INSERT INTO `wp_posts` VALUES (337,1,'2010-09-14 20:44:39','2010-09-15 03:44:39',' \r\n\r\nLast year on this very day, I launched an embarrassingly green (literally and figuratively) blog at <strong><a href=\"http://www.latebloomerdiary.blogspot.com/\" target=\"_blank\">blogspot.</a></strong>\r\n\r\nI had no idea what I was doing, but I was extremely well-intentioned and needed a 40th birthday project to keep me from slipping into a full-blown mid-life crisis. \r\n\r\nIt didn\'t work.\r\n\r\nI plunged head-first into an existential crisis.  (I prefer \"existential\" over \"mid-life\" because it sounds so Kierkegaardian and cool.) \r\n\r\nLife kinda sorta got in the way.  You can savor the thoroughly melodramatic details by reading <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/365-or-bust/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>365 or Bust. </strong></a><strong> </strong>\r\n\r\nAnywho, life getting in the way is... well... <em>life.</em> \r\n\r\nI need to get a grip and get on with mine. \r\n\r\nSo here we are.  One year later with fabulous new virtual digs (thank you, Shawn), a techie Svengali to teach me how to keep this puppy running smoothly (thank you, Svenny), and a frenetically fun mission:\r\n<blockquote>To try one new/inspiring/interesting/uplifting/provocative/or curiosity-injected thing each day for 365 days. </blockquote>\r\nThis is the point where everyone asks, \"How are you going to keep this up?\"\r\n\r\nFret not and leave the \"how\" to me.  I am on a mission, and missions lead people to all things possible. \r\n\r\nI am sure that my daily espresso addiction will fuel this mayhem.  Right now I need two shots a day.  Let\'s see how much I\'m consuming when all is said and done. \r\n\r\nMore importantly, your support and encouragement will keep me revved up (and hold me accountable).  Please join me in this journey.  I am actively seeking cohorts to accompany me in whichever way they choose: \r\n<ul>\r\n	<li>Leave a comment on an (almost) daily post.</li>\r\n	<li><strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/talk-to-me/\" target=\"_blank\">Talk to Me.</a></strong>  What\'s on your mind, cupcake? </li>\r\n	<li><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/submit-a-365-idea/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Submit a 365 idea.</strong> </a> Be creative.  Be nice.</li>\r\n	<li>Friends in my fair city:  Pick a day and let\'s go!</li>\r\n	<li>Friends in faraway places:  Bloom where you are planted.  And then please share your story!</li>\r\n</ul>\r\nIf this post is your first visit to this blog, please check out <strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/365-or-bust/\" target=\"_blank\">365 or Bust</a></strong> and <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/about/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>What Makes Me Tick</strong> </a>to gather a better understanding of the quirkiness behind this project. \r\n\r\nJoin the inner circle of bloominess by <strong><a href=\"http://feeds.feedburner.com/latebloomerdiary\" target=\"_blank\">subscribing via email or RSS</a></strong>.  It\'s free, it\'s fun, it\'s easy, and it\'s the best way to keep in touch. \r\n\r\nToday I turn 41, and I am no longer waiting for Happy Ever After to show up.  I\'m creating my own damn fairy tale. \r\n\r\nWho is joining me? \r\n\r\nCarpe Diem and all that jazz!','Day 1:  Look Mom!  I\'m a Big Girl Blogger Now!','','inherit','open','open','','328-revision-9','','','2010-09-14 20:44:39','2010-09-15 03:44:39','',328,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/09/14/328-revision-9/',0,'revision','',0),(338,1,'2010-09-14 20:46:59','2010-09-15 03:46:59',' \r\n\r\nLast year on this very day, I launched an embarrassingly green (literally and figuratively) blog at <strong><a href=\"http://www.latebloomerdiary.blogspot.com/\" target=\"_blank\">blogspot.</a></strong>\r\n\r\nI had no idea what I was doing, but I was extremely well-intentioned and needed a 40th birthday project to keep me from slipping into a full-blown mid-life crisis. \r\n\r\nIt didn\'t work.\r\n\r\nI plunged head-first into an existential crisis.  (I prefer \"existential\" over \"mid-life\" because it sounds so Kierkegaardian and cool.) \r\n\r\nLife kinda sorta got in the way.  You can savor the thoroughly melodramatic details by reading <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/365-or-bust/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>365 or Bust. </strong></a><strong> </strong>\r\n\r\nAnywho, life getting in the way is... well... <em>life.</em> \r\n\r\nI need to get a grip and get on with mine. \r\n\r\nSo here we are.  One year later with fabulous new virtual digs (thank you, Shawn), a techie Svengali to teach me how to keep this puppy running smoothly (thank you, Svenny), and a frenetically fun mission:\r\n<blockquote>To try one new/inspiring/interesting/uplifting/provocative/or curiosity-injected thing each day for 365 days. </blockquote>\r\nThis is the point where everyone asks, \"How are you going to keep this up?\"\r\n\r\nFret not and leave the \"how\" to me.  I am on a mission, and missions lead people to all things possible. \r\n\r\nI am sure that my daily espresso addiction will fuel this mayhem.  Right now I need two shots a day.  Let\'s see how much I\'m consuming when all is said and done. \r\n\r\nMore importantly, your support and encouragement will keep me revved up (and hold me accountable).  Please join me in this journey.  I am actively seeking cohorts to accompany me in whichever way they choose: \r\n<ul>\r\n	<li>Leave a comment on an (almost) daily post.</li>\r\n	<li><strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/talk-to-me/\" target=\"_blank\">Talk to Me.</a></strong>  What\'s on your mind, cupcake? </li>\r\n	<li><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/submit-a-365-idea/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Submit a 365 idea.</strong> </a> Be creative.  Be nice.</li>\r\n	<li>Friends in my fair city:  Pick a day and let\'s go!</li>\r\n	<li>Friends in faraway places:  Bloom where you are planted.  And then please share your story!</li>\r\n</ul>\r\nIf this post is your first visit to this blog, please check out <strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/365-or-bust/\" target=\"_blank\">365 or Bust</a></strong> and <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/about/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>What Makes Me Tick</strong> </a>to gather a better understanding of the quirkiness behind this project. \r\n\r\nJoin the inner circle of bloominess by <strong><a href=\"http://feeds.feedburner.com/latebloomerdiary\" target=\"_blank\">subscribing via email or RSS</a></strong>.  It\'s free, it\'s fun, it\'s easy, and it\'s the best way to keep in touch. \r\n\r\nToday I turn 41, and I am no longer waiting for Happy Ever After to show up.  I\'m creating my own damn fairy tale. \r\n\r\nWho is joining me? \r\n\r\nCarpe Diem and all that jazz!','Day 1:  Look Mom!  I\'m a Big Girl Blogger Now!','','inherit','open','open','','328-revision-10','','','2010-09-14 20:46:59','2010-09-15 03:46:59','',328,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/09/14/328-revision-10/',0,'revision','',0),(339,1,'2010-09-14 20:52:40','2010-09-15 03:52:40',' \r\n\r\nLast year on this very day, I launched an embarrassingly green (literally and figuratively) blog at <strong><a href=\"http://www.latebloomerdiary.blogspot.com/\" target=\"_blank\">blogspot.</a></strong>\r\n\r\nI had no idea what I was doing, but I was extremely well-intentioned and needed a 40th birthday project to keep me from slipping into a full-blown mid-life crisis. \r\n\r\nIt didn\'t work.\r\n\r\nI plunged head-first into an existential crisis.  (I prefer \"existential\" over \"mid-life\" because it sounds so Kierkegaardian and cool.) \r\n\r\nLife kinda sorta got in the way.  You can savor the thoroughly melodramatic details by reading <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/365-or-bust/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>365 or Bust. </strong></a><strong> </strong>\r\n\r\nAnywho, life getting in the way is... well... <em>life.</em> \r\n\r\nI need to get a grip and get on with mine. \r\n\r\nSo here we are.  One year later with fabulous new virtual digs (thank you, Shawn), a techie Svengali to teach me how to keep this puppy running smoothly (thank you, Svenny), and a frenetically fun mission:\r\n<blockquote>To try one new/inspiring/interesting/uplifting/provocative/or curiosity-injected thing each day for 365 days. </blockquote>\r\nThis is the point where everyone asks, \"How are you going to keep this up?\"\r\n\r\nFret not and leave the \"how\" to me.  I am on a mission, and missions lead people to all things possible. \r\n\r\nI am sure that my daily espresso addiction will fuel this mayhem.  Right now I need two shots a day.  Let\'s see how much I\'m consuming when all is said and done. \r\n\r\nMore importantly, your support and encouragement will keep me revved up (and hold me accountable).  I am actively seeking cohorts to accompany me in whichever way you choose: \r\n<ul>\r\n	<li>Leave a comment on an (almost) daily post.</li>\r\n	<li><strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/talk-to-me/\" target=\"_blank\">Talk to Me.</a></strong>  What\'s on your mind, cupcake? </li>\r\n	<li><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/submit-a-365-idea/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Submit a 365 idea.</strong> </a> Be creative.  Be nice.</li>\r\n	<li>Friends in my fair city:  Pick a day and let\'s go!</li>\r\n	<li>Friends in faraway places:  Bloom where you are planted.  And then please share your story!</li>\r\n</ul>\r\nIf this post is your first visit to this blog, please check out <strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/365-or-bust/\" target=\"_blank\">365 or Bust</a></strong> and <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/about/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>What Makes Me Tick</strong> </a>to gather a better understanding of the history and quirkiness behind this project. \r\n\r\nJoin the inner circle of bloominess by <strong><a href=\"http://feeds.feedburner.com/latebloomerdiary\" target=\"_blank\">subscribing via email or RSS</a></strong>.  It\'s free, it\'s fun, it\'s easy, and it\'s the best way to keep in touch. \r\n\r\nToday I turn 41, and I am no longer waiting for Happy Ever After to show up.  I\'m creating my own fairy tale. \r\n\r\nAn intriguing fairy tale isn\'t a one-princess show!  Who wants to be written into this story?\r\n\r\nCarpe Diem and all that jazz!','Day 1:  Look Mom!  I\'m a Big Girl Blogger Now!','','inherit','open','open','','328-revision-11','','','2010-09-14 20:52:40','2010-09-15 03:52:40','',328,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/09/14/328-revision-11/',0,'revision','',0),(368,1,'2010-09-14 21:38:47','2010-09-15 04:38:47','Last year on this very day, I launched an embarrassingly green (literally and figuratively) blog at <strong><a href=\"http://www.latebloomerdiary.blogspot.com/\" target=\"_blank\">blogspot.</a></strong>\r\n\r\nI had no idea what I was doing, but I was extremely well-intentioned and needed a 40th birthday project to keep me from slipping into a full-blown mid-life crisis.\r\n\r\nIt didn\'t work.\r\n\r\nI plunged head-first into an existential crisis.  (I prefer \"existential\" over \"mid-life\" because it sounds so Kierkegaardian and cool.)\r\n\r\nLife kinda sorta got in the way.  You can savor the thoroughly melodramatic details by reading <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/365-or-bust/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>365 or Bust. </strong></a>\r\n\r\nAnywho, life getting in the way is... well... <em>life.</em>\r\n\r\nI need to get a grip and get on with mine.\r\n\r\nSo here we are.  One year later with fabulous new virtual digs (thank you, Shawn), a techie Svengali to teach me how to keep this puppy running smoothly (thank you, Svenny), and a frenetically fun mission:\r\n<blockquote>To try one new/inspiring/interesting/uplifting/provocative/or curiosity-injected thing each day for 365 days.</blockquote>\r\nThis is the point where everyone asks, \"How are you going to keep this up?\"\r\n\r\nFret not and leave the \"how\" to me.  I am on a mission, and missions lead people to all things possible.\r\n\r\nI am sure that my daily espresso addiction will fuel this mayhem.  Currently, my poison is two shots a day.  (Italian, of course.)  Let\'s see how much I\'m consuming when all is said and done.\r\n\r\nMore importantly, your support and encouragement will keep me revved up (and hold me accountable).  I am actively seeking cohorts to accompany me in whichever way you choose:\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li>Leave a comment on an (almost) daily post.</li>\r\n	<li><strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/talk-to-me/\" target=\"_blank\">Talk to Me.</a></strong> What\'s on your mind, cupcake?</li>\r\n	<li><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/submit-a-365-idea/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Submit a 365 idea.</strong> </a>Be creative.  Be nice.</li>\r\n	<li>Friends in my fair city:  Pick a day and let\'s go!</li>\r\n	<li>Friends in faraway places:  Bloom where you are planted.  And then please share your story!</li>\r\n</ul>\r\nIf this post is your first visit to this blog, please check out <strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/365-or-bust/\" target=\"_blank\">365 or Bust</a></strong> and <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/about/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>What Makes Me Tick</strong> </a>to gather a better understanding of the history and quirkiness behind this project.\r\n\r\nJoin the inner circle of bloominess by <strong><a href=\"http://feeds.feedburner.com/latebloomerdiary\" target=\"_blank\">subscribing via email or RSS</a></strong>.  It\'s free, it\'s fun, it\'s easy, and it\'s the best way to keep in touch.\r\n\r\nToday I turn 41, and I am no longer waiting for Happy Ever After to show up.  I\'m creating my own fairy tale.\r\n\r\nAn intriguing and captivating  fairy tale isn\'t a One-Princess Show!  Who wants to join my chast of characters?\r\n\r\nCarpe Diem and all that jazz!','Day 1:  Look Mom!  I\'m a Big Girl Blogger Now!','','inherit','open','open','','328-revision-39','','','2010-09-14 21:38:47','2010-09-15 04:38:47','',328,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/09/14/328-revision-39/',0,'revision','',0),(340,1,'2010-09-14 20:55:38','2010-09-15 03:55:38',' \r\n\r\nLast year on this very day, I launched an embarrassingly green (literally and figuratively) blog at <strong><a href=\"http://www.latebloomerdiary.blogspot.com/\" target=\"_blank\">blogspot.</a></strong>\r\n\r\nI had no idea what I was doing, but I was extremely well-intentioned and needed a 40th birthday project to keep me from slipping into a full-blown mid-life crisis. \r\n\r\nIt didn\'t work.\r\n\r\nI plunged head-first into an existential crisis.  (I prefer \"existential\" over \"mid-life\" because it sounds so Kierkegaardian and cool.) \r\n\r\nLife kinda sorta got in the way.  You can savor the thoroughly melodramatic details by reading <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/365-or-bust/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>365 or Bust. </strong></a><strong> </strong>\r\n\r\nAnywho, life getting in the way is... well... <em>life.</em> \r\n\r\nI need to get a grip and get on with mine. \r\n\r\nSo here we are.  One year later with fabulous new virtual digs (thank you, Shawn), a techie Svengali to teach me how to keep this puppy running smoothly (thank you, Svenny), and a frenetically fun mission:\r\n<blockquote>To try one new/inspiring/interesting/uplifting/provocative/or curiosity-injected thing each day for 365 days. </blockquote>\r\nThis is the point where everyone asks, \"How are you going to keep this up?\"\r\n\r\nFret not and leave the \"how\" to me.  I am on a mission, and missions lead people to all things possible. \r\n\r\nI am sure that my daily espresso addiction will fuel this mayhem.  Currently, my poison is two shots a day.  (Italian, of course.)  Let\'s see how much I\'m consuming when all is said and done. \r\n\r\nMore importantly, your support and encouragement will keep me revved up (and hold me accountable).  I am actively seeking cohorts to accompany me in whichever way you choose: \r\n<ul>\r\n	<li>Leave a comment on an (almost) daily post.</li>\r\n	<li><strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/talk-to-me/\" target=\"_blank\">Talk to Me.</a></strong>  What\'s on your mind, cupcake? </li>\r\n	<li><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/submit-a-365-idea/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Submit a 365 idea.</strong> </a> Be creative.  Be nice.</li>\r\n	<li>Friends in my fair city:  Pick a day and let\'s go!</li>\r\n	<li>Friends in faraway places:  Bloom where you are planted.  And then please share your story!</li>\r\n</ul>\r\nIf this post is your first visit to this blog, please check out <strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/365-or-bust/\" target=\"_blank\">365 or Bust</a></strong> and <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/about/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>What Makes Me Tick</strong> </a>to gather a better understanding of the history and quirkiness behind this project. \r\n\r\nJoin the inner circle of bloominess by <strong><a href=\"http://feeds.feedburner.com/latebloomerdiary\" target=\"_blank\">subscribing via email or RSS</a></strong>.  It\'s free, it\'s fun, it\'s easy, and it\'s the best way to keep in touch. \r\n\r\nToday I turn 41, and I am no longer waiting for Happy Ever After to show up.  I\'m creating my own fairy tale. \r\n\r\nAn intriguing fairy tale isn\'t a one-princess show!  Who wants to be written into this story?\r\n\r\nCarpe Diem and all that jazz!','Day 1:  Look Mom!  I\'m a Big Girl Blogger Now!','','inherit','open','open','','328-revision-12','','','2010-09-14 20:55:38','2010-09-15 03:55:38','',328,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/09/14/328-revision-12/',0,'revision','',0),(363,1,'2010-09-14 21:27:47','2010-09-15 04:27:47','Last year on this very day, I launched an embarrassingly green (literally and figuratively) blog at <strong><a href=\"http://www.latebloomerdiary.blogspot.com/\" target=\"_blank\">blogspot.</a></strong>\r\n\r\nI had no idea what I was doing, but I was extremely well-intentioned and needed a 40th birthday project to keep me from slipping into a full-blown mid-life crisis.\r\n\r\nIt didn\'t work.\r\n\r\nI plunged head-first into an existential crisis.  (I prefer \"existential\" over \"mid-life\" because it sounds so Kierkegaardian and cool.)\r\n\r\nLife kinda sorta got in the way.  You can savor the thoroughly melodramatic details by reading <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/365-or-bust/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>365 or Bust. </strong></a><strong> </strong>\r\n\r\nAnywho, life getting in the way is... well... <em>life.</em>\r\n\r\nI need to get a grip and get on with mine.\r\n\r\nSo here we are.  One year later with fabulous new virtual digs (thank you, Shawn), a techie Svengali to teach me how to keep this puppy running smoothly (thank you, Svenny), and a frenetically fun mission:\r\n<blockquote>To try one new/inspiring/interesting/uplifting/provocative/or curiosity-injected thing each day for 365 days.</blockquote>\r\nThis is the point where everyone asks, \"How are you going to keep this up?\"\r\n\r\nFret not and leave the \"how\" to me.  I am on a mission, and missions lead people to all things possible.\r\n\r\nI am sure that my daily espresso addiction will fuel this mayhem.  Currently, my poison is two shots a day.  (Italian, of course.)  Let\'s see how much I\'m consuming when all is said and done.\r\n\r\nMore importantly, your support and encouragement will keep me revved up (and hold me accountable).  I am actively seeking cohorts to accompany me in whichever way you choose:\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li>Leave a comment on an (almost) daily post.</li>\r\n	<li><strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/talk-to-me/\" target=\"_blank\">Talk to Me.</a></strong> What\'s on your mind, cupcake?</li>\r\n	<li><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/submit-a-365-idea/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Submit a 365 idea.</strong> </a> Be creative.  Be nice.</li>\r\n	<li>Friends in my fair city:  Pick a day and let\'s go!</li>\r\n	<li>Friends in faraway places:  Bloom where you are planted.  And then please share your story!</li>\r\n</ul>\r\nIf this post is your first visit to this blog, please check out <strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/365-or-bust/\" target=\"_blank\">365 or Bust</a></strong> and <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/about/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>What Makes Me Tick</strong> </a>to gather a better understanding of the history and quirkiness behind this project.\r\n\r\nJoin the inner circle of bloominess by <strong><a href=\"http://feeds.feedburner.com/latebloomerdiary\" target=\"_blank\">subscribing via email or RSS</a></strong>.  It\'s free, it\'s fun, it\'s easy, and it\'s the best way to keep in touch.\r\n<br/>\r\nToday I turn 41, and I am no longer waiting for Happy Ever After to show up.  I\'m creating my own fairy tale.\r\n\r\nAn intriguing and captivating  fairy tale isn\'t a One-Princess Show!  Who wants to join my chast of characters?\r\n\r\nCarpe Diem and all that jazz!','Day 1:  Look Mom!  I\'m a Big Girl Blogger Now!','','inherit','open','open','','328-revision-35','','','2010-09-14 21:27:47','2010-09-15 04:27:47','',328,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/09/14/328-revision-35/',0,'revision','',0),(341,1,'2010-09-14 20:59:14','2010-09-15 03:59:14',' \r\n\r\nLast year on this very day, I launched an embarrassingly green (literally and figuratively) blog at <strong><a href=\"http://www.latebloomerdiary.blogspot.com/\" target=\"_blank\">blogspot.</a></strong>\r\n\r\nI had no idea what I was doing, but I was extremely well-intentioned and needed a 40th birthday project to keep me from slipping into a full-blown mid-life crisis. \r\n\r\nIt didn\'t work.\r\n\r\nI plunged head-first into an existential crisis.  (I prefer \"existential\" over \"mid-life\" because it sounds so Kierkegaardian and cool.) \r\n\r\nLife kinda sorta got in the way.  You can savor the thoroughly melodramatic details by reading <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/365-or-bust/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>365 or Bust. </strong></a><strong> </strong>\r\n\r\nAnywho, life getting in the way is... well... <em>life.</em> \r\n\r\nI need to get a grip and get on with mine. \r\n\r\nSo here we are.  One year later with fabulous new virtual digs (thank you, Shawn), a techie Svengali to teach me how to keep this puppy running smoothly (thank you, Svenny), and a frenetically fun mission:\r\n<blockquote>To try one new/inspiring/interesting/uplifting/provocative/or curiosity-injected thing each day for 365 days. </blockquote>\r\nThis is the point where everyone asks, \"How are you going to keep this up?\"\r\n\r\nFret not and leave the \"how\" to me.  I am on a mission, and missions lead people to all things possible. \r\n\r\nI am sure that my daily espresso addiction will fuel this mayhem.  Currently, my poison is two shots a day.  (Italian, of course.)  Let\'s see how much I\'m consuming when all is said and done. \r\n\r\nMore importantly, your support and encouragement will keep me revved up (and hold me accountable).  I am actively seeking cohorts to accompany me in whichever way you choose: \r\n<ul>\r\n	<li>Leave a comment on an (almost) daily post.</li>\r\n	<li><strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/talk-to-me/\" target=\"_blank\">Talk to Me.</a></strong>  What\'s on your mind, cupcake? </li>\r\n	<li><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/submit-a-365-idea/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Submit a 365 idea.</strong> </a> Be creative.  Be nice.</li>\r\n	<li>Friends in my fair city:  Pick a day and let\'s go!</li>\r\n	<li>Friends in faraway places:  Bloom where you are planted.  And then please share your story!</li>\r\n</ul>\r\nIf this post is your first visit to this blog, please check out <strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/365-or-bust/\" target=\"_blank\">365 or Bust</a></strong> and <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/about/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>What Makes Me Tick</strong> </a>to gather a better understanding of the history and quirkiness behind this project. \r\n\r\nJoin the inner circle of bloominess by <strong><a href=\"http://feeds.feedburner.com/latebloomerdiary\" target=\"_blank\">subscribing via email or RSS</a></strong>.  It\'s free, it\'s fun, it\'s easy, and it\'s the best way to keep in touch. \r\n\r\nToday I turn 41, and I am no longer waiting for Happy Ever After to show up.  I\'m creating my own fairy tale. \r\n\r\nAn intriguing and captivating  fairy tale isn\'t a One-Princess Show!  Who wants to join my chast of characters?\r\n\r\nCarpe Diem and all that jazz!','Day 1:  Look Mom!  I\'m a Big Girl Blogger Now!','','inherit','open','open','','328-revision-13','','','2010-09-14 20:59:14','2010-09-15 03:59:14','',328,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/09/14/328-revision-13/',0,'revision','',0),(342,1,'2010-09-14 20:59:27','2010-09-15 03:59:27',' \r\n\r\nLast year on this very day, I launched an embarrassingly green (literally and figuratively) blog at <strong><a href=\"http://www.latebloomerdiary.blogspot.com/\" target=\"_blank\">blogspot.</a></strong>\r\n\r\nI had no idea what I was doing, but I was extremely well-intentioned and needed a 40th birthday project to keep me from slipping into a full-blown mid-life crisis. \r\n\r\nIt didn\'t work.\r\n\r\nI plunged head-first into an existential crisis.  (I prefer \"existential\" over \"mid-life\" because it sounds so Kierkegaardian and cool.) \r\n\r\nLife kinda sorta got in the way.  You can savor the thoroughly melodramatic details by reading <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/365-or-bust/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>365 or Bust. </strong></a><strong> </strong>\r\n\r\nAnywho, life getting in the way is... well... <em>life.</em> \r\n\r\nI need to get a grip and get on with mine. \r\n\r\nSo here we are.  One year later with fabulous new virtual digs (thank you, Shawn), a techie Svengali to teach me how to keep this puppy running smoothly (thank you, Svenny), and a frenetically fun mission:\r\n<blockquote>To try one new/inspiring/interesting/uplifting/provocative/or curiosity-injected thing each day for 365 days. </blockquote>\r\nThis is the point where everyone asks, \"How are you going to keep this up?\"\r\n\r\nFret not and leave the \"how\" to me.  I am on a mission, and missions lead people to all things possible. \r\n\r\nI am sure that my daily espresso addiction will fuel this mayhem.  Currently, my poison is two shots a day.  (Italian, of course.)  Let\'s see how much I\'m consuming when all is said and done. \r\n\r\nMore importantly, your support and encouragement will keep me revved up (and hold me accountable).  I am actively seeking cohorts to accompany me in whichever way you choose: \r\n<ul>\r\n	<li>Leave a comment on an (almost) daily post.</li>\r\n	<li><strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/talk-to-me/\" target=\"_blank\">Talk to Me.</a></strong>  What\'s on your mind, cupcake? </li>\r\n	<li><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/submit-a-365-idea/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Submit a 365 idea.</strong> </a> Be creative.  Be nice.</li>\r\n	<li>Friends in my fair city:  Pick a day and let\'s go!</li>\r\n	<li>Friends in faraway places:  Bloom where you are planted.  And then please share your story!</li>\r\n</ul>\r\nIf this post is your first visit to this blog, please check out <strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/365-or-bust/\" target=\"_blank\">365 or Bust</a></strong> and <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/about/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>What Makes Me Tick</strong> </a>to gather a better understanding of the history and quirkiness behind this project. \r\n\r\nJoin the inner circle of bloominess by <strong><a href=\"http://feeds.feedburner.com/latebloomerdiary\" target=\"_blank\">subscribing via email or RSS</a></strong>.  It\'s free, it\'s fun, it\'s easy, and it\'s the best way to keep in touch. \r\n\r\nToday I turn 41, and I am no longer waiting for Happy Ever After to show up.  I\'m creating my own fairy tale. \r\n\r\nAn intriguing and captivating  fairy tale isn\'t a One-Princess Show!  Who wants to join my chast of characters?\r\n\r\nCarpe Diem and all that jazz!','Day 1:  Look Mom!  I\'m a Big Girl Blogger Now!','','inherit','open','open','','328-revision-14','','','2010-09-14 20:59:27','2010-09-15 03:59:27','',328,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/09/14/328-revision-14/',0,'revision','',0),(343,1,'2010-09-14 21:01:14','2010-09-15 04:01:14',' \r\n\r\nLast year on this very day, I launched an embarrassingly green (literally and figuratively) blog at <strong><a href=\"http://www.latebloomerdiary.blogspot.com/\" target=\"_blank\">blogspot.</a></strong>\r\n\r\nI had no idea what I was doing, but I was extremely well-intentioned and needed a 40th birthday project to keep me from slipping into a full-blown mid-life crisis. \r\n\r\nIt didn\'t work.\r\n\r\nI plunged head-first into an existential crisis.  (I prefer \"existential\" over \"mid-life\" because it sounds so Kierkegaardian and cool.) \r\n\r\nLife kinda sorta got in the way.  You can savor the thoroughly melodramatic details by reading <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/365-or-bust/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>365 or Bust. </strong></a><strong> </strong>\r\n\r\nAnywho, life getting in the way is... well... <em>life.</em> \r\n\r\nI need to get a grip and get on with mine. \r\n\r\nSo here we are.  One year later with fabulous new virtual digs (thank you, Shawn), a techie Svengali to teach me how to keep this puppy running smoothly (thank you, Svenny), and a frenetically fun mission:\r\n<blockquote>To try one new/inspiring/interesting/uplifting/provocative/or curiosity-injected thing each day for 365 days. </blockquote>\r\nThis is the point where everyone asks, \"How are you going to keep this up?\"\r\n\r\nFret not and leave the \"how\" to me.  I am on a mission, and missions lead people to all things possible. \r\n\r\nI am sure that my daily espresso addiction will fuel this mayhem.  Currently, my poison is two shots a day.  (Italian, of course.)  Let\'s see how much I\'m consuming when all is said and done. \r\n\r\nMore importantly, your support and encouragement will keep me revved up (and hold me accountable).  I am actively seeking cohorts to accompany me in whichever way you choose: \r\n<ul>\r\n	<li>Leave a comment on an (almost) daily post.</li>\r\n	<li><strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/talk-to-me/\" target=\"_blank\">Talk to Me.</a></strong>  What\'s on your mind, cupcake? </li>\r\n	<li><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/submit-a-365-idea/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Submit a 365 idea.</strong> </a> Be creative.  Be nice.</li>\r\n	<li>Friends in my fair city:  Pick a day and let\'s go!</li>\r\n	<li>Friends in faraway places:  Bloom where you are planted.  And then please share your story!</li>\r\n</ul>\r\nIf this post is your first visit to this blog, please check out <strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/365-or-bust/\" target=\"_blank\">365 or Bust</a></strong> and <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/about/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>What Makes Me Tick</strong> </a>to gather a better understanding of the history and quirkiness behind this project. \r\n\r\nJoin the inner circle of bloominess by <strong><a href=\"http://feeds.feedburner.com/latebloomerdiary\" target=\"_blank\">subscribing via email or RSS</a></strong>.  It\'s free, it\'s fun, it\'s easy, and it\'s the best way to keep in touch. \r\n\r\n♥   ♥   ♥   ♥   ♥\r\n\r\nToday I turn 41, and I am no longer waiting for Happy Ever After to show up.  I\'m creating my own fairy tale. \r\n\r\nAn intriguing and captivating  fairy tale isn\'t a One-Princess Show!  Who wants to join my chast of characters?\r\n\r\nCarpe Diem and all that jazz!','Day 1:  Look Mom!  I\'m a Big Girl Blogger Now!','','inherit','open','open','','328-revision-15','','','2010-09-14 21:01:14','2010-09-15 04:01:14','',328,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/09/14/328-revision-15/',0,'revision','',0),(346,1,'2010-09-14 21:04:46','2010-09-15 04:04:46',' \r\n\r\nLast year on this very day, I launched an embarrassingly green (literally and figuratively) blog at <strong><a href=\"http://www.latebloomerdiary.blogspot.com/\" target=\"_blank\">blogspot.</a></strong>\r\n\r\nI had no idea what I was doing, but I was extremely well-intentioned and needed a 40th birthday project to keep me from slipping into a full-blown mid-life crisis. \r\n\r\nIt didn\'t work.\r\n\r\nI plunged head-first into an existential crisis.  (I prefer \"existential\" over \"mid-life\" because it sounds so Kierkegaardian and cool.) \r\n\r\nLife kinda sorta got in the way.  You can savor the thoroughly melodramatic details by reading <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/365-or-bust/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>365 or Bust. </strong></a><strong> </strong>\r\n\r\nAnywho, life getting in the way is... well... <em>life.</em> \r\n\r\nI need to get a grip and get on with mine. \r\n\r\nSo here we are.  One year later with fabulous new virtual digs (thank you, Shawn), a techie Svengali to teach me how to keep this puppy running smoothly (thank you, Svenny), and a frenetically fun mission:\r\n<blockquote>To try one new/inspiring/interesting/uplifting/provocative/or curiosity-injected thing each day for 365 days. </blockquote>\r\nThis is the point where everyone asks, \"How are you going to keep this up?\"\r\n\r\nFret not and leave the \"how\" to me.  I am on a mission, and missions lead people to all things possible. \r\n\r\nI am sure that my daily espresso addiction will fuel this mayhem.  Currently, my poison is two shots a day.  (Italian, of course.)  Let\'s see how much I\'m consuming when all is said and done. \r\n\r\nMore importantly, your support and encouragement will keep me revved up (and hold me accountable).  I am actively seeking cohorts to accompany me in whichever way you choose: \r\n<ul>\r\n	<li>Leave a comment on an (almost) daily post.</li>\r\n	<li><strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/talk-to-me/\" target=\"_blank\">Talk to Me.</a></strong>  What\'s on your mind, cupcake? </li>\r\n	<li><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/submit-a-365-idea/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Submit a 365 idea.</strong> </a> Be creative.  Be nice.</li>\r\n	<li>Friends in my fair city:  Pick a day and let\'s go!</li>\r\n	<li>Friends in faraway places:  Bloom where you are planted.  And then please share your story!</li>\r\n</ul>\r\nIf this post is your first visit to this blog, please check out <strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/365-or-bust/\" target=\"_blank\">365 or Bust</a></strong> and <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/about/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>What Makes Me Tick</strong> </a>to gather a better understanding of the history and quirkiness behind this project. \r\n\r\nJoin the inner circle of bloominess by <strong><a href=\"http://feeds.feedburner.com/latebloomerdiary\" target=\"_blank\">subscribing via email or RSS</a></strong>.  It\'s free, it\'s fun, it\'s easy, and it\'s the best way to keep in touch. \r\n\r\nToday I turn 41, and I am no longer waiting for Happy Ever After to show up.  I\'m creating my own fairy tale. \r\n\r\nAn intriguing and captivating  fairy tale isn\'t a One-Princess Show!  Who wants to join my chast of characters?\r\n\r\nCarpe Diem and all that jazz!','Day 1:  Look Mom!  I\'m a Big Girl Blogger Now!','','inherit','open','open','','328-revision-18','','','2010-09-14 21:04:46','2010-09-15 04:04:46','',328,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/09/14/328-revision-18/',0,'revision','',0),(345,1,'2010-09-14 21:03:23','2010-09-15 04:03:23',' \r\n\r\nLast year on this very day, I launched an embarrassingly green (literally and figuratively) blog at <strong><a href=\"http://www.latebloomerdiary.blogspot.com/\" target=\"_blank\">blogspot.</a></strong>\r\n\r\nI had no idea what I was doing, but I was extremely well-intentioned and needed a 40th birthday project to keep me from slipping into a full-blown mid-life crisis. \r\n\r\nIt didn\'t work.\r\n\r\nI plunged head-first into an existential crisis.  (I prefer \"existential\" over \"mid-life\" because it sounds so Kierkegaardian and cool.) \r\n\r\nLife kinda sorta got in the way.  You can savor the thoroughly melodramatic details by reading <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/365-or-bust/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>365 or Bust. </strong></a><strong> </strong>\r\n\r\nAnywho, life getting in the way is... well... <em>life.</em> \r\n\r\nI need to get a grip and get on with mine. \r\n\r\nSo here we are.  One year later with fabulous new virtual digs (thank you, Shawn), a techie Svengali to teach me how to keep this puppy running smoothly (thank you, Svenny), and a frenetically fun mission:\r\n<blockquote>To try one new/inspiring/interesting/uplifting/provocative/or curiosity-injected thing each day for 365 days. </blockquote>\r\nThis is the point where everyone asks, \"How are you going to keep this up?\"\r\n\r\nFret not and leave the \"how\" to me.  I am on a mission, and missions lead people to all things possible. \r\n\r\nI am sure that my daily espresso addiction will fuel this mayhem.  Currently, my poison is two shots a day.  (Italian, of course.)  Let\'s see how much I\'m consuming when all is said and done. \r\n\r\nMore importantly, your support and encouragement will keep me revved up (and hold me accountable).  I am actively seeking cohorts to accompany me in whichever way you choose: \r\n<ul>\r\n	<li>Leave a comment on an (almost) daily post.</li>\r\n	<li><strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/talk-to-me/\" target=\"_blank\">Talk to Me.</a></strong>  What\'s on your mind, cupcake? </li>\r\n	<li><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/submit-a-365-idea/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Submit a 365 idea.</strong> </a> Be creative.  Be nice.</li>\r\n	<li>Friends in my fair city:  Pick a day and let\'s go!</li>\r\n	<li>Friends in faraway places:  Bloom where you are planted.  And then please share your story!</li>\r\n</ul>\r\nIf this post is your first visit to this blog, please check out <strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/365-or-bust/\" target=\"_blank\">365 or Bust</a></strong> and <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/about/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>What Makes Me Tick</strong> </a>to gather a better understanding of the history and quirkiness behind this project. \r\n\r\nJoin the inner circle of bloominess by <strong><a href=\"http://feeds.feedburner.com/latebloomerdiary\" target=\"_blank\">subscribing via email or RSS</a></strong>.  It\'s free, it\'s fun, it\'s easy, and it\'s the best way to keep in touch. \r\n\r\n                    ♥   ♥   ♥   ♥   ♥   ♥   ♥   ♥   ♥   ♥   ♥   ♥   ♥   ♥   ♥   ♥   ♥   ♥   ♥   ♥\r\n\r\nToday I turn 41, and I am no longer waiting for Happy Ever After to show up.  I\'m creating my own fairy tale. \r\n\r\nAn intriguing and captivating  fairy tale isn\'t a One-Princess Show!  Who wants to join my chast of characters?\r\n\r\nCarpe Diem and all that jazz!','Day 1:  Look Mom!  I\'m a Big Girl Blogger Now!','','inherit','open','open','','328-revision-17','','','2010-09-14 21:03:23','2010-09-15 04:03:23','',328,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/09/14/328-revision-17/',0,'revision','',0),(344,1,'2010-09-14 21:02:17','2010-09-15 04:02:17',' \r\n\r\nLast year on this very day, I launched an embarrassingly green (literally and figuratively) blog at <strong><a href=\"http://www.latebloomerdiary.blogspot.com/\" target=\"_blank\">blogspot.</a></strong>\r\n\r\nI had no idea what I was doing, but I was extremely well-intentioned and needed a 40th birthday project to keep me from slipping into a full-blown mid-life crisis. \r\n\r\nIt didn\'t work.\r\n\r\nI plunged head-first into an existential crisis.  (I prefer \"existential\" over \"mid-life\" because it sounds so Kierkegaardian and cool.) \r\n\r\nLife kinda sorta got in the way.  You can savor the thoroughly melodramatic details by reading <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/365-or-bust/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>365 or Bust. </strong></a><strong> </strong>\r\n\r\nAnywho, life getting in the way is... well... <em>life.</em> \r\n\r\nI need to get a grip and get on with mine. \r\n\r\nSo here we are.  One year later with fabulous new virtual digs (thank you, Shawn), a techie Svengali to teach me how to keep this puppy running smoothly (thank you, Svenny), and a frenetically fun mission:\r\n<blockquote>To try one new/inspiring/interesting/uplifting/provocative/or curiosity-injected thing each day for 365 days. </blockquote>\r\nThis is the point where everyone asks, \"How are you going to keep this up?\"\r\n\r\nFret not and leave the \"how\" to me.  I am on a mission, and missions lead people to all things possible. \r\n\r\nI am sure that my daily espresso addiction will fuel this mayhem.  Currently, my poison is two shots a day.  (Italian, of course.)  Let\'s see how much I\'m consuming when all is said and done. \r\n\r\nMore importantly, your support and encouragement will keep me revved up (and hold me accountable).  I am actively seeking cohorts to accompany me in whichever way you choose: \r\n<ul>\r\n	<li>Leave a comment on an (almost) daily post.</li>\r\n	<li><strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/talk-to-me/\" target=\"_blank\">Talk to Me.</a></strong>  What\'s on your mind, cupcake? </li>\r\n	<li><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/submit-a-365-idea/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Submit a 365 idea.</strong> </a> Be creative.  Be nice.</li>\r\n	<li>Friends in my fair city:  Pick a day and let\'s go!</li>\r\n	<li>Friends in faraway places:  Bloom where you are planted.  And then please share your story!</li>\r\n</ul>\r\nIf this post is your first visit to this blog, please check out <strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/365-or-bust/\" target=\"_blank\">365 or Bust</a></strong> and <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/about/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>What Makes Me Tick</strong> </a>to gather a better understanding of the history and quirkiness behind this project. \r\n\r\nJoin the inner circle of bloominess by <strong><a href=\"http://feeds.feedburner.com/latebloomerdiary\" target=\"_blank\">subscribing via email or RSS</a></strong>.  It\'s free, it\'s fun, it\'s easy, and it\'s the best way to keep in touch. \r\n\r\n                                                  ♥   ♥   ♥   ♥   ♥   ♥   ♥   ♥   ♥   ♥   ♥   ♥   ♥   ♥   ♥   ♥   ♥   ♥   ♥   ♥\r\n\r\nToday I turn 41, and I am no longer waiting for Happy Ever After to show up.  I\'m creating my own fairy tale. \r\n\r\nAn intriguing and captivating  fairy tale isn\'t a One-Princess Show!  Who wants to join my chast of characters?\r\n\r\nCarpe Diem and all that jazz!','Day 1:  Look Mom!  I\'m a Big Girl Blogger Now!','','inherit','open','open','','328-revision-16','','','2010-09-14 21:02:17','2010-09-15 04:02:17','',328,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/09/14/328-revision-16/',0,'revision','',0),(347,1,'2010-09-14 21:06:07','2010-09-15 04:06:07',' \r\n\r\nLast year on this very day, I launched an embarrassingly green (literally and figuratively) blog at <strong><a href=\"http://www.latebloomerdiary.blogspot.com/\" target=\"_blank\">blogspot.</a></strong>\r\n\r\nI had no idea what I was doing, but I was extremely well-intentioned and needed a 40th birthday project to keep me from slipping into a full-blown mid-life crisis. \r\n\r\nIt didn\'t work.\r\n\r\nI plunged head-first into an existential crisis.  (I prefer \"existential\" over \"mid-life\" because it sounds so Kierkegaardian and cool.) \r\n\r\nLife kinda sorta got in the way.  You can savor the thoroughly melodramatic details by reading <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/365-or-bust/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>365 or Bust. </strong></a><strong> </strong>\r\n\r\nAnywho, life getting in the way is... well... <em>life.