted</em> from dating over the past eleven years.  I would like nothing more than The One to pull me off of eHarmony and kindly ask me to break up with my Matchmakers.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<span style=\"font-size: medium; color: #993300;\"><strong>Oh!  I almost forgot!  (And this is the last thing, I promise.)  The One will remain completely anonymous in this blog.  Just in case he is reading this.  </strong></span>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nO.k.  I\'m ready.  Let the Love begin!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nWish me luck!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nTo be continued . . . .\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;','Playdate #24:  Matchmakers, Matchmakers, Make Me a Match Already!','','inherit','open','open','','10724-revision-23','','','2012-07-15 13:01:00','2012-07-15 20:01:00','',10724,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2012/07/15/10724-revision-23/',0,'revision','',0),(10755,1,'2012-07-15 13:03:37','2012-07-15 20:03:37','<a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/vanessaberry/2109056559/\"><img class=\"alignleft size-medium wp-image-10730\" title=\"2109056559_44b65d1215\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/2109056559_44b65d1215-300x199.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"199\" /></a>No, that is not a typo.  I did intend to write the plural of Matchmaker.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n30 days ago, I knew ZERO real live Matchmakers.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nNow I have TWO -- yes, TWO -- working for me.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nOne of them I met at a party at a friend\'s house.  She added me to her database.  She knows of someone uber-smart, creative and fun who may just be my soulmate.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nThe other, the parent of former students and apparently now a Matchmaker, sent me a message through facebook which read something to the effect of, \"Ms. Michelle, are you single?  I\'m a Matchmaker, and you\'re too adorable to pass up!\"\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nTo which I replied something to the effect of \"Do you have a Javier Bardem clone in your database?\"\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI was kidding.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nNot really.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nO.k. Of course, I was joking. Ha ha ha.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<span style=\"font-size: medium; color: #993300;\"><strong>Here\'s what\'s not so funny.  My mother has actually said to me TWICE in the past few months something to the effect of, \"Michelle, maybe you\'re just one of those women who are meant to be alone forever.\"</strong></span>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nBefore my mother could hex me with yet another declaration of romantic doom, I logged onto the Internet and signed up on eHarmony faster than you can whistle, \"Matchmaker, Matchmaker, make me a match!\"\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nIt wasn\'t until after I signed up on eH that Fate decided to throw me an additional TWO matchmakers.  The universe must be rooting for me.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nSo now it\'s bound to happen, right?  I have eHarmony the Cyber-Matchmaker and two living breathing Matchmakers helping me find True Love!  It WILL happen, RIGHT???\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nBecause let me let you in on a little secret.  I wrote that quote that you see on the side of my web page.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n<div style=\"padding-bottom: 2px; line-height: 0px;\"><a href=\"http://pinterest.com/pin/109493834660614272/\" target=\"_blank\"><img src=\"http://media-cache-ec8.pinterest.com/upload/109493834660614272_eXZdJ5hI_c.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"225\" height=\"316\" border=\"0\" /></a></div>\r\n<div style=\"float: left; padding-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px;\">\r\n<p style=\"font-size: 10px; color: #76838b;\">Source: <a style=\"text-decoration: underline; font-size: 10px; color: #76838b;\" href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/\">diaryofalatebloomer.com</a> via <a style=\"text-decoration: underline; font-size: 10px; color: #76838b;\" href=\"http://pinterest.com/latebloomer365/\" target=\"_blank\">Michelle</a> on <a style=\"text-decoration: underline; color: #76838b;\" href=\"http://pinterest.com\" target=\"_blank\">Pinterest</a></p>\r\n\r\n</div>\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI never intended for anyone to see it.  Originally, it lurked in a heap of scribbly notes that I sent off to my web designer so that she could get a better feel for \"me\" when she designed my website.  She asked if she could include it in the design.  I was taken aback, but I agreed.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAnd even though all of my friends and family will tell you that I truly walk the walk with that quote,  I would still love nothing more than to share my life with The One.  I\'m not going to put my life on hold and wait for him, but I would like nothing more than The One to show up and whisk me away already!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nBecause I sure as hell don\'t think that I\'m meant to be alone forever.  :-(\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nOh.  And one more thing:  Even though it may be fun for you to live vicariously through me, I have no desire to date a string of men.  Frankly, I\'m <em>exhausted</em> from dating over the past eleven years.  I would like nothing more than The One to pull me off of eHarmony and kindly ask me to break up with my Matchmakers.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<span style=\"font-size: medium; color: #993300;\"><strong>Oh!  I almost forgot!  (And this is the last thing, I promise.)  The One will remain completely anonymous in this blog.  Just in case he is reading this.  </strong></span>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nO.k.  I\'m ready.  Let the Love begin!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nWish me luck!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nTo be continued . . . .\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;','Playdate #24:  Matchmakers, Matchmakers, Make Me a Match Already!','','inherit','open','open','','10724-revision-24','','','2012-07-15 13:03:37','2012-07-15 20:03:37','',10724,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2012/07/15/10724-revision-24/',0,'revision','',0),(10756,1,'2012-07-15 13:14:39','2012-07-15 20:14:39','<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?attachment_id=10752\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10752\"><img class=\"alignleft size-medium wp-image-10752\" title=\"Trading Spaces 016\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/Trading-Spaces-016-300x224.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"224\" /></a>Once upon a time, I was on a TV show called <em>Trading Spaces.</em>  My 15 minutes of fame is a great conversation piece at parties.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nMost frequently asked question:  \"Do you like your room?\"\n\n&nbsp;\n\nLike?  No.  I LOVE my room a la Genevieve!  She tossed my Target particle board office furniture and replaced it with French Country shabby chic.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nSecond most frequently asked question:  \"How did the other room turn out?\"\n\n&nbsp;\n\nKim LOVES her bedroom sanctuary.  I had to fight Kia all the way through the process, but it was well worth the exhaustion and the tears.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nThird most frequently asked question:  \"How did you get on <em>Trading Spaces?</em>??\"','Playdate #25:  My 2nd 15 Minutes of Fame?','','inherit','open','open','','10736-revision-3','','','2012-07-15 13:14:39','2012-07-15 20:14:39','',10736,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2012/07/15/10736-revision-3/',0,'revision','',0),(10757,1,'2012-07-15 13:15:39','2012-07-15 20:15:39','<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?attachment_id=10752\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10752\"><img class=\"alignleft size-medium wp-image-10752\" title=\"Trading Spaces 016\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/Trading-Spaces-016-300x224.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"224\" /></a>Once upon a time, I was on a TV show called <em>Trading Spaces.</em>  My 15 minutes of fame is a great conversation piece at parties.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nMost frequently asked question:  \"Do you like your room?\"\n\n&nbsp;\n\nLike?  No.  I LOVE my room a la Genevieve!  She tossed my Target particle board office furniture and replaced it with French Country shabby chic.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nSecond most frequently asked question:  \"How did the other room turn out?\"\n\n&nbsp;\n\nKim LOVES her bedroom sanctuary.  I had to fight Kia all the way through the process, but it was well worth the exhaustion and the tears.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nThird most frequently asked question:  \"Oh my word, woman!  How did you get on a show <em>Trading Spaces?</em>??\"','Playdate #25:  My 2nd 15 Minutes of Fame?','','inherit','open','open','','10736-revision-4','','','2012-07-15 13:15:39','2012-07-15 20:15:39','',10736,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2012/07/15/10736-revision-4/',0,'revision','',0),(10758,1,'2012-07-16 16:30:04','2012-07-16 23:30:04','<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?attachment_id=10752\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10752\"><img class=\"alignleft size-medium wp-image-10752\" title=\"Trading Spaces 016\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/Trading-Spaces-016-300x224.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"224\" /></a>Once upon a time, I was on a TV show called <em>Trading Spaces.</em>  My 15 minutes of fame is a great conversation piece at parties.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nMost frequently asked question:  \"Do you like your room?\"\n\n&nbsp;\n\nLike?  No.  I LOVE my room a la Genevieve!  She tossed my Target particle board office furniture and replaced it with French Country shabby chic.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nSecond most frequently asked question:  \"How did the other room turn out?\"\n\n&nbsp;\n\nMy friend LOVES her bedroom sanctuary.  I had to fight Kia all the way through the process, but it was well worth the exhaustion and the tears.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nThird most frequently asked question:  \"Oh my word, woman!  How did you get on a show like <em>Trading Spaces?</em>??\"\n\n&nbsp;\n\nI applied online.  I was creative in my answers on the application, and I also had a pitch:  \"Enough of the boring married couples!  How about Trading Spaces meets Sex and the City?\"\n\n&nbsp;\n\nThe producers called me, and the rest is history.  Four girlfriends teamed up to flirt with Carter and Faber.  And we also painted a little bit when needed.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nFast forward to Playdate #25','Playdate #25:  My 2nd 15 Minutes of Fame?','','inherit','open','open','','10736-revision-5','','','2012-07-16 16:30:04','2012-07-16 23:30:04','',10736,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2012/07/16/10736-revision-5/',0,'revision','',0),(10759,1,'2012-07-16 16:50:05','2012-07-16 23:50:05','<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?attachment_id=10752\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10752\"><img class=\"alignleft size-medium wp-image-10752\" title=\"Trading Spaces 016\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/Trading-Spaces-016-300x224.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"224\" /></a>Once upon a time, I was on a TV show called <em>Trading Spaces.</em>  My 15 minutes of fame is a great conversation piece at parties.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nMost frequently asked question:  \"Do you like your room?\"\n\n&nbsp;\n\nLike?  No.  I LOVE my room a la Genevieve!  She tossed my Target particle board office furniture and replaced it with French Country shabby chic.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nSecond most frequently asked question:  \"How did the other room turn out?\"\n\n&nbsp;\n\nMy friend LOVES her bedroom sanctuary.  I had to fight Kia all the way through the process, but it was well worth the exhaustion and the tears.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nThird most frequently asked question:  \"Oh my word, woman!  How did you get on a show like <em>Trading Spaces?</em>??\"\n\n&nbsp;\n\nI applied online.  I was creative in my answers on the application, and I also had a pitch:  \"Enough of the boring married couples!  How about Trading Spaces meets Sex and the City?\"\n\n&nbsp;\n\nThe producers called me, and the rest is history.  Four girlfriends teamed up to flirt with Carter and Faber.  And we also painted a little bit when needed.\n\n&nbsp;\n\n<strong>Fast forward to Playdate #25</strong>\n\n&nbsp;\n\nIronically, I\'m not much of a TV watcher.  In fact, I cancelled my cable a couple of months ago.  I know, I know.  You\'re probably breaking out into hives at the thought of this.  <em>* Shudder, gasp, convulse, etc. *</em>\n\n&nbsp;\n\nGuess what?  I haven\'t missed it a bit.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nOddly, I DO have an idea for a brand-spanking-new reality TV show that I think is fantastic even more of a kick than <em>Trading Spaces</em>!\n\n&nbsp;\n\nThe idea originally came to me this winter when I and The Ex Formerly Known as Romeo Mio dreamed up a biz collaboration.  Since The Ex is now out of the picture, I needed to fine tune my idea without him.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nI must say, the idea evolved into supreme juiciness!  Hoorah!\n\n&nbsp;\n\nI pitched The Idea to my family.  They LOVED it!\n\n&nbsp;\n\nI pitched The Idea to my girlfriends.  They ADORED it!  \"When can we tune in\n\n&nbsp;\n\nI pitched the The Idea to my Lone Hollywood Friend with reality TV street cred.  \"Finish your screenplay,\" he urged.\n\n&nbsp;\n\n\"It\'s not a bad idea, but it will still be there in 6 months.  You know, when you\'ve completed your final draft of the screenplay.  Now stop procrastinating and get back to work\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;','Playdate #25:  My 2nd 15 Minutes of Fame?','','inherit','open','open','','10736-revision-6','','','2012-07-16 16:50:05','2012-07-16 23:50:05','',10736,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2012/07/16/10736-revision-6/',0,'revision','',0),(10760,1,'2012-07-16 16:52:05','2012-07-16 23:52:05','<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?attachment_id=10752\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10752\"><img class=\"alignleft size-medium wp-image-10752\" title=\"Trading Spaces 016\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/Trading-Spaces-016-300x224.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"224\" /></a>Once upon a time, I was on a TV show called <em>Trading Spaces.</em>  My 15 minutes of fame is a great conversation piece at parties.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nMost frequently asked question:  \"Do you like your room?\"\n\n&nbsp;\n\nLike?  No.  I LOVE my room a la Genevieve!  She tossed my Target particle board office furniture and replaced it with French Country shabby chic.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nSecond most frequently asked question:  \"How did the other room turn out?\"\n\n&nbsp;\n\nMy friend LOVES her bedroom sanctuary.  I had to fight Kia all the way through the process, but it was well worth the exhaustion and the tears.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nThird most frequently asked question:  \"Oh my word, woman!  How did you get on a show like <em>Trading Spaces?</em>??\"\n\n&nbsp;\n\nI applied online.  I was creative in my answers on the application, and I also had a pitch:  \"Enough of the boring married couples!  How about Trading Spaces meets Sex and the City?\"\n\n&nbsp;\n\nThe producers called me, and the rest is history.  Four girlfriends teamed up to flirt with Carter and Faber.  And we also painted a little bit when needed.\n\n&nbsp;\n\n<strong>Fast forward to Playdate #25</strong>\n\n&nbsp;\n\nIronically, I\'m not much of a TV watcher.  In fact, I cancelled my cable a couple of months ago.  I know, I know.  You\'re probably breaking out into hives at the thought of this.  <em>* Shudder, gasp, convulse, etc. *</em>\n\n&nbsp;\n\nGuess what?  I haven\'t missed it a bit.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nOddly, I DO have an idea for a brand-spanking-new reality TV show that I think is fantastic even more of a kick than <em>Trading Spaces</em>!\n\n&nbsp;\n\nThe idea originally came to me this winter when I and The Ex Formerly Known as Romeo Mio dreamed up a biz collaboration.  Since The Ex is now out of the picture, I needed to fine tune my idea without him.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nI must say, the idea evolved into supreme juiciness!  Hoorah!\n\n&nbsp;\n\nI pitched The Idea to my family.  They LOVED it!\n\n&nbsp;\n\nI pitched The Idea to my girlfriends.  They ADORED it!\n\n&nbsp;\n\nI pitched the The Idea to my Lone Hollywood Friend with reality TV street cred.  He IGNORED it!\n\n&nbsp;\n\nHuh?\n\n&nbsp;\n\n\"Finish your screenplay,\" he urged.  \"It\'s not a bad idea, but it will still be there in 6 months.  You know, when you\'ve completed your final draft of the screenplay.  One thing at a time.\"\n\n&nbsp;\n\nHmph.\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;','Playdate #25:  My 2nd 15 Minutes of Fame?','','inherit','open','open','','10736-revision-7','','','2012-07-16 16:52:05','2012-07-16 23:52:05','',10736,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2012/07/16/10736-revision-7/',0,'revision','',0),(10761,1,'2012-07-16 16:52:15','2012-07-16 23:52:15','<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?attachment_id=10752\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10752\"><img class=\"alignleft size-medium wp-image-10752\" title=\"Trading Spaces 016\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/Trading-Spaces-016-300x224.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"224\" /></a>Once upon a time, I was on a TV show called <em>Trading Spaces.</em>  My 15 minutes of fame is a great conversation piece at parties.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nMost frequently asked question:  \"Do you like your room?\"\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nLike?  No.  I LOVE my room a la Genevieve!  She tossed my Target particle board office furniture and replaced it with French Country shabby chic.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nSecond most frequently asked question:  \"How did the other room turn out?\"\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nMy friend LOVES her bedroom sanctuary.  I had to fight Kia all the way through the process, but it was well worth the exhaustion and the tears.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nThird most frequently asked question:  \"Oh my word, woman!  How did you get on a show like <em>Trading Spaces?</em>??\"\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI applied online.  I was creative in my answers on the application, and I also had a pitch:  \"Enough of the boring married couples!  How about Trading Spaces meets Sex and the City?\"\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nThe producers called me, and the rest is history.  Four girlfriends teamed up to flirt with Carter and Faber.  And we also painted a little bit when needed.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<strong>Fast forward to Playdate #25</strong>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nIronically, I\'m not much of a TV watcher.  In fact, I cancelled my cable a couple of months ago.  I know, I know.  You\'re probably breaking out into hives at the thought of this.  <em>* Shudder, gasp, convulse, etc. *</em>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nGuess what?  I haven\'t missed it a bit.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nOddly, I DO have an idea for a brand-spanking-new reality TV show that I think is fantastic even more of a kick than <em>Trading Spaces</em>!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nThe idea originally came to me this winter when I and The Ex Formerly Known as Romeo Mio dreamed up a biz collaboration.  Since The Ex is now out of the picture, I needed to fine tune my idea without him.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI must say, the idea evolved into supreme juiciness!  Hoorah!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI pitched The Idea to my family.  They LOVED it!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI pitched The Idea to my girlfriends.  They ADORED it!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI pitched the The Idea to my Lone Hollywood Friend with reality TV street cred.  He IGNORED it!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nHuh?\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n\"Finish your screenplay,\" he urged.  \"It\'s not a bad idea, but it will still be there in 6 months.  You know, when you\'ve completed your final draft of the screenplay.  One thing at a time.\"\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nHmph.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;','Playdate #25:  My 2nd 15 Minutes of Fame?','','inherit','open','open','','10736-revision-8','','','2012-07-16 16:52:15','2012-07-16 23:52:15','',10736,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2012/07/16/10736-revision-8/',0,'revision','',0),(10762,1,'2012-07-16 16:52:47','2012-07-16 23:52:47','<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?attachment_id=10752\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10752\"><img class=\"alignleft size-medium wp-image-10752\" title=\"Trading Spaces 016\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/Trading-Spaces-016-300x224.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"224\" /></a>Once upon a time, I was on a TV show called <em>Trading Spaces.</em>  My 15 minutes of fame is a great conversation piece at parties.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nMost frequently asked question:  \"Do you like your room?\"\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nLike?  No.  I LOVE my room a la Genevieve!  She tossed my Target particle board office furniture and replaced it with French Country shabby chic.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nSecond most frequently asked question:  \"How did the other room turn out?\"\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nMy friend LOVES her bedroom sanctuary.  I had to fight Kia all the way through the process, but it was well worth the exhaustion and the tears.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nThird most frequently asked question:  \"Oh my word, woman!  How did you get on a show like <em>Trading Spaces?</em>??\"\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI applied online.  I was creative in my answers on the application, and I also had a pitch:  \"Enough of the boring married couples!  How about Trading Spaces meets Sex and the City?\"\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nThe producers called me, and the rest is history.  Four girlfriends teamed up to flirt with Carter and Faber.  And we also painted a little bit when needed.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<strong>Fast forward to Playdate #25</strong>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nIronically, I\'m not much of a TV watcher.  In fact, I cancelled my cable a couple of months ago.  I know, I know.  You\'re probably breaking out into hives at the thought of this.  <em>* Shudder, gasp, convulse, etc. *</em>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nGuess what?  I haven\'t missed it a bit.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nOddly, I DO have an idea for a brand-spanking-new reality TV show that I think is fantastic even more of a kick than <em>Trading Spaces</em>!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nThe idea originally came to me this winter when I and The Ex Formerly Known as Romeo Mio dreamed up a biz collaboration.  Since The Ex is now out of the picture, I needed to fine tune my idea without him.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI must say, the idea evolved into supreme juiciness!  Hoorah!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI pitched The Idea to my family.  They LOVED it!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI pitched The Idea to my girlfriends.  They ADORED it!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI pitched the The Idea to my Lone Hollywood Friend with reality TV street cred.  He IGNORED it!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nHuh?\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n\"Finish your screenplay,\" he urged.  \"It\'s not a bad idea, but it will still be there in 6 months.  You know, when you\'ve completed your final draft of the screenplay.  One thing at a time.\"\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nHmph.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;','Playdate #25:  My 2nd 15 Minutes of Fame?','','inherit','open','open','','10736-revision-9','','','2012-07-16 16:52:47','2012-07-16 23:52:47','',10736,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2012/07/16/10736-revision-9/',0,'revision','',0),(10763,1,'2012-07-16 16:54:05','2012-07-16 23:54:05','<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?attachment_id=10752\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10752\"><img class=\"alignleft size-medium wp-image-10752\" title=\"Trading Spaces 016\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/Trading-Spaces-016-300x224.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"224\" /></a>Once upon a time, I was on a TV show called <em>Trading Spaces.</em>  My 15 minutes of fame is a great conversation piece at parties.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nMost frequently asked question:  \"Do you like your room?\"\n\n&nbsp;\n\nLike?  No.  I LOVE my room a la Genevieve!  She tossed my Target particle board office furniture and replaced it with French Country shabby chic.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nSecond most frequently asked question:  \"How did the other room turn out?\"\n\n&nbsp;\n\nMy friend LOVES her bedroom sanctuary.  I had to fight Kia all the way through the process, but it was well worth the exhaustion and the tears.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nThird most frequently asked question:  \"Oh my word, woman!  How did you get on a show like <em>Trading Spaces?</em>??\"\n\n&nbsp;\n\nI applied online.  I was creative in my answers on the application, and I also had a pitch:  \"Enough of the boring married couples!  How about Trading Spaces meets Sex and the City?\"\n\n&nbsp;\n\nThe producers called me, and the rest is history.  Four girlfriends teamed up to flirt with Carter and Faber.  And we also painted a little bit when needed.\n\n&nbsp;\n\n<strong>Fast forward to Playdate #25</strong>\n\n&nbsp;\n\nIronically, I\'m not much of a TV watcher.  In fact, I cancelled my cable a couple of months ago.  I know, I know.  You\'re probably breaking out into hives at the thought of this.  <em>* Shudder, gasp, convulse, etc. *</em>\n\n&nbsp;\n\nGuess what?  I haven\'t missed it a bit.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nOddly, I DO have an idea for a brand-spanking-new reality TV show that I think is fantastic even more of a kick than <em>Trading Spaces</em>!\n\n&nbsp;\n\nThe idea originally came to me this winter when I and The Ex Formerly Known as Romeo Mio dreamed up a biz collaboration.  Since The Ex is now out of the picture, I needed to fine tune my idea without him.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nI must say, the idea evolved into supreme juiciness!  Hoorah!\n\n&nbsp;\n\nI pitched The Idea to my family.  They LOVED it!\n\n&nbsp;\n\nI pitched The Idea to my girlfriends.  They ADORED it!\n\n&nbsp;\n\nI pitched the The Idea to my Lone Hollywood Friend with reality TV street cred.  He IGNORED it!\n\n&nbsp;\n\nHuh?\n\n&nbsp;\n\n\"Finish your screenplay,\" he urged.  \"It\'s not a bad idea, but it will still be there in 6 months.  You know, when you\'ve completed your final draft of the screenplay.  One thing at a time.\"\n\n&nbsp;\n\nHmph.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nLone Hollywood Friend is\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;','Playdate #25:  My 2nd 15 Minutes of Fame?','','inherit','open','open','','10736-revision-10','','','2012-07-16 16:54:05','2012-07-16 23:54:05','',10736,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2012/07/16/10736-revision-10/',0,'revision','',0),(10764,1,'2012-07-16 20:54:42','2012-07-17 03:54:42','<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?attachment_id=10752\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10752\"><img class=\"alignleft size-medium wp-image-10752\" title=\"Trading Spaces 016\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/Trading-Spaces-016-300x224.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"224\" /></a>Once upon a time, I was on a TV show called <em>Trading Spaces.</em>  My 15 minutes of fame is a great conversation piece at parties.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nMost frequently asked question:  \"Do you like your room?\"\n\n&nbsp;\n\nLike?  No.  I LOVE my room a la Genevieve!  She tossed my Target particle board office furniture and replaced it with French Country shabby chic.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nSecond most frequently asked question:  \"How did the other room turn out?\"\n\n&nbsp;\n\nMy friend LOVES her bedroom sanctuary.  I had to fight Kia all the way through the process, but it was well worth the exhaustion and the tears.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nThird most frequently asked question:  \"Oh my word, woman!  How did you get on a show like <em>Trading Spaces?</em>??\"\n\n&nbsp;\n\nI applied online.  I was creative in my answers on the application, and I also had a pitch:  \"Enough of the boring married couples!  How about <em>Trading Spaces</em> meets <em>Sex and the City</em>?\"\n\n&nbsp;\n\nThe producers called me, and the rest is history.  Four girlfriends teamed up to flirt with Carter and Faber.  And we also painted a little bit when needed.\n\n&nbsp;\n\n<strong>Fast forward to Playdate #25</strong>\n\n&nbsp;\n\nIronically, I\'m not much of a TV watcher.  In fact, I cancelled my cable a couple of months ago.  I know, I know.  You\'re probably breaking out into hives at the thought of this.  <em>* Shudder, gasp, convulse, etc. *</em>\n\n&nbsp;\n\nGuess what?  I haven\'t missed TV a bit.\n\n&nbsp;\n\n(Confession:  You may recall that I still have <strong>Apple TV</strong>.  I am currently engrossed in <em>The Tudors.</em>)\n\n&nbsp;\n\nOddly, I DO have an idea for a brand-spanking-new reality TV show that I think is fantastic even more of a kick than <em>Trading Spaces</em>!\n\n&nbsp;\n\nThe idea originally came to me this winter when I and <strong>The Ex Formerly Known as Romeo Mio</strong> dreamed up a biz collaboration.  Since The Ex is now out of the picture, I needed to fine tune my idea without him.  His loss.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nI must say, The Idea evolved into supreme juiciness!  Hoorah!\n\n&nbsp;\n\nI pitched The Idea to my family.  They LOVED it!\n\n&nbsp;\n\nI pitched The Idea to my girlfriends.  They ADORED it!\n\n&nbsp;\n\nI pitched the The Idea to my Lone Hollywood Friend with reality TV street cred.  He IGNORED it!\n\n&nbsp;\n\nHuh?\n\n&nbsp;\n\n\"Finish your screenplay,\" he urged.  \"It\'s not a bad idea, but it will still be there in 6 months.  Stop procrastinating.  One thing at a time.\"\n\n&nbsp;\n\nHmph.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nLone Hollywood Friend is right.  I tend to be a bit ADD with my creative ideas.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nI\'ll pitch you The Idea in 6 months.\n\n&nbsp;\n\n**********\n\n&nbsp;\n\nHow about you?  Are you similarly ADD when it comes to creativity?  How do you keep yourself focused?  How do you \"do it all\" sanely and manageably?\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;','Playdate #25:  My 2nd 15 Minutes of Fame?','','inherit','open','open','','10736-revision-11','','','2012-07-16 20:54:42','2012-07-17 03:54:42','',10736,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2012/07/16/10736-revision-11/',0,'revision','',0),(10765,1,'2012-07-16 20:59:42','2012-07-17 03:59:42','<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?attachment_id=10752\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10752\"><img class=\"alignleft size-medium wp-image-10752\" title=\"Trading Spaces 016\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/Trading-Spaces-016-300x224.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"224\" /></a>Once upon a time, I was on a TV show called <em>Trading Spaces.</em>  My 15 minutes of fame is a great conversation piece at parties.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nMost frequently asked question:  \"Do you like your room?\"\n\n&nbsp;\n\nLike?  No.  I LOVE my room a la Genevieve!  She tossed my Target particle board office furniture and replaced it with French Country shabby chic.