INSERT INTO `wp_posts` VALUES (6382,1,'2011-07-04 11:49:25','2011-07-04 18:49:25','I love it when, at 41, I hear of something off-beat that I\'ve never heard of before.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nWhen Sarah told me about the Goldfish Races at <strong><a href=\"http://www.arcadiatavern.com/\" target=\"_blank\">Arcadia Tavern</a></strong> on Thursday nights, I knew that I had to try it.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI showed up not knowing what to expect, except for the Sweet Potato Tater Tots that Sarah had built up to great culinary heights previously.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_6360\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"300\" caption=\"They were everything Sarah said they would be and more!\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300032.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-6360\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300032-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAt 9:30, they announced that the Goldfish Races would soon begin.  We were asked to choose a cup with a Goldfish and name it.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nSarah and Tim named their fish in a heartbeat:  Hermes and Mark Spitz, respectively.  (Although there was initial confusion with the MC who was born in 1984 (I asked) and wrote \"Mark Spence\".)\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI took a good ten minutes to come up with best possible name for my fishie.  I finally decided on Fifi LeRue.  (Or Fee Fee La Roux to Mr. 1984.  Hey -- I was impressed that he knew \"roux\".  But then again, he does work in the culinary industry.)\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300033.jpg\"><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-6362\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300033-225x300.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"225\" height=\"300\" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nIn our first heat, Fifi/Fee Fee and I were competing against the rocket scientist/Beavis and Butthead aficionado named Master Baiter.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nNo, he is not a 7th grader.  Take a look.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300042.jpg\"><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-6363\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300042-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAnd the winner is...\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_6364\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"300\" caption=\"Sis, make sure to hide this one from World&#39;s Most Precious Niece &amp; Nephew.  Yet another rocket scientist in the heat above me.\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300045.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-6364\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300045-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nSarah and Hermes won their first heat as well!  Unfortunately, Tim and Mark Spence/Spitz didn\'t advance.  Mark Spence/Spitz turned out to be a feisty little fish who had big dreams of being a salmon and swam upstream.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300047.jpg\"><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-6377\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300047-225x300.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"225\" height=\"300\" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nMark Spence/Spitz continued to rebel by JUMPING OUT OF HIS CUP at the table later on that night!!!!  Was it acrobatics or a suicide attempt to escape the race scene on Thursday nights?  We will never know.  Fortunately, Tim and Mr. 1984 rescued him in time.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nOn to the second heat...\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300048.jpg\"><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-6367\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300048-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAnd the third...\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300057.jpg\"><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-6368\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300057-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAnd the winner is...\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300060.jpg\"><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-6370\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300060-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_6371\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"225\" caption=\"Everyone&#39;s been asking about the big band aid.  I burned myself on the barbecue.  :-(  \"]<img class=\"size-medium wp-image-6371\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300052-225x300.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"225\" height=\"300\" />[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nWell, well, well...Look who\'s competing against one another in the finals?\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300061.jpg\"><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-6372\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300061-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nLet me share what happened just before the race.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nSarah and I and our fishies had been competing on the same side of the \"track\" in our previous heats.  I naturally walked to this side for the final heat.  Sarah, in touch with her inner 5 year-old, shouted, \"I call this side!\"  Me, in touch with my inner two year-old, dumped Fifi/Fee Fee from her cup into the starting \"gate\" on the coveted \"side\" before Sarah arrived in her place.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAs if THAT isn\'t appalling enough...\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nBefore every heat, I looked my opponent in the eye and wished them good luck.  (Master Baiter is the only one who ignored me, by the way.  What a shocker.  All of the other contestants looked surprised, smiled, and returned the well wishes.)\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI can\'t say for certain, because my memory is spotty from the final heat nerves (now I know how Olympians feel), but I think that I may have forgotten to wish Sarah good luck.  One of my closest friends.  Isn\'t that special?\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nTeam Sarah/Hermes and Team Michelle/Fifi/Fee Fee swam <del>neck and neck</del> gill and gill until the very end when I got water in my eye and completely lost track of Fifi/Fee Fee.  Was it Sarah\'s inner 5 year-old shooting water in my eye or my excited inner two year-old blowing way too many bubbles?  We will never know.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAnd the winner is...\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_6373\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"300\" caption=\"Sarah and Hermes!\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300062.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-6373\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300062-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_6374\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"225\" caption=\"Sarah won a beach chair, and I won a $15 gift certificate to the tavern!\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300068.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-6374\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300068-225x300.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"225\" height=\"300\" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nA whale of a congratulations to Sarah and Hermes!  Sarah, my inner two year-old apologizes for her atrocious manners pre-finals.  You deserved to win.  :-D\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nFifi/Fee Fee, I never dreamed that we would make it so far.  Thanks for being the greatest fishie that a girl could ask for.  I will miss you.  Sniff, sniff.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_6375\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"300\" caption=\"Heart of a Champion\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300067.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-6375 \" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300067-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n*****\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI bet you\'re wondering what happens to these fishies post-race.  Often during these bloggy adventures, I fancy myself a reporter and pepper standers-by with questions.  On this night, Mr. 1984 was my <del>victim</del> interviewee.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nMr. 1984 explained that the fishies return to the tank after their night of frolic.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nCutting to the chase, I immediately asked about the weekly death count.  Surprisingly, there are only a couple of casualties a week.  Although there was that one week when someone forgot to clean the tank and ALL of the fishies were doing the dead fish float when he arrived at work.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nMy next question was obvious:  Do they have a proper fishie burial out back?  (The tavern does have a nice-sized patio.)\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nNah.  The fishies are flushed down the toilet.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI made a sad face.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nMr. 1984 quickly recovered by explaining that he often buries the fishies in the potted plants as fertilizer.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI made a happy face.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nThe End.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;','Day 277:  Off to the Goldfish Races','','inherit','open','open','','6358-revision-10','','','2011-07-04 11:49:25','2011-07-04 18:49:25','',6358,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2011/07/04/6358-revision-10/',0,'revision','',0),(6383,1,'2011-07-04 11:50:17','2011-07-04 18:50:17','I love it when, at 41, I hear of something off-beat that I\'ve never heard of before.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nWhen Sarah told me about the Goldfish Races at <strong><a href=\"http://www.arcadiatavern.com/\" target=\"_blank\">Arcadia Tavern</a></strong> on Thursday nights, I knew that I had to try it.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI showed up not knowing what to expect, except for the Sweet Potato Tater Tots that Sarah had previously built up to great culinary heights.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_6360\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"300\" caption=\"They were everything Sarah said they would be and more!\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300032.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-6360\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300032-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAt 9:30, they announced that the Goldfish Races would soon begin.  We were asked to choose a cup with a Goldfish and name it.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nSarah and Tim named their fish in a heartbeat:  Hermes and Mark Spitz, respectively.  (Although there was initial confusion with the MC who was born in 1984 (I asked) and wrote \"Mark Spence\".)\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI took a good ten minutes to come up with best possible name for my fishie.  I finally decided on Fifi LeRue.  (Or Fee Fee La Roux to Mr. 1984.  Hey -- I was impressed that he knew \"roux\".  But then again, he does work in the culinary industry.)\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300033.jpg\"><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-6362\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300033-225x300.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"225\" height=\"300\" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nIn our first heat, Fifi/Fee Fee and I were competing against the rocket scientist/Beavis and Butthead aficionado named Master Baiter.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nNo, he is not a 7th grader.  Take a look.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300042.jpg\"><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-6363\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300042-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAnd the winner is...\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_6364\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"300\" caption=\"Sis, make sure to hide this one from World&#39;s Most Precious Niece &amp; Nephew.  Yet another rocket scientist in the heat above me.\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300045.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-6364\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300045-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nSarah and Hermes won their first heat as well!  Unfortunately, Tim and Mark Spence/Spitz didn\'t advance.  Mark Spence/Spitz turned out to be a feisty little fish who had big dreams of being a salmon and swam upstream.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300047.jpg\"><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-6377\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300047-225x300.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"225\" height=\"300\" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nMark Spence/Spitz continued to rebel by JUMPING OUT OF HIS CUP at the table later on that night!!!!  Was it acrobatics or a suicide attempt to escape the race scene on Thursday nights?  We will never know.  Fortunately, Tim and Mr. 1984 rescued him in time.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nOn to the second heat...\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300048.jpg\"><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-6367\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300048-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAnd the third...\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300057.jpg\"><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-6368\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300057-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAnd the winner is...\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300060.jpg\"><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-6370\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300060-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_6371\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"225\" caption=\"Everyone&#39;s been asking about the big band aid.  I burned myself on the barbecue.  :-(  \"]<img class=\"size-medium wp-image-6371\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300052-225x300.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"225\" height=\"300\" />[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nWell, well, well...Look who\'s competing against one another in the finals?\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300061.jpg\"><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-6372\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300061-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nLet me share what happened just before the race.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nSarah and I and our fishies had been competing on the same side of the \"track\" in our previous heats.  I naturally walked to this side for the final heat.  Sarah, in touch with her inner 5 year-old, shouted, \"I call this side!\"  Me, in touch with my inner two year-old, dumped Fifi/Fee Fee from her cup into the starting \"gate\" on the coveted \"side\" before Sarah arrived in her place.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAs if THAT isn\'t appalling enough...\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nBefore every heat, I looked my opponent in the eye and wished them good luck.  (Master Baiter is the only one who ignored me, by the way.  What a shocker.  All of the other contestants looked surprised, smiled, and returned the well wishes.)\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI can\'t say for certain, because my memory is spotty from the final heat nerves (now I know how Olympians feel), but I think that I may have forgotten to wish Sarah good luck.  One of my closest friends.  Isn\'t that special?\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nTeam Sarah/Hermes and Team Michelle/Fifi/Fee Fee swam <del>neck and neck</del> gill and gill until the very end when I got water in my eye and completely lost track of Fifi/Fee Fee.  Was it Sarah\'s inner 5 year-old shooting water in my eye or my excited inner two year-old blowing way too many bubbles?  We will never know.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAnd the winner is...\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_6373\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"300\" caption=\"Sarah and Hermes!\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300062.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-6373\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300062-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_6374\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"225\" caption=\"Sarah won a beach chair, and I won a $15 gift certificate to the tavern!\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300068.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-6374\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300068-225x300.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"225\" height=\"300\" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nA whale of a congratulations to Sarah and Hermes!  Sarah, my inner two year-old apologizes for her atrocious manners pre-finals.  You deserved to win.  :-D\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nFifi/Fee Fee, I never dreamed that we would make it so far.  Thanks for being the greatest fishie that a girl could ask for.  I will miss you.  Sniff, sniff.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_6375\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"300\" caption=\"Heart of a Champion\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300067.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-6375 \" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300067-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n*****\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI bet you\'re wondering what happens to these fishies post-race.  Often during these bloggy adventures, I fancy myself a reporter and pepper standers-by with questions.  On this night, Mr. 1984 was my <del>victim</del> interviewee.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nMr. 1984 explained that the fishies return to the tank after their night of frolic.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nCutting to the chase, I immediately asked about the weekly death count.  Surprisingly, there are only a couple of casualties a week.  Although there was that one week when someone forgot to clean the tank and ALL of the fishies were doing the dead fish float when he arrived at work.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nMy next question was obvious:  Do they have a proper fishie burial out back?  (The tavern does have a nice-sized patio.)\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nNah.  The fishies are flushed down the toilet.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI made a sad face.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nMr. 1984 quickly recovered by explaining that he often buries the fishies in the potted plants as fertilizer.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI made a happy face.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nThe End.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;','Day 277:  Off to the Goldfish Races','','inherit','open','open','','6358-revision-11','','','2011-07-04 11:50:17','2011-07-04 18:50:17','',6358,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2011/07/04/6358-revision-11/',0,'revision','',0),(6384,1,'2011-07-04 12:07:40','2011-07-04 19:07:40','I love it when, at 41, I hear of something off-beat that I\'ve never heard of before.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nWhen Sarah told me about the Goldfish Races at <strong><a href=\"http://www.arcadiatavern.com/\" target=\"_blank\">Arcadia Tavern</a></strong> on Thursday nights, I knew that I had to try it.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nI showed up not knowing what to expect, except for the Sweet Potato Tater Tots that Sarah had previously built up to great culinary heights.\n\n&nbsp;\n\n[caption id=\"attachment_6360\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"300\" caption=\"They were everything Sarah said they would be and more!\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300032.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-6360\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300032-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>[/caption]\n\n&nbsp;\n\nAt 9:30, they announced that the Goldfish Races would soon begin.  We were asked to choose a cup with a goldfish and name it.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nSarah and Tim named their fish in a heartbeat:  Hermes and Mark Spitz, respectively.  [Although there was initial confusion with the MC who was born in 1984 (I asked) and wrote \"Mark Spence\".]\n\n&nbsp;\n\nI took a good ten minutes to come up with best possible name for my fishie.  I finally decided on Fifi Le Rue.  (Or Fee Fee La Roux to Mr. 1984.  Hey -- I was impressed that he knew \"roux\".  But then again, he does work in the culinary industry.)\n\n&nbsp;\n\n<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300033.jpg\"><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-6362\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300033-225x300.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"225\" height=\"300\" /></a>\n\n&nbsp;\n\nIn our first heat, Fifi/Fee Fee and I were competing against the rocket scientist/Beavis and Butthead aficionado named Master Baiter.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nNo, he is not a 7th grader.  Take a look.\n\n&nbsp;\n\n<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300042.jpg\"><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-6363\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300042-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>\n\n&nbsp;\n\nAnd the winner is...\n\n&nbsp;\n\n[caption id=\"attachment_6364\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"300\" caption=\"Sis, make sure to hide this one from World&#39;s Most Precious Niece &amp; Nephew.  Yet another intellectual giant in the heat above me.\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300045.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-6364 \" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300045-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>[/caption]\n\n&nbsp;\n\nSarah and Hermes won their first heat as well!  Unfortunately, Tim and Mark Spence/Spitz didn\'t advance.  Mark Spence/Spitz turned out to be a feisty little fish who had big dreams of being a salmon and swam upstream.\n\n&nbsp;\n\n<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300047.jpg\"><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-6377\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300047-225x300.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"225\" height=\"300\" /></a>\n\n&nbsp;\n\nMark Spence/Spitz continued to rebel by JUMPING OUT OF HIS CUP at the table later on that night!!!!  Was it acrobatics or a suicide attempt to escape the race scene on Thursday nights?  We will never know.  Fortunately, Tim and Mr. 1984 rescued him in time.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nOn to the second heat...\n\n&nbsp;\n\n<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300048.jpg\"><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-6367\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300048-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>\n\n&nbsp;\n\nAnd the third...\n\n&nbsp;\n\n<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300057.jpg\"><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-6368\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300057-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>\n\n&nbsp;\n\nAnd the winner is...\n\n&nbsp;\n\n<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300060.jpg\"><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-6370\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300060-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>\n\n&nbsp;\n\n[caption id=\"attachment_6371\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"225\" caption=\"Everyone&#39;s been asking about the big band aid.  I burned myself on the barbecue.  :-(  \"]<img class=\"size-medium wp-image-6371\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300052-225x300.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"225\" height=\"300\" />[/caption]\n\n&nbsp;\n\nWell, well, well...Look who\'s competing against one another in the finals?\n\n&nbsp;\n\n<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300061.jpg\"><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-6372\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300061-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>\n\n&nbsp;\n\nAllow me to share what happened just before the final heat.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nSarah and I and our fishies had been competing on the same side of the \"track\" in our previous heats.  I naturally walked to this side for the final heat.  Sarah, in touch with her inner 5 year-old, shouted, \"I call this side!\"  Me, in touch with my inner two year-old, dumped Fifi/Fee Fee from her cup into the starting \"gate\" on the coveted \"side\" before Sarah arrived in her place.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nAs if THAT isn\'t appalling enough...\n\n&nbsp;\n\nBefore every heat, I looked my opponent in the eye and wished them good luck.  (Master Baiter is the only one who ignored me, by the way.  What a shocker.  All of the other contestants looked surprised, smiled, and returned the well wishes.)\n\n&nbsp;\n\nI can\'t say for certain, because my memory is spotty from the final heat nerves (now I know how Olympians feel when they\'re competing for the gold), but I think that I may have forgotten to wish Sarah good luck.  That\'s right.  I failed to bestow good sportsmanship on one of my closest friends.  Isn\'t that special?\n\n&nbsp;\n\nTeam Sarah/Hermes and Team Michelle/Fifi/Fee Fee swam <del>neck and neck</del> gill and gill until the very end when I got water in my eye and completely lost track of Fifi/Fee Fee.  Was it Sarah\'s inner 5 year-old shooting water in my eye or my excited inner two year-old blowing way too many bubbles?  We will never know.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nAnd the winner is...\n\n&nbsp;\n\n[caption id=\"attachment_6373\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"300\" caption=\"Sarah and Hermes!\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300062.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-6373\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300062-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>[/caption]\n\n&nbsp;\n\n[caption id=\"attachment_6374\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"225\" caption=\"Sarah won a beach chair, and I won a $15 gift certificate to the tavern!\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300068.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-6374\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300068-225x300.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"225\" height=\"300\" /></a>[/caption]\n\n&nbsp;\n\nA whale of a congratulations to Sarah and Hermes!  Sarah, my inner two year-old apologizes to your inner five year-old for her atrocious manners pre-finals.  You deserved to win.  :-D\n\n&nbsp;\n\nFifi/Fee Fee, I never dreamed that we would make it so far.  Thanks for being the greatest fishie that a girl could ask for.  I will miss you.  Sniff, sniff.\n\n&nbsp;\n\n[caption id=\"attachment_6375\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"300\" caption=\"Heart of a Champion\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300067.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-6375 \" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300067-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>[/caption]\n\n&nbsp;\n\n*****\n\n&nbsp;\n\nI bet you\'re wondering what happens to these fishies post-race.  Often during these bloggy adventures, I fancy myself a reporter and pepper standers-by with questions.  On this night, Mr. 1984 was my <del>victim</del> interviewee.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nMr. 1984 explained that the fishies return to the tank after their night of frolic.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nCutting to the chase, I immediately asked about the death count.  Surprisingly, there are only a couple of casualties a week.  Although there was that one week when someone forgot to clean the tank and ALL of the fishies were doing the dead fish float when he arrived at work.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nMy next question was obvious:  Do they have a proper fishie burial out back?  (The tavern has a nice-sized patio.)\n\n&nbsp;\n\nNah.  The fishies are flushed down the toilet.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nI made a sad face.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nMr. 1984 quickly recovered by explaining that he often buries the fishies in the potted plants as fertilizer.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nI made a happy face.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nThe End.\n\n&nbsp;','Day 277:  Off to the Goldfish Races','','inherit','open','open','','6358-autosave','','','2011-07-04 12:07:40','2011-07-04 19:07:40','',6358,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2011/07/04/6358-autosave/',0,'revision','',0),(6385,1,'2011-07-04 11:50:54','2011-07-04 18:50:54','I love it when, at 41, I hear of something off-beat that I\'ve never heard of before.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nWhen Sarah told me about the Goldfish Races at <strong><a href=\"http://www.arcadiatavern.com/\" target=\"_blank\">Arcadia Tavern</a></strong> on Thursday nights, I knew that I had to try it.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI showed up not knowing what to expect, except for the Sweet Potato Tater Tots that Sarah had previously built up to great culinary heights.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_6360\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"300\" caption=\"They were everything Sarah said they would be and more!\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300032.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-6360\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300032-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAt 9:30, they announced that the Goldfish Races would soon begin.  We were asked to choose a cup with a goldfish and name it.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nSarah and Tim named their fish in a heartbeat:  Hermes and Mark Spitz, respectively.  (Although there was initial confusion with the MC who was born in 1984 (I asked) and wrote \"Mark Spence\".)\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI took a good ten minutes to come up with best possible name for my fishie.  I finally decided on Fifi LeRue.  (Or Fee Fee La Roux to Mr. 1984.  Hey -- I was impressed that he knew \"roux\".  But then again, he does work in the culinary industry.)\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300033.jpg\"><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-6362\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300033-225x300.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"225\" height=\"300\" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nIn our first heat, Fifi/Fee Fee and I were competing against the rocket scientist/Beavis and Butthead aficionado named Master Baiter.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nNo, he is not a 7th grader.  Take a look.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300042.jpg\"><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-6363\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300042-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAnd the winner is...\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_6364\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"300\" caption=\"Sis, make sure to hide this one from World&#39;s Most Precious Niece &amp; Nephew.  Yet another rocket scientist in the heat above me.\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300045.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-6364\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300045-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nSarah and Hermes won their first heat as well!  Unfortunately, Tim and Mark Spence/Spitz didn\'t advance.  Mark Spence/Spitz turned out to be a feisty little fish who had big dreams of being a salmon and swam upstream.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300047.jpg\"><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-6377\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300047-225x300.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"225\" height=\"300\" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nMark Spence/Spitz continued to rebel by JUMPING OUT OF HIS CUP at the table later on that night!!!!  Was it acrobatics or a suicide attempt to escape the race scene on Thursday nights?  We will never know.  Fortunately, Tim and Mr. 1984 rescued him in time.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nOn to the second heat...\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300048.jpg\"><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-6367\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300048-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAnd the third...\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300057.jpg\"><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-6368\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300057-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAnd the winner is...\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300060.jpg\"><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-6370\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300060-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_6371\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"225\" caption=\"Everyone&#39;s been asking about the big band aid.  I burned myself on the barbecue.  :-(  \"]<img class=\"size-medium wp-image-6371\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300052-225x300.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"225\" height=\"300\" />[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nWell, well, well...Look who\'s competing against one another in the finals?\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300061.jpg\"><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-6372\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300061-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nLet me share what happened just before the race.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nSarah and I and our fishies had been competing on the same side of the \"track\" in our previous heats.  I naturally walked to this side for the final heat.  Sarah, in touch with her inner 5 year-old, shouted, \"I call this side!\"  Me, in touch with my inner two year-old, dumped Fifi/Fee Fee from her cup into the starting \"gate\" on the coveted \"side\" before Sarah arrived in her place.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAs if THAT isn\'t appalling enough...\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nBefore every heat, I looked my opponent in the eye and wished them good luck.  (Master Baiter is the only one who ignored me, by the way.  What a shocker.  All of the other contestants looked surprised, smiled, and returned the well wishes.)\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI can\'t say for certain, because my memory is spotty from the final heat nerves (now I know how Olympians feel), but I think that I may have forgotten to wish Sarah good luck.  One of my closest friends.  Isn\'t that special?\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nTeam Sarah/Hermes and Team Michelle/Fifi/Fee Fee swam <del>neck and neck</del> gill and gill until the very end when I got water in my eye and completely lost track of Fifi/Fee Fee.  Was it Sarah\'s inner 5 year-old shooting water in my eye or my excited inner two year-old blowing way too many bubbles?  We will never know.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAnd the winner is...\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_6373\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"300\" caption=\"Sarah and Hermes!\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300062.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-6373\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300062-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_6374\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"225\" caption=\"Sarah won a beach chair, and I won a $15 gift certificate to the tavern!\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300068.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-6374\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300068-225x300.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"225\" height=\"300\" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nA whale of a congratulations to Sarah and Hermes!  Sarah, my inner two year-old apologizes for her atrocious manners pre-finals.  You deserved to win.  :-D\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nFifi/Fee Fee, I never dreamed that we would make it so far.  Thanks for being the greatest fishie that a girl could ask for.  I will miss you.  Sniff, sniff.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_6375\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"300\" caption=\"Heart of a Champion\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300067.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-6375 \" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300067-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n*****\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI bet you\'re wondering what happens to these fishies post-race.  Often during these bloggy adventures, I fancy myself a reporter and pepper standers-by with questions.  On this night, Mr. 1984 was my <del>victim</del> interviewee.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nMr. 1984 explained that the fishies return to the tank after their night of frolic.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nCutting to the chase, I immediately asked about the weekly death count.  Surprisingly, there are only a couple of casualties a week.  Although there was that one week when someone forgot to clean the tank and ALL of the fishies were doing the dead fish float when he arrived at work.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nMy next question was obvious:  Do they have a proper fishie burial out back?  (The tavern does have a nice-sized patio.)\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nNah.  The fishies are flushed down the toilet.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI made a sad face.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nMr. 1984 quickly recovered by explaining that he often buries the fishies in the potted plants as fertilizer.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI made a happy face.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nThe End.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;','Day 277:  Off to the Goldfish Races','','inherit','open','open','','6358-revision-12','','','2011-07-04 11:50:54','2011-07-04 18:50:54','',6358,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2011/07/04/6358-revision-12/',0,'revision','',0),(6386,1,'2011-07-04 11:52:12','2011-07-04 18:52:12','I love it when, at 41, I hear of something off-beat that I\'ve never heard of before.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nWhen Sarah told me about the Goldfish Races at <strong><a href=\"http://www.arcadiatavern.com/\" target=\"_blank\">Arcadia Tavern</a></strong> on Thursday nights, I knew that I had to try it.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI showed up not knowing what to expect, except for the Sweet Potato Tater Tots that Sarah had previously built up to great culinary heights.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_6360\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"300\" caption=\"They were everything Sarah said they would be and more!\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300032.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-6360\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300032-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAt 9:30, they announced that the Goldfish Races would soon begin.  We were asked to choose a cup with a goldfish and name it.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nSarah and Tim named their fish in a heartbeat:  Hermes and Mark Spitz, respectively.  [Although there was initial confusion with the MC who was born in 1984 (I asked) and wrote \"Mark Spence\".]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI took a good ten minutes to come up with best possible name for my fishie.  I finally decided on Fifi LeRue.  (Or Fee Fee La Roux to Mr. 1984.  Hey -- I was impressed that he knew \"roux\".  But then again, he does work in the culinary industry.)\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300033.jpg\"><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-6362\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300033-225x300.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"225\" height=\"300\" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nIn our first heat, Fifi/Fee Fee and I were competing against the rocket scientist/Beavis and Butthead aficionado named Master Baiter.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nNo, he is not a 7th grader.  Take a look.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300042.jpg\"><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-6363\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300042-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAnd the winner is...\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_6364\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"300\" caption=\"Sis, make sure to hide this one from World&#39;s Most Precious Niece &amp; Nephew.  Yet another rocket scientist in the heat above me.\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300045.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-6364\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300045-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nSarah and Hermes won their first heat as well!  Unfortunately, Tim and Mark Spence/Spitz didn\'t advance.  Mark Spence/Spitz turned out to be a feisty little fish who had big dreams of being a salmon and swam upstream.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300047.jpg\"><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-6377\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300047-225x300.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"225\" height=\"300\" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nMark Spence/Spitz continued to rebel by JUMPING OUT OF HIS CUP at the table later on that night!!!!  Was it acrobatics or a suicide attempt to escape the race scene on Thursday nights?  We will never know.  Fortunately, Tim and Mr. 1984 rescued him in time.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nOn to the second heat...\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300048.jpg\"><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-6367\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300048-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAnd the third...\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300057.jpg\"><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-6368\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300057-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAnd the winner is...\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300060.jpg\"><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-6370\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300060-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_6371\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"225\" caption=\"Everyone&#39;s been asking about the big band aid.  I burned myself on the barbecue.  :-(  \"]<img class=\"size-medium wp-image-6371\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300052-225x300.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"225\" height=\"300\" />[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nWell, well, well...Look who\'s competing against one another in the finals?\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300061.jpg\"><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-6372\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300061-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nLet me share what happened just before the race.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nSarah and I and our fishies had been competing on the same side of the \"track\" in our previous heats.  I naturally walked to this side for the final heat.  Sarah, in touch with her inner 5 year-old, shouted, \"I call this side!\"  Me, in touch with my inner two year-old, dumped Fifi/Fee Fee from her cup into the starting \"gate\" on the coveted \"side\" before Sarah arrived in her place.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAs if THAT isn\'t appalling enough...\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nBefore every heat, I looked my opponent in the eye and wished them good luck.  (Master Baiter is the only one who ignored me, by the way.  What a shocker.  All of the other contestants looked surprised, smiled, and returned the well wishes.)\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI can\'t say for certain, because my memory is spotty from the final heat nerves (now I know how Olympians feel), but I think that I may have forgotten to wish Sarah good luck.  One of my closest friends.  Isn\'t that special?\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nTeam Sarah/Hermes and Team Michelle/Fifi/Fee Fee swam <del>neck and neck</del> gill and gill until the very end when I got water in my eye and completely lost track of Fifi/Fee Fee.  Was it Sarah\'s inner 5 year-old shooting water in my eye or my excited inner two year-old blowing way too many bubbles?  We will never know.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAnd the winner is...\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_6373\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"300\" caption=\"Sarah and Hermes!\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300062.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-6373\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300062-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_6374\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"225\" caption=\"Sarah won a beach chair, and I won a $15 gift certificate to the tavern!\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300068.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-6374\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300068-225x300.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"225\" height=\"300\" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nA whale of a congratulations to Sarah and Hermes!  Sarah, my inner two year-old apologizes for her atrocious manners pre-finals.  You deserved to win.  :-D\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nFifi/Fee Fee, I never dreamed that we would make it so far.  Thanks for being the greatest fishie that a girl could ask for.  I will miss you.  Sniff, sniff.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_6375\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"300\" caption=\"Heart of a Champion\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300067.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-6375 \" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300067-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n*****\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI bet you\'re wondering what happens to these fishies post-race.  Often during these bloggy adventures, I fancy myself a reporter and pepper standers-by with questions.  On this night, Mr. 1984 was my <del>victim</del> interviewee.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nMr. 1984 explained that the fishies return to the tank after their night of frolic.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nCutting to the chase, I immediately asked about the weekly death count.  Surprisingly, there are only a couple of casualties a week.  Although there was that one week when someone forgot to clean the tank and ALL of the fishies were doing the dead fish float when he arrived at work.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nMy next question was obvious:  Do they have a proper fishie burial out back?  (The tavern does have a nice-sized patio.)\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nNah.  The fishies are flushed down the toilet.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI made a sad face.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nMr. 1984 quickly recovered by explaining that he often buries the fishies in the potted plants as fertilizer.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI made a happy face.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nThe End.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;','Day 277:  Off to the Goldfish Races','','inherit','open','open','','6358-revision-13','','','2011-07-04 11:52:12','2011-07-04 18:52:12','',6358,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2011/07/04/6358-revision-13/',0,'revision','',0),(6387,1,'2011-07-04 11:54:39','2011-07-04 18:54:39','I love it when, at 41, I hear of something off-beat that I\'ve never heard of before.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nWhen Sarah told me about the Goldfish Races at <strong><a href=\"http://www.arcadiatavern.com/\" target=\"_blank\">Arcadia Tavern</a></strong> on Thursday nights, I knew that I had to try it.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI showed up not knowing what to expect, except for the Sweet Potato Tater Tots that Sarah had previously built up to great culinary heights.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_6360\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"300\" caption=\"They were everything Sarah said they would be and more!\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300032.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-6360\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300032-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAt 9:30, they announced that the Goldfish Races would soon begin.  We were asked to choose a cup with a goldfish and name it.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nSarah and Tim named their fish in a heartbeat:  Hermes and Mark Spitz, respectively.  [Although there was initial confusion with the MC who was born in 1984 (I asked) and wrote \"Mark Spence\".]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI took a good ten minutes to come up with best possible name for my fishie.  I finally decided on Fifi LeRue.  (Or Fee Fee La Roux to Mr. 1984.  Hey -- I was impressed that he knew \"roux\".  But then again, he does work in the culinary industry.)\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300033.jpg\"><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-6362\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300033-225x300.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"225\" height=\"300\" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nIn our first heat, Fifi/Fee Fee and I were competing against the rocket scientist/Beavis and Butthead aficionado named Master Baiter.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nNo, he is not a 7th grader.  Take a look.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300042.jpg\"><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-6363\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300042-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAnd the winner is...\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_6364\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"300\" caption=\"Sis, make sure to hide this one from World&#39;s Most Precious Niece &amp; Nephew.  Yet another rocket scientist in the heat above me.\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300045.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-6364\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300045-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nSarah and Hermes won their first heat as well!  Unfortunately, Tim and Mark Spence/Spitz didn\'t advance.  Mark Spence/Spitz turned out to be a feisty little fish who had big dreams of being a salmon and swam upstream.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300047.jpg\"><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-6377\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300047-225x300.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"225\" height=\"300\" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nMark Spence/Spitz continued to rebel by JUMPING OUT OF HIS CUP at the table later on that night!!!!  Was it acrobatics or a suicide attempt to escape the race scene on Thursday nights?  We will never know.  Fortunately, Tim and Mr. 1984 rescued him in time.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nOn to the second heat...\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300048.jpg\"><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-6367\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300048-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAnd the third...\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300057.jpg\"><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-6368\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300057-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAnd the winner is...\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300060.jpg\"><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-6370\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300060-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_6371\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"225\" caption=\"Everyone&#39;s been asking about the big band aid.  I burned myself on the barbecue.  :-(  \"]<img class=\"size-medium wp-image-6371\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300052-225x300.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"225\" height=\"300\" />[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nWell, well, well...Look who\'s competing against one another in the finals?\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300061.jpg\"><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-6372\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300061-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nLet me share what happened just before the final heat.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nSarah and I and our fishies had been competing on the same side of the \"track\" in our previous heats.  I naturally walked to this side for the final heat.  Sarah, in touch with her inner 5 year-old, shouted, \"I call this side!\"  Me, in touch with my inner two year-old, dumped Fifi/Fee Fee from her cup into the starting \"gate\" on the coveted \"side\" before Sarah arrived in her place.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAs if THAT isn\'t appalling enough...\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nBefore every heat, I looked my opponent in the eye and wished them good luck.  (Master Baiter is the only one who ignored me, by the way.  What a shocker.  All of the other contestants looked surprised, smiled, and returned the well wishes.)\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI can\'t say for certain, because my memory is spotty from the final heat nerves (now I know how Olympians feel), but I think that I may have forgotten to wish Sarah good luck.  One of my closest friends.  Isn\'t that special?\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nTeam Sarah/Hermes and Team Michelle/Fifi/Fee Fee swam <del>neck and neck</del> gill and gill until the very end when I got water in my eye and completely lost track of Fifi/Fee Fee.  Was it Sarah\'s inner 5 year-old shooting water in my eye or my excited inner two year-old blowing way too many bubbles?  We will never know.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAnd the winner is...\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_6373\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"300\" caption=\"Sarah and Hermes!\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300062.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-6373\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300062-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_6374\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"225\" caption=\"Sarah won a beach chair, and I won a $15 gift certificate to the tavern!\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300068.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-6374\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300068-225x300.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"225\" height=\"300\" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nA whale of a congratulations to Sarah and Hermes!  Sarah, my inner two year-old apologizes for her atrocious manners pre-finals.  You deserved to win.  :-D\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nFifi/Fee Fee, I never dreamed that we would make it so far.  Thanks for being the greatest fishie that a girl could ask for.  I will miss you.  Sniff, sniff.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_6375\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"300\" caption=\"Heart of a Champion\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300067.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-6375 \" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300067-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n*****\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI bet you\'re wondering what happens to these fishies post-race.  Often during these bloggy adventures, I fancy myself a reporter and pepper standers-by with questions.  On this night, Mr. 1984 was my <del>victim</del> interviewee.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nMr. 1984 explained that the fishies return to the tank after their night of frolic.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nCutting to the chase, I immediately asked about the weekly death count.  Surprisingly, there are only a couple of casualties a week.  Although there was that one week when someone forgot to clean the tank and ALL of the fishies were doing the dead fish float when he arrived at work.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nMy next question was obvious:  Do they have a proper fishie burial out back?  (The tavern does have a nice-sized patio.)\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nNah.  The fishies are flushed down the toilet.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI made a sad face.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nMr. 1984 quickly recovered by explaining that he often buries the fishies in the potted plants as fertilizer.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI made a happy face.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nThe End.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;','Day 277:  Off to the Goldfish Races','','inherit','open','open','','6358-revision-14','','','2011-07-04 11:54:39','2011-07-04 18:54:39','',6358,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2011/07/04/6358-revision-14/',0,'revision','',0),(6388,1,'2011-07-04 11:58:26','2011-07-04 18:58:26','I love it when, at 41, I hear of something off-beat that I\'ve never heard of before.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nWhen Sarah told me about the Goldfish Races at <strong><a href=\"http://www.arcadiatavern.com/\" target=\"_blank\">Arcadia Tavern</a></strong> on Thursday nights, I knew that I had to try it.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI showed up not knowing what to expect, except for the Sweet Potato Tater Tots that Sarah had previously built up to great culinary heights.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_6360\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"300\" caption=\"They were everything Sarah said they would be and more!\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300032.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-6360\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300032-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAt 9:30, they announced that the Goldfish Races would soon begin.  We were asked to choose a cup with a goldfish and name it.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nSarah and Tim named their fish in a heartbeat:  Hermes and Mark Spitz, respectively.  [Although there was initial confusion with the MC who was born in 1984 (I asked) and wrote \"Mark Spence\".]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI took a good ten minutes to come up with best possible name for my fishie.  I finally decided on Fifi LeRue.  (Or Fee Fee La Roux to Mr. 1984.  Hey -- I was impressed that he knew \"roux\".  But then again, he does work in the culinary industry.)\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300033.jpg\"><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-6362\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300033-225x300.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"225\" height=\"300\" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nIn our first heat, Fifi/Fee Fee and I were competing against the rocket scientist/Beavis and Butthead aficionado named Master Baiter.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nNo, he is not a 7th grader.  Take a look.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300042.jpg\"><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-6363\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300042-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAnd the winner is...\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_6364\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"300\" caption=\"Sis, make sure to hide this one from World&#39;s Most Precious Niece &amp; Nephew.  Yet another rocket scientist in the heat above me.\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300045.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-6364\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300045-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nSarah and Hermes won their first heat as well!  Unfortunately, Tim and Mark Spence/Spitz didn\'t advance.  Mark Spence/Spitz turned out to be a feisty little fish who had big dreams of being a salmon and swam upstream.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300047.jpg\"><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-6377\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300047-225x300.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"225\" height=\"300\" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nMark Spence/Spitz continued to rebel by JUMPING OUT OF HIS CUP at the table later on that night!!!!  Was it acrobatics or a suicide attempt to escape the race scene on Thursday nights?  We will never know.  Fortunately, Tim and Mr. 1984 rescued him in time.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nOn to the second heat...\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300048.jpg\"><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-6367\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300048-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAnd the third...\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300057.jpg\"><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-6368\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300057-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAnd the winner is...\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300060.jpg\"><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-6370\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300060-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_6371\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"225\" caption=\"Everyone&#39;s been asking about the big band aid.  I burned myself on the barbecue.  :-(  \"]<img class=\"size-medium wp-image-6371\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300052-225x300.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"225\" height=\"300\" />[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nWell, well, well...Look who\'s competing against one another in the finals?\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300061.jpg\"><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-6372\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300061-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nLet me share what happened just before the final heat.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nSarah and I and our fishies had been competing on the same side of the \"track\" in our previous heats.  I naturally walked to this side for the final heat.  Sarah, in touch with her inner 5 year-old, shouted, \"I call this side!\"  Me, in touch with my inner two year-old, dumped Fifi/Fee Fee from her cup into the starting \"gate\" on the coveted \"side\" before Sarah arrived in her place.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAs if THAT isn\'t appalling enough...\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nBefore every heat, I looked my opponent in the eye and wished them good luck.  (Master Baiter is the only one who ignored me, by the way.  What a shocker.  All of the other contestants looked surprised, smiled, and returned the well wishes.)\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI can\'t say for certain, because my memory is spotty from the final heat nerves (now I know how Olympians feel), but I think that I may have forgotten to wish Sarah good luck.  That\'s right.  I failed to bestow good sportsmanship on one of my closest friends.  Isn\'t that special?\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nTeam Sarah/Hermes and Team Michelle/Fifi/Fee Fee swam <del>neck and neck</del> gill and gill until the very end when I got water in my eye and completely lost track of Fifi/Fee Fee.  Was it Sarah\'s inner 5 year-old shooting water in my eye or my excited inner two year-old blowing way too many bubbles?  We will never know.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAnd the winner is...\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_6373\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"300\" caption=\"Sarah and Hermes!\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300062.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-6373\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300062-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_6374\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"225\" caption=\"Sarah won a beach chair, and I won a $15 gift certificate to the tavern!\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300068.