</em> \r\n\r\nI need to get a grip and get on with mine. \r\n\r\nSo here we are.  One year later with fabulous new virtual digs (thank you, Shawn), a techie Svengali to teach me how to keep this puppy running smoothly (thank you, Svenny), and a frenetically fun mission:\r\n<blockquote>To try one new/inspiring/interesting/uplifting/provocative/or curiosity-injected thing each day for 365 days. </blockquote>\r\nThis is the point where everyone asks, \"How are you going to keep this up?\"\r\n\r\nFret not and leave the \"how\" to me.  I am on a mission, and missions lead people to all things possible. \r\n\r\nI am sure that my daily espresso addiction will fuel this mayhem.  Currently, my poison is two shots a day.  (Italian, of course.)  Let\'s see how much I\'m consuming when all is said and done. \r\n\r\nMore importantly, your support and encouragement will keep me revved up (and hold me accountable).  I am actively seeking cohorts to accompany me in whichever way you choose: \r\n<ul>\r\n	<li>Leave a comment on an (almost) daily post.</li>\r\n	<li><strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/talk-to-me/\" target=\"_blank\">Talk to Me.</a></strong>  What\'s on your mind, cupcake? </li>\r\n	<li><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/submit-a-365-idea/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Submit a 365 idea.</strong> </a> Be creative.  Be nice.</li>\r\n	<li>Friends in my fair city:  Pick a day and let\'s go!</li>\r\n	<li>Friends in faraway places:  Bloom where you are planted.  And then please share your story!</li>\r\n</ul>\r\nIf this post is your first visit to this blog, please check out <strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/365-or-bust/\" target=\"_blank\">365 or Bust</a></strong> and <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/about/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>What Makes Me Tick</strong> </a>to gather a better understanding of the history and quirkiness behind this project. \r\n\r\nJoin the inner circle of bloominess by <strong><a href=\"http://feeds.feedburner.com/latebloomerdiary\" target=\"_blank\">subscribing via email or RSS</a></strong>.  It\'s free, it\'s fun, it\'s easy, and it\'s the best way to keep in touch. \r\n\r\nToday I turn 41, and I am no longer waiting for Happy Ever After to show up.  I\'m creating my own fairy tale. \r\n\r\nAn intriguing and captivating  fairy tale isn\'t a One-Princess Show!  Who wants to join my chast of characters?\r\n\r\nCarpe Diem and all that jazz!','Day 1:  Look Mom!  I\'m a Big Girl Blogger Now!','','inherit','open','open','','328-revision-19','','','2010-09-14 21:06:07','2010-09-15 04:06:07','',328,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/09/14/328-revision-19/',0,'revision','',0),(351,1,'2010-09-14 21:16:40','2010-09-15 04:16:40',' \r\n\r\nLast year on this very day, I launched an embarrassingly green (literally and figuratively) blog at <strong><a href=\"http://www.latebloomerdiary.blogspot.com/\" target=\"_blank\">blogspot.</a></strong>\r\n\r\nI had no idea what I was doing, but I was extremely well-intentioned and needed a 40th birthday project to keep me from slipping into a full-blown mid-life crisis. \r\n\r\nIt didn\'t work.\r\n\r\nI plunged head-first into an existential crisis.  (I prefer \"existential\" over \"mid-life\" because it sounds so Kierkegaardian and cool.) \r\n\r\nLife kinda sorta got in the way.  You can savor the thoroughly melodramatic details by reading <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/365-or-bust/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>365 or Bust. </strong></a><strong> </strong>\r\n\r\nAnywho, life getting in the way is... well... <em>life.</em> \r\n\r\nI need to get a grip and get on with mine. \r\n\r\nSo here we are.  One year later with fabulous new virtual digs (thank you, Shawn), a techie Svengali to teach me how to keep this puppy running smoothly (thank you, Svenny), and a frenetically fun mission:\r\n<blockquote>To try one new/inspiring/interesting/uplifting/provocative/or curiosity-injected thing each day for 365 days. </blockquote>\r\nThis is the point where everyone asks, \"How are you going to keep this up?\"\r\n\r\nFret not and leave the \"how\" to me.  I am on a mission, and missions lead people to all things possible. \r\n\r\nI am sure that my daily espresso addiction will fuel this mayhem.  Currently, my poison is two shots a day.  (Italian, of course.)  Let\'s see how much I\'m consuming when all is said and done. \r\n\r\nMore importantly, your support and encouragement will keep me revved up (and hold me accountable).  I am actively seeking cohorts to accompany me in whichever way you choose: \r\n<ul>\r\n	<li>Leave a comment on an (almost) daily post.</li>\r\n	<li><strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/talk-to-me/\" target=\"_blank\">Talk to Me.</a></strong>  What\'s on your mind, cupcake? </li>\r\n	<li><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/submit-a-365-idea/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Submit a 365 idea.</strong> </a> Be creative.  Be nice.</li>\r\n	<li>Friends in my fair city:  Pick a day and let\'s go!</li>\r\n	<li>Friends in faraway places:  Bloom where you are planted.  And then please share your story!</li>\r\n</ul>\r\nIf this post is your first visit to this blog, please check out <strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/365-or-bust/\" target=\"_blank\">365 or Bust</a></strong> and <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/about/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>What Makes Me Tick</strong> </a>to gather a better understanding of the history and quirkiness behind this project. \r\n\r\nJoin the inner circle of bloominess by <strong><a href=\"http://feeds.feedburner.com/latebloomerdiary\" target=\"_blank\">subscribing via email or RSS</a></strong>.  It\'s free, it\'s fun, it\'s easy, and it\'s the best way to keep in touch. \r\n\r\nToday I turn 41, and I am no longer waiting for Happy Ever After to show up.  I\'m creating my own fairy tale. \r\n\r\nAn intriguing and captivating  fairy tale isn\'t a One-Princess Show!  Who wants to join my chast of characters?\r\n\r\nCarpe Diem and all that jazz!','Day 1:  Look Mom!  I\'m a Big Girl Blogger Now!','','inherit','open','open','','328-revision-23','','','2010-09-14 21:16:40','2010-09-15 04:16:40','',328,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/09/14/328-revision-23/',0,'revision','',0),(348,1,'2010-09-14 21:13:36','2010-09-15 04:13:36',' \r\n\r\nLast year on this very day, I launched an embarrassingly green (literally and figuratively) blog at <strong><a href=\"http://www.latebloomerdiary.blogspot.com/\" target=\"_blank\">blogspot.</a></strong>\r\n\r\nI had no idea what I was doing, but I was extremely well-intentioned and needed a 40th birthday project to keep me from slipping into a full-blown mid-life crisis. \r\n\r\nIt didn\'t work.\r\n\r\nI plunged head-first into an existential crisis.  (I prefer \"existential\" over \"mid-life\" because it sounds so Kierkegaardian and cool.) \r\n\r\nLife kinda sorta got in the way.  You can savor the thoroughly melodramatic details by reading <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/365-or-bust/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>365 or Bust. </strong></a><strong> </strong>\r\n\r\nAnywho, life getting in the way is... well... <em>life.</em> \r\n\r\nI need to get a grip and get on with mine. \r\n\r\nSo here we are.  One year later with fabulous new virtual digs (thank you, Shawn), a techie Svengali to teach me how to keep this puppy running smoothly (thank you, Svenny), and a frenetically fun mission:\r\n<blockquote>To try one new/inspiring/interesting/uplifting/provocative/or curiosity-injected thing each day for 365 days. </blockquote>\r\nThis is the point where everyone asks, \"How are you going to keep this up?\"\r\n\r\nFret not and leave the \"how\" to me.  I am on a mission, and missions lead people to all things possible. \r\n\r\nI am sure that my daily espresso addiction will fuel this mayhem.  Currently, my poison is two shots a day.  (Italian, of course.)  Let\'s see how much I\'m consuming when all is said and done. \r\n\r\nMore importantly, your support and encouragement will keep me revved up (and hold me accountable).  I am actively seeking cohorts to accompany me in whichever way you choose: \r\n<br/>\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li>Leave a comment on an (almost) daily post.</li>\r\n	<li><strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/talk-to-me/\" target=\"_blank\">Talk to Me.</a></strong>  What\'s on your mind, cupcake? </li>\r\n	<li><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/submit-a-365-idea/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Submit a 365 idea.</strong> </a> Be creative.  Be nice.</li>\r\n	<li>Friends in my fair city:  Pick a day and let\'s go!</li>\r\n	<li>Friends in faraway places:  Bloom where you are planted.  And then please share your story!</li>\r\n</ul>\r\nIf this post is your first visit to this blog, please check out <strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/365-or-bust/\" target=\"_blank\">365 or Bust</a></strong> and <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/about/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>What Makes Me Tick</strong> </a>to gather a better understanding of the history and quirkiness behind this project. \r\n\r\nJoin the inner circle of bloominess by <strong><a href=\"http://feeds.feedburner.com/latebloomerdiary\" target=\"_blank\">subscribing via email or RSS</a></strong>.  It\'s free, it\'s fun, it\'s easy, and it\'s the best way to keep in touch. \r\n\r\nToday I turn 41, and I am no longer waiting for Happy Ever After to show up.  I\'m creating my own fairy tale. \r\n\r\nAn intriguing and captivating  fairy tale isn\'t a One-Princess Show!  Who wants to join my chast of characters?\r\n\r\nCarpe Diem and all that jazz!','Day 1:  Look Mom!  I\'m a Big Girl Blogger Now!','','inherit','open','open','','328-revision-20','','','2010-09-14 21:13:36','2010-09-15 04:13:36','',328,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/09/14/328-revision-20/',0,'revision','',0),(349,1,'2010-09-14 21:14:47','2010-09-15 04:14:47',' \r\n\r\nLast year on this very day, I launched an embarrassingly green (literally and figuratively) blog at <strong><a href=\"http://www.latebloomerdiary.blogspot.com/\" target=\"_blank\">blogspot.</a></strong>\r\n\r\nI had no idea what I was doing, but I was extremely well-intentioned and needed a 40th birthday project to keep me from slipping into a full-blown mid-life crisis. \r\n\r\nIt didn\'t work.\r\n\r\nI plunged head-first into an existential crisis.  (I prefer \"existential\" over \"mid-life\" because it sounds so Kierkegaardian and cool.) \r\n\r\nLife kinda sorta got in the way.  You can savor the thoroughly melodramatic details by reading <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/365-or-bust/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>365 or Bust. </strong></a><strong> </strong>\r\n\r\nAnywho, life getting in the way is... well... <em>life.</em> \r\n\r\nI need to get a grip and get on with mine. \r\n\r\nSo here we are.  One year later with fabulous new virtual digs (thank you, Shawn), a techie Svengali to teach me how to keep this puppy running smoothly (thank you, Svenny), and a frenetically fun mission:\r\n<blockquote>To try one new/inspiring/interesting/uplifting/provocative/or curiosity-injected thing each day for 365 days. </blockquote>\r\nThis is the point where everyone asks, \"How are you going to keep this up?\"\r\n\r\nFret not and leave the \"how\" to me.  I am on a mission, and missions lead people to all things possible. \r\n\r\nI am sure that my daily espresso addiction will fuel this mayhem.  Currently, my poison is two shots a day.  (Italian, of course.)  Let\'s see how much I\'m consuming when all is said and done. \r\n\r\nMore importantly, your support and encouragement will keep me revved up (and hold me accountable).  I am actively seeking cohorts to accompany me in whichever way you choose: \r\n<ul>\r\n	<li>Leave a comment on an (almost) daily post.</li>\r\n	<li><strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/talk-to-me/\" target=\"_blank\">Talk to Me.</a></strong>  What\'s on your mind, cupcake? </li>\r\n	<li><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/submit-a-365-idea/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Submit a 365 idea.</strong> </a> Be creative.  Be nice.</li>\r\n	<li>Friends in my fair city:  Pick a day and let\'s go!</li>\r\n	<li>Friends in faraway places:  Bloom where you are planted.  And then please share your story!</li>\r\n</ul>\r\nIf this post is your first visit to this blog, please check out <strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/365-or-bust/\" target=\"_blank\">365 or Bust</a></strong> and <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/about/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>What Makes Me Tick</strong> </a>to gather a better understanding of the history and quirkiness behind this project. \r\n\r\nJoin the inner circle of bloominess by <strong><a href=\"http://feeds.feedburner.com/latebloomerdiary\" target=\"_blank\">subscribing via email or RSS</a></strong>.  It\'s free, it\'s fun, it\'s easy, and it\'s the best way to keep in touch. \r\n<br/>\r\nToday I turn 41, and I am no longer waiting for Happy Ever After to show up.  I\'m creating my own fairy tale. \r\n\r\nAn intriguing and captivating  fairy tale isn\'t a One-Princess Show!  Who wants to join my chast of characters?\r\n\r\nCarpe Diem and all that jazz!','Day 1:  Look Mom!  I\'m a Big Girl Blogger Now!','','inherit','open','open','','328-revision-21','','','2010-09-14 21:14:47','2010-09-15 04:14:47','',328,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/09/14/328-revision-21/',0,'revision','',0),(350,1,'2010-09-14 21:15:38','2010-09-15 04:15:38',' \r\n\r\nLast year on this very day, I launched an embarrassingly green (literally and figuratively) blog at <strong><a href=\"http://www.latebloomerdiary.blogspot.com/\" target=\"_blank\">blogspot.</a></strong>\r\n\r\nI had no idea what I was doing, but I was extremely well-intentioned and needed a 40th birthday project to keep me from slipping into a full-blown mid-life crisis. \r\n\r\nIt didn\'t work.\r\n\r\nI plunged head-first into an existential crisis.  (I prefer \"existential\" over \"mid-life\" because it sounds so Kierkegaardian and cool.) \r\n\r\nLife kinda sorta got in the way.  You can savor the thoroughly melodramatic details by reading <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/365-or-bust/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>365 or Bust. </strong></a><strong> </strong>\r\n\r\nAnywho, life getting in the way is... well... <em>life.</em> \r\n\r\nI need to get a grip and get on with mine. \r\n<br/>\r\n\r\nSo here we are.  One year later with fabulous new virtual digs (thank you, Shawn), a techie Svengali to teach me how to keep this puppy running smoothly (thank you, Svenny), and a frenetically fun mission:\r\n<blockquote>To try one new/inspiring/interesting/uplifting/provocative/or curiosity-injected thing each day for 365 days. </blockquote>\r\nThis is the point where everyone asks, \"How are you going to keep this up?\"\r\n\r\nFret not and leave the \"how\" to me.  I am on a mission, and missions lead people to all things possible. \r\n\r\nI am sure that my daily espresso addiction will fuel this mayhem.  Currently, my poison is two shots a day.  (Italian, of course.)  Let\'s see how much I\'m consuming when all is said and done. \r\n\r\nMore importantly, your support and encouragement will keep me revved up (and hold me accountable).  I am actively seeking cohorts to accompany me in whichever way you choose: \r\n<ul>\r\n	<li>Leave a comment on an (almost) daily post.</li>\r\n	<li><strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/talk-to-me/\" target=\"_blank\">Talk to Me.</a></strong>  What\'s on your mind, cupcake? </li>\r\n	<li><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/submit-a-365-idea/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Submit a 365 idea.</strong> </a> Be creative.  Be nice.</li>\r\n	<li>Friends in my fair city:  Pick a day and let\'s go!</li>\r\n	<li>Friends in faraway places:  Bloom where you are planted.  And then please share your story!</li>\r\n</ul>\r\nIf this post is your first visit to this blog, please check out <strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/365-or-bust/\" target=\"_blank\">365 or Bust</a></strong> and <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/about/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>What Makes Me Tick</strong> </a>to gather a better understanding of the history and quirkiness behind this project. \r\n\r\nJoin the inner circle of bloominess by <strong><a href=\"http://feeds.feedburner.com/latebloomerdiary\" target=\"_blank\">subscribing via email or RSS</a></strong>.  It\'s free, it\'s fun, it\'s easy, and it\'s the best way to keep in touch. \r\n\r\n\r\nToday I turn 41, and I am no longer waiting for Happy Ever After to show up.  I\'m creating my own fairy tale. \r\n\r\nAn intriguing and captivating  fairy tale isn\'t a One-Princess Show!  Who wants to join my chast of characters?\r\n\r\nCarpe Diem and all that jazz!','Day 1:  Look Mom!  I\'m a Big Girl Blogger Now!','','inherit','open','open','','328-revision-22','','','2010-09-14 21:15:38','2010-09-15 04:15:38','',328,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/09/14/328-revision-22/',0,'revision','',0),(352,1,'2010-09-14 21:18:16','2010-09-15 04:18:16',' \r\n\r\nLast year on this very day, I launched an embarrassingly green (literally and figuratively) blog at <strong><a href=\"http://www.latebloomerdiary.blogspot.com/\" target=\"_blank\">blogspot.</a></strong>\r\n\r\nI had no idea what I was doing, but I was extremely well-intentioned and needed a 40th birthday project to keep me from slipping into a full-blown mid-life crisis. \r\n\r\nIt didn\'t work.\r\n\r\nI plunged head-first into an existential crisis.  (I prefer \"existential\" over \"mid-life\" because it sounds so Kierkegaardian and cool.) \r\n\r\nLife kinda sorta got in the way.  You can savor the thoroughly melodramatic details by reading <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/365-or-bust/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>365 or Bust. </strong></a><strong> </strong>\r\n\r\nAnywho, life getting in the way is... well... <em>life.</em> \r\n\r\nI need to get a grip and get on with mine. \r\n\r\nSo here we are.  One year later with fabulous new virtual digs (thank you, Shawn), a techie Svengali to teach me how to keep this puppy running smoothly (thank you, Svenny), and a frenetically fun mission:\r\n<blockquote>To try one new/inspiring/interesting/uplifting/provocative/or curiosity-injected thing each day for 365 days. </blockquote>\r\nThis is the point where everyone asks, \"How are you going to keep this up?\"\r\n\r\nFret not and leave the \"how\" to me.  I am on a mission, and missions lead people to all things possible. \r\n\r\nI am sure that my daily espresso addiction will fuel this mayhem.  Currently, my poison is two shots a day.  (Italian, of course.)  Let\'s see how much I\'m consuming when all is said and done. \r\n\r\nMore importantly, your support and encouragement will keep me revved up (and hold me accountable).  I am actively seeking cohorts to accompany me in whichever way you choose: \r\n<ul>\r\n	<li>Leave a comment on an (almost) daily post.</li>\r\n	<li><strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/talk-to-me/\" target=\"_blank\">Talk to Me.</a></strong>  What\'s on your mind, cupcake? </li>\r\n	<li><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/submit-a-365-idea/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Submit a 365 idea.</strong> </a> Be creative.  Be nice.</li>\r\n	<li>Friends in my fair city:  Pick a day and let\'s go!</li>\r\n	<li>Friends in faraway places:  Bloom where you are planted.  And then please share your story!</li>\r\n</ul>\r\nIf this post is your first visit to this blog, please check out <strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/365-or-bust/\" target=\"_blank\">365 or Bust</a></strong> and <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/about/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>What Makes Me Tick</strong> </a>to gather a better understanding of the history and quirkiness behind this project. \r\n\r\nJoin the inner circle of bloominess by <strong><a href=\"http://feeds.feedburner.com/latebloomerdiary\" target=\"_blank\">subscribing via email or RSS</a></strong>.  It\'s free, it\'s fun, it\'s easy, and it\'s the best way to keep in touch. \r\n\r\nToday I turn 41, and I am no longer waiting for Happy Ever After to show up.  I\'m creating my own fairy tale. \r\n\r\nAn intriguing and captivating  fairy tale isn\'t a One-Princess Show!  Who wants to join my chast of characters?\r\n\r\nCarpe Diem and all that jazz!','Day 1:  Look Mom!  I\'m a Big Girl Blogger Now!','','inherit','open','open','','328-revision-24','','','2010-09-14 21:18:16','2010-09-15 04:18:16','',328,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/09/14/328-revision-24/',0,'revision','',0),(354,1,'2010-09-14 21:19:37','2010-09-15 04:19:37',' \r\n\r\nLast year on this very day, I launched an embarrassingly green (literally and figuratively) blog at <strong><a href=\"http://www.latebloomerdiary.blogspot.com/\" target=\"_blank\">blogspot.</a></strong>\r\n\r\nI had no idea what I was doing, but I was extremely well-intentioned and needed a 40th birthday project to keep me from slipping into a full-blown mid-life crisis. \r\n\r\nIt didn\'t work.\r\n\r\nI plunged head-first into an existential crisis.  (I prefer \"existential\" over \"mid-life\" because it sounds so Kierkegaardian and cool.) \r\n\r\nLife kinda sorta got in the way.  You can savor the thoroughly melodramatic details by reading <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/365-or-bust/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>365 or Bust. </strong></a><strong> </strong>\r\n\r\nAnywho, life getting in the way is... well... <em>life.</em> \r\n\r\nI need to get a grip and get on with mine. \r\n\r\nSo here we are.  One year later with fabulous new virtual digs (thank you, Shawn), a techie Svengali to teach me how to keep this puppy running smoothly (thank you, Svenny), and a frenetically fun mission:\r\n<blockquote>To try one new/inspiring/interesting/uplifting/provocative/or curiosity-injected thing each day for 365 days. </blockquote>\r\nThis is the point where everyone asks, \"How are you going to keep this up?\"\r\n\r\nFret not and leave the \"how\" to me.  I am on a mission, and missions lead people to all things possible. \r\n\r\nI am sure that my daily espresso addiction will fuel this mayhem.  Currently, my poison is two shots a day.  (Italian, of course.)  Let\'s see how much I\'m consuming when all is said and done. \r\n\r\nMore importantly, your support and encouragement will keep me revved up (and hold me accountable).  I am actively seeking cohorts to accompany me in whichever way you choose: \r\n<ul>\r\n	<li>Leave a comment on an (almost) daily post.</li>\r\n	<li><strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/talk-to-me/\" target=\"_blank\">Talk to Me.</a></strong>  What\'s on your mind, cupcake? </li>\r\n	<li><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/submit-a-365-idea/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Submit a 365 idea.</strong> </a> Be creative.  Be nice.</li>\r\n	<li>Friends in my fair city:  Pick a day and let\'s go!</li>\r\n	<li>Friends in faraway places:  Bloom where you are planted.  And then please share your story!</li>\r\n</ul>\r\nIf this post is your first visit to this blog, please check out <strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/365-or-bust/\" target=\"_blank\">365 or Bust</a></strong> and <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/about/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>What Makes Me Tick</strong> </a>to gather a better understanding of the history and quirkiness behind this project. \r\n\r\nJoin the inner circle of bloominess by <strong><a href=\"http://feeds.feedburner.com/latebloomerdiary\" target=\"_blank\">subscribing via email or RSS</a></strong>.  It\'s free, it\'s fun, it\'s easy, and it\'s the best way to keep in touch. \r\n\r\nToday I turn 41, and I am no longer waiting for Happy Ever After to show up.  I\'m creating my own fairy tale. \r\n\r\nAn intriguing and captivating  fairy tale isn\'t a One-Princess Show!  Who wants to join my chast of characters?\r\n\r\nCarpe Diem and all that jazz!','Day 1:  Look Mom!  I\'m a Big Girl Blogger Now!','','inherit','open','open','','328-revision-26','','','2010-09-14 21:19:37','2010-09-15 04:19:37','',328,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/09/14/328-revision-26/',0,'revision','',0),(353,1,'2010-09-14 21:19:27','2010-09-15 04:19:27',' \r\n\r\nLast year on this very day, I launched an embarrassingly green (literally and figuratively) blog at <strong><a href=\"http://www.latebloomerdiary.blogspot.com/\" target=\"_blank\">blogspot.</a></strong>\r\n\r\nI had no idea what I was doing, but I was extremely well-intentioned and needed a 40th birthday project to keep me from slipping into a full-blown mid-life crisis. \r\n\r\nIt didn\'t work.\r\n\r\nI plunged head-first into an existential crisis.  (I prefer \"existential\" over \"mid-life\" because it sounds so Kierkegaardian and cool.) \r\n\r\nLife kinda sorta got in the way.  You can savor the thoroughly melodramatic details by reading <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/365-or-bust/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>365 or Bust. </strong></a><strong> </strong>\r\n\r\n<br/>\r\n\r\nAnywho, life getting in the way is... well... <em>life.</em> \r\n\r\nI need to get a grip and get on with mine. \r\n\r\nSo here we are.  One year later with fabulous new virtual digs (thank you, Shawn), a techie Svengali to teach me how to keep this puppy running smoothly (thank you, Svenny), and a frenetically fun mission:\r\n<blockquote>To try one new/inspiring/interesting/uplifting/provocative/or curiosity-injected thing each day for 365 days. </blockquote>\r\nThis is the point where everyone asks, \"How are you going to keep this up?\"\r\n\r\nFret not and leave the \"how\" to me.  I am on a mission, and missions lead people to all things possible. \r\n\r\nI am sure that my daily espresso addiction will fuel this mayhem.  Currently, my poison is two shots a day.  (Italian, of course.)  Let\'s see how much I\'m consuming when all is said and done. \r\n\r\nMore importantly, your support and encouragement will keep me revved up (and hold me accountable).  I am actively seeking cohorts to accompany me in whichever way you choose: \r\n<br/>\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li>Leave a comment on an (almost) daily post.</li>\r\n	<li><strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/talk-to-me/\" target=\"_blank\">Talk to Me.</a></strong>  What\'s on your mind, cupcake? </li>\r\n	<li><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/submit-a-365-idea/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Submit a 365 idea.</strong> </a> Be creative.  Be nice.</li>\r\n	<li>Friends in my fair city:  Pick a day and let\'s go!</li>\r\n	<li>Friends in faraway places:  Bloom where you are planted.  And then please share your story!</li>\r\n</ul>\r\nIf this post is your first visit to this blog, please check out <strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/365-or-bust/\" target=\"_blank\">365 or Bust</a></strong> and <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/about/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>What Makes Me Tick</strong> </a>to gather a better understanding of the history and quirkiness behind this project. \r\n\r\nJoin the inner circle of bloominess by <strong><a href=\"http://feeds.feedburner.com/latebloomerdiary\" target=\"_blank\">subscribing via email or RSS</a></strong>.  It\'s free, it\'s fun, it\'s easy, and it\'s the best way to keep in touch. \r\n\r\n<br/>\r\n\r\nToday I turn 41, and I am no longer waiting for Happy Ever After to show up.  I\'m creating my own fairy tale. \r\n\r\nAn intriguing and captivating  fairy tale isn\'t a One-Princess Show!  Who wants to join my chast of characters?\r\n\r\nCarpe Diem and all that jazz!','Day 1:  Look Mom!  I\'m a Big Girl Blogger Now!','','inherit','open','open','','328-revision-25','','','2010-09-14 21:19:27','2010-09-15 04:19:27','',328,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/09/14/328-revision-25/',0,'revision','',0),(356,1,'2010-09-14 21:20:37','2010-09-15 04:20:37',' \r\n\r\nLast year on this very day, I launched an embarrassingly green (literally and figuratively) blog at <strong><a href=\"http://www.latebloomerdiary.blogspot.com/\" target=\"_blank\">blogspot.</a></strong>\r\n\r\nI had no idea what I was doing, but I was extremely well-intentioned and needed a 40th birthday project to keep me from slipping into a full-blown mid-life crisis. \r\n\r\nIt didn\'t work.\r\n\r\nI plunged head-first into an existential crisis.  (I prefer \"existential\" over \"mid-life\" because it sounds so Kierkegaardian and cool.) \r\n\r\nLife kinda sorta got in the way.  You can savor the thoroughly melodramatic details by reading <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/365-or-bust/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>365 or Bust. </strong></a><strong> </strong>\r\nAnywho, life getting in the way is... well... <em>life.</em> \r\n\r\nI need to get a grip and get on with mine. \r\n\r\nSo here we are.  One year later with fabulous new virtual digs (thank you, Shawn), a techie Svengali to teach me how to keep this puppy running smoothly (thank you, Svenny), and a frenetically fun mission:\r\n<blockquote>To try one new/inspiring/interesting/uplifting/provocative/or curiosity-injected thing each day for 365 days. </blockquote>\r\nThis is the point where everyone asks, \"How are you going to keep this up?\"\r\n\r\nFret not and leave the \"how\" to me.  I am on a mission, and missions lead people to all things possible. \r\n\r\nI am sure that my daily espresso addiction will fuel this mayhem.  Currently, my poison is two shots a day.  (Italian, of course.)  Let\'s see how much I\'m consuming when all is said and done. \r\n\r\nMore importantly, your support and encouragement will keep me revved up (and hold me accountable).  I am actively seeking cohorts to accompany me in whichever way you choose: \r\n<ul>\r\n	<li>Leave a comment on an (almost) daily post.</li>\r\n	<li><strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/talk-to-me/\" target=\"_blank\">Talk to Me.</a></strong>  What\'s on your mind, cupcake? </li>\r\n	<li><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/submit-a-365-idea/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Submit a 365 idea.</strong> </a> Be creative.  Be nice.</li>\r\n	<li>Friends in my fair city:  Pick a day and let\'s go!</li>\r\n	<li>Friends in faraway places:  Bloom where you are planted.  And then please share your story!</li>\r\n</ul>\r\nIf this post is your first visit to this blog, please check out <strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/365-or-bust/\" target=\"_blank\">365 or Bust</a></strong> and <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/about/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>What Makes Me Tick</strong> </a>to gather a better understanding of the history and quirkiness behind this project. \r\n\r\nJoin the inner circle of bloominess by <strong><a href=\"http://feeds.feedburner.com/latebloomerdiary\" target=\"_blank\">subscribing via email or RSS</a></strong>.  It\'s free, it\'s fun, it\'s easy, and it\'s the best way to keep in touch. \r\n\r\nToday I turn 41, and I am no longer waiting for Happy Ever After to show up.  I\'m creating my own fairy tale. \r\n\r\nAn intriguing and captivating  fairy tale isn\'t a One-Princess Show!  Who wants to join my chast of characters?\r\n\r\nCarpe Diem and all that jazz!','Day 1:  Look Mom!  I\'m a Big Girl Blogger Now!','','inherit','open','open','','328-revision-28','','','2010-09-14 21:20:37','2010-09-15 04:20:37','',328,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/09/14/328-revision-28/',0,'revision','',0),(355,1,'2010-09-14 21:20:15','2010-09-15 04:20:15',' \r\n\r\nLast year on this very day, I launched an embarrassingly green (literally and figuratively) blog at <strong><a href=\"http://www.latebloomerdiary.blogspot.com/\" target=\"_blank\">blogspot.</a></strong>\r\n\r\nI had no idea what I was doing, but I was extremely well-intentioned and needed a 40th birthday project to keep me from slipping into a full-blown mid-life crisis. \r\n\r\nIt didn\'t work.\r\n\r\nI plunged head-first into an existential crisis.  (I prefer \"existential\" over \"mid-life\" because it sounds so Kierkegaardian and cool.) \r\n\r\nLife kinda sorta got in the way.  You can savor the thoroughly melodramatic details by reading <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/365-or-bust/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>365 or Bust. </strong></a><strong> </strong>\r\n\r\n<br/>Anywho, life getting in the way is... well... <em>life.</em> \r\n\r\nI need to get a grip and get on with mine. \r\n\r\nSo here we are.  One year later with fabulous new virtual digs (thank you, Shawn), a techie Svengali to teach me how to keep this puppy running smoothly (thank you, Svenny), and a frenetically fun mission:\r\n<blockquote>To try one new/inspiring/interesting/uplifting/provocative/or curiosity-injected thing each day for 365 days. </blockquote>\r\nThis is the point where everyone asks, \"How are you going to keep this up?\"\r\n\r\nFret not and leave the \"how\" to me.  I am on a mission, and missions lead people to all things possible. \r\n\r\nI am sure that my daily espresso addiction will fuel this mayhem.  Currently, my poison is two shots a day.  (Italian, of course.)  Let\'s see how much I\'m consuming when all is said and done. \r\n\r\nMore importantly, your support and encouragement will keep me revved up (and hold me accountable).  I am actively seeking cohorts to accompany me in whichever way you choose: \r\n<ul>\r\n	<li>Leave a comment on an (almost) daily post.</li>\r\n	<li><strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/talk-to-me/\" target=\"_blank\">Talk to Me.</a></strong>  What\'s on your mind, cupcake? </li>\r\n	<li><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/submit-a-365-idea/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Submit a 365 idea.</strong> </a> Be creative.  Be nice.</li>\r\n	<li>Friends in my fair city:  Pick a day and let\'s go!</li>\r\n	<li>Friends in faraway places:  Bloom where you are planted.  And then please share your story!</li>\r\n</ul>\r\nIf this post is your first visit to this blog, please check out <strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/365-or-bust/\" target=\"_blank\">365 or Bust</a></strong> and <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/about/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>What Makes Me Tick</strong> </a>to gather a better understanding of the history and quirkiness behind this project. \r\n\r\nJoin the inner circle of bloominess by <strong><a href=\"http://feeds.feedburner.com/latebloomerdiary\" target=\"_blank\">subscribing via email or RSS</a></strong>.  It\'s free, it\'s fun, it\'s easy, and it\'s the best way to keep in touch. \r\n\r\nToday I turn 41, and I am no longer waiting for Happy Ever After to show up.  I\'m creating my own fairy tale. \r\n\r\nAn intriguing and captivating  fairy tale isn\'t a One-Princess Show!  Who wants to join my chast of characters?\r\n\r\nCarpe Diem and all that jazz!','Day 1:  Look Mom!  I\'m a Big Girl Blogger Now!','','inherit','open','open','','328-revision-27','','','2010-09-14 21:20:15','2010-09-15 04:20:15','',328,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/09/14/328-revision-27/',0,'revision','',0),(357,1,'2010-09-14 21:20:52','2010-09-15 04:20:52',' \r\n\r\nLast year on this very day, I launched an embarrassingly green (literally and figuratively) blog at <strong><a href=\"http://www.latebloomerdiary.blogspot.com/\" target=\"_blank\">blogspot.</a></strong>\r\n\r\nI had no idea what I was doing, but I was extremely well-intentioned and needed a 40th birthday project to keep me from slipping into a full-blown mid-life crisis. \r\n\r\nIt didn\'t work.\r\n\r\nI plunged head-first into an existential crisis.  (I prefer \"existential\" over \"mid-life\" because it sounds so Kierkegaardian and cool.) \r\n\r\nLife kinda sorta got in the way.  You can savor the thoroughly melodramatic details by reading <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/365-or-bust/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>365 or Bust. </strong></a><strong> </strong>\r\n\r\nAnywho, life getting in the way is... well... <em>life.</em> \r\n\r\nI need to get a grip and get on with mine. \r\n\r\nSo here we are.  One year later with fabulous new virtual digs (thank you, Shawn), a techie Svengali to teach me how to keep this puppy running smoothly (thank you, Svenny), and a frenetically fun mission:\r\n<blockquote>To try one new/inspiring/interesting/uplifting/provocative/or curiosity-injected thing each day for 365 days. </blockquote>\r\nThis is the point where everyone asks, \"How are you going to keep this up?\"\r\n\r\nFret not and leave the \"how\" to me.  I am on a mission, and missions lead people to all things possible. \r\n\r\nI am sure that my daily espresso addiction will fuel this mayhem.  Currently, my poison is two shots a day.  (Italian, of course.)  Let\'s see how much I\'m consuming when all is said and done. \r\n\r\nMore importantly, your support and encouragement will keep me revved up (and hold me accountable).  I am actively seeking cohorts to accompany me in whichever way you choose: \r\n<ul>\r\n	<li>Leave a comment on an (almost) daily post.</li>\r\n	<li><strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/talk-to-me/\" target=\"_blank\">Talk to Me.</a></strong>  What\'s on your mind, cupcake? </li>\r\n	<li><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/submit-a-365-idea/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Submit a 365 idea.</strong> </a> Be creative.  Be nice.</li>\r\n	<li>Friends in my fair city:  Pick a day and let\'s go!</li>\r\n	<li>Friends in faraway places:  Bloom where you are planted.  And then please share your story!</li>\r\n</ul>\r\nIf this post is your first visit to this blog, please check out <strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/365-or-bust/\" target=\"_blank\">365 or Bust</a></strong> and <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/about/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>What Makes Me Tick</strong> </a>to gather a better understanding of the history and quirkiness behind this project. \r\n\r\nJoin the inner circle of bloominess by <strong><a href=\"http://feeds.feedburner.com/latebloomerdiary\" target=\"_blank\">subscribing via email or RSS</a></strong>.  It\'s free, it\'s fun, it\'s easy, and it\'s the best way to keep in touch. \r\n\r\nToday I turn 41, and I am no longer waiting for Happy Ever After to show up.  I\'m creating my own fairy tale. \r\n\r\nAn intriguing and captivating  fairy tale isn\'t a One-Princess Show!  Who wants to join my chast of characters?\r\n\r\nCarpe Diem and all that jazz!','Day 1:  Look Mom!  I\'m a Big Girl Blogger Now!','','inherit','open','open','','328-revision-29','','','2010-09-14 21:20:52','2010-09-15 04:20:52','',328,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/09/14/328-revision-29/',0,'revision','',0),(358,1,'2010-09-14 21:21:11','2010-09-15 04:21:11',' \r\n\r\nLast year on this very day, I launched an embarrassingly green (literally and figuratively) blog at <strong><a href=\"http://www.latebloomerdiary.blogspot.com/\" target=\"_blank\">blogspot.</a></strong>\r\n\r\nI had no idea what I was doing, but I was extremely well-intentioned and needed a 40th birthday project to keep me from slipping into a full-blown mid-life crisis. \r\n\r\nIt didn\'t work.\r\n\r\nI plunged head-first into an existential crisis.  (I prefer \"existential\" over \"mid-life\" because it sounds so Kierkegaardian and cool.) \r\n\r\nLife kinda sorta got in the way.  You can savor the thoroughly melodramatic details by reading <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/365-or-bust/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>365 or Bust. </strong></a><strong> </strong>\r\n\r\nAnywho, life getting in the way is... well... <em>life.</em> \r\n\r\nI need to get a grip and get on with mine. \r\n\r\nSo here we are.  One year later with fabulous new virtual digs (thank you, Shawn), a techie Svengali to teach me how to keep this puppy running smoothly (thank you, Svenny), and a frenetically fun mission:\r\n<blockquote>To try one new/inspiring/interesting/uplifting/provocative/or curiosity-injected thing each day for 365 days. </blockquote>\r\nThis is the point where everyone asks, \"How are you going to keep this up?\"\r\n\r\nFret not and leave the \"how\" to me.  I am on a mission, and missions lead people to all things possible. \r\n\r\nI am sure that my daily espresso addiction will fuel this mayhem.  Currently, my poison is two shots a day.  (Italian, of course.)  Let\'s see how much I\'m consuming when all is said and done. \r\n\r\nMore importantly, your support and encouragement will keep me revved up (and hold me accountable).  I am actively seeking cohorts to accompany me in whichever way you choose: \r\n<ul>\r\n	<li>Leave a comment on an (almost) daily post.</li>\r\n	<li><strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/talk-to-me/\" target=\"_blank\">Talk to Me.</a></strong>  What\'s on your mind, cupcake? </li>\r\n	<li><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/submit-a-365-idea/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Submit a 365 idea.</strong> </a> Be creative.  Be nice.</li>\r\n	<li>Friends in my fair city:  Pick a day and let\'s go!</li>\r\n	<li>Friends in faraway places:  Bloom where you are planted.  And then please share your story!</li>\r\n</ul>\r\nIf this post is your first visit to this blog, please check out <strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/365-or-bust/\" target=\"_blank\">365 or Bust</a></strong> and <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/about/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>What Makes Me Tick</strong> </a>to gather a better understanding of the history and quirkiness behind this project. \r\n\r\nJoin the inner circle of bloominess by <strong><a href=\"http://feeds.feedburner.com/latebloomerdiary\" target=\"_blank\">subscribing via email or RSS</a></strong>.  It\'s free, it\'s fun, it\'s easy, and it\'s the best way to keep in touch. \r\n\r\nToday I turn 41, and I am no longer waiting for Happy Ever After to show up.  I\'m creating my own fairy tale. \r\n\r\nAn intriguing and captivating  fairy tale isn\'t a One-Princess Show!  Who wants to join my chast of characters?\r\n\r\nCarpe Diem and all that jazz!','Day 1:  Look Mom!  I\'m a Big Girl Blogger Now!','','inherit','open','open','','328-revision-30','','','2010-09-14 21:21:11','2010-09-15 04:21:11','',328,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/09/14/328-revision-30/',0,'revision','',0),(362,1,'2010-09-14 21:23:23','2010-09-15 04:23:23',' \r\n\r\nLast year on this very day, I launched an embarrassingly green (literally and figuratively) blog at <strong><a href=\"http://www.latebloomerdiary.blogspot.com/\" target=\"_blank\">blogspot.</a></strong>\r\n\r\nI had no idea what I was doing, but I was extremely well-intentioned and needed a 40th birthday project to keep me from slipping into a full-blown mid-life crisis. \r\n\r\nIt didn\'t work.\r\n\r\nI plunged head-first into an existential crisis.  (I prefer \"existential\" over \"mid-life\" because it sounds so Kierkegaardian and cool.) \r\n\r\nLife kinda sorta got in the way.  You can savor the thoroughly melodramatic details by reading <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/365-or-bust/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>365 or Bust. </strong></a><strong> </strong>\r\n\r\n\r\nAnywho, life getting in the way is... well... <em>life.</em> \r\n\r\nI need to get a grip and get on with mine. \r\n\r\nSo here we are.  One year later with fabulous new virtual digs (thank you, Shawn), a techie Svengali to teach me how to keep this puppy running smoothly (thank you, Svenny), and a frenetically fun mission:\r\n<blockquote>To try one new/inspiring/interesting/uplifting/provocative/or curiosity-injected thing each day for 365 days. </blockquote>\r\nThis is the point where everyone asks, \"How are you going to keep this up?\"\r\n\r\nFret not and leave the \"how\" to me.  I am on a mission, and missions lead people to all things possible. \r\n\r\nI am sure that my daily espresso addiction will fuel this mayhem.  Currently, my poison is two shots a day.  (Italian, of course.)  