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nSecond most frequently asked question:  \"How did your neighbor\'s room turn out?\"\n\n&nbsp;\n\nMy neighbor LOVES her bedroom sanctuary.  I had to fight Kia all the way through the process, but it was well worth the exhaustion and the tears.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nThird most frequently asked question:  \"Oh my word, woman!  How did you get on a show like <em>Trading Spaces?</em>??\"\n\n&nbsp;\n\nI applied online.  I was creative in my answers on the application, and I also had a pitch:  \"Enough of the boring married couples!  How about <em>Trading Spaces</em> meets <em>Sex and the City</em>?\"\n\n&nbsp;\n\nThe producers called me, and the rest is history.  Four girlfriends teamed up to flirt with Carter and Faber.  And we also painted and hammered when needed.\n\n&nbsp;\n\n<strong>Fast forward to Playdate #25</strong>\n\n&nbsp;\n\nIronically, I\'m not much of a TV watcher.  In fact, I cancelled my cable a couple of months ago.  I know, I know.  You\'re probably breaking out into hives at the thought of this.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nGuess what?  I haven\'t missed TV a bit.\n\n&nbsp;\n\n(Confession:  You may recall that I still have <strong>Apple TV</strong>.  I am currently engrossed in <em>The Tudors.  </em>I fondly refer to it as \"costume drama porn\".  This show makes <em>Sex and the City</em> look prudish!)\n\n&nbsp;\n\nOddly, despite my lack of cable, I DO have an idea for a brand-spanking-new reality TV show that could be even more of a hoot than <em>Trading Spaces</em>!\n\n&nbsp;\n\nThe idea originally came to me this winter when I and <strong>The Ex Formerly Known as Romeo Mio</strong> dreamed up a biz collaboration.  Since The Ex is now out of the picture, I needed to fine tune my idea without him.  His loss.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nI must say, The Idea evolved into supreme juiciness!  Hoorah!\n\n&nbsp;\n\nI pitched The Idea to my family.  They LOVED it!\n\n&nbsp;\n\nI pitched The Idea to my girlfriends.  They ADORED it!\n\n&nbsp;\n\nI pitched the The Idea to my Lone Hollywood Friend with reality TV street cred.  He IGNORED it!\n\n&nbsp;\n\nHuh?\n\n&nbsp;\n\n\"Finish your screenplay,\" he urged.  \"It\'s not a bad idea, but it will still be there in 6 months.  Stop procrastinating.  One thing at a time.\"\n\n&nbsp;\n\nHmph.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nLone Hollywood Friend is right.  I do tend to be a bit ADD with my creative ideas.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nI\'ll pitch you The Idea in 6 months.\n\n&nbsp;\n\n**********\n\n&nbsp;\n\nHow about you?  Are you similarly ADD when it comes to creative projects?  How do you keep yourself focused?  How do you \"do it all\" sanely and manageably?\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;','Playdate #25:  My 2nd 15 Minutes of Fame?','','inherit','open','open','','10736-revision-12','','','2012-07-16 20:59:42','2012-07-17 03:59:42','',10736,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2012/07/16/10736-revision-12/',0,'revision','',0),(10766,1,'2012-07-16 21:19:43','2012-07-17 04:19:43','','P20301821-300x225','','inherit','open','open','','p20301821-300x225','','','2012-07-16 21:19:43','2012-07-17 04:19:43','',10736,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/P20301821-300x225.jpg',0,'attachment','image/jpeg',0),(10767,1,'2012-07-16 21:18:49','2012-07-17 04:18:49','<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?attachment_id=10752\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10752\"><img class=\"alignleft size-medium wp-image-10752\" title=\"Trading Spaces 016\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/Trading-Spaces-016-300x224.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"224\" /></a>Once upon a time, I was on a TV show called <em>Trading Spaces.</em>  My 15 minutes of fame is a great conversation piece at parties.\n\n&nbsp;\n\n<strong>Most frequently asked question:</strong>  \"Do you like your room?\"\n\n&nbsp;\n\nLike?  No.  I LOVE my room a la Genevieve!  She tossed my Target particle board office furniture and replaced it with French Country shabby chic.\n\n&nbsp;\n\n<strong>Second most frequently asked question:</strong>  \"How did your neighbor\'s room turn out?\"\n\n&nbsp;\n\nMy neighbor LOVES her bedroom sanctuary.  I had to fight Kia all the way through the process, but it was well worth the exhaustion and the tears.\n\n&nbsp;\n\n<strong>Third most frequently asked question:</strong>  \"Oh my word, woman!  How did you get on a show like <em>Trading Spaces?</em>??\"\n\n&nbsp;\n\nI applied online.  I was creative in my answers on the application, and I also had a pitch:  \"Enough of the boring married couples!  How about <em>Trading Spaces</em> meets <em>Sex and the City</em>?\"\n\n&nbsp;\n\nThe producers called me, and the rest is history.  Four girlfriends teamed up to flirt with <a href=\"http://www.carteroosterhouse.com/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Carter</strong></a> and <a href=\"http://faberdewar.com/news/index/11\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Faber.</strong></a>  And we also painted and hammered when needed.\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\n<strong>Fast forward to Playdate #25</strong>\n\n&nbsp;\n\nIronically, I\'m not much of a TV watcher.  In fact, I cancelled my cable a couple of months ago.  I know, I know.  You\'re probably breaking out into hives at the thought of this.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nGuess what?  I haven\'t missed TV a bit.\n\n&nbsp;\n\n(Confession:  You may recall that I still have Apple TV/Netflix.  I am currently engrossed in <em>The Tudors.  </em>I fondly refer to it as \"costume drama porn\".  Yowza!  This historical drama makes <em>Sex and the City</em> look prudish!  )\n\n&nbsp;\n\nOddly, despite my lack of cable, I DO have an idea for a brand-spanking-new reality TV show that could be even more of a hoot than <em>Trading Spaces</em>!\n\n&nbsp;\n\nThe idea originally came to me this winter when I and <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2011/12/26/and-the-winner-for-name-that-italian-is/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>The Ex Formerly Known as Romeo Mio</strong></a> dreamed up a biz collaboration.  Since The Ex is now out of the picture, I needed to fine tune my idea without him.  His loss.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nI must say . . . . The Idea evolved into supreme juiciness!  Hoorah!\n\n&nbsp;\n\nI pitched The Idea to my family.  They LOVED it!\n\n&nbsp;\n\nI pitched The Idea to my girlfriends.  They ADORED it!\n\n&nbsp;\n\nI pitched the The Idea to my Lone Hollywood Friend with reality TV street cred.  He IGNORED it!\n\n&nbsp;\n\nHuh?\n\n&nbsp;\n\n\"Finish your screenplay,\" he urged.  \"It\'s not a bad idea, but it will still be there in 6 months.  Stop procrastinating.  One thing at a time.\"\n\n&nbsp;\n\nHmph.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nLone Hollywood Friend is right.  I do tend to be a bit ADD with my creative ideas.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nI\'ll pitch you The Idea in 6 months.\n\n&nbsp;\n\n**********\n\n&nbsp;\n\nHow about you?  Are you similarly ADD when it comes to creative projects?  How do you keep yourself focused?  How do you \"do it all\" sanely and manageably?\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;','Playdate #25:  My 2nd 15 Minutes of Fame?','','inherit','open','open','','10736-revision-13','','','2012-07-16 21:18:49','2012-07-17 04:18:49','',10736,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2012/07/16/10736-revision-13/',0,'revision','',0),(10768,1,'2012-07-16 21:20:49','2012-07-17 04:20:49','<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?attachment_id=10752\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10752\"><img class=\"alignleft size-medium wp-image-10752\" title=\"Trading Spaces 016\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/Trading-Spaces-016-300x224.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"224\" /></a>Once upon a time, I was on a TV show called <em>Trading Spaces.</em>  My 15 minutes of fame is a great conversation piece at parties.\n\n&nbsp;\n\n<strong>Most frequently asked question:</strong>  \"Do you like your room?\"\n\n&nbsp;\n\nLike?  No.  I LOVE my room a la Genevieve!  She tossed my Target particle board office furniture and replaced it with French Country shabby chic.\n\n&nbsp;\n\n<strong>Second most frequently asked question:</strong>  \"How did your neighbor\'s room turn out?\"\n\n&nbsp;\n\nMy neighbor LOVES her bedroom sanctuary.  I had to fight Kia all the way through the process, but it was well worth the exhaustion and the tears.\n\n&nbsp;\n\n<strong>Third most frequently asked question:</strong>  \"Oh my word, woman!  How did you get on a show like <em>Trading Spaces?</em>??\"\n\n&nbsp;\n\nI applied online.  I was creative in my answers on the application, and I also had a pitch:  \"Enough of the boring married couples!  How about <em>Trading Spaces</em> meets <em>Sex and the City</em>?\"\n\n&nbsp;\n\nThe producers called me, and the rest is history.  Four girlfriends teamed up to flirt with <a href=\"http://www.carteroosterhouse.com/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Carter</strong></a> and <a href=\"http://faberdewar.com/news/index/11\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Faber.</strong></a>  And we also painted and hammered when needed.\n\n&nbsp;\n\n[caption id=\"attachment_10766\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"300\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?attachment_id=10766\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10766\"><img class=\"size-full wp-image-10766 \" title=\"P20301821-300x225\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/P20301821-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a> My famous office[/caption]\n\n&nbsp;\n\n<strong>Fast forward to Playdate #25</strong>\n\n&nbsp;\n\nIronically, I\'m not much of a TV watcher.  In fact, I cancelled my cable a couple of months ago.  I know, I know.  You\'re probably breaking out into hives at the thought of this.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nGuess what?  I haven\'t missed TV a bit.\n\n&nbsp;\n\n(Confession:  You may recall that I still have Apple TV/Netflix.  I am currently engrossed in <em>The Tudors.  </em>I fondly refer to it as \"costume drama porn\".  Yowza!  This historical drama makes <em>Sex and the City</em> look prudish!  )\n\n&nbsp;\n\nOddly, despite my lack of cable, I DO have an idea for a brand-spanking-new reality TV show that could be even more of a hoot than <em>Trading Spaces</em>!\n\n&nbsp;\n\nThe idea originally came to me this winter when I and <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2011/12/26/and-the-winner-for-name-that-italian-is/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>The Ex Formerly Known as Romeo Mio</strong></a> dreamed up a biz collaboration.  Since The Ex is now out of the picture, I needed to fine tune my idea without him.  His loss.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nI must say . . . . The Idea evolved into supreme juiciness!  Hoorah!\n\n&nbsp;\n\nI pitched The Idea to my family.  They LOVED it!\n\n&nbsp;\n\nI pitched The Idea to my girlfriends.  They ADORED it!\n\n&nbsp;\n\nI pitched the The Idea to my Lone Hollywood Friend with reality TV street cred.  He IGNORED it!\n\n&nbsp;\n\nHuh?\n\n&nbsp;\n\n\"Finish your screenplay,\" he urged.  \"It\'s not a bad idea, but it will still be there in 6 months.  Stop procrastinating.  One thing at a time.\"\n\n&nbsp;\n\nHmph.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nLone Hollywood Friend is right.  I do tend to be a bit ADD with my creative ideas.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nI\'ll pitch you The Idea in 6 months.\n\n&nbsp;\n\n**********\n\n&nbsp;\n\nHow about you?  Are you similarly ADD when it comes to creative projects?  How do you keep yourself focused?  How do you \"do it all\" sanely and manageably?\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;','Playdate #25:  My 2nd 15 Minutes of Fame?','','inherit','open','open','','10736-revision-14','','','2012-07-16 21:20:49','2012-07-17 04:20:49','',10736,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2012/07/16/10736-revision-14/',0,'revision','',0),(10769,1,'2012-07-16 21:56:59','2012-07-17 04:56:59','<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?attachment_id=10752\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10752\"><img class=\"alignleft size-medium wp-image-10752\" title=\"Trading Spaces 016\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/Trading-Spaces-016-300x224.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"224\" /></a>Once upon a time, I was on a TV show called <em>Trading Spaces.</em>  My 15 minutes of fame is a great conversation piece at parties.\n\n&nbsp;\n\n<strong>Most frequently asked question:</strong>  \"Do you like your room?\"\n\n&nbsp;\n\nLike?  No.  I LOVE my room a la Genevieve!  She tossed my Target particle board office furniture and replaced it with French Country shabby chic.\n\n&nbsp;\n\n<strong>Second most frequently asked question:</strong>  \"How did your neighbor\'s room turn out?\"\n\n&nbsp;\n\nMy neighbor LOVES her bedroom sanctuary.  I had to fight Kia all the way through the process, but it was well worth the exhaustion and the tears.\n\n&nbsp;\n\n<strong>Third most frequently asked question:</strong>  \"Oh my word, woman!  How did you get on a show like <em>Trading Spaces?</em>??\"\n\n&nbsp;\n\nI applied online.  I was creative in my answers on the application, and I also had a pitch:  \"Enough of the boring married couples!  How about <em>Trading Spaces</em> meets <em>Sex and the City</em>?\"\n\n&nbsp;\n\nThe producers called me, and the rest is history.  Four girlfriends teamed up to flirt with <a href=\"http://www.carteroosterhouse.com/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Carter</strong></a> and <a href=\"http://faberdewar.com/news/index/11\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Faber.</strong></a>  And we also painted and hammered when needed.\n\n&nbsp;\n\n[caption id=\"attachment_10766\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"300\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?attachment_id=10766\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10766\"><img class=\"size-full wp-image-10766 \" title=\"P20301821-300x225\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/P20301821-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a> My famous office[/caption]\n\n&nbsp;\n\n<strong>Fast forward to Playdate #25</strong>\n\n&nbsp;\n\nIronically, I\'m not much of a TV watcher.  In fact, I cancelled my cable a couple of months ago.  I know, I know.  You\'re probably breaking out into hives at the thought of this.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nGuess what?  I haven\'t missed TV a bit.\n\n&nbsp;\n\n(Confession:  You may recall that I still have Apple TV/Netflix.  I am currently engrossed in <em>The Tudors.  </em>I fondly refer to it as \"costume drama porn\".  Yowza!  This historical drama makes <em>Sex and the City</em> look prudish!  )\n\n&nbsp;\n\nOddly, despite my lack of cable, I DO have an idea for a brand-spanking-new reality TV show that could be even more of a hoot than <em>Trading Spaces</em>!\n\n&nbsp;\n\nThe idea originally came to me this winter when I and <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2011/12/26/and-the-winner-for-name-that-italian-is/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>The Ex Formerly Known as Romeo Mio</strong></a> dreamed up a biz collaboration.  Since The Ex is now out of the picture, I needed to fine tune my idea without him.  His loss.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nI must say . . . . The Idea evolved into supreme juiciness!  Hoorah!\n\n&nbsp;\n\nI pitched The Idea to my family.  They LOVED it!\n\n&nbsp;\n\nI pitched The Idea to my girlfriends.  They ADORED it!\n\n&nbsp;\n\nI pitched the The Idea to my Lone Hollywood Friend with reality TV street cred.  He IGNORED it!\n\n&nbsp;\n\nHuh?\n\n&nbsp;\n\n\"Finish your screenplay,\" he urged.  \"It\'s not a bad idea, but it will still be there in 6 months.  Stop procrastinating.  One thing at a time.\"\n\n&nbsp;\n\nHmph.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nLone Hollywood Friend is right.  I do tend to be a bit ADD with my creative ideas.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nI\'ll pitch you The Idea in 6 months.\n\n&nbsp;\n\n**********\n\n&nbsp;\n\nHow about you?  Are you similarly ADD when it comes to creative projects?  How do you keep yourself focused?  How do you \"do it all\" sanely and manageably?\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;','Playdate #25:  My 2nd 15 Minutes of Fame?','','inherit','open','open','','10736-revision-15','','','2012-07-16 21:56:59','2012-07-17 04:56:59','',10736,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2012/07/16/10736-revision-15/',0,'revision','',0),(10770,1,'2012-07-17 18:35:27','2012-07-18 01:35:27','<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?attachment_id=10752\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10752\"><img class=\"alignleft size-medium wp-image-10752\" title=\"Trading Spaces 016\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/Trading-Spaces-016-300x224.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"224\" /></a>Once upon a time, I was on a TV show called <em>Trading Spaces.</em>  My 15 minutes of fame is a great conversation piece at parties.\n\n&nbsp;\n\n<span style=\"color: #008000;\"><strong>Most frequently asked question:</strong> </span> \"Do you like your room?\"\n\n&nbsp;\n\nLike?  No.  I LOVE my room a la Genevieve!  She tossed my Target particle board office furniture and replaced it with French Country shabby chic.\n\n&nbsp;\n\n<span style=\"color: #008000;\"><strong>Second most frequently asked question:</strong>  </span>\"How did your neighbor\'s room turn out?\"\n\n&nbsp;\n\nMy neighbor LOVES her bedroom sanctuary.  I had to fight Kia all the way through the process, but it was well worth the exhaustion and the tears.\n\n&nbsp;\n\n<span style=\"color: #008000;\"><strong>Third most frequently asked question:</strong> </span> \"Oh my word, woman!  How did you get on a show like <em>Trading Spaces?</em>??\"\n\n&nbsp;\n\nI applied online.  I was creative in my answers on the application, and I also had a pitch:  \"Enough of the boring married couples!  How about <em>Trading Spaces</em> meets <em>Sex and the City</em>?\"\n\n&nbsp;\n\nThe producers called me, and the rest is history.  Four girlfriends teamed up to flirt with <a href=\"http://www.carteroosterhouse.com/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Carter</strong></a> and <a href=\"http://faberdewar.com/news/index/11\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Faber.</strong></a>  And we also painted and hammered when needed.\n\n&nbsp;\n\n[caption id=\"attachment_10766\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"300\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?attachment_id=10766\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10766\"><img class=\"size-full wp-image-10766 \" title=\"P20301821-300x225\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/P20301821-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a> My famous office[/caption]\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\n<span style=\"font-size: medium; color: #008000;\"><strong>Fast forward to Playdate #25</strong></span>\n\n&nbsp;\n\nIronically, I\'m not much of a TV watcher.  In fact, I cancelled my cable a couple of months ago.  I know, I know.  You\'re probably breaking out into hives at the thought of this.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nGuess what?  I haven\'t missed TV a bit.\n\n&nbsp;\n\n(Confession:  You may recall that I still have Apple TV/Netflix.  I am currently engrossed in <em>The Tudors.  </em>I fondly refer to it as \"costume drama porn\".  Yowza!  This historical drama makes <em>Sex and the City</em> look prudish!  )\n\n&nbsp;\n\n<strong>Oddly, despite my lack of cable, I DO have an idea for a brand-spanking-new reality TV show that could be even more of a hoot than <em>Trading Spaces</em>!</strong>\n\n&nbsp;\n\nThe idea originally came to me this winter when I and <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2011/12/26/and-the-winner-for-name-that-italian-is/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>The Ex Formerly Known as Romeo Mio</strong></a> dreamed up a biz collaboration.  Since The Ex is now out of the picture, I needed to fine tune my idea without him.  His loss.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nI must say . . . . The Idea evolved into supreme juiciness!  Hoorah!\n\n&nbsp;\n\nI pitched The Idea to my family.  They LOVED it!\n\n&nbsp;\n\nI pitched The Idea to my girlfriends.  They ADORED it!\n\n&nbsp;\n\nI pitched the The Idea to my Lone Hollywood Friend with reality TV street cred.  He IGNORED it!\n\n&nbsp;\n\nHuh?\n\n&nbsp;\n\n\"Finish your screenplay,\" he urged.  \"It\'s not a bad idea, but it will still be there in 6 months.  Stop procrastinating.  One thing at a time.\"\n\n&nbsp;\n\nHmph.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nLone Hollywood Friend is right.  I do tend to be a bit ADD with my creative ideas.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nI\'ll pitch you The Idea in 6 months.\n\n&nbsp;\n\n**********\n\n&nbsp;\n\nHow about you?  Are you similarly ADD when it comes to creative projects?  How do you keep yourself focused?  How do you \"do it all\" sanely and manageably?\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;','Playdate #25:  My 2nd 15 Minutes of Fame?','','inherit','open','open','','10736-revision-16','','','2012-07-17 18:35:27','2012-07-18 01:35:27','',10736,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2012/07/17/10736-revision-16/',0,'revision','',0),(10771,1,'2012-07-17 18:37:23','2012-07-18 01:37:23','<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?attachment_id=10752\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10752\"><img class=\"alignleft size-medium wp-image-10752\" title=\"Trading Spaces 016\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/Trading-Spaces-016-300x224.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"224\" /></a>Once upon a time, I was on a TV show called <em>Trading Spaces.</em>  My 15 minutes of fame is a great conversation piece at parties.\n\n&nbsp;\n\n<span style=\"color: #008000;\"><strong>Most frequently asked question:</strong> </span> \"Do you like your room?\"\n\n&nbsp;\n\nLike?  No.  I LOVE my room a la Genevieve!  She tossed my Target particle board office furniture and replaced it with French Country shabby chic.\n\n&nbsp;\n\n<span style=\"color: #008000;\"><strong>Second most frequently asked question:</strong>  </span>\"How did your neighbor\'s room turn out?\"\n\n&nbsp;\n\nMy neighbor LOVES her bedroom sanctuary.  I had to fight Kia all the way through the process, but it was well worth the exhaustion and the tears.\n\n&nbsp;\n\n<span style=\"color: #008000;\"><strong>Third most frequently asked question:</strong> </span> \"Oh my word, woman!  How did you get on a show like <em>Trading Spaces?</em>??\"\n\n&nbsp;\n\nI applied online.  I was creative in my answers on the application, and I also had a pitch:  \"Enough of the boring married couples!  How about <em>Trading Spaces</em> meets <em>Sex and the City</em>?\"\n\n&nbsp;\n\nThe producers called me, and the rest is history.  Four girlfriends teamed up to flirt with <a href=\"http://www.carteroosterhouse.com/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Carter</strong></a> and <a href=\"http://faberdewar.com/news/index/11\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Faber.</strong></a>  And we also painted and hammered when needed.\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\n[caption id=\"attachment_10766\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"300\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?attachment_id=10766\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10766\"><img class=\"size-full wp-image-10766 \" title=\"P20301821-300x225\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/P20301821-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a> My famous office[/caption]\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\n<span style=\"font-size: medium; color: #008000;\"><strong>Fast forward to Playdate #25</strong></span>\n\n&nbsp;\n\nIronically, I\'m not much of a TV watcher.  In fact, I cancelled my cable a couple of months ago.  I know, I know.  You\'re probably breaking out into hives at the thought of this.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nGuess what?  I haven\'t missed TV a bit.\n\n&nbsp;\n\n(Confession:  You may recall that I still have Apple TV/Netflix.  I am currently engrossed in <em>The Tudors.  </em>I fondly refer to it as \"costume drama porn\".  Yowza!  This historical drama makes <em>Sex and the City</em> look prudish!  )\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\n<span style=\"font-size: medium; color: #008000;\"><strong>Oddly, despite my lack of cable, I DO have an idea for a brand-spanking-new reality TV show that could be even more of a hoot than <em>Trading Spaces</em>!</strong></span>\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\nThe idea originally came to me this winter when I and <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2011/12/26/and-the-winner-for-name-that-italian-is/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>The Ex Formerly Known as Romeo Mio</strong></a> dreamed up a biz collaboration.  Since The Ex is now out of the picture, I needed to fine tune my idea without him.  His loss.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nI must say . . . . The Idea evolved into supreme juiciness!  Hoorah!\n\n&nbsp;\n\nI pitched The Idea to my family.  They LOVED it!\n\n&nbsp;\n\nI pitched The Idea to my girlfriends.  They ADORED it!\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\n<span style=\"font-size: medium; color: #008000;\"><strong>I pitched the The Idea to my Lone Hollywood Friend with reality TV street cred.  He IGNORED it!</strong></span>\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\nHuh?\n\n&nbsp;\n\n\"Finish your screenplay,\" he urged.  \"It\'s not a bad idea, but it will still be there in 6 months.  Stop procrastinating.  One thing at a time.\"\n\n&nbsp;\n\nHmph.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nLone Hollywood Friend is right.  I do tend to be a bit ADD with my creative ideas.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nI\'ll pitch you The Idea in 6 months.\n\n&nbsp;\n\n**********\n\n&nbsp;\n\nHow about you?  Are you similarly ADD when it comes to creative projects?  How do you keep yourself focused?  How do you \"do it all\" sanely and manageably?\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;','Playdate #25:  My 2nd 15 Minutes of Fame?','','inherit','open','open','','10736-revision-17','','','2012-07-17 18:37:23','2012-07-18 01:37:23','',10736,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2012/07/17/10736-revision-17/',0,'revision','',0),(10772,1,'2012-07-17 18:41:45','2012-07-18 01:41:45','<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?attachment_id=10752\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10752\"><img class=\"alignleft size-medium wp-image-10752\" title=\"Trading Spaces 016\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/Trading-Spaces-016-300x224.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"224\" /></a>Once upon a time, I was on a TV show called <em>Trading Spaces.</em>  My 15 minutes of fame is a great conversation piece at parties.\n\n&nbsp;\n\n<span style=\"color: #008000;\"><strong>Most frequently asked question:</strong> </span> \"Do you like your room?\"\n\n&nbsp;\n\nLike?  No.  I LOVE my room a la Genevieve!  She tossed my Target particle board office furniture and replaced it with French Country shabby chic.\n\n&nbsp;\n\n<span style=\"color: #008000;\"><strong>Second most frequently asked question:</strong>  </span>\"How did your neighbor\'s room turn out?\"\n\n&nbsp;\n\nMy neighbor LOVES her bedroom sanctuary.  I had to fight Kia all the way through the process, but it was well worth the exhaustion and the tears.\n\n&nbsp;\n\n<span style=\"color: #008000;\"><strong>Third most frequently asked question:</strong> </span> \"Oh my word, woman!  How did you get on a show like <em>Trading Spaces?</em>??\"\n\n&nbsp;\n\nI applied online.  I creatively and quirkily filled out the application.\n\n&nbsp;\n\n<strong>I also had a pitch:  \"Enough of the boring married couples!  How about <em>Trading Spaces</em> meets <em>Sex and the City</em>?\"</strong>\n\n&nbsp;\n\nThe producers called me, and the rest is history.  Four girlfriends teamed up to flirt with <a href=\"http://www.carteroosterhouse.com/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Carter</strong></a> and <a href=\"http://faberdewar.com/news/index/11\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Faber.</strong></a>  (And we painted and hammered when needed.)\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\n[caption id=\"attachment_10766\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"300\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?attachment_id=10766\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10766\"><img class=\"size-full wp-image-10766 \" title=\"P20301821-300x225\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/P20301821-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a> My famous office[/caption]\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\n<span style=\"font-size: medium; color: #008000;\"><strong>Fast forward to Playdate #25</strong></span>\n\n&nbsp;\n\nIronically, I\'m not much of a TV watcher.  In fact, I cancelled my cable a couple of months ago.  I know, I know.  You\'re probably breaking out into hives at the thought of this.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nGuess what?  I haven\'t missed cable a bit.\n\n&nbsp;\n\n(Confession:  You may recall that I still have Apple TV/Netflix.  I am currently engrossed in <em>The Tudors.  </em>I fondly refer to it as \"costume drama porn\".  Yowza!  This historical drama makes <em>Sex and the City</em> look prudish!  )\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\n<span style=\"font-size: medium; color: #008000;\"><strong>Oddly, despite my lack of cable, I DO have an idea for a brand-spanking-new reality TV show that could be even more of a hoot than <em>Trading Spaces</em>!</strong></span>\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\nThe idea originally came to me this winter when I and <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2011/12/26/and-the-winner-for-name-that-italian-is/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>The Ex Formerly Known as Romeo Mio</strong></a> dreamed up a biz collaboration.  Since The Ex is now out of the picture, I needed to fine tune my idea without him.  His loss.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nI must say . . . . The Idea evolved into supreme juiciness!  Hoorah!\n\n&nbsp;\n\nI pitched The Idea to my family.  They LOVED it!\n\n&nbsp;\n\nI pitched The Idea to my girlfriends.  They ADORED it!\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\n<span style=\"font-size: medium; color: #008000;\"><strong>I pitched the The Idea to my Lone Hollywood Friend with reality TV street cred.  He IGNORED it!</strong></span>\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\nHuh?\n\n&nbsp;\n\n\"Finish your screenplay,\" he urged.  \"It\'s not a bad idea, but it will still be there in 6 months.  Stop procrastinating.  One thing at a time.\"\n\n&nbsp;\n\nHmph.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nLone Hollywood Friend is right.  I do tend to be a bit ADD with my creative ideas.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nI\'ll pitch you The Idea in 6 months.\n\n&nbsp;\n\n**********\n\n&nbsp;\n\nHow about you?  Are you similarly ADD when it comes to creative projects?  How do you keep yourself focused?  How do you \"do it all\" sanely and manageably?\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;','Playdate #25:  Life After Trading Spaces','','inherit','open','open','','10736-revision-18','','','2012-07-17 18:41:45','2012-07-18 01:41:45','',10736,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2012/07/17/10736-revision-18/',0,'revision','',0),(10773,1,'2012-07-17 18:41:46','2012-07-18 01:41:46','<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?attachment_id=10752\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10752\"><img class=\"alignleft size-medium wp-image-10752\" title=\"Trading Spaces 016\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/Trading-Spaces-016-300x224.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"224\" /></a>Once upon a time, I was on a TV show called <em>Trading Spaces.</em>  My 15 minutes of fame is a great conversation piece at parties.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<span style=\"color: #008000;\"><strong>Most frequently asked question:</strong> </span> \"Do you like your room?\"\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nLike?  No.  I LOVE my room a la Genevieve!  She tossed my Target particle board office furniture and replaced it with French Country shabby chic.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<span style=\"color: #008000;\"><strong>Second most frequently asked question:</strong>  </span>\"How did your neighbor\'s room turn out?\"\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nMy neighbor LOVES her bedroom sanctuary.  I had to fight Kia all the way through the process, but it was well worth the exhaustion and the tears.