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-6374\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300068-225x300.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"225\" height=\"300\" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nA whale of a congratulations to Sarah and Hermes!  Sarah, my inner two year-old apologizes to your inner five year-old for her atrocious manners pre-finals.  You deserved to win.  :-D\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nFifi/Fee Fee, I never dreamed that we would make it so far.  Thanks for being the greatest fishie that a girl could ask for.  I will miss you.  Sniff, sniff.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_6375\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"300\" caption=\"Heart of a Champion\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300067.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-6375 \" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300067-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n*****\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI bet you\'re wondering what happens to these fishies post-race.  Often during these bloggy adventures, I fancy myself a reporter and pepper standers-by with questions.  On this night, Mr. 1984 was my <del>victim</del> interviewee.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nMr. 1984 explained that the fishies return to the tank after their night of frolic.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nCutting to the chase, I immediately asked about the weekly death count.  Surprisingly, there are only a couple of casualties a week.  Although there was that one week when someone forgot to clean the tank and ALL of the fishies were doing the dead fish float when he arrived at work.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nMy next question was obvious:  Do they have a proper fishie burial out back?  (The tavern has a nice-sized patio.)\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nNah.  The fishies are flushed down the toilet.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI made a sad face.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nMr. 1984 quickly recovered by explaining that he often buries the fishies in the potted plants as fertilizer.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI made a happy face.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nThe End.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;','Day 277:  Off to the Goldfish Races','','inherit','open','open','','6358-revision-15','','','2011-07-04 11:58:26','2011-07-04 18:58:26','',6358,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2011/07/04/6358-revision-15/',0,'revision','',0),(6389,1,'2011-07-04 12:02:32','2011-07-04 19:02:32','I love it when, at 41, I hear of something off-beat that I\'ve never heard of before.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nWhen Sarah told me about the Goldfish Races at <strong><a href=\"http://www.arcadiatavern.com/\" target=\"_blank\">Arcadia Tavern</a></strong> on Thursday nights, I knew that I had to try it.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI showed up not knowing what to expect, except for the Sweet Potato Tater Tots that Sarah had previously built up to great culinary heights.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_6360\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"300\" caption=\"They were everything Sarah said they would be and more!\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300032.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-6360\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300032-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAt 9:30, they announced that the Goldfish Races would soon begin.  We were asked to choose a cup with a goldfish and name it.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nSarah and Tim named their fish in a heartbeat:  Hermes and Mark Spitz, respectively.  [Although there was initial confusion with the MC who was born in 1984 (I asked) and wrote \"Mark Spence\".]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI took a good ten minutes to come up with best possible name for my fishie.  I finally decided on Fifi Le Rue.  (Or Fee Fee La Roux to Mr. 1984.  Hey -- I was impressed that he knew \"roux\".  But then again, he does work in the culinary industry.)\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300033.jpg\"><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-6362\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300033-225x300.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"225\" height=\"300\" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nIn our first heat, Fifi/Fee Fee and I were competing against the rocket scientist/Beavis and Butthead aficionado named Master Baiter.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nNo, he is not a 7th grader.  Take a look.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300042.jpg\"><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-6363\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300042-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAnd the winner is...\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_6364\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"300\" caption=\"Sis, make sure to hide this one from World&#39;s Most Precious Niece &amp; Nephew.  Yet another intellectual giant in the heat above me.\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300045.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-6364 \" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300045-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nSarah and Hermes won their first heat as well!  Unfortunately, Tim and Mark Spence/Spitz didn\'t advance.  Mark Spence/Spitz turned out to be a feisty little fish who had big dreams of being a salmon and swam upstream.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300047.jpg\"><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-6377\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300047-225x300.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"225\" height=\"300\" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nMark Spence/Spitz continued to rebel by JUMPING OUT OF HIS CUP at the table later on that night!!!!  Was it acrobatics or a suicide attempt to escape the race scene on Thursday nights?  We will never know.  Fortunately, Tim and Mr. 1984 rescued him in time.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nOn to the second heat...\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300048.jpg\"><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-6367\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300048-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAnd the third...\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300057.jpg\"><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-6368\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300057-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAnd the winner is...\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300060.jpg\"><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-6370\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300060-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_6371\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"225\" caption=\"Everyone&#39;s been asking about the big band aid.  I burned myself on the barbecue.  :-(  \"]<img class=\"size-medium wp-image-6371\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300052-225x300.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"225\" height=\"300\" />[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nWell, well, well...Look who\'s competing against one another in the finals?\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300061.jpg\"><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-6372\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300061-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nLet me share what happened just before the final heat.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nSarah and I and our fishies had been competing on the same side of the \"track\" in our previous heats.  I naturally walked to this side for the final heat.  Sarah, in touch with her inner 5 year-old, shouted, \"I call this side!\"  Me, in touch with my inner two year-old, dumped Fifi/Fee Fee from her cup into the starting \"gate\" on the coveted \"side\" before Sarah arrived in her place.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAs if THAT isn\'t appalling enough...\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nBefore every heat, I looked my opponent in the eye and wished them good luck.  (Master Baiter is the only one who ignored me, by the way.  What a shocker.  All of the other contestants looked surprised, smiled, and returned the well wishes.)\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI can\'t say for certain, because my memory is spotty from the final heat nerves (now I know how Olympians feel), but I think that I may have forgotten to wish Sarah good luck.  That\'s right.  I failed to bestow good sportsmanship on one of my closest friends.  Isn\'t that special?\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nTeam Sarah/Hermes and Team Michelle/Fifi/Fee Fee swam <del>neck and neck</del> gill and gill until the very end when I got water in my eye and completely lost track of Fifi/Fee Fee.  Was it Sarah\'s inner 5 year-old shooting water in my eye or my excited inner two year-old blowing way too many bubbles?  We will never know.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAnd the winner is...\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_6373\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"300\" caption=\"Sarah and Hermes!\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300062.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-6373\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300062-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_6374\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"225\" caption=\"Sarah won a beach chair, and I won a $15 gift certificate to the tavern!\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300068.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-6374\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300068-225x300.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"225\" height=\"300\" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nA whale of a congratulations to Sarah and Hermes!  Sarah, my inner two year-old apologizes to your inner five year-old for her atrocious manners pre-finals.  You deserved to win.  :-D\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nFifi/Fee Fee, I never dreamed that we would make it so far.  Thanks for being the greatest fishie that a girl could ask for.  I will miss you.  Sniff, sniff.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_6375\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"300\" caption=\"Heart of a Champion\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300067.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-6375 \" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300067-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n*****\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI bet you\'re wondering what happens to these fishies post-race.  Often during these bloggy adventures, I fancy myself a reporter and pepper standers-by with questions.  On this night, Mr. 1984 was my <del>victim</del> interviewee.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nMr. 1984 explained that the fishies return to the tank after their night of frolic.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nCutting to the chase, I immediately asked about the weekly death count.  Surprisingly, there are only a couple of casualties a week.  Although there was that one week when someone forgot to clean the tank and ALL of the fishies were doing the dead fish float when he arrived at work.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nMy next question was obvious:  Do they have a proper fishie burial out back?  (The tavern has a nice-sized patio.)\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nNah.  The fishies are flushed down the toilet.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI made a sad face.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nMr. 1984 quickly recovered by explaining that he often buries the fishies in the potted plants as fertilizer.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI made a happy face.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nThe End.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;','Day 277:  Off to the Goldfish Races','','inherit','open','open','','6358-revision-16','','','2011-07-04 12:02:32','2011-07-04 19:02:32','',6358,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2011/07/04/6358-revision-16/',0,'revision','',0),(6390,1,'2011-07-04 12:06:03','2011-07-04 19:06:03','I love it when, at 41, I hear of something off-beat that I\'ve never heard of before.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nWhen Sarah told me about the Goldfish Races at <strong><a href=\"http://www.arcadiatavern.com/\" target=\"_blank\">Arcadia Tavern</a></strong> on Thursday nights, I knew that I had to try it.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI showed up not knowing what to expect, except for the Sweet Potato Tater Tots that Sarah had previously built up to great culinary heights.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_6360\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"300\" caption=\"They were everything Sarah said they would be and more!\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300032.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-6360\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300032-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAt 9:30, they announced that the Goldfish Races would soon begin.  We were asked to choose a cup with a goldfish and name it.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nSarah and Tim named their fish in a heartbeat:  Hermes and Mark Spitz, respectively.  [Although there was initial confusion with the MC who was born in 1984 (I asked) and wrote \"Mark Spence\".]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI took a good ten minutes to come up with best possible name for my fishie.  I finally decided on Fifi Le Rue.  (Or Fee Fee La Roux to Mr. 1984.  Hey -- I was impressed that he knew \"roux\".  But then again, he does work in the culinary industry.)\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300033.jpg\"><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-6362\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300033-225x300.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"225\" height=\"300\" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nIn our first heat, Fifi/Fee Fee and I were competing against the rocket scientist/Beavis and Butthead aficionado named Master Baiter.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nNo, he is not a 7th grader.  Take a look.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300042.jpg\"><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-6363\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300042-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAnd the winner is...\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_6364\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"300\" caption=\"Sis, make sure to hide this one from World&#39;s Most Precious Niece &amp; Nephew.  Yet another intellectual giant in the heat above me.\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300045.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-6364 \" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300045-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nSarah and Hermes won their first heat as well!  Unfortunately, Tim and Mark Spence/Spitz didn\'t advance.  Mark Spence/Spitz turned out to be a feisty little fish who had big dreams of being a salmon and swam upstream.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300047.jpg\"><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-6377\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300047-225x300.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"225\" height=\"300\" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nMark Spence/Spitz continued to rebel by JUMPING OUT OF HIS CUP at the table later on that night!!!!  Was it acrobatics or a suicide attempt to escape the race scene on Thursday nights?  We will never know.  Fortunately, Tim and Mr. 1984 rescued him in time.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nOn to the second heat...\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300048.jpg\"><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-6367\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300048-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAnd the third...\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300057.jpg\"><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-6368\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300057-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAnd the winner is...\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300060.jpg\"><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-6370\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300060-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_6371\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"225\" caption=\"Everyone&#39;s been asking about the big band aid.  I burned myself on the barbecue.  :-(  \"]<img class=\"size-medium wp-image-6371\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300052-225x300.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"225\" height=\"300\" />[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nWell, well, well...Look who\'s competing against one another in the finals?\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300061.jpg\"><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-6372\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300061-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAllow me to share what happened just before the final heat.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nSarah and I and our fishies had been competing on the same side of the \"track\" in our previous heats.  I naturally walked to this side for the final heat.  Sarah, in touch with her inner 5 year-old, shouted, \"I call this side!\"  Me, in touch with my inner two year-old, dumped Fifi/Fee Fee from her cup into the starting \"gate\" on the coveted \"side\" before Sarah arrived in her place.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAs if THAT isn\'t appalling enough...\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nBefore every heat, I looked my opponent in the eye and wished them good luck.  (Master Baiter is the only one who ignored me, by the way.  What a shocker.  All of the other contestants looked surprised, smiled, and returned the well wishes.)\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI can\'t say for certain, because my memory is spotty from the final heat nerves (now I know how Olympians feel), but I think that I may have forgotten to wish Sarah good luck.  That\'s right.  I failed to bestow good sportsmanship on one of my closest friends.  Isn\'t that special?\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nTeam Sarah/Hermes and Team Michelle/Fifi/Fee Fee swam <del>neck and neck</del> gill and gill until the very end when I got water in my eye and completely lost track of Fifi/Fee Fee.  Was it Sarah\'s inner 5 year-old shooting water in my eye or my excited inner two year-old blowing way too many bubbles?  We will never know.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAnd the winner is...\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_6373\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"300\" caption=\"Sarah and Hermes!\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300062.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-6373\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300062-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_6374\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"225\" caption=\"Sarah won a beach chair, and I won a $15 gift certificate to the tavern!\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300068.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-6374\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300068-225x300.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"225\" height=\"300\" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nA whale of a congratulations to Sarah and Hermes!  Sarah, my inner two year-old apologizes to your inner five year-old for her atrocious manners pre-finals.  You deserved to win.  :-D\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nFifi/Fee Fee, I never dreamed that we would make it so far.  Thanks for being the greatest fishie that a girl could ask for.  I will miss you.  Sniff, sniff.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_6375\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"300\" caption=\"Heart of a Champion\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300067.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-6375 \" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300067-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n*****\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI bet you\'re wondering what happens to these fishies post-race.  Often during these bloggy adventures, I fancy myself a reporter and pepper standers-by with questions.  On this night, Mr. 1984 was my <del>victim</del> interviewee.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nMr. 1984 explained that the fishies return to the tank after their night of frolic.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nCutting to the chase, I immediately asked about the death count.  Surprisingly, there are only a couple of casualties a week.  Although there was that one week when someone forgot to clean the tank and ALL of the fishies were doing the dead fish float when he arrived at work.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nMy next question was obvious:  Do they have a proper fishie burial out back?  (The tavern has a nice-sized patio.)\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nNah.  The fishies are flushed down the toilet.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI made a sad face.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nMr. 1984 quickly recovered by explaining that he often buries the fishies in the potted plants as fertilizer.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI made a happy face.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nThe End.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;','Day 277:  Off to the Goldfish Races','','inherit','open','open','','6358-revision-17','','','2011-07-04 12:06:03','2011-07-04 19:06:03','',6358,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2011/07/04/6358-revision-17/',0,'revision','',0),(6391,1,'2011-07-04 12:08:03','2011-07-04 19:08:03','I love it when, at 41, I hear of something off-beat that I\'ve never heard of before.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nWhen Sarah told me about the Goldfish Races at <strong><a href=\"http://www.arcadiatavern.com/\" target=\"_blank\">Arcadia Tavern</a></strong> on Thursday nights, I knew that I had to try it.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI showed up not knowing what to expect, except for the Sweet Potato Tater Tots that Sarah had previously built up to great culinary heights.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_6360\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"300\" caption=\"They were everything Sarah said they would be and more!\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300032.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-6360\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300032-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAt 9:30, they announced that the Goldfish Races would soon begin.  We were asked to choose a cup with a goldfish and name it.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nSarah and Tim named their fish in a heartbeat:  Hermes and Mark Spitz, respectively.  [Although there was initial confusion with the MC who was born in 1984 (I asked) and wrote \"Mark Spence\".]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI took a good ten minutes to come up with best possible name for my fishie.  I finally decided on Fifi Le Rue.  (Or Fee Fee La Roux to Mr. 1984.  Hey -- I was impressed that he knew \"roux\".  But then again, he does work in the culinary industry.)\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300033.jpg\"><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-6362\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300033-225x300.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"225\" height=\"300\" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nIn our first heat, Fifi/Fee Fee and I were competing against the rocket scientist/Beavis and Butthead aficionado named Master Baiter.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nNo, he is not a 7th grader.  Take a look.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300042.jpg\"><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-6363\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300042-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAnd the winner is...\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_6364\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"300\" caption=\"Sis, make sure to hide this one from World&#39;s Most Precious Niece &amp; Nephew.  Yet another intellectual giant in the heat above me.\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300045.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-6364 \" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300045-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nSarah and Hermes won their first heat as well!  Unfortunately, Tim and Mark Spence/Spitz didn\'t advance.  Mark Spence/Spitz turned out to be a feisty little fish who had big dreams of being a salmon and swam upstream.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300047.jpg\"><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-6377\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300047-225x300.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"225\" height=\"300\" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nMark Spence/Spitz continued to rebel by JUMPING OUT OF HIS CUP at the table later on that night!!!!  Was it acrobatics or a suicide attempt to escape the race scene on Thursday nights?  We will never know.  Fortunately, Tim and Mr. 1984 rescued him in time.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nOn to the second heat...\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300048.jpg\"><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-6367\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300048-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAnd the third...\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300057.jpg\"><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-6368\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300057-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAnd the winner is...\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300060.jpg\"><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-6370\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300060-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_6371\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"225\" caption=\"Everyone&#39;s been asking about the big band aid.  I burned myself on the barbecue.  :-(  \"]<img class=\"size-medium wp-image-6371\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300052-225x300.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"225\" height=\"300\" />[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nWell, well, well...Look who\'s competing against one another in the finals?\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300061.jpg\"><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-6372\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300061-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAllow me to share what happened just before the final heat.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nSarah and I and our fishies had been competing on the same side of the \"track\" in our previous heats.  I naturally walked to this side for the final heat.  Sarah, in touch with her inner 5 year-old, shouted, \"I call this side!\"  Me, in touch with my inner two year-old, dumped Fifi/Fee Fee from her cup into the starting \"gate\" on the coveted \"side\" before Sarah arrived in her place.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAs if THAT isn\'t appalling enough...\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nBefore every heat, I looked my opponent in the eye and wished them good luck.  (Master Baiter is the only one who ignored me, by the way.  What a shocker.  All of the other contestants looked surprised, smiled, and returned the well wishes.)\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI can\'t say for certain, because my memory is spotty from the final heat nerves (now I know how Olympians feel when they\'re going for the gold), but I think that I may have forgotten to wish Sarah good luck.  That\'s right.  I failed to bestow good sportsmanship on one of my closest friends.  Isn\'t that special?\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nTeam Sarah/Hermes and Team Michelle/Fifi/Fee Fee swam <del>neck and neck</del> gill and gill until the very end when I got water in my eye and completely lost track of Fifi/Fee Fee.  Was it Sarah\'s inner 5 year-old shooting water in my eye or my excited inner two year-old blowing way too many bubbles?  We will never know.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAnd the winner is...\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_6373\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"300\" caption=\"Sarah and Hermes!\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300062.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-6373\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300062-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_6374\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"225\" caption=\"Sarah won a beach chair, and I won a $15 gift certificate to the tavern!\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300068.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-6374\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300068-225x300.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"225\" height=\"300\" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nA whale of a congratulations to Sarah and Hermes!  Sarah, my inner two year-old apologizes to your inner five year-old for her atrocious manners pre-finals.  You deserved to win.  :-D\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nFifi/Fee Fee, I never dreamed that we would make it so far.  Thanks for being the greatest fishie that a girl could ask for.  I will miss you.  Sniff, sniff.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_6375\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"300\" caption=\"Heart of a Champion\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300067.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-6375 \" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300067-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n*****\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI bet you\'re wondering what happens to these fishies post-race.  Often during these bloggy adventures, I fancy myself a reporter and pepper standers-by with questions.  On this night, Mr. 1984 was my <del>victim</del> interviewee.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nMr. 1984 explained that the fishies return to the tank after their night of frolic.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nCutting to the chase, I immediately asked about the death count.  Surprisingly, there are only a couple of casualties a week.  Although there was that one week when someone forgot to clean the tank and ALL of the fishies were doing the dead fish float when he arrived at work.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nMy next question was obvious:  Do they have a proper fishie burial out back?  (The tavern has a nice-sized patio.)\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nNah.  The fishies are flushed down the toilet.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI made a sad face.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nMr. 1984 quickly recovered by explaining that he often buries the fishies in the potted plants as fertilizer.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI made a happy face.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nThe End.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;','Day 277:  Off to the Goldfish Races','','inherit','open','open','','6358-revision-18','','','2011-07-04 12:08:03','2011-07-04 19:08:03','',6358,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2011/07/04/6358-revision-18/',0,'revision','',0),(6393,1,'2011-07-04 12:13:59','2011-07-04 19:13:59','','Auto Draft','','inherit','open','open','','6392-revision','','','2011-07-04 12:13:59','2011-07-04 19:13:59','',6392,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2011/07/04/6392-revision/',0,'revision','',0),(6394,1,'2011-02-16 22:08:48','2011-02-17 05:08:48','<p><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/02/P2130185.jpg\"><img class=\"alignleft size-medium wp-image-4014\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/02/P2130185-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>Are you thinking, \"What on <em>earth</em> is artisan ice cream?\"</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Yep.  That\'s what I thought when I heard about it for the first time through <strong><a href=\"http://www.groupon.com/subscriptions/new?division_p=phoenix\" target=\"_blank\">Groupon</a></strong>.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>And since I scream, you scream, we all scream for ice cream, I thought that I needed to try this artisan ice cream for journalistic purposes.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Bella and I hauled our cookies all the way across town to Scottsdale on a typical February 70s-and-sunny Sunday afternoon.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>We began our artisan ice cream quest at Casa de Jimmykins.  Unless they are real schmucks, I tend to remain friends with all former boyfriends.  This comes in handy when former boyfriends live right around the corner from trendy artisan ice cream joints.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>After a delish Chipotle lunch and a romp* on Jimmykins\' lawn, the three of us headed on over to one of the Top 10 Best Ice Cream Shops in the U.S.  (According to <em>Bon Appétit</em> magazine.)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Houston, I should have known we had a problem when I saw this.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/02/P2130184.jpg\"><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-4015\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/02/P2130184-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>My first thought was, \"This would never happen in Vancouver.\"</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Vancouverites love their dogs.  Canines roam everywhere.  The <strong><a href=\"http://www.granvilleisland.com/public-market\" target=\"_blank\">Public Market </a></strong>on Granville Island is practically infested with dogs.  And they\'re serving all sorts of organic this and free trade that.**  I bet they even host an artisan ice cream joint now!</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>But Scottsdale?  No dogs allowed.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Get this:  The Little Gym (a gymnasium for the 8 and under crowd) is two doors down from Trendy Artisan Ice Cream Joint.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Guess who invades Trendy Artisan Ice Cream Joint after a good old-fashioned sweatfest?</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 13.1944px;\"><strong><span style=\"font-size: medium;\"><span style=\"color: #808000;\">You mean to tell me that World\'s Most Precious Pooch carries more germs than walking petri dishes who have been rolling around on snotty gym mats?</span></span></strong></span></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Hahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahaha!!!!!</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Ha!</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I think not.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Whatever.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Bella and I waited patiently outside as a line of runny-nosed kids filtered in and out of Trendy Artisan Ice Cream Joint.  Jimmykins finally emerged with his Cheddar Cheesecake ice cream.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I then parted from sweet-smelling Bella to meet an aroma that reminded me of post-recess classroom from my teaching days.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I surveyed the menu.  Blue Cheese with honey?  Really?  They take this artisan stuff seriously! Shouldn\'t blue cheese infiltrate artisan bread?</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Oh, goody gumdrops!  I\'ll dish out 5 bucks for a double scoop, but there\'s free condiments!  Which would I prefer, sea salt or extra virgin olive oil?</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Huh???</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong><span style=\"font-size: medium;\"><span style=\"color: #808000;\">Am I missing something here?</span></span></strong></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I chose a combo of Peabody Espresso (I have no idea what Peabody refers to) and White Roses.  Hold the condiments, thank you very much.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>After watching too many seasons of <em><strong><a href=\"http://www.bravotv.com/top-chef\" target=\"_blank\">Top Chef</a></strong></em>, I would like to think that I have earned the right (and the palate) to judge this ice cream fairly and accurately.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I ignored Jimmykins\' \"Bleck\" face and sampled his Cheddar Cheesecake Ice Cream first.  Two thumbs down.  Waaaaayyyyy down.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I cleansed my palate with a smidge of White Roses which tasted like vanilla ice cream laced with perfume.  <strong><span style=\"color: #808000;\"><span style=\"font-size: medium;\">I wondered if this is what poison tastes like.</span></span></strong></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Jimmykins sported his 2nd \"Bleck\" face for the day.  Even Bella turned her nose away.  Two thumbs down.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>You can\'t go wrong with Espresso, right?  ANYTHING flavored with espresso is a winner in my book. Except when it\'s bland, overrated ice cream from a Trendy Artisan Ice Cream Joint, that is.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Snobbsdale Trendy Artisan Ice Cream Joint, get over yourself.  If you really want to be all that, don\'t try so hard.  Instead of trying to wow the masses with shock value ingredients and condiments, how about concentrating on churning out a delectable ice cream that we can all scream about?</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I\'m fairly certain that Tom, Padma and Gail*** would agree with me.<span style=\"font-size: 13.1944px;\"> </span></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>*************************************************</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>*  The romp was between Bella and Jimmykins, not me and Jimmykins.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>**  If you are lucky to find yourself at the Public Market on Granville Island, get thee to Lee\'s Donuts for The Best Donuts of Your Life.  (I hope they\'re still there.  Sigh...)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>***  Gail, now I know why you work for <em>Food &amp; Wine</em> and not <em>Bon Appétit.</em></p>','Day 140:  Artisan Ice Cream.  Huh?','','inherit','open','open','','4006-revision-21','','','2011-02-16 22:08:48','2011-02-17 05:08:48','',4006,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2011/02/16/4006-revision-21/',0,'revision','',0),(6395,1,'2011-07-04 12:14:12','2011-07-04 19:14:12','','Day 278:  First Friday was My Last Friday','','inherit','open','open','','6392-revision-2','','','2011-07-04 12:14:12','2011-07-04 19:14:12','',6392,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2011/07/04/6392-revision-2/',0,'revision','',0),(6396,1,'2011-07-04 12:32:20','2011-07-04 19:32:20','cultural purgatory','Day 278:  First Friday was My Last Friday','','inherit','open','open','','6392-revision-3','','','2011-07-04 12:32:20','2011-07-04 19:32:20','',6392,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2011/07/04/6392-revision-3/',0,'revision','',0),(6397,1,'2011-07-04 13:12:54','2011-07-04 20:12:54','','OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA','Robot Dolly Artist Dude was actually the nicest, funniest, and most genuine guy of the whole event.  Please note that I am not poking fun at him.','inherit','open','open','','olympus-digital-camera-433','','','2011-07-04 13:12:54','2011-07-04 20:12:54','',6392,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7010071.jpg',0,'attachment','image/jpeg',0),(6398,1,'2011-07-04 13:14:57','2011-07-04 20:14:57','','OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA','','inherit','open','open','','olympus-digital-camera-434','','','2011-07-04 13:14:57','2011-07-04 20:14:57','',6392,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7010076.jpg',0,'attachment','image/jpeg',0),(6399,1,'2011-07-04 13:17:22','2011-07-04 20:17:22','[caption id=\"attachment_6397\" align=\"alignleft\" width=\"300\" caption=\"Robot Dolly Artist Dude was actually the nicest, funniest, and most genuine guy of the whole event.  Please note that I am not poking fun at him.\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7010071.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-6397\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7010071-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>[/caption]\n\nOn Day 278, I found myself stuck in Cultural Purgatory aka <strong><a href=\"http://phoenix.about.com/cs/enter/a/firstfriday_2.htm\" target=\"_blank\">First Friday </a></strong>in downtown Phoenix.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nThe crowd was surly, and the art was sophomoric.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nAnd that\'s all I am going to say because my father taught me that if you don\'t have anything nice to say, then don\'t say anything at all.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nHe also taught me that you should always do your best.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nFirst Friday is hardly Phoenix\'s best.\n\n&nbsp;\n\n*****\n\n&nbsp;\n\n<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7010076.jpg\"><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-6398\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7010076-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>\n\n&nbsp;\n\nWhoa.  We thought the Jerome Grand Hotel was haunted.  Who knew that phantasms roamed the streets of downtown Phoenix on First Friday???','Day 278:  First Friday was My Last Friday','','inherit','open','open','','6392-revision-4','','','2011-07-04 13:17:22','2011-07-04 20:17:22','',6392,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2011/07/04/6392-revision-4/',0,'revision','',0),(6400,1,'2011-07-04 13:17:53','2011-07-04 20:17:53','[caption id=\"attachment_6397\" align=\"alignleft\" width=\"300\" caption=\"Robot Dolly Artist Dude was actually the nicest, funniest, and most genuine guy of the whole event.  Please note that I am not poking fun at him.\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7010071.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-6397\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7010071-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\nOn Day 278, I found myself stuck in Cultural Purgatory aka <strong><a href=\"http://phoenix.about.com/cs/enter/a/firstfriday_2.htm\" target=\"_blank\">First Friday </a></strong>in downtown Phoenix.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nThe crowd was surly, and the art was sophomoric.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAnd that\'s all I am going to say because my father taught me that if you don\'t have anything nice to say, then don\'t say anything at all.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nHe also taught me that you should always do your best.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nFirst Friday is hardly Phoenix\'s best.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n*****\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7010076.jpg\"><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-6398\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7010076-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nWhoa.  We thought the <strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/11/23/day-57-we-saw-dead-people-or-if-you-want-to-be-technical-orbs/\" target=\"_blank\">Jerome Grand Hotel was haunted</a></strong>.  Who knew that phantasms roamed the streets of downtown Phoenix on First Friday???','Day 278:  First Friday was My Last Friday','','inherit','open','open','','6392-revision-5','','','2011-07-04 13:17:53','2011-07-04 20:17:53','',6392,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2011/07/04/6392-revision-5/',0,'revision','',0),(6401,1,'2011-07-04 13:18:18','2011-07-04 20:18:18','[caption id=\"attachment_6397\" align=\"alignleft\" width=\"300\" caption=\"Robot Dolly Artist Dude was actually the nicest, funniest, and most genuine guy of the whole event.  Please note that I am not poking fun at him.\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7010071.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-6397\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7010071-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\nOn Day 278, I found myself stuck in Cultural Purgatory aka <strong><a href=\"http://phoenix.about.com/cs/enter/a/firstfriday_2.htm\" target=\"_blank\">First Friday </a></strong>in downtown Phoenix.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nThe crowd was surly, and the art was sophomoric.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAnd that\'s all I am going to say because my father taught me that if you don\'t have anything nice to say, then don\'t say anything at all.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nHe also taught me that you should always do your best.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nFirst Friday is hardly Phoenix\'s best.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n*****\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7010076.jpg\"><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-6398\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7010076-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nWhoa.  We thought the <strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/11/23/day-57-we-saw-dead-people-or-if-you-want-to-be-technical-orbs/\" target=\"_blank\">Jerome Grand Hotel was haunted</a></strong>.  Who knew that phantasms roamed the streets of downtown Phoenix on First Friday???','Day 278:  First Friday was My Last Friday','','inherit','open','open','','6392-revision-6','','','2011-07-04 13:18:18','2011-07-04 20:18:18','',6392,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2011/07/04/6392-revision-6/',0,'revision','',0),(6402,1,'2011-07-04 13:19:19','2011-07-04 20:19:19','[caption id=\"attachment_6397\" align=\"alignleft\" width=\"300\" caption=\"Robot Dolly Artist Dude was actually the nicest, funniest, and most genuine guy of the whole event.  Please note that I am not poking fun at him.\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7010071.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-6397\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7010071-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\nOn Day 278, I found myself stuck in Cultural Purgatory aka <strong><a href=\"http://phoenix.about.com/cs/enter/a/firstfriday_2.htm\" target=\"_blank\">First Friday </a></strong>in downtown Phoenix.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nThe crowd was surly, and the art was sophomoric.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAnd that\'s all I am going to say because my father taught me that if you don\'t have anything nice to say, then don\'t say anything at all.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nHe also taught me that you should always do your best.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nFirst Friday is hardly Phoenix\'s best.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n*****\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7010076.jpg\"><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-6398\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7010076-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nWhoa.  We thought the <strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/11/23/day-57-we-saw-dead-people-or-if-you-want-to-be-technical-orbs/\" target=\"_blank\">Jerome Grand Hotel was haunted</a></strong>.  Who knew that phantasms roamed the streets of downtown Phoenix on First Friday???','Day 278:  First Friday was My Last Friday','','inherit','open','open','','6392-revision-7','','','2011-07-04 13:19:19','2011-07-04 20:19:19','',6392,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2011/07/04/6392-revision-7/',0,'revision','',0),(6403,1,'2011-07-04 13:20:45','2011-07-04 20:20:45','[caption id=\"attachment_6397\" align=\"alignleft\" width=\"300\" caption=\"Robot Dolly Artist Dude was actually the nicest, funniest, and most genuine guy of the whole event.  Please note that I am not poking fun at him.\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7010071.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-6397\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7010071-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>[/caption]\n\nOn Day 278, I found myself stuck in Cultural Purgatory aka <strong><a href=\"http://phoenix.about.com/cs/enter/a/firstfriday_2.htm\" target=\"_blank\">First Friday </a></strong>in downtown Phoenix.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nThe crowd was surly, and the art was sophomoric.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nAnd that\'s all I am going to say because my father taught me that if you don\'t have anything nice to say, then don\'t say anything at all.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nHe also taught me that you should always do your best.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nFirst Friday is hardly Phoenix\'s best.\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\n*****\n\n&nbsp;\n\n<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7010076.jpg\"><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-6398\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7010076-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>\n\n&nbsp;\n\nWhoa.  We thought the <strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/11/23/day-57-we-saw-dead-people-or-if-you-want-to-be-technical-orbs/\" target=\"_blank\">Jerome Grand Hotel was haunted</a></strong>.  Who knew that phantasms roamed the streets of downtown Phoenix on First Friday???','Day 278:  First Friday was My Last Friday','','inherit','open','open','','6392-autosave','','','2011-07-04 13:20:45','2011-07-04 20:20:45','',6392,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2011/07/04/6392-autosave/',0,'revision','',0),(6404,1,'2011-07-06 01:11:11','2011-07-06 08:11:11','It\'s really not an <em>emergency</em>, but I hoped to capture your attention.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAnd I would indeed like your help.   Please.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nIn the near future, I will attend Noble Publishing Superpower\'s summer sales conference in Chicago.  I will be glad to escape the heat (118 this past Saturday!), but I am not thrilled at the thought of leaving Little Miss B for business.  Traveling for pleasure is glamorous; traveling for business is exhausting.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAnywho...In the tradition of Noble Publishing Superpower keeping the corporate culture fun and enticing, we are gathering together for a 70s party <strong><a href=\"http://youtu.be/HGr6mj5E90g\" target=\"_blank\">one of these nights</a></strong><a href=\"http://youtu.be/HGr6mj5E90g\" target=\"_blank\">.</a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI originally envisioned combing through vintage boutiques in downtown Phoenix on Day 279.  I pictured myself finding the perfect 70s costume and looking just like a <strong><a href=\"http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0073972/\" target=\"_blank\">Charlie\'s Angel</a></strong>.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI awoke from my reverie remembering that I hate shopping.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nSo I decided to closet shop at Dina <em>dah</em>ling\'s instead.  Yippeee!!!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nDina <em>dah</em>ling had just picked out a 70s ensemble at Old Navy for a work function, and she told me to come over and check it out.  The top fit, so why not wear it?  She reminded me that cords were \"in\" back then, so I came home and paired it with my only pair that sort of matches/sort of clashes just like clothes did in the 70s.  :-D\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nPlease vote for one of the following ensembles below in the comment section below.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_6406\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"225\" caption=\"Option A: Dina dahling&#39;s shirt and my cords\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7020085.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-6406\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7020085-225x300.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"225\" height=\"300\" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_6407\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"225\" caption=\"Option B: A retro top of mine with cords\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7020084.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-6407\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7020084-225x300.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"225\" height=\"300\" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_6408\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"225\" caption=\"Option C: Retro top with jeans that are slightly flared. Please note that the cords are boot cut as well. Also note that I will not be schlepping out to hunt for bell bottoms.\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7020086.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-6408 \" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7020086-225x300.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"225\" height=\"300\" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAs fate would have it, I was lured into the Doc Martens store during <strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2011/06/13/day-254-lost-in-the-city-of-books/\" target=\"_blank\">my recent visit to Portland</a></strong>.  I was innocently minding my own beeswax on the way to Powell\'s Books and was assaulted with \"MOST COMFORTABLE SOLE IN THE UNIVERSE!!!\", or something to that effect.  I love clogs during our \"winter\", and these are PERFECT for 70s, are they not?\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7020083.jpg\"><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-6409\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7020083-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nSo there you have it.  I look forward to you choosing my outfit for me.  (Yes, I will wear what the consensus picks.)\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nRemember that it is summer in Chicago.  Forecast for that day is high 81, low 67.  This equates to a Phoenix March.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nWe will be inside a luxury hotel, and you know how they like to keep the inside temp close to the average temperature in Antarctica.  i.e., I won\'t be too hot in the long sleeved shirt, and I can always wear a cover up with the no sleeved shirt.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nPlease vote on what most resembles 70s.  Fret not about my comfort.  I will suffer for blogalistic purposes (as well as for my job, of course).\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nThank you!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;','Day 279:  Need Your Help for 70s Fashion Emergency! ','','publish','open','open','','day-279-need-your-help-for-70s-fashion-emergency','','','2011-07-05 22:06:59','2011-07-06 05:06:59','',0,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?p=6404',0,'post','',21),(6405,1,'2011-07-05 12:53:10','2011-07-05 19:53:10','It\'s really not an <em>emergency</em>, but I hoped to capture your attention.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nAnd I would indeed like your help.   Please.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nIn the near future, I will pry myself away from World\'s Most Precious Pooch for a business trip in Chicago.  I will be glad to escape the heat (118 this past Saturday!)','Day 279:  Need Your Help for 70s Fashion Emergency! ','','inherit','open','open','','6404-revision','','','2011-07-05 12:53:10','2011-07-05 19:53:10','',6404,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2011/07/05/6404-revision/',0,'revision','',0),(6422,1,'2011-07-05 21:35:59','2011-07-06 04:35:59','It\'s really not an <em>emergency</em>, but I hoped to capture your attention.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAnd I would indeed like your help.   Please.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nIn the near future, I will attend our summer sales conference in Chicago.  I will be glad to escape the heat (118 this past Saturday!), but I am not thrilled at the thought of leaving Little Miss B for business.  Traveling for pleasure is glamorous; traveling for business is exhausting.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAnywho...In the tradition of Noble Publishing Superpower keeping the corporate culture fun and enticing, we are gathering together for a 70s party <strong><a href=\"http://youtu.be/HGr6mj5E90g\" target=\"_blank\">one of these nights</a></strong><a href=\"http://youtu.be/HGr6mj5E90g\" target=\"_blank\">.</a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI originally envisioned combing through vintage boutiques in downtown Phoenix on Day 279.  I pictured myself finding the perfect 70s costume and looking just like a <strong><a href=\"http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0073972/\" target=\"_blank\">Charlie\'s Angel</a></strong>.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI awoke from my reverie remembering that I hate shopping.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nSo I decided to closet shop at Dina <em>dah</em>ling\'s instead.  Yippeee!!!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nDina <em>dah</em>ling had just picked out a 70s ensemble at Old Navy for a work function, and she told me to come over and check it out.  The top fit, so why not wear it?  She reminded me that cords were \"in\" back then, so I came home and paired it with my only pair that sort of matches/sort of clashes just like clothes did in the 70s.  :-D\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nPlease vote for one of the following ensembles below in the comment section below.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_6406\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"225\" caption=\"Option A: Dina dahling&#39;s shirt and my cords\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7020085.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-6406\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7020085-225x300.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"225\" height=\"300\" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_6407\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"225\" caption=\"Option B: A retro top of mine with cords\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7020084.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-6407\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7020084-225x300.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"225\" height=\"300\" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_6408\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"225\" caption=\"Option C: Retro top with jeans that are slightly flared. Please note that the cords are boot cut as well. Also note that I will not be schlepping out to hunt for bell bottoms.\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7020086.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-6408 \" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7020086-225x300.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"225\" height=\"300\" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAs fate would have it, I was lured into the Doc Martens store during <strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2011/06/13/day-254-lost-in-the-city-of-books/\" target=\"_blank\">my recent visit to Portland</a></strong>.  I was innocently minding my own beeswax on the way to Powell\'s Books and was assaulted with \"MOST COMFORTABLE SOLE IN THE UNIVERSE!!!\", or something to that effect.  I love clogs during our \"winter\", and these are PERFECT for 70s, are they not?\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7020083.jpg\"><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-6409\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7020083-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nSo there you have it.  I look forward to you choosing my outfit for me.  (Yes, I will wear what the consensus picks.)\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nRemember that it is summer in Chicago.  Forecast for that day is high 81, low 67.  This equates to a Phoenix March.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nWe will be inside a luxury hotel, and you know how they like to keep the inside temp close to the average temperature in Antarctica.  i.e., I won\'t be too hot in the long sleeved shirt, and I can always wear a cover up with the no sleeved shirt.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nPlease vote on what most resembles 70s.  Fret not about my comfort.  I will suffer for blogalistic purposes (as well as for my job, of course).\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nThank you!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;','Day 279:  Need Your Help for 70s Fashion Emergency! ','','inherit','open','open','','6404-revision-12','','','2011-07-05 21:35:59','2011-07-06 04:35:59','',6404,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2011/07/05/6404-revision-12/',0,'revision','',0),(6406,1,'2011-07-05 20:56:49','2011-07-06 03:56:49','','OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA','Option A:  Dina dahling\'s shirt and my cords','inherit','open','open','','olympus-digital-camera-435','','','2011-07-05 20:56:49','2011-07-06 03:56:49','',6404,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7020085.jpg',0,'attachment','image/jpeg',0),(6407,1,'2011-07-05 20:59:04','2011-07-06 03:59:04','','OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA','Option B:  A retro top of mine with cords','inherit','open','open','','olympus-digital-camera-436','','','2011-07-05 20:59:04','2011-07-06 03:59:04','',6404,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7020084.jpg',0,'attachment','image/jpeg',0),(6408,1,'2011-07-05 21:02:04','2011-07-06 04:02:04','','OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA','Option C:  A retro shirt of mine with jeans that are slightly flared.  Please note that the cords are boot cut as well.  Also note that I will not be schlepping out to hunt for bell bottoms.','inherit','open','open','','olympus-digital-camera-437','','','2011-07-05 21:02:04','2011-07-06 04:02:04','',6404,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7020086.jpg',0,'attachment','image/jpeg',0),(6409,1,'2011-07-05 21:05:10','2011-07-06 04:05:10','','OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA','','inherit','open','open','','olympus-digital-camera-438','','','2011-07-05 21:05:10','2011-07-06 04:05:10','',6404,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7020083.jpg',0,'attachment','image/jpeg',0),(6410,1,'2011-07-05 21:14:05','2011-07-06 04:14:05','It\'s really not an <em>emergency</em>, but I hoped to capture your attention.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nAnd I would indeed like your help.   Please.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nIn the near future, I will attend our summer sales conference in Chicago.  I will be glad to escape the heat (118 this past Saturday!), but I am not thrilled at the thought of leaving Little Miss B for business.  Traveling for pleasure is glamorous; traveling for business is exhausting.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nAnywho...In the tradition of Noble Publishing Superpower keeping the corporate culture fun and enticing, we are gathering together for a 70s party <strong>one of these nights</strong>.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nI originally envisioned combing through vintage boutiques in downtown Phoenix on Day 279.  I pictured myself finding the perfect 70s costume and looking just like a <strong>Charlie\'s Ange</strong>l.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nI awoke from my reverie remembering that I hate shopping.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nSo I decided to closet shop at Dina <em>dah</em>ling\'s instead.  Yippeee!!!\n\n&nbsp;\n\nDina <em>dah</em>ling had just picked out a 70s ensemble and Old Navy for a work function, and she told me to come over and check it out.  The top fit, so why not wear it?  She reminded me that cords were \"in\" back then, so I came home and paired it with my only pair that sort of matches/sort of clashes just like clothes did in the 70s.  :-D\n\n&nbsp;\n\nPlease vote for one of the following ensembles below in the comment section below.\n\n&nbsp;\n\n[caption id=\"attachment_6406\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"225\" caption=\"Option A: Dina dahling&#39;s shirt and my cords\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7020085.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-6406\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7020085-225x300.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"225\" height=\"300\" /></a>[/caption]\n\n&nbsp;\n\n[caption id=\"attachment_6407\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"225\" caption=\"Option B: A retro top of mine with cords\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7020084.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-6407\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7020084-225x300.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"225\" height=\"300\" /></a>[/caption]\n\n&nbsp;\n\n[caption id=\"attachment_6408\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"225\" caption=\"Option C: A retro shirt of mine with jeans that are slightly flared. Please note that the cords are boot cut as well. Also note that I will not be schlepping out to hunt for bell bottoms.\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7020086.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-6408\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7020086-225x300.