Let\'s see how much I\'m consuming when all is said and done. \r\n\r\nMore importantly, your support and encouragement will keep me revved up (and hold me accountable).  I am actively seeking cohorts to accompany me in whichever way you choose: \r\n<ul>\r\n	<li>Leave a comment on an (almost) daily post.</li>\r\n	<li><strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/talk-to-me/\" target=\"_blank\">Talk to Me.</a></strong>  What\'s on your mind, cupcake? </li>\r\n	<li><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/submit-a-365-idea/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Submit a 365 idea.</strong> </a> Be creative.  Be nice.</li>\r\n	<li>Friends in my fair city:  Pick a day and let\'s go!</li>\r\n	<li>Friends in faraway places:  Bloom where you are planted.  And then please share your story!</li>\r\n</ul>\r\nIf this post is your first visit to this blog, please check out <strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/365-or-bust/\" target=\"_blank\">365 or Bust</a></strong> and <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/about/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>What Makes Me Tick</strong> </a>to gather a better understanding of the history and quirkiness behind this project. \r\n\r\nJoin the inner circle of bloominess by <strong><a href=\"http://feeds.feedburner.com/latebloomerdiary\" target=\"_blank\">subscribing via email or RSS</a></strong>.  It\'s free, it\'s fun, it\'s easy, and it\'s the best way to keep in touch. \r\n\r\nToday I turn 41, and I am no longer waiting for Happy Ever After to show up.  I\'m creating my own fairy tale. \r\n\r\nAn intriguing and captivating  fairy tale isn\'t a One-Princess Show!  Who wants to join my chast of characters?\r\n\r\nCarpe Diem and all that jazz!','Day 1:  Look Mom!  I\'m a Big Girl Blogger Now!','','inherit','open','open','','328-revision-34','','','2010-09-14 21:23:23','2010-09-15 04:23:23','',328,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/09/14/328-revision-34/',0,'revision','',0),(360,1,'2010-09-14 21:23:01','2010-09-15 04:23:01',' \r\n\r\nLast year on this very day, I launched an embarrassingly green (literally and figuratively) blog at <strong><a href=\"http://www.latebloomerdiary.blogspot.com/\" target=\"_blank\">blogspot.</a></strong>\r\n\r\nI had no idea what I was doing, but I was extremely well-intentioned and needed a 40th birthday project to keep me from slipping into a full-blown mid-life crisis. \r\n\r\nIt didn\'t work.\r\n\r\nI plunged head-first into an existential crisis.  (I prefer \"existential\" over \"mid-life\" because it sounds so Kierkegaardian and cool.) \r\n\r\nLife kinda sorta got in the way.  You can savor the thoroughly melodramatic details by reading <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/365-or-bust/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>365 or Bust. </strong></a><strong> </strong>\r\n<br/>\r\nAnywho, life getting in the way is... well... <em>life.</em> \r\n\r\nI need to get a grip and get on with mine. \r\n\r\nSo here we are.  One year later with fabulous new virtual digs (thank you, Shawn), a techie Svengali to teach me how to keep this puppy running smoothly (thank you, Svenny), and a frenetically fun mission:\r\n<blockquote>To try one new/inspiring/interesting/uplifting/provocative/or curiosity-injected thing each day for 365 days. </blockquote>\r\nThis is the point where everyone asks, \"How are you going to keep this up?\"\r\n\r\nFret not and leave the \"how\" to me.  I am on a mission, and missions lead people to all things possible. \r\n\r\nI am sure that my daily espresso addiction will fuel this mayhem.  Currently, my poison is two shots a day.  (Italian, of course.)  Let\'s see how much I\'m consuming when all is said and done. \r\n\r\nMore importantly, your support and encouragement will keep me revved up (and hold me accountable).  I am actively seeking cohorts to accompany me in whichever way you choose: \r\n<ul>\r\n	<li>Leave a comment on an (almost) daily post.</li>\r\n	<li><strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/talk-to-me/\" target=\"_blank\">Talk to Me.</a></strong>  What\'s on your mind, cupcake? </li>\r\n	<li><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/submit-a-365-idea/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Submit a 365 idea.</strong> </a> Be creative.  Be nice.</li>\r\n	<li>Friends in my fair city:  Pick a day and let\'s go!</li>\r\n	<li>Friends in faraway places:  Bloom where you are planted.  And then please share your story!</li>\r\n</ul>\r\nIf this post is your first visit to this blog, please check out <strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/365-or-bust/\" target=\"_blank\">365 or Bust</a></strong> and <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/about/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>What Makes Me Tick</strong> </a>to gather a better understanding of the history and quirkiness behind this project. \r\n\r\nJoin the inner circle of bloominess by <strong><a href=\"http://feeds.feedburner.com/latebloomerdiary\" target=\"_blank\">subscribing via email or RSS</a></strong>.  It\'s free, it\'s fun, it\'s easy, and it\'s the best way to keep in touch. \r\n\r\nToday I turn 41, and I am no longer waiting for Happy Ever After to show up.  I\'m creating my own fairy tale. \r\n\r\nAn intriguing and captivating  fairy tale isn\'t a One-Princess Show!  Who wants to join my chast of characters?\r\n\r\nCarpe Diem and all that jazz!','Day 1:  Look Mom!  I\'m a Big Girl Blogger Now!','','inherit','open','open','','328-revision-32','','','2010-09-14 21:23:01','2010-09-15 04:23:01','',328,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/09/14/328-revision-32/',0,'revision','',0),(359,1,'2010-09-14 21:21:20','2010-09-15 04:21:20','<p> </p>\r\n<p>Last year on this very day, I launched an embarrassingly green (literally and figuratively) blog at <strong><a href=\"http://www.latebloomerdiary.blogspot.com/\" target=\"_blank\">blogspot.</a></strong></p>\r\n<p>I had no idea what I was doing, but I was extremely well-intentioned and needed a 40th birthday project to keep me from slipping into a full-blown mid-life crisis. </p>\r\n<p>It didn\'t work.</p>\r\n<p>I plunged head-first into an existential crisis.  (I prefer \"existential\" over \"mid-life\" because it sounds so Kierkegaardian and cool.) </p>\r\n<p>Life kinda sorta got in the way.  You can savor the thoroughly melodramatic details by reading <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/365-or-bust/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>365 or Bust. </strong></a><strong> </strong></p>\r\n<p>Anywho, life getting in the way is... well... <em>life.</em> </p>\r\n<p>I need to get a grip and get on with mine. </p>\r\n<p>So here we are.  One year later with fabulous new virtual digs (thank you, Shawn), a techie Svengali to teach me how to keep this puppy running smoothly (thank you, Svenny), and a frenetically fun mission:</p>\r\n<blockquote><p>To try one new/inspiring/interesting/uplifting/provocative/or curiosity-injected thing each day for 365 days. </p></blockquote>\r\n<p>This is the point where everyone asks, \"How are you going to keep this up?\"</p>\r\n<p>Fret not and leave the \"how\" to me.  I am on a mission, and missions lead people to all things possible. </p>\r\n<p>I am sure that my daily espresso addiction will fuel this mayhem.  Currently, my poison is two shots a day.  (Italian, of course.)  Let\'s see how much I\'m consuming when all is said and done. </p>\r\n<p>More importantly, your support and encouragement will keep me revved up (and hold me accountable).  I am actively seeking cohorts to accompany me in whichever way you choose: </p>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li>Leave a comment on an (almost) daily post.</li>\r\n<li><strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/talk-to-me/\" target=\"_blank\">Talk to Me.</a></strong>  What\'s on your mind, cupcake? </li>\r\n<li><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/submit-a-365-idea/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Submit a 365 idea.</strong> </a> Be creative.  Be nice.</li>\r\n<li>Friends in my fair city:  Pick a day and let\'s go!</li>\r\n<li>Friends in faraway places:  Bloom where you are planted.  And then please share your story!</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n<p>If this post is your first visit to this blog, please check out <strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/365-or-bust/\" target=\"_blank\">365 or Bust</a></strong> and <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/about/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>What Makes Me Tick</strong> </a>to gather a better understanding of the history and quirkiness behind this project. </p>\r\n<p>Join the inner circle of bloominess by <strong><a href=\"http://feeds.feedburner.com/latebloomerdiary\" target=\"_blank\">subscribing via email or RSS</a></strong>.  It\'s free, it\'s fun, it\'s easy, and it\'s the best way to keep in touch. </p>\r\n<p>Today I turn 41, and I am no longer waiting for Happy Ever After to show up.  I\'m creating my own fairy tale. </p>\r\n<p>An intriguing and captivating  fairy tale isn\'t a One-Princess Show!  Who wants to join my chast of characters?</p>\r\n<p>Carpe Diem and all that jazz!</p>\r\n','Day 1:  Look Mom!  I\'m a Big Girl Blogger Now!','','inherit','open','open','','328-revision-31','','','2010-09-14 21:21:20','2010-09-15 04:21:20','',328,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/09/14/328-revision-31/',0,'revision','',0),(361,1,'2010-09-14 21:23:17','2010-09-15 04:23:17',' \r\n\r\nLast year on this very day, I launched an embarrassingly green (literally and figuratively) blog at <strong><a href=\"http://www.latebloomerdiary.blogspot.com/\" target=\"_blank\">blogspot.</a></strong>\r\n\r\nI had no idea what I was doing, but I was extremely well-intentioned and needed a 40th birthday project to keep me from slipping into a full-blown mid-life crisis. \r\n\r\nIt didn\'t work.\r\n\r\nI plunged head-first into an existential crisis.  (I prefer \"existential\" over \"mid-life\" because it sounds so Kierkegaardian and cool.) \r\n\r\nLife kinda sorta got in the way.  You can savor the thoroughly melodramatic details by reading <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/365-or-bust/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>365 or Bust. </strong></a><strong> </strong>\r\n<br/>\r\nAnywho, life getting in the way is... well... <em>life.</em> \r\n\r\nI need to get a grip and get on with mine. \r\n\r\nSo here we are.  One year later with fabulous new virtual digs (thank you, Shawn), a techie Svengali to teach me how to keep this puppy running smoothly (thank you, Svenny), and a frenetically fun mission:\r\n<blockquote>To try one new/inspiring/interesting/uplifting/provocative/or curiosity-injected thing each day for 365 days. </blockquote>\r\nThis is the point where everyone asks, \"How are you going to keep this up?\"\r\n\r\nFret not and leave the \"how\" to me.  I am on a mission, and missions lead people to all things possible. \r\n\r\nI am sure that my daily espresso addiction will fuel this mayhem.  Currently, my poison is two shots a day.  (Italian, of course.)  Let\'s see how much I\'m consuming when all is said and done. \r\n\r\nMore importantly, your support and encouragement will keep me revved up (and hold me accountable).  I am actively seeking cohorts to accompany me in whichever way you choose: \r\n<ul>\r\n	<li>Leave a comment on an (almost) daily post.</li>\r\n	<li><strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/talk-to-me/\" target=\"_blank\">Talk to Me.</a></strong>  What\'s on your mind, cupcake? </li>\r\n	<li><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/submit-a-365-idea/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Submit a 365 idea.</strong> </a> Be creative.  Be nice.</li>\r\n	<li>Friends in my fair city:  Pick a day and let\'s go!</li>\r\n	<li>Friends in faraway places:  Bloom where you are planted.  And then please share your story!</li>\r\n</ul>\r\nIf this post is your first visit to this blog, please check out <strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/365-or-bust/\" target=\"_blank\">365 or Bust</a></strong> and <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/about/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>What Makes Me Tick</strong> </a>to gather a better understanding of the history and quirkiness behind this project. \r\n\r\nJoin the inner circle of bloominess by <strong><a href=\"http://feeds.feedburner.com/latebloomerdiary\" target=\"_blank\">subscribing via email or RSS</a></strong>.  It\'s free, it\'s fun, it\'s easy, and it\'s the best way to keep in touch. \r\n\r\nToday I turn 41, and I am no longer waiting for Happy Ever After to show up.  I\'m creating my own fairy tale. \r\n\r\nAn intriguing and captivating  fairy tale isn\'t a One-Princess Show!  Who wants to join my chast of characters?\r\n\r\nCarpe Diem and all that jazz!','Day 1:  Look Mom!  I\'m a Big Girl Blogger Now!','','inherit','open','open','','328-revision-33','','','2010-09-14 21:23:17','2010-09-15 04:23:17','',328,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/09/14/328-revision-33/',0,'revision','',0),(616,1,'2010-09-22 14:40:57','2010-09-22 21:40:57','','pedi','','inherit','open','open','','pedi','','','2010-09-22 14:40:57','2010-09-22 21:40:57','',615,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/pedi.jpg',0,'attachment','image/jpeg',0),(365,1,'2010-09-14 21:28:13','2010-09-15 04:28:13','Last year on this very day, I launched an embarrassingly green (literally and figuratively) blog at <strong><a href=\"http://www.latebloomerdiary.blogspot.com/\" target=\"_blank\">blogspot.</a></strong>\r\n\r\nI had no idea what I was doing, but I was extremely well-intentioned and needed a 40th birthday project to keep me from slipping into a full-blown mid-life crisis.\r\n\r\nIt didn\'t work.\r\n\r\nI plunged head-first into an existential crisis.  (I prefer \"existential\" over \"mid-life\" because it sounds so Kierkegaardian and cool.)\r\n\r\nLife kinda sorta got in the way.  You can savor the thoroughly melodramatic details by reading <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/365-or-bust/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>365 or Bust. </strong></a><strong> </strong>\r\n\r\nAnywho, life getting in the way is... well... <em>life.</em>\r\n\r\nI need to get a grip and get on with mine.\r\n\r\nSo here we are.  One year later with fabulous new virtual digs (thank you, Shawn), a techie Svengali to teach me how to keep this puppy running smoothly (thank you, Svenny), and a frenetically fun mission:\r\n<blockquote>To try one new/inspiring/interesting/uplifting/provocative/or curiosity-injected thing each day for 365 days.</blockquote>\r\nThis is the point where everyone asks, \"How are you going to keep this up?\"\r\n\r\nFret not and leave the \"how\" to me.  I am on a mission, and missions lead people to all things possible.\r\n\r\nI am sure that my daily espresso addiction will fuel this mayhem.  Currently, my poison is two shots a day.  (Italian, of course.)  Let\'s see how much I\'m consuming when all is said and done.\r\n\r\nMore importantly, your support and encouragement will keep me revved up (and hold me accountable).  I am actively seeking cohorts to accompany me in whichever way you choose:\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li>Leave a comment on an (almost) daily post.</li>\r\n	<li><strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/talk-to-me/\" target=\"_blank\">Talk to Me.</a></strong> What\'s on your mind, cupcake?</li>\r\n	<li><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/submit-a-365-idea/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Submit a 365 idea.</strong> </a> Be creative.  Be nice.</li>\r\n	<li>Friends in my fair city:  Pick a day and let\'s go!</li>\r\n	<li>Friends in faraway places:  Bloom where you are planted.  And then please share your story!</li>\r\n</ul>\r\nIf this post is your first visit to this blog, please check out <strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/365-or-bust/\" target=\"_blank\">365 or Bust</a></strong> and <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/about/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>What Makes Me Tick</strong> </a>to gather a better understanding of the history and quirkiness behind this project.\r\n\r\nJoin the inner circle of bloominess by <strong><a href=\"http://feeds.feedburner.com/latebloomerdiary\" target=\"_blank\">subscribing via email or RSS</a></strong>.  It\'s free, it\'s fun, it\'s easy, and it\'s the best way to keep in touch.\r\n\r\n\r\nToday I turn 41, and I am no longer waiting for Happy Ever After to show up.  I\'m creating my own fairy tale.\r\n\r\nAn intriguing and captivating  fairy tale isn\'t a One-Princess Show!  Who wants to join my chast of characters?\r\n\r\nCarpe Diem and all that jazz!','Day 1:  Look Mom!  I\'m a Big Girl Blogger Now!','','inherit','open','open','','328-revision-36','','','2010-09-14 21:28:13','2010-09-15 04:28:13','',328,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/09/14/328-revision-36/',0,'revision','',0),(366,1,'2010-09-14 21:36:58','2010-09-15 04:36:58','Last year on this very day, I launched an embarrassingly green (literally and figuratively) blog at <strong><a href=\"http://www.latebloomerdiary.blogspot.com/\" target=\"_blank\">blogspot.</a></strong>\r\n\r\nI had no idea what I was doing, but I was extremely well-intentioned and needed a 40th birthday project to keep me from slipping into a full-blown mid-life crisis.\r\n\r\nIt didn\'t work.\r\n\r\nI plunged head-first into an existential crisis.  (I prefer \"existential\" over \"mid-life\" because it sounds so Kierkegaardian and cool.)\r\n\r\nLife kinda sorta got in the way.  You can savor the thoroughly melodramatic details by reading <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/365-or-bust/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>365 or Bust. </strong></a><strong> </strong>\r\n\r\nAnywho, life getting in the way is... well... <em>life.</em>\r\n\r\nI need to get a grip and get on with mine.\r\n\r\nSo here we are.  One year later with fabulous new virtual digs (thank you, Shawn), a techie Svengali to teach me how to keep this puppy running smoothly (thank you, Svenny), and a frenetically fun mission:\r\n<blockquote>To try one new/inspiring/interesting/uplifting/provocative/or curiosity-injected thing each day for 365 days.</blockquote>\r\nThis is the point where everyone asks, \"How are you going to keep this up?\"\r\n\r\nFret not and leave the \"how\" to me.  I am on a mission, and missions lead people to all things possible.\r\n\r\nI am sure that my daily espresso addiction will fuel this mayhem.  Currently, my poison is two shots a day.  (Italian, of course.)  Let\'s see how much I\'m consuming when all is said and done.\r\n\r\nMore importantly, your support and encouragement will keep me revved up (and hold me accountable).  I am actively seeking cohorts to accompany me in whichever way you choose:\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li>Leave a comment on an (almost) daily post.</li>\r\n	<li><strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/talk-to-me/\" target=\"_blank\">Talk to Me.</a></strong> What\'s on your mind, cupcake?</li>\r\n	<li><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/submit-a-365-idea/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Submit a 365 idea.</strong> </a> Be creative.  Be nice.</li>\r\n	<li>Friends in my fair city:  Pick a day and let\'s go!</li>\r\n	<li>Friends in faraway places:  Bloom where you are planted.  And then please share your story!</li>\r\n</ul>\r\nIf this post is your first visit to this blog, please check out <strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/365-or-bust/\" target=\"_blank\">365 or Bust</a></strong> and <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/about/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>What Makes Me Tick</strong> </a>to gather a better understanding of the history and quirkiness behind this project.\r\n\r\nJoin the inner circle of bloominess by <strong><a href=\"http://feeds.feedburner.com/latebloomerdiary\" target=\"_blank\">subscribing via email or RSS</a></strong>.  It\'s free, it\'s fun, it\'s easy, and it\'s the best way to keep in touch.\r\n\r\nToday I turn 41, and I am no longer waiting for Happy Ever After to show up.  I\'m creating my own fairy tale.\r\n\r\nAn intriguing and captivating  fairy tale isn\'t a One-Princess Show!  Who wants to join my chast of characters?\r\n\r\nCarpe Diem and all that jazz!','Day 1:  Look Mom!  I\'m a Big Girl Blogger Now!','','inherit','open','open','','328-revision-37','','','2010-09-14 21:36:58','2010-09-15 04:36:58','',328,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/09/14/328-revision-37/',0,'revision','',0),(367,1,'2010-09-14 21:37:16','2010-09-15 04:37:16','Last year on this very day, I launched an embarrassingly green (literally and figuratively) blog at <strong><a href=\"http://www.latebloomerdiary.blogspot.com/\" target=\"_blank\">blogspot.</a></strong>\r\n\r\nI had no idea what I was doing, but I was extremely well-intentioned and needed a 40th birthday project to keep me from slipping into a full-blown mid-life crisis.\r\n\r\nIt didn\'t work.\r\n\r\nI plunged head-first into an existential crisis.  (I prefer \"existential\" over \"mid-life\" because it sounds so Kierkegaardian and cool.)\r\n\r\nLife kinda sorta got in the way.  You can savor the thoroughly melodramatic details by reading <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/365-or-bust/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>365 or Bust. </strong></a>\r\n\r\n<strong> </strong>\r\n\r\nAnywho, life getting in the way is... well... <em>life.</em>\r\n\r\nI need to get a grip and get on with mine.\r\n\r\nSo here we are.  One year later with fabulous new virtual digs (thank you, Shawn), a techie Svengali to teach me how to keep this puppy running smoothly (thank you, Svenny), and a frenetically fun mission:\r\n<blockquote>To try one new/inspiring/interesting/uplifting/provocative/or curiosity-injected thing each day for 365 days.</blockquote>\r\nThis is the point where everyone asks, \"How are you going to keep this up?\"\r\n\r\nFret not and leave the \"how\" to me.  I am on a mission, and missions lead people to all things possible.\r\n\r\nI am sure that my daily espresso addiction will fuel this mayhem.  Currently, my poison is two shots a day.  (Italian, of course.)  Let\'s see how much I\'m consuming when all is said and done.\r\n\r\nMore importantly, your support and encouragement will keep me revved up (and hold me accountable).  I am actively seeking cohorts to accompany me in whichever way you choose:\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li>Leave a comment on an (almost) daily post.</li>\r\n	<li><strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/talk-to-me/\" target=\"_blank\">Talk to Me.</a></strong> What\'s on your mind, cupcake?</li>\r\n	<li><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/submit-a-365-idea/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Submit a 365 idea.</strong> </a>Be creative.  Be nice.</li>\r\n	<li>Friends in my fair city:  Pick a day and let\'s go!</li>\r\n	<li>Friends in faraway places:  Bloom where you are planted.  And then please share your story!</li>\r\n</ul>\r\nIf this post is your first visit to this blog, please check out <strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/365-or-bust/\" target=\"_blank\">365 or Bust</a></strong> and <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/about/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>What Makes Me Tick</strong> </a>to gather a better understanding of the history and quirkiness behind this project.\r\n\r\nJoin the inner circle of bloominess by <strong><a href=\"http://feeds.feedburner.com/latebloomerdiary\" target=\"_blank\">subscribing via email or RSS</a></strong>.  It\'s free, it\'s fun, it\'s easy, and it\'s the best way to keep in touch.\r\n\r\nToday I turn 41, and I am no longer waiting for Happy Ever After to show up.  I\'m creating my own fairy tale.\r\n\r\nAn intriguing and captivating  fairy tale isn\'t a One-Princess Show!  Who wants to join my chast of characters?\r\n\r\nCarpe Diem and all that jazz!','Day 1:  Look Mom!  I\'m a Big Girl Blogger Now!','','inherit','open','open','','328-revision-38','','','2010-09-14 21:37:16','2010-09-15 04:37:16','',328,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/09/14/328-revision-38/',0,'revision','',0),(369,1,'2010-09-14 21:38:58','2010-09-15 04:38:58','Last year on this very day, I launched an embarrassingly green (literally and figuratively) blog at <strong><a href=\"http://www.latebloomerdiary.blogspot.com/\" target=\"_blank\">blogspot.</a></strong>\r\n\r\nI had no idea what I was doing, but I was extremely well-intentioned and needed a 40th birthday project to keep me from slipping into a full-blown mid-life crisis.\r\n\r\nIt didn\'t work.\r\n\r\nI plunged head-first into an existential crisis.  (I prefer \"existential\" over \"mid-life\" because it sounds so Kierkegaardian and cool.)\r\n\r\nLife kinda sorta got in the way.  You can savor the thoroughly melodramatic details by reading <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/365-or-bust/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>365 or Bust. </strong></a>\r\n\r\nAnywho, life getting in the way is... well... <em>life.</em>\r\n\r\nI need to get a grip and get on with mine.\r\n\r\nSo here we are.  One year later with fabulous new virtual digs (thank you, Shawn), a techie Svengali to teach me how to keep this puppy running smoothly (thank you, Svenny), and a frenetically fun mission:\r\n<blockquote>To try one new/inspiring/interesting/uplifting/provocative/or curiosity-injected thing each day for 365 days.</blockquote>\r\nThis is the point where everyone asks, \"How are you going to keep this up?\"\r\n\r\nFret not and leave the \"how\" to me.  I am on a mission, and missions lead people to all things possible.\r\n\r\nI am sure that my daily espresso addiction will fuel this mayhem.  Currently, my poison is two shots a day.  (Italian, of course.)  Let\'s see how much I\'m consuming when all is said and done.\r\n\r\nMore importantly, your support and encouragement will keep me revved up (and hold me accountable).  I am actively seeking cohorts to accompany me in whichever way you choose:\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li>Leave a comment on an (almost) daily post.</li>\r\n	<li><strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/talk-to-me/\" target=\"_blank\">Talk to Me.</a></strong> What\'s on your mind, cupcake?</li>\r\n	<li><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/submit-a-365-idea/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Submit a 365 idea.</strong> </a>Be creative.  Be nice.</li>\r\n	<li>Friends in my fair city:  Pick a day and let\'s go!</li>\r\n	<li>Friends in faraway places:  Bloom where you are planted.  And then please share your story!</li>\r\n</ul>\r\nIf this post is your first visit to this blog, please check out <strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/365-or-bust/\" target=\"_blank\">365 or Bust</a></strong> and <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/about/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>What Makes Me Tick</strong> </a>to gather a better understanding of the history and quirkiness behind this project.\r\n\r\nJoin the inner circle of bloominess by <strong><a href=\"http://feeds.feedburner.com/latebloomerdiary\" target=\"_blank\">subscribing via email or RSS</a></strong>.  It\'s free, it\'s fun, it\'s easy, and it\'s the best way to keep in touch.\r\n\r\nToday I turn 41, and I am no longer waiting for Happy Ever After to show up.  I\'m creating my own fairy tale.\r\n\r\nAn intriguing and captivating  fairy tale isn\'t a One-Princess Show!  Who wants to join my chast of characters?\r\n\r\nCarpe Diem and all that jazz!','Day 1:  Look Mom!  I\'m a Big Girl Blogger Now!','','inherit','open','open','','328-revision-40','','','2010-09-14 21:38:58','2010-09-15 04:38:58','',328,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/09/14/328-revision-40/',0,'revision','',0),(371,1,'2010-09-14 21:45:32','2010-09-15 04:45:32',' \r\n\r\nLast year on this very day, I launched an embarrassingly green (literally and figuratively) blog at <strong><a href=\"http://www.latebloomerdiary.blogspot.com/\" target=\"_blank\">blogspot.</a></strong>\r\n\r\nI had no idea what I was doing, but I was extremely well-intentioned and needed a 40th birthday project to keep me from slipping into a full-blown mid-life crisis.\r\n\r\nIt didn\'t work.\r\n\r\nI plunged head-first into an existential crisis.  (I prefer \"existential\" over \"mid-life\" because it sounds so Kierkegaardian and cool.)\r\n\r\nLife kinda sorta got in the way.  You can savor the thoroughly melodramatic details by reading <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/365-or-bust/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>365 or Bust. </strong></a>\r\n\r\nAnywho, life getting in the way is... well... <em>life.</em>\r\n\r\nI need to get a grip and get on with mine.\r\n\r\nSo here we are.  One year later with fabulous new virtual digs (thank you, Shawn), a techie Svengali to teach me how to keep this puppy running smoothly (thank you, Svenny), and a frenetically fun mission:\r\n<blockquote>To try one new/inspiring/interesting/uplifting/provocative/or curiosity-injected thing each day for 365 days.</blockquote>\r\nThis is the point where everyone asks, \"How are you going to keep this up?\"\r\n\r\nFret not and leave the \"how\" to me.  I am on a mission, and missions lead people to all things possible.\r\n\r\nI am sure that my daily espresso addiction will fuel this mayhem.  Currently, my poison is two shots a day.  (Italian, of course.)  Let\'s see how much I\'m consuming when all is said and done.\r\n\r\nMore importantly, your support and encouragement will keep me revved up (and hold me accountable).  I am actively seeking cohorts to accompany me in whichever way you choose:\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li>Leave a comment on an (almost) daily post.</li>\r\n	<li><strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/talk-to-me/\" target=\"_blank\">Talk to Me.</a></strong> What\'s on your mind, cupcake?</li>\r\n	<li><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/submit-a-365-idea/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Submit a 365 idea.</strong> </a>Be creative.  Be nice.</li>\r\n	<li>Friends in my fair city:  Pick a day and let\'s go!</li>\r\n	<li>Friends in faraway places:  Bloom where you are planted.  And then please share your story!</li>\r\n</ul>\r\nIf this post is your first visit to this blog, please check out <strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/365-or-bust/\" target=\"_blank\">365 or Bust</a></strong> and <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/about/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>What Makes Me Tick</strong> </a>to gather a better understanding of the history and quirkiness behind this project.\r\n\r\nJoin the inner circle of bloominess by <strong><a href=\"http://feeds.feedburner.com/latebloomerdiary\" target=\"_blank\">subscribing via email or RSS</a></strong>.  It\'s free, it\'s fun, it\'s easy, and it\'s the best way to keep in touch.\r\n\r\nToday I turn 41, and I am no longer waiting for Happy Ever After to show up.  I\'m creating my own fairy tale.\r\n\r\nAn intriguing and captivating  fairy tale isn\'t a One-Princess Show!  Who wants to join my chast of characters?\r\n\r\nCarpe Diem and all that jazz!','Day 1:  Look Mom!  I\'m a Big Girl Blogger Now!','','inherit','open','open','','328-revision-42','','','2010-09-14 21:45:32','2010-09-15 04:45:32','',328,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/09/14/328-revision-42/',0,'revision','',0),(370,1,'2010-09-14 21:44:37','2010-09-15 04:44:37','Last year on this very day, I launched an embarrassingly green (literally and figuratively) blog at <strong><a href=\"http://www.latebloomerdiary.blogspot.com/\" target=\"_blank\">blogspot.</a></strong>\r\n\r\nI had no idea what I was doing, but I was extremely well-intentioned and needed a 40th birthday project to keep me from slipping into a full-blown mid-life crisis.\r\n\r\nIt didn\'t work.\r\n\r\nI plunged head-first into an existential crisis.  (I prefer \"existential\" over \"mid-life\" because it sounds so Kierkegaardian and cool.)\r\n\r\nLife kinda sorta got in the way.  You can savor the thoroughly melodramatic details by reading <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/365-or-bust/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>365 or Bust. </strong></a>\r\n\r\nAnywho, life getting in the way is... well... <em>life.</em>\r\n\r\nI need to get a grip and get on with mine.\r\n\r\nSo here we are.  One year later with fabulous new virtual digs (thank you, Shawn), a techie Svengali to teach me how to keep this puppy running smoothly (thank you, Svenny), and a frenetically fun mission:\r\n<blockquote>To try one new/inspiring/interesting/uplifting/provocative/or curiosity-injected thing each day for 365 days.</blockquote>\r\nThis is the point where everyone asks, \"How are you going to keep this up?\"\r\n\r\nFret not and leave the \"how\" to me.  I am on a mission, and missions lead people to all things possible.\r\n\r\nI am sure that my daily espresso addiction will fuel this mayhem.  Currently, my poison is two shots a day.  (Italian, of course.)  Let\'s see how much I\'m consuming when all is said and done.\r\n\r\nMore importantly, your support and encouragement will keep me revved up (and hold me accountable).  I am actively seeking cohorts to accompany me in whichever way you choose:\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li>Leave a comment on an (almost) daily post.</li>\r\n	<li><strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/talk-to-me/\" target=\"_blank\">Talk to Me.</a></strong> What\'s on your mind, cupcake?</li>\r\n	<li><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/submit-a-365-idea/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Submit a 365 idea.</strong> </a>Be creative.  Be nice.</li>\r\n	<li>Friends in my fair city:  Pick a day and let\'s go!</li>\r\n	<li>Friends in faraway places:  Bloom where you are planted.  And then please share your story!</li>\r\n</ul>\r\nIf this post is your first visit to this blog, please check out <strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/365-or-bust/\" target=\"_blank\">365 or Bust</a></strong> and <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/about/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>What Makes Me Tick</strong> </a>to gather a better understanding of the history and quirkiness behind this project.\r\n\r\nJoin the inner circle of bloominess by <strong><a href=\"http://feeds.feedburner.com/latebloomerdiary\" target=\"_blank\">subscribing via email or RSS</a></strong>.  It\'s free, it\'s fun, it\'s easy, and it\'s the best way to keep in touch.\r\n\r\n♥     ♥      ♥      ♥      ♥ \r\n\r\nToday I turn 41, and I am no longer waiting for Happy Ever After to show up.  I\'m creating my own fairy tale.\r\n\r\nAn intriguing and captivating  fairy tale isn\'t a One-Princess Show!  Who wants to join my chast of characters?\r\n\r\nCarpe Diem and all that jazz!','Day 1:  Look Mom!  I\'m a Big Girl Blogger Now!','','inherit','open','open','','328-revision-41','','','2010-09-14 21:44:37','2010-09-15 04:44:37','',328,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/09/14/328-revision-41/',0,'revision','',0),(372,1,'2010-09-14 21:56:18','2010-09-15 04:56:18',' \r\n\r\nLast year on this very day, I launched an embarrassingly green (literally and figuratively) blog at <strong><a href=\"http://www.latebloomerdiary.blogspot.com/\" target=\"_blank\">blogspot.</a></strong>\r\n\r\nI had no idea what I was doing, but I was extremely well-intentioned and needed a 40th birthday project to keep me from slipping into a full-blown mid-life crisis.\r\n\r\nIt didn\'t work.\r\n\r\nI plunged head-first into an existential crisis.  (I prefer \"existential\" over \"mid-life\" because it sounds so Kierkegaardian and cool.)\r\n\r\nLife kinda sorta got in the way.  You can savor the thoroughly melodramatic details by reading <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/365-or-bust/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>365 or Bust. </strong></a>\r\n\r\nAnywho, life getting in the way is... well... <em>life.</em>\r\n\r\nI need to get a grip and get on with mine.\r\n\r\nSo here we are.  One year later with fabulous new virtual digs (thank you, Shawn), a techie Svengali to teach me how to keep this puppy running smoothly (thank you, Svenny), and a frenetically fun mission:\r\n<blockquote>To try one new/inspiring/interesting/uplifting/provocative/or curiosity-injected thing each day for 365 days.</blockquote>\r\nThis is the point where everyone asks, \"How are you going to keep this up?\"\r\n\r\nFret not and leave the \"how\" to me.  I am on a mission, and missions lead people to all things possible.\r\n\r\nI am sure that my daily espresso addiction will fuel this mayhem.  Currently, my poison is two shots a day.  (Italian, of course.)  Let\'s see how much I\'m consuming when all is said and done.\r\n\r\nMore importantly, your support and encouragement will keep me revved up (and hold me accountable).  I am actively seeking cohorts to accompany me in whichever way you choose:\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li>Leave a comment on an (almost) daily post.</li>\r\n	<li><strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/talk-to-me/\" target=\"_blank\">Talk to Me.</a></strong> What\'s on your mind, cupcake?</li>\r\n	<li><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/submit-a-365-idea/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Submit a 365 idea.</strong> </a>Be creative.  Be nice.</li>\r\n	<li>Friends in my fair city:  Pick a day and let\'s go!</li>\r\n	<li>Friends in faraway places:  Bloom where you are planted.  And then please share your story!</li>\r\n</ul>\r\nIf this post is your first visit to this blog, please check out <strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/365-or-bust/\" target=\"_blank\">365 or Bust</a></strong> and <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/about/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>What Makes Me Tick</strong> </a>to gather a better understanding of the history and quirkiness behind this project.\r\n\r\nJoin the inner circle of bloominess by <strong><a href=\"http://feeds.feedburner.com/latebloomerdiary\" target=\"_blank\">subscribing via email or RSS</a></strong>.  It\'s free, it\'s fun, it\'s easy, and it\'s the best way to keep in touch.\r\n\r\nToday I turn 41, and I am no longer waiting for Happy Ever After to show up.  I\'m creating my own fairy tale.\r\n\r\nAn intriguing and captivating  fairy tale isn\'t a One-Princess Show!  Who wants to join my chast of characters?\r\n\r\nCarpe Diem and all that jazz!','Day 1:  Look Mom!  I\'m a Big Girl Blogger Now!','','inherit','open','open','','328-revision-43','','','2010-09-14 21:56:18','2010-09-15 04:56:18','',328,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/09/14/328-revision-43/',0,'revision','',0),(373,1,'2010-09-14 21:56:25','2010-09-15 04:56:25',' \r\n\r\nLast year on this very day, I launched an embarrassingly green (literally and figuratively) blog at <strong><a href=\"http://www.latebloomerdiary.blogspot.com/\" target=\"_blank\">blogspot.</a></strong>\r\n\r\nI had no idea what I was doing, but I was extremely well-intentioned and needed a 40th birthday project to keep me from slipping into a full-blown mid-life crisis.\r\n\r\nIt didn\'t work.\r\n\r\nI plunged head-first into an existential crisis.  (I prefer \"existential\" over \"mid-life\" because it sounds so Kierkegaardian and cool.)\r\n\r\nLife kinda sorta got in the way.  You can savor the thoroughly melodramatic details by reading <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/365-or-bust/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>365 or Bust. </strong></a>\r\n\r\nAnywho, life getting in the way is... well... <em>life.</em>\r\n\r\nI need to get a grip and get on with mine.\r\n\r\nSo here we are.  One year later with fabulous new virtual digs (thank you, Shawn), a techie Svengali to teach me how to keep this puppy running smoothly (thank you, Svenny), and a frenetically fun mission:\r\n<blockquote>To try one new/inspiring/interesting/uplifting/provocative/or curiosity-injected thing each day for 365 days.</blockquote>\r\nThis is the point where everyone asks, \"How are you going to keep this up?\"\r\n\r\nFret not and leave the \"how\" to me.  I am on a mission, and missions lead people to all things possible.\r\n\r\nI am sure that my daily espresso addiction will fuel this mayhem.  Currently, my poison is two shots a day.  (Italian, of course.)  Let\'s see how much I\'m consuming when all is said and done.\r\n\r\nMore importantly, your support and encouragement will keep me revved up (and hold me accountable).  I am actively seeking cohorts to accompany me in whichever way you choose:\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li>Leave a comment on an (almost) daily post.</li>\r\n	<li><strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/talk-to-me/\" target=\"_blank\">Talk to Me.</a></strong> What\'s on your mind, cupcake?</li>\r\n	<li><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/submit-a-365-idea/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Submit a 365 idea.</strong> </a>Be creative.  Be nice.</li>\r\n	<li>Friends in my fair city:  Pick a day and let\'s go!</li>\r\n	<li>Friends in faraway places:  Bloom where you are planted.  And then please share your story!</li>\r\n</ul>\r\nIf this post is your first visit to this blog, please check out <strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/365-or-bust/\" target=\"_blank\">365 or Bust</a></strong> and <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/about/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>What Makes Me Tick</strong> </a>to gather a better understanding of the history and quirkiness behind this project.\r\n\r\nJoin the inner circle of bloominess by <strong><a href=\"http://feeds.feedburner.com/latebloomerdiary\" target=\"_blank\">subscribing via email or RSS</a></strong>.  It\'s free, it\'s fun, it\'s easy, and it\'s the best way to keep in touch.\r\n\r\nToday I turn 41, and I am no longer waiting for Happy Ever After to show up.  I\'m creating my own fairy tale.\r\n\r\nAn intriguing and captivating  fairy tale isn\'t a One-Princess Show!  Who wants to join my chast of characters?\r\n\r\nCarpe Diem and all that jazz!','Day 1:  Look Mom!  I\'m a Big Girl Blogger Now!','','inherit','open','open','','328-revision-44','','','2010-09-14 21:56:25','2010-09-15 04:56:25','',328,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/09/14/328-revision-44/',0,'revision','',0),(374,1,'2010-09-14 22:04:13','2010-09-15 05:04:13',' \r\n\r\nLast year on this very day, I launched an embarrassingly green (literally and figuratively) blog at <strong><a href=\"http://www.latebloomerdiary.blogspot.com/\" target=\"_blank\">blogspot.</a></strong>\r\n\r\nI had no idea what I was doing, but I was extremely well-intentioned and needed a 40th birthday project to keep me from slipping into a full-blown mid-life crisis.\r\n\r\nIt didn\'t work.\r\n\r\nI plunged head-first into an existential crisis.  (I prefer \"existential\" over \"mid-life\" because it sounds so Kierkegaardian and cool.)\r\n\r\nLife kinda sorta got in the way.  You can savor the thoroughly melodramatic details by reading <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/365-or-bust/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>365 or Bust. </strong></a>\r\n\r\nAnywho, life getting in the way is... well... <em>life.</em>\r\n\r\nI need to get a grip and get on with mine.\r\n\r\nSo here we are.  One year later with fabulous new virtual digs (thank you, Shawn), a techie Svengali to teach me how to keep this puppy running smoothly (thank you, Svenny), and a frenetically fun mission:\r\n<blockquote>To try one new/inspiring/interesting/uplifting/provocative/or curiosity-injected thing each day for 365 days.</blockquote>\r\nThis is the point where everyone asks, \"How are you going to keep this up?\"\r\n\r\nFret not and leave the \"how\" to me.  I am on a mission, and missions lead people to all things possible.\r\n\r\nI am sure that my daily espresso addiction will fuel this mayhem.  Currently, my poison is two shots a day.  (Italian, of course.)  Let\'s see how much I\'m consuming when all is said and done.\r\n\r\nMore importantly, your support and encouragement will keep me revved up (and hold me accountable).  I am actively seeking cohorts to accompany me in whichever way you choose:\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li>Leave a comment on an (almost) daily post.</li>\r\n	<li><strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/talk-to-me/\" target=\"_blank\">Talk to Me.</a></strong> What\'s on your mind, cupcake?