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<span style=\"color: #008000;\"><strong>Third most frequently asked question:</strong> </span> \"Oh my word, woman!  How did you get on a show like <em>Trading Spaces?</em>??\"\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI applied online.  I creatively and quirkily filled out the application.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<strong>I also had a pitch:  \"Enough of the boring married couples!  How about <em>Trading Spaces</em> meets <em>Sex and the City</em>?\"</strong>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nThe producers called me, and the rest is history.  Four girlfriends teamed up to flirt with <a href=\"http://www.carteroosterhouse.com/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Carter</strong></a> and <a href=\"http://faberdewar.com/news/index/11\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Faber.</strong></a>  (And we painted and hammered when needed.)\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_10766\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"300\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?attachment_id=10766\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10766\"><img class=\"size-full wp-image-10766 \" title=\"P20301821-300x225\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/P20301821-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a> My famous office[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<span style=\"font-size: medium; color: #008000;\"><strong>Fast forward to Playdate #25</strong></span>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nIronically, I\'m not much of a TV watcher.  In fact, I cancelled my cable a couple of months ago.  I know, I know.  You\'re probably breaking out into hives at the thought of this.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nGuess what?  I haven\'t missed cable a bit.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n(Confession:  You may recall that I still have Apple TV/Netflix.  I am currently engrossed in <em>The Tudors.  </em>I fondly refer to it as \"costume drama porn\".  Yowza!  This historical drama makes <em>Sex and the City</em> look prudish!  )\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<span style=\"font-size: medium; color: #008000;\"><strong>Oddly, despite my lack of cable, I DO have an idea for a brand-spanking-new reality TV show that could be even more of a hoot than <em>Trading Spaces</em>!</strong></span>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nThe idea originally came to me this winter when I and <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2011/12/26/and-the-winner-for-name-that-italian-is/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>The Ex Formerly Known as Romeo Mio</strong></a> dreamed up a biz collaboration.  Since The Ex is now out of the picture, I needed to fine tune my idea without him.  His loss.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI must say . . . . The Idea evolved into supreme juiciness!  Hoorah!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI pitched The Idea to my family.  They LOVED it!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI pitched The Idea to my girlfriends.  They ADORED it!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<span style=\"font-size: medium; color: #008000;\"><strong>I pitched the The Idea to my Lone Hollywood Friend with reality TV street cred.  He IGNORED it!</strong></span>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nHuh?\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n\"Finish your screenplay,\" he urged.  \"It\'s not a bad idea, but it will still be there in 6 months.  Stop procrastinating.  One thing at a time.\"\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nHmph.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nLone Hollywood Friend is right.  I do tend to be a bit ADD with my creative ideas.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI\'ll pitch you The Idea in 6 months.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n**********\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nHow about you?  Are you similarly ADD when it comes to creative projects?  How do you keep yourself focused?  How do you \"do it all\" sanely and manageably?\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;','Playdate #25:  Life After Trading Spaces','','inherit','open','open','','10736-revision-19','','','2012-07-17 18:41:46','2012-07-18 01:41:46','',10736,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2012/07/17/10736-revision-19/',0,'revision','',0),(10774,1,'2012-07-17 18:43:32','2012-07-18 01:43:32','<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?attachment_id=10752\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10752\"><img class=\"alignleft size-medium wp-image-10752\" title=\"Trading Spaces 016\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/Trading-Spaces-016-300x224.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"224\" /></a>Once upon a time, I was on a TV show called <em>Trading Spaces.</em>  My 15 minutes of fame is a great conversation piece at parties.\n\n&nbsp;\n\n<span style=\"color: #008000;\"><strong>Most frequently asked question:</strong> </span> \"Do you like your room?\"\n\n&nbsp;\n\nLike?  No.  I LOVE my room a la Genevieve!  She tossed my Target particle board office furniture and replaced it with French Country shabby chic.\n\n&nbsp;\n\n<span style=\"color: #008000;\"><strong>Second most frequently asked question:</strong>  </span>\"How did your neighbor\'s room turn out?\"\n\n&nbsp;\n\nMy neighbor LOVES her bedroom sanctuary.  I had to fight Kia all the way through the process, but it was well worth the exhaustion and the tears.\n\n&nbsp;\n\n<span style=\"color: #008000;\"><strong>Third most frequently asked question:</strong> </span> \"Oh my word, woman!  How did you get on a show like <em>Trading Spaces?</em>??\"\n\n&nbsp;\n\nI applied online.  I creatively and quirkily filled out the application.\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\n<span style=\"font-size: medium; color: #008000;\"><strong>I also had a pitch:  \"Enough of the boring married couples!  How about <em>Trading Spaces</em> meets <em>Sex and the City</em>?\"</strong></span>\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\nThe producers called me, and the rest is history.  Four girlfriends teamed up to flirt with <a href=\"http://www.carteroosterhouse.com/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Carter</strong></a> and <a href=\"http://faberdewar.com/news/index/11\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Faber.</strong></a>  (And we painted and hammered when needed.)\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\n[caption id=\"attachment_10766\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"300\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?attachment_id=10766\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10766\"><img class=\"size-full wp-image-10766 \" title=\"P20301821-300x225\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/P20301821-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a> My famous office[/caption]\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\n<span style=\"font-size: medium; color: #008000;\"><strong>Fast forward to Playdate #25</strong></span>\n\n&nbsp;\n\nIronically, I\'m not much of a TV watcher.  In fact, I cancelled my cable a couple of months ago.  I know, I know.  You\'re probably breaking out into hives at the thought of this.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nGuess what?  I haven\'t missed cable a bit.\n\n&nbsp;\n\n(Confession:  You may recall that I still have Apple TV/Netflix.  I am currently engrossed in <em>The Tudors.  </em>I fondly refer to it as \"costume drama porn\".  Yowza!  This historical drama makes <em>Sex and the City</em> look prudish!  )\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\n<span style=\"font-size: medium; color: #008000;\"><strong>Oddly, despite my lack of cable, I DO have an idea for a brand-spanking-new reality TV show that could be even more of a hoot than <em>Trading Spaces</em>!</strong></span>\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\nThe idea originally came to me this winter when I and <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2011/12/26/and-the-winner-for-name-that-italian-is/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>The Ex Formerly Known as Romeo Mio</strong></a> dreamed up a biz collaboration.  Since The Ex is now out of the picture, I needed to fine tune my idea without him.  His loss.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nI must say . . . . The Idea evolved into supreme juiciness!  Hoorah!\n\n&nbsp;\n\nI pitched The Idea to my family.  They LOVED it!\n\n&nbsp;\n\nI pitched The Idea to my girlfriends.  They ADORED it!\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\n<span style=\"font-size: medium; color: #008000;\"><strong>I pitched the The Idea to my Lone Hollywood Friend with reality TV street cred.  He IGNORED it!</strong></span>\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\nHuh?\n\n&nbsp;\n\n\"Finish your screenplay,\" he urged.  \"It\'s not a bad idea, but it will still be there in 6 months.  Stop procrastinating.  One thing at a time.\"\n\n&nbsp;\n\nHmph.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nLone Hollywood Friend is right.  I do tend to be a bit ADD with my creative ideas.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nI\'ll pitch you The Idea in 6 months.\n\n&nbsp;\n\n**********\n\n&nbsp;\n\nHow about you?  Are you similarly ADD when it comes to creative projects?  How do you keep yourself focused?  How do you \"do it all\" sanely and manageably?\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;','Playdate #25:  Life After Trading Spaces','','inherit','open','open','','10736-revision-20','','','2012-07-17 18:43:32','2012-07-18 01:43:32','',10736,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2012/07/17/10736-revision-20/',0,'revision','',0),(10776,1,'2012-07-17 18:45:59','2012-07-18 01:45:59','<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?attachment_id=10752\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10752\"><img class=\"alignleft size-medium wp-image-10752\" title=\"Trading Spaces 016\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/Trading-Spaces-016-300x224.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"224\" /></a>Once upon a time, I was on a TV show called <em>Trading Spaces.</em>  My 15 minutes of fame is a great conversation piece at parties.\n\n&nbsp;\n\n<span style=\"color: #008000;\"><strong>Most frequently asked question:</strong> </span> \"Do you like your room?\"\n\n&nbsp;\n\nLike?  No.  I LOVE my room a la Genevieve!  She tossed my Target particle board office furniture and replaced it with French Country shabby chic.\n\n&nbsp;\n\n<span style=\"color: #008000;\"><strong>Second most frequently asked question:</strong>  </span>\"How did your neighbor\'s room turn out?\"\n\n&nbsp;\n\nMy neighbor LOVES her bedroom sanctuary.  I had to fight Kia all the way through the process, but it was well worth the exhaustion and the tears.\n\n&nbsp;\n\n<span style=\"color: #008000;\"><strong>Third most frequently asked question:</strong> </span> \"Oh my word, woman!  How did you get on a show like <em>Trading Spaces?</em>??\"\n\n&nbsp;\n\nI applied online.  I creatively and quirkily filled out the application.\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\n<span style=\"font-size: medium; color: #008000;\"><strong>I also had a pitch:  \"Enough of the boring married couples!  How about <em>Trading Spaces</em> meets <em>Sex and the City</em>?\"</strong></span>\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\nThe producers called me, and the rest is history.  Four girlfriends teamed up to flirt with <a href=\"http://www.carteroosterhouse.com/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Carter</strong></a> and <a href=\"http://faberdewar.com/news/index/11\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Faber.</strong></a>  (And we painted and hammered when needed.)\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\n[caption id=\"attachment_10766\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"300\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?attachment_id=10766\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10766\"><img class=\"size-full wp-image-10766 \" title=\"P20301821-300x225\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/P20301821-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a> My famous office[/caption]\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\n<span style=\"font-size: medium; color: #008000;\"><strong>Fast forward to Playdate #25</strong></span>\n\n&nbsp;\n\nIronically, I\'m not much of a TV watcher.  In fact, I cancelled my cable a couple of months ago.  I know, I know.  You\'re probably breaking out into hives at the thought of this.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nGuess what?  I haven\'t missed cable a bit.\n\n&nbsp;\n\n(Confession:  You may recall that I still have Apple TV/Netflix.  I am currently engrossed in <em>The Tudors.  </em>I fondly refer to it as \"costume drama porn\".  Yowza!  This historical drama makes <em>Sex and the City</em> look prudish!  )\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\n<span style=\"font-size: medium; color: #008000;\"><strong>Oddly, despite my lack of cable, I DO have an idea for a brand-spanking-new reality TV show that could be even more of a hoot than <em>Trading Spaces</em>!</strong></span>\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\nThe idea originally came to me this winter when <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2011/12/26/and-the-winner-for-name-that-italian-is/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>The Ex Formerly Known as Romeo Mio</strong></a> and I dreamed up a biz collaboration.  Since The Ex is now out of the picture, I needed to fine tune my idea without him.  His loss.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nI must say . . . . The Idea evolved into supreme juiciness!  Hoorah!\n\n&nbsp;\n\nI pitched The Idea to my family.  They LOVED it!\n\n&nbsp;\n\nI pitched The Idea to my girlfriends.  They ADORED it!\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\n<span style=\"font-size: medium; color: #008000;\"><strong>I pitched the The Idea to my Lone Hollywood Friend with reality TV street cred.  He IGNORED it!</strong></span>\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\nHuh?\n\n&nbsp;\n\n\"Finish your screenplay,\" he urged.  \"It\'s not a bad idea, but it will still be there in 6 months.  Stop procrastinating.  One thing at a time.\"\n\n&nbsp;\n\nHmph.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nLone Hollywood Friend is right.  I do tend to be a bit ADD with my creative ideas.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nI\'ll pitch you The Idea in 6 months.\n\n&nbsp;\n\n**********\n\n&nbsp;\n\nHow about you?  Are you similarly ADD when it comes to creative projects?  How do you keep yourself focused?  How do you \"do it all\" sanely and manageably?\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;','Playdate #25:  Life After Trading Spaces','','inherit','open','open','','10736-revision-22','','','2012-07-17 18:45:59','2012-07-18 01:45:59','',10736,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2012/07/17/10736-revision-22/',0,'revision','',0),(10775,1,'2012-07-17 18:44:41','2012-07-18 01:44:41','<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?attachment_id=10752\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10752\"><img class=\"alignleft size-medium wp-image-10752\" title=\"Trading Spaces 016\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/Trading-Spaces-016-300x224.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"224\" /></a>Once upon a time, I was on a TV show called <em>Trading Spaces.</em>  My 15 minutes of fame is a great conversation piece at parties.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<span style=\"color: #008000;\"><strong>Most frequently asked question:</strong> </span> \"Do you like your room?\"\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nLike?  No.  I LOVE my room a la Genevieve!  She tossed my Target particle board office furniture and replaced it with French Country shabby chic.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<span style=\"color: #008000;\"><strong>Second most frequently asked question:</strong>  </span>\"How did your neighbor\'s room turn out?\"\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nMy neighbor LOVES her bedroom sanctuary.  I had to fight Kia all the way through the process, but it was well worth the exhaustion and the tears.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<span style=\"color: #008000;\"><strong>Third most frequently asked question:</strong> </span> \"Oh my word, woman!  How did you get on a show like <em>Trading Spaces?</em>??\"\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI applied online.  I creatively and quirkily filled out the application.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<span style=\"font-size: medium; color: #008000;\"><strong>I also had a pitch:  \"Enough of the boring married couples!  How about <em>Trading Spaces</em> meets <em>Sex and the City</em>?\"</strong></span>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nThe producers called me, and the rest is history.  Four girlfriends teamed up to flirt with <a href=\"http://www.carteroosterhouse.com/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Carter</strong></a> and <a href=\"http://faberdewar.com/news/index/11\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Faber.</strong></a>  (And we painted and hammered when needed.)\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_10766\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"300\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?attachment_id=10766\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10766\"><img class=\"size-full wp-image-10766 \" title=\"P20301821-300x225\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/P20301821-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a> My famous office[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<span style=\"font-size: medium; color: #008000;\"><strong>Fast forward to Playdate #25</strong></span>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nIronically, I\'m not much of a TV watcher.  In fact, I cancelled my cable a couple of months ago.  I know, I know.  You\'re probably breaking out into hives at the thought of this.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nGuess what?  I haven\'t missed cable a bit.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n(Confession:  You may recall that I still have Apple TV/Netflix.  I am currently engrossed in <em>The Tudors.  </em>I fondly refer to it as \"costume drama porn\".  Yowza!  This historical drama makes <em>Sex and the City</em> look prudish!  )\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<span style=\"font-size: medium; color: #008000;\"><strong>Oddly, despite my lack of cable, I DO have an idea for a brand-spanking-new reality TV show that could be even more of a hoot than <em>Trading Spaces</em>!</strong></span>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nThe idea originally came to me this winter when <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2011/12/26/and-the-winner-for-name-that-italian-is/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>The Ex Formerly Known as Romeo Mio</strong></a> and I dreamed up a biz collaboration.  Since The Ex is now out of the picture, I needed to fine tune my idea without him.  His loss.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI must say . . . . The Idea evolved into supreme juiciness!  Hoorah!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI pitched The Idea to my family.  They LOVED it!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI pitched The Idea to my girlfriends.  They ADORED it!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<span style=\"font-size: medium; color: #008000;\"><strong>I pitched the The Idea to my Lone Hollywood Friend with reality TV street cred.  He IGNORED it!</strong></span>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nHuh?\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n\"Finish your screenplay,\" he urged.  \"It\'s not a bad idea, but it will still be there in 6 months.  Stop procrastinating.  One thing at a time.\"\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nHmph.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nLone Hollywood Friend is right.  I do tend to be a bit ADD with my creative ideas.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI\'ll pitch you The Idea in 6 months.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n**********\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nHow about you?  Are you similarly ADD when it comes to creative projects?  How do you keep yourself focused?  How do you \"do it all\" sanely and manageably?\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;','Playdate #25:  Life After Trading Spaces','','inherit','open','open','','10736-revision-21','','','2012-07-17 18:44:41','2012-07-18 01:44:41','',10736,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2012/07/17/10736-revision-21/',0,'revision','',0),(10777,1,'2012-07-17 18:47:12','2012-07-18 01:47:12','<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?attachment_id=10752\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10752\"><img class=\"alignleft size-medium wp-image-10752\" title=\"Trading Spaces 016\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/Trading-Spaces-016-300x224.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"224\" /></a>Once upon a time, I was on a TV show called <em>Trading Spaces.</em>  My 15 minutes of fame is a great conversation piece at parties.\n\n&nbsp;\n\n<span style=\"color: #008000;\"><strong>Most frequently asked question:</strong> </span> \"Do you like your room?\"\n\n&nbsp;\n\nLike?  No.  I LOVE my room a la Genevieve!  She tossed my Target particle board office furniture and replaced it with French Country shabby chic.\n\n&nbsp;\n\n<span style=\"color: #008000;\"><strong>Second most frequently asked question:</strong>  </span>\"How did your neighbor\'s room turn out?\"\n\n&nbsp;\n\nMy neighbor LOVES her bedroom sanctuary.  I had to fight Kia all the way through the process, but it was well worth the exhaustion and the tears.\n\n&nbsp;\n\n<span style=\"color: #008000;\"><strong>Third most frequently asked question:</strong> </span> \"Oh my word, woman!  How did you get on a show like <em>Trading Spaces?</em>??\"\n\n&nbsp;\n\nI applied online.  I creatively and quirkily filled out the application.\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\n<span style=\"font-size: medium; color: #008000;\"><strong>I also had a pitch:  \"Enough of the boring married couples!  How about <em>Trading Spaces</em> meets <em>Sex and the City</em>?\"</strong></span>\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\nThe producers called me, and the rest is history.  Four girlfriends teamed up to flirt with <a href=\"http://www.carteroosterhouse.com/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Carter</strong></a> and <a href=\"http://faberdewar.com/news/index/11\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Faber.</strong></a>  (And we painted and hammered when needed.)\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\n[caption id=\"attachment_10766\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"300\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?attachment_id=10766\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10766\"><img class=\"size-full wp-image-10766 \" title=\"P20301821-300x225\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/P20301821-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a> My famous office[/caption]\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\n<span style=\"font-size: medium; color: #008000;\"><strong>Fast forward to Playdate #25</strong></span>\n\n&nbsp;\n\nIronically, I\'m not much of a TV watcher.  In fact, I cancelled my cable a couple of months ago.  I know, I know.  You\'re probably breaking out into hives at the thought of this.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nGuess what?  I haven\'t missed cable a bit.\n\n&nbsp;\n\n(Confession:  You may recall that I still have Apple TV/Netflix.  I am currently engrossed in <em>The Tudors.  </em>I fondly refer to it as \"costume drama porn\".  Yowza!  This historical drama makes <em>Sex and the City</em> look prudish!  )\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\n<span style=\"font-size: medium; color: #008000;\"><strong>Oddly, despite my lack of cable, I DO have an idea for a brand-spanking-new reality TV show that could be even more of a hoot than <em>Trading Spaces</em>!</strong></span>\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\nThe idea originally came to me this winter when <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2011/12/26/and-the-winner-for-name-that-italian-is/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>The Ex Formerly Known as Romeo Mio</strong></a> and I dreamed up a biz collaboration.  Since The Ex is now out of the picture, I needed to fine tune my idea without him.  His loss.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nI must say . . . . The Idea evolved into supreme juiciness!  Hoorah!\n\n&nbsp;\n\nI pitched The Idea to my family.  They LOVED it!\n\n&nbsp;\n\nI pitched The Idea to my girlfriends.  They ADORED it!\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\n<span style=\"font-size: medium; color: #008000;\"><strong>I pitched the The Idea to my lone hollywood friend with reality TV street cred.  He IGNORED it!</strong></span>\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\nHuh?\n\n&nbsp;\n\n\"Finish your screenplay,\" he urged.  \"It\'s not a bad idea, but it will still be there in 6 months.  Stop procrastinating.  One thing at a time.\"\n\n&nbsp;\n\nHmph.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nLone Hollywood Friend is right.  I do tend to be a bit ADD with my creative ideas.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nI\'ll pitch you The Idea in 6 months.\n\n&nbsp;\n\n**********\n\n&nbsp;\n\nHow about you?  Are you similarly ADD when it comes to creative projects?  How do you keep yourself focused?  How do you \"do it all\" sanely and manageably?\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;','Playdate #25:  Life After Trading Spaces','','inherit','open','open','','10736-revision-23','','','2012-07-17 18:47:12','2012-07-18 01:47:12','',10736,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2012/07/17/10736-revision-23/',0,'revision','',0),(10778,1,'2012-07-17 18:47:20','2012-07-18 01:47:20','<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?attachment_id=10752\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10752\"><img class=\"alignleft size-medium wp-image-10752\" title=\"Trading Spaces 016\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/Trading-Spaces-016-300x224.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"224\" /></a>Once upon a time, I was on a TV show called <em>Trading Spaces.</em>  My 15 minutes of fame is a great conversation piece at parties.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<span style=\"color: #008000;\"><strong>Most frequently asked question:</strong> </span> \"Do you like your room?\"\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nLike?  No.  I LOVE my room a la Genevieve!  She tossed my Target particle board office furniture and replaced it with French Country shabby chic.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<span style=\"color: #008000;\"><strong>Second most frequently asked question:</strong>  </span>\"How did your neighbor\'s room turn out?\"\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nMy neighbor LOVES her bedroom sanctuary.  I had to fight Kia all the way through the process, but it was well worth the exhaustion and the tears.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<span style=\"color: #008000;\"><strong>Third most frequently asked question:</strong> </span> \"Oh my word, woman!  How did you get on a show like <em>Trading Spaces?</em>??\"\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI applied online.  I creatively and quirkily filled out the application.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<span style=\"font-size: medium; color: #008000;\"><strong>I also had a pitch:  \"Enough of the boring married couples!  How about <em>Trading Spaces</em> meets <em>Sex and the City</em>?\"</strong></span>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nThe producers called me, and the rest is history.  Four girlfriends teamed up to flirt with <a href=\"http://www.carteroosterhouse.com/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Carter</strong></a> and <a href=\"http://faberdewar.com/news/index/11\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Faber.</strong></a>  (And we painted and hammered when needed.)\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_10766\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"300\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?attachment_id=10766\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10766\"><img class=\"size-full wp-image-10766 \" title=\"P20301821-300x225\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/P20301821-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a> My famous office[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<span style=\"font-size: medium; color: #008000;\"><strong>Fast forward to Playdate #25</strong></span>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nIronically, I\'m not much of a TV watcher.  In fact, I cancelled my cable a couple of months ago.  I know, I know.  You\'re probably breaking out into hives at the thought of this.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nGuess what?  I haven\'t missed cable a bit.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n(Confession:  You may recall that I still have Apple TV/Netflix.  I am currently engrossed in <em>The Tudors.  </em>I fondly refer to it as \"costume drama porn\".  Yowza!  This historical drama makes <em>Sex and the City</em> look prudish!  )\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<span style=\"font-size: medium; color: #008000;\"><strong>Oddly, despite my lack of cable, I DO have an idea for a brand-spanking-new reality TV show that could be even more of a hoot than <em>Trading Spaces</em>!</strong></span>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nThe idea originally came to me this winter when <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2011/12/26/and-the-winner-for-name-that-italian-is/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>The Ex Formerly Known as Romeo Mio</strong></a> and I dreamed up a biz collaboration.  Since The Ex is now out of the picture, I needed to fine tune my idea without him.  His loss.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI must say . . . . The Idea evolved into supreme juiciness!  Hoorah!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI pitched The Idea to my family.  They LOVED it!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI pitched The Idea to my girlfriends.  They ADORED it!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<span style=\"font-size: medium; color: #008000;\"><strong>I pitched the The Idea to my lone hollywood friend with reality TV street cred.  He IGNORED it!</strong></span>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nHuh?\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n\"Finish your screenplay,\" he urged.  \"It\'s not a bad idea, but it will still be there in 6 months.  Stop procrastinating.  One thing at a time.\"\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nHmph.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nLone Hollywood friend is right.  I do tend to be a bit ADD with my creative ideas.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI\'ll pitch you The Idea in 6 months.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n**********\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nHow about you?  Are you similarly ADD when it comes to creative projects?  How do you keep yourself focused?  How do you \"do it all\" sanely and manageably?\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;','Playdate #25:  Life After Trading Spaces','','inherit','open','open','','10736-revision-24','','','2012-07-17 18:47:20','2012-07-18 01:47:20','',10736,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2012/07/17/10736-revision-24/',0,'revision','',0),(10779,1,'2012-07-17 18:47:30','2012-07-18 01:47:30','<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?attachment_id=10752\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10752\"><img class=\"alignleft size-medium wp-image-10752\" title=\"Trading Spaces 016\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/Trading-Spaces-016-300x224.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"224\" /></a>Once upon a time, I was on a TV show called <em>Trading Spaces.</em>  My 15 minutes of fame is a great conversation piece at parties.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<span style=\"color: #008000;\"><strong>Most frequently asked question:</strong> </span> \"Do you like your room?\"\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nLike?  No.  I LOVE my room a la Genevieve!  She tossed my Target particle board office furniture and replaced it with French Country shabby chic.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<span style=\"color: #008000;\"><strong>Second most frequently asked question:</strong>  </span>\"How did your neighbor\'s room turn out?