INSERT INTO `wp_posts` VALUES (874,1,'2010-10-02 12:07:05','2010-10-02 19:07:05','<p>I am convinced that I might be the only weirdo on this planet who freaks out over a facial. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Facials are supposed to be relaxing.  Soothing. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>For me, they make me break out into hypochondria and zits.  Let me explain. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Prior to day 16, I had experienced one facial in my lifetime.  It turned my skin into that of a pimply 16 year-old.  On top of the mini-volcanoes on my skin, I suffered an itchy-red-flaky allergic reaction.  Needless to say, I have not been enticed to try another facial. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Until my moment of Insanity on Day 16. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>As I rummaged through a drawer in my master bath, I came across a bag of \"Facial Steam Herbs\".  I calculated that I received these for my birthday 4 YEARS AGO and set them aside for a \"rainy day\".  Now that I think of it, I may have told myself \"rainy day\", but my subconscious may have told myself \"post-traumatic facial stress\".  I will consult with a therapist and get back to you on this. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Being my grandmother\'s daughter, I wasn\'t about to throw away perfectly good Facial Steam Herbs.  And besides, they were too old to re-gift. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Day 16 Facial Steam it was!  This couldn\'t be so bad: </p>\r\n\r\n<ol>\r\n	<li>It was free.  </li>\r\n	<li>I wasn\'t applying any product to skin as was done in the Facial from Hell.  </li>\r\n	<li>Herbs are good for you.  </li>\r\n	<li>I needed to chill out.</li>\r\n</ol>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I heated up a large pot of water on the stove.  I then put half of the bag of Facial Steam Herbs into the pot and set it up at my kitchen table.  I slung a towel over my head in tent-like fashion.  And I have no problem saying that I inhaled. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>The herbs smelled 4 years old.  </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>And the real fun began.  Allow me to share with you the neurotic self-talk of a woman coping with \"post-traumatic facial stress\":</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li>\"What\'s in this stuff?  It reeks!  Could it be the 4 year-old rose petals?\"</li>\r\n	<li>\"Wait a minute.  I think I might be allergic to roses!\"</li>\r\n	<li>\"Great.  We\'re all dying from ragweed allergies out here in the Allergy Capital of the World, and now I\'m snorting weed steam.  Brilliant idea.\"</li>\r\n	<li>\"Did I feel that pressure in my sinuses before I started this???\"</li>\r\n	<li>\"Is this going to break me out for my girls\' weekend in Snobbsdale???  There\'s nothing worse than being poolside with zits.\"</li>\r\n	<li>\"Would I be even thinking of these things if I hadn\'t just started my period???\"</li>\r\n	<li>\"Crap.\"</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>When I started to get nauseated from the smell, I finally threw in the towel and called it a night. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>To calm my hormonally-induced anxiety, I decided to play it safe and pop a Benadryl.  This would combat any allergic reaction and make me sleep like a baby all in one fell swoop.  Everything turned out to be just fine.  Whew!</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I apologize to the 3 token male readers who are embarrassed, aghast and don\'t get this post at all as 99% of the female readership nod their heads in agreement like this all makes perfect sense.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>','Day 16:  Facial Frenzy','','inherit','open','open','','863-revision-4','','','2010-10-02 12:07:05','2010-10-02 19:07:05','',863,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/10/02/863-revision-4/',0,'revision','',0),(875,1,'2010-10-02 12:07:25','2010-10-02 19:07:25','<p>I am convinced that I might be the only weirdo on this planet who freaks out over a facial. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Facials are supposed to be relaxing.  Soothing. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>For me, they make me break out into hypochondria and zits.  Let me explain. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Prior to day 16, I had experienced one facial in my lifetime.  It turned my skin into that of a pimply 16 year-old.  On top of the mini-volcanoes on my skin, I suffered an itchy-red-flaky allergic reaction.  Needless to say, I have not been enticed to try another facial. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Until my moment of Insanity on Day 16. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>As I rummaged through a drawer in my master bath, I came across a bag of \"Facial Steam Herbs\".  I calculated that I received these for my birthday 4 YEARS AGO and set them aside for a \"rainy day\".  Now that I think of it, I may have told myself \"rainy day\", but my subconscious may have told myself \"post-traumatic facial stress\".  I will consult with a therapist and get back to you on this. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Being my grandmother\'s daughter, I wasn\'t about to throw away perfectly good Facial Steam Herbs.  And besides, they were too old to re-gift. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Day 16 Facial Steam it was!  This couldn\'t be so bad: </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<ol>\r\n	<li>It was free.  </li>\r\n	<li>I wasn\'t applying any product to skin as was done in the Facial from Hell.  </li>\r\n	<li>Herbs are good for you.  </li>\r\n	<li>I needed to chill out.</li>\r\n</ol>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I heated up a large pot of water on the stove.  I then put half of the bag of Facial Steam Herbs into the pot and set it up at my kitchen table.  I slung a towel over my head in tent-like fashion.  And I have no problem saying that I inhaled. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>The herbs smelled 4 years old.  </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>And the real fun began.  Allow me to share with you the neurotic self-talk of a woman coping with \"post-traumatic facial stress\":</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li>\"What\'s in this stuff?  It reeks!  Could it be the 4 year-old rose petals?\"</li>\r\n	<li>\"Wait a minute.  I think I might be allergic to roses!\"</li>\r\n	<li>\"Great.  We\'re all dying from ragweed allergies out here in the Allergy Capital of the World, and now I\'m snorting weed steam.  Brilliant idea.\"</li>\r\n	<li>\"Did I feel that pressure in my sinuses before I started this???\"</li>\r\n	<li>\"Is this going to break me out for my girls\' weekend in Snobbsdale???  There\'s nothing worse than being poolside with zits.\"</li>\r\n	<li>\"Would I be even thinking of these things if I hadn\'t just started my period???\"</li>\r\n	<li>\"Crap.\"</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>When I started to get nauseated from the smell, I finally threw in the towel and called it a night. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>To calm my hormonally-induced anxiety, I decided to play it safe and pop a Benadryl.  This would combat any allergic reaction and make me sleep like a baby all in one fell swoop.  Everything turned out to be just fine.  Whew!</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I apologize to the 3 token male readers who are embarrassed, aghast and don\'t get this post at all as 99% of the female readership nod their heads in agreement like this all makes perfect sense.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>','Day 16:  Facial Frenzy','','inherit','open','open','','863-revision-5','','','2010-10-02 12:07:25','2010-10-02 19:07:25','',863,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/10/02/863-revision-5/',0,'revision','',0),(876,1,'2010-10-02 12:10:16','2010-10-02 19:10:16','<p>I am convinced that I might be the only weirdo on this planet who freaks out over a facial. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Facials are supposed to be relaxing.  Soothing. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>For me, they make me break out into hypochondria and zits.  Let me explain. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Prior to day 16, I had experienced one facial in my lifetime.  It turned my skin into that of a pimply 16 year-old.  On top of the mini-volcanoes on my skin, I suffered an itchy-red-flaky allergic reaction.  Needless to say, I have not been enticed to try another facial. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Until my moment of Insanity on Day 16. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>As I rummaged through a drawer in my master bath, I came across a bag of \"Facial Steam Herbs\".  I calculated that I received these for my birthday 4 YEARS AGO and set them aside for a \"rainy day\".  Now that I think of it, I may have told myself \"rainy day\", but my subconscious may have told myself \"post-traumatic facial stress\".  I will consult with a therapist and get back to you on this. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Being my grandmother\'s daughter, I wasn\'t about to throw away perfectly good Facial Steam Herbs.  And besides, they were too old to re-gift. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Day 16 Facial Steam it was!  This couldn\'t be so bad: </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<ol>\n	<li>It was free.  </li>\n	<li>I wasn\'t applying any product to skin as was done in the Facial from Hell.  </li>\n	<li>Herbs are good for you.  </li>\n	<li>I needed to chill out.</li>\n</ol>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>I heated up a large pot of water on the stove.  I then put half of the bag of Facial Steam Herbs into the pot and set it up at my kitchen table.  I slung a towel over my head in tent-like fashion.  And I have no problem saying that I inhaled. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>The herbs smelled 4 years old.  </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>And the real fun began.  Allow me to share with you the neurotic self-talk of a woman coping with \"post-traumatic facial stress\":</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<ul>\n	<li>\"What\'s in this stuff?  It reeks!  Could it be the 4 year-old rose petals?\"</li>\n	<li>\"Wait a minute.  I think I might be allergic to roses!\"</li>\n	<li>\"Great.  We\'re all dying from ragweed allergies out here in the Allergy Capital of the World, and now I\'m snorting weed steam.  Brilliant idea.\"</li>\n	<li>\"Did I feel that pressure in my sinuses before I started this???\"</li>\n	<li>\"Is this going to break me out for my girls\' weekend in Snobbsdale???  There\'s nothing worse than being poolside with zits.\"</li>\n	<li><span style=\"color: #ff0000;\">\"Would I be even thinking of these things if I hadn\'t just started my period???\"</span></li>\n	<li>\"Crap.\"</li>\n</ul>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>When I started to get nauseated from the smell, I finally threw in the towel and called it a night. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>To calm my hormonally-induced anxiety, I decided to play it safe and pop a Benadryl.  This would combat any allergic reaction and make me sleep like a baby all in one fell swoop.  Everything turned out to be just fine.  Whew!</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>I apologize to the 3 token male readers who are embarrassed, aghast and don\'t get this post at all while 99% of the female readership nod their heads in agreement as though this all makes perfect sense.</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>','Day 16:  Facial Frenzy','','inherit','open','open','','863-revision-6','','','2010-10-02 12:10:16','2010-10-02 19:10:16','',863,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/10/02/863-revision-6/',0,'revision','',0),(877,1,'2010-10-02 12:11:28','2010-10-02 19:11:28','<p>I am convinced that I might be the only weirdo on this planet who freaks out over a facial. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Facials are supposed to be relaxing.  Soothing. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>For me, they make me break out into hypochondria and zits.  Let me explain. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Prior to day 16, I had experienced one facial in my lifetime.  It turned my skin into that of a pimply 16 year-old.  On top of the mini-volcanoes on my skin, I suffered an itchy-red-flaky allergic reaction.  Needless to say, I have not been enticed to try another facial. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Until my moment of Insanity on Day 16. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>As I rummaged through a drawer in my master bath, I came across a bag of \"Facial Steam Herbs\".  I calculated that I received these for my birthday 4 YEARS AGO and set them aside for a \"rainy day\".  Now that I think of it, I may have told myself \"rainy day\", but my subconscious may have told myself \"post-traumatic facial stress\".  I will consult with a therapist and get back to you on this. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Being my grandmother\'s daughter, I wasn\'t about to throw away perfectly good Facial Steam Herbs.  And besides, they were too old to re-gift. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Day 16 Facial Steam it was!  This couldn\'t be so bad: </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<ol>\n	<li>It was free.  </li>\n	<li>I wasn\'t applying any product to skin as was done in the Facial from Hell.  </li>\n	<li>Herbs are good for you.  </li>\n	<li>I needed to chill out.</li>\n</ol>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>I heated up a large pot of water on the stove.  I then put half of the bag of Facial Steam Herbs into the pot and set it up at my kitchen table.  I slung a towel over my head in tent-like fashion.  And I have no problem saying that I inhaled. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>The herbs smelled 4 years old.  </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>And the real fun began.  Allow me to share with you the neurotic self-talk of a woman coping with \"post-traumatic facial stress\":</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<ul>\n	<li>\"What\'s in this stuff?  It reeks!  Could it be the 4 year-old rose petals?\"</li>\n	<li>\"Wait a minute.  I think I might be allergic to roses!\"</li>\n	<li>\"Great.  We\'re all dying from ragweed allergies out here in the Allergy Capital of the World, and now I\'m snorting weed steam.  Brilliant idea.\"</li>\n	<li>\"Did I feel that pressure in my sinuses before I started this???\"</li>\n	<li>\"Is this going to break me out for my girls\' weekend in Snobbsdale???  There\'s nothing worse than being poolside with zits.\"</li>\n	<li><span style=\"color: #ff0000;\">\"Would I be even thinking of these things if I hadn\'t just started my period???\"</span></li>\n	<li>\"Crap.\"</li>\n</ul>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>When I started to get nauseated from the smell, I finally threw in the towel and called it a night. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>To calm my hormonally-induced anxiety, I decided to play it safe and pop a Benadryl.  This would combat any allergic reaction and make me sleep like a baby all in one fell swoop.  Everything turned out to be just fine.  Whew!</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>I apologize to the 3 token male readers who are embarrassed, aghast and don\'t get this post at all while 99% of the female readership nod their heads in agreement as though this all makes perfect sense.</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>','Day 16:  Facial Frenzy','','inherit','open','open','','863-revision-7','','','2010-10-02 12:11:28','2010-10-02 19:11:28','',863,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/10/02/863-revision-7/',0,'revision','',0),(878,1,'2010-10-02 12:13:51','2010-10-02 19:13:51','<p>I am convinced that I might be the only weirdo on this planet who freaks out over a facial. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Facials are supposed to be relaxing.  Soothing. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>For me, they make me break out into hypochondria and zits.  Let me explain. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Prior to day 16, I had experienced one facial in my lifetime.  It turned my skin into that of a pimply 16 year-old.  On top of the mini-volcanoes on my face, I suffered an itchy-red-flaky allergic reaction.  Needless to say, I have not been enticed to try another facial. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Until my moment of Insanity on Day 16. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>As I rummaged through a drawer in my master bath, I came across a bag of \"Facial Steam Herbs\".  I calculated that I received these for my birthday 4 YEARS AGO and set them aside for a \"rainy day\".  Now that I think of it, I may have told myself \"rainy day\", but my subconscious may have told myself \"post-traumatic facial stress\".  I will consult with a therapist and get back to you on this. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Being my grandmother\'s daughter, I wasn\'t about to throw away perfectly good Facial Steam Herbs.  And besides, they were too old to re-gift. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Day 16 Facial Steam it was!  This couldn\'t be so bad: </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<ol>\n	<li>It was free.  </li>\n	<li>I wasn\'t applying any product to skin as was done in the Facial from Hell.  </li>\n	<li>Herbs are good for you.  </li>\n	<li>I needed to chill out.</li>\n</ol>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>I heated up a large pot of water on the stove.  I then put half of the bag of Facial Steam Herbs into the pot and set it up at my kitchen table.  I slung a towel over my head in tent-like fashion.  And I have no problem saying that I inhaled. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>The herbs smelled 4 years old.  </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>And then the real fun began.  Allow me to share with you the neurotic self-talk of a woman coping with \"post-traumatic facial stress\":</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<ul>\n	<li>\"What\'s in this stuff?  It reeks!  Could it be the 4 year-old rose petals?\"</li>\n	<li>\"Wait a minute.  I think I might be allergic to roses!\"</li>\n	<li>\"Great.  We\'re all dying from ragweed allergies out here in the Allergy Capital of the World, and now I\'m snorting weed steam.  Brilliant idea.\"</li>\n	<li>\"Did I feel that pressure in my sinuses before I started this???\"</li>\n	<li>\"Is this going to break me out for my girls\' weekend in Snobbsdale???  There\'s nothing worse than being poolside with zits.\"</li>\n	<li><span style=\"color: #ff0000;\">\"Would I be even thinking of these things if I hadn\'t just started my period???\"</span></li>\n	<li>\"Crap.\"</li>\n</ul>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>When I started to get nauseated from the smell, I finally threw in the towel and called it a night. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>To calm my hormonally-induced anxiety, I decided to play it safe and pop a Benadryl.  This would combat any allergic reaction and make me sleep like a baby all in one fell swoop.  Everything turned out to be just fine.  Whew!</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>I apologize to the 3 token male readers who are embarrassed, aghast and don\'t get this post at all while 99% of the female readership nod their heads in agreement as though this all makes perfect sense.</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>','Day 16:  Facial Frenzy','','inherit','open','open','','863-revision-8','','','2010-10-02 12:13:51','2010-10-02 19:13:51','',863,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/10/02/863-revision-8/',0,'revision','',0),(879,1,'2010-10-02 12:15:12','2010-10-02 19:15:12','<p>I am convinced that I might be the only weirdo on this planet who freaks out over a facial. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Facials are supposed to be relaxing.  Soothing. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>For me, they make me break out into hypochondria and zits.  Let me explain. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Prior to day 16, I had experienced one facial in my lifetime.  It turned my skin into that of a pimply 16 year-old.  On top of the mini-volcanoes on my face, I suffered an itchy-red-flaky allergic reaction.  Needless to say, I have not been enticed to try another facial. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Until my moment of Insanity on Day 16. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>As I rummaged through a drawer in my master bath, I came across a bag of \"Facial Steam Herbs\".  I calculated that I received these for my birthday 4 YEARS AGO and set them aside for a \"rainy day\".  Now that I think of it, I may have told myself \"rainy day\", but my subconscious may have told myself \"post-traumatic facial stress\".  I will consult with a therapist and get back to you on this. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Being my grandmother\'s daughter, I wasn\'t about to throw away perfectly good Facial Steam Herbs.  And besides, they were too old to re-gift. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Day 16 Facial Steam it was!  This couldn\'t be so bad: </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<ol>\n	<li>It was free.  </li>\n	<li>I wasn\'t applying any product to skin as was done in the Facial from Hell.  </li>\n	<li>Herbs are good for you.  </li>\n	<li>I needed to chill out.</li>\n</ol>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>I heated up a large pot of water on the stove.  I then put half of the bag of Facial Steam Herbs into the pot and set it up at my kitchen table.  I slung a towel over my head in tent-like fashion.  And I have no problem saying that I inhaled. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>The herbs smelled every bit of 4 years old.  </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>And then the real fun began.  Allow me to share with you the neurotic self-talk of a woman coping with \"post-traumatic facial stress\":</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<ul>\n	<li>\"What\'s in this stuff?  It reeks!  Could it be the 4 year-old rose petals?\"</li>\n	<li>\"Wait a minute.  I think I might be allergic to roses!\"</li>\n	<li>\"Great.  We\'re all dying from ragweed allergies out here in the Allergy Capital of the World, and now I\'m snorting weed steam.  Brilliant idea.\"</li>\n	<li>\"Did I feel that pressure in my sinuses before I started this???\"</li>\n	<li>\"Is this going to break me out for my girls\' weekend in Snobbsdale???  There\'s nothing worse than being poolside with zits.\"</li>\n	<li><span style=\"color: #ff0000;\">\"Would I be even thinking of these things if I hadn\'t just started my period???\"</span></li>\n	<li>\"Crap.\"</li>\n</ul>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>When I started to get nauseated from the smell, I finally threw in the towel and called it a night. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>To calm my hormonally-induced anxiety, I decided to play it safe and pop a Benadryl.  This would combat any allergic reaction and make me sleep like a baby all in one fell swoop.  Everything turned out to be just fine.  Whew!</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>I apologize to the 3 token male readers who are embarrassed, aghast and don\'t get this post at all while 99% of the female readership nod their heads in agreement as though this all makes perfect sense.</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>','Day 16:  Facial Frenzy','','inherit','open','open','','863-revision-9','','','2010-10-02 12:15:12','2010-10-02 19:15:12','',863,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/10/02/863-revision-9/',0,'revision','',0),(880,1,'2010-10-02 12:17:01','2010-10-02 19:17:01','<p>I am convinced that I might be the only weirdo on this planet who freaks out over a facial. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Facials are supposed to be relaxing.  Soothing. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>For me, they make me break out into hypochondria and zits.  Let me explain. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Prior to day 16, I had experienced one facial in my lifetime.  It turned my skin into that of a pimply 16 year-old.  On top of the mini-volcanoes on my face, I suffered an itchy-red-flaky allergic reaction.  Needless to say, I have not been enticed to try another facial. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Until my moment of Insanity on Day 16. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>As I rummaged through a drawer in my master bath, I came across a bag of \"Facial Steam Herbs\".  I calculated that I received these for my birthday 4 YEARS AGO and set them aside for a \"rainy day\".  Now that I think of it, I may have told myself \"rainy day\", but my subconscious may have told myself \"post-traumatic facial stress\".  I will consult with a therapist and get back to you on this. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Being my grandmother\'s daughter, I wasn\'t about to throw away perfectly good Facial Steam Herbs.  And besides, they were too old to re-gift. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Day 16 Facial Steam it was!  This couldn\'t be so bad: </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<ol>\n	<li>It was free.  </li>\n	<li>I wasn\'t applying any product to skin as was done in the Facial from Hell.  </li>\n	<li>Herbs are good for you.  </li>\n	<li>I needed to chill out.</li>\n</ol>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>I heated up a large pot of water on the stove.  I then put half of the bag of Facial Steam Herbs into the pot and set it up at my kitchen table.  I slung a towel over my head in tent-like fashion.  And I have no problem saying that I inhaled. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>The herbs smelled every bit of 4 years old.  </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>And then the real fun began.  Allow me to share with you the neurotic self-talk of a woman coping with \"post-traumatic facial stress\":</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<ul>\n	<li>\"What\'s in this stuff?  It reeks!  Could it be the 4 year-old rose petals?\"</li>\n	<li>\"Wait a minute.  I think I might be allergic to roses!\"</li>\n	<li>\"Great.  We\'re all dying from ragweed allergies out here in the Allergy Capital of the World, and now I\'m snorting weed steam.  Brilliant idea.\"</li>\n	<li>\"Did I feel that pressure in my sinuses before I started this???\"</li>\n	<li>\"Is this going to make me break out just in time for my girls\' weekend in Snobbsdale???  There\'s nothing worse than lounging poolside with zits.\"</li>\n	<li><span style=\"color: #ff0000;\">\"Would I be even thinking of these things if I hadn\'t just started my period???\"</span></li>\n	<li>\"Crap.\"</li>\n</ul>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>When I started to get nauseated from the smell, I finally threw in the towel and called it a night. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>To calm my hormonally-induced anxiety, I decided to play it safe and pop a Benadryl.  This would combat any allergic reaction and make me sleep like a baby all in one fell swoop.  Everything turned out to be just fine.  Whew!</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>I apologize to the 3 token male readers who are embarrassed, aghast and don\'t get this post at all while 99% of the female readership nod their heads in agreement as though this all makes perfect sense.</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>','Day 16:  Facial Frenzy','','inherit','open','open','','863-revision-10','','','2010-10-02 12:17:01','2010-10-02 19:17:01','',863,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/10/02/863-revision-10/',0,'revision','',0),(882,1,'2010-10-02 13:25:28','2010-10-02 20:25:28','','OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA','An Allergy Attack Waiting to Happen','inherit','open','open','','olympus-digital-camera-20','','','2010-10-02 13:25:28','2010-10-02 20:25:28','',863,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/herbalsteam.jpg',0,'attachment','image/jpeg',0),(881,1,'2010-10-02 12:17:55','2010-10-02 19:17:55','<p>I am convinced that I might be the only weirdo on this planet who freaks out over a facial. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Facials are supposed to be relaxing.  Soothing. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>For me, they make me break out into hypochondria and zits.  Let me explain. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Prior to day 16, I had experienced one facial in my lifetime.  It turned my skin into that of a pimply 16 year-old.  On top of the mini-volcanoes on my face, I suffered an itchy-red-flaky allergic reaction.  Needless to say, I have not been enticed to try another facial. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Until my moment of Insanity on Day 16. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>As I rummaged through a drawer in my master bath, I came across a bag of \"Facial Steam Herbs\".  I calculated that I received these for my birthday 4 YEARS AGO and set them aside for a \"rainy day\".  Now that I think of it, I may have told myself \"rainy day\", but my subconscious may have told myself \"post-traumatic facial stress\".  I will consult with a therapist and get back to you on this. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Being my grandmother\'s daughter, I wasn\'t about to throw away perfectly good Facial Steam Herbs.  And besides, they were too old to re-gift. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Day 16 Facial Steam it was!  This couldn\'t be so bad: </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<ol>\r\n	<li>It was free.  </li>\r\n	<li>I wasn\'t applying any product to skin as was done in the Facial from Hell.  </li>\r\n	<li>Herbs are good for you.  </li>\r\n	<li>I needed to chill out.</li>\r\n</ol>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I heated up a large pot of water on the stove.  I then put half of the bag of Facial Steam Herbs into the pot and set it up at my kitchen table.  I slung a towel over my head in tent-like fashion.  And I have no problem saying that I inhaled. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>The herbs smelled every bit of 4 years old.  </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>And then the real fun began.  Allow me to share with you the neurotic self-talk of a woman coping with \"post-traumatic facial stress\":</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li>\"What\'s in this stuff?  It reeks!  Could it be the 4 year-old rose petals?\"</li>\r\n	<li>\"Wait a minute.  I think I might be allergic to roses!\"</li>\r\n	<li>\"Great.  We\'re all dying from ragweed allergies out here in the Allergy Capital of the World, and now I\'m snorting weed steam.  Brilliant idea.\"</li>\r\n	<li>\"Did I feel that pressure in my sinuses before I started this???\"</li>\r\n	<li>\"Is this going to make me break out right in time for my girls\' weekend in Snobbsdale???  There\'s nothing worse than lounging poolside with zits.\"</li>\r\n	<li><span style=\"color: #ff0000;\">\"Would I be even thinking of these things if I hadn\'t just started my period???\"</span></li>\r\n	<li>\"Crap.\"</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>When I started to get nauseated from the smell, I finally threw in the towel and called it a night. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>To calm my hormonally-induced anxiety, I decided to play it safe and pop a Benadryl.  This would combat any allergic reaction and make me sleep like a baby all in one fell swoop. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Everything turned out to be just fine.  Whew!</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I apologize to the 3 token male readers who are embarrassed, aghast and don\'t get this post at all while 99% of the female readership nod their heads in agreement as though this all makes perfect sense.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>','Day 16:  Facial Frenzy','','inherit','open','open','','863-revision-11','','','2010-10-02 12:17:55','2010-10-02 19:17:55','',863,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/10/02/863-revision-11/',0,'revision','',0),(883,1,'2010-10-02 12:19:00','2010-10-02 19:19:00','<p>I am convinced that I might be the only weirdo on this planet who freaks out over a facial. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Facials are supposed to be relaxing.  Soothing. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>For me, they make me break out into hypochondria and zits.  Let me explain. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Prior to day 16, I had experienced one facial in my lifetime.  It turned my skin into that of a pimply 16 year-old.  On top of the mini-volcanoes on my face, I suffered an itchy-red-flaky allergic reaction.  Needless to say, I have not been enticed to try another facial. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Until my moment of Insanity on Day 16. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>As I rummaged through a drawer in my master bath, I came across a bag of \"Facial Steam Herbs\".  I calculated that I received these for my birthday 4 YEARS AGO and set them aside for a \"rainy day\".  Now that I think of it, I may have told myself \"rainy day\", but my subconscious may have told myself \"post-traumatic facial stress\".  I will consult with a therapist and get back to you on this. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Being my grandmother\'s daughter, I wasn\'t about to throw away perfectly good Facial Steam Herbs.  And besides, they were too old to re-gift. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Day 16 Facial Steam it was!  This couldn\'t be so bad: </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<ol>\n	<li>It was free.  </li>\n	<li>I wasn\'t applying any product to skin as was done in the Facial from Hell.  </li>\n	<li>Herbs are good for you.  </li>\n	<li>I needed to chill out.</li>\n</ol>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>I heated up a large pot of water on the stove.  I then put half of the bag of Facial Steam Herbs into the pot and set it up at my kitchen table.  I slung a towel over my head in tent-like fashion.  And I have no problem saying that I inhaled. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>The herbs smelled every bit of 4 years old.  </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>And then the real fun began.  Allow me to share with you the neurotic self-talk of a woman coping with \"post-traumatic facial stress\":</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<ul>\n	<li>\"What\'s in this stuff?  It reeks!  Could it be the 4 year-old rose petals?\"</li>\n	<li>\"Wait a minute.  I think I might be allergic to roses!\"</li>\n	<li>\"Great.  We\'re all dying from ragweed allergies out here in the Allergy Capital of the World, and now I\'m snorting weed steam.  Brilliant idea.\"</li>\n	<li>\"Did I feel that pressure in my sinuses before I started this???\"</li>\n	<li>\"Is this going to make me break out right in time for my girls\' weekend in Snobbsdale???  There\'s nothing worse than lounging poolside with zits.\"</li>\n	<li><span style=\"color: #ff0000;\">\"Would I be even thinking of these things if I hadn\'t just started my period???\"</span></li>\n	<li>\"Crap.\"</li>\n</ul>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>When I started to get nauseated from the smell, I finally threw in the towel and called it a night. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>To calm my hormonally-induced anxiety, I decided to play it safe and pop a Benadryl.  This would combat any allergic reaction and make me sleep like a baby all in one fell swoop. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Everything turned out to be just fine.  Whew!</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>I apologize to the 3 token male readers who are embarrassed, aghast and don\'t get this post at all while 99% of the female readership nod their heads in agreement as though this all makes perfect sense.</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>','Day 16:  Facial Frenzy','','inherit','open','open','','863-revision-12','','','2010-10-02 12:19:00','2010-10-02 19:19:00','',863,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/10/02/863-revision-12/',0,'revision','',0),(1192,1,'2010-10-21 01:11:09','2010-10-21 08:11:09','<p>Dear Friends,</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Thank you for all of your kind words and condolences over the past week.  Originally when I started this blog, I intended to try one soul-scintillating \"thing\" each day for 365 consecutive days.  When my grandfather passed away, my plan proved to be an impossibility.  I needed to put everything in my life on hold and spend as much time as possible with my family.  We found solace in one another as well as beautiful, cherished memories. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>If you want to envision my family, think of the movie <em>My Big Fat Greek Wedding </em>and replace \"Greek\" with \"Portuguese\".  That\'s my crazy, loud, large and loving family!  :-)  So, yes, moments of Carpe Diem penetrated the intense sorrow throughout the week.  I simply needed privacy during the grieving process. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I am now back home and ready to share the journey with you.  Starting tomorrow and the next day, I will post Days 25 and 26 which I experienced but didn\'t get the chance to write about before I left last week.  Sunday\'s post will then begin the continuation of bloominess! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I dedicate the remainder of this blog to the memory of my Papa, whom I will always love with all of my heart.  I can feel you watching over me, Papa, and that brings me comfort beyond belief. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Warmly,</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Michelle</p>','I\'m Back and Ready for More Carpe Diem-ing! ','','publish','open','open','','im-back-and-ready-for-more-carpe-diem-ing','','','2010-10-21 06:05:28','2010-10-21 13:05:28','',0,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?p=1192',0,'post','',6),(905,1,'2010-10-02 11:17:27','2010-10-02 18:17:27','','Day 18:  Scottsdale Sat','','inherit','open','open','','868-revision-2','','','2010-10-02 11:17:27','2010-10-02 18:17:27','',868,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/10/02/868-revision-2/',0,'revision','',0),(906,1,'2010-10-02 11:17:44','2010-10-02 18:17:44','','Day 19:  Scottsdale Sun','','inherit','open','open','','870-revision-2','','','2010-10-02 11:17:44','2010-10-02 18:17:44','',870,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/10/02/870-revision-2/',0,'revision','',0),(884,1,'2010-10-02 13:27:30','2010-10-02 20:27:30','[caption id=\"attachment_882\" align=\"alignleft\" width=\"300\" caption=\"An Allergy Attack Waiting to Happen\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/herbalsteam.jpg\" target=\"_blank\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-882 \" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/herbalsteam-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n<p>I am convinced that I might be the only weirdo on this planet who freaks out over a facial. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Facials are supposed to be relaxing.  Soothing. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>For me, they make me break out into hypochondria and zits.  Let me explain. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Prior to day 16, I had experienced one facial in my lifetime.  It turned my skin into that of a pimply 16 year-old.  On top of the mini-volcanoes on my face, I suffered an itchy-red-flaky allergic reaction.  Needless to say, I have not been enticed to try another facial. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Until my moment of Insanity on Day 16. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>As I rummaged through a drawer in my master bath, I came across a bag of \"Facial Steam Herbs\".  I calculated that I received these for my birthday 4 YEARS AGO and set them aside for a \"rainy day\".  Now that I think of it, I may have told myself \"rainy day\", but my subconscious may have told myself \"post-traumatic facial stress\".  I will consult with a therapist and get back to you on this. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Being my grandmother\'s daughter, I wasn\'t about to throw away perfectly good Facial Steam Herbs.  And besides, they were too old to re-gift. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Day 16 Facial Steam it was!  This couldn\'t be so bad: </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<ol>\r\n	<li>It was free.  </li>\r\n	<li>I wasn\'t applying any product to skin as was done in the Facial from Hell.  </li>\r\n	<li>Herbs are good for you.  </li>\r\n	<li>I needed to chill out.</li>\r\n</ol>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I heated up a large pot of water on the stove.  I then put half of the bag of Facial Steam Herbs into the pot and set it up at my kitchen table.  I slung a towel over my head in tent-like fashion.  And I have no problem saying that I inhaled. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>The herbs smelled every bit of 4 years old.  </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>And then the real fun began.  Allow me to share with you the neurotic self-talk of a woman coping with \"post-traumatic facial stress\":</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li>\"What\'s in this stuff?  It reeks!  Could it be the 4 year-old rose petals?\"</li>\r\n	<li>\"Wait a minute.  I think I might be allergic to roses!\"</li>\r\n	<li>\"Great.  We\'re all dying from ragweed allergies out here in the Allergy Capital of the World, and now I\'m snorting weed steam.  Brilliant idea.\"</li>\r\n	<li>\"Did I feel that pressure in my sinuses before I started this???\"</li>\r\n	<li>\"Is this going to make me break out right in time for my girls\' weekend in Snobbsdale???  There\'s nothing worse than lounging poolside with zits.\"</li>\r\n	<li><span style=\"color: #ff0000;\">\"Would I be even thinking of these things if I hadn\'t just started my period???\"</span></li>\r\n	<li>\"Crap.\"</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>When I started to get nauseated from the smell, I finally threw in the towel and called it a night. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>To calm my hormonally-induced anxiety, I decided to play it safe and pop a Benadryl.  This would combat any allergic reaction and make me sleep like a baby all in one fell swoop. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Everything turned out to be just fine.  Whew!</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I apologize to the 3 token male readers who are embarrassed, aghast and don\'t get this post at all while 99% of the female readership nod their heads in agreement as though this all makes perfect sense.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>','Day 16:  Facial Frenzy','','inherit','open','open','','863-revision-13','','','2010-10-02 13:27:30','2010-10-02 20:27:30','',863,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/10/02/863-revision-13/',0,'revision','',0),(885,1,'2010-10-02 13:27:58','2010-10-02 20:27:58','<p>\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_882\" align=\"alignleft\" width=\"300\" caption=\"An Allergy Attack Waiting to Happen\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/herbalsteam.jpg\" target=\"_blank\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-882 \" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/herbalsteam-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n<p>I am convinced that I might be the only weirdo on this planet who freaks out over a facial. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Facials are supposed to be relaxing.  Soothing. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>For me, they make me break out into hypochondria and zits.  Let me explain. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Prior to day 16, I had experienced one facial in my lifetime.  It turned my skin into that of a pimply 16 year-old.  On top of the mini-volcanoes on my face, I suffered an itchy-red-flaky allergic reaction.  Needless to say, I have not been enticed to try another facial. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Until my moment of Insanity on Day 16. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>As I rummaged through a drawer in my master bath, I came across a bag of \"Facial Steam Herbs\".  I calculated that I received these for my birthday 4 YEARS AGO and set them aside for a \"rainy day\".  Now that I think of it, I may have told myself \"rainy day\", but my subconscious may have told myself \"post-traumatic facial stress\".  I will consult with a therapist and get back to you on this. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Being my grandmother\'s daughter, I wasn\'t about to throw away perfectly good Facial Steam Herbs.  And besides, they were too old to re-gift. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Day 16 Facial Steam it was!  This couldn\'t be so bad: </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<ol>\r\n	<li>It was free.  </li>\r\n	<li>I wasn\'t applying any product to skin as was done in the Facial from Hell.  </li>\r\n	<li>Herbs are good for you.  </li>\r\n	<li>I needed to chill out.</li>\r\n</ol>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I heated up a large pot of water on the stove.  I then put half of the bag of Facial Steam Herbs into the pot and set it up at my kitchen table.  I slung a towel over my head in tent-like fashion.  And I have no problem saying that I inhaled. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>The herbs smelled every bit of 4 years old.  </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>And then the real fun began.  Allow me to share with you the neurotic self-talk of a woman coping with \"post-traumatic facial stress\":</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li>\"What\'s in this stuff?  It reeks!  Could it be the 4 year-old rose petals?\"</li>\r\n	<li>\"Wait a minute.  I think I might be allergic to roses!\"</li>\r\n	<li>\"Great.  We\'re all dying from ragweed allergies out here in the Allergy Capital of the World, and now I\'m snorting weed steam.  Brilliant idea.\"</li>\r\n	<li>\"Did I feel that pressure in my sinuses before I started this???\"</li>\r\n	<li>\"Is this going to make me break out right in time for my girls\' weekend in Snobbsdale???  There\'s nothing worse than lounging poolside with zits.\"</li>\r\n	<li><span style=\"color: #ff0000;\">\"Would I be even thinking of these things if I hadn\'t just started my period???\"</span></li>\r\n	<li>\"Crap.\"</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>When I started to get nauseated from the smell, I finally threw in the towel and called it a night. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>To calm my hormonally-induced anxiety, I decided to play it safe and pop a Benadryl.  This would combat any allergic reaction and make me sleep like a baby all in one fell swoop. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Everything turned out to be just fine.  Whew!</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I apologize to the 3 token male readers who are embarrassed, aghast and don\'t get this post at all while 99% of the female readership nod their heads in agreement as though this all makes perfect sense.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>','Day 16:  Facial Frenzy','','inherit','open','open','','863-revision-14','','','2010-10-02 13:27:58','2010-10-02 20:27:58','',863,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/10/02/863-revision-14/',0,'revision','',0),(886,1,'2010-10-02 13:30:01','2010-10-02 20:30:01','<p>\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_882\" align=\"alignleft\" width=\"300\" caption=\"An Allergy Attack Waiting to Happen\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/herbalsteam.jpg\" target=\"_blank\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-882 \" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/herbalsteam-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n<p>I am convinced that I might be the only weirdo on this planet who freaks out over a facial. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Facials are supposed to be relaxing.  Soothing. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>For me, they make me break out into hypochondria and zits.  Let me explain. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Prior to day 16, I had experienced one facial in my lifetime.  It turned my skin into that of a pimply 16 year-old.  On top of the mini-volcanoes on my face, I suffered an itchy-red-flaky allergic reaction.  Needless to say, I have not been enticed to try another facial. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Until my moment of Insanity on Day 16. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>As I rummaged through a drawer in my master bath, I came across a bag of \"Facial Steam Herbs\".  I calculated that I received these for my birthday 4 YEARS AGO and set them aside for a \"rainy day\".  Now that I think of it, I may have told myself \"rainy day\", but my subconscious may have told myself \"post-traumatic facial stress\".  I will consult with a therapist and get back to you on this. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Being my grandmother\'s daughter, I wasn\'t about to throw away perfectly good Facial Steam Herbs.  And besides, they were too old to re-gift. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Day 16 Facial Steam it was!  This couldn\'t be so bad: </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<ol>\r\n	<li>It was free.  </li>\r\n	<li>I wasn\'t applying any product to my skin as was done in the Facial from Hell.  </li>\r\n	<li>Herbs are good for you.  </li>\r\n	<li>I needed to chill out.</li>\r\n</ol>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I heated up a large pot of water on the stove.  I then put half of the bag of Facial Steam Herbs into the pot and set it up at my kitchen table.  I slung a towel over my head in tent-like fashion.  And I have no problem saying that I inhaled. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>The herbs smelled every bit of 4 years old.  </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>And then the real fun began.  Allow me to share with you the neurotic self-talk of a woman coping with \"post-traumatic facial stress\":</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li>\"What\'s in this stuff?  It reeks!  Could it be the 4 year-old rose petals?\"</li>\r\n	<li>\"Wait a minute.  I think I might be allergic to roses!\"</li>\r\n	<li>\"Great.  We\'re all dying from ragweed allergies out here in the Allergy Capital of the World, and now I\'m snorting weed steam.  Brilliant idea.\"</li>\r\n	<li>\"Did I feel that pressure in my sinuses before I started this???\"</li>\r\n	<li>\"Is this going to make me break out right in time for my girls\' weekend in Snobbsdale???  There\'s nothing worse than lounging poolside with zits.\"</li>\r\n	<li><span style=\"color: #ff0000;\">\"Would I be even thinking of these things if I hadn\'t just started my period???\"</span></li>\r\n	<li>\"Crap.\"</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>When I started to get nauseated from the smell, I finally threw in the towel and called it a night. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>To calm my hormonally-induced anxiety, I decided to play it safe and pop a Benadryl.  This would combat any allergic reaction and make me sleep like a baby all in one fell swoop. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Everything turned out to be just fine.  Whew!</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I apologize to the 3 token male readers who are embarrassed, aghast and don\'t get this post at all while 99% of the female readership nod their heads in agreement as though this all makes perfect sense.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>','Day 16:  Facial Frenzy','','inherit','open','open','','863-revision-15','','','2010-10-02 13:30:01','2010-10-02 20:30:01','',863,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/10/02/863-revision-15/',0,'revision','',0),(887,1,'2010-10-02 13:31:54','2010-10-02 20:31:54','<p>\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_882\" align=\"alignleft\" width=\"300\" caption=\"An Allergy Attack Waiting to Happen\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/herbalsteam.jpg\" target=\"_blank\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-882 \" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/herbalsteam-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n<p>I am convinced that I might be the only weirdo on this planet who freaks out over a facial. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Facials are supposed to be relaxing.  Soothing. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>For me, they make me break out into hypochondria and zits.  Let me explain. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Prior to day 16, I had experienced one facial in my lifetime.  It turned my skin into that of a pimply 16 year-old.  On top of the mini-volcanoes on my face, I suffered an itchy-red-flaky allergic reaction.  Needless to say, I have not been enticed to try another facial. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Until my moment of Insanity on Day 16. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>As I rummaged through a drawer in my master bath, I came across a bag of \"Facial Steam Herbs\".  I calculated that I received these for my birthday 4 YEARS AGO and set them aside for a \"rainy day\".  Now that I think of it, I may have told myself \"rainy day\", but my subconscious may have told myself \"post-traumatic facial stress\".  I will consult with a therapist and get back to you on this. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Being my grandmother\'s daughter, I wasn\'t about to throw away perfectly good Facial Steam Herbs.  And besides, they were too old to re-gift. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Day 16 Facial Steam it was!  This couldn\'t be so bad: </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<ol>\r\n	<li>It was free.  </li>\r\n	<li>I wasn\'t applying any product to my skin as was done in the Facial from Hell.  </li>\r\n	<li>Herbs are good for you.  </li>\r\n	<li>I needed to chill out.</li>\r\n</ol>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I heated up a large pot of water on the stove.  I then put half of the bag of Facial Steam Herbs into the pot and set it up at my kitchen table.  I slung a towel over my head in tent-like fashion.  And I have no problem saying that I inhaled. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>The herbs smelled every bit of 4 years old.  </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>And then the real fun began.  Allow me to share with you the neurotic self-talk of a woman coping with \"post-traumatic facial stress\":</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li>\"What\'s in this stuff?  It reeks!  Could it be the 4 year-old rose petals?\"</li>\r\n	<li>\"Wait a minute.  I think I might be allergic to roses!\"</li>\r\n	<li>\"Great.  We\'re all dying from ragweed allergies out here in the Allergy Capital of the World, and now I\'m snorting weed steam.  Brilliant idea.\"</li>\r\n	<li>\"Did I feel that pressure in my sinuses before I started this???\"</li>\r\n	<li>\"Is this going to make me break out right in time for my girls\' weekend in Snobbsdale???  There\'s nothing worse than lounging poolside with zits.\"</li>\r\n	<li><span style=\"color: #ff0000;\">\"Would I even think of these things if I hadn\'t just started my period???\"</span></li>\r\n	<li>\"Crap.\"</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>When I started to get nauseated from the smell, I finally threw in the towel and called it a night. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>To calm my hormonally-induced anxiety, I decided to play it safe and pop a Benadryl.  This would combat any allergic reaction and make me sleep like a baby all in one fell swoop. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Everything turned out to be just fine.  Whew!</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I apologize to the 3 token male readers who are embarrassed, aghast and don\'t get this post at all while 99% of the female readership nod their heads in agreement as though this all makes perfect sense.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>','Day 16:  Facial Frenzy','','inherit','open','open','','863-revision-16','','','2010-10-02 13:31:54','2010-10-02 20:31:54','',863,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/10/02/863-revision-16/',0,'revision','',0),(888,1,'2010-10-02 13:32:01','2010-10-02 20:32:01','<p>\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_882\" align=\"alignleft\" width=\"300\" caption=\"An Allergy Attack Waiting to Happen\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/herbalsteam.jpg\" target=\"_blank\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-882 \" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/herbalsteam-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n<p>I am convinced that I might be the only weirdo on this planet who freaks out over a facial. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Facials are supposed to be relaxing.  Soothing. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>For me, they make me break out into hypochondria and zits.  Let me explain. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Prior to day 16, I had experienced one facial in my lifetime.  It turned my skin into that of a pimply 16 year-old.  On top of the mini-volcanoes on my face, I suffered an itchy-red-flaky allergic reaction.  Needless to say, I have not been enticed to try another facial. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Until my moment of Insanity on Day 16. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>As I rummaged through a drawer in my master bath, I came across a bag of \"Facial Steam Herbs\".  I calculated that I received these for my birthday 4 YEARS AGO and set them aside for a \"rainy day\".  Now that I think of it, I may have told myself \"rainy day\", but my subconscious may have told myself \"post-traumatic facial stress\".  I will consult with a therapist and get back to you on this. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Being my grandmother\'s daughter, I wasn\'t about to throw away perfectly good Facial Steam Herbs.  And besides, they were too old to re-gift. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Day 16 Facial Steam it was!  This couldn\'t be so bad: </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<ol>\r\n	<li>It was free.  </li>\r\n	<li>I wasn\'t applying any product to my skin as was done in the Facial from Hell.  </li>\r\n	<li>Herbs are good for you.  </li>\r\n	<li>I needed to chill out.</li>\r\n</ol>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I heated up a large pot of water on the stove.  I then put half of the bag of Facial Steam Herbs into the pot and set it up at my kitchen table.  I slung a towel over my head in tent-like fashion.  And I have no problem saying that I inhaled. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>The herbs smelled every bit of 4 years old.  </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>And then the real fun began.  Allow me to share with you the neurotic self-talk of a woman coping with \"post-traumatic facial stress\":</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li>\"What\'s in this stuff?  It reeks!  Could it be the 4 year-old rose petals?\"</li>\r\n	<li>\"Wait a minute.  I think I might be allergic to roses!\"</li>\r\n	<li>\"Great.  We\'re all dying from ragweed allergies out here in the Allergy Capital of the World, and now I\'m snorting weed steam.  Brilliant idea.\"</li>\r\n	<li>\"Did I feel that pressure in my sinuses before I started this???\"</li>\r\n	<li>\"Is this going to make me break out right in time for my girls\' weekend in Snobbsdale???  There\'s nothing worse than lounging poolside with zits.\"</li>\r\n	<li><span style=\"color: #ff0000;\">\"Would I even think of these things if I hadn\'t just started my period???\"</span></li>\r\n	<li>\"Crap.\"</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>When I started to get nauseated from the smell, I finally threw in the towel and called it a night. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>To calm my hormonally-induced anxiety, I decided to play it safe and pop a Benadryl.  This would combat any allergic reaction and make me sleep like a baby all in one fell swoop. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Everything turned out to be just fine.  Whew!</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I apologize to the 3 token male readers who are embarrassed, aghast and don\'t get this post at all while 99% of the female readership nod their heads in agreement as though this all makes perfect sense.