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"225\" height=\"300\" /></a>[/caption]\n\n&nbsp;\n\nAs fate would have it, I was lured into the Doc Martens store during my recent visit to Portland.  I was innocently minding my own beeswax on the way to Powell\'s Book and was assaulted with \"MOST COMFORTABLE SOLE IN THE UNIVERSE!!!\", or something to that effect.  I love clogs during our \"winter\", and these are PERFECT for 70s, are they not?\n\n&nbsp;\n\n<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7020083.jpg\"><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-6409\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7020083-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>\n\n&nbsp;\n\nSo there you have it.  I look forward to you choosing my outfit for me.  (Yes, I will wear what the consensus picks.)\n\n&nbsp;\n\nRemember that it is summer in Chicago.  Forecast for that day is high 81, low 67.  This equates to a Phoenix March.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nWe will be inside a luxury hotel, and you know how they like to keep the inside temp close to the average temperature in Antarctica.  i.e., I won\'t be too hot in the long sleeved shirt, and I can always wear a cover up with the no sleeved shirt.  Please vote on what most resembles 70s.\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;','Day 279:  Need Your Help for 70s Fashion Emergency! ','','inherit','open','open','','6404-revision-2','','','2011-07-05 21:14:05','2011-07-06 04:14:05','',6404,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2011/07/05/6404-revision-2/',0,'revision','',0),(6411,1,'2011-07-05 21:15:05','2011-07-06 04:15:05','It\'s really not an <em>emergency</em>, but I hoped to capture your attention.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nAnd I would indeed like your help.   Please.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nIn the near future, I will attend our summer sales conference in Chicago.  I will be glad to escape the heat (118 this past Saturday!), but I am not thrilled at the thought of leaving Little Miss B for business.  Traveling for pleasure is glamorous; traveling for business is exhausting.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nAnywho...In the tradition of Noble Publishing Superpower keeping the corporate culture fun and enticing, we are gathering together for a 70s party <strong>one of these nights</strong>.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nI originally envisioned combing through vintage boutiques in downtown Phoenix on Day 279.  I pictured myself finding the perfect 70s costume and looking just like a <strong>Charlie\'s Ange</strong>l.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nI awoke from my reverie remembering that I hate shopping.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nSo I decided to closet shop at Dina <em>dah</em>ling\'s instead.  Yippeee!!!\n\n&nbsp;\n\nDina <em>dah</em>ling had just picked out a 70s ensemble and Old Navy for a work function, and she told me to come over and check it out.  The top fit, so why not wear it?  She reminded me that cords were \"in\" back then, so I came home and paired it with my only pair that sort of matches/sort of clashes just like clothes did in the 70s.  :-D\n\n&nbsp;\n\nPlease vote for one of the following ensembles below in the comment section below.\n\n&nbsp;\n\n[caption id=\"attachment_6406\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"225\" caption=\"Option A: Dina dahling&#39;s shirt and my cords\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7020085.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-6406\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7020085-225x300.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"225\" height=\"300\" /></a>[/caption]\n\n&nbsp;\n\n[caption id=\"attachment_6407\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"225\" caption=\"Option B: A retro top of mine with cords\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7020084.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-6407\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7020084-225x300.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"225\" height=\"300\" /></a>[/caption]\n\n&nbsp;\n\n[caption id=\"attachment_6408\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"225\" caption=\"Option C: A retro shirt of mine with jeans that are slightly flared. Please note that the cords are boot cut as well. Also note that I will not be schlepping out to hunt for bell bottoms.\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7020086.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-6408\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7020086-225x300.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"225\" height=\"300\" /></a>[/caption]\n\n&nbsp;\n\nAs fate would have it, I was lured into the Doc Martens store during my recent visit to Portland.  I was innocently minding my own beeswax on the way to Powell\'s Book and was assaulted with \"MOST COMFORTABLE SOLE IN THE UNIVERSE!!!\", or something to that effect.  I love clogs during our \"winter\", and these are PERFECT for 70s, are they not?\n\n&nbsp;\n\n<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7020083.jpg\"><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-6409\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7020083-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>\n\n&nbsp;\n\nSo there you have it.  I look forward to you choosing my outfit for me.  (Yes, I will wear what the consensus picks.)\n\n&nbsp;\n\nRemember that it is summer in Chicago.  Forecast for that day is high 81, low 67.  This equates to a Phoenix March.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nWe will be inside a luxury hotel, and you know how they like to keep the inside temp close to the average temperature in Antarctica.  i.e., I won\'t be too hot in the long sleeved shirt, and I can always wear a cover up with the no sleeved shirt.  Please vote on what most resembles 70s.  Fret not about my comfort.  This is for journalistic purposes (as well as my job, of course).\n\n&nbsp;\n\nThank you!\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;','Day 279:  Need Your Help for 70s Fashion Emergency! ','','inherit','open','open','','6404-revision-3','','','2011-07-05 21:15:05','2011-07-06 04:15:05','',6404,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2011/07/05/6404-revision-3/',0,'revision','',0),(6412,1,'2011-07-05 21:18:19','2011-07-06 04:18:19','It\'s really not an <em>emergency</em>, but I hoped to capture your attention.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nAnd I would indeed like your help.   Please.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nIn the near future, I will attend our summer sales conference in Chicago.  I will be glad to escape the heat (118 this past Saturday!), but I am not thrilled at the thought of leaving Little Miss B for business.  Traveling for pleasure is glamorous; traveling for business is exhausting.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nAnywho...In the tradition of Noble Publishing Superpower keeping the corporate culture fun and enticing, we are gathering together for a 70s party <strong>one of these nights</strong>.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nI originally envisioned combing through vintage boutiques in downtown Phoenix on Day 279.  I pictured myself finding the perfect 70s costume and looking just like a <strong>Charlie\'s Ange</strong>l.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nI awoke from my reverie remembering that I hate shopping.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nSo I decided to closet shop at Dina <em>dah</em>ling\'s instead.  Yippeee!!!\n\n&nbsp;\n\nDina <em>dah</em>ling had just picked out a 70s ensemble and Old Navy for a work function, and she told me to come over and check it out.  The top fit, so why not wear it?  She reminded me that cords were \"in\" back then, so I came home and paired it with my only pair that sort of matches/sort of clashes just like clothes did in the 70s.  :-D\n\n&nbsp;\n\nPlease vote for one of the following ensembles below in the comment section below.\n\n&nbsp;\n\n[caption id=\"attachment_6406\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"225\" caption=\"Option A: Dina dahling&#39;s shirt and my cords\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7020085.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-6406\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7020085-225x300.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"225\" height=\"300\" /></a>[/caption]\n\n&nbsp;\n\n[caption id=\"attachment_6407\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"225\" caption=\"Option B: A retro top of mine with cords\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7020084.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-6407\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7020084-225x300.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"225\" height=\"300\" /></a>[/caption]\n\n&nbsp;\n\n[caption id=\"attachment_6408\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"225\" caption=\"Option C: A retro shirt of mine with jeans that are slightly flared. Please note that the cords are boot cut as well. Also note that I will not be schlepping out to hunt for bell bottoms.\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7020086.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-6408\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7020086-225x300.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"225\" height=\"300\" /></a>[/caption]\n\n&nbsp;\n\nAs fate would have it, I was lured into the Doc Martens store during my recent visit to Portland.  I was innocently minding my own beeswax on the way to Powell\'s Book and was assaulted with \"MOST COMFORTABLE SOLE IN THE UNIVERSE!!!\", or something to that effect.  I love clogs during our \"winter\", and these are PERFECT for 70s, are they not?\n\n&nbsp;\n\n<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7020083.jpg\"><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-6409\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7020083-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\nSo there you have it.  I look forward to you choosing my outfit for me.  (Yes, I will wear what the consensus picks.)\n\n&nbsp;\n\nRemember that it is summer in Chicago.  Forecast for that day is high 81, low 67.  This equates to a Phoenix March.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nWe will be inside a luxury hotel, and you know how they like to keep the inside temp close to the average temperature in Antarctica.  i.e., I won\'t be too hot in the long sleeved shirt, and I can always wear a cover up with the no sleeved shirt.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nPlease vote on what most resembles 70s.  Fret not about my comfort.  This is for journalistic purposes (as well as my job, of course).\n\n&nbsp;\n\nThank you!\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;','Day 279:  Need Your Help for 70s Fashion Emergency! ','','inherit','open','open','','6404-revision-4','','','2011-07-05 21:18:19','2011-07-06 04:18:19','',6404,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2011/07/05/6404-revision-4/',0,'revision','',0),(6413,1,'2011-07-05 21:20:09','2011-07-06 04:20:09','It\'s really not an <em>emergency</em>, but I hoped to capture your attention.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAnd I would indeed like your help.   Please.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nIn the near future, I will attend our summer sales conference in Chicago.  I will be glad to escape the heat (118 this past Saturday!), but I am not thrilled at the thought of leaving Little Miss B for business.  Traveling for pleasure is glamorous; traveling for business is exhausting.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAnywho...In the tradition of Noble Publishing Superpower keeping the corporate culture fun and enticing, we are gathering together for a 70s party <strong>one of these nights</strong>.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI originally envisioned combing through vintage boutiques in downtown Phoenix on Day 279.  I pictured myself finding the perfect 70s costume and looking just like a <strong>Charlie\'s Ange</strong>l.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI awoke from my reverie remembering that I hate shopping.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nSo I decided to closet shop at Dina <em>dah</em>ling\'s instead.  Yippeee!!!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nDina <em>dah</em>ling had just picked out a 70s ensemble and Old Navy for a work function, and she told me to come over and check it out.  The top fit, so why not wear it?  She reminded me that cords were \"in\" back then, so I came home and paired it with my only pair that sort of matches/sort of clashes just like clothes did in the 70s.  :-D\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nPlease vote for one of the following ensembles below in the comment section below.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_6406\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"225\" caption=\"Option A: Dina dahling&#39;s shirt and my cords\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7020085.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-6406\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7020085-225x300.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"225\" height=\"300\" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_6407\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"225\" caption=\"Option B: A retro top of mine with cords\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7020084.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-6407\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7020084-225x300.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"225\" height=\"300\" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_6408\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"225\" caption=\"Option C: A retro shirt of mine with jeans that are slightly flared. Please note that the cords are boot cut as well. Also note that I will not be schlepping out to hunt for bell bottoms.\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7020086.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-6408\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7020086-225x300.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"225\" height=\"300\" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAs fate would have it, I was lured into the Doc Martens store during my recent visit to Portland.  I was innocently minding my own beeswax on the way to Powell\'s Book and was assaulted with \"MOST COMFORTABLE SOLE IN THE UNIVERSE!!!\", or something to that effect.  I love clogs during our \"winter\", and these are PERFECT for 70s, are they not?\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7020083.jpg\"><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-6409\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7020083-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nSo there you have it.  I look forward to you choosing my outfit for me.  (Yes, I will wear what the consensus picks.)\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nRemember that it is summer in Chicago.  Forecast for that day is high 81, low 67.  This equates to a Phoenix March.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nWe will be inside a luxury hotel, and you know how they like to keep the inside temp close to the average temperature in Antarctica.  i.e., I won\'t be too hot in the long sleeved shirt, and I can always wear a cover up with the no sleeved shirt.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nPlease vote on what most resembles 70s.  Fret not about my comfort.  This is for journalistic purposes (as well as my job, of course).\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nThank you!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;','Day 279:  Need Your Help for 70s Fashion Emergency! ','','inherit','open','open','','6404-revision-5','','','2011-07-05 21:20:09','2011-07-06 04:20:09','',6404,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2011/07/05/6404-revision-5/',0,'revision','',0),(6414,1,'2011-07-05 21:35:22','2011-07-06 04:35:22','It\'s really not an <em>emergency</em>, but I hoped to capture your attention.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nAnd I would indeed like your help.   Please.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nIn the near future, I will attend our summer sales conference in Chicago.  I will be glad to escape the heat (118 this past Saturday!), but I am not thrilled at the thought of leaving Little Miss B for business.  Traveling for pleasure is glamorous; traveling for business is exhausting.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nAnywho...In the tradition of Noble Publishing Superpower keeping the corporate culture fun and enticing, we are gathering together for a 70s party <strong><a href=\"http://youtu.be/HGr6mj5E90g\" target=\"_blank\">one of these nights</a></strong><a href=\"http://youtu.be/HGr6mj5E90g\" target=\"_blank\">.</a>\n\n&nbsp;\n\nI originally envisioned combing through vintage boutiques in downtown Phoenix on Day 279.  I pictured myself finding the perfect 70s costume and looking just like a <strong><a href=\"http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0073972/\" target=\"_blank\">Charlie\'s Angel</a></strong>.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nI awoke from my reverie remembering that I hate shopping.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nSo I decided to closet shop at Dina <em>dah</em>ling\'s instead.  Yippeee!!!\n\n&nbsp;\n\nDina <em>dah</em>ling had just picked out a 70s ensemble at Old Navy for a work function, and she told me to come over and check it out.  The top fit, so why not wear it?  She reminded me that cords were \"in\" back then, so I came home and paired it with my only pair that sort of matches/sort of clashes just like clothes did in the 70s.  :-D\n\n&nbsp;\n\nPlease vote for one of the following ensembles below in the comment section below.\n\n&nbsp;\n\n[caption id=\"attachment_6406\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"225\" caption=\"Option A: Dina dahling&#39;s shirt and my cords\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7020085.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-6406\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7020085-225x300.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"225\" height=\"300\" /></a>[/caption]\n\n&nbsp;\n\n[caption id=\"attachment_6407\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"225\" caption=\"Option B: A retro top of mine with cords\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7020084.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-6407\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7020084-225x300.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"225\" height=\"300\" /></a>[/caption]\n\n&nbsp;\n\n[caption id=\"attachment_6408\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"225\" caption=\"Option C: Retro top with jeans that are slightly flared. Please note that the cords are boot cut as well. Also note that I will not be schlepping out to hunt for bell bottoms.\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7020086.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-6408 \" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7020086-225x300.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"225\" height=\"300\" /></a>[/caption]\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\nAs fate would have it, I was lured into the Doc Martens store during <strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2011/06/13/day-254-lost-in-the-city-of-books/\" target=\"_blank\">my recent visit to Portland</a></strong>.  I was innocently minding my own beeswax on the way to Powell\'s Books and was assaulted with \"MOST COMFORTABLE SOLE IN THE UNIVERSE!!!\", or something to that effect.  I love clogs during our \"winter\", and these are PERFECT for 70s, are they not?\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\n<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7020083.jpg\"><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-6409\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7020083-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\nSo there you have it.  I look forward to you choosing my outfit for me.  (Yes, I will wear what the consensus picks.)\n\n&nbsp;\n\nRemember that it is summer in Chicago.  Forecast for that day is high 81, low 67.  This equates to a Phoenix March.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nWe will be inside a luxury hotel, and you know how they like to keep the inside temp close to the average temperature in Antarctica.  i.e., I won\'t be too hot in the long sleeved shirt, and I can always wear a cover up with the no sleeved shirt.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nPlease vote on what most resembles 70s.  Fret not about my comfort.  I will suffer for blogalistic purposes (as well as for my job, of course).\n\n&nbsp;\n\nThank you!\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;','Day 279:  Need Your Help for 70s Fashion Emergency! ','','inherit','open','open','','6404-autosave','','','2011-07-05 21:35:22','2011-07-06 04:35:22','',6404,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2011/07/05/6404-autosave/',0,'revision','',0),(6415,1,'2011-07-05 21:20:35','2011-07-06 04:20:35','It\'s really not an <em>emergency</em>, but I hoped to capture your attention.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAnd I would indeed like your help.   Please.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nIn the near future, I will attend our summer sales conference in Chicago.  I will be glad to escape the heat (118 this past Saturday!), but I am not thrilled at the thought of leaving Little Miss B for business.  Traveling for pleasure is glamorous; traveling for business is exhausting.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAnywho...In the tradition of Noble Publishing Superpower keeping the corporate culture fun and enticing, we are gathering together for a 70s party <strong>one of these nights</strong>.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI originally envisioned combing through vintage boutiques in downtown Phoenix on Day 279.  I pictured myself finding the perfect 70s costume and looking just like a <strong>Charlie\'s Ange</strong>l.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI awoke from my reverie remembering that I hate shopping.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nSo I decided to closet shop at Dina <em>dah</em>ling\'s instead.  Yippeee!!!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nDina <em>dah</em>ling had just picked out a 70s ensemble and Old Navy for a work function, and she told me to come over and check it out.  The top fit, so why not wear it?  She reminded me that cords were \"in\" back then, so I came home and paired it with my only pair that sort of matches/sort of clashes just like clothes did in the 70s.  :-D\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nPlease vote for one of the following ensembles below in the comment section below.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_6406\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"225\" caption=\"Option A: Dina dahling&#39;s shirt and my cords\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7020085.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-6406\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7020085-225x300.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"225\" height=\"300\" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_6407\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"225\" caption=\"Option B: A retro top of mine with cords\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7020084.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-6407\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7020084-225x300.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"225\" height=\"300\" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_6408\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"225\" caption=\"Option C: A retro shirt of mine with jeans that are slightly flared. Please note that the cords are boot cut as well. Also note that I will not be schlepping out to hunt for bell bottoms.\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7020086.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-6408\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7020086-225x300.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"225\" height=\"300\" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAs fate would have it, I was lured into the Doc Martens store during my recent visit to Portland.  I was innocently minding my own beeswax on the way to Powell\'s Book and was assaulted with \"MOST COMFORTABLE SOLE IN THE UNIVERSE!!!\", or something to that effect.  I love clogs during our \"winter\", and these are PERFECT for 70s, are they not?\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7020083.jpg\"><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-6409\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7020083-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nSo there you have it.  I look forward to you choosing my outfit for me.  (Yes, I will wear what the consensus picks.)\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nRemember that it is summer in Chicago.  Forecast for that day is high 81, low 67.  This equates to a Phoenix March.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nWe will be inside a luxury hotel, and you know how they like to keep the inside temp close to the average temperature in Antarctica.  i.e., I won\'t be too hot in the long sleeved shirt, and I can always wear a cover up with the no sleeved shirt.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nPlease vote on what most resembles 70s.  Fret not about my comfort.  This is for journalistic purposes (as well as my job, of course).\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nThank you!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;','Day 279:  Need Your Help for 70s Fashion Emergency! ','','inherit','open','open','','6404-revision-6','','','2011-07-05 21:20:35','2011-07-06 04:20:35','',6404,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2011/07/05/6404-revision-6/',0,'revision','',0),(6418,1,'2011-07-05 21:33:08','2011-07-06 04:33:08','It\'s really not an <em>emergency</em>, but I hoped to capture your attention.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nAnd I would indeed like your help.   Please.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nIn the near future, I will attend our summer sales conference in Chicago.  I will be glad to escape the heat (118 this past Saturday!), but I am not thrilled at the thought of leaving Little Miss B for business.  Traveling for pleasure is glamorous; traveling for business is exhausting.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nAnywho...In the tradition of Noble Publishing Superpower keeping the corporate culture fun and enticing, we are gathering together for a 70s party <strong><a href=\"http://youtu.be/HGr6mj5E90g\" target=\"_blank\">one of these nights</a></strong><a href=\"http://youtu.be/HGr6mj5E90g\" target=\"_blank\">.</a>\n\n&nbsp;\n\nI originally envisioned combing through vintage boutiques in downtown Phoenix on Day 279.  I pictured myself finding the perfect 70s costume and looking just like a <strong><a href=\"http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0073972/\" target=\"_blank\">Charlie\'s Angel</a></strong>.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nI awoke from my reverie remembering that I hate shopping.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nSo I decided to closet shop at Dina <em>dah</em>ling\'s instead.  Yippeee!!!\n\n&nbsp;\n\nDina <em>dah</em>ling had just picked out a 70s ensemble at Old Navy for a work function, and she told me to come over and check it out.  The top fit, so why not wear it?  She reminded me that cords were \"in\" back then, so I came home and paired it with my only pair that sort of matches/sort of clashes just like clothes did in the 70s.  :-D\n\n&nbsp;\n\nPlease vote for one of the following ensembles below in the comment section below.\n\n&nbsp;\n\n[caption id=\"attachment_6406\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"225\" caption=\"Option A: Dina dahling&#39;s shirt and my cords\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7020085.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-6406\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7020085-225x300.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"225\" height=\"300\" /></a>[/caption]\n\n&nbsp;\n\n[caption id=\"attachment_6407\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"225\" caption=\"Option B: A retro top of mine with cords\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7020084.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-6407\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7020084-225x300.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"225\" height=\"300\" /></a>[/caption]\n\n&nbsp;\n\n[caption id=\"attachment_6408\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"225\" caption=\"Option C: A retro shirt of mine with jeans that are slightly flared. Please note that the cords are boot cut as well. Also note that I will not be schlepping out to hunt for bell bottoms.\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7020086.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-6408\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7020086-225x300.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"225\" height=\"300\" /></a>[/caption]\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\nAs fate would have it, I was lured into the Doc Martens store during <strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2011/06/13/day-254-lost-in-the-city-of-books/\" target=\"_blank\">my recent visit to Portland</a></strong>.  I was innocently minding my own beeswax on the way to Powell\'s Books and was assaulted with \"MOST COMFORTABLE SOLE IN THE UNIVERSE!!!\", or something to that effect.  I love clogs during our \"winter\", and these are PERFECT for 70s, are they not?\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\n<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7020083.jpg\"><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-6409\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7020083-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\nSo there you have it.  I look forward to you choosing my outfit for me.  (Yes, I will wear what the consensus picks.)\n\n&nbsp;\n\nRemember that it is summer in Chicago.  Forecast for that day is high 81, low 67.  This equates to a Phoenix March.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nWe will be inside a luxury hotel, and you know how they like to keep the inside temp close to the average temperature in Antarctica.  i.e., I won\'t be too hot in the long sleeved shirt, and I can always wear a cover up with the no sleeved shirt.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nPlease vote on what most resembles 70s.  Fret not about my comfort.  I will suffer for blogalistic purposes (as well as for my job, of course).\n\n&nbsp;\n\nThank you!\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;','Day 279:  Need Your Help for 70s Fashion Emergency! ','','inherit','open','open','','6404-revision-9','','','2011-07-05 21:33:08','2011-07-06 04:33:08','',6404,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2011/07/05/6404-revision-9/',0,'revision','',0),(6416,1,'2011-07-05 21:29:02','2011-07-06 04:29:02','It\'s really not an <em>emergency</em>, but I hoped to capture your attention.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAnd I would indeed like your help.   Please.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nIn the near future, I will attend our summer sales conference in Chicago.  I will be glad to escape the heat (118 this past Saturday!), but I am not thrilled at the thought of leaving Little Miss B for business.  Traveling for pleasure is glamorous; traveling for business is exhausting.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAnywho...In the tradition of Noble Publishing Superpower keeping the corporate culture fun and enticing, we are gathering together for a 70s party<strong><a href=\"http://youtu.be/HGr6mj5E90g\" target=\"_blank\">one of these nights</a></strong><a href=\"http://youtu.be/HGr6mj5E90g\" target=\"_blank\">.</a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI originally envisioned combing through vintage boutiques in downtown Phoenix on Day 279.  I pictured myself finding the perfect 70s costume and looking just like a <strong><a href=\"http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0073972/\" target=\"_blank\">Charlie\'s Angel</a></strong>.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI awoke from my reverie remembering that I hate shopping.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nSo I decided to closet shop at Dina <em>dah</em>ling\'s instead.  Yippeee!!!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nDina <em>dah</em>ling had just picked out a 70s ensemble at Old Navy for a work function, and she told me to come over and check it out.  The top fit, so why not wear it?  She reminded me that cords were \"in\" back then, so I came home and paired it with my only pair that sort of matches/sort of clashes just like clothes did in the 70s.  :-D\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nPlease vote for one of the following ensembles below in the comment section below.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_6406\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"225\" caption=\"Option A: Dina dahling&#39;s shirt and my cords\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7020085.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-6406\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7020085-225x300.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"225\" height=\"300\" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_6407\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"225\" caption=\"Option B: A retro top of mine with cords\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7020084.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-6407\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7020084-225x300.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"225\" height=\"300\" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_6408\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"225\" caption=\"Option C: A retro shirt of mine with jeans that are slightly flared. Please note that the cords are boot cut as well. Also note that I will not be schlepping out to hunt for bell bottoms.\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7020086.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-6408\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7020086-225x300.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"225\" height=\"300\" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAs fate would have it, I was lured into the Doc Martens store during <strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2011/06/13/day-254-lost-in-the-city-of-books/\" target=\"_blank\">my recent visit to Portland</a></strong>.  I was innocently minding my own beeswax on the way to Powell\'s Book and was assaulted with \"MOST COMFORTABLE SOLE IN THE UNIVERSE!!!\", or something to that effect.  I love clogs during our \"winter\", and these are PERFECT for 70s, are they not?\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7020083.jpg\"><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-6409\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7020083-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nSo there you have it.  I look forward to you choosing my outfit for me.  (Yes, I will wear what the consensus picks.)\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nRemember that it is summer in Chicago.  Forecast for that day is high 81, low 67.  This equates to a Phoenix March.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nWe will be inside a luxury hotel, and you know how they like to keep the inside temp close to the average temperature in Antarctica.  i.e., I won\'t be too hot in the long sleeved shirt, and I can always wear a cover up with the no sleeved shirt.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nPlease vote on what most resembles 70s.  Fret not about my comfort.  I will suffer for blogalistic purposes (as well as for my job, of course).\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nThank you!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;','Day 279:  Need Your Help for 70s Fashion Emergency! ','','inherit','open','open','','6404-revision-7','','','2011-07-05 21:29:02','2011-07-06 04:29:02','',6404,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2011/07/05/6404-revision-7/',0,'revision','',0),(6417,1,'2011-07-05 21:30:10','2011-07-06 04:30:10','It\'s really not an <em>emergency</em>, but I hoped to capture your attention.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAnd I would indeed like your help.   Please.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nIn the near future, I will attend our summer sales conference in Chicago.  I will be glad to escape the heat (118 this past Saturday!), but I am not thrilled at the thought of leaving Little Miss B for business.  Traveling for pleasure is glamorous; traveling for business is exhausting.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAnywho...In the tradition of Noble Publishing Superpower keeping the corporate culture fun and enticing, we are gathering together for a 70s party <strong><a href=\"http://youtu.be/HGr6mj5E90g\" target=\"_blank\">one of these nights</a></strong><a href=\"http://youtu.be/HGr6mj5E90g\" target=\"_blank\">.</a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI originally envisioned combing through vintage boutiques in downtown Phoenix on Day 279.  I pictured myself finding the perfect 70s costume and looking just like a <strong><a href=\"http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0073972/\" target=\"_blank\">Charlie\'s Angel</a></strong>.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI awoke from my reverie remembering that I hate shopping.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nSo I decided to closet shop at Dina <em>dah</em>ling\'s instead.  Yippeee!!!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nDina <em>dah</em>ling had just picked out a 70s ensemble at Old Navy for a work function, and she told me to come over and check it out.  The top fit, so why not wear it?  She reminded me that cords were \"in\" back then, so I came home and paired it with my only pair that sort of matches/sort of clashes just like clothes did in the 70s.  :-D\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nPlease vote for one of the following ensembles below in the comment section below.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_6406\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"225\" caption=\"Option A: Dina dahling&#39;s shirt and my cords\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7020085.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-6406\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7020085-225x300.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"225\" height=\"300\" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_6407\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"225\" caption=\"Option B: A retro top of mine with cords\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7020084.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-6407\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7020084-225x300.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"225\" height=\"300\" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_6408\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"225\" caption=\"Option C: A retro shirt of mine with jeans that are slightly flared. Please note that the cords are boot cut as well. Also note that I will not be schlepping out to hunt for bell bottoms.\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7020086.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-6408\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7020086-225x300.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"225\" height=\"300\" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAs fate would have it, I was lured into the Doc Martens store during <strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2011/06/13/day-254-lost-in-the-city-of-books/\" target=\"_blank\">my recent visit to Portland</a></strong>.  I was innocently minding my own beeswax on the way to Powell\'s Book and was assaulted with \"MOST COMFORTABLE SOLE IN THE UNIVERSE!!!\", or something to that effect.  I love clogs during our \"winter\", and these are PERFECT for 70s, are they not?\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7020083.jpg\"><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-6409\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7020083-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nSo there you have it.  I look forward to you choosing my outfit for me.  (Yes, I will wear what the consensus picks.)\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nRemember that it is summer in Chicago.  Forecast for that day is high 81, low 67.  This equates to a Phoenix March.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nWe will be inside a luxury hotel, and you know how they like to keep the inside temp close to the average temperature in Antarctica.  i.e., I won\'t be too hot in the long sleeved shirt, and I can always wear a cover up with the no sleeved shirt.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nPlease vote on what most resembles 70s.  Fret not about my comfort.  I will suffer for blogalistic purposes (as well as for my job, of course).\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nThank you!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;','Day 279:  Need Your Help for 70s Fashion Emergency! ','','inherit','open','open','','6404-revision-8','','','2011-07-05 21:30:10','2011-07-06 04:30:10','',6404,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2011/07/05/6404-revision-8/',0,'revision','',0),(6419,1,'2011-07-05 21:33:16','2011-07-06 04:33:16','It\'s really not an <em>emergency</em>, but I hoped to capture your attention.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAnd I would indeed like your help.   Please.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nIn the near future, I will attend our summer sales conference in Chicago.  I will be glad to escape the heat (118 this past Saturday!), but I am not thrilled at the thought of leaving Little Miss B for business.  Traveling for pleasure is glamorous; traveling for business is exhausting.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAnywho...In the tradition of Noble Publishing Superpower keeping the corporate culture fun and enticing, we are gathering together for a 70s party <strong><a href=\"http://youtu.be/HGr6mj5E90g\" target=\"_blank\">one of these nights</a></strong><a href=\"http://youtu.be/HGr6mj5E90g\" target=\"_blank\">.</a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI originally envisioned combing through vintage boutiques in downtown Phoenix on Day 279.  I pictured myself finding the perfect 70s costume and looking just like a <strong><a href=\"http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0073972/\" target=\"_blank\">Charlie\'s Angel</a></strong>.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI awoke from my reverie remembering that I hate shopping.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nSo I decided to closet shop at Dina <em>dah</em>ling\'s instead.  Yippeee!!!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nDina <em>dah</em>ling had just picked out a 70s ensemble at Old Navy for a work function, and she told me to come over and check it out.  The top fit, so why not wear it?  She reminded me that cords were \"in\" back then, so I came home and paired it with my only pair that sort of matches/sort of clashes just like clothes did in the 70s.  :-D\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nPlease vote for one of the following ensembles below in the comment section below.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_6406\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"225\" caption=\"Option A: Dina dahling&#39;s shirt and my cords\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7020085.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-6406\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7020085-225x300.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"225\" height=\"300\" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_6407\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"225\" caption=\"Option B: A retro top of mine with cords\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7020084.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-6407\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7020084-225x300.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"225\" height=\"300\" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_6408\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"225\" caption=\"Option C: A retro shirt of mine with jeans that are slightly flared. Please note that the cords are boot cut as well. Also note that I will not be schlepping out to hunt for bell bottoms.\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7020086.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-6408\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7020086-225x300.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"225\" height=\"300\" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAs fate would have it, I was lured into the Doc Martens store during <strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2011/06/13/day-254-lost-in-the-city-of-books/\" target=\"_blank\">my recent visit to Portland</a></strong>.  I was innocently minding my own beeswax on the way to Powell\'s Books and was assaulted with \"MOST COMFORTABLE SOLE IN THE UNIVERSE!!!\", or something to that effect.  I love clogs during our \"winter\", and these are PERFECT for 70s, are they not?\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7020083.jpg\"><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-6409\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7020083-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nSo there you have it.  I look forward to you choosing my outfit for me.  (Yes, I will wear what the consensus picks.)\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nRemember that it is summer in Chicago.  Forecast for that day is high 81, low 67.  This equates to a Phoenix March.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nWe will be inside a luxury hotel, and you know how they like to keep the inside temp close to the average temperature in Antarctica.  i.e., I won\'t be too hot in the long sleeved shirt, and I can always wear a cover up with the no sleeved shirt.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nPlease vote on what most resembles 70s.  Fret not about my comfort.  I will suffer for blogalistic purposes (as well as for my job, of course).\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nThank you!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;','Day 279:  Need Your Help for 70s Fashion Emergency! ','','inherit','open','open','','6404-revision-10','','','2011-07-05 21:33:16','2011-07-06 04:33:16','',6404,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2011/07/05/6404-revision-10/',0,'revision','',0),(6420,1,'2011-07-05 21:35:12','2011-07-06 04:35:12','It\'s really not an <em>emergency</em>, but I hoped to capture your attention.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAnd I would indeed like your help.   Please.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nIn the near future, I will attend our summer sales conference in Chicago.  I will be glad to escape the heat (118 this past Saturday!), but I am not thrilled at the thought of leaving Little Miss B for business.  Traveling for pleasure is glamorous; traveling for business is exhausting.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAnywho...In the tradition of Noble Publishing Superpower keeping the corporate culture fun and enticing, we are gathering together for a 70s party <strong><a href=\"http://youtu.be/HGr6mj5E90g\" target=\"_blank\">one of these nights</a></strong><a href=\"http://youtu.be/HGr6mj5E90g\" target=\"_blank\">.</a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI originally envisioned combing through vintage boutiques in downtown Phoenix on Day 279.  I pictured myself finding the perfect 70s costume and looking just like a <strong><a href=\"http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0073972/\" target=\"_blank\">Charlie\'s Angel</a></strong>.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI awoke from my reverie remembering that I hate shopping.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nSo I decided to closet shop at Dina <em>dah</em>ling\'s instead.  Yippeee!!!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nDina <em>dah</em>ling had just picked out a 70s ensemble at Old Navy for a work function, and she told me to come over and check it out.  The top fit, so why not wear it?  She reminded me that cords were \"in\" back then, so I came home and paired it with my only pair that sort of matches/sort of clashes just like clothes did in the 70s.  :-D\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nPlease vote for one of the following ensembles below in the comment section below.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_6406\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"225\" caption=\"Option A: Dina dahling&#39;s shirt and my cords\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7020085.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-6406\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7020085-225x300.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"225\" height=\"300\" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_6407\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"225\" caption=\"Option B: A retro top of mine with cords\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7020084.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-6407\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7020084-225x300.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"225\" height=\"300\" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_6408\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"225\" caption=\"Option C: Retro top with jeans that are slightly flared. Please note that the cords are boot cut as well. Also note that I will not be schlepping out to hunt for bell bottoms.\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7020086.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-6408 \" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7020086-225x300.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"225\" height=\"300\" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAs fate would have it, I was lured into the Doc Martens store during <strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2011/06/13/day-254-lost-in-the-city-of-books/\" target=\"_blank\">my recent visit to Portland</a></strong>.  I was innocently minding my own beeswax on the way to Powell\'s Books and was assaulted with \"MOST COMFORTABLE SOLE IN THE UNIVERSE!!!\", or something to that effect.  I love clogs during our \"winter\", and these are PERFECT for 70s, are they not?\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7020083.jpg\"><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-6409\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7020083-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nSo there you have it.  I look forward to you choosing my outfit for me.  (Yes, I will wear what the consensus picks.)\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nRemember that it is summer in Chicago.  Forecast for that day is high 81, low 67.  This equates to a Phoenix March.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nWe will be inside a luxury hotel, and you know how they like to keep the inside temp close to the average temperature in Antarctica.  i.e., I won\'t be too hot in the long sleeved shirt, and I can always wear a cover up with the no sleeved shirt.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nPlease vote on what most resembles 70s.  Fret not about my comfort.  I will suffer for blogalistic purposes (as well as for my job, of course).\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nThank you!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;','Day 279:  Need Your Help for 70s Fashion Emergency! ','','inherit','open','open','','6404-revision-11','','','2011-07-05 21:35:12','2011-07-06 04:35:12','',6404,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2011/07/05/6404-revision-11/',0,'revision','',0),(6421,1,'2011-07-04 12:12:34','2011-07-04 19:12:34','I love it when, at 41, I hear of something off-beat that I\'ve never heard of before.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nWhen Sarah told me about the Goldfish Races at <strong><a href=\"http://www.arcadiatavern.com/\" target=\"_blank\">Arcadia Tavern</a></strong> on Thursday nights, I knew that I had to try it.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI showed up not knowing what to expect, except for the Sweet Potato Tater Tots that Sarah had previously built up to great culinary heights.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_6360\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"300\" caption=\"They were everything Sarah said they would be and more!\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300032.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-6360\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300032-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAt 9:30, they announced that the Goldfish Races would soon begin.  We were asked to choose a cup with a goldfish and name it.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nSarah and Tim named their fish in a heartbeat:  Hermes and Mark Spitz, respectively.  [Although there was initial confusion with the MC who was born in 1984 (I asked) and wrote \"Mark Spence\".]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI took a good ten minutes to come up with best possible name for my fishie.  I finally decided on Fifi Le Rue.  (Or Fee Fee La Roux to Mr. 1984.  Hey -- I was impressed that he knew \"roux\".  But then again, he does work in the culinary industry.)\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300033.jpg\"><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-6362\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300033-225x300.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"225\" height=\"300\" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nIn our first heat, Fifi/Fee Fee and I were competing against the rocket scientist/Beavis and Butthead aficionado named Master Baiter.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nNo, he is not a 7th grader.  Take a look.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300042.jpg\"><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-6363\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300042-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAnd the winner is...\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_6364\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"300\" caption=\"Sis, make sure to hide this one from World&#39;s Most Precious Niece &amp; Nephew.  Yet another intellectual giant in the heat above me.\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300045.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-6364 \" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300045-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nSarah and Hermes won their first heat as well!  Unfortunately, Tim and Mark Spence/Spitz didn\'t advance.  Mark Spence/Spitz turned out to be a feisty little fish who had big dreams of being a salmon and swam upstream.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300047.jpg\"><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-6377\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300047-225x300.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"225\" height=\"300\" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nMark Spence/Spitz continued to rebel by JUMPING OUT OF HIS CUP at the table later on that night!!!!  Was it acrobatics or a suicide attempt to escape the race scene on Thursday nights?  We will never know.  Fortunately, Tim and Mr. 1984 rescued him in time.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nOn to the second heat...\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300048.jpg\"><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-6367\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300048-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAnd the third...\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300057.jpg\"><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-6368\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300057-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAnd the winner is...\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300060.jpg\"><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-6370\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300060-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_6371\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"225\" caption=\"Everyone&#39;s been asking about the big band aid.  I burned myself on the barbecue.  :-(  \"]<img class=\"size-medium wp-image-6371\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300052-225x300.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"225\" height=\"300\" />[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nWell, well, well...Look who\'s competing against one another in the finals?\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300061.jpg\"><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-6372\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300061-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAllow me to share what happened just before the final heat.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nSarah and I and our fishies had been competing on the same side of the \"track\" in our previous heats.  I naturally walked to this side for the final heat.  Sarah, in touch with her inner 5 year-old, shouted, \"I call this side!\"  Me, in touch with my inner two year-old, dumped Fifi/Fee Fee from her cup into the starting \"gate\" on the coveted \"side\" before Sarah arrived in her place.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAs if THAT isn\'t appalling enough...\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nBefore every heat, I looked my opponent in the eye and wished them good luck.  (Master Baiter is the only one who ignored me, by the way.  What a shocker.  All of the other contestants looked surprised, smiled, and returned the well wishes.)\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI can\'t say for certain, because my memory is spotty from the final heat nerves (now I know how Olympians feel when they\'re going for the gold), but I think that I may have forgotten to wish Sarah good luck.  That\'s right.  I failed to bestow good sportsmanship on one of my closest friends.  Isn\'t that special?\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nTeam Sarah/Hermes and Team Michelle/Fifi/Fee Fee swam <del>neck and neck</del> gill and gill until the very end when I got water in my eye and completely lost track of Fifi/Fee Fee.  Was it Sarah\'s inner 5 year-old shooting water in my eye or my excited inner two year-old blowing way too many bubbles?  We will never know.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAnd the winner is...\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_6373\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"300\" caption=\"Sarah and Hermes!\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300062.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-6373\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300062-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_6374\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"225\" caption=\"Sarah won a beach chair, and I won a $15 gift certificate to the tavern!\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300068.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-6374\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300068-225x300.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"225\" height=\"300\" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nA whale of a congratulations to Sarah and Hermes!  Sarah, my inner two year-old apologizes to your inner five year-old for her atrocious manners pre-finals.  You deserved to win.  :-D\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nFifi/Fee Fee, I never dreamed that we would make it so far.  Thanks for being the greatest fishie that a girl could ask for.  I will miss you.  Sniff, sniff.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_6375\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"300\" caption=\"Heart of a Champion\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300067.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-6375 \" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P6300067-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n*****\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI bet you\'re wondering what happens to these fishies post-race.  Often during these bloggy adventures, I fancy myself a reporter and pepper standers-by with questions.  On this night, Mr. 1984 was my <del>victim</del> interviewee.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nMr. 1984 explained that the fishies return to the tank after their night of frolic.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nCutting to the chase, I immediately inquired about the death count.  Surprisingly, there are only a couple of casualties a week.  Although there was that one week when someone forgot to clean the tank and ALL of the fishies were doing the dead fish float when he arrived at work.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nMy next question was obvious:  Do they have a proper fishie burial out back?  (The tavern has a nice-sized patio.)\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nNah.  The fishies are flushed down the toilet.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI made a sad face.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nMr. 1984 quickly recovered by explaining that he often buries the fishies in the potted plants as fertilizer.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI made a happy face.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nThe End.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;','Day 277:  Off to the Goldfish Races','','inherit','open','open','','6358-revision-19','','','2011-07-04 12:12:34','2011-07-04 19:12:34','',6358,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2011/07/04/6358-revision-19/',0,'revision','',0),(6426,1,'2011-07-06 20:01:31','2011-07-07 03:01:31','I am a \"functional shopper\".  I shop when I need things. I am embarrassed to admit how long I have needed a new sports bra.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nLately, I have been the equivalent of the guy who can\'t let go of his favorite college t-shirt.  Although I am by no means attached to my old sports bras.  That would be weird.  I\'m simply not motivated to substitute more interesting weekend plans for shopping.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nI should note that no one sees me in the sports bras in question.  A few years ago, when I left the free schedule of self employment and signed on to my Corporate America gig, I quit my gym membership in the interest of time.  I attain the same exact results (if not better results) from the in-home workouts from the P90X peeps, so why on earth would I spend extra precious time getting to and from the gym?\n\n&nbsp;\n\nIf I had a husband lurking about the house, this would be a totally different story.  There is NO WAY I would prance my P90 self about the house in old dingy sports clothes.  When you\'re single, you can get away with this secret single behavior stuff.  It\'s one of our \"perks\".  <strong><a href=\"http://facebook.com/worlds.most.precious.pooch\" target=\"_blank\">World\'s Most Precious Pooch</a></strong><a href=\"http://facebook.com/worlds.most.precious.pooch\" target=\"_blank\"> </a>certainly doesn\'t care about the old sports bras, and neither do I.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nLast week I had a revelation.  Now that its 110 in the shade,  it would be much smarter if I wore as little clothing as possible on my nightly walk with Little Miss B.  And even though I\'ve semi-lost my pride in my secret singleness, I still have standards when I am around other people.  The time to throw away the old sports b\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;','Day 280:  Need Inspiration?  Shop for a Sports Bra.  ','','inherit','open','open','','6423-revision-3','','','2011-07-06 20:01:31','2011-07-07 03:01:31','',6423,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2011/07/06/6423-revision-3/',0,'revision','',0),(6427,1,'2011-07-06 20:02:31','2011-07-07 03:02:31','I am a \"functional shopper\".  I shop when I need things. I am embarrassed to admit how long I have needed a new sports bra.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nI have been the equivalent of the guy who can\'t let go of his favorite college t-shirt.  Although I am by no means attached to my old sports bras.  That would be weird.  I\'m simply not motivated to substitute more interesting weekend plans for shopping.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nI should note that no one sees me in the sports bras in question.  A few years ago, when I left the free schedule of self employment and signed on to my Corporate America gig, I quit my gym membership in the interest of time.  I attain the same exact results (if not better results) from the in-home workouts from the P90X peeps, so why on earth would I spend extra precious time getting to and from the gym?\n\n&nbsp;\n\nIf I had a husband lurking about the house, this would be a totally different story.  There is NO WAY I would prance my P90 self about the house in old dingy sports clothes.  When you\'re single, you can get away with this secret single behavior stuff.  It\'s one of our \"perks\".  <strong><a href=\"http://facebook.com/worlds.most.precious.pooch\" target=\"_blank\">World\'s Most Precious Pooch</a></strong><a href=\"http://facebook.com/worlds.most.precious.pooch\" target=\"_blank\"> </a>certainly doesn\'t care about the old sports bras, and neither do I.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nLast week I had a revelation.  Now that its 110 in the shade,  it would be much smarter if I wore as little clothing as possible on my nightly walk with Little Miss B.  And even though I\'ve semi-lost my pride in my secret singleness, I still have standards when I am around other people.  The time to throw away the old sports bras has arrived.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nI\'m also in a \"If you build it, he will come\" frame of mind lately.\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;','Day 280:  Need Inspiration?  Shop for a Sports Bra.  ','','inherit','open','open','','6423-revision-4','','','2011-07-06 20:02:31','2011-07-07 03:02:31','',6423,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2011/07/06/6423-revision-4/',0,'revision','',0),(6428,1,'2011-07-06 21:13:23','2011-07-07 04:13:23','I am a \"functional shopper\".  