\"\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nMy neighbor LOVES her bedroom sanctuary.  I had to fight Kia all the way through the process, but it was well worth the exhaustion and the tears.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<span style=\"color: #008000;\"><strong>Third most frequently asked question:</strong> </span> \"Oh my word, woman!  How did you get on a show like <em>Trading Spaces?</em>??\"\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI applied online.  I creatively and quirkily filled out the application.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<span style=\"font-size: medium; color: #008000;\"><strong>I also had a pitch:  \"Enough of the boring married couples!  How about <em>Trading Spaces</em> meets <em>Sex and the City</em>?\"</strong></span>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nThe producers called me, and the rest is history.  Four girlfriends teamed up to flirt with <a href=\"http://www.carteroosterhouse.com/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Carter</strong></a> and <a href=\"http://faberdewar.com/news/index/11\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Faber.</strong></a>  (And we painted and hammered when needed.)\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_10766\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"300\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?attachment_id=10766\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10766\"><img class=\"size-full wp-image-10766 \" title=\"P20301821-300x225\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/P20301821-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a> My famous office[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<span style=\"font-size: medium; color: #008000;\"><strong>Fast forward to Playdate #25</strong></span>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nIronically, I\'m not much of a TV watcher.  In fact, I cancelled my cable a couple of months ago.  I know, I know.  You\'re probably breaking out into hives at the thought of this.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nGuess what?  I haven\'t missed cable a bit.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n(Confession:  You may recall that I still have Apple TV/Netflix.  I am currently engrossed in <em>The Tudors.  </em>I fondly refer to it as \"costume drama porn\".  Yowza!  This historical drama makes <em>Sex and the City</em> look prudish!  )\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<span style=\"font-size: medium; color: #008000;\"><strong>Oddly, despite my lack of cable, I DO have an idea for a brand-spanking-new reality TV show that could be even more of a hoot than <em>Trading Spaces</em>!</strong></span>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nThe idea originally came to me this winter when <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2011/12/26/and-the-winner-for-name-that-italian-is/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>The Ex Formerly Known as Romeo Mio</strong></a> and I dreamed up a biz collaboration.  Since The Ex is now out of the picture, I needed to fine tune my idea without him.  His loss.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI must say . . . . The Idea evolved into supreme juiciness!  Hoorah!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI pitched The Idea to my family.  They LOVED it!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI pitched The Idea to my girlfriends.  They ADORED it!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<span style=\"font-size: medium; color: #008000;\"><strong>I pitched the The Idea to my lone hollywood friend with reality TV street cred.  He IGNORED it!</strong></span>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nHuh?\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n\"Finish your screenplay,\" he urged.  \"It\'s not a bad idea, but it will still be there in 6 months.  Stop procrastinating.  One thing at a time.\"\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nHmph.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nLone Hollywood friend is right.  I do tend to be a bit ADD with my creative ideas.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI\'ll pitch you The Idea in 6 months.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n**********\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nHow about you?  Are you similarly ADD when it comes to creative projects?  How do you keep yourself focused?  How do you \"do it all\" sanely and manageably?\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;','Playdate #25:  Life After Trading Spaces','','inherit','open','open','','10736-revision-25','','','2012-07-17 18:47:30','2012-07-18 01:47:30','',10736,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2012/07/17/10736-revision-25/',0,'revision','',0),(10780,1,'2012-07-17 18:50:31','2012-07-18 01:50:31','<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?attachment_id=10752\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10752\"><img class=\"alignleft size-medium wp-image-10752\" title=\"Trading Spaces 016\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/Trading-Spaces-016-300x224.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"224\" /></a>Once upon a time, I was on a TV show called <em>Trading Spaces.</em>  My 15 minutes of fame is a great conversation piece at parties.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<span style=\"color: #008000;\"><strong>Most frequently asked question:</strong> </span> \"Do you like your room?\"\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nLike?  No.  I LOVE my room a la Genevieve!  She tossed my Target particle board office furniture and replaced it with French Country shabby chic.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<span style=\"color: #008000;\"><strong>Second most frequently asked question:</strong>  </span>\"How did your neighbor\'s room turn out?\"\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nMy neighbor LOVES her bedroom sanctuary!  I had to fight Kia all the way through the process, but it was well worth the exhaustion and the tears.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<span style=\"color: #008000;\"><strong>Third most frequently asked question:</strong> </span> \"Oh my word, woman!  How did you get on a show like <em>Trading Spaces?</em>??\"\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI applied online.  I creatively and quirkily filled out the application.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<span style=\"font-size: medium; color: #008000;\"><strong>I also had a pitch:  \"Enough of the boring married couples!  How about <em>Trading Spaces</em> meets <em>Sex and the City</em>?\"</strong></span>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nThe producers called me, and the rest is history.  Four girlfriends teamed up to flirt with <a href=\"http://www.carteroosterhouse.com/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Carter</strong></a> and <a href=\"http://faberdewar.com/news/index/11\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Faber.</strong></a>  (And we painted and hammered when needed.)\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_10766\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"300\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?attachment_id=10766\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10766\"><img class=\"size-full wp-image-10766 \" title=\"P20301821-300x225\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/P20301821-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a> My famous office[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<span style=\"font-size: medium; color: #008000;\"><strong>Fast forward to Playdate #25</strong></span>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nIronically, I\'m not much of a TV watcher.  In fact, I cancelled my cable a couple of months ago.  I know, I know.  You\'re probably breaking out into hives at the thought of this.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nGuess what?  I haven\'t missed cable a bit.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n(Confession:  You may recall that I still have Apple TV/Netflix.  I am currently engrossed in <em>The Tudors.  </em>I fondly refer to it as \"costume drama porn\".  Yowza!  This historical drama makes <em>Sex and the City</em> look prudish!  )\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<span style=\"font-size: medium; color: #008000;\"><strong>Oddly, despite my lack of cable, I DO have an idea for a brand-spanking-new reality TV show that could be even more of a hoot than <em>Trading Spaces</em>!</strong></span>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nThe idea originally came to me this winter when <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2011/12/26/and-the-winner-for-name-that-italian-is/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>The Ex Formerly Known as Romeo Mio</strong></a> and I dreamed up a biz collaboration.  Since The Ex is now out of the picture, I needed to fine tune my idea without him.  His loss.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI must say . . . . The Idea evolved into supreme juiciness!  Hoorah!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI pitched The Idea to my family.  They LOVED it!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI pitched The Idea to my girlfriends.  They ADORED it!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<span style=\"font-size: medium; color: #008000;\"><strong>I pitched the The Idea to my lone hollywood friend with reality TV street cred.  He IGNORED it!</strong></span>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nHuh?\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n\"Finish your screenplay,\" he urged.  \"It\'s not a bad idea, but it will still be there in 6 months.  Stop procrastinating.  One thing at a time.\"\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nHmph.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nLone Hollywood friend is right.  I do tend to be a bit ADD with my creative ideas.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI\'ll pitch you The Idea in 6 months.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n**********\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nHow about you?  Are you similarly ADD when it comes to creative projects?  How do you keep yourself focused?  How do you \"do it all\" sanely and manageably?\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;','Playdate #25:  Life After Trading Spaces','','inherit','open','open','','10736-revision-26','','','2012-07-17 18:50:31','2012-07-18 01:50:31','',10736,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2012/07/17/10736-revision-26/',0,'revision','',0),(10781,1,'2012-07-17 18:52:26','2012-07-18 01:52:26','<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?attachment_id=10752\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10752\"><img class=\"alignleft size-medium wp-image-10752\" title=\"Trading Spaces 016\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/Trading-Spaces-016-300x224.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"224\" /></a>Once upon a time, I was on a TV show called <em>Trading Spaces.</em>  My 15 minutes of fame is a great conversation piece at parties.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<span style=\"color: #008000;\"><strong>Most frequently asked question:</strong> </span> \"Do you like your room?\"\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nLike?  No.  I LOVE my room a la Genevieve!  She tossed my Target particle board office furniture and replaced it with French Country shabby chic.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<span style=\"color: #008000;\"><strong>Second most frequently asked question:</strong>  </span>\"How did your neighbor\'s room turn out?\"\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nMy neighbor LOVES her bedroom sanctuary!  I had to fight Kia all the way through the process, but it was well worth the exhaustion and the tears.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<span style=\"color: #008000;\"><strong>Third most frequently asked question:</strong> </span> \"Oh my word, woman!  How did you get on a show like <em>Trading Spaces?</em>??\"\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI applied online.  I creatively and quirkily filled out the application.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<span style=\"font-size: medium; color: #008000;\"><strong>I also had a pitch:  \"Enough of the boring married couples!  How about <em>Trading Spaces</em> meets <em>Sex and the City</em>?\"</strong></span>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nThe producers called me, and the rest is history.  Four girlfriends teamed up to flirt with <a href=\"http://www.carteroosterhouse.com/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Carter</strong></a> and <a href=\"http://faberdewar.com/news/index/11\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Faber.</strong></a>  (And we painted and hammered when needed.)\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_10766\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"300\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?attachment_id=10766\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10766\"><img class=\"size-full wp-image-10766 \" title=\"P20301821-300x225\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/P20301821-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a> My famous office[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<span style=\"font-size: medium; color: #008000;\"><strong>Fast forward to Playdate #25</strong></span>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nIronically, I\'m not much of a TV watcher.  In fact, I cancelled my cable a couple of months ago.  I know, I know.  You\'re probably breaking out into hives at the thought of this.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nGuess what?  I haven\'t missed cable a bit.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n(Confession:  You may recall that I still have Apple TV/Netflix.  I am currently engrossed in <em>The Tudors.  </em>I fondly refer to it as \"costume drama porn\".  Yowza!  This historical drama makes <em>Sex and the City</em> look prudish!  )\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<span style=\"font-size: medium; color: #008000;\"><strong>Oddly, despite my lack of cable, I DO have an idea for a brand-spanking-new reality TV show that could be even more of a hoot than <em>Trading Spaces</em>!</strong></span>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nThe idea originally came to me this winter when <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2011/12/26/and-the-winner-for-name-that-italian-is/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>The Ex Formerly Known as Romeo Mio</strong></a> and I dreamed up a biz collaboration.  Since The Ex is now out of the picture, I needed to fine tune my idea without him.  His loss.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI must say . . . . The Idea evolved into supreme juiciness!  Hoorah!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI pitched The Idea to my family.  They LOVED it!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI pitched The Idea to my girlfriends.  They ADORED it!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<span style=\"font-size: medium; color: #008000;\"><strong>I pitched the The Idea to my lone Hollywood friend with reality TV street cred.  He IGNORED it!</strong></span>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nHuh?\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n\"Finish your screenplay,\" he urged.  \"It\'s not a bad idea, but it will still be there in 6 months.  Stop procrastinating.  One thing at a time.\"\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nHmph.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nLone Hollywood friend is right.  I do tend to be a bit ADD with my creative ideas.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI\'ll pitch you The Idea in 6 months.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n**********\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nHow about you?  Are you similarly ADD when it comes to creative projects?  How do you keep yourself focused?  How do you \"do it all\" sanely and manageably?\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;','Playdate #25:  Life After Trading Spaces','','inherit','open','open','','10736-revision-27','','','2012-07-17 18:52:26','2012-07-18 01:52:26','',10736,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2012/07/17/10736-revision-27/',0,'revision','',0),(10782,1,'2012-07-17 18:53:47','2012-07-18 01:53:47','<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?attachment_id=10752\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10752\"><img class=\"alignleft size-medium wp-image-10752\" title=\"Trading Spaces 016\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/Trading-Spaces-016-300x224.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"224\" /></a>Once upon a time, I was on a TV show called <em>Trading Spaces.</em>  My 15 minutes of fame is a great conversation piece at parties.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<span style=\"color: #008000;\"><strong>Most frequently asked question:</strong> </span> \"Do you like your room?\"\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nLike?  No.  I LOVE my room a la Genevieve!  She tossed my Target particle board office furniture and replaced it with French Country shabby chic.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<span style=\"color: #008000;\"><strong>Second most frequently asked question:</strong>  </span>\"How did your neighbor\'s room turn out?\"\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nMy neighbor LOVES her bedroom sanctuary!  I had to fight Kia all the way through the process, but it was well worth the exhaustion and the tears.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<span style=\"color: #008000;\"><strong>Third most frequently asked question:</strong> </span> \"Oh my word, woman!  How did you get on a show like <em>Trading Spaces?</em>??\"\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI applied online.  I creatively and quirkily filled out the application.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<span style=\"font-size: medium; color: #008000;\"><strong>I also had a pitch:  \"Enough of the boring married couples!  How about <em>Trading Spaces</em> meets <em>Sex and the City</em>?\"</strong></span>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nThe producers called me, and the rest is history.  Four girlfriends teamed up to flirt with <a href=\"http://www.carteroosterhouse.com/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Carter</strong></a> and <a href=\"http://faberdewar.com/news/index/11\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Faber.</strong></a>  (And we painted and hammered when needed.)\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_10766\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"300\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?attachment_id=10766\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10766\"><img class=\"size-full wp-image-10766 \" title=\"P20301821-300x225\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/P20301821-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a> My famous office[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<span style=\"font-size: medium; color: #008000;\"><strong>Fast forward to Playdate #25</strong></span>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nIronically, I\'m not much of a TV watcher.  In fact, I cancelled my cable a couple of months ago.  I know, I know.  You\'re probably breaking out into hives at the thought of this.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nGuess what?  I haven\'t missed cable a bit.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n(Confession:  You may recall that I still have Apple TV/Netflix.  I am currently engrossed in <em>The Tudors.  </em>I fondly refer to it as \"costume drama porn\".  Yowza!  This historical drama makes <em>Sex and the City</em> look prudish!  )\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<span style=\"font-size: medium; color: #008000;\"><strong>Oddly, despite my lack of cable, I DO have an idea for a brand-spanking-new reality TV show that could be even more of a hoot than <em>Trading Spaces</em>!</strong></span>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nThe idea originally came to me this winter when <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2011/12/26/and-the-winner-for-name-that-italian-is/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>The Ex Formerly Known as Romeo Mio</strong></a> and I dreamed up a biz collaboration.  Since The Ex is now out of the picture, I needed to fine tune my idea without him.  His loss.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI must say . . . . The Idea evolved into supreme juiciness!  Hoorah!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI pitched The Idea to my family.  They LOVED it!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI pitched The Idea to my girlfriends.  They ADORED it!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<span style=\"font-size: medium; color: #008000;\"><strong>I pitched the The Idea to my lone Hollywood friend with reality TV street cred.  He IGNORED it!</strong></span>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nHuh?\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n\"Finish your screenplay,\" he urged.  \"It\'s not a bad idea, but it will still be there in 6 months.  Stop procrastinating.  One thing at a time.\"\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nHmph.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nLone Hollywood friend is right.  I do tend to be a bit ADD with my creative ideas.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI\'ll pitch The Idea to you in 6 months.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n**********\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nHow about you?  Are you similarly ADD when it comes to creative projects?  How do you keep yourself focused?  How do you \"do it all\" sanely and manageably?\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;','Playdate #25:  Life After Trading Spaces','','inherit','open','open','','10736-revision-28','','','2012-07-17 18:53:47','2012-07-18 01:53:47','',10736,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2012/07/17/10736-revision-28/',0,'revision','',0),(10783,1,'2012-07-17 18:55:21','2012-07-18 01:55:21','<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?attachment_id=10752\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10752\"><img class=\"alignleft size-medium wp-image-10752\" title=\"Trading Spaces 016\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/Trading-Spaces-016-300x224.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"224\" /></a>Once upon a time, I was on a TV show called <em>Trading Spaces.</em>  My 15 minutes of fame is a great conversation piece at parties.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<span style=\"color: #008000;\"><strong>Most frequently asked question:</strong> </span> \"Do you like your room?\"\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nLike?  No.  I LOVE my room a la Genevieve!  She tossed my Target particle board office furniture and replaced it with French Country shabby chic.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<span style=\"color: #008000;\"><strong>Second most frequently asked question:</strong>  </span>\"How did your neighbor\'s room turn out?\"\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nMy neighbor LOVES her bedroom sanctuary!  I had to fight Kia all the way through the process, but it was well worth the exhaustion and the tears.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<span style=\"color: #008000;\"><strong>Third most frequently asked question:</strong> </span> \"Oh my word, woman!  How did you get on a show like <em>Trading Spaces?</em>??\"\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI applied online.  I creatively and quirkily filled out the application.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<span style=\"font-size: medium; color: #008000;\"><strong>I also had a pitch:  \"Enough of the boring married couples!  How about <em>Trading Spaces</em> meets <em>Sex and the City</em>?\"</strong></span>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nThe producers called me, and the rest is history.  Four girlfriends teamed up to flirt with <a href=\"http://www.carteroosterhouse.com/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Carter</strong></a> and <a href=\"http://faberdewar.com/news/index/11\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Faber.</strong></a>  (And we painted and hammered when needed.)\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_10766\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"300\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?attachment_id=10766\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10766\"><img class=\"size-full wp-image-10766 \" title=\"P20301821-300x225\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/P20301821-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a> My famous office[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<span style=\"font-size: medium; color: #008000;\"><strong>Fast forward to Playdate #25</strong></span>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nIronically, I\'m not much of a TV watcher.  In fact, I cancelled my cable a couple of months ago.  I know, I know.  You\'re probably breaking out into hives at the thought of this.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nGuess what?  I haven\'t missed cable a bit.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n(Confession:  You may recall that I still have Apple TV/Netflix.  I am currently engrossed in <em>The Tudors.  </em>I fondly refer to it as \"costume drama porn\".  Yowza!  This historical drama makes <em>Sex and the City</em> look prudish!  )\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<span style=\"font-size: medium; color: #008000;\"><strong>Oddly, despite my lack of cable, I DO have an idea for a brand-spanking-new reality TV show that could be even more of a hoot than <em>Trading Spaces</em>!</strong></span>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nThe idea originally came to me this winter when <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2011/12/26/and-the-winner-for-name-that-italian-is/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>The Ex Formerly Known as Romeo Mio</strong></a> and I dreamed up a biz collaboration.  Since The Ex is now out of the picture, I needed to fine tune my idea without him.  His loss.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI must say . . . . The Idea evolved into supreme juiciness!  Hoorah!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI pitched The Idea to my family.  They LOVED it!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI pitched The Idea to my girlfriends.  They ADORED it!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<span style=\"font-size: medium; color: #008000;\"><strong>I pitched the The Idea to my lone Hollywood friend with reality TV street cred.  He IGNORED it!</strong></span>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nHuh?\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n\"Finish your screenplay,\" he urged.  \"It\'s not a bad idea, but it will still be there in 6 months.  Stop procrastinating.  One thing at a time.\"\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nHmph.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nLone Hollywood friend is right.  I do tend to be a bit ADD with my creative ideas.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI\'ll pitch The Idea to you in 6 months.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n**********\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nHow about you?  Are you similarly ADD when it comes to creative projects?  How do you keep yourself focused?  How do you \"do it all\" sanely and manageably?\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;','Playdate #25:  Life After Trading Spaces','','inherit','open','open','','10736-revision-29','','','2012-07-17 18:55:21','2012-07-18 01:55:21','',10736,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2012/07/17/10736-revision-29/',0,'revision','',0),(10784,1,'2012-07-17 18:55:21','2012-07-18 01:55:21','<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2012/07/17/playdate-25-life-after-trading-spaces/trading-spaces-016/\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10752\"><img class=\"alignleft size-medium wp-image-10752\" title=\"Trading Spaces 016\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/Trading-Spaces-016-300x224.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"224\" /></a>Once upon a time, I was on a TV show called <em>Trading Spaces.</em>  My 15 minutes of fame is a great conversation piece at parties.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<span style=\"color: #008000;\"><strong>Most frequently asked question:</strong> </span> \"Do you like your room?\"\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nLike?  No.  I LOVE my room a la Genevieve!  She tossed my Target particle board office furniture and replaced it with French Country shabby chic.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<span style=\"color: #008000;\"><strong>Second most frequently asked question:</strong>  </span>\"How did your neighbor\'s room turn out?\"\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nMy neighbor LOVES her bedroom sanctuary!  I had to fight Kia all the way through the process, but it was well worth the exhaustion and the tears.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<span style=\"color: #008000;\"><strong>Third most frequently asked question:</strong> </span> \"Oh my word, woman!  How did you get on a show like <em>Trading Spaces?</em>??\"\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI applied online.  I creatively and quirkily filled out the application.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<span style=\"font-size: medium; color: #008000;\"><strong>I also had a pitch:  \"Enough of the boring married couples!  How about <em>Trading Spaces</em> meets <em>Sex and the City</em>?\"</strong></span>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nThe producers called me, and the rest is history.  Four girlfriends teamed up to flirt with <a href=\"http://www.carteroosterhouse.com/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Carter</strong></a> and <a href=\"http://faberdewar.com/news/index/11\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Faber.</strong></a>  (And we painted and hammered when needed.)\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_10766\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"300\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2012/07/17/playdate-25-life-after-trading-spaces/p20301821-300x225/\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10766\"><img class=\"size-full wp-image-10766 \" title=\"P20301821-300x225\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/P20301821-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a> My famous office[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<span style=\"font-size: medium; color: #008000;\"><strong>Fast forward to Playdate #25</strong></span>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nIronically, I\'m not much of a TV watcher.  In fact, I cancelled my cable a couple of months ago.  I know, I know.  You\'re probably breaking out into hives at the thought of this.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nGuess what?  I haven\'t missed cable a bit.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n(Confession:  You may recall that I still have Apple TV/Netflix.  I am currently engrossed in <em>The Tudors.  </em>I fondly refer to it as \"costume drama porn\".  Yowza!  This historical drama makes <em>Sex and the City</em> look prudish!  )\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<span style=\"font-size: medium; color: #008000;\"><strong>Oddly, despite my lack of cable, I DO have an idea for a brand-spanking-new reality TV show that could be even more of a hoot than <em>Trading Spaces</em>!</strong></span>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nThe idea originally came to me this winter when <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2011/12/26/and-the-winner-for-name-that-italian-is/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>The Ex Formerly Known as Romeo Mio</strong></a> and I dreamed up a biz collaboration.  Since The Ex is now out of the picture, I needed to fine tune my idea without him.  His loss.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI must say . . . . The Idea evolved into supreme juiciness!  Hoorah!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI pitched The Idea to my family.  They LOVED it!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI pitched The Idea to my girlfriends.  They ADORED it!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<span style=\"font-size: medium; color: #008000;\"><strong>I pitched the The Idea to my lone Hollywood friend with reality TV street cred.  He IGNORED it!</strong></span>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nHuh?\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n\"Finish your screenplay,\" he urged.  \"It\'s not a bad idea, but it will still be there in 6 months.  Stop procrastinating.  One thing at a time.\"\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nHmph.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nLone Hollywood friend is right.  