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>','Day 16:  Facial Frenzy','','inherit','open','open','','863-revision-17','','','2010-10-02 13:32:01','2010-10-02 20:32:01','',863,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/10/02/863-revision-17/',0,'revision','',0),(889,1,'2010-10-02 13:34:56','2010-10-02 20:34:56','<p>\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_882\" align=\"alignleft\" width=\"300\" caption=\"An Allergy Attack Waiting to Happen\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/herbalsteam.jpg\" target=\"_blank\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-882 \" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/herbalsteam-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n<p>I am convinced that I might be the only weirdo on this planet who freaks out over a facial. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Facials are supposed to be relaxing.  Soothing. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>For me, they make me break out into hypochondria and zits.  Let me explain. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Prior to day 16, I had experienced one facial in my lifetime.  It turned my skin into that of a pimply 16 year-old.  On top of the mini-volcanoes on my face, I suffered an itchy-red-flaky allergic reaction.  Needless to say, I have not been enticed to try another facial. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Until my moment of Insanity on Day 16. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>As I rummaged through a drawer in my master bath, I came across a bag of \"Facial Steam Herbs\".  I calculated that I received these for my birthday 4 YEARS AGO and set them aside for a \"rainy day\".  Now that I think of it, I may have told myself \"rainy day\", but my subconscious may have told myself \"post-traumatic facial stress\".  I will consult with a therapist and get back to you on this. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Being my grandmother\'s daughter, I wasn\'t about to throw away perfectly good Facial Steam Herbs.  And besides, they were too old to re-gift. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Day 16 Facial Steam it was!  This couldn\'t be so bad: </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<ol>\r\n	<li>It was free.  </li>\r\n	<li>I wasn\'t applying any product to my skin as was done in the Facial from Hell.  </li>\r\n	<li>Herbs are good for you.  </li>\r\n	<li>I needed to chill out.</li>\r\n</ol>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I heated up a large pot of water on the stove.  I then put half of the bag of Facial Steam Herbs into the pot and set it up at my kitchen table.  I slung a towel over my head in tent-like fashion.  And I have no problem saying that I inhaled. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>The herbs smelled every bit of 4 years old.  </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>And then the real fun began.  Allow me to share with you the neurotic self-talk of a woman coping with \"post-traumatic facial stress\":</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li>\"What\'s in this stuff?  It reeks!  Could it be the 4 year-old rose petals?\"</li>\r\n	<li>\"Wait a minute.  I think I might be allergic to roses!\"</li>\r\n	<li>\"Great.  We\'re all dying from ragweed allergies out here in the Allergy Capital of the World, and now I\'m snorting weed steam.  Brilliant idea.\"</li>\r\n	<li>\"Did I feel that pressure in my sinuses before I started this???\"</li>\r\n	<li>\"Is this going to make me break out right in time for my girls\' weekend in Snobbsdale???  There\'s nothing worse than lounging poolside with zits.\"</li>\r\n	<li><span style=\"color: #ff0000;\">\"Would I even think of these things if I hadn\'t just started my period???\"</span></li>\r\n	<li>\"Crap.\"</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>When I started to get nauseated from the smell, I finally threw in the towel and called it a night. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>To calm my hormonally-induced anxiety, I decided to play it safe and pop a Benadryl.  This would combat any allergic reaction and make me sleep like a baby all in one fell swoop. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Everything turned out to be just fine.  Whew!</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I apologize to the 3 token male readers who are embarrassed, aghast and don\'t get this post at all while 99% of the female readership nod their heads in agreement as though this all makes perfect sense.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>','Day 16:  Facial Frenzy','','inherit','open','open','','863-revision-18','','','2010-10-02 13:34:56','2010-10-02 20:34:56','',863,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/10/02/863-revision-18/',0,'revision','',0),(890,1,'2010-10-02 14:35:01','2010-10-02 21:35:01','<p>I\'m a wee bit intimidated by infants.  </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>I\'m used to being around kids 2½ and up.  Back in the day when I was in the classroom, I was known as the second coming of Mary Poppins.  Give me a rowdy group of preschoolers, and I can lead them blindfolded and with my hands behind my back.</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>But an infant?  They are so fragile.  I gracefully decline holding them and simply coo from afar. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>This worked out just fine until Day 17.  One of my posse gave birth a week ago.  This is significant because no one in the posse has given birth since we\'ve all been together.  (Going on almost ten years!)  I asked Whitney, aka Whitters, to kindly give birth on my birthday, but nature dictated \"no\" and delivered baby Michael one week later. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>It was time for the 1st Baby Worshipping Visitation.  I tried to coordinate with Cooleenie so that I could stick to my comfortable coo from afar tactic, but Cooleenie is a professional chaueffer to two teenage kids which makes for a complicated schedule. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>So I trekked out for the 1st Baby Worhipping Visitation all by lonesome. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>When I arrived, baby Michael was asleep in his bassenette.  I was stunned at how beautiful this 1-week-old baby was since most babies at this stage look like aliens.  Come on, you know it\'s true!  But not baby Michael.  Nope.  Simply beautiful, I tell you.   </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>I genuinely cooed from afar and then plopped down on the sofa with Whitters to get the gory details of childbirth.  Whitters had nothing to report but sunshine and lollipops because this is the story of Whitter\'s life.  She is like Cinderella with the birds and mice trailing behind her as they sing upbeat songs.  And she\'s just as sweet and kind as Cinderella, so you can\'t even get the slightest bit annoyed at her. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Anywho -- get this -- Whitters felt only mild cramping and then pushed for ten minutes. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>I tried to warn you.</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Trust me, sunshine and lollipops could not happen to a better person. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Throughout our conversation, baby Michael slept and slept and slept as Whitters and Prince Charming Chad (yep, he\'s perfect, too) told me how Michael awakes every hour and a half to eat.  Of course, Whitters looked gorgeous and as though she had not lost ten minutes of sleep.  At the two hour mark, I was obviously a sedative for baby Michael. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>As I started to wrap up the Baby Worshipping Visitation, I thought my coo from afar streak continued until...Chad offered to wake him up so that I could hold him. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Uh-oh. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>What makes this doubly interesting is that Whitters used to be the same way as me!  Ha!  Now she had no choice, and neither did I. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Chad ignored my drivel about feeling nervous and basically told me there was nothing to worry about while he gently cradled baby Michael in my lap. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>And that\'s when I completely melted. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>','Day 17:  Baby Love','','inherit','open','open','','865-revision-2','','','2010-10-02 14:35:01','2010-10-02 21:35:01','',865,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/10/02/865-revision-2/',0,'revision','',0),(891,1,'2010-10-02 14:44:26','2010-10-02 21:44:26','','baby feet','','inherit','open','open','','baby-feet','','','2010-10-02 14:44:26','2010-10-02 21:44:26','',865,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/baby-feet.jpg',0,'attachment','image/jpeg',0),(892,1,'2010-10-02 14:37:05','2010-10-02 21:37:05','<p>I\'m a wee bit intimidated by infants.  </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>I\'m used to being around kids 2½ and up.  Back in the day when I was in the classroom, I was known as the second coming of Mary Poppins.  Give me a rowdy group of preschoolers, and I can lead them blindfolded and with my hands behind my back.</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>But an infant?  They are so fragile.  I gracefully decline holding them and simply coo from afar. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>This worked out just fine until Day 17.  One of my posse gave birth a week ago.  This is significant because no one in the posse has given birth since we\'ve all been together.  (Going on almost ten years!)  I asked Whitney, aka Whitters, to kindly give birth on my birthday, but nature dictated \"no\" and delivered baby Michael one week later. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>It was time for the 1st Baby Worshipping Visitation.  I tried to coordinate with Cooleenie so that I could stick to my comfortable coo from afar tactic, but Cooleenie is a professional chaueffer to two teenage kids which makes for a complicated schedule. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>So I trekked out for the 1st Baby Worhipping Visitation all by lonesome. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>When I arrived, baby Michael was asleep in his bassenette.  I was stunned at how beautiful this 1-week-old baby was since most babies at this stage look like aliens.  Come on, you know it\'s true!  But not baby Michael.  Nope.  Simply beautiful, I tell you.   </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>I genuinely cooed from afar and then plopped down on the sofa with Whitters to get the gory details of childbirth.  Whitters had nothing to report but sunshine and lollipops because this is the story of Whitter\'s life.  She is like Cinderella with the birds and mice trailing behind her as they sing upbeat songs.  And she\'s just as sweet and kind as Cinderella, so you can\'t even get the slightest bit annoyed at her. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Anywho -- get this -- Whitters felt only mild cramping and then pushed for ten minutes. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>I tried to warn you.</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Trust me, sunshine and lollipops could not happen to a better person. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Throughout our conversation, baby Michael slept and slept and slept as Whitters and Prince Charming Chad (yep, he\'s perfect, too) told me how Michael awakes every hour and a half to eat.  Of course, Whitters looked gorgeous and as though she had not lost ten minutes of sleep.  At the two hour mark, I was obviously a sedative for baby Michael. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>As I started to wrap up the Baby Worshipping Visitation, I thought my coo from afar streak continued until...Chad offered to wake him up so that I could hold him. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Uh-oh. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>What makes this doubly interesting is that Whitters used to be the same way as me!  Ha!  Now she had no choice, and neither did I. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Chad ignored my drivel about feeling nervous and  told me there was nothing to worry about while he gently cradled baby Michael in my lap. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>And that\'s when I completely melted. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Sunshine and lollipops. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>','Day 17:  Baby Love','','inherit','open','open','','865-revision-3','','','2010-10-02 14:37:05','2010-10-02 21:37:05','',865,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/10/02/865-revision-3/',0,'revision','',0),(895,1,'2010-10-02 14:50:14','2010-10-02 21:50:14','<p><a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/chicagokatie/303297791/sizes/m/in/photostream/\" target=\"_blank\"><img class=\"alignleft size-medium wp-image-891\" title=\"baby feet\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/baby-feet-300x200.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"200\" /></a>I\'m a wee bit intimidated by infants.  </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I\'m used to being around kids 2½ and up.  Back in the day when I was in the classroom, I was known as the second coming of Mary Poppins.  Give me a rowdy group of preschoolers, and I can lead them blindfolded and with my hands behind my back.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>But an infant?  They are so fragile.  I gracefully decline holding them and simply coo from afar. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>This worked out just fine until Day 17.  One of my posse gave birth a week ago.  This is significant because no one in the posse has given birth since we\'ve all been together.  (Going on almost ten years!)  I asked Whitney, aka Whitters, to kindly give birth on my birthday, but nature dictated \"no\" and delivered baby Michael one week later. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>It was time for the 1st Baby Worshipping Visitation.  I tried to coordinate with Cooleenie so that I could stick to my comfortable coo from afar tactic, but Cooleenie is a professional chaueffer to two teenage kids which makes for a complicated schedule. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>So I trekked out for the 1st Baby Worhipping Visitation all by lonesome. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>When I arrived, baby Michael was asleep in his bassenette.  I was stunned at how beautiful this 1 week-old baby was since most babies at this stage look like aliens.  Come on, you know it\'s true!  But not baby Michael.  Nope.  Simply beautiful, I tell you.   </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I genuinely cooed from afar and then plopped down on the sofa with Whitters to get the gory details of childbirth.  Whitters had nothing to report but sunshine and lollipops because this is the story of Whitter\'s life.  She is like Cinderella with the birds and mice trailing behind her as they sing upbeat songs.  And she\'s just as sweet and kind as Cinderella, so you can\'t even get the slightest bit annoyed at her. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Anywho -- get this -- Whitters felt only mild cramping and then pushed for ten minutes. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I tried to warn you.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Trust me, sunshine and lollipops could not happen to a better person. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Throughout our conversation, baby Michael slept and slept and slept as Whitters and Prince Charming Chad (yep, he\'s perfect, too) told me how Michael awakes every hour and a half to eat.  Of course, Whitters looked gorgeous and as though she had not lost ten minutes of sleep.  At the two hour mark, I was obviously a sedative for baby Michael. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>As I started to wrap up the Baby Worshipping Visitation, I thought my coo from afar streak continued until...Chad offered to wake him up so that I could hold him. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Uh-oh. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>What makes this doubly interesting is that Whitters used to be the same way as me!  Ha!  Now she had no choice, and neither did I. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Chad ignored my drivel about feeling nervous and told me there was nothing to worry about while he gently cradled baby Michael in my lap. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>And that\'s when I completely melted. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Sunshine and lollipops. <br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>','Day 17:  Baby Love','','inherit','open','open','','865-revision-6','','','2010-10-02 14:50:14','2010-10-02 21:50:14','',865,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/10/02/865-revision-6/',0,'revision','',0),(894,1,'2010-10-02 14:45:39','2010-10-02 21:45:39','<p><a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/chicagokatie/303297791/sizes/m/in/photostream/\" target=\"_blank\"><img class=\"alignleft size-medium wp-image-891\" title=\"baby feet\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/baby-feet-300x200.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"200\" /></a>I\'m a wee bit intimidated by infants.  </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>I\'m used to being around kids 2½ and up.  Back in the day when I was in the classroom, I was known as the second coming of Mary Poppins.  Give me a rowdy group of preschoolers, and I can lead them blindfolded and with my hands behind my back.</p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>But an infant?  They are so fragile.  I gracefully decline holding them and simply coo from afar. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>This worked out just fine until Day 17.  One of my posse gave birth a week ago.  This is significant because no one in the posse has given birth since we\'ve all been together.  (Going on almost ten years!)  I asked Whitney, aka Whitters, to kindly give birth on my birthday, but nature dictated \"no\" and delivered baby Michael one week later. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>It was time for the 1st Baby Worshipping Visitation.  I tried to coordinate with Cooleenie so that I could stick to my comfortable coo from afar tactic, but Cooleenie is a professional chaueffer to two teenage kids which makes for a complicated schedule. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>So I trekked out for the 1st Baby Worhipping Visitation all by lonesome. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>When I arrived, baby Michael was asleep in his bassenette.  I was stunned at how beautiful this 1-week-old baby was since most babies at this stage look like aliens.  Come on, you know it\'s true!  But not baby Michael.  Nope.  Simply beautiful, I tell you.   </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>I genuinely cooed from afar and then plopped down on the sofa with Whitters to get the gory details of childbirth.  Whitters had nothing to report but sunshine and lollipops because this is the story of Whitter\'s life.  She is like Cinderella with the birds and mice trailing behind her as they sing upbeat songs.  And she\'s just as sweet and kind as Cinderella, so you can\'t even get the slightest bit annoyed at her. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>Anywho -- get this -- Whitters felt only mild cramping and then pushed for ten minutes. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>I tried to warn you.</p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>Trust me, sunshine and lollipops could not happen to a better person. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>Throughout our conversation, baby Michael slept and slept and slept as Whitters and Prince Charming Chad (yep, he\'s perfect, too) told me how Michael awakes every hour and a half to eat.  Of course, Whitters looked gorgeous and as though she had not lost ten minutes of sleep.  At the two hour mark, I was obviously a sedative for baby Michael. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>As I started to wrap up the Baby Worshipping Visitation, I thought my coo from afar streak continued until...Chad offered to wake him up so that I could hold him. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>Uh-oh. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>What makes this doubly interesting is that Whitters used to be the same way as me!  Ha!  Now she had no choice, and neither did I. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>Chad ignored my drivel about feeling nervous and  told me there was nothing to worry about while he gently cradled baby Michael in my lap. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>And that\'s when I completely melted. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>Sunshine and lollipops. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n','Day 17:  Baby Love','','inherit','open','open','','865-revision-5','','','2010-10-02 14:45:39','2010-10-02 21:45:39','',865,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/10/02/865-revision-5/',0,'revision','',0),(893,1,'2010-10-02 14:45:33','2010-10-02 21:45:33','<p><a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/chicagokatie/303297791/sizes/m/in/photostream/\" target=\"_blank\"><img class=\"alignleft size-medium wp-image-891\" title=\"baby feet\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/baby-feet-300x200.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"200\" /></a>I\'m a wee bit intimidated by infants.  </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I\'m used to being around kids 2½ and up.  Back in the day when I was in the classroom, I was known as the second coming of Mary Poppins.  Give me a rowdy group of preschoolers, and I can lead them blindfolded and with my hands behind my back.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>But an infant?  They are so fragile.  I gracefully decline holding them and simply coo from afar. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>This worked out just fine until Day 17.  One of my posse gave birth a week ago.  This is significant because no one in the posse has given birth since we\'ve all been together.  (Going on almost ten years!)  I asked Whitney, aka Whitters, to kindly give birth on my birthday, but nature dictated \"no\" and delivered baby Michael one week later. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>It was time for the 1st Baby Worshipping Visitation.  I tried to coordinate with Cooleenie so that I could stick to my comfortable coo from afar tactic, but Cooleenie is a professional chaueffer to two teenage kids which makes for a complicated schedule. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>So I trekked out for the 1st Baby Worhipping Visitation all by lonesome. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>When I arrived, baby Michael was asleep in his bassenette.  I was stunned at how beautiful this 1-week-old baby was since most babies at this stage look like aliens.  Come on, you know it\'s true!  But not baby Michael.  Nope.  Simply beautiful, I tell you.   </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I genuinely cooed from afar and then plopped down on the sofa with Whitters to get the gory details of childbirth.  Whitters had nothing to report but sunshine and lollipops because this is the story of Whitter\'s life.  She is like Cinderella with the birds and mice trailing behind her as they sing upbeat songs.  And she\'s just as sweet and kind as Cinderella, so you can\'t even get the slightest bit annoyed at her. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Anywho -- get this -- Whitters felt only mild cramping and then pushed for ten minutes. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I tried to warn you.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Trust me, sunshine and lollipops could not happen to a better person. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Throughout our conversation, baby Michael slept and slept and slept as Whitters and Prince Charming Chad (yep, he\'s perfect, too) told me how Michael awakes every hour and a half to eat.  Of course, Whitters looked gorgeous and as though she had not lost ten minutes of sleep.  At the two hour mark, I was obviously a sedative for baby Michael. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>As I started to wrap up the Baby Worshipping Visitation, I thought my coo from afar streak continued until...Chad offered to wake him up so that I could hold him. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Uh-oh. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>What makes this doubly interesting is that Whitters used to be the same way as me!  Ha!  Now she had no choice, and neither did I. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Chad ignored my drivel about feeling nervous and  told me there was nothing to worry about while he gently cradled baby Michael in my lap. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>And that\'s when I completely melted. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Sunshine and lollipops. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>','Day 17:  Baby Love','','inherit','open','open','','865-revision-4','','','2010-10-02 14:45:33','2010-10-02 21:45:33','',865,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/10/02/865-revision-4/',0,'revision','',0),(896,1,'2010-10-02 15:04:27','2010-10-02 22:04:27','<p><a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/chicagokatie/303297791/sizes/m/in/photostream/\" target=\"_blank\"><img class=\"alignleft size-medium wp-image-891\" title=\"baby feet\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/baby-feet-300x200.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"200\" /></a>I am a wee bit intimidated by infants.  </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I am used to being around kids 2½ and up.  Back in the day when I was in the classroom, I was known as the second coming of Mary Poppins.  Give me a rowdy group of preschoolers, and I can lead them blindfolded and with my hands behind my back.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>But an infant?  They are so fragile.  I gracefully decline holding them and simply coo from afar. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>This worked out just fine until Day 17.  One of my posse gave birth a week ago.  This is significant because no one in the posse has given birth since we\'ve all been together.  (Going on almost ten years!)  I asked Whitney, aka Whitters, to kindly give birth on my birthday, but nature dictated \"no\" and delivered baby Michael one week later. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>It was time for the 1st Baby Worshipping Visitation.  I tried to coordinate with Cooleenie so that I could stick to my comfortable coo from afar tactic, but Cooleenie is a professional chaueffer to two teenage kids which makes for a complicated schedule. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>So I trekked out for the 1st Baby Worshipping Visitation all by lonesome. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>When I arrived, baby Michael was asleep in his bassinet.  I was stunned at how beautiful this 1 week-old baby was since most babies at this stage look like aliens.  Come on, you know it\'s true!  But not baby Michael.  Nope.  Simply beautiful, I tell you.   </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I genuinely cooed from afar and then plopped down on the sofa with Whitters to get the gory details of childbirth.  Whitters had nothing to report but sunshine and lollipops because this is the story of Whitter\'s life.  She is like Cinderella with the birds and mice trailing behind her as they sing upbeat songs.  And she\'s just as sweet and kind as Cinderella, so you can\'t even get the slightest bit annoyed at her. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Anywho -- get this -- Whitters felt only mild cramping and then pushed for ten minutes. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I tried to warn you.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Trust me, sunshine and lollipops could not happen to a better person. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Throughout our conversation, baby Michael slept and slept and slept as Whitters and Prince Charming Chad (yep, he\'s perfect, too) told me how Michael awakes every hour and a half to eat.  Of course, Whitters looked gorgeous and as though she had not lost ten minutes of sleep.  At the two hour mark, I was obviously a sedative for baby Michael. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>As I started to wrap up the Baby Worshipping Visitation, I thought my coo from afar streak continued until...Chad offered to wake him up so that I could hold him. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Uh-oh. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>What makes this doubly interesting is that Whitters used to be the same way as me!  Ha!  Now she had no choice, and neither did I. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Chad ignored my drivel about feeling nervous and told me there was nothing to worry about while he gently cradled baby Michael in my lap. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>And that\'s when I completely melted. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Sunshine and lollipops. <br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>','Day 17:  Baby Love','','inherit','open','open','','865-autosave','','','2010-10-02 15:04:27','2010-10-02 22:04:27','',865,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/10/02/865-autosave/',0,'revision','',0),(897,1,'2010-10-02 14:50:34','2010-10-02 21:50:34','<p><a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/chicagokatie/303297791/sizes/m/in/photostream/\" target=\"_blank\"><img class=\"alignleft size-medium wp-image-891\" title=\"baby feet\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/baby-feet-300x200.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"200\" /></a>I\'m a wee bit intimidated by infants.  </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I\'m used to being around kids 2½ and up.  Back in the day when I was in the classroom, I was known as the second coming of Mary Poppins.  Give me a rowdy group of preschoolers, and I can lead them blindfolded and with my hands behind my back.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>But an infant?  They are so fragile.  I gracefully decline holding them and simply coo from afar. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>This worked out just fine until Day 17.  One of my posse gave birth a week ago.  This is significant because no one in the posse has given birth since we\'ve all been together.  (Going on almost ten years!)  I asked Whitney, aka Whitters, to kindly give birth on my birthday, but nature dictated \"no\" and delivered baby Michael one week later. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>It was time for the 1st Baby Worshipping Visitation.  I tried to coordinate with Cooleenie so that I could stick to my comfortable coo from afar tactic, but Cooleenie is a professional chaueffer to two teenage kids which makes for a complicated schedule. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>So I trekked out for the 1st Baby Worhipping Visitation all by lonesome. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>When I arrived, baby Michael was asleep in his bassenette.  I was stunned at how beautiful this 1 week-old baby was since most babies at this stage look like aliens.  Come on, you know it\'s true!  But not baby Michael.  Nope.  Simply beautiful, I tell you.   </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I genuinely cooed from afar and then plopped down on the sofa with Whitters to get the gory details of childbirth.  Whitters had nothing to report but sunshine and lollipops because this is the story of Whitter\'s life.  She is like Cinderella with the birds and mice trailing behind her as they sing upbeat songs.  And she\'s just as sweet and kind as Cinderella, so you can\'t even get the slightest bit annoyed at her. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Anywho -- get this -- Whitters felt only mild cramping and then pushed for ten minutes. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I tried to warn you.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Trust me, sunshine and lollipops could not happen to a better person. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Throughout our conversation, baby Michael slept and slept and slept as Whitters and Prince Charming Chad (yep, he\'s perfect, too) told me how Michael awakes every hour and a half to eat.  Of course, Whitters looked gorgeous and as though she had not lost ten minutes of sleep.  At the two hour mark, I was obviously a sedative for baby Michael. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>As I started to wrap up the Baby Worshipping Visitation, I thought my coo from afar streak continued until...Chad offered to wake him up so that I could hold him. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Uh-oh. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>What makes this doubly interesting is that Whitters used to be the same way as me!  Ha!  Now she had no choice, and neither did I. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Chad ignored my drivel about feeling nervous and told me there was nothing to worry about while he gently cradled baby Michael in my lap. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>And that\'s when I completely melted. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Sunshine and lollipops. <br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>','Day 17:  Baby Love','','inherit','open','open','','865-revision-7','','','2010-10-02 14:50:34','2010-10-02 21:50:34','',865,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/10/02/865-revision-7/',0,'revision','',0),(898,1,'2010-10-02 14:52:29','2010-10-02 21:52:29','<p><a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/chicagokatie/303297791/sizes/m/in/photostream/\" target=\"_blank\"><img class=\"alignleft size-medium wp-image-891\" title=\"baby feet\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/baby-feet-300x200.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"200\" /></a>I am a wee bit intimidated by infants.  </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I am used to being around kids 2½ and up.  Back in the day when I was in the classroom, I was known as the second coming of Mary Poppins.  Give me a rowdy group of preschoolers, and I can lead them blindfolded and with my hands behind my back.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>But an infant?  They are so fragile.  I gracefully decline holding them and simply coo from afar. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>This worked out just fine until Day 17.  One of my posse gave birth a week ago.  This is significant because no one in the posse has given birth since we\'ve all been together.  (Going on almost ten years!)  I asked Whitney, aka Whitters, to kindly give birth on my birthday, but nature dictated \"no\" and delivered baby Michael one week later. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>It was time for the 1st Baby Worshipping Visitation.  I tried to coordinate with Cooleenie so that I could stick to my comfortable coo from afar tactic, but Cooleenie is a professional chaueffer to two teenage kids which makes for a complicated schedule. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>So I trekked out for the 1st Baby Worhipping Visitation all by lonesome. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>When I arrived, baby Michael was asleep in his bassenette.  I was stunned at how beautiful this 1 week-old baby was since most babies at this stage look like aliens.  Come on, you know it\'s true!  But not baby Michael.  Nope.  Simply beautiful, I tell you.   </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I genuinely cooed from afar and then plopped down on the sofa with Whitters to get the gory details of childbirth.  Whitters had nothing to report but sunshine and lollipops because this is the story of Whitter\'s life.  She is like Cinderella with the birds and mice trailing behind her as they sing upbeat songs.  And she\'s just as sweet and kind as Cinderella, so you can\'t even get the slightest bit annoyed at her. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Anywho -- get this -- Whitters felt only mild cramping and then pushed for ten minutes. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I tried to warn you.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Trust me, sunshine and lollipops could not happen to a better person. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Throughout our conversation, baby Michael slept and slept and slept as Whitters and Prince Charming Chad (yep, he\'s perfect, too) told me how Michael awakes every hour and a half to eat.  Of course, Whitters looked gorgeous and as though she had not lost ten minutes of sleep.  At the two hour mark, I was obviously a sedative for baby Michael. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>As I started to wrap up the Baby Worshipping Visitation, I thought my coo from afar streak continued until...Chad offered to wake him up so that I could hold him. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Uh-oh. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>What makes this doubly interesting is that Whitters used to be the same way as me!  Ha!  Now she had no choice, and neither did I. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Chad ignored my drivel about feeling nervous and told me there was nothing to worry about while he gently cradled baby Michael in my lap. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>And that\'s when I completely melted. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Sunshine and lollipops. <br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>','Day 17:  Baby Love','','inherit','open','open','','865-revision-8','','','2010-10-02 14:52:29','2010-10-02 21:52:29','',865,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/10/02/865-revision-8/',0,'revision','',0),(899,1,'2010-10-02 13:35:05','2010-10-02 20:35:05','<p>\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_882\" align=\"alignleft\" width=\"300\" caption=\"An Allergy Attack Waiting to Happen\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/herbalsteam.jpg\" target=\"_blank\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-882 \" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/herbalsteam-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n<p>I am convinced that I might be the only weirdo on this planet who freaks out over a facial. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Facials are supposed to be relaxing.  Soothing. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>For me, they make me break out into hypochondria and zits.  Let me explain. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Prior to day 16, I had experienced one facial in my lifetime.  It turned my skin into that of a pimply 16 year-old.  On top of the mini-volcanoes on my face, I suffered an itchy-red-flaky allergic reaction.  Needless to say, I have not been enticed to try another facial. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Until my moment of Insanity on Day 16. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>As I rummaged through a drawer in my master bath, I came across a bag of \"Facial Steam Herbs\".  I calculated that I received these for my birthday 4 YEARS AGO and set them aside for a \"rainy day\".  Now that I think of it, I may have told myself \"rainy day\", but my subconscious may have told myself \"post-traumatic facial stress\".  I will consult with a therapist and get back to you on this. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Being my grandmother\'s daughter, I wasn\'t about to throw away perfectly good Facial Steam Herbs.  And besides, they were too old to re-gift. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Day 16 Facial Steam it was!  This couldn\'t be so bad: </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<ol>\r\n	<li>It was free.  </li>\r\n	<li>I wasn\'t applying any product to my skin as was done in the Facial from Hell.  </li>\r\n	<li>Herbs are good for you.  </li>\r\n	<li>I needed to chill out.</li>\r\n</ol>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I heated up a large pot of water on the stove.  I then put half of the bag of Facial Steam Herbs into the pot and set it up at my kitchen table.  I slung a towel over my head in tent-like fashion.  And I have no problem saying that I inhaled. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>The herbs smelled every bit of 4 years old.  </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>And then the real fun began.  Allow me to share with you the neurotic self-talk of a woman coping with \"post-traumatic facial stress\":</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li>\"What\'s in this stuff?  It reeks!  Could it be the 4 year-old rose petals?\"</li>\r\n	<li>\"Wait a minute.  I think I might be allergic to roses!\"</li>\r\n	<li>\"Great.  We\'re all dying from ragweed allergies out here in the Allergy Capital of the World, and now I\'m snorting weed steam.  Brilliant idea.\"</li>\r\n	<li>\"Did I feel that pressure in my sinuses before I started this???\"</li>\r\n	<li>\"Is this going to make me break out right in time for my girls\' weekend in Snobbsdale???  There\'s nothing worse than lounging poolside with zits.\"</li>\r\n	<li><span style=\"color: #ff0000;\">\"Would I even think of these things if I hadn\'t just started my period???\"</span></li>\r\n	<li>\"Crap.\"</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>When I started to get nauseated from the smell, I finally threw in the towel and called it a night. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>To calm my hormonally-induced anxiety, I decided to play it safe and pop a Benadryl.  This would combat any allergic reaction and make me sleep like a baby all in one fell swoop. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Everything turned out to be just fine.  Whew!</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I apologize to the 3 token male readers who are embarrassed, aghast and don\'t get this post at all while 99% of the female readership nod their heads in agreement as though this all makes perfect sense.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>','Day 16:  Facial Frenzy','','inherit','open','open','','863-revision-19','','','2010-10-02 13:35:05','2010-10-02 20:35:05','',863,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/10/02/863-revision-19/',0,'revision','',0),(901,1,'2010-10-02 15:03:16','2010-10-02 22:03:16','<p>\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_882\" align=\"alignleft\" width=\"300\" caption=\"An Allergy Attack Waiting to Happen\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/herbalsteam.jpg\" target=\"_blank\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-882 \" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/herbalsteam-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n<p>I am convinced that I might be the only weirdo on this planet who freaks out over a facial. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Facials are supposed to be relaxing.  Soothing. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>For me, they make me break out into hypochondria and zits.  Let me explain. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Prior to day 16, I had experienced one facial in my lifetime.  It turned my skin into that of a pimply 16 year-old.  On top of the mini-volcanoes on my face, I suffered an itchy-red-flaky allergic reaction.  Needless to say, I have not been enticed to try another facial. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Until my moment of Insanity on Day 16. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>As I rummaged through a drawer in my master bath, I came across a bag of \"Facial Steam Herbs\".  I calculated that I received these for my birthday 4 YEARS AGO and set them aside for a \"rainy day\".  Now that I think of it, I may have told myself \"rainy day\", but my subconscious may have told myself \"post-traumatic facial stress\".  I will consult with a therapist and get back to you on this. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Being my grandmother\'s daughter, I wasn\'t about to throw away perfectly good Facial Steam Herbs.  And besides, they were too old to re-gift. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Day 16 Facial Steam it was!  This couldn\'t be so bad: </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<ol>\r\n	<li>It was free.  </li>\r\n	<li>I wasn\'t applying any product to my skin as was done in the Facial from Hell.  </li>\r\n	<li>Herbs are good for you.  </li>\r\n	<li>I needed to chill out.</li>\r\n</ol>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I heated up a large pot of water on the stove.  I then put half of the bag of Facial Steam Herbs into the pot and set it up at my kitchen table.  I slung a towel over my head in tent-like fashion.  And I have no problem saying that I inhaled. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>The herbs smelled every bit of 4 years old.  </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>And then the real fun began.  Allow me to share with you the neurotic self-talk of a woman coping with \"post-traumatic facial stress\":</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li>\"What\'s in this stuff?  It reeks!  Could it be the 4 year-old rose petals?\"</li>\r\n	<li>\"Wait a minute.  I think I might be allergic to roses!\"</li>\r\n	<li>\"Great.  We\'re all dying from ragweed allergies out here in the Allergy Capital of the World, and now I\'m snorting weed steam.  Brilliant idea.\"</li>\r\n	<li>\"Did I feel that pressure in my sinuses before I started this???\"</li>\r\n	<li>\"Is this going to make me break out right in time for my girls\' weekend in Snobbsdale???  There\'s nothing worse than lounging poolside with zits.\"</li>\r\n	<li><span style=\"color: #ff0000;\">\"Would I even think of these things if I hadn\'t just started my period???\"</span></li>\r\n	<li>\"Crap.\"</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>When I started to get nauseated from the smell, I finally threw in the towel and called it a night. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>To calm my hormonally-induced anxiety, I decided to play it safe and pop a Benadryl.  This would combat any allergic reaction and make me sleep like a baby all in one fell swoop. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Everything turned out to be just fine.  Whew!</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I apologize to the 3 token male readers who are embarrassed, aghast and don\'t get this post at all while 99% of the female readership nod their heads in agreement as though this all makes perfect sense.<br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>','Day 16:  Facial Frenzy','','inherit','open','open','','863-autosave','','','2010-10-02 15:03:16','2010-10-02 22:03:16','',863,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/10/02/863-autosave/',0,'revision','',0),(900,1,'2010-10-02 14:59:01','2010-10-02 21:59:01','<p>\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_882\" align=\"alignleft\" width=\"300\" caption=\"An Allergy Attack Waiting to Happen\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/herbalsteam.jpg\" target=\"_blank\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-882 \" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/herbalsteam-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I am convinced that I might be the only weirdo on this planet who freaks out over a facial. \r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" />\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Facials are supposed to be relaxing.  Soothing. \r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" />\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>For me, they make me break out into hypochondria and zits.  Let me explain. \r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" />\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Prior to day 16, I had experienced one facial in my lifetime.  It turned my skin into that of a pimply 16 year-old.  On top of the mini-volcanoes on my face, I suffered an itchy-red-flaky allergic reaction.  Needless to say, I have not been enticed to try another facial. \r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" />\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Until my moment of Insanity on Day 16. \r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" />\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>As I rummaged through a drawer in my master bath, I came across a bag of \"Facial Steam Herbs\".  I calculated that I received these for my birthday 4 YEARS AGO and set them aside for a \"rainy day\".  Now that I think of it, I may have told myself \"rainy day\", but my subconscious may have told myself \"post-traumatic facial stress\".  I will consult with a therapist and get back to you on this. \r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" />\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Being my grandmother\'s daughter, I wasn\'t about to throw away perfectly good Facial Steam Herbs.  And besides, they were too old to re-gift. \r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" />\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Day 16 Facial Steam it was!  This couldn\'t be so bad: \r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" />\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<ol>\r\n	<li>It was free.  </li>\r\n	<li>I wasn\'t applying any product to my skin as was done in the Facial from Hell.  </li>\r\n	<li>Herbs are good for you.  </li>\r\n	<li>I needed to chill out.</li>\r\n</ol>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" />\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I heated up a large pot of water on the stove.  I then put half of the bag of Facial Steam Herbs into the pot and set it up at my kitchen table.  I slung a towel over my head in tent-like fashion.  And I have no problem saying that I inhaled. \r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" />\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>The herbs smelled every bit of 4 years old.  \r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" />\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>And then the real fun began.  Allow me to share with you the neurotic self-talk of a woman coping with \"post-traumatic facial stress\":\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" />\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" />\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li>\"What\'s in this stuff?  It reeks!  Could it be the 4 year-old rose petals?\"</li>\r\n	<li>\"Wait a minute.  I think I might be allergic to roses!\"</li>\r\n	<li>\"Great.  We\'re all dying from ragweed allergies out here in the Allergy Capital of the World, and now I\'m snorting weed steam.  Brilliant idea.\"</li>\r\n	<li>\"Did I feel that pressure in my sinuses before I started this???\"</li>\r\n	<li>\"Is this going to make me break out right in time for my girls\' weekend in Snobbsdale???  There\'s nothing worse than lounging poolside with zits.\"</li>\r\n	<li><span style=\"color: #ff0000;\">\"Would I even think of these things if I hadn\'t just started my period???\"</span></li>\r\n	<li>\"Crap.\"</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" />\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>When I started to get nauseated from the smell, I finally threw in the towel and called it a night. \r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" />\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>To calm my hormonally-induced anxiety, I decided to play it safe and pop a Benadryl.  This would combat any allergic reaction and make me sleep like a baby all in one fell swoop. \r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" />\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Everything turned out to be just fine.  Whew!\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" />\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I apologize to the 3 token male readers who are embarrassed, aghast and don\'t get this post at all while 99% of the female readership nod their heads in agreement as though this all makes perfect sense.<br class=\"spacer_\" />\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n</p>','Day 16:  Facial Frenzy','','inherit','open','open','','863-revision-20','','','2010-10-02 14:59:01','2010-10-02 21:59:01','',863,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/10/02/863-revision-20/',0,'revision','',0),(902,1,'2010-10-02 14:59:59','2010-10-02 21:59:59','<p>\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_882\" align=\"alignleft\" width=\"300\" caption=\"An Allergy Attack Waiting to Happen\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/herbalsteam.jpg\" target=\"_blank\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-882 \" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/herbalsteam-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n<p>I am convinced that I might be the only weirdo on this planet who freaks out over a facial. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Facials are supposed to be relaxing.  Soothing. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>For me, they make me break out into hypochondria and zits.  Let me explain. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Prior to day 16, I had experienced one facial in my lifetime.  It turned my skin into that of a pimply 16 year-old.  On top of the mini-volcanoes on my face, I suffered an itchy-red-flaky allergic reaction.  Needless to say, I have not been enticed to try another facial. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Until my moment of Insanity on Day 16. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>As I rummaged through a drawer in my master bath, I came across a bag of \"Facial Steam Herbs\".  I calculated that I received these for my birthday 4 YEARS AGO and set them aside for a \"rainy day\".  Now that I think of it, I may have told myself \"rainy day\", but my subconscious may have told myself \"post-traumatic facial stress\".  I will consult with a therapist and get back to you on this. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Being my grandmother\'s daughter, I wasn\'t about to throw away perfectly good Facial Steam Herbs.  And besides, they were too old to re-gift. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Day 16 Facial Steam it was!  This couldn\'t be so bad: </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<ol>\r\n	<li>It was free.  </li>\r\n	<li>I wasn\'t applying any product to my skin as was done in the Facial from Hell.  </li>\r\n	<li>Herbs are good for you.  </li>\r\n	<li>I needed to chill out.</li>\r\n</ol>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I heated up a large pot of water on the stove.  I then put half of the bag of Facial Steam Herbs into the pot and set it up at my kitchen table.  I slung a towel over my head in tent-like fashion.  And I have no problem saying that I inhaled. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>The herbs smelled every bit of 4 years old.  </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>And then the real fun began.  Allow me to share with you the neurotic self-talk of a woman coping with \"post-traumatic facial stress\":</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li>\"What\'s in this stuff?  It reeks!  Could it be the 4 year-old rose petals?\"</li>\r\n	<li>\"Wait a minute.  I think I might be allergic to roses!\"</li>\r\n	<li>\"Great.  We\'re all dying from ragweed allergies out here in the Allergy Capital of the World, and now I\'m snorting weed steam.  Brilliant idea.\"</li>\r\n	<li>\"Did I feel that pressure in my sinuses before I started this???\"</li>\r\n	<li>\"Is this going to make me break out right in time for my girls\' weekend in Snobbsdale???  There\'s nothing worse than lounging poolside with zits.\"</li>\r\n	<li><span style=\"color: #ff0000;\">\"Would I even think of these things if I hadn\'t just started my period???\"</span></li>\r\n	<li>\"Crap.\"</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>When I started to get nauseated from the smell, I finally threw in the towel and called it a night. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>To calm my hormonally-induced anxiety, I decided to play it safe and pop a Benadryl.  This would combat any allergic reaction and make me sleep like a baby all in one fell swoop. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Everything turned out to be just fine.  Whew!</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I apologize to the 3 token male readers who are embarrassed, aghast and don\'t get this post at all while 99% of the female readership nod their heads in agreement as though this all makes perfect sense.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>','Day 16:  Facial Frenzy','','inherit','open','open','','863-revision-21','','','2010-10-02 14:59:59','2010-10-02 21:59:59','',863,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/10/02/863-revision-21/',0,'revision','',0),(903,1,'2010-10-02 15:00:52','2010-10-02 22:00:52','<p>\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_882\" align=\"alignleft\" width=\"300\" caption=\"An Allergy Attack Waiting to Happen\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/herbalsteam.jpg\" target=\"_blank\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-882 \" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/herbalsteam-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n<p>I am convinced that I might be the only weirdo on this planet who freaks out over a facial. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Facials are supposed to be relaxing.  Soothing. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>For me, they make me break out into hypochondria and zits.  Let me explain. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Prior to day 16, I had experienced one facial in my lifetime.  It turned my skin into that of a pimply 16 year-old.  On top of the mini-volcanoes on my face, I suffered an itchy-red-flaky allergic reaction.  Needless to say, I have not been enticed to try another facial. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Until my moment of Insanity on Day 16. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>As I rummaged through a drawer in my master bath, I came across a bag of \"Facial Steam Herbs\".  I calculated that I received these for my birthday 4 YEARS AGO and set them aside for a \"rainy day\".  Now that I think of it, I may have told myself \"rainy day\", but my subconscious may have told myself \"post-traumatic facial stress\".  I will consult with a therapist and get back to you on this. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Being my grandmother\'s daughter, I wasn\'t about to throw away perfectly good Facial Steam Herbs.  And besides, they were too old to re-gift. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Day 16 Facial Steam it was!  This couldn\'t be so bad: </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<ol>\r\n	<li>It was free.  </li>\r\n	<li>I wasn\'t applying any product to my skin as was done in the Facial from Hell.  </li>\r\n	<li>Herbs are good for you.  </li>\r\n	<li>I needed to chill out.</li>\r\n</ol>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I heated up a large pot of water on the stove.  I then put half of the bag of Facial Steam Herbs into the pot and set it up at my kitchen table.  I slung a towel over my head in tent-like fashion.  And I have no problem saying that I inhaled. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>The herbs smelled every bit of 4 years old.  </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>And then the real fun began.  Allow me to share with you the neurotic self-talk of a woman coping with \"post-traumatic facial stress\":</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li>\"What\'s in this stuff?  It reeks!  Could it be the 4 year-old rose petals?\"</li>\r\n	<li>\"Wait a minute.  I think I might be allergic to roses!\"</li>\r\n	<li>\"Great.  We\'re all dying from ragweed allergies out here in the Allergy Capital of the World, and now I\'m snorting weed steam.  Brilliant idea.\"</li>\r\n	<li>\"Did I feel that pressure in my sinuses before I started this???\"</li>\r\n	<li>\"Is this going to make me break out right in time for my girls\' weekend in Snobbsdale???  There\'s nothing worse than lounging poolside with zits.\"</li>\r\n	<li><span style=\"color: #ff0000;\">\"Would I even think of these things if I hadn\'t just started my period???\"</span></li>\r\n	<li>\"Crap.\"</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>When I started to get nauseated from the smell, I finally threw in the towel and called it a night. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>To calm my hormonally-induced anxiety, I decided to play it safe and pop a Benadryl.  This would combat any allergic reaction and make me sleep like a baby all in one fell swoop. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Everything turned out to be just fine.  Whew!</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I apologize to the 3 token male readers who are embarrassed, aghast and don\'t get this post at all while 99% of the female readership nod their heads in agreement as though this all makes perfect sense.