I shop when I need things. I am embarrassed to admit how long I have needed a new sports bra.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nI have been the equivalent of the guy who can\'t let go of his favorite college t-shirt.  Although I am by no means attached to my old sports bras.  That would be weird.  I\'m simply not motivated to substitute more interesting weekend plans for shopping.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nI should note that no one sees me in these sports bras in question.  A few years ago, when I left the ultimate free schedule of 12 years of self employment and signed on to my Corporate America gig, I quit my gym membership in the interest of time.  I attain the same exact results (if not better results) from my P90 workouts, so why on earth would I spend extra precious time schlepping to and from the gym?\n\n&nbsp;\n\nIf I had a husband lurking about the house, this would be a totally different story.  There is NO WAY I would prance my P90 self about the house in old dingy sports clothes.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nBut I am not married.  I am single.  When you\'re single, you can get away with this secret single behavior stuff.  It\'s one of our \"perks\".  <strong><a href=\"http://facebook.com/worlds.most.precious.pooch\" target=\"_blank\">World\'s Most Precious Pooch</a></strong><a href=\"http://facebook.com/worlds.most.precious.pooch\" target=\"_blank\"> </a>certainly doesn\'t care about the old sports bras, and neither do I.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nLast week I had a revelation.  Now that its 110 in the shade,  it would be much smarter and cooler if I wore as little clothing as possible on my nightly walk with Little Miss B.  And even though I\'ve semi-lost my pride in my secret singleness, I still have standards when I am around other people.  It\'s time to throw away the old sports bras.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nI\'m also in a \"If you build it, he will come\" frame of mind lately.  Therefore, if I purchase new sports bras now, HE will soon be lurking around.  (In a non-creepy way, of course.)\n\n&nbsp;\n\nSo what does this secret single revelation have to do with inspiration?\n\n&nbsp;\n\nI\'m glad you asked.\n\n&nbsp;\n\n<strong><a href=\"http://www.lululemon.com/\" target=\"_blank\">Lululemon.</a></strong>\n\n&nbsp;\n\nFor those of you whom I have caught unawares, no it\'s not the song from Sesame Street.  That was <strong><a href=\"http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fOKcG-B3VkA&amp;feature=related\" target=\"_blank\">\"Lalalala Lemon\".</a></strong>\n\n&nbsp;\n\nLululemon is a store which sells the best quality yoga and athletic wear.  Is this my humble opinion or fact?  I will let you decide.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nNote that I was shopping for sports bras only and not sports bottoms.  Why?  I last purchased sports shorts and yoga pants in Vancouver in the summer of 1996.  THEY STILL LOOK AND WEAR LIKE NEW 5 YEARS LATER!!!!\n\n&nbsp;\n\nBack in 1996, Lululemon did not exist in Arizona, and I\'m not even sure they existed in the U.S.  I remember the owner of the shop telling me that she was thinking of expanding to Scottsdale or Hawaii.  I nearly got down on my knees and begged the woman to come to Arizona.  I hinted that she might want to consider the Phoenix Biltmore area over Snobbsdale.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nGuess who moved in to both Snobbsdale and Phoenix Biltmore?\n\n&nbsp;\n\nI would like to think that I\'m somehow personally responsible.  :-D\n\n&nbsp;\n\nAnd now for the inspiration...\n\n&nbsp;\n\nLululemon is one of those companies who GETS IT.  They are in the same league as Apple.  They inject their culture with creativity, coolness, fun and INSPIRATION.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nI entered the store in \"I hate shopping\" mode and left feeling enthused and like I had three new best friends.  The perky saleswomen rival <strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2011/01/27/day-119-my-apple-geniuses-and-me/\" target=\"_blank\">my Apple geniuses</a></strong>.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nI would now like to share a bit of Lululemon Shopping Bag Wisdom with you.\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;','Day 280:  Need Inspiration?  Shop for a Sports Bra.  ','','inherit','open','open','','6423-revision-5','','','2011-07-06 21:13:23','2011-07-07 04:13:23','',6423,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2011/07/06/6423-revision-5/',0,'revision','',0),(6429,1,'2011-07-06 21:19:04','2011-07-07 04:19:04','','OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA','','inherit','open','open','','olympus-digital-camera-439','','','2011-07-06 21:19:04','2011-07-07 04:19:04','',6423,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7060047.jpg',0,'attachment','image/jpeg',0),(6430,1,'2011-07-06 21:22:03','2011-07-07 04:22:03','','OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA','','inherit','open','open','','olympus-digital-camera-440','','','2011-07-06 21:22:03','2011-07-07 04:22:03','',6423,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7060049.jpg',0,'attachment','image/jpeg',0),(6431,1,'2011-07-06 21:22:22','2011-07-07 04:22:22','','OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA','','inherit','open','open','','olympus-digital-camera-441','','','2011-07-06 21:22:22','2011-07-07 04:22:22','',6423,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7060050.jpg',0,'attachment','image/jpeg',0),(6432,1,'2011-07-06 21:22:41','2011-07-07 04:22:41','','OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA','','inherit','open','open','','olympus-digital-camera-442','','','2011-07-06 21:22:41','2011-07-07 04:22:41','',6423,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7060051.jpg',0,'attachment','image/jpeg',0),(6433,1,'2011-07-06 21:23:00','2011-07-07 04:23:00','','OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA','','inherit','open','open','','olympus-digital-camera-443','','','2011-07-06 21:23:00','2011-07-07 04:23:00','',6423,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7060052.jpg',0,'attachment','image/jpeg',0),(6434,1,'2011-07-06 21:21:22','2011-07-07 04:21:22','[caption id=\"attachment_6429\" align=\"alignleft\" width=\"300\" caption=\"I&#39;ve covered all of these bases in the past month. Whew! ;-)\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7060047.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-6429\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7060047-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>[/caption]\n\nI am a \"functional shopper\".  I shop when I need things. I am embarrassed to admit how long I have needed a new sports bra.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nI have been the equivalent of the guy who can\'t let go of his favorite college t-shirt.  Although I am by no means attached to my old sports bras.  That would be weird.  I\'m simply not motivated to substitute more interesting weekend plans for shopping.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nI should note that no one sees me in these sports bras in question.  A few years ago, when I left the ultimate free schedule of 12 years of self employment and signed on to my Corporate America gig, I quit my gym membership in the interest of time.  I attain the same exact results (if not better results) from my P90 workouts, so why on earth would I spend extra precious time schlepping to and from the gym?\n\n&nbsp;\n\nIf I had a husband lurking about the house, this would be a totally different story.  There is NO WAY I would prance my P90 self about the house in old dingy sports clothes.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nBut I am not married.  I am single.  When you\'re single, you can get away with this secret single behavior stuff.  It\'s one of our \"perks\".  <strong><a href=\"http://facebook.com/worlds.most.precious.pooch\" target=\"_blank\">World\'s Most Precious Pooch</a></strong><a href=\"http://facebook.com/worlds.most.precious.pooch\" target=\"_blank\"> </a>certainly doesn\'t care about the old sports bras, and neither do I.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nLast week I had a revelation.  Now that its 110 in the shade,  it would be much smarter and cooler if I wore as little clothing as possible on my nightly walk with Little Miss B.  And even though I\'ve semi-lost my pride in my secret singleness, I still have standards when I am around other people.  It\'s time to throw away the old sports bras.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nI\'m also in a \"If you build it, he will come\" frame of mind lately.  Therefore, if I purchase new sports bras now, HE will soon be lurking around.  (In a non-creepy way, of course.)\n\n&nbsp;\n\nSo what does this secret single revelation have to do with inspiration?\n\n&nbsp;\n\nI\'m glad you asked.\n\n&nbsp;\n\n<strong><a href=\"http://www.lululemon.com/\" target=\"_blank\">Lululemon.</a></strong>\n\n&nbsp;\n\nFor those of you whom I have caught unawares, no it\'s not the song from Sesame Street.  That was <strong><a href=\"http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fOKcG-B3VkA&amp;feature=related\" target=\"_blank\">\"Lalalala Lemon\".</a></strong>\n\n&nbsp;\n\nLululemon is a store which sells the best quality yoga and athletic wear.  Is this my humble opinion or fact?  I will let you decide.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nNote that I was shopping for sports bras only and not sports bottoms.  Why?  I last purchased sports shorts and yoga pants in Vancouver in the summer of 1996.  THEY STILL LOOK AND WEAR LIKE NEW 5 YEARS LATER!!!!\n\n&nbsp;\n\nBack in 1996, Lululemon did not exist in Arizona, and I\'m not even sure they existed in the U.S.  I remember the owner of the shop telling me that she was thinking of expanding to Scottsdale or Hawaii.  I nearly got down on my knees and begged the woman to come to Arizona.  I hinted that she might want to consider the Phoenix Biltmore area over Snobbsdale.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nGuess who moved in to both Snobbsdale and Phoenix Biltmore?\n\n&nbsp;\n\nI would like to think that I\'m somehow personally responsible.  :-D\n\n&nbsp;\n\nAnd now for the inspiration...\n\n&nbsp;\n\nLululemon is one of those companies who GETS IT.  They are in the same league as Apple.  They inject their culture with creativity, coolness, fun and INSPIRATION.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nI entered the store in \"I hate shopping\" mode and left feeling enthused and like I had three new best friends.  The perky saleswomen rival <strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2011/01/27/day-119-my-apple-geniuses-and-me/\" target=\"_blank\">my Apple geniuses</a></strong>.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nI would now like to share a bit of Lululemon Shopping Bag Wisdom with you.\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;','Day 280:  Need Inspiration?  Shop for a Sports Bra.  ','','inherit','open','open','','6423-revision-6','','','2011-07-06 21:21:22','2011-07-07 04:21:22','',6423,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2011/07/06/6423-revision-6/',0,'revision','',0),(6436,1,'2011-07-06 21:25:23','2011-07-07 04:25:23','[caption id=\"attachment_6429\" align=\"alignleft\" width=\"300\" caption=\"I&#39;ve covered all of these bases in the past month. Whew! ;-)\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7060047.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-6429\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7060047-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>[/caption]\n\nI am a \"functional shopper\".  I shop when I need things. I am embarrassed to admit how long I have needed a new sports bra.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nI have been the equivalent of the guy who can\'t let go of his favorite college t-shirt.  Although I am by no means attached to my old sports bras.  That would be weird.  I\'m simply not motivated to substitute more interesting weekend plans for shopping.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nI should note that no one sees me in these sports bras in question.  A few years ago, when I left the ultimate free schedule of 12 years of self employment and signed on to my Corporate America gig, I quit my gym membership in the interest of time.  I attain the same exact results (if not better results) from my P90 workouts, so why on earth would I spend extra precious time schlepping to and from the gym?\n\n&nbsp;\n\nIf I had a husband lurking about the house, this would be a totally different story.  There is NO WAY I would prance my P90 self about the house in old dingy sports clothes.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nBut I am not married.  I am single.  When you\'re single, you can get away with this secret single behavior stuff.  It\'s one of our \"perks\".  <strong><a href=\"http://facebook.com/worlds.most.precious.pooch\" target=\"_blank\">World\'s Most Precious Pooch</a></strong><a href=\"http://facebook.com/worlds.most.precious.pooch\" target=\"_blank\"> </a>certainly doesn\'t care about the old sports bras, and neither do I.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nLast week I had a revelation.  Now that its 110 in the shade,  it would be much smarter and cooler if I wore as little clothing as possible on my nightly walk with Little Miss B.  And even though I\'ve semi-lost my pride in my secret singleness, I still have standards when I am around other people.  It\'s time to throw away the old sports bras.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nI\'m also in a \"If you build it, he will come\" frame of mind lately.  Therefore, if I purchase new sports bras now, HE will soon be lurking around.  (In a non-creepy way, of course.)\n\n&nbsp;\n\nSo what does this secret single revelation have to do with inspiration?\n\n&nbsp;\n\nI\'m glad you asked.\n\n&nbsp;\n\n<strong><a href=\"http://www.lululemon.com/\" target=\"_blank\">Lululemon.</a></strong>\n\n&nbsp;\n\nFor those of you whom I have caught unawares, no it\'s not the song from Sesame Street.  That was <strong><a href=\"http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fOKcG-B3VkA&amp;feature=related\" target=\"_blank\">\"Lalalala Lemon\".</a></strong>\n\n&nbsp;\n\nLululemon is a store which sells the best quality yoga and athletic wear.  Is this my humble opinion or fact?  I will let you decide.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nNote that I was shopping for sports bras only and not sports bottoms.  Why?  I last purchased sports shorts and yoga pants in Vancouver in the summer of 1996.  THEY STILL LOOK AND WEAR LIKE NEW 5 YEARS LATER!!!!\n\n&nbsp;\n\nBack in 1996, Lululemon did not exist in Arizona, and I\'m not even sure they existed in the U.S.  I remember the owner of the shop telling me that she was thinking of expanding to Scottsdale or Hawaii.  I nearly got down on my knees and begged the woman to come to Arizona.  I hinted that she might want to consider the Phoenix Biltmore area over Snobbsdale.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nGuess who moved in to both Snobbsdale and Phoenix Biltmore?\n\n&nbsp;\n\nI would like to think that I\'m somehow personally responsible.  :-D\n\n&nbsp;\n\nAnd now for the inspiration...\n\n&nbsp;\n\nLululemon is one of those companies who GETS IT.  They are in the same league as Apple.  They inject their culture with creativity, coolness, fun and INSPIRATION.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nI entered the store in \"I hate shopping\" mode and left feeling enthused and like I had three new best friends.  The perky saleswomen rival <strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2011/01/27/day-119-my-apple-geniuses-and-me/\" target=\"_blank\">my Apple geniuses</a></strong>.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nI would now like to share a bit of Lululemon Shopping Bag Wisdom with you.\n\n&nbsp;\n\n[gallery columns=\"2\"]\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;','Day 280:  Need Inspiration?  Shop for a Sports Bra.  ','','inherit','open','open','','6423-revision-8','','','2011-07-06 21:25:23','2011-07-07 04:25:23','',6423,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2011/07/06/6423-revision-8/',0,'revision','',0),(6435,1,'2011-07-06 21:25:03','2011-07-07 04:25:03','[caption id=\"attachment_6429\" align=\"alignleft\" width=\"300\" caption=\"I&#39;ve covered all of these bases in the past month. Whew! ;-)\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7060047.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-6429\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7060047-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\nI am a \"functional shopper\".  I shop when I need things. I am embarrassed to admit how long I have needed a new sports bra.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI have been the equivalent of the guy who can\'t let go of his favorite college t-shirt.  Although I am by no means attached to my old sports bras.  That would be weird.  I\'m simply not motivated to substitute more interesting weekend plans for shopping.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI should note that no one sees me in these sports bras in question.  A few years ago, when I left the ultimate free schedule of 12 years of self employment and signed on to my Corporate America gig, I quit my gym membership in the interest of time.  I attain the same exact results (if not better results) from my P90 workouts, so why on earth would I spend extra precious time schlepping to and from the gym?\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nIf I had a husband lurking about the house, this would be a totally different story.  There is NO WAY I would prance my P90 self about the house in old dingy sports clothes.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nBut I am not married.  I am single.  When you\'re single, you can get away with this secret single behavior stuff.  It\'s one of our \"perks\".  <strong><a href=\"http://facebook.com/worlds.most.precious.pooch\" target=\"_blank\">World\'s Most Precious Pooch</a></strong><a href=\"http://facebook.com/worlds.most.precious.pooch\" target=\"_blank\"> </a>certainly doesn\'t care about the old sports bras, and neither do I.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nLast week I had a revelation.  Now that its 110 in the shade,  it would be much smarter and cooler if I wore as little clothing as possible on my nightly walk with Little Miss B.  And even though I\'ve semi-lost my pride in my secret singleness, I still have standards when I am around other people.  It\'s time to throw away the old sports bras.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI\'m also in a \"If you build it, he will come\" frame of mind lately.  Therefore, if I purchase new sports bras now, HE will soon be lurking around.  (In a non-creepy way, of course.)\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nSo what does this secret single revelation have to do with inspiration?\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI\'m glad you asked.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<strong><a href=\"http://www.lululemon.com/\" target=\"_blank\">Lululemon.</a></strong>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nFor those of you whom I have caught unawares, no it\'s not the song from Sesame Street.  That was <strong><a href=\"http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fOKcG-B3VkA&amp;feature=related\" target=\"_blank\">\"Lalalala Lemon\".</a></strong>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nLululemon is a store which sells the best quality yoga and athletic wear.  Is this my humble opinion or fact?  I will let you decide.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nNote that I was shopping for sports bras only and not sports bottoms.  Why?  I last purchased sports shorts and yoga pants in Vancouver in the summer of 1996.  THEY STILL LOOK AND WEAR LIKE NEW 5 YEARS LATER!!!!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nBack in 1996, Lululemon did not exist in Arizona, and I\'m not even sure they existed in the U.S.  I remember the owner of the shop telling me that she was thinking of expanding to Scottsdale or Hawaii.  I nearly got down on my knees and begged the woman to come to Arizona.  I hinted that she might want to consider the Phoenix Biltmore area over Snobbsdale.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nGuess who moved in to both Snobbsdale and Phoenix Biltmore?\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI would like to think that I\'m somehow personally responsible.  :-D\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAnd now for the inspiration...\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nLululemon is one of those companies who GETS IT.  They are in the same league as Apple.  They inject their culture with creativity, coolness, fun and INSPIRATION.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI entered the store in \"I hate shopping\" mode and left feeling enthused and like I had three new best friends.  The perky saleswomen rival <strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2011/01/27/day-119-my-apple-geniuses-and-me/\" target=\"_blank\">my Apple geniuses</a></strong>.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI would now like to share a bit of Lululemon Shopping Bag Wisdom with you.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[gallery columns=\"2\"]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;','Day 280:  Need Inspiration?  Shop for a Sports Bra.  ','','inherit','open','open','','6423-revision-7','','','2011-07-06 21:25:03','2011-07-07 04:25:03','',6423,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2011/07/06/6423-revision-7/',0,'revision','',0),(6437,1,'2011-07-06 21:26:17','2011-07-07 04:26:17','[caption id=\"attachment_6429\" align=\"alignleft\" width=\"300\" caption=\"I&#39;ve covered all of these bases in the past month. Whew! ;-)\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7060047.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-6429\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7060047-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\nI am a \"functional shopper\".  I shop when I need things. I am embarrassed to admit how long I have needed a new sports bra.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI have been the equivalent of the guy who can\'t let go of his favorite college t-shirt.  Although I am by no means attached to my old sports bras.  That would be weird.  I\'m simply not motivated to substitute more interesting weekend plans for shopping.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI should note that no one sees me in these sports bras in question.  A few years ago, when I left the ultimate free schedule of 12 years of self employment and signed on to my Corporate America gig, I quit my gym membership in the interest of time.  I attain the same exact results (if not better results) from my P90 workouts, so why on earth would I spend extra precious time schlepping to and from the gym?\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nIf I had a husband lurking about the house, this would be a totally different story.  There is NO WAY I would prance my P90 self about the house in old dingy sports clothes.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nBut I am not married.  I am single.  When you\'re single, you can get away with this secret single behavior stuff.  It\'s one of our \"perks\".  <strong><a href=\"http://facebook.com/worlds.most.precious.pooch\" target=\"_blank\">World\'s Most Precious Pooch</a></strong><a href=\"http://facebook.com/worlds.most.precious.pooch\" target=\"_blank\"> </a>certainly doesn\'t care about the old sports bras, and neither do I.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nLast week I had a revelation.  Now that its 110 in the shade,  it would be much smarter and cooler if I wore as little clothing as possible on my nightly walk with Little Miss B.  And even though I\'ve semi-lost my pride in my secret singleness, I still have standards when I am around other people.  It\'s time to throw away the old sports bras.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI\'m also in a \"If you build it, he will come\" frame of mind lately.  Therefore, if I purchase new sports bras now, HE will soon be lurking around.  (In a non-creepy way, of course.)\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nSo what does this secret single revelation have to do with inspiration?\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI\'m glad you asked.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<strong><a href=\"http://www.lululemon.com/\" target=\"_blank\">Lululemon.</a></strong>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nFor those of you whom I have caught unawares, no it\'s not the song from Sesame Street.  That was <strong><a href=\"http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fOKcG-B3VkA&amp;feature=related\" target=\"_blank\">\"Lalalala Lemon\".</a></strong>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nLululemon is a store which sells the best quality yoga and athletic wear.  Is this my humble opinion or fact?  I will let you decide.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nNote that I was shopping for sports bras only and not sports bottoms.  Why?  I last purchased sports shorts and yoga pants in Vancouver in the summer of 1996.  THEY STILL LOOK AND WEAR LIKE NEW 5 YEARS LATER!!!!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nBack in 1996, Lululemon did not exist in Arizona, and I\'m not even sure they existed in the U.S.  I remember the owner of the shop telling me that she was thinking of expanding to Scottsdale or Hawaii.  I nearly got down on my knees and begged the woman to come to Arizona.  I hinted that she might want to consider the Phoenix Biltmore area over Snobbsdale.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nGuess who moved in to both Snobbsdale and Phoenix Biltmore?\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI would like to think that I\'m somehow personally responsible.  :-D\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAnd now for the inspiration...\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nLululemon is one of those companies who GETS IT.  They are in the same league as Apple.  They inject their culture with creativity, coolness, fun and INSPIRATION.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI entered the store in \"I hate shopping\" mode and left feeling enthused and like I had three new best friends.  The perky saleswomen rival <strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2011/01/27/day-119-my-apple-geniuses-and-me/\" target=\"_blank\">my Apple geniuses</a></strong>.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI would now like to share a bit of Lululemon Shopping Bag Wisdom with you.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[gallery columns=\"2\"]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;','Day 280:  Need Inspiration?  Shop for a Sports Bra.  ','','inherit','open','open','','6423-revision-9','','','2011-07-06 21:26:17','2011-07-07 04:26:17','',6423,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2011/07/06/6423-revision-9/',0,'revision','',0),(6438,1,'2011-07-06 21:26:21','2011-07-07 04:26:21','[caption id=\"attachment_6429\" align=\"alignleft\" width=\"300\" caption=\"I&#39;ve covered all of these bases in the past month. Whew! ;-)\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7060047.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-6429\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7060047-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\nI am a \"functional shopper\".  I shop when I need things. I am embarrassed to admit how long I have needed a new sports bra.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI have been the equivalent of the guy who can\'t let go of his favorite college t-shirt.  Although I am by no means attached to my old sports bras.  That would be weird.  I\'m simply not motivated to substitute more interesting weekend plans for shopping.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI should note that no one sees me in these sports bras in question.  A few years ago, when I left the ultimate free schedule of 12 years of self employment and signed on to my Corporate America gig, I quit my gym membership in the interest of time.  I attain the same exact results (if not better results) from my P90 workouts, so why on earth would I spend extra precious time schlepping to and from the gym?\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nIf I had a husband lurking about the house, this would be a totally different story.  There is NO WAY I would prance my P90 self about the house in old dingy sports clothes.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nBut I am not married.  I am single.  When you\'re single, you can get away with this secret single behavior stuff.  It\'s one of our \"perks\".  <strong><a href=\"http://facebook.com/worlds.most.precious.pooch\" target=\"_blank\">World\'s Most Precious Pooch</a></strong><a href=\"http://facebook.com/worlds.most.precious.pooch\" target=\"_blank\"> </a>certainly doesn\'t care about the old sports bras, and neither do I.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nLast week I had a revelation.  Now that its 110 in the shade,  it would be much smarter and cooler if I wore as little clothing as possible on my nightly walk with Little Miss B.  And even though I\'ve semi-lost my pride in my secret singleness, I still have standards when I am around other people.  It\'s time to throw away the old sports bras.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI\'m also in a \"If you build it, he will come\" frame of mind lately.  Therefore, if I purchase new sports bras now, HE will soon be lurking around.  (In a non-creepy way, of course.)\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nSo what does this secret single revelation have to do with inspiration?\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI\'m glad you asked.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<strong><a href=\"http://www.lululemon.com/\" target=\"_blank\">Lululemon.</a></strong>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nFor those of you whom I have caught unawares, no it\'s not the song from Sesame Street.  That was <strong><a href=\"http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fOKcG-B3VkA&amp;feature=related\" target=\"_blank\">\"Lalalala Lemon\".</a></strong>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nLululemon is a store which sells the best quality yoga and athletic wear.  Is this my humble opinion or fact?  I will let you decide.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nNote that I was shopping for sports bras only and not sports bottoms.  Why?  I last purchased sports shorts and yoga pants in Vancouver in the summer of 1996.  THEY STILL LOOK AND WEAR LIKE NEW 5 YEARS LATER!!!!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nBack in 1996, Lululemon did not exist in Arizona, and I\'m not even sure they existed in the U.S.  I remember the owner of the shop telling me that she was thinking of expanding to Scottsdale or Hawaii.  I nearly got down on my knees and begged the woman to come to Arizona.  I hinted that she might want to consider the Phoenix Biltmore area over Snobbsdale.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nGuess who moved in to both Snobbsdale and Phoenix Biltmore?\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI would like to think that I\'m somehow personally responsible.  :-D\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAnd now for the inspiration...\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nLululemon is one of those companies who GETS IT.  They are in the same league as Apple.  They inject their culture with creativity, coolness, fun and INSPIRATION.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI entered the store in \"I hate shopping\" mode and left feeling enthused and like I had three new best friends.  The perky saleswomen rival <strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2011/01/27/day-119-my-apple-geniuses-and-me/\" target=\"_blank\">my Apple geniuses</a></strong>.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI would now like to share a bit of Lululemon Shopping Bag Wisdom with you.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[gallery columns=\"2\"]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;','Day 280:  Need Inspiration?  Shop for a Sports Bra.  ','','inherit','open','open','','6423-revision-10','','','2011-07-06 21:26:21','2011-07-07 04:26:21','',6423,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2011/07/06/6423-revision-10/',0,'revision','',0),(6439,1,'2011-07-06 21:26:46','2011-07-07 04:26:46','[caption id=\"attachment_6429\" align=\"alignleft\" width=\"300\" caption=\"I&#39;ve covered all of these bases in the past month. Whew! ;-)\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7060047.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-6429\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7060047-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\nI am a \"functional shopper\".  I shop when I need things. I am embarrassed to admit how long I have needed a new sports bra.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI have been the equivalent of the guy who can\'t let go of his favorite college t-shirt.  Although I am by no means attached to my old sports bras.  That would be weird.  I\'m simply not motivated to substitute more interesting weekend plans for shopping.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI should note that no one sees me in these sports bras in question.  A few years ago, when I left the ultimate free schedule of 12 years of self employment and signed on to my Corporate America gig, I quit my gym membership in the interest of time.  I attain the same exact results (if not better results) from my P90 workouts, so why on earth would I spend extra precious time schlepping to and from the gym?\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nIf I had a husband lurking about the house, this would be a totally different story.  There is NO WAY I would prance my P90 self about the house in old dingy sports clothes.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nBut I am not married.  I am single.  When you\'re single, you can get away with this secret single behavior stuff.  It\'s one of our \"perks\".  <strong><a href=\"http://facebook.com/worlds.most.precious.pooch\" target=\"_blank\">World\'s Most Precious Pooch</a></strong><a href=\"http://facebook.com/worlds.most.precious.pooch\" target=\"_blank\"> </a>certainly doesn\'t care about the old sports bras, and neither do I.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nLast week I had a revelation.  Now that its 110 in the shade,  it would be much smarter and cooler if I wore as little clothing as possible on my nightly walk with Little Miss B.  And even though I\'ve semi-lost my pride in my secret singleness, I still have standards when I am around other people.  It\'s time to throw away the old sports bras.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI\'m also in a \"If you build it, he will come\" frame of mind lately.  Therefore, if I purchase new sports bras now, HE will soon be lurking around.  (In a non-creepy way, of course.)\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nSo what does this secret single revelation have to do with inspiration?\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI\'m glad you asked.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<strong><a href=\"http://www.lululemon.com/\" target=\"_blank\">Lululemon.</a></strong>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nFor those of you whom I have caught unawares, no it\'s not the song from Sesame Street.  That was <strong><a href=\"http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fOKcG-B3VkA&amp;feature=related\" target=\"_blank\">\"Lalalala Lemon\".</a></strong>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nLululemon is a store which sells the best quality yoga and athletic wear.  Is this my humble opinion or fact?  I will let you decide.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nNote that I was shopping for sports bras only and not sports bottoms.  Why?  I last purchased sports shorts and yoga pants in Vancouver in the summer of 1996.  THEY STILL LOOK AND WEAR LIKE NEW 5 YEARS LATER!!!!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nBack in 1996, Lululemon did not exist in Arizona, and I\'m not even sure they existed in the U.S.  I remember the owner of the shop telling me that she was thinking of expanding to Scottsdale or Hawaii.  I nearly got down on my knees and begged the woman to come to Arizona.  I hinted that she might want to consider the Phoenix Biltmore area over Snobbsdale.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nGuess who moved in to both Snobbsdale and Phoenix Biltmore?\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI would like to think that I\'m somehow personally responsible.  :-D\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAnd now for the inspiration...\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nLululemon is one of those companies who GETS IT.  They are in the same league as Apple.  They inject their culture with creativity, coolness, fun and INSPIRATION.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI entered the store in \"I hate shopping\" mode and left feeling enthused and like I had three new best friends.  The perky saleswomen rival <strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2011/01/27/day-119-my-apple-geniuses-and-me/\" target=\"_blank\">my Apple geniuses</a></strong>.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI would now like to share a bit of Lululemon Shopping Bag Wisdom with you.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[gallery columns=\"2\"]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;','Day 280:  Need Inspiration?  Shop for a Sports Bra.  ','','inherit','open','open','','6423-revision-11','','','2011-07-06 21:26:46','2011-07-07 04:26:46','',6423,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2011/07/06/6423-revision-11/',0,'revision','',0),(6440,1,'2011-07-06 21:32:27','2011-07-07 04:32:27','<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7060047.jpg\"><img class=\"alignleft size-medium wp-image-6429\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7060047-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>I am a \"functional shopper\".  I shop when I need things. I am embarrassed to admit how long I have needed a new sports bra.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI have been the equivalent of the guy who can\'t let go of his favorite college t-shirt.  Although I am by no means attached to my old sports bras.  That would be weird.  I\'m simply not motivated to substitute more interesting weekend plans for shopping.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI should note that no one sees me in these sports bras in question.  A few years ago, when I left the ultimate free schedule of 12 years of self employment and signed on to my Corporate America gig, I quit my gym membership in the interest of time.  I attain the same exact results (if not better results) from my P90 workouts, so why on earth would I spend extra precious time schlepping to and from the gym?\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nIf I had a husband lurking about the house, this would be a totally different story.  There is NO WAY I would prance my P90 self about the house in old dingy sports clothes.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nBut I am not married.  I am single.  When you\'re single, you can get away with this secret single behavior stuff.  It\'s one of our \"perks\".  <strong><a href=\"http://facebook.com/worlds.most.precious.pooch\" target=\"_blank\">World\'s Most Precious Pooch</a></strong><a href=\"http://facebook.com/worlds.most.precious.pooch\" target=\"_blank\"> </a>certainly doesn\'t care about the old sports bras, and neither do I.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nLast week I had a revelation.  Now that its 110 in the shade,  it would be much smarter and cooler if I wore as little clothing as possible on my nightly walk with Little Miss B.  And even though I\'ve semi-lost my pride in my secret singleness, I still have standards when I am around other people.  It\'s time to throw away the old sports bras.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI\'m also in a \"If you build it, he will come\" frame of mind lately.  Therefore, if I purchase new sports bras now, HE will soon be lurking around.  (In a non-creepy way, of course.)\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nSo what does this secret single revelation have to do with inspiration?\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI\'m glad you asked.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<strong><a href=\"http://www.lululemon.com/\" target=\"_blank\">Lululemon.</a></strong>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nFor those of you whom I have caught unawares, no it\'s not the song from Sesame Street.  That was <strong><a href=\"http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fOKcG-B3VkA&amp;feature=related\" target=\"_blank\">\"Lalalala Lemon\".</a></strong>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nLululemon is a store which sells the best quality yoga and athletic wear.  Is this my humble opinion or fact?  I will let you decide.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nNote that I was shopping for sports bras only and not sports bottoms.  Why?  I last purchased sports shorts and yoga pants in Vancouver in the summer of 1996.  THEY STILL LOOK AND WEAR LIKE NEW 5 YEARS LATER!!!!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nBack in 1996, Lululemon did not exist in Arizona, and I\'m not even sure they existed in the U.S.  I remember the owner of the shop telling me that she was thinking of expanding to Scottsdale or Hawaii.  I nearly got down on my knees and begged the woman to come to Arizona.  I hinted that she might want to consider the Phoenix Biltmore area over Snobbsdale.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nGuess who moved in to both Snobbsdale and Phoenix Biltmore?\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI would like to think that I\'m somehow personally responsible.  :-D\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAnd now for the inspiration...\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nLululemon is one of those companies who GETS IT.  They are in the same league as Apple.  They inject their culture with creativity, coolness, fun and INSPIRATION.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI entered the store in \"I hate shopping\" mode and left feeling enthused and like I had three new best friends.  The perky saleswomen rival <strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2011/01/27/day-119-my-apple-geniuses-and-me/\" target=\"_blank\">my Apple geniuses</a></strong>.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI would now like to share a bit of Lululemon Shopping Bag Wisdom with you.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7060049.jpg\"><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-6430\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7060049-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7060050.jpg\"><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-6431\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7060050-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-6433\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7060052-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7060051.jpg\"><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-6432\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7060051-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>\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;','Day 280:  Need Inspiration?  Shop for a Sports Bra.  ','','inherit','open','open','','6423-revision-12','','','2011-07-06 21:32:27','2011-07-07 04:32:27','',6423,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2011/07/06/6423-revision-12/',0,'revision','',0),(6441,1,'2011-07-06 21:32:37','2011-07-07 04:32:37','<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7060047.jpg\"><img class=\"alignleft size-medium wp-image-6429\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7060047-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>I am a \"functional shopper\".  I shop when I need things. I am embarrassed to admit how long I have needed a new sports bra.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI have been the equivalent of the guy who can\'t let go of his favorite college t-shirt.  Although I am by no means attached to my old sports bras.  That would be weird.  I\'m simply not motivated to substitute more interesting weekend plans for shopping.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI should note that no one sees me in these sports bras in question.  A few years ago, when I left the ultimate free schedule of 12 years of self employment and signed on to my Corporate America gig, I quit my gym membership in the interest of time.  I attain the same exact results (if not better results) from my P90 workouts, so why on earth would I spend extra precious time schlepping to and from the gym?\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nIf I had a husband lurking about the house, this would be a totally different story.  There is NO WAY I would prance my P90 self about the house in old dingy sports clothes.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nBut I am not married.  I am single.  When you\'re single, you can get away with this secret single behavior stuff.  It\'s one of our \"perks\".  <strong><a href=\"http://facebook.com/worlds.most.precious.pooch\" target=\"_blank\">World\'s Most Precious Pooch</a></strong><a href=\"http://facebook.com/worlds.most.precious.pooch\" target=\"_blank\"> </a>certainly doesn\'t care about the old sports bras, and neither do I.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nLast week I had a revelation.  Now that its 110 in the shade,  it would be much smarter and cooler if I wore as little clothing as possible on my nightly walk with Little Miss B.  And even though I\'ve semi-lost my pride in my secret singleness, I still have standards when I am around other people.  It\'s time to throw away the old sports bras.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI\'m also in a \"If you build it, he will come\" frame of mind lately.  Therefore, if I purchase new sports bras now, HE will soon be lurking around.  (In a non-creepy way, of course.)\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nSo what does this secret single revelation have to do with inspiration?\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI\'m glad you asked.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<strong><a href=\"http://www.lululemon.com/\" target=\"_blank\">Lululemon.</a></strong>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nFor those of you whom I have caught unawares, no it\'s not the song from Sesame Street.  That was <strong><a href=\"http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fOKcG-B3VkA&amp;feature=related\" target=\"_blank\">\"Lalalala Lemon\".</a></strong>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nLululemon is a store which sells the best quality yoga and athletic wear.  Is this my humble opinion or fact?  I will let you decide.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nNote that I was shopping for sports bras only and not sports bottoms.  Why?  I last purchased sports shorts and yoga pants in Vancouver in the summer of 1996.  THEY STILL LOOK AND WEAR LIKE NEW 5 YEARS LATER!!!!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nBack in 1996, Lululemon did not exist in Arizona, and I\'m not even sure they existed in the U.S.  I remember the owner of the shop telling me that she was thinking of expanding to Scottsdale or Hawaii.  I nearly got down on my knees and begged the woman to come to Arizona.  I hinted that she might want to consider the Phoenix Biltmore area over Snobbsdale.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nGuess who moved in to both Snobbsdale and Phoenix Biltmore?\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI would like to think that I\'m somehow personally responsible.  :-D\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAnd now for the inspiration...\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nLululemon is one of those companies who GETS IT.  They are in the same league as Apple.  They inject their culture with creativity, coolness, fun and INSPIRATION.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI entered the store in \"I hate shopping\" mode and left feeling enthused and like I had three new best friends.  The perky saleswomen rival <strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2011/01/27/day-119-my-apple-geniuses-and-me/\" target=\"_blank\">my Apple geniuses</a></strong>.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI would now like to share a bit of Lululemon Shopping Bag Wisdom with you.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7060049.jpg\"><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-6430\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7060049-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7060050.jpg\"><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-6431\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7060050-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-6433\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7060052-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7060051.jpg\"><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-6432\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7060051-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>\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;','Day 280:  Need Inspiration?  Shop for a Sports Bra.  ','','inherit','open','open','','6423-revision-13','','','2011-07-06 21:32:37','2011-07-07 04:32:37','',6423,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2011/07/06/6423-revision-13/',0,'revision','',0),(6442,1,'2011-07-06 21:34:44','2011-07-07 04:34:44','<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7060047.jpg\"><img class=\"alignleft size-medium wp-image-6429\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7060047-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>I am a \"functional shopper\".  I shop when I need things. I am embarrassed to admit how long I have needed a new sports bra.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI have been the equivalent of the guy who can\'t let go of his favorite college t-shirt.  Although I am by no means attached to my old sports bras.  That would be weird.  I\'m simply not motivated to substitute more interesting weekend plans for shopping.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI should note that no one sees me in these sports bras in question.  A few years ago, when I left the ultimate free schedule of 12 years of self employment and signed on to my Corporate America gig, I quit my gym membership in the interest of time.  I attain the same exact results (if not better results) from my P90 workouts, so why on earth would I spend extra precious time schlepping to and from the gym?\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nIf I had a husband lurking about the house, this would be a totally different story.  There is NO WAY I would prance my P90 self about the house in old dingy sports clothes.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nBut I am not married.  I am single.  When you\'re single, you can get away with this secret single behavior stuff.  It\'s one of our \"perks\".  <strong><a href=\"http://facebook.com/worlds.most.precious.pooch\" target=\"_blank\">World\'s Most Precious Pooch</a></strong><a href=\"http://facebook.com/worlds.most.precious.pooch\" target=\"_blank\"> </a>certainly doesn\'t care about the old sports bras, and neither do I.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nLast week I had a revelation.  Now that its 110 in the shade,  it would be much smarter and cooler if I wore as little clothing as possible on my nightly walk with Little Miss B.  And even though I\'ve semi-lost my pride in my secret singleness, I still have standards when I am around other people.  It\'s time to throw away the old sports bras.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI\'m also in a \"If you build it, he will come\" frame of mind lately.  Therefore, if I purchase new sports bras now, HE will soon be lurking around.  (In a non-creepy way, of course.)\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nSo what does this secret single revelation have to do with inspiration?\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI\'m glad you asked.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<strong><a href=\"http://www.lululemon.com/\" target=\"_blank\">Lululemon.</a></strong>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nFor those of you whom I have caught unawares, no it\'s not the song from Sesame Street.  That was <strong><a href=\"http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fOKcG-B3VkA&amp;feature=related\" target=\"_blank\">\"Lalalala Lemon\".</a></strong>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nLululemon is a store which sells the best quality yoga and athletic wear.  Is this my humble opinion or fact?  I will let you decide.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nNote that I was shopping for sports bras only and not sports bottoms.  Why?  I last purchased sports shorts and yoga pants in Vancouver in the summer of 1996.  THEY STILL LOOK AND WEAR LIKE NEW 5 YEARS LATER!!!!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nBack in 1996, Lululemon did not exist in Arizona, and I\'m not even sure they existed in the U.S.  I remember the owner of the shop telling me that she was thinking of expanding to Scottsdale or Hawaii.  I nearly got down on my knees and begged the woman to come to Arizona.  I hinted that she might want to consider the Phoenix Biltmore area over Snobbsdale.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nGuess who moved in to both Snobbsdale and Phoenix Biltmore?\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI would like to think that I\'m somehow personally responsible.  :-D\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAnd now for the inspiration...\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nLululemon is one of those companies who GETS IT.  They are in the same league as Apple.  They inject their culture with creativity, coolness, fun and INSPIRATION.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI entered the store in \"I hate shopping\" mode and left feeling enthused and like I had three new best friends.  The perky saleswomen rival <strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2011/01/27/day-119-my-apple-geniuses-and-me/\" target=\"_blank\">my Apple geniuses</a></strong>.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI would now like to share a bit of Lululemon Shopping Bag Wisdom with you.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7060049.jpg\"><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-6430\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7060049-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7060050.jpg\"><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-6431\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7060050-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-6433\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7060052-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7060051.jpg\"><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-6432\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7060051-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>\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;','Day 280:  Need Inspiration?  Shop for a Sports Bra.  ','','inherit','open','open','','6423-revision-14','','','2011-07-06 21:34:44','2011-07-07 04:34:44','',6423,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2011/07/06/6423-revision-14/',0,'revision','',0),(6443,1,'2011-07-06 21:41:04','2011-07-07 04:41:04','<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7060047.jpg\"><img class=\"alignleft size-medium wp-image-6429\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7060047-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>I am a \"functional shopper\".  I shop when I need things. I am embarrassed to admit how long I have needed a new sports bra.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI have been the equivalent of the guy who can\'t let go of his favorite college t-shirt.  Although I am by no means attached to my old sports bras.  That would be weird.  I\'m simply not motivated to substitute more interesting weekend plans for shopping.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI should note that no one sees me in these sports bras in question.  A few years ago, when I left the ultimate free schedule of 12 years of self employment and signed on to my Corporate America gig, I quit my gym membership in the interest of time.  I attain the same exact results (if not better results) from my P90 workouts, so why on earth would I spend extra precious time schlepping to and from the gym?\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nIf I had a husband lurking about the house, this would be a totally different story.  There is NO WAY I would prance my P90 self about the house in old dingy sports clothes.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nBut I am not married.  I am single.  When you\'re single, you can get away with this secret single behavior stuff.  It\'s one of our \"perks\".  World\'s Most Precious Pooch certainly doesn\'t care about the old sports bras, and neither do I.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nLast week I had a revelation.  Now that its 110 in the shade,  it would be much smarter and cooler if I wore as little clothing as possible on my nightly walk with Little Miss B.  And even though I\'ve semi-lost my pride in my secret singleness, I still have standards when I am around other people.  It\'s time to throw away the old sports bras.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI\'m also in a \"If you build it, he will come\" frame of mind lately.  Therefore, if I purchase new sports bras now, HE will soon be lurking around.  (In a non-creepy way, of course.)\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nSo what does this secret single revelation have to do with inspiration?\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI\'m glad you asked.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<strong><a href=\"http://www.lululemon.com/\" target=\"_blank\">Lululemon.</a></strong>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nFor those of you whom I have caught unawares, no it\'s not the song from Sesame Street.  That was <strong><a href=\"http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fOKcG-B3VkA&amp;feature=related\" target=\"_blank\">\"Lalalala Lemon\".</a></strong>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nLululemon is a store which sells the best quality yoga and athletic wear.  Is this my humble opinion or fact?  I will let you decide.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nNote that I was shopping for sports bras only and not sports bottoms.  Why?  I last purchased sports shorts and yoga pants in Vancouver in the summer of 1996.  THEY STILL LOOK AND WEAR LIKE NEW 5 YEARS LATER!!!!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nBack in 1996, Lululemon did not exist in Arizona, and I\'m not even sure they existed in the U.S.  I remember the owner of the shop telling me that she was thinking of expanding to Scottsdale or Hawaii.  I nearly got down on my knees and begged the woman to come to Arizona.  I hinted that she might want to consider the Phoenix Biltmore area over Snobbsdale.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nGuess who moved in to both Snobbsdale and Phoenix Biltmore?\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI would like to think that I\'m somehow personally responsible.  :-D\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAnd now for the inspiration...\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nLululemon is one of those companies who GETS IT.  They are in the same league as Apple.  They inject their culture with creativity, coolness, fun and INSPIRATION.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI entered the store in \"I hate shopping\" mode and left feeling enthused and like I had three new best friends.  The perky saleswomen rival <strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2011/01/27/day-119-my-apple-geniuses-and-me/\" target=\"_blank\">my Apple geniuses</a></strong>.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI would now like to share a bit of Lululemon Shopping Bag Wisdom with you.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7060049.jpg\"><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-6430\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7060049-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7060050.jpg\"><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-6431\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7060050-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-6433\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7060052-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7060051.jpg\"><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-6432\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7060051-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nDo you feel more inspired?  I\'m not sure WHAT they were thinking about the bizarre orgasm/children quote.  We\'ll just pretend that we didn\'t see that.  Moving right along...\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nNow it\'s time for YOU to spill it!  What is YOUR secret single behavior?  If you are a smug married, think about what you do when hubby or wifey is away.  Kindly share in the comment section below to make me feel better about myself.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;','Day 280:  Need Inspiration?  Shop for a Sports Bra.  ','','inherit','open','open','','6423-revision-15','','','2011-07-06 21:41:04','2011-07-07 04:41:04','',6423,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2011/07/06/6423-revision-15/',0,'revision','',0),(6444,1,'2011-07-06 22:01:11','2011-07-07 05:01:11','<p>[caption id=\"attachment_6429\" align=\"alignleft\" width=\"300\" caption=\"Good thing I covered all of these bases in the past month. Whew! ;-)\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7060047.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-6429\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7060047-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>[/caption]</p>\r\n<p>I am a \"functional shopper\".  I shop when I need things. I am embarrassed to admit how long I have needed a new sports bra.</p>\r\n<p>&nbsp;</p>\r\n<p>I have been the equivalent of the guy who can\'t let go of his favorite college t-shirt.  Although I am by no means attached to my old sports bras.  That would be weird.  I\'m simply not motivated to substitute more interesting weekend plans for shopping.</p>\r\n<p>&nbsp;</p>\r\n<p>I should note that no one sees me in these sports bras in question.  A few years ago, when I left the ultimate free schedule of 12 years of self employment and signed on to my Corporate America gig, I quit my gym membership in the interest of time.  I attain the same exact results (if not better results) from my P90 workouts, so why on earth would I spend extra precious time schlepping to and from the gym?</p>\r\n<p>&nbsp;</p>\r\n<p>If I had a husband lurking about the house, this would be a totally different story.  There is NO WAY I would prance my P90 self about the house in old dingy sports clothes.</p>\r\n<p>&nbsp;</p>\r\n<p>But I am not married.  I am single.  <span style=\"font-size: medium; color: #800080;\"><strong>When you\'re single, you can get away with this secret single behavior stuff.  It\'s one of our \"perks\".  </strong></span>World\'s Most Precious Pooch certainly doesn\'t care about the old sports bras, and neither do I.</p>\r\n<p>&nbsp;</p>\r\n<p>Last week I had a revelation.  Now that its 110 in the shade,  it would be much smarter and cooler if I wore as little clothing as possible on my nightly walk with Little Miss B.  And even though I\'ve semi-lost my pride in my secret singleness, I still have standards when I am around other people.  It\'s time to throw away the old sports bras.</p>\r\n<p>&nbsp;</p>\r\n<p>I\'m also in a \"If you build it, he will come\" frame of mind lately.  Therefore, if I purchase new sports bras now, HE will soon be lurking around.  (In a non-creepy way, of course.)</p>\r\n<p>&nbsp;</p>\r\n<p>So what does this secret single revelation have to do with inspiration?</p>\r\n<p>&nbsp;</p>\r\n<p>I\'m glad you asked.</p>\r\n<p>&nbsp;</p>\r\n<p><strong><a href=\"http://www.lululemon.com/\" target=\"_blank\">Lululemon.</a></strong></p>\r\n<p>&nbsp;</p>\r\n<p>For those of you whom I have caught unawares, no it\'s not the song from Sesame Street.  That was <strong><a href=\"http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fOKcG-B3VkA&amp;feature=related\" target=\"_blank\">\"Lalalala Lemon\".</a></strong></p>\r\n<p>&nbsp;</p>\r\n<p>Lululemon is a store which sells the best quality yoga and athletic wear.  Is this my humble opinion or fact?  I will let you decide.</p>\r\n<p>&nbsp;</p>\r\n<p>Note that I was shopping for sports bras only and not sports bottoms.  Why?  I last purchased sports shorts and yoga pants in Vancouver in the summer of 1996.  THEY STILL LOOK AND WEAR LIKE NEW 5 YEARS LATER!!!!</p>\r\n<p>&nbsp;</p>\r\n<p>Back in 1996, Lululemon did not exist in Arizona, and I\'m not even sure they existed in the U.S.  I remember the owner of the shop telling me that she was thinking of expanding to Scottsdale or Hawaii.  I nearly got down on my knees and begged the woman to come to Arizona.  I hinted that she might want to consider the Phoenix Biltmore area over Snobbsdale.</p>\r\n<p>&nbsp;</p>\r\n<p>Guess who moved in to both Snobbsdale and Phoenix Biltmore?</p>\r\n<p>&nbsp;</p>\r\n<p>I would like to think that I\'m somehow personally responsible.  :-D</p>\r\n<p>&nbsp;</p>\r\n<p>And now for the inspiration...</p>\r\n<p>&nbsp;</p>\r\n<p>Lululemon is one of those companies who GETS IT.  They are in the same league as Apple.  They inject their culture with creativity, coolness, fun and INSPIRATION.</p>\r\n<p>&nbsp;</p>\r\n<p>I entered the store in \"I hate shopping\" mode and left feeling enthused and like I had three new best friends.  The perky saleswomen rival <strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2011/01/27/day-119-my-apple-geniuses-and-me/\" target=\"_blank\">my Apple geniuses</a></strong>.</p>\r\n<p>&nbsp;</p>\r\n<p>I would now like to share a bit of Lululemon Shopping Bag Wisdom with you.</p>\r\n<p>&nbsp;</p>\r\n<p>&nbsp;</p>\r\n<p><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7060049.jpg\"><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-6430\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7060049-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7060050.jpg\"><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-6431\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7060050-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-6433\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7060052-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7060051.jpg\"><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-6432\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7060051-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a></p>\r\n<p>&nbsp;</p>\r\n<p>&nbsp;</p>\r\n<p>Do you feel more inspired?  