I do tend to be a bit ADD with my creative ideas.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI\'ll pitch The Idea to you in 6 months.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n**********\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nHow about you?  Are you similarly ADD when it comes to creative projects?  How do you keep yourself focused?  How do you \"do it all\" sanely and manageably?\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;','Playdate #25:  Life After Trading Spaces','','inherit','open','open','','10736-revision-30','','','2012-07-17 18:55:21','2012-07-18 01:55:21','',10736,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2012/07/17/10736-revision-30/',0,'revision','',0),(10785,1,'2012-07-17 20:11:51','2012-07-18 03:11:51','<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2012/07/17/playdate-25-life-after-trading-spaces/trading-spaces-016/\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10752\"><img class=\"alignleft size-medium wp-image-10752\" title=\"Trading Spaces 016\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/Trading-Spaces-016-300x224.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"224\" /></a>Once upon a time, I was on a TV show called <em>Trading Spaces.</em>  My 15 minutes of fame is a great conversation piece at parties.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<span style=\"color: #008000;\"><strong>Most frequently asked question:</strong> </span> \"Do you like your room?\"\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nLike?  No.  I LOVE my room a la Genevieve!  She tossed my Target particle board office furniture and replaced it with French Country shabby chic.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<span style=\"color: #008000;\"><strong>Second most frequently asked question:</strong>  </span>\"How did your neighbor\'s room turn out?\"\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nMy neighbor LOVES her bedroom sanctuary!  I had to fight Kia all the way through the process, but it was well worth the exhaustion and the tears.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<span style=\"color: #008000;\"><strong>Third most frequently asked question:</strong> </span> \"Oh my word, woman!  How did you get on a show like <em>Trading Spaces?</em>??\"\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI applied online.  I creatively and quirkily filled out the application.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<span style=\"font-size: medium; color: #008000;\"><strong>I also had a pitch:  \"Enough of the boring married couples!  How about <em>Trading Spaces</em> meets <em>Sex and the City</em>?\"</strong></span>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nThe producers called me, and the rest is history.  Four girlfriends teamed up to flirt with <a href=\"http://www.carteroosterhouse.com/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Carter</strong></a> and <a href=\"http://faberdewar.com/news/index/11\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Faber.</strong></a>  (And we painted and hammered when needed.)\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_10766\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"300\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2012/07/17/playdate-25-life-after-trading-spaces/p20301821-300x225/\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10766\"><img class=\"size-full wp-image-10766 \" title=\"P20301821-300x225\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/P20301821-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a> My famous office[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<span style=\"font-size: medium; color: #008000;\"><strong>Fast forward to Playdate #25</strong></span>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nIronically, I\'m not much of a TV watcher.  In fact, I cancelled my cable a couple of months ago.  I know, I know.  You\'re probably breaking out into hives at the thought of this.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nGuess what?  I haven\'t missed cable a bit.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n(Confession:  You may recall that I still have Apple TV/Netflix.  I am currently engrossed in <em>The Tudors.  </em>I fondly refer to it as \"costume drama porn\".  Yowza!  This historical drama makes <em>Sex and the City</em> look prudish!  )\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<span style=\"font-size: medium; color: #008000;\"><strong>Oddly, despite my lack of cable, I DO have an idea for a brand-spanking-new reality TV show that could be even more of a hoot than <em>Trading Spaces</em>!</strong></span>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nThe idea originally came to me this winter when <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2011/12/26/and-the-winner-for-name-that-italian-is/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>The Ex Formerly Known as Romeo Mio</strong></a> and I dreamed up a biz collaboration.  Since The Ex is now out of the picture, I needed to fine tune my idea without him.  His loss.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI must say . . . . The Idea evolved into supreme juiciness!  Hoorah!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI pitched The Idea to my family.  They LOVED it!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI pitched The Idea to my girlfriends.  They ADORED it!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<span style=\"font-size: medium; color: #008000;\"><strong>I pitched the The Idea to my lone Hollywood friend with reality TV street cred.  He IGNORED it!</strong></span>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nHuh?\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n\"Finish your screenplay,\" he urged.  \"It\'s not a bad idea, but it will still be there in 6 months.  Stop procrastinating.  One thing at a time.\"\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nHmph.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nLone Hollywood friend is right.  I do tend to be a bit ADD with my creative ideas.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI\'ll pitch The Idea to you in 6 months.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n**********\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nHow about you?  Are you similarly ADD when it comes to creative projects?  How do you keep yourself focused?  How do you \"do it all\" sanely and manageably?\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;','Playdate #25:  Life After Trading Spaces','','inherit','open','open','','10736-revision-31','','','2012-07-17 20:11:51','2012-07-18 03:11:51','',10736,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2012/07/17/10736-revision-31/',0,'revision','',0),(10786,1,'2012-07-17 20:12:16','2012-07-18 03:12:16','<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2012/07/17/playdate-25-life-after-trading-spaces/trading-spaces-016/\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10752\"><img class=\"alignleft size-medium wp-image-10752\" title=\"Trading Spaces 016\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/Trading-Spaces-016-300x224.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"224\" /></a>Once upon a time, I was on a TV show called <em>Trading Spaces.</em>  My 15 minutes of fame is a great conversation piece at parties.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<span style=\"color: #008000;\"><strong>Most frequently asked question:</strong> </span> \"Do you like your room?\"\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nLike?  No.  I LOVE my room a la Genevieve!  She tossed my Target particle board office furniture and replaced it with French Country shabby chic.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<span style=\"color: #008000;\"><strong>Second most frequently asked question:</strong>  </span>\"How did your neighbor\'s room turn out?\"\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nMy neighbor LOVES her bedroom sanctuary!  I had to fight Kia all the way through the process, but it was well worth the exhaustion and the tears.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<span style=\"color: #008000;\"><strong>Third most frequently asked question:</strong> </span> \"Oh my word, woman!  How did you get on a show like <em>Trading Spaces?</em>??\"\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI applied online.  I creatively and quirkily filled out the application.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<span style=\"font-size: medium; color: #008000;\"><strong>I also had a pitch:  \"Enough of the boring married couples!  How about <em>Trading Spaces</em> meets <em>Sex and the City</em>?\"</strong></span>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nThe producers called me, and the rest is history.  Four girlfriends teamed up to flirt with <a href=\"http://www.carteroosterhouse.com/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Carter</strong></a> and <a href=\"http://faberdewar.com/news/index/11\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Faber.</strong></a>  (And we painted and hammered when needed.)\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_10766\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"300\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2012/07/17/playdate-25-life-after-trading-spaces/p20301821-300x225/\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10766\"><img class=\"size-full wp-image-10766 \" title=\"P20301821-300x225\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/P20301821-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a> My famous office[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<span style=\"font-size: medium; color: #008000;\"><strong>Fast forward to Playdate #25</strong></span>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nIronically, I\'m not much of a TV watcher.  In fact, I cancelled my cable a couple of months ago.  I know, I know.  You\'re probably breaking out into hives at the thought of this.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nGuess what?  I haven\'t missed cable a bit.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n(Confession:  You may recall that I still have Apple TV/Netflix.  I am currently engrossed in <em>The Tudors.  </em>I fondly refer to it as \"costume drama porn\".  Yowza!  This historical drama makes <em>Sex and the City</em> look prudish!  )\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<span style=\"font-size: medium; color: #008000;\"><strong>Oddly, despite my lack of cable, I DO have an idea for a brand-spanking-new reality TV show that could be even more of a hoot than <em>Trading Spaces</em>!</strong></span>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nThe idea originally came to me this winter when <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2011/12/26/and-the-winner-for-name-that-italian-is/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>The Ex Formerly Known as Romeo Mio</strong></a> and I dreamed up a biz collaboration.  Since The Ex is now out of the picture, I needed to fine tune my idea without him.  His loss.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI must say . . . . The Idea evolved into supreme juiciness!  Hoorah!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI pitched The Idea to my family.  They LOVED it!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI pitched The Idea to my girlfriends.  They ADORED it!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<span style=\"font-size: medium; color: #008000;\"><strong>I pitched the The Idea to my lone Hollywood friend with reality TV street cred.  He IGNORED it!</strong></span>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nHuh?\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n\"Finish your screenplay,\" he urged.  \"It\'s not a bad idea, but it will still be there in 6 months.  Stop procrastinating.  One thing at a time.\"\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nHmph.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nLone Hollywood friend is right.  I do tend to be a bit ADD with my creative ideas.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI\'ll pitch The Idea to you in 6 months.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n**********\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nHow about you?  Are you similarly ADD when it comes to creative projects?  How do you keep yourself focused?  How do you \"do it all\" sanely and manageably?\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;','Playdate #25:  Life After Trading Spaces','','inherit','open','open','','10736-revision-32','','','2012-07-17 20:12:16','2012-07-18 03:12:16','',10736,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2012/07/17/10736-revision-32/',0,'revision','',0),(10787,1,'2012-07-21 01:11:38','2012-07-21 08:11:38','[caption id=\"attachment_10789\" align=\"alignleft\" width=\"300\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?attachment_id=10789\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10789\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-10789 \" title=\"Portland Oregon Sign\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/P7060016-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a> Note to self: When playing photographer for the day, remember minor details such as including the reindeer\'s entire head and antlers in the photo. The For Lease sign is probably not as important. :-p[/caption]\r\n\r\nUp until a couple of weeks ago, I had never been on a photowalk.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nUp until a couple of weeks ago, I had never even heard of a <a href=\"http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Photowalking\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>photowalk.  </strong></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nUntil my friend Sam, who is a <strong><a href=\"http://samfrancisco.me/\" target=\"_blank\">Photography Goddess</a>,</strong> invited me to one held in Portland\'s Chinatown prior to the <a href=\"http://worlddominationsummit.com/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>World Domination Summit</strong></a><strong><a href=\"http://worlddominationsummit.com/\" target=\"_blank\">.</a>    </strong>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI didn\'t need to be a real photographer or own a fancy-schmancy camera à la Sam.  Point-and-shooters were welcome!  Yay!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nHere is what I learned about photowalks:\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nPhotowalks are fun!  While strolling through an area such as Chinatown, you take a few photos of great cultural significance that strike your fancy.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2012/07/21/playdate-26-portland-photowalk/olympus-digital-camera-748/\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10829\"><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-10829\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/P7060007-300x177.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"177\" /></a>\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n<div><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?attachment_id=10793\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10793\"><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-10793\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/P7060008-225x300.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"225\" height=\"300\" /></a></div>\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<img class=\"size-medium wp-image-10791 alignnone\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/P7060015-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" />\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?attachment_id=10795\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10795\"><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-10795\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/P7060019-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nYou make new friends and you talk.  A lot.  And completely lose track of time.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?attachment_id=10797\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10797\"><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-10797\" title=\"Michelle WDS-1\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/Michelle-WDS-1-300x200.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"200\" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nWhen the dear old friend who invited you to the photowalk asks you how many photos you\'ve taken, you sheepishly fudge and say, \"Ohhhh...I don\'t know...40 or 50?\"  When you know damn well that you maybe took 10.  Oops!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nBut making the new friend was worth the artistic sacrifice.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAnd besides, when your dear old friend is a Photography Goddess, you know that her photos taken with her fancy-schmancy camera and artistic eye are going to turn out much better than yours anyway.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?attachment_id=10796\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10796\"><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-10796\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/P7060021-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nBecause the Photography Goddess can make something as mundane as a crappy old car look bloody fantastic!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?attachment_id=10798\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10798\"><img class=\"alignnone  wp-image-10798\" title=\"Michelle WDS-2\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/Michelle-WDS-2-1024x682.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"502\" height=\"334\" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n**********\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nHave you ever been on a photowalk?  Tell us all about it in the comments below!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n**********\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAll photos by yours truly except \"Bloody Fantastic Car\" and \"Michelle and Susie Yakking Away\" which were most obviously taken by Sam.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nA shout out and thank you to our fearless leader, organizer and fellow World Domination Summiteer,<a href=\"http://www.herviewphotography.com/\" target=\"_blank\"> <strong>Darlene Hildebrandt!</strong></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;','Playdate #26:  Portland Photowalk  ','','publish','open','open','','playdate-26-portland-photowalk','','','2012-07-20 21:25:05','2012-07-21 04:25:05','',0,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?p=10787',0,'post','',3),(10788,1,'2012-07-20 20:12:51','2012-07-21 03:12:51','Up until a couple of weeks ago, I had never been on a photowalk.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nUp until a couple of weeks ago, I had never even heard of a <a href=\"http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Photowalking\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>photowalk.  </strong></a>\n\n&nbsp;\n\nUntil my friend Sam, who is a <strong><a href=\"http://samfrancisco.me/\" target=\"_blank\">Photography Goddess</a>,</strong> invited me to one held in Portland\'s Chinatown prior to the <a href=\"http://worlddominationsummit.com/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>World Domination Summit</strong></a><strong><a href=\"http://worlddominationsummit.com/\" target=\"_blank\">.</a>    </strong>\n\n&nbsp;\n\nI didn\'t need to be a real photographer or own a fancy-schmancy camera à la Sam.  Point-and-shooters were welcome!  Yay!\n\n&nbsp;\n\nHere\'s what I learned:\n\n&nbsp;\n\nPhotowalks are fun.  You take a few photos when things that are important to you strike your fancy.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nYou make new friends and you talk.  A lot.  And completely lose track of time.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nWhen the dear old friend who invited you asks you how many photos, you fudge and say, \"Oh...I don\'t know...20 or 30?\"  When you know damn well that you maybe took ten.  Oops!\n\n&nbsp;\n\nBut making the new friend was worth the artistic sacrifice.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nAnd besides, when your dear old friend is a Photography Goddess, you know that her photos taken with her fancy-schmancy camera are going to turn out better than yours anyway.  Because she can make something as mundane as a crappy old car look bloody fantastic!\n\n&nbsp;\n\ncar\n\n&nbsp;\n\nSee?\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;','Playdate #26:  Portland Photowalk  ','','inherit','open','open','','10787-revision','','','2012-07-20 20:12:51','2012-07-21 03:12:51','',10787,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2012/07/20/10787-revision/',0,'revision','',0),(10789,1,'2012-07-20 20:15:09','2012-07-21 03:15:09','','Portland Oregon Sign','Note to self:  When playing photographer for the day, remember minor details such as including the reindeer\'s head in the photo.  The For Lease sign is probably not as important.  :-p ','inherit','open','open','','olympus-digital-camera-746','','','2012-07-20 20:15:09','2012-07-21 03:15:09','',10787,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/P7060016.jpg',0,'attachment','image/jpeg',0),(10790,1,'2012-07-20 20:18:59','2012-07-21 03:18:59','[caption id=\"attachment_10789\" align=\"alignleft\" width=\"300\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?attachment_id=10789\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10789\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-10789 \" title=\"Portland Oregon Sign\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/P7060016-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a> Note to self: When playing photographer for the day, remember minor details such as including the reindeer\'s entire head and antlers in the photo. The For Lease sign is probably not as important. :-p[/caption]\n\nUp until a couple of weeks ago, I had never been on a photowalk.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nUp until a couple of weeks ago, I had never even heard of a <a href=\"http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Photowalking\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>photowalk.  </strong></a>\n\n&nbsp;\n\nUntil my friend Sam, who is a <strong><a href=\"http://samfrancisco.me/\" target=\"_blank\">Photography Goddess</a>,</strong> invited me to one held in Portland\'s Chinatown prior to the <a href=\"http://worlddominationsummit.com/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>World Domination Summit</strong></a><strong><a href=\"http://worlddominationsummit.com/\" target=\"_blank\">.</a>    </strong>\n\n&nbsp;\n\nI didn\'t need to be a real photographer or own a fancy-schmancy camera à la Sam.  Point-and-shooters were welcome!  Yay!\n\n&nbsp;\n\nHere\'s what I learned:\n\n&nbsp;\n\nPhotowalks are fun.  You take a few photos when things that are important to you strike your fancy.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nYou make new friends and you talk.  A lot.  And completely lose track of time.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nWhen the dear old friend who invited you asks you how many photos, you fudge and say, \"Oh...I don\'t know...20 or 30?\"  When you know damn well that you maybe took ten.  Oops!\n\n&nbsp;\n\nBut making the new friend was worth the artistic sacrifice.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nAnd besides, when your dear old friend is a Photography Goddess, you know that her photos taken with her fancy-schmancy camera are going to turn out better than yours anyway.  Because she can make something as mundane as a crappy old car look bloody fantastic!\n\n&nbsp;\n\ncar\n\n&nbsp;\n\nSee?\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;','Playdate #26:  Portland Photowalk  ','','inherit','open','open','','10787-revision-2','','','2012-07-20 20:18:59','2012-07-21 03:18:59','',10787,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2012/07/20/10787-revision-2/',0,'revision','',0),(10791,1,'2012-07-20 20:21:25','2012-07-21 03:21:25','','OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA','','inherit','open','open','','olympus-digital-camera-747','','','2012-07-20 20:21:25','2012-07-21 03:21:25','',10787,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/P7060015.jpg',0,'attachment','image/jpeg',0),(10829,1,'2012-07-20 21:19:16','2012-07-21 04:19:16','','OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA','','inherit','open','open','','olympus-digital-camera-748','','','2012-07-20 21:19:16','2012-07-21 04:19:16','',10787,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/P7060007.jpg',0,'attachment','image/jpeg',0),(10793,1,'2012-07-20 20:24:30','2012-07-21 03:24:30','','OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA','','inherit','open','open','','olympus-digital-camera-749','','','2012-07-20 20:24:30','2012-07-21 03:24:30','',10787,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/P7060008.jpg',0,'attachment','image/jpeg',0),(10794,1,'2012-07-20 20:24:59','2012-07-21 03:24:59','[caption id=\"attachment_10789\" align=\"alignleft\" width=\"300\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?attachment_id=10789\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10789\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-10789 \" title=\"Portland Oregon Sign\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/P7060016-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a> Note to self: When playing photographer for the day, remember minor details such as including the reindeer\'s entire head and antlers in the photo. The For Lease sign is probably not as important. :-p[/caption]\n\nUp until a couple of weeks ago, I had never been on a photowalk.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nUp until a couple of weeks ago, I had never even heard of a <a href=\"http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Photowalking\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>photowalk.  </strong></a>\n\n&nbsp;\n\nUntil my friend Sam, who is a <strong><a href=\"http://samfrancisco.me/\" target=\"_blank\">Photography Goddess</a>,</strong> invited me to one held in Portland\'s Chinatown prior to the <a href=\"http://worlddominationsummit.com/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>World Domination Summit</strong></a><strong><a href=\"http://worlddominationsummit.com/\" target=\"_blank\">.</a>    </strong>\n\n&nbsp;\n\nI didn\'t need to be a real photographer or own a fancy-schmancy camera à la Sam.  Point-and-shooters were welcome!  Yay!\n\n&nbsp;\n\nHere\'s what I learned:\n\n&nbsp;\n\nPhotowalks are fun.  While strolling through an area such as Chinatown, you take a few photos when things that are important to you strike your fancy.\n\n&nbsp;\n\n<img class=\"alignleft size-medium wp-image-10792\" style=\"border-style: initial; border-color: initial; cursor: default; float: left; border-width: 0px;\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/P7060007-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" />\n\n<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?attachment_id=10791\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10791\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-10791 alignnone\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/P7060015-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>\n\n&nbsp;\n<div></div>\n<div><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?attachment_id=10793\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10793\"><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-10793\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/P7060008-225x300.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"225\" height=\"300\" /></a>\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\nYou make new friends and you talk.  A lot.  And completely lose track of time.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nWhen the dear old friend who invited you asks you how many photos, you fudge and say, \"Oh...I don\'t know...20 or 30?\"  When you know damn well that you maybe took ten.  Oops!\n\n&nbsp;\n\nBut making the new friend was worth the artistic sacrifice.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nAnd besides, when your dear old friend is a Photography Goddess, you know that her photos taken with her fancy-schmancy camera are going to turn out better than yours anyway.  Because she can make something as mundane as a crappy old car look bloody fantastic!\n\n&nbsp;\n\ncar\n\n&nbsp;\n\nSee?\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\n</div>','Playdate #26:  Portland Photowalk  ','','inherit','open','open','','10787-revision-3','','','2012-07-20 20:24:59','2012-07-21 03:24:59','',10787,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2012/07/20/10787-revision-3/',0,'revision','',0),(10795,1,'2012-07-20 20:28:28','2012-07-21 03:28:28','','OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA','','inherit','open','open','','olympus-digital-camera-750','','','2012-07-20 20:28:28','2012-07-21 03:28:28','',10787,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/P7060019.jpg',0,'attachment','image/jpeg',0),(10796,1,'2012-07-20 20:30:08','2012-07-21 03:30:08','','OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA','','inherit','open','open','','olympus-digital-camera-751','','','2012-07-20 20:30:08','2012-07-21 03:30:08','',10787,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/P7060021.jpg',0,'attachment','image/jpeg',0),(10797,1,'2012-07-20 20:33:08','2012-07-21 03:33:08','','Michelle WDS-1','','inherit','open','open','','michelle-wds-1','','','2012-07-20 20:33:08','2012-07-21 03:33:08','',10787,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/Michelle-WDS-1.jpg',0,'attachment','image/jpeg',0),(10798,1,'2012-07-20 20:34:04','2012-07-21 03:34:04','','Michelle WDS-2','','inherit','open','open','','michelle-wds-2','','','2012-07-20 20:34:04','2012-07-21 03:34:04','',10787,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/Michelle-WDS-2.jpg',0,'attachment','image/jpeg',0),(10799,1,'2012-07-20 20:39:30','2012-07-21 03:39:30','[caption id=\"attachment_10789\" align=\"alignleft\" width=\"300\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?attachment_id=10789\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10789\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-10789 \" title=\"Portland Oregon Sign\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/P7060016-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a> Note to self: When playing photographer for the day, remember minor details such as including the reindeer\'s entire head and antlers in the photo. The For Lease sign is probably not as important. :-p[/caption]\n\nUp until a couple of weeks ago, I had never been on a photowalk.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nUp until a couple of weeks ago, I had never even heard of a <a href=\"http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Photowalking\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>photowalk.  </strong></a>\n\n&nbsp;\n\nUntil my friend Sam, who is a <strong><a href=\"http://samfrancisco.me/\" target=\"_blank\">Photography Goddess</a>,</strong> invited me to one held in Portland\'s Chinatown prior to the <a href=\"http://worlddominationsummit.com/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>World Domination Summit</strong></a><strong><a href=\"http://worlddominationsummit.com/\" target=\"_blank\">.</a>    </strong>\n\n&nbsp;\n\nI didn\'t need to be a real photographer or own a fancy-schmancy camera à la Sam.  Point-and-shooters were welcome!  Yay!\n\n&nbsp;\n\nHere\'s what I learned:\n\n&nbsp;\n\nPhotowalks are fun.  While strolling through an area such as Chinatown, you take a few photos when things that are important to you strike your fancy.\n\n&nbsp;\n\n<img class=\"size-medium wp-image-10792 alignnone\" style=\"border-style: initial; border-color: initial; cursor: default; border-width: 0px;\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/P7060007-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-10791 alignnone\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/P7060015-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" />\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n<div></div>\n<div><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?attachment_id=10793\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10793\"><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-10793\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/P7060008-225x300.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"225\" height=\"300\" /></a></div>\n<div></div>\n<div></div>\n<div></div>\n<div>\n\n<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?attachment_id=10795\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10795\"><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-10795\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/P7060019-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>\n\n&nbsp;\n\nYou make new friends and you talk.  A lot.  And completely lose track of time.\n\n&nbsp;\n\n<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?attachment_id=10797\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10797\"><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-10797\" title=\"Michelle WDS-1\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/Michelle-WDS-1-300x200.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"200\" /></a>\n\n&nbsp;\n\nWhen the dear old friend who invited you asks you how many photos, you fudge and say, \"Oh...I don\'t know...20 or 30?\"  When you know damn well that you maybe took ten.  