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>','Day 16:  Facial Frenzy','','inherit','open','open','','863-revision-22','','','2010-10-02 15:00:52','2010-10-02 22:00:52','',863,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/10/02/863-revision-22/',0,'revision','',0),(907,1,'2010-10-03 17:34:13','2010-10-04 00:34:13','','Day 18:  Poolside Palm Reading','','inherit','open','open','','868-revision-3','','','2010-10-03 17:34:13','2010-10-04 00:34:13','',868,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/10/03/868-revision-3/',0,'revision','',0),(908,1,'2010-10-03 17:36:01','2010-10-04 00:36:01','','Day 18:  10 Reasons Why You Need a Girl Weekend Pronto','','inherit','open','open','','868-revision-4','','','2010-10-03 17:36:01','2010-10-04 00:36:01','',868,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/10/03/868-revision-4/',0,'revision','',0),(909,1,'2010-10-03 17:39:16','2010-10-04 00:39:16','<p>Bad News:  Saturday\'s stay in a Haunted Hotel was cancelled. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Good News:  I was able to attend <strong>Lori\'s 40th Staycation</strong> for 7 of us girls after all.</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Good News Part Deux:  Haunted Hotel rescheduled for November. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>News  Flash:  Everything works out as it should. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><span style=\"font-size: x-large;\">10 Reasons Why </span></p>','Day 18:  10 Reasons Why You Need a Girls Weekend Pronto','','inherit','open','open','','868-revision-5','','','2010-10-03 17:39:16','2010-10-04 00:39:16','',868,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/10/03/868-revision-5/',0,'revision','',0),(910,1,'2010-10-03 18:03:36','2010-10-04 01:03:36','<p>Bad News:  Saturday\'s stay in a Haunted Hotel cancelled. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Good News:  I was free to attend <strong>Lori\'s 40th Staycation</strong> for 7 of us girls after all.  On Saturday night, we stayed overnight in Snobbsdale at the Scottsdale Conference Center which was perfectly unsnobby.  No bed bugs either!  Hurrah! </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Good News Part Deux:  Haunted Hotel rescheduled for November. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>News Flash:  Everything always works out as it should. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><span style=\"font-size: x-large;\"><span style=\"color: #ff00ff;\"><strong><span style=\"color: #ff99cc;\">10 Reasons Why You Need to an Overnight with the the Girls</span></strong></span></span></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>10.  All girls need periodic slumber parties, whether they\'re 16, 25, 30s, 40s, 5os and beyond.  It\'s good for the soul.</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>9.  If you are in your 30s, 40s, 50s and beyond, you will feel 16 again.</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>8.  You can play games into the wee hours of the night and laugh like crazy.</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>7.  You can eat as much junk food and candy as you want, and no one cares. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>6.  You can listen to music and sing and dance and laugh like crazy. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>5.  You can crank call each other\'s rooms at 1:30 in the morning. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>4.  Breakfast at the greasy spoon down the street is logical.  Especially after margaritas from the night before. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>3.  Lounging poolside the next day is mandatory.  (Poolside Palm Reading optional.  See tomorrow\'s post for details.)</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>2.  No one thinks you\'re crazy for suggesting \"Light as a Feather, Stiff as a Board\" or \"Bloody Mary\" at midnight. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>1.  You can jump on the beds and...yep...laugh like crazy.   </p>','Day 18:  10 Reasons Why You Need a Girls Weekend Pronto','','inherit','open','open','','868-revision-6','','','2010-10-03 18:03:36','2010-10-04 01:03:36','',868,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/10/03/868-revision-6/',0,'revision','',0),(911,1,'2010-10-03 18:12:51','2010-10-04 01:12:51','','OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA','My Posse','inherit','open','open','','olympus-digital-camera-21','','','2010-10-03 18:12:51','2010-10-04 01:12:51','',868,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/staycay2010.jpg',0,'attachment','image/jpeg',0),(912,1,'2010-10-03 18:06:12','2010-10-04 01:06:12','<p>Bad News:  Saturday\'s stay in a Haunted Hotel cancelled. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Good News:  I was free to attend <strong>Lori\'s 40th Staycation </strong>for 7 of us girls after all.  On Saturday night, we stayed overnight in Snobbsdale at the Scottsdale Conference Center which was perfectly unsnobby.  No bed bugs either!  Hurrah! </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Good News Part Deux:  Haunted Hotel rescheduled for November. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>News Flash:  Everything always works out as it should. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><span style=\"font-size: x-large;\"><span style=\"color: #ff00ff;\"><strong><span style=\"color: #ff99cc;\">10 Reasons Why You Need to an Overnight with the the Girls</span></strong></span></span></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>10.  All girls need periodic slumber parties, whether they\'re 16, 25, 30s, 40s, 5os and beyond.  It\'s good for the soul.</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>9.  If you are in your 30s, 40s, 50s and beyond, you will feel 16 again.</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>8.  You can play games into the wee hours of the night and laugh like crazy.</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>7.  You can eat as much junk food and candy as you want, and no one cares. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>6.  You can listen to music and sing and dance and laugh like crazy. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>5.  You can crank call each other\'s rooms at 1:30 in the morning. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>4.  Breakfast at the greasy spoon down the street is logical.  Especially after margaritas from the night before. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>3.  Lounging poolside the next day is mandatory.  (Poolside Palm Reading optional.  See tomorrow\'s post for details.)</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>2.  No one thinks you\'re crazy for suggesting \"Light as a Feather, Stiff as a Board\" or \"Bloody Mary\" at midnight. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>1.  You can jump on the beds and...yep...laugh like crazy.   </p>','Day 18:  10 Reasons Why You Need a Girls Weekend Pronto','','inherit','open','open','','868-revision-7','','','2010-10-03 18:06:12','2010-10-04 01:06:12','',868,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/10/03/868-revision-7/',0,'revision','',0),(913,1,'2010-10-03 18:13:46','2010-10-04 01:13:46','[caption id=\"attachment_911\" align=\"alignleft\" width=\"300\" caption=\"My Posse\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/staycay2010.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-911\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/staycay2010-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n<p>Bad News:  Saturday\'s stay in a Haunted Hotel cancelled. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Good News:  I was free to attend <strong>Lori\'s 40th Staycation </strong>for 7 of us girls after all.  On Saturday night, we stayed overnight in Snobbsdale at the Scottsdale Conference Center which was perfectly unsnobby.  No bed bugs either!  Hurrah! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Good News Part Deux:  Haunted Hotel rescheduled for November. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>News Flash:  Everything always works out as it should. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><span style=\"font-size: x-large;\"><span style=\"color: #ff00ff;\"><strong><span style=\"color: #ff99cc;\">10 Reasons Why You Need to an Overnight with the the Girls</span></strong></span></span></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>10.  All girls need periodic slumber parties, whether they\'re 16, 25, 30s, 40s, 5os and beyond.  It\'s good for the soul.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>9.  If you are in your 30s, 40s, 50s and beyond, you will feel 16 again.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>8.  You can play games into the wee hours of the night and laugh like crazy.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>7.  You can eat as much junk food and candy as you want, and no one cares. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>6.  You can listen to music and sing and dance and laugh like crazy. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>5.  You can crank call each other\'s rooms at 1:30 in the morning. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>4.  Breakfast at the greasy spoon down the street is logical.  Especially after margaritas from the night before. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>3.  Lounging poolside the next day is mandatory.  (Poolside Palm Reading optional.  See tomorrow\'s post for details.)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>2.  No one thinks you\'re crazy for suggesting \"Light as a Feather, Stiff as a Board\" or \"Bloody Mary\" at midnight. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>1.  You can jump on the beds and...yep...laugh like crazy.   </p>','Day 18:  10 Reasons Why You Need a Girls Weekend Pronto','','inherit','open','open','','868-revision-8','','','2010-10-03 18:13:46','2010-10-04 01:13:46','',868,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/10/03/868-revision-8/',0,'revision','',0),(914,1,'2010-10-03 18:17:00','2010-10-04 01:17:00','','OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA','','inherit','open','open','','olympus-digital-camera-22','','','2010-10-03 18:17:00','2010-10-04 01:17:00','',868,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/bedjump.jpg',0,'attachment','image/jpeg',0),(915,1,'2010-10-03 18:15:43','2010-10-04 01:15:43','[caption id=\"attachment_911\" align=\"alignleft\" width=\"300\" caption=\"My Posse\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/staycay2010.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-911\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/staycay2010-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n<p><strong>Bad News:</strong>  Saturday\'s stay in a Haunted Hotel cancelled. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><span style=\"color: #ff6600;\"><strong>Good News:</strong></span>  I was free to attend <strong>Lori\'s 40th Staycation </strong>for 7 of us girls after all.  On Saturday night, we stayed overnight in Snobbsdale at the Scottsdale Conference Center which was perfectly unsnobby.  No bed bugs either!  Hurrah! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><span style=\"color: #ff6600;\"><strong>Good News Part Deux: </strong></span> Haunted Hotel rescheduled for November. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><span style=\"color: #ff6600;\"><strong>News Flash: </strong></span> Everything always works out as it should. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><span style=\"font-size: x-large;\"><span style=\"color: #ff00ff;\"><strong><span style=\"color: #ff99cc;\">10 Reasons Why You Need to an Overnight with the Girls</span></strong></span></span></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>10.  All girls need periodic slumber parties, whether they\'re 16, 25, 30s, 40s, 5os and beyond.  It\'s good for the soul.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>9.  If you are in your 30s, 40s, 50s and beyond, you will feel 16 again.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>8.  You can play games into the wee hours of the night and laugh like crazy.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>7.  You can eat as much junk food and candy as you want, and no one cares. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>6.  You can listen to music and sing and dance and laugh like crazy. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>5.  You can crank call each other\'s rooms at 1:30 in the morning. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>4.  Breakfast at the greasy spoon down the street is logical.  Especially after margaritas from the night before. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>3.  Lounging poolside the next day is mandatory.  (Poolside Palm Reading optional.  See tomorrow\'s post for details.)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>2.  No one thinks you\'re crazy for suggesting \"Light as a Feather, Stiff as a Board\" or \"Bloody Mary\" at midnight. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>1.  You can jump on the beds and...yep...laugh like crazy.   </p>','Day 18:  10 Reasons Why You Need a Girls Weekend Pronto','','inherit','open','open','','868-revision-9','','','2010-10-03 18:15:43','2010-10-04 01:15:43','',868,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/10/03/868-revision-9/',0,'revision','',0),(916,1,'2010-10-03 18:19:11','2010-10-04 01:19:11','[caption id=\"attachment_911\" align=\"alignleft\" width=\"300\" caption=\"My Posse\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/staycay2010.jpg\" target=\"_blank\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-911 \" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/staycay2010-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n<p><strong> </strong> </p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>Bad News:</strong>  Saturday\'s stay in a Haunted Hotel cancelled.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><span style=\"color: #ff6600;\"><strong>Good News:</strong></span>  I was free to attend <strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?s=surprise\" target=\"_blank\">Lori\'s 40th Staycation</a> </strong>for 7 of us girls after all.  On Saturday night, we stayed overnight in Snobbsdale at the Scottsdale Conference Center which was perfectly unsnobby.  No bed bugs either!  Hurrah! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><span style=\"color: #ff6600;\"><strong>Good News Part Deux: </strong></span> Haunted Hotel rescheduled for November. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><span style=\"color: #ff6600;\"><strong>News Flash: </strong></span> Everything always works out as it should. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><span style=\"font-size: x-large;\"><span style=\"color: #ff00ff;\"><strong><span style=\"color: #ff99cc;\">10 Reasons Why You Need to an Overnight with the Girls</span></strong></span></span></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>10.  All girls need periodic slumber parties, whether they\'re 16, 25, 30s, 40s, 5os and beyond.  It\'s good for the soul.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>9.  If you are in your 30s, 40s, 50s and beyond, you will feel 16 again.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>8.  You can play games into the wee hours of the night and laugh like crazy.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>7.  You can eat as much junk food and candy as you want, and no one cares. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>6.  You can listen to music and sing and dance and laugh like crazy. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>5.  You can crank call each other\'s rooms at 1:30 in the morning. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>4.  Breakfast at the greasy spoon down the street is logical.  Especially after margaritas from the night before. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>3.  Lounging poolside the next day is mandatory.  (Poolside Palm Reading optional.  See tomorrow\'s post for details.)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>2.  No one thinks you\'re crazy for suggesting \"Light as a Feather, Stiff as a Board\" or \"Bloody Mary\" at midnight. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>1.  You can jump on the beds and...yep...laugh like crazy.   </p>\r\n\r\n<p><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/bedjump.jpg\" target=\"_blank\"><img class=\"alignleft size-medium wp-image-914\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/bedjump-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a></p>','Day 18:  10 Reasons Why You Need a Girls Weekend Pronto','','inherit','open','open','','868-revision-10','','','2010-10-03 18:19:11','2010-10-04 01:19:11','',868,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/10/03/868-revision-10/',0,'revision','',0),(917,1,'2010-10-03 18:19:19','2010-10-04 01:19:19','<p>\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_911\" align=\"alignleft\" width=\"300\" caption=\"My Posse\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/staycay2010.jpg\" target=\"_blank\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-911 \" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/staycay2010-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong> </strong> </p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>Bad News:</strong>  Saturday\'s stay in a Haunted Hotel cancelled.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><span style=\"color: #ff6600;\"><strong>Good News:</strong></span>  I was free to attend <strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?s=surprise\" target=\"_blank\">Lori\'s 40th Staycation</a> </strong>for 7 of us girls after all.  On Saturday night, we stayed overnight in Snobbsdale at the Scottsdale Conference Center which was perfectly unsnobby.  No bed bugs either!  Hurrah! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><span style=\"color: #ff6600;\"><strong>Good News Part Deux: </strong></span> Haunted Hotel rescheduled for November. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><span style=\"color: #ff6600;\"><strong>News Flash: </strong></span> Everything always works out as it should. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><span style=\"font-size: x-large;\"><span style=\"color: #ff00ff;\"><strong><span style=\"color: #ff99cc;\">10 Reasons Why You Need to an Overnight with the Girls</span></strong></span></span></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>10.  All girls need periodic slumber parties, whether they\'re 16, 25, 30s, 40s, 5os and beyond.  It\'s good for the soul.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>9.  If you are in your 30s, 40s, 50s and beyond, you will feel 16 again.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>8.  You can play games into the wee hours of the night and laugh like crazy.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>7.  You can eat as much junk food and candy as you want, and no one cares. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>6.  You can listen to music and sing and dance and laugh like crazy. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>5.  You can crank call each other\'s rooms at 1:30 in the morning. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>4.  Breakfast at the greasy spoon down the street is logical.  Especially after margaritas from the night before. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>3.  Lounging poolside the next day is mandatory.  (Poolside Palm Reading optional.  See tomorrow\'s post for details.)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>2.  No one thinks you\'re crazy for suggesting \"Light as a Feather, Stiff as a Board\" or \"Bloody Mary\" at midnight. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>1.  You can jump on the beds and...yep...laugh like crazy.   </p>\r\n\r\n<p><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/bedjump.jpg\" target=\"_blank\"><img class=\"alignleft size-medium wp-image-914\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/bedjump-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a></p>','Day 18:  10 Reasons Why You Need a Girls Weekend Pronto','','inherit','open','open','','868-revision-11','','','2010-10-03 18:19:19','2010-10-04 01:19:19','',868,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/10/03/868-revision-11/',0,'revision','',0),(918,1,'2010-10-03 18:21:09','2010-10-04 01:21:09','<p>\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_911\" align=\"alignleft\" width=\"300\" caption=\"My Posse\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/staycay2010.jpg\" target=\"_blank\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-911 \" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/staycay2010-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong> </strong> </p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>Bad News:</strong>  Saturday\'s stay in a Haunted Hotel cancelled.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><span style=\"color: #ff6600;\"><strong>Good News:</strong></span>  I was free to attend <strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?s=surprise\" target=\"_blank\">Lori\'s 40th Staycation</a> </strong>for 7 of us girls after all.  On Saturday night, we stayed overnight in Snobbsdale at the Scottsdale Conference Center which was perfectly unsnobby.  No bed bugs either!  Hurrah! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><span style=\"color: #ff6600;\"><strong>Good News Part Deux: </strong></span> Haunted Hotel rescheduled for November. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><span style=\"color: #ff6600;\"><strong>News Flash: </strong></span> Everything always works out as it should. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><span style=\"font-size: x-large;\"><span style=\"color: #ff00ff;\"><strong><span style=\"color: #ff99cc;\">10 Reasons Why You Need to an Overnight with the Girls</span></strong></span></span></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>10.  All girls need periodic slumber parties, whether they\'re 16, 25, 30s, 40s, 50s and beyond.  It\'s good for the soul.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>9.  If you are in your 30s, 40s, 50s and beyond, you will feel 16 again.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>8.  You can play games into the wee hours of the night and laugh like crazy.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>7.  You can eat as much junk food and candy as you want, and no one cares. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>6.  You can listen to music and sing and dance and laugh like crazy. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>5.  You can crank call each other\'s rooms at 1:30 in the morning. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>4.  Breakfast at the greasy spoon down the street is logical.  Especially after margaritas from the night before. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>3.  Lounging poolside the next day is mandatory.  (Poolside Palm Reading optional.  See tomorrow\'s post for details.)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>2.  No one thinks you\'re crazy for suggesting \"Light as a Feather, Stiff as a Board\" or \"Bloody Mary\" at midnight. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>1.  You can jump on the beds and...yep...laugh like crazy.   </p>\r\n\r\n<p><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/bedjump.jpg\" target=\"_blank\"><img class=\"alignleft size-medium wp-image-914\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/bedjump-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a></p>','Day 18:  10 Reasons Why You Need a Girls Weekend Pronto','','inherit','open','open','','868-revision-12','','','2010-10-03 18:21:09','2010-10-04 01:21:09','',868,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/10/03/868-revision-12/',0,'revision','',0),(919,1,'2010-10-03 18:21:30','2010-10-04 01:21:30','<p>\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_911\" align=\"alignleft\" width=\"300\" caption=\"My Posse\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/staycay2010.jpg\" target=\"_blank\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-911 \" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/staycay2010-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong> </strong> </p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>Bad News:</strong>  Saturday\'s stay in a Haunted Hotel cancelled.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><span style=\"color: #ff6600;\"><strong>Good News:</strong></span>  I was free to attend <strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?s=surprise\" target=\"_blank\">Lori\'s 40th Staycation</a> </strong>for 7 of us girls after all.  On Saturday night, we stayed overnight in Snobbsdale at the Scottsdale Conference Center which was perfectly unsnobby.  No bed bugs either!  Hurrah! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><span style=\"color: #ff6600;\"><strong>Good News Part Deux: </strong></span> Haunted Hotel rescheduled for November. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><span style=\"color: #ff6600;\"><strong>News Flash: </strong></span> Everything always works out as it should. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><span style=\"font-size: x-large;\"><span style=\"color: #ff00ff;\"><strong><span style=\"color: #ff99cc;\">10 Reasons Why You Need to an Overnight with the Girls</span></strong></span></span></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>10.  All girls need periodic slumber parties, whether they\'re 16, 25, 30s, 40s, 50s and beyond.  It\'s good for the soul.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>9.  If you are in your 30s, 40s, 50s and beyond, you will feel 16 again.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>8.  You can play games into the wee hours of the night and laugh like crazy.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>7.  You can eat as much junk food and candy as you want, and no one cares. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>6.  You can listen to music and sing and dance and laugh like crazy. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>5.  You can crank call each other\'s rooms at 1:30 in the morning. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>4.  Breakfast at the greasy spoon down the street is logical.  Especially after margaritas from the night before. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>3.  Lounging poolside the next day is mandatory.  (Poolside Palm Reading optional.  See tomorrow\'s post for details.)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>2.  No one thinks you\'re crazy for suggesting \"Light as a Feather, Stiff as a Board\" or \"Bloody Mary\" at midnight. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>1.  You can jump on the beds and...yep...laugh like crazy.   </p>\r\n\r\n<p><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/bedjump.jpg\" target=\"_blank\"><img class=\"alignleft size-medium wp-image-914\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/bedjump-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a></p>','Day 18:  10 Reasons Why You Need a Girls Weekend Pronto','','inherit','open','open','','868-revision-13','','','2010-10-03 18:21:30','2010-10-04 01:21:30','',868,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/10/03/868-revision-13/',0,'revision','',0),(920,1,'2010-10-03 18:21:41','2010-10-04 01:21:41','<p>\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_911\" align=\"alignleft\" width=\"300\" caption=\"My Posse\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/staycay2010.jpg\" target=\"_blank\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-911 \" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/staycay2010-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong> </strong> </p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>Bad News:</strong>  Saturday\'s stay in a Haunted Hotel cancelled.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><span style=\"color: #ff6600;\"><strong>Good News:</strong></span>  I was free to attend <strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?s=surprise\" target=\"_blank\">Lori\'s 40th Staycation</a> </strong>for 7 of us girls after all.  On Saturday night, we stayed overnight in Snobbsdale at the Scottsdale Conference Center which was perfectly unsnobby.  No bed bugs either!  Hurrah! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><span style=\"color: #ff6600;\"><strong>Good News Part Deux: </strong></span> Haunted Hotel rescheduled for November. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><span style=\"color: #ff6600;\"><strong>News Flash: </strong></span> Everything always works out as it should. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><span style=\"font-size: x-large;\"><span style=\"color: #ff00ff;\"><strong><span style=\"color: #ff99cc;\">10 Reasons Why You Need to an Overnight with the Girls</span></strong></span></span></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>10.  All girls need periodic slumber parties, whether they\'re 16, 25, 30s, 40s, 50s and beyond.  It\'s good for the soul.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>9.  If you are in your 30s, 40s, 50s and beyond, you will feel 16 again.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>8.  You can play games into the wee hours of the night and laugh like crazy.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>7.  You can eat as much junk food and candy as you want, and no one cares. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>6.  You can listen to music and sing and dance and laugh like crazy. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>5.  You can crank call each other\'s rooms at 1:30 in the morning. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>4.  Breakfast at the greasy spoon down the street is logical.  Especially after margaritas from the night before. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>3.  Lounging poolside the next day is mandatory.  (Poolside Palm Reading optional.  See tomorrow\'s post for details.)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>2.  No one thinks you\'re crazy for suggesting \"Light as a Feather, Stiff as a Board\" or \"Bloody Mary\" at midnight. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>1.  You can jump on the beds and...yep...laugh like crazy.   </p>\r\n\r\n<p><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/bedjump.jpg\" target=\"_blank\"><img class=\"alignleft size-medium wp-image-914\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/bedjump-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a></p>','Day 18:  10 Reasons Why You Need a Girls Weekend Pronto','','inherit','open','open','','868-revision-14','','','2010-10-03 18:21:41','2010-10-04 01:21:41','',868,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/10/03/868-revision-14/',0,'revision','',0),(923,1,'2010-10-03 18:26:12','2010-10-04 01:26:12','<p>\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_911\" align=\"alignleft\" width=\"300\" caption=\"My Posse\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/staycay2010.jpg\" target=\"_blank\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-911 \" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/staycay2010-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong> </strong> </p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>Bad News:</strong>  Saturday\'s stay in a Haunted Hotel cancelled.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><span style=\"color: #ff6600;\"><strong>Good News:</strong></span>  I was free to attend <strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?s=surprise\" target=\"_blank\">Lori\'s 40th Staycation</a> </strong>for 7 of us girls after all.  On Saturday night, we stayed overnight in Snobbsdale at the Scottsdale Conference Center which was perfectly unsnobby.  No bed bugs either!  Hurrah! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><span style=\"color: #ff6600;\"><strong>Good News Part Deux: </strong></span> Haunted Hotel rescheduled for November. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><span style=\"color: #ff6600;\"><strong>News Flash: </strong></span> Everything always works out as it should. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><span style=\"font-size: x-large;\"><span style=\"color: #ff00ff;\"><strong><span style=\"color: #ff99cc;\">10 Reasons Why You Need to an Overnight with the Girls</span></strong></span></span></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>10.  All girls need periodic slumber parties, whether they\'re 16, 25, 30s, 40s, 50s and beyond.  It\'s good for the soul.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>9.  If you are in your 30s, 40s, 50s and beyond, you will feel 16 again.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>8.  You can play games into the wee hours of the night and laugh like crazy.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>7.  You can eat as much junk food and candy as you want, and no one cares. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>6.  You can listen to music and sing and dance and laugh like crazy. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>5.  You can crank call each other\'s rooms at 1:30 in the morning. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>4.  Breakfast at the greasy spoon down the street is logical.  Especially after margaritas from the night before. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>3.  Lounging poolside the next day is mandatory.  (Poolside Palm Reading optional.  See tomorrow\'s post for details.)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>2.  No one thinks you\'re crazy for suggesting \"Light as a Feather, Stiff as a Board\" or \"Bloody Mary\" at midnight. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>1.  You can jump on the beds and...yep...laugh like crazy.   </p>\r\n\r\n<p><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/bedjump.jpg\" target=\"_blank\"><img class=\"alignleft size-medium wp-image-914\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/bedjump-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a></p>','Day 18:  10 Reasons Why You Need a Girls Weekend Pronto','','inherit','open','open','','868-revision-17','','','2010-10-03 18:26:12','2010-10-04 01:26:12','',868,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/10/03/868-revision-17/',0,'revision','',0),(922,1,'2010-10-03 18:25:04','2010-10-04 01:25:04','<p>\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_911\" align=\"alignleft\" width=\"300\" caption=\"My Posse\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/staycay2010.jpg\" target=\"_blank\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-911 \" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/staycay2010-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong> </strong> </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>Bad News:</strong>  Saturday\'s stay in a Haunted Hotel cancelled.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><span style=\"color: #ff6600;\"><strong>Good News:</strong></span>  I was free to attend <strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?s=surprise\" target=\"_blank\">Lori\'s 40th Staycation</a> </strong>for 7 of us girls after all.  On Saturday night, we stayed overnight in Snobbsdale at the <a href=\"http://www.thescottsdaleresort.com/\" target=\"_blank\">Scottsdale Resort and Conference Center</a> which was perfectly unsnobby.  No bed bugs either!  Hurrah! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><span style=\"color: #ff6600;\"><strong>Good News Part Deux: </strong></span> Haunted Hotel rescheduled for November. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><span style=\"color: #ff6600;\"><strong>News Flash: </strong></span> Everything always works out as it should. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><span style=\"font-size: x-large;\"><span style=\"color: #ff00ff;\"><strong><span style=\"color: #ff99cc;\">10 Reasons Why You Need to an Overnight with the Girls</span></strong></span></span></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>10.  All girls need periodic slumber parties, whether they\'re 16, 25, 30s, 40s, 50s and beyond.  It\'s good for the soul.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>9.  If you are in your 30s, 40s, 50s and beyond, you will feel 16 again.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>8.  You can play games into the wee hours of the night and laugh like crazy.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>7.  You can eat as much junk food and candy as you want, and no one cares. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>6.  You can listen to music and sing and dance and laugh like crazy. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>5.  You can crank call each other\'s rooms at 1:30 in the morning. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>4.  Breakfast at the greasy spoon down the street is logical.  Especially after margaritas from the night before. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>3.  Lounging poolside the next day is mandatory.  (Poolside Palm Reading optional.  See tomorrow\'s post for details.)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>2.  No one thinks you\'re crazy for suggesting \"Light as a Feather, Stiff as a Board\" or \"Bloody Mary\" at midnight. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>1.  You can jump on the beds and...yep...laugh like crazy.   </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/bedjump.jpg\" target=\"_blank\"><img class=\"alignleft size-medium wp-image-914\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/bedjump-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>','Day 18:  10 Reasons Why You Need a Girls Weekend Pronto','','inherit','open','open','','868-revision-16','','','2010-10-03 18:25:04','2010-10-04 01:25:04','',868,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/10/03/868-revision-16/',0,'revision','',0),(921,1,'2010-10-03 18:24:48','2010-10-04 01:24:48','<p>\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_911\" align=\"alignleft\" width=\"300\" caption=\"My Posse\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/staycay2010.jpg\" target=\"_blank\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-911 \" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/staycay2010-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong> </strong> \r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>Bad News:</strong>  Saturday\'s stay in a Haunted Hotel cancelled.\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" />\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><span style=\"color: #ff6600;\"><strong>Good News:</strong></span>  I was free to attend <strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?s=surprise\" target=\"_blank\">Lori\'s 40th Staycation</a> </strong>for 7 of us girls after all.  On Saturday night, we stayed overnight in Snobbsdale at the <a href=\"http://www.thescottsdaleresort.com/\" target=\"_blank\">Scottsdale Resort and Conference Center</a> which was perfectly unsnobby.  No bed bugs either!  Hurrah! \r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" />\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><span style=\"color: #ff6600;\"><strong>Good News Part Deux: </strong></span> Haunted Hotel rescheduled for November. \r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" />\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><span style=\"color: #ff6600;\"><strong>News Flash: </strong></span> Everything always works out as it should. \r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" />\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><span style=\"font-size: x-large;\"><span style=\"color: #ff00ff;\"><strong><span style=\"color: #ff99cc;\">10 Reasons Why You Need to an Overnight with the Girls</span></strong></span></span>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" />\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>10.  All girls need periodic slumber parties, whether they\'re 16, 25, 30s, 40s, 50s and beyond.  It\'s good for the soul.\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" />\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>9.  If you are in your 30s, 40s, 50s and beyond, you will feel 16 again.\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" />\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>8.  You can play games into the wee hours of the night and laugh like crazy.\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" />\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>7.  You can eat as much junk food and candy as you want, and no one cares. \r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" />\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>6.  You can listen to music and sing and dance and laugh like crazy. \r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" />\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>5.  You can crank call each other\'s rooms at 1:30 in the morning. \r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" />\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>4.  Breakfast at the greasy spoon down the street is logical.  Especially after margaritas from the night before. \r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" />\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>3.  Lounging poolside the next day is mandatory.  (Poolside Palm Reading optional.  See tomorrow\'s post for details.)\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" />\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>2.  No one thinks you\'re crazy for suggesting \"Light as a Feather, Stiff as a Board\" or \"Bloody Mary\" at midnight. \r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" />\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>1.  You can jump on the beds and...yep...laugh like crazy.   \r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/bedjump.jpg\" target=\"_blank\"><img class=\"alignleft size-medium wp-image-914\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/bedjump-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n</p>','Day 18:  10 Reasons Why You Need a Girls Weekend Pronto','','inherit','open','open','','868-revision-15','','','2010-10-03 18:24:48','2010-10-04 01:24:48','',868,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/10/03/868-revision-15/',0,'revision','',0),(924,1,'2010-10-03 18:26:28','2010-10-04 01:26:28','<p>\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_911\" align=\"alignleft\" width=\"300\" caption=\"My Posse\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/staycay2010.jpg\" target=\"_blank\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-911 \" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/staycay2010-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong> </strong> </p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>Bad News:</strong>  Saturday\'s stay in a Haunted Hotel cancelled.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><span style=\"color: #ff6600;\"><strong>Good News:</strong></span>  I was free to attend <strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?s=surprise\" target=\"_blank\">Lori\'s 40th Staycation</a> </strong>for 7 of us girls after all.  On Saturday night, we stayed overnight in Snobbsdale at the Scottsdale Conference Center which was perfectly unsnobby.  No bed bugs either!  Hurrah! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><span style=\"color: #ff6600;\"><strong>Good News Part Deux: </strong></span> Haunted Hotel rescheduled for November. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><span style=\"color: #ff6600;\"><strong>News Flash: </strong></span> Everything always works out as it should. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><span style=\"font-size: x-large;\"><span style=\"color: #ff00ff;\"><strong><span style=\"color: #ff99cc;\">10 Reasons Why You Need to an Overnight with the Girls</span></strong></span></span></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>10.  All girls need periodic slumber parties, whether they\'re 16, 25, 30s, 40s, 50s and beyond.  It\'s good for the soul.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>9.  If you are in your 30s, 40s, 50s and beyond, you will feel 16 again.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>8.  You can play games into the wee hours of the night and laugh like crazy.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>7.  You can eat as much junk food and candy as you want, and no one cares. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>6.  You can listen to music and sing and dance and laugh like crazy. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>5.  You can crank call each other\'s rooms at 1:30 in the morning. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>4.  Breakfast at the greasy spoon down the street is logical.  Especially after margaritas from the night before. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>3.  Lounging poolside the next day is mandatory.  (Poolside Palm Reading optional.  See tomorrow\'s post for details.)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>2.  No one thinks you\'re crazy for suggesting \"Light as a Feather, Stiff as a Board\" or \"Bloody Mary\" at midnight. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>1.  You can jump on the beds and...yep...laugh like crazy.   </p>\r\n\r\n<p><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/bedjump.jpg\" target=\"_blank\"><img class=\"alignleft size-medium wp-image-914\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/bedjump-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a></p>','Day 18:  10 Reasons Why You Need a Girls Weekend Pronto','','inherit','open','open','','868-revision-18','','','2010-10-03 18:26:28','2010-10-04 01:26:28','',868,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/10/03/868-revision-18/',0,'revision','',0),(925,1,'2010-10-03 18:26:45','2010-10-04 01:26:45','<p>\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_911\" align=\"alignleft\" width=\"300\" caption=\"My Posse\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/staycay2010.jpg\" target=\"_blank\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-911 \" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/staycay2010-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong> </strong> </p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>Bad News:</strong>  Saturday\'s stay in a Haunted Hotel cancelled.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><span style=\"color: #ff6600;\"><strong>Good News:</strong></span>  I was free to attend <strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?s=surprise\" target=\"_blank\">Lori\'s 40th Staycation</a> </strong>for 7 of us girls after all.  On Saturday night, we stayed overnight in Snobbsdale at the Scottsdale Conference Center which was perfectly unsnobby.  No bed bugs either!  Hurrah! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><span style=\"color: #ff6600;\"><strong>Good News Part Deux: </strong></span> Haunted Hotel rescheduled for November. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><span style=\"color: #ff6600;\"><strong>News Flash: </strong></span> Everything always works out as it should. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><span style=\"font-size: x-large;\"><span style=\"color: #ff00ff;\"><strong><span style=\"color: #ff99cc;\">10 Reasons Why You Need to an Overnight with the Girls</span></strong></span></span></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>10.  All girls need periodic slumber parties, whether they\'re 16, 25, 30s, 40s, 50s and beyond.  It\'s good for the soul.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>9.  If you are in your 30s, 40s, 50s and beyond, you will feel 16 again.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>8.  You can play games into the wee hours of the night and laugh like crazy.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>7.  You can eat as much junk food and candy as you want, and no one cares. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>6.  You can listen to music and sing and dance and laugh like crazy. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>5.  You can crank call each other\'s rooms at 1:30 in the morning. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>4.  Breakfast at the greasy spoon down the street is logical.  Especially after margaritas from the night before. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>3.  Lounging poolside the next day is mandatory.  (Poolside Palm Reading optional.  See tomorrow\'s post for details.)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>2.  No one thinks you\'re crazy for suggesting \"Light as a Feather, Stiff as a Board\" or \"Bloody Mary\" at midnight. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>1.  You can jump on the beds and...yep...laugh like crazy.   </p>\r\n\r\n<p><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/bedjump.jpg\" target=\"_blank\"><img class=\"alignleft size-medium wp-image-914\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/bedjump-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a></p>','Day 18:  10 Reasons Why You Need a Girls Weekend Pronto','','inherit','open','open','','868-revision-19','','','2010-10-03 18:26:45','2010-10-04 01:26:45','',868,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/10/03/868-revision-19/',0,'revision','',0),(927,1,'2010-10-03 18:28:32','2010-10-04 01:28:32','<p>\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_911\" align=\"alignleft\" width=\"300\" caption=\"My Posse\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/staycay2010.jpg\" target=\"_blank\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-911 \" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/staycay2010-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong> </strong> </p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>Bad News:</strong>  Saturday\'s stay in a Haunted Hotel cancelled.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><span style=\"color: #ff6600;\"><strong>Good News:</strong></span>  I was free to attend <strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?s=surprise\" target=\"_blank\">Lori\'s 40th Staycation</a> </strong>for 7 of us girls after all.  On Saturday night, we stayed overnight in Snobbsdale at the Scottsdale Conference Center which was perfectly unsnobby.  No bed bugs either!  Hurrah! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><span style=\"color: #ff6600;\"><strong>Good News Part Deux: </strong></span> Haunted Hotel rescheduled for November. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><span style=\"color: #ff6600;\"><strong>News Flash: </strong></span> Everything always works out as it should. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><span style=\"font-size: x-large;\"><span style=\"color: #ff00ff;\"><strong><span style=\"color: #ff99cc;\">10 Reasons Why You Need to an Overnight with the Girls</span></strong></span></span></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>10.  All girls need periodic slumber parties, whether they\'re 16, 25, 30s, 40s, 50s and beyond.  It\'s good for the soul.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>9.  If you are in your 30s, 40s, 50s and beyond, you will feel 16 again.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>8.  You can play games into the wee hours of the night and laugh like crazy.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>7.  You can eat as much junk food and candy as you want, and no one cares. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>6.  You can listen to music and sing and dance and laugh like crazy. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>5.  You can crank call each other\'s rooms at 1:30 in the morning. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>4.  Breakfast at the greasy spoon down the street is logical.  Especially after margaritas from the night before. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>3.  Lounging poolside the next day is mandatory.  (Poolside Palm Reading optional.  See tomorrow\'s post for details.)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>2.  No one thinks you\'re crazy for suggesting \"Light as a Feather, Stiff as a Board\" or \"Bloody Mary\" at midnight. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>1.  You can jump on the beds and...yep...laugh like crazy.   </p>\r\n\r\n<p><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/bedjump.jpg\" target=\"_blank\"><img class=\"alignleft size-medium wp-image-914\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/bedjump-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a></p>','Day 18:  10 Reasons Why You Need a Girls Weekend Pronto','','inherit','open','open','','868-revision-21','','','2010-10-03 18:28:32','2010-10-04 01:28:32','',868,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/10/03/868-revision-21/',0,'revision','',0),(926,1,'2010-10-03 18:27:49','2010-10-04 01:27:49','<p>\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_911\" align=\"alignleft\" width=\"300\" caption=\"My Posse\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/staycay2010.jpg\" target=\"_blank\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-911 \" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/staycay2010-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong> </strong> \r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>Bad News:</strong>  Saturday\'s stay in a Haunted Hotel cancelled.\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" />\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><span style=\"color: #ff6600;\"><strong>Good News:</strong></span>  I was free to attend <strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?s=surprise\" target=\"_blank\">Lori\'s 40th Staycation</a> </strong>for 7 of us girls after all.  On Saturday night, we stayed overnight in Snobbsdale at the Scottsdale Resort and Conference Center which was perfectly unsnobby.  No bed bugs either!  Hurrah! \r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" />\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><span style=\"color: #ff6600;\"><strong>Good News Part Deux: </strong></span> Haunted Hotel rescheduled for November. \r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" />\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><span style=\"color: #ff6600;\"><strong>News Flash: </strong></span> Everything always works out as it should. \r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" />\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><span style=\"font-size: x-large;\"><span style=\"color: #ff00ff;\"><strong><span style=\"color: #ff99cc;\">10 Reasons Why You Need to an Overnight with the Girls</span></strong></span></span>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" />\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>10.  All girls need periodic slumber parties, whether they\'re 16, 25, 30s, 40s, 50s and beyond.  It\'s good for the soul.\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" />\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>9.  If you are in your 30s, 40s, 50s and beyond, you will feel 16 again.\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" />\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>8.  You can play games into the wee hours of the night and laugh like crazy.\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" />\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>7.  You can eat as much junk food and candy as you want, and no one cares. \r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" />\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>6.  You can listen to music and sing and dance and laugh like crazy. \r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" />\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>5.  You can crank call each other\'s rooms at 1:30 in the morning. \r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" />\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>4.  Breakfast at the greasy spoon down the street is logical.  Especially after margaritas from the night before. \r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" />\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>3.  Lounging poolside the next day is mandatory.  (Poolside Palm Reading optional.  See tomorrow\'s post for details.)\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" />\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>2.  No one thinks you\'re crazy for suggesting \"Light as a Feather, Stiff as a Board\" or \"Bloody Mary\" at midnight. \r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" />\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>1.  You can jump on the beds and...yep...laugh like crazy.   \r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/bedjump.jpg\" target=\"_blank\"><img class=\"alignleft size-medium wp-image-914\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/bedjump-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n</p>','Day 18:  10 Reasons Why You Need a Girls Weekend Pronto','','inherit','open','open','','868-revision-20','','','2010-10-03 18:27:49','2010-10-04 01:27:49','',868,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/10/03/868-revision-20/',0,'revision','',0),(930,1,'2010-10-03 20:28:35','2010-10-04 03:28:35','<p>[caption id=\"attachment_911\" align=\"alignleft\" width=\"300\" caption=\"My Posse\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/staycay2010.jpg\" target=\"_blank\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-911 \" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/staycay2010-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>[/caption]</p>\r\n<p><strong> </strong> </p>\r\n<p><strong>Bad News:</strong>  Saturday\'s stay in a Haunted Hotel cancelled.</p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><span style=\"color: #ff6600;\"><strong>Good News:</strong></span>  I was free to attend <strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?s=surprise\" target=\"_blank\">Lori\'s 40th Birthday Staycation</a> </strong>for 7 of us girls after all.  On Saturday night, we stayed overnight in Snobbsdale at the Scottsdale Resort and Conference Center which was perfectly unsnobby.  No bed bugs either!  Hurrah! </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><span style=\"color: #ff6600;\"><strong>Good News Part Deux: </strong></span> Haunted Hotel rescheduled for November. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p></br></p>\r\n<p><span style=\"color: #ff6600;\"><strong>News Flash: </strong></span> Everything always works out as it should. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p></br></p>\r\n<p><span style=\"font-size: x-large;\"><span style=\"color: #ff00ff;\"><strong><span style=\"color: #ff99cc;\">10 Reasons Why You Need an Overnight with the Girls</span></strong></span></span></p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>10.  All girls need periodic slumber parties, whether they\'re 16, 25, 30s, 40s, 50s and beyond.  It\'s good for the soul.</p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>9.  If you are in your 30s, 40s, 50s and beyond, you will feel 16 again.</p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>8.  You can play games into the wee hours of the night and laugh like crazy.</p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>7.  You can eat as much junk food and candy as you want, and no one cares. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>6.  You can listen to music all night and sing and dance and laugh like crazy. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>5.  You can crank call each other\'s rooms at 1:30 in the morning. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>4.  Breakfast at the greasy spoon down the street is logical.  Especially after margaritas from the night before. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>3.  Lounging poolside the next day is mandatory.  (Poolside Palm Reading optional.  See tomorrow\'s post for details.)</p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>2.  No one thinks you\'re crazy for suggesting \"Light as a Feather, Stiff as a Board\" or \"Bloody Mary\" at midnight. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>1.  You can jump on the beds and...yep...laugh like crazy.   </p>\r\n<p><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/bedjump.jpg\" target=\"_blank\"><img class=\"alignleft size-medium wp-image-914\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/bedjump-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a></p>\r\n','Day 18:  10 Reasons Why You Need a Girls Weekend Pronto','','inherit','open','open','','868-autosave','','','2010-10-03 20:28:35','2010-10-04 03:28:35','',868,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/10/03/868-autosave/',0,'revision','',0),(928,1,'2010-10-03 18:28:59','2010-10-04 01:28:59','<p>\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_911\" align=\"alignleft\" width=\"300\" caption=\"My Posse\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/staycay2010.jpg\" target=\"_blank\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-911 \" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/staycay2010-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong> </strong> </p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>Bad News:</strong>  Saturday\'s stay in a Haunted Hotel cancelled.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><span style=\"color: #ff6600;\"><strong>Good News:</strong></span>  I was free to attend <strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?s=surprise\" target=\"_blank\">Lori\'s 40th Staycation</a> </strong>for 7 of us girls after all.  