I\'m not sure WHAT they were thinking about with that bizarre orgasm/children quote.  We\'ll just pretend that we didn\'t see that.  Moving right along...</p>\r\n<p>&nbsp;</p>\r\n<p>Now it\'s time for YOU to spill it! <span style=\"font-size: medium; color: #800080;\"><strong> What is YOUR secret single behavior?</strong></span>  If you are a smug married, think about what you do when hubby or wifey is away.</p>\r\n<p>&nbsp;</p>\r\n<p>Kindly share in the comment section below to help me feel better about myself.</p>\r\n<p>&nbsp;</p>\r\n<p>&nbsp;</p>\r\n<p>&nbsp;</p>\r\n','Day 280:  Need Inspiration?  Shop for a Sports Bra.  ','','inherit','open','open','','6423-autosave','','','2011-07-06 22:01:11','2011-07-07 05:01:11','',6423,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2011/07/06/6423-autosave/',0,'revision','',0),(6445,1,'2011-07-06 21:41:52','2011-07-07 04:41:52','<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7060047.jpg\"><img class=\"alignleft size-medium wp-image-6429\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7060047-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>I am a \"functional shopper\".  I shop when I need things. I am embarrassed to admit how long I have needed a new sports bra.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI have been the equivalent of the guy who can\'t let go of his favorite college t-shirt.  Although I am by no means attached to my old sports bras.  That would be weird.  I\'m simply not motivated to substitute more interesting weekend plans for shopping.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI should note that no one sees me in these sports bras in question.  A few years ago, when I left the ultimate free schedule of 12 years of self employment and signed on to my Corporate America gig, I quit my gym membership in the interest of time.  I attain the same exact results (if not better results) from my P90 workouts, so why on earth would I spend extra precious time schlepping to and from the gym?\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nIf I had a husband lurking about the house, this would be a totally different story.  There is NO WAY I would prance my P90 self about the house in old dingy sports clothes.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nBut I am not married.  I am single.  When you\'re single, you can get away with this secret single behavior stuff.  It\'s one of our \"perks\".  World\'s Most Precious Pooch certainly doesn\'t care about the old sports bras, and neither do I.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nLast week I had a revelation.  Now that its 110 in the shade,  it would be much smarter and cooler if I wore as little clothing as possible on my nightly walk with Little Miss B.  And even though I\'ve semi-lost my pride in my secret singleness, I still have standards when I am around other people.  It\'s time to throw away the old sports bras.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI\'m also in a \"If you build it, he will come\" frame of mind lately.  Therefore, if I purchase new sports bras now, HE will soon be lurking around.  (In a non-creepy way, of course.)\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nSo what does this secret single revelation have to do with inspiration?\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI\'m glad you asked.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<strong><a href=\"http://www.lululemon.com/\" target=\"_blank\">Lululemon.</a></strong>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nFor those of you whom I have caught unawares, no it\'s not the song from Sesame Street.  That was <strong><a href=\"http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fOKcG-B3VkA&amp;feature=related\" target=\"_blank\">\"Lalalala Lemon\".</a></strong>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nLululemon is a store which sells the best quality yoga and athletic wear.  Is this my humble opinion or fact?  I will let you decide.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nNote that I was shopping for sports bras only and not sports bottoms.  Why?  I last purchased sports shorts and yoga pants in Vancouver in the summer of 1996.  THEY STILL LOOK AND WEAR LIKE NEW 5 YEARS LATER!!!!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nBack in 1996, Lululemon did not exist in Arizona, and I\'m not even sure they existed in the U.S.  I remember the owner of the shop telling me that she was thinking of expanding to Scottsdale or Hawaii.  I nearly got down on my knees and begged the woman to come to Arizona.  I hinted that she might want to consider the Phoenix Biltmore area over Snobbsdale.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nGuess who moved in to both Snobbsdale and Phoenix Biltmore?\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI would like to think that I\'m somehow personally responsible.  :-D\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAnd now for the inspiration...\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nLululemon is one of those companies who GETS IT.  They are in the same league as Apple.  They inject their culture with creativity, coolness, fun and INSPIRATION.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI entered the store in \"I hate shopping\" mode and left feeling enthused and like I had three new best friends.  The perky saleswomen rival <strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2011/01/27/day-119-my-apple-geniuses-and-me/\" target=\"_blank\">my Apple geniuses</a></strong>.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI would now like to share a bit of Lululemon Shopping Bag Wisdom with you.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7060049.jpg\"><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-6430\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7060049-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7060050.jpg\"><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-6431\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7060050-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-6433\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7060052-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7060051.jpg\"><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-6432\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7060051-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nDo you feel more inspired?  I\'m not sure WHAT they were thinking about the bizarre orgasm/children quote.  We\'ll just pretend that we didn\'t see that.  Moving right along...\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nNow it\'s time for YOU to spill it!  What is YOUR secret single behavior?  If you are a smug married, think about what you do when hubby or wifey is away.  Kindly share in the comment section below to make me feel better about myself.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;','Day 280:  Need Inspiration?  Shop for a Sports Bra.  ','','inherit','open','open','','6423-revision-16','','','2011-07-06 21:41:52','2011-07-07 04:41:52','',6423,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2011/07/06/6423-revision-16/',0,'revision','',0),(6446,1,'2011-07-06 21:43:57','2011-07-07 04:43:57','<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7060047.jpg\"><img class=\"alignleft size-medium wp-image-6429\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7060047-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>I am a \"functional shopper\".  I shop when I need things. I am embarrassed to admit how long I have needed a new sports bra.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI have been the equivalent of the guy who can\'t let go of his favorite college t-shirt.  Although I am by no means attached to my old sports bras.  That would be weird.  I\'m simply not motivated to substitute more interesting weekend plans for shopping.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI should note that no one sees me in these sports bras in question.  A few years ago, when I left the ultimate free schedule of 12 years of self employment and signed on to my Corporate America gig, I quit my gym membership in the interest of time.  I attain the same exact results (if not better results) from my P90 workouts, so why on earth would I spend extra precious time schlepping to and from the gym?\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nIf I had a husband lurking about the house, this would be a totally different story.  There is NO WAY I would prance my P90 self about the house in old dingy sports clothes.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nBut I am not married.  I am single.  <span style=\"font-size: medium; color: #800080;\"><strong>When you\'re single, you can get away with this secret single behavior stuff.  It\'s one of our \"perks\".  </strong></span>World\'s Most Precious Pooch certainly doesn\'t care about the old sports bras, and neither do I.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nLast week I had a revelation.  Now that its 110 in the shade,  it would be much smarter and cooler if I wore as little clothing as possible on my nightly walk with Little Miss B.  And even though I\'ve semi-lost my pride in my secret singleness, I still have standards when I am around other people.  It\'s time to throw away the old sports bras.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI\'m also in a \"If you build it, he will come\" frame of mind lately.  Therefore, if I purchase new sports bras now, HE will soon be lurking around.  (In a non-creepy way, of course.)\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nSo what does this secret single revelation have to do with inspiration?\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI\'m glad you asked.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<strong><a href=\"http://www.lululemon.com/\" target=\"_blank\">Lululemon.</a></strong>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nFor those of you whom I have caught unawares, no it\'s not the song from Sesame Street.  That was <strong><a href=\"http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fOKcG-B3VkA&amp;feature=related\" target=\"_blank\">\"Lalalala Lemon\".</a></strong>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nLululemon is a store which sells the best quality yoga and athletic wear.  Is this my humble opinion or fact?  I will let you decide.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nNote that I was shopping for sports bras only and not sports bottoms.  Why?  I last purchased sports shorts and yoga pants in Vancouver in the summer of 1996.  THEY STILL LOOK AND WEAR LIKE NEW 5 YEARS LATER!!!!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nBack in 1996, Lululemon did not exist in Arizona, and I\'m not even sure they existed in the U.S.  I remember the owner of the shop telling me that she was thinking of expanding to Scottsdale or Hawaii.  I nearly got down on my knees and begged the woman to come to Arizona.  I hinted that she might want to consider the Phoenix Biltmore area over Snobbsdale.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nGuess who moved in to both Snobbsdale and Phoenix Biltmore?\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI would like to think that I\'m somehow personally responsible.  :-D\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAnd now for the inspiration...\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nLululemon is one of those companies who GETS IT.  They are in the same league as Apple.  They inject their culture with creativity, coolness, fun and INSPIRATION.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI entered the store in \"I hate shopping\" mode and left feeling enthused and like I had three new best friends.  The perky saleswomen rival <strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2011/01/27/day-119-my-apple-geniuses-and-me/\" target=\"_blank\">my Apple geniuses</a></strong>.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI would now like to share a bit of Lululemon Shopping Bag Wisdom with you.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7060049.jpg\"><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-6430\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7060049-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7060050.jpg\"><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-6431\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7060050-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-6433\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7060052-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7060051.jpg\"><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-6432\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7060051-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nDo you feel more inspired?  I\'m not sure WHAT they were thinking about the bizarre orgasm/children quote.  We\'ll just pretend that we didn\'t see that.  Moving right along...\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nNow it\'s time for YOU to spill it! <span style=\"font-size: medium; color: #800080;\"><strong> What is YOUR secret single behavior?</strong></span>  If you are a smug married, think about what you do when hubby or wifey is away.  Kindly share in the comment section below to make me feel better about myself.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;','Day 280:  Need Inspiration?  Shop for a Sports Bra.  ','','inherit','open','open','','6423-revision-17','','','2011-07-06 21:43:57','2011-07-07 04:43:57','',6423,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2011/07/06/6423-revision-17/',0,'revision','',0),(6447,1,'2011-07-06 21:46:52','2011-07-07 04:46:52','<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7060047.jpg\"><img class=\"alignleft size-medium wp-image-6429\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7060047-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>I am a \"functional shopper\".  I shop when I need things. I am embarrassed to admit how long I have needed a new sports bra.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI have been the equivalent of the guy who can\'t let go of his favorite college t-shirt.  Although I am by no means attached to my old sports bras.  That would be weird.  I\'m simply not motivated to substitute more interesting weekend plans for shopping.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI should note that no one sees me in these sports bras in question.  A few years ago, when I left the ultimate free schedule of 12 years of self employment and signed on to my Corporate America gig, I quit my gym membership in the interest of time.  I attain the same exact results (if not better results) from my P90 workouts, so why on earth would I spend extra precious time schlepping to and from the gym?\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nIf I had a husband lurking about the house, this would be a totally different story.  There is NO WAY I would prance my P90 self about the house in old dingy sports clothes.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nBut I am not married.  I am single.  <span style=\"font-size: medium; color: #800080;\"><strong>When you\'re single, you can get away with this secret single behavior stuff.  It\'s one of our \"perks\".  </strong></span>World\'s Most Precious Pooch certainly doesn\'t care about the old sports bras, and neither do I.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nLast week I had a revelation.  Now that its 110 in the shade,  it would be much smarter and cooler if I wore as little clothing as possible on my nightly walk with Little Miss B.  And even though I\'ve semi-lost my pride in my secret singleness, I still have standards when I am around other people.  It\'s time to throw away the old sports bras.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI\'m also in a \"If you build it, he will come\" frame of mind lately.  Therefore, if I purchase new sports bras now, HE will soon be lurking around.  (In a non-creepy way, of course.)\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nSo what does this secret single revelation have to do with inspiration?\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI\'m glad you asked.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<strong><a href=\"http://www.lululemon.com/\" target=\"_blank\">Lululemon.</a></strong>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nFor those of you whom I have caught unawares, no it\'s not the song from Sesame Street.  That was <strong><a href=\"http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fOKcG-B3VkA&amp;feature=related\" target=\"_blank\">\"Lalalala Lemon\".</a></strong>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nLululemon is a store which sells the best quality yoga and athletic wear.  Is this my humble opinion or fact?  I will let you decide.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nNote that I was shopping for sports bras only and not sports bottoms.  Why?  I last purchased sports shorts and yoga pants in Vancouver in the summer of 1996.  THEY STILL LOOK AND WEAR LIKE NEW 5 YEARS LATER!!!!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nBack in 1996, Lululemon did not exist in Arizona, and I\'m not even sure they existed in the U.S.  I remember the owner of the shop telling me that she was thinking of expanding to Scottsdale or Hawaii.  I nearly got down on my knees and begged the woman to come to Arizona.  I hinted that she might want to consider the Phoenix Biltmore area over Snobbsdale.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nGuess who moved in to both Snobbsdale and Phoenix Biltmore?\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI would like to think that I\'m somehow personally responsible.  :-D\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAnd now for the inspiration...\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nLululemon is one of those companies who GETS IT.  They are in the same league as Apple.  They inject their culture with creativity, coolness, fun and INSPIRATION.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI entered the store in \"I hate shopping\" mode and left feeling enthused and like I had three new best friends.  The perky saleswomen rival <strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2011/01/27/day-119-my-apple-geniuses-and-me/\" target=\"_blank\">my Apple geniuses</a></strong>.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI would now like to share a bit of Lululemon Shopping Bag Wisdom with you.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7060049.jpg\"><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-6430\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7060049-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7060050.jpg\"><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-6431\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7060050-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-6433\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7060052-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7060051.jpg\"><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-6432\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7060051-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nDo you feel more inspired?  I\'m not sure WHAT they were thinking about with that bizarre orgasm/children quote.  We\'ll just pretend that we didn\'t see that.  Moving right along...\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nNow it\'s time for YOU to spill it! <span style=\"font-size: medium; color: #800080;\"><strong> What is YOUR secret single behavior?</strong></span>  If you are a smug married, think about what you do when hubby or wifey is away.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nKindly share in the comment section below to make me feel better about myself.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;','Day 280:  Need Inspiration?  Shop for a Sports Bra.  ','','inherit','open','open','','6423-revision-18','','','2011-07-06 21:46:52','2011-07-07 04:46:52','',6423,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2011/07/06/6423-revision-18/',0,'revision','',0),(6448,1,'2011-07-06 21:47:57','2011-07-07 04:47:57','<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7060047.jpg\"><img class=\"alignleft size-medium wp-image-6429\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7060047-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>I am a \"functional shopper\".  I shop when I need things. I am embarrassed to admit how long I have needed a new sports bra.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI have been the equivalent of the guy who can\'t let go of his favorite college t-shirt.  Although I am by no means attached to my old sports bras.  That would be weird.  I\'m simply not motivated to substitute more interesting weekend plans for shopping.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI should note that no one sees me in these sports bras in question.  A few years ago, when I left the ultimate free schedule of 12 years of self employment and signed on to my Corporate America gig, I quit my gym membership in the interest of time.  I attain the same exact results (if not better results) from my P90 workouts, so why on earth would I spend extra precious time schlepping to and from the gym?\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nIf I had a husband lurking about the house, this would be a totally different story.  There is NO WAY I would prance my P90 self about the house in old dingy sports clothes.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nBut I am not married.  I am single.  <span style=\"font-size: medium; color: #800080;\"><strong>When you\'re single, you can get away with this secret single behavior stuff.  It\'s one of our \"perks\".  </strong></span>World\'s Most Precious Pooch certainly doesn\'t care about the old sports bras, and neither do I.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nLast week I had a revelation.  Now that its 110 in the shade,  it would be much smarter and cooler if I wore as little clothing as possible on my nightly walk with Little Miss B.  And even though I\'ve semi-lost my pride in my secret singleness, I still have standards when I am around other people.  It\'s time to throw away the old sports bras.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI\'m also in a \"If you build it, he will come\" frame of mind lately.  Therefore, if I purchase new sports bras now, HE will soon be lurking around.  (In a non-creepy way, of course.)\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nSo what does this secret single revelation have to do with inspiration?\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI\'m glad you asked.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<strong><a href=\"http://www.lululemon.com/\" target=\"_blank\">Lululemon.</a></strong>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nFor those of you whom I have caught unawares, no it\'s not the song from Sesame Street.  That was <strong><a href=\"http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fOKcG-B3VkA&amp;feature=related\" target=\"_blank\">\"Lalalala Lemon\".</a></strong>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nLululemon is a store which sells the best quality yoga and athletic wear.  Is this my humble opinion or fact?  I will let you decide.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nNote that I was shopping for sports bras only and not sports bottoms.  Why?  I last purchased sports shorts and yoga pants in Vancouver in the summer of 1996.  THEY STILL LOOK AND WEAR LIKE NEW 5 YEARS LATER!!!!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nBack in 1996, Lululemon did not exist in Arizona, and I\'m not even sure they existed in the U.S.  I remember the owner of the shop telling me that she was thinking of expanding to Scottsdale or Hawaii.  I nearly got down on my knees and begged the woman to come to Arizona.  I hinted that she might want to consider the Phoenix Biltmore area over Snobbsdale.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nGuess who moved in to both Snobbsdale and Phoenix Biltmore?\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI would like to think that I\'m somehow personally responsible.  :-D\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAnd now for the inspiration...\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nLululemon is one of those companies who GETS IT.  They are in the same league as Apple.  They inject their culture with creativity, coolness, fun and INSPIRATION.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI entered the store in \"I hate shopping\" mode and left feeling enthused and like I had three new best friends.  The perky saleswomen rival <strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2011/01/27/day-119-my-apple-geniuses-and-me/\" target=\"_blank\">my Apple geniuses</a></strong>.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI would now like to share a bit of Lululemon Shopping Bag Wisdom with you.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7060049.jpg\"><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-6430\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7060049-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7060050.jpg\"><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-6431\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7060050-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-6433\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7060052-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7060051.jpg\"><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-6432\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7060051-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nDo you feel more inspired?  I\'m not sure WHAT they were thinking about with that bizarre orgasm/children quote.  We\'ll just pretend that we didn\'t see that.  Moving right along...\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nNow it\'s time for YOU to spill it! <span style=\"font-size: medium; color: #800080;\"><strong> What is YOUR secret single behavior?</strong></span>  If you are a smug married, think about what you do when hubby or wifey is away.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nKindly share in the comment section below to help me feel better about myself.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;','Day 280:  Need Inspiration?  Shop for a Sports Bra.  ','','inherit','open','open','','6423-revision-19','','','2011-07-06 21:47:57','2011-07-07 04:47:57','',6423,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2011/07/06/6423-revision-19/',0,'revision','',0),(6449,1,'2011-07-06 22:01:04','2011-07-07 05:01:04','[caption id=\"attachment_6429\" align=\"alignleft\" width=\"300\" caption=\"Good thing I covered all of these bases in the past month. Whew! ;-)\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7060047.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-6429\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7060047-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\nI am a \"functional shopper\".  I shop when I need things. I am embarrassed to admit how long I have needed a new sports bra.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI have been the equivalent of the guy who can\'t let go of his favorite college t-shirt.  Although I am by no means attached to my old sports bras.  That would be weird.  I\'m simply not motivated to substitute more interesting weekend plans for shopping.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI should note that no one sees me in these sports bras in question.  A few years ago, when I left the ultimate free schedule of 12 years of self employment and signed on to my Corporate America gig, I quit my gym membership in the interest of time.  I attain the same exact results (if not better results) from my P90 workouts, so why on earth would I spend extra precious time schlepping to and from the gym?\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nIf I had a husband lurking about the house, this would be a totally different story.  There is NO WAY I would prance my P90 self about the house in old dingy sports clothes.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nBut I am not married.  I am single.  <span style=\"font-size: medium; color: #800080;\"><strong>When you\'re single, you can get away with this secret single behavior stuff.  It\'s one of our \"perks\".  </strong></span>World\'s Most Precious Pooch certainly doesn\'t care about the old sports bras, and neither do I.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nLast week I had a revelation.  Now that its 110 in the shade,  it would be much smarter and cooler if I wore as little clothing as possible on my nightly walk with Little Miss B.  And even though I\'ve semi-lost my pride in my secret singleness, I still have standards when I am around other people.  It\'s time to throw away the old sports bras.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI\'m also in a \"If you build it, he will come\" frame of mind lately.  Therefore, if I purchase new sports bras now, HE will soon be lurking around.  (In a non-creepy way, of course.)\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nSo what does this secret single revelation have to do with inspiration?\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI\'m glad you asked.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<strong><a href=\"http://www.lululemon.com/\" target=\"_blank\">Lululemon.</a></strong>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nFor those of you whom I have caught unawares, no it\'s not the song from Sesame Street.  That was <strong><a href=\"http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fOKcG-B3VkA&amp;feature=related\" target=\"_blank\">\"Lalalala Lemon\".</a></strong>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nLululemon is a store which sells the best quality yoga and athletic wear.  Is this my humble opinion or fact?  I will let you decide.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nNote that I was shopping for sports bras only and not sports bottoms.  Why?  I last purchased sports shorts and yoga pants in Vancouver in the summer of 1996.  THEY STILL LOOK AND WEAR LIKE NEW 5 YEARS LATER!!!!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nBack in 1996, Lululemon did not exist in Arizona, and I\'m not even sure they existed in the U.S.  I remember the owner of the shop telling me that she was thinking of expanding to Scottsdale or Hawaii.  I nearly got down on my knees and begged the woman to come to Arizona.  I hinted that she might want to consider the Phoenix Biltmore area over Snobbsdale.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nGuess who moved in to both Snobbsdale and Phoenix Biltmore?\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI would like to think that I\'m somehow personally responsible.  :-D\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAnd now for the inspiration...\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nLululemon is one of those companies who GETS IT.  They are in the same league as Apple.  They inject their culture with creativity, coolness, fun and INSPIRATION.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI entered the store in \"I hate shopping\" mode and left feeling enthused and like I had three new best friends.  The perky saleswomen rival <strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2011/01/27/day-119-my-apple-geniuses-and-me/\" target=\"_blank\">my Apple geniuses</a></strong>.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI would now like to share a bit of Lululemon Shopping Bag Wisdom with you.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7060049.jpg\"><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-6430\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7060049-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7060050.jpg\"><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-6431\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7060050-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-6433\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7060052-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7060051.jpg\"><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-6432\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7060051-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nDo you feel more inspired?  I\'m not sure WHAT they were thinking about with that bizarre orgasm/children quote.  We\'ll just pretend that we didn\'t see that.  Moving right along...\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nNow it\'s time for YOU to spill it! <span style=\"font-size: medium; color: #800080;\"><strong> What is YOUR secret single behavior?</strong></span>  If you are a smug married, think about what you do when hubby or wifey is away.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nKindly share in the comment section below to help me feel better about myself.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;','Day 280:  Need Inspiration?  Shop for a Sports Bra.  ','','inherit','open','open','','6423-revision-20','','','2011-07-06 22:01:04','2011-07-07 05:01:04','',6423,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2011/07/06/6423-revision-20/',0,'revision','',0),(6450,1,'2011-07-07 07:06:53','2011-07-07 14:06:53','[caption id=\"attachment_6429\" align=\"alignleft\" width=\"300\" caption=\"Good thing I covered all of these bases in the past month. Whew! ;-)\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7060047.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-6429\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7060047-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\nI am a \"functional shopper\".  I shop when I need things. I am embarrassed to admit how long I have needed a new sports bra.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI have been the equivalent of the guy who can\'t let go of his favorite college t-shirt.  Although I am by no means attached to my old sports bras.  That would be weird.  I\'m simply not motivated to substitute more interesting weekend plans for shopping.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI should note that no one sees me in these sports bras in question.  A few years ago, when I left the ultimate free schedule of 12 years of self employment and signed on to my Corporate America gig, I quit my gym membership in the interest of time.  I attain the same exact results (if not better results) from my P90 workouts, so why on earth would I spend extra precious time schlepping to and from the gym?\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nIf I had a husband lurking about the house, this would be a totally different story.  There is NO WAY I would prance my P90 self about the house in old dingy sports clothes.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nBut I am not married.  I am single.  <span style=\"font-size: medium; color: #800080;\"><strong>When you\'re single, you can get away with this secret single behavior stuff.  It\'s one of our \"perks\".  </strong></span>World\'s Most Precious Pooch certainly doesn\'t care about the old sports bras, and neither do I.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nLast week I had a revelation.  Now that its 110 in the shade,  it would be much smarter and cooler if I wore as little clothing as possible on my nightly walk with Little Miss B.  And even though I\'ve semi-lost my pride in my secret singleness, I still have standards when I am around other people.  It\'s time to throw away the old sports bras.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI\'m also in a \"If you build it, he will come\" frame of mind lately.  Therefore, if I purchase new sports bras now, HE will soon be lurking around.  (In a non-creepy way, of course.)\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nSo what does this secret single revelation have to do with inspiration?\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI\'m glad you asked.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<strong><a href=\"http://www.lululemon.com/\" target=\"_blank\">Lululemon.</a></strong>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nFor those of you whom I have caught unawares, no it\'s not the song from Sesame Street.  That was <strong><a href=\"http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fOKcG-B3VkA&amp;feature=related\" target=\"_blank\">\"Lalalala Lemon\".</a></strong>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nLululemon is a store which sells the best quality yoga and athletic wear.  Is this my humble opinion or fact?  I will let you decide.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nNote that I was shopping for sports bras only and not sports bottoms.  Why?  I last purchased sports shorts and yoga pants in Vancouver in the summer of 2006.  THEY STILL LOOK AND WEAR LIKE NEW 5 YEARS LATER!!!!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nBack in 1996, Lululemon did not exist in Arizona, and I\'m not even sure they existed in the U.S.  I remember the owner of the shop telling me that she was thinking of expanding to Scottsdale or Hawaii.  I nearly got down on my knees and begged the woman to come to Arizona.  I hinted that she might want to consider the Phoenix Biltmore area over Snobbsdale.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nGuess who moved in to both Snobbsdale and Phoenix Biltmore?\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI would like to think that I\'m somehow personally responsible.  :-D\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAnd now for the inspiration...\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nLululemon is one of those companies who GETS IT.  They are in the same league as Apple.  They inject their culture with creativity, coolness, fun and INSPIRATION.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI entered the store in \"I hate shopping\" mode and left feeling enthused and like I had three new best friends.  The perky saleswomen rival <strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2011/01/27/day-119-my-apple-geniuses-and-me/\" target=\"_blank\">my Apple geniuses</a></strong>.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI would now like to share a bit of Lululemon Shopping Bag Wisdom with you.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7060049.jpg\"><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-6430\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7060049-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7060050.jpg\"><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-6431\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7060050-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-6433\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7060052-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7060051.jpg\"><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-6432\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7060051-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nDo you feel more inspired?  I\'m not sure WHAT they were thinking about with that bizarre orgasm/children quote.  We\'ll just pretend that we didn\'t see that.  Moving right along...\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nNow it\'s time for YOU to spill it! <span style=\"font-size: medium; color: #800080;\"><strong> What is YOUR secret single behavior?</strong></span>  If you are a smug married, think about what you do when hubby or wifey is away.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nKindly share in the comment section below to help me feel better about myself.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;','Day 280:  Need Inspiration?  Shop for a Sports Bra.  ','','inherit','open','open','','6423-revision-21','','','2011-07-07 07:06:53','2011-07-07 14:06:53','',6423,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2011/07/07/6423-revision-21/',0,'revision','',0),(6452,1,'2011-07-08 01:11:05','2011-07-08 08:11:05','Sometimes it takes me awhile to discover things that have been right under my nose.  Or in my camera.  Such as a \"fireworks setting\" in my nearly 3 year-old point-and-shoot.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI thought a point-and-shoot was exactly that.  Point and shoot the bloody photo already!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nBut apparently there are \"settings\".\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAfter my <strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2011/04/26/day-210-butterflies-bunny-man-and-impromptu-photography-class/\" target=\"_blank\">impromptu photography lesson with </a><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2011/04/26/day-210-butterflies-bunny-man-and-impromptu-photography-class/\" target=\"_blank\">JftB</a></strong>, I delved deeper into my camera to find secrets that opened up an entire other world of photographic options.  How very convenient for a blogger whose readers might like to see something a bit more interesting from time to time.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nFirst, there was the secret of \"macro\" and -- it\'s so much fun that I can hardly contain my enthusiasm -- \"SUPER macro\".\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAnd then...Just in time for the 4th of July...There was \"fireworks\".\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nOoooooooo...Ahhhhhh...\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nYou know what this means, don\'t you?  Time for my 5th Ever Slideshow.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n(Kindly ignore the obnoxious white street lights.  I was in a parking lot for fireworks viewing along with the other 99% of Americans.  There\'s always next year...)\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n<iframe width=\"480\" height=\"390\" src=\"http://www.youtube.com/embed/-ExQKT7O10k\" frameborder=\"0\" allowfullscreen></iframe>\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;','Day 281:  Fireworks Fotos with My Point-and-Shoot!  ','','publish','open','open','','day-281-fireworks-fotos-with-my-point-and-shoot','','http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2011/04/26/day-210-butterflies-bunny-man-and-impromptu-photography-class/\nhttp://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2011/04/26/day-210-butterflies-bunny-man-and-impromptu-photography-class/','2011-07-07 20:50:37','2011-07-08 03:50:37','',0,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?p=6452',0,'post','',3),(6453,1,'2011-07-07 20:40:08','2011-07-08 03:40:08','Sometimes it takes me awhile to discover things that have been right under my nose.  Or in my camera.  Such as a \"fireworks setting\" on my nearly 3 year-old point-and-shoot.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nI thought a point-and-shoot was exactly that.  Point and shoot the bloody photo already!\n\n&nbsp;\n\nBut apparently there are \"settings\".\n\n&nbsp;\n\nAfter my <strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2011/04/26/day-210-butterflies-bunny-man-and-impromptu-photography-class/\" target=\"_blank\">impromptu photography lesson with </a><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2011/04/26/day-210-butterflies-bunny-man-and-impromptu-photography-class/\" target=\"_blank\">JftB</a></strong>, I delved deeper into my camera to find secrets that opened up an entire other world of photographic options.  How very convenient for a blogger whose readers might like to see something a bit more interesting from time to time.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nFirst, there was the secret of \"macro\" and -- it\'s so much fun that I can hardly contain my enthusiasm -- \"SUPER macro\".\n\n&nbsp;\n\nNow, just in time for the 4th of July, there is \"fireworks\".\n\n&nbsp;\n\nOoooooooo...Ahhhhhh...\n\n&nbsp;\n\nYou know what this means, don\'t you?  Time for my 5th Ever Slideshow.\n\n&nbsp;\n\n(Kindly ignore the obnoxious white street lights.  I was in a parking lot for fireworks viewing along with the other 99% of Americans.  There\'s always next year...)\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n<iframe width=\"425\" height=\"349\" src=\"http://www.youtube.com/embed/-ExQKT7O10k\" frameborder=\"0\" allowfullscreen></iframe>\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;','Day 281:  Fireworks Fotos with My Point-and-Shoot!  ','','inherit','open','open','','6452-revision','','','2011-07-07 20:40:08','2011-07-08 03:40:08','',6452,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2011/07/07/6452-revision/',0,'revision','',0),(6454,1,'2011-07-07 20:40:38','2011-07-08 03:40:38','Sometimes it takes me awhile to discover things that have been right under my nose.  Or in my camera.  Such as a \"fireworks setting\" on my nearly 3 year-old point-and-shoot.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI thought a point-and-shoot was exactly that.  Point and shoot the bloody photo already!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nBut apparently there are \"settings\".\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAfter my <strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2011/04/26/day-210-butterflies-bunny-man-and-impromptu-photography-class/\" target=\"_blank\">impromptu photography lesson with </a><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2011/04/26/day-210-butterflies-bunny-man-and-impromptu-photography-class/\" target=\"_blank\">JftB</a></strong>, I delved deeper into my camera to find secrets that opened up an entire other world of photographic options.  How very convenient for a blogger whose readers might like to see something a bit more interesting from time to time.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nFirst, there was the secret of \"macro\" and -- it\'s so much fun that I can hardly contain my enthusiasm -- \"SUPER macro\".\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nNow, just in time for the 4th of July, there is \"fireworks\".\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nOoooooooo...Ahhhhhh...\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nYou know what this means, don\'t you?  Time for my 5th Ever Slideshow.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n(Kindly ignore the obnoxious white street lights.  I was in a parking lot for fireworks viewing along with the other 99% of Americans.  There\'s always next year...)\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n<iframe width=\"425\" height=\"349\" src=\"http://www.youtube.com/embed/-ExQKT7O10k\" frameborder=\"0\" allowfullscreen></iframe>\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;','Day 281:  Fireworks Fotos with My Point-and-Shoot!  ','','inherit','open','open','','6452-revision-2','','','2011-07-07 20:40:38','2011-07-08 03:40:38','',6452,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2011/07/07/6452-revision-2/',0,'revision','',0),(6455,1,'2011-07-07 20:42:17','2011-07-08 03:42:17','Sometimes it takes me awhile to discover things that have been right under my nose.  Or in my camera.  Such as a \"fireworks setting\" on my nearly 3 year-old point-and-shoot.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI thought a point-and-shoot was exactly that.  Point and shoot the bloody photo already!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nBut apparently there are \"settings\".\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAfter my <strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2011/04/26/day-210-butterflies-bunny-man-and-impromptu-photography-class/\" target=\"_blank\">impromptu photography lesson with </a><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2011/04/26/day-210-butterflies-bunny-man-and-impromptu-photography-class/\" target=\"_blank\">JftB</a></strong>, I delved deeper into my camera to find secrets that opened up an entire other world of photographic options.  How very convenient for a blogger whose readers might like to see something a bit more interesting from time to time.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nFirst, there was the secret of \"macro\" and -- it\'s so much fun that I can hardly contain my enthusiasm -- \"SUPER macro\".\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nNow, just in time for the 4th of July, there is \"fireworks\".\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nOoooooooo...Ahhhhhh...\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nYou know what this means, don\'t you?  Time for my 5th Ever Slideshow.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n(Kindly ignore the obnoxious white street lights.  I was in a parking lot for fireworks viewing along with the other 99% of Americans.  There\'s always next year...)\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n<iframe width=\"480\" height=\"390\" src=\"http://www.youtube.com/embed/-ExQKT7O10k\" frameborder=\"0\" allowfullscreen></iframe>\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;','Day 281:  Fireworks Fotos with My Point-and-Shoot!  ','','inherit','open','open','','6452-revision-3','','','2011-07-07 20:42:17','2011-07-08 03:42:17','',6452,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2011/07/07/6452-revision-3/',0,'revision','',0),(6713,1,'2011-07-21 21:37:19','2011-07-22 04:37:19','<a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/scrubbersr/5801056916/\" target=\"_blank\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-6706 alignleft\" title=\"5801056916_a195da3c4c\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/5801056916_a195da3c4c-300x300.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"300\" /></a>Sometimes I tackle too many things at one time.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nFor example, as if a 365 day blog project wasn\'t enough, I just had to sign up for an online course.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nBut then again <a href=\"https://www.e-junkie.com/ecom/gb.php?cl=121586&amp;c=ib&amp;aff=175709\" target=\"ejejcsingle\"><strong>Mondo Beyondo</strong></a> isn\'t just <em>any</em> online course.  It\'s about manifesting your most wildly passionate dreams.  It\'s carpe diem on steroids.  And this blog is about carpe dieming, right?\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nOh, yeah.  There was also that whole <strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2011/06/12/day-252-soul-explosion/\" target=\"_blank\">\"Mondo Beyondo Soul Explosion\"</a></strong> experience back at <strong><a href=\"http://worlddominationsummit.com/\" target=\"_blank\">The World Domination Summit</a></strong> in Portland.  My intuition doesn\'t allow me to ignore those moments of Eureka-ness.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nSo I signed up for the course along with <strong><a href=\"http://samfrancisco.me/\" target=\"_blank\">Sam.</a></strong>  And promptly fell behind two days in.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nIt\'s kind of hard to keep up with a blog and a business trip and an online course.  Argh.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nOn Day 294, I set aside a chunk of time for \"homework\".  After delving into the exercises, I could breathe again.  Not a sigh of relief of \"catching up\" (although I certainly felt that as well), but a sigh of \"This is why I am here.  This is beyond powerful.\"\r\n\r\n&nbsp;','Day 294:  Catching Up on Homework','','inherit','open','open','','6687-revision-13','','','2011-07-21 21:37:19','2011-07-22 04:37:19','',6687,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2011/07/21/6687-revision-13/',0,'revision','',0),(6457,1,'2011-07-09 01:11:53','2011-07-09 08:11:53','You may recall the day my soul exploded over <a href=\"https://www.e-junkie.com/ecom/gb.php?cl=121586&amp;c=ib&amp;aff=175709\" target=\"ejejcsingle\"><strong>Mondo Beyondo</strong></a> at <strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2011/06/12/day-252-soul-explosion/\" target=\"_blank\">The World Domination Summit</a></strong>.  Sam and I made a pact to sign up for the course together.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nOn Day 282/Day 1, we were sent a whimsically illustrated e-book by co-leader <strong><a href=\"http://jenlemen.com/blog/\" target=\"_blank\">Jen Lemen</a></strong>.  This.  Book.  Rocked.  My.  World.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI read it at the kitchen over dinner (<strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2011/05/26/day-239-the-perfect-bruschetta/\" target=\"_blank\">The Perfect Bruschetta</a></strong> which was even more perfect than the first time if that is possible!).  I couldn\'t wipe my tomato-basily fingers fast enough to start typing in the site\'s comment section:\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<strong><blockquote></strong>When I attended the World Domination Summit about a month ago, I had a strong intuitive feeling that I was going to receive “answers” that I have been seeking there. Andrea and Jen, when you presented and ignited my soul, I knew that Mondo Beyondo was the next step in my journey to uncover these “answers”. What I didn’t realize was that my answer would be unearthed on Day One!!!! Thank you, thank you, thank you! I can’t wait to see what “mystery and surprises” are ahead in the next 5 weeks! Much gratitude, Michelle<strong></blockquote></strong>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nWe were then asked to choose a sentence from the book that resonated most powerfully within us.  Next, we wrote the sentence in the inside cover of a journal or someplace \"secret\" where we could tuck it away for the next 5 weeks.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI can\'t help but share my secret with you.  As long as you promise to hide it away and not remind me for the next 5 weeks.  ;-)\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_6465\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"300\" caption=\"I like the exercise of living my life trusting that it&#39;s not all up to me. I want to leave room for mystery and surprise.\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P70800141.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-6465\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P70800141-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nOf course, me being me, I couldn\'t choose only one.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_6483\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"300\" caption=\"Some people like to pick one word to sink into for a whole year. I might try it.\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P70800151.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-6483\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P70800151-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nIn the midst of this, I experienced another Eureka!/Aha! moment.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI can\'t announce it just yet.  You\'ll learn more come September.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nIn the meantime...\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAndrea and Jen at Mondo Beyondo announced that this week was really Week Zero -- \"a gentle introduction to the mindset and concepts behind Mondo Beyondo.\"\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nIsn\'t that lovely?  I suddenly want to curl up with a blankie, a cup of tea, and dream...\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nThat says a lot, considering that the high was 108 today.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nThere is still room for you to join us for Week One!  Lessons can be explored every day, or you can play catch up over the weekend.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nReady to dream with us?  Say, \"Yes!\" <strong><a href=\"https://www.e-junkie.com/ecom/gb.php?cl=121586&amp;c=ib&amp;aff=175709\" target=\"ejejcsingle\">Click here!</a></strong>','Day 282:  This.  Rocked.  My.  World.  ','','publish','open','open','','day-282-this-rocked-my-world','','\nhttp://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2011/05/26/day-239-the-perfect-bruschetta/','2011-07-08 20:59:31','2011-07-09 03:59:31','',0,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?p=6457',0,'post','',2),(6458,1,'2011-07-07 20:56:35','2011-07-08 03:56:35','','Auto Draft','','inherit','open','open','','6457-revision','','','2011-07-07 20:56:35','2011-07-08 03:56:35','',6457,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2011/07/07/6457-revision/',0,'revision','',0),(6582,1,'2011-07-16 01:11:39','2011-07-16 08:11:39','<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/RH000015-1.jpg\"><img class=\"size-full wp-image-6588 alignnone\" title=\"RH000015-1\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/RH000015-1.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"200\" height=\"200\" /></a><img class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-6590\" title=\"dlapproved1[1](cropped)\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/dlapproved11cropped.jpeg\" alt=\"\" width=\"200\" height=\"200\" />\r\n\r\nDef Leppard Then and Now\r\n\r\nPhoto Credit:  <strong><a href=\"http://www.defleppard.com/photos/official?page=2\" target=\"_blank\">Ross Halfin</a> &amp; <a href=\"http://www.defleppard.com/photos/official\" target=\"_blank\">Gitte Meldgaard</a></strong>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n*****\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nDo you remember your first concert?\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nWho did you see?\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nPeople are always surprised to hear mine.  Def Leppard.  The Pyromania Tour.  I guess it’s because I seem a bit too “refined” for Def Leppard.  <strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2011/07/02/day-275-my-f-score-is-p-whats-yours/\" target=\"_blank\">My rebel self</a></strong> is amused by this.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<span style=\"font-size: medium; color: #0000ff;\"><strong>To say that I was obsessed with Def Leppard as a kid is an understatement.</strong></span>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI recorded their videos off of MTV and watched (and paused) them hundreds of times.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI was madly in love with lead singer, Joe Elliott, and knew the names and trivia surrounding him and all of the other band members.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nMy 45 record case was decorated with their names, instruments, and song titles with their signature Def Leppard lettering in silver paint pen.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI was also a mousy, mostly quiet, straight-A student who was not your typical Def Leppard worshipper.  I suppose that the rebel in me was just starting basic training.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nIn 1983, I showed up with my sister, my best friend, Carolyn, and Mr. Colella (who stepped in for my dad due to an emergency hospital stay) to see Def Leppard and opening act Jon Butcher Axis (who honestly, I don’t remember at all.)\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<span style=\"color: #ff0000; font-size: medium;\"><strong>I donned a typical confused 80s fashion statement of parachute pants, union jack sleeveless shirt, and pink &amp; black checkered Vans.</strong></span>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI can’t recall what Ca and Jennie (then Jenny) wore, but I am sure they were a sight as well.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAh, memories…\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nYou can imagine my reaction when I heard on the radio a few months back that Def Leppard would soon be touring with Heart.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI audibly gasped.  It’s a miracle that I managed to continue driving.  HEART???\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n“Barracuda” is my very first musical memory.  I must have been about 4 years old at the annual Fireman’s Carnival in Southampton, NY.  I was spellbound watching a scary ride where the people were strapped in while standing up.  The “wheel” started spinning on a horizontal plane and then rotated to a vertical plane.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nDo you know which ride I’m talking about?\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nWhile this Wheel of Terror spun wildly with screaming riders, the guitar riff of “Barracuda” blared through the carnival sound system.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nEvery time I heard “Barracuda” after that, I was creeped out.  (My parents were big listeners of rock.)\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nUntil I heard “Dog and Butterfly” for the first time.  I was a Heart fan from then on.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<span style=\"font-size: medium; color: #0000ff;\"><strong>Fast forward to present day and my car “moment” upon hearing the Def Leppard/Heart double bill…</strong></span>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nNone of my friends seemed as excited as me.  No one bit when I mentioned purchasing tickets.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI even bribed Kim C.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n“I’ll go to Journey with you, if you go to Def Leppard with me!” (This is a big deal for me considering that in my mind, Journey is not Journey without Powerful Portuguese Man aka Steve Perry fronting the band.)\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nKim C. smirked back at me.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n“Please?”\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nSmirk.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n“Think about it?”\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nSmirk.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nUgh.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nOk, ok.  So not everyone loves Def Leppard as much as me after nearly 30 years.  I get it!!!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAnd then...\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nMy Friend Who Shall Remain Anonymous nearly skyrocketed out of her seat when I mentioned the double bill.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nShe blurted, “I WILL GO WITH YOU!!!”\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<span style=\"color: #ff0000; font-size: medium;\"><strong>We secured our tickets on Day 287.  I will relive my First Concert Ever on Day 340-ish.  </strong></span>\r\n\r\nOh.  And I\'ve since discovered that I and FWSRA are by no means the only fans still crazy for Def Lep after all of these years.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nTake a look at the YouTube comments for <strong><a href=\"http://youtu.be/YI6Ms0b4q-4\" target=\"_blank\">Armageddon It</a></strong>.  (1.1 million views!)\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n\"I\'m 12 and I get to go see them on August 27th with my parents with Heart!\"\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n\"14 AND LOVING THIS SONG!\"\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<span style=\"color: #0000ff;\"><span style=\"font-size: large;\"><strong>M</strong></span><span class=\"Apple-style-span\" style=\"font-size: large;\"><strong>y personal favorite:  \"Smart teenagers are still alive.  I like it.\"</strong></span> </span>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nSmart teens AND Smart Late Bloomies.  Yes, indeed.  :-D\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n*****\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAre you/were you a Def Leppard fan?  Heart?\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nWhat was your First Concert Ever?','Day 287:  Repeat of My First Concert Ever','','publish','open','open','','day-287-repeat-of-my-first-concert-ever','','\nhttp://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2011/07/02/day-275-my-f-score-is-p-whats-yours/','2011-07-15 17:17:26','2011-07-16 00:17:26','',0,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?p=6582',0,'post','',15),(6462,1,'2011-07-08 17:57:59','2011-07-09 00:57:59','You may recall the day my soul exploded over Mondo Beyondo at The World Domination Summit.  Sam and I made a pact to sign up for the course together.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nOn Day 282/Day 1, we were sent a whimsically illustrated e-book by Jen Lemen.  This.  Book.  Rocked.  My.  World.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nI read it at the kitchen over dinner (The Perfect Bruschetta which was even more perfect than the first time if that is possible!).  I couldn\'t wipe my tomatoey-basily fingers fast enough to start typing in the site\'s comment section:\n\n&nbsp;\n\nWhen I attended the World Domination Summit about a month ago, I had a strong intuitive feeling that I was going to receive “answers” that I have been seeking there. Andrea and Jen, when you presented and ignited my soul, I knew that Mondo Beyondo was the next step in my journey to uncover these “answers”. What I didn’t realize was that my answer would be unearthed on Day One!!!! Thank you, thank you, thank you! I can’t wait to see what “mystery and surprises” are ahead in the next 5 weeks! Much gratitude, Michelle\n\n&nbsp;\n\nWe were then asked to choose a sentence from the book that resonated most powerfully within us.  Next, we wrote the sentence in a journal or someplace \"secret\" where we could tuck it away for the next 5 weeks.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nI can\'t help but share my secret with you.  As long as you promise to hide it away and not remind me for the next 5 weeks.\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;','Day 282:  This.  Rocked.  My.  World.  ','','inherit','open','open','','6457-revision-3','','','2011-07-08 17:57:59','2011-07-09 00:57:59','',6457,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2011/07/08/6457-revision-3/',0,'revision','',0),(6463,1,'2011-07-08 18:07:51','2011-07-09 01:07:51','You may recall the day my soul exploded over Mondo Beyondo at The World Domination Summit.  Sam and I made a pact to sign up for the course together.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nOn Day 282/Day 1, we were sent a whimsically illustrated e-book by Jen Lemen.  This.  Book.  Rocked.  My.  World.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI read it at the kitchen over dinner (The Perfect Bruschetta which was even more perfect than the first time if that is possible!).  I couldn\'t wipe my tomatoey-basily fingers fast enough to start typing in the site\'s comment section:\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nWhen I attended the World Domination Summit about a month ago, I had a strong intuitive feeling that I was going to receive “answers” that I have been seeking there. Andrea and Jen, when you presented and ignited my soul, I knew that Mondo Beyondo was the next step in my journey to uncover these “answers”. What I didn’t realize was that my answer would be unearthed on Day One!!!! Thank you, thank you, thank you! I can’t wait to see what “mystery and surprises” are ahead in the next 5 weeks! Much gratitude, Michelle\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nWe were then asked to choose a sentence from the book that resonated most powerfully within us.  Next, we wrote the sentence in a journal or someplace \"secret\" where we could tuck it away for the next 5 weeks.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI can\'t help but share my secret with you.  As long as you promise to hide it away and not remind me for the next 5 weeks.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7080014.jpg\"><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-6461\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7080014-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>\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;','Day 282:  This.  Rocked.  My.  World.  ','','inherit','open','open','','6457-revision-4','','','2011-07-08 18:07:51','2011-07-09 01:07:51','',6457,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2011/07/08/6457-revision-4/',0,'revision','',0),(6464,1,'2011-07-08 18:08:02','2011-07-09 01:08:02','You may recall the day my soul exploded over Mondo Beyondo at The World Domination Summit.  