Oops!\n\n&nbsp;\n\nBut making the new friend was worth the artistic sacrifice.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nAnd besides, when your dear old friend is a Photography Goddess, you know that her photos taken with her fancy-schmancy camera are going to turn out better than yours anyway.\n\n&nbsp;\n\n<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?attachment_id=10796\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10796\"><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-10796\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/P7060021-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>\n\n&nbsp;\n\nBecause she can make something as mundane as a crappy old car look bloody fantastic!\n<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?attachment_id=10798\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10798\"><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-10798\" title=\"Michelle WDS-2\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/Michelle-WDS-2-300x200.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"200\" /></a>\n\n&nbsp;\n\n**********\n\n&nbsp;\n\nHave you ever been on a photowalk?  Tell us all about it in the comments below!\n\n&nbsp;\n\n**********\n\n&nbsp;\n\nAll photos by yours truly except The Car and Michelle and Susie Yakking Away which were most obviously taken by Sam.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nA shout out and thank you to our fearless leader, organizer and fellow World Domination Summiteer, <a href=\"http://www.herviewphotography.com/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Darlene Hildebrandt.</strong> </a>\n\n</div>','Playdate #26:  Portland Photowalk  ','','inherit','open','open','','10787-revision-4','','','2012-07-20 20:39:30','2012-07-21 03:39:30','',10787,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2012/07/20/10787-revision-4/',0,'revision','',0),(10801,1,'2012-07-20 20:40:30','2012-07-21 03:40:30','[caption id=\"attachment_10789\" align=\"alignleft\" width=\"300\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?attachment_id=10789\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10789\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-10789 \" title=\"Portland Oregon Sign\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/P7060016-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a> Note to self: When playing photographer for the day, remember minor details such as including the reindeer\'s entire head and antlers in the photo. The For Lease sign is probably not as important. :-p[/caption]\n\nUp until a couple of weeks ago, I had never been on a photowalk.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nUp until a couple of weeks ago, I had never even heard of a <a href=\"http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Photowalking\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>photowalk.  </strong></a>\n\n&nbsp;\n\nUntil my friend Sam, who is a <strong><a href=\"http://samfrancisco.me/\" target=\"_blank\">Photography Goddess</a>,</strong> invited me to one held in Portland\'s Chinatown prior to the <a href=\"http://worlddominationsummit.com/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>World Domination Summit</strong></a><strong><a href=\"http://worlddominationsummit.com/\" target=\"_blank\">.</a>    </strong>\n\n&nbsp;\n\nI didn\'t need to be a real photographer or own a fancy-schmancy camera à la Sam.  Point-and-shooters were welcome!  Yay!\n\n&nbsp;\n\nHere\'s what I learned:\n\n&nbsp;\n\nPhotowalks are fun.  While strolling through an area such as Chinatown, you take a few photos when things that are important to you strike your fancy.\n\n&nbsp;\n\n<img class=\"size-medium wp-image-10792 alignnone\" style=\"border-style: initial; border-color: initial; cursor: default; border-width: 0px;\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/P7060007-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-10791 alignnone\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/P7060015-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" />\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n<div></div>\n<div><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?attachment_id=10793\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10793\"><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-10793\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/P7060008-225x300.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"225\" height=\"300\" /></a></div>\n<div></div>\n<div></div>\n<div></div>\n<div>\n\n<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?attachment_id=10795\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10795\"><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-10795\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/P7060019-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>\n\n&nbsp;\n\nYou make new friends and you talk.  A lot.  And completely lose track of time.\n\n&nbsp;\n\n<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?attachment_id=10797\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10797\"><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-10797\" title=\"Michelle WDS-1\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/Michelle-WDS-1-300x200.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"200\" /></a>\n\n&nbsp;\n\nWhen the dear old friend who invited you asks you how many photos, you fudge and say, \"Oh...I don\'t know...20 or 30?\"  When you know damn well that you maybe took ten.  Oops!\n\n&nbsp;\n\nBut making the new friend was worth the artistic sacrifice.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nAnd besides, when your dear old friend is a Photography Goddess, you know that her photos taken with her fancy-schmancy camera are going to turn out better than yours anyway.\n\n&nbsp;\n\n<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?attachment_id=10796\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10796\"><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-10796\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/P7060021-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>\n\n&nbsp;\n\nBecause she can make something as mundane as a crappy old car look bloody fantastic!\n<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?attachment_id=10798\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10798\"><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-10798\" title=\"Michelle WDS-2\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/Michelle-WDS-2-300x200.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"200\" /></a>\n\n&nbsp;\n\n**********\n\n&nbsp;\n\nHave you ever been on a photowalk?  Tell us all about it in the comments below!\n\n&nbsp;\n\n**********\n\n&nbsp;\n\nAll photos by yours truly except \"Bloody Fantastic Car\" and \"Michelle and Susie Yakking Away\" which were most obviously taken by Sam.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nA shout out and thank you to our fearless leader, organizer and fellow World Domination Summiteer, <a href=\"http://www.herviewphotography.com/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Darlene Hildebrandt.</strong> </a>\n\n</div>','Playdate #26:  Portland Photowalk  ','','inherit','open','open','','10787-revision-6','','','2012-07-20 20:40:30','2012-07-21 03:40:30','',10787,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2012/07/20/10787-revision-6/',0,'revision','',0),(10800,1,'2012-07-20 20:40:09','2012-07-21 03:40:09','[caption id=\"attachment_10789\" align=\"alignleft\" width=\"300\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?attachment_id=10789\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10789\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-10789 \" title=\"Portland Oregon Sign\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/P7060016-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a> Note to self: When playing photographer for the day, remember minor details such as including the reindeer\'s entire head and antlers in the photo. The For Lease sign is probably not as important. :-p[/caption]\r\n\r\nUp until a couple of weeks ago, I had never been on a photowalk.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nUp until a couple of weeks ago, I had never even heard of a <a href=\"http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Photowalking\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>photowalk.  </strong></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nUntil my friend Sam, who is a <strong><a href=\"http://samfrancisco.me/\" target=\"_blank\">Photography Goddess</a>,</strong> invited me to one held in Portland\'s Chinatown prior to the <a href=\"http://worlddominationsummit.com/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>World Domination Summit</strong></a><strong><a href=\"http://worlddominationsummit.com/\" target=\"_blank\">.</a>    </strong>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI didn\'t need to be a real photographer or own a fancy-schmancy camera à la Sam.  Point-and-shooters were welcome!  Yay!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nHere\'s what I learned:\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nPhotowalks are fun.  While strolling through an area such as Chinatown, you take a few photos when things that are important to you strike your fancy.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<img class=\"size-medium wp-image-10792 alignnone\" style=\"border-style: initial; border-color: initial; cursor: default; border-width: 0px;\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/P7060007-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-10791 alignnone\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/P7060015-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" />\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n<div></div>\r\n<div><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?attachment_id=10793\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10793\"><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-10793\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/P7060008-225x300.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"225\" height=\"300\" /></a></div>\r\n<div></div>\r\n<div></div>\r\n<div></div>\r\n<div>\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?attachment_id=10795\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10795\"><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-10795\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/P7060019-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nYou make new friends and you talk.  A lot.  And completely lose track of time.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?attachment_id=10797\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10797\"><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-10797\" title=\"Michelle WDS-1\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/Michelle-WDS-1-300x200.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"200\" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nWhen the dear old friend who invited you asks you how many photos, you fudge and say, \"Oh...I don\'t know...20 or 30?\"  When you know damn well that you maybe took ten.  Oops!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nBut making the new friend was worth the artistic sacrifice.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAnd besides, when your dear old friend is a Photography Goddess, you know that her photos taken with her fancy-schmancy camera are going to turn out better than yours anyway.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?attachment_id=10796\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10796\"><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-10796\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/P7060021-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nBecause she can make something as mundane as a crappy old car look bloody fantastic!\r\n<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?attachment_id=10798\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10798\"><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-10798\" title=\"Michelle WDS-2\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/Michelle-WDS-2-300x200.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"200\" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n**********\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nHave you ever been on a photowalk?  Tell us all about it in the comments below!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n**********\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAll photos by yours truly except \"Bloody Fantastic Car\" and \"Michelle and Susie Yakking Away\" which were most obviously taken by Sam.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nA shout out and thank you to our fearless leader, organizer and fellow World Domination Summiteer, <a href=\"http://www.herviewphotography.com/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Darlene Hildebrandt.</strong> </a>\r\n\r\n</div>','Playdate #26:  Portland Photowalk  ','','inherit','open','open','','10787-revision-5','','','2012-07-20 20:40:09','2012-07-21 03:40:09','',10787,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2012/07/20/10787-revision-5/',0,'revision','',0),(10802,1,'2012-07-20 20:44:46','2012-07-21 03:44:46','[caption id=\"attachment_10789\" align=\"alignleft\" width=\"300\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?attachment_id=10789\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10789\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-10789 \" title=\"Portland Oregon Sign\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/P7060016-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a> Note to self: When playing photographer for the day, remember minor details such as including the reindeer\'s entire head and antlers in the photo. The For Lease sign is probably not as important. :-p[/caption]\n\nUp until a couple of weeks ago, I had never been on a photowalk.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nUp until a couple of weeks ago, I had never even heard of a <a href=\"http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Photowalking\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>photowalk.  </strong></a>\n\n&nbsp;\n\nUntil my friend Sam, who is a <strong><a href=\"http://samfrancisco.me/\" target=\"_blank\">Photography Goddess</a>,</strong> invited me to one held in Portland\'s Chinatown prior to the <a href=\"http://worlddominationsummit.com/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>World Domination Summit</strong></a><strong><a href=\"http://worlddominationsummit.com/\" target=\"_blank\">.</a>    </strong>\n\n&nbsp;\n\nI didn\'t need to be a real photographer or own a fancy-schmancy camera à la Sam.  Point-and-shooters were welcome!  Yay!\n\n&nbsp;\n\nHere\'s what I learned:\n\n&nbsp;\n\nPhotowalks are fun.  While strolling through an area such as Chinatown, you take a few photos when things that are important to you strike your fancy.\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\n<img class=\"size-medium wp-image-10792 alignnone\" style=\"border-style: initial; border-color: initial; cursor: default; border-width: 0px;\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/P7060007-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-10791 alignnone\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/P7060015-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" />\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n<div></div>\n<div><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?attachment_id=10793\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10793\"><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-10793\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/P7060008-225x300.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"225\" height=\"300\" /></a></div>\n<div></div>\n<div></div>\n<div></div>\n<div>\n\n<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?attachment_id=10795\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10795\"><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-10795\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/P7060019-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\nYou make new friends and you talk.  A lot.  And completely lose track of time.\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\n<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?attachment_id=10797\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10797\"><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-10797\" title=\"Michelle WDS-1\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/Michelle-WDS-1-300x200.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"200\" /></a>\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\nWhen the dear old friend who invited you asks you how many photos, you fudge and say, \"Oh...I don\'t know...20 or 30?\"  When you know damn well that you maybe took ten.  Oops!\n\n&nbsp;\n\nBut making the new friend was worth the artistic sacrifice.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nAnd besides, when your dear old friend is a Photography Goddess, you know that her photos taken with her fancy-schmancy camera are going to turn out better than yours anyway.\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\n<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?attachment_id=10796\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10796\"><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-10796\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/P7060021-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\nBecause she can make something as mundane as a crappy old car look bloody fantastic!\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\n<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?attachment_id=10798\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10798\"><img class=\"alignnone size-large wp-image-10798\" title=\"Michelle WDS-2\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/Michelle-WDS-2-1024x682.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1024\" height=\"682\" /></a>\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\n**********\n\n&nbsp;\n\nHave you ever been on a photowalk?  Tell us all about it in the comments below!\n\n&nbsp;\n\n**********\n\n&nbsp;\n\nAll photos by yours truly except \"Bloody Fantastic Car\" and \"Michelle and Susie Yakking Away\" which were most obviously taken by Sam.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nA shout out and thank you to our fearless leader, organizer and fellow World Domination Summiteer, <a href=\"http://www.herviewphotography.com/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Darlene Hildebrandt.</strong> </a>\n\n</div>','Playdate #26:  Portland Photowalk  ','','inherit','open','open','','10787-revision-7','','','2012-07-20 20:44:46','2012-07-21 03:44:46','',10787,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2012/07/20/10787-revision-7/',0,'revision','',0),(10820,1,'2012-07-20 21:00:45','2012-07-21 04:00:45','[caption id=\"attachment_10789\" align=\"alignleft\" width=\"300\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?attachment_id=10789\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10789\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-10789 \" title=\"Portland Oregon Sign\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/P7060016-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a> Note to self: When playing photographer for the day, remember minor details such as including the reindeer\'s entire head and antlers in the photo. The For Lease sign is probably not as important. :-p[/caption]\n\nUp until a couple of weeks ago, I had never been on a photowalk.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nUp until a couple of weeks ago, I had never even heard of a <a href=\"http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Photowalking\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>photowalk.  </strong></a>\n\n&nbsp;\n\nUntil my friend Sam, who is a <strong><a href=\"http://samfrancisco.me/\" target=\"_blank\">Photography Goddess</a>,</strong> invited me to one held in Portland\'s Chinatown prior to the <a href=\"http://worlddominationsummit.com/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>World Domination Summit</strong></a><strong><a href=\"http://worlddominationsummit.com/\" target=\"_blank\">.</a>    </strong>\n\n&nbsp;\n\nI didn\'t need to be a real photographer or own a fancy-schmancy camera à la Sam.  Point-and-shooters were welcome!  Yay!\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\nHere is what I learned about Photowalks:\n\n&nbsp;\n\nPhotowalks are fun!  While strolling through an area such as Chinatown, you take a few photos of significant local that strike your fancy.\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\n<img class=\"size-medium wp-image-10792 alignnone\" style=\"border-style: initial; border-color: initial; cursor: default; border-width: 0px;\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/P7060007-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-10791 alignnone\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/P7060015-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" />\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n<div></div>\n<div><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?attachment_id=10793\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10793\"><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-10793\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/P7060008-225x300.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"225\" height=\"300\" /></a></div>\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\n<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?attachment_id=10795\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10795\"><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-10795\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/P7060019-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\nYou make new friends and you talk.  A lot.  And completely lose track of time.\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\n<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?attachment_id=10797\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10797\"><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-10797\" title=\"Michelle WDS-1\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/Michelle-WDS-1-300x200.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"200\" /></a>\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\nWhen the dear old friend who invited you asks you how many photos you\'ve taken, you fudge and say, \"Oh...I don\'t know...30 or 40?\"  When you know damn well that you maybe took 10.  Oops!\n\n&nbsp;\n\nBut making the new friend was worth the artistic sacrifice.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nAnd besides, when your dear old friend is a Photography Goddess, you know that her photos taken with her fancy-schmancy camera and artistic eye are going to turn out much better than yours anyway.\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\n<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?attachment_id=10796\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10796\"><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-10796\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/P7060021-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\nBecause the Photography Goddess can make something as mundane as a crappy old car look bloody fantastic!\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\n<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?attachment_id=10798\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10798\"><img class=\"alignnone  wp-image-10798\" title=\"Michelle WDS-2\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/Michelle-WDS-2-1024x682.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"502\" height=\"334\" /></a>\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\n**********\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\nHave you ever been on a photowalk?  Tell us all about it in the comments below!\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\n**********\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\nAll photos by yours truly except \"Bloody Fantastic Car\" and \"Michelle and Susie Yakking Away\" which were most obviously taken by Sam.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nA shout out and thank you to our fearless leader, organizer and fellow World Domination Summiteer, <a href=\"http://www.herviewphotography.com/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Darlene Hildebrandt.</strong></a>\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;','Playdate #26:  Portland Photowalk  ','','inherit','open','open','','10787-revision-25','','','2012-07-20 21:00:45','2012-07-21 04:00:45','',10787,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2012/07/20/10787-revision-25/',0,'revision','',0),(10803,1,'2012-07-20 20:44:51','2012-07-21 03:44:51','[caption id=\"attachment_10789\" align=\"alignleft\" width=\"300\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?attachment_id=10789\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10789\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-10789 \" title=\"Portland Oregon Sign\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/P7060016-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a> Note to self: When playing photographer for the day, remember minor details such as including the reindeer\'s entire head and antlers in the photo. The For Lease sign is probably not as important. :-p[/caption]\r\n\r\nUp until a couple of weeks ago, I had never been on a photowalk.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nUp until a couple of weeks ago, I had never even heard of a <a href=\"http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Photowalking\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>photowalk.  </strong></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nUntil my friend Sam, who is a <strong><a href=\"http://samfrancisco.me/\" target=\"_blank\">Photography Goddess</a>,</strong> invited me to one held in Portland\'s Chinatown prior to the <a href=\"http://worlddominationsummit.com/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>World Domination Summit</strong></a><strong><a href=\"http://worlddominationsummit.com/\" target=\"_blank\">.</a>    </strong>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI didn\'t need to be a real photographer or own a fancy-schmancy camera à la Sam.  Point-and-shooters were welcome!  Yay!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nHere\'s what I learned:\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nPhotowalks are fun.  While strolling through an area such as Chinatown, you take a few photos when things that are important to you strike your fancy.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<img class=\"size-medium wp-image-10792 alignnone\" style=\"border-style: initial; border-color: initial; cursor: default; border-width: 0px;\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/P7060007-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-10791 alignnone\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/P7060015-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" />\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n<div></div>\r\n<div><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?attachment_id=10793\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10793\"><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-10793\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/P7060008-225x300.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"225\" height=\"300\" /></a></div>\r\n<div></div>\r\n<div></div>\r\n<div></div>\r\n<div>\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?attachment_id=10795\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10795\"><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-10795\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/P7060019-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nYou make new friends and you talk.  A lot.  And completely lose track of time.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?attachment_id=10797\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10797\"><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-10797\" title=\"Michelle WDS-1\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/Michelle-WDS-1-300x200.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"200\" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nWhen the dear old friend who invited you asks you how many photos, you fudge and say, \"Oh...I don\'t know...20 or 30?\"  When you know damn well that you maybe took ten.  Oops!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nBut making the new friend was worth the artistic sacrifice.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAnd besides, when your dear old friend is a Photography Goddess, you know that her photos taken with her fancy-schmancy camera are going to turn out better than yours anyway.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?attachment_id=10796\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10796\"><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-10796\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/P7060021-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nBecause she can make something as mundane as a crappy old car look bloody fantastic!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?attachment_id=10798\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10798\"><img class=\"alignnone size-large wp-image-10798\" title=\"Michelle WDS-2\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/Michelle-WDS-2-1024x682.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1024\" height=\"682\" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n**********\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nHave you ever been on a photowalk?  Tell us all about it in the comments below!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n**********\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAll photos by yours truly except \"Bloody Fantastic Car\" and \"Michelle and Susie Yakking Away\" which were most obviously taken by Sam.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nA shout out and thank you to our fearless leader, organizer and fellow World Domination Summiteer, <a href=\"http://www.herviewphotography.com/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Darlene Hildebrandt.</strong> </a>\r\n\r\n</div>','Playdate #26:  Portland Photowalk  ','','inherit','open','open','','10787-revision-8','','','2012-07-20 20:44:51','2012-07-21 03:44:51','',10787,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2012/07/20/10787-revision-8/',0,'revision','',0),(10804,1,'2012-07-20 20:46:16','2012-07-21 03:46:16','[caption id=\"attachment_10789\" align=\"alignleft\" width=\"300\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?attachment_id=10789\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10789\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-10789 \" title=\"Portland Oregon Sign\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/P7060016-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a> Note to self: When playing photographer for the day, remember minor details such as including the reindeer\'s entire head and antlers in the photo. The For Lease sign is probably not as important. :-p[/caption]\n\nUp until a couple of weeks ago, I had never been on a photowalk.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nUp until a couple of weeks ago, I had never even heard of a <a href=\"http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Photowalking\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>photowalk.  </strong></a>\n\n&nbsp;\n\nUntil my friend Sam, who is a <strong><a href=\"http://samfrancisco.me/\" target=\"_blank\">Photography Goddess</a>,</strong> invited me to one held in Portland\'s Chinatown prior to the <a href=\"http://worlddominationsummit.com/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>World Domination Summit</strong></a><strong><a href=\"http://worlddominationsummit.com/\" target=\"_blank\">.</a>    </strong>\n\n&nbsp;\n\nI didn\'t need to be a real photographer or own a fancy-schmancy camera à la Sam.  Point-and-shooters were welcome!  Yay!\n\n&nbsp;\n\nHere\'s what I learned:\n\n&nbsp;\n\nPhotowalks are fun.  While strolling through an area such as Chinatown, you take a few photos when things that are important to you strike your fancy.\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\n<img class=\"size-medium wp-image-10792 alignnone\" style=\"border-style: initial; border-color: initial; cursor: default; border-width: 0px;\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/P7060007-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-10791 alignnone\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/P7060015-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" />\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n<div></div>\n<div><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?attachment_id=10793\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10793\"><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-10793\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/P7060008-225x300.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"225\" height=\"300\" /></a></div>\n<div></div>\n<div></div>\n<div></div>\n<div></div>\n<div>\n\n<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?attachment_id=10795\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10795\"><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-10795\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/P7060019-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\nYou make new friends and you talk.  