</li>\r\n	<li><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/submit-a-365-idea/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Submit a 365 idea.</strong> </a>Be creative.  Be nice.</li>\r\n	<li>Friends in my fair city:  Pick a day and let\'s go!</li>\r\n	<li>Friends in faraway places:  Bloom where you are planted.  And then please share your story!</li>\r\n</ul>\r\nIf this post is your first visit to this blog, please check out <strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/365-or-bust/\" target=\"_blank\">365 or Bust</a></strong> and <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/about/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>What Makes Me Tick</strong> </a>to gather a better understanding of the history and quirkiness behind this project.\r\n\r\nJoin the inner circle of bloominess by <strong><a href=\"http://feeds.feedburner.com/latebloomerdiary\" target=\"_blank\">subscribing via email or RSS</a></strong>.  It\'s free, it\'s fun, it\'s easy, and it\'s the best way to keep in touch.\r\n\r\nToday I turn 41, and I am no longer waiting for Happy Ever After to show up.  I\'m creating my own fairy tale.\r\n\r\nAn intriguing and captivating  fairy tale isn\'t a One-Princess Show!  Who wants to join my chast of characters?\r\n\r\nCarpe Diem and all that jazz!','Day 1:  Look Mom!  I\'m a Big Girl Blogger Now!','','inherit','open','open','','328-revision-45','','','2010-09-14 22:04:13','2010-09-15 05:04:13','',328,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/09/14/328-revision-45/',0,'revision','',0),(375,1,'2010-09-14 23:17:02','2010-09-15 06:17:02','','dice','','inherit','open','open','','dice','','','2010-09-14 23:17:02','2010-09-15 06:17:02','',328,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/dice.jpg',0,'attachment','image/jpeg',0),(376,1,'2012-04-08 22:18:17','2012-04-09 05:18:17','<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/dice1.jpg\"><img class=\"alignleft size-thumbnail wp-image-381\" title=\"dice\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/dice1-150x150.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"150\" height=\"150\" /></a>Last year on this very day, I launched an embarrassingly green (literally and figuratively) blog at <strong><a href=\"http://www.latebloomerdiary.blogspot.com/\" target=\"_blank\">blogspot.</a></strong>\n\n<strong>\n</strong>\n\nI had no idea what I was doing, but I was extremely well-intentioned and needed a 40th birthday project to keep me from slipping into a full-blown mid-life crisis.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nIt didn\'t work.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nI plunged head-first into an existential crisis.  (I prefer \"existential\" over \"mid-life\" because it sounds so Kierkegaardian and cool.)\n\n&nbsp;\n\nLife kinda sorta got in the way.  You can savor the thoroughly melodramatic details by reading <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/365-or-bust/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>365 or Bust. </strong></a>\n\n&nbsp;\n\nAnywho, life getting in the way is... well... <em>life.</em>\n\n&nbsp;\n\nI need to get a grip and get on with mine.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nSo here we are.  One year later with fabulous new virtual digs (thank you, Shawn), a techie Svengali to teach me how to keep this puppy running smoothly (thank you, Svenny), and a frenetically fun mission:\n\n&nbsp;\n<blockquote><strong><span style=\"color: #993300;\">To try one new/inspiring/interesting/uplifting/provocative/or curiosity-injected thing each day for 365 days.</span></strong></blockquote>\n&nbsp;\n\nThis is the point where everyone asks, \"How are you going to keep this up?\"\n\n&nbsp;\n\nFret not and leave the \"how\" to me.  I am on a mission, and missions lead people to all things possible.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nI am sure that my daily espresso addiction will fuel this mayhem.  Currently, my poison is two shots a day.  (Italian, of course.)  Let\'s see how much I\'m consuming when all is said and done.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nMore importantly, your support and encouragement will keep me revved up (and hold me accountable).  I am actively seeking cohorts to accompany me in whichever way you choose:\n\n&nbsp;\n<ul>\n	<li>Leave a comment on an (almost) daily post.</li>\n	<li><strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/talk-to-me/\" target=\"_blank\">Talk to Me.</a></strong> What\'s on your mind, cupcake?</li>\n	<li><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/submit-a-365-idea/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Submit a 365 idea.</strong> </a>Be creative.  Be nice.</li>\n	<li>Friends in my fair city:  Pick a day and let\'s go!</li>\n	<li>Friends in faraway places:  Bloom where you are planted.  And then please share your story!</li>\n</ul>\nIf this post is your first visit to this blog, please check out <strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/365-or-bust/\" target=\"_blank\">365 or Bust</a></strong> and <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/about/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>What Makes Me Tick</strong> </a>to gather a better understanding of the history and quirkiness behind this project.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nJoin the inner circle of bloominess by <strong><a href=\"http://feeds.feedburner.com/latebloomerdiary\" target=\"_blank\">subscribing via email or RSS</a></strong>.  It\'s free, it\'s fun, it\'s easy, and it\'s the best way to keep in touch.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nToday I turn 41, and I am no longer waiting for Happy Ever After to show up.  I\'m creating my own fairy tale.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nAn intriguing and captivating fairy tale isn\'t a One-Princess Show!  Who wants to audition for my cast of characters?\n\n&nbsp;\n\nCarpe Diem and all that jazz!','Day 1:  Look Mom!  I\'m a Big Girl Blogger Now!','','inherit','open','open','','328-autosave','','','2012-04-08 22:18:17','2012-04-09 05:18:17','',328,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/09/14/328-autosave/',0,'revision','',0),(379,1,'2010-09-14 23:20:50','2010-09-15 06:20:50','<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/dice.jpg\"><img src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/dice-300x201.jpg\" alt=\"\" title=\"dice\" width=\"300\" height=\"201\" class=\"alignleft size-medium wp-image-375\" /></a> \r\n\r\nLast year on this very day, I launched an embarrassingly green (literally and figuratively) blog at <strong><a href=\"http://www.latebloomerdiary.blogspot.com/\" target=\"_blank\">blogspot.</a></strong>\r\n\r\nI had no idea what I was doing, but I was extremely well-intentioned and needed a 40th birthday project to keep me from slipping into a full-blown mid-life crisis.\r\n\r\nIt didn\'t work.\r\n\r\nI plunged head-first into an existential crisis.  (I prefer \"existential\" over \"mid-life\" because it sounds so Kierkegaardian and cool.)\r\n\r\nLife kinda sorta got in the way.  You can savor the thoroughly melodramatic details by reading <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/365-or-bust/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>365 or Bust. </strong></a>\r\n\r\nAnywho, life getting in the way is... well... <em>life.</em>\r\n\r\nI need to get a grip and get on with mine.\r\n\r\nSo here we are.  One year later with fabulous new virtual digs (thank you, Shawn), a techie Svengali to teach me how to keep this puppy running smoothly (thank you, Svenny), and a frenetically fun mission:\r\n<blockquote>To try one new/inspiring/interesting/uplifting/provocative/or curiosity-injected thing each day for 365 days.</blockquote>\r\nThis is the point where everyone asks, \"How are you going to keep this up?\"\r\n\r\nFret not and leave the \"how\" to me.  I am on a mission, and missions lead people to all things possible.\r\n\r\nI am sure that my daily espresso addiction will fuel this mayhem.  Currently, my poison is two shots a day.  (Italian, of course.)  Let\'s see how much I\'m consuming when all is said and done.\r\n\r\nMore importantly, your support and encouragement will keep me revved up (and hold me accountable).  I am actively seeking cohorts to accompany me in whichever way you choose:\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li>Leave a comment on an (almost) daily post.</li>\r\n	<li><strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/talk-to-me/\" target=\"_blank\">Talk to Me.</a></strong> What\'s on your mind, cupcake?</li>\r\n	<li><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/submit-a-365-idea/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Submit a 365 idea.</strong> </a>Be creative.  Be nice.</li>\r\n	<li>Friends in my fair city:  Pick a day and let\'s go!</li>\r\n	<li>Friends in faraway places:  Bloom where you are planted.  And then please share your story!</li>\r\n</ul>\r\nIf this post is your first visit to this blog, please check out <strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/365-or-bust/\" target=\"_blank\">365 or Bust</a></strong> and <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/about/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>What Makes Me Tick</strong> </a>to gather a better understanding of the history and quirkiness behind this project.\r\n\r\nJoin the inner circle of bloominess by <strong><a href=\"http://feeds.feedburner.com/latebloomerdiary\" target=\"_blank\">subscribing via email or RSS</a></strong>.  It\'s free, it\'s fun, it\'s easy, and it\'s the best way to keep in touch.\r\n\r\nToday I turn 41, and I am no longer waiting for Happy Ever After to show up.  I\'m creating my own fairy tale.\r\n\r\nAn intriguing and captivating  fairy tale isn\'t a One-Princess Show!  Who wants to join my chast of characters?\r\n\r\nCarpe Diem and all that jazz!','Day 1:  Look Mom!  I\'m a Big Girl Blogger Now!','','inherit','open','open','','328-revision-48','','','2010-09-14 23:20:50','2010-09-15 06:20:50','',328,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/09/14/328-revision-48/',0,'revision','',0),(377,1,'2010-09-14 22:48:54','2010-09-15 05:48:54',' \r\n\r\nLast year on this very day, I launched an embarrassingly green (literally and figuratively) blog at <strong><a href=\"http://www.latebloomerdiary.blogspot.com/\" target=\"_blank\">blogspot.</a></strong>\r\n\r\nI had no idea what I was doing, but I was extremely well-intentioned and needed a 40th birthday project to keep me from slipping into a full-blown mid-life crisis.\r\n\r\nIt didn\'t work.\r\n\r\nI plunged head-first into an existential crisis.  (I prefer \"existential\" over \"mid-life\" because it sounds so Kierkegaardian and cool.)\r\n\r\nLife kinda sorta got in the way.  You can savor the thoroughly melodramatic details by reading <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/365-or-bust/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>365 or Bust. </strong></a>\r\n\r\nAnywho, life getting in the way is... well... <em>life.</em>\r\n\r\nI need to get a grip and get on with mine.\r\n\r\nSo here we are.  One year later with fabulous new virtual digs (thank you, Shawn), a techie Svengali to teach me how to keep this puppy running smoothly (thank you, Svenny), and a frenetically fun mission:\r\n<blockquote>To try one new/inspiring/interesting/uplifting/provocative/or curiosity-injected thing each day for 365 days.</blockquote>\r\nThis is the point where everyone asks, \"How are you going to keep this up?\"\r\n\r\nFret not and leave the \"how\" to me.  I am on a mission, and missions lead people to all things possible.\r\n\r\nI am sure that my daily espresso addiction will fuel this mayhem.  Currently, my poison is two shots a day.  (Italian, of course.)  Let\'s see how much I\'m consuming when all is said and done.\r\n\r\nMore importantly, your support and encouragement will keep me revved up (and hold me accountable).  I am actively seeking cohorts to accompany me in whichever way you choose:\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li>Leave a comment on an (almost) daily post.</li>\r\n	<li><strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/talk-to-me/\" target=\"_blank\">Talk to Me.</a></strong> What\'s on your mind, cupcake?</li>\r\n	<li><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/submit-a-365-idea/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Submit a 365 idea.</strong> </a>Be creative.  Be nice.</li>\r\n	<li>Friends in my fair city:  Pick a day and let\'s go!</li>\r\n	<li>Friends in faraway places:  Bloom where you are planted.  And then please share your story!</li>\r\n</ul>\r\nIf this post is your first visit to this blog, please check out <strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/365-or-bust/\" target=\"_blank\">365 or Bust</a></strong> and <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/about/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>What Makes Me Tick</strong> </a>to gather a better understanding of the history and quirkiness behind this project.\r\n\r\nJoin the inner circle of bloominess by <strong><a href=\"http://feeds.feedburner.com/latebloomerdiary\" target=\"_blank\">subscribing via email or RSS</a></strong>.  It\'s free, it\'s fun, it\'s easy, and it\'s the best way to keep in touch.\r\n\r\nToday I turn 41, and I am no longer waiting for Happy Ever After to show up.  I\'m creating my own fairy tale.\r\n\r\nAn intriguing and captivating  fairy tale isn\'t a One-Princess Show!  Who wants to join my chast of characters?\r\n\r\nCarpe Diem and all that jazz!','Day 1:  Look Mom!  I\'m a Big Girl Blogger Now!','','inherit','open','open','','328-revision-46','','','2010-09-14 22:48:54','2010-09-15 05:48:54','',328,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/09/14/328-revision-46/',0,'revision','',0),(380,1,'2010-09-14 23:22:38','2010-09-15 06:22:38',' \r\n\r\nLast year on this very day, I launched an embarrassingly green (literally and figuratively) blog at <strong><a href=\"http://www.latebloomerdiary.blogspot.com/\" target=\"_blank\">blogspot.</a></strong>\r\n\r\nI had no idea what I was doing, but I was extremely well-intentioned and needed a 40th birthday project to keep me from slipping into a full-blown mid-life crisis.\r\n\r\nIt didn\'t work.\r\n\r\nI plunged head-first into an existential crisis.  (I prefer \"existential\" over \"mid-life\" because it sounds so Kierkegaardian and cool.)\r\n\r\nLife kinda sorta got in the way.  You can savor the thoroughly melodramatic details by reading <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/365-or-bust/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>365 or Bust. </strong></a>\r\n\r\nAnywho, life getting in the way is... well... <em>life.</em>\r\n\r\nI need to get a grip and get on with mine.\r\n\r\nSo here we are.  One year later with fabulous new virtual digs (thank you, Shawn), a techie Svengali to teach me how to keep this puppy running smoothly (thank you, Svenny), and a frenetically fun mission:\r\n<blockquote>To try one new/inspiring/interesting/uplifting/provocative/or curiosity-injected thing each day for 365 days.</blockquote>\r\nThis is the point where everyone asks, \"How are you going to keep this up?\"\r\n\r\nFret not and leave the \"how\" to me.  I am on a mission, and missions lead people to all things possible.\r\n\r\nI am sure that my daily espresso addiction will fuel this mayhem.  Currently, my poison is two shots a day.  (Italian, of course.)  Let\'s see how much I\'m consuming when all is said and done.\r\n\r\nMore importantly, your support and encouragement will keep me revved up (and hold me accountable).  I am actively seeking cohorts to accompany me in whichever way you choose:\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li>Leave a comment on an (almost) daily post.</li>\r\n	<li><strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/talk-to-me/\" target=\"_blank\">Talk to Me.</a></strong> What\'s on your mind, cupcake?</li>\r\n	<li><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/submit-a-365-idea/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Submit a 365 idea.</strong> </a>Be creative.  Be nice.</li>\r\n	<li>Friends in my fair city:  Pick a day and let\'s go!</li>\r\n	<li>Friends in faraway places:  Bloom where you are planted.  And then please share your story!</li>\r\n</ul>\r\nIf this post is your first visit to this blog, please check out <strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/365-or-bust/\" target=\"_blank\">365 or Bust</a></strong> and <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/about/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>What Makes Me Tick</strong> </a>to gather a better understanding of the history and quirkiness behind this project.\r\n\r\nJoin the inner circle of bloominess by <strong><a href=\"http://feeds.feedburner.com/latebloomerdiary\" target=\"_blank\">subscribing via email or RSS</a></strong>.  It\'s free, it\'s fun, it\'s easy, and it\'s the best way to keep in touch.\r\n\r\nToday I turn 41, and I am no longer waiting for Happy Ever After to show up.  I\'m creating my own fairy tale.\r\n\r\nAn intriguing and captivating  fairy tale isn\'t a One-Princess Show!  Who wants to join my chast of characters?\r\n\r\nCarpe Diem and all that jazz!','Day 1:  Look Mom!  I\'m a Big Girl Blogger Now!','','inherit','open','open','','328-revision-49','','','2010-09-14 23:22:38','2010-09-15 06:22:38','',328,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/09/14/328-revision-49/',0,'revision','',0),(378,1,'2010-09-14 23:20:42','2010-09-15 06:20:42','<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/dice.jpg\"><img src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/dice-300x201.jpg\" alt=\"\" title=\"dice\" width=\"300\" height=\"201\" class=\"alignleft size-medium wp-image-375\" /></a> \r\n\r\nLast year on this very day, I launched an embarrassingly green (literally and figuratively) blog at <strong><a href=\"http://www.latebloomerdiary.blogspot.com/\" target=\"_blank\">blogspot.</a></strong>\r\n\r\nI had no idea what I was doing, but I was extremely well-intentioned and needed a 40th birthday project to keep me from slipping into a full-blown mid-life crisis.\r\n\r\nIt didn\'t work.\r\n\r\nI plunged head-first into an existential crisis.  (I prefer \"existential\" over \"mid-life\" because it sounds so Kierkegaardian and cool.)\r\n\r\nLife kinda sorta got in the way.  You can savor the thoroughly melodramatic details by reading <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/365-or-bust/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>365 or Bust. </strong></a>\r\n\r\nAnywho, life getting in the way is... well... <em>life.</em>\r\n\r\nI need to get a grip and get on with mine.\r\n\r\nSo here we are.  One year later with fabulous new virtual digs (thank you, Shawn), a techie Svengali to teach me how to keep this puppy running smoothly (thank you, Svenny), and a frenetically fun mission:\r\n<blockquote>To try one new/inspiring/interesting/uplifting/provocative/or curiosity-injected thing each day for 365 days.</blockquote>\r\nThis is the point where everyone asks, \"How are you going to keep this up?\"\r\n\r\nFret not and leave the \"how\" to me.  I am on a mission, and missions lead people to all things possible.\r\n\r\nI am sure that my daily espresso addiction will fuel this mayhem.  Currently, my poison is two shots a day.  (Italian, of course.)  Let\'s see how much I\'m consuming when all is said and done.\r\n\r\nMore importantly, your support and encouragement will keep me revved up (and hold me accountable).  I am actively seeking cohorts to accompany me in whichever way you choose:\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li>Leave a comment on an (almost) daily post.</li>\r\n	<li><strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/talk-to-me/\" target=\"_blank\">Talk to Me.</a></strong> What\'s on your mind, cupcake?</li>\r\n	<li><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/submit-a-365-idea/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Submit a 365 idea.</strong> </a>Be creative.  Be nice.</li>\r\n	<li>Friends in my fair city:  Pick a day and let\'s go!</li>\r\n	<li>Friends in faraway places:  Bloom where you are planted.  And then please share your story!</li>\r\n</ul>\r\nIf this post is your first visit to this blog, please check out <strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/365-or-bust/\" target=\"_blank\">365 or Bust</a></strong> and <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/about/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>What Makes Me Tick</strong> </a>to gather a better understanding of the history and quirkiness behind this project.\r\n\r\nJoin the inner circle of bloominess by <strong><a href=\"http://feeds.feedburner.com/latebloomerdiary\" target=\"_blank\">subscribing via email or RSS</a></strong>.  It\'s free, it\'s fun, it\'s easy, and it\'s the best way to keep in touch.\r\n\r\nToday I turn 41, and I am no longer waiting for Happy Ever After to show up.  I\'m creating my own fairy tale.\r\n\r\nAn intriguing and captivating  fairy tale isn\'t a One-Princess Show!  Who wants to join my chast of characters?\r\n\r\nCarpe Diem and all that jazz!','Day 1:  Look Mom!  I\'m a Big Girl Blogger Now!','','inherit','open','open','','328-revision-47','','','2010-09-14 23:20:42','2010-09-15 06:20:42','',328,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/09/14/328-revision-47/',0,'revision','',0),(381,1,'2010-09-14 23:24:39','2010-09-15 06:24:39','','dice','','inherit','open','open','','dice-2','','','2010-09-14 23:24:39','2010-09-15 06:24:39','',328,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/dice1.jpg',0,'attachment','image/jpeg',0),(382,1,'2010-09-14 23:24:08','2010-09-15 06:24:08',' \r\n\r\nLast year on this very day, I launched an embarrassingly green (literally and figuratively) blog at <strong><a href=\"http://www.latebloomerdiary.blogspot.com/\" target=\"_blank\">blogspot.</a></strong>\r\n\r\nI had no idea what I was doing, but I was extremely well-intentioned and needed a 40th birthday project to keep me from slipping into a full-blown mid-life crisis.\r\n\r\nIt didn\'t work.\r\n\r\nI plunged head-first into an existential crisis.  (I prefer \"existential\" over \"mid-life\" because it sounds so Kierkegaardian and cool.)\r\n\r\nLife kinda sorta got in the way.  You can savor the thoroughly melodramatic details by reading <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/365-or-bust/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>365 or Bust. </strong></a>\r\n\r\nAnywho, life getting in the way is... well... <em>life.</em>\r\n\r\nI need to get a grip and get on with mine.\r\n\r\nSo here we are.  One year later with fabulous new virtual digs (thank you, Shawn), a techie Svengali to teach me how to keep this puppy running smoothly (thank you, Svenny), and a frenetically fun mission:\r\n<blockquote>To try one new/inspiring/interesting/uplifting/provocative/or curiosity-injected thing each day for 365 days.</blockquote>\r\nThis is the point where everyone asks, \"How are you going to keep this up?\"\r\n\r\nFret not and leave the \"how\" to me.  I am on a mission, and missions lead people to all things possible.\r\n\r\nI am sure that my daily espresso addiction will fuel this mayhem.  Currently, my poison is two shots a day.  (Italian, of course.)  Let\'s see how much I\'m consuming when all is said and done.\r\n\r\nMore importantly, your support and encouragement will keep me revved up (and hold me accountable).  I am actively seeking cohorts to accompany me in whichever way you choose:\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li>Leave a comment on an (almost) daily post.</li>\r\n	<li><strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/talk-to-me/\" target=\"_blank\">Talk to Me.</a></strong> What\'s on your mind, cupcake?</li>\r\n	<li><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/submit-a-365-idea/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Submit a 365 idea.</strong> </a>Be creative.  Be nice.</li>\r\n	<li>Friends in my fair city:  Pick a day and let\'s go!</li>\r\n	<li>Friends in faraway places:  Bloom where you are planted.  And then please share your story!</li>\r\n</ul>\r\nIf this post is your first visit to this blog, please check out <strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/365-or-bust/\" target=\"_blank\">365 or Bust</a></strong> and <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/about/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>What Makes Me Tick</strong> </a>to gather a better understanding of the history and quirkiness behind this project.\r\n\r\nJoin the inner circle of bloominess by <strong><a href=\"http://feeds.feedburner.com/latebloomerdiary\" target=\"_blank\">subscribing via email or RSS</a></strong>.  It\'s free, it\'s fun, it\'s easy, and it\'s the best way to keep in touch.\r\n\r\nToday I turn 41, and I am no longer waiting for Happy Ever After to show up.  I\'m creating my own fairy tale.\r\n\r\nAn intriguing and captivating  fairy tale isn\'t a One-Princess Show!  Who wants to join my chast of characters?\r\n\r\nCarpe Diem and all that jazz!','Day 1:  Look Mom!  I\'m a Big Girl Blogger Now!','','inherit','open','open','','328-revision-50','','','2010-09-14 23:24:08','2010-09-15 06:24:08','',328,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/09/14/328-revision-50/',0,'revision','',0),(615,1,'2010-09-23 01:11:55','2010-09-23 08:11:55','<p><a href=\"http://www.flickr.com/photos/hadesigns/4753128004/sizes/m/in/photostream/\"><img class=\"alignleft size-medium wp-image-616\" title=\"lunchtimepedi\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/pedi-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>A couple of months ago I ran into a co-worker who was returning to the office in those flimsy flip-flops they give you after a pedicure.   I asked her why on earth she was wearing them at work.  Because she just enjoyed a pedicure during her lunch hour, that\'s why.  Duh! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Leaving work for a lunchtime pedi would have never occurred to me.  Maybe because I was a teacher for 16 years, and during lunch, teachers scarf down their food in a nanosecond so that they can return to their kiddos.  (If they don\'t have lunch duty.)  Teachers don\'t run out in broad daylight to revel in something luxurious. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>A few weeks later, I witnessed another colleague donning the flimsy flip-flops in the early afternoon.  And after that, I spied one of the MANAGERS strolling around in her f-f-fs.  </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>That\'s when I finally got the memo.  It\'s O.K. to have a \"Calgon, take me away\" moment in the middle of the workday.  In fact, I highly encourage it. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>At this point, you are probably hearing the same inner chatter that I once listened to:</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p style=\"padding-left: 30px;\">\"But I have too much to do!\" </p>\r\n\r\n<p style=\"padding-left: 30px;\">\"I need to eat!\"</p>\r\n\r\n<p style=\"padding-left: 30px;\">\"I only have an hour for lunch!\"</p>\r\n\r\n<p style=\"padding-left: 30px;\">\"Spoiling myself in the middle of a workday?  What if my boss sees me?!\"</p>\r\n\r\n<p style=\"padding-left: 30px;\"> </p>\r\n\r\n<p>As your friend who fancies herself an armchair therapist, I lovingly tell you to tell your anxious inner chit-chat to hit the road, sister! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>And here\'s living proof why:</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p style=\"padding-left: 30px;\">\"But I have too much to do!\"  <span style=\"color: #ff00ff;\">Study after study after study proves that taking proper breaks leads to fresher thinking and more efficient work.  </span></p>\r\n\r\n<p style=\"padding-left: 30px;\"><span style=\"color: #ff00ff;\"> </span> </p>\r\n\r\n<p style=\"padding-left: 30px;\"><span style=\"color: #000000;\">\"I need to eat!\"  <span style=\"color: #ff00ff;\">That\'s what a PB &amp; J at your desk is for.  Or take it with you.  Just make sure that you don\'t drop crumbs in the foot bath.  That would be kind of gross. </span></span></p>\r\n\r\n<p style=\"padding-left: 30px;\"><span style=\"color: #000000;\"><span style=\"color: #ff00ff;\"> </span></span> </p>\r\n\r\n<p style=\"padding-left: 30px;\"><span style=\"color: #000000;\">\"I only have an hour for lunch!\"  <span style=\"color: #ff00ff;\">I achieved pedi perfection in 45 minutes.  You can, too!</span></span></p>\r\n\r\n<p style=\"padding-left: 30px;\"><span style=\"color: #000000;\"><span style=\"color: #ff00ff;\"> </span></span> </p>\r\n\r\n<p style=\"padding-left: 30px;\"><span style=\"color: #000000;\">\"Spoiling myself in the middle of a workday?\"  <span style=\"color: #ff00ff;\">Yes, you are SuperWoman.  And you DESERVE to take a load off.  You\'ve EARNED it!  </span></span></p>\r\n\r\n<p style=\"padding-left: 30px;\"><span style=\"color: #000000;\"><span style=\"color: #ff00ff;\"> </span></span> </p>\r\n\r\n<p style=\"padding-left: 30px;\"><span style=\"color: #000000;\">\"What if my boss sees me?\"  <span style=\"color: #ff00ff;\">Mine actually congratulated me for shaking things up and escaping to bliss.  If your boss is a real bitch, then hide from her.  Under no circumstances wear your f-f-fs back to the office.  If your boss interrogates you, tell her (or him) that you had your annual gynecological exam.  That should shut her/him up.  </span></span></p>\r\n\r\n<p style=\"padding-left: 30px;\"><span style=\"color: #000000;\"><span style=\"color: #ff00ff;\"> </span></span> </p>\r\n\r\n<p><span style=\"color: #000000;\">When will you schedule your lunchtime luxury?   It\'s going to be more than O.K.  Trust me on this one.  </span></p>','Day 7:  Lunchtime Luxury ','','publish','open','open','','day-7-lunchtime-luxury','','','2010-09-22 20:54:54','2010-09-23 03:54:54','',0,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?p=615',0,'post','',4),(384,1,'2010-09-14 23:26:01','2010-09-15 06:26:01',' <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/dice1.jpg\"><img src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/dice1-150x150.jpg\" alt=\"\" title=\"dice\" width=\"150\" height=\"150\" class=\"alignleft size-thumbnail wp-image-381\" /></a>\r\n\r\nLast year on this very day, I launched an embarrassingly green (literally and figuratively) blog at <strong><a href=\"http://www.latebloomerdiary.blogspot.com/\" target=\"_blank\">blogspot.</a></strong>\r\n\r\nI had no idea what I was doing, but I was extremely well-intentioned and needed a 40th birthday project to keep me from slipping into a full-blown mid-life crisis.\r\n\r\nIt didn\'t work.\r\n\r\nI plunged head-first into an existential crisis.  (I prefer \"existential\" over \"mid-life\" because it sounds so Kierkegaardian and cool.)\r\n\r\nLife kinda sorta got in the way.  You can savor the thoroughly melodramatic details by reading <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/365-or-bust/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>365 or Bust. </strong></a>\r\n\r\nAnywho, life getting in the way is... well... <em>life.</em>\r\n\r\nI need to get a grip and get on with mine.\r\n\r\nSo here we are.  One year later with fabulous new virtual digs (thank you, Shawn), a techie Svengali to teach me how to keep this puppy running smoothly (thank you, Svenny), and a frenetically fun mission:\r\n<blockquote>To try one new/inspiring/interesting/uplifting/provocative/or curiosity-injected thing each day for 365 days.</blockquote>\r\nThis is the point where everyone asks, \"How are you going to keep this up?\"\r\n\r\nFret not and leave the \"how\" to me.  I am on a mission, and missions lead people to all things possible.\r\n\r\nI am sure that my daily espresso addiction will fuel this mayhem.  Currently, my poison is two shots a day.  (Italian, of course.)  Let\'s see how much I\'m consuming when all is said and done.\r\n\r\nMore importantly, your support and encouragement will keep me revved up (and hold me accountable).  I am actively seeking cohorts to accompany me in whichever way you choose:\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li>Leave a comment on an (almost) daily post.</li>\r\n	<li><strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/talk-to-me/\" target=\"_blank\">Talk to Me.</a></strong> What\'s on your mind, cupcake?</li>\r\n	<li><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/submit-a-365-idea/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Submit a 365 idea.</strong> </a>Be creative.  Be nice.</li>\r\n	<li>Friends in my fair city:  Pick a day and let\'s go!</li>\r\n	<li>Friends in faraway places:  Bloom where you are planted.  And then please share your story!</li>\r\n</ul>\r\nIf this post is your first visit to this blog, please check out <strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/365-or-bust/\" target=\"_blank\">365 or Bust</a></strong> and <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/about/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>What Makes Me Tick</strong> </a>to gather a better understanding of the history and quirkiness behind this project.\r\n\r\nJoin the inner circle of bloominess by <strong><a href=\"http://feeds.feedburner.com/latebloomerdiary\" target=\"_blank\">subscribing via email or RSS</a></strong>.  It\'s free, it\'s fun, it\'s easy, and it\'s the best way to keep in touch.\r\n\r\nToday I turn 41, and I am no longer waiting for Happy Ever After to show up.  I\'m creating my own fairy tale.\r\n\r\nAn intriguing and captivating  fairy tale isn\'t a One-Princess Show!  Who wants to join my chast of characters?\r\n\r\nCarpe Diem and all that jazz!','Day 1:  Look Mom!  I\'m a Big Girl Blogger Now!','','inherit','open','open','','328-revision-51','','','2010-09-14 23:26:01','2010-09-15 06:26:01','',328,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/09/14/328-revision-51/',0,'revision','',0),(391,1,'2010-09-15 06:43:38','2010-09-15 13:43:38',' <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/dice1.jpg\"><img class=\"alignleft size-thumbnail wp-image-381\" title=\"dice\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/dice1-150x150.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"150\" height=\"150\" /></a>\r\n\r\nLast year on this very day, I launched an embarrassingly green (literally and figuratively) blog at <strong><a href=\"http://www.latebloomerdiary.blogspot.com/\" target=\"_blank\">blogspot.</a></strong>\r\n\r\nI had no idea what I was doing, but I was extremely well-intentioned and needed a 40th birthday project to keep me from slipping into a full-blown mid-life crisis.\r\n\r\nIt didn\'t work.\r\n\r\nI plunged head-first into an existential crisis.  (I prefer \"existential\" over \"mid-life\" because it sounds so Kierkegaardian and cool.)\r\n\r\nLife kinda sorta got in the way.  You can savor the thoroughly melodramatic details by reading <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/365-or-bust/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>365 or Bust. </strong></a>\r\n\r\nAnywho, life getting in the way is... well... <em>life.</em>\r\n\r\nI need to get a grip and get on with mine.\r\n\r\nSo here we are.  One year later with fabulous new virtual digs (thank you, Shawn), a techie Svengali to teach me how to keep this puppy running smoothly (thank you, Svenny), and a frenetically fun mission:\r\n<blockquote><strong><span style=\"color: #993300;\">To try one new/inspiring/interesting/uplifting/provocative/or curiosity-injected thing each day for 365 days.</span></strong></blockquote>\r\nThis is the point where everyone asks, \"How are you going to keep this up?\"\r\n\r\nFret not and leave the \"how\" to me.  I am on a mission, and missions lead people to all things possible.\r\n\r\nI am sure that my daily espresso addiction will fuel this mayhem.  Currently, my poison is two shots a day.  (Italian, of course.)  Let\'s see how much I\'m consuming when all is said and done.\r\n\r\nMore importantly, your support and encouragement will keep me revved up (and hold me accountable).  I am actively seeking cohorts to accompany me in whichever way you choose:\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li>Leave a comment on an (almost) daily post.</li>\r\n	<li><strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/talk-to-me/\" target=\"_blank\">Talk to Me.</a></strong> What\'s on your mind, cupcake?</li>\r\n	<li><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/submit-a-365-idea/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Submit a 365 idea.</strong> </a>Be creative.  Be nice.</li>\r\n	<li>Friends in my fair city:  Pick a day and let\'s go!</li>\r\n	<li>Friends in faraway places:  Bloom where you are planted.  And then please share your story!</li>\r\n</ul>\r\nIf this post is your first visit to this blog, please check out <strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/365-or-bust/\" target=\"_blank\">365 or Bust</a></strong> and <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/about/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>What Makes Me Tick</strong> </a>to gather a better understanding of the history and quirkiness behind this project.\r\n\r\nJoin the inner circle of bloominess by <strong><a href=\"http://feeds.feedburner.com/latebloomerdiary\" target=\"_blank\">subscribing via email or RSS</a></strong>.  It\'s free, it\'s fun, it\'s easy, and it\'s the best way to keep in touch.\r\n\r\nToday I turn 41, and I am no longer waiting for Happy Ever After to show up.  I\'m creating my own fairy tale.\r\n\r\nAn intriguing and captivating  fairy tale isn\'t a One-Princess Show!  Who wants to join my chast of characters?\r\n\r\nCarpe Diem and all that jazz!','Day 1:  Look Mom!  I\'m a Big Girl Blogger Now!','','inherit','open','open','','328-revision-52','','','2010-09-15 06:43:38','2010-09-15 13:43:38','',328,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/09/15/328-revision-52/',0,'revision','',0),(392,1,'2010-09-15 06:57:47','2010-09-15 13:57:47','<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/dice1.jpg\"><img class=\"alignleft size-thumbnail wp-image-381\" title=\"dice\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/dice1-150x150.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"150\" height=\"150\" /></a>Last year on this very day, I launched an embarrassingly green (literally and figuratively) blog at <strong><a href=\"http://www.latebloomerdiary.blogspot.com/\" target=\"_blank\">blogspot.</a></strong>\r\n\r\nI had no idea what I was doing, but I was extremely well-intentioned and needed a 40th birthday project to keep me from slipping into a full-blown mid-life crisis.\r\n\r\nIt didn\'t work.\r\n\r\nI plunged head-first into an existential crisis.  (I prefer \"existential\" over \"mid-life\" because it sounds so Kierkegaardian and cool.)\r\n\r\nLife kinda sorta got in the way.  You can savor the thoroughly melodramatic details by reading <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/365-or-bust/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>365 or Bust. </strong></a>\r\n\r\nAnywho, life getting in the way is... well... <em>life.</em>\r\n\r\nI need to get a grip and get on with mine.\r\n\r\nSo here we are.  One year later with fabulous new virtual digs (thank you, Shawn), a techie Svengali to teach me how to keep this puppy running smoothly (thank you, Svenny), and a frenetically fun mission:\r\n<blockquote><strong><span style=\"color: #993300;\">To try one new/inspiring/interesting/uplifting/provocative/or curiosity-injected thing each day for 365 days.</span></strong></blockquote>\r\nThis is the point where everyone asks, \"How are you going to keep this up?\"\r\n\r\nFret not and leave the \"how\" to me.  I am on a mission, and missions lead people to all things possible.\r\n\r\nI am sure that my daily espresso addiction will fuel this mayhem.  Currently, my poison is two shots a day.  (Italian, of course.)  Let\'s see how much I\'m consuming when all is said and done.\r\n\r\nMore importantly, your support and encouragement will keep me revved up (and hold me accountable).  I am actively seeking cohorts to accompany me in whichever way you choose:\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li>Leave a comment on an (almost) daily post.</li>\r\n	<li><strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/talk-to-me/\" target=\"_blank\">Talk to Me.</a></strong> What\'s on your mind, cupcake?</li>\r\n	<li><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/submit-a-365-idea/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Submit a 365 idea.</strong> </a>Be creative.  Be nice.</li>\r\n	<li>Friends in my fair city:  Pick a day and let\'s go!</li>\r\n	<li>Friends in faraway places:  Bloom where you are planted.  And then please share your story!</li>\r\n</ul>\r\nIf this post is your first visit to this blog, please check out <strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/365-or-bust/\" target=\"_blank\">365 or Bust</a></strong> and <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/about/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>What Makes Me Tick</strong> </a>to gather a better understanding of the history and quirkiness behind this project.\r\n\r\nJoin the inner circle of bloominess by <strong><a href=\"http://feeds.feedburner.com/latebloomerdiary\" target=\"_blank\">subscribing via email or RSS</a></strong>.  It\'s free, it\'s fun, it\'s easy, and it\'s the best way to keep in touch.\r\n\r\nToday I turn 41, and I am no longer waiting for Happy Ever After to show up.  I\'m creating my own fairy tale.\r\n\r\nAn intriguing and captivating  fairy tale isn\'t a One-Princess Show!  Who wants to join my chast of characters?\r\n\r\nCarpe Diem and all that jazz!','Day 1:  Look Mom!  I\'m a Big Girl Blogger Now!','','inherit','open','open','','328-revision-53','','','2010-09-15 06:57:47','2010-09-15 13:57:47','',328,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/09/15/328-revision-53/',0,'revision','',0),(393,1,'2010-09-15 07:01:06','2010-09-15 14:01:06',' <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/dice1.jpg\"><img class=\"alignleft size-thumbnail wp-image-381\" title=\"dice\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/dice1-150x150.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"150\" height=\"150\" /></a>\r\n\r\nLast year on this very day, I launched an embarrassingly green (literally and figuratively) blog at <strong><a href=\"http://www.latebloomerdiary.blogspot.com/\" target=\"_blank\">blogspot.</a></strong>\r\n\r\nI had no idea what I was doing, but I was extremely well-intentioned and needed a 40th birthday project to keep me from slipping into a full-blown mid-life crisis.\r\n\r\nIt didn\'t work.\r\n\r\nI plunged head-first into an existential crisis.  (I prefer \"existential\" over \"mid-life\" because it sounds so Kierkegaardian and cool.)\r\n\r\nLife kinda sorta got in the way.  You can savor the thoroughly melodramatic details by reading <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/365-or-bust/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>365 or Bust. </strong></a>\r\n\r\n\r\nAnywho, life getting in the way is... well... <em>life.</em>\r\n\r\nI need to get a grip and get on with mine.\r\n\r\nSo here we are.  One year later with fabulous new virtual digs (thank you, Shawn), a techie Svengali to teach me how to keep this puppy running smoothly (thank you, Svenny), and a frenetically fun mission:\r\n<blockquote><strong><span style=\"color: #993300;\">To try one new/inspiring/interesting/uplifting/provocative/or curiosity-injected thing each day for 365 days.</span></strong></blockquote>\r\nThis is the point where everyone asks, \"How are you going to keep this up?\"\r\n\r\nFret not and leave the \"how\" to me.  I am on a mission, and missions lead people to all things possible.\r\n\r\nI am sure that my daily espresso addiction will fuel this mayhem.  Currently, my poison is two shots a day.  (Italian, of course.)  Let\'s see how much I\'m consuming when all is said and done.\r\n\r\nMore importantly, your support and encouragement will keep me revved up (and hold me accountable).  I am actively seeking cohorts to accompany me in whichever way you choose:\r\n\r\n</span>\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li>Leave a comment on an (almost) daily post.</li>\r\n	<li><strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/talk-to-me/\" target=\"_blank\">Talk to Me.</a></strong> What\'s on your mind, cupcake?</li>\r\n	<li><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/submit-a-365-idea/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Submit a 365 idea.</strong> </a>Be creative.  Be nice.</li>\r\n	<li>Friends in my fair city:  Pick a day and let\'s go!</li>\r\n	<li>Friends in faraway places:  Bloom where you are planted.  And then please share your story!</li>\r\n</ul>\r\nIf this post is your first visit to this blog, please check out <strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/365-or-bust/\" target=\"_blank\">365 or Bust</a></strong> and <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/about/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>What Makes Me Tick</strong> </a>to gather a better understanding of the history and quirkiness behind this project.