Sam and I made a pact to sign up for the course together.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nOn Day 282/Day 1, we were sent a whimsically illustrated e-book by Jen Lemen.  This.  Book.  Rocked.  My.  World.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI read it at the kitchen over dinner (The Perfect Bruschetta which was even more perfect than the first time if that is possible!).  I couldn\'t wipe my tomatoey-basily fingers fast enough to start typing in the site\'s comment section:\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nWhen I attended the World Domination Summit about a month ago, I had a strong intuitive feeling that I was going to receive “answers” that I have been seeking there. Andrea and Jen, when you presented and ignited my soul, I knew that Mondo Beyondo was the next step in my journey to uncover these “answers”. What I didn’t realize was that my answer would be unearthed on Day One!!!! Thank you, thank you, thank you! I can’t wait to see what “mystery and surprises” are ahead in the next 5 weeks! Much gratitude, Michelle\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nWe were then asked to choose a sentence from the book that resonated most powerfully within us.  Next, we wrote the sentence in a journal or someplace \"secret\" where we could tuck it away for the next 5 weeks.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI can\'t help but share my secret with you.  As long as you promise to hide it away and not remind me for the next 5 weeks.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7080014.jpg\"><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-6461\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7080014-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>\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;','Day 282:  This.  Rocked.  My.  World.  ','','inherit','open','open','','6457-revision-5','','','2011-07-08 18:08:02','2011-07-09 01:08:02','',6457,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2011/07/08/6457-revision-5/',0,'revision','',0),(6465,1,'2011-07-08 18:10:46','2011-07-09 01:10:46','','OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA','I like the exercise of living my life trusting that it\'s not all up to me. I want to leave room for mystery and surprise.','inherit','open','open','','olympus-digital-camera-445','','','2011-07-08 18:10:46','2011-07-09 01:10:46','',6457,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P70800141.jpg',0,'attachment','image/jpeg',0),(6466,1,'2011-07-08 18:08:42','2011-07-09 01:08:42','You may recall the day my soul exploded over Mondo Beyondo at The World Domination Summit.  Sam and I made a pact to sign up for the course together.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nOn Day 282/Day 1, we were sent a whimsically illustrated e-book by Jen Lemen.  This.  Book.  Rocked.  My.  World.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI read it at the kitchen over dinner (The Perfect Bruschetta which was even more perfect than the first time if that is possible!).  I couldn\'t wipe my tomatoey-basily fingers fast enough to start typing in the site\'s comment section:\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nWhen I attended the World Domination Summit about a month ago, I had a strong intuitive feeling that I was going to receive “answers” that I have been seeking there. Andrea and Jen, when you presented and ignited my soul, I knew that Mondo Beyondo was the next step in my journey to uncover these “answers”. What I didn’t realize was that my answer would be unearthed on Day One!!!! Thank you, thank you, thank you! I can’t wait to see what “mystery and surprises” are ahead in the next 5 weeks! Much gratitude, Michelle\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nWe were then asked to choose a sentence from the book that resonated most powerfully within us.  Next, we wrote the sentence in a journal or someplace \"secret\" where we could tuck it away for the next 5 weeks.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI can\'t help but share my secret with you.  As long as you promise to hide it away and not remind me for the next 5 weeks.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7080014.jpg\"><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-6461\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7080014-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>\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;','Day 282:  This.  Rocked.  My.  World.  ','','inherit','open','open','','6457-revision-6','','','2011-07-08 18:08:42','2011-07-09 01:08:42','',6457,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2011/07/08/6457-revision-6/',0,'revision','',0),(6470,1,'2011-07-08 20:14:26','2011-07-09 03:14:26','','OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA','Some people like to pick one word to sink into for a whole year.  I might try it.','inherit','open','open','','olympus-digital-camera-446','','','2011-07-08 20:14:26','2011-07-09 03:14:26','',6457,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7080015.jpg',0,'attachment','image/jpeg',0),(6467,1,'2011-07-08 18:11:26','2011-07-09 01:11:26','You may recall the day my soul exploded over Mondo Beyondo at The World Domination Summit.  Sam and I made a pact to sign up for the course together.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nOn Day 282/Day 1, we were sent a whimsically illustrated e-book by Jen Lemen.  This.  Book.  Rocked.  My.  World.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI read it at the kitchen over dinner (The Perfect Bruschetta which was even more perfect than the first time if that is possible!).  I couldn\'t wipe my tomatoey-basily fingers fast enough to start typing in the site\'s comment section:\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nWhen I attended the World Domination Summit about a month ago, I had a strong intuitive feeling that I was going to receive “answers” that I have been seeking there. Andrea and Jen, when you presented and ignited my soul, I knew that Mondo Beyondo was the next step in my journey to uncover these “answers”. What I didn’t realize was that my answer would be unearthed on Day One!!!! Thank you, thank you, thank you! I can’t wait to see what “mystery and surprises” are ahead in the next 5 weeks! Much gratitude, Michelle\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nWe were then asked to choose a sentence from the book that resonated most powerfully within us.  Next, we wrote the sentence in a journal or someplace \"secret\" where we could tuck it away for the next 5 weeks.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI can\'t help but share my secret with you.  As long as you promise to hide it away and not remind me for the next 5 weeks.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7080014.jpg\"><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-6461\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7080014-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P70800141.jpg\"><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-6465\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P70800141-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>\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;','Day 282:  This.  Rocked.  My.  World.  ','','inherit','open','open','','6457-revision-7','','','2011-07-08 18:11:26','2011-07-09 01:11:26','',6457,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2011/07/08/6457-revision-7/',0,'revision','',0),(6468,1,'2011-07-08 18:11:34','2011-07-09 01:11:34','You may recall the day my soul exploded over Mondo Beyondo at The World Domination Summit.  Sam and I made a pact to sign up for the course together.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nOn Day 282/Day 1, we were sent a whimsically illustrated e-book by Jen Lemen.  This.  Book.  Rocked.  My.  World.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI read it at the kitchen over dinner (The Perfect Bruschetta which was even more perfect than the first time if that is possible!).  I couldn\'t wipe my tomatoey-basily fingers fast enough to start typing in the site\'s comment section:\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nWhen I attended the World Domination Summit about a month ago, I had a strong intuitive feeling that I was going to receive “answers” that I have been seeking there. Andrea and Jen, when you presented and ignited my soul, I knew that Mondo Beyondo was the next step in my journey to uncover these “answers”. What I didn’t realize was that my answer would be unearthed on Day One!!!! Thank you, thank you, thank you! I can’t wait to see what “mystery and surprises” are ahead in the next 5 weeks! Much gratitude, Michelle\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nWe were then asked to choose a sentence from the book that resonated most powerfully within us.  Next, we wrote the sentence in a journal or someplace \"secret\" where we could tuck it away for the next 5 weeks.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI can\'t help but share my secret with you.  As long as you promise to hide it away and not remind me for the next 5 weeks.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7080014.jpg\"><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-6461\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7080014-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P70800141.jpg\"><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-6465\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P70800141-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>\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;','Day 282:  This.  Rocked.  My.  World.  ','','inherit','open','open','','6457-revision-8','','','2011-07-08 18:11:34','2011-07-09 01:11:34','',6457,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2011/07/08/6457-revision-8/',0,'revision','',0),(6469,1,'2011-07-08 18:12:31','2011-07-09 01:12:31','<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P70800141.jpg\"><img class=\"alignnone size-large wp-image-6465\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P70800141-1024x768.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1024\" height=\"768\" /></a>You may recall the day my soul exploded over Mondo Beyondo at The World Domination Summit.  Sam and I made a pact to sign up for the course together.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nOn Day 282/Day 1, we were sent a whimsically illustrated e-book by Jen Lemen.  This.  Book.  Rocked.  My.  World.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI read it at the kitchen over dinner (The Perfect Bruschetta which was even more perfect than the first time if that is possible!).  I couldn\'t wipe my tomatoey-basily fingers fast enough to start typing in the site\'s comment section:\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nWhen I attended the World Domination Summit about a month ago, I had a strong intuitive feeling that I was going to receive “answers” that I have been seeking there. Andrea and Jen, when you presented and ignited my soul, I knew that Mondo Beyondo was the next step in my journey to uncover these “answers”. What I didn’t realize was that my answer would be unearthed on Day One!!!! Thank you, thank you, thank you! I can’t wait to see what “mystery and surprises” are ahead in the next 5 weeks! Much gratitude, Michelle\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nWe were then asked to choose a sentence from the book that resonated most powerfully within us.  Next, we wrote the sentence in a journal or someplace \"secret\" where we could tuck it away for the next 5 weeks.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI can\'t help but share my secret with you.  As long as you promise to hide it away and not remind me for the next 5 weeks.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7080014.jpg\"><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-6461\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7080014-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>\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;','Day 282:  This.  Rocked.  My.  World.  ','','inherit','open','open','','6457-revision-9','','','2011-07-08 18:12:31','2011-07-09 01:12:31','',6457,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2011/07/08/6457-revision-9/',0,'revision','',0),(6471,1,'2011-07-08 20:27:19','2011-07-09 03:27:19','You may recall the day my soul exploded over Mondo Beyondo at The World Domination Summit.  Sam and I made a pact to sign up for the course together.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nOn Day 282/Day 1, we were sent a whimsically illustrated e-book by Jen Lemen.  This.  Book.  Rocked.  My.  World.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nI read it at the kitchen over dinner (The Perfect Bruschetta which was even more perfect than the first time if that is possible!).  I couldn\'t wipe my tomatoey-basily fingers fast enough to start typing in the site\'s comment section:\n\n&nbsp;\n\nWhen I attended the World Domination Summit about a month ago, I had a strong intuitive feeling that I was going to receive “answers” that I have been seeking there. Andrea and Jen, when you presented and ignited my soul, I knew that Mondo Beyondo was the next step in my journey to uncover these “answers”. What I didn’t realize was that my answer would be unearthed on Day One!!!! Thank you, thank you, thank you! I can’t wait to see what “mystery and surprises” are ahead in the next 5 weeks! Much gratitude, Michelle\n\n&nbsp;\n\nWe were then asked to choose a sentence from the book that resonated most powerfully within us.  Next, we wrote the sentence in a journal or someplace \"secret\" where we could tuck it away for the next 5 weeks.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nI can\'t help but share my secret with you.  As long as you promise to hide it away and not remind me for the next 5 weeks.\n\n&nbsp;\n\n[caption id=\"attachment_6465\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"300\" caption=\"I like the exercise of living my life trusting that it&#39;s not all up to me. I want to leave room for mystery and surprise.\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P70800141.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-6465\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P70800141-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>[/caption]\n\n&nbsp;\n\nSomeone like me can\'t pick only one sentence.\n\n&nbsp;\n\n[caption id=\"attachment_6470\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"300\" caption=\"Some people like to pick one word to sink into for a whole year. I might try it.\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7080015.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-6470\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7080015-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>[/caption]\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\nIn the midst of this, I experience another Eureka!/Aha! moment.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nI can\'t announce it just yet.  You\'ll learn more come September.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nIn the meantime...\n\n&nbsp;\n\nAndrea and Jen at Mondo Beyondo announced that this week was really Week Zero -- \"a gentle introduction to the mindset and concepts behind Mondo Beyondo.\"\n\n&nbsp;\n\nIsn\'t that lovely?  I suddenly want to curl up with a blankie, cup of tea, and dream...\n\n&nbsp;\n\nThat says a lot, considering that the high was 108 today.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nThere is still room for you to join us for Week One!  Lessons can be explored every day, or you can play catch up over the weekend.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nReady to dream with us?  Click the Mondo Beyondo\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;','Day 282:  This.  Rocked.  My.  World.  ','','inherit','open','open','','6457-revision-10','','','2011-07-08 20:27:19','2011-07-09 03:27:19','',6457,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2011/07/08/6457-revision-10/',0,'revision','',0),(6472,1,'2011-07-08 20:27:23','2011-07-09 03:27:23','You may recall the day my soul exploded over Mondo Beyondo at The World Domination Summit.  Sam and I made a pact to sign up for the course together.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nOn Day 282/Day 1, we were sent a whimsically illustrated e-book by Jen Lemen.  This.  Book.  Rocked.  My.  World.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI read it at the kitchen over dinner (The Perfect Bruschetta which was even more perfect than the first time if that is possible!).  I couldn\'t wipe my tomatoey-basily fingers fast enough to start typing in the site\'s comment section:\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nWhen I attended the World Domination Summit about a month ago, I had a strong intuitive feeling that I was going to receive “answers” that I have been seeking there. Andrea and Jen, when you presented and ignited my soul, I knew that Mondo Beyondo was the next step in my journey to uncover these “answers”. What I didn’t realize was that my answer would be unearthed on Day One!!!! Thank you, thank you, thank you! I can’t wait to see what “mystery and surprises” are ahead in the next 5 weeks! Much gratitude, Michelle\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nWe were then asked to choose a sentence from the book that resonated most powerfully within us.  Next, we wrote the sentence in a journal or someplace \"secret\" where we could tuck it away for the next 5 weeks.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI can\'t help but share my secret with you.  As long as you promise to hide it away and not remind me for the next 5 weeks.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_6465\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"300\" caption=\"I like the exercise of living my life trusting that it&#39;s not all up to me. I want to leave room for mystery and surprise.\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P70800141.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-6465\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P70800141-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nSomeone like me can\'t pick only one sentence.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_6470\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"300\" caption=\"Some people like to pick one word to sink into for a whole year. I might try it.\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7080015.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-6470\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7080015-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nIn the midst of this, I experience another Eureka!/Aha! moment.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI can\'t announce it just yet.  You\'ll learn more come September.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nIn the meantime...\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAndrea and Jen at Mondo Beyondo announced that this week was really Week Zero -- \"a gentle introduction to the mindset and concepts behind Mondo Beyondo.\"\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nIsn\'t that lovely?  I suddenly want to curl up with a blankie, cup of tea, and dream...\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nThat says a lot, considering that the high was 108 today.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nThere is still room for you to join us for Week One!  Lessons can be explored every day, or you can play catch up over the weekend.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nReady to dream with us?  Click the Mondo Beyondo badge\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;','Day 282:  This.  Rocked.  My.  World.  ','','inherit','open','open','','6457-revision-11','','','2011-07-08 20:27:23','2011-07-09 03:27:23','',6457,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2011/07/08/6457-revision-11/',0,'revision','',0),(6473,1,'2011-07-08 20:27:39','2011-07-09 03:27:39','You may recall the day my soul exploded over Mondo Beyondo at The World Domination Summit.  Sam and I made a pact to sign up for the course together.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nOn Day 282/Day 1, we were sent a whimsically illustrated e-book by Jen Lemen.  This.  Book.  Rocked.  My.  World.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI read it at the kitchen over dinner (The Perfect Bruschetta which was even more perfect than the first time if that is possible!).  I couldn\'t wipe my tomatoey-basily fingers fast enough to start typing in the site\'s comment section:\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nWhen I attended the World Domination Summit about a month ago, I had a strong intuitive feeling that I was going to receive “answers” that I have been seeking there. Andrea and Jen, when you presented and ignited my soul, I knew that Mondo Beyondo was the next step in my journey to uncover these “answers”. What I didn’t realize was that my answer would be unearthed on Day One!!!! Thank you, thank you, thank you! I can’t wait to see what “mystery and surprises” are ahead in the next 5 weeks! Much gratitude, Michelle\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nWe were then asked to choose a sentence from the book that resonated most powerfully within us.  Next, we wrote the sentence in a journal or someplace \"secret\" where we could tuck it away for the next 5 weeks.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI can\'t help but share my secret with you.  As long as you promise to hide it away and not remind me for the next 5 weeks.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_6465\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"300\" caption=\"I like the exercise of living my life trusting that it&#39;s not all up to me. I want to leave room for mystery and surprise.\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P70800141.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-6465\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P70800141-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nSomeone like me can\'t pick only one sentence.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_6470\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"300\" caption=\"Some people like to pick one word to sink into for a whole year. I might try it.\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7080015.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-6470\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7080015-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nIn the midst of this, I experience another Eureka!/Aha! moment.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI can\'t announce it just yet.  You\'ll learn more come September.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nIn the meantime...\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAndrea and Jen at Mondo Beyondo announced that this week was really Week Zero -- \"a gentle introduction to the mindset and concepts behind Mondo Beyondo.\"\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nIsn\'t that lovely?  I suddenly want to curl up with a blankie, cup of tea, and dream...\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nThat says a lot, considering that the high was 108 today.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nThere is still room for you to join us for Week One!  Lessons can be explored every day, or you can play catch up over the weekend.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nReady to dream with us?  Click the Mondo Beyondo badge\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;','Day 282:  This.  Rocked.  My.  World.  ','','inherit','open','open','','6457-revision-12','','','2011-07-08 20:27:39','2011-07-09 03:27:39','',6457,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2011/07/08/6457-revision-12/',0,'revision','',0),(6474,1,'2011-07-08 20:27:40','2011-07-09 03:27:40','You may recall the day my soul exploded over Mondo Beyondo at The World Domination Summit.  Sam and I made a pact to sign up for the course together.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nOn Day 282/Day 1, we were sent a whimsically illustrated e-book by Jen Lemen.  This.  Book.  Rocked.  My.  World.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI read it at the kitchen over dinner (The Perfect Bruschetta which was even more perfect than the first time if that is possible!).  I couldn\'t wipe my tomatoey-basily fingers fast enough to start typing in the site\'s comment section:\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nWhen I attended the World Domination Summit about a month ago, I had a strong intuitive feeling that I was going to receive “answers” that I have been seeking there. Andrea and Jen, when you presented and ignited my soul, I knew that Mondo Beyondo was the next step in my journey to uncover these “answers”. What I didn’t realize was that my answer would be unearthed on Day One!!!! Thank you, thank you, thank you! I can’t wait to see what “mystery and surprises” are ahead in the next 5 weeks! Much gratitude, Michelle\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nWe were then asked to choose a sentence from the book that resonated most powerfully within us.  Next, we wrote the sentence in a journal or someplace \"secret\" where we could tuck it away for the next 5 weeks.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI can\'t help but share my secret with you.  As long as you promise to hide it away and not remind me for the next 5 weeks.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_6465\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"300\" caption=\"I like the exercise of living my life trusting that it&#39;s not all up to me. I want to leave room for mystery and surprise.\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P70800141.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-6465\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P70800141-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nSomeone like me can\'t pick only one sentence.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_6470\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"300\" caption=\"Some people like to pick one word to sink into for a whole year. I might try it.\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7080015.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-6470\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7080015-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nIn the midst of this, I experience another Eureka!/Aha! moment.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI can\'t announce it just yet.  You\'ll learn more come September.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nIn the meantime...\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAndrea and Jen at Mondo Beyondo announced that this week was really Week Zero -- \"a gentle introduction to the mindset and concepts behind Mondo Beyondo.\"\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nIsn\'t that lovely?  I suddenly want to curl up with a blankie, cup of tea, and dream...\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nThat says a lot, considering that the high was 108 today.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nThere is still room for you to join us for Week One!  Lessons can be explored every day, or you can play catch up over the weekend.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nReady to dream with us?  Click the Mondo Beyondo badge\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;','Day 282:  This.  Rocked.  My.  World.  ','','inherit','open','open','','6457-revision-13','','','2011-07-08 20:27:40','2011-07-09 03:27:40','',6457,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2011/07/08/6457-revision-13/',0,'revision','',0),(6478,1,'2011-07-08 20:36:42','2011-07-09 03:36:42','You may recall the day my soul exploded over <a href=\"https://www.e-junkie.com/ecom/gb.php?cl=121586&amp;c=ib&amp;aff=175709\" target=\"ejejcsingle\"><strong>Mondo Beyondo</strong></a> at The World Domination Summit.  Sam and I made a pact to sign up for the course together.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nOn Day 282/Day 1, we were sent a whimsically illustrated e-book by Jen Lemen.  This.  Book.  Rocked.  My.  World.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nI read it at the kitchen over dinner (The Perfect Bruschetta which was even more perfect than the first time if that is possible!).  I couldn\'t wipe my tomatoey-basily fingers fast enough to start typing in the site\'s comment section:\n\n&nbsp;\n\nWhen I attended the World Domination Summit about a month ago, I had a strong intuitive feeling that I was going to receive “answers” that I have been seeking there. Andrea and Jen, when you presented and ignited my soul, I knew that Mondo Beyondo was the next step in my journey to uncover these “answers”. What I didn’t realize was that my answer would be unearthed on Day One!!!! Thank you, thank you, thank you! I can’t wait to see what “mystery and surprises” are ahead in the next 5 weeks! Much gratitude, Michelle\n\n&nbsp;\n\nWe were then asked to choose a sentence from the book that resonated most powerfully within us.  Next, we wrote the sentence in a journal or someplace \"secret\" where we could tuck it away for the next 5 weeks.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nI can\'t help but share my secret with you.  As long as you promise to hide it away and not remind me for the next 5 weeks.\n\n&nbsp;\n\n[caption id=\"attachment_6465\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"300\" caption=\"I like the exercise of living my life trusting that it&#39;s not all up to me. I want to leave room for mystery and surprise.\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P70800141.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-6465\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P70800141-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>[/caption]\n\n&nbsp;\n\nSomeone like me can\'t pick only one sentence.\n\n&nbsp;\n\n[caption id=\"attachment_6470\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"300\" caption=\"Some people like to pick one word to sink into for a whole year. I might try it.\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7080015.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-6470\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7080015-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>[/caption]\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\nIn the midst of this, I experience another Eureka!/Aha! moment.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nI can\'t announce it just yet.  You\'ll learn more come September.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nIn the meantime...\n\n&nbsp;\n\nAndrea and Jen at Mondo Beyondo announced that this week was really Week Zero -- \"a gentle introduction to the mindset and concepts behind Mondo Beyondo.\"\n\n&nbsp;\n\nIsn\'t that lovely?  I suddenly want to curl up with a blankie, cup of tea, and dream...\n\n&nbsp;\n\nThat says a lot, considering that the high was 108 today.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nThere is still room for you to join us for Week One!  Lessons can be explored every day, or you can play catch up over the weekend.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nReady to dream with us?  Click the Mondo Beyondo badge\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;','Day 282:  This.  Rocked.  My.  World.  ','','inherit','open','open','','6457-revision-17','','','2011-07-08 20:36:42','2011-07-09 03:36:42','',6457,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2011/07/08/6457-revision-17/',0,'revision','',0),(6475,1,'2011-07-08 20:32:25','2011-07-09 03:32:25','You may recall the day my soul exploded over <strong><a href=\"<a href=&quot;https://www.e-junkie.com/ecom/gb.php?cl=121586&amp;c=ib&amp;aff=175709&quot; target=&quot;ejejcsingle&quot;>Click here to visit Mondo Beyondo.</a>\" target=\"_blank\">Mondo Beyondo</a></strong> at The World Domination Summit.  Sam and I made a pact to sign up for the course together.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nOn Day 282/Day 1, we were sent a whimsically illustrated e-book by Jen Lemen.  This.  Book.  Rocked.  My.  World.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI read it at the kitchen over dinner (The Perfect Bruschetta which was even more perfect than the first time if that is possible!).  I couldn\'t wipe my tomatoey-basily fingers fast enough to start typing in the site\'s comment section:\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nWhen I attended the World Domination Summit about a month ago, I had a strong intuitive feeling that I was going to receive “answers” that I have been seeking there. Andrea and Jen, when you presented and ignited my soul, I knew that Mondo Beyondo was the next step in my journey to uncover these “answers”. What I didn’t realize was that my answer would be unearthed on Day One!!!! Thank you, thank you, thank you! I can’t wait to see what “mystery and surprises” are ahead in the next 5 weeks! Much gratitude, Michelle\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nWe were then asked to choose a sentence from the book that resonated most powerfully within us.  Next, we wrote the sentence in a journal or someplace \"secret\" where we could tuck it away for the next 5 weeks.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI can\'t help but share my secret with you.  As long as you promise to hide it away and not remind me for the next 5 weeks.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_6465\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"300\" caption=\"I like the exercise of living my life trusting that it&#39;s not all up to me. I want to leave room for mystery and surprise.\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P70800141.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-6465\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P70800141-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nSomeone like me can\'t pick only one sentence.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_6470\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"300\" caption=\"Some people like to pick one word to sink into for a whole year. I might try it.\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7080015.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-6470\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7080015-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nIn the midst of this, I experience another Eureka!/Aha! moment.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI can\'t announce it just yet.  You\'ll learn more come September.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nIn the meantime...\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAndrea and Jen at Mondo Beyondo announced that this week was really Week Zero -- \"a gentle introduction to the mindset and concepts behind Mondo Beyondo.\"\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nIsn\'t that lovely?  I suddenly want to curl up with a blankie, cup of tea, and dream...\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nThat says a lot, considering that the high was 108 today.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nThere is still room for you to join us for Week One!  Lessons can be explored every day, or you can play catch up over the weekend.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nReady to dream with us?  Click the Mondo Beyondo badge\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;','Day 282:  This.  Rocked.  My.  World.  ','','inherit','open','open','','6457-revision-14','','','2011-07-08 20:32:25','2011-07-09 03:32:25','',6457,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2011/07/08/6457-revision-14/',0,'revision','',0),(6476,1,'2011-07-08 20:32:35','2011-07-09 03:32:35','You may recall the day my soul exploded over <strong><a href=\"<a href=&quot;https://www.e-junkie.com/ecom/gb.php?cl=121586&amp;c=ib&amp;aff=175709&quot; target=&quot;ejejcsingle&quot;>Click here to visit Mondo Beyondo.</a>\" target=\"_blank\">Mondo Beyondo</a></strong> at The World Domination Summit.  Sam and I made a pact to sign up for the course together.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nOn Day 282/Day 1, we were sent a whimsically illustrated e-book by Jen Lemen.  This.  Book.  Rocked.  My.  World.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI read it at the kitchen over dinner (The Perfect Bruschetta which was even more perfect than the first time if that is possible!).  I couldn\'t wipe my tomatoey-basily fingers fast enough to start typing in the site\'s comment section:\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nWhen I attended the World Domination Summit about a month ago, I had a strong intuitive feeling that I was going to receive “answers” that I have been seeking there. Andrea and Jen, when you presented and ignited my soul, I knew that Mondo Beyondo was the next step in my journey to uncover these “answers”. What I didn’t realize was that my answer would be unearthed on Day One!!!! Thank you, thank you, thank you! I can’t wait to see what “mystery and surprises” are ahead in the next 5 weeks! Much gratitude, Michelle\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nWe were then asked to choose a sentence from the book that resonated most powerfully within us.  Next, we wrote the sentence in a journal or someplace \"secret\" where we could tuck it away for the next 5 weeks.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI can\'t help but share my secret with you.  As long as you promise to hide it away and not remind me for the next 5 weeks.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_6465\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"300\" caption=\"I like the exercise of living my life trusting that it&#39;s not all up to me. I want to leave room for mystery and surprise.\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P70800141.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-6465\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P70800141-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nSomeone like me can\'t pick only one sentence.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_6470\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"300\" caption=\"Some people like to pick one word to sink into for a whole year. I might try it.\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7080015.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-6470\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7080015-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nIn the midst of this, I experience another Eureka!/Aha! moment.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI can\'t announce it just yet.  You\'ll learn more come September.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nIn the meantime...\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAndrea and Jen at Mondo Beyondo announced that this week was really Week Zero -- \"a gentle introduction to the mindset and concepts behind Mondo Beyondo.\"\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nIsn\'t that lovely?  I suddenly want to curl up with a blankie, cup of tea, and dream...\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nThat says a lot, considering that the high was 108 today.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nThere is still room for you to join us for Week One!  Lessons can be explored every day, or you can play catch up over the weekend.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nReady to dream with us?  Click the Mondo Beyondo badge\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;','Day 282:  This.  Rocked.  My.  World.  ','','inherit','open','open','','6457-revision-15','','','2011-07-08 20:32:35','2011-07-09 03:32:35','',6457,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2011/07/08/6457-revision-15/',0,'revision','',0),(6477,1,'2011-07-08 20:33:08','2011-07-09 03:33:08','You may recall the day my soul exploded over <strong><a href=\"<a href=&quot;https://www.e-junkie.com/ecom/gb.php?cl=121586&amp;c=ib&amp;aff=175709&quot; target=&quot;ejejcsingle&quot;>Click here to visit Mondo Beyondo.</a>\" target=\"_blank\">Mondo Beyondo</a></strong> at The World Domination Summit.  Sam and I made a pact to sign up for the course together.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nOn Day 282/Day 1, we were sent a whimsically illustrated e-book by Jen Lemen.  This.  Book.  Rocked.  My.  World.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI read it at the kitchen over dinner (The Perfect Bruschetta which was even more perfect than the first time if that is possible!).  I couldn\'t wipe my tomatoey-basily fingers fast enough to start typing in the site\'s comment section:\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nWhen I attended the World Domination Summit about a month ago, I had a strong intuitive feeling that I was going to receive “answers” that I have been seeking there. Andrea and Jen, when you presented and ignited my soul, I knew that Mondo Beyondo was the next step in my journey to uncover these “answers”. What I didn’t realize was that my answer would be unearthed on Day One!!!! Thank you, thank you, thank you! I can’t wait to see what “mystery and surprises” are ahead in the next 5 weeks! Much gratitude, Michelle\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nWe were then asked to choose a sentence from the book that resonated most powerfully within us.  Next, we wrote the sentence in a journal or someplace \"secret\" where we could tuck it away for the next 5 weeks.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI can\'t help but share my secret with you.  As long as you promise to hide it away and not remind me for the next 5 weeks.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_6465\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"300\" caption=\"I like the exercise of living my life trusting that it&#39;s not all up to me. I want to leave room for mystery and surprise.\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P70800141.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-6465\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P70800141-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nSomeone like me can\'t pick only one sentence.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_6470\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"300\" caption=\"Some people like to pick one word to sink into for a whole year. I might try it.\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7080015.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-6470\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7080015-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nIn the midst of this, I experience another Eureka!/Aha! moment.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI can\'t announce it just yet.  You\'ll learn more come September.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nIn the meantime...\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAndrea and Jen at Mondo Beyondo announced that this week was really Week Zero -- \"a gentle introduction to the mindset and concepts behind Mondo Beyondo.\"\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nIsn\'t that lovely?  I suddenly want to curl up with a blankie, cup of tea, and dream...\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nThat says a lot, considering that the high was 108 today.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nThere is still room for you to join us for Week One!  Lessons can be explored every day, or you can play catch up over the weekend.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nReady to dream with us?  Click the Mondo Beyondo badge\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;','Day 282:  This.  Rocked.  My.  World.  ','','inherit','open','open','','6457-revision-16','','','2011-07-08 20:33:08','2011-07-09 03:33:08','',6457,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2011/07/08/6457-revision-16/',0,'revision','',0),(6479,1,'2011-07-08 20:37:57','2011-07-09 03:37:57','You may recall the day my soul exploded over <a href=\"https://www.e-junkie.com/ecom/gb.php?cl=121586&amp;c=ib&amp;aff=175709\" target=\"ejejcsingle\"><strong>Mondo Beyondo</strong></a> at The World Domination Summit.  Sam and I made a pact to sign up for the course together.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nOn Day 282/Day 1, we were sent a whimsically illustrated e-book by Jen Lemen.  This.  Book.  Rocked.  My.  World.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nI read it at the kitchen over dinner (The Perfect Bruschetta which was even more perfect than the first time if that is possible!).  I couldn\'t wipe my tomatoey-basily fingers fast enough to start typing in the site\'s comment section:\n\n&nbsp;\n\nWhen I attended the World Domination Summit about a month ago, I had a strong intuitive feeling that I was going to receive “answers” that I have been seeking there. Andrea and Jen, when you presented and ignited my soul, I knew that Mondo Beyondo was the next step in my journey to uncover these “answers”. What I didn’t realize was that my answer would be unearthed on Day One!!!! Thank you, thank you, thank you! I can’t wait to see what “mystery and surprises” are ahead in the next 5 weeks! Much gratitude, Michelle\n\n&nbsp;\n\nWe were then asked to choose a sentence from the book that resonated most powerfully within us.  Next, we wrote the sentence in a journal or someplace \"secret\" where we could tuck it away for the next 5 weeks.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nI can\'t help but share my secret with you.  As long as you promise to hide it away and not remind me for the next 5 weeks.\n\n&nbsp;\n\n[caption id=\"attachment_6465\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"300\" caption=\"I like the exercise of living my life trusting that it&#39;s not all up to me. I want to leave room for mystery and surprise.\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P70800141.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-6465\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P70800141-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>[/caption]\n\n&nbsp;\n\nSomeone like me can\'t pick only one sentence.\n\n&nbsp;\n\n[caption id=\"attachment_6470\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"300\" caption=\"Some people like to pick one word to sink into for a whole year. I might try it.\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7080015.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-6470\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7080015-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>[/caption]\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\nIn the midst of this, I experience another Eureka!/Aha! moment.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nI can\'t announce it just yet.  You\'ll learn more come September.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nIn the meantime...\n\n&nbsp;\n\nAndrea and Jen at Mondo Beyondo announced that this week was really Week Zero -- \"a gentle introduction to the mindset and concepts behind Mondo Beyondo.\"\n\n&nbsp;\n\nIsn\'t that lovely?  I suddenly want to curl up with a blankie, cup of tea, and dream...\n\n&nbsp;\n\nThat says a lot, considering that the high was 108 today.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nThere is still room for you to join us for Week One!  Lessons can be explored every day, or you can play catch up over the weekend.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nReady to dream with us?  Click the Mondo Beyondo badge\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;','Day 282:  This.  Rocked.  My.  World.  ','','inherit','open','open','','6457-revision-18','','','2011-07-08 20:37:57','2011-07-09 03:37:57','',6457,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2011/07/08/6457-revision-18/',0,'revision','',0),(6480,1,'2011-07-08 20:47:24','2011-07-09 03:47:24','You may recall the day my soul exploded over <a href=\"https://www.e-junkie.com/ecom/gb.php?cl=121586&amp;c=ib&amp;aff=175709\" target=\"ejejcsingle\"><strong>Mondo Beyondo</strong></a> at <strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2011/06/12/day-252-soul-explosion/\" target=\"_blank\">The World Domination Summit</a></strong>.  Sam and I made a pact to sign up for the course together.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nOn Day 282/Day 1, we were sent a whimsically illustrated e-book by co-leader <strong><a href=\"http://jenlemen.com/blog/\" target=\"_blank\">Jen Lemen</a></strong>.  This.  Book.  Rocked.  My.  World.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI read it at the kitchen over dinner (<strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2011/05/26/day-239-the-perfect-bruschetta/\" target=\"_blank\">The Perfect Bruschetta</a></strong> which was even more perfect than the first time if that is possible!).  I couldn\'t wipe my tomato-basily fingers fast enough to start typing in the site\'s comment section:\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nWhen I attended the World Domination Summit about a month ago, I had a strong intuitive feeling that I was going to receive “answers” that I have been seeking there. Andrea and Jen, when you presented and ignited my soul, I knew that Mondo Beyondo was the next step in my journey to uncover these “answers”. What I didn’t realize was that my answer would be unearthed on Day One!!!! Thank you, thank you, thank you! I can’t wait to see what “mystery and surprises” are ahead in the next 5 weeks! Much gratitude, Michelle\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nWe were then asked to choose a sentence from the book that resonated most powerfully within us.  Next, we wrote the sentence in the inside cover of a journal or someplace \"secret\" where we could tuck it away for the next 5 weeks.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI can\'t help but share my secret with you.  As long as you promise to hide it away and not remind me for the next 5 weeks.  ;-)\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_6465\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"300\" caption=\"I like the exercise of living my life trusting that it&#39;s not all up to me. I want to leave room for mystery and surprise.\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P70800141.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-6465\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P70800141-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nSomeone like me can\'t pick only one sentence.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_6470\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"300\" caption=\"Some people like to pick one word to sink into for a whole year. I might try it.\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7080015.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-6470\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7080015-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nIn the midst of this, I experience another Eureka!/Aha! moment.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI can\'t announce it just yet.  You\'ll learn more come September.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nIn the meantime...\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAndrea and Jen at Mondo Beyondo announced that this week was really Week Zero -- \"a gentle introduction to the mindset and concepts behind Mondo Beyondo.\"\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nIsn\'t that lovely?  I suddenly want to curl up with a blankie, cup of tea, and dream...\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nThat says a lot, considering that the high was 108 today.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nThere is still room for you to join us for Week One!  Lessons can be explored every day, or you can play catch up over the weekend.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nReady to dream with us?  Say, \"Yes!\"  <a href=\"https://www.e-junkie.com/ecom/gb.php?cl=121586&c=ib&aff=175709\" target=\"ejejcsingle\">Click here!</a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;','Day 282:  This.  Rocked.  My.  World.  ','','inherit','open','open','','6457-revision-19','','','2011-07-08 20:47:24','2011-07-09 03:47:24','',6457,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2011/07/08/6457-revision-19/',0,'revision','',0),(6481,1,'2011-07-08 20:47:40','2011-07-09 03:47:40','You may recall the day my soul exploded over <a href=\"https://www.e-junkie.com/ecom/gb.php?cl=121586&amp;c=ib&amp;aff=175709\" target=\"ejejcsingle\"><strong>Mondo Beyondo</strong></a> at <strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2011/06/12/day-252-soul-explosion/\" target=\"_blank\">The World Domination Summit</a></strong>.  Sam and I made a pact to sign up for the course together.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nOn Day 282/Day 1, we were sent a whimsically illustrated e-book by co-leader <strong><a href=\"http://jenlemen.com/blog/\" target=\"_blank\">Jen Lemen</a></strong>.  This.  Book.  Rocked.  My.  World.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI read it at the kitchen over dinner (<strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2011/05/26/day-239-the-perfect-bruschetta/\" target=\"_blank\">The Perfect Bruschetta</a></strong> which was even more perfect than the first time if that is possible!).  I couldn\'t wipe my tomato-basily fingers fast enough to start typing in the site\'s comment section:\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nWhen I attended the World Domination Summit about a month ago, I had a strong intuitive feeling that I was going to receive “answers” that I have been seeking there. Andrea and Jen, when you presented and ignited my soul, I knew that Mondo Beyondo was the next step in my journey to uncover these “answers”. What I didn’t realize was that my answer would be unearthed on Day One!!!! Thank you, thank you, thank you! I can’t wait to see what “mystery and surprises” are ahead in the next 5 weeks! Much gratitude, Michelle\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nWe were then asked to choose a sentence from the book that resonated most powerfully within us.  Next, we wrote the sentence in the inside cover of a journal or someplace \"secret\" where we could tuck it away for the next 5 weeks.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI can\'t help but share my secret with you.  As long as you promise to hide it away and not remind me for the next 5 weeks.  ;-)\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_6465\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"300\" caption=\"I like the exercise of living my life trusting that it&#39;s not all up to me. I want to leave room for mystery and surprise.\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P70800141.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-6465\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P70800141-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nSomeone like me can\'t pick only one sentence.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_6470\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"300\" caption=\"Some people like to pick one word to sink into for a whole year. I might try it.\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7080015.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-6470\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7080015-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nIn the midst of this, I experience another Eureka!/Aha! moment.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI can\'t announce it just yet.  You\'ll learn more come September.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nIn the meantime...\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAndrea and Jen at Mondo Beyondo announced that this week was really Week Zero -- \"a gentle introduction to the mindset and concepts behind Mondo Beyondo.\"\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nIsn\'t that lovely?  I suddenly want to curl up with a blankie, cup of tea, and dream...\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nThat says a lot, considering that the high was 108 today.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nThere is still room for you to join us for Week One!  Lessons can be explored every day, or you can play catch up over the weekend.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nReady to dream with us?  Say, \"Yes!\" <strong><a href=\"https://www.e-junkie.com/ecom/gb.php?cl=121586&amp;c=ib&amp;aff=175709\" target=\"ejejcsingle\">Click here!</a></strong>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;','Day 282:  This.  Rocked.  My.  World.  ','','inherit','open','open','','6457-revision-20','','','2011-07-08 20:47:40','2011-07-09 03:47:40','',6457,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2011/07/08/6457-revision-20/',0,'revision','',0),(6485,1,'2011-07-08 20:50:39','2011-07-09 03:50:39','You may recall the day my soul exploded over <a href=\"https://www.e-junkie.com/ecom/gb.php?cl=121586&amp;c=ib&amp;aff=175709\" target=\"ejejcsingle\"><strong>Mondo Beyondo</strong></a> at <strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2011/06/12/day-252-soul-explosion/\" target=\"_blank\">The World Domination Summit</a></strong>.  Sam and I made a pact to sign up for the course together.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nOn Day 282/Day 1, we were sent a whimsically illustrated e-book by co-leader <strong><a href=\"http://jenlemen.com/blog/\" target=\"_blank\">Jen Lemen</a></strong>.  This.  Book.  Rocked.  My.  World.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI read it at the kitchen over dinner (<strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2011/05/26/day-239-the-perfect-bruschetta/\" target=\"_blank\">The Perfect Bruschetta</a></strong> which was even more perfect than the first time if that is possible!).  I couldn\'t wipe my tomato-basily fingers fast enough to start typing in the site\'s comment section:\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nWhen I attended the World Domination Summit about a month ago, I had a strong intuitive feeling that I was going to receive “answers” that I have been seeking there. Andrea and Jen, when you presented and ignited my soul, I knew that Mondo Beyondo was the next step in my journey to uncover these “answers”. What I didn’t realize was that my answer would be unearthed on Day One!!!! Thank you, thank you, thank you! I can’t wait to see what “mystery and surprises” are ahead in the next 5 weeks! Much gratitude, Michelle\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nWe were then asked to choose a sentence from the book that resonated most powerfully within us.  Next, we wrote the sentence in the inside cover of a journal or someplace \"secret\" where we could tuck it away for the next 5 weeks.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI can\'t help but share my secret with you.  As long as you promise to hide it away and not remind me for the next 5 weeks.  ;-)\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_6465\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"300\" caption=\"I like the exercise of living my life trusting that it&#39;s not all up to me. I want to leave room for mystery and surprise.\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P70800141.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-6465\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P70800141-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nSomeone like me can\'t pick only one sentence.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_6483\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"300\" caption=\"Some people like to pick one word to sink into for a whole year. I might try it.\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P70800151.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-6483\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P70800151-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nIn the midst of this, I experience another Eureka!/Aha! moment.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI can\'t announce it just yet.  You\'ll learn more come September.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nIn the meantime...\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAndrea and Jen at Mondo Beyondo announced that this week was really Week Zero -- \"a gentle introduction to the mindset and concepts behind Mondo Beyondo.\"\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nIsn\'t that lovely?  I suddenly want to curl up with a blankie, cup of tea, and dream...\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nThat says a lot, considering that the high was 108 today.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nThere is still room for you to join us for Week One!  Lessons can be explored every day, or you can play catch up over the weekend.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nReady to dream with us?  Say, \"Yes!\" <strong><a href=\"https://www.e-junkie.com/ecom/gb.php?cl=121586&amp;c=ib&amp;aff=175709\" target=\"ejejcsingle\">Click here!</a></strong>','Day 282:  This.  Rocked.  My.  World.  ','','inherit','open','open','','6457-revision-22','','','2011-07-08 20:50:39','2011-07-09 03:50:39','',6457,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2011/07/08/6457-revision-22/',0,'revision','',0),(6482,1,'2011-07-08 21:02:23','2011-07-09 04:02:23','You may recall the day my soul exploded over <a href=\"https://www.e-junkie.com/ecom/gb.php?cl=121586&amp;c=ib&amp;aff=175709\" target=\"ejejcsingle\"><strong>Mondo Beyondo</strong></a> at <strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2011/06/12/day-252-soul-explosion/\" target=\"_blank\">The World Domination Summit</a></strong>.  Sam and I made a pact to sign up for the course together.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nOn Day 282/Day 1, we were sent a whimsically illustrated e-book by co-leader <strong><a href=\"http://jenlemen.com/blog/\" target=\"_blank\">Jen Lemen</a></strong>.  This.  Book.  Rocked.  My.  World.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI read it at the kitchen over dinner (<strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2011/05/26/day-239-the-perfect-bruschetta/\" target=\"_blank\">The Perfect Bruschetta</a></strong> which was even more perfect than the first time if that is possible!).  I couldn\'t wipe my tomato-basily fingers fast enough to start typing in the site\'s comment section:\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<strong><blockquote></strong>When I attended the World Domination Summit about a month ago, I had a strong intuitive feeling that I was going to receive “answers” that I have been seeking there. Andrea and Jen, when you presented and ignited my soul, I knew that Mondo Beyondo was the next step in my journey to uncover these “answers”. What I didn’t realize was that my answer would be unearthed on Day One!!!! Thank you, thank you, thank you! I can’t wait to see what “mystery and surprises” are ahead in the next 5 weeks! Much gratitude, Michelle<strong></blockquote></strong>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nWe were then asked to choose a sentence from the book that resonated most powerfully within us.  Next, we wrote the sentence in the inside cover of a journal or someplace \"secret\" where we could tuck it away for the next 5 weeks.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI can\'t help but share my secret with you.  As long as you promise to hide it away and not remind me for the next 5 weeks.  ;-)\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_6465\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"300\" caption=\"I like the exercise of living my life trusting that it&#39;s not all up to me. I want to leave room for mystery and surprise.\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P70800141.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-6465\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P70800141-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nOf course, me being me, I couldn\'t choose only one.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_6483\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"300\" caption=\"Some people like to pick one word to sink into for a whole year. I might try it.\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P70800151.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-6483\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P70800151-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nIn the midst of this, I experienced another Eureka!/Aha! moment.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI can\'t announce it just yet.  You\'ll learn more come September.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nIn the meantime...\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAndrea and Jen at Mondo Beyondo announced that this week was really Week Zero -- \"a gentle introduction to the mindset and concepts behind Mondo Beyondo.\"\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nIsn\'t that lovely?  I suddenly want to curl up with a blankie, a cup of tea, and dream...\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nThat says a lot, considering that the high was 108 today.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nThere is still room for you to join us for Week One!  Lessons can be explored every day, or you can play catch up over the weekend.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nReady to dream with us?  Say, \"Yes!\" <strong><a href=\"https://www.e-junkie.com/ecom/gb.php?cl=121586&amp;c=ib&amp;aff=175709\" target=\"ejejcsingle\">Click here!</a></strong>','Day 282:  This.  Rocked.  My.  World.  ','','inherit','open','open','','6457-autosave','','','2011-07-08 21:02:23','2011-07-09 04:02:23','',6457,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2011/07/08/6457-autosave/',0,'revision','',0),(6483,1,'2011-07-08 20:49:58','2011-07-09 03:49:58','','OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA','Some people like to pick one word to sink into for a whole year. I might try it.','inherit','open','open','','olympus-digital-camera-444','','','2011-07-08 20:49:58','2011-07-09 03:49:58','',6457,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P70800151.jpg',0,'attachment','image/jpeg',0),(6484,1,'2011-07-08 20:48:15','2011-07-09 03:48:15','You may recall the day my soul exploded over <a href=\"https://www.e-junkie.com/ecom/gb.php?cl=121586&amp;c=ib&amp;aff=175709\" target=\"ejejcsingle\"><strong>Mondo Beyondo</strong></a> at <strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2011/06/12/day-252-soul-explosion/\" target=\"_blank\">The World Domination Summit</a></strong>.  Sam and I made a pact to sign up for the course together.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nOn Day 282/Day 1, we were sent a whimsically illustrated e-book by co-leader <strong><a href=\"http://jenlemen.com/blog/\" target=\"_blank\">Jen Lemen</a></strong>.  This.  Book.  Rocked.  My.  World.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI read it at the kitchen over dinner (<strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2011/05/26/day-239-the-perfect-bruschetta/\" target=\"_blank\">The Perfect Bruschetta</a></strong> which was even more perfect than the first time if that is possible!).  I couldn\'t wipe my tomato-basily fingers fast enough to start typing in the site\'s comment section:\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nWhen I attended the World Domination Summit about a month ago, I had a strong intuitive feeling that I was going to receive “answers” that I have been seeking there. Andrea and Jen, when you presented and ignited my soul, I knew that Mondo Beyondo was the next step in my journey to uncover these “answers”. What I didn’t realize was that my answer would be unearthed on Day One!!!! Thank you, thank you, thank you! I can’t wait to see what “mystery and surprises” are ahead in the next 5 weeks! Much gratitude, Michelle\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nWe were then asked to choose a sentence from the book that resonated most powerfully within us.  