A lot.  And completely lose track of time.\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\n<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?attachment_id=10797\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10797\"><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-10797\" title=\"Michelle WDS-1\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/Michelle-WDS-1-300x200.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"200\" /></a>\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\nWhen the dear old friend who invited you asks you how many photos, you fudge and say, \"Oh...I don\'t know...20 or 30?\"  When you know damn well that you maybe took ten.  Oops!\n\n&nbsp;\n\nBut making the new friend was worth the artistic sacrifice.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nAnd besides, when your dear old friend is a Photography Goddess, you know that her photos taken with her fancy-schmancy camera are going to turn out better than yours anyway.\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\n<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?attachment_id=10796\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10796\"><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-10796\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/P7060021-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\nBecause she can make something as mundane as a crappy old car look bloody fantastic!\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\n<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?attachment_id=10798\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10798\"><img class=\"alignnone size-large wp-image-10798\" title=\"Michelle WDS-2\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/Michelle-WDS-2-1024x682.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1024\" height=\"682\" /></a>\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\n**********\n\n&nbsp;\n\nHave you ever been on a photowalk?  Tell us all about it in the comments below!\n\n&nbsp;\n\n**********\n\n&nbsp;\n\nAll photos by yours truly except \"Bloody Fantastic Car\" and \"Michelle and Susie Yakking Away\" which were most obviously taken by Sam.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nA shout out and thank you to our fearless leader, organizer and fellow World Domination Summiteer, <a href=\"http://www.herviewphotography.com/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Darlene Hildebrandt.</strong> </a>\n\n</div>\n&amp;nbsp\'\n&amp;nbsp','Playdate #26:  Portland Photowalk  ','','inherit','open','open','','10787-revision-9','','','2012-07-20 20:46:16','2012-07-21 03:46:16','',10787,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2012/07/20/10787-revision-9/',0,'revision','',0),(10805,1,'2012-07-20 20:46:26','2012-07-21 03:46:26','[caption id=\"attachment_10789\" align=\"alignleft\" width=\"300\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?attachment_id=10789\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10789\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-10789 \" title=\"Portland Oregon Sign\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/P7060016-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a> Note to self: When playing photographer for the day, remember minor details such as including the reindeer\'s entire head and antlers in the photo. The For Lease sign is probably not as important. :-p[/caption]\r\n\r\nUp until a couple of weeks ago, I had never been on a photowalk.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nUp until a couple of weeks ago, I had never even heard of a <a href=\"http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Photowalking\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>photowalk.  </strong></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nUntil my friend Sam, who is a <strong><a href=\"http://samfrancisco.me/\" target=\"_blank\">Photography Goddess</a>,</strong> invited me to one held in Portland\'s Chinatown prior to the <a href=\"http://worlddominationsummit.com/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>World Domination Summit</strong></a><strong><a href=\"http://worlddominationsummit.com/\" target=\"_blank\">.</a>    </strong>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI didn\'t need to be a real photographer or own a fancy-schmancy camera à la Sam.  Point-and-shooters were welcome!  Yay!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nHere\'s what I learned:\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nPhotowalks are fun.  While strolling through an area such as Chinatown, you take a few photos when things that are important to you strike your fancy.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<img class=\"size-medium wp-image-10792 alignnone\" style=\"border-style: initial; border-color: initial; cursor: default; border-width: 0px;\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/P7060007-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-10791 alignnone\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/P7060015-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" />\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n<div></div>\r\n<div><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?attachment_id=10793\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10793\"><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-10793\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/P7060008-225x300.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"225\" height=\"300\" /></a></div>\r\n<div></div>\r\n<div></div>\r\n<div></div>\r\n<div></div>\r\n<div>\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?attachment_id=10795\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10795\"><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-10795\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/P7060019-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nYou make new friends and you talk.  A lot.  And completely lose track of time.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?attachment_id=10797\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10797\"><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-10797\" title=\"Michelle WDS-1\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/Michelle-WDS-1-300x200.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"200\" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nWhen the dear old friend who invited you asks you how many photos, you fudge and say, \"Oh...I don\'t know...20 or 30?\"  When you know damn well that you maybe took ten.  Oops!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nBut making the new friend was worth the artistic sacrifice.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAnd besides, when your dear old friend is a Photography Goddess, you know that her photos taken with her fancy-schmancy camera are going to turn out better than yours anyway.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?attachment_id=10796\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10796\"><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-10796\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/P7060021-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nBecause she can make something as mundane as a crappy old car look bloody fantastic!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?attachment_id=10798\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10798\"><img class=\"alignnone  wp-image-10798\" title=\"Michelle WDS-2\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/Michelle-WDS-2-1024x682.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"717\" height=\"477\" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n**********\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nHave you ever been on a photowalk?  Tell us all about it in the comments below!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n**********\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAll photos by yours truly except \"Bloody Fantastic Car\" and \"Michelle and Susie Yakking Away\" which were most obviously taken by Sam.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nA shout out and thank you to our fearless leader, organizer and fellow World Domination Summiteer, <a href=\"http://www.herviewphotography.com/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Darlene Hildebrandt.</strong> </a>\r\n\r\n</div>\r\n&amp;nbsp\'\r\n&amp;nbsp','Playdate #26:  Portland Photowalk  ','','inherit','open','open','','10787-revision-10','','','2012-07-20 20:46:26','2012-07-21 03:46:26','',10787,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2012/07/20/10787-revision-10/',0,'revision','',0),(10806,1,'2012-07-20 20:46:54','2012-07-21 03:46:54','[caption id=\"attachment_10789\" align=\"alignleft\" width=\"300\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?attachment_id=10789\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10789\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-10789 \" title=\"Portland Oregon Sign\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/P7060016-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a> Note to self: When playing photographer for the day, remember minor details such as including the reindeer\'s entire head and antlers in the photo. The For Lease sign is probably not as important. :-p[/caption]\r\n\r\nUp until a couple of weeks ago, I had never been on a photowalk.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nUp until a couple of weeks ago, I had never even heard of a <a href=\"http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Photowalking\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>photowalk.  </strong></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nUntil my friend Sam, who is a <strong><a href=\"http://samfrancisco.me/\" target=\"_blank\">Photography Goddess</a>,</strong> invited me to one held in Portland\'s Chinatown prior to the <a href=\"http://worlddominationsummit.com/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>World Domination Summit</strong></a><strong><a href=\"http://worlddominationsummit.com/\" target=\"_blank\">.</a>    </strong>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI didn\'t need to be a real photographer or own a fancy-schmancy camera à la Sam.  Point-and-shooters were welcome!  Yay!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nHere\'s what I learned:\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nPhotowalks are fun.  While strolling through an area such as Chinatown, you take a few photos when things that are important to you strike your fancy.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<img class=\"size-medium wp-image-10792 alignnone\" style=\"border-style: initial; border-color: initial; cursor: default; border-width: 0px;\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/P7060007-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-10791 alignnone\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/P7060015-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" />\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n<div></div>\r\n<div><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?attachment_id=10793\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10793\"><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-10793\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/P7060008-225x300.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"225\" height=\"300\" /></a></div>\r\n<div></div>\r\n<div></div>\r\n<div></div>\r\n<div></div>\r\n<div>\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?attachment_id=10795\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10795\"><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-10795\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/P7060019-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nYou make new friends and you talk.  A lot.  And completely lose track of time.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?attachment_id=10797\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10797\"><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-10797\" title=\"Michelle WDS-1\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/Michelle-WDS-1-300x200.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"200\" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nWhen the dear old friend who invited you asks you how many photos, you fudge and say, \"Oh...I don\'t know...20 or 30?\"  When you know damn well that you maybe took ten.  Oops!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nBut making the new friend was worth the artistic sacrifice.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAnd besides, when your dear old friend is a Photography Goddess, you know that her photos taken with her fancy-schmancy camera are going to turn out better than yours anyway.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?attachment_id=10796\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10796\"><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-10796\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/P7060021-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nBecause she can make something as mundane as a crappy old car look bloody fantastic!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?attachment_id=10798\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10798\"><img class=\"alignnone  wp-image-10798\" title=\"Michelle WDS-2\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/Michelle-WDS-2-1024x682.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"717\" height=\"477\" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n**********\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nHave you ever been on a photowalk?  Tell us all about it in the comments below!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n**********\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAll photos by yours truly except \"Bloody Fantastic Car\" and \"Michelle and Susie Yakking Away\" which were most obviously taken by Sam.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nA shout out and thank you to our fearless leader, organizer and fellow World Domination Summiteer, <a href=\"http://www.herviewphotography.com/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Darlene Hildebrandt.</strong> </a>\r\n\r\n</div>\r\n&amp;nbsp\'\r\n&amp;nbsp','Playdate #26:  Portland Photowalk  ','','inherit','open','open','','10787-revision-11','','','2012-07-20 20:46:54','2012-07-21 03:46:54','',10787,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2012/07/20/10787-revision-11/',0,'revision','',0),(10807,1,'2012-07-20 20:46:56','2012-07-21 03:46:56','[caption id=\"attachment_10789\" align=\"alignleft\" width=\"300\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?attachment_id=10789\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10789\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-10789 \" title=\"Portland Oregon Sign\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/P7060016-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a> Note to self: When playing photographer for the day, remember minor details such as including the reindeer\'s entire head and antlers in the photo. The For Lease sign is probably not as important. :-p[/caption]\r\n\r\nUp until a couple of weeks ago, I had never been on a photowalk.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nUp until a couple of weeks ago, I had never even heard of a <a href=\"http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Photowalking\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>photowalk.  </strong></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nUntil my friend Sam, who is a <strong><a href=\"http://samfrancisco.me/\" target=\"_blank\">Photography Goddess</a>,</strong> invited me to one held in Portland\'s Chinatown prior to the <a href=\"http://worlddominationsummit.com/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>World Domination Summit</strong></a><strong><a href=\"http://worlddominationsummit.com/\" target=\"_blank\">.</a>    </strong>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI didn\'t need to be a real photographer or own a fancy-schmancy camera à la Sam.  Point-and-shooters were welcome!  Yay!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nHere\'s what I learned:\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nPhotowalks are fun.  While strolling through an area such as Chinatown, you take a few photos when things that are important to you strike your fancy.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<img class=\"size-medium wp-image-10792 alignnone\" style=\"border-style: initial; border-color: initial; cursor: default; border-width: 0px;\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/P7060007-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-10791 alignnone\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/P7060015-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" />\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n<div></div>\r\n<div><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?attachment_id=10793\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10793\"><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-10793\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/P7060008-225x300.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"225\" height=\"300\" /></a></div>\r\n<div></div>\r\n<div></div>\r\n<div></div>\r\n<div></div>\r\n<div>\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?attachment_id=10795\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10795\"><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-10795\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/P7060019-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nYou make new friends and you talk.  A lot.  And completely lose track of time.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?attachment_id=10797\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10797\"><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-10797\" title=\"Michelle WDS-1\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/Michelle-WDS-1-300x200.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"200\" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nWhen the dear old friend who invited you asks you how many photos, you fudge and say, \"Oh...I don\'t know...20 or 30?\"  When you know damn well that you maybe took ten.  Oops!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nBut making the new friend was worth the artistic sacrifice.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAnd besides, when your dear old friend is a Photography Goddess, you know that her photos taken with her fancy-schmancy camera are going to turn out better than yours anyway.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?attachment_id=10796\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10796\"><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-10796\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/P7060021-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nBecause she can make something as mundane as a crappy old car look bloody fantastic!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?attachment_id=10798\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10798\"><img class=\"alignnone  wp-image-10798\" title=\"Michelle WDS-2\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/Michelle-WDS-2-1024x682.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"717\" height=\"477\" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n**********\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nHave you ever been on a photowalk?  Tell us all about it in the comments below!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n**********\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAll photos by yours truly except \"Bloody Fantastic Car\" and \"Michelle and Susie Yakking Away\" which were most obviously taken by Sam.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nA shout out and thank you to our fearless leader, organizer and fellow World Domination Summiteer, <a href=\"http://www.herviewphotography.com/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Darlene Hildebrandt.</strong> </a>\r\n\r\n</div>\r\n&amp;nbsp\'\r\n&amp;nbsp','Playdate #26:  Portland Photowalk  ','','inherit','open','open','','10787-revision-12','','','2012-07-20 20:46:56','2012-07-21 03:46:56','',10787,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2012/07/20/10787-revision-12/',0,'revision','',0),(10810,1,'2012-07-20 20:48:48','2012-07-21 03:48:48','[caption id=\"attachment_10789\" align=\"alignleft\" width=\"300\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?attachment_id=10789\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10789\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-10789 \" title=\"Portland Oregon Sign\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/P7060016-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a> Note to self: When playing photographer for the day, remember minor details such as including the reindeer\'s entire head and antlers in the photo. The For Lease sign is probably not as important. :-p[/caption]\r\n\r\nUp until a couple of weeks ago, I had never been on a photowalk.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nUp until a couple of weeks ago, I had never even heard of a <a href=\"http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Photowalking\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>photowalk.  </strong></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nUntil my friend Sam, who is a <strong><a href=\"http://samfrancisco.me/\" target=\"_blank\">Photography Goddess</a>,</strong> invited me to one held in Portland\'s Chinatown prior to the <a href=\"http://worlddominationsummit.com/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>World Domination Summit</strong></a><strong><a href=\"http://worlddominationsummit.com/\" target=\"_blank\">.</a>    </strong>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI didn\'t need to be a real photographer or own a fancy-schmancy camera à la Sam.  Point-and-shooters were welcome!  Yay!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nHere\'s what I learned:\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nPhotowalks are fun.  While strolling through an area such as Chinatown, you take a few photos when things that are important to you strike your fancy.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<img class=\"size-medium wp-image-10792 alignnone\" style=\"border-style: initial; border-color: initial; cursor: default; border-width: 0px;\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/P7060007-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-10791 alignnone\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/P7060015-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" />\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n<div></div>\r\n<div><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?attachment_id=10793\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10793\"><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-10793\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/P7060008-225x300.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"225\" height=\"300\" /></a></div>\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?attachment_id=10795\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10795\"><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-10795\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/P7060019-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nYou make new friends and you talk.  A lot.  And completely lose track of time.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?attachment_id=10797\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10797\"><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-10797\" title=\"Michelle WDS-1\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/Michelle-WDS-1-300x200.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"200\" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nWhen the dear old friend who invited you asks you how many photos, you fudge and say, \"Oh...I don\'t know...20 or 30?\"  When you know damn well that you maybe took ten.  Oops!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nBut making the new friend was worth the artistic sacrifice.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAnd besides, when your dear old friend is a Photography Goddess, you know that her photos taken with her fancy-schmancy camera are going to turn out better than yours anyway.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?attachment_id=10796\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10796\"><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-10796\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/P7060021-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nBecause she can make something as mundane as a crappy old car look bloody fantastic!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?attachment_id=10798\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10798\"><img class=\"alignnone  wp-image-10798\" title=\"Michelle WDS-2\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/Michelle-WDS-2-1024x682.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"717\" height=\"477\" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n**********\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nHave you ever been on a photowalk?  Tell us all about it in the comments below!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n**********\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAll photos by yours truly except \"Bloody Fantastic Car\" and \"Michelle and Susie Yakking Away\" which were most obviously taken by Sam.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nA shout out and thank you to our fearless leader, organizer and fellow World Domination Summiteer, <a href=\"http://www.herviewphotography.com/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Darlene Hildebrandt.</strong></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n</div>\r\n&nbsp;','Playdate #26:  Portland Photowalk  ','','inherit','open','open','','10787-revision-15','','','2012-07-20 20:48:48','2012-07-21 03:48:48','',10787,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2012/07/20/10787-revision-15/',0,'revision','',0),(10808,1,'2012-07-20 20:47:39','2012-07-21 03:47:39','[caption id=\"attachment_10789\" align=\"alignleft\" width=\"300\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?attachment_id=10789\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10789\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-10789 \" title=\"Portland Oregon Sign\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/P7060016-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a> Note to self: When playing photographer for the day, remember minor details such as including the reindeer\'s entire head and antlers in the photo. The For Lease sign is probably not as important. :-p[/caption]\r\n\r\nUp until a couple of weeks ago, I had never been on a photowalk.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nUp until a couple of weeks ago, I had never even heard of a <a href=\"http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Photowalking\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>photowalk.  </strong></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nUntil my friend Sam, who is a <strong><a href=\"http://samfrancisco.me/\" target=\"_blank\">Photography Goddess</a>,</strong> invited me to one held in Portland\'s Chinatown prior to the <a href=\"http://worlddominationsummit.com/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>World Domination Summit</strong></a><strong><a href=\"http://worlddominationsummit.com/\" target=\"_blank\">.</a>    </strong>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI didn\'t need to be a real photographer or own a fancy-schmancy camera à la Sam.  Point-and-shooters were welcome!  Yay!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nHere\'s what I learned:\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nPhotowalks are fun.  While strolling through an area such as Chinatown, you take a few photos when things that are important to you strike your fancy.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<img class=\"size-medium wp-image-10792 alignnone\" style=\"border-style: initial; border-color: initial; cursor: default; border-width: 0px;\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/P7060007-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-10791 alignnone\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/P7060015-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" />\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n<div></div>\r\n<div><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?attachment_id=10793\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10793\"><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-10793\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/P7060008-225x300.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"225\" height=\"300\" /></a></div>\r\n<div></div>\r\n<div></div>\r\n<div></div>\r\n<div></div>\r\n<div></div>\r\n<div>\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?attachment_id=10795\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10795\"><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-10795\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/P7060019-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nYou make new friends and you talk.  A lot.  And completely lose track of time.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?attachment_id=10797\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10797\"><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-10797\" title=\"Michelle WDS-1\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/Michelle-WDS-1-300x200.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"200\" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nWhen the dear old friend who invited you asks you how many photos, you fudge and say, \"Oh...I don\'t know...20 or 30?\"  When you know damn well that you maybe took ten.  Oops!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nBut making the new friend was worth the artistic sacrifice.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAnd besides, when your dear old friend is a Photography Goddess, you know that her photos taken with her fancy-schmancy camera are going to turn out better than yours anyway.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?attachment_id=10796\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10796\"><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-10796\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/P7060021-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nBecause she can make something as mundane as a crappy old car look bloody fantastic!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?attachment_id=10798\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10798\"><img class=\"alignnone  wp-image-10798\" title=\"Michelle WDS-2\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/Michelle-WDS-2-1024x682.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"717\" height=\"477\" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n**********\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nHave you ever been on a photowalk?  Tell us all about it in the comments below!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n**********\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAll photos by yours truly except \"Bloody Fantastic Car\" and \"Michelle and Susie Yakking Away\" which were most obviously taken by Sam.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nA shout out and thank you to our fearless leader, organizer and fellow World Domination Summiteer, <a href=\"http://www.herviewphotography.com/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Darlene Hildebrandt.</strong></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n</div>\r\n&nbsp;','Playdate #26:  Portland Photowalk  ','','inherit','open','open','','10787-revision-13','','','2012-07-20 20:47:39','2012-07-21 03:47:39','',10787,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2012/07/20/10787-revision-13/',0,'revision','',0),(10809,1,'2012-07-20 20:47:50','2012-07-21 03:47:50','[caption id=\"attachment_10789\" align=\"alignleft\" width=\"300\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?attachment_id=10789\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10789\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-10789 \" title=\"Portland Oregon Sign\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/P7060016-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a> Note to self: When playing photographer for the day, remember minor details such as including the reindeer\'s entire head and antlers in the photo. The For Lease sign is probably not as important. :-p[/caption]\r\n\r\nUp until a couple of weeks ago, I had never been on a photowalk.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nUp until a couple of weeks ago, I had never even heard of a <a href=\"http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Photowalking\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>photowalk.  </strong></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nUntil my friend Sam, who is a <strong><a href=\"http://samfrancisco.me/\" target=\"_blank\">Photography Goddess</a>,</strong> invited me to one held in Portland\'s Chinatown prior to the <a href=\"http://worlddominationsummit.com/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>World Domination Summit</strong></a><strong><a href=\"http://worlddominationsummit.com/\" target=\"_blank\">.