On Saturday night, we stayed overnight in Snobbsdale at the Scottsdale Resort and Conference Center which was perfectly unsnobby.  No bed bugs either!  Hurrah! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><span style=\"color: #ff6600;\"><strong>Good News Part Deux: </strong></span> Haunted Hotel rescheduled for November. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><span style=\"color: #ff6600;\"><strong>News Flash: </strong></span> Everything always works out as it should. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><span style=\"font-size: x-large;\"><span style=\"color: #ff00ff;\"><strong><span style=\"color: #ff99cc;\">10 Reasons Why You Need to an Overnight with the Girls</span></strong></span></span></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>10.  All girls need periodic slumber parties, whether they\'re 16, 25, 30s, 40s, 50s and beyond.  It\'s good for the soul.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>9.  If you are in your 30s, 40s, 50s and beyond, you will feel 16 again.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>8.  You can play games into the wee hours of the night and laugh like crazy.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>7.  You can eat as much junk food and candy as you want, and no one cares. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>6.  You can listen to music and sing and dance and laugh like crazy. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>5.  You can crank call each other\'s rooms at 1:30 in the morning. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>4.  Breakfast at the greasy spoon down the street is logical.  Especially after margaritas from the night before. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>3.  Lounging poolside the next day is mandatory.  (Poolside Palm Reading optional.  See tomorrow\'s post for details.)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>2.  No one thinks you\'re crazy for suggesting \"Light as a Feather, Stiff as a Board\" or \"Bloody Mary\" at midnight. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>1.  You can jump on the beds and...yep...laugh like crazy.   </p>\r\n\r\n<p><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/bedjump.jpg\" target=\"_blank\"><img class=\"alignleft size-medium wp-image-914\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/bedjump-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a></p>','Day 18:  10 Reasons Why You Need a Girls Weekend Pronto','','inherit','open','open','','868-revision-22','','','2010-10-03 18:28:59','2010-10-04 01:28:59','',868,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/10/03/868-revision-22/',0,'revision','',0),(929,1,'2010-10-03 18:29:18','2010-10-04 01:29:18','<p>\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_911\" align=\"alignleft\" width=\"300\" caption=\"My Posse\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/staycay2010.jpg\" target=\"_blank\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-911 \" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/staycay2010-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong> </strong> </p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>Bad News:</strong>  Saturday\'s stay in a Haunted Hotel cancelled.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><span style=\"color: #ff6600;\"><strong>Good News:</strong></span>  I was free to attend <strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?s=surprise\" target=\"_blank\">Lori\'s 40th Staycation</a> </strong>for 7 of us girls after all.  On Saturday night, we stayed overnight in Snobbsdale at the Scottsdale Resort and Conference Center which was perfectly unsnobby.  No bed bugs either!  Hurrah! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><span style=\"color: #ff6600;\"><strong>Good News Part Deux: </strong></span> Haunted Hotel rescheduled for November. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><span style=\"color: #ff6600;\"><strong>News Flash: </strong></span> Everything always works out as it should. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><span style=\"font-size: x-large;\"><span style=\"color: #ff00ff;\"><strong><span style=\"color: #ff99cc;\">10 Reasons Why You Need to an Overnight with the Girls</span></strong></span></span></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>10.  All girls need periodic slumber parties, whether they\'re 16, 25, 30s, 40s, 50s and beyond.  It\'s good for the soul.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>9.  If you are in your 30s, 40s, 50s and beyond, you will feel 16 again.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>8.  You can play games into the wee hours of the night and laugh like crazy.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>7.  You can eat as much junk food and candy as you want, and no one cares. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>6.  You can listen to music and sing and dance and laugh like crazy. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>5.  You can crank call each other\'s rooms at 1:30 in the morning. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>4.  Breakfast at the greasy spoon down the street is logical.  Especially after margaritas from the night before. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>3.  Lounging poolside the next day is mandatory.  (Poolside Palm Reading optional.  See tomorrow\'s post for details.)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>2.  No one thinks you\'re crazy for suggesting \"Light as a Feather, Stiff as a Board\" or \"Bloody Mary\" at midnight. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>1.  You can jump on the beds and...yep...laugh like crazy.   </p>\r\n\r\n<p><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/bedjump.jpg\" target=\"_blank\"><img class=\"alignleft size-medium wp-image-914\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/bedjump-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a></p>','Day 18:  10 Reasons Why You Need a Girls Weekend Pronto','','inherit','open','open','','868-revision-23','','','2010-10-03 18:29:18','2010-10-04 01:29:18','',868,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/10/03/868-revision-23/',0,'revision','',0),(931,1,'2010-10-03 18:29:32','2010-10-04 01:29:32','<p>[caption id=\"attachment_911\" align=\"alignleft\" width=\"300\" caption=\"My Posse\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/staycay2010.jpg\" target=\"_blank\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-911 \" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/staycay2010-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>[/caption]</p>\r\n<p><strong> </strong> </p>\r\n<p><strong>Bad News:</strong>  Saturday\'s stay in a Haunted Hotel cancelled.</p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><span style=\"color: #ff6600;\"><strong>Good News:</strong></span>  I was free to attend <strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?s=surprise\" target=\"_blank\">Lori\'s 40th Staycation</a> </strong>for 7 of us girls after all.  On Saturday night, we stayed overnight in Snobbsdale at the Scottsdale Resort and Conference Center which was perfectly unsnobby.  No bed bugs either!  Hurrah! </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><span style=\"color: #ff6600;\"><strong>Good News Part Deux: </strong></span> Haunted Hotel rescheduled for November. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><span style=\"color: #ff6600;\"><strong>News Flash: </strong></span> Everything always works out as it should. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><span style=\"font-size: x-large;\"><span style=\"color: #ff00ff;\"><strong><span style=\"color: #ff99cc;\">10 Reasons Why You Need to an Overnight with the Girls</span></strong></span></span></p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>10.  All girls need periodic slumber parties, whether they\'re 16, 25, 30s, 40s, 50s and beyond.  It\'s good for the soul.</p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>9.  If you are in your 30s, 40s, 50s and beyond, you will feel 16 again.</p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>8.  You can play games into the wee hours of the night and laugh like crazy.</p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>7.  You can eat as much junk food and candy as you want, and no one cares. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>6.  You can listen to music and sing and dance and laugh like crazy. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>5.  You can crank call each other\'s rooms at 1:30 in the morning. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>4.  Breakfast at the greasy spoon down the street is logical.  Especially after margaritas from the night before. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>3.  Lounging poolside the next day is mandatory.  (Poolside Palm Reading optional.  See tomorrow\'s post for details.)</p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>2.  No one thinks you\'re crazy for suggesting \"Light as a Feather, Stiff as a Board\" or \"Bloody Mary\" at midnight. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>1.  You can jump on the beds and...yep...laugh like crazy.   </p>\r\n<p><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/bedjump.jpg\" target=\"_blank\"><img class=\"alignleft size-medium wp-image-914\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/bedjump-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a></p>\r\n','Day 18:  10 Reasons Why You Need a Girls Weekend Pronto','','inherit','open','open','','868-revision-24','','','2010-10-03 18:29:32','2010-10-04 01:29:32','',868,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/10/03/868-revision-24/',0,'revision','',0),(932,1,'2010-10-03 19:22:31','2010-10-04 02:22:31','<p>[caption id=\"attachment_911\" align=\"alignleft\" width=\"300\" caption=\"My Posse\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/staycay2010.jpg\" target=\"_blank\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-911 \" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/staycay2010-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>[/caption]</p>\r\n<p><strong> </strong> </p>\r\n<p><strong>Bad News:</strong>  Saturday\'s stay in a Haunted Hotel cancelled.</p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><span style=\"color: #ff6600;\"><strong>Good News:</strong></span>  I was free to attend <strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?s=surprise\" target=\"_blank\">Lori\'s 40th Staycation</a> </strong>for 7 of us girls after all.  On Saturday night, we stayed overnight in Snobbsdale at the Scottsdale Resort and Conference Center which was perfectly unsnobby.  No bed bugs either!  Hurrah! </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><span style=\"color: #ff6600;\"><strong>Good News Part Deux: </strong></span> Haunted Hotel rescheduled for November. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><span style=\"color: #ff6600;\"><strong>News Flash: </strong></span> Everything always works out as it should. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><span style=\"font-size: x-large;\"><span style=\"color: #ff00ff;\"><strong><span style=\"color: #ff99cc;\">10 Reasons Why You Need an Overnight with the Girls</span></strong></span></span></p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>10.  All girls need periodic slumber parties, whether they\'re 16, 25, 30s, 40s, 50s and beyond.  It\'s good for the soul.</p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>9.  If you are in your 30s, 40s, 50s and beyond, you will feel 16 again.</p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>8.  You can play games into the wee hours of the night and laugh like crazy.</p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>7.  You can eat as much junk food and candy as you want, and no one cares. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>6.  You can listen to music and sing and dance and laugh like crazy. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>5.  You can crank call each other\'s rooms at 1:30 in the morning. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>4.  Breakfast at the greasy spoon down the street is logical.  Especially after margaritas from the night before. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>3.  Lounging poolside the next day is mandatory.  (Poolside Palm Reading optional.  See tomorrow\'s post for details.)</p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>2.  No one thinks you\'re crazy for suggesting \"Light as a Feather, Stiff as a Board\" or \"Bloody Mary\" at midnight. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>1.  You can jump on the beds and...yep...laugh like crazy.   </p>\r\n<p><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/bedjump.jpg\" target=\"_blank\"><img class=\"alignleft size-medium wp-image-914\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/bedjump-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a></p>\r\n','Day 18:  10 Reasons Why You Need a Girls Weekend Pronto','','inherit','open','open','','868-revision-25','','','2010-10-03 19:22:31','2010-10-04 02:22:31','',868,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/10/03/868-revision-25/',0,'revision','',0),(933,1,'2010-10-03 19:26:42','2010-10-04 02:26:42','<p>[caption id=\"attachment_911\" align=\"alignleft\" width=\"300\" caption=\"My Posse\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/staycay2010.jpg\" target=\"_blank\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-911 \" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/staycay2010-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>[/caption]</p>\r\n<p><strong> </strong> </p>\r\n<p><strong>Bad News:</strong>  Saturday\'s stay in a Haunted Hotel cancelled.</p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><span style=\"color: #ff6600;\"><strong>Good News:</strong></span>  I was free to attend <strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?s=surprise\" target=\"_blank\">Lori\'s 40th Staycation</a> </strong>for 7 of us girls after all.  On Saturday night, we stayed overnight in Snobbsdale at the Scottsdale Resort and Conference Center which was perfectly unsnobby.  No bed bugs either!  Hurrah! </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><span style=\"color: #ff6600;\"><strong>Good News Part Deux: </strong></span> Haunted Hotel rescheduled for November. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n</br>\r\n<p><span style=\"color: #ff6600;\"><strong>News Flash: </strong></span> Everything always works out as it should. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n</br>\r\n<p><span style=\"font-size: x-large;\"><span style=\"color: #ff00ff;\"><strong><span style=\"color: #ff99cc;\">10 Reasons Why You Need to an Overnight with the Girls</span></strong></span></span></p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>10.  All girls need periodic slumber parties, whether they\'re 16, 25, 30s, 40s, 50s and beyond.  It\'s good for the soul.</p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>9.  If you are in your 30s, 40s, 50s and beyond, you will feel 16 again.</p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>8.  You can play games into the wee hours of the night and laugh like crazy.</p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>7.  You can eat as much junk food and candy as you want, and no one cares. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>6.  You can listen to music and sing and dance and laugh like crazy. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>5.  You can crank call each other\'s rooms at 1:30 in the morning. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>4.  Breakfast at the greasy spoon down the street is logical.  Especially after margaritas from the night before. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>3.  Lounging poolside the next day is mandatory.  (Poolside Palm Reading optional.  See tomorrow\'s post for details.)</p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>2.  No one thinks you\'re crazy for suggesting \"Light as a Feather, Stiff as a Board\" or \"Bloody Mary\" at midnight. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>1.  You can jump on the beds and...yep...laugh like crazy.   </p>\r\n<p><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/bedjump.jpg\" target=\"_blank\"><img class=\"alignleft size-medium wp-image-914\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/bedjump-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a></p>\r\n','Day 18:  10 Reasons Why You Need a Girls Weekend Pronto','','inherit','open','open','','868-revision-26','','','2010-10-03 19:26:42','2010-10-04 02:26:42','',868,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/10/03/868-revision-26/',0,'revision','',0),(934,1,'2010-10-03 19:27:39','2010-10-04 02:27:39','<p>[caption id=\"attachment_911\" align=\"alignleft\" width=\"300\" caption=\"My Posse\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/staycay2010.jpg\" target=\"_blank\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-911 \" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/staycay2010-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>[/caption]</p>\r\n<p><strong> </strong> </p>\r\n<p><strong>Bad News:</strong>  Saturday\'s stay in a Haunted Hotel cancelled.</p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><span style=\"color: #ff6600;\"><strong>Good News:</strong></span>  I was free to attend <strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?s=surprise\" target=\"_blank\">Lori\'s 40th Staycation</a> </strong>for 7 of us girls after all.  On Saturday night, we stayed overnight in Snobbsdale at the Scottsdale Resort and Conference Center which was perfectly unsnobby.  No bed bugs either!  Hurrah! </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><span style=\"color: #ff6600;\"><strong>Good News Part Deux: </strong></span> Haunted Hotel rescheduled for November. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p></br></p>\r\n<p><span style=\"color: #ff6600;\"><strong>News Flash: </strong></span> Everything always works out as it should. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p></br></p>\r\n<p><span style=\"font-size: x-large;\"><span style=\"color: #ff00ff;\"><strong><span style=\"color: #ff99cc;\">10 Reasons Why You Need to an Overnight with the Girls</span></strong></span></span></p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>10.  All girls need periodic slumber parties, whether they\'re 16, 25, 30s, 40s, 50s and beyond.  It\'s good for the soul.</p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>9.  If you are in your 30s, 40s, 50s and beyond, you will feel 16 again.</p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>8.  You can play games into the wee hours of the night and laugh like crazy.</p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>7.  You can eat as much junk food and candy as you want, and no one cares. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>6.  You can listen to music and sing and dance and laugh like crazy. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>5.  You can crank call each other\'s rooms at 1:30 in the morning. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>4.  Breakfast at the greasy spoon down the street is logical.  Especially after margaritas from the night before. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>3.  Lounging poolside the next day is mandatory.  (Poolside Palm Reading optional.  See tomorrow\'s post for details.)</p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>2.  No one thinks you\'re crazy for suggesting \"Light as a Feather, Stiff as a Board\" or \"Bloody Mary\" at midnight. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>1.  You can jump on the beds and...yep...laugh like crazy.   </p>\r\n<p><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/bedjump.jpg\" target=\"_blank\"><img class=\"alignleft size-medium wp-image-914\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/bedjump-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a></p>\r\n','Day 18:  10 Reasons Why You Need a Girls Weekend Pronto','','inherit','open','open','','868-revision-27','','','2010-10-03 19:27:39','2010-10-04 02:27:39','',868,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/10/03/868-revision-27/',0,'revision','',0),(935,1,'2010-10-03 19:28:18','2010-10-04 02:28:18','<p>[caption id=\"attachment_911\" align=\"alignleft\" width=\"300\" caption=\"My Posse\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/staycay2010.jpg\" target=\"_blank\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-911 \" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/staycay2010-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>[/caption]</p>\r\n<p><strong> </strong> </p>\r\n<p><strong>Bad News:</strong>  Saturday\'s stay in a Haunted Hotel cancelled.</p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><span style=\"color: #ff6600;\"><strong>Good News:</strong></span>  I was free to attend <strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?s=surprise\" target=\"_blank\">Lori\'s 40th Birthday Staycation</a> </strong>for 7 of us girls after all.  On Saturday night, we stayed overnight in Snobbsdale at the Scottsdale Resort and Conference Center which was perfectly unsnobby.  No bed bugs either!  Hurrah! </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><span style=\"color: #ff6600;\"><strong>Good News Part Deux: </strong></span> Haunted Hotel rescheduled for November. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p></br></p>\r\n<p><span style=\"color: #ff6600;\"><strong>News Flash: </strong></span> Everything always works out as it should. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p></br></p>\r\n<p><span style=\"font-size: x-large;\"><span style=\"color: #ff00ff;\"><strong><span style=\"color: #ff99cc;\">10 Reasons Why You Need to an Overnight with the Girls</span></strong></span></span></p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>10.  All girls need periodic slumber parties, whether they\'re 16, 25, 30s, 40s, 50s and beyond.  It\'s good for the soul.</p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>9.  If you are in your 30s, 40s, 50s and beyond, you will feel 16 again.</p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>8.  You can play games into the wee hours of the night and laugh like crazy.</p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>7.  You can eat as much junk food and candy as you want, and no one cares. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>6.  You can listen to music and sing and dance and laugh like crazy. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>5.  You can crank call each other\'s rooms at 1:30 in the morning. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>4.  Breakfast at the greasy spoon down the street is logical.  Especially after margaritas from the night before. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>3.  Lounging poolside the next day is mandatory.  (Poolside Palm Reading optional.  See tomorrow\'s post for details.)</p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>2.  No one thinks you\'re crazy for suggesting \"Light as a Feather, Stiff as a Board\" or \"Bloody Mary\" at midnight. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>1.  You can jump on the beds and...yep...laugh like crazy.   </p>\r\n<p><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/bedjump.jpg\" target=\"_blank\"><img class=\"alignleft size-medium wp-image-914\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/bedjump-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a></p>\r\n','Day 18:  10 Reasons Why You Need a Girls Weekend Pronto','','inherit','open','open','','868-revision-28','','','2010-10-03 19:28:18','2010-10-04 02:28:18','',868,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/10/03/868-revision-28/',0,'revision','',0),(936,1,'2010-10-03 19:36:49','2010-10-04 02:36:49','<p>[caption id=\"attachment_911\" align=\"alignleft\" width=\"300\" caption=\"My Posse\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/staycay2010.jpg\" target=\"_blank\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-911 \" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/staycay2010-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>[/caption]</p>\r\n<p><strong> </strong> </p>\r\n<p><strong>Bad News:</strong>  Saturday\'s stay in a Haunted Hotel cancelled.</p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><span style=\"color: #ff6600;\"><strong>Good News:</strong></span>  I was free to attend <strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?s=surprise\" target=\"_blank\">Lori\'s 40th Birthday Staycation</a> </strong>for 7 of us girls after all.  On Saturday night, we stayed overnight in Snobbsdale at the Scottsdale Resort and Conference Center which was perfectly unsnobby.  No bed bugs either!  Hurrah! </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><span style=\"color: #ff6600;\"><strong>Good News Part Deux: </strong></span> Haunted Hotel rescheduled for November. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p></br></p>\r\n<p><span style=\"color: #ff6600;\"><strong>News Flash: </strong></span> Everything always works out as it should. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p></br></p>\r\n<p><span style=\"font-size: x-large;\"><span style=\"color: #ff00ff;\"><strong><span style=\"color: #ff99cc;\">10 Reasons Why You Need an Overnight with the Girls</span></strong></span></span></p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>10.  All girls need periodic slumber parties, whether they\'re 16, 25, 30s, 40s, 50s and beyond.  It\'s good for the soul.</p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>9.  If you are in your 30s, 40s, 50s and beyond, you will feel 16 again.</p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>8.  You can play games into the wee hours of the night and laugh like crazy.</p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>7.  You can eat as much junk food and candy as you want, and no one cares. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>6.  You can listen to music and sing and dance and laugh like crazy. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>5.  You can crank call each other\'s rooms at 1:30 in the morning. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>4.  Breakfast at the greasy spoon down the street is logical.  Especially after margaritas from the night before. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>3.  Lounging poolside the next day is mandatory.  (Poolside Palm Reading optional.  See tomorrow\'s post for details.)</p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>2.  No one thinks you\'re crazy for suggesting \"Light as a Feather, Stiff as a Board\" or \"Bloody Mary\" at midnight. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>1.  You can jump on the beds and...yep...laugh like crazy.   </p>\r\n<p><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/bedjump.jpg\" target=\"_blank\"><img class=\"alignleft size-medium wp-image-914\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/bedjump-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a></p>\r\n','Day 18:  10 Reasons Why You Need a Girls Weekend Pronto','','inherit','open','open','','868-revision-29','','','2010-10-03 19:36:49','2010-10-04 02:36:49','',868,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/10/03/868-revision-29/',0,'revision','',0),(937,1,'2010-10-03 21:17:49','2010-10-04 04:17:49','','poolpalm','','inherit','open','open','','poolpalm','','','2010-10-03 21:17:49','2010-10-04 04:17:49','',870,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/poolpalm.jpg',0,'attachment','image/jpeg',0),(938,1,'2010-10-03 17:35:00','2010-10-04 00:35:00','','Day 19:  Poolside Palm Reading','','inherit','open','open','','870-revision-3','','','2010-10-03 17:35:00','2010-10-04 00:35:00','',870,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/10/03/870-revision-3/',0,'revision','',0),(939,1,'2010-10-03 21:19:16','2010-10-04 04:19:16','<p><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/poolpalm.jpg\"><img class=\"alignleft size-full wp-image-937\" title=\"poolpalm\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/poolpalm.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"220\" height=\"255\" /></a>Madame Michelle</p>','Day 19:  Poolside Palm Reading','','inherit','open','open','','870-revision-4','','','2010-10-03 21:19:16','2010-10-04 04:19:16','',870,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/10/03/870-revision-4/',0,'revision','',0),(940,1,'2010-10-03 21:20:20','2010-10-04 04:20:20','<p><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/poolpalm.jpg\" target=\"_blank\"><img class=\"alignleft size-full wp-image-937\" title=\"poolpalm\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/poolpalm.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"220\" height=\"255\" /></a>Madame Michelle</p>','Day 19:  Poolside Palm Reading','','inherit','open','open','','870-revision-5','','','2010-10-03 21:20:20','2010-10-04 04:20:20','',870,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/10/03/870-revision-5/',0,'revision','',0),(941,1,'2010-10-03 21:20:34','2010-10-04 04:20:34','<p><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/poolpalm.jpg\" target=\"_blank\"><img class=\"alignleft size-full wp-image-937\" title=\"poolpalm\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/poolpalm.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"220\" height=\"255\" /></a>Madame Michelle</p>','Day 19:  Poolside Palm Reading','','inherit','open','open','','870-revision-6','','','2010-10-03 21:20:34','2010-10-04 04:20:34','',870,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/10/03/870-revision-6/',0,'revision','',0),(942,1,'2010-10-04 21:00:28','2010-10-05 04:00:28','<p><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/poolpalm.jpg\" target=\"_blank\"><img class=\"alignleft size-full wp-image-937\" title=\"poolpalm\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/poolpalm.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"220\" height=\"255\" /></a></p>\r\n\r\n<p>My mother, bless her heart, stuffs my stocking each Christmas with a vast array of eclectic paraphernalia. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Last year, I received a mini Palm Reading Kit.  I placed it on the game shelf in the hall closet for who-knew-when. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>As I packed decks of cards for our <strong>Girls Weekend</strong>, I came across the mini Palm Reading Kit (that I forgot existed) and threw it in the bag for Poolside Palm Readings at the resort.  My posse has come to expect this kind of kookiness from me.  I think they find it endearingly entertaining. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>On Sunday, we headed down to the pool for an afternoon of sunshine, relaxation, and Hocus Pocus.  Fun times! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>My victims:</strong></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Dawn aka Sister Dawn Catherine</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Katie aka Katie Ann (spoken like “CAROL ANN!!!” in <em>Poltergeist</em>)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Lori aka poo poo gang symbol (<strong>recall Kindergarten bonding story</strong>)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Myself aka Madame Michelle, Palm Reader to the up and coming stars)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>Our Fate (determined by an impulse buy/ideal stocking stuffer <em>mini Palm Reading kit</em>):</strong></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong> </strong></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>Sister Dawn Catherine:  </strong>An argumentative, impatient little hussy.  Who never acts in haste.  (Contradictory, mini kit.  Contradictory indeed.  And “patience of a saint” comes to mind instead.  I’m just sayin’.)  Believes that dreams do come true.  (This is why she’s my friend.)  A hard worker with great endurance.  A follower.  Sunny disposition and generous to a fault.  (She’s the definition of sunny.)   Short attention span.  (She teaches 2<sup>nd</sup> graders, so maybe they have worn off on her.)  Craves constant ego reinforcement from friends, family, and lovers.  (Bart, husband of Sister Dawn Catherine, is this true???) </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>Katie Ann:  </strong>Gains emotional satisfaction from being orderly, careful, useful and productive.  (She is mildly OCD in her organizational habits, now that I think of it.)  Rarely acts in haste or anger.  (I’ve never seen her mad, and I’ve known her for nearly 10 years.)  An individualist.  Self-expression is important.  Dreamer.  (Of course!  She’s one of my peeps!)  Another sunny blonde.  (Gotta love them.)  Overly idealistic.  Dealing with harsh realities is difficult.  (I feel your pain, soul sister!)  <em>Potential</em> money loss in your middle years.  (Katie Ann obsessed about this one for hours.  I kept reminding her that this was mini kit Hocus Pocus and not for reals.)  Fickle with many lovers.  (Biatch.)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>Poo Poo Gang Sistah:  </strong>Often puts others first.  (Yep.  Another public servant/teacher.)  Persistent and single-minded.  (She just finished 12 weeks of <strong>P90x</strong>.  Uh-huh.) Great physical strength and endurance.  (We just established that.)  Another dreamer type.  (A prerequisite to if you want to join my posse, so it seems.)  Vain.  (Hardly, mini kit.  Hardly.)  Sunny and generous.  (I love my friends!)  Curious and inventive.  (Science teacher.)  Another fickle broad.  (You better behave or else, Rob!) </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>Madame Michelle:  </strong>Almost too compassionate because of a need for love.  (Yikes!  Katie Ann had this, too!)  A dreamer who gets mired in fantasies.  (Ya think?)  Individualist who tests her own limits.  Always seeks new ways to do things.  (Read 365 Days or Bust and tell me if you agree.)   Worry wart.  (Eeeekkk.  Gulp.)  More than one career interest.  Mentally hyperactive.  (Does this mean I think too much?  Should I be worried?!?!.)  Fickle wench.  (Apparently another theme amongst the posse.)  Cautious about love.  (Crap.) </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>So there you have it.  Truth or crock-a-doodle-doo?</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>To be determined…</p>','Day 19:  Poolside Palm Reading','','inherit','open','open','','870-revision-7','','','2010-10-04 21:00:28','2010-10-05 04:00:28','',870,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/10/04/870-revision-7/',0,'revision','',0),(943,1,'2010-10-04 21:10:32','2010-10-05 04:10:32','<p><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/poolpalm.jpg\" target=\"_blank\"><img class=\"alignleft size-full wp-image-937\" title=\"poolpalm\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/poolpalm.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"220\" height=\"255\" /></a></p>\r\n\r\n<p>My mother, bless her heart, stuffs my stocking each Christmas with a vast array of eclectic paraphernalia. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Last year, I received a mini Palm Reading Kit.  I placed it on the game shelf in the hall closet for who-knew-when. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>As I packed decks of cards for our <strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/10/04/day-18-10-reasons-why-you-need-a-girls-weekend-pronto/\" target=\"_blank\">Girls Weekend</a></strong>, I came across the mini Palm Reading Kit (that I forgot existed) and threw it in the bag for Poolside Palm Readings at the resort.  My posse has come to expect this kind of kookiness from me.  I think they find it endearingly entertaining. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>On Sunday, we headed down to the pool for an afternoon of sunshine, relaxation, and Hocus Pocus.  Fun times! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong><span style=\"color: #993366;\"><span style=\"font-size: large;\">My victims:</span></span></strong></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Dawn aka Sister Dawn Catherine</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Katie aka Katie Ann (spoken like “CAROL ANN!!!” in <em>Poltergeist</em>)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Lori aka poo poo gang symbol (<strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?s=surprise%21\" target=\"_blank\">recall Kindergarten bonding story</a></strong>)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Myself aka Madame Michelle, Palm Reader to the up and coming stars)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong><span style=\"color: #993366;\"><span style=\"font-size: large;\">Our Fate </span>(determined by an impulse buy/ideal stocking stuffer <em><a href=\"http://www.amazon.com/Palm-Reading-Dennis-Fairchild/dp/0762426837/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1286251700&amp;sr=8-1\" target=\"_blank\">mini Palm Reading kit</a></em>):</span></strong></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong> </strong></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong><span style=\"color: #800080;\">Sister Dawn Catherine: </span> </strong>An argumentative, impatient little hussy.  Who never acts in haste.  (Contradictory, mini kit.  Contradictory indeed.  And “patience of a saint” comes to mind instead.  I’m just sayin’.)  Believes that dreams do come true.  (This is why she’s my friend.)  A hard worker with great endurance.  A follower.  Sunny disposition and generous to a fault.  (She’s the definition of sunny.)   Short attention span.  (She teaches 2<sup>nd</sup> graders, so maybe they have worn off on her.)  Craves constant ego reinforcement from friends, family, and lovers.  (Bart, husband of Sister Dawn Catherine, is this true???) </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong><span style=\"color: #ffcc00;\">Katie Ann: </span> </strong>Gains emotional satisfaction from being orderly, careful, useful and productive.  (She is mildly OCD in her organizational habits, now that I think of it.)  Rarely acts in haste or anger.  (I’ve never seen her mad, and I’ve known her for nearly 10 years.)  An individualist.  Self-expression is important.  Dreamer.  (Of course!  She’s one of my peeps!)  Another sunny blonde.  (Gotta love them.)  Overly idealistic.  Dealing with harsh realities is difficult.  (I feel your pain, soul sister!)  <em>Potential</em> money loss in your middle years.  (Katie Ann obsessed about this one for hours.  I kept reminding her that this was mini kit Hocus Pocus and not for reals.)  Fickle with many lovers.  (Biatch.)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong><span style=\"color: #0000ff;\">Poo Poo Gang Sistah:</span>  </strong>Often puts others first.  (Yep.  Another public servant/teacher.)  Persistent and single-minded.  (She just finished 12 weeks of <strong>P90x</strong>.  Uh-huh.) Great physical strength and endurance.  (We just established that.)  Another dreamer type.  (A prerequisite to if you want to join my posse, so it seems.)  Vain.  (Hardly, mini kit.  Hardly.)  Sunny and generous.  (I love my friends!)  Curious and inventive.  (Science teacher.)  Another fickle broad.  (You better behave or else, Rob!) </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong><span style=\"color: #339966;\">Madame Michelle:</span>  </strong>Almost too compassionate because of a need for love.  (Yikes!  Katie Ann had this, too!)  A dreamer who gets mired in fantasies.  (Ya think?)  Individualist who tests her own limits.  Always seeks new ways to do things.  (Read 365 Days or Bust and tell me if you agree.)   Worry wart.  (Eeeekkk.  Gulp.)  More than one career interest.  Mentally hyperactive.  (Does this mean I think too much?  Should I be worried?!?!.)  Fickle wench.  (Apparently another theme amongst the posse.)  Cautious about love.  (Crap.) </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>So there you have it.  Truth or crock-a-doodle-doo?</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>To be determined…</p>','Day 19:  Poolside Palm Reading','','inherit','open','open','','870-revision-8','','','2010-10-04 21:10:32','2010-10-05 04:10:32','',870,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/10/04/870-revision-8/',0,'revision','',0),(944,1,'2010-10-04 21:10:41','2010-10-05 04:10:41','<p><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/poolpalm.jpg\" target=\"_blank\"><img class=\"alignleft size-full wp-image-937\" title=\"poolpalm\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/poolpalm.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"220\" height=\"255\" /></a></p>\r\n\r\n<p>My mother, bless her heart, stuffs my stocking each Christmas with a vast array of eclectic paraphernalia. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Last year, I received a mini Palm Reading Kit.  I placed it on the game shelf in the hall closet for who-knew-when. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>As I packed decks of cards for our <strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/10/04/day-18-10-reasons-why-you-need-a-girls-weekend-pronto/\" target=\"_blank\">Girls Weekend</a></strong>, I came across the mini Palm Reading Kit (that I forgot existed) and threw it in the bag for Poolside Palm Readings at the resort.  My posse has come to expect this kind of kookiness from me.  I think they find it endearingly entertaining. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>On Sunday, we headed down to the pool for an afternoon of sunshine, relaxation, and Hocus Pocus.  Fun times! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong><span style=\"color: #993366;\"><span style=\"font-size: large;\">My victims:</span></span></strong></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Dawn aka Sister Dawn Catherine</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Katie aka Katie Ann (spoken like “CAROL ANN!!!” in <em>Poltergeist</em>)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Lori aka poo poo gang symbol (<strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?s=surprise%21\" target=\"_blank\">recall Kindergarten bonding story</a></strong>)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Myself aka Madame Michelle, Palm Reader to the up and coming stars)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong><span style=\"color: #993366;\"><span style=\"font-size: large;\">Our Fate </span>(determined by an impulse buy/ideal stocking stuffer <em><a href=\"http://www.amazon.com/Palm-Reading-Dennis-Fairchild/dp/0762426837/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1286251700&amp;sr=8-1\" target=\"_blank\">mini Palm Reading kit</a></em>):</span></strong></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong> </strong></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong><span style=\"color: #800080;\">Sister Dawn Catherine: </span> </strong>An argumentative, impatient little hussy.  Who never acts in haste.  (Contradictory, mini kit.  Contradictory indeed.  And “patience of a saint” comes to mind instead.  I’m just sayin’.)  Believes that dreams do come true.  (This is why she’s my friend.)  A hard worker with great endurance.  A follower.  Sunny disposition and generous to a fault.  (She’s the definition of sunny.)   Short attention span.  (She teaches 2<sup>nd</sup> graders, so maybe they have worn off on her.)  Craves constant ego reinforcement from friends, family, and lovers.  (Bart, husband of Sister Dawn Catherine, is this true???) </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong><span style=\"color: #ffcc00;\">Katie Ann: </span> </strong>Gains emotional satisfaction from being orderly, careful, useful and productive.  (She is mildly OCD in her organizational habits, now that I think of it.)  Rarely acts in haste or anger.  (I’ve never seen her mad, and I’ve known her for nearly 10 years.)  An individualist.  Self-expression is important.  Dreamer.  (Of course!  She’s one of my peeps!)  Another sunny blonde.  (Gotta love them.)  Overly idealistic.  Dealing with harsh realities is difficult.  (I feel your pain, soul sister!)  <em>Potential</em> money loss in your middle years.  (Katie Ann obsessed about this one for hours.  I kept reminding her that this was mini kit Hocus Pocus and not for reals.)  Fickle with many lovers.  (Biatch.)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong><span style=\"color: #0000ff;\">Poo Poo Gang Sistah:</span>  </strong>Often puts others first.  (Yep.  Another public servant/teacher.)  Persistent and single-minded.  (She just finished 12 weeks of <strong>P90x</strong>.  Uh-huh.) Great physical strength and endurance.  (We just established that.)  Another dreamer type.  (A prerequisite to if you want to join my posse, so it seems.)  Vain.  (Hardly, mini kit.  Hardly.)  Sunny and generous.  (I love my friends!)  Curious and inventive.  (Science teacher.)  Another fickle broad.  (You better behave or else, Rob!) </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong><span style=\"color: #339966;\">Madame Michelle:</span>  </strong>Almost too compassionate because of a need for love.  (Yikes!  Katie Ann had this, too!)  A dreamer who gets mired in fantasies.  (Ya think?)  Individualist who tests her own limits.  Always seeks new ways to do things.  (Read 365 Days or Bust and tell me if you agree.)   Worry wart.  (Eeeekkk.  Gulp.)  More than one career interest.  Mentally hyperactive.  (Does this mean I think too much?  Should I be worried?!?!.)  Fickle wench.  (Apparently another theme amongst the posse.)  Cautious about love.  (Crap.) </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>So there you have it.  Truth or crock-a-doodle-doo?</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>To be determined…</p>','Day 19:  Poolside Palm Reading','','inherit','open','open','','870-revision-9','','','2010-10-04 21:10:41','2010-10-05 04:10:41','',870,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/10/04/870-revision-9/',0,'revision','',0),(946,1,'2010-10-04 21:18:43','2010-10-05 04:18:43','<p><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/poolpalm.jpg\" target=\"_blank\"><img class=\"alignleft size-full wp-image-937\" title=\"poolpalm\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/poolpalm.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"220\" height=\"255\" /></a></p>\n\n<p>My mother, bless her heart, stuffs my stocking each Christmas with a vast array of eclectic paraphernalia. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Last year, I received a mini Palm Reading Kit.  I placed it on the game shelf in the hall closet for who-knew-when. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>As I packed decks of cards for our <strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/10/04/day-18-10-reasons-why-you-need-a-girls-weekend-pronto/\" target=\"_blank\">Girls Weekend</a></strong>, I came across the mini Palm Reading Kit (that I forgot existed) and threw it in the bag for Poolside Palm Readings at the resort.  My posse has come to expect this kind of kookiness from me.  I think they find it endearingly entertaining. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>On Sunday, we headed down to the pool for an afternoon of sunshine, relaxation, and Hocus Pocus.  Fun times! </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><strong><span style=\"color: #993366;\"><span style=\"font-size: large;\">My victims:</span></span></strong></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Dawn aka Sister Dawn Catherine</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Katie aka Katie Ann (spoken like “CAROL ANN!!!” in <em>Poltergeist</em>)</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Lori aka poo poo gang symbol (<strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?s=surprise%21\" target=\"_blank\">recall Kindergarten bonding story</a></strong>)</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Myself aka Madame Michelle, Palm Reader to the up and coming stars)</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><strong><span style=\"color: #993366;\"><span style=\"font-size: large;\">Our Fate </span>(determined by an impulse buy/ideal stocking stuffer <em><a href=\"http://www.amazon.com/Palm-Reading-Dennis-Fairchild/dp/0762426837/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1286251700&amp;sr=8-1\" target=\"_blank\">mini Palm Reading kit</a></em>):</span></strong></p>\n\n<p><strong> </strong></p>\n\n<p><strong><span style=\"color: #800080;\"><span style=\"color: #ff00ff;\">Sister Dawn Catherine:</span> </span> </strong>An argumentative, impatient little hussy.  Who never acts in haste.  (Contradictory, mini kit.  Contradictory indeed.  And “patience of a saint” comes to mind instead.  I’m just sayin’.)  Believes that dreams do come true.  (This is why she’s my friend.)  A hard worker with great endurance.  A follower.  Sunny disposition and generous to a fault.  (She’s the definition of sunny.)   Short attention span.  (She teaches 2<sup>nd</sup> graders, so maybe they have worn off on her.)  Craves constant ego reinforcement from friends, family, and lovers.  (Bart, husband of Sister Dawn Catherine, is this true???) </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><strong><span style=\"color: #ffcc00;\">Katie Ann: </span> </strong>Gains emotional satisfaction from being orderly, careful, useful and productive.  (She is mildly OCD in her organizational habits, now that I think of it.)  Rarely acts in haste or anger.  (I’ve never seen her mad, and I’ve known her for nearly 10 years.)  An individualist.  Self-expression is important.  Dreamer.  (Of course!  She’s one of my peeps!)  Another sunny blonde.  (Gotta love them.)  Overly idealistic.  Dealing with harsh realities is difficult.  (I feel your pain, soul sister!)  <em>Potential </em>money loss in your middle years.  (Katie Ann obsessed about this one for hours.  I kept reminding her that this was mini kit Hocus Pocus and not for reals.)  Fickle with many lovers.  (Biatch.)</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><strong><span style=\"color: #0000ff;\">Poo Poo Gang Sistah:</span>  </strong>Often puts others first.  (Yep.  Another public servant/teacher.)  Persistent and single-minded.  (She just finished 12 weeks of <strong>P90x</strong>.  Uh-huh.) Great physical strength and endurance.  (We just established that.)  Another dreamer type.  (A prerequisite if you want to join my posse, so it seems.)  Vain.  (Hardly, mini kit.  Hardly.)  Sunny and generous.  (I love my friends!)  Curious and inventive.  (Science teacher.)  Another fickle broad.  (You better behave or else, Rob!) </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><strong><span style=\"color: #339966;\">Madame Michelle:</span>  </strong>Almost too compassionate because of a need for love.  (Yikes!  Katie Ann had this, too!)  A dreamer who gets mired in fantasies.  (Ya think?)  Individualist who tests her own limits.  Always seeks new ways to do things.  (Read 365 Days or Bust and tell me if you agree.)   Worry wart.  (Eeeekkk.  Gulp.)  More than one career interest.  Mentally hyperactive.  (Does this mean I think too much?  Should I be worried?!?!.)  Fickle wench.  (Apparently another theme amongst the posse.)  Cautious about love.  (Crap.) </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>So there you have it.  Truth or crock-a-doodle-doo?</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>To be determined…</p>','Day 19:  Poolside Palm Reading','','inherit','open','open','','870-revision-11','','','2010-10-04 21:18:43','2010-10-05 04:18:43','',870,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/10/04/870-revision-11/',0,'revision','',0),(945,1,'2010-10-04 21:15:36','2010-10-05 04:15:36','<p><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/poolpalm.jpg\" target=\"_blank\"><img class=\"alignleft size-full wp-image-937\" title=\"poolpalm\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/poolpalm.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"220\" height=\"255\" /></a></p>\r\n\r\n<p>My mother, bless her heart, stuffs my stocking each Christmas with a vast array of eclectic paraphernalia. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Last year, I received a mini Palm Reading Kit.  I placed it on the game shelf in the hall closet for who-knew-when. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>As I packed decks of cards for our <strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/10/04/day-18-10-reasons-why-you-need-a-girls-weekend-pronto/\" target=\"_blank\">Girls Weekend</a></strong>, I came across the mini Palm Reading Kit (that I forgot existed) and threw it in the bag for Poolside Palm Readings at the resort.  My posse has come to expect this kind of kookiness from me.  I think they find it endearingly entertaining. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>On Sunday, we headed down to the pool for an afternoon of sunshine, relaxation, and Hocus Pocus.  Fun times! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong><span style=\"color: #993366;\"><span style=\"font-size: large;\">My victims:</span></span></strong></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Dawn aka Sister Dawn Catherine</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Katie aka Katie Ann (spoken like “CAROL ANN!!!” in <em>Poltergeist</em>)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Lori aka poo poo gang symbol (<strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?s=surprise%21\" target=\"_blank\">recall Kindergarten bonding story</a></strong>)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Myself aka Madame Michelle, Palm Reader to the up and coming stars)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong><span style=\"color: #993366;\"><span style=\"font-size: large;\">Our Fate </span>(determined by an impulse buy/ideal stocking stuffer <em><a href=\"http://www.amazon.com/Palm-Reading-Dennis-Fairchild/dp/0762426837/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1286251700&amp;sr=8-1\" target=\"_blank\">mini Palm Reading kit</a></em>):</span></strong></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong> </strong></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong><span style=\"color: #800080;\">Sister Dawn Catherine: </span> </strong>An argumentative, impatient little hussy.  Who never acts in haste.  (Contradictory, mini kit.  Contradictory indeed.  And “patience of a saint” comes to mind instead.  I’m just sayin’.)  Believes that dreams do come true.  (This is why she’s my friend.)  A hard worker with great endurance.  A follower.  Sunny disposition and generous to a fault.  (She’s the definition of sunny.)   Short attention span.  (She teaches 2<sup>nd</sup> graders, so maybe they have worn off on her.)  Craves constant ego reinforcement from friends, family, and lovers.  (Bart, husband of Sister Dawn Catherine, is this true???) </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong><span style=\"color: #ffcc00;\">Katie Ann: </span> </strong>Gains emotional satisfaction from being orderly, careful, useful and productive.  (She is mildly OCD in her organizational habits, now that I think of it.)  Rarely acts in haste or anger.  (I’ve never seen her mad, and I’ve known her for nearly 10 years.)  An individualist.  Self-expression is important.  Dreamer.  (Of course!  She’s one of my peeps!)  Another sunny blonde.  (Gotta love them.)  Overly idealistic.  Dealing with harsh realities is difficult.  (I feel your pain, soul sister!)  <em>Potential</em> money loss in your middle years.  (Katie Ann obsessed about this one for hours.  I kept reminding her that this was mini kit Hocus Pocus and not for reals.)  Fickle with many lovers.  (Biatch.)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong><span style=\"color: #0000ff;\">Poo Poo Gang Sistah:</span>  </strong>Often puts others first.  (Yep.  Another public servant/teacher.)  Persistent and single-minded.  (She just finished 12 weeks of <strong><a href=\"http://www.beachbody.com/product/fitness_programs/p90x-ad-ms4.do?gclid=CMLoorTuuqQCFQsCbAodCH3pzw&amp;code=SEMB_GOOGLE_P90X_CONTENT&amp;extcmp=12815669443&amp;ef_id=1908:3:c_f62bdca5e27cd1fb6c88da1b6913f82d_3894885823:TKqmNAqoEGMAABVyO2EAABlK:20101005041444\" target=\"_blank\">P90x</a></strong>.  Uh-huh.) Great physical strength and endurance.  (We just established that.)  Another dreamer type.  (A prerequisite to if you want to join my posse, so it seems.)  Vain.  (Hardly, mini kit.  Hardly.)  Sunny and generous.  (I love my friends!)  Curious and inventive.  (Science teacher.)  Another fickle broad.  (You better behave or else, Rob!) </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong><span style=\"color: #339966;\">Madame Michelle:</span>  </strong>Almost too compassionate because of a need for love.  (Yikes!  Katie Ann had this, too!)  A dreamer who gets mired in fantasies.  (Ya think?)  Individualist who tests her own limits.  Always seeks new ways to do things.  (Read 365 Days or Bust and tell me if you agree.)   Worry wart.  (Eeeekkk.  Gulp.)  More than one career interest.  Mentally hyperactive.  (Does this mean I think too much?  Should I be worried?!?!.)  Fickle wench.  (Apparently another theme amongst the posse.)  Cautious about love.  (Crap.) </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>So there you have it.  Truth or crock-a-doodle-doo?</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>To be determined…</p>','Day 19:  Poolside Palm Reading','','inherit','open','open','','870-revision-10','','','2010-10-04 21:15:36','2010-10-05 04:15:36','',870,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/10/04/870-revision-10/',0,'revision','',0),(947,1,'2010-10-04 21:18:46','2010-10-05 04:18:46','<p><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/poolpalm.jpg\" target=\"_blank\"><img class=\"alignleft size-full wp-image-937\" title=\"poolpalm\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/poolpalm.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"220\" height=\"255\" /></a></p>\r\n\r\n<p>My mother, bless her heart, stuffs my stocking each Christmas with a vast array of eclectic paraphernalia. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Last year, I received a mini Palm Reading Kit.  I placed it on the game shelf in the hall closet for who-knew-when. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>As I packed decks of cards for our <strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/10/04/day-18-10-reasons-why-you-need-a-girls-weekend-pronto/\" target=\"_blank\">Girls Weekend</a></strong>, I came across the mini Palm Reading Kit (that I forgot existed) and threw it in the bag for Poolside Palm Readings at the resort.  My posse has come to expect this kind of kookiness from me.  I think they find it endearingly entertaining. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>On Sunday, we headed down to the pool for an afternoon of sunshine, relaxation, and Hocus Pocus.  Fun times! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong><span style=\"color: #993366;\"><span style=\"font-size: large;\">My victims:</span></span></strong></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Dawn aka Sister Dawn Catherine</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Katie aka Katie Ann (spoken like “CAROL ANN!!!” in <em>Poltergeist</em>)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Lori aka poo poo gang symbol (<strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?s=surprise%21\" target=\"_blank\">recall Kindergarten bonding story</a></strong>)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Myself aka Madame Michelle, Palm Reader to the up and coming stars)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong><span style=\"color: #993366;\"><span style=\"font-size: large;\">Our Fate </span>(determined by an impulse buy/ideal stocking stuffer <em><a href=\"http://www.amazon.com/Palm-Reading-Dennis-Fairchild/dp/0762426837/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1286251700&amp;sr=8-1\" target=\"_blank\">mini Palm Reading kit</a></em>):</span></strong></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong> </strong></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong><span style=\"color: #800080;\"><span style=\"color: #ff00ff;\">Sister Dawn Catherine:</span> </span> </strong>An argumentative, impatient little hussy.  Who never acts in haste.  (Contradictory, mini kit.  Contradictory indeed.  And “patience of a saint” comes to mind instead.  I’m just sayin’.)  Believes that dreams do come true.  (This is why she’s my friend.)  A hard worker with great endurance.  A follower.  Sunny disposition and generous to a fault.  (She’s the definition of sunny.)   Short attention span.  (She teaches 2<sup>nd</sup> graders, so maybe they have worn off on her.)  Craves constant ego reinforcement from friends, family, and lovers.  (Bart, husband of Sister Dawn Catherine, is this true???) </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong><span style=\"color: #ffcc00;\">Katie Ann: </span> </strong>Gains emotional satisfaction from being orderly, careful, useful and productive.  (She is mildly OCD in her organizational habits, now that I think of it.)  Rarely acts in haste or anger.  (I’ve never seen her mad, and I’ve known her for nearly 10 years.)  An individualist.  Self-expression is important.  Dreamer.  (Of course!  She’s one of my peeps!)  Another sunny blonde.  (Gotta love them.)  Overly idealistic.  Dealing with harsh realities is difficult.  (I feel your pain, soul sister!)  <em>Potential </em>money loss in your middle years.  (Katie Ann obsessed about this one for hours.  I kept reminding her that this was mini kit Hocus Pocus and not for reals.)  Fickle with many lovers.  (Biatch.)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong><span style=\"color: #0000ff;\">Poo Poo Gang Sistah:</span>  </strong>Often puts others first.  (Yep.  Another public servant/teacher.)  Persistent and single-minded.  (She just finished 12 weeks of <strong>P90x</strong>.  Uh-huh.) Great physical strength and endurance.  (We just established that.)  Another dreamer type.  (A prerequisite if you want to join my posse, so it seems.)  Vain.  (Hardly, mini kit.  Hardly.)  Sunny and generous.  (I love my friends!)  Curious and inventive.  (Science teacher.)  Another fickle broad.  (You better behave or else, Rob!) </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong><span style=\"color: #339966;\">Madame Michelle:</span>  </strong>Almost too compassionate because of a need for love.  (Yikes!  Katie Ann had this, too!)  A dreamer who gets mired in fantasies.  (Ya think?)  Individualist who tests her own limits.  Always seeks new ways to do things.  (Read 365 Days or Bust and tell me if you agree.)   Worry wart.  (Eeeekkk.  Gulp.)  More than one career interest.  Mentally hyperactive.  (Does this mean I think too much?  Should I be worried?!?!.)  Fickle wench.  (Apparently another theme amongst the posse.)  Cautious about love.  (Crap.) </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>So there you have it.  Truth or crock-a-doodle-doo?</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>To be determined…</p>','Day 19:  Poolside Palm Reading','','inherit','open','open','','870-revision-12','','','2010-10-04 21:18:46','2010-10-05 04:18:46','',870,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/10/04/870-revision-12/',0,'revision','',0),(948,1,'2010-10-04 21:19:53','2010-10-05 04:19:53','<p><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/poolpalm.jpg\" target=\"_blank\"><img class=\"alignleft size-full wp-image-937\" title=\"poolpalm\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/poolpalm.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"220\" height=\"255\" /></a></p>\r\n\r\n<p>My mother, bless her heart, stuffs my stocking each Christmas with a vast array of eclectic paraphernalia. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Last year, I received a mini Palm Reading Kit.  I placed it on the game shelf in the hall closet for who-knew-when. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>As I packed decks of cards for our <strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/10/04/day-18-10-reasons-why-you-need-a-girls-weekend-pronto/\" target=\"_blank\">Girls Weekend</a></strong>, I came across the mini Palm Reading Kit (that I forgot existed) and threw it in the bag for Poolside Palm Readings at the resort.  My posse has come to expect this kind of kookiness from me.  I think they find it endearingly entertaining. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>On Sunday, we headed down to the pool for an afternoon of sunshine, relaxation, and Hocus Pocus.  Fun times! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong><span style=\"color: #993366;\"><span style=\"font-size: large;\">My victims:</span></span></strong></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Dawn aka Sister Dawn Catherine</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Katie aka Katie Ann (spoken like “CAROL ANN!!!” in <em>Poltergeist</em>)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Lori aka poo poo gang symbol (<strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?s=surprise%21\" target=\"_blank\">recall Kindergarten bonding story</a></strong>)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Myself aka Madame Michelle, Palm Reader to the up and coming stars)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong><span style=\"color: #993366;\"><span style=\"font-size: large;\">Our Fate </span>(determined by an impulse buy/ideal stocking stuffer <em><a href=\"http://www.amazon.com/Palm-Reading-Dennis-Fairchild/dp/0762426837/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1286251700&amp;sr=8-1\" target=\"_blank\">mini Palm Reading kit</a></em>):</span></strong></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong> </strong></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong><span style=\"color: #800080;\"><span style=\"color: #ff00ff;\">Sister Dawn Catherine:</span> </span> </strong>An argumentative, impatient little hussy.  Who never acts in haste.  (Contradictory, mini kit.  Contradictory indeed.  And “patience of a saint” comes to mind instead.  I’m just sayin’.)  Believes that dreams do come true.  (This is why she’s my friend.)  A hard worker with great endurance.  A follower.  Sunny disposition and generous to a fault.  (She’s the definition of sunny.)   Short attention span.  (She teaches 2<sup>nd</sup> graders, so maybe they have worn off on her.)  Craves constant ego reinforcement from friends, family, and lovers.  (Bart, husband of Sister Dawn Catherine, is this true???) </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong><span style=\"color: #ffcc00;\">Katie Ann: </span> </strong>Gains emotional satisfaction from being orderly, careful, useful and productive.  (She is mildly OCD in her organizational habits, now that I think of it.)  Rarely acts in haste or anger.  (I’ve never seen her mad, and I’ve known her for nearly 10 years.)  An individualist.  Self-expression is important.  Dreamer.  (Of course!  She’s one of my peeps!)  Another sunny blonde.  (Gotta love them.)  Overly idealistic.  Dealing with harsh realities is difficult.  (I feel your pain, soul sister!)  <em>Potential </em>money loss in your middle years.  (Katie Ann obsessed about this one for hours.  I kept reminding her that this was mini kit Hocus Pocus and not for reals.)  Fickle with many lovers.  (Biatch.)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong><span style=\"color: #0000ff;\">Poo Poo Gang Sistah:</span>  </strong>Often puts others first.  (Yep.  Another public servant/teacher.)  Persistent and single-minded.  (She just finished 12 weeks of <strong><a href=\"http://www.beachbody.com/product/fitness_programs/p90x-ad-ms4.do?gclid=CMLoorTuuqQCFQsCbAodCH3pzw&amp;code=SEMB_GOOGLE_P90X_CONTENT&amp;extcmp=12815669443&amp;ef_id=1908:3:c_f62bdca5e27cd1fb6c88da1b6913f82d_3894885823:TKqmNAqoEGMAABVyO2EAABlK:20101005041444\" target=\"_blank\">P90x</a></strong>.  Uh-huh.) Great physical strength and endurance.  (We just established that.)  Another dreamer type.  (A prerequisite if you want to join my posse, so it seems.)  Vain.  (Hardly, mini kit.  Hardly.)  Sunny and generous.  (I love my friends!)  Curious and inventive.  (Science teacher.)  Another fickle broad.  (You better behave or else, Rob!) </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong><span style=\"color: #339966;\">Madame Michelle:</span>  </strong>Almost too compassionate because of a need for love.  (Yikes!  Katie Ann had this, too!)  A dreamer who gets mired in fantasies.  (Ya think?)  Individualist who tests her own limits.  Always seeks new ways to do things.  (Read 365 Days or Bust and tell me if you agree.)   Worry wart.  (Eeeekkk.  Gulp.)  More than one career interest.  Mentally hyperactive.  (Does this mean I think too much?  Should I be worried?!?!.)  Fickle wench.  (Apparently another theme amongst the posse.)  Cautious about love.  (Crap.) </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>So there you have it.  Truth or crock-a-doodle-doo?</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>To be determined…</p>','Day 19:  Poolside Palm Reading','','inherit','open','open','','870-revision-13','','','2010-10-04 21:19:53','2010-10-05 04:19:53','',870,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/10/04/870-revision-13/',0,'revision','',0),(949,1,'2010-10-04 21:20:00','2010-10-05 04:20:00','<p><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/poolpalm.jpg\" target=\"_blank\"><img class=\"alignleft size-full wp-image-937\" title=\"poolpalm\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/poolpalm.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"220\" height=\"255\" /></a></p>\r\n\r\n<p>My mother, bless her heart, stuffs my stocking each Christmas with a vast array of eclectic paraphernalia. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Last year, I received a mini Palm Reading Kit.  I placed it on the game shelf in the hall closet for who-knew-when. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>As I packed decks of cards for our <strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/10/04/day-18-10-reasons-why-you-need-a-girls-weekend-pronto/\" target=\"_blank\">Girls Weekend</a></strong>, I came across the mini Palm Reading Kit (that I forgot existed) and threw it in the bag for Poolside Palm Readings at the resort.  My posse has come to expect this kind of kookiness from me.  I think they find it endearingly entertaining. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>On Sunday, we headed down to the pool for an afternoon of sunshine, relaxation, and Hocus Pocus.  Fun times! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong><span style=\"color: #993366;\"><span style=\"font-size: large;\">My victims:</span></span></strong></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Dawn aka Sister Dawn Catherine</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Katie aka Katie Ann (spoken like “CAROL ANN!!!” in <em>Poltergeist</em>)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Lori aka poo poo gang symbol (<strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?s=surprise%21\" target=\"_blank\">recall Kindergarten bonding story</a></strong>)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Myself aka Madame Michelle, Palm Reader to the up and coming stars)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong><span style=\"color: #993366;\"><span style=\"font-size: large;\">Our Fate </span>(determined by an impulse buy/ideal stocking stuffer <em><a href=\"http://www.amazon.com/Palm-Reading-Dennis-Fairchild/dp/0762426837/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1286251700&amp;sr=8-1\" target=\"_blank\">mini Palm Reading kit</a></em>):</span></strong></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong> </strong></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong><span style=\"color: #800080;\"><span style=\"color: #ff00ff;\">Sister Dawn Catherine:</span> </span> </strong>An argumentative, impatient little hussy.  Who never acts in haste.  (Contradictory, mini kit.  Contradictory indeed.  And “patience of a saint” comes to mind instead.  I’m just sayin’.)  Believes that dreams do come true.  (This is why she’s my friend.)  A hard worker with great endurance.  A follower.  Sunny disposition and generous to a fault.  (She’s the definition of sunny.)   Short attention span.  (She teaches 2<sup>nd</sup> graders, so maybe they have worn off on her.)  Craves constant ego reinforcement from friends, family, and lovers.  (Bart, husband of Sister Dawn Catherine, is this true???) </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong><span style=\"color: #ffcc00;\">Katie Ann: </span> </strong>Gains emotional satisfaction from being orderly, careful, useful and productive.  (She is mildly OCD in her organizational habits, now that I think of it.)  Rarely acts in haste or anger.  (I’ve never seen her mad, and I’ve known her for nearly 10 years.)  An individualist.  Self-expression is important.  Dreamer.  (Of course!  She’s one of my peeps!)  Another sunny blonde.  (Gotta love them.)  Overly idealistic.  Dealing with harsh realities is difficult.  (I feel your pain, soul sister!)  <em>Potential </em>money loss in your middle years.  (Katie Ann obsessed about this one for hours.  I kept reminding her that this was mini kit Hocus Pocus and not for reals.)  Fickle with many lovers.  (Biatch.)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong><span style=\"color: #0000ff;\">Poo Poo Gang Sistah:</span>  </strong>Often puts others first.  (Yep.  Another public servant/teacher.)  Persistent and single-minded.  (She just finished 12 weeks of <strong><a href=\"http://www.beachbody.com/product/fitness_programs/p90x-ad-ms4.do?gclid=CMLoorTuuqQCFQsCbAodCH3pzw&amp;code=SEMB_GOOGLE_P90X_CONTENT&amp;extcmp=12815669443&amp;ef_id=1908:3:c_f62bdca5e27cd1fb6c88da1b6913f82d_3894885823:TKqmNAqoEGMAABVyO2EAABlK:20101005041444\" target=\"_blank\">P90x</a></strong>.  Uh-huh.) Great physical strength and endurance.  (We just established that.)  Another dreamer type.  (A prerequisite if you want to join my posse, so it seems.)  Vain.  (Hardly, mini kit.  Hardly.)  Sunny and generous.  (I love my friends!)  Curious and inventive.  (Science teacher.)  Another fickle broad.  (You better behave or else, Rob!) </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong><span style=\"color: #339966;\">Madame Michelle:</span>  </strong>Almost too compassionate because of a need for love.  (Yikes!  Katie Ann had this, too!)  A dreamer who gets mired in fantasies.  (Ya think?)  Individualist who tests her own limits.  Always seeks new ways to do things.  (Read 365 Days or Bust and tell me if you agree.)   Worry wart.  (Eeeekkk.  Gulp.)  More than one career interest.  Mentally hyperactive.  (Does this mean I think too much?  Should I be worried?!?!.)  Fickle wench.  (Apparently another theme amongst the posse.)  Cautious about love.  (Crap.) </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>So there you have it.  Truth or crock-a-doodle-doo?</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>To be determined…</p>','Day 19:  Poolside Palm Reading','','inherit','open','open','','870-revision-14','','','2010-10-04 21:20:00','2010-10-05 04:20:00','',870,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/10/04/870-revision-14/',0,'revision','',0),(950,1,'2010-10-04 21:23:10','2010-10-05 04:23:10','<p><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/poolpalm.jpg\" target=\"_blank\"><img class=\"alignleft size-full wp-image-937\" title=\"poolpalm\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/poolpalm.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"220\" height=\"255\" /></a></p>\n\n<p>My mother, bless her heart, stuffs my stocking each Christmas with a vast array of eclectic paraphernalia. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Last year, I received a mini Palm Reading Kit.  I placed it on the game shelf in the hall closet for who-knew-when. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>As I packed decks of cards for our <strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/10/04/day-18-10-reasons-why-you-need-a-girls-weekend-pronto/\" target=\"_blank\">Girls Weekend</a></strong>, I came across the mini Palm Reading Kit (that I forgot existed) and threw it in the bag for Poolside Palm Readings at the resort.  My posse has come to expect this kind of kookiness from me.  I think they find it endearingly entertaining. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>On Sunday, we headed down to the pool for an afternoon of sunshine, relaxation, and Hocus Pocus.  Fun times! </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><strong><span style=\"color: #993366;\"><span style=\"font-size: large;\">My victims:</span></span></strong></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Dawn aka Sister Dawn Catherine</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Katie aka Katie Ann (spoken like “CAROL ANN!!!” in <em>Poltergeist</em>)</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Lori aka poo poo gang symbol (<strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?s=surprise%21\" target=\"_blank\">recall Kindergarten bonding story</a></strong>)</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Myself aka Madame Michelle, Palm Reader to the up and coming stars)</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><strong><span style=\"color: #993366;\"><span style=\"font-size: large;\">Our Fate </span>(determined by an impulse buy/ideal stocking stuffer <em><a href=\"http://www.amazon.com/Palm-Reading-Dennis-Fairchild/dp/0762426837/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1286251700&amp;sr=8-1\" target=\"_blank\">mini Palm Reading kit</a></em>):</span></strong></p>\n\n<p><strong> </strong></p>\n\n<p><strong><span style=\"color: #800080;\"><span style=\"color: #ff00ff;\">Sister Dawn Catherine:</span> </span> </strong>An argumentative, impatient little hussy.  Who never acts in haste.  (Contradictory, mini kit.  Contradictory indeed.  And “patience of a saint” comes to mind instead.  I’m just sayin’.)  Believes that dreams do come true.  (This is why she’s my friend.)  A hard worker with great endurance.  A follower.  Sunny disposition and generous to a fault.  (She’s the definition of sunny.)   Short attention span.  (She teaches 2<sup>nd</sup> graders, so maybe they have worn off on her.)  Craves constant ego reinforcement from friends, family, and lovers.  (Bart, husband of Sister Dawn Catherine, is this true???) </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><strong><span style=\"color: #ffcc00;\">Katie Ann: </span> </strong>Gains emotional satisfaction from being orderly, careful, useful and productive.  (She is mildly OCD in her organizational habits, now that I think of it.)  Rarely acts in haste or anger.  (I’ve never seen her mad, and I’ve known her for nearly 10 years.)  An individualist.  Self-expression is important.  Dreamer.  (Of course!  She’s one of my peeps!)  Another sunny blonde.  (Gotta love them.)  Overly idealistic.  Dealing with harsh realities is difficult.  (I feel your pain, soul sister!)  <em>Potential </em>money loss in your middle years.  (Katie Ann obsessed about this one for hours.  I kept reminding her that this was mini kit Hocus Pocus and not for reals.)  Fickle with many lovers.  (Biatch.)</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><strong><span style=\"color: #0000ff;\">Poo Poo Gang Sistah:</span>  </strong>Often puts others first.  (Yep.  Another public servant/teacher.)  Persistent and single-minded.  (She just finished 12 weeks of <strong><a href=\"http://www.beachbody.com/product/fitness_programs/p90x-ad-ms4.do?gclid=CMLoorTuuqQCFQsCbAodCH3pzw&amp;code=SEMB_GOOGLE_P90X_CONTENT&amp;extcmp=12815669443&amp;ef_id=1908:3:c_f62bdca5e27cd1fb6c88da1b6913f82d_3894885823:TKqmNAqoEGMAABVyO2EAABlK:20101005041444\" target=\"_blank\">P90x</a></strong>.  Uh-huh.) Great physical strength and endurance.  (We just established that.)  Another dreamer type.  (A prerequisite if you want to join my posse, so it seems.)  Vain.  (Hardly, mini kit.  Hardly.)  Sunny and generous.  (I love my friends!)  Curious and inventive.  (Science teacher.)  Another fickle broad.  (You better behave or else, Rob!) </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><strong><span style=\"color: #339966;\">Madame Michelle:</span>  </strong>Almost too compassionate because of a need for love.  (Yikes!  Katie Ann had this, too!)  A dreamer who gets mired in fantasies.  (Ya think?)  Individualist who tests her own limits.  Always seeks new ways to do things.  (Read <strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/365-or-bust/\" target=\"_blank\">365 Days or Bust</a></strong> and tell me if you agree.)   Worry wart.  (Eeeekkk!!!  Gulp.)  More than one career interest.  Mentally hyperactive.  (Does this mean I think too much?  Should I be worried?!?!.)  Fickle wench.  (Apparently another theme amongst the posse.)  Cautious about love.  (Crap.) </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>So there you have it.  Truth or crock-a-doodle-doo?</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>To be determined…</p>','Day 19:  Poolside Palm Reading','','inherit','open','open','','870-revision-15','','','2010-10-04 21:23:10','2010-10-05 04:23:10','',870,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/10/04/870-revision-15/',0,'revision','',0),(951,1,'2010-10-04 21:24:36','2010-10-05 04:24:36','<p><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/poolpalm.jpg\" target=\"_blank\"><img class=\"alignleft size-full wp-image-937\" title=\"poolpalm\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/poolpalm.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"220\" height=\"255\" /></a></p>\n\n<p>My mother, bless her heart, stuffs my stocking each Christmas with a vast array of eclectic paraphernalia. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Last year, I received a mini Palm Reading Kit.  I placed it on the game shelf in the hall closet for who-knew-when. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>As I packed decks of cards for our <strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/10/04/day-18-10-reasons-why-you-need-a-girls-weekend-pronto/\" target=\"_blank\">Girls Weekend</a></strong>, I came across the mini Palm Reading Kit (that I forgot existed) and threw it in the bag for Poolside Palm Readings at the resort.  My posse has come to expect this kind of kookiness from me.  I think they find it endearingly entertaining. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>On Sunday, we headed down to the pool for an afternoon of sunshine, relaxation, and Hocus Pocus.  Fun times! </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><strong><span style=\"color: #993366;\"><span style=\"font-size: large;\">My victims:</span></span></strong></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Dawn aka Sister Dawn Catherine</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Katie aka Katie Ann (spoken like “CAROL ANN!!!” in <em>Poltergeist</em>)</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Lori aka poo poo gang symbol (<strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?s=surprise%21\" target=\"_blank\">recall Kindergarten bonding story</a></strong>)</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Myself aka Madame Michelle, Palm Reader to the up and coming stars</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><strong><span style=\"color: #993366;\"><span style=\"font-size: large;\">Our Fate </span>(determined by an impulse buy/ideal stocking stuffer <em><a href=\"http://www.amazon.com/Palm-Reading-Dennis-Fairchild/dp/0762426837/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1286251700&amp;sr=8-1\" target=\"_blank\">mini Palm Reading kit</a></em>):</span></strong></p>\n\n<p><strong> </strong></p>\n\n<p><strong><span style=\"color: #800080;\"><span style=\"color: #ff00ff;\">Sister Dawn Catherine:</span> </span> </strong>An argumentative, impatient little hussy.  Who never acts in haste.  (Contradictory, mini kit.  Contradictory indeed.  And “patience of a saint” comes to mind instead.  I’m just sayin’.)  Believes that dreams do come true.  (This is why she’s my friend.)  A hard worker with great endurance.  A follower.  Sunny disposition and generous to a fault.  (She’s the definition of sunny.)   Short attention span.  (She teaches 2<sup>nd</sup> graders, so maybe they have worn off on her.)  Craves constant ego reinforcement from friends, family, and lovers.  (Bart, husband of Sister Dawn Catherine, is this true???) </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><strong><span style=\"color: #ffcc00;\">Katie Ann: </span> </strong>Gains emotional satisfaction from being orderly, careful, useful and productive.  (She is mildly OCD in her organizational habits, now that I think of it.)  Rarely acts in haste or anger.  (I’ve never seen her mad, and I’ve known her for nearly 10 years.)  An individualist.  Self-expression is important.  Dreamer.  (Of course!  She’s one of my peeps!)  Another sunny blonde.  (Gotta love them.)  Overly idealistic.  Dealing with harsh realities is difficult.  (I feel your pain, soul sister!)  <em>Potential </em>money loss in your middle years.  (Katie Ann obsessed about this one for hours.  I kept reminding her that this was mini kit Hocus Pocus and not for reals.)  Fickle with many lovers.  (Biatch.)</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><strong><span style=\"color: #0000ff;\">Poo Poo Gang Sistah:</span>  </strong>Often puts others first.  (Yep.  Another public servant/teacher.)  Persistent and single-minded.  (She just finished 12 weeks of <strong><a href=\"http://www.beachbody.com/product/fitness_programs/p90x-ad-ms4.do?gclid=CMLoorTuuqQCFQsCbAodCH3pzw&amp;code=SEMB_GOOGLE_P90X_CONTENT&amp;extcmp=12815669443&amp;ef_id=1908:3:c_f62bdca5e27cd1fb6c88da1b6913f82d_3894885823:TKqmNAqoEGMAABVyO2EAABlK:20101005041444\" target=\"_blank\">P90x</a></strong>.  Uh-huh.) Great physical strength and endurance.  (We just established that.)  Another dreamer type.  (A prerequisite if you want to join my posse, so it seems.)  Vain.  (Hardly, mini kit.  Hardly.)  Sunny and generous.  (I love my friends!)  Curious and inventive.  (Science teacher.)  Another fickle broad.  (You better behave or else, Rob!) </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><strong><span style=\"color: #339966;\">Madame Michelle:</span>  </strong>Almost too compassionate because of a need for love.  (Yikes!  Katie Ann had this, too!)  A dreamer who gets mired in fantasies.  (Ya think?)  Individualist who tests her own limits.  Always seeks new ways to do things.  (Read <strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/365-or-bust/\" target=\"_blank\">365 Days or Bust</a></strong> and tell me if you agree.)   Worry wart.  (Eeeekkk!!!  Gulp.)  More than one career interest.  Mentally hyperactive.  (Does this mean I think too much?  Should I be worried?!?!.)  Fickle wench.  (Apparently another theme amongst the posse.)  Cautious about love.  (Crap.) </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>So there you have it.  Truth or crock-a-doodle-doo?</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>To be determined…</p>','Day 19:  Poolside Palm Reading','','inherit','open','open','','870-revision-16','','','2010-10-04 21:24:36','2010-10-05 04:24:36','',870,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/10/04/870-revision-16/',0,'revision','',0),(952,1,'2010-10-04 21:29:29','2010-10-05 04:29:29','<p><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/poolpalm.jpg\" target=\"_blank\"><img class=\"alignleft size-full wp-image-937\" title=\"poolpalm\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/poolpalm.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"220\" height=\"255\" /></a></p>\n\n<p>My mother, bless her heart, stuffs my stocking each Christmas with a vast array of eclectic paraphernalia. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Last year, I received a mini Palm Reading Kit.  I placed it on the game shelf in the hall closet for who-knew-when. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>As I packed decks of cards for our <strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/10/04/day-18-10-reasons-why-you-need-a-girls-weekend-pronto/\" target=\"_blank\">Girls Weekend</a></strong>, I came across the mini Palm Reading Kit (that I forgot existed) and threw it in the bag for Poolside Palm Readings at the resort.  My posse has come to expect this kind of kookiness from me.  I think they find it endearingly entertaining. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>On Sunday, we headed down to the pool for an afternoon of sunshine, relaxation, and Hocus Pocus.  Fun times! </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><strong><span style=\"color: #993366;\"><span style=\"font-size: large;\">My victims:</span></span></strong></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Dawn aka Sister Dawn Catherine</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Katie aka Katie Ann (spoken like “CAROL ANN!!!” in <em>Poltergeist</em>)</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Lori aka poo poo gang symbol (<strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?s=surprise%21\" target=\"_blank\">recall Kindergarten bonding story</a></strong>)</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Myself aka Madame Michelle, Palm Reader to the up and coming stars</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><strong><span style=\"color: #993366;\"><span style=\"font-size: large;\">Our Fate </span>(determined by an impulse buy/ideal stocking stuffer <em><a href=\"http://www.amazon.com/Palm-Reading-Dennis-Fairchild/dp/0762426837/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1286251700&amp;sr=8-1\" target=\"_blank\">mini Palm Reading kit</a></em>):</span></strong></p>\n\n<p><strong> </strong></p>\n\n<p><strong><span style=\"color: #800080;\"><span style=\"color: #ff00ff;\">Sister Dawn Catherine:</span> </span> </strong>An argumentative, impatient little hussy.  Who never acts in haste.  (Contradictory, mini kit.  Contradictory indeed.  And “patience of a saint” comes to mind instead.  I’m just sayin’.)  Believes that dreams do come true.  (This is why she’s my friend.)  A hard worker with great endurance.  A follower.  Sunny disposition and generous to a fault.  (She’s the definition of sunny.)   Short attention span.  (She teaches 2<sup>nd</sup> graders, so maybe they have worn off on her.)  Craves constant ego reinforcement from friends, family, and lovers.  (Bart, husband of Sister Dawn Catherine, is this true???) </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><strong><span style=\"color: #ffcc00;\">Katie Ann: </span> </strong>Gains emotional satisfaction from being orderly, careful, useful and productive.  (She is mildly OCD in her organizational habits, now that I think of it.)  Rarely acts in haste or anger.  (I’ve never seen her mad, and I’ve known her for nearly 10 years.)  An individualist.  Self-expression is important.  Dreamer.  (Of course!  She’s one of my peeps!)  Another sunny blonde.  (Gotta love them.)  Overly idealistic.  Dealing with harsh realities is difficult.  (I feel your pain, soul sister!)  <em>Potential </em>money loss in your middle years.  (Katie Ann obsessed about this one for hours.  I kept reminding her that this was mini kit Hocus Pocus and not for reals.)  Fickle with many lovers.  (Biatch.)</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><strong><span style=\"color: #0000ff;\">Poo Poo Gang Sistah:</span>  </strong>Often puts others first.  (Yep.  Another public servant/teacher.)  Persistent and single-minded.  (She just finished 12 weeks of <strong><a href=\"http://www.beachbody.com/product/fitness_programs/p90x-ad-ms4.do?gclid=CMLoorTuuqQCFQsCbAodCH3pzw&amp;code=SEMB_GOOGLE_P90X_CONTENT&amp;extcmp=12815669443&amp;ef_id=1908:3:c_f62bdca5e27cd1fb6c88da1b6913f82d_3894885823:TKqmNAqoEGMAABVyO2EAABlK:20101005041444\" target=\"_blank\">P90x</a></strong>.  Uh-huh.) Great physical strength and endurance.  (We just established that.)  Another dreamer type.  (A prerequisite if you want to join my posse, so it seems.)  Vain.  (Hardly, mini kit.  Hardly.)  Sunny and generous.  (She was the Hostess with the Mostess for this girls weekend.)  Curious and inventive.  (Science teacher.)  Another fickle broad.  (You better behave or else, Rob!) </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><strong><span style=\"color: #339966;\">Madame Michelle:</span>  </strong>Almost too compassionate because of a need for love.  (Yikes!  Katie Ann had this, too!)  A dreamer who gets mired in fantasies.  (Ya think?)  Individualist who tests her own limits.  Always seeks new ways to do things.  (Read <strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/365-or-bust/\" target=\"_blank\">365 Days or Bust</a></strong> and tell me if you agree.)   Worry wart.  (Eeeekkk!!!  Gulp.)  More than one career interest.  Mentally hyperactive.  (Does this mean I think too much?  Should I be worried?!?!.)  Fickle wench.  (Apparently another theme amongst the posse.)  Cautious about love.  (Crap.) </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>So there you have it.  Truth or crock-a-doodle-doo?</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>To be determined…</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>If you would like a Palm Reading with Madame Michelle, please comment below.  Madame Michelle will ask you a few questions about your , consult her handy mini Palm Reading Kit, and</p>','Day 19:  Poolside Palm Reading','','inherit','open','open','','870-revision-17','','','2010-10-04 21:29:29','2010-10-05 04:29:29','',870,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/10/04/870-revision-17/',0,'revision','',0),(954,1,'2010-10-04 21:32:09','2010-10-05 04:32:09','<p><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/poolpalm.jpg\" target=\"_blank\"><img class=\"alignleft size-full wp-image-937\" title=\"poolpalm\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/poolpalm.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"220\" height=\"255\" /></a></p>\n\n<p>My mother, bless her heart, stuffs my stocking each Christmas with a vast array of eclectic paraphernalia. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Last year, I received a mini Palm Reading Kit.  I placed it on the game shelf in the hall closet for who-knew-when. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>As I packed decks of cards for our <strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/10/04/day-18-10-reasons-why-you-need-a-girls-weekend-pronto/\" target=\"_blank\">Girls Weekend</a></strong>, I came across the mini Palm Reading Kit (that I forgot existed) and threw it in the bag for Poolside Palm Readings at the resort.  My posse has come to expect this kind of kookiness from me.  I think they find it endearingly entertaining. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>On Sunday, we headed down to the pool for an afternoon of sunshine, relaxation, and Hocus Pocus.  Fun times! </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><strong><span style=\"color: #993366;\"><span style=\"font-size: large;\">My victims:</span></span></strong></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Dawn aka Sister Dawn Catherine</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Katie aka Katie Ann (spoken like “CAROL ANN!!!” in <em>Poltergeist</em>)</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Lori aka poo poo gang symbol (<strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?s=surprise%21\" target=\"_blank\">recall Kindergarten bonding story</a></strong>)</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Myself aka Madame Michelle, Palm Reader to the up and coming stars</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><strong><span style=\"color: #993366;\"><span style=\"font-size: large;\">Our Fate </span>(determined by an impulse buy/ideal stocking stuffer <em><a href=\"http://www.amazon.com/Palm-Reading-Dennis-Fairchild/dp/0762426837/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1286251700&amp;sr=8-1\" target=\"_blank\">mini Palm Reading kit</a></em>):</span></strong></p>\n\n<p><strong> </strong></p>\n\n<p><strong><span style=\"color: #800080;\"><span style=\"color: #ff00ff;\">Sister Dawn Catherine:</span> </span> </strong>An argumentative, impatient little hussy.  Who never acts in haste.  (Contradictory, mini kit.  Contradictory indeed.  And “patience of a saint” comes to mind instead.  I’m just sayin’.)  Believes that dreams do come true.  (This is why she’s my friend.)  A hard worker with great endurance.  A follower.  Sunny disposition and generous to a fault.  (She’s the definition of sunny.)   Short attention span.  (She teaches 2<sup>nd</sup> graders, so maybe they have worn off on her.)  Craves constant ego reinforcement from friends, family, and lovers.  (Bart, husband of Sister Dawn Catherine, is this true???) </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><strong><span style=\"color: #ffcc00;\">Katie Ann: </span> </strong>Gains emotional satisfaction from being orderly, careful, useful and productive.  (She is mildly OCD in her organizational habits, now that I think of it.)  Rarely acts in haste or anger.  (I’ve never seen her mad, and I’ve known her for nearly 10 years.)  An individualist.  Self-expression is important.  Dreamer.  (Of course!  She’s one of my peeps!)  Another sunny blonde.  (Gotta love them.)  Overly idealistic.  Dealing with harsh realities is difficult.  (I feel your pain, soul sister!)  <em>Potential </em>money loss in your middle years.  (Katie Ann obsessed about this one for hours.  I kept reminding her that this was mini kit Hocus Pocus and not for reals.)  Fickle with many lovers.  (Biatch.)</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><strong><span style=\"color: #0000ff;\">Poo Poo Gang Sistah:</span>  </strong>Often puts others first.  (Yep.  Another public servant/teacher.)  Persistent and single-minded.  (She just finished 12 weeks of <strong><a href=\"http://www.beachbody.com/product/fitness_programs/p90x-ad-ms4.do?gclid=CMLoorTuuqQCFQsCbAodCH3pzw&amp;code=SEMB_GOOGLE_P90X_CONTENT&amp;extcmp=12815669443&amp;ef_id=1908:3:c_f62bdca5e27cd1fb6c88da1b6913f82d_3894885823:TKqmNAqoEGMAABVyO2EAABlK:20101005041444\" target=\"_blank\">P90x</a></strong>.  Uh-huh.) Great physical strength and endurance.  (We just established that.)  Another dreamer type.  (A prerequisite if you want to join my posse, so it seems.)  Vain.  (Hardly, mini kit.  Hardly.)  Sunny and generous.  (She was the Hostess with the Mostess for this girls weekend.)  Curious and inventive.  (Science teacher.)  Another fickle broad.  (You better behave or else, Rob!) </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><strong><span style=\"color: #339966;\">Madame Michelle:</span>  </strong>Almost too compassionate because of a need for love.  (Yikes!  Katie Ann had this, too!)  A dreamer who gets mired in fantasies.  (Ya think?)  Individualist who tests her own limits.  Always seeks new ways to do things.  (Read <strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/365-or-bust/\" target=\"_blank\">365 Days or Bust</a></strong>and tell me if you agree.)   Worry wart.  (Eeeekkk!!!  Gulp.)  More than one career interest.  Mentally hyperactive.  (Does this mean I think too much?  Should I be worried?!?!.)  Fickle wench.  (Apparently another theme amongst the posse.)  Cautious about love.  (Crap.) </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>So there you have it.  Truth or crock-a-doodle-doo?</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>To be determined…</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>If you would like a Palm Reading with Madame Michelle, please comment below.  Madame Michelle will ask you a few questions about your fingers, nails, and lines on your hands.  She will then consult her handy mini Palm Reading Kit, and determine your future. </p>','Day 19:  Poolside Palm Reading','','inherit','open','open','','870-revision-19','','','2010-10-04 21:32:09','2010-10-05 04:32:09','',870,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/10/04/870-revision-19/',0,'revision','',0),(953,1,'2010-10-04 21:30:58','2010-10-05 04:30:58','<p><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/poolpalm.jpg\" target=\"_blank\"><img class=\"alignleft size-full wp-image-937\" title=\"poolpalm\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/poolpalm.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"220\" height=\"255\" /></a></p>\r\n\r\n<p>My mother, bless her heart, stuffs my stocking each Christmas with a vast array of eclectic paraphernalia. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Last year, I received a mini Palm Reading Kit.  I placed it on the game shelf in the hall closet for who-knew-when. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>As I packed decks of cards for our <strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/10/04/day-18-10-reasons-why-you-need-a-girls-weekend-pronto/\" target=\"_blank\">Girls Weekend</a></strong>, I came across the mini Palm Reading Kit (that I forgot existed) and threw it in the bag for Poolside Palm Readings at the resort.  My posse has come to expect this kind of kookiness from me.  I think they find it endearingly entertaining. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>On Sunday, we headed down to the pool for an afternoon of sunshine, relaxation, and Hocus Pocus.  Fun times! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong><span style=\"color: #993366;\"><span style=\"font-size: large;\">My victims:</span></span></strong></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Dawn aka Sister Dawn Catherine</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Katie aka Katie Ann (spoken like “CAROL ANN!!!” in <em>Poltergeist</em>)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Lori aka poo poo gang symbol (<strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?s=surprise%21\" target=\"_blank\">recall Kindergarten bonding story</a></strong>)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Myself aka Madame Michelle, Palm Reader to the up and coming stars</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong><span style=\"color: #993366;\"><span style=\"font-size: large;\">Our Fate </span>(determined by an impulse buy/ideal stocking stuffer <em><a href=\"http://www.amazon.com/Palm-Reading-Dennis-Fairchild/dp/0762426837/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1286251700&amp;sr=8-1\" target=\"_blank\">mini Palm Reading kit</a></em>):</span></strong></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong> </strong></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong><span style=\"color: #800080;\"><span style=\"color: #ff00ff;\">Sister Dawn Catherine:</span> </span> </strong>An argumentative, impatient little hussy.  Who never acts in haste.  (Contradictory, mini kit.  Contradictory indeed.  And “patience of a saint” comes to mind instead.  I’m just sayin’.)  Believes that dreams do come true.  (This is why she’s my friend.)  A hard worker with great endurance.  A follower.  Sunny disposition and generous to a fault.  (She’s the definition of sunny.)   Short attention span.  (She teaches 2<sup>nd</sup> graders, so maybe they have worn off on her.)  Craves constant ego reinforcement from friends, family, and lovers.  (Bart, husband of Sister Dawn Catherine, is this true???) </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong><span style=\"color: #ffcc00;\">Katie Ann: </span> </strong>Gains emotional satisfaction from being orderly, careful, useful and productive.  (She is mildly OCD in her organizational habits, now that I think of it.)  Rarely acts in haste or anger.  (I’ve never seen her mad, and I’ve known her for nearly 10 years.)  An individualist.  Self-expression is important.  Dreamer.  (Of course!  She’s one of my peeps!)  Another sunny blonde.  (Gotta love them.)  Overly idealistic.  Dealing with harsh realities is difficult.  (I feel your pain, soul sister!)  <em>Potential </em>money loss in your middle years.  (Katie Ann obsessed about this one for hours.  I kept reminding her that this was mini kit Hocus Pocus and not for reals.)  Fickle with many lovers.  (Biatch.)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong><span style=\"color: #0000ff;\">Poo Poo Gang Sistah:</span>  </strong>Often puts others first.  (Yep.  Another public servant/teacher.)  Persistent and single-minded.  (She just finished 12 weeks of <strong><a href=\"http://www.beachbody.com/product/fitness_programs/p90x-ad-ms4.do?gclid=CMLoorTuuqQCFQsCbAodCH3pzw&amp;code=SEMB_GOOGLE_P90X_CONTENT&amp;extcmp=12815669443&amp;ef_id=1908:3:c_f62bdca5e27cd1fb6c88da1b6913f82d_3894885823:TKqmNAqoEGMAABVyO2EAABlK:20101005041444\" target=\"_blank\">P90x</a></strong>.  Uh-huh.) Great physical strength and endurance.  (We just established that.)  Another dreamer type.  (A prerequisite if you want to join my posse, so it seems.)  Vain.  (Hardly, mini kit.  Hardly.)  Sunny and generous.  (She was the Hostess with the Mostess for this girls weekend.)  Curious and inventive.  (Science teacher.)  Another fickle broad.  (You better behave or else, Rob!) </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong><span style=\"color: #339966;\">Madame Michelle:</span>  </strong>Almost too compassionate because of a need for love.  (Yikes!  Katie Ann had this, too!)  A dreamer who gets mired in fantasies.  (Ya think?)  Individualist who tests her own limits.  Always seeks new ways to do things.  (Read <strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/365-or-bust/\" target=\"_blank\">365 Days or Bust</a></strong>and tell me if you agree.)   Worry wart.  (Eeeekkk!!!  Gulp.)  More than one career interest.  Mentally hyperactive.  (Does this mean I think too much?  Should I be worried?!?!.)  Fickle wench.  (Apparently another theme amongst the posse.)  Cautious about love.  (Crap.) </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>So there you have it.  Truth or crock-a-doodle-doo?</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>To be determined…</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>If you would like a Palm Reading with Madame Michelle, please comment below.  Madame Michelle will ask you a few questions about your fingers, nails, and lines on your hands.  She will then consult her handy mini Palm Reading Kit, and determine your future. </p>','Day 19:  Poolside Palm Reading','','inherit','open','open','','870-revision-18','','','2010-10-04 21:30:58','2010-10-05 04:30:58','',870,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/10/04/870-revision-18/',0,'revision','',0),(957,1,'2010-10-04 21:35:48','2010-10-05 04:35:48','<p><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/poolpalm.jpg\" target=\"_blank\"><img class=\"alignleft size-full wp-image-937\" title=\"poolpalm\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/poolpalm.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"220\" height=\"255\" /></a></p>\n\n<p>My mother, bless her heart, stuffs my stocking each Christmas with a vast array of eclectic paraphernalia. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Last year, I received a mini Palm Reading Kit.  I placed it on the game shelf in the hall closet for who-knew-when. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>As I packed decks of cards for our <strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/10/04/day-18-10-reasons-why-you-need-a-girls-weekend-pronto/\" target=\"_blank\">Girls Weekend</a></strong>, I came across the mini Palm Reading Kit (that I forgot existed) and threw it in the bag for Poolside Palm Readings at the resort.  My posse has come to expect this kind of kookiness from me.  I think they find it endearingly entertaining. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>On Sunday, we headed down to the pool for an afternoon of sunshine, relaxation, and Hocus Pocus.  Fun times! </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><strong><span style=\"color: #993366;\"><span style=\"font-size: large;\">My victims:</span></span></strong></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Dawn aka Sister Dawn Catherine</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Katie aka Katie Ann (spoken like “CAROL ANN!!!” in <em>Poltergeist</em>)</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Lori aka poo poo gang symbol (<strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?s=surprise%21\" target=\"_blank\">recall Kindergarten bonding story</a></strong>)</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Myself aka Madame Michelle, Palm Reader to the up and coming stars</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><strong><span style=\"color: #993366;\"><span style=\"font-size: large;\">Our Fate </span>(determined by an impulse buy/ideal stocking stuffer <em><a href=\"http://www.amazon.com/Palm-Reading-Complete-Palmistry-READING/dp/B002M541KQ/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&amp;s=books&amp;qid=1286253160&amp;sr=8-1\" target=\"_blank\">mini Palm Reading kit</a></em>):</span></strong></p>\n\n<p><strong> </strong></p>\n\n<p><strong><span style=\"color: #800080;\"><span style=\"color: #ff00ff;\">Sister Dawn Catherine:</span> </span> </strong>An argumentative, impatient little hussy.  Who never acts in haste.  (Contradictory, mini kit.  Contradictory indeed.  And “patience of a saint” comes to mind instead.  I’m just sayin’.)  Believes that dreams do come true.  (This is why she’s my friend.)  A hard worker with great endurance.  A follower.  Sunny disposition and generous to a fault.  (She’s the definition of sunny.)   Short attention span.  (She teaches 2<sup>nd</sup> graders, so maybe they have worn off on her.)  Craves constant ego reinforcement from friends, family, and lovers.  (Bart, husband of Sister Dawn Catherine, is this true???) </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><strong><span style=\"color: #ffcc00;\">Katie Ann: </span> </strong>Gains emotional satisfaction from being orderly, careful, useful and productive.  (She is mildly OCD in her organizational habits, now that I think of it.)  Rarely acts in haste or anger.  (I’ve never seen her mad, and I’ve known her for nearly 10 years.)  An individualist.  Self-expression is important.  Dreamer.  (Of course!  She’s one of my peeps!)  Another sunny blonde.  (Gotta love them.)  Overly idealistic.  Dealing with harsh realities is difficult.  (I feel your pain, soul sister!)  <em>Potential </em>money loss in your middle years.  (Katie Ann obsessed about this one for hours.  I kept reminding her that this was mini kit Hocus Pocus and not for reals.)  Fickle with many lovers.  (Biatch.)</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><strong><span style=\"color: #0000ff;\">Poo Poo Gang Sistah:</span>  </strong>Often puts others first.  (Yep.  Another public servant/teacher.)  Persistent and single-minded.  (She just finished 12 weeks of <strong><a href=\"http://www.beachbody.com/product/fitness_programs/p90x-ad-ms4.do?gclid=CMLoorTuuqQCFQsCbAodCH3pzw&amp;code=SEMB_GOOGLE_P90X_CONTENT&amp;extcmp=12815669443&amp;ef_id=1908:3:c_f62bdca5e27cd1fb6c88da1b6913f82d_3894885823:TKqmNAqoEGMAABVyO2EAABlK:20101005041444\" target=\"_blank\">P90x</a></strong>.  Uh-huh.) Great physical strength and endurance.  (We just established that.)  Another dreamer type.  (A prerequisite if you want to join my posse, so it seems.)  Vain.  (Hardly, mini kit.  Hardly.)  Sunny and generous.  (She was the Hostess with the Mostess for this girls weekend.)  Curious and inventive.  (Science teacher.)  Another fickle broad.  (You better behave or else, Rob!) </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><strong><span style=\"color: #339966;\">Madame Michelle:</span>  </strong>Almost too compassionate because of a need for love.  (Yikes!  Katie Ann had this, too!)  A dreamer who gets mired in fantasies.  (Ya think?)  Individualist who tests her own limits.  Always seeks new ways to do things.  (Read <strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/365-or-bust/\" target=\"_blank\">365 Days or Bust</a> </strong>and tell me if you agree.)   Worry wart.  (Eeeekkk!!!  Gulp.)  More than one career interest.  Mentally hyperactive.  (Does this mean I think too much?  Should I be worried?!?!.)  Fickle wench.  (Apparently another theme amongst the posse.)  Cautious about love.  (Crap.) </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>So there you have it.  Truth or crock-a-doodle-doo?</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>To be determined…</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>If you would like a Palm Reading with Madame Michelle, please comment below.  Madame Michelle will ask you a few questions about your fingers, nails, and lines on your hands.  She will then consult her handy mini Palm Reading Kit, and determine your future. </p>','Day 19:  Poolside Palm Reading','','inherit','open','open','','870-revision-22','','','2010-10-04 21:35:48','2010-10-05 04:35:48','',870,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/10/04/870-revision-22/',0,'revision','',0),(955,1,'2010-10-04 21:33:37','2010-10-05 04:33:37','<p><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/poolpalm.jpg\" target=\"_blank\"><img class=\"alignleft size-full wp-image-937\" title=\"poolpalm\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/poolpalm.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"220\" height=\"255\" /></a></p>\r\n\r\n<p>My mother, bless her heart, stuffs my stocking each Christmas with a vast array of eclectic paraphernalia. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Last year, I received a mini Palm Reading Kit.  I placed it on the game shelf in the hall closet for who-knew-when. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>As I packed decks of cards for our <strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/10/04/day-18-10-reasons-why-you-need-a-girls-weekend-pronto/\" target=\"_blank\">Girls Weekend</a></strong>, I came across the mini Palm Reading Kit (that I forgot existed) and threw it in the bag for Poolside Palm Readings at the resort.  My posse has come to expect this kind of kookiness from me.  I think they find it endearingly entertaining. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>On Sunday, we headed down to the pool for an afternoon of sunshine, relaxation, and Hocus Pocus.  Fun times! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong><span style=\"color: #993366;\"><span style=\"font-size: large;\">My victims:</span></span></strong></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Dawn aka Sister Dawn Catherine</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Katie aka Katie Ann (spoken like “CAROL ANN!!!” in <em>Poltergeist</em>)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Lori aka poo poo gang symbol (<strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?s=surprise%21\" target=\"_blank\">recall Kindergarten bonding story</a></strong>)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Myself aka Madame Michelle, Palm Reader to the up and coming stars</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong><span style=\"color: #993366;\"><span style=\"font-size: large;\">Our Fate </span>(determined by an impulse buy/ideal stocking stuffer <em><a href=\"http://www.amazon.com/Palm-Reading-Complete-Palmistry-READING/dp/B002M541KQ/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&amp;s=books&amp;qid=1286253160&amp;sr=8-1\" target=\"_blank\">mini Palm Reading kit</a></em>):</span></strong></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong> </strong></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong><span style=\"color: #800080;\"><span style=\"color: #ff00ff;\">Sister Dawn Catherine:</span> </span> </strong>An argumentative, impatient little hussy.  Who never acts in haste.  (Contradictory, mini kit.  Contradictory indeed.  And “patience of a saint” comes to mind instead.  I’m just sayin’.)  Believes that dreams do come true.  (This is why she’s my friend.)  A hard worker with great endurance.  A follower.  Sunny disposition and generous to a fault.  (She’s the definition of sunny.)   Short attention span.  (She teaches 2<sup>nd</sup> graders, so maybe they have worn off on her.)  Craves constant ego reinforcement from friends, family, and lovers.  (Bart, husband of Sister Dawn Catherine, is this true???) </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong><span style=\"color: #ffcc00;\">Katie Ann: </span> </strong>Gains emotional satisfaction from being orderly, careful, useful and productive.  (She is mildly OCD in her organizational habits, now that I think of it.)  Rarely acts in haste or anger.  (I’ve never seen her mad, and I’ve known her for nearly 10 years.)  An individualist.  Self-expression is important.  Dreamer.  (Of course!  She’s one of my peeps!)  Another sunny blonde.  (Gotta love them.)  Overly idealistic.  Dealing with harsh realities is difficult.  (I feel your pain, soul sister!)  <em>Potential </em>money loss in your middle years.  (Katie Ann obsessed about this one for hours.  I kept reminding her that this was mini kit Hocus Pocus and not for reals.)  Fickle with many lovers.  (Biatch.)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong><span style=\"color: #0000ff;\">Poo Poo Gang Sistah:</span>  </strong>Often puts others first.  (Yep.  Another public servant/teacher.)  Persistent and single-minded.  (She just finished 12 weeks of <strong><a href=\"http://www.beachbody.com/product/fitness_programs/p90x-ad-ms4.do?gclid=CMLoorTuuqQCFQsCbAodCH3pzw&amp;code=SEMB_GOOGLE_P90X_CONTENT&amp;extcmp=12815669443&amp;ef_id=1908:3:c_f62bdca5e27cd1fb6c88da1b6913f82d_3894885823:TKqmNAqoEGMAABVyO2EAABlK:20101005041444\" target=\"_blank\">P90x</a></strong>.  Uh-huh.) Great physical strength and endurance.  (We just established that.)  Another dreamer type.  (A prerequisite if you want to join my posse, so it seems.)  Vain.  (Hardly, mini kit.  Hardly.)  Sunny and generous.  (She was the Hostess with the Mostess for this girls weekend.)  Curious and inventive.  (Science teacher.)  Another fickle broad.  (You better behave or else, Rob!) </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong><span style=\"color: #339966;\">Madame Michelle:</span>  </strong>Almost too compassionate because of a need for love.  (Yikes!  Katie Ann had this, too!)  A dreamer who gets mired in fantasies.  (Ya think?)  Individualist who tests her own limits.  Always seeks new ways to do things.  (Read <strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/365-or-bust/\" target=\"_blank\">365 Days or Bust</a></strong>and tell me if you agree.)   Worry wart.  (Eeeekkk!!!  Gulp.)  More than one career interest.  Mentally hyperactive.  (Does this mean I think too much?  Should I be worried?!?!.)  Fickle wench.  (Apparently another theme amongst the posse.)  Cautious about love.  (Crap.) </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>So there you have it.  Truth or crock-a-doodle-doo?</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>To be determined…</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>If you would like a Palm Reading with Madame Michelle, please comment below.  Madame Michelle will ask you a few questions about your fingers, nails, and lines on your hands.  She will then consult her handy mini Palm Reading Kit, and determine your future. </p>','Day 19:  Poolside Palm Reading','','inherit','open','open','','870-revision-20','','','2010-10-04 21:33:37','2010-10-05 04:33:37','',870,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/10/04/870-revision-20/',0,'revision','',0),(956,1,'2010-10-04 21:33:44','2010-10-05 04:33:44','<p><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/poolpalm.jpg\" target=\"_blank\"><img class=\"alignleft size-full wp-image-937\" title=\"poolpalm\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/poolpalm.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"220\" height=\"255\" /></a></p>\r\n\r\n<p>My mother, bless her heart, stuffs my stocking each Christmas with a vast array of eclectic paraphernalia. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Last year, I received a mini Palm Reading Kit.  I placed it on the game shelf in the hall closet for who-knew-when. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>As I packed decks of cards for our <strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/10/04/day-18-10-reasons-why-you-need-a-girls-weekend-pronto/\" target=\"_blank\">Girls Weekend</a></strong>, I came across the mini Palm Reading Kit (that I forgot existed) and threw it in the bag for Poolside Palm Readings at the resort.  My posse has come to expect this kind of kookiness from me.  I think they find it endearingly entertaining. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>On Sunday, we headed down to the pool for an afternoon of sunshine, relaxation, and Hocus Pocus.  Fun times! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong><span style=\"color: #993366;\"><span style=\"font-size: large;\">My victims:</span></span></strong></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Dawn aka Sister Dawn Catherine</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Katie aka Katie Ann (spoken like “CAROL ANN!!!” in <em>Poltergeist</em>)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Lori aka poo poo gang symbol (<strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?s=surprise%21\" target=\"_blank\">recall Kindergarten bonding story</a></strong>)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Myself aka Madame Michelle, Palm Reader to the up and coming stars</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong><span style=\"color: #993366;\"><span style=\"font-size: large;\">Our Fate </span>(determined by an impulse buy/ideal stocking stuffer <em><a href=\"http://www.amazon.com/Palm-Reading-Complete-Palmistry-READING/dp/B002M541KQ/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&amp;s=books&amp;qid=1286253160&amp;sr=8-1\" target=\"_blank\">mini Palm Reading kit</a></em>):</span></strong></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong> </strong></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong><span style=\"color: #800080;\"><span style=\"color: #ff00ff;\">Sister Dawn Catherine:</span> </span> </strong>An argumentative, impatient little hussy.  Who never acts in haste.  (Contradictory, mini kit.  Contradictory indeed.  And “patience of a saint” comes to mind instead.  I’m just sayin’.)  Believes that dreams do come true.  (This is why she’s my friend.)  A hard worker with great endurance.  A follower.  Sunny disposition and generous to a fault.  (She’s the definition of sunny.)   Short attention span.  (She teaches 2<sup>nd</sup> graders, so maybe they have worn off on her.)  Craves constant ego reinforcement from friends, family, and lovers.  (Bart, husband of Sister Dawn Catherine, is this true???) </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong><span style=\"color: #ffcc00;\">Katie Ann: </span> </strong>Gains emotional satisfaction from being orderly, careful, useful and productive.  (She is mildly OCD in her organizational habits, now that I think of it.)  Rarely acts in haste or anger.  (I’ve never seen her mad, and I’ve known her for nearly 10 years.)  An individualist.  Self-expression is important.  Dreamer.  (Of course!  She’s one of my peeps!)  Another sunny blonde.  (Gotta love them.)  Overly idealistic.  Dealing with harsh realities is difficult.  (I feel your pain, soul sister!)  <em>Potential </em>money loss in your middle years.  (Katie Ann obsessed about this one for hours.  I kept reminding her that this was mini kit Hocus Pocus and not for reals.)  Fickle with many lovers.  (Biatch.)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong><span style=\"color: #0000ff;\">Poo Poo Gang Sistah:</span>  </strong>Often puts others first.  (Yep.  Another public servant/teacher.)  