Next, we wrote the sentence in the inside cover of a journal or someplace \"secret\" where we could tuck it away for the next 5 weeks.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI can\'t help but share my secret with you.  As long as you promise to hide it away and not remind me for the next 5 weeks.  ;-)\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_6465\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"300\" caption=\"I like the exercise of living my life trusting that it&#39;s not all up to me. I want to leave room for mystery and surprise.\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P70800141.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-6465\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P70800141-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nSomeone like me can\'t pick only one sentence.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_6470\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"300\" caption=\"Some people like to pick one word to sink into for a whole year. I might try it.\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7080015.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-6470\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7080015-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nIn the midst of this, I experience another Eureka!/Aha! moment.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI can\'t announce it just yet.  You\'ll learn more come September.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nIn the meantime...\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAndrea and Jen at Mondo Beyondo announced that this week was really Week Zero -- \"a gentle introduction to the mindset and concepts behind Mondo Beyondo.\"\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nIsn\'t that lovely?  I suddenly want to curl up with a blankie, cup of tea, and dream...\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nThat says a lot, considering that the high was 108 today.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nThere is still room for you to join us for Week One!  Lessons can be explored every day, or you can play catch up over the weekend.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nReady to dream with us?  Say, \"Yes!\" <strong><a href=\"https://www.e-junkie.com/ecom/gb.php?cl=121586&amp;c=ib&amp;aff=175709\" target=\"ejejcsingle\">Click here!</a></strong>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;','Day 282:  This.  Rocked.  My.  World.  ','','inherit','open','open','','6457-revision-21','','','2011-07-08 20:48:15','2011-07-09 03:48:15','',6457,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2011/07/08/6457-revision-21/',0,'revision','',0),(6486,1,'2011-07-08 20:53:19','2011-07-09 03:53:19','You may recall the day my soul exploded over <a href=\"https://www.e-junkie.com/ecom/gb.php?cl=121586&amp;c=ib&amp;aff=175709\" target=\"ejejcsingle\"><strong>Mondo Beyondo</strong></a> at <strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2011/06/12/day-252-soul-explosion/\" target=\"_blank\">The World Domination Summit</a></strong>.  Sam and I made a pact to sign up for the course together.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nOn Day 282/Day 1, we were sent a whimsically illustrated e-book by co-leader <strong><a href=\"http://jenlemen.com/blog/\" target=\"_blank\">Jen Lemen</a></strong>.  This.  Book.  Rocked.  My.  World.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI read it at the kitchen over dinner (<strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2011/05/26/day-239-the-perfect-bruschetta/\" target=\"_blank\">The Perfect Bruschetta</a></strong> which was even more perfect than the first time if that is possible!).  I couldn\'t wipe my tomato-basily fingers fast enough to start typing in the site\'s comment section:\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nWhen I attended the World Domination Summit about a month ago, I had a strong intuitive feeling that I was going to receive “answers” that I have been seeking there. Andrea and Jen, when you presented and ignited my soul, I knew that Mondo Beyondo was the next step in my journey to uncover these “answers”. What I didn’t realize was that my answer would be unearthed on Day One!!!! Thank you, thank you, thank you! I can’t wait to see what “mystery and surprises” are ahead in the next 5 weeks! Much gratitude, Michelle\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nWe were then asked to choose a sentence from the book that resonated most powerfully within us.  Next, we wrote the sentence in the inside cover of a journal or someplace \"secret\" where we could tuck it away for the next 5 weeks.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI can\'t help but share my secret with you.  As long as you promise to hide it away and not remind me for the next 5 weeks.  ;-)\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_6465\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"300\" caption=\"I like the exercise of living my life trusting that it&#39;s not all up to me. I want to leave room for mystery and surprise.\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P70800141.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-6465\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P70800141-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nOf course, me being me, I couldn\'t choose only one.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_6483\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"300\" caption=\"Some people like to pick one word to sink into for a whole year. I might try it.\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P70800151.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-6483\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P70800151-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nIn the midst of this, I experienced another Eureka!/Aha! moment.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI can\'t announce it just yet.  You\'ll learn more come September.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nIn the meantime...\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAndrea and Jen at Mondo Beyondo announced that this week was really Week Zero -- \"a gentle introduction to the mindset and concepts behind Mondo Beyondo.\"\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nIsn\'t that lovely?  I suddenly want to curl up with a blankie, a cup of tea, and dream...\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nThat says a lot, considering that the high was 108 today.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nThere is still room for you to join us for Week One!  Lessons can be explored every day, or you can play catch up over the weekend.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nReady to dream with us?  Say, \"Yes!\" <strong><a href=\"https://www.e-junkie.com/ecom/gb.php?cl=121586&amp;c=ib&amp;aff=175709\" target=\"ejejcsingle\">Click here!</a></strong>','Day 282:  This.  Rocked.  My.  World.  ','','inherit','open','open','','6457-revision-23','','','2011-07-08 20:53:19','2011-07-09 03:53:19','',6457,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2011/07/08/6457-revision-23/',0,'revision','',0),(6487,1,'2011-07-08 20:55:19','2011-07-09 03:55:19','You may recall the day my soul exploded over <a href=\"https://www.e-junkie.com/ecom/gb.php?cl=121586&amp;c=ib&amp;aff=175709\" target=\"ejejcsingle\"><strong>Mondo Beyondo</strong></a> at <strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2011/06/12/day-252-soul-explosion/\" target=\"_blank\">The World Domination Summit</a></strong>.  Sam and I made a pact to sign up for the course together.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nOn Day 282/Day 1, we were sent a whimsically illustrated e-book by co-leader <strong><a href=\"http://jenlemen.com/blog/\" target=\"_blank\">Jen Lemen</a></strong>.  This.  Book.  Rocked.  My.  World.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI read it at the kitchen over dinner (<strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2011/05/26/day-239-the-perfect-bruschetta/\" target=\"_blank\">The Perfect Bruschetta</a></strong> which was even more perfect than the first time if that is possible!).  I couldn\'t wipe my tomato-basily fingers fast enough to start typing in the site\'s comment section:\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<blockquote>When I attended the World Domination Summit about a month ago, I had a strong intuitive feeling that I was going to receive “answers” that I have been seeking there. Andrea and Jen, when you presented and ignited my soul, I knew that Mondo Beyondo was the next step in my journey to uncover these “answers”. What I didn’t realize was that my answer would be unearthed on Day One!!!! Thank you, thank you, thank you! I can’t wait to see what “mystery and surprises” are ahead in the next 5 weeks! Much gratitude, Michelle<blockquote>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nWe were then asked to choose a sentence from the book that resonated most powerfully within us.  Next, we wrote the sentence in the inside cover of a journal or someplace \"secret\" where we could tuck it away for the next 5 weeks.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI can\'t help but share my secret with you.  As long as you promise to hide it away and not remind me for the next 5 weeks.  ;-)\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_6465\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"300\" caption=\"I like the exercise of living my life trusting that it&#39;s not all up to me. I want to leave room for mystery and surprise.\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P70800141.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-6465\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P70800141-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nOf course, me being me, I couldn\'t choose only one.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_6483\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"300\" caption=\"Some people like to pick one word to sink into for a whole year. I might try it.\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P70800151.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-6483\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P70800151-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nIn the midst of this, I experienced another Eureka!/Aha! moment.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI can\'t announce it just yet.  You\'ll learn more come September.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nIn the meantime...\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAndrea and Jen at Mondo Beyondo announced that this week was really Week Zero -- \"a gentle introduction to the mindset and concepts behind Mondo Beyondo.\"\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nIsn\'t that lovely?  I suddenly want to curl up with a blankie, a cup of tea, and dream...\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nThat says a lot, considering that the high was 108 today.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nThere is still room for you to join us for Week One!  Lessons can be explored every day, or you can play catch up over the weekend.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nReady to dream with us?  Say, \"Yes!\" <strong><a href=\"https://www.e-junkie.com/ecom/gb.php?cl=121586&amp;c=ib&amp;aff=175709\" target=\"ejejcsingle\">Click here!</a></strong>','Day 282:  This.  Rocked.  My.  World.  ','','inherit','open','open','','6457-revision-24','','','2011-07-08 20:55:19','2011-07-09 03:55:19','',6457,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2011/07/08/6457-revision-24/',0,'revision','',0),(6488,1,'2011-07-08 20:56:28','2011-07-09 03:56:28','You may recall the day my soul exploded over <a href=\"https://www.e-junkie.com/ecom/gb.php?cl=121586&amp;c=ib&amp;aff=175709\" target=\"ejejcsingle\"><strong>Mondo Beyondo</strong></a> at <strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2011/06/12/day-252-soul-explosion/\" target=\"_blank\">The World Domination Summit</a></strong>.  Sam and I made a pact to sign up for the course together.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nOn Day 282/Day 1, we were sent a whimsically illustrated e-book by co-leader <strong><a href=\"http://jenlemen.com/blog/\" target=\"_blank\">Jen Lemen</a></strong>.  This.  Book.  Rocked.  My.  World.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI read it at the kitchen over dinner (<strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2011/05/26/day-239-the-perfect-bruschetta/\" target=\"_blank\">The Perfect Bruschetta</a></strong> which was even more perfect than the first time if that is possible!).  I couldn\'t wipe my tomato-basily fingers fast enough to start typing in the site\'s comment section:\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<blockquote>When I attended the World Domination Summit about a month ago, I had a strong intuitive feeling that I was going to receive “answers” that I have been seeking there. Andrea and Jen, when you presented and ignited my soul, I knew that Mondo Beyondo was the next step in my journey to uncover these “answers”. What I didn’t realize was that my answer would be unearthed on Day One!!!! Thank you, thank you, thank you! I can’t wait to see what “mystery and surprises” are ahead in the next 5 weeks! Much gratitude, Michelle\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nWe were then asked to choose a sentence from the book that resonated most powerfully within us.  Next, we wrote the sentence in the inside cover of a journal or someplace \"secret\" where we could tuck it away for the next 5 weeks.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI can\'t help but share my secret with you.  As long as you promise to hide it away and not remind me for the next 5 weeks.  ;-)\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_6465\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"300\" caption=\"I like the exercise of living my life trusting that it&#39;s not all up to me. I want to leave room for mystery and surprise.\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P70800141.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-6465\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P70800141-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nOf course, me being me, I couldn\'t choose only one.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_6483\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"300\" caption=\"Some people like to pick one word to sink into for a whole year. I might try it.\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P70800151.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-6483\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P70800151-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nIn the midst of this, I experienced another Eureka!/Aha! moment.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI can\'t announce it just yet.  You\'ll learn more come September.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nIn the meantime...\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAndrea and Jen at Mondo Beyondo announced that this week was really Week Zero -- \"a gentle introduction to the mindset and concepts behind Mondo Beyondo.\"\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nIsn\'t that lovely?  I suddenly want to curl up with a blankie, a cup of tea, and dream...\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nThat says a lot, considering that the high was 108 today.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nThere is still room for you to join us for Week One!  Lessons can be explored every day, or you can play catch up over the weekend.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nReady to dream with us?  Say, \"Yes!\" <strong><a href=\"https://www.e-junkie.com/ecom/gb.php?cl=121586&amp;c=ib&amp;aff=175709\" target=\"ejejcsingle\">Click here!</a></strong>','Day 282:  This.  Rocked.  My.  World.  ','','inherit','open','open','','6457-revision-25','','','2011-07-08 20:56:28','2011-07-09 03:56:28','',6457,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2011/07/08/6457-revision-25/',0,'revision','',0),(6489,1,'2011-07-08 20:57:39','2011-07-09 03:57:39','You may recall the day my soul exploded over <a href=\"https://www.e-junkie.com/ecom/gb.php?cl=121586&amp;c=ib&amp;aff=175709\" target=\"ejejcsingle\"><strong>Mondo Beyondo</strong></a> at <strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2011/06/12/day-252-soul-explosion/\" target=\"_blank\">The World Domination Summit</a></strong>.  Sam and I made a pact to sign up for the course together.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nOn Day 282/Day 1, we were sent a whimsically illustrated e-book by co-leader <strong><a href=\"http://jenlemen.com/blog/\" target=\"_blank\">Jen Lemen</a></strong>.  This.  Book.  Rocked.  My.  World.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI read it at the kitchen over dinner (<strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2011/05/26/day-239-the-perfect-bruschetta/\" target=\"_blank\">The Perfect Bruschetta</a></strong> which was even more perfect than the first time if that is possible!).  I couldn\'t wipe my tomato-basily fingers fast enough to start typing in the site\'s comment section:\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<blockquote>When I attended the World Domination Summit about a month ago, I had a strong intuitive feeling that I was going to receive “answers” that I have been seeking there. Andrea and Jen, when you presented and ignited my soul, I knew that Mondo Beyondo was the next step in my journey to uncover these “answers”. What I didn’t realize was that my answer would be unearthed on Day One!!!! Thank you, thank you, thank you! I can’t wait to see what “mystery and surprises” are ahead in the next 5 weeks! Much gratitude, Michelle</blockquote>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nWe were then asked to choose a sentence from the book that resonated most powerfully within us.  Next, we wrote the sentence in the inside cover of a journal or someplace \"secret\" where we could tuck it away for the next 5 weeks.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI can\'t help but share my secret with you.  As long as you promise to hide it away and not remind me for the next 5 weeks.  ;-)\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_6465\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"300\" caption=\"I like the exercise of living my life trusting that it&#39;s not all up to me. I want to leave room for mystery and surprise.\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P70800141.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-6465\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P70800141-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nOf course, me being me, I couldn\'t choose only one.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_6483\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"300\" caption=\"Some people like to pick one word to sink into for a whole year. I might try it.\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P70800151.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-6483\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P70800151-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nIn the midst of this, I experienced another Eureka!/Aha! moment.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI can\'t announce it just yet.  You\'ll learn more come September.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nIn the meantime...\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAndrea and Jen at Mondo Beyondo announced that this week was really Week Zero -- \"a gentle introduction to the mindset and concepts behind Mondo Beyondo.\"\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nIsn\'t that lovely?  I suddenly want to curl up with a blankie, a cup of tea, and dream...\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nThat says a lot, considering that the high was 108 today.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nThere is still room for you to join us for Week One!  Lessons can be explored every day, or you can play catch up over the weekend.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nReady to dream with us?  Say, \"Yes!\" <strong><a href=\"https://www.e-junkie.com/ecom/gb.php?cl=121586&amp;c=ib&amp;aff=175709\" target=\"ejejcsingle\">Click here!</a></strong>','Day 282:  This.  Rocked.  My.  World.  ','','inherit','open','open','','6457-revision-26','','','2011-07-08 20:57:39','2011-07-09 03:57:39','',6457,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2011/07/08/6457-revision-26/',0,'revision','',0),(6490,1,'2011-07-08 21:02:06','2011-07-09 04:02:06','Sometimes it takes me awhile to discover things that have been right under my nose.  Or in my camera.  Such as a \"fireworks setting\" in my nearly 3 year-old point-and-shoot.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI thought a point-and-shoot was exactly that.  Point and shoot the bloody photo already!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nBut apparently there are \"settings\".\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAfter my <strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2011/04/26/day-210-butterflies-bunny-man-and-impromptu-photography-class/\" target=\"_blank\">impromptu photography lesson with </a><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2011/04/26/day-210-butterflies-bunny-man-and-impromptu-photography-class/\" target=\"_blank\">JftB</a></strong>, I delved deeper into my camera to find secrets that opened up an entire other world of photographic options.  How very convenient for a blogger whose readers might like to see something a bit more interesting from time to time.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nFirst, there was the secret of \"macro\" and -- it\'s so much fun that I can hardly contain my enthusiasm -- \"SUPER macro\".\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAnd then...Just in time for the 4th of July...There was \"fireworks\".\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nOoooooooo...Ahhhhhh...\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nYou know what this means, don\'t you?  Time for my 5th Ever Slideshow.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n(Kindly ignore the obnoxious white street lights.  I was in a parking lot for fireworks viewing along with the other 99% of Americans.  There\'s always next year...)\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n<iframe width=\"480\" height=\"390\" src=\"http://www.youtube.com/embed/-ExQKT7O10k\" frameborder=\"0\" allowfullscreen></iframe>\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;','Day 281:  Fireworks Fotos with My Point-and-Shoot!  ','','inherit','open','open','','6452-autosave','','','2011-07-08 21:02:06','2011-07-09 04:02:06','',6452,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2011/07/08/6452-autosave/',0,'revision','',0),(6491,1,'2011-07-10 01:11:26','2011-07-10 08:11:26','<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/IMG00480-20110706-0810.jpg\"><img class=\"alignleft size-medium wp-image-6502\" title=\"IMG00480-20110706-0810\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/IMG00480-20110706-0810-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>As you already know, I am very pro-small biz.  I avoid chains at all possible costs.  ESPECIALLY when it comes to bookstores, food establishments, and coffee shops.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI am therefore appalled with myself that I had not yet visited The Little Coffee Shop Around the Corner that opened around Memorial Day.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nShame.  On.  Me.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nIt wasn\'t like I was patronizing other coffee shops such as...Gasp!!!...the S-Word inside the neighboring Safeway.  If you patronize a Starbucks that is next to an indie coffee shop, then Shame. On. Y...\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nNever mind.  I\'ll be nice because you are my dear reader.  I just ask that you to stop a minute and consider if you want to live in a world where corporations have taken over, or if you want to live where the people can still afford to pursue their dreams and put their special something out into the world.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nBack to me not getting around the corner since Memorial Day...\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI have an espresso machine, and I make my own double shot Almond Milk with a splash of Agave Latte each morning.  I\'m frugal that way.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nBut...If I want for an indie coffee shop that is within WALKING DISTANCE from my suburban home, then I better start enjoying it pronto.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI hauled my hiney out of bed 10 minutes early on Day 283 to visit My New Little Coffee Shop Around the Corner.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nThe ambiance was cozy, and the coffee delightful.  The patio view is scenic. Take a look!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7090041.jpg\"><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-6507\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7090041-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nWD Coffee Shop Owners, you have a gem on your hands.  THANK YOU for adding indie flavor to vanilla suburbia.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nNow...listen to a foodie with a somewhat refined palate:  Just say \"no\" to the Costco baked goods.  You have a kitchen.  Use it.  Bake.  I\'ll share recipes with you if you\'d like.  For free.  This is how you will set yourself apart from the mass produced crap at Starbucks. Trust me on this one.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;','Day 283:  The Little Shop Around the Corner ','','publish','open','open','','day-283-the-little-shop-around-the-corner','','','2011-07-10 07:43:07','2011-07-10 14:43:07','',0,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?p=6491',0,'post','',4),(6492,1,'2011-07-09 10:11:20','2011-07-09 17:11:20','<br />\n','Day 283:  The Little Shop Around the Corner ','','inherit','open','open','','6491-revision','','','2011-07-09 10:11:20','2011-07-09 17:11:20','',6491,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2011/07/09/6491-revision/',0,'revision','',0),(6493,1,'2011-07-12 01:11:40','2011-07-12 08:11:40','[caption id=\"attachment_6539\" align=\"alignleft\" width=\"239\" caption=\"My favorite album of 1987\"]<a href=\"http://www.georgemichael.com/music/discography/cd/GeorgeAlbums_Details.aspx?cat=GeorgeAlbums&amp;albumId=2a243486-f346-4fac-9f77-16cefc8fab3a\"><img class=\"size-full wp-image-6539  \" title=\"gm\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/gm.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"239\" height=\"239\" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\nA funny thing happened as Day 284 drew to a close.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAt 9:15 p.m., as I was finishing writing a blog post, I realized that...\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<span style=\"color: #800080; font-size: medium;\"><strong>I FORGOT TO LIVE MY BLOG ACTIVITY OF THE DAY!!!!!</strong></span>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nThis had never happened previously.  Sure, sometimes I don\'t get around to my day\'s activity -- such as <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/10/28/day-30-jack-o-lantern-disasters/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>carving a pumpkin</strong></a> or <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2011/07/03/day-276-printer-installation-hell/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>installing a printer</strong> </a>-- until late at night.  But I\'ve never entirely FORGOTTEN!!!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nWhen it dawned on me what I had done (or not done), I stood in the middle of the kitchen in a frozen panic.  When I could move again, I ran to my old school Franklin Covey planner to look up what I had spaced.  Would I even be able to \"live\" my activity, or was I going to have to think of a last minute substitution?\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAnd how soul-scintillating could an 11th hour substitution possibly be???\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nThe entry in my planner was \" \'Newer\' music via Bri\".\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nWhew!  I can do this!  I can listen to \"newer\" music per Bri\'s suggestion/request/double dog dare!  I\'d rather go to bed (because I am bloody exhausted) but I CAN DO THIS!!!!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<span style=\"font-size: medium; color: #800080;\"><strong>The joke behind this activity is that I\'m often teased about being stuck in music that dates no later than 1987.  After high school, I seemingly lost touch with the new stuff.</strong></span>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nThere are a few exceptions such as <a href=\"http://www.dianakrall.com/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Diana Krall</strong> </a>(who sings old stuff) and <a href=\"http://www.raylamontagne.com/us/home\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Ray LaMontagne</strong> </a>(who sings new stuff that sounds like old  stuff).  Oh, and there was Alannis in the early 90s, and LIVE in the late 90s, and Keith Urban in the early millennium, but my point is that IN GENERAL, I most enjoy music from my youth.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAnd male music lovers loooooooove to tease me about this.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nBri is no exception.  <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2011/06/21/day-266-trip-down-memory-corner/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>When we visited Stinkweeds Music a few weeks prior</strong></a>, Bri <em>insisted</em> on buying me Jeff Buckley and Elliott Smith CDs. He wanted me to listen to music outside my comfort zone<em> that badly</em>.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAfter further grief for not opening my giftie music for  several weeks (<del>ungrateful</del> busy wench that I am), I honored Bri and his post-1987 music on Day 284.  At 9:30 p.m.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAnd it nearly put me to sleep.  (Sorry, Bri.)\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nFor whatever reason (and please remember that I was pretty beat), the music didn’t resonate with me.  I didn’t feel any musical chemistry.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<span style=\"font-size: medium; color: #800080;\"><strong>It’s kind of like dating – the chemistry is either there or it’s not.  It’s often impossible to pinpoint <em>why</em> it’s not there.  Especially when your head tells you that you <em>should </em>feel it. </strong></span>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nWhile listening to Elliott Smith, I emailed another Bri and asked, “Is Elliott Smith the guy you suggested that I listen to a few years ago?”\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nHe replied, “Yep.  Very Beatles influenced.\"\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nHmmm… I respectfully disagree.  (Sorry, other Bri.)\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<span style=\"color: #800080; font-size: medium;\"><strong>Just then, and just after feeling thoroughly depressed by Elliott Smith’s music (including a track ironically titled “Happiness“), the next piece captured my attention with a funky groove.  Now THIS was more like it. </strong></span>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAround 10 seconds in, it took a 70s turn (Now this REALLY WAS more like it!) and started to sound familiar and semi-cheesy.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI scrambled to return to my iTunes window to check it out, and it was not Elliott Smith, but the theme song to <a href=\"http://www.tv.com/barney-miller/show/345/summary.html\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Barney Miller</strong></a>.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n(It was from my teaching days.  Music teachers rack up an eclectic mix of music, including <em>TV Land Presents: Favorite TV Theme Songs</em>.)\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI couldn\'t stop laughing.  Barney Miller?!?!?  I was alone in my kitchen laughing hysterically at 10:00 p.m.  (Sorry, both Bri guys.)\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI didn\'t fall  in love with Jeff Buckley and Elliott Smith.  Even though the Bris #1 &amp; #2 told me that I <em>should</em>.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI am perfectly content dancing to my own musical drum until the right musical fit(s) come along.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n*****\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nWhat music rocks your world?  Share in the comments section below.','Day 284:  Listening to \"More Recent\" (and I use that phrase loosely) Music','','publish','open','open','','day-284-listening-to-more-recent-and-i-use-that-phrase-loosely-music','','','2011-07-11 19:49:46','2011-07-12 02:49:46','',0,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?p=6493',0,'post','',9),(6494,1,'2011-07-09 10:11:34','2011-07-09 17:11:34','','Auto Draft','','inherit','open','open','','6493-revision','','','2011-07-09 10:11:34','2011-07-09 17:11:34','',6493,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2011/07/09/6493-revision/',0,'revision','',0),(6495,1,'2011-07-14 11:34:03','2011-07-14 18:34:03','<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7080016.jpg\"><img class=\"alignleft size-medium wp-image-6554\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7080016-225x300.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"225\" height=\"300\" /></a>Look at what I picked up at my playdate at <strong><a href=\"http://www.smeeks.com/\" target=\"_blank\">smeeks</a></strong> on <strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2011/06/21/day-266-trip-down-memory-corner/\" target=\"_blank\">Day 266</a></strong>?\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nDid you light sparklers as a kid?  If not, you were deprived, but fret not – there is hope.  Get thee to Google and order some.  Your inner child is begging.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nWe used to play with sparklers every summer at the beach house when I was a child.  Since my beach house memories are my most shiny, sparkly, heartfelt memories, I am drawn to sparklers like a moth to a light.  Or timelier in my fair city these days, like a cicada to a light.  Ewww.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAnywho, I’m can’t recall the last time that I saw sparklers in a store.  Have I been missing something?  I couldn\'t pass them by.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nUntil I saw that they were 15 buckaroos for the package.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nWhoa.  Come on, sparkler peeps.  Really?\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nA single woman needs only a single sparkler, so I parted with the 5 bucks for ONE SPARKLER in the spirit of Carpe Diem and this blog.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI chose the numeral 8 because I recently learned that 8 is a highly auspicious number in Asian cultures, and even though I say that I’m not superstitious, I do wacky stuff like this all the time.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI didn’t realize until the cashier asked, “Is your child having an 8<sup>th</sup> birthday?” that my sparkler was meant for a child’s birthday cake.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n“No. Why do you … oh … yes, it’s for my inner 8 year-old.”\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nSince I was in a “hipster” part of town, the guy appreciated my offbeat answer and thought I was really cool for doing this.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nFor 8 seconds, I reveled in my hipster street cred.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nOn the 8<sup>th</sup> of July, I lit Lucky 8.  With my recent discovery of the “fireworks” setting on my camera, I set the camera to “timer” and rehearsed a few practice runs.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nCan you believe it?  This former point-and-shooter has now advanced to fancy settings and self-timers!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI was briefly interrupted by Little Miss B crunching on yet <em>another </em>cicada (double Ewww!), but after the screeching (me), the exposing of the belly (her), and the toilet disposal (the cicada), I resumed shooting and captured this:\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<img class=\"size-medium wp-image-6531 alignnone\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7080032-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" />\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nOooooo.   Ahhhhh.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n*****\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nWhat is one of your most magical memories from childhood?  Is there a way for you to rediscover the magic today?\r\n\r\n&nbsp;','Day 285:  Lucky 8 Sparkler','','publish','open','open','','day-285-lucky-8-sparkler','','','2011-07-14 11:37:46','2011-07-14 18:37:46','',0,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?p=6495',0,'post','',2),(6496,1,'2011-07-09 10:12:42','2011-07-09 17:12:42','','Day 285:  Lucky 8 Sparkler','','inherit','open','open','','6495-revision','','','2011-07-09 10:12:42','2011-07-09 17:12:42','',6495,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2011/07/09/6495-revision/',0,'revision','',0),(6497,1,'2011-07-15 01:11:35','2011-07-15 08:11:35','[caption id=\"attachment_6528\" align=\"alignleft\" width=\"300\" caption=\"I do many things for this blog, but I am not revealing my rolled-out-of-bed look. I draw the line. :-p\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P70900341.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-6528  \" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P70900341-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\nIn two months, I embark on an adventure of a lifetime.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI arrive in Florence and meet up with my beloved cousins.  We will then join <strong><a href=\"http://vbt.com\" target=\"_blank\">Vermont Bicycle Tours</a></strong> and cycle our way through the hills and seaside of Tuscany to Rome.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI am fit and ready for the challenge!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nSort of.  I don’t own a bicycle.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nWhich, now that I think of it, is really sad considering that my parents couldn’t get me<em> off</em> of my bicycle when I was a kid.  I need to rethink this in the near future.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nIn the immediate future, I need to regularly get my tuckus on a cycle pronto.  Since it’s currently 110 in the shade, I will need to get my tuckus on a cycle indoors.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nMindlessly sitting on an exercise bicycle holds zero appeal for me.  I therefore asked Christy Jo if I could accompany her to my first ever spin class at her gym.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<span style=\"font-size: medium; color: #800080;\"><strong>She’s only been asking me to do this for a few years.  But now with my tuckus at stake, I thought it was time.  </strong></span>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI was a bit daunted by the whole thing.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nFirst of all, the weekend spin classes start at 8 a.m. which is suitable for Christy Jo because she is a mother.  Mothers awaken early with their children.  Childless women enjoy the luxury of rolling out of bed at 8 – 8:30 a.m. to walk their dogs.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<span style=\"color: #800080;\"><strong><span style=\"font-size: medium;\">Secondly, spin classes are touted as being the Hardest Workout in the History of Man and Womankind. </span></strong></span> At least “spin people” refer to it this way.  I’m fit, but I’m no Olympian.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nThirdly, I was stepping foot into a gym for the first time in 3 years.  I could not show up in my old, dingy workout clothes worn during my home workouts.  <strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2011/07/07/day-280-need-inspiration-shop-for-a-sports-bra/\" target=\"_blank\">Luckily, I remedied this problem at Lululemon one week prior.</a>  </strong>Whew!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nBleary-eyed and less-than-bushytailed, I arrived at the gym between 7:45 - 7:50 on Saturday morning to find an ultra-chipper Christy Jo and her cutie pie of a kid.  They obviously had been up for 3 hours and had eaten their Cheerios.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nWe entered the CROWDED tiny room packed full of spin bikes.  <span style=\"font-size: medium; color: #800080;\"><strong>These suburbanites obviously all have 2.2 kids and are early weekend risers.</strong></span>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAfter 5-10 minutes of Christy Jo fine tuning my bike to adjust for my 5’2 and ¾ inch frame, we started pedaling.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nThe music was LOUD.  This boded well for me.  I am the typical GenXer who undoubtedly suffers some sort of hearing loss from blaring their Sony Walkman through early adulthood.  I like my music to rattle the windows.  The louder the music, the more motivated the Late Bloomer.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAND!!!!  <strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2011/07/12/day-284-listening-to-more-recent-and-i-use-that-phrase-loosely-music/\" target=\"_blank\">To suit my penchant for pre-1987 tunes</a></strong>, the first song was Michael Jackson’s “Black and White” which graces my list of Top 10 Favorite Pop Songs.  I was ready to tackle my imaginary hills and SPIN!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nMy enthusiasm at the start dwindled during the warm-up.  My legs started to feel like toast approximately 5 minutes in.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<span style=\"font-size: medium; color: #800080;\"><strong>I looked over at Christy Jo and asked, “Am I going to die?”</strong></span>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nShe simply laughed at me as she always does.  I guess she thought I was joking.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAnd then the strangest thing happened…\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI started to feel ENERGIZED and like I CAN DO THIS!  This spin rebirth occurred partly from the uber-bright-eyed and bushy-tailed instructor with The Most Sculpted Arms in the State of Arizona (how could you not feel motivated?), and partly from me remembering that I always feel winded for the first 5 minutes of a workout.  After 5 minutes, I am set and raring to go!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI pedaled.  I surged.  I sprinted.  I was up and down, up and down. I hunched low to go \"through the tunnel\".\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_6529\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"300\" caption=\"Reenacting the Famous Tunnels of Tuscany\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P70900351.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-6529\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P70900351-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nThe instructor shared with us newbies that there is no shame in taking a break.  Break schmeak!  I kept spinning my little heart out.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<span style=\"font-size: medium; color: #800080;\"><strong>Christy Jo looked over again with an appalled expression.  “Do you sweat???”</strong></span>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nNow <em>I</em> was the one laughing.  “I’ve never been much of a sweaty person.”\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nHeh heh heh.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAfter cycling through what I am sure was the equivalent of 20 miles of Tuscan hills, Ms. Sculpted Arms AZ congratulated us for showing up early and starting our day with a challenging workout.  With this jump start, we were now guaranteed to have a fantastic day.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nYou know what?  She was absolutely right!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nCoasting on my endorphin high, I stopped by the front desk to inquire about month-to-month membership pricing.  It might not be a bad idea to continue spinning my way towards my Italian adventure.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nThe young woman (I’m guessing around 18) at the front desk pointed out the pricing for the various age brackets.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<span style=\"font-size: medium; color: #800080;\"><strong>She then pointed to the first age bracket labeled “18-27” and ASKED IF WAS 27!!!!</strong></span>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nThat’s it!  SOLD to the 18 year-old at the front desk!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nIf spinning shaves 14 years off of my life after one class, then I am in for LIFE!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n*****\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nHave you ever taken a spin class?  What did you think?\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;','Day 286:  Spinning My Way to Italy','','publish','open','open','','day-286-spinning-my-way-to-italy','','\nhttp://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2011/07/07/day-280-need-inspiration-shop-for-a-sports-bra/','2011-07-14 21:28:33','2011-07-15 04:28:33','',0,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?p=6497',0,'post','',14),(6498,1,'2011-07-09 10:14:59','2011-07-09 17:14:59','seat adjustments -- 10 minutes -- thank you christy jo.  so take charge  mother.\n\n&nbsp;\n\ninstructor was fab.  looked gorgeous without a stitch of makeup and first thing in a.m.  tan.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nthought i was going to die during warm up.  Very very concerned.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nthen i remembered that\'s how i always feel during warmups.  easy.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nchristy, \"do you s\n\n&nbsp;\n\nno \"hill\"?  that\'s why it\'s so easy','Day 286:  Spinning ','','inherit','open','open','','6497-revision','','','2011-07-09 10:14:59','2011-07-09 17:14:59','',6497,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2011/07/09/6497-revision/',0,'revision','',0),(6499,1,'2011-07-09 10:41:10','2011-07-09 17:41:10','As you already know, I am very pro-small biz.  I avoid chains at all possible costs.  ESPECIALLY when it comes to bookstores, food establishments, and coffee shops.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nI am therefore appalled with myself that I had not yet visited The Little Coffee Shop Around the Corner that opened around Memorial Day.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nShame.  On.  Me.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nIt wasn\'t like I was patronizing other coffee shops such as...Gasp!!!...the Starbucks inside the neighboring Safeway.  If you patronize a Starbucks that is next to an indie coffee shop, then Shame.  On.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nNever mind.  I\'ll be nice because you are my dear reader.  I just ask you to stop a minute and consider if you want to live in a world where corporations have taken over, or if you want to live where the people can still afford to pursue their dreams and put their special something out into the world.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nBack to me not getting around the corner since Memorial Day...\n\n&nbsp;\n\nI have an espresso machine, and I make my own double shot Almond Milk with a splash of Agave Latte each morning.  I\'m frugal that way.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nBut...If I want for an indie coffee shop that is within WALKING DISTANCE from my suburban home, I better start enjoying it pronto.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nI hauled my hiney out of bed 10 minutes early on Day 283 to visit My New Little Coffee Shop Around the Corner.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nThe ambiance was cozy, and the coffee delightful.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nWD Coffee Shop Owners, you have a gem on your hands.  THANK YOU for adding indie flavor to vanilla suburbia.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nNow...listen to a foodie with a somewhat refined palate:  Just say \"no\" to the Costco baked goods.  You have a kitchen.  Use it.  Bake. I\'ll share recipes with you if you\'d like.  For free.  This is how you will set yourself apart from the mass produced crap at Starbucks.  Trust me on this one.\n\n&nbsp;','Day 283:  The Little Shop Around the Corner ','','inherit','open','open','','6491-revision-2','','','2011-07-09 10:41:10','2011-07-09 17:41:10','',6491,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2011/07/09/6491-revision-2/',0,'revision','',0),(6500,1,'2011-07-09 10:44:10','2011-07-09 17:44:10','As you already know, I am very pro-small biz.  I avoid chains at all possible costs.  ESPECIALLY when it comes to bookstores, food establishments, and coffee shops.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nI am therefore appalled with myself that I had not yet visited The Little Coffee Shop Around the Corner that opened around Memorial Day.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nShame.  On.  Me.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nIt wasn\'t like I was patronizing other coffee shops such as...Gasp!!!...the S-Word inside the neighboring Safeway.  If you patronize a Starbucks that is next to an indie coffee shop, then Shame.  On.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nNever mind.  I\'ll be nice because you are my dear reader.  I just ask you to stop a minute and consider if you want to live in a world where corporations have taken over, or if you want to live where the people can still afford to pursue their dreams and put their special something out into the world.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nBack to me not getting around the corner since Memorial Day...\n\n&nbsp;\n\nI have an espresso machine, and I make my own double shot Almond Milk with a splash of Agave Latte each morning.  I\'m frugal that way.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nBut...If I want for an indie coffee shop that is within WALKING DISTANCE from my suburban home, I better start enjoying it pronto.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nI hauled my hiney out of bed 10 minutes early on Day 283 to visit My New Little Coffee Shop Around the Corner.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nThe ambiance was cozy, and the coffee delightful.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nWD Coffee Shop Owners, you have a gem on your hands.  THANK YOU for adding indie flavor to vanilla suburbia.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nNow...listen to a foodie with a somewhat refined palate:  Just say \"no\" to the Costco baked goods.  You have a kitchen.  Use it.  Bake.  I\'ll share recipes with you if you\'d like.  For free.  This is how you will set yourself apart from the mass produced crap at S-Word. Trust me on this one.\n\n&nbsp;','Day 283:  The Little Shop Around the Corner ','','inherit','open','open','','6491-revision-3','','','2011-07-09 10:44:10','2011-07-09 17:44:10','',6491,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2011/07/09/6491-revision-3/',0,'revision','',0),(6501,1,'2011-07-09 10:45:10','2011-07-09 17:45:10','As you already know, I am very pro-small biz.  I avoid chains at all possible costs.  ESPECIALLY when it comes to bookstores, food establishments, and coffee shops.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nI am therefore appalled with myself that I had not yet visited The Little Coffee Shop Around the Corner that opened around Memorial Day.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nShame.  On.  Me.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nIt wasn\'t like I was patronizing other coffee shops such as...Gasp!!!...the Starbucks inside the neighboring Safeway.  If you patronize a Starbucks that is next to an indie coffee shop, then Shame.  On.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nNever mind.  I\'ll be nice because you are my dear reader.  I just ask you to stop a minute and consider if you want to live in a world where corporations have taken over, or if you want to live where the people can still afford to pursue their dreams and put their special something out into the world.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nBack to me not getting around the corner since Memorial Day...\n\n&nbsp;\n\nI have an espresso machine, and I make my own double shot Almond Milk with a splash of Agave Latte each morning.  I\'m frugal that way.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nBut...If I want for an indie coffee shop that is within WALKING DISTANCE from my suburban home, I better start enjoying it pronto.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nI hauled my hiney out of bed 10 minutes early on Day 283 to visit My New Little Coffee Shop Around the Corner.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nThe ambiance was cozy, and the coffee delightful.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nWD Coffee Shop Owners, you have a gem on your hands.  THANK YOU for adding indie flavor to vanilla suburbia.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nNow...listen to a foodie with a somewhat refined palate:  Just say \"no\" to the Costco baked goods.  You have a kitchen.  Use it.  Bake.  I\'ll share recipes with you if you\'d like.  For free.  This is how you will set yourself apart from the mass produced crap at Starbucks. Trust me on this one.\n\n&nbsp;','Day 283:  The Little Shop Around the Corner ','','inherit','open','open','','6491-revision-4','','','2011-07-09 10:45:10','2011-07-09 17:45:10','',6491,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2011/07/09/6491-revision-4/',0,'revision','',0),(6502,1,'2011-07-09 10:47:15','2011-07-09 17:47:15','','IMG00480-20110706-0810','','inherit','open','open','','img00480-20110706-0810','','','2011-07-09 10:47:15','2011-07-09 17:47:15','',6491,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/IMG00480-20110706-0810.jpg',0,'attachment','image/jpeg',0),(6503,1,'2011-07-09 10:46:10','2011-07-09 17:46:10','As you already know, I am very pro-small biz.  I avoid chains at all possible costs.  ESPECIALLY when it comes to bookstores, food establishments, and coffee shops.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nI am therefore appalled with myself that I had not yet visited The Little Coffee Shop Around the Corner that opened around Memorial Day.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nShame.  On.  Me.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nIt wasn\'t like I was patronizing other coffee shops such as...Gasp!!!...the Starbucks inside the neighboring Safeway.  If you patronize a Starbucks that is next to an indie coffee shop, then Shame.  On.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nNever mind.  I\'ll be nice because you are my dear reader.  I just ask you to stop a minute and consider if you want to live in a world where corporations have taken over, or if you want to live where the people can still afford to pursue their dreams and put their special something out into the world.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nBack to me not getting around the corner since Memorial Day...\n\n&nbsp;\n\nI have an espresso machine, and I make my own double shot Almond Milk with a splash of Agave Latte each morning.  I\'m frugal that way.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nBut...If I want for an indie coffee shop that is within WALKING DISTANCE from my suburban home, I better start enjoying it pronto.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nI hauled my hiney out of bed 10 minutes early on Day 283 to visit My New Little Coffee Shop Around the Corner.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nThe ambiance was cozy, and the coffee delightful.  The patio view might be one of the most gorgeous coffee shop views in America. Take a look!\n\n&nbsp;\n\nWD Coffee Shop Owners, you have a gem on your hands.  THANK YOU for adding indie flavor to vanilla suburbia.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nNow...listen to a foodie with a somewhat refined palate:  Just say \"no\" to the Costco baked goods.  You have a kitchen.  Use it.  Bake.  I\'ll share recipes with you if you\'d like.  For free.  This is how you will set yourself apart from the mass produced crap at Starbucks. Trust me on this one.\n\n&nbsp;','Day 283:  The Little Shop Around the Corner ','','inherit','open','open','','6491-revision-5','','','2011-07-09 10:46:10','2011-07-09 17:46:10','',6491,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2011/07/09/6491-revision-5/',0,'revision','',0),(6505,1,'2011-07-09 10:48:10','2011-07-09 17:48:10','<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/IMG00480-20110706-0810.jpg\"><img class=\"alignleft size-medium wp-image-6502\" title=\"IMG00480-20110706-0810\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/IMG00480-20110706-0810-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>As you already know, I am very pro-small biz.  I avoid chains at all possible costs.  ESPECIALLY when it comes to bookstores, food establishments, and coffee shops.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nI am therefore appalled with myself that I had not yet visited The Little Coffee Shop Around the Corner that opened around Memorial Day.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nShame.  On.  Me.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nIt wasn\'t like I was patronizing other coffee shops such as...Gasp!!!...the Starbucks inside the neighboring Safeway.  If you patronize a Starbucks that is next to an indie coffee shop, then Shame.  On.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nNever mind.  I\'ll be nice because you are my dear reader.  I just ask you to stop a minute and consider if you want to live in a world where corporations have taken over, or if you want to live where the people can still afford to pursue their dreams and put their special something out into the world.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nBack to me not getting around the corner since Memorial Day...\n\n&nbsp;\n\nI have an espresso machine, and I make my own double shot Almond Milk with a splash of Agave Latte each morning.  I\'m frugal that way.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nBut...If I want for an indie coffee shop that is within WALKING DISTANCE from my suburban home, I better start enjoying it pronto.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nI hauled my hiney out of bed 10 minutes early on Day 283 to visit My New Little Coffee Shop Around the Corner.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nThe ambiance was cozy, and the coffee delightful.  The patio view might be one of the most gorgeous coffee shop views in America. Take a look!\n\n&nbsp;\n\nWD Coffee Shop Owners, you have a gem on your hands.  THANK YOU for adding indie flavor to vanilla suburbia.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nNow...listen to a foodie with a somewhat refined palate:  Just say \"no\" to the Costco baked goods.  You have a kitchen.  Use it.  Bake.  I\'ll share recipes with you if you\'d like.  For free.  This is how you will set yourself apart from the mass produced crap at Starbucks. Trust me on this one.\n\n&nbsp;','Day 283:  The Little Shop Around the Corner ','','inherit','open','open','','6491-revision-7','','','2011-07-09 10:48:10','2011-07-09 17:48:10','',6491,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2011/07/09/6491-revision-7/',0,'revision','',0),(6504,1,'2011-07-09 10:47:49','2011-07-09 17:47:49','<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/IMG00480-20110706-0810.jpg\"><img class=\"alignleft size-medium wp-image-6502\" title=\"IMG00480-20110706-0810\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/IMG00480-20110706-0810-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>As you already know, I am very pro-small biz.  I avoid chains at all possible costs.  ESPECIALLY when it comes to bookstores, food establishments, and coffee shops.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI am therefore appalled with myself that I had not yet visited The Little Coffee Shop Around the Corner that opened around Memorial Day.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nShame.  On.  Me.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nIt wasn\'t like I was patronizing other coffee shops such as...Gasp!!!...the Starbucks inside the neighboring Safeway.  If you patronize a Starbucks that is next to an indie coffee shop, then Shame.  On.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nNever mind.  I\'ll be nice because you are my dear reader.  I just ask you to stop a minute and consider if you want to live in a world where corporations have taken over, or if you want to live where the people can still afford to pursue their dreams and put their special something out into the world.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nBack to me not getting around the corner since Memorial Day...\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI have an espresso machine, and I make my own double shot Almond Milk with a splash of Agave Latte each morning.  I\'m frugal that way.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nBut...If I want for an indie coffee shop that is within WALKING DISTANCE from my suburban home, I better start enjoying it pronto.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI hauled my hiney out of bed 10 minutes early on Day 283 to visit My New Little Coffee Shop Around the Corner.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nThe ambiance was cozy, and the coffee delightful.  The patio view might be one of the most gorgeous coffee shop views in America. Take a look!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nWD Coffee Shop Owners, you have a gem on your hands.  THANK YOU for adding indie flavor to vanilla suburbia.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nNow...listen to a foodie with a somewhat refined palate:  Just say \"no\" to the Costco baked goods.  You have a kitchen.  Use it.  Bake.  I\'ll share recipes with you if you\'d like.  For free.  This is how you will set yourself apart from the mass produced crap at Starbucks. Trust me on this one.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;','Day 283:  The Little Shop Around the Corner ','','inherit','open','open','','6491-revision-6','','','2011-07-09 10:47:49','2011-07-09 17:47:49','',6491,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2011/07/09/6491-revision-6/',0,'revision','',0),(6507,1,'2011-07-09 17:59:14','2011-07-10 00:59:14','','OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA','','inherit','open','open','','olympus-digital-camera-447','','','2011-07-09 17:59:14','2011-07-10 00:59:14','',6491,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7090041.jpg',0,'attachment','image/jpeg',0),(6506,1,'2011-07-09 10:49:01','2011-07-09 17:49:01','<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/IMG00480-20110706-0810.jpg\"><img class=\"alignleft size-medium wp-image-6502\" title=\"IMG00480-20110706-0810\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/IMG00480-20110706-0810-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>As you already know, I am very pro-small biz.  I avoid chains at all possible costs.  ESPECIALLY when it comes to bookstores, food establishments, and coffee shops.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI am therefore appalled with myself that I had not yet visited The Little Coffee Shop Around the Corner that opened around Memorial Day.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nShame.  On.  Me.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nIt wasn\'t like I was patronizing other coffee shops such as...Gasp!!!...the S-Word inside the neighboring Safeway.  If you patronize a Starbucks that is next to an indie coffee shop, then Shame. On.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nNever mind.  I\'ll be nice because you are my dear reader.  I just ask that you to stop a minute and consider if you want to live in a world where corporations have taken over, or if you want to live where the people can still afford to pursue their dreams and put their special something out into the world.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nBack to me not getting around the corner since Memorial Day...\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI have an espresso machine, and I make my own double shot Almond Milk with a splash of Agave Latte each morning.  I\'m frugal that way.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nBut...If I want for an indie coffee shop that is within WALKING DISTANCE from my suburban home, I better start enjoying it pronto.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI hauled my hiney out of bed 10 minutes early on Day 283 to visit My New Little Coffee Shop Around the Corner.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nThe ambiance was cozy, and the coffee delightful.  The patio view might be one of the most gorgeous coffee shop views in America. Take a look!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nWD Coffee Shop Owners, you have a gem on your hands.  THANK YOU for adding indie flavor to vanilla suburbia.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nNow...listen to a foodie with a somewhat refined palate:  Just say \"no\" to the Costco baked goods.  You have a kitchen.  Use it.  Bake.  I\'ll share recipes with you if you\'d like.  For free.  This is how you will set yourself apart from the mass produced crap at Starbucks. Trust me on this one.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;','Day 283:  The Little Shop Around the Corner ','','inherit','open','open','','6491-revision-8','','','2011-07-09 10:49:01','2011-07-09 17:49:01','',6491,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2011/07/09/6491-revision-8/',0,'revision','',0),(6508,1,'2011-07-09 10:51:07','2011-07-09 17:51:07','<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/IMG00480-20110706-0810.jpg\"><img class=\"alignleft size-medium wp-image-6502\" title=\"IMG00480-20110706-0810\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/IMG00480-20110706-0810-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>As you already know, I am very pro-small biz.  I avoid chains at all possible costs.  ESPECIALLY when it comes to bookstores, food establishments, and coffee shops.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nI am therefore appalled with myself that I had not yet visited The Little Coffee Shop Around the Corner that opened around Memorial Day.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nShame.  On.  Me.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nIt wasn\'t like I was patronizing other coffee shops such as...Gasp!!!...the S-Word inside the neighboring Safeway.  