</a>    </strong>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI didn\'t need to be a real photographer or own a fancy-schmancy camera à la Sam.  Point-and-shooters were welcome!  Yay!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nHere\'s what I learned:\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nPhotowalks are fun.  While strolling through an area such as Chinatown, you take a few photos when things that are important to you strike your fancy.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<img class=\"size-medium wp-image-10792 alignnone\" style=\"border-style: initial; border-color: initial; cursor: default; border-width: 0px;\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/P7060007-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-10791 alignnone\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/P7060015-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" />\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n<div></div>\r\n<div><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?attachment_id=10793\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10793\"><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-10793\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/P7060008-225x300.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"225\" height=\"300\" /></a></div>\r\n<div></div>\r\n<div></div>\r\n<div></div>\r\n<div></div>\r\n<div></div>\r\n<div>\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?attachment_id=10795\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10795\"><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-10795\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/P7060019-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nYou make new friends and you talk.  A lot.  And completely lose track of time.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?attachment_id=10797\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10797\"><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-10797\" title=\"Michelle WDS-1\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/Michelle-WDS-1-300x200.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"200\" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nWhen the dear old friend who invited you asks you how many photos, you fudge and say, \"Oh...I don\'t know...20 or 30?\"  When you know damn well that you maybe took ten.  Oops!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nBut making the new friend was worth the artistic sacrifice.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAnd besides, when your dear old friend is a Photography Goddess, you know that her photos taken with her fancy-schmancy camera are going to turn out better than yours anyway.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?attachment_id=10796\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10796\"><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-10796\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/P7060021-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nBecause she can make something as mundane as a crappy old car look bloody fantastic!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?attachment_id=10798\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10798\"><img class=\"alignnone  wp-image-10798\" title=\"Michelle WDS-2\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/Michelle-WDS-2-1024x682.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"717\" height=\"477\" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n**********\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nHave you ever been on a photowalk?  Tell us all about it in the comments below!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n**********\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAll photos by yours truly except \"Bloody Fantastic Car\" and \"Michelle and Susie Yakking Away\" which were most obviously taken by Sam.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nA shout out and thank you to our fearless leader, organizer and fellow World Domination Summiteer, <a href=\"http://www.herviewphotography.com/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Darlene Hildebrandt.</strong></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n</div>\r\n&nbsp;','Playdate #26:  Portland Photowalk  ','','inherit','open','open','','10787-revision-14','','','2012-07-20 20:47:50','2012-07-21 03:47:50','',10787,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2012/07/20/10787-revision-14/',0,'revision','',0),(10813,1,'2012-07-20 20:51:45','2012-07-21 03:51:45','[caption id=\"attachment_10789\" align=\"alignleft\" width=\"300\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?attachment_id=10789\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10789\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-10789 \" title=\"Portland Oregon Sign\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/P7060016-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a> Note to self: When playing photographer for the day, remember minor details such as including the reindeer\'s entire head and antlers in the photo. The For Lease sign is probably not as important. :-p[/caption]\r\n\r\nUp until a couple of weeks ago, I had never been on a photowalk.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nUp until a couple of weeks ago, I had never even heard of a <a href=\"http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Photowalking\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>photowalk.  </strong></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nUntil my friend Sam, who is a <strong><a href=\"http://samfrancisco.me/\" target=\"_blank\">Photography Goddess</a>,</strong> invited me to one held in Portland\'s Chinatown prior to the <a href=\"http://worlddominationsummit.com/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>World Domination Summit</strong></a><strong><a href=\"http://worlddominationsummit.com/\" target=\"_blank\">.</a>    </strong>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI didn\'t need to be a real photographer or own a fancy-schmancy camera à la Sam.  Point-and-shooters were welcome!  Yay!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nHere\'s what I learned:\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nPhotowalks are fun.  While strolling through an area such as Chinatown, you take a few photos when things that are important to you strike your fancy.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<img class=\"size-medium wp-image-10792 alignnone\" style=\"border-style: initial; border-color: initial; cursor: default; border-width: 0px;\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/P7060007-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-10791 alignnone\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/P7060015-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" />\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n<div></div>\r\n<div><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?attachment_id=10793\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10793\"><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-10793\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/P7060008-225x300.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"225\" height=\"300\" /></a></div>\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?attachment_id=10795\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10795\"><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-10795\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/P7060019-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nYou make new friends and you talk.  A lot.  And completely lose track of time.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?attachment_id=10797\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10797\"><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-10797\" title=\"Michelle WDS-1\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/Michelle-WDS-1-300x200.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"200\" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nWhen the dear old friend who invited you asks you how many photos, you fudge and say, \"Oh...I don\'t know...20 or 30?\"  When you know damn well that you maybe took ten.  Oops!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nBut making the new friend was worth the artistic sacrifice.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAnd besides, when your dear old friend is a Photography Goddess, you know that her photos taken with her fancy-schmancy camera are going to turn out better than yours anyway.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?attachment_id=10796\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10796\"><img class=\"alignnone  wp-image-10796\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/P7060021-1024x768.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"717\" height=\"538\" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nBecause she can make something as mundane as a crappy old car look bloody fantastic!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?attachment_id=10798\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10798\"><img class=\"alignnone  wp-image-10798\" title=\"Michelle WDS-2\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/Michelle-WDS-2-1024x682.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"502\" height=\"334\" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n**********\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nHave you ever been on a photowalk?  Tell us all about it in the comments below!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n**********\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAll photos by yours truly except \"Bloody Fantastic Car\" and \"Michelle and Susie Yakking Away\" which were most obviously taken by Sam.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nA shout out and thank you to our fearless leader, organizer and fellow World Domination Summiteer, <a href=\"http://www.herviewphotography.com/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Darlene Hildebrandt.</strong></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;','Playdate #26:  Portland Photowalk  ','','inherit','open','open','','10787-revision-18','','','2012-07-20 20:51:45','2012-07-21 03:51:45','',10787,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2012/07/20/10787-revision-18/',0,'revision','',0),(10811,1,'2012-07-20 20:50:19','2012-07-21 03:50:19','[caption id=\"attachment_10789\" align=\"alignleft\" width=\"300\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?attachment_id=10789\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10789\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-10789 \" title=\"Portland Oregon Sign\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/P7060016-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a> Note to self: When playing photographer for the day, remember minor details such as including the reindeer\'s entire head and antlers in the photo. The For Lease sign is probably not as important. :-p[/caption]\r\n\r\nUp until a couple of weeks ago, I had never been on a photowalk.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nUp until a couple of weeks ago, I had never even heard of a <a href=\"http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Photowalking\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>photowalk.  </strong></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nUntil my friend Sam, who is a <strong><a href=\"http://samfrancisco.me/\" target=\"_blank\">Photography Goddess</a>,</strong> invited me to one held in Portland\'s Chinatown prior to the <a href=\"http://worlddominationsummit.com/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>World Domination Summit</strong></a><strong><a href=\"http://worlddominationsummit.com/\" target=\"_blank\">.</a>    </strong>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI didn\'t need to be a real photographer or own a fancy-schmancy camera à la Sam.  Point-and-shooters were welcome!  Yay!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nHere\'s what I learned:\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nPhotowalks are fun.  While strolling through an area such as Chinatown, you take a few photos when things that are important to you strike your fancy.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<img class=\"size-medium wp-image-10792 alignnone\" style=\"border-style: initial; border-color: initial; cursor: default; border-width: 0px;\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/P7060007-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-10791 alignnone\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/P7060015-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" />\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n<div></div>\r\n<div><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?attachment_id=10793\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10793\"><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-10793\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/P7060008-225x300.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"225\" height=\"300\" /></a></div>\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?attachment_id=10795\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10795\"><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-10795\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/P7060019-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nYou make new friends and you talk.  A lot.  And completely lose track of time.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?attachment_id=10797\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10797\"><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-10797\" title=\"Michelle WDS-1\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/Michelle-WDS-1-300x200.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"200\" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nWhen the dear old friend who invited you asks you how many photos, you fudge and say, \"Oh...I don\'t know...20 or 30?\"  When you know damn well that you maybe took ten.  Oops!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nBut making the new friend was worth the artistic sacrifice.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAnd besides, when your dear old friend is a Photography Goddess, you know that her photos taken with her fancy-schmancy camera are going to turn out better than yours anyway.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?attachment_id=10796\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10796\"><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-10796\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/P7060021-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nBecause she can make something as mundane as a crappy old car look bloody fantastic!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?attachment_id=10798\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10798\"><img class=\"alignnone  wp-image-10798\" title=\"Michelle WDS-2\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/Michelle-WDS-2-1024x682.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"502\" height=\"334\" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n**********\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nHave you ever been on a photowalk?  Tell us all about it in the comments below!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n**********\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAll photos by yours truly except \"Bloody Fantastic Car\" and \"Michelle and Susie Yakking Away\" which were most obviously taken by Sam.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nA shout out and thank you to our fearless leader, organizer and fellow World Domination Summiteer, <a href=\"http://www.herviewphotography.com/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Darlene Hildebrandt.</strong></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;','Playdate #26:  Portland Photowalk  ','','inherit','open','open','','10787-revision-16','','','2012-07-20 20:50:19','2012-07-21 03:50:19','',10787,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2012/07/20/10787-revision-16/',0,'revision','',0),(10812,1,'2012-07-20 20:50:27','2012-07-21 03:50:27','[caption id=\"attachment_10789\" align=\"alignleft\" width=\"300\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?attachment_id=10789\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10789\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-10789 \" title=\"Portland Oregon Sign\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/P7060016-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a> Note to self: When playing photographer for the day, remember minor details such as including the reindeer\'s entire head and antlers in the photo. The For Lease sign is probably not as important. :-p[/caption]\r\n\r\nUp until a couple of weeks ago, I had never been on a photowalk.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nUp until a couple of weeks ago, I had never even heard of a <a href=\"http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Photowalking\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>photowalk.  </strong></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nUntil my friend Sam, who is a <strong><a href=\"http://samfrancisco.me/\" target=\"_blank\">Photography Goddess</a>,</strong> invited me to one held in Portland\'s Chinatown prior to the <a href=\"http://worlddominationsummit.com/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>World Domination Summit</strong></a><strong><a href=\"http://worlddominationsummit.com/\" target=\"_blank\">.</a>    </strong>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI didn\'t need to be a real photographer or own a fancy-schmancy camera à la Sam.  Point-and-shooters were welcome!  Yay!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nHere\'s what I learned:\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nPhotowalks are fun.  While strolling through an area such as Chinatown, you take a few photos when things that are important to you strike your fancy.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<img class=\"size-medium wp-image-10792 alignnone\" style=\"border-style: initial; border-color: initial; cursor: default; border-width: 0px;\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/P7060007-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-10791 alignnone\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/P7060015-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" />\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n<div></div>\r\n<div><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?attachment_id=10793\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10793\"><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-10793\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/P7060008-225x300.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"225\" height=\"300\" /></a></div>\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?attachment_id=10795\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10795\"><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-10795\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/P7060019-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nYou make new friends and you talk.  A lot.  And completely lose track of time.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?attachment_id=10797\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10797\"><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-10797\" title=\"Michelle WDS-1\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/Michelle-WDS-1-300x200.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"200\" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nWhen the dear old friend who invited you asks you how many photos, you fudge and say, \"Oh...I don\'t know...20 or 30?\"  When you know damn well that you maybe took ten.  Oops!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nBut making the new friend was worth the artistic sacrifice.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAnd besides, when your dear old friend is a Photography Goddess, you know that her photos taken with her fancy-schmancy camera are going to turn out better than yours anyway.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?attachment_id=10796\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10796\"><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-10796\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/P7060021-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nBecause she can make something as mundane as a crappy old car look bloody fantastic!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?attachment_id=10798\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10798\"><img class=\"alignnone  wp-image-10798\" title=\"Michelle WDS-2\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/Michelle-WDS-2-1024x682.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"502\" height=\"334\" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n**********\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nHave you ever been on a photowalk?  Tell us all about it in the comments below!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n**********\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAll photos by yours truly except \"Bloody Fantastic Car\" and \"Michelle and Susie Yakking Away\" which were most obviously taken by Sam.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nA shout out and thank you to our fearless leader, organizer and fellow World Domination Summiteer, <a href=\"http://www.herviewphotography.com/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Darlene Hildebrandt.</strong></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;','Playdate #26:  Portland Photowalk  ','','inherit','open','open','','10787-revision-17','','','2012-07-20 20:50:27','2012-07-21 03:50:27','',10787,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2012/07/20/10787-revision-17/',0,'revision','',0),(10814,1,'2012-07-20 20:51:51','2012-07-21 03:51:51','[caption id=\"attachment_10789\" align=\"alignleft\" width=\"300\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?attachment_id=10789\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10789\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-10789 \" title=\"Portland Oregon Sign\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/P7060016-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a> Note to self: When playing photographer for the day, remember minor details such as including the reindeer\'s entire head and antlers in the photo. The For Lease sign is probably not as important. :-p[/caption]\r\n\r\nUp until a couple of weeks ago, I had never been on a photowalk.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nUp until a couple of weeks ago, I had never even heard of a <a href=\"http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Photowalking\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>photowalk.  </strong></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nUntil my friend Sam, who is a <strong><a href=\"http://samfrancisco.me/\" target=\"_blank\">Photography Goddess</a>,</strong> invited me to one held in Portland\'s Chinatown prior to the <a href=\"http://worlddominationsummit.com/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>World Domination Summit</strong></a><strong><a href=\"http://worlddominationsummit.com/\" target=\"_blank\">.</a>    </strong>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI didn\'t need to be a real photographer or own a fancy-schmancy camera à la Sam.  Point-and-shooters were welcome!  Yay!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nHere\'s what I learned:\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nPhotowalks are fun.  While strolling through an area such as Chinatown, you take a few photos when things that are important to you strike your fancy.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<img class=\"size-medium wp-image-10792 alignnone\" style=\"border-style: initial; border-color: initial; cursor: default; border-width: 0px;\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/P7060007-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-10791 alignnone\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/P7060015-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" />\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n<div></div>\r\n<div><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?attachment_id=10793\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10793\"><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-10793\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/P7060008-225x300.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"225\" height=\"300\" /></a></div>\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?attachment_id=10795\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10795\"><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-10795\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/P7060019-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nYou make new friends and you talk.  A lot.  And completely lose track of time.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?attachment_id=10797\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10797\"><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-10797\" title=\"Michelle WDS-1\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/Michelle-WDS-1-300x200.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"200\" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nWhen the dear old friend who invited you asks you how many photos, you fudge and say, \"Oh...I don\'t know...20 or 30?\"  When you know damn well that you maybe took ten.  Oops!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nBut making the new friend was worth the artistic sacrifice.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAnd besides, when your dear old friend is a Photography Goddess, you know that her photos taken with her fancy-schmancy camera are going to turn out better than yours anyway.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?attachment_id=10796\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10796\"><img class=\"alignnone  wp-image-10796\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/P7060021-1024x768.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"717\" height=\"538\" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nBecause she can make something as mundane as a crappy old car look bloody fantastic!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?attachment_id=10798\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10798\"><img class=\"alignnone  wp-image-10798\" title=\"Michelle WDS-2\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/Michelle-WDS-2-1024x682.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"502\" height=\"334\" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n**********\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nHave you ever been on a photowalk?  Tell us all about it in the comments below!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n**********\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAll photos by yours truly except \"Bloody Fantastic Car\" and \"Michelle and Susie Yakking Away\" which were most obviously taken by Sam.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nA shout out and thank you to our fearless leader, organizer and fellow World Domination Summiteer, <a href=\"http://www.herviewphotography.com/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Darlene Hildebrandt.</strong></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;','Playdate #26:  Portland Photowalk  ','','inherit','open','open','','10787-revision-19','','','2012-07-20 20:51:51','2012-07-21 03:51:51','',10787,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2012/07/20/10787-revision-19/',0,'revision','',0),(10815,1,'2012-07-20 20:52:59','2012-07-21 03:52:59','[caption id=\"attachment_10789\" align=\"alignleft\" width=\"300\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?attachment_id=10789\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10789\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-10789 \" title=\"Portland Oregon Sign\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/P7060016-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a> Note to self: When playing photographer for the day, remember minor details such as including the reindeer\'s entire head and antlers in the photo. The For Lease sign is probably not as important. :-p[/caption]\r\n\r\nUp until a couple of weeks ago, I had never been on a photowalk.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nUp until a couple of weeks ago, I had never even heard of a <a href=\"http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Photowalking\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>photowalk.  </strong></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nUntil my friend Sam, who is a <strong><a href=\"http://samfrancisco.me/\" target=\"_blank\">Photography Goddess</a>,</strong> invited me to one held in Portland\'s Chinatown prior to the <a href=\"http://worlddominationsummit.com/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>World Domination Summit</strong></a><strong><a href=\"http://worlddominationsummit.com/\" target=\"_blank\">.</a>    </strong>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI didn\'t need to be a real photographer or own a fancy-schmancy camera à la Sam.  Point-and-shooters were welcome!  Yay!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nHere\'s what I learned:\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nPhotowalks are fun.  While strolling through an area such as Chinatown, you take a few photos when things that are important to you strike your fancy.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<img class=\"size-medium wp-image-10792 alignnone\" style=\"border-style: initial; border-color: initial; cursor: default; border-width: 0px;\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/P7060007-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-10791 alignnone\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/P7060015-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" />\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n<div></div>\r\n<div><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?attachment_id=10793\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10793\"><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-10793\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/P7060008-225x300.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"225\" height=\"300\" /></a></div>\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?attachment_id=10795\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10795\"><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-10795\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/P7060019-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nYou make new friends and you talk.  A lot.  And completely lose track of time.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?attachment_id=10797\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10797\"><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-10797\" title=\"Michelle WDS-1\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/Michelle-WDS-1-300x200.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"200\" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nWhen the dear old friend who invited you asks you how many photos, you fudge and say, \"Oh...I don\'t know...20 or 30?\"  When you know damn well that you maybe took ten.  Oops!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nBut making the new friend was worth the artistic sacrifice.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAnd besides, when your dear old friend is a Photography Goddess, you know that her photos taken with her fancy-schmancy camera are going to turn out better than yours anyway.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?attachment_id=10796\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10796\"><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-10796\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/P7060021-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nBecause she can make something as mundane as a crappy old car look bloody fantastic!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?attachment_id=10798\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-10798\"><img class=\"alignnone  wp-image-10798\" title=\"Michelle WDS-2\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/Michelle-WDS-2-1024x682.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"502\" height=\"334\" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n**********\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nHave you ever been on a photowalk?  Tell us all about it in the comments below!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n**********\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAll photos by yours truly except \"Bloody Fantastic Car\" and \"Michelle and Susie Yakking Away\" which were most obviously taken by Sam.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nA shout out and thank you to our fearless leader, organizer and fellow World Domination Summiteer, <a href=\"http://www.herviewphotography.com/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Darlene Hildebrandt.</strong></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;','Playdate #26:  Portland Photowalk  ','','inherit','open','open','','10787-revision-20','','','2012-07-20 20:52:59','2012-07-21 03:52:59','',10787,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2012/07/20/10787-revision-20/',0,'revision','',0);