Persistent and single-minded.  (She just finished 12 weeks of <strong><a href=\"http://www.beachbody.com/product/fitness_programs/p90x-ad-ms4.do?gclid=CMLoorTuuqQCFQsCbAodCH3pzw&amp;code=SEMB_GOOGLE_P90X_CONTENT&amp;extcmp=12815669443&amp;ef_id=1908:3:c_f62bdca5e27cd1fb6c88da1b6913f82d_3894885823:TKqmNAqoEGMAABVyO2EAABlK:20101005041444\" target=\"_blank\">P90x</a></strong>.  Uh-huh.) Great physical strength and endurance.  (We just established that.)  Another dreamer type.  (A prerequisite if you want to join my posse, so it seems.)  Vain.  (Hardly, mini kit.  Hardly.)  Sunny and generous.  (She was the Hostess with the Mostess for this girls weekend.)  Curious and inventive.  (Science teacher.)  Another fickle broad.  (You better behave or else, Rob!) </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong><span style=\"color: #339966;\">Madame Michelle:</span>  </strong>Almost too compassionate because of a need for love.  (Yikes!  Katie Ann had this, too!)  A dreamer who gets mired in fantasies.  (Ya think?)  Individualist who tests her own limits.  Always seeks new ways to do things.  (Read <strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/365-or-bust/\" target=\"_blank\">365 Days or Bust</a></strong>and tell me if you agree.)   Worry wart.  (Eeeekkk!!!  Gulp.)  More than one career interest.  Mentally hyperactive.  (Does this mean I think too much?  Should I be worried?!?!.)  Fickle wench.  (Apparently another theme amongst the posse.)  Cautious about love.  (Crap.) </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>So there you have it.  Truth or crock-a-doodle-doo?</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>To be determined…</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>If you would like a Palm Reading with Madame Michelle, please comment below.  Madame Michelle will ask you a few questions about your fingers, nails, and lines on your hands.  She will then consult her handy mini Palm Reading Kit, and determine your future. </p>','Day 19:  Poolside Palm Reading','','inherit','open','open','','870-revision-21','','','2010-10-04 21:33:44','2010-10-05 04:33:44','',870,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/10/04/870-revision-21/',0,'revision','',0),(958,1,'2010-10-06 22:00:24','2010-10-07 05:00:24','<p><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/poolpalm.jpg\" target=\"_blank\"><img class=\"alignleft size-full wp-image-937\" title=\"poolpalm\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/poolpalm.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"220\" height=\"255\" /></a></p>\n\n<p>My mother, bless her heart, stuffs my stocking each Christmas with a vast array of eclectic paraphernalia. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Last year, I received a mini Palm Reading Kit.  I placed it on the game shelf in the hall closet for who-knew-when. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>As I packed decks of cards for our <strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/10/04/day-18-10-reasons-why-you-need-a-girls-weekend-pronto/\" target=\"_blank\">Girls Weekend</a></strong>, I came across the mini Palm Reading Kit (that I forgot existed) and threw it in the bag for Poolside Palm Readings at the resort.  My posse has come to expect this kind of kookiness from me.  I think they find it endearingly entertaining. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>On Sunday, we headed down to the pool for an afternoon of sunshine, relaxation, and Hocus Pocus.  Fun times! </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><strong><span style=\"color: #993366;\"><span style=\"font-size: large;\">My victims:</span></span></strong></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Dawn aka Sister Dawn Catherine</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Katie aka Katie Ann (spoken like “CAROL ANN!!!” in <em>Poltergeist</em>)</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Lori aka poo poo gang symbol (<strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?s=surprise%21\" target=\"_blank\">recall Kindergarten bonding story</a></strong>)</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Myself aka Madame Michelle, Palm Reader to the up and coming stars</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><strong><span style=\"color: #993366;\"><span style=\"font-size: large;\">Our Fate </span>(determined by an impulse buy/ideal stocking stuffer <em><a href=\"http://www.amazon.com/Palm-Reading-Complete-Palmistry-READING/dp/B002M541KQ/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&amp;s=books&amp;qid=1286253160&amp;sr=8-1\" target=\"_blank\">mini Palm Reading kit</a></em>):</span></strong></p>\n\n<p><strong> </strong></p>\n\n<p><strong><span style=\"color: #800080;\"><span style=\"color: #ff00ff;\">Sister Dawn Catherine:</span> </span> </strong>An argumentative, impatient little hussy.  Who never acts in haste.  (Contradictory, mini kit.  Contradictory indeed.  And “patience of a saint” comes to mind instead.  I’m just sayin’.)  Believes that dreams do come true.  (This is why she’s my friend.)  A hard worker with great endurance.  A follower.  Sunny disposition and generous to a fault.  (She’s the definition of sunny.)   Short attention span.  (She teaches 2<sup>nd</sup> graders, so maybe they have worn off on her.)  Craves constant ego reinforcement from friends, family, and lovers.  (Bart, husband of Sister Dawn Catherine, is this true???) </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><strong><span style=\"color: #ffcc00;\">Katie Ann: </span> </strong>Gains emotional satisfaction from being orderly, careful, useful and productive.  (She is mildly OCD in her organizational habits, now that I think of it.)  Rarely acts in haste or anger.  (I’ve never seen her mad, and I’ve known her for nearly 10 years.)  An individualist.  Self-expression is important.  Dreamer.  (Of course!  She’s one of my peeps!)  Another sunny blonde.  (Gotta love them.)  Overly idealistic.  Dealing with harsh realities is difficult.  (I feel your pain, soul sister!)  <em>Potential </em>money loss in your middle years.  (Katie Ann obsessed about this one for hours.  I kept reminding her that this was mini kit Hocus Pocus and not for reals.)  Fickle with many lovers.  (Biatch.)</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><strong><span style=\"color: #0000ff;\">Poo Poo Gang Sistah:</span>  </strong>Often puts others first.  (Yep.  Another public servant/teacher.)  Persistent and single-minded.  (She just finished 12 weeks of <strong><a href=\"http://www.beachbody.com/product/fitness_programs/p90x-ad-ms4.do?gclid=CMLoorTuuqQCFQsCbAodCH3pzw&amp;code=SEMB_GOOGLE_P90X_CONTENT&amp;extcmp=12815669443&amp;ef_id=1908:3:c_f62bdca5e27cd1fb6c88da1b6913f82d_3894885823:TKqmNAqoEGMAABVyO2EAABlK:20101005041444\" target=\"_blank\">P90x</a></strong>.  Uh-huh.) Great physical strength and endurance.  (We just established that.)  Another dreamer type.  (A prerequisite if you want to join my posse, so it seems.)  Vain.  (Hardly, mini kit.  Hardly.)  Sunny and generous.  (She was the Hostess with the Mostess for this girls weekend.)  Curious and inventive.  (Science teacher.)  Another fickle broad.  (You better behave or else, Rob!) </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><strong><span style=\"color: #339966;\">Madame Michelle:</span>  </strong>Almost too compassionate because of a need for love.  (Yikes!  Katie Ann had this, too!)  A dreamer who gets mired in fantasies.  (Ya think?)  Individualist who tests her own limits.  Always seeks new ways to do things.  (Read <strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/365-or-bust/\" target=\"_blank\">365 Days or Bust</a> </strong>and tell me if you agree.)   Worry wart.  (Eeeekkk!!!  Gulp.)  More than one career interest.  Mentally hyperactive.  (Does this mean I think too much?  Should I be worried?!?!.)  Fickle wench.  (Apparently another theme amongst the posse.)  Cautious about love.  (Crap.) </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>So there you have it.  Truth or crock-a-doodle-doo?</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>To be determined…</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>If you would like a Palm Reading with Madame Michelle, please comment below.  Madame Michelle will ask you a few questions about your fingers, nails, and lines on your hands.  She will then consult her handy mini Palm Reading Kit, and determine your future. </p>','Day 19:  Poolside Palm Reading','','inherit','open','open','','870-autosave','','','2010-10-06 22:00:24','2010-10-07 05:00:24','',870,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/10/04/870-autosave/',0,'revision','',0),(994,1,'2010-10-06 18:30:49','2010-10-07 01:30:49','<p>[caption id=\"attachment_970\" align=\"alignleft\" width=\"221\" caption=\"&quot;Sparky&quot; aka Creepiest College Mascot in the Nation \"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/asu.gif\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-970\" title=\"asu\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/asu-221x300.gif\" alt=\"\" width=\"221\" height=\"300\" /></a>[/caption]</p>\r\n<p>It seems like yesterday when I moved to The Dating Desert for my first lead teaching position in a Montessori classroom.  I welcomed 30 3-6 year-olds to the world of education, and now those same 3 year-olds are freshmen in college. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>Eeeekkkk!!! </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>This revelation propels me into mid-life angst faster than you can sing \"Itsy Bitsy Spider\".  Where has the time gone???</p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>To continue with this weird time haze theme, I thought it would be a kick to visit one of these 3-now-18 year-olds in college.  I was invited by Kim (aka Kimeee) and not by the 3-now-18 year-old who, now that I think of it, must have been absolutely mortified by the thought of her mom and former preschool teacher crashing her new digs but was too sweet to say anything. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>Kimeee and I arrived for dinner at Arizona State University, home of the Sun Devils and a reputation as one of the largest party schools in the nation. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>Let me establish right away that Kimeee and I were here for the organic dinner catered by <strong>Singh Farms</strong> at the Honors College cafeteria, not a frat party.  You might remember from my old blog that <strong><a href=\"http://latebloomerdiary.blogspot.com/2009/09/cougar-mania-makes-me-want-to-yak_20.html\">the whole cougar craze makes me want to yak</a></strong>.  In fact, when Kimeee pointed out the shirtless volleyball players directly outside Lauren\'s dorm room window, it felt creepy to even look.  They looked soooo young and soooo scrawny!!!  Granted, these were smart boys who spend more time lifting books then weights, but still.  It\'s refreshing to realize that I am only attracted to men 35 and up. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><strong>Important and shameless sidenote:</strong>  Yes, we are all very proud of Lauren\'s acceptance into the Honors College at ASU, and it is common knowledge that her brilliance stems from her most formative preschool years and the woman who taught her how to read.  This combined with her stellar maternal gene pool shoots her into the stratosphere of braniac-ness. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>As we walked through campus, memories of my college days flooded back to me.  I remembered what it was like to be immersed in that stage of life, where everything is filled with hope, possibility and promise.  I experienced a strange mixture of sadness and elation.  It seems that with each passing decade, life tries to stomp that wide-eyed enthusiasm out of us.  Loss, failure, betrayal, and a host of other ugly life events create obstacles for happiness.  The wide-eyed enthusiasm in no longer a given.  It\'s a choice.  Some days the choice is easy, and some days we have to trick ourselves into believing it.  The darkest and scariest days are when we completely forget about the choice.  But the choice is always there. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>But enough with the waxing philosophical crapola.  The choice on Day 20 was crystal clear.  The buzz and excitement of college and a fresh new start was contagious. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>Forget about my concerns for Lauren\'s feelings, I was mortified for her when I realized that Kimeee and I were the ONLY adults over the age of 22 in sight.  I\'m not sure why I never anticipated that.  We were in a college cafeteria on a Monday night.   Helloooooo???</p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>I tried to look as unobtrusive as possible, but I couldn\'t help feeling like a big dork.  I quietly pulled Lauren aside and apologized profusely for destroying her campus mojo.  How embarrassing!  Lauren was typically gracious.  Kimeee was completely unfazed, as any empty nester would be.    </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>The food was surprisingly good.  I ordered the pizza because I wanted this experience to be as authentic as possible.  I applaud their vast menu, including the organic vegetarian gluten-free stir fry, but I was in college, and I needed college food, dammit! </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>The veggie pizza was non-greasy, healthy and delish.  I am telling you -- this is not your typical college cafeteria experience.  These brainchildren need optimal brain food! </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>To cleanse my palate after the meal, I ordered cappuccino gelato. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>Luckily, there is no need to worry about the freshman 15 this time around. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n','Day 20:  College Coed for the Night','','inherit','open','open','','959-revision-30','','','2010-10-06 18:30:49','2010-10-07 01:30:49','',959,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/10/06/959-revision-30/',0,'revision','',0),(1004,1,'2010-10-06 18:58:29','2010-10-07 01:58:29','<p>[caption id=\"attachment_970\" align=\"alignleft\" width=\"221\" caption=\"&quot;Sparky&quot; aka Creepiest College Mascot in the Nation \"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/asu.gif\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-970\" title=\"asu\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/asu-221x300.gif\" alt=\"\" width=\"221\" height=\"300\" /></a>[/caption]</p>\n<p>It seems like just yesterday when I moved to The Dating Desert for my first lead teaching position in a Montessori classroom.  I welcomed 30 3-6 year-olds to the world of education, and now those same 3 year-olds are freshmen in college. </p>\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n<p>Eeeekkkk!!! </p>\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n<p>This revelation propels me into mid-life angst faster than you can sing \"Itsy Bitsy Spider\".  Where has the time gone???</p>\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n<p>To continue with this weird time haze theme, I thought it would be a kick to visit one of these 3-now-18 year-olds in college.  I was invited by Kim (aka Kimeee) and not by the 3-now-18 year-old who, now that I think of it, must have been absolutely mortified by the thought of her mom and former preschool teacher crashing her new digs but was too sweet to say anything. </p>\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n<p>Kimeee and I arrived for dinner at Arizona State University, home of the Sun Devils and a reputation as one of the largest party schools in the nation. </p>\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p</p>\n<p>Let me establish right away that Kimeee and I were here for the organic dinner catered by Singh Farms at the Honors College cafeteria, not a frat party.  You might remember from my old blog that <strong><a href=\"http://latebloomerdiary.blogspot.com/2009/09/cougar-mania-makes-me-want-to-yak_20.html\">the whole cougar craze makes me want to yak</a></strong>.  In fact, when Kimeee pointed out the shirtless volleyball players directly outside Lauren\'s dorm room window, it felt creepy to even look.  They looked soooo young and soooo scrawny!!!  Granted, these were smart boys who spend more time lifting books then weights, but still.  It\'s refreshing to realize that I am only attracted to men 35 and up. </p>\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n<p><strong>Important and shameless sidenote:</strong>  Yes, we are all very proud of Lauren\'s acceptance into the Honors College at ASU, and it is common knowledge that her brilliance stems from her most formative preschool years and the woman who taught her how to read.  This combined with her stellar maternal gene pool shoots her into the stratosphere of braniac-ness. </p>\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n<p>As we walked through campus, memories of my college days flooded back to me.  I remembered what it was like to be immersed in that stage of life, where everything is filled with hope, possibility and promise.  I experienced a strange mixture of sadness and elation. </p>\n<p> </br></p>\n<p>It seems that with each passing decade, life tries to stomp that wide-eyed enthusiasm out of us.  Loss, failure, betrayal, and a host of other ugly life events create obstacles for happiness.  The wide-eyed enthusiasm in no longer a given.  It\'s a choice.  Some days the choice is easy, and some days we have to trick ourselves into believing it.  The darkest and scariest days are when we completely forget about the choice.  But the choice is always there. </p>\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n<p>Bunough with the waxing philosophical crapola.  The choice on Day 20 was crystal clear.  The buzz and excitement of college and a fresh new start was contagious. </p>\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n<p>Forget about my concerns for Lauren\'s feelings, I was mortified for her when I realized that Kimeee and I were the ONLY adults over the age of 22 in sight.  I\'m not sure why I never anticipated that.  We were in a college cafeteria on a Monday night.   Helloooooo???</p>\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n<p>I tried to look as unobtrusive as possible, but I couldn\'t help feeling like a big dork.  I quietly pulled Lauren aside and apologized profusely for destroying her campus mojo.  How embarrassing!  Lauren was typically gracious.  Kimeee was completely unfazed, as any empty nester would be.    </p>\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n<p>The food was surprisingly good.  I ordered the pizza because I wanted this experience to be as authentic as possible.  I applaud their vast menu, including the organic vegetarian gluten-free stir fry, but I was in college, and I needed college food, dammit! </p>\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n<p>The veggie pizza was non-greasy, healthy and delish.  I am telling you -- this is not your typical college cafeteria experience.  These brainchildren need optimal brain food! </p>\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n<p>To cleanse my palate after the meal, I ordered cappuccino gelato. </p>\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n<p>Luckily, there is no need to worry about the freshman 15 this time around. </p>\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n','Day 20:  College Coed for the Night','','inherit','open','open','','959-revision-40','','','2010-10-06 18:58:29','2010-10-07 01:58:29','',959,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/10/06/959-revision-40/',0,'revision','',0),(995,1,'2010-10-06 18:31:52','2010-10-07 01:31:52','<p>[caption id=\"attachment_970\" align=\"alignleft\" width=\"221\" caption=\"&quot;Sparky&quot; aka Creepiest College Mascot in the Nation \"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/asu.gif\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-970\" title=\"asu\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/asu-221x300.gif\" alt=\"\" width=\"221\" height=\"300\" /></a>[/caption]</p>\r\n<p>It seems like yesterday when I moved to The Dating Desert for my first lead teaching position in a Montessori classroom.  I welcomed 30 3-6 year-olds to the world of education, and now those same 3 year-olds are freshmen in college. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>Eeeekkkk!!! </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>This revelation propels me into mid-life angst faster than you can sing \"Itsy Bitsy Spider\".  Where has the time gone???</p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>To continue with this weird time haze theme, I thought it would be a kick to visit one of these 3-now-18 year-olds in college.  I was invited by Kim (aka Kimeee) and not by the 3-now-18 year-old who, now that I think of it, must have been absolutely mortified by the thought of her mom and former preschool teacher crashing her new digs but was too sweet to say anything. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>Kimeee and I arrived for dinner at Arizona State University, home of the Sun Devils and a reputation as one of the largest party schools in the nation. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>Let me establish right away that Kimeee and I were here for the organic dinner catered by <strong>Singh Farms</strong> at the Honors College cafeteria, not a frat party.  You might remember from my old blog that <strong><a href=\"http://latebloomerdiary.blogspot.com/2009/09/cougar-mania-makes-me-want-to-yak_20.html\">the whole cougar craze makes me want to yak</a></strong>.  In fact, when Kimeee pointed out the shirtless volleyball players directly outside Lauren\'s dorm room window, it felt creepy to even look.  They looked soooo young and soooo scrawny!!!  Granted, these were smart boys who spend more time lifting books then weights, but still.  It\'s refreshing to realize that I am only attracted to men 35 and up. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><strong>Important and shameless sidenote:</strong>  Yes, we are all very proud of Lauren\'s acceptance into the Honors College at ASU, and it is common knowledge that her brilliance stems from her most formative preschool years and the woman who taught her how to read.  This combined with her stellar maternal gene pool shoots her into the stratosphere of braniac-ness. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>As we walked through campus, memories of my college days flooded back to me.  I remembered what it was like to be immersed in that stage of life, where everything is filled with hope, possibility and promise.  I experienced a strange mixture of sadness and elation.  \r\n</br>\r\nIt seems that with each passing decade, life tries to stomp that wide-eyed enthusiasm out of us.  Loss, failure, betrayal, and a host of other ugly life events create obstacles for happiness.  The wide-eyed enthusiasm in no longer a given.  It\'s a choice.  Some days the choice is easy, and some days we have to trick ourselves into believing it.  The darkest and scariest days are when we completely forget about the choice.  But the choice is always there. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>But enough with the waxing philosophical crapola.  The choice on Day 20 was crystal clear.  The buzz and excitement of college and a fresh new start was contagious. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>Forget about my concerns for Lauren\'s feelings, I was mortified for her when I realized that Kimeee and I were the ONLY adults over the age of 22 in sight.  I\'m not sure why I never anticipated that.  We were in a college cafeteria on a Monday night.   Helloooooo???</p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>I tried to look as unobtrusive as possible, but I couldn\'t help feeling like a big dork.  I quietly pulled Lauren aside and apologized profusely for destroying her campus mojo.  How embarrassing!  Lauren was typically gracious.  Kimeee was completely unfazed, as any empty nester would be.    </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>The food was surprisingly good.  I ordered the pizza because I wanted this experience to be as authentic as possible.  I applaud their vast menu, including the organic vegetarian gluten-free stir fry, but I was in college, and I needed college food, dammit! </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>The veggie pizza was non-greasy, healthy and delish.  I am telling you -- this is not your typical college cafeteria experience.  These brainchildren need optimal brain food! </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>To cleanse my palate after the meal, I ordered cappuccino gelato. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>Luckily, there is no need to worry about the freshman 15 this time around. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n','Day 20:  College Coed for the Night','','inherit','open','open','','959-revision-31','','','2010-10-06 18:31:52','2010-10-07 01:31:52','',959,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/10/06/959-revision-31/',0,'revision','',0),(998,1,'2010-10-06 18:33:00','2010-10-07 01:33:00','<p>[caption id=\"attachment_970\" align=\"alignleft\" width=\"221\" caption=\"&quot;Sparky&quot; aka Creepiest College Mascot in the Nation \"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/asu.gif\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-970\" title=\"asu\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/asu-221x300.gif\" alt=\"\" width=\"221\" height=\"300\" /></a>[/caption]</p>\r\n<p>It seems like yesterday when I moved to The Dating Desert for my first lead teaching position in a Montessori classroom.  I welcomed 30 3-6 year-olds to the world of education, and now those same 3 year-olds are freshmen in college. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>Eeeekkkk!!! </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>This revelation propels me into mid-life angst faster than you can sing \"Itsy Bitsy Spider\".  Where has the time gone???</p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>To continue with this weird time haze theme, I thought it would be a kick to visit one of these 3-now-18 year-olds in college.  I was invited by Kim (aka Kimeee) and not by the 3-now-18 year-old who, now that I think of it, must have been absolutely mortified by the thought of her mom and former preschool teacher crashing her new digs but was too sweet to say anything. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>Kimeee and I arrived for dinner at Arizona State University, home of the Sun Devils and a reputation as one of the largest party schools in the nation. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>Let me establish right away that Kimeee and I were here for the organic dinner catered by <strong>Singh Farms</strong> at the Honors College cafeteria, not a frat party.  You might remember from my old blog that <strong><a href=\"http://latebloomerdiary.blogspot.com/2009/09/cougar-mania-makes-me-want-to-yak_20.html\">the whole cougar craze makes me want to yak</a></strong>.  In fact, when Kimeee pointed out the shirtless volleyball players directly outside Lauren\'s dorm room window, it felt creepy to even look.  They looked soooo young and soooo scrawny!!!  Granted, these were smart boys who spend more time lifting books then weights, but still.  It\'s refreshing to realize that I am only attracted to men 35 and up. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><strong>Important and shameless sidenote:</strong>  Yes, we are all very proud of Lauren\'s acceptance into the Honors College at ASU, and it is common knowledge that her brilliance stems from her most formative preschool years and the woman who taught her how to read.  This combined with her stellar maternal gene pool shoots her into the stratosphere of braniac-ness. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>As we walked through campus, memories of my college days flooded back to me.  I remembered what it was like to be immersed in that stage of life, where everything is filled with hope, possibility and promise.  I experienced a strange mixture of sadness and elation. <br />\r\n\r\nIt seems that with each passing decade, life tries to stomp that wide-eyed enthusiasm out of us.  Loss, failure, betrayal, and a host of other ugly life events create obstacles for happiness.  The wide-eyed enthusiasm in no longer a given.  It\'s a choice.  Some days the choice is easy, and some days we have to trick ourselves into believing it.  The darkest and scariest days are when we completely forget about the choice.  But the choice is always there. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>But enough with the waxing philosophical crapola.  The choice on Day 20 was crystal clear.  The buzz and excitement of college and a fresh new start was contagious. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>Forget about my concerns for Lauren\'s feelings, I was mortified for her when I realized that Kimeee and I were the ONLY adults over the age of 22 in sight.  I\'m not sure why I never anticipated that.  We were in a college cafeteria on a Monday night.   Helloooooo???</p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>I tried to look as unobtrusive as possible, but I couldn\'t help feeling like a big dork.  I quietly pulled Lauren aside and apologized profusely for destroying her campus mojo.  How embarrassing!  Lauren was typically gracious.  Kimeee was completely unfazed, as any empty nester would be.    </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>The food was surprisingly good.  I ordered the pizza because I wanted this experience to be as authentic as possible.  I applaud their vast menu, including the organic vegetarian gluten-free stir fry, but I was in college, and I needed college food, dammit! </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>The veggie pizza was non-greasy, healthy and delish.  I am telling you -- this is not your typical college cafeteria experience.  These brainchildren need optimal brain food! </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>To cleanse my palate after the meal, I ordered cappuccino gelato. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>Luckily, there is no need to worry about the freshman 15 this time around. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n','Day 20:  College Coed for the Night','','inherit','open','open','','959-revision-34','','','2010-10-06 18:33:00','2010-10-07 01:33:00','',959,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/10/06/959-revision-34/',0,'revision','',0),(996,1,'2010-10-06 18:32:01','2010-10-07 01:32:01','<p>[caption id=\"attachment_970\" align=\"alignleft\" width=\"221\" caption=\"&quot;Sparky&quot; aka Creepiest College Mascot in the Nation \"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/asu.gif\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-970\" title=\"asu\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/asu-221x300.gif\" alt=\"\" width=\"221\" height=\"300\" /></a>[/caption]</p>\r\n<p>It seems like yesterday when I moved to The Dating Desert for my first lead teaching position in a Montessori classroom.  I welcomed 30 3-6 year-olds to the world of education, and now those same 3 year-olds are freshmen in college. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>Eeeekkkk!!! </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>This revelation propels me into mid-life angst faster than you can sing \"Itsy Bitsy Spider\".  Where has the time gone???</p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>To continue with this weird time haze theme, I thought it would be a kick to visit one of these 3-now-18 year-olds in college.  I was invited by Kim (aka Kimeee) and not by the 3-now-18 year-old who, now that I think of it, must have been absolutely mortified by the thought of her mom and former preschool teacher crashing her new digs but was too sweet to say anything. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>Kimeee and I arrived for dinner at Arizona State University, home of the Sun Devils and a reputation as one of the largest party schools in the nation. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>Let me establish right away that Kimeee and I were here for the organic dinner catered by <strong>Singh Farms</strong> at the Honors College cafeteria, not a frat party.  You might remember from my old blog that <strong><a href=\"http://latebloomerdiary.blogspot.com/2009/09/cougar-mania-makes-me-want-to-yak_20.html\">the whole cougar craze makes me want to yak</a></strong>.  In fact, when Kimeee pointed out the shirtless volleyball players directly outside Lauren\'s dorm room window, it felt creepy to even look.  They looked soooo young and soooo scrawny!!!  Granted, these were smart boys who spend more time lifting books then weights, but still.  It\'s refreshing to realize that I am only attracted to men 35 and up. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><strong>Important and shameless sidenote:</strong>  Yes, we are all very proud of Lauren\'s acceptance into the Honors College at ASU, and it is common knowledge that her brilliance stems from her most formative preschool years and the woman who taught her how to read.  This combined with her stellar maternal gene pool shoots her into the stratosphere of braniac-ness. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>As we walked through campus, memories of my college days flooded back to me.  I remembered what it was like to be immersed in that stage of life, where everything is filled with hope, possibility and promise.  I experienced a strange mixture of sadness and elation. <br />\r\n</br><br />\r\nIt seems that with each passing decade, life tries to stomp that wide-eyed enthusiasm out of us.  Loss, failure, betrayal, and a host of other ugly life events create obstacles for happiness.  The wide-eyed enthusiasm in no longer a given.  It\'s a choice.  Some days the choice is easy, and some days we have to trick ourselves into believing it.  The darkest and scariest days are when we completely forget about the choice.  But the choice is always there. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>But enough with the waxing philosophical crapola.  The choice on Day 20 was crystal clear.  The buzz and excitement of college and a fresh new start was contagious. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>Forget about my concerns for Lauren\'s feelings, I was mortified for her when I realized that Kimeee and I were the ONLY adults over the age of 22 in sight.  I\'m not sure why I never anticipated that.  We were in a college cafeteria on a Monday night.   Helloooooo???</p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>I tried to look as unobtrusive as possible, but I couldn\'t help feeling like a big dork.  I quietly pulled Lauren aside and apologized profusely for destroying her campus mojo.  How embarrassing!  Lauren was typically gracious.  Kimeee was completely unfazed, as any empty nester would be.    </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>The food was surprisingly good.  I ordered the pizza because I wanted this experience to be as authentic as possible.  I applaud their vast menu, including the organic vegetarian gluten-free stir fry, but I was in college, and I needed college food, dammit! </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>The veggie pizza was non-greasy, healthy and delish.  I am telling you -- this is not your typical college cafeteria experience.  These brainchildren need optimal brain food! </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>To cleanse my palate after the meal, I ordered cappuccino gelato. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>Luckily, there is no need to worry about the freshman 15 this time around. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n','Day 20:  College Coed for the Night','','inherit','open','open','','959-revision-32','','','2010-10-06 18:32:01','2010-10-07 01:32:01','',959,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/10/06/959-revision-32/',0,'revision','',0),(997,1,'2010-10-06 18:32:30','2010-10-07 01:32:30','<p>[caption id=\"attachment_970\" align=\"alignleft\" width=\"221\" caption=\"&quot;Sparky&quot; aka Creepiest College Mascot in the Nation \"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/asu.gif\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-970\" title=\"asu\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/asu-221x300.gif\" alt=\"\" width=\"221\" height=\"300\" /></a>[/caption]</p>\r\n<p>It seems like yesterday when I moved to The Dating Desert for my first lead teaching position in a Montessori classroom.  I welcomed 30 3-6 year-olds to the world of education, and now those same 3 year-olds are freshmen in college. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>Eeeekkkk!!! </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>This revelation propels me into mid-life angst faster than you can sing \"Itsy Bitsy Spider\".  Where has the time gone???</p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>To continue with this weird time haze theme, I thought it would be a kick to visit one of these 3-now-18 year-olds in college.  I was invited by Kim (aka Kimeee) and not by the 3-now-18 year-old who, now that I think of it, must have been absolutely mortified by the thought of her mom and former preschool teacher crashing her new digs but was too sweet to say anything. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>Kimeee and I arrived for dinner at Arizona State University, home of the Sun Devils and a reputation as one of the largest party schools in the nation. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>Let me establish right away that Kimeee and I were here for the organic dinner catered by <strong>Singh Farms</strong> at the Honors College cafeteria, not a frat party.  You might remember from my old blog that <strong><a href=\"http://latebloomerdiary.blogspot.com/2009/09/cougar-mania-makes-me-want-to-yak_20.html\">the whole cougar craze makes me want to yak</a></strong>.  In fact, when Kimeee pointed out the shirtless volleyball players directly outside Lauren\'s dorm room window, it felt creepy to even look.  They looked soooo young and soooo scrawny!!!  Granted, these were smart boys who spend more time lifting books then weights, but still.  It\'s refreshing to realize that I am only attracted to men 35 and up. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><strong>Important and shameless sidenote:</strong>  Yes, we are all very proud of Lauren\'s acceptance into the Honors College at ASU, and it is common knowledge that her brilliance stems from her most formative preschool years and the woman who taught her how to read.  This combined with her stellar maternal gene pool shoots her into the stratosphere of braniac-ness. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>As we walked through campus, memories of my college days flooded back to me.  I remembered what it was like to be immersed in that stage of life, where everything is filled with hope, possibility and promise.  I experienced a strange mixture of sadness and elation. <br />\r\n</br>\r\nIt seems that with each passing decade, life tries to stomp that wide-eyed enthusiasm out of us.  Loss, failure, betrayal, and a host of other ugly life events create obstacles for happiness.  The wide-eyed enthusiasm in no longer a given.  It\'s a choice.  Some days the choice is easy, and some days we have to trick ourselves into believing it.  The darkest and scariest days are when we completely forget about the choice.  But the choice is always there. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>But enough with the waxing philosophical crapola.  The choice on Day 20 was crystal clear.  The buzz and excitement of college and a fresh new start was contagious. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>Forget about my concerns for Lauren\'s feelings, I was mortified for her when I realized that Kimeee and I were the ONLY adults over the age of 22 in sight.  I\'m not sure why I never anticipated that.  We were in a college cafeteria on a Monday night.   Helloooooo???</p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>I tried to look as unobtrusive as possible, but I couldn\'t help feeling like a big dork.  I quietly pulled Lauren aside and apologized profusely for destroying her campus mojo.  How embarrassing!  Lauren was typically gracious.  Kimeee was completely unfazed, as any empty nester would be.    </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>The food was surprisingly good.  I ordered the pizza because I wanted this experience to be as authentic as possible.  I applaud their vast menu, including the organic vegetarian gluten-free stir fry, but I was in college, and I needed college food, dammit! </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>The veggie pizza was non-greasy, healthy and delish.  I am telling you -- this is not your typical college cafeteria experience.  These brainchildren need optimal brain food! </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>To cleanse my palate after the meal, I ordered cappuccino gelato. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>Luckily, there is no need to worry about the freshman 15 this time around. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n','Day 20:  College Coed for the Night','','inherit','open','open','','959-revision-33','','','2010-10-06 18:32:30','2010-10-07 01:32:30','',959,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/10/06/959-revision-33/',0,'revision','',0),(999,1,'2010-10-06 18:33:05','2010-10-07 01:33:05','<p>[caption id=\"attachment_970\" align=\"alignleft\" width=\"221\" caption=\"&quot;Sparky&quot; aka Creepiest College Mascot in the Nation \"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/asu.gif\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-970\" title=\"asu\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/asu-221x300.gif\" alt=\"\" width=\"221\" height=\"300\" /></a>[/caption]</p>\r\n<p>It seems like yesterday when I moved to The Dating Desert for my first lead teaching position in a Montessori classroom.  I welcomed 30 3-6 year-olds to the world of education, and now those same 3 year-olds are freshmen in college. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>Eeeekkkk!!! </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>This revelation propels me into mid-life angst faster than you can sing \"Itsy Bitsy Spider\".  Where has the time gone???</p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>To continue with this weird time haze theme, I thought it would be a kick to visit one of these 3-now-18 year-olds in college.  I was invited by Kim (aka Kimeee) and not by the 3-now-18 year-old who, now that I think of it, must have been absolutely mortified by the thought of her mom and former preschool teacher crashing her new digs but was too sweet to say anything. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>Kimeee and I arrived for dinner at Arizona State University, home of the Sun Devils and a reputation as one of the largest party schools in the nation. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>Let me establish right away that Kimeee and I were here for the organic dinner catered by <strong>Singh Farms</strong> at the Honors College cafeteria, not a frat party.  You might remember from my old blog that <strong><a href=\"http://latebloomerdiary.blogspot.com/2009/09/cougar-mania-makes-me-want-to-yak_20.html\">the whole cougar craze makes me want to yak</a></strong>.  In fact, when Kimeee pointed out the shirtless volleyball players directly outside Lauren\'s dorm room window, it felt creepy to even look.  They looked soooo young and soooo scrawny!!!  Granted, these were smart boys who spend more time lifting books then weights, but still.  It\'s refreshing to realize that I am only attracted to men 35 and up. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><strong>Important and shameless sidenote:</strong>  Yes, we are all very proud of Lauren\'s acceptance into the Honors College at ASU, and it is common knowledge that her brilliance stems from her most formative preschool years and the woman who taught her how to read.  This combined with her stellar maternal gene pool shoots her into the stratosphere of braniac-ness. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>As we walked through campus, memories of my college days flooded back to me.  I remembered what it was like to be immersed in that stage of life, where everything is filled with hope, possibility and promise.  I experienced a strange mixture of sadness and elation. </p>\r\n<p>It seems that with each passing decade, life tries to stomp that wide-eyed enthusiasm out of us.  Loss, failure, betrayal, and a host of other ugly life events create obstacles for happiness.  The wide-eyed enthusiasm in no longer a given.  It\'s a choice.  Some days the choice is easy, and some days we have to trick ourselves into believing it.  The darkest and scariest days are when we completely forget about the choice.  But the choice is always there. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>But enough with the waxing philosophical crapola.  The choice on Day 20 was crystal clear.  The buzz and excitement of college and a fresh new start was contagious. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>Forget about my concerns for Lauren\'s feelings, I was mortified for her when I realized that Kimeee and I were the ONLY adults over the age of 22 in sight.  I\'m not sure why I never anticipated that.  We were in a college cafeteria on a Monday night.   Helloooooo???</p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>I tried to look as unobtrusive as possible, but I couldn\'t help feeling like a big dork.  I quietly pulled Lauren aside and apologized profusely for destroying her campus mojo.  How embarrassing!  Lauren was typically gracious.  Kimeee was completely unfazed, as any empty nester would be.    </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>The food was surprisingly good.  I ordered the pizza because I wanted this experience to be as authentic as possible.  I applaud their vast menu, including the organic vegetarian gluten-free stir fry, but I was in college, and I needed college food, dammit! </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>The veggie pizza was non-greasy, healthy and delish.  I am telling you -- this is not your typical college cafeteria experience.  These brainchildren need optimal brain food! </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>To cleanse my palate after the meal, I ordered cappuccino gelato. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>Luckily, there is no need to worry about the freshman 15 this time around. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n','Day 20:  College Coed for the Night','','inherit','open','open','','959-revision-35','','','2010-10-06 18:33:05','2010-10-07 01:33:05','',959,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/10/06/959-revision-35/',0,'revision','',0),(1000,1,'2010-10-06 18:33:51','2010-10-07 01:33:51','<p>[caption id=\"attachment_970\" align=\"alignleft\" width=\"221\" caption=\"&quot;Sparky&quot; aka Creepiest College Mascot in the Nation \"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/asu.gif\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-970\" title=\"asu\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/asu-221x300.gif\" alt=\"\" width=\"221\" height=\"300\" /></a>[/caption]</p>\r\n<p>It seems like yesterday when I moved to The Dating Desert for my first lead teaching position in a Montessori classroom.  I welcomed 30 3-6 year-olds to the world of education, and now those same 3 year-olds are freshmen in college. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>Eeeekkkk!!! </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>This revelation propels me into mid-life angst faster than you can sing \"Itsy Bitsy Spider\".  Where has the time gone???</p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>To continue with this weird time haze theme, I thought it would be a kick to visit one of these 3-now-18 year-olds in college.  I was invited by Kim (aka Kimeee) and not by the 3-now-18 year-old who, now that I think of it, must have been absolutely mortified by the thought of her mom and former preschool teacher crashing her new digs but was too sweet to say anything. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>Kimeee and I arrived for dinner at Arizona State University, home of the Sun Devils and a reputation as one of the largest party schools in the nation. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>Let me establish right away that Kimeee and I were here for the organic dinner catered by <strong>Singh Farms</strong> at the Honors College cafeteria, not a frat party.  You might remember from my old blog that <strong><a href=\"http://latebloomerdiary.blogspot.com/2009/09/cougar-mania-makes-me-want-to-yak_20.html\">the whole cougar craze makes me want to yak</a></strong>.  In fact, when Kimeee pointed out the shirtless volleyball players directly outside Lauren\'s dorm room window, it felt creepy to even look.  They looked soooo young and soooo scrawny!!!  Granted, these were smart boys who spend more time lifting books then weights, but still.  It\'s refreshing to realize that I am only attracted to men 35 and up. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><strong>Important and shameless sidenote:</strong>  Yes, we are all very proud of Lauren\'s acceptance into the Honors College at ASU, and it is common knowledge that her brilliance stems from her most formative preschool years and the woman who taught her how to read.  This combined with her stellar maternal gene pool shoots her into the stratosphere of braniac-ness. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>As we walked through campus, memories of my college days flooded back to me.  I remembered what it was like to be immersed in that stage of life, where everything is filled with hope, possibility and promise.  I experienced a strange mixture of sadness and elation. </p> </br>\r\n<p>It seems that with each passing decade, life tries to stomp that wide-eyed enthusiasm out of us.  Loss, failure, betrayal, and a host of other ugly life events create obstacles for happiness.  The wide-eyed enthusiasm in no longer a given.  It\'s a choice.  Some days the choice is easy, and some days we have to trick ourselves into believing it.  The darkest and scariest days are when we completely forget about the choice.  But the choice is always there. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>But enough with the waxing philosophical crapola.  The choice on Day 20 was crystal clear.  The buzz and excitement of college and a fresh new start was contagious. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>Forget about my concerns for Lauren\'s feelings, I was mortified for her when I realized that Kimeee and I were the ONLY adults over the age of 22 in sight.  I\'m not sure why I never anticipated that.  We were in a college cafeteria on a Monday night.   Helloooooo???</p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>I tried to look as unobtrusive as possible, but I couldn\'t help feeling like a big dork.  I quietly pulled Lauren aside and apologized profusely for destroying her campus mojo.  How embarrassing!  Lauren was typically gracious.  Kimeee was completely unfazed, as any empty nester would be.    </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>The food was surprisingly good.  I ordered the pizza because I wanted this experience to be as authentic as possible.  I applaud their vast menu, including the organic vegetarian gluten-free stir fry, but I was in college, and I needed college food, dammit! </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>The veggie pizza was non-greasy, healthy and delish.  I am telling you -- this is not your typical college cafeteria experience.  These brainchildren need optimal brain food! </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>To cleanse my palate after the meal, I ordered cappuccino gelato. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>Luckily, there is no need to worry about the freshman 15 this time around. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n','Day 20:  College Coed for the Night','','inherit','open','open','','959-revision-36','','','2010-10-06 18:33:51','2010-10-07 01:33:51','',959,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/10/06/959-revision-36/',0,'revision','',0),(1001,1,'2010-10-06 18:34:35','2010-10-07 01:34:35','<p>[caption id=\"attachment_970\" align=\"alignleft\" width=\"221\" caption=\"&quot;Sparky&quot; aka Creepiest College Mascot in the Nation \"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/asu.gif\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-970\" title=\"asu\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/asu-221x300.gif\" alt=\"\" width=\"221\" height=\"300\" /></a>[/caption]</p>\r\n<p>It seems like yesterday when I moved to The Dating Desert for my first lead teaching position in a Montessori classroom.  I welcomed 30 3-6 year-olds to the world of education, and now those same 3 year-olds are freshmen in college. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>Eeeekkkk!!! </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>This revelation propels me into mid-life angst faster than you can sing \"Itsy Bitsy Spider\".  Where has the time gone???</p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>To continue with this weird time haze theme, I thought it would be a kick to visit one of these 3-now-18 year-olds in college.  I was invited by Kim (aka Kimeee) and not by the 3-now-18 year-old who, now that I think of it, must have been absolutely mortified by the thought of her mom and former preschool teacher crashing her new digs but was too sweet to say anything. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>Kimeee and I arrived for dinner at Arizona State University, home of the Sun Devils and a reputation as one of the largest party schools in the nation. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>Let me establish right away that Kimeee and I were here for the organic dinner catered by <strong>Singh Farms</strong> at the Honors College cafeteria, not a frat party.  You might remember from my old blog that <strong><a href=\"http://latebloomerdiary.blogspot.com/2009/09/cougar-mania-makes-me-want-to-yak_20.html\">the whole cougar craze makes me want to yak</a></strong>.  In fact, when Kimeee pointed out the shirtless volleyball players directly outside Lauren\'s dorm room window, it felt creepy to even look.  They looked soooo young and soooo scrawny!!!  Granted, these were smart boys who spend more time lifting books then weights, but still.  It\'s refreshing to realize that I am only attracted to men 35 and up. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><strong>Important and shameless sidenote:</strong>  Yes, we are all very proud of Lauren\'s acceptance into the Honors College at ASU, and it is common knowledge that her brilliance stems from her most formative preschool years and the woman who taught her how to read.  This combined with her stellar maternal gene pool shoots her into the stratosphere of braniac-ness. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>As we walked through campus, memories of my college days flooded back to me.  I remembered what it was like to be immersed in that stage of life, where everything is filled with hope, possibility and promise.  I experienced a strange mixture of sadness and elation. </p>\r\n<p> </br></p>\r\n<p>It seems that with each passing decade, life tries to stomp that wide-eyed enthusiasm out of us.  Loss, failure, betrayal, and a host of other ugly life events create obstacles for happiness.  The wide-eyed enthusiasm in no longer a given.  It\'s a choice.  Some days the choice is easy, and some days we have to trick ourselves into believing it.  The darkest and scariest days are when we completely forget about the choice.  But the choice is always there. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>But enough with the waxing philosophical crapola.  The choice on Day 20 was crystal clear.  The buzz and excitement of college and a fresh new start was contagious. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>Forget about my concerns for Lauren\'s feelings, I was mortified for her when I realized that Kimeee and I were the ONLY adults over the age of 22 in sight.  I\'m not sure why I never anticipated that.  We were in a college cafeteria on a Monday night.   Helloooooo???</p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>I tried to look as unobtrusive as possible, but I couldn\'t help feeling like a big dork.  I quietly pulled Lauren aside and apologized profusely for destroying her campus mojo.  How embarrassing!  Lauren was typically gracious.  Kimeee was completely unfazed, as any empty nester would be.    </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>The food was surprisingly good.  I ordered the pizza because I wanted this experience to be as authentic as possible.  I applaud their vast menu, including the organic vegetarian gluten-free stir fry, but I was in college, and I needed college food, dammit! </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>The veggie pizza was non-greasy, healthy and delish.  I am telling you -- this is not your typical college cafeteria experience.  These brainchildren need optimal brain food! </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>To cleanse my palate after the meal, I ordered cappuccino gelato. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>Luckily, there is no need to worry about the freshman 15 this time around. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n','Day 20:  College Coed for the Night','','inherit','open','open','','959-revision-37','','','2010-10-06 18:34:35','2010-10-07 01:34:35','',959,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/10/06/959-revision-37/',0,'revision','',0),(1002,1,'2010-10-06 18:41:22','2010-10-07 01:41:22','<p>[caption id=\"attachment_970\" align=\"alignleft\" width=\"221\" caption=\"&quot;Sparky&quot; aka Creepiest College Mascot in the Nation \"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/asu.gif\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-970\" title=\"asu\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/asu-221x300.gif\" alt=\"\" width=\"221\" height=\"300\" /></a>[/caption]</p>\r\n<p>It seems like just yesterday when I moved to The Dating Desert for my first lead teaching position in a Montessori classroom.  I welcomed 30 3-6 year-olds to the world of education, and now those same 3 year-olds are freshmen in college. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>Eeeekkkk!!! </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>This revelation propels me into mid-life angst faster than you can sing \"Itsy Bitsy Spider\".  Where has the time gone???</p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>To continue with this weird time haze theme, I thought it would be a kick to visit one of these 3-now-18 year-olds in college.  I was invited by Kim (aka Kimeee) and not by the 3-now-18 year-old who, now that I think of it, must have been absolutely mortified by the thought of her mom and former preschool teacher crashing her new digs but was too sweet to say anything. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>Kimeee and I arrived for dinner at Arizona State University, home of the Sun Devils and a reputation as one of the largest party schools in the nation. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>Let me establish right away that Kimeee and I were here for the organic dinner catered by <strong>Singh Farms</strong> at the Honors College cafeteria, not a frat party.  You might remember from my old blog that <strong><a href=\"http://latebloomerdiary.blogspot.com/2009/09/cougar-mania-makes-me-want-to-yak_20.html\">the whole cougar craze makes me want to yak</a></strong>.  In fact, when Kimeee pointed out the shirtless volleyball players directly outside Lauren\'s dorm room window, it felt creepy to even look.  They looked soooo young and soooo scrawny!!!  Granted, these were smart boys who spend more time lifting books then weights, but still.  It\'s refreshing to realize that I am only attracted to men 35 and up. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><strong>Important and shameless sidenote:</strong>  Yes, we are all very proud of Lauren\'s acceptance into the Honors College at ASU, and it is common knowledge that her brilliance stems from her most formative preschool years and the woman who taught her how to read.  This combined with her stellar maternal gene pool shoots her into the stratosphere of braniac-ness. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>As we walked through campus, memories of my college days flooded back to me.  I remembered what it was like to be immersed in that stage of life, where everything is filled with hope, possibility and promise.  I experienced a strange mixture of sadness and elation. </p>\r\n<p> </br></p>\r\n<p>It seems that with each passing decade, life tries to stomp that wide-eyed enthusiasm out of us.  Loss, failure, betrayal, and a host of other ugly life events create obstacles for happiness.  The wide-eyed enthusiasm in no longer a given.  It\'s a choice.  Some days the choice is easy, and some days we have to trick ourselves into believing it.  The darkest and scariest days are when we completely forget about the choice.  But the choice is always there. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>But enough with the waxing philosophical crapola.  The choice on Day 20 was crystal clear.  The buzz and excitement of college and a fresh new start was contagious. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>Forget about my concerns for Lauren\'s feelings, I was mortified for her when I realized that Kimeee and I were the ONLY adults over the age of 22 in sight.  I\'m not sure why I never anticipated that.  We were in a college cafeteria on a Monday night.   Helloooooo???</p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>I tried to look as unobtrusive as possible, but I couldn\'t help feeling like a big dork.  I quietly pulled Lauren aside and apologized profusely for destroying her campus mojo.  How embarrassing!  Lauren was typically gracious.  Kimeee was completely unfazed, as any empty nester would be.    </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>The food was surprisingly good.  I ordered the pizza because I wanted this experience to be as authentic as possible.  I applaud their vast menu, including the organic vegetarian gluten-free stir fry, but I was in college, and I needed college food, dammit! </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>The veggie pizza was non-greasy, healthy and delish.  I am telling you -- this is not your typical college cafeteria experience.  These brainchildren need optimal brain food! </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>To cleanse my palate after the meal, I ordered cappuccino gelato. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>Luckily, there is no need to worry about the freshman 15 this time around. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n','Day 20:  College Coed for the Night','','inherit','open','open','','959-revision-38','','','2010-10-06 18:41:22','2010-10-07 01:41:22','',959,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/10/06/959-revision-38/',0,'revision','',0),(1003,1,'2010-10-06 18:41:24','2010-10-07 01:41:24','<p>[caption id=\"attachment_970\" align=\"alignleft\" width=\"221\" caption=\"&quot;Sparky&quot; aka Creepiest College Mascot in the Nation \"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/asu.gif\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-970\" title=\"asu\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/asu-221x300.gif\" alt=\"\" width=\"221\" height=\"300\" /></a>[/caption]</p>\r\n<p>It seems like just yesterday when I moved to The Dating Desert for my first lead teaching position in a Montessori classroom.  I welcomed 30 3-6 year-olds to the world of education, and now those same 3 year-olds are freshmen in college. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>Eeeekkkk!!! </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>This revelation propels me into mid-life angst faster than you can sing \"Itsy Bitsy Spider\".  Where has the time gone???</p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>To continue with this weird time haze theme, I thought it would be a kick to visit one of these 3-now-18 year-olds in college.  I was invited by Kim (aka Kimeee) and not by the 3-now-18 year-old who, now that I think of it, must have been absolutely mortified by the thought of her mom and former preschool teacher crashing her new digs but was too sweet to say anything. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>Kimeee and I arrived for dinner at Arizona State University, home of the Sun Devils and a reputation as one of the largest party schools in the nation. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>Let me establish right away that Kimeee and I were here for the organic dinner catered by <strong>Singh Farms</strong> at the Honors College cafeteria, not a frat party.  You might remember from my old blog that <strong><a href=\"http://latebloomerdiary.blogspot.com/2009/09/cougar-mania-makes-me-want-to-yak_20.html\">the whole cougar craze makes me want to yak</a></strong>.  In fact, when Kimeee pointed out the shirtless volleyball players directly outside Lauren\'s dorm room window, it felt creepy to even look.  They looked soooo young and soooo scrawny!!!  Granted, these were smart boys who spend more time lifting books then weights, but still.  It\'s refreshing to realize that I am only attracted to men 35 and up. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><strong>Important and shameless sidenote:</strong>  Yes, we are all very proud of Lauren\'s acceptance into the Honors College at ASU, and it is common knowledge that her brilliance stems from her most formative preschool years and the woman who taught her how to read.  This combined with her stellar maternal gene pool shoots her into the stratosphere of braniac-ness. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>As we walked through campus, memories of my college days flooded back to me.  I remembered what it was like to be immersed in that stage of life, where everything is filled with hope, possibility and promise.  I experienced a strange mixture of sadness and elation. </p>\r\n<p> </br></p>\r\n<p>It seems that with each passing decade, life tries to stomp that wide-eyed enthusiasm out of us.  Loss, failure, betrayal, and a host of other ugly life events create obstacles for happiness.  The wide-eyed enthusiasm in no longer a given.  It\'s a choice.  Some days the choice is easy, and some days we have to trick ourselves into believing it.  The darkest and scariest days are when we completely forget about the choice.  But the choice is always there. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>But enough with the waxing philosophical crapola.  The choice on Day 20 was crystal clear.  The buzz and excitement of college and a fresh new start was contagious. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>Forget about my concerns for Lauren\'s feelings, I was mortified for her when I realized that Kimeee and I were the ONLY adults over the age of 22 in sight.  I\'m not sure why I never anticipated that.  We were in a college cafeteria on a Monday night.   Helloooooo???</p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>I tried to look as unobtrusive as possible, but I couldn\'t help feeling like a big dork.  I quietly pulled Lauren aside and apologized profusely for destroying her campus mojo.  How embarrassing!  Lauren was typically gracious.  Kimeee was completely unfazed, as any empty nester would be.    </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>The food was surprisingly good.  I ordered the pizza because I wanted this experience to be as authentic as possible.  I applaud their vast menu, including the organic vegetarian gluten-free stir fry, but I was in college, and I needed college food, dammit! </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>The veggie pizza was non-greasy, healthy and delish.  I am telling you -- this is not your typical college cafeteria experience.  These brainchildren need optimal brain food! </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>To cleanse my palate after the meal, I ordered cappuccino gelato. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>Luckily, there is no need to worry about the freshman 15 this time around. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n','Day 20:  College Coed for the Night','','inherit','open','open','','959-revision-39','','','2010-10-06 18:41:24','2010-10-07 01:41:24','',959,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/10/06/959-revision-39/',0,'revision','',0),(1006,1,'2010-10-06 19:00:39','2010-10-07 02:00:39','<p>[caption id=\"attachment_970\" align=\"alignleft\" width=\"221\" caption=\"&quot;Sparky&quot; aka Creepiest College Mascot in the Nation \"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/asu.gif\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-970\" title=\"asu\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/asu-221x300.gif\" alt=\"\" width=\"221\" height=\"300\" /></a>[/caption]</p>\r\n<p>It seems like just yesterday when I moved to The Dating Desert for my first lead teaching position in a Montessori classroom.  I welcomed 30 3-6 year-olds to the world of education, and now those same 3 year-olds are freshmen in college. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>Eeeekkkk!!! </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>This revelation propels me into mid-life angst faster than you can sing \"Itsy Bitsy Spider\".  Where has the time gone???</p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>To continue with this weird time haze theme, I thought it would be a kick to visit one of these 3-now-18 year-olds in college.  I was invited by Kim (aka Kimeee) and not by the 3-now-18 year-old who, now that I think of it, must have been absolutely mortified by the thought of her mom and former preschool teacher crashing her new digs but was too sweet to say anything. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>Kimeee and I arrived for dinner at Arizona State University, home of the Sun Devils and a reputation as one of the largest party schools in the nation. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p</p>\r\n<p>Let me establish right away that Kimeee and I were here for the organic dinner catered by Singh Farms at the Honors College cafeteria, not a frat party.  You might remember from my old blog that <strong><a href=\"http://latebloomerdiary.blogspot.com/2009/09/cougar-mania-makes-me-want-to-yak_20.html\">the whole cougar craze makes me want to yak</a></strong>.  In fact, when Kimeee pointed out the shirtless volleyball players directly outside Lauren\'s dorm room window, it felt creepy to even look.  They looked soooo young and soooo scrawny!!!  Granted, these were smart boys who spend more time lifting books then weights, but still.  It\'s refreshing to realize that I am only attracted to men 35 and up. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><strong>Important and shameless sidenote:</strong>  Yes, we are all very proud of Lauren\'s acceptance into the Honors College at ASU, and it is common knowledge that her brilliance stems from her most formative preschool years and the woman who taught her how to read.  This combined with her stellar maternal gene pool shoots her into the stratosphere of braniac-ness. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>As we walked through campus, memories of my college days flooded back to me.  I remembered what it was like to be immersed in that stage of life, where everything is filled with hope, possibility and promise.  I experienced a strange mixture of sadness and elation. </p>\r\n<p> </br></p>\r\n<p>It seems that with each passing decade, life tries to stomp that wide-eyed enthusiasm out of us.  Loss, failure, betrayal, and a host of other ugly life events create obstacles for happiness.  The wide-eyed enthusiasm in no longer a given.  It\'s a choice.  Some days the choice is easy, and some days we have to trick ourselves into believing it.  The darkest and scariest days are when we completely forget about the choice.  But the choice is always there. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>Enough with the waxing philosophical crapola.  The choice on Day 20 was crystal clear.  The buzz and excitement of college and a fresh new start was contagious. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>Forget about my concerns for Lauren\'s feelings, I was mortified for her when I realized that Kimeee and I were the ONLY adults over the age of 22 in sight.  I\'m not sure why I never anticipated that.  We were in a college cafeteria on a Monday night.   Helloooooo???</p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>I tried to look as unobtrusive as possible, but I couldn\'t help feeling like a big dork.  I quietly pulled Lauren aside and apologized profusely for destroying her campus mojo.  How embarrassing!  Lauren was typically gracious.  Kimeee was completely unfazed, as any empty nester would be.    </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>The food was surprisingly good.  I ordered the pizza because I wanted this experience to be as authentic as possible.  I applaud their vast menu, including the organic vegetarian gluten-free stir fry, but I was in college, and I needed college food, dammit! </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>The veggie pizza was non-greasy, healthy and delish.  I am telling you -- this is not your typical college cafeteria experience.  These brainchildren need optimal brain food! </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>To cleanse my palate after the meal, I ordered cappuccino gelato. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>Luckily, there is no need to worry about the freshman 15 this time around. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n','Day 20:  College Coed for the Night','','inherit','open','open','','959-revision-42','','','2010-10-06 19:00:39','2010-10-07 02:00:39','',959,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/10/06/959-revision-42/',0,'revision','',0),(1005,1,'2010-10-06 18:58:44','2010-10-07 01:58:44','<p>[caption id=\"attachment_970\" align=\"alignleft\" width=\"221\" caption=\"&quot;Sparky&quot; aka Creepiest College Mascot in the Nation \"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/asu.gif\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-970\" title=\"asu\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/asu-221x300.gif\" alt=\"\" width=\"221\" height=\"300\" /></a>[/caption]</p>\r\n<p>It seems like just yesterday when I moved to The Dating Desert for my first lead teaching position in a Montessori classroom.  I welcomed 30 3-6 year-olds to the world of education, and now those same 3 year-olds are freshmen in college. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>Eeeekkkk!!! </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>This revelation propels me into mid-life angst faster than you can sing \"Itsy Bitsy Spider\".  Where has the time gone???</p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>To continue with this weird time haze theme, I thought it would be a kick to visit one of these 3-now-18 year-olds in college.  I was invited by Kim (aka Kimeee) and not by the 3-now-18 year-old who, now that I think of it, must have been absolutely mortified by the thought of her mom and former preschool teacher crashing her new digs but was too sweet to say anything. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>Kimeee and I arrived for dinner at Arizona State University, home of the Sun Devils and a reputation as one of the largest party schools in the nation. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p</p>\r\n<p>Let me establish right away that Kimeee and I were here for the organic dinner catered by Singh Farms at the Honors College cafeteria, not a frat party.  You might remember from my old blog that <strong><a href=\"http://latebloomerdiary.blogspot.com/2009/09/cougar-mania-makes-me-want-to-yak_20.html\">the whole cougar craze makes me want to yak</a></strong>.  In fact, when Kimeee pointed out the shirtless volleyball players directly outside Lauren\'s dorm room window, it felt creepy to even look.  They looked soooo young and soooo scrawny!!!  Granted, these were smart boys who spend more time lifting books then weights, but still.  It\'s refreshing to realize that I am only attracted to men 35 and up. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><strong>Important and shameless sidenote:</strong>  Yes, we are all very proud of Lauren\'s acceptance into the Honors College at ASU, and it is common knowledge that her brilliance stems from her most formative preschool years and the woman who taught her how to read.  This combined with her stellar maternal gene pool shoots her into the stratosphere of braniac-ness. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>As we walked through campus, memories of my college days flooded back to me.  I remembered what it was like to be immersed in that stage of life, where everything is filled with hope, possibility and promise.  I experienced a strange mixture of sadness and elation. </p>\r\n<p> </br></p>\r\n<p>It seems that with each passing decade, life tries to stomp that wide-eyed enthusiasm out of us.  Loss, failure, betrayal, and a host of other ugly life events create obstacles for happiness.  The wide-eyed enthusiasm in no longer a given.  It\'s a choice.  Some days the choice is easy, and some days we have to trick ourselves into believing it.  The darkest and scariest days are when we completely forget about the choice.  But the choice is always there. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\nEnough with the waxing philosophical crapola.  The choice on Day 20 was crystal clear.  The buzz and excitement of college and a fresh new start was contagious. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>Forget about my concerns for Lauren\'s feelings, I was mortified for her when I realized that Kimeee and I were the ONLY adults over the age of 22 in sight.  I\'m not sure why I never anticipated that.  We were in a college cafeteria on a Monday night.   Helloooooo???</p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>I tried to look as unobtrusive as possible, but I couldn\'t help feeling like a big dork.  I quietly pulled Lauren aside and apologized profusely for destroying her campus mojo.  How embarrassing!  Lauren was typically gracious.  Kimeee was completely unfazed, as any empty nester would be.    </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>The food was surprisingly good.  I ordered the pizza because I wanted this experience to be as authentic as possible.  I applaud their vast menu, including the organic vegetarian gluten-free stir fry, but I was in college, and I needed college food, dammit! </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>The veggie pizza was non-greasy, healthy and delish.  I am telling you -- this is not your typical college cafeteria experience.  These brainchildren need optimal brain food! </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>To cleanse my palate after the meal, I ordered cappuccino gelato. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>Luckily, there is no need to worry about the freshman 15 this time around. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n','Day 20:  College Coed for the Night','','inherit','open','open','','959-revision-41','','','2010-10-06 18:58:44','2010-10-07 01:58:44','',959,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/10/06/959-revision-41/',0,'revision','',0),(1007,1,'2010-10-06 19:00:44','2010-10-07 02:00:44','<p>[caption id=\"attachment_970\" align=\"alignleft\" width=\"221\" caption=\"&quot;Sparky&quot; aka Creepiest College Mascot in the Nation \"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/asu.gif\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-970\" title=\"asu\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/asu-221x300.gif\" alt=\"\" width=\"221\" height=\"300\" /></a>[/caption]</p>\r\n<p>It seems like just yesterday when I moved to The Dating Desert for my first lead teaching position in a Montessori classroom.  I welcomed 30 3-6 year-olds to the world of education, and now those same 3 year-olds are freshmen in college. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>Eeeekkkk!!! </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>This revelation propels me into mid-life angst faster than you can sing \"Itsy Bitsy Spider\".  Where has the time gone???</p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>To continue with this weird time haze theme, I thought it would be a kick to visit one of these 3-now-18 year-olds in college.  I was invited by Kim (aka Kimeee) and not by the 3-now-18 year-old who, now that I think of it, must have been absolutely mortified by the thought of her mom and former preschool teacher crashing her new digs but was too sweet to say anything. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>Kimeee and I arrived for dinner at Arizona State University, home of the Sun Devils and a reputation as one of the largest party schools in the nation. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p</p>\r\n<p>Let me establish right away that Kimeee and I were here for the organic dinner catered by Singh Farms at the Honors College cafeteria, not a frat party.  You might remember from my old blog that <strong><a href=\"http://latebloomerdiary.blogspot.com/2009/09/cougar-mania-makes-me-want-to-yak_20.html\">the whole cougar craze makes me want to yak</a></strong>.  In fact, when Kimeee pointed out the shirtless volleyball players directly outside Lauren\'s dorm room window, it felt creepy to even look.  They looked soooo young and soooo scrawny!!!  Granted, these were smart boys who spend more time lifting books then weights, but still.  It\'s refreshing to realize that I am only attracted to men 35 and up. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><strong>Important and shameless sidenote:</strong>  Yes, we are all very proud of Lauren\'s acceptance into the Honors College at ASU, and it is common knowledge that her brilliance stems from her most formative preschool years and the woman who taught her how to read.  This combined with her stellar maternal gene pool shoots her into the stratosphere of braniac-ness. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>As we walked through campus, memories of my college days flooded back to me.  I remembered what it was like to be immersed in that stage of life, where everything is filled with hope, possibility and promise.  I experienced a strange mixture of sadness and elation. </p>\r\n<p> </br></p>\r\n<p>It seems that with each passing decade, life tries to stomp that wide-eyed enthusiasm out of us.  Loss, failure, betrayal, and a host of other ugly life events create obstacles for happiness.  The wide-eyed enthusiasm in no longer a given.  It\'s a choice.  Some days the choice is easy, and some days we have to trick ourselves into believing it.  The darkest and scariest days are when we completely forget about the choice.  But the choice is always there. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>Enough with the waxing philosophical crapola.  The choice on Day 20 was crystal clear.  The buzz and excitement of college and a fresh new start was contagious. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>Forget about my concerns for Lauren\'s feelings, I was mortified for her when I realized that Kimeee and I were the ONLY adults over the age of 22 in sight.  I\'m not sure why I never anticipated that.  We were in a college cafeteria on a Monday night.   Helloooooo???</p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>I tried to look as unobtrusive as possible, but I couldn\'t help feeling like a big dork.  I quietly pulled Lauren aside and apologized profusely for destroying her campus mojo.  How embarrassing!  Lauren was typically gracious.  Kimeee was completely unfazed, as any empty nester would be.    </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>The food was surprisingly good.  I ordered the pizza because I wanted this experience to be as authentic as possible.  I applaud their vast menu, including the organic vegetarian gluten-free stir fry, but I was in college, and I needed college food, dammit! </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>The veggie pizza was non-greasy, healthy and delish.  I am telling you -- this is not your typical college cafeteria experience.  These brainchildren need optimal brain food! </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>To cleanse my palate after the meal, I ordered cappuccino gelato. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>Luckily, there is no need to worry about the freshman 15 this time around. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n','Day 20:  College Coed for the Night','','inherit','open','open','','959-revision-43','','','2010-10-06 19:00:44','2010-10-07 02:00:44','',959,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/10/06/959-revision-43/',0,'revision','',0),(1008,1,'2010-10-06 19:04:58','2010-10-07 02:04:58','<p>[caption id=\"attachment_970\" align=\"alignleft\" width=\"221\" caption=\"&quot;Sparky&quot; aka Creepiest College Mascot in the Nation \"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/asu.gif\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-970\" title=\"asu\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/asu-221x300.gif\" alt=\"\" width=\"221\" height=\"300\" /></a>[/caption]</p>\r\n<p>It seems like just yesterday when I moved to The Dating Desert for my first lead teaching position in a Montessori classroom.  I welcomed 30 3-6 year-olds to the world of education, and now those same 3 year-olds are freshmen in college. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>Eeeekkkk!!! </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>This revelation propels me into mid-life angst faster than you can sing \"Itsy Bitsy Spider\".  Where has the time gone???</p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>To continue with this weird time haze theme, I thought it would be a kick to visit one of these 3-now-18 year-olds in college.  I was invited by Kim (aka Kimeee) and not by the 3-now-18 year-old who, now that I think of it, must have been absolutely mortified by the thought of her mom and former preschool teacher crashing her new digs but was too sweet to say anything. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>Kimeee and I arrived for dinner at Arizona State University, home of the Sun Devils and a reputation as one of the largest party schools in the nation. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p</p>\r\n<p>Let me establish right away that Kimeee and I were here for the organic dinner catered by Singh Farms at the Honors College cafeteria, not a frat party.  You might remember from my old blog that <strong><a href=\"http://latebloomerdiary.blogspot.com/2009/09/cougar-mania-makes-me-want-to-yak_20.html\">the whole cougar craze makes me want to yak</a></strong>.  In fact, when Kimeee pointed out the shirtless volleyball players directly outside Lauren\'s dorm room window, it felt creepy to even look.  They looked soooo young and soooo scrawny!!!  Granted, these were smart boys who spend more time lifting books then weights, but still.  It\'s refreshing to realize that I am only attracted to men 35 and up. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><strong>Important and shameless sidenote:</strong>  Yes, we are all very proud of Lauren\'s acceptance into the Honors College at ASU, and it is common knowledge that her brilliance stems from her most formative preschool years and the woman who taught her how to read.  This combined with her stellar maternal gene pool shoots her into the stratosphere of braniac-ness. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>As we walked through campus, memories of my college days flooded back to me.  I remembered what it was like to be immersed in that stage of life, where everything is filled with hope, possibility and promise.  I experienced a strange mixture of sadness and elation. </p>\r\n<p> </br></p>\r\n<p>It seems that with each passing decade, life tries to stomp that wide-eyed enthusiasm out of us.  Loss, failure, betrayal, and a host of other ugly life events create obstacles for happiness.  The wide-eyed enthusiasm in no longer a given.  It\'s a choice.  Some days the choice is easy, and some days we have to trick ourselves into believing it.  The darkest and scariest days are when we completely forget about the choice.  But the choice is always there. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>Enough with the waxing philosophical crapola.  The choice on Day 20 was crystal clear.  The buzz and excitement of college and a fresh new start was contagious. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>Forget about my concerns for Lauren\'s feelings, I was mortified for her when I realized that Kimeee and I were the ONLY adults over the age of 22 in sight.  I\'m not sure why I never anticipated that.  We were in a college cafeteria on a Monday night.   Helloooooo???</p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>I tried to look as unobtrusive as possible, but I couldn\'t help feeling like a big dork.  I quietly pulled Lauren aside and apologized profusely for destroying her campus mojo.  How embarrassing!  Lauren was typically gracious.  Kimeee was completely unfazed, as any empty nester would be.    </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>The food was surprisingly good.  I ordered the pizza because I wanted this experience to be as authentic as possible.  I applaud their vast menu, including the organic vegetarian gluten-free stir fry, but I was in college, and I needed college food, dammit! </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>The veggie pizza was non-greasy, healthy and delish.  I am telling you -- this is not your typical college cafeteria experience.  These brainchildren need optimal brain food! </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>To cleanse my palate after the meal, I ordered a cappuccino gelato cone. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>Luckily, there is no need to worry about the freshman 15 this time around. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n','Day 20:  College Coed for the Night','','inherit','open','open','','959-revision-44','','','2010-10-06 19:04:58','2010-10-07 02:04:58','',959,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/10/06/959-revision-44/',0,'revision','',0),(1009,1,'2010-10-06 19:05:04','2010-10-07 02:05:04','<p>[caption id=\"attachment_970\" align=\"alignleft\" width=\"221\" caption=\"&quot;Sparky&quot; aka Creepiest College Mascot in the Nation \"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/asu.gif\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-970\" title=\"asu\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/asu-221x300.gif\" alt=\"\" width=\"221\" height=\"300\" /></a>[/caption]</p>\r\n<p>It seems like just yesterday when I moved to The Dating Desert for my first lead teaching position in a Montessori classroom.  I welcomed 30 3-6 year-olds to the world of education, and now those same 3 year-olds are freshmen in college. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>Eeeekkkk!!! </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>This revelation propels me into mid-life angst faster than you can sing \"Itsy Bitsy Spider\".  Where has the time gone???</p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>To continue with this weird time haze theme, I thought it would be a kick to visit one of these 3-now-18 year-olds in college.  I was invited by Kim (aka Kimeee) and not by the 3-now-18 year-old who, now that I think of it, must have been absolutely mortified by the thought of her mom and former preschool teacher crashing her new digs but was too sweet to say anything. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>Kimeee and I arrived for dinner at Arizona State University, home of the Sun Devils and a reputation as one of the largest party schools in the nation. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p</p>\r\n<p>Let me establish right away that Kimeee and I were here for the organic dinner catered by Singh Farms at the Honors College cafeteria, not a frat party.  You might remember from my old blog that <strong><a href=\"http://latebloomerdiary.blogspot.com/2009/09/cougar-mania-makes-me-want-to-yak_20.html\">the whole cougar craze makes me want to yak</a></strong>.  In fact, when Kimeee pointed out the shirtless volleyball players directly outside Lauren\'s dorm room window, it felt creepy to even look.  They looked soooo young and soooo scrawny!!!  Granted, these were smart boys who spend more time lifting books then weights, but still.  It\'s refreshing to realize that I am only attracted to men 35 and up. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><strong>Important and shameless sidenote:</strong>  Yes, we are all very proud of Lauren\'s acceptance into the Honors College at ASU, and it is common knowledge that her brilliance stems from her most formative preschool years and the woman who taught her how to read.  This combined with her stellar maternal gene pool shoots her into the stratosphere of braniac-ness. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>As we walked through campus, memories of my college days flooded back to me.  I remembered what it was like to be immersed in that stage of life, where everything is filled with hope, possibility and promise.  I experienced a strange mixture of sadness and elation. </p>\r\n<p> </br></p>\r\n<p>It seems that with each passing decade, life tries to stomp that wide-eyed enthusiasm out of us.  Loss, failure, betrayal, and a host of other ugly life events create obstacles for happiness.  The wide-eyed enthusiasm in no longer a given.  It\'s a choice.  Some days the choice is easy, and some days we have to trick ourselves into believing it.  The darkest and scariest days are when we completely forget about the choice.  But the choice is always there. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>Enough with the waxing philosophical crapola.  The choice on Day 20 was crystal clear.  The buzz and excitement of college and a fresh new start was contagious. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>Forget about my concerns for Lauren\'s feelings, I was mortified for her when I realized that Kimeee and I were the ONLY adults over the age of 22 in sight.  I\'m not sure why I never anticipated that.  We were in a college cafeteria on a Monday night.   Helloooooo???</p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>I tried to look as unobtrusive as possible, but I couldn\'t help feeling like a big dork.  I quietly pulled Lauren aside and apologized profusely for destroying her campus mojo.  How embarrassing!  Lauren was typically gracious.  Kimeee was completely unfazed, as any empty nester would be.    </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>The food was surprisingly good.  I ordered the pizza because I wanted this experience to be as authentic as possible.  I applaud their vast menu, including the organic vegetarian gluten-free stir fry, but I was in college, and I needed college food, dammit! </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>The veggie pizza was non-greasy, healthy and delish.  I am telling you -- this is not your typical college cafeteria experience.  These brainchildren need optimal brain food! </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>To cleanse my palate after the meal, I ordered a cappuccino gelato cone. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>Luckily, there is no need to worry about the freshman 15 this time around. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n','Day 20:  College Coed for the Night','','inherit','open','open','','959-revision-45','','','2010-10-06 19:05:04','2010-10-07 02:05:04','',959,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/10/06/959-revision-45/',0,'revision','',0),(1010,1,'2010-10-06 19:07:41','2010-10-07 02:07:41','<p>[caption id=\"attachment_970\" align=\"alignleft\" width=\"221\" caption=\"&quot;Sparky&quot; aka Creepiest College Mascot in the Nation \"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/asu.gif\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-970\" title=\"asu\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/asu-221x300.gif\" alt=\"\" width=\"221\" height=\"300\" /></a>[/caption]</p>\r\n<p>It seems like just yesterday when I moved to The Dating Desert for my first lead teaching position in a Montessori classroom.  I welcomed 30 3-6 year-olds to the world of education, and now those same 3 year-olds are freshmen in college. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>Eeeekkkk!!! </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>This revelation propels me into mid-life angst faster than you can sing \"Itsy Bitsy Spider\".  Where has the time gone???</p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>To continue with this weird time haze theme, I thought it would be a kick to visit one of these 3-now-18 year-olds in college.  I was invited by Kim (aka Kimeee) and not by the 3-now-18 year-old who, now that I think of it, must have been absolutely mortified by the thought of her mom and former preschool teacher crashing her new digs but was too sweet to say anything. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>Kimeee and I arrived for dinner at Arizona State University, home of the Sun Devils and a reputation as one of the largest party schools in the nation. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p</p>\r\n<p>Let me establish right away that Kimeee and I were here for the organic dinner catered by Singh Farms at the Honors College cafeteria, not a frat party.  You might remember from my old blog that <strong><a href=\"http://latebloomerdiary.blogspot.com/2009/09/cougar-mania-makes-me-want-to-yak_20.html\">the whole cougar craze makes me want to yak</a></strong>.  In fact, when Kimeee pointed out the shirtless volleyball players directly outside Lauren\'s dorm room window, it felt creepy to even sneak a peek.  They looked soooo young and soooo scrawny!!!  Granted, these were smart boys who spend more time lifting books then weights, but still.  It\'s refreshing to realize that I am only attracted to men 35 and up. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><strong>Important and shameless sidenote:</strong>  Yes, we are all very proud of Lauren\'s acceptance into the Honors College at ASU, and it is common knowledge that her brilliance stems from her most formative preschool years and the woman who taught her how to read.  This combined with her stellar maternal gene pool shoots her into the stratosphere of braniac-ness. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>As we walked through campus, memories of my college days flooded back to me.  I remembered what it was like to be immersed in that stage of life, where everything is filled with hope, possibility and promise.  I experienced a strange mixture of sadness and elation. </p>\r\n<p> </br></p>\r\n<p>It seems that with each passing decade, life tries to stomp that wide-eyed enthusiasm out of us.  Loss, failure, betrayal, and a host of other ugly life events create obstacles for happiness.  The wide-eyed enthusiasm in no longer a given.  It\'s a choice.  Some days the choice is easy, and some days we have to trick ourselves into believing it.  The darkest and scariest days are when we completely forget about the choice.  But the choice is always there. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>Enough with the waxing philosophical crapola.  The choice on Day 20 was crystal clear.  The buzz and excitement of college and a fresh new start was contagious. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>Forget about my concerns for Lauren\'s feelings, I was mortified for her when I realized that Kimeee and I were the ONLY adults over the age of 22 in sight.  I\'m not sure why I never anticipated that.  We were in a college cafeteria on a Monday night.   Helloooooo???</p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>I tried to look as unobtrusive as possible, but I couldn\'t help feeling like a big dork.  I quietly pulled Lauren aside and apologized profusely for destroying her campus mojo.  How embarrassing!  Lauren was typically gracious.  Kimeee was completely unfazed, as any empty nester would be.    </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>The food was surprisingly good.  I ordered the pizza because I wanted this experience to be as authentic as possible.  I applaud their vast menu, including the organic vegetarian gluten-free stir fry, but I was in college, and I needed college food, dammit! </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>The veggie pizza was non-greasy, healthy and delish.  I am telling you -- this is not your typical college cafeteria experience.  These brainchildren need optimal brain food! </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>To cleanse my palate after the meal, I ordered a cappuccino gelato cone. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>Luckily, there is no need to worry about the freshman 15 this time around. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n','Day 20:  College Coed for the Night','','inherit','open','open','','959-revision-46','','','2010-10-06 19:07:41','2010-10-07 02:07:41','',959,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/10/06/959-revision-46/',0,'revision','',0),(1011,1,'2010-10-06 19:07:43','2010-10-07 02:07:43','<p>[caption id=\"attachment_970\" align=\"alignleft\" width=\"221\" caption=\"&quot;Sparky&quot; aka Creepiest College Mascot in the Nation \"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/asu.gif\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-970\" title=\"asu\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/asu-221x300.gif\" alt=\"\" width=\"221\" height=\"300\" /></a>[/caption]</p>\r\n<p>It seems like just yesterday when I moved to The Dating Desert for my first lead teaching position in a Montessori classroom.  I welcomed 30 3-6 year-olds to the world of education, and now those same 3 year-olds are freshmen in college. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>Eeeekkkk!!! </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>This revelation propels me into mid-life angst faster than you can sing \"Itsy Bitsy Spider\".  Where has the time gone???</p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>To continue with this weird time haze theme, I thought it would be a kick to visit one of these 3-now-18 year-olds in college.  I was invited by Kim (aka Kimeee) and not by the 3-now-18 year-old who, now that I think of it, must have been absolutely mortified by the thought of her mom and former preschool teacher crashing her new digs but was too sweet to say anything. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>Kimeee and I arrived for dinner at Arizona State University, home of the Sun Devils and a reputation as one of the largest party schools in the nation. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p</p>\r\n<p>Let me establish right away that Kimeee and I were here for the organic dinner catered by Singh Farms at the Honors College cafeteria, not a frat party.  You might remember from my old blog that <strong><a href=\"http://latebloomerdiary.blogspot.com/2009/09/cougar-mania-makes-me-want-to-yak_20.html\">the whole cougar craze makes me want to yak</a></strong>.  In fact, when Kimeee pointed out the shirtless volleyball players directly outside Lauren\'s dorm room window, it felt creepy to even sneak a peek.  They looked soooo young and soooo scrawny!!!  Granted, these were smart boys who spend more time lifting books then weights, but still.  It\'s refreshing to realize that I am only attracted to men 35 and up. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><strong>Important and shameless sidenote:</strong>  Yes, we are all very proud of Lauren\'s acceptance into the Honors College at ASU, and it is common knowledge that her brilliance stems from her most formative preschool years and the woman who taught her how to read.  This combined with her stellar maternal gene pool shoots her into the stratosphere of braniac-ness. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>As we walked through campus, memories of my college days flooded back to me.  I remembered what it was like to be immersed in that stage of life, where everything is filled with hope, possibility and promise.  I experienced a strange mixture of sadness and elation. </p>\r\n<p> </br></p>\r\n<p>It seems that with each passing decade, life tries to stomp that wide-eyed enthusiasm out of us.  Loss, failure, betrayal, and a host of other ugly life events create obstacles for happiness.  The wide-eyed enthusiasm in no longer a given.  It\'s a choice.  Some days the choice is easy, and some days we have to trick ourselves into believing it.  The darkest and scariest days are when we completely forget about the choice.  But the choice is always there. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>Enough with the waxing philosophical crapola.  The choice on Day 20 was crystal clear.  The buzz and excitement of college and a fresh new start was contagious. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>Forget about my concerns for Lauren\'s feelings, I was mortified for her when I realized that Kimeee and I were the ONLY adults over the age of 22 in sight.  I\'m not sure why I never anticipated that.  We were in a college cafeteria on a Monday night.   Helloooooo???</p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>I tried to look as unobtrusive as possible, but I couldn\'t help feeling like a big dork.  I quietly pulled Lauren aside and apologized profusely for destroying her campus mojo.  How embarrassing!  Lauren was typically gracious.  Kimeee was completely unfazed, as any empty nester would be.    </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>The food was surprisingly good.  I ordered the pizza because I wanted this experience to be as authentic as possible.  I applaud their vast menu, including the organic vegetarian gluten-free stir fry, but I was in college, and I needed college food, dammit! </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>The veggie pizza was non-greasy, healthy and delish.  I am telling you -- this is not your typical college cafeteria experience.  These brainchildren need optimal brain food! </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>To cleanse my palate after the meal, I ordered a cappuccino gelato cone. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>Luckily, there is no need to worry about the freshman 15 this time around. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n','Day 20:  College Coed for the Night','','inherit','open','open','','959-revision-47','','','2010-10-06 19:07:43','2010-10-07 02:07:43','',959,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/10/06/959-revision-47/',0,'revision','',0),(1012,1,'2010-10-06 19:08:35','2010-10-07 02:08:35','<p>[caption id=\"attachment_970\" align=\"alignleft\" width=\"221\" caption=\"&quot;Sparky&quot; aka Creepiest College Mascot in the Nation \"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/asu.gif\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-970\" title=\"asu\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/asu-221x300.gif\" alt=\"\" width=\"221\" height=\"300\" /></a>[/caption]</p>\r\n<p>It seems like just yesterday when I moved to The Dating Desert for my first lead teaching position in a Montessori classroom.  I welcomed 30 3-6 year-olds to the world of education, and now those same 3 year-olds are freshmen in college. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>Eeeekkkk!!! </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>This revelation propels me into mid-life angst faster than you can sing \"Itsy Bitsy Spider\".  Where has the time gone???</p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>To continue with this weird time haze theme, I thought it would be a kick to visit one of these 3-now-18 year-olds in college.  I was invited by Kim (aka Kimeee) and not by the 3-now-18 year-old who, now that I think of it, must have been absolutely mortified by the thought of her mom and former preschool teacher crashing her new digs but was too sweet to say anything. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>Kimeee and I arrived for dinner at Arizona State University, home of the Sun Devils and a reputation as one of the largest party schools in the nation. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p</p>\r\n<p>Let me establish right away that Kimeee and I were here for the organic dinner catered by Singh Farms at the Honors College cafeteria, not a frat party.  You might remember from my old blog that <strong><a href=\"http://latebloomerdiary.blogspot.com/2009/09/cougar-mania-makes-me-want-to-yak_20.html\">the whole cougar craze makes me want to yak</a></strong>.  In fact, when Kimeee pointed out the shirtless volleyball players directly outside Lauren\'s dorm room window, it felt creepy to even sneak a peek.  They looked soooo young and soooo scrawny!!!  Granted, these were smart boys who spend more time lifting books then weights, but still.  It\'s refreshing to realize that I am only attracted to men 35 and up. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><strong>Important and shameless sidenote:</strong>  Yes, we are all very proud of Lauren\'s acceptance into the Honors College at ASU, and it is common knowledge that her brilliance stems from her most formative preschool years and the woman who taught her how to read.  This combined with her stellar maternal gene pool shoots her into the stratosphere of braniacdom. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>As we walked through campus, memories of my college days flooded back to me.  I remembered what it was like to be immersed in that stage of life, where everything is filled with hope, possibility and promise.  I experienced a strange mixture of sadness and elation. </p>\r\n<p> </br></p>\r\n<p>It seems that with each passing decade, life tries to stomp that wide-eyed enthusiasm out of us.  Loss, failure, betrayal, and a host of other ugly life events create obstacles for happiness.  The wide-eyed enthusiasm in no longer a given.  It\'s a choice.  Some days the choice is easy, and some days we have to trick ourselves into believing it.  The darkest and scariest days are when we completely forget about the choice.  But the choice is always there. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>Enough with the waxing philosophical crapola.  The choice on Day 20 was crystal clear.  The buzz and excitement of college and a fresh new start was contagious. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>Forget about my concerns for Lauren\'s feelings, I was mortified for her when I realized that Kimeee and I were the ONLY adults over the age of 22 in sight.  I\'m not sure why I never anticipated that.  We were in a college cafeteria on a Monday night.   Helloooooo???</p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>I tried to look as unobtrusive as possible, but I couldn\'t help feeling like a big dork.  I quietly pulled Lauren aside and apologized profusely for destroying her campus mojo.  How embarrassing!  Lauren was typically gracious.  Kimeee was completely unfazed, as any empty nester would be.    </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>The food was surprisingly good.  I ordered the pizza because I wanted this experience to be as authentic as possible.  I applaud their vast menu, including the organic vegetarian gluten-free stir fry, but I was in college, and I needed college food, dammit! </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>The veggie pizza was non-greasy, healthy and delish.  I am telling you -- this is not your typical college cafeteria experience.  These brainchildren need optimal brain food! </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>To cleanse my palate after the meal, I ordered a cappuccino gelato cone. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>Luckily, there is no need to worry about the freshman 15 this time around. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n','Day 20:  College Coed for the Night','','inherit','open','open','','959-revision-48','','','2010-10-06 19:08:35','2010-10-07 02:08:35','',959,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/10/06/959-revision-48/',0,'revision','',0),(1013,1,'2010-10-06 19:09:50','2010-10-07 02:09:50','<p>[caption id=\"attachment_970\" align=\"alignleft\" width=\"221\" caption=\"&quot;Sparky&quot; aka Creepiest College Mascot in the Nation \"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/asu.gif\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-970\" title=\"asu\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/asu-221x300.gif\" alt=\"\" width=\"221\" height=\"300\" /></a>[/caption]</p>\r\n<p>It seems like just yesterday when I moved to The Dating Desert for my first lead teaching position in a Montessori classroom.  I welcomed 30 3-6 year-olds to the world of education, and now those same 3 year-olds are freshmen in college. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>Eeeekkkk!!! </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>This revelation propels me into mid-life angst faster than you can sing \"Itsy Bitsy Spider\".  Where has the time gone???</p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>To continue with this weird time haze theme, I thought it would be a kick to visit one of these 3-now-18 year-olds in college.  I was invited by Kim (aka Kimeee) and not by the 3-now-18 year-old who, now that I think of it, must have been absolutely mortified by the thought of her mom and former preschool teacher crashing her new digs but was too sweet to say anything. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>Kimeee and I arrived for dinner at Arizona State University, home of the Sun Devils and a reputation as one of the largest party schools in the nation. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p</p>\r\n<p>Let me establish right away that Kimeee and I were here for the organic dinner catered by Singh Farms at the Honors College cafeteria, not a frat party.  You might remember from my old blog that <strong><a href=\"http://latebloomerdiary.blogspot.com/2009/09/cougar-mania-makes-me-want-to-yak_20.html\">the whole cougar craze makes me want to yak</a></strong>.  In fact, when Kimeee pointed out the shirtless volleyball players directly outside Lauren\'s dorm room window, it felt creepy to even sneak a peek.  They looked soooo young and soooo scrawny!!!  Granted, these were smart boys who spend more time lifting books then weights, but still.  It\'s refreshing to realize that I am only attracted to men 35 and up. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><strong>Important and shameless sidenote:</strong>  Yes, we are all very proud of Lauren\'s acceptance into the Honors College at ASU, and it is common knowledge that her brilliance stems from her most formative preschool years and the woman who taught her how to read.  This combined with her stellar maternal gene pool shoots her into the stratosphere of braniacdom. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>As we walked through campus, memories of my college days flooded back to me.  I remembered what it was like to be immersed in that stage of life, where everything is filled with hope, possibility and promise.  I experienced a strange mixture of sadness and elation. </p>\r\n<p> </br></p>\r\n<p>It seems that with each passing decade, life tries to stomp that wide-eyed enthusiasm out of us.  Loss, failure, betrayal, and a host of other ugly life events create obstacles for happiness.  The wide-eyed enthusiasm in no longer a given.  It\'s a choice.  Some days the choice is easy, and some days we have to trick ourselves into believing it.  The darkest and scariest days are when we completely forget about the choice.  But the choice is always there. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>Enough with the waxing philosophical crapola.  The choice on Day 20 was crystal clear.  The buzz and excitement of college and a fresh new start was contagious! </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>Forget about my concerns for Lauren\'s feelings, I was mortified for her when I realized that Kimeee and I were the ONLY adults over the age of 22 in sight.  I\'m not sure why I never anticipated that.  We were in a college cafeteria on a Monday night.   Helloooooo???</p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>I tried to look as unobtrusive as possible, but I couldn\'t help feeling like a big dork.  I quietly pulled Lauren aside and apologized profusely for destroying her campus mojo.  How embarrassing!  Lauren was typically gracious.  Kimeee was completely unfazed, as any empty nester would be.    </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>The food was surprisingly good.  I ordered the pizza because I wanted this experience to be as authentic as possible.  I applaud their vast menu, including the organic vegetarian gluten-free stir fry, but I was in college, and I needed college food, dammit! </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>The veggie pizza was non-greasy, healthy and delish.  I am telling you -- this is not your typical college cafeteria experience.  These brainchildren need optimal brain food! </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>To cleanse my palate after the meal, I ordered a cappuccino gelato cone. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>Luckily, there is no need to worry about the freshman 15 this time around. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n','Day 20:  College Coed for the Night','','inherit','open','open','','959-revision-49','','','2010-10-06 19:09:50','2010-10-07 02:09:50','',959,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/10/06/959-revision-49/',0,'revision','',0),(1014,1,'2010-10-06 19:09:55','2010-10-07 02:09:55','<p>[caption id=\"attachment_970\" align=\"alignleft\" width=\"221\" caption=\"&quot;Sparky&quot; aka Creepiest College Mascot in the Nation \"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/asu.gif\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-970\" title=\"asu\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/asu-221x300.gif\" alt=\"\" width=\"221\" height=\"300\" /></a>[/caption]</p>\r\n<p>It seems like just yesterday when I moved to The Dating Desert for my first lead teaching position in a Montessori classroom.  I welcomed 30 3-6 year-olds to the world of education, and now those same 3 year-olds are freshmen in college. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>Eeeekkkk!!! </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>This revelation propels me into mid-life angst faster than you can sing \"Itsy Bitsy Spider\".  Where has the time gone???</p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>To continue with this weird time haze theme, I thought it would be a kick to visit one of these 3-now-18 year-olds in college.  I was invited by Kim (aka Kimeee) and not by the 3-now-18 year-old who, now that I think of it, must have been absolutely mortified by the thought of her mom and former preschool teacher crashing her new digs but was too sweet to say anything. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>Kimeee and I arrived for dinner at Arizona State University, home of the Sun Devils and a reputation as one of the largest party schools in the nation. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p</p>\r\n<p>Let me establish right away that Kimeee and I were here for the organic dinner catered by Singh Farms at the Honors College cafeteria, not a frat party.  You might remember from my old blog that <strong><a href=\"http://latebloomerdiary.blogspot.com/2009/09/cougar-mania-makes-me-want-to-yak_20.html\">the whole cougar craze makes me want to yak</a></strong>.  In fact, when Kimeee pointed out the shirtless volleyball players directly outside Lauren\'s dorm room window, it felt creepy to even sneak a peek.  They looked soooo young and soooo scrawny!!!  Granted, these were smart boys who spend more time lifting books then weights, but still.  It\'s refreshing to realize that I am only attracted to men 35 and up. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><strong>Important and shameless sidenote:</strong>  Yes, we are all very proud of Lauren\'s acceptance into the Honors College at ASU, and it is common knowledge that her brilliance stems from her most formative preschool years and the woman who taught her how to read.  This combined with her stellar maternal gene pool shoots her into the stratosphere of braniacdom. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>As we walked through campus, memories of my college days flooded back to me.  I remembered what it was like to be immersed in that stage of life, where everything is filled with hope, possibility and promise.  I experienced a strange mixture of sadness and elation. </p>\r\n<p> </br></p>\r\n<p>It seems that with each passing decade, life tries to stomp that wide-eyed enthusiasm out of us.  Loss, failure, betrayal, and a host of other ugly life events create obstacles for happiness.  The wide-eyed enthusiasm in no longer a given.  It\'s a choice.  Some days the choice is easy, and some days we have to trick ourselves into believing it.  The darkest and scariest days are when we completely forget about the choice.  But the choice is always there. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>Enough with the waxing philosophical crapola.  The choice on Day 20 was crystal clear.  The buzz and excitement of college and a fresh new start was contagious! </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>Forget about my concerns for Lauren\'s feelings, I was mortified for her when I realized that Kimeee and I were the ONLY adults over the age of 22 in sight.  I\'m not sure why I never anticipated that.  We were in a college cafeteria on a Monday night.   Helloooooo???</p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>I tried to look as unobtrusive as possible, but I couldn\'t help feeling like a big dork.  I quietly pulled Lauren aside and apologized profusely for destroying her campus mojo.  How embarrassing!  Lauren was typically gracious.  Kimeee was completely unfazed, as any empty nester would be.    </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>The food was surprisingly good.  I ordered the pizza because I wanted this experience to be as authentic as possible.  I applaud their vast menu, including the organic vegetarian gluten-free stir fry, but I was in college, and I needed college food, dammit! </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>The veggie pizza was non-greasy, healthy and delish.  I am telling you -- this is not your typical college cafeteria experience.  These brainchildren need optimal brain food! </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>To cleanse my palate after the meal, I ordered a cappuccino gelato cone. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>Luckily, there is no need to worry about the freshman 15 this time around. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n','Day 20:  College Coed for the Night','','inherit','open','open','','959-revision-50','','','2010-10-06 19:09:55','2010-10-07 02:09:55','',959,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/10/06/959-revision-50/',0,'revision','',0),(1015,1,'2010-10-06 19:14:32','2010-10-07 02:14:32','<p>[caption id=\"attachment_970\" align=\"alignleft\" width=\"221\" caption=\"&quot;Sparky&quot; aka Creepiest College Mascot in the Nation \"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/asu.gif\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-970\" title=\"asu\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/asu-221x300.gif\" alt=\"\" width=\"221\" height=\"300\" /></a>[/caption]</p>\r\n<p>It seems like just yesterday when I moved to The Dating Desert for my first lead teaching position in a Montessori classroom.  I welcomed 30 3-6 year-olds to the world of education, and now those same 3 year-olds are freshmen in college. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>Eeeekkkk!!! </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>This revelation propels me into mid-life angst faster than you can sing \"Itsy Bitsy Spider\".  Where has the time gone???</p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>To continue with this weird time haze theme, I thought it would be a kick to visit one of these 3-now-18 year-olds in college.  I was invited by Kim (aka Kimeee) and not by the 3-now-18 year-old who, now that I think of it, must have been absolutely mortified by the thought of her mom and former preschool teacher crashing her new digs but was too sweet to say anything. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>Kimeee and I arrived for dinner at Arizona State University, home of the Sun Devils and a reputation as one of the largest party schools in the nation. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p</p>\r\n<p>Let me establish right away that Kimeee and I were here for the organic dinner catered by Singh Farms at the Honors College cafeteria, not a frat party.  You might remember from my old blog that <strong><a href=\"http://latebloomerdiary.blogspot.com/2009/09/cougar-mania-makes-me-want-to-yak_20.html\">the whole cougar craze makes me want to yak</a></strong>.  In fact, when Kimeee pointed out the shirtless volleyball players directly outside Lauren\'s dorm room window, it felt creepy to even sneak a peek.  They looked soooo young and soooo scrawny!!!  Granted, these were smart boys who spend more time lifting books then weights, but still.  It\'s refreshing to realize that I am only attracted to men 35 and up. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><strong>Important and shameless sidenote:</strong>  Yes, we are all very proud of Lauren\'s acceptance into the Honors College at ASU, and it is common knowledge that her brilliance stems from her most formative preschool years and the woman who taught her how to read.  This combined with her stellar maternal gene pool shoots her into the stratosphere of braniacdom. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>As we walked through campus, memories of my college days flooded back to me.  I remembered what it was like to be immersed in that stage of life, where everything is filled with hope, possibility and promise.  I experienced a strange mixture of elation and sadness. </p>\r\n<p> </br></p>\r\n<p>It seems that with each passing decade, life tries to stomp that wide-eyed enthusiasm out of us.  Loss, failure, betrayal, and a host of other ugly life events create obstacles for happiness.  The wide-eyed enthusiasm in no longer a given.  It\'s a choice.  Some days the choice is easy, and some days we have to trick ourselves into believing it.  The darkest and scariest days are when we completely forget about the choice.  But the choice is always there. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>Enough with the waxing philosophical crapola.  The choice on Day 20 was crystal clear.  The buzz and excitement of college and a fresh new start was contagious! </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>Forget about my concerns for Lauren\'s feelings, I was mortified for her when I realized that Kimeee and I were the ONLY adults over the age of 22 in sight.  I\'m not sure why I never anticipated that.  We were in a college cafeteria on a Monday night.   Helloooooo???</p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>I tried to look as unobtrusive as possible, but I couldn\'t help feeling like a big dork.  I quietly pulled Lauren aside and apologized profusely for destroying her campus mojo.  How embarrassing!  Lauren was typically gracious.  Kimeee was completely unfazed, as any empty nester would be.    </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>The food was surprisingly good.  I ordered the pizza because I wanted this experience to be as authentic as possible.  I applaud their vast menu, including the organic vegetarian gluten-free stir fry, but I was in college, and I needed college food, dammit! </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>The veggie pizza was non-greasy, healthy and delish.  I am telling you -- this is not your typical college cafeteria experience.  These brainchildren need optimal brain food! </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>To cleanse my palate after the meal, I ordered a cappuccino gelato cone. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>Luckily, there is no need to worry about the freshman 15 this time around. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n','Day 20:  College Coed for the Night','','inherit','open','open','','959-revision-51','','','2010-10-06 19:14:32','2010-10-07 02:14:32','',959,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/10/06/959-revision-51/',0,'revision','',0),(1016,1,'2010-10-06 19:14:38','2010-10-07 02:14:38','<p>[caption id=\"attachment_970\" align=\"alignleft\" width=\"221\" caption=\"&quot;Sparky&quot; aka Creepiest College Mascot in the Nation \"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/asu.gif\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-970\" title=\"asu\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/asu-221x300.gif\" alt=\"\" width=\"221\" height=\"300\" /></a>[/caption]</p>\r\n<p>It seems like just yesterday when I moved to The Dating Desert for my first lead teaching position in a Montessori classroom.  I welcomed 30 3-6 year-olds to the world of education, and now those same 3 year-olds are freshmen in college. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>Eeeekkkk!!! </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>This revelation propels me into mid-life angst faster than you can sing \"Itsy Bitsy Spider\".  Where has the time gone???</p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>To continue with this weird time haze theme, I thought it would be a kick to visit one of these 3-now-18 year-olds in college.  I was invited by Kim (aka Kimeee) and not by the 3-now-18 year-old who, now that I think of it, must have been absolutely mortified by the thought of her mom and former preschool teacher crashing her new digs but was too sweet to say anything. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>Kimeee and I arrived for dinner at Arizona State University, home of the Sun Devils and a reputation as one of the largest party schools in the nation. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p</p>\r\n<p>Let me establish right away that Kimeee and I were here for the organic dinner catered by Singh Farms at the Honors College cafeteria, not a frat party.  You might remember from my old blog that <strong><a href=\"http://latebloomerdiary.blogspot.com/2009/09/cougar-mania-makes-me-want-to-yak_20.html\">the whole cougar craze makes me want to yak</a></strong>.  In fact, when Kimeee pointed out the shirtless volleyball players directly outside Lauren\'s dorm room window, it felt creepy to even sneak a peek.  They looked soooo young and soooo scrawny!!!  Granted, these were smart boys who spend more time lifting books then weights, but still.  It\'s refreshing to realize that I am only attracted to men 35 and up. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><strong>Important and shameless sidenote:</strong>  Yes, we are all very proud of Lauren\'s acceptance into the Honors College at ASU, and it is common knowledge that her brilliance stems from her most formative preschool years and the woman who taught her how to read.  This combined with her stellar maternal gene pool shoots her into the stratosphere of braniacdom. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>As we walked through campus, memories of my college days flooded back to me.  I remembered what it was like to be immersed in that stage of life, where everything is filled with hope, possibility and promise.  I experienced a strange mixture of elation and sadness. </p>\r\n<p> </br></p>\r\n<p>It seems that with each passing decade, life tries to stomp that wide-eyed enthusiasm out of us.  Loss, failure, betrayal, and a host of other ugly life events create obstacles for happiness.  The wide-eyed enthusiasm in no longer a given.  It\'s a choice.  Some days the choice is easy, and some days we have to trick ourselves into believing it.  The darkest and scariest days are when we completely forget about the choice.  But the choice is always there. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>Enough with the waxing philosophical crapola.  The choice on Day 20 was crystal clear.  The buzz and excitement of college and a fresh new start was contagious! </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>Forget about my concerns for Lauren\'s feelings, I was mortified for her when I realized that Kimeee and I were the ONLY adults over the age of 22 in sight.  I\'m not sure why I never anticipated that.  We were in a college cafeteria on a Monday night.   Helloooooo???</p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>I tried to look as unobtrusive as possible, but I couldn\'t help feeling like a big dork.  I quietly pulled Lauren aside and apologized profusely for destroying her campus mojo.  How embarrassing!  Lauren was typically gracious.  Kimeee was completely unfazed, as any empty nester would be.    </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>The food was surprisingly good.  I ordered the pizza because I wanted this experience to be as authentic as possible.  I applaud their vast menu, including the organic vegetarian gluten-free stir fry, but I was in college, and I needed college food, dammit! </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>The veggie pizza was non-greasy, healthy and delish.  I am telling you -- this is not your typical college cafeteria experience.  These brainchildren need optimal brain food! </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>To cleanse my palate after the meal, I ordered a cappuccino gelato cone. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>Luckily, there is no need to worry about the freshman 15 this time around. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n','Day 20:  College Coed for the Night','','inherit','open','open','','959-revision-52','','','2010-10-06 19:14:38','2010-10-07 02:14:38','',959,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/10/06/959-revision-52/',0,'revision','',0),(1019,1,'2010-10-06 19:18:41','2010-10-07 02:18:41','<p>[caption id=\"attachment_970\" align=\"alignleft\" width=\"221\" caption=\"&quot;Sparky&quot; aka Creepiest College Mascot in the Nation \"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/asu.gif\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-970\" title=\"asu\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/asu-221x300.gif\" alt=\"\" width=\"221\" height=\"300\" /></a>[/caption]</p>\n<p>It seems like just yesterday when I moved to The Dating Desert for my first lead teaching position in a Montessori classroom.  I welcomed 30 3-6 year-olds to the world of education, and now those same 3 year-olds are freshmen in college. </p>\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n<p>Eeeekkkk!!! </p>\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n<p>This revelation propels me into mid-life angst faster than you can sing \"Itsy Bitsy Spider\".  Where has the time gone???</p>\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n<p>To continue with this weird time haze theme, I thought it would be a kick to visit one of these 3-now-18 year-olds in college.  I was invited by Kim (aka Kimeee) and not by the 3-now-18 year-old who, now that I think of it, must have been absolutely mortified by the thought of her mom and former preschool teacher crashing her new digs but was too sweet to say anything. </p>\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n<p>Kimeee and I arrived for dinner at Arizona State University, home of the Sun Devils.  ???  Creepy, I know.  ASU has earned the distinction as one of the largest party schools in the nation. </p>\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p</p>\n<p>Let me establish right away that Kimeee and I were here for the organic dinner catered by Singh Farms at the Honors College cafeteria, not a frat party.  You might remember from my old blog that <strong><a href=\"http://latebloomerdiary.blogspot.com/2009/09/cougar-mania-makes-me-want-to-yak_20.html\">the whole cougar craze makes me want to yak</a></strong>.  In fact, when Kimeee pointed out the shirtless volleyball players directly outside Lauren\'s dorm room window, it felt creepy to even sneak a peek.  They looked soooo young and soooo scrawny!!!  Granted, these were smart boys who spend more time lifting books then weights, but still.  It\'s refreshing to realize that I am only attracted to men 35 and up. </p>\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n<p><strong>Important and shameless sidenote:</strong>  Yes, we are all very proud of Lauren\'s acceptance into the Honors College at ASU, and it is common knowledge that her brilliance stems from her most formative preschool years and the woman who taught her how to read.  This combined with her stellar maternal gene pool shoots her into the stratosphere of braniacdom. </p>\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n<p>As we walked through campus, memories of my college days flooded back to me.  I remembered what it was like to be immersed in that stage of life, where everything is filled with hope, possibility and promise.  I experienced a strange mixture of elation and sadness. </p>\n<p> </br></p>\n<p>It seems that with each passing decade, life tries to stomp that wide-eyed enthusiasm out of us.  Loss, failure, betrayal, and a host of other ugly life events create obstacles for happiness.  The wide-eyed enthusiasm in no longer a given.  It\'s a choice.  Some days the choice is easy, and some days we have to trick ourselves into believing it.  The darkest and scariest days are when we completely forget about the choice.  But the choice is always there. </p>\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n<p>Enough with the waxing philosophical crapola.  The choice on Day 20 was crystal clear.  The buzz and excitement of college and a fresh new start was contagious! </p>\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n<p>Forget about my concerns for Lauren\'s feelings, I was mortified for her when I realized that Kimeee and I were the ONLY adults over the age of 22 in sight.  I\'m not sure why I never anticipated that.  We were in a college cafeteria on a Monday night.   Helloooooo???</p>\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n<p>I tried to look as unobtrusive as possible, but I couldn\'t help feeling like a big dork.  I quietly pulled Lauren aside and apologized profusely for destroying her campus mojo.  How embarrassing!  Lauren was typically gracious.  Kimeee was completely unfazed, as any empty nester would be.    </p>\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n<p>The food was surprisingly good.  I ordered the pizza because I wanted this experience to be as authentic as possible.  I applaud their vast menu, including the organic vegetarian gluten-free stir fry, but I was in college, and I needed college food, dammit! </p>\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n<p>The veggie pizza was non-greasy, healthy and delish.  I am telling you -- this is not your typical college cafeteria experience.  These brainchildren need optimal brain food! </p>\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n<p>To cleanse my palate after the meal, I ordered a cappuccino gelato cone. </p>\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n<p>Luckily, there is no need to worry about the freshman 15 this time around. </p>\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n','Day 20:  College Coed for the Night','','inherit','open','open','','959-revision-55','','','2010-10-06 19:18:41','2010-10-07 02:18:41','',959,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/10/06/959-revision-55/',0,'revision','',0),(1017,1,'2010-10-06 19:15:54','2010-10-07 02:15:54','<p>[caption id=\"attachment_970\" align=\"alignleft\" width=\"221\" caption=\"&quot;Sparky&quot; aka Creepiest College Mascot in the Nation \"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/asu.gif\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-970\" title=\"asu\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/asu-221x300.gif\" alt=\"\" width=\"221\" height=\"300\" /></a>[/caption]</p>\r\n<p>It seems like just yesterday when I moved to The Dating Desert for my first lead teaching position in a Montessori classroom.  I welcomed 30 3-6 year-olds to the world of education, and now those same 3 year-olds are freshmen in college. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>Eeeekkkk!!! </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>This revelation propels me into mid-life angst faster than you can sing \"Itsy Bitsy Spider\".  Where has the time gone???</p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>To continue with this weird time haze theme, I thought it would be a kick to visit one of these 3-now-18 year-olds in college.  I was invited by Kim (aka Kimeee) and not by the 3-now-18 year-old who, now that I think of it, must have been absolutely mortified by the thought of her mom and former preschool teacher crashing her new digs but was too sweet to say anything. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>Kimeee and I arrived for dinner at Arizona State University, home of the Sun Devils.  ???  Creep, I know.  ASU has also earned the reputation as one of the largest party schools in the nation. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p</p>\r\n<p>Let me establish right away that Kimeee and I were here for the organic dinner catered by Singh Farms at the Honors College cafeteria, not a frat party.  You might remember from my old blog that <strong><a href=\"http://latebloomerdiary.blogspot.com/2009/09/cougar-mania-makes-me-want-to-yak_20.html\">the whole cougar craze makes me want to yak</a></strong>.  In fact, when Kimeee pointed out the shirtless volleyball players directly outside Lauren\'s dorm room window, it felt creepy to even sneak a peek.  They looked soooo young and soooo scrawny!!!  Granted, these were smart boys who spend more time lifting books then weights, but still.  It\'s refreshing to realize that I am only attracted to men 35 and up. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><strong>Important and shameless sidenote:</strong>  Yes, we are all very proud of Lauren\'s acceptance into the Honors College at ASU, and it is common knowledge that her brilliance stems from her most formative preschool years and the woman who taught her how to read.  This combined with her stellar maternal gene pool shoots her into the stratosphere of braniacdom. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>As we walked through campus, memories of my college days flooded back to me.  I remembered what it was like to be immersed in that stage of life, where everything is filled with hope, possibility and promise.  I experienced a strange mixture of elation and sadness. </p>\r\n<p> </br></p>\r\n<p>It seems that with each passing decade, life tries to stomp that wide-eyed enthusiasm out of us.  Loss, failure, betrayal, and a host of other ugly life events create obstacles for happiness.  The wide-eyed enthusiasm in no longer a given.  It\'s a choice.  Some days the choice is easy, and some days we have to trick ourselves into believing it.  The darkest and scariest days are when we completely forget about the choice.  But the choice is always there. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>Enough with the waxing philosophical crapola.  The choice on Day 20 was crystal clear.  The buzz and excitement of college and a fresh new start was contagious! </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>Forget about my concerns for Lauren\'s feelings, I was mortified for her when I realized that Kimeee and I were the ONLY adults over the age of 22 in sight.  I\'m not sure why I never anticipated that.  We were in a college cafeteria on a Monday night.   Helloooooo???</p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>I tried to look as unobtrusive as possible, but I couldn\'t help feeling like a big dork.  I quietly pulled Lauren aside and apologized profusely for destroying her campus mojo.  How embarrassing!  Lauren was typically gracious.  Kimeee was completely unfazed, as any empty nester would be.    </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>The food was surprisingly good.  I ordered the pizza because I wanted this experience to be as authentic as possible.  I applaud their vast menu, including the organic vegetarian gluten-free stir fry, but I was in college, and I needed college food, dammit! </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>The veggie pizza was non-greasy, healthy and delish.  I am telling you -- this is not your typical college cafeteria experience.  These brainchildren need optimal brain food! </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>To cleanse my palate after the meal, I ordered a cappuccino gelato cone. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>Luckily, there is no need to worry about the freshman 15 this time around. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n','Day 20:  College Coed for the Night','','inherit','open','open','','959-revision-53','','','2010-10-06 19:15:54','2010-10-07 02:15:54','',959,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/10/06/959-revision-53/',0,'revision','',0),(1018,1,'2010-10-06 19:15:56','2010-10-07 02:15:56','<p>[caption id=\"attachment_970\" align=\"alignleft\" width=\"221\" caption=\"&quot;Sparky&quot; aka Creepiest College Mascot in the Nation \"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/asu.gif\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-970\" title=\"asu\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/asu-221x300.gif\" alt=\"\" width=\"221\" height=\"300\" /></a>[/caption]</p>\r\n<p>It seems like just yesterday when I moved to The Dating Desert for my first lead teaching position in a Montessori classroom.  I welcomed 30 3-6 year-olds to the world of education, and now those same 3 year-olds are freshmen in college. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>Eeeekkkk!!! </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>This revelation propels me into mid-life angst faster than you can sing \"Itsy Bitsy Spider\".  Where has the time gone???</p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>To continue with this weird time haze theme, I thought it would be a kick to visit one of these 3-now-18 year-olds in college.  I was invited by Kim (aka Kimeee) and not by the 3-now-18 year-old who, now that I think of it, must have been absolutely mortified by the thought of her mom and former preschool teacher crashing her new digs but was too sweet to say anything. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>Kimeee and I arrived for dinner at Arizona State University, home of the Sun Devils.  ???  Creep, I know.  ASU has also earned the reputation as one of the largest party schools in the nation. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p</p>\r\n<p>Let me establish right away that Kimeee and I were here for the organic dinner catered by Singh Farms at the Honors College cafeteria, not a frat party.  You might remember from my old blog that <strong><a href=\"http://latebloomerdiary.blogspot.com/2009/09/cougar-mania-makes-me-want-to-yak_20.html\">the whole cougar craze makes me want to yak</a></strong>.  In fact, when Kimeee pointed out the shirtless volleyball players directly outside Lauren\'s dorm room window, it felt creepy to even sneak a peek.  They looked soooo young and soooo scrawny!!!  Granted, these were smart boys who spend more time lifting books then weights, but still.  It\'s refreshing to realize that I am only attracted to men 35 and up. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><strong>Important and shameless sidenote:</strong>  Yes, we are all very proud of Lauren\'s acceptance into the Honors College at ASU, and it is common knowledge that her brilliance stems from her most formative preschool years and the woman who taught her how to read.  This combined with her stellar maternal gene pool shoots her into the stratosphere of braniacdom. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>As we walked through campus, memories of my college days flooded back to me.  I remembered what it was like to be immersed in that stage of life, where everything is filled with hope, possibility and promise.  I experienced a strange mixture of elation and sadness. </p>\r\n<p> </br></p>\r\n<p>It seems that with each passing decade, life tries to stomp that wide-eyed enthusiasm out of us.  Loss, failure, betrayal, and a host of other ugly life events create obstacles for happiness.  The wide-eyed enthusiasm in no longer a given.  It\'s a choice.  Some days the choice is easy, and some days we have to trick ourselves into believing it.  The darkest and scariest days are when we completely forget about the choice.  But the choice is always there. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>Enough with the waxing philosophical crapola.  The choice on Day 20 was crystal clear.  The buzz and excitement of college and a fresh new start was contagious! </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>Forget about my concerns for Lauren\'s feelings, I was mortified for her when I realized that Kimeee and I were the ONLY adults over the age of 22 in sight.  I\'m not sure why I never anticipated that.  We were in a college cafeteria on a Monday night.   Helloooooo???</p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>I tried to look as unobtrusive as possible, but I couldn\'t help feeling like a big dork.  I quietly pulled Lauren aside and apologized profusely for destroying her campus mojo.  How embarrassing!  Lauren was typically gracious.  Kimeee was completely unfazed, as any empty nester would be.    </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>The food was surprisingly good.  I ordered the pizza because I wanted this experience to be as authentic as possible.  I applaud their vast menu, including the organic vegetarian gluten-free stir fry, but I was in college, and I needed college food, dammit! </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>The veggie pizza was non-greasy, healthy and delish.  I am telling you -- this is not your typical college cafeteria experience.  These brainchildren need optimal brain food! </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>To cleanse my palate after the meal, I ordered a cappuccino gelato cone. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>Luckily, there is no need to worry about the freshman 15 this time around. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n','Day 20:  College Coed for the Night','','inherit','open','open','','959-revision-54','','','2010-10-06 19:15:56','2010-10-07 02:15:56','',959,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/10/06/959-revision-54/',0,'revision','',0),(1020,1,'2010-10-06 19:18:44','2010-10-07 02:18:44','<p>[caption id=\"attachment_970\" align=\"alignleft\" width=\"221\" caption=\"&quot;Sparky&quot; aka Creepiest College Mascot in the Nation \"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/asu.gif\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-970\" title=\"asu\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/asu-221x300.gif\" alt=\"\" width=\"221\" height=\"300\" /></a>[/caption]</p>\r\n<p>It seems like just yesterday when I moved to The Dating Desert for my first lead teaching position in a Montessori classroom.  I welcomed 30 3-6 year-olds to the world of education, and now those same 3 year-olds are freshmen in college. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>Eeeekkkk!!! </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>This revelation propels me into mid-life angst faster than you can sing \"Itsy Bitsy Spider\".  Where has the time gone???</p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>To continue with this weird time haze theme, I thought it would be a kick to visit one of these 3-now-18 year-olds in college.  I was invited by Kim (aka Kimeee) and not by the 3-now-18 year-old who, now that I think of it, must have been absolutely mortified by the thought of her mom and former preschool teacher crashing her new digs but was too sweet to say anything. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>Kimeee and I arrived for dinner at Arizona State University, home of the Sun Devils.  ???  Creepy, I know.  ASU has earned the distinction as one of the largest party schools in the nation. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p</p>\r\n<p>Let me establish right away that Kimeee and I were here for the organic dinner catered by Singh Farms at the Honors College cafeteria, not a frat party.  You might remember from my old blog that <strong><a href=\"http://latebloomerdiary.blogspot.com/2009/09/cougar-mania-makes-me-want-to-yak_20.html\">the whole cougar craze makes me want to yak</a></strong>.  In fact, when Kimeee pointed out the shirtless volleyball players directly outside Lauren\'s dorm room window, it felt creepy to even sneak a peek.  They looked soooo young and soooo scrawny!!!  Granted, these were smart boys who spend more time lifting books then weights, but still.  It\'s refreshing to realize that I am only attracted to men 35 and up. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><strong>Important and shameless sidenote:</strong>  Yes, we are all very proud of Lauren\'s acceptance into the Honors College at ASU, and it is common knowledge that her brilliance stems from her most formative preschool years and the woman who taught her how to read.  This combined with her stellar maternal gene pool shoots her into the stratosphere of braniacdom. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>As we walked through campus, memories of my college days flooded back to me.  I remembered what it was like to be immersed in that stage of life, where everything is filled with hope, possibility and promise.  I experienced a strange mixture of elation and sadness. </p>\r\n<p> </br></p>\r\n<p>It seems that with each passing decade, life tries to stomp that wide-eyed enthusiasm out of us.  Loss, failure, betrayal, and a host of other ugly life events create obstacles for happiness.  The wide-eyed enthusiasm in no longer a given.  It\'s a choice.  Some days the choice is easy, and some days we have to trick ourselves into believing it.  The darkest and scariest days are when we completely forget about the choice.  But the choice is always there. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>Enough with the waxing philosophical crapola.  The choice on Day 20 was crystal clear.  The buzz and excitement of college and a fresh new start was contagious! </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>Forget about my concerns for Lauren\'s feelings, I was mortified for her when I realized that Kimeee and I were the ONLY adults over the age of 22 in sight.  I\'m not sure why I never anticipated that.  We were in a college cafeteria on a Monday night.   Helloooooo???</p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>I tried to look as unobtrusive as possible, but I couldn\'t help feeling like a big dork.  I quietly pulled Lauren aside and apologized profusely for destroying her campus mojo.  How embarrassing!  Lauren was typically gracious.  Kimeee was completely unfazed, as any empty nester would be.    </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>The food was surprisingly good.  I ordered the pizza because I wanted this experience to be as authentic as possible.  I applaud their vast menu, including the organic vegetarian gluten-free stir fry, but I was in college, and I needed college food, dammit! </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>The veggie pizza was non-greasy, healthy and delish.  I am telling you -- this is not your typical college cafeteria experience.  These brainchildren need optimal brain food! </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>To cleanse my palate after the meal, I ordered a cappuccino gelato cone. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>Luckily, there is no need to worry about the freshman 15 this time around. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n','Day 20:  College Coed for the Night','','inherit','open','open','','959-revision-56','','','2010-10-06 19:18:44','2010-10-07 02:18:44','',959,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/10/06/959-revision-56/',0,'revision','',0),(1021,1,'2010-10-06 19:19:16','2010-10-07 02:19:16','<p>[caption id=\"attachment_970\" align=\"alignleft\" width=\"221\" caption=\"&quot;Sparky&quot; aka Creepiest College Mascot in the Nation \"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/asu.gif\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-970\" title=\"asu\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/asu-221x300.gif\" alt=\"\" width=\"221\" height=\"300\" /></a>[/caption]</p>\r\n<p>It seems like just yesterday when I moved to The Dating Desert for my first lead teaching position in a Montessori classroom.  I welcomed 30 3-6 year-olds to the world of education, and now those same 3 year-olds are freshmen in college. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>Eeeekkkk!!! </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>This revelation propels me into mid-life angst faster than you can sing \"Itsy Bitsy Spider\".  Where has the time gone???</p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>To continue with this weird time haze theme, I thought it would be a kick to visit one of these 3-now-18 year-olds in college.  I was invited by Kim (aka Kimeee) and not by the 3-now-18 year-old who, now that I think of it, must have been absolutely mortified by the thought of her mom and former preschool teacher crashing her new digs but was too sweet to say anything. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>Kimeee and I arrived for dinner at Arizona State University, home of the Sun Devils.  ???  Creepy, I know.  ASU has earned the distinction as one of the largest party schools in the nation. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p</p>\r\n<p>Before you rush to any conclusions, let me establish right away that Kimeee and I were here for the organic dinner catered by Singh Farms at the Honors College cafeteria, not a frat party.  You might remember from my old blog that <strong><a href=\"http://latebloomerdiary.blogspot.com/2009/09/cougar-mania-makes-me-want-to-yak_20.html\">the whole cougar craze makes me want to yak</a></strong>.  In fact, when Kimeee pointed out the shirtless volleyball players directly outside Lauren\'s dorm room window, it felt creepy to even sneak a peek.  They looked soooo young and soooo scrawny!!!  Granted, these were smart boys who spend more time lifting books then weights, but still.  It\'s refreshing to realize that I am only attracted to men 35 and up. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><strong>Important and shameless sidenote:</strong>  Yes, we are all very proud of Lauren\'s acceptance into the Honors College at ASU, and it is common knowledge that her brilliance stems from her most formative preschool years and the woman who taught her how to read.  This combined with her stellar maternal gene pool shoots her into the stratosphere of braniacdom. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>As we walked through campus, memories of my college days flooded back to me.  I remembered what it was like to be immersed in that stage of life, where everything is filled with hope, possibility and promise.  I experienced a strange mixture of elation and sadness. </p>\r\n<p> </br></p>\r\n<p>It seems that with each passing decade, life tries to stomp that wide-eyed enthusiasm out of us.  Loss, failure, betrayal, and a host of other ugly life events create obstacles for happiness.  The wide-eyed enthusiasm in no longer a given.  It\'s a choice.  Some days the choice is easy, and some days we have to trick ourselves into believing it.  The darkest and scariest days are when we completely forget about the choice.  But the choice is always there. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>Enough with the waxing philosophical crapola.  The choice on Day 20 was crystal clear.  The buzz and excitement of college and a fresh new start was contagious! </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>Forget about my concerns for Lauren\'s feelings, I was mortified for her when I realized that Kimeee and I were the ONLY adults over the age of 22 in sight.  I\'m not sure why I never anticipated that.  We were in a college cafeteria on a Monday night.   Helloooooo???</p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>I tried to look as unobtrusive as possible, but I couldn\'t help feeling like a big dork.  I quietly pulled Lauren aside and apologized profusely for destroying her campus mojo.  How embarrassing!  Lauren was typically gracious.  Kimeee was completely unfazed, as any empty nester would be.    </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>The food was surprisingly good.  I ordered the pizza because I wanted this experience to be as authentic as possible.  I applaud their vast menu, including the organic vegetarian gluten-free stir fry, but I was in college, and I needed college food, dammit! </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>The veggie pizza was non-greasy, healthy and delish.  I am telling you -- this is not your typical college cafeteria experience.  These brainchildren need optimal brain food! </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>To cleanse my palate after the meal, I ordered a cappuccino gelato cone. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>Luckily, there is no need to worry about the freshman 15 this time around. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n','Day 20:  College Coed for the Night','','inherit','open','open','','959-revision-57','','','2010-10-06 19:19:16','2010-10-07 02:19:16','',959,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/10/06/959-revision-57/',0,'revision','',0),(1022,1,'2010-10-06 19:20:20','2010-10-07 02:20:20','<p>[caption id=\"attachment_970\" align=\"alignleft\" width=\"221\" caption=\"&quot;Sparky&quot; aka Creepiest College Mascot in the Nation \"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/asu.gif\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-970\" title=\"asu\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/asu-221x300.gif\" alt=\"\" width=\"221\" height=\"300\" /></a>[/caption]</p>\n<p>It seems like just yesterday when I moved to The Dating Desert for my first lead teaching position in a Montessori classroom.  I welcomed 30 3-6 year-olds to the world of education, and now those same 3 year-olds are freshmen in college. </p>\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n<p>Eeeekkkk!!! </p>\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n<p>This revelation propels me into mid-life angst faster than you can sing \"Itsy Bitsy Spider\".  Where has the time gone???</p>\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n<p>To continue with this weird time haze theme, I thought it would be a kick to visit one of these 3-now-18 year-olds in college.  I was invited by Kim (aka Kimeee) and not by the 3-now-18 year-old who, now that I think of it, must have been absolutely mortified by the thought of her mom and former preschool teacher crashing her new digs but was too sweet to say anything. </p>\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n<p>Kimeee and I arrived for dinner at Arizona State University, home of the Sun Devils.  ???  Creepy, I know.  ASU has earned the distinction as one of the largest party schools in the nation. </p>\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p</p>\n<p>Before you rush to any conclusions, let me establish right away that Kimeee and I were here for the organic dinner catered by Singh Farms at the Honors College cafeteria, not a frat party.  College boys are not my thing.\nYou might remember from my old blog that <strong><a href=\"http://latebloomerdiary.blogspot.com/2009/09/cougar-mania-makes-me-want-to-yak_20.html\">the whole cougar craze makes me want to yak</a></strong>.  In fact, when Kimeee pointed out the shirtless volleyball players directly outside Lauren\'s dorm room window, it felt creepy to even sneak a peek.  They looked soooo young and soooo scrawny!!!  Granted, these were smart boys who spend more time lifting books then weights, but still.  It\'s refreshing to realize that I am only attracted to men 35 and up. </p>\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n<p><strong>Important and shameless sidenote:</strong>  Yes, we are all very proud of Lauren\'s acceptance into the Honors College at ASU, and it is common knowledge that her brilliance stems from her most formative preschool years and the woman who taught her how to read.  This combined with her stellar maternal gene pool shoots her into the stratosphere of braniacdom. </p>\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n<p>As we walked through campus, memories of my college days flooded back to me.  I remembered what it was like to be immersed in that stage of life, where everything is filled with hope, possibility and promise.  I experienced a strange mixture of elation and sadness. </p>\n<p> </br></p>\n<p>It seems that with each passing decade, life tries to stomp that wide-eyed enthusiasm out of us.  Loss, failure, betrayal, and a host of other ugly life events create obstacles for happiness.  The wide-eyed enthusiasm in no longer a given.  It\'s a choice.  Some days the choice is easy, and some days we have to trick ourselves into believing it.  The darkest and scariest days are when we completely forget about the choice.  But the choice is always there. </p>\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n<p>Enough with the waxing philosophical crapola.  The choice on Day 20 was crystal clear.  The buzz and excitement of college and a fresh new start was contagious! </p>\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n<p>Forget about my concerns for Lauren\'s feelings, I was mortified for her when I realized that Kimeee and I were the ONLY adults over the age of 22 in sight.  I\'m not sure why I never anticipated that.  We were in a college cafeteria on a Monday night.   Helloooooo???</p>\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n<p>I tried to look as unobtrusive as possible, but I couldn\'t help feeling like a big dork.  I quietly pulled Lauren aside and apologized profusely for destroying her campus mojo.  How embarrassing!  Lauren was typically gracious.  Kimeee was completely unfazed, as any empty nester would be.    </p>\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n<p>The food was surprisingly good.  I ordered the pizza because I wanted this experience to be as authentic as possible.  I applaud their vast menu, including the organic vegetarian gluten-free stir fry, but I was in college, and I needed college food, dammit! </p>\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n<p>The veggie pizza was non-greasy, healthy and delish.  I am telling you -- this is not your typical college cafeteria experience.  These brainchildren need optimal brain food! </p>\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n<p>To cleanse my palate after the meal, I ordered a cappuccino gelato cone. </p>\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n<p>Luckily, there is no need to worry about the freshman 15 this time around. </p>\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n','Day 20:  College Coed for the Night','','inherit','open','open','','959-revision-58','','','2010-10-06 19:20:20','2010-10-07 02:20:20','',959,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/10/06/959-revision-58/',0,'revision','',0),(1023,1,'2010-10-06 19:20:28','2010-10-07 02:20:28','<p>[caption id=\"attachment_970\" align=\"alignleft\" width=\"221\" caption=\"&quot;Sparky&quot; aka Creepiest College Mascot in the Nation \"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/asu.gif\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-970\" title=\"asu\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/asu-221x300.gif\" alt=\"\" width=\"221\" height=\"300\" /></a>[/caption]</p>\r\n<p>It seems like just yesterday when I moved to The Dating Desert for my first lead teaching position in a Montessori classroom.  I welcomed 30 3-6 year-olds to the world of education, and now those same 3 year-olds are freshmen in college. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>Eeeekkkk!!! </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>This revelation propels me into mid-life angst faster than you can sing \"Itsy Bitsy Spider\".  Where has the time gone???</p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>To continue with this weird time haze theme, I thought it would be a kick to visit one of these 3-now-18 year-olds in college.  I was invited by Kim (aka Kimeee) and not by the 3-now-18 year-old who, now that I think of it, must have been absolutely mortified by the thought of her mom and former preschool teacher crashing her new digs but was too sweet to say anything. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>Kimeee and I arrived for dinner at Arizona State University, home of the Sun Devils.  ???  Creepy, I know.  ASU has earned the distinction as one of the largest party schools in the nation. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p</p>\r\n<p>Before you rush to any conclusions, let me establish right away that Kimeee and I were here for the organic dinner catered by Singh Farms at the Honors College cafeteria, not a frat party.  College boys are not my thing.\r\n</br>\r\nYou might remember from my old blog that <strong><a href=\"http://latebloomerdiary.blogspot.com/2009/09/cougar-mania-makes-me-want-to-yak_20.html\">the whole cougar craze makes me want to yak</a></strong>.  In fact, when Kimeee pointed out the shirtless volleyball players directly outside Lauren\'s dorm room window, it felt creepy to even sneak a peek.  They looked soooo young and soooo scrawny!!!  Granted, these were smart boys who spend more time lifting books then weights, but still.  It\'s refreshing to realize that I am only attracted to men 35 and up. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><strong>Important and shameless sidenote:</strong>  Yes, we are all very proud of Lauren\'s acceptance into the Honors College at ASU, and it is common knowledge that her brilliance stems from her most formative preschool years and the woman who taught her how to read.  This combined with her stellar maternal gene pool shoots her into the stratosphere of braniacdom. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>As we walked through campus, memories of my college days flooded back to me.  I remembered what it was like to be immersed in that stage of life, where everything is filled with hope, possibility and promise.  I experienced a strange mixture of elation and sadness. </p>\r\n<p> </br></p>\r\n<p>It seems that with each passing decade, life tries to stomp that wide-eyed enthusiasm out of us.  Loss, failure, betrayal, and a host of other ugly life events create obstacles for happiness.  The wide-eyed enthusiasm in no longer a given.  It\'s a choice.  Some days the choice is easy, and some days we have to trick ourselves into believing it.  The darkest and scariest days are when we completely forget about the choice.  But the choice is always there. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>Enough with the waxing philosophical crapola.  The choice on Day 20 was crystal clear.  The buzz and excitement of college and a fresh new start was contagious! </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>Forget about my concerns for Lauren\'s feelings, I was mortified for her when I realized that Kimeee and I were the ONLY adults over the age of 22 in sight.  I\'m not sure why I never anticipated that.  We were in a college cafeteria on a Monday night.   Helloooooo???</p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>I tried to look as unobtrusive as possible, but I couldn\'t help feeling like a big dork.  I quietly pulled Lauren aside and apologized profusely for destroying her campus mojo.  How embarrassing!  Lauren was typically gracious.  Kimeee was completely unfazed, as any empty nester would be.    </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>The food was surprisingly good.  I ordered the pizza because I wanted this experience to be as authentic as possible.  I applaud their vast menu, including the organic vegetarian gluten-free stir fry, but I was in college, and I needed college food, dammit! </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>The veggie pizza was non-greasy, healthy and delish.  I am telling you -- this is not your typical college cafeteria experience.  These brainchildren need optimal brain food! </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>To cleanse my palate after the meal, I ordered a cappuccino gelato cone. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>Luckily, there is no need to worry about the freshman 15 this time around. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n','Day 20:  College Coed for the Night','','inherit','open','open','','959-revision-59','','','2010-10-06 19:20:28','2010-10-07 02:20:28','',959,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/10/06/959-revision-59/',0,'revision','',0),(1024,1,'2010-10-06 19:20:31','2010-10-07 02:20:31','<p>[caption id=\"attachment_970\" align=\"alignleft\" width=\"221\" caption=\"&quot;Sparky&quot; aka Creepiest College Mascot in the Nation \"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/asu.gif\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-970\" title=\"asu\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/asu-221x300.gif\" alt=\"\" width=\"221\" height=\"300\" /></a>[/caption]</p>\r\n<p>It seems like just yesterday when I moved to The Dating Desert for my first lead teaching position in a Montessori classroom.  I welcomed 30 3-6 year-olds to the world of education, and now those same 3 year-olds are freshmen in college. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>Eeeekkkk!!! </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>This revelation propels me into mid-life angst faster than you can sing \"Itsy Bitsy Spider\".  Where has the time gone???</p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>To continue with this weird time haze theme, I thought it would be a kick to visit one of these 3-now-18 year-olds in college.  I was invited by Kim (aka Kimeee) and not by the 3-now-18 year-old who, now that I think of it, must have been absolutely mortified by the thought of her mom and former preschool teacher crashing her new digs but was too sweet to say anything. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>Kimeee and I arrived for dinner at Arizona State University, home of the Sun Devils.  ???  Creepy, I know.  ASU has earned the distinction as one of the largest party schools in the nation. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p</p>\r\n<p>Before you rush to any conclusions, let me establish right away that Kimeee and I were here for the organic dinner catered by Singh Farms at the Honors College cafeteria, not a frat party.  College boys are not my thing.\r\n</br>\r\nYou might remember from my old blog that <strong><a href=\"http://latebloomerdiary.blogspot.com/2009/09/cougar-mania-makes-me-want-to-yak_20.html\">the whole cougar craze makes me want to yak</a></strong>.  In fact, when Kimeee pointed out the shirtless volleyball players directly outside Lauren\'s dorm room window, it felt creepy to even sneak a peek.  They looked soooo young and soooo scrawny!!!  Granted, these were smart boys who spend more time lifting books then weights, but still.  It\'s refreshing to realize that I am only attracted to men 35 and up. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p><strong>Important and shameless sidenote:</strong>  Yes, we are all very proud of Lauren\'s acceptance into the Honors College at ASU, and it is common knowledge that her brilliance stems from her most formative preschool years and the woman who taught her how to read.  This combined with her stellar maternal gene pool shoots her into the stratosphere of braniacdom. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>As we walked through campus, memories of my college days flooded back to me.  I remembered what it was like to be immersed in that stage of life, where everything is filled with hope, possibility and promise.  I experienced a strange mixture of elation and sadness. </p>\r\n<p> </br></p>\r\n<p>It seems that with each passing decade, life tries to stomp that wide-eyed enthusiasm out of us.  Loss, failure, betrayal, and a host of other ugly life events create obstacles for happiness.  The wide-eyed enthusiasm in no longer a given.  It\'s a choice.  Some days the choice is easy, and some days we have to trick ourselves into believing it.  The darkest and scariest days are when we completely forget about the choice.  But the choice is always there. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>Enough with the waxing philosophical crapola.  The choice on Day 20 was crystal clear.  The buzz and excitement of college and a fresh new start was contagious! </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>Forget about my concerns for Lauren\'s feelings, I was mortified for her when I realized that Kimeee and I were the ONLY adults over the age of 22 in sight.  I\'m not sure why I never anticipated that.  We were in a college cafeteria on a Monday night.   Helloooooo???</p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>I tried to look as unobtrusive as possible, but I couldn\'t help feeling like a big dork.  I quietly pulled Lauren aside and apologized profusely for destroying her campus mojo.  How embarrassing!  Lauren was typically gracious.  Kimeee was completely unfazed, as any empty nester would be.    </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>The food was surprisingly good.  I ordered the pizza because I wanted this experience to be as authentic as possible.  I applaud their vast menu, including the organic vegetarian gluten-free stir fry, but I was in college, and I needed college food, dammit! </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>The veggie pizza was non-greasy, healthy and delish.  I am telling you -- this is not your typical college cafeteria experience.  These brainchildren need optimal brain food! </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>To cleanse my palate after the meal, I ordered a cappuccino gelato cone. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n<p>Luckily, there is no need to worry about the freshman 15 this time around. </p>\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n','Day 20:  College Coed for the Night','','inherit','open','open','','959-revision-60','','','2010-10-06 19:20:31','2010-10-07 02:20:31','',959,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/10/06/959-revision-60/',0,'revision','',0),(1025,1,'2010-10-06 19:48:35','2010-10-07 02:48:35','<p>[caption id=\"attachment_970\" align=\"alignleft\" width=\"221\" caption=\"&quot;Sparky&quot; aka Creepiest College Mascot in the Nation \"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/asu.gif\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-970\" title=\"asu\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/asu-221x300.gif\" alt=\"\" width=\"221\" height=\"300\" /></a>[/caption]</p>\n<p>It seems like just yesterday when I moved to The Dating Desert for my first lead teaching position in a Montessori classroom.  I welcomed 30 3-6 year-olds to the world of education, and now those same 3 year-olds are freshmen in college. </p>\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n<p>Eeeekkkk!!! </p>\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n<p>This revelation propels me into mid-life angst faster than you can sing \"Itsy Bitsy Spider\".  Where has the time gone???</p>\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n<p>To continue with this weird time haze theme, I thought it would be a kick to visit one of these 3-now-18 year-olds in college.  I was invited by Kim (aka Kimeee) and not by the 3-now-18 year-old who, now that I think of it, must have been absolutely mortified by the thought of her mom and former preschool teacher crashing her new digs but was too sweet to say anything. </p>\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n<p>Kimeee and I arrived for dinner at Arizona State University, home of the Sun Devils.  ???  Creepy, I know.  ASU has earned the distinction as one of the largest party schools in the nation. </p>\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p</p>\n<p>Before you rush to any conclusions, let me establish right away that Kimeee and I were here for the organic dinner catered by Singh Farms at the Honors College cafeteria, not a frat party.  College boys are not my thing.<br />\n</br>\nYou might remember from my old blog that <strong><a href=\"http://latebloomerdiary.blogspot.com/2009/09/cougar-mania-makes-me-want-to-yak_20.html\">the whole cougar craze makes me want to yak</a></strong>.  In fact, when Kimeee pointed out the shirtless volleyball players directly outside Lauren\'s dorm room window, it felt creepy to even sneak a peek.  They looked soooo young and soooo scrawny!!!  Granted, these were smart boys who spend more time lifting books then weights, but still.  It\'s refreshing to realize that I am only attracted to men 35 and up. </p>\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n<p><strong>Important and shameless sidenote:</strong>  Yes, we are all very proud of Lauren\'s acceptance into the Honors College at ASU, and it is common knowledge that her brilliance stems from her most formative preschool years and the woman who taught her how to read.  This combined with her stellar maternal gene pool shoots her into the stratosphere of braniacdom. </p>\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n<p>As we walked through campus, memories of my college days flooded back to me.  I remembered what it was like to be immersed in that stage of life, where everything is filled with hope, possibility and promise.  I experienced a strange mixture of elation and sadness. </p>\n<p> </br></p>\n<p>It seems that with each passing decade, life tries to stomp that wide-eyed enthusiasm out of us.  Loss, failure, betrayal, and a host of other ugly life events create obstacles for happiness.  The wide-eyed enthusiasm in no longer a given.  It\'s a choice.  Some days the choice is easy, and some days we have to trick ourselves into believing it.  The darkest and scariest days are when we completely forget about the choice.  But the choice is always there. </p>\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n<p>Enough with the waxing philosophical crapola.  The choice on Day 20 was crystal clear.  The buzz and excitement of college and a fresh new start was contagious! </p>\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n<p>Forget about my concerns for Lauren\'s feelings, I was mortified for her when I realized that Kimeee and I were the ONLY adults over the age of 22 in sight.  I\'m not sure why I never anticipated that.  We were in a college cafeteria on a Monday night.   Helloooooo???</p>\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n<p>I tried to look as unobtrusive as possible, but I couldn\'t help feeling like a big dork.  I quietly pulled Lauren aside and apologized profusely for destroying her campus mojo.  How embarrassing!  Lauren was typically gracious.  Kimeee was completely unfazed, as any empty nester would be.    </p>\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n<p>The food was surprisingly good.  I ordered the pizza because I wanted this experience to be as authentic as possible.  I applaud their vast menu, including the organic vegetarian gluten-free stir fry, but I was in college, and I needed college food, dammit! </p>\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n<p>The veggie pizza was non-greasy, healthy and delish.  I am telling you -- this is not your typical college cafeteria experience.  These brainchildren need optimal brain food! </p>\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n<p>To cleanse my palate after the meal, I ordered a cappuccino gelato cone. </p>\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n<p>Luckily, there is no need to worry about the freshman 15 this time around. </p>\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n','Day 20:  College Coed for the Night','','inherit','open','open','','959-revision-61','','','2010-10-06 19:48:35','2010-10-07 02:48:35','',959,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/10/06/959-revision-61/',0,'revision','',0),