\r\n\r\nJoin the inner circle of bloominess by <strong><a href=\"http://feeds.feedburner.com/latebloomerdiary\" target=\"_blank\">subscribing via email or RSS</a></strong>.  It\'s free, it\'s fun, it\'s easy, and it\'s the best way to keep in touch.\r\n\r\n\r\n</span>\r\n\r\n\r\nToday I turn 41, and I am no longer waiting for Happy Ever After to show up.  I\'m creating my own fairy tale.\r\n\r\nAn intriguing and captivating  fairy tale isn\'t a One-Princess Show!  Who wants to join my chast of characters?\r\n\r\nCarpe Diem and all that jazz!','Day 1:  Look Mom!  I\'m a Big Girl Blogger Now!','','inherit','open','open','','328-revision-54','','','2010-09-15 07:01:06','2010-09-15 14:01:06','',328,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/09/15/328-revision-54/',0,'revision','',0),(507,1,'2010-09-15 07:21:53','2010-09-15 14:21:53',' <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/dice1.jpg\"><img class=\"alignleft size-thumbnail wp-image-381\" title=\"dice\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/dice1-150x150.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"150\" height=\"150\" /></a>\r\n\r\nLast year on this very day, I launched an embarrassingly green (literally and figuratively) blog at <strong><a href=\"http://www.latebloomerdiary.blogspot.com/\" target=\"_blank\">blogspot.</a></strong>\r\n\r\nI had no idea what I was doing, but I was extremely well-intentioned and needed a 40th birthday project to keep me from slipping into a full-blown mid-life crisis.\r\n\r\nIt didn\'t work.\r\n\r\nI plunged head-first into an existential crisis.  (I prefer \"existential\" over \"mid-life\" because it sounds so Kierkegaardian and cool.)\r\n\r\nLife kinda sorta got in the way.  You can savor the thoroughly melodramatic details by reading <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/365-or-bust/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>365 or Bust. </strong></a>\r\n\r\n</span>\r\n\r\nAnywho, life getting in the way is... well... <em>life.</em>\r\n\r\nI need to get a grip and get on with mine.\r\n\r\nSo here we are.  One year later with fabulous new virtual digs (thank you, Shawn), a techie Svengali to teach me how to keep this puppy running smoothly (thank you, Svenny), and a frenetically fun mission:\r\n\r\n</span>\r\n<blockquote><strong><span style=\"color: #993300;\">To try one new/inspiring/interesting/uplifting/provocative/or curiosity-injected thing each day for 365 days.</span></strong></blockquote>\r\n\r\n</span>\r\nThis is the point where everyone asks, \"How are you going to keep this up?\"\r\n\r\nFret not and leave the \"how\" to me.  I am on a mission, and missions lead people to all things possible.\r\n\r\nI am sure that my daily espresso addiction will fuel this mayhem.  Currently, my poison is two shots a day.  (Italian, of course.)  Let\'s see how much I\'m consuming when all is said and done.\r\n\r\nMore importantly, your support and encouragement will keep me revved up (and hold me accountable).  I am actively seeking cohorts to accompany me in whichever way you choose:\r\n<ul>\r\n</span>\r\n</span>\r\n	<li>Leave a comment on an (almost) daily post.</li>\r\n	<li><strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/talk-to-me/\" target=\"_blank\">Talk to Me.</a></strong> What\'s on your mind, cupcake?</li>\r\n	<li><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/submit-a-365-idea/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Submit a 365 idea.</strong> </a>Be creative.  Be nice.</li>\r\n	<li>Friends in my fair city:  Pick a day and let\'s go!</li>\r\n	<li>Friends in faraway places:  Bloom where you are planted.  And then please share your story!</li>\r\n</ul>\r\nIf this post is your first visit to this blog, please check out <strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/365-or-bust/\" target=\"_blank\">365 or Bust</a></strong> and <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/about/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>What Makes Me Tick</strong> </a>to gather a better understanding of the history and quirkiness behind this project.\r\n\r\nJoin the inner circle of bloominess by <strong><a href=\"http://feeds.feedburner.com/latebloomerdiary\" target=\"_blank\">subscribing via email or RSS</a></strong>.  It\'s free, it\'s fun, it\'s easy, and it\'s the best way to keep in touch.\r\n</span>\r\n</span>\r\nToday I turn 41, and I am no longer waiting for Happy Ever After to show up.  I\'m creating my own fairy tale.\r\n\r\nAn intriguing and captivating fairy tale isn\'t a One-Princess Show!  Who wants to audition for my cast of characters?\r\n\r\nCarpe Diem and all that jazz!','Day 1:  Look Mom!  I\'m a Big Girl Blogger Now!','','inherit','open','open','','328-revision-61','','','2010-09-15 07:21:53','2010-09-15 14:21:53','',328,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/09/15/328-revision-61/',0,'revision','',0),(394,1,'2010-09-15 07:02:13','2010-09-15 14:02:13',' <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/dice1.jpg\"><img class=\"alignleft size-thumbnail wp-image-381\" title=\"dice\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/dice1-150x150.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"150\" height=\"150\" /></a>\r\n\r\nLast year on this very day, I launched an embarrassingly green (literally and figuratively) blog at <strong><a href=\"http://www.latebloomerdiary.blogspot.com/\" target=\"_blank\">blogspot.</a></strong>\r\n\r\nI had no idea what I was doing, but I was extremely well-intentioned and needed a 40th birthday project to keep me from slipping into a full-blown mid-life crisis.\r\n\r\nIt didn\'t work.\r\n\r\nI plunged head-first into an existential crisis.  (I prefer \"existential\" over \"mid-life\" because it sounds so Kierkegaardian and cool.)\r\n\r\nLife kinda sorta got in the way.  You can savor the thoroughly melodramatic details by reading <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/365-or-bust/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>365 or Bust. </strong></a>\r\n\r\n\r\nAnywho, life getting in the way is... well... <em>life.</em>\r\n\r\nI need to get a grip and get on with mine.\r\n\r\nSo here we are.  One year later with fabulous new virtual digs (thank you, Shawn), a techie Svengali to teach me how to keep this puppy running smoothly (thank you, Svenny), and a frenetically fun mission:\r\n<blockquote><strong><span style=\"color: #993300;\">To try one new/inspiring/interesting/uplifting/provocative/or curiosity-injected thing each day for 365 days.</span></strong></blockquote>\r\nThis is the point where everyone asks, \"How are you going to keep this up?\"\r\n\r\nFret not and leave the \"how\" to me.  I am on a mission, and missions lead people to all things possible.\r\n\r\nI am sure that my daily espresso addiction will fuel this mayhem.  Currently, my poison is two shots a day.  (Italian, of course.)  Let\'s see how much I\'m consuming when all is said and done.\r\n\r\nMore importantly, your support and encouragement will keep me revved up (and hold me accountable).  I am actively seeking cohorts to accompany me in whichever way you choose:\r\n\r\n</span>\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li>Leave a comment on an (almost) daily post.</li>\r\n	<li><strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/talk-to-me/\" target=\"_blank\">Talk to Me.</a></strong> What\'s on your mind, cupcake?</li>\r\n	<li><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/submit-a-365-idea/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Submit a 365 idea.</strong> </a>Be creative.  Be nice.</li>\r\n	<li>Friends in my fair city:  Pick a day and let\'s go!</li>\r\n	<li>Friends in faraway places:  Bloom where you are planted.  And then please share your story!</li>\r\n</ul>\r\nIf this post is your first visit to this blog, please check out <strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/365-or-bust/\" target=\"_blank\">365 or Bust</a></strong> and <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/about/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>What Makes Me Tick</strong> </a>to gather a better understanding of the history and quirkiness behind this project.\r\n\r\nJoin the inner circle of bloominess by <strong><a href=\"http://feeds.feedburner.com/latebloomerdiary\" target=\"_blank\">subscribing via email or RSS</a></strong>.  It\'s free, it\'s fun, it\'s easy, and it\'s the best way to keep in touch.\r\n\r\n\r\n</span>\r\n\r\n</span>\r\n\r\n\r\nToday I turn 41, and I am no longer waiting for Happy Ever After to show up.  I\'m creating my own fairy tale.\r\n\r\nAn intriguing and captivating  fairy tale isn\'t a One-Princess Show!  Who wants to join my chast of characters?\r\n\r\nCarpe Diem and all that jazz!','Day 1:  Look Mom!  I\'m a Big Girl Blogger Now!','','inherit','open','open','','328-revision-55','','','2010-09-15 07:02:13','2010-09-15 14:02:13','',328,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/09/15/328-revision-55/',0,'revision','',0),(399,1,'2010-09-15 07:16:52','2010-09-15 14:16:52',' <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/dice1.jpg\"><img class=\"alignleft size-thumbnail wp-image-381\" title=\"dice\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/dice1-150x150.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"150\" height=\"150\" /></a>\r\n\r\nLast year on this very day, I launched an embarrassingly green (literally and figuratively) blog at <strong><a href=\"http://www.latebloomerdiary.blogspot.com/\" target=\"_blank\">blogspot.</a></strong>\r\n\r\nI had no idea what I was doing, but I was extremely well-intentioned and needed a 40th birthday project to keep me from slipping into a full-blown mid-life crisis.\r\n\r\nIt didn\'t work.\r\n\r\nI plunged head-first into an existential crisis.  (I prefer \"existential\" over \"mid-life\" because it sounds so Kierkegaardian and cool.)\r\n\r\nLife kinda sorta got in the way.  You can savor the thoroughly melodramatic details by reading <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/365-or-bust/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>365 or Bust. </strong></a>\r\n\r\nAnywho, life getting in the way is... well... <em>life.</em>\r\n\r\nI need to get a grip and get on with mine.\r\n\r\nSo here we are.  One year later with fabulous new virtual digs (thank you, Shawn), a techie Svengali to teach me how to keep this puppy running smoothly (thank you, Svenny), and a frenetically fun mission:\r\n<blockquote><strong><span style=\"color: #993300;\">To try one new/inspiring/interesting/uplifting/provocative/or curiosity-injected thing each day for 365 days.</span></strong></blockquote>\r\nThis is the point where everyone asks, \"How are you going to keep this up?\"\r\n\r\nFret not and leave the \"how\" to me.  I am on a mission, and missions lead people to all things possible.\r\n\r\nI am sure that my daily espresso addiction will fuel this mayhem.  Currently, my poison is two shots a day.  (Italian, of course.)  Let\'s see how much I\'m consuming when all is said and done.\r\n\r\nMore importantly, your support and encouragement will keep me revved up (and hold me accountable).  I am actively seeking cohorts to accompany me in whichever way you choose:\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li>Leave a comment on an (almost) daily post.</li>\r\n	<li><strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/talk-to-me/\" target=\"_blank\">Talk to Me.</a></strong> What\'s on your mind, cupcake?</li>\r\n	<li><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/submit-a-365-idea/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Submit a 365 idea.</strong> </a>Be creative.  Be nice.</li>\r\n	<li>Friends in my fair city:  Pick a day and let\'s go!</li>\r\n	<li>Friends in faraway places:  Bloom where you are planted.  And then please share your story!</li>\r\n</ul>\r\nIf this post is your first visit to this blog, please check out <strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/365-or-bust/\" target=\"_blank\">365 or Bust</a></strong> and <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/about/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>What Makes Me Tick</strong> </a>to gather a better understanding of the history and quirkiness behind this project.\r\n\r\nJoin the inner circle of bloominess by <strong><a href=\"http://feeds.feedburner.com/latebloomerdiary\" target=\"_blank\">subscribing via email or RSS</a></strong>.  It\'s free, it\'s fun, it\'s easy, and it\'s the best way to keep in touch.\r\n\r\nToday I turn 41, and I am no longer waiting for Happy Ever After to show up.  I\'m creating my own fairy tale.\r\n\r\nAn intriguing and captivating fairy tale isn\'t a One-Princess Show!  Who wants to audition for my cast of characters?\r\n\r\nCarpe Diem and all that jazz!','Day 1:  Look Mom!  I\'m a Big Girl Blogger Now!','','inherit','open','open','','328-revision-60','','','2010-09-15 07:16:52','2010-09-15 14:16:52','',328,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/09/15/328-revision-60/',0,'revision','',0),(395,1,'2010-09-15 07:04:50','2010-09-15 14:04:50',' <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/dice1.jpg\"><img class=\"alignleft size-thumbnail wp-image-381\" title=\"dice\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/dice1-150x150.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"150\" height=\"150\" /></a>\r\n\r\nLast year on this very day, I launched an embarrassingly green (literally and figuratively) blog at <strong><a href=\"http://www.latebloomerdiary.blogspot.com/\" target=\"_blank\">blogspot.</a></strong>\r\n\r\nI had no idea what I was doing, but I was extremely well-intentioned and needed a 40th birthday project to keep me from slipping into a full-blown mid-life crisis.\r\n\r\nIt didn\'t work.\r\n\r\nI plunged head-first into an existential crisis.  (I prefer \"existential\" over \"mid-life\" because it sounds so Kierkegaardian and cool.)\r\n\r\nLife kinda sorta got in the way.  You can savor the thoroughly melodramatic details by reading <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/365-or-bust/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>365 or Bust. </strong></a>\r\n\r\n\r\nAnywho, life getting in the way is... well... <em>life.</em>\r\n\r\nI need to get a grip and get on with mine.\r\n\r\nSo here we are.  One year later with fabulous new virtual digs (thank you, Shawn), a techie Svengali to teach me how to keep this puppy running smoothly (thank you, Svenny), and a frenetically fun mission:\r\n\r\n</span>\r\n<blockquote><strong><span style=\"color: #993300;\">To try one new/inspiring/interesting/uplifting/provocative/or curiosity-injected thing each day for 365 days.</span></strong></blockquote>\r\n\r\n</span>\r\nThis is the point where everyone asks, \"How are you going to keep this up?\"\r\n\r\nFret not and leave the \"how\" to me.  I am on a mission, and missions lead people to all things possible.\r\n\r\nI am sure that my daily espresso addiction will fuel this mayhem.  Currently, my poison is two shots a day.  (Italian, of course.)  Let\'s see how much I\'m consuming when all is said and done.\r\n\r\nMore importantly, your support and encouragement will keep me revved up (and hold me accountable).  I am actively seeking cohorts to accompany me in whichever way you choose:\r\n\r\n</span>\r\n\r\n</span>\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li>Leave a comment on an (almost) daily post.</li>\r\n	<li><strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/talk-to-me/\" target=\"_blank\">Talk to Me.</a></strong> What\'s on your mind, cupcake?</li>\r\n	<li><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/submit-a-365-idea/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Submit a 365 idea.</strong> </a>Be creative.  Be nice.</li>\r\n	<li>Friends in my fair city:  Pick a day and let\'s go!</li>\r\n	<li>Friends in faraway places:  Bloom where you are planted.  And then please share your story!</li>\r\n</ul>\r\nIf this post is your first visit to this blog, please check out <strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/365-or-bust/\" target=\"_blank\">365 or Bust</a></strong> and <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/about/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>What Makes Me Tick</strong> </a>to gather a better understanding of the history and quirkiness behind this project.\r\n\r\nJoin the inner circle of bloominess by <strong><a href=\"http://feeds.feedburner.com/latebloomerdiary\" target=\"_blank\">subscribing via email or RSS</a></strong>.  It\'s free, it\'s fun, it\'s easy, and it\'s the best way to keep in touch.\r\n\r\n\r\n</span>\r\n\r\n</span>\r\n\r\n\r\nToday I turn 41, and I am no longer waiting for Happy Ever After to show up.  I\'m creating my own fairy tale.\r\n\r\nAn intriguing and captivating  fairy tale isn\'t a One-Princess Show!  Who wants to join my chast of characters?\r\n\r\nCarpe Diem and all that jazz!','Day 1:  Look Mom!  I\'m a Big Girl Blogger Now!','','inherit','open','open','','328-revision-56','','','2010-09-15 07:04:50','2010-09-15 14:04:50','',328,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/09/15/328-revision-56/',0,'revision','',0),(398,1,'2010-09-15 07:15:47','2010-09-15 14:15:47',' <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/dice1.jpg\"><img class=\"alignleft size-thumbnail wp-image-381\" title=\"dice\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/dice1-150x150.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"150\" height=\"150\" /></a>\r\n\r\nLast year on this very day, I launched an embarrassingly green (literally and figuratively) blog at <strong><a href=\"http://www.latebloomerdiary.blogspot.com/\" target=\"_blank\">blogspot.</a></strong>\r\n\r\nI had no idea what I was doing, but I was extremely well-intentioned and needed a 40th birthday project to keep me from slipping into a full-blown mid-life crisis.\r\n\r\nIt didn\'t work.\r\n\r\nI plunged head-first into an existential crisis.  (I prefer \"existential\" over \"mid-life\" because it sounds so Kierkegaardian and cool.)\r\n\r\nLife kinda sorta got in the way.  You can savor the thoroughly melodramatic details by reading <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/365-or-bust/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>365 or Bust. </strong></a>\r\n\r\nAnywho, life getting in the way is... well... <em>life.</em>\r\n\r\nI need to get a grip and get on with mine.\r\n\r\nSo here we are.  One year later with fabulous new virtual digs (thank you, Shawn), a techie Svengali to teach me how to keep this puppy running smoothly (thank you, Svenny), and a frenetically fun mission:\r\n<blockquote><strong><span style=\"color: #993300;\">To try one new/inspiring/interesting/uplifting/provocative/or curiosity-injected thing each day for 365 days.</span></strong></blockquote>\r\nThis is the point where everyone asks, \"How are you going to keep this up?\"\r\n\r\nFret not and leave the \"how\" to me.  I am on a mission, and missions lead people to all things possible.\r\n\r\nI am sure that my daily espresso addiction will fuel this mayhem.  Currently, my poison is two shots a day.  (Italian, of course.)  Let\'s see how much I\'m consuming when all is said and done.\r\n\r\nMore importantly, your support and encouragement will keep me revved up (and hold me accountable).  I am actively seeking cohorts to accompany me in whichever way you choose:\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li>Leave a comment on an (almost) daily post.</li>\r\n	<li><strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/talk-to-me/\" target=\"_blank\">Talk to Me.</a></strong> What\'s on your mind, cupcake?</li>\r\n	<li><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/submit-a-365-idea/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Submit a 365 idea.</strong> </a>Be creative.  Be nice.</li>\r\n	<li>Friends in my fair city:  Pick a day and let\'s go!</li>\r\n	<li>Friends in faraway places:  Bloom where you are planted.  And then please share your story!</li>\r\n</ul>\r\nIf this post is your first visit to this blog, please check out <strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/365-or-bust/\" target=\"_blank\">365 or Bust</a></strong> and <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/about/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>What Makes Me Tick</strong> </a>to gather a better understanding of the history and quirkiness behind this project.\r\n\r\nJoin the inner circle of bloominess by <strong><a href=\"http://feeds.feedburner.com/latebloomerdiary\" target=\"_blank\">subscribing via email or RSS</a></strong>.  It\'s free, it\'s fun, it\'s easy, and it\'s the best way to keep in touch.\r\n\r\nToday I turn 41, and I am no longer waiting for Happy Ever After to show up.  I\'m creating my own fairy tale.\r\n\r\nAn intriguing and captivating fairy tale isn\'t a One-Princess Show!  Who wants to join my cast of characters?\r\n\r\nCarpe Diem and all that jazz!','Day 1:  Look Mom!  I\'m a Big Girl Blogger Now!','','inherit','open','open','','328-revision-59','','','2010-09-15 07:15:47','2010-09-15 14:15:47','',328,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/09/15/328-revision-59/',0,'revision','',0),(396,1,'2010-09-15 07:06:05','2010-09-15 14:06:05',' <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/dice1.jpg\"><img class=\"alignleft size-thumbnail wp-image-381\" title=\"dice\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/dice1-150x150.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"150\" height=\"150\" /></a>\r\n\r\nLast year on this very day, I launched an embarrassingly green (literally and figuratively) blog at <strong><a href=\"http://www.latebloomerdiary.blogspot.com/\" target=\"_blank\">blogspot.</a></strong>\r\n\r\nI had no idea what I was doing, but I was extremely well-intentioned and needed a 40th birthday project to keep me from slipping into a full-blown mid-life crisis.\r\n\r\nIt didn\'t work.\r\n\r\nI plunged head-first into an existential crisis.  (I prefer \"existential\" over \"mid-life\" because it sounds so Kierkegaardian and cool.)\r\n\r\nLife kinda sorta got in the way.  You can savor the thoroughly melodramatic details by reading <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/365-or-bust/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>365 or Bust. </strong></a>\r\n\r\n</span>\r\n\r\n\r\nAnywho, life getting in the way is... well... <em>life.</em>\r\n\r\nI need to get a grip and get on with mine.\r\n\r\nSo here we are.  One year later with fabulous new virtual digs (thank you, Shawn), a techie Svengali to teach me how to keep this puppy running smoothly (thank you, Svenny), and a frenetically fun mission:\r\n\r\n</span>\r\n<blockquote><strong><span style=\"color: #993300;\">To try one new/inspiring/interesting/uplifting/provocative/or curiosity-injected thing each day for 365 days.</span></strong></blockquote>\r\n\r\n</span>\r\nThis is the point where everyone asks, \"How are you going to keep this up?\"\r\n\r\nFret not and leave the \"how\" to me.  I am on a mission, and missions lead people to all things possible.\r\n\r\nI am sure that my daily espresso addiction will fuel this mayhem.  Currently, my poison is two shots a day.  (Italian, of course.)  Let\'s see how much I\'m consuming when all is said and done.\r\n\r\nMore importantly, your support and encouragement will keep me revved up (and hold me accountable).  I am actively seeking cohorts to accompany me in whichever way you choose:\r\n\r\n</span>\r\n\r\n</span>\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li>Leave a comment on an (almost) daily post.</li>\r\n	<li><strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/talk-to-me/\" target=\"_blank\">Talk to Me.</a></strong> What\'s on your mind, cupcake?</li>\r\n	<li><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/submit-a-365-idea/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Submit a 365 idea.</strong> </a>Be creative.  Be nice.</li>\r\n	<li>Friends in my fair city:  Pick a day and let\'s go!</li>\r\n	<li>Friends in faraway places:  Bloom where you are planted.  And then please share your story!</li>\r\n</ul>\r\nIf this post is your first visit to this blog, please check out <strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/365-or-bust/\" target=\"_blank\">365 or Bust</a></strong> and <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/about/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>What Makes Me Tick</strong> </a>to gather a better understanding of the history and quirkiness behind this project.\r\n\r\nJoin the inner circle of bloominess by <strong><a href=\"http://feeds.feedburner.com/latebloomerdiary\" target=\"_blank\">subscribing via email or RSS</a></strong>.  It\'s free, it\'s fun, it\'s easy, and it\'s the best way to keep in touch.\r\n\r\n\r\n</span>\r\n\r\n</span>\r\n\r\n\r\nToday I turn 41, and I am no longer waiting for Happy Ever After to show up.  I\'m creating my own fairy tale.\r\n\r\nAn intriguing and captivating  fairy tale isn\'t a One-Princess Show!  Who wants to join my chast of characters?\r\n\r\nCarpe Diem and all that jazz!','Day 1:  Look Mom!  I\'m a Big Girl Blogger Now!','','inherit','open','open','','328-revision-57','','','2010-09-15 07:06:05','2010-09-15 14:06:05','',328,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/09/15/328-revision-57/',0,'revision','',0),(397,1,'2010-09-15 07:08:40','2010-09-15 14:08:40',' <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/dice1.jpg\"><img class=\"alignleft size-thumbnail wp-image-381\" title=\"dice\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/dice1-150x150.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"150\" height=\"150\" /></a>\r\n\r\nLast year on this very day, I launched an embarrassingly green (literally and figuratively) blog at <strong><a href=\"http://www.latebloomerdiary.blogspot.com/\" target=\"_blank\">blogspot.</a></strong>\r\n\r\nI had no idea what I was doing, but I was extremely well-intentioned and needed a 40th birthday project to keep me from slipping into a full-blown mid-life crisis.\r\n\r\nIt didn\'t work.\r\n\r\nI plunged head-first into an existential crisis.  (I prefer \"existential\" over \"mid-life\" because it sounds so Kierkegaardian and cool.)\r\n\r\nLife kinda sorta got in the way.  You can savor the thoroughly melodramatic details by reading <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/365-or-bust/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>365 or Bust. </strong></a>\r\n\r\n</span>\r\n\r\nAnywho, life getting in the way is... well... <em>life.</em>\r\n\r\nI need to get a grip and get on with mine.\r\n\r\nSo here we are.  One year later with fabulous new virtual digs (thank you, Shawn), a techie Svengali to teach me how to keep this puppy running smoothly (thank you, Svenny), and a frenetically fun mission:\r\n\r\n</span>\r\n<blockquote><strong><span style=\"color: #993300;\">To try one new/inspiring/interesting/uplifting/provocative/or curiosity-injected thing each day for 365 days.</span></strong></blockquote>\r\n\r\n</span>\r\nThis is the point where everyone asks, \"How are you going to keep this up?\"\r\n\r\nFret not and leave the \"how\" to me.  I am on a mission, and missions lead people to all things possible.\r\n\r\nI am sure that my daily espresso addiction will fuel this mayhem.  Currently, my poison is two shots a day.  (Italian, of course.)  Let\'s see how much I\'m consuming when all is said and done.\r\n\r\nMore importantly, your support and encouragement will keep me revved up (and hold me accountable).  I am actively seeking cohorts to accompany me in whichever way you choose:\r\n\r\n</span>\r\n\r\n</span>\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li>Leave a comment on an (almost) daily post.</li>\r\n	<li><strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/talk-to-me/\" target=\"_blank\">Talk to Me.</a></strong> What\'s on your mind, cupcake?</li>\r\n	<li><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/submit-a-365-idea/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Submit a 365 idea.</strong> </a>Be creative.  Be nice.</li>\r\n	<li>Friends in my fair city:  Pick a day and let\'s go!</li>\r\n	<li>Friends in faraway places:  Bloom where you are planted.  And then please share your story!</li>\r\n</ul>\r\nIf this post is your first visit to this blog, please check out <strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/365-or-bust/\" target=\"_blank\">365 or Bust</a></strong> and <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/about/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>What Makes Me Tick</strong> </a>to gather a better understanding of the history and quirkiness behind this project.\r\n\r\nJoin the inner circle of bloominess by <strong><a href=\"http://feeds.feedburner.com/latebloomerdiary\" target=\"_blank\">subscribing via email or RSS</a></strong>.  It\'s free, it\'s fun, it\'s easy, and it\'s the best way to keep in touch.\r\n\r\n\r\n</span>\r\n\r\n</span>\r\n\r\n\r\nToday I turn 41, and I am no longer waiting for Happy Ever After to show up.  I\'m creating my own fairy tale.\r\n\r\nAn intriguing and captivating  fairy tale isn\'t a One-Princess Show!  Who wants to join my chast of characters?\r\n\r\nCarpe Diem and all that jazz!','Day 1:  Look Mom!  I\'m a Big Girl Blogger Now!','','inherit','open','open','','328-revision-58','','','2010-09-15 07:08:40','2010-09-15 14:08:40','',328,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/09/15/328-revision-58/',0,'revision','',0),(1206,1,'2010-10-20 21:15:30','2010-10-21 04:15:30','<p>I am blessed to live in one of the most beautiful states in our great nation.  I think we might also boast the most diverse landscapes of any of the other 49 states. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I awoke on Day 24 in the Sonoran Desert, which is actually quite stunning. </p>\r\n\r\n<p>pic of south mountain</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>After a 2 hour drive from Captain Adventure\'s house, we scaled the Red Rocks of Sedona.  </p>\r\n\r\n<p>pic of sedona</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>After another 30 minute drive, we hiked a pine forest trail in Flagstaff (trail elevation 9600 ft.)</p>\r\n\r\n<p>pic of flagstaff</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>As you can see, if you can tolerate 115 temps for a few months, then this state is one breathtakingly majestic oyster. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>The plan for Day 24 started with a Google hunt for the height of Aspen \"gold rush\" in Flagstaff.  I\'ve been to Flagstaff many times, but never at the peak of fall foliage, and I wanted an autumnal experience to remember. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>The second weekend of October is considered THE weekend to visit Flagstaff for fall colors, so I called up my friend, David (aka Captain Adventure), who lives and breathes nature stuff.  It took him about a ¼ of a second to accept my invitation. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>We decided to turn this into a 2-day nature extravaganza.  First stop:  Sedona, Arizona.  Which.  Is.  Absolutely.  Incredible.  One of my favorite places on earth.  If you\'ve never been, start plotting a Sedona escape soon. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Sedona is known not only for its stunning one-of-a-kind scenery, but also for its Woo-Woo factor.  If you\'re ready to get you\'re New Agey freak on, then Sedona is your place.  I would guesstimate that Sedona has more psychics per capita than anywhere else on earth.  If New Agey freak freaks you out, then just focus on the red rocks and mind your own beeswax.  Sedona attracts people from all around the world, so I guarantee you won\'t feel out of place. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Or course, I was chomping at the bit for a psychic reading because a.  I like to get my freak on every once and awhile and b.  I wanted to learn about the fate of this blog.  Because psychics are always right, you know.  According to <strong>Dionne Warwick</strong>. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>However, hen you\'re traveling with Captain Adventure, you don\'t waste sunshine and perfect 80 degree weather on psychics.  You must first conquer the mountain! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>When you hike Sedona with girlfriends, you leisurely follow hiking paths, share girl stories, and stumble upon a naked man in the woods.  (True story.)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>When you hike Sedona with Captain Adventure, you make your own path.  Up a rock.  Thinking that if your mother saw you, she would freak out and not in the New Age-y way. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>(insert me scaling red rock here)caption: Feel the fear and climb that rock anyway!</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I don\'t know what was more exhilarating, the climb or the vistas. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Few people hang in there all the way to the top, and for those who do, there are special rewards.  Lucky for me, Captain Adventure fancies himself a masseur, so I received a cranial massage while passed out on the lone flat rock.  David wouldn\'t let fellow hikers take his masseur-in-action photo because he suddenly felt shy (???) but I assure you, it cleared my sinus headache in about 10 seconds flat. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>(Ladies, if you want me to play matchmaker, contact me privately and you and David can exchange digits.  Although now that I think about it, I may need him to remain single for this Dating Game idea I have for the blog, but that\'s for another day...)</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>\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 25:  Sedona Woo-Woo and Other Adventures','','inherit','open','open','','1108-revision-7','','','2010-10-20 21:15:30','2010-10-21 04:15:30','',1108,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/10/20/1108-revision-7/',0,'revision','',0),(1205,1,'2010-10-20 21:54:32','2010-10-21 04:54:32','<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 continue with 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! ','','inherit','open','open','','1192-revision-12','','','2010-10-20 21:54:32','2010-10-21 04:54:32','',1192,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/10/20/1192-revision-12/',0,'revision','',0),(405,1,'2010-09-21 01:11:50','2010-09-21 08:11:50','<p><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/P9190172.jpg\"></a></p>\r\n\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n\r\n<p>\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_565\" align=\"alignleft\" width=\"300\" caption=\"30 ft. Banana Split Leads to Rise in Lactaid Stock\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/P9190174.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-565\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/P9190174-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n<p>I am an ice cream fiend.  Despite my overall health nut eating habits, I cannot say “no” to ice cream.  Ever.  And I don’t do low-fat ice cream either.  Ever.  Ice cream should be eaten in all its creamy and full-fat glory. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>So when I was at the Whole Foods (or “Whole Paycheck”, as my Dad calls them) hot bar for lunch and saw a flyer inviting customers to partake in a 30 ft. banana split, I knew that this was my destiny. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I’m not even much of a banana split fan.  I’ve never seen any reason to add fruit to my ice cream in an attempt to make it healthier.  Eat the damn ice cream without guilt and save your 2-4 daily servings of fruit for another time!  There is absolutely no reason to mix business (fruit) with pleasure (ice cream) when you are indulging in frozen lusciousness.    </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I could deal with the bananas for this event, however, as it was a very special Whole Paycheck 30<sup>th</sup> Birthday Party.  Get it?  Turning 30 – 30 ft. banana split – 3 p.m. show time.  Those Whole Paycheck peeps are a clever bunch. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>And since I have been shopping at Whole Paycheck for the past 25 of those 30 years, I am practically family and needed to attend.  30<sup>th</sup> birthdays are special, and I would have been a thoughtless wench for missing such a momentous day in a family member’s life. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>My friend Megan looked at me funny when I showed overexcitement upon finding the flyer.  Her thoughts? </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>“That sounds like a whole lotta germs to me.”</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Oh, well.  I am way too much in touch with my inner child to worry about the grody details.  How many times in one’s life do you have the chance to dive into a 30 ft. sundae?  And as I just explained, this was a familial obligation, and those are always tricky to get out of. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I dragged my dear, sweet friend, Melanie, along with me.  She, too, is in touch with her inner child and almost always humors me in situations such as these. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Melanie and I camped out 20 minutes early so as to capture the banana split unveiling on film.  Or digital something-or-rather.  What <em>do</em> you call it these days? </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Around 2:50 the vultures descended.  It was an ungodly 111 degrees outside, and I suppose this made people want free ice cream very, very badly.  The line was at least 200 feet long, I’d say. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>At 3 p.m. sharp, the 30 ft. banana split was laid out in segmented troughs.  I wasn’t the only dork waiting to document this super-sized split on digital something-or-rather.  I thought super-dorkman in front of me would never get out of the way to let me have my photo op!  I mean, I needed to do this for journalistic purposes.  What on earth did he need a photo of a 30 ft. phallic sundae for, and why did it take him 5 minutes to get the perfect shot??  Who knows.  Maybe <em>Food and Wine</em> sent him. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>After this photo frenzy, the crowd was then asked to sing “Happy Birthday” to Whole Paycheck.  I am not making this up.  How silly is that?  But I guess when it’s 111 outside, you’ll cluck like a chicken if you need to for free ice cream. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Even though we arrived at this shindig first, and even though I am family, Melanie and I technically were not in line and politely moved back 200 ft. to wait for our piece of the trough.  Now that I think of it, I should have suggested party games while we were waiting, but I was so distracted watching men and boys fingering and chowing down on samples of deli meat that I was overcome by a wave of nausea and couldn’t think clearly.  </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Cheese samples?  Enticing. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Chocolate samples?  Scrumptious. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Free ice cream?  Irresistible.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Hunks of Deli Meat?  ??? </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Must be a Mars/Venus thing. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Those Whole Paycheck peeps are not only clever, but efficient, because we worked our way up to the front of the line in no time.  Our piece of the trough included vanilla bean (with specks) ice cream, bananas, and chocolate syrup.  Whipped cream, sprinkles, and a rainbow of other assorted condiments awaited us at the next table. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I was particularly excited about this because I love whipped cream almost as much as I love ice cream.  At Thanksgiving, you cannot see my pumpkin pie because it sits under a mountain of whipped cream.  Bring it on, and bring on lots of it. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>As I was daydreaming about which of the other condiments would grace my banana split, Melanie interrupted with, “This is how people get sick.  Think of all the germs.” </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I half-ignored her because a. I taught preschool – 3<sup>rd</sup> graders for 16 years and am used to being around walking germ factories and b. there were spoons.  Seemed hygienic to me.  What was the problem? </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Until Melanie pointed out that bare-handed deli meat-sampling father and son were now fondling the whipped cream can which made me want to dry heave.  For all we knew, deli meat boy also picked his nose 5 minutes prior. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>This kind of stuff really happens because Marvin Zindler proved it to the good people of Houston on an Eyewitness News exposé when I was a kid.  He shoveled his finger up his nose (for demonstration purposes only), marched into a Chinese restaurant, and shoved his hand in the mint dish faster than you could blink. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>You don’t see unwrapped mints sitting around in Chinese restaurants anymore, do you?  Hmmm???  You have Marvin to thank for that! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Anywho, no whipped cream needed this time around.  Melanie and I relished our rather plain but delicious sundae and called it a day.     </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>It’s all fun and games until someone gets sick. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/P9190172.jpg\"><img class=\"alignleft size-medium wp-image-566\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/P9190172-225x300.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"225\" height=\"300\" /></a></p>\r\n\r\n<p><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/P9190174.jpg\"></a> </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/P9190172.jpg\"></a> </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 5:  I Scream, You Scream, Whole Foods Screams for...','','publish','open','open','','day-5-i-scream-you-scream-whole-foods-screams-for','','','2010-09-21 06:37:54','2010-09-21 13:37:54','',0,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?p=405',0,'post','',7),(406,1,'2010-09-15 12:52:36','2010-09-15 19:52:36','','sunday whole foods post ','','inherit','open','open','','405-revision','','','2010-09-15 12:52:36','2010-09-15 19:52:36','',405,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/09/15/405-revision/',0,'revision','',0),(407,1,'2010-09-15 12:52:57','2010-09-15 19:52:57','Megan -- \"That sounds like a lot of germs to me.\"','sunday whole foods post ','','inherit','open','open','','405-revision-2','','','2010-09-15 12:52:57','2010-09-15 19:52:57','',405,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/09/15/405-revision-2/',0,'revision','',0),(409,1,'2010-09-15 19:28:47','2010-09-16 02:28:47','Attention all Late Bloomers and Late Bloomer Wannabees in my fair city:\n\nTonight, September 16th (My bro-in-law\'s bday -- a shout out to best bro-in-law in Twitterverse)\n\n6:30 p.m.\n\nFree (Yes, FREE!)\n\n<a href=\"http://www.icmontelucia.com/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Montelucia Resort and Spa</strong></a>\n\nNamaste, peeps!\n\nFor those of you outside of my fair city, you will hear more in Part Two.','Day 2:  Sunset Yoga Beckons (Part One)','','inherit','open','open','','408-revision','','','2010-09-15 19:28:47','2010-09-16 02:28:47','',408,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/09/15/408-revision/',0,'revision','',0),(410,1,'2010-09-15 20:36:08','2010-09-16 03:36:08','Attention all Late Bloomers and Late Bloomer Wannabees in my fair city:\n\nTonight, September 16th\n\n6:30 p.m.\n\nFree (Yes, FREE!) Sunset Yoga\n\n<a href=\"http://www.icmontelucia.com/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Montelucia Resort and Spa</strong></a>\n\nWho\'s in?\n\nNamaste, peeps!\n\nFor those of you who cannot attend or live outside of my fair city, find a sunset yoga near you if it beckons you.\n\nTo Be Continued...\n\nP.S.  Today is also my bro-in-law\'s bday and I would like to give a shout out to the best bro-in-law in the Twitterverse.','Day 2:  Sunset Yoga Beckons (Part One)','','inherit','open','open','','408-revision-2','','','2010-09-15 20:36:08','2010-09-16 03:36:08','',408,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/09/15/408-revision-2/',0,'revision','',0),(411,1,'2010-09-15 20:37:11','2010-09-16 03:37:11','Attention all Late Bloomers and Late Bloomer Wannabees in my fair city:\n\nTonight, September 16th\n\n6:30 p.m.\n\nFree (Yes, FREE!) Sunset Yoga\n\n<a href=\"http://www.icmontelucia.com/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Montelucia Resort and Spa</strong></a>\n\nWho\'s in?\n\nNamaste, peeps!\n\nFor those of you who cannot attend or live outside of my fair city, find a sunset yoga near you if you are so inclined.