If you patronize a Starbucks that is next to an indie coffee shop, then Shame. On.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nNever mind.  I\'ll be nice because you are my dear reader.  I just ask that you to stop a minute and consider if you want to live in a world where corporations have taken over, or if you want to live where the people can still afford to pursue their dreams and put their special something out into the world.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nBack to me not getting around the corner since Memorial Day...\n\n&nbsp;\n\nI have an espresso machine, and I make my own double shot Almond Milk with a splash of Agave Latte each morning.  I\'m frugal that way.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nBut...If I want for an indie coffee shop that is within WALKING DISTANCE from my suburban home, then I better start enjoying it pronto.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nI hauled my hiney out of bed 10 minutes early on Day 283 to visit My New Little Coffee Shop Around the Corner.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nThe ambiance was cozy, and the coffee delightful.  The patio view might be one of the most gorgeous coffee shop views in America. Take a look!\n\n&nbsp;\n\nWD Coffee Shop Owners, you have a gem on your hands.  THANK YOU for adding indie flavor to vanilla suburbia.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nNow...listen to a foodie with a somewhat refined palate:  Just say \"no\" to the Costco baked goods.  You have a kitchen.  Use it.  Bake.  I\'ll share recipes with you if you\'d like.  For free.  This is how you will set yourself apart from the mass produced crap at Starbucks. Trust me on this one.\n\n&nbsp;','Day 283:  The Little Shop Around the Corner ','','inherit','open','open','','6491-revision-9','','','2011-07-09 10:51:07','2011-07-09 17:51:07','',6491,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2011/07/09/6491-revision-9/',0,'revision','',0),(6509,1,'2011-07-09 18:00:29','2011-07-10 01:00:29','<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/IMG00480-20110706-0810.jpg\"><img class=\"alignleft size-medium wp-image-6502\" title=\"IMG00480-20110706-0810\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/IMG00480-20110706-0810-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>As you already know, I am very pro-small biz.  I avoid chains at all possible costs.  ESPECIALLY when it comes to bookstores, food establishments, and coffee shops.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nI am therefore appalled with myself that I had not yet visited The Little Coffee Shop Around the Corner that opened around Memorial Day.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nShame.  On.  Me.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nIt wasn\'t like I was patronizing other coffee shops such as...Gasp!!!...the S-Word inside the neighboring Safeway.  If you patronize a Starbucks that is next to an indie coffee shop, then Shame. On.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nNever mind.  I\'ll be nice because you are my dear reader.  I just ask that you to stop a minute and consider if you want to live in a world where corporations have taken over, or if you want to live where the people can still afford to pursue their dreams and put their special something out into the world.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nBack to me not getting around the corner since Memorial Day...\n\n&nbsp;\n\nI have an espresso machine, and I make my own double shot Almond Milk with a splash of Agave Latte each morning.  I\'m frugal that way.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nBut...If I want for an indie coffee shop that is within WALKING DISTANCE from my suburban home, then I better start enjoying it pronto.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nI hauled my hiney out of bed 10 minutes early on Day 283 to visit My New Little Coffee Shop Around the Corner.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nThe ambiance was cozy, and the coffee delightful.  The patio view is scenic. Take a look!\n\n&nbsp;\n\n<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7090041.jpg\"><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-6507\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7090041-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>\n\n&nbsp;\n\nWD Coffee Shop Owners, you have a gem on your hands.  THANK YOU for adding indie flavor to vanilla suburbia.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nNow...listen to a foodie with a somewhat refined palate:  Just say \"no\" to the Costco baked goods.  You have a kitchen.  Use it.  Bake.  I\'ll share recipes with you if you\'d like.  For free.  This is how you will set yourself apart from the mass produced crap at Starbucks. Trust me on this one.\n\n&nbsp;','Day 283:  The Little Shop Around the Corner ','','inherit','open','open','','6491-revision-10','','','2011-07-09 18:00:29','2011-07-10 01:00:29','',6491,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2011/07/09/6491-revision-10/',0,'revision','',0),(6510,1,'2011-07-10 07:43:09','2011-07-10 14:43:09','<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/IMG00480-20110706-0810.jpg\"><img class=\"alignleft size-medium wp-image-6502\" title=\"IMG00480-20110706-0810\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/IMG00480-20110706-0810-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>As you already know, I am very pro-small biz.  I avoid chains at all possible costs.  ESPECIALLY when it comes to bookstores, food establishments, and coffee shops.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nI am therefore appalled with myself that I had not yet visited The Little Coffee Shop Around the Corner that opened around Memorial Day.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nShame.  On.  Me.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nIt wasn\'t like I was patronizing other coffee shops such as...Gasp!!!...the S-Word inside the neighboring Safeway.  If you patronize a Starbucks that is next to an indie coffee shop, then Shame. On. Y...\n\n&nbsp;\n\nNever mind.  I\'ll be nice because you are my dear reader.  I just ask that you to stop a minute and consider if you want to live in a world where corporations have taken over, or if you want to live where the people can still afford to pursue their dreams and put their special something out into the world.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nBack to me not getting around the corner since Memorial Day...\n\n&nbsp;\n\nI have an espresso machine, and I make my own double shot Almond Milk with a splash of Agave Latte each morning.  I\'m frugal that way.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nBut...If I want for an indie coffee shop that is within WALKING DISTANCE from my suburban home, then I better start enjoying it pronto.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nI hauled my hiney out of bed 10 minutes early on Day 283 to visit My New Little Coffee Shop Around the Corner.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nThe ambiance was cozy, and the coffee delightful.  The patio view is scenic. Take a look!\n\n&nbsp;\n\n<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7090041.jpg\"><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-6507\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7090041-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>\n\n&nbsp;\n\nWD Coffee Shop Owners, you have a gem on your hands.  THANK YOU for adding indie flavor to vanilla suburbia.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nNow...listen to a foodie with a somewhat refined palate:  Just say \"no\" to the Costco baked goods.  You have a kitchen.  Use it.  Bake.  I\'ll share recipes with you if you\'d like.  For free.  This is how you will set yourself apart from the mass produced crap at Starbucks. Trust me on this one.\n\n&nbsp;','Day 283:  The Little Shop Around the Corner ','','inherit','open','open','','6491-autosave','','','2011-07-10 07:43:09','2011-07-10 14:43:09','',6491,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2011/07/09/6491-autosave/',0,'revision','',0),(6631,1,'2011-07-19 01:11:54','2011-07-19 08:11:54','When I was a child, my sister and I dreaded \"leftovers\" for dinner.  My Nana, living through The Great Depression, didn\'t throw away a morsel of anything.   To glamorize \"leftovers\" and make them more appealing, she made up a word:  Couquet Buffet.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAt a Couquet Buffet, Nana would assemble a mishmash of foods that needed to be eaten before they spoiled.  She would then announce the Couquet Buffet featured attractions with her best Julia Child impersonation.  Jennie and I were hooked by the theatrics and gobbled everything up like good little girls.  Until we were teenagers and figured out that this whole Couquet Buffet thing was a bunch of smoke and mirrors.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nToday, I present to you a Couquet Buffet of my final day in Chicago.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_6641\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"300\" caption=\"Field Day at the Conference\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7130045.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-6641\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7130045-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li>Yes, I blew bubbles at my table during one of the presentations.  How fun is that?</li>\r\n	<li>One of my fav colleagues (<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2011/06/16/day-259-show-stopper/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>and adopted mother</strong></a>) flew in just in time for lunch and a couple of hours of laughter during the final sessions.</li>\r\n	<li>I\'m used to navigating travel and airports solo.  It\'s a great change of pace to travel with other peeps.  You have a built-in support system who watches your stuff when you need to run to the restroom and shares their water with you when you suddenly feel parched in the security line.</li>\r\n	<li>I discovered that one of my colleagues was going to skydive on a second date over the weekend!  Whoa.  I shared my disclaimer on my 365 project:  Won\'t skydive or swim with sharks, but other than that, I\'m open!  My colleague mentioned that she\'s swam with sharks.  She needs to start a blog.</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_6642\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"300\" caption=\"Goodbye, Posh Hotel Room!\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7110020.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-6642\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7110020-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li>Westin, yes, your beds are indeed heavenly.  But...I enjoyed two of my best hotel sleeps EVER at the <a href=\"http://www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/chijw-jw-marriott-chicago/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>JW Marriott in Chicago</strong></a>.  (JW Marriott, what\'s your bed secret???  The mattress, pillows, and comforter were divine.)</li>\r\n</ul>\r\nLastly...\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI have a reputation for befriending strangers on planes and taxi cab drivers.  I like to hear people\'s \"stories\" and what makes them tick.  Taxi drivers are particularly intriguing because they usually hail from different countries and cultures.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nMy taxi driver on this day arrived in Phoenix via Iran three years ago.  He knew no English at the time, and he didn\'t know how his Masters in Agriculture would transfer to a job here.  He came to the U.S. on a leap of faith and a dream.  He now speaks nearly perfect English, works two jobs (also a pharmacy tech at Walgreens) and is putting himself through school to earn a 3rd degree in nuclear medicine.  I also learned about his wife, her studies, his family, and his dog.  All in a twenty minute ride home from the airport.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nUpon exiting the cab, he shook my hand, looked me in the eye, and thanked me for my tip.  How refreshing that there was no sense of entitlement.  Instead, a heartfelt thank you and a very real appreciation.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nGod Bless America.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;','Day 290:  Last Day of a Biz Trip','','publish','open','open','','day-290-last-day-of-a-biz-trip','','','2011-07-18 20:31:45','2011-07-19 03:31:45','',0,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?p=6631',0,'post','',2),(6512,1,'2011-07-09 19:08:44','2011-07-10 02:08:44','A funny thing happened as Day 284 drew to a close.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nAt 9:15 p.m., as I was finishing writing a blog post, I realized that...\n\n&nbsp;\n\nI FORGOT TO LIVE MY BLOG ACTIVITY OF THE DAY!!!!!\n\n&nbsp;\n\nThis had never happened previously.  Sure, sometimes I don\'t get around to my day\'s activity -- such as carving a pumpkin or installing a printer -- until late.  But I\'ve never FORGOTTEN!!!\n\n&nbsp;\n\nWhen it dawned on me what I had done (or not done), I stood in the middle of the kitchen in a frozen panic.  When I could move again, I ran to my old school Franklin Covey planner to look up what I had spaced.  Would I even be able to \"live\" it, or was I going to have to think of a last minute substitution?\n\n&nbsp;\n\nAnd how soul-scintillating could an 11th hour substitution possibly be???\n\n&nbsp;\n\nWhew!  The entry in my planner was \" \'Newer\' music ala Bri\".\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;','Day 284:  Listening to \"More Recent\" (and I use that phrase loosely) Music','','inherit','open','open','','6493-revision-2','','','2011-07-09 19:08:44','2011-07-10 02:08:44','',6493,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2011/07/09/6493-revision-2/',0,'revision','',0),(6513,1,'2011-07-09 19:22:20','2011-07-10 02:22:20','A funny thing happened as Day 284 drew to a close.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nAt 9:15 p.m., as I was finishing writing a blog post, I realized that...\n\n&nbsp;\n\nI FORGOT TO LIVE MY BLOG ACTIVITY OF THE DAY!!!!!\n\n&nbsp;\n\nThis had never happened previously.  Sure, sometimes I don\'t get around to my day\'s activity -- such as carving a pumpkin or installing a printer -- until late.  But I\'ve never FORGOTTEN!!!\n\n&nbsp;\n\nWhen it dawned on me what I had done (or not done), I stood in the middle of the kitchen in a frozen panic.  When I could move again, I ran to my old school Franklin Covey planner to look up what I had spaced.  Would I even be able to \"live\" it, or was I going to have to think of a last minute substitution?\n\n&nbsp;\n\nAnd how soul-scintillating could an 11th hour substitution possibly be???\n\n&nbsp;\n\nThe entry in my planner was \" \'Newer\' music ala Bri\".\n\n&nbsp;\n\nWhew!  I can do this!  I can listen to \"newer\" music per Bri\'s suggestion/request/double dog dare!\n\n&nbsp;\n\nI\'d rather go to bed (because I am bloody exhausted) but I can do this!!!!\n\n&nbsp;\n\nThe joke here is that I\'m often teased about being stuck in music that dates no later than 1987.  After high school, I seemingly lost touch with the new stuff.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nThere are a few exceptions such as Diana Krall (who sings old stuff) and Ray LaMontagne (who sings new stuff that sounds old).  Oh, and there was Alannis in the early 90s, and LIVE in the late 90s, and Keith Urban in the early millennium, but my point is that IN GENERAL, I most enjoy music from my youth.   And guys loooooooove to tease me about this.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nBri is no exception.  When we visited\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\nBarney Miller.  Beatles?? (other Bri)\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;','Day 284:  Listening to \"More Recent\" (and I use that phrase loosely) Music','','inherit','open','open','','6493-revision-3','','','2011-07-09 19:22:20','2011-07-10 02:22:20','',6493,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2011/07/09/6493-revision-3/',0,'revision','',0),(6514,1,'2011-07-09 18:00:44','2011-07-10 01:00:44','<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/IMG00480-20110706-0810.jpg\"><img class=\"alignleft size-medium wp-image-6502\" title=\"IMG00480-20110706-0810\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/IMG00480-20110706-0810-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>As you already know, I am very pro-small biz.  I avoid chains at all possible costs.  ESPECIALLY when it comes to bookstores, food establishments, and coffee shops.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI am therefore appalled with myself that I had not yet visited The Little Coffee Shop Around the Corner that opened around Memorial Day.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nShame.  On.  Me.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nIt wasn\'t like I was patronizing other coffee shops such as...Gasp!!!...the S-Word inside the neighboring Safeway.  If you patronize a Starbucks that is next to an indie coffee shop, then Shame. On.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nNever mind.  I\'ll be nice because you are my dear reader.  I just ask that you to stop a minute and consider if you want to live in a world where corporations have taken over, or if you want to live where the people can still afford to pursue their dreams and put their special something out into the world.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nBack to me not getting around the corner since Memorial Day...\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI have an espresso machine, and I make my own double shot Almond Milk with a splash of Agave Latte each morning.  I\'m frugal that way.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nBut...If I want for an indie coffee shop that is within WALKING DISTANCE from my suburban home, then I better start enjoying it pronto.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI hauled my hiney out of bed 10 minutes early on Day 283 to visit My New Little Coffee Shop Around the Corner.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nThe ambiance was cozy, and the coffee delightful.  The patio view is scenic. Take a look!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7090041.jpg\"><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-6507\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7090041-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nWD Coffee Shop Owners, you have a gem on your hands.  THANK YOU for adding indie flavor to vanilla suburbia.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nNow...listen to a foodie with a somewhat refined palate:  Just say \"no\" to the Costco baked goods.  You have a kitchen.  Use it.  Bake.  I\'ll share recipes with you if you\'d like.  For free.  This is how you will set yourself apart from the mass produced crap at Starbucks. Trust me on this one.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;','Day 283:  The Little Shop Around the Corner ','','inherit','open','open','','6491-revision-11','','','2011-07-09 18:00:44','2011-07-10 01:00:44','',6491,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2011/07/09/6491-revision-11/',0,'revision','',0),(6515,1,'2011-07-10 07:42:43','2011-07-10 14:42:43','<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/IMG00480-20110706-0810.jpg\"><img class=\"alignleft size-medium wp-image-6502\" title=\"IMG00480-20110706-0810\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/IMG00480-20110706-0810-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>As you already know, I am very pro-small biz.  I avoid chains at all possible costs.  ESPECIALLY when it comes to bookstores, food establishments, and coffee shops.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI am therefore appalled with myself that I had not yet visited The Little Coffee Shop Around the Corner that opened around Memorial Day.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nShame.  On.  Me.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nIt wasn\'t like I was patronizing other coffee shops such as...Gasp!!!...the S-Word inside the neighboring Safeway.  If you patronize a Starbucks that is next to an indie coffee shop, then Shame. On. Y..\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nNever mind.  I\'ll be nice because you are my dear reader.  I just ask that you to stop a minute and consider if you want to live in a world where corporations have taken over, or if you want to live where the people can still afford to pursue their dreams and put their special something out into the world.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nBack to me not getting around the corner since Memorial Day...\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI have an espresso machine, and I make my own double shot Almond Milk with a splash of Agave Latte each morning.  I\'m frugal that way.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nBut...If I want for an indie coffee shop that is within WALKING DISTANCE from my suburban home, then I better start enjoying it pronto.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI hauled my hiney out of bed 10 minutes early on Day 283 to visit My New Little Coffee Shop Around the Corner.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nThe ambiance was cozy, and the coffee delightful.  The patio view is scenic. Take a look!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7090041.jpg\"><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-6507\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7090041-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nWD Coffee Shop Owners, you have a gem on your hands.  THANK YOU for adding indie flavor to vanilla suburbia.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nNow...listen to a foodie with a somewhat refined palate:  Just say \"no\" to the Costco baked goods.  You have a kitchen.  Use it.  Bake.  I\'ll share recipes with you if you\'d like.  For free.  This is how you will set yourself apart from the mass produced crap at Starbucks. Trust me on this one.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;','Day 283:  The Little Shop Around the Corner ','','inherit','open','open','','6491-revision-12','','','2011-07-10 07:42:43','2011-07-10 14:42:43','',6491,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2011/07/10/6491-revision-12/',0,'revision','',0),(6516,1,'2011-07-10 19:18:04','2011-07-11 02:18:04','A funny thing happened as Day 284 drew to a close.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nAt 9:15 p.m., as I was finishing writing a blog post, I realized that...\n\n&nbsp;\n\nI FORGOT TO LIVE MY BLOG ACTIVITY OF THE DAY!!!!!\n\n&nbsp;\n\nThis had never happened previously.  Sure, sometimes I don\'t get around to my day\'s activity -- such as carving a pumpkin or installing a printer -- until late.  But I\'ve never FORGOTTEN!!!\n\n&nbsp;\n\nWhen it dawned on me what I had done (or not done), I stood in the middle of the kitchen in a frozen panic.  When I could move again, I ran to my old school Franklin Covey planner to look up what I had spaced.  Would I even be able to \"live\" it, or was I going to have to think of a last minute substitution?\n\n&nbsp;\n\nAnd how soul-scintillating could an 11th hour substitution possibly be???\n\n&nbsp;\n\nThe entry in my planner was \" \'Newer\' music ala Bri\".\n\n&nbsp;\n\nWhew!  I can do this!  I can listen to \"newer\" music per Bri\'s suggestion/request/double dog dare!\n\n&nbsp;\n\nI\'d rather go to bed (because I am bloody exhausted) but I can do this!!!!\n\n&nbsp;\n\nThe joke here is that I\'m often teased about being stuck in music that dates no later than 1987.  After high school, I seemingly lost touch with the new stuff.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nThere are a few exceptions such as Diana Krall (who sings old stuff) and Ray LaMontagne (who sings new stuff that sounds old).  Oh, and there was Alannis in the early 90s, and LIVE in the late 90s, and Keith Urban in the early millennium, but my point is that IN GENERAL, I most enjoy music from my youth.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nAnd guys loooooooove to tease me about this.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nBri is no exception.  When we visited Stinkweeds Music a few weeks prior, Bri <em>insisted</em> on buying me Jeff Buckley and Elliott Smith CDs. He wanted me to listen to music outside my comfort zone<em> that badly</em>.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nAfter further grief that I had not opened my giftie music for a I listened to him and the post-1987 music on Day 284.  At 9:30 p.m.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nAnd it nearly put me to sleep.  (Sorry, Bri.)\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\nBarney Miller.  Beatles?? (other Bri)\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;','Day 284:  Listening to \"More Recent\" (and I use that phrase loosely) Music','','inherit','open','open','','6493-revision-4','','','2011-07-10 19:18:04','2011-07-11 02:18:04','',6493,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2011/07/10/6493-revision-4/',0,'revision','',0),(6563,1,'2011-07-14 19:09:26','2011-07-15 02:09:26','&nbsp;\n\nseat adjustments -- 10 minutes -- thank you christy jo.  so take charge  mother.\n\n&nbsp;\n\ninstructor was fab.  looked gorgeous without a stitch of makeup and first thing in a.m.  tan.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nthought i was going to die during warm up.  Very very concerned.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nthen i remembered that\'s how i always feel during warmups.  easy.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nchristy, \"do you sweat?\"  tracy ...\n\n&nbsp;\n\nmaking fun of me while smiling during photo session.  she was there with her hubby.  how cute is that?  I want that.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nno \"hill\"?  that\'s why it\'s so easy','Day 286:  Spinning ','','inherit','open','open','','6497-revision-3','','','2011-07-14 19:09:26','2011-07-15 02:09:26','',6497,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2011/07/14/6497-revision-3/',0,'revision','',0),(6564,1,'2011-07-14 19:12:22','2011-07-15 02:12:22','&nbsp;\r\n\r\nseat adjustments -- 10 minutes -- thank you christy jo.  so take charge  mother.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\ninstructor was fab.  looked gorgeous without a stitch of makeup and first thing in a.m.  tan.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nthought i was going to die during warm up.  Very very concerned.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nthen i remembered that\'s how i always feel during warmups.  easy.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nchristy, \"do you sweat?\"  tracy ...\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nmaking fun of me while smiling during photo session.  she was there with her hubby.  how cute is that?  I want that.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nno \"hill\"?  that\'s why it\'s so easy','Day 286:  Spinning ','','inherit','open','open','','6497-revision-4','','','2011-07-14 19:12:22','2011-07-15 02:12:22','',6497,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2011/07/14/6497-revision-4/',0,'revision','',0),(6530,1,'2011-07-09 10:15:36','2011-07-09 17:15:36','seat adjustments -- 10 minutes -- thank you christy jo.  so take charge  mother.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\ninstructor was fab.  looked gorgeous without a stitch of makeup and first thing in a.m.  tan.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nthought i was going to die during warm up.  Very very concerned.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nthen i remembered that\'s how i always feel during warmups.  easy.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nchristy, \"do you sweat?\"  tracy ...\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nmaking fun of me while smiling during photo session.  she was there with her hubby.  how cute is that?  I want that.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nno \"hill\"?  that\'s why it\'s so easy','Day 286:  Spinning ','','inherit','open','open','','6497-revision-2','','','2011-07-09 10:15:36','2011-07-09 17:15:36','',6497,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2011/07/09/6497-revision-2/',0,'revision','',0),(6567,1,'2011-07-14 21:04:04','2011-07-15 04:04:04','[caption id=\"attachment_6528\" align=\"alignleft\" width=\"300\" caption=\"You don&#39;t want to see me first thing in the a.m. without a stitch of makeup. Trust me.\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P70900341.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-6528\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P70900341-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\nIn two months, I embark on an adventure of a lifetime.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI arrive in Florence and meet up with my beloved cousins.  We will then join <strong><a href=\"http://vbt.com\" target=\"_blank\">Vermont Bicycle Tours</a></strong> and cycle our way through the hills and seaside of Tuscany to Rome.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI am fit and ready for the challenge!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nSort of..  I don’t own a bicycle.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nWhich, now that I think of it, is really sad considering that my parents couldn’t get me<em> off</em> of my bicycle when I was a kid.  I need to rethink this in the near future.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nIn the immediate future, I need to regularly get my tuckus on a cycle pronto.  Since it’s currently 110 in the shade, I will need to get my tuckus on a cycle indoors.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nMindlessly sitting on an exercise bicycle holds zero appeal for me.  I therefore asked Christy Jo if I could accompany her to my first ever spin class at her gym.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nShe’s only been asking me to do this for a few years.  But now with my tuckus at stake, I thought it was time.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI was a bit daunted by the whole thing.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nFirst of all, the weekend spin classes start at 8 a.m. which is suitable for Christy Jo because she is a mother.  Mothers awaken early with their children.  Childless women enjoy the luxury of rolling out of bed at 8 – 8:30 a.m. to walk their dogs.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nSecondly, spin classes are touted as being the Hardest Workout in the History of Man and Womankind.  At least “spin people” refer to it this way.  I’m fit, but I’m no Olympian.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nThirdly, I was stepping foot into a gym for the first time in 3 years.  I could not show up in my old, dingy workout clothes worn during my home workouts.  <strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2011/07/07/day-280-need-inspiration-shop-for-a-sports-bra/\" target=\"_blank\">Luckily, I remedied this problem at Lululemon one week prior.</a>  </strong>Whew!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nHleary-eyed and less-than-bushytailed, I arrived at the gym between 7:45 7:50 on Saturday morning to find an ultra-chipper Christy Jo and her cutie pie of a kid.  They obviously had been up for 3 hours and had eaten their Cheerios.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nWe entered the CROWDED tiny room packed full of spin bikes.  These suburbanites obviously all have 2.2 kids and are early weekend risers.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAfter 5-10 minutes of Christy Jo fine tuning my bike to adjust for my 5’2 and ¾ inch frame, we started pedaling.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nThe music was LOUD.  This boded well for me.  I am the typical GenXer who undoubtedly suffers some sort of hearing loss from blaring their Sony Walkman through early adulthood.  I like my music to rattle the windows.  The louder the music, the more motivated the Late Bloomer.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAND!!!!  <strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2011/07/12/day-284-listening-to-more-recent-and-i-use-that-phrase-loosely-music/\" target=\"_blank\">To suit my penchant for pre-1987 tunes</a></strong>, the first song was Michael Jackson’s “Black and White” which graces my list of Top 10 Favorite Pop Songs.  I was ready to tackle my imaginary hills and SPIN!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nMy enthusiasm at the start dwindled during the warm-up.  My legs started to feel like toast approximately 5 minutes in.  I looked over at Christy Jo and asked, “Am I going to die?”\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nShe simply laughed at me as she always does.  I guess she thought I was joking.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAnd then the strangest thing happened…\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI started to feel ENERGIZED and like I CAN DO THIS!  This spin rebirth occurred partly from the uber-bright-eyed and bushy-tailed instructor with The Most Sculpted Arms in the State of Arizona, and partly from me remembering that I always feel winded for the first 5 minutes of a workout.  After 5 minutes, I am set and raring to go!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI pedaled.  I surged.  I sprinted.  I was up and down, up and down. I got down low to go \"through the tunnel\".\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_6529\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"300\" caption=\"Reenacting the Famous Tunnels of Tuscany\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P70900351.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-6529\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P70900351-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nThe instructor shared with us newbies that there is no shame in taking a break.  Break schmeak!  I kept spinning my little heart out.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nChristy Jo looked over again with an appalled expression.  “Do you sweat???”\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nNow <em>I</em> was the one laughing.  “I’ve never been much of a sweaty person.”\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nHe he he.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAfter cycling through what I am sure was the equivalent of 20 miles of Tuscan hills, Ms. Sculpted Arms AZ congratulated us for showing up early and starting our day with a challenging workout.  With this jump start, we were now guaranteed to have a fantastic day.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nYou know what?  She was absolutely right!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nCoasting on my endorphin high, I stopped by the front desk to inquire about month-to-month membership pricing.  It might not be a bad idea to continue spinning my way towards my Italian adventure.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nThe young woman (I’m guessing around 18) at the front desk pointed out the pricing for the various age brackets.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nShe then pointed to the first age bracket labeled “18-27” and ASKED IF WAS 27!!!!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nThat’s it!  SOLD to the 18 year-old at the front desk!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nIf spinning shaves 14 (?) years off of my life after one class, then I am in for LIFE!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_6520\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"300\" caption=\"O.k., O.k. Fine. This is what I look like first thing in the a.m. after a 60 minute spin class. What I do for this blog...\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7090036.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-6520\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7090036-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n*****\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nHave you ever taken a spin class?  What did you think?\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;','Day 286:  Spinning ','','inherit','open','open','','6497-revision-7','','','2011-07-14 21:04:04','2011-07-15 04:04:04','',6497,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2011/07/14/6497-revision-7/',0,'revision','',0),(6528,1,'2011-07-10 21:10:48','2011-07-11 04:10:48','','OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA','You don\'t want to see me first thing in the a.m. without a stitch of makeup.  Trust me.','inherit','open','open','','olympus-digital-camera-458','','','2011-07-10 21:10:48','2011-07-11 04:10:48','',6497,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P70900341.jpg',0,'attachment','image/jpeg',0),(6529,1,'2011-07-10 21:11:09','2011-07-11 04:11:09','','OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA','Reenacting the Famous Tunnels of Tuscany','inherit','open','open','','olympus-digital-camera-459','','','2011-07-10 21:11:09','2011-07-11 04:11:09','',6497,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P70900351.jpg',0,'attachment','image/jpeg',0),(6531,1,'2011-07-10 21:16:18','2011-07-11 04:16:18','','OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA','','inherit','open','open','','olympus-digital-camera-456','','','2011-07-10 21:16:18','2011-07-11 04:16:18','',6495,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/P7080032.jpg',0,'attachment','image/jpeg',0),(6532,1,'2011-07-09 10:12:52','2011-07-09 17:12:52','couldn\'t find it.  in panic\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nminimalism','Day 285:  Lucky 8 Sparkler','','inherit','open','open','','6495-revision-2','','','2011-07-09 10:12:52','2011-07-09 17:12:52','',6495,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2011/07/09/6495-revision-2/',0,'revision','',0),(6533,1,'2011-07-11 15:49:24','2011-07-11 22:49:24','A funny thing happened as Day 284 drew to a close.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nAt 9:15 p.m., as I was finishing writing a blog post, I realized that...\n\n&nbsp;\n\nI FORGOT TO LIVE MY BLOG ACTIVITY OF THE DAY!!!!!\n\n&nbsp;\n\nThis had never happened previously.  Sure, sometimes I don\'t get around to my day\'s activity -- such as carving a pumpkin or installing a printer -- until late.  But I\'ve never FORGOTTEN!!!\n\n&nbsp;\n\nWhen it dawned on me what I had done (or not done), I stood in the middle of the kitchen in a frozen panic.  When I could move again, I ran to my old school Franklin Covey planner to look up what I had spaced.  Would I even be able to \"live\" it, or was I going to have to think of a last minute substitution?\n\n&nbsp;\n\nAnd how soul-scintillating could an 11th hour substitution possibly be???\n\n&nbsp;\n\nThe entry in my planner was \" \'Newer\' music via Bri\".\n\n&nbsp;\n\nWhew!  I can do this!  I can listen to \"newer\" music per Bri\'s suggestion/request/double dog dare!  I\'d rather go to bed (because I am bloody exhausted) but I CAN DO THIS!!!!\n\n&nbsp;\n\nThe joke behind this activity is that I\'m often teased about being stuck in music that dates no later than 1987.  After high school, I seemingly lost touch with the new stuff.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nThere are a few exceptions such as Diana Krall (who sings old stuff) and Ray LaMontagne (who sings new stuff that sounds like old).  Oh, and there was Alannis in the early 90s, and LIVE in the late 90s, and Keith Urban in the early millennium, but my point is that IN GENERAL, I most enjoy music from my youth.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nAnd guys loooooooove to tease me about this.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nBri is no exception.  When we visited Stinkweeds Music a few weeks prior, Bri <em>insisted</em> on buying me Jeff Buckley and Elliott Smith CDs. He wanted me to listen to music outside my comfort zone<em> that badly</em>.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nAfter further grief that I had not opened my giftie music for a I listened to him and the post-1987 music on Day 284.  At 9:30 p.m.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nAnd it nearly put me to sleep.  (Sorry, Bri.)\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\nFor whatever reason (and please remember that I was pretty beat), the music didn’t resonate with me.  I didn’t feel any musical chemistry.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nIt’s kind of like dating – the chemistry is either there or it’s not.  It’s often to pinpoint <em>why</em> it’s not there.  Especially when your head tells you that <em>should </em>feel it.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nWhile listening to Elliott Smith, I emailed another Bri and asked, “Is Elliott Smith the guy you told me that I should listen to a few years ago?”\n\n&nbsp;\n\nHis reply, “Yes.  Very Beatles influenced.  You’ll like him”.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nHmmm…\n\n&nbsp;\n\nJust then, and just after feeling thoroughly depressed by Elliott Smith’s music (including a track ironically titled “ “), the music captured my attention with a funky groove.  Now THIS is more like it.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nAround 10 seconds in, it took a 70s turn (Now this REALLY IS more like it!) and started to sound familiar and semi-cheesy.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nI scrambled to return to my iTunes window to check it out, and it was not Elliott Smith, but the theme song to <strong>Barney Miller</strong>.\n\n&nbsp;\n\n(Sorry to both Bri #1 and Bri #2.)\n\n&nbsp;\n\nI should have fallen in love with Jeff Buckley and Elliott Smith.  But I didn’t.  Even though the Bris #1 &amp; #2 told met that I <em>should</em>.\n\n&nbsp;\n\n<strong>The rebel in me</strong> is perfect content dancing to my own musical drum.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nSorry, guys.\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;','Day 284:  Listening to \"More Recent\" (and I use that phrase loosely) Music','','inherit','open','open','','6493-revision-5','','','2011-07-11 15:49:24','2011-07-11 22:49:24','',6493,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2011/07/11/6493-revision-5/',0,'revision','',0),(6534,1,'2011-07-11 16:11:24','2011-07-11 23:11:24','A funny thing happened as Day 284 drew to a close.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nAt 9:15 p.m., as I was finishing writing a blog post, I realized that...\n\n&nbsp;\n\nI FORGOT TO LIVE MY BLOG ACTIVITY OF THE DAY!!!!!\n\n&nbsp;\n\nThis had never happened previously.  Sure, sometimes I don\'t get around to my day\'s activity -- such as carving a pumpkin or installing a printer -- until late.  But I\'ve never FORGOTTEN!!!\n\n&nbsp;\n\nWhen it dawned on me what I had done (or not done), I stood in the middle of the kitchen in a frozen panic.  When I could move again, I ran to my old school Franklin Covey planner to look up what I had spaced.  Would I even be able to \"live\" it, or was I going to have to think of a last minute substitution?\n\n&nbsp;\n\nAnd how soul-scintillating could an 11th hour substitution possibly be???\n\n&nbsp;\n\nThe entry in my planner was \" \'Newer\' music via Bri\".\n\n&nbsp;\n\nWhew!  I can do this!  I can listen to \"newer\" music per Bri\'s suggestion/request/double dog dare!  I\'d rather go to bed (because I am bloody exhausted) but I CAN DO THIS!!!!\n\n&nbsp;\n\nThe joke behind this activity is that I\'m often teased about being stuck in music that dates no later than 1987.  After high school, I seemingly lost touch with the new stuff.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nThere are a few exceptions such as Diana Krall (who sings old stuff) and Ray LaMontagne (who sings new stuff that sounds like old  stuff).  Oh, and there was Alannis in the early 90s, and LIVE in the late 90s, and Keith Urban in the early millennium, but my point is that IN GENERAL, I most enjoy music from my youth.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nAnd guys loooooooove to tease me about this.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nBri is no exception.  When we visited Stinkweeds Music a few weeks prior, Bri <em>insisted</em> on buying me Jeff Buckley and Elliott Smith CDs. He wanted me to listen to music outside my comfort zone<em> that badly</em>.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nAfter further grief that I had not opened my giftie music for  several weeks (<del>ungrateful</del> busy wench that I am), I honored Bri and his post-1987 music on Day 284.  At 9:30 p.m.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nAnd it nearly put me to sleep.  (Sorry, Bri.)\n\n&nbsp;\n\nFor whatever reason (and please remember that I was pretty beat), the music didn’t resonate with me.  I didn’t feel any musical chemistry.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nIt’s kind of like dating – the chemistry is either there or it’s not.  It’s often to pinpoint <em>why</em> it’s not there.  Especially when your head tells you that <em>should </em>feel it.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nWhile listening to Elliott Smith, I emailed another Bri and asked, “Is Elliott Smith the guy you told me that I should listen to a few years ago?”\n\n&nbsp;\n\nHis reply, “Yep.  Very Beatles influenced.\"\n\n&nbsp;\n\nHmmm… I respectfully disagree, other Bri.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nJust then, and just after feeling thoroughly depressed by Elliott Smith’s music (including a track ironically titled “ Happiness“), the music captured my attention with a funky groove.  Now THIS is more like it.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nAround 10 seconds in, it took a 70s turn (Now this REALLY IS more like it!) and started to sound familiar and semi-cheesy.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nI scrambled to return to my iTunes window to check it out, and it was not Elliott Smith, but the theme song to <strong>Barney Miller</strong>.\n\n&nbsp;\n\n(Sorry to both Bri #1 and Bri #2.)\n\n&nbsp;\n\nI should have fallen in love with Jeff Buckley and Elliott Smith.  But I didn’t.  Even though the Bris #1 &amp; #2 told met that I <em>should</em>.\n\n&nbsp;\n\n<strong>The rebel in me</strong> is perfect content dancing to my own musical drum.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nSorry, guys.\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;','Day 284:  Listening to \"More Recent\" (and I use that phrase loosely) Music','','inherit','open','open','','6493-revision-6','','','2011-07-11 16:11:24','2011-07-11 23:11:24','',6493,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2011/07/11/6493-revision-6/',0,'revision','',0),(6535,1,'2011-07-11 19:11:26','2011-07-12 02:11:26','A funny thing happened as Day 284 drew to a close.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nAt 9:15 p.m., as I was finishing writing a blog post, I realized that...\n\n&nbsp;\n\nI FORGOT TO LIVE MY BLOG ACTIVITY OF THE DAY!!!!!\n\n&nbsp;\n\nThis had never happened previously.  Sure, sometimes I don\'t get around to my day\'s activity -- such as carving a pumpkin or installing a printer -- until late at night.  But I\'ve never entirely FORGOTTEN!!!\n\n&nbsp;\n\nWhen it dawned on me what I had done (or not done), I stood in the middle of the kitchen in a frozen panic.  When I could move again, I ran to my old school Franklin Covey planner to look up what I had spaced.  Would I even be able to \"live\" my activity, or was I going to have to think of a last minute substitution?\n\n&nbsp;\n\nAnd how soul-scintillating could an 11th hour substitution possibly be???\n\n&nbsp;\n\nThe entry in my planner was \" \'Newer\' music via Bri\".\n\n&nbsp;\n\nWhew!  I can do this!  I can listen to \"newer\" music per Bri\'s suggestion/request/double dog dare!  I\'d rather go to bed (because I am bloody exhausted) but I CAN DO THIS!!!!\n\n&nbsp;\n\nThe joke behind this activity is that I\'m often teased about being stuck in music that dates no later than 1987.  After high school, I seemingly lost touch with the new stuff.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nThere are a few exceptions such as Diana Krall (who sings old stuff) and Ray LaMontagne (who sings new stuff that sounds like old  stuff).  Oh, and there was Alannis in the early 90s, and LIVE in the late 90s, and Keith Urban in the early millennium, but my point is that IN GENERAL, I most enjoy music from my youth.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nAnd male music lovers loooooooove to tease me about this.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nBri is no exception.  When we visited Stinkweeds Music a few weeks prior, Bri <em>insisted</em> on buying me Jeff Buckley and Elliott Smith CDs. He wanted me to listen to music outside my comfort zone<em> that badly</em>.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nAfter further grief for not opening my giftie music for  several weeks (<del>ungrateful</del> busy wench that I am), I honored Bri and his post-1987 music on Day 284.  At 9:30 p.m.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nAnd it nearly put me to sleep.  (Sorry, Bri.)\n\n&nbsp;\n\nFor whatever reason (and please remember that I was pretty beat), the music didn’t resonate with me.  I didn’t feel any musical chemistry.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nIt’s kind of like dating – the chemistry is either there or it’s not.  It’s often impossible to pinpoint <em>why</em> it’s not there.  Especially when your head tells you that <em>should </em>feel it.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nWhile listening to Elliott Smith, I emailed another Bri and asked, “Is Elliott Smith the guy you suggest that I listen to a few years ago?”\n\n&nbsp;\n\nHis reply, “Yep.  Very Beatles influenced.\"\n\n&nbsp;\n\nHmmm… I respectfully disagree.  (Sorry, other Bri.)\n\n&nbsp;\n\nJust then, and just after feeling thoroughly depressed by Elliott Smith’s music (including a track ironically titled “ Happiness“), the next piece captured my attention with a funky groove.  Now THIS was more like it.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nAround 10 seconds in, it took a 70s turn (Now this REALLY WAS more like it!) and started to sound familiar and semi-cheesy.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nI scrambled to return to my iTunes window to check it out, and it was not Elliott Smith, but the theme song to <strong>Barney Miller</strong>.\n\n&nbsp;\n\n(It was from my teaching days.  Music teachers rack up an eclectic mix of music, including <em>TV Land Presents</em>: Favorite TV Them.)\n\n&nbsp;\n\nI couldn\'t stop laughing.  Barney Miller?!?!?  I was alone in my kitchen laughing hysterically at 10:00 p.m.  (Sorry, both Bri guys.)\n\n&nbsp;\n\nI didn\'t fall  in love with Jeff Buckley and Elliott Smith.  Even though the Bris #1 &amp; #2 told me that I <em>should</em>.\n\n&nbsp;\n\n<strong>The rebel in me</strong> is perfect content dancing to my own musical drum until the right musical fit(s) come along.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nSorry, guys.\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;','Day 284:  Listening to \"More Recent\" (and I use that phrase loosely) Music','','inherit','open','open','','6493-revision-7','','','2011-07-11 19:11:26','2011-07-12 02:11:26','',6493,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2011/07/11/6493-revision-7/',0,'revision','',0),(6536,1,'2011-07-11 19:12:26','2011-07-12 02:12:26','A funny thing happened as Day 284 drew to a close.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nAt 9:15 p.m., as I was finishing writing a blog post, I realized that...\n\n&nbsp;\n\nI FORGOT TO LIVE MY BLOG ACTIVITY OF THE DAY!!!!!\n\n&nbsp;\n\nThis had never happened previously.  Sure, sometimes I don\'t get around to my day\'s activity -- such as carving a pumpkin or installing a printer -- until late at night.  But I\'ve never entirely FORGOTTEN!!!\n\n&nbsp;\n\nWhen it dawned on me what I had done (or not done), I stood in the middle of the kitchen in a frozen panic.  When I could move again, I ran to my old school Franklin Covey planner to look up what I had spaced.  Would I even be able to \"live\" my activity, or was I going to have to think of a last minute substitution?\n\n&nbsp;\n\nAnd how soul-scintillating could an 11th hour substitution possibly be???\n\n&nbsp;\n\nThe entry in my planner was \" \'Newer\' music via Bri\".\n\n&nbsp;\n\nWhew!  I can do this!  I can listen to \"newer\" music per Bri\'s suggestion/request/double dog dare!  I\'d rather go to bed (because I am bloody exhausted) but I CAN DO THIS!!!!\n\n&nbsp;\n\nThe joke behind this activity is that I\'m often teased about being stuck in music that dates no later than 1987.  After high school, I seemingly lost touch with the new stuff.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nThere are a few exceptions such as Diana Krall (who sings old stuff) and Ray LaMontagne (who sings new stuff that sounds like old  stuff).  Oh, and there was Alannis in the early 90s, and LIVE in the late 90s, and Keith Urban in the early millennium, but my point is that IN GENERAL, I most enjoy music from my youth.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nAnd male music lovers loooooooove to tease me about this.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nBri is no exception.  When we visited Stinkweeds Music a few weeks prior, Bri <em>insisted</em> on buying me Jeff Buckley and Elliott Smith CDs. He wanted me to listen to music outside my comfort zone<em> that badly</em>.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nAfter further grief for not opening my giftie music for  several weeks (<del>ungrateful</del> busy wench that I am), I honored Bri and his post-1987 music on Day 284.  At 9:30 p.m.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nAnd it nearly put me to sleep.  (Sorry, Bri.)\n\n&nbsp;\n\nFor whatever reason (and please remember that I was pretty beat), the music didn’t resonate with me.  I didn’t feel any musical chemistry.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nIt’s kind of like dating – the chemistry is either there or it’s not.  It’s often impossible to pinpoint <em>why</em> it’s not there.  Especially when your head tells you that <em>should </em>feel it.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nWhile listening to Elliott Smith, I emailed another Bri and asked, “Is Elliott Smith the guy you suggest that I listen to a few years ago?”\n\n&nbsp;\n\nHis reply, “Yep.  Very Beatles influenced.\"\n\n&nbsp;\n\nHmmm… I respectfully disagree.  (Sorry, other Bri.)\n\n&nbsp;\n\nJust then, and just after feeling thoroughly depressed by Elliott Smith’s music (including a track ironically titled “ Happiness“), the next piece captured my attention with a funky groove.  Now THIS was more like it.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nAround 10 seconds in, it took a 70s turn (Now this REALLY WAS more like it!) and started to sound familiar and semi-cheesy.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nI scrambled to return to my iTunes window to check it out, and it was not Elliott Smith, but the theme song to <strong>Barney Miller</strong>.\n\n&nbsp;\n\n(It was from my teaching days.  Music teachers rack up an eclectic mix of music, including <em>TV Land Presents: Favorite TV Theme Songs</em>.)\n\n&nbsp;\n\nI couldn\'t stop laughing.  Barney Miller?!?!?  I was alone in my kitchen laughing hysterically at 10:00 p.m.  (Sorry, both Bri guys.)\n\n&nbsp;\n\nI didn\'t fall  in love with Jeff Buckley and Elliott Smith.  Even though the Bris #1 &amp; #2 told me that I <em>should</em>.\n\n&nbsp;\n\n<strong>The rebel in me</strong> is perfect content dancing to my own musical drum until the right musical fit(s) come along.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nSorry, guys.\n\n&nbsp;','Day 284:  Listening to \"More Recent\" (and I use that phrase loosely) Music','','inherit','open','open','','6493-revision-8','','','2011-07-11 19:12:26','2011-07-12 02:12:26','',6493,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2011/07/11/6493-revision-8/',0,'revision','',0),(6537,1,'2011-07-11 19:21:26','2011-07-12 02:21:26','A funny thing happened as Day 284 drew to a close.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nAt 9:15 p.m., as I was finishing writing a blog post, I realized that...\n\n&nbsp;\n\n<span style=\"color: #800080; font-size: medium;\"><strong>I FORGOT TO LIVE MY BLOG ACTIVITY OF THE DAY!!!!!</strong></span>\n\n&nbsp;\n\nThis had never happened previously.  Sure, sometimes I don\'t get around to my day\'s activity -- such as <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/10/28/day-30-jack-o-lantern-disasters/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>carving a pumpkin</strong></a> or <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2011/07/03/day-276-printer-installation-hell/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>installing a printer</strong> </a>-- until late at night.  But I\'ve never entirely FORGOTTEN!!!\n\n&nbsp;\n\nWhen it dawned on me what I had done (or not done), I stood in the middle of the kitchen in a frozen panic.  When I could move again, I ran to my old school Franklin Covey planner to look up what I had spaced.  Would I even be able to \"live\" my activity, or was I going to have to think of a last minute substitution?\n\n&nbsp;\n\nAnd how soul-scintillating could an 11th hour substitution possibly be???\n\n&nbsp;\n\nThe entry in my planner was \" \'Newer\' music via Bri\".\n\n&nbsp;\n\nWhew!  I can do this!  I can listen to \"newer\" music per Bri\'s suggestion/request/double dog dare!  I\'d rather go to bed (because I am bloody exhausted) but I CAN DO THIS!!!!\n\n&nbsp;\n\nThe joke behind this activity is that I\'m often teased about being stuck in music that dates no later than 1987.  After high school, I seemingly lost touch with the new stuff.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nThere are a few exceptions such as <a href=\"http://www.dianakrall.com/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Diana Krall</strong> </a>(who sings old stuff) and Ray LaMontagne (who sings new stuff that sounds like old  stuff).  Oh, and there was Alannis in the early 90s, and LIVE in the late 90s, and Keith Urban in the early millennium, but my point is that IN GENERAL, I most enjoy music from my youth.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nAnd male music lovers loooooooove to tease me about this.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nBri is no exception.  <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2011/06/21/day-266-trip-down-memory-corner/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>When we visited Stinkweeds Music a few weeks prior</strong></a>, Bri <em>insisted</em> on buying me Jeff Buckley and Elliott Smith CDs. He wanted me to listen to music outside my comfort zone<em> that badly</em>.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nAfter further grief for not opening my giftie music for  several weeks (<del>ungrateful</del> busy wench that I am), I honored Bri and his post-1987 music on Day 284.  At 9:30 p.m.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nAnd it nearly put me to sleep.  (Sorry, Bri.)\n\n&nbsp;\n\nFor whatever reason (and please remember that I was pretty beat), the music didn’t resonate with me.  I didn’t feel any musical chemistry.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nIt’s kind of like dating – the chemistry is either there or it’s not.  It’s often impossible to pinpoint <em>why</em> it’s not there.  Especially when your head tells you that <em>should </em>feel it.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nWhile listening to Elliott Smith, I emailed another Bri and asked, “Is Elliott Smith the guy you suggest that I listen to a few years ago?”\n\n&nbsp;\n\nHis reply, “Yep.  Very Beatles influenced.\"\n\n&nbsp;\n\nHmmm… I respectfully disagree.  (Sorry, other Bri.)\n\n&nbsp;\n\nJust then, and just after feeling thoroughly depressed by Elliott Smith’s music (including a track ironically titled “ Happiness“), the next piece captured my attention with a funky groove.  Now THIS was more like it.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nAround 10 seconds in, it took a 70s turn (Now this REALLY WAS more like it!) and started to sound familiar and semi-cheesy.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nI scrambled to return to my iTunes window to check it out, and it was not Elliott Smith, but the theme song to <a href=\"http://www.tv.com/barney-miller/show/345/summary.html\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Barney Miller</strong></a>.\n\n&nbsp;\n\n(It was from my teaching days.  Music teachers rack up an eclectic mix of music, including <em>TV Land Presents: Favorite TV Theme Songs</em>.)\n\n&nbsp;\n\nI couldn\'t stop laughing.  Barney Miller?!?!?  I was alone in my kitchen laughing hysterically at 10:00 p.m.  (Sorry, both Bri guys.)\n\n&nbsp;\n\nI didn\'t fall  in love with Jeff Buckley and Elliott Smith.  Even though the Bris #1 &amp; #2 told me that I <em>should</em>.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nI am perfectly content dancing to my own musical drum until the right musical fit(s) come along.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nSorry, guys.\n\n&nbsp;','Day 284:  Listening to \"More Recent\" (and I use that phrase loosely) Music','','inherit','open','open','','6493-revision-9','','','2011-07-11 19:21:26','2011-07-12 02:21:26','',6493,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2011/07/11/6493-revision-9/',0,'revision','',0),(6539,1,'2011-07-11 19:30:55','2011-07-12 02:30:55','','gm','My favorite album from 1987','inherit','open','open','','gm','','','2011-07-11 19:30:55','2011-07-12 02:30:55','',6493,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/gm.jpg',0,'attachment','image/jpeg',0),(6540,1,'2011-07-11 19:31:26','2011-07-12 02:31:26','[caption id=\"attachment_6539\" align=\"alignleft\" width=\"239\" caption=\"My favorite album from 1987\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/gm.jpg\"><img class=\"size-full wp-image-6539\" title=\"gm\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/gm.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"239\" height=\"239\" /></a>[/caption]\n\nA funny thing happened as Day 284 drew to a close.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nAt 9:15 p.m., as I was finishing writing a blog post, I realized that...\n\n&nbsp;\n\n<span style=\"color: #800080; font-size: medium;\"><strong>I FORGOT TO LIVE MY BLOG ACTIVITY OF THE DAY!!!!!</strong></span>\n\n&nbsp;\n\nThis had never happened previously.  Sure, sometimes I don\'t get around to my day\'s activity -- such as <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/10/28/day-30-jack-o-lantern-disasters/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>carving a pumpkin</strong></a> or <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2011/07/03/day-276-printer-installation-hell/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>installing a printer</strong> </a>-- until late at night.  But I\'ve never entirely FORGOTTEN!!!\n\n&nbsp;\n\nWhen it dawned on me what I had done (or not done), I stood in the middle of the kitchen in a frozen panic.  When I could move again, I ran to my old school Franklin Covey planner to look up what I had spaced.  Would I even be able to \"live\" my activity, or was I going to have to think of a last minute substitution?\n\n&nbsp;\n\nAnd how soul-scintillating could an 11th hour substitution possibly be???\n\n&nbsp;\n\nThe entry in my planner was \" \'Newer\' music via Bri\".\n\n&nbsp;\n\nWhew!  I can do this!  I can listen to \"newer\" music per Bri\'s suggestion/request/double dog dare!  I\'d rather go to bed (because I am bloody exhausted) but I CAN DO THIS!!!!\n\n&nbsp;\n\nThe joke behind this activity is that I\'m often teased about being stuck in music that dates no later than 1987.  After high school, I seemingly lost touch with the new stuff.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nThere are a few exceptions such as <a href=\"http://www.dianakrall.com/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Diana Krall</strong> </a>(who sings old stuff) and <a href=\"http://www.raylamontagne.com/us/home\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Ray LaMontagne</strong> </a>(who sings new stuff that sounds like old  stuff).  Oh, and there was Alannis in the early 90s, and LIVE in the late 90s, and Keith Urban in the early millennium, but my point is that IN GENERAL, I most enjoy music from my youth.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nAnd male music lovers loooooooove to tease me about this.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nBri is no exception.  <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2011/06/21/day-266-trip-down-memory-corner/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>When we visited Stinkweeds Music a few weeks prior</strong></a>, Bri <em>insisted</em> on buying me Jeff Buckley and Elliott Smith CDs. He wanted me to listen to music outside my comfort zone<em> that badly</em>.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nAfter further grief for not opening my giftie music for  several weeks (<del>ungrateful</del> busy wench that I am), I honored Bri and his post-1987 music on Day 284.  At 9:30 p.m.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nAnd it nearly put me to sleep.  (Sorry, Bri.)\n\n&nbsp;\n\nFor whatever reason (and please remember that I was pretty beat), the music didn’t resonate with me.  I didn’t feel any musical chemistry.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nIt’s kind of like dating – the chemistry is either there or it’s not.  It’s often impossible to pinpoint <em>why</em> it’s not there.  Especially when your head tells you that <em>should </em>feel it.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nWhile listening to Elliott Smith, I emailed another Bri and asked, “Is Elliott Smith the guy you suggest that I listen to a few years ago?”\n\n&nbsp;\n\nHis reply, “Yep.  Very Beatles influenced.\"\n\n&nbsp;\n\nHmmm… I respectfully disagree.  (Sorry, other Bri.)\n\n&nbsp;\n\nJust then, and just after feeling thoroughly depressed by Elliott Smith’s music (including a track ironically titled “ Happiness“), the next piece captured my attention with a funky groove.  Now THIS was more like it.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nAround 10 seconds in, it took a 70s turn (Now this REALLY WAS more like it!) and started to sound familiar and semi-cheesy.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nI scrambled to return to my iTunes window to check it out, and it was not Elliott Smith, but the theme song to <a href=\"http://www.tv.com/barney-miller/show/345/summary.html\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Barney Miller</strong></a>.\n\n&nbsp;\n\n(It was from my teaching days.  Music teachers rack up an eclectic mix of music, including <em>TV Land Presents: Favorite TV Theme Songs</em>.)\n\n&nbsp;\n\nI couldn\'t stop laughing.  Barney Miller?!?!?  I was alone in my kitchen laughing hysterically at 10:00 p.m.  (Sorry, both Bri guys.)\n\n&nbsp;\n\nI didn\'t fall  in love with Jeff Buckley and Elliott Smith.  Even though the Bris #1 &amp; #2 told me that I <em>should</em>.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nI am perfectly content dancing to my own musical drum until the right musical fit(s) come along.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nSorry, guys.\n\n&nbsp;','Day 284:  Listening to \"More Recent\" (and I use that phrase loosely) Music','','inherit','open','open','','6493-revision-10','','','2011-07-11 19:31:26','2011-07-12 02:31:26','',6493,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2011/07/11/6493-revision-10/',0,'revision','',0),