\n\n Day 2:  To Be Continued...\n\nP.S.  Today is also my bro-in-law\'s bday and I would like to give a shout out to the best bro-in-law in the Twitterverse.','Day 2:  Sunset Yoga Beckons (Part One)','','inherit','open','open','','408-revision-3','','','2010-09-15 20:37:11','2010-09-16 03:37:11','',408,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/09/15/408-revision-3/',0,'revision','',0),(412,1,'2010-09-15 20:38:17','2010-09-16 03:38:17','Attention all Late Bloomers and Late Bloomer Wannabees in my fair city:\r\n\r\nTonight, September 16th\r\n\r\n6:30 p.m.\r\n\r\nFree (Yes, FREE!) Sunset Yoga\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.icmontelucia.com/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Montelucia Resort and Spa</strong></a>\r\n\r\nWho\'s in?\r\n\r\nNamaste, peeps!\r\n\r\nFor those of you who cannot attend or live outside of my fair city, find a sunset yoga near you if you are so inclined.\r\n\r\n Day 2:  To Be Continued...\r\n\r\nP.S.  Today is also my bro-in-law\'s bday and I would like to give a shout out to the best bro-in-law in the Twitterverse.','Day 2:  Sunset Yoga Beckons (Part One)','','inherit','open','open','','408-revision-4','','','2010-09-15 20:38:17','2010-09-16 03:38:17','',408,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/09/15/408-revision-4/',0,'revision','',0),(413,1,'2010-09-15 20:38:30','2010-09-16 03:38:30','Attention all Late Bloomers and Late Bloomer Wannabees in my fair city:\r\n\r\nTonight, September 16th\r\n\r\n6:30 p.m.\r\n\r\nFree (Yes, FREE!) Sunset Yoga\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.icmontelucia.com/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Montelucia Resort and Spa</strong></a>\r\n\r\nWho\'s in?\r\n\r\nNamaste, peeps!\r\n\r\nFor those of you who cannot attend or live outside of my fair city, find a sunset yoga near you if you are so inclined.\r\n\r\n Day 2:  To Be Continued...\r\n\r\nP.S.  Today is also my bro-in-law\'s bday and I would like to give a shout out to the best bro-in-law in the Twitterverse.','Day 2:  Sunset Yoga Beckons (Part One)','','inherit','open','open','','408-revision-5','','','2010-09-15 20:38:30','2010-09-16 03:38:30','',408,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/09/15/408-revision-5/',0,'revision','',0),(414,1,'2010-09-15 20:39:26','2010-09-16 03:39:26','\r\nAttention all Late Bloomers and Late Bloomer Wannabees in my fair city:\r\n\r\nTonight, September 16th\r\n\r\n6:30 p.m.\r\n\r\nFree (Yes, FREE!) Sunset Yoga\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.icmontelucia.com/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Montelucia Resort and Spa</strong></a>\r\n\r\nWho\'s in?\r\n\r\nNamaste, peeps!\r\n\r\nFor those of you who cannot attend or live outside of my fair city, find a sunset yoga near you if you are so inclined.\r\n\r\n Day 2:  To Be Continued...\r\n\r\nP.S.  Today is also my bro-in-law\'s bday and I would like to give a shout out to the best bro-in-law in the Twitterverse.','Day 2:  Sunset Yoga Beckons (Part One)','','inherit','open','open','','408-revision-6','','','2010-09-15 20:39:26','2010-09-16 03:39:26','',408,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/09/15/408-revision-6/',0,'revision','',0),(415,1,'2010-09-15 20:39:52','2010-09-16 03:39:52','</span>\r\n\r\nAttention all Late Bloomers and Late Bloomer Wannabees in my fair city:\r\n\r\nTonight, September 16th\r\n\r\n6:30 p.m.\r\n\r\nFree (Yes, FREE!) Sunset Yoga\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.icmontelucia.com/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Montelucia Resort and Spa</strong></a>\r\n\r\nWho\'s in?\r\n\r\nNamaste, peeps!\r\n\r\nFor those of you who cannot attend or live outside of my fair city, find a sunset yoga near you if you are so inclined.\r\n\r\n Day 2:  To Be Continued...\r\n\r\nP.S.  Today is also my bro-in-law\'s bday and I would like to give a shout out to the best bro-in-law in the Twitterverse.','Day 2:  Sunset Yoga Beckons (Part One)','','inherit','open','open','','408-revision-7','','','2010-09-15 20:39:52','2010-09-16 03:39:52','',408,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/09/15/408-revision-7/',0,'revision','',0),(416,1,'2010-09-15 20:44:58','2010-09-16 03:44:58',' \n\nAttention all Late Bloomers and Late Bloomer Wannabees in my fair city:\n\n<span style=\"color: #993300;\"><strong>Tonight, September 16th</strong></span>\n\n<span style=\"color: #993300;\"><strong>6:30 p.m.</strong></span>\n\n<span style=\"color: #993300;\"><strong>Free (Yes, FREE!) Sunset Yoga</strong></span>\n\n<a href=\"http://www.icmontelucia.com/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Montelucia Resort and Spa</strong></a>\n\nWho\'s in?\n\nNamaste, peeps!\n\nFor those of you who cannot attend or live outside of my fair city, find a sunset yoga near you if you are so inclined.\n\n Day 2:  To Be Continued...\n\nP.S.  Today is also my bro-in-law\'s bday and I would like to give a shout out to the best bro-in-law in the Twitterverse.','Day 2:  Sunset Yoga Beckons (Part One)','','inherit','open','open','','408-revision-8','','','2010-09-15 20:44:58','2010-09-16 03:44:58','',408,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/09/15/408-revision-8/',0,'revision','',0),(417,1,'2010-09-15 20:45:26','2010-09-16 03:45:26',' \r\n\r\nAttention all Late Bloomers and Late Bloomer Wannabees in my fair city:\r\n\r\n<span style=\"color: #993300;\"><strong>Tonight, September 16th</strong></span>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"color: #993300;\"><strong>6:30 p.m.</strong></span>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"color: #993300;\"><strong>Free (Yes, FREE!) Sunset Yoga</strong></span>\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.icmontelucia.com/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Montelucia Resort and Spa</strong></a>\r\n\r\n\r\nWho\'s in?\r\n\r\nNamaste, peeps!\r\n\r\n\r\nFor those of you who cannot attend or live outside of my fair city, find a sunset yoga near you if you are so inclined.\r\n\r\n Day 2:  To Be Continued...\r\n\r\nP.S.  Today is also my bro-in-law\'s bday, and I would like to give a shout out to the best bro-in-law in the Twitterverse.','Day 2:  Sunset Yoga Beckons (Part One)','','inherit','open','open','','408-revision-9','','','2010-09-15 20:45:26','2010-09-16 03:45:26','',408,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/09/15/408-revision-9/',0,'revision','',0),(418,1,'2010-09-15 20:46:24','2010-09-16 03:46:24',' \r\n\r\nAttention all Late Bloomers and Late Bloomer Wannabees in my fair city:\r\n\r\n</span>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"color: #993300;\"><strong>Tonight, September 16th</strong></span>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"color: #993300;\"><strong>6:30 p.m.</strong></span>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"color: #993300;\"><strong>Free (Yes, FREE!) Sunset Yoga</strong></span>\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.icmontelucia.com/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Montelucia Resort and Spa</strong></a>\r\n\r\n</span>\r\n\r\n\r\nWho\'s in?\r\n\r\nNamaste, peeps!\r\n\r\n\r\nFor those of you who cannot attend or live outside of my fair city, find a sunset yoga near you if you are so inclined.\r\n\r\n Day 2:  To Be Continued...\r\n\r\nP.S.  Today is also my bro-in-law\'s bday, and I would like to give a shout out to the best bro-in-law in the Twitterverse.','Day 2:  Sunset Yoga Beckons (Part One)','','inherit','open','open','','408-revision-10','','','2010-09-15 20:46:24','2010-09-16 03:46:24','',408,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/09/15/408-revision-10/',0,'revision','',0),(419,1,'2010-09-15 20:49:01','2010-09-16 03:49:01',' \r\n\r\nAttention all Late Bloomers and Late Bloomer Wannabees in my fair city:\r\n\r\n</span>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"color: #993300;\"><strong>Tonight, September 16th</strong></span>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"color: #993300;\"><strong>6:30 p.m.</strong></span>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"color: #993300;\"><strong>Free (Yes, FREE!) Sunset Yoga</strong></span>\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.icmontelucia.com/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Montelucia Resort and Spa</strong></a>\r\n\r\n</span>\r\n\r\n\r\nWho\'s in?\r\n\r\nNamaste, peeps!\r\n\r\n</span>\r\n</span>\r\n\r\n\r\nFor those of you who cannot attend or live outside of my fair city, find a sunset yoga near you if you are so inclined.\r\n\r\n Day 2:  To Be Continued...\r\n\r\nP.S.  Today is also my bro-in-law\'s bday, and I would like to give a shout out to the best bro-in-law in the Twitterverse.','Day 2:  Sunset Yoga Beckons (Part One)','','inherit','open','open','','408-revision-11','','','2010-09-15 20:49:01','2010-09-16 03:49:01','',408,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/09/15/408-revision-11/',0,'revision','',0),(420,1,'2010-09-15 20:49:25','2010-09-16 03:49:25',' \r\n\r\nAttention all Late Bloomers and Late Bloomer Wannabees in my fair city:\r\n\r\n</span>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"color: #993300;\"><strong>Tonight, September 16th</strong></span>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"color: #993300;\"><strong>6:30 p.m.</strong></span>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"color: #993300;\"><strong>Free (Yes, FREE!) Sunset Yoga</strong></span>\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.icmontelucia.com/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Montelucia Resort and Spa</strong></a>\r\n\r\n</span>\r\n\r\n\r\nWho\'s in?\r\n\r\nNamaste, peeps!\r\n\r\n</span>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nFor those of you who cannot attend or live outside of my fair city, find a sunset yoga near you if you are so inclined.\r\n\r\n Day 2:  To Be Continued...\r\n\r\nP.S.  Today is also my bro-in-law\'s bday, and I would like to give a shout out to the best bro-in-law in the Twitterverse.','Day 2:  Sunset Yoga Beckons (Part One)','','inherit','open','open','','408-revision-12','','','2010-09-15 20:49:25','2010-09-16 03:49:25','',408,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/09/15/408-revision-12/',0,'revision','',0),(421,1,'2010-09-15 20:50:11','2010-09-16 03:50:11',' \r\n\r\nAttention all Late Bloomers and Late Bloomer Wannabees in my fair city:\r\n\r\n</span>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"color: #993300;\"><strong>Tonight, September 16th</strong></span>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"color: #993300;\"><strong>6:30 p.m.</strong></span>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"color: #993300;\"><strong>Free (Yes, FREE!) Sunset Yoga</strong></span>\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.icmontelucia.com/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Montelucia Resort and Spa</strong></a>\r\n\r\n</span>\r\n\r\n\r\nWho\'s in?\r\n\r\nNamaste, peeps!\r\n\r\n</span>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nFor those of you who cannot attend or live outside of my fair city, find a sunset yoga near you if you are so inclined.\r\n\r\n</span>\r\n\r\n Day 2:  To Be Continued...\r\n\r\n</span>\r\n\r\nP.S.  Today is also my bro-in-law\'s bday, and I would like to give a shout out to the best bro-in-law in the Twitterverse.','Day 2:  Sunset Yoga Beckons (Part One)','','inherit','open','open','','408-revision-13','','','2010-09-15 20:50:11','2010-09-16 03:50:11','',408,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/09/15/408-revision-13/',0,'revision','',0),(422,1,'2010-09-15 20:50:42','2010-09-16 03:50:42',' \r\n\r\nAttention all Late Bloomers and Late Bloomer Wannabees in my fair city:\r\n\r\n</span>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"color: #993300;\"><strong>Tonight, September 16th</strong></span>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"color: #993300;\"><strong>6:30 p.m.</strong></span>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"color: #993300;\"><strong>Free (Yes, FREE!) Sunset Yoga</strong></span>\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.icmontelucia.com/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Montelucia Resort and Spa</strong></a>\r\n\r\n</span>\r\n\r\n\r\nWho\'s in?\r\n\r\nNamaste, peeps!\r\n\r\n</span>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nFor those of you who cannot attend or live outside of my fair city, find a sunset yoga near you if you are so inclined.\r\n\r\n</span>\r\n\r\n Day 2:  To Be Continued...\r\n\r\n</span>\r\n\r\nP.S.  Today is also my bro-in-law\'s bday, and I would like to give a shout out to the best bro-in-law in the Twitterverse.','Day 2:  Sunset Yoga Beckons (Part One)','','inherit','open','open','','408-revision-14','','','2010-09-15 20:50:42','2010-09-16 03:50:42','',408,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/09/15/408-revision-14/',0,'revision','',0),(423,1,'2010-09-15 20:51:18','2010-09-16 03:51:18',' \r\n\r\nAttention all Late Bloomers and Late Bloomer Wannabees in my fair city:\r\n\r\n</span>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"color: #993300;\"><strong>Tonight, September 16th</strong></span>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"color: #993300;\"><strong>6:30 p.m.</strong></span>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"color: #993300;\"><strong>Free (Yes, FREE!) Sunset Yoga</strong></span>\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.icmontelucia.com/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Montelucia Resort and Spa</strong></a>\r\n\r\n</span>\r\n\r\n\r\nWho\'s in?\r\n\r\nNamaste, peeps!\r\n\r\n</span>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nFor those of you who cannot attend or live outside of my fair city, find a sunset yoga near you if you are so inclined.\r\n\r\n</span>\r\n\r\n<strong> Day 2:  To Be Continued...</strong>\r\n\r\n</span>\r\n\r\nP.S.  Today is also my bro-in-law\'s bday, and I would like to give a shout out to the best bro-in-law in the Twitterverse.','Day 2:  Sunset Yoga Beckons (Part One)','','inherit','open','open','','408-revision-15','','','2010-09-15 20:51:18','2010-09-16 03:51:18','',408,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/09/15/408-revision-15/',0,'revision','',0),(687,1,'2010-09-24 01:11:28','2010-09-24 08:11:28','<div class=\"mceTemp\"><dt class=\"wp-caption-dt\"><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/LeapofFaith1.jpg\"></a></dt><dd class=\"wp-caption-dd\"> </dd></div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"><dl id=\"attachment_688\" class=\"wp-caption alignleft\" style=\"width: 310px;\"><dt class=\"wp-caption-dt\"><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/P92201781.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-688\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/P92201781-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a></dt><dd class=\"wp-caption-dd\">Jump! aka feel the FEAR and do it anyway</dd></dl>\r\n\r\n<p>Back when I was a kid, I practically lived in the water every summer.  I learned how to swim when I was teeny tiny in the pond outside my grandparent\'s beach house.  By the age of 6, I was swimming across the inlet that led to the bay.  By the age of 8, I was jumping off the 10 ft. high dive at the community pool.  I had no FEAR. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>This past Memorial Day, I was at my blog Svengali\'s pool.  (From now on, I will refer to him as one of his 3 nicknames:  Sven, Svenny or Svennykins.)  We climbed up the large rock formation at one end of the pool to soak in the view. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>After oohing and ahhing over the beauty of our desert surroundings, Svenny leapt off the rock into the pool.  I approached the edge and...Chickened out. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>It seemed too high.  It seemed too shallow.  It seemed too scary. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Svenny assured me that if I tucked my legs I wouldn\'t hit bottom.  The deep end was 6 ft.  I was entirely safe. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I heard my nervous Nelly mother in my head.  She warned me about mishaps that occur when people dive into water that is too shallow.  They sever their spinal cords.  They are paralyzed for life. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I remember as a kid reading a library book about a girl who suffered this very fate.  She was an artist, and since her arms were paralyzed, she learned how to paint with her mouth.  You can read her story for yourself at <a href=\"http://www.joniearecksontadastory.com/\">http://www.joniearecksontadastory.com/</a>. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I sheepishly climbed down off the rock and joined Svenny on the deck.  I glanced back to the mountain of rock, but now it appeared to be more of a molehill.  Was I really scared of a molehill???  It\'s amazing what a shift in perspective will do. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I announced to Svenny that I would return to his mountain/molehill for a Leap of Faith!  But could I please do it after my refurbished blog was up and running?</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Svenny looked puzzled. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Because I will have 365 days to fill!!!  And I just love the symbolism behind this -- changing one\'s view and putting things into proper perspective and all!!!  What great writing material!!!</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Svenny rolled his eyes.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Fast forward to Day 8.  I head over to Svenny\'s house for my Leap of Faith.  This is going to be a snap. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Svenny opens the door and immediately starts rambling on about FEAR acronyms.  This is one of the things I admire about Svenny -- he\'s a guy that actually thinks about cool stuff -- but honestly, we need to get \'er done so I can get home and crank out a blog post.  </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>And Svenny can\'t quite remember the entire acronym -- something about expectations not realized or something like that -- and I\'m frankly starting to get nervous with all of this FEAR talk.  Somehow I manage to distract Svenny and corral him out to the pool. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Svenny disappears to the side of the house.   I have no earthly idea what he is doing until I hear running water and notice that there is now a waterfall cascading down the mountain/molehill.  I ask Svenny if this will make the mountain/molehill surface too slippery.  He stares blankly at me.  I shut up and climb up. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Did I say that this was going to be a snap?! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Ugh.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I revert back to Memorial Day.  FEAR resurfaces. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Svenny is stage-right with a camera.  I explain to him that I am really, truly unnerved. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>He waxes on about acronyms.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I explain to him that I don\'t think I can do this. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>He reminds me to tuck my legs, and I will be fine.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I ask if any adults have jumped recently. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>No, but several kids did at his last pool party. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I ask if any of these children were larger children.  (I am the size of a large pre-teen.)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Yes.  I sense an oncoming eye roll. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>An eternity passes. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>At this point, I can care less about \"conquering a fear\".  I am freakin\' scared!  My main motivation in taking the plunge is that if I just do it, this little self-growth exercise will be over in a split second, and I won’t have to think about and implement something else for Day 8.  Pathetic, huh?</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I also feel guilty for taking up Svenny\'s time when he is smack in the middle of a project for his upcoming book. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>So...I...</p>\r\n\r\n<p><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/LeapofFaith1.jpg\"><img title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/LeapofFaith1-225x300.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"225\" height=\"300\" /></a><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>FEAR = False Evidence Appearing Real</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>You know how the story ends, right?  The leap isn\'t as terrifying as I make it out to be, and I am elated for showing up and following through. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I am also relieved that I didn\'t cave into the other FEAR = F*** Everything And Run!</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Thank you for holding me accountable, Blog Fans and Svennykins.</p></div>','Day 8:  Flashback Friday:  Leap of Faith','','publish','open','open','','day-8-flashback-friday-leap-of-faith-2','','','2010-09-23 22:16:46','2010-09-24 05:16:46','',0,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?p=687',0,'post','',8),(425,1,'2010-09-15 20:52:20','2010-09-16 03:52:20',' \r\n\r\nAttention all Late Bloomers and Late Bloomer Wannabees in my fair city:\r\n\r\n</span>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"color: #993300;\"><strong>Tonight, September 16th</strong></span>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"color: #993300;\"><strong>6:30 p.m.</strong></span>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"color: #993300;\"><strong>Free (Yes, FREE!) Sunset Yoga</strong></span>\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.icmontelucia.com/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Montelucia Resort and Spa</strong></a>\r\n\r\n</span>\r\n\r\n\r\nWho\'s in?\r\n\r\nNamaste, peeps!\r\n\r\n</span>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nFor those of you who cannot attend or live outside of my fair city, find a sunset yoga near you if you are so inclined.\r\n\r\n</span>\r\n\r\n<strong> Day 2:  To Be Continued...</strong>\r\n\r\n</span>\r\n\r\nP.S.  Today is also my bro-in-law\'s bday, and I would like to give a shout out to the best bro-in-law in the Twitterverse.','Day 2:  Sunset Yoga Beckons (Part One)','','inherit','open','open','','408-revision-16','','','2010-09-15 20:52:20','2010-09-16 03:52:20','',408,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/09/15/408-revision-16/',0,'revision','',0),(426,1,'2010-09-17 22:49:13','2010-09-18 05:49:13','<p>Attention all Late Bloomers and Late Bloomer Wannabees in my fair city:</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><span style=\"color: #993300;\"><strong>Tonight, September 16th</strong></span></p>\n\n<p><span style=\"color: #993300;\"><strong>6:30 p.m.</strong></span></p>\n\n<p><span style=\"color: #993300;\"><strong>Free (Yes, FREE!) Sunset Yoga</strong></span></p>\n\n<p><a href=\"http://www.icmontelucia.com/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Montelucia Resort and Spa</strong></a></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Who\'s in?</p>\n\n<p>Namaste, peeps!</p>\n\n<p>For those of you who cannot attend or live outside of my fair city, find a sunset yoga near you if you are so inclined.</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><strong> Day 2:  To Be Continued...</strong></p>\n\n<p>P.S.  Today is also my bro-in-law\'s bday, and I would like to give a shout out to the best bro-in-law in the Twitterverse.</p>','Day 2:  Sunset Yoga Beckons (Part One)','','inherit','open','open','','408-autosave','','','2010-09-17 22:49:13','2010-09-18 05:49:13','',408,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/09/15/408-autosave/',0,'revision','',0),(499,1,'2010-09-17 21:23:19','2010-09-18 04:23:19','Attention all Late Bloomers and Late Bloomer Wannabees in my fair city:\r\n\r\n<span style=\"color: #993300;\"><strong>Tonight, September 16th</strong></span>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"color: #993300;\"><strong>6:30 p.m.</strong></span>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"color: #993300;\"><strong>Free (Yes, FREE!) Sunset Yoga</strong></span>\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.icmontelucia.com/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Montelucia Resort and Spa</strong></a>\r\n\r\nWho\'s in?\r\n\r\nNamaste, peeps!\r\n\r\nFor those of you who cannot attend or live outside of my fair city, find a sunset yoga near you if you are so inclined.\r\n\r\n<strong> Day 2:  To Be Continued...</strong>\r\n\r\nP.S.  Today is also my bro-in-law\'s bday, and I would like to give a shout out to the best bro-in-law in the Twitterverse.','Day 2:  Sunset Yoga Beckons (Part One)','','inherit','open','open','','408-revision-18','','','2010-09-17 21:23:19','2010-09-18 04:23:19','',408,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/09/17/408-revision-18/',0,'revision','',0),(428,1,'2010-09-16 16:48:18','2010-09-16 23:48:18','pic\n\nalways wanted to take yoga outside.  Mention and link to yogatoday.com\n\nTomorrow:  Beginning of Flashback Fridays\n','Day 2:  Sunset Yoga Beckons (Part Two)','','inherit','open','open','','427-revision','','','2010-09-16 16:48:18','2010-09-16 23:48:18','',427,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/09/16/427-revision/',0,'revision','',0),(429,1,'2010-09-16 16:48:18','2010-09-16 23:48:18','pic\r\n\r\nalways wanted to take yoga outside.  Mention and link to yogatoday.com\r\n\r\nTomorrow:  Beginning of Flashback Fridays\r\n','Day 2:  Sunset Yoga Beckons (Part Two)','','inherit','open','open','','427-revision-2','','','2010-09-16 16:48:18','2010-09-16 23:48:18','',427,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/09/16/427-revision-2/',0,'revision','',0),(433,1,'2010-09-16 16:50:50','2010-09-16 23:50:50','pic\r\n\r\nalways wanted to take yoga outside. Mention and link to yogatoday.com\r\n\r\nTomorrow: Beginning of Flashback Fridays','Day 2:  Sunset Yoga Beckons (Part Two)','','inherit','open','open','','427-revision-6','','','2010-09-16 16:50:50','2010-09-16 23:50:50','',427,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/09/16/427-revision-6/',0,'revision','',0),(430,1,'2010-09-16 16:49:00','2010-09-16 23:49:00','pic\r\n\r\n<br/>\r\n\r\nalways wanted to take yoga outside.  Mention and link to yogatoday.com\r\n\r\n<br/>\r\n\r\nTomorrow:  Beginning of Flashback Fridays\r\n','Day 2:  Sunset Yoga Beckons (Part Two)','','inherit','open','open','','427-revision-3','','','2010-09-16 16:49:00','2010-09-16 23:49:00','',427,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/09/16/427-revision-3/',0,'revision','',0),(431,1,'2010-09-16 16:50:23','2010-09-16 23:50:23','pic\r\n\r\n<br/>\r\n\r\nalways wanted to take yoga outside.  Mention and link to yogatoday.com\r\n\r\n<br/>\r\n\r\nTomorrow:  Beginning of Flashback Fridays\r\n','Day 2:  Sunset Yoga Beckons (Part Two)','','inherit','open','open','','427-revision-4','','','2010-09-16 16:50:23','2010-09-16 23:50:23','',427,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/09/16/427-revision-4/',0,'revision','',0),(432,1,'2010-09-16 16:50:36','2010-09-16 23:50:36','pic\r\n\r\n<br/>\r\n\r\nalways wanted to take yoga outside.  Mention and link to yogatoday.com\r\n\r\n<br/>\r\n\r\nTomorrow:  Beginning of Flashback Fridays\r\n','Day 2:  Sunset Yoga Beckons (Part Two)','','inherit','open','open','','427-revision-5','','','2010-09-16 16:50:36','2010-09-16 23:50:36','',427,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/09/16/427-revision-5/',0,'revision','',0),(434,1,'2010-09-16 21:15:51','2010-09-17 04:15:51','','OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA','','inherit','open','open','','olympus-digital-camera','','','2010-09-16 21:15:51','2010-09-17 04:15:51','',427,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/P9160166.jpg',0,'attachment','image/jpeg',0),(435,1,'2010-09-16 21:17:02','2010-09-17 04:17:02','','OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA','Just another day in paradise','inherit','open','open','','olympus-digital-camera-2','','','2010-09-16 21:17:02','2010-09-17 04:17:02','',427,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/P91601661.jpg',0,'attachment','image/jpeg',0),(436,1,'2010-09-16 21:17:43','2010-09-17 04:17:43',' \n\nalways wanted to take yoga outside. Mention and link to <a href=\"http://yogatoday.com/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>YogaToday.com</strong></a>\n\n[caption id=\"attachment_435\" align=\"alignleft\" width=\"150\" caption=\"Just another day in paradise\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/P91601661.jpg\"><img class=\"size-thumbnail wp-image-435\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/P91601661-150x150.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"150\" height=\"150\" /></a>[/caption]\n\nTomorrow: Beginning of Flashback Fridays','Day 2:  Sunset Yoga Beckons (Part Two)','','inherit','open','open','','427-revision-7','','','2010-09-16 21:17:43','2010-09-17 04:17:43','',427,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/09/16/427-revision-7/',0,'revision','',0),(437,1,'2010-09-16 21:26:32','2010-09-17 04:26:32','','OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA','Just another day in paradise','inherit','open','open','','olympus-digital-camera-3','','','2010-09-16 21:26:32','2010-09-17 04:26:32','',408,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/P91601662.jpg',0,'attachment','image/jpeg',0),(500,1,'2010-09-17 21:24:20','2010-09-18 04:24:20','Attention all Late Bloomers and Late Bloomer Wannabees in my fair city:\r\n\r\n<span style=\"color: #993300;\"><strong>Tonight, September 16th</strong></span>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"color: #993300;\"><strong>6:30 p.m.</strong></span>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"color: #993300;\"><strong>Free (Yes, FREE!) Sunset Yoga</strong></span>\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.icmontelucia.com/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Montelucia Resort and Spa</strong></a>\r\n\r\nWho\'s in?\r\n\r\nNamaste, peeps!\r\n\r\nFor those of you who cannot attend or live outside of my fair city, find a sunset yoga near you if you are so inclined.\r\n\r\n<strong> Day 2:  To Be Continued...</strong>\r\n\r\nP.S.  Today is also my bro-in-law\'s bday, and I would like to give a shout out to the best bro-in-law in the Twitterverse.','Day 2:  Sunset Yoga Beckons (Part One)','','inherit','open','open','','408-revision-19','','','2010-09-17 21:24:20','2010-09-18 04:24:20','',408,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/09/17/408-revision-19/',0,'revision','',0),(438,1,'2010-09-16 21:17:51','2010-09-17 04:17:51',' \r\n\r\nalways wanted to take yoga outside. Mention and link to <a href=\"http://yogatoday.com/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>YogaToday.com</strong></a>\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_435\" align=\"alignleft\" width=\"150\" caption=\"Just another day in paradise\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/P91601661.jpg\"><img class=\"size-thumbnail wp-image-435\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/P91601661-150x150.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"150\" height=\"150\" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\nTomorrow: Beginning of Flashback Fridays','Day 2:  Sunset Yoga Beckons (Part Two)','','inherit','open','open','','427-revision-8','','','2010-09-16 21:17:51','2010-09-17 04:17:51','',427,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/09/16/427-revision-8/',0,'revision','',0),(439,1,'2010-09-16 21:28:40','2010-09-17 04:28:40','[caption id=\"attachment_435\" align=\"alignleft\" width=\"300\" caption=\"Just another day in paradise\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/P91601661.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-435\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/P91601661-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n \r\n\r\nalways wanted to take yoga outside. Mention and link to <a href=\"http://yogatoday.com/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>YogaToday.com</strong></a>\r\n\r\nTomorrow: Beginning of Flashback Fridays','Day 2:  Sunset Yoga Beckons (Part Two)','','inherit','open','open','','427-revision-9','','','2010-09-16 21:28:40','2010-09-17 04:28:40','',427,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/09/16/427-revision-9/',0,'revision','',0),(440,1,'2010-09-16 21:29:37','2010-09-17 04:29:37','[caption id=\"attachment_435\" align=\"alignleft\" width=\"300\" caption=\"Just another day in paradise\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/P91601661.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-435\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/P91601661-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n \r\n\r\nalways wanted to take yoga outside. Mention and link to <a href=\"http://yogatoday.com/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>YogaToday.com</strong></a>\r\n\r\nTomorrow: Beginning of Flashback Fridays','Day 2:  Sunset Yoga Beckons (Part Two)','','inherit','open','open','','427-revision-10','','','2010-09-16 21:29:37','2010-09-17 04:29:37','',427,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/09/16/427-revision-10/',0,'revision','',0),(441,1,'2010-09-16 22:05:01','2010-09-17 05:05:01','<div class=\"mceTemp\"><dl id=\"attachment_435\" class=\"wp-caption alignleft\" style=\"width: 310px;\"><dt class=\"wp-caption-dt\"><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/P91601661.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-435\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/P91601661-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a></dt><dd class=\"wp-caption-dd\">Just another day in paradise</dd></dl>Some of you asked yesterday, \"So what was your Day 1 adventure?\"  My reply is, \"Launching a big girl blog!\"</div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">Holy Learning Curve, Batman! </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">If you snuck a peek at my <strong><a href=\"http://latebloomerdiary.blogspot.com\" target=\"_blank\">old blog,</a></strong> you probably noticed that I\'ve come a loooooong way, baby!  Wahoo!  Thanks to everyone for your support and well wishes these past two days.  Your response has been the best birthday present that a Late Bloomer could ask for. </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">But today I actually left my house for a zen adventure. </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">My precious and darling friend, Corinnie (her name is Corinne, but I address most of my friends by silly nicknames), invited me to a Summer Sunset Yoga class at the Montelucia Resort which is a divine escape, let me tell you, dahlings.  I have always wanted to take a yoga class outside in nature, so I was over-the-moon about this all day.</div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">Class was scheduled for 6:30 which meant I had to zip out of the cubicle jungle, haul my cookies across town, and -- horror of all horrors -- skip dinner.  When you are raised in a neurotic Portuguese family whose obsession with food is second only to the Italians, skipping dinner is a very, very big deal.  To prepare for this trauma, I downed a disgusting protein shake two hours before yoga so I wouldn\'t pass out and embarrass myself in front my fellow classmates and poolside patrons of the resort. </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">The first thing I noticed upon our arrival was all the MEN!  Not because I am more than a little boy crazy (guilty as charged), but because I am used to seeing only women at yoga classes in the suburbs.  I could get used to this. </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">I suppose that I was a little distracted by the \"scenery\" because when I excused myself for a quickie pre-class trip to the loo, I unknowingly barged into the men\'s restroom, and yes, there was a guy at the urinal.  After my initial shock, I broke out into the giggles and ran to the women\'s room.  </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>','Day 2:  Sunset Yoga Beckons (Part Two)','','inherit','open','open','','427-revision-11','','','2010-09-16 22:05:01','2010-09-17 05:05:01','',427,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/09/16/427-revision-11/',0,'revision','',0),(442,1,'2010-09-16 22:05:10','2010-09-17 05:05:10','<div class=\"mceTemp\"><dl id=\"attachment_435\" class=\"wp-caption alignleft\" style=\"width: 310px;\"><dt class=\"wp-caption-dt\"><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/P91601661.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-435\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/P91601661-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a></dt><dd class=\"wp-caption-dd\">Just another day in paradise</dd></dl>Some of you asked yesterday, \"So what was your Day 1 adventure?\"  My reply is, \"Launching a big girl blog!\"\r\n\r\n</div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">Holy Learning Curve, Batman! </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">If you snuck a peek at my <strong><a href=\"http://latebloomerdiary.blogspot.com\" target=\"_blank\">old blog,</a></strong> you probably noticed that I\'ve come a loooooong way, baby!  Wahoo!  Thanks to everyone for your support and well wishes these past two days.  Your response has been the best birthday present that a Late Bloomer could ask for. </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">But today I actually left my house for a zen adventure. </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">My precious and darling friend, Corinnie (her name is Corinne, but I address most of my friends by silly nicknames), invited me to a Summer Sunset Yoga class at the Montelucia Resort which is a divine escape, let me tell you, dahlings.  I have always wanted to take a yoga class outside in nature, so I was over-the-moon about this all day.</div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">Class was scheduled for 6:30 which meant I had to zip out of the cubicle jungle, haul my cookies across town, and -- horror of all horrors -- skip dinner.  When you are raised in a neurotic Portuguese family whose obsession with food is second only to the Italians, skipping dinner is a very, very big deal.  To prepare for this trauma, I downed a disgusting protein shake two hours before yoga so I wouldn\'t pass out and embarrass myself in front my fellow classmates and poolside patrons of the resort. </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">The first thing I noticed upon our arrival was all the MEN!  Not because I am more than a little boy crazy (guilty as charged), but because I am used to seeing only women at yoga classes in the suburbs.  I could get used to this. </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">I suppose that I was a little distracted by the \"scenery\" because when I excused myself for a quickie pre-class trip to the loo, I unknowingly barged into the men\'s restroom, and yes, there was a guy at the urinal.  After my initial shock, I broke out into the giggles and ran to the women\'s room.  </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>','Day 2:  Sunset Yoga Beckons (Part Two)','','inherit','open','open','','427-revision-12','','','2010-09-16 22:05:10','2010-09-17 05:05:10','',427,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/09/16/427-revision-12/',0,'revision','',0),(443,1,'2010-09-16 22:06:25','2010-09-17 05:06:25','<div class=\"mceTemp\"><dl id=\"attachment_435\" class=\"wp-caption alignleft\" style=\"width: 310px;\"><dt class=\"wp-caption-dt\"><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/P91601661.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-435\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/P91601661-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a></dt><dd class=\"wp-caption-dd\">Just another day in paradise</dd></dl>Some of you asked yesterday, \"So what was your Day 1 adventure?\"  My reply is, \"Launching a big girl blog!\"\r\n\r\n</div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">Holy Learning Curve, Batman! </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">If you snuck a peek at my <strong><a href=\"http://latebloomerdiary.blogspot.com\" target=\"_blank\">old blog,</a></strong> you probably noticed that I\'ve come a loooooong way, baby!  Wahoo!  Thanks to everyone for your support and well wishes these past two days.  Your response has been the best birthday present that a Late Bloomer could ask for. </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">But today I actually left my house for a zen adventure. </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">My precious and darling friend, Corinnie (her name is Corinne, but I address most of my friends by silly nicknames), invited me to a Summer Sunset Yoga class at the Montelucia Resort which is a divine escape, let me tell you, dahlings.  I have always wanted to take a yoga class outside in nature, so I was over-the-moon about this all day.</div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">Class was scheduled for 6:30 which meant I had to zip out of the cubicle jungle, haul my cookies across town, and -- horror of all horrors -- skip dinner.  When you are raised in a neurotic Portuguese family whose obsession with food is second only to the Italians, skipping dinner is a very, very big deal.  To prepare for this trauma, I downed a disgusting protein shake two hours before yoga so I wouldn\'t pass out and embarrass myself in front my fellow classmates and poolside patrons of the resort. </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">The first thing I noticed upon our arrival was all the MEN!  Not because I am more than a little boy crazy (guilty as charged), but because I am used to seeing only women at yoga classes in the suburbs.  I could get used to this. </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">I suppose that I was a little distracted by the \"scenery\" because when I excused myself for a quickie pre-class trip to the loo, I unknowingly barged into the men\'s restroom, and yes, there was a guy at the urinal.  After my initial shock, I broke out into the giggles and ran to the women\'s room.  </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>','Day 2:  Sunset Yoga Beckons (Part Two)','','inherit','open','open','','427-revision-13','','','2010-09-16 22:06:25','2010-09-17 05:06:25','',427,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/09/16/427-revision-13/',0,'revision','',0),(444,1,'2010-09-16 22:10:37','2010-09-17 05:10:37','<div class=\"mceTemp\"><dl id=\"attachment_435\" class=\"wp-caption alignleft\" style=\"width: 310px;\"><dt class=\"wp-caption-dt\"><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/P91601661.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-435\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/P91601661-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a></dt><dd class=\"wp-caption-dd\">Just another day in paradise</dd></dl>Some of you asked yesterday, \"So what was your Day 1 adventure?\"  My reply is, \"Launching a big girl blog!\"\r\n\r\n</div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">Holy Learning Curve, Batman! </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">If you snuck a peek at my <strong><a href=\"http://latebloomerdiary.blogspot.com\" target=\"_blank\">old blog,</a></strong> you probably noticed that I\'ve come a loooooong way, baby!  Wahoo!  Thanks to everyone for your support and well wishes these past two days.  Your response has been the best birthday present that a Late Bloomer could ask for. </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">But today I actually left my house for a zen adventure. </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">My precious and darling friend, Corinnie (her name is Corinne, but I address most of my friends by silly nicknames), invited me to a Summer Sunset Yoga class at the Montelucia Resort which is a divine escape, let me tell you, dahlings.  I have always wanted to take a yoga class outside in nature, so I was over-the-moon about this all day.</div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">Class was scheduled for 6:30 which meant I had to zip out of the cubicle jungle, haul my cookies across town, and -- horror of all horrors -- skip dinner.  When you are raised in a neurotic Portuguese family whose obsession with food is second only to the Italians, skipping dinner is a very, very big deal.  To prepare for this trauma, I downed a disgusting protein shake two hours before yoga so I wouldn\'t pass out and embarrass myself in front my fellow classmates and poolside patrons of the resort. </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">The first thing I noticed upon our arrival was all the MEN!  Not because I am more than a little boy crazy (guilty as charged), but because I am used to seeing only women at yoga classes in the suburbs.  I could get used to this. </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">I suppose that I was a little distracted by the \"scenery\" because when I excused myself for a quickie pre-class trip to the loo, I unknowingly barged into the men\'s restroom, and yes, there was a guy at the urinal.  After my initial shock, I broke out into the giggles and ran to the women\'s room.  </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>','Day 2:  Sunset Yoga Beckons (Part Two)','','inherit','open','open','','427-revision-14','','','2010-09-16 22:10:37','2010-09-17 05:10:37','',427,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/09/16/427-revision-14/',0,'revision','',0),(448,1,'2010-09-16 22:12:13','2010-09-17 05:12:13','<div class=\"mceTemp\"><dl id=\"attachment_435\" class=\"wp-caption alignleft\" style=\"width: 310px;\"><dt class=\"wp-caption-dt\"><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/P91601661.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-435\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/P91601661-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a></dt><dd class=\"wp-caption-dd\">Just another day in paradise</dd></dl>Some of you asked yesterday, \"So what was your Day 1 adventure?\"  My reply is, \"Launching a big girl blog!\"\n\n</div>\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">Holy Learning Curve, Batman! </div>\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">If you snuck a peek at my <strong><a href=\"http://latebloomerdiary.blogspot.com\" target=\"_blank\">old blog,</a></strong> you probably noticed that I\'ve come a loooooong way, baby!  Wahoo!  Thanks to everyone for your support and well wishes these past two days.  Your response has been the best birthday present that a Late Bloomer could ask for. </div>\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">But today I actually left my house for a zen adventure. </div>\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">My precious and darling friend, Corinnie (her name is Corinne, but I address most of my friends by silly nicknames), invited me to a Summer Sunset Yoga class at the Montelucia Resort which is a divine escape, let me tell you, dahlings.  I have always wanted to take a yoga class outside in nature, so I was over-the-moon about this all day.</div>\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">Class was scheduled for 6:30 which meant I had to zip out of the cubicle jungle, haul my cookies across town, and -- horror of all horrors -- skip dinner.  When you are raised in a neurotic Portuguese family whose obsession with food is second only to the Italians, skipping dinner is a very, very big deal.  To prepare for this trauma, I downed a disgusting protein shake two hours before yoga so I wouldn\'t pass out and embarrass myself in front my fellow classmates and poolside patrons of the resort. </div>\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">The first thing I noticed upon our arrival was all the MEN!  Not because I am more than a little boy crazy (guilty as charged), but because I am used to seeing only women at yoga classes in the suburbs.  I could get used to this. </div>\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">I suppose that I was a little distracted by the \"scenery\" because when I excused myself for a quickie pre-class trip to the loo, I unknowingly barged into the men\'s restroom, and yes, there was a guy at the urinal.  After my initial shock, I broke out into the giggles and ran to the women\'s room.  </div>\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>','Day 2:  Sunset Yoga Beckons (Part Two)','','inherit','open','open','','427-revision-15','','','2010-09-16 22:12:13','2010-09-17 05:12:13','',427,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/09/16/427-revision-15/',0,'revision','',0),(449,1,'2010-09-16 22:21:36','2010-09-17 05:21:36','<div class=\"mceTemp\"><dl id=\"attachment_435\" class=\"wp-caption alignleft\" style=\"width: 310px;\"><dt class=\"wp-caption-dt\"><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/P91601661.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-435\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/P91601661-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a></dt><dd class=\"wp-caption-dd\">Just another day in paradise</dd></dl>Some of you asked yesterday, \"So what was your Day 1 adventure?\"  My reply is, \"Launching a big girl blog!\"\n\n</div>\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">Holy Learning Curve, Batman! </div>\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">If you snuck a peek at my <strong><a href=\"http://latebloomerdiary.blogspot.com\" target=\"_blank\">old blog,</a></strong> you probably noticed that I\'ve come a loooooong way, baby!  Wahoo!  Thanks to everyone for your support and well wishes these past two days.  Your response has been the best birthday present that a Late Bloomer could ask for. </div>\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">But today I actually left my house for a zen adventure. </div>\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">My precious and darling friend, Corinnie (her name is Corinne, but I address most of my friends by silly nicknames), invited me to a Summer Sunset Yoga class at the Montelucia Resort which is a divine escape, let me tell you, dahlings.  I have always wanted to take a yoga class outside in nature, so I was over-the-moon about this all day.</div>\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">Class was scheduled for 6:30 which meant I had to zip out of the cubicle jungle, haul my cookies across town, and -- horror of all horrors -- skip dinner.  When you are raised in a neurotic Portuguese family whose obsession with food is second only to the Italians, skipping dinner is a very, very big deal.  To prepare for this trauma, I downed a disgusting protein shake two hours before yoga so I wouldn\'t pass out and embarrass myself in front my fellow classmates and poolside patrons of the resort. </div>\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">The first thing I noticed upon our arrival was all the MEN!  Not because I am more than a little boy crazy (guilty as charged), but because I am used to seeing only women at yoga classes in the suburbs.  I could get used to this. </div>\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">I suppose that I was a little distracted by the \"scenery\" because when I excused myself for a quickie pre-class trip to the loo, I unknowingly barged into the men\'s restroom, and yes, there was a guy at the urinal.  After my initial shock, I broke out into the giggles and ran to the women\'s room.  </div>\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>','Day 2:  Sunset Yoga Beckons (Part Two)','','inherit','open','open','','427-revision-16','','','2010-09-16 22:21:36','2010-09-17 05:21:36','',427,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/09/16/427-revision-16/',0,'revision','',0),(474,1,'2010-09-17 13:03:20','2010-09-17 20:03:20','<div class=\"mceTemp\"><dl id=\"attachment_435\" class=\"wp-caption alignleft\" style=\"width: 310px;\"><dt class=\"wp-caption-dt\"><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/P91601661.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-435\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/P91601661-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a></dt><dd class=\"wp-caption-dd\">Just another day in paradise</dd></dl>Some of you asked yesterday, \"So what was your Day 1 adventure?\"  My reply is, \"Launching a big girl blog!\"\n\n</div>\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">Holy Learning Curve, Batman! </div>\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">If you snuck a peek at my <strong><a href=\"http://latebloomerdiary.blogspot.com\" target=\"_blank\">old blog,</a></strong> you probably noticed that I\'ve come a loooooong way, baby!  Wahoo!  Thanks to everyone for your support and well wishes these past two days.  Your response has been the best birthday present that a Late Bloomer could ask for. </div>\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">But today I actually left my house for a zen adventure. </div>\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">My precious and darling friend, Corinnie (her name is Corinne, but I address most of my friends by silly nicknames), invited me to a Summer Sunset Yoga class at the Montelucia Resort which is a divine escape, let me tell you, dahlings.  I have always wanted to take a yoga class outside in nature, so I was over-the-moon about this all day.</div>\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">Class was scheduled for 6:30 which meant I had to zip out of the cubicle jungle, haul my cookies across town, and -- horror of all horrors -- skip dinner.  When you are raised in a neurotic Portuguese family whose obsession with food is second only to the Italians, skipping dinner is a very, very big deal.  To prepare for this trauma, I downed a disgusting protein shake two hours before yoga so I wouldn\'t pass out and embarrass myself in front my fellow classmates and poolside patrons of the resort. </div>\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">The first thing I noticed upon our arrival was all the MEN!  Not because I am more than a little boy crazy (guilty as charged), but because I am used to seeing only women at yoga classes in the suburbs.  I could get used to this. </div>\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">I suppose that I was a little distracted by the \"scenery\" because when I excused myself for a quickie pre-class trip to the loo, I unknowingly barged into the men\'s restroom, and yes, there was a guy at the urinal.  After my initial shock, I broke out into the giggles and ran to the women\'s room.  </div>\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>','Day 2:  Sunset Yoga Beckons (Part Two)','','inherit','open','open','','427-revision-31','','','2010-09-17 13:03:20','2010-09-17 20:03:20','',427,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/09/17/427-revision-31/',0,'revision','',0),(450,1,'2010-09-16 22:22:13','2010-09-17 05:22:13','<div class=\"mceTemp\"><dl id=\"attachment_435\" class=\"wp-caption alignleft\" style=\"width: 310px;\"><dt class=\"wp-caption-dt\"><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/P91601661.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-435\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/P91601661-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a></dt><dd class=\"wp-caption-dd\">Just another day in paradise</dd></dl>Some of you asked yesterday, \"So what was your Day 1 adventure?\"  My reply is, \"Launching a big girl blog!\"\r\n\r\n</div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">Holy Learning Curve, Batman! </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">If you snuck a peek at my <strong><a href=\"http://latebloomerdiary.blogspot.com\" target=\"_blank\">old blog,</a></strong> you probably noticed that I\'ve come a loooooong way, baby!  Wahoo!  Thanks to everyone for your support and well wishes these past two days.  Your response has been the best birthday present that a Late Bloomer could ask for. </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">But today I actually left my house for a zen adventure. </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">My precious and darling friend, Corinnie (her name is Corinne, but I address most of my friends by silly nicknames), invited me to a Summer Sunset Yoga class at the Montelucia Resort which is a divine escape, let me tell you, dahlings.  I have always wanted to take a yoga class outside in nature, so I was over-the-moon about this all day.</div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">Class was scheduled for 6:30 which meant I had to zip out of the cubicle jungle, haul my cookies across town, and -- horror of all horrors -- skip dinner.  When you are raised in a neurotic Portuguese family whose obsession with food is second only to the Italians, skipping dinner is a very, very big deal.  To prepare for this trauma, I downed a disgusting protein shake two hours before yoga so I wouldn\'t pass out and embarrass myself in front my fellow classmates and poolside patrons of the resort. </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">The first thing I noticed upon our arrival was all the MEN!  Not because I am more than a little boy crazy (guilty as charged), but because I am used to seeing only women at yoga classes in the suburbs.  I could get used to this. </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">I suppose that I was a little distracted by the \"scenery\" because when I excused myself for a quickie pre-class trip to the loo, I unknowingly barged into the men\'s restroom, and yes, there was a guy at the urinal.  After my initial shock, I broke out into the giggles and ran to the women\'s room.  </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>','Day 2:  Sunset Yoga Beckons (Part Two)','','inherit','open','open','','427-revision-17','','','2010-09-16 22:22:13','2010-09-17 05:22:13','',427,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/09/16/427-revision-17/',0,'revision','',0),(451,1,'2010-09-16 22:23:28','2010-09-17 05:23:28','<div class=\"mceTemp\"><dl id=\"attachment_435\" class=\"wp-caption alignleft\" style=\"width: 310px;\"><dt class=\"wp-caption-dt\"><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/P91601661.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-435\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/P91601661-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a></dt><dd class=\"wp-caption-dd\">Just another day in paradise</dd></dl>Some of you asked yesterday, \"So what was your Day 1 adventure?\"  My reply is, \"Launching a big girl blog!\"\r\n\r\n</div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">Holy Learning Curve, Batman! </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">If you snuck a peek at my <strong><a href=\"http://latebloomerdiary.blogspot.com\" target=\"_blank\">old blog,</a></strong> you probably noticed that I\'ve come a loooooong way, baby!  Wahoo!  Thanks to everyone for your support and well wishes these past two days.  Your response has been the best birthday present that a Late Bloomer could ask for. </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">But today I actually left my house for a zen adventure. </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">My precious and darling friend, Corinnie (her name is Corinne, but I address most of my friends by silly nicknames), invited me to a Summer Sunset Yoga class at the Montelucia Resort which is a divine escape, let me tell you, dahlings.  I have always wanted to take a yoga class outside in nature, so I was over-the-moon about this all day.</div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">Class was scheduled for 6:30 which meant I had to zip out of the cubicle jungle, haul my cookies across town, and -- horror of all horrors -- skip dinner.  When you are raised in a neurotic Portuguese family whose obsession with food is second only to the Italians, skipping dinner is a very, very big deal.  To prepare for this trauma, I downed a disgusting protein shake two hours before yoga so I wouldn\'t pass out and embarrass myself in front my fellow classmates and poolside patrons of the resort. </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">The first thing I noticed upon our arrival was all the MEN!  Not because I am more than a little boy crazy (guilty as charged), but because I am used to seeing only women at yoga classes in the suburbs.  I could get used to this. </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">I suppose that I was a little distracted by the \"scenery\" because when I excused myself for a quickie pre-class trip to the loo, I unknowingly barged into the men\'s restroom, and yes, there was a guy at the urinal.  After my initial shock, I broke out into the giggles and ran to the women\'s room.  </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>','Day 2:  Sunset Yoga Beckons (Part Two)','','inherit','open','open','','427-revision-18','','','2010-09-16 22:23:28','2010-09-17 05:23:28','',427,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/09/16/427-revision-18/',0,'revision','',0),(452,1,'2010-09-16 22:28:35','2010-09-17 05:28:35','<div class=\"mceTemp\"><dl id=\"attachment_435\" class=\"wp-caption alignleft\" style=\"width: 310px;\"><dt class=\"wp-caption-dt\"><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/P91601661.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-435\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/P91601661-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a></dt><dd class=\"wp-caption-dd\">Just another day in paradise</dd></dl>Some of you asked yesterday, \"So what was your Day 1 adventure?\"  My reply is, \"Launching a big girl blog!\"\r\n\r\n</div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">Holy Learning Curve, Batman! </div>\r\n\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">If you snuck a peek at my <strong><a href=\"http://latebloomerdiary.blogspot.com\" target=\"_blank\">old blog,</a></strong> you probably noticed that I\'ve come a loooooong way, baby!  Wahoo!  Thanks to everyone for your support and well wishes these past two days.  Your response has been the best birthday present that a Late Bloomer could ask for. </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">But today I actually left my house for a zen adventure. </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">My precious and darling friend, Corinnie (her name is Corinne, but I address most of my friends by silly nicknames), invited me to a Summer Sunset Yoga class at the Montelucia Resort which is a divine escape, let me tell you, dahlings.  I have always wanted to take a yoga class outside in nature, so I was over-the-moon about this all day.</div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">Class was scheduled for 6:30 which meant I had to zip out of the cubicle jungle, haul my cookies across town, and -- horror of all horrors -- skip dinner.  When you are raised in a neurotic Portuguese family whose obsession with food is second only to the Italians, skipping dinner is a very, very big deal.  To prepare for this trauma, I downed a disgusting protein shake two hours before yoga so I wouldn\'t pass out and embarrass myself in front my fellow classmates and poolside patrons of the resort. </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">The first thing I noticed upon our arrival was all the MEN!  Not because I am more than a little boy crazy (guilty as charged), but because I am used to seeing only women at yoga classes in the suburbs.  I could get used to this. </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">I suppose that I was a little distracted by the \"scenery\" because when I excused myself for a quickie pre-class trip to the loo, I unknowingly barged into the men\'s restroom, and yes, there was a guy at the urinal.  After my initial shock, I broke out into the giggles and ran to the women\'s room.  </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>','Day 2:  Sunset Yoga Beckons (Part Two)','','inherit','open','open','','427-revision-19','','','2010-09-16 22:28:35','2010-09-17 05:28:35','',427,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/09/16/427-revision-19/',0,'revision','',0),(453,1,'2010-09-16 22:28:49','2010-09-17 05:28:49','<div class=\"mceTemp\"><dl id=\"attachment_435\" class=\"wp-caption alignleft\" style=\"width: 310px;\"><dt class=\"wp-caption-dt\"><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/P91601661.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-435\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/P91601661-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a></dt><dd class=\"wp-caption-dd\">Just another day in paradise</dd></dl>Some of you asked yesterday, \"So what was your Day 1 adventure?\"  My reply is, \"Launching a big girl blog!\"\r\n\r\n</div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">Holy Learning Curve, Batman! </div>\r\n\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">If you snuck a peek at my <strong><a href=\"http://latebloomerdiary.blogspot.com\" target=\"_blank\">old blog,</a></strong> you probably noticed that I\'ve come a loooooong way, baby!  Wahoo!  Thanks to everyone for your support and well wishes these past two days.  Your response has been the best birthday present that a Late Bloomer could ask for. </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">But today I actually left my house for a zen adventure. </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">My precious and darling friend, Corinnie (her name is Corinne, but I address most of my friends by silly nicknames), invited me to a Summer Sunset Yoga class at the Montelucia Resort which is a divine escape, let me tell you, dahlings.  I have always wanted to take a yoga class outside in nature, so I was over-the-moon about this all day.</div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">Class was scheduled for 6:30 which meant I had to zip out of the cubicle jungle, haul my cookies across town, and -- horror of all horrors -- skip dinner.  When you are raised in a neurotic Portuguese family whose obsession with food is second only to the Italians, skipping dinner is a very, very big deal.  To prepare for this trauma, I downed a disgusting protein shake two hours before yoga so I wouldn\'t pass out and embarrass myself in front my fellow classmates and poolside patrons of the resort. </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">The first thing I noticed upon our arrival was all the MEN!  Not because I am more than a little boy crazy (guilty as charged), but because I am used to seeing only women at yoga classes in the suburbs.  I could get used to this. </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">I suppose that I was a little distracted by the \"scenery\" because when I excused myself for a quickie pre-class trip to the loo, I unknowingly barged into the men\'s restroom, and yes, there was a guy at the urinal.  After my initial shock, I broke out into the giggles and ran to the women\'s room.  </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>','Day 2:  Sunset Yoga Beckons (Part Two)','','inherit','open','open','','427-revision-20','','','2010-09-16 22:28:49','2010-09-17 05:28:49','',427,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/09/16/427-revision-20/',0,'revision','',0),(456,1,'2010-09-16 22:29:58','2010-09-17 05:29:58','<div class=\"mceTemp\"><dl id=\"attachment_435\" class=\"wp-caption alignleft\" style=\"width: 310px;\"><dt class=\"wp-caption-dt\"><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/P91601661.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-435\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/P91601661-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a></dt><dd class=\"wp-caption-dd\">Just another day in paradise</dd></dl>Some of you asked yesterday, \"So what was your Day 1 adventure?\"  My reply is, \"Launching a big girl blog!\"\r\n\r\n</div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">Holy Learning Curve, Batman! </div>\r\n<br/>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">If you snuck a peek at my <strong><a href=\"http://latebloomerdiary.blogspot.com\" target=\"_blank\">old blog,</a></strong> you probably noticed that I\'ve come a loooooong way, baby!  Wahoo!  Thanks to everyone for your support and well wishes these past two days.  Your response has been the best birthday present that a Late Bloomer could ask for. </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">But today I actually left my house for a zen adventure. </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">My precious and darling friend, Corinnie (her name is Corinne, but I address most of my friends by silly nicknames), invited me to a Summer Sunset Yoga class at the Montelucia Resort which is a divine escape, let me tell you, dahlings.  I have always wanted to take a yoga class outside in nature, so I was over-the-moon about this all day.</div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">Class was scheduled for 6:30 which meant I had to zip out of the cubicle jungle, haul my cookies across town, and -- horror of all horrors -- skip dinner.  When you are raised in a neurotic Portuguese family whose obsession with food is second only to the Italians, skipping dinner is a very, very big deal.  To prepare for this trauma, I downed a disgusting protein shake two hours before yoga so I wouldn\'t pass out and embarrass myself in front my fellow classmates and poolside patrons of the resort. </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">The first thing I noticed upon our arrival was all the MEN!  Not because I am more than a little boy crazy (guilty as charged), but because I am used to seeing only women at yoga classes in the suburbs.  I could get used to this. </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">I suppose that I was a little distracted by the \"scenery\" because when I excused myself for a quickie pre-class trip to the loo, I unknowingly barged into the men\'s restroom, and yes, there was a guy at the urinal.  After my initial shock, I broke out into the giggles and ran to the women\'s room.  </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>','Day 2:  Sunset Yoga Beckons (Part Two)','','inherit','open','open','','427-revision-23','','','2010-09-16 22:29:58','2010-09-17 05:29:58','',427,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/09/16/427-revision-23/',0,'revision','',0),(454,1,'2010-09-16 22:29:24','2010-09-17 05:29:24','<div class=\"mceTemp\"><dl id=\"attachment_435\" class=\"wp-caption alignleft\" style=\"width: 310px;\"><dt class=\"wp-caption-dt\"><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/P91601661.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-435\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/P91601661-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a></dt><dd class=\"wp-caption-dd\">Just another day in paradise</dd></dl>Some of you asked yesterday, \"So what was your Day 1 adventure?\"  My reply is, \"Launching a big girl blog!\"\r\n\r\n</div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">Holy Learning Curve, Batman! </div>\r\n\r\n<br/>\r\n\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">If you snuck a peek at my <strong><a href=\"http://latebloomerdiary.blogspot.com\" target=\"_blank\">old blog,</a></strong> you probably noticed that I\'ve come a loooooong way, baby!  Wahoo!  Thanks to everyone for your support and well wishes these past two days.  Your response has been the best birthday present that a Late Bloomer could ask for. </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">But today I actually left my house for a zen adventure. </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">My precious and darling friend, Corinnie (her name is Corinne, but I address most of my friends by silly nicknames), invited me to a Summer Sunset Yoga class at the Montelucia Resort which is a divine escape, let me tell you, dahlings.  I have always wanted to take a yoga class outside in nature, so I was over-the-moon about this all day.</div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">Class was scheduled for 6:30 which meant I had to zip out of the cubicle jungle, haul my cookies across town, and -- horror of all horrors -- skip dinner.  When you are raised in a neurotic Portuguese family whose obsession with food is second only to the Italians, skipping dinner is a very, very big deal.  To prepare for this trauma, I downed a disgusting protein shake two hours before yoga so I wouldn\'t pass out and embarrass myself in front my fellow classmates and poolside patrons of the resort. </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">The first thing I noticed upon our arrival was all the MEN!  Not because I am more than a little boy crazy (guilty as charged), but because I am used to seeing only women at yoga classes in the suburbs.  I could get used to this. </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">I suppose that I was a little distracted by the \"scenery\" because when I excused myself for a quickie pre-class trip to the loo, I unknowingly barged into the men\'s restroom, and yes, there was a guy at the urinal.  After my initial shock, I broke out into the giggles and ran to the women\'s room.  </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>','Day 2:  Sunset Yoga Beckons (Part Two)','','inherit','open','open','','427-revision-21','','','2010-09-16 22:29:24','2010-09-17 05:29:24','',427,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/09/16/427-revision-21/',0,'revision','',0),(455,1,'2010-09-16 22:29:31','2010-09-17 05:29:31','<div class=\"mceTemp\"><dl id=\"attachment_435\" class=\"wp-caption alignleft\" style=\"width: 310px;\"><dt class=\"wp-caption-dt\"><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/P91601661.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-435\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/P91601661-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a></dt><dd class=\"wp-caption-dd\">Just another day in paradise</dd></dl>Some of you asked yesterday, \"So what was your Day 1 adventure?\"  My reply is, \"Launching a big girl blog!\"\r\n\r\n</div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">Holy Learning Curve, Batman! </div>\r\n\r\n<br/>\r\n\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">If you snuck a peek at my <strong><a href=\"http://latebloomerdiary.blogspot.com\" target=\"_blank\">old blog,</a></strong> you probably noticed that I\'ve come a loooooong way, baby!  Wahoo!  Thanks to everyone for your support and well wishes these past two days.  Your response has been the best birthday present that a Late Bloomer could ask for. </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">But today I actually left my house for a zen adventure. </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">My precious and darling friend, Corinnie (her name is Corinne, but I address most of my friends by silly nicknames), invited me to a Summer Sunset Yoga class at the Montelucia Resort which is a divine escape, let me tell you, dahlings.  I have always wanted to take a yoga class outside in nature, so I was over-the-moon about this all day.</div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">Class was scheduled for 6:30 which meant I had to zip out of the cubicle jungle, haul my cookies across town, and -- horror of all horrors -- skip dinner.  When you are raised in a neurotic Portuguese family whose obsession with food is second only to the Italians, skipping dinner is a very, very big deal.  To prepare for this trauma, I downed a disgusting protein shake two hours before yoga so I wouldn\'t pass out and embarrass myself in front my fellow classmates and poolside patrons of the resort. </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">The first thing I noticed upon our arrival was all the MEN!  Not because I am more than a little boy crazy (guilty as charged), but because I am used to seeing only women at yoga classes in the suburbs.  I could get used to this. </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">I suppose that I was a little distracted by the \"scenery\" because when I excused myself for a quickie pre-class trip to the loo, I unknowingly barged into the men\'s restroom, and yes, there was a guy at the urinal.  After my initial shock, I broke out into the giggles and ran to the women\'s room.  </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>','Day 2:  Sunset Yoga Beckons (Part Two)','','inherit','open','open','','427-revision-22','','','2010-09-16 22:29:31','2010-09-17 05:29:31','',427,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/09/16/427-revision-22/',0,'revision','',0),(457,1,'2010-09-16 22:30:05','2010-09-17 05:30:05','<div class=\"mceTemp\"><dl id=\"attachment_435\" class=\"wp-caption alignleft\" style=\"width: 310px;\"><dt class=\"wp-caption-dt\"><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/P91601661.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-435\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/P91601661-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a></dt><dd class=\"wp-caption-dd\">Just another day in paradise</dd></dl>Some of you asked yesterday, \"So what was your Day 1 adventure?\"  My reply is, \"Launching a big girl blog!\"\r\n\r\n</div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">Holy Learning Curve, Batman! </div>\r\n<br/>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">If you snuck a peek at my <strong><a href=\"http://latebloomerdiary.blogspot.com\" target=\"_blank\">old blog,</a></strong> you probably noticed that I\'ve come a loooooong way, baby!  Wahoo!  Thanks to everyone for your support and well wishes these past two days.  Your response has been the best birthday present that a Late Bloomer could ask for. </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">But today I actually left my house for a zen adventure. </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">My precious and darling friend, Corinnie (her name is Corinne, but I address most of my friends by silly nicknames), invited me to a Summer Sunset Yoga class at the Montelucia Resort which is a divine escape, let me tell you, dahlings.  I have always wanted to take a yoga class outside in nature, so I was over-the-moon about this all day.</div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">Class was scheduled for 6:30 which meant I had to zip out of the cubicle jungle, haul my cookies across town, and -- horror of all horrors -- skip dinner.  When you are raised in a neurotic Portuguese family whose obsession with food is second only to the Italians, skipping dinner is a very, very big deal.  To prepare for this trauma, I downed a disgusting protein shake two hours before yoga so I wouldn\'t pass out and embarrass myself in front my fellow classmates and poolside patrons of the resort. </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">The first thing I noticed upon our arrival was all the MEN!  Not because I am more than a little boy crazy (guilty as charged), but because I am used to seeing only women at yoga classes in the suburbs.  I could get used to this. </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">I suppose that I was a little distracted by the \"scenery\" because when I excused myself for a quickie pre-class trip to the loo, I unknowingly barged into the men\'s restroom, and yes, there was a guy at the urinal.  After my initial shock, I broke out into the giggles and ran to the women\'s room.  </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>','Day 2:  Sunset Yoga Beckons (Part Two)','','inherit','open','open','','427-revision-24','','','2010-09-16 22:30:05','2010-09-17 05:30:05','',427,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/09/16/427-revision-24/',0,'revision','',0),(458,1,'2010-09-16 22:30:10','2010-09-17 05:30:10','<div class=\"mceTemp\"><dl id=\"attachment_435\" class=\"wp-caption alignleft\" style=\"width: 310px;\"><dt class=\"wp-caption-dt\"><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/P91601661.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-435\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/P91601661-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a></dt><dd class=\"wp-caption-dd\">Just another day in paradise</dd></dl>Some of you asked yesterday, \"So what was your Day 1 adventure?\"  My reply is, \"Launching a big girl blog!\"\r\n\r\n</div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">Holy Learning Curve, Batman! </div>\r\n<br/>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">If you snuck a peek at my <strong><a href=\"http://latebloomerdiary.blogspot.com\" target=\"_blank\">old blog,</a></strong> you probably noticed that I\'ve come a loooooong way, baby!  Wahoo!  Thanks to everyone for your support and well wishes these past two days.  Your response has been the best birthday present that a Late Bloomer could ask for. </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">But today I actually left my house for a zen adventure. </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">My precious and darling friend, Corinnie (her name is Corinne, but I address most of my friends by silly nicknames), invited me to a Summer Sunset Yoga class at the Montelucia Resort which is a divine escape, let me tell you, dahlings.  I have always wanted to take a yoga class outside in nature, so I was over-the-moon about this all day.</div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">Class was scheduled for 6:30 which meant I had to zip out of the cubicle jungle, haul my cookies across town, and -- horror of all horrors -- skip dinner.  When you are raised in a neurotic Portuguese family whose obsession with food is second only to the Italians, skipping dinner is a very, very big deal.  To prepare for this trauma, I downed a disgusting protein shake two hours before yoga so I wouldn\'t pass out and embarrass myself in front my fellow classmates and poolside patrons of the resort. </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">The first thing I noticed upon our arrival was all the MEN!  Not because I am more than a little boy crazy (guilty as charged), but because I am used to seeing only women at yoga classes in the suburbs.  I could get used to this. </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">I suppose that I was a little distracted by the \"scenery\" because when I excused myself for a quickie pre-class trip to the loo, I unknowingly barged into the men\'s restroom, and yes, there was a guy at the urinal.  After my initial shock, I broke out into the giggles and ran to the women\'s room.  </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>','Day 2:  Sunset Yoga Beckons (Part Two)','','inherit','open','open','','427-revision-25','','','2010-09-16 22:30:10','2010-09-17 05:30:10','',427,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/09/16/427-revision-25/',0,'revision','',0),(459,1,'2010-09-16 22:30:47','2010-09-17 05:30:47','<div class=\"mceTemp\"><dl id=\"attachment_435\" class=\"wp-caption alignleft\" style=\"width: 310px;\"><dt class=\"wp-caption-dt\"><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/P91601661.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-435\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/P91601661-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a></dt><dd class=\"wp-caption-dd\">Just another day in paradise</dd></dl>Some of you asked yesterday, \"So what was your Day 1 adventure?\"  My reply is, \"Launching a big girl blog!\"\r\n\r\n</div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">Holy Learning Curve, Batman! </div>\r\n \r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">If you snuck a peek at my <strong><a href=\"http://latebloomerdiary.blogspot.com\" target=\"_blank\">old blog,</a></strong> you probably noticed that I\'ve come a loooooong way, baby!  Wahoo!  Thanks to everyone for your support and well wishes these past two days.  Your response has been the best birthday present that a Late Bloomer could ask for. </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">But today I actually left my house for a zen adventure. </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">My precious and darling friend, Corinnie (her name is Corinne, but I address most of my friends by silly nicknames), invited me to a Summer Sunset Yoga class at the Montelucia Resort which is a divine escape, let me tell you, dahlings.  I have always wanted to take a yoga class outside in nature, so I was over-the-moon about this all day.</div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">Class was scheduled for 6:30 which meant I had to zip out of the cubicle jungle, haul my cookies across town, and -- horror of all horrors -- skip dinner.  When you are raised in a neurotic Portuguese family whose obsession with food is second only to the Italians, skipping dinner is a very, very big deal.  To prepare for this trauma, I downed a disgusting protein shake two hours before yoga so I wouldn\'t pass out and embarrass myself in front my fellow classmates and poolside patrons of the resort. </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">The first thing I noticed upon our arrival was all the MEN!  Not because I am more than a little boy crazy (guilty as charged), but because I am used to seeing only women at yoga classes in the suburbs.  I could get used to this. </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">I suppose that I was a little distracted by the \"scenery\" because when I excused myself for a quickie pre-class trip to the loo, I unknowingly barged into the men\'s restroom, and yes, there was a guy at the urinal.  After my initial shock, I broke out into the giggles and ran to the women\'s room.  </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>','Day 2:  Sunset Yoga Beckons (Part Two)','','inherit','open','open','','427-revision-26','','','2010-09-16 22:30:47','2010-09-17 05:30:47','',427,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/09/16/427-revision-26/',0,'revision','',0),(460,1,'2010-09-16 22:30:56','2010-09-17 05:30:56','<div class=\"mceTemp\"><dl id=\"attachment_435\" class=\"wp-caption alignleft\" style=\"width: 310px;\"><dt class=\"wp-caption-dt\"><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/P91601661.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-435\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/P91601661-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a></dt><dd class=\"wp-caption-dd\">Just another day in paradise</dd></dl>Some of you asked yesterday, \"So what was your Day 1 adventure?\"  My reply is, \"Launching a big girl blog!\"\r\n\r\n</div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">Holy Learning Curve, Batman! </div>\r\n \r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">If you snuck a peek at my <strong><a href=\"http://latebloomerdiary.blogspot.com\" target=\"_blank\">old blog,</a></strong> you probably noticed that I\'ve come a loooooong way, baby!  Wahoo!  Thanks to everyone for your support and well wishes these past two days.  Your response has been the best birthday present that a Late Bloomer could ask for. </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">But today I actually left my house for a zen adventure. </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">My precious and darling friend, Corinnie (her name is Corinne, but I address most of my friends by silly nicknames), invited me to a Summer Sunset Yoga class at the Montelucia Resort which is a divine escape, let me tell you, dahlings.  I have always wanted to take a yoga class outside in nature, so I was over-the-moon about this all day.</div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">Class was scheduled for 6:30 which meant I had to zip out of the cubicle jungle, haul my cookies across town, and -- horror of all horrors -- skip dinner.  When you are raised in a neurotic Portuguese family whose obsession with food is second only to the Italians, skipping dinner is a very, very big deal.  To prepare for this trauma, I downed a disgusting protein shake two hours before yoga so I wouldn\'t pass out and embarrass myself in front my fellow classmates and poolside patrons of the resort. </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">The first thing I noticed upon our arrival was all the MEN!  Not because I am more than a little boy crazy (guilty as charged), but because I am used to seeing only women at yoga classes in the suburbs.  I could get used to this. </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">I suppose that I was a little distracted by the \"scenery\" because when I excused myself for a quickie pre-class trip to the loo, I unknowingly barged into the men\'s restroom, and yes, there was a guy at the urinal.  After my initial shock, I broke out into the giggles and ran to the women\'s room.  </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>','Day 2:  Sunset Yoga Beckons (Part Two)','','inherit','open','open','','427-revision-27','','','2010-09-16 22:30:56','2010-09-17 05:30:56','',427,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/09/16/427-revision-27/',0,'revision','',0),(461,1,'2010-09-16 22:31:30','2010-09-17 05:31:30','<div class=\"mceTemp\"><dl id=\"attachment_435\" class=\"wp-caption alignleft\" style=\"width: 310px;\"><dt class=\"wp-caption-dt\"><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/P91601661.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-435\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/P91601661-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a></dt><dd class=\"wp-caption-dd\">Just another day in paradise</dd></dl>Some of you asked yesterday, \"So what was your Day 1 adventure?\"  My reply is, \"Launching a big girl blog!\"\r\n\r\n</div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">Holy Learning Curve, Batman! </div>\r\n \r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">If you snuck a peek at my <strong><a href=\"http://latebloomerdiary.blogspot.com\" target=\"_blank\">old blog,</a></strong> you probably noticed that I\'ve come a loooooong way, baby!  Wahoo!  Thanks to everyone for your support and well wishes these past two days.  Your response has been the best birthday present that a Late Bloomer could ask for. </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">But today I actually left my house for a zen adventure. </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">My precious and darling friend, Corinnie (her name is Corinne, but I address most of my friends by silly nicknames), invited me to a Summer Sunset Yoga class at the Montelucia Resort which is a divine escape, let me tell you, dahlings.  I have always wanted to take a yoga class outside in nature, so I was over-the-moon about this all day.</div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">Class was scheduled for 6:30 which meant I had to zip out of the cubicle jungle, haul my cookies across town, and -- horror of all horrors -- skip dinner.  When you are raised in a neurotic Portuguese family whose obsession with food is second only to the Italians, skipping dinner is a very, very big deal.  To prepare for this trauma, I downed a disgusting protein shake two hours before yoga so I wouldn\'t pass out and embarrass myself in front my fellow classmates and poolside patrons of the resort. </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">The first thing I noticed upon our arrival was all the MEN!  Not because I am more than a little boy crazy (guilty as charged), but because I am used to seeing only women at yoga classes in the suburbs.  I could get used to this. </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">I suppose that I was a little distracted by the \"scenery\" because when I excused myself for a quickie pre-class trip to the loo, I unknowingly barged into the men\'s restroom, and yes, there was a guy at the urinal.  After my initial shock, I broke out into the giggles and ran to the women\'s room.  </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>','Day 2:  Sunset Yoga Beckons (Part Two)','','inherit','open','open','','427-revision-28','','','2010-09-16 22:31:30','2010-09-17 05:31:30','',427,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/09/16/427-revision-28/',0,'revision','',0),(462,1,'2010-09-16 22:31:37','2010-09-17 05:31:37','<div class=\"mceTemp\"><dl id=\"attachment_435\" class=\"wp-caption alignleft\" style=\"width: 310px;\"><dt class=\"wp-caption-dt\"><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/P91601661.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-435\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/P91601661-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a></dt><dd class=\"wp-caption-dd\">Just another day in paradise</dd></dl>Some of you asked yesterday, \"So what was your Day 1 adventure?\"  My reply is, \"Launching a big girl blog!\"\r\n\r\n</div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">Holy Learning Curve, Batman! </div>\r\n \r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">If you snuck a peek at my <strong><a href=\"http://latebloomerdiary.blogspot.com\" target=\"_blank\">old blog,</a></strong> you probably noticed that I\'ve come a loooooong way, baby!  Wahoo!  Thanks to everyone for your support and well wishes these past two days.  Your response has been the best birthday present that a Late Bloomer could ask for. </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">But today I actually left my house for a zen adventure. </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">My precious and darling friend, Corinnie (her name is Corinne, but I address most of my friends by silly nicknames), invited me to a Summer Sunset Yoga class at the Montelucia Resort which is a divine escape, let me tell you, dahlings.  I have always wanted to take a yoga class outside in nature, so I was over-the-moon about this all day.</div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">Class was scheduled for 6:30 which meant I had to zip out of the cubicle jungle, haul my cookies across town, and -- horror of all horrors -- skip dinner.  When you are raised in a neurotic Portuguese family whose obsession with food is second only to the Italians, skipping dinner is a very, very big deal.  To prepare for this trauma, I downed a disgusting protein shake two hours before yoga so I wouldn\'t pass out and embarrass myself in front my fellow classmates and poolside patrons of the resort. </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">The first thing I noticed upon our arrival was all the MEN!  Not because I am more than a little boy crazy (guilty as charged), but because I am used to seeing only women at yoga classes in the suburbs.  I could get used to this. </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">I suppose that I was a little distracted by the \"scenery\" because when I excused myself for a quickie pre-class trip to the loo, I unknowingly barged into the men\'s restroom, and yes, there was a guy at the urinal.  After my initial shock, I broke out into the giggles and ran to the women\'s room.  </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>','Day 2:  Sunset Yoga Beckons (Part Two)','','inherit','open','open','','427-revision-29','','','2010-09-16 22:31:37','2010-09-17 05:31:37','',427,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/09/16/427-revision-29/',0,'revision','',0),(463,1,'2010-09-16 22:32:14','2010-09-17 05:32:14','<div class=\"mceTemp\"><dl id=\"attachment_435\" class=\"wp-caption alignleft\" style=\"width: 310px;\"><dt class=\"wp-caption-dt\"><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/P91601661.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-435\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/P91601661-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a></dt><dd class=\"wp-caption-dd\">Just another day in paradise</dd></dl>Some of you asked yesterday, \"So what was your Day 1 adventure?\"  My reply is, \"Launching a big girl blog!\"\r\n\r\n</div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">Holy Learning Curve, Batman! </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">If you snuck a peek at my <strong><a href=\"http://latebloomerdiary.blogspot.com\" target=\"_blank\">old blog,</a></strong> you probably noticed that I\'ve come a loooooong way, baby!  Wahoo!  Thanks to everyone for your support and well wishes these past two days.  Your response has been the best birthday present that a Late Bloomer could ask for. </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">But today I actually left my house for a zen adventure. </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">My precious and darling friend, Corinnie (her name is Corinne, but I address most of my friends by silly nicknames), invited me to a Summer Sunset Yoga class at the Montelucia Resort which is a divine escape, let me tell you, dahlings.  I have always wanted to take a yoga class outside in nature, so I was over-the-moon about this all day.</div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">Class was scheduled for 6:30 which meant I had to zip out of the cubicle jungle, haul my cookies across town, and -- horror of all horrors -- skip dinner.  When you are raised in a neurotic Portuguese family whose obsession with food is second only to the Italians, skipping dinner is a very, very big deal.  To prepare for this trauma, I downed a disgusting protein shake two hours before yoga so I wouldn\'t pass out and embarrass myself in front my fellow classmates and poolside patrons of the resort. </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">The first thing I noticed upon our arrival was all the MEN!  Not because I am more than a little boy crazy (guilty as charged), but because I am used to seeing only women at yoga classes in the suburbs.  I could get used to this. </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">I suppose that I was a little distracted by the \"scenery\" because when I excused myself for a quickie pre-class trip to the loo, I unknowingly barged into the men\'s restroom, and yes, there was a guy at the urinal.  After my initial shock, I broke out into the giggles and ran to the women\'s room.  </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>','Day 2:  Sunset Yoga Beckons (Part Two)','','inherit','open','open','','427-revision-30','','','2010-09-16 22:32:14','2010-09-17 05:32:14','',427,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/09/16/427-revision-30/',0,'revision','',0),(1191,1,'2010-10-20 21:15:21','2010-10-21 04:15:21','<p>I am blessed to live in one of the most beautiful states in our great nation.  I think we might also boast the most diverse landscapes of any of the other 49 states. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I awoke on Day 24 in the Sonoran Desert, which is actually quite stunning. </p>\r\n\r\n<p>pic of south mountain</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>After a 2 hour drive from Captain Adventure\'s house, we scaled the Red Rocks of Sedona.  </p>\r\n\r\n<p>pic of sedona</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>After another 30 minute drive, we hiked a pine forest trail in Flagstaff (trail elevation 9600 ft.)</p>\r\n\r\n<p>pic of flagstaff</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>As you can see, if you can tolerate 115 temps for a few months, then this state is one breathtakingly majestic oyster. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>The plan for Day 24 started with a Google hunt for the height of Aspen \"gold rush\" in Flagstaff.  I\'ve been to Flagstaff many times, but never at the peak of fall foliage, and I wanted an autumnal experience to remember. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>The second weekend of October is considered THE weekend to visit Flagstaff for fall colors, so I called up my friend, David (aka Captain Adventure), who lives and breathes nature stuff.  It took him about a ¼ of a second to accept my invitation. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>We decided to turn this into a 2-day nature extravaganza.  First stop:  Sedona, Arizona.  Which.  Is.  Absolutely.  Incredible.  One of my favorite places on earth.  If you\'ve never been, start plotting a Sedona escape soon. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Sedona is known not only for its stunning one-of-a-kind scenery, but also for its Woo-Woo factor.  If you\'re ready to get you\'re New Agey freak on, then Sedona is your place.  I would guesstimate that Sedona has more psychics per capita than anywhere else on earth.  If New Agey freak freaks you out, then just focus on the red rocks and mind your own beeswax.  Sedona attracts people from all around the world, so I guarantee you won\'t feel out of place. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Or course, I was chomping at the bit for a psychic reading because a.  I like to get my freak on every once and awhile and b.  I wanted to learn about the fate of this blog.  Because psychics are always right, you know.  According to <strong>Dionne Warwick</strong>. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>However, hen you\'re traveling with Captain Adventure, you don\'t waste sunshine and perfect 80 degree weather on psychics.  You must first conquer the mountain! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>When you hike Sedona with girlfriends, you leisurely follow hiking paths, share girl stories, and stumble upon a naked man in the woods.  (True story.)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>When you hike Sedona with Captain Adventure, you make your own path.  Up a rock.  Thinking that if your mother saw you, she would freak out and not in the New Age-y way. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>(insert me scaling red rock here)caption: Feel the fear and climb that rock anyway!</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I don\'t know what was more exhilarating, the climb or the vistas. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Few people hang in there all the way to the top, and for those who do, there are special rewards.  Lucky for me, Captain Adventure fancies himself a masseur, so I received a cranial massage while passed out on the lone flat rock.  David wouldn\'t let fellow hikers take his masseur-in-action photo because he suddenly felt shy (???) but I assure you, it cleared my sinus headache in about 10 seconds flat. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>(Ladies, if you want me to play matchmaker, contact me privately and you and David can exchange digits.  Although now that I think about it, I may need him to remain single for this Dating Game idea I have for the blog, but that\'s for another day...)</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>\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 25:  Sedona Woo-Woo and Other Adventures','','inherit','open','open','','1108-revision-6','','','2010-10-20 21:15:21','2010-10-21 04:15:21','',1108,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/10/20/1108-revision-6/',0,'revision','',0),(1204,1,'2010-10-20 21:51:30','2010-10-21 04:51:30','<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 continue with Days 24 and 25 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! ','','inherit','open','open','','1192-revision-11','','','2010-10-20 21:51:30','2010-10-21 04:51:30','',1192,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/10/20/1192-revision-11/',0,'revision','',0),(1203,1,'2010-10-21 22:05:01','2010-10-22 05:05:01','<p>Dear Friends,</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\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>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\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>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\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>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\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>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Warmly,</p>\n\n<p>Michelle</p>','I\'m Back and Ready for More Carpe Diem-ing! ','','inherit','open','open','','1192-autosave','','','2010-10-21 22:05:01','2010-10-22 05:05:01','',1192,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/10/20/1192-autosave/',0,'revision','',0),(1200,1,'2010-10-20 21:45:48','2010-10-21 04:45:48','<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 Papa 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 and didn\'t blog about them. </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 continue with Days 24 and 25 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! ','','inherit','open','open','','1192-revision-8','','','2010-10-20 21:45:48','2010-10-21 04:45:48','',1192,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/10/20/1192-revision-8/',0,'revision','',0),(1202,1,'2010-10-20 21:51:08','2010-10-21 04:51:08','<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 continue with Days 24 and 25 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! ','','inherit','open','open','','1192-revision-10','','','2010-10-20 21:51:08','2010-10-21 04:51:08','',1192,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/10/20/1192-revision-10/',0,'revision','',0),(1201,1,'2010-10-20 21:48:52','2010-10-21 04:48:52','<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 and chose not to blog about them. </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 continue with Days 24 and 25 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! ','','inherit','open','open','','1192-revision-9','','','2010-10-20 21:48:52','2010-10-21 04:48:52','',1192,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/10/20/1192-revision-9/',0,'revision','',0),(1199,1,'2010-10-20 21:45:41','2010-10-21 04:45:41','<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 Papa 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 and didn\'t blog about them. </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 continue with Days 24 and 25 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! ','','inherit','open','open','','1192-revision-7','','','2010-10-20 21:45:41','2010-10-21 04:45:41','',1192,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/10/20/1192-revision-7/',0,'revision','',0),(475,1,'2010-09-17 13:03:37','2010-09-17 20:03:37','<div class=\"mceTemp\"><dl id=\"attachment_435\" class=\"wp-caption alignleft\" style=\"width: 310px;\"><dt class=\"wp-caption-dt\"><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/P91601661.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-435\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/P91601661-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a></dt><dd class=\"wp-caption-dd\">Just another day in paradise</dd></dl>Some of you asked yesterday, \"So what was your Day 1 adventure?\"  My reply is, \"Launching a big girl blog!\"\r\n\r\n</div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">Holy Learning Curve, Batman! </div>\r\n<br/>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">If you snuck a peek at my <strong><a href=\"http://latebloomerdiary.blogspot.com\" target=\"_blank\">old blog,</a></strong> you probably noticed that I\'ve come a loooooong way, baby!  Wahoo!  Thanks to everyone for your support and well wishes these past two days.  Your response has been the best birthday present that a Late Bloomer could ask for. </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">But today I actually left my house for a zen adventure. </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">My precious and darling friend, Corinnie (her name is Corinne, but I address most of my friends by silly nicknames), invited me to a Summer Sunset Yoga class at the Montelucia Resort which is a divine escape, let me tell you, dahlings.  I have always wanted to take a yoga class outside in nature, so I was over-the-moon about this all day.</div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">Class was scheduled for 6:30 which meant I had to zip out of the cubicle jungle, haul my cookies across town, and -- horror of all horrors -- skip dinner.  When you are raised in a neurotic Portuguese family whose obsession with food is second only to the Italians, skipping dinner is a very, very big deal.  To prepare for this trauma, I downed a disgusting protein shake two hours before yoga so I wouldn\'t pass out and embarrass myself in front my fellow classmates and poolside patrons of the resort. </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">The first thing I noticed upon our arrival was all the MEN!  Not because I am more than a little boy crazy (guilty as charged), but because I am used to seeing only women at yoga classes in the suburbs.  I could get used to this. </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">I suppose that I was a little distracted by the \"scenery\" because when I excused myself for a quickie pre-class trip to the loo, I unknowingly barged into the men\'s restroom, and yes, there was a guy at the urinal.  After my initial shock, I broke out into the giggles and ran to the women\'s room.  </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>','Day 2:  Sunset Yoga Beckons (Part Two)','','inherit','open','open','','427-revision-32','','','2010-09-17 13:03:37','2010-09-17 20:03:37','',427,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/09/17/427-revision-32/',0,'revision','',0),(1197,1,'2010-10-20 21:39:34','2010-10-21 04:39:34','<p>Dear Friends,</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Thank you for all of your kind words and condolonces 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 Papa 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 and comfort in one another as well as beautiful, cherished memories. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\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.  :-D  So, yes, there were actually many soul-scintillating Carpe Diem moments throughout the week.  I simply needed privacy during the grieving process and didn\'t blog about them. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>I am now back home and ready to share the journey with you.  Starting tomorrow and the next day, I will continue with Days 24 and 25 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>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\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. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Warmly,</p>\n\n<p>Michelle</p>','I\'m Back and Ready for More Carpe Diem-ing! ','','inherit','open','open','','1192-revision-5','','','2010-10-20 21:39:34','2010-10-21 04:39:34','',1192,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/10/20/1192-revision-5/',0,'revision','',0),(1198,1,'2010-10-20 21:41:34','2010-10-21 04:41:34','<p>Dear Friends,</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\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 Papa 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 and comfort in one another as well as beautiful, cherished memories. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\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, there were actually many soul-scintillating Carpe Diem moments throughout the week.  I simply needed privacy during the grieving process and didn\'t blog about them. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>I am now back home and ready to share the journey with you.  Starting tomorrow and the next day, I will continue with Days 24 and 25 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>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\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. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Warmly,</p>\n\n<p>Michelle</p>','I\'m Back and Ready for More Carpe Diem-ing! ','','inherit','open','open','','1192-revision-6','','','2010-10-20 21:41:34','2010-10-21 04:41:34','',1192,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/10/20/1192-revision-6/',0,'revision','',0),(1196,1,'2010-10-20 21:38:30','2010-10-21 04:38:30','<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 condolonces 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 Papa 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 and comfort 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.  :-D  So, yes, there were actually many soul-scintillating Carpe Diem moments throughout the week.  I simply needed privacy during the grieving process and didn\'t blog about them. </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 continue with Days 24 and 25 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. </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! ','','inherit','open','open','','1192-revision-4','','','2010-10-20 21:38:30','2010-10-21 04:38:30','',1192,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/10/20/1192-revision-4/',0,'revision','',0),(1194,1,'2010-10-20 21:36:54','2010-10-21 04:36:54','<p>Dear Friends,</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Thank you for all for your kind words and condolonces 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 Papa 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 and comfort 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.  :-D  So, yes, there were actually many soul-scintillating Carpe Diem moments throughout the week.  I simply needed privacy during the grieving process and didn\'t blog about them. </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 continue with Days 24 and 25 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.</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! ','','inherit','open','open','','1192-revision-2','','','2010-10-20 21:36:54','2010-10-21 04:36:54','',1192,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/10/20/1192-revision-2/',0,'revision','',0),(1195,1,'2010-10-20 21:37:57','2010-10-21 04:37:57','<p>Dear Friends,</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Thank you for all for your kind words and condolonces 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 Papa 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 and comfort 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.  :-D  So, yes, there were actually many soul-scintillating Carpe Diem moments throughout the week.  I simply needed privacy during the grieving process and didn\'t blog about them. </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 continue with Days 24 and 25 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. </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! ','','inherit','open','open','','1192-revision-3','','','2010-10-20 21:37:57','2010-10-21 04:37:57','',1192,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/10/20/1192-revision-3/',0,'revision','',0),(483,1,'2010-09-17 13:03:48','2010-09-17 20:03:48','<div class=\"mceTemp\"><dl id=\"attachment_435\" class=\"wp-caption alignleft\" style=\"width: 310px;\"><dt class=\"wp-caption-dt\"><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/P91601661.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-435\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/P91601661-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a></dt><dd class=\"wp-caption-dd\">Just another day in paradise</dd></dl>Some of you asked yesterday, \"So what was your Day 1 adventure?\"  My reply is, \"Launching a big girl blog!\"\r\n\r\n</div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">Holy Learning Curve, Batman! </div>\r\n \r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">If you snuck a peek at my <strong><a href=\"http://latebloomerdiary.blogspot.com\" target=\"_blank\">old blog,</a></strong> you probably noticed that I\'ve come a loooooong way, baby!  Wahoo!  Thanks to everyone for your support and well wishes these past two days.  Your response has been the best birthday present that a Late Bloomer could ask for. </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">But today I actually left my house for a zen adventure. </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">My precious and darling friend, Corinnie (her name is Corinne, but I address most of my friends by silly nicknames), invited me to a Summer Sunset Yoga class at the Montelucia Resort which is a divine escape, let me tell you, dahlings.  I have always wanted to take a yoga class outside in nature, so I was over-the-moon about this all day.</div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">Class was scheduled for 6:30 which meant I had to zip out of the cubicle jungle, haul my cookies across town, and -- horror of all horrors -- skip dinner.  When you are raised in a neurotic Portuguese family whose obsession with food is second only to the Italians, skipping dinner is a very, very big deal.  To prepare for this trauma, I downed a disgusting protein shake two hours before yoga so I wouldn\'t pass out and embarrass myself in front my fellow classmates and poolside patrons of the resort. </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">The first thing I noticed upon our arrival was all the MEN!  Not because I am more than a little boy crazy (guilty as charged), but because I am used to seeing only women at yoga classes in the suburbs.  I could get used to this. </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">I suppose that I was a little distracted by the \"scenery\" because when I excused myself for a quickie pre-class trip to the loo, I unknowingly barged into the men\'s restroom, and yes, there was a guy at the urinal.  After my initial shock, I broke out into the giggles and ran to the women\'s room.  </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>','Day 2:  Sunset Yoga Beckons (Part Two)','','inherit','open','open','','427-revision-33','','','2010-09-17 13:03:48','2010-09-17 20:03:48','',427,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/09/17/427-revision-33/',0,'revision','',0),(1193,1,'2010-10-20 21:36:30','2010-10-21 04:36:30','<p>Dear Friends,</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Thank you for all for your kind words and condolonces 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 Papa 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 and comfort in one another as well as beautiful, cherished memories. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\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.  :-D  So, yes, there were actually many soul-scintillating Carpe Diem moments throughout the week.  I simply needed privacy during the grieving process and didn\'t blog about them. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>I am now back home and ready to share the journey with you.  Starting tomorrow and the next day, I will continue with Days 24 and 25 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>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\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. </p>','I\'m Back and Ready for More Carpe Diem-ing! ','','inherit','open','open','','1192-revision','','','2010-10-20 21:36:30','2010-10-21 04:36:30','',1192,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/10/20/1192-revision/',0,'revision','',0),(484,1,'2010-09-17 13:23:49','2010-09-17 20:23:49','<div class=\"mceTemp\"><dl id=\"attachment_435\" class=\"wp-caption alignleft\" style=\"width: 310px;\"><dt class=\"wp-caption-dt\"><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/P91601661.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-435\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/P91601661-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a></dt><dd class=\"wp-caption-dd\">Just another day in paradise</dd></dl>Some of you asked yesterday, \"So what was your Day 1 adventure?\"  My reply is, \"Launching a big girl blog!\"\r\n\r\n</div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">Holy Learning Curve, Batman! </div>\r\n \r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">If you snuck a peek at my <strong><a href=\"http://latebloomerdiary.blogspot.com\" target=\"_blank\">old blog,</a></strong> you probably noticed that I\'ve come a loooooong way, baby!  Wahoo!  Thanks to everyone for your support and well wishes these past two days.  Your response has been the best birthday present that a Late Bloomer could ask for. </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">But today I actually left my house for a zen adventure. </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">My precious and darling friend, Corinnie (her name is Corinne, but I address most of my friends by silly nicknames), invited me to a Summer Sunset Yoga class at the Montelucia Resort which is a divine escape, let me tell you, dahlings.  I have always wanted to take a yoga class outside in nature, so I was over-the-moon about this all day.</div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">Class was scheduled for 6:30 which meant I had to zip out of the cubicle jungle, haul my cookies across town, and -- horror of all horrors -- skip dinner.  When you are raised in a neurotic Portuguese family whose obsession with food is second only to the Italians, skipping dinner is a very, very big deal.  To prepare for this trauma, I downed a disgusting protein shake two hours before yoga so I wouldn\'t pass out and embarrass myself in front my fellow classmates and poolside patrons of the resort. </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">The first thing I noticed upon our arrival was all the MEN!  Not because I am more than a little boy crazy (guilty as charged), but because I am used to seeing only women at yoga classes in the suburbs.  I could get used to this. </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">I suppose that I was a little distracted by the \"scenery\" because when I excused myself for a quickie pre-class trip to the loo, I unknowingly barged into the men\'s restroom, and yes, there was a guy at the urinal.  After my initial shock, I broke out into the giggles and ran to the women\'s room.  </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>','Day 2:  Sunset Yoga Beckons (Part Two)','','inherit','open','open','','427-revision-34','','','2010-09-17 13:23:49','2010-09-17 20:23:49','',427,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/09/17/427-revision-34/',0,'revision','',0),(1189,1,'2010-10-20 20:41:09','2010-10-21 03:41:09','<p>I am blessed to live in one of the most beautiful states in our great nation.  I think we might also boast the most diverse landscapes of any of the other 49 states. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>I awoke on Day 24 in the Sonoran Desert, which is actually quite stunning. </p>\n\n<p>pic of south mountain</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>After a 2 hour drive from Captain Adventure\'s house, we scaled the Red Rocks of Sedona.  </p>\n\n<p>pic of sedona</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>After another 30 minute drive, we hiked a pine forest trail in Flagstaff (trail elevation 9600 ft.)</p>\n\n<p>pic of flagstaff</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>As you can see, if you can tolerate 115 temps for a few months, then this state is one breathtakingly majestic oyster. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>The plan for Day 24 started with a Google hunt for the height of Aspen \"gold rush\" in Flagstaff.  I\'ve been to Flagstaff many times, but never at the peak of fall foliage, and I wanted an autumnal experience to remember. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>The second weekend of October is considered THE weekend to visit Flagstaff for fall colors, so I called up my friend, David (aka Captain Adventure), who lives and breathes nature stuff.  It took him about a ¼ of a second to accept my invitation. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>We decided to turn this into a 2-day nature extravaganza.  First stop:  Sedona, Arizona.  Which.  Is.  Absolutely.  Incredible.  One of my favorite places on earth.  If you\'ve never been, start plotting a Sedona escape soon. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Sedona is known not only for its stunning one-of-a-kind scenery, but also for its Woo-Woo factor.  If you\'re ready to get you\'re New Agey freak on, then Sedona is your place.  I would guesstimate that Sedona has more psychics per capita than anywhere else on earth.   </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 25:  Sedona Woo Woo and Other Adventures','','inherit','open','open','','1108-revision-4','','','2010-10-20 20:41:09','2010-10-21 03:41:09','',1108,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/10/20/1108-revision-4/',0,'revision','',0),(1190,1,'2010-10-20 21:14:26','2010-10-21 04:14:26','<p>I am blessed to live in one of the most beautiful states in our great nation.  I think we might also boast the most diverse landscapes of any of the other 49 states. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>I awoke on Day 24 in the Sonoran Desert, which is actually quite stunning. </p>\n\n<p>pic of south mountain</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>After a 2 hour drive from Captain Adventure\'s house, we scaled the Red Rocks of Sedona.  </p>\n\n<p>pic of sedona</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>After another 30 minute drive, we hiked a pine forest trail in Flagstaff (trail elevation 9600 ft.)</p>\n\n<p>pic of flagstaff</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>As you can see, if you can tolerate 115 temps for a few months, then this state is one breathtakingly majestic oyster. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>The plan for Day 24 started with a Google hunt for the height of Aspen \"gold rush\" in Flagstaff.  I\'ve been to Flagstaff many times, but never at the peak of fall foliage, and I wanted an autumnal experience to remember. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>The second weekend of October is considered THE weekend to visit Flagstaff for fall colors, so I called up my friend, David (aka Captain Adventure), who lives and breathes nature stuff.  It took him about a ¼ of a second to accept my invitation. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>We decided to turn this into a 2-day nature extravaganza.  First stop:  Sedona, Arizona.  Which.  Is.  Absolutely.  Incredible.  One of my favorite places on earth.  If you\'ve never been, start plotting a Sedona escape soon. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Sedona is known not only for its stunning one-of-a-kind scenery, but also for its Woo-Woo factor.  If you\'re ready to get you\'re New Agey freak on, then Sedona is your place.  I would guesstimate that Sedona has more psychics per capita than anywhere else on earth.  If New Agey freak freaks you out, then just focus on the red rocks and mind your own beeswax.  Sedona attracts people from all around the world, so I guarantee you won\'t feel out of place. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Or course, I was chomping at the bit for a psychic reading because a.  I like to get my freak on every once and awhile and b.  I wanted to learn about the fate of this blog.  Because psychics are always right, you know.  According to <strong>Dionne Warwick</strong>. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>However, hen you\'re traveling with Captain Adventure, you don\'t waste sunshine and perfect 80 degree weather on psychics.  You must first conquer the mountain! </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>When you hike Sedona with girlfriends, you leisurely follow hiking paths, share girl stories, and stumble upon a naked man in the woods.  (True story.)</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>When you hike Sedona with Captain Adventure, you make your own path.  Up a rock.  Thinking that if your mother saw you, she would freak out and not in the New Age-y way. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>(insert me scaling red rock here)caption: Feel the fear and climb that rock anyway!</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>I don\'t know what was more exhilarating, the climb or the vistas. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Few people hang in there all the way to the top, and for those who do, there are special rewards.  Lucky for me, Captain Adventure fancies himself a masseur, so I received a cranial massage while passed out on the lone flat rock.  David wouldn\'t let fellow hikers take his mas photo because he suddenly felt shy (???) but I assure you, it cleared my sinus headache in about 10 seconds flat. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>(Ladies, if you want me to play matchmaker, contact me privately and you two can exchange digits.  Although now that I think about it, I may need him to remain single for this Dating Game idea I have for the blog, but that\'s another day...)</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>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>','Day 25:  Sedona Woo-Woo and Other Adventures','','inherit','open','open','','1108-revision-5','','','2010-10-20 21:14:26','2010-10-21 04:14:26','',1108,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/10/20/1108-revision-5/',0,'revision','',0),(493,1,'2010-09-17 16:51:25','2010-09-17 23:51:25','<div class=\"mceTemp\"><dl id=\"attachment_435\" class=\"wp-caption alignleft\" style=\"width: 310px;\"><dt class=\"wp-caption-dt\"><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/P91601661.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-435\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/P91601661-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a></dt><dd class=\"wp-caption-dd\">Just another day in paradise</dd></dl>Some of you asked me on Wednesday, \"So what was your Day 1 adventure?\"  My reply is, \"Launching a big girl blog!\"\n\n</div>\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">Holy Learning Curve, Batman! </div>\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">If you snuck a peek at my <strong><a href=\"http://latebloomerdiary.blogspot.com\" target=\"_blank\">old blog,</a></strong> you probably noticed that I\'ve come a loooooong way, baby!  Wahoo!  Thanks to everyone for your support and well wishes these past two days.  Your response has been the best birthday present that a Late Bloomer could ask for. </div>\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">But today I actually left my house for a Zen adventure. </div>\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">My precious and darling friend, Corinnie (her name is Corinne, but I address most of my friends by silly nicknames), invited me to a Summer Sunset Yoga class at the Montelucia Resort which is a divine escape, let me tell you, dahlings.  I have always wanted to take a yoga class outside in nature, so I was over-the-moon about this all day.</div>\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">Class was scheduled for 6:30 which meant I had to zip out of the cubicle jungle, haul my cookies across town, and -- horror of all horrors -- skip dinner.  When you are raised in a neurotic Portuguese family whose obsession with food is second only to the Italians, skipping dinner is a very, very big deal.  To prepare for this trauma, I downed a disgusting protein shake two hours before class so I wouldn\'t pass out and embarrass myself in front of fellow classmates and poolside patrons of the resort. </div>\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">The first thing I noticed upon our arrival was all the MEN!  Not because I am more than a little boy crazy (guilty as charged), but because I am used to seeing only women at yoga classes in the suburbs.  I could get used to this. </div>\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">I suppose that I was a little distracted by the \"scenery\" because when I excused myself for a quickie pre-class trip to the loo, I unknowingly barged into the men\'s restroom, and yes, there was a guy at the urinal.  After my initial shock, I broke out into the giggles and ran to the women\'s room.  </div>\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">Returning to my mat, it dawned on me:  Even though I have always sworn that I will NEVER take a Bikram/Hot yoga class because I will probably yak and faint from the heat, here I was taking a sunset yoga class in 103°.  Essentially, I was in an outdoor Bikram/Hot yoga class. </div>\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">Oops.</div>\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">Luckily, a distraction in the way of a shirtless young thang parked his mat right next to mine. </div>\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">Heat schmeat.  What\'s a little heat when you can focus on the moon above, the mountains ahead, and a perfectly sculpted physique beside you?  Heat schmeat indeed...</div>\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">Other than sunscreen-laced sweat rolling off my face and into my eyes, and my hair frizzing into a poodle poof, and the onset of dehydration, I was fine. </div>\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">There was also a minor B.O. issue which I swear was me because I first noticed it while in downward dog where my nose was alarmingly close to my armpit.  However, Corinnie-cakes later assured me that it had to be her because she\'s on a Tom\'s of Maine deodorant kick, and we all know that \"natural\" deodorants are a joke. </div>\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">Whew!</div>\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">I have to give it to the Bikram peeps though.  The heat really does make you more limber.  I was able to get into poses that I have never been able to pretzel myself into previously.</div>\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">And since this was an urban crowd, the music was so hip that I when I closed my eyes I thought that I was in a Scottsdale nightclub.  Class ended with a Chris Isaak \"Wicked Game\" techno/trance mix.</div>\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">???</div>\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">This just further distracted me because a. it was weird (I am a purist) and b. whenever I hear \"Wicked Game\" I think of the <a href=\"http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zKHaBTjxgjc&amp;feature=related\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>video</strong> </a>which has to be the sexiest video of all time.  Sigh...  I suppose there could be worse distractions that fantasizing about tantric yoga with Chris Isaak. </div>\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">Overall, the class rocked.  If you are yogically inclined, get thee to a Sunset Yoga class near you. </div>\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">Till next time...</div>\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>','Day 2:  Sunset Yoga Beckons (Part Two)','','inherit','open','open','','427-revision-35','','','2010-09-17 16:51:25','2010-09-17 23:51:25','',427,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/09/17/427-revision-35/',0,'revision','',0),(494,1,'2010-09-17 16:52:25','2010-09-17 23:52:25','<div class=\"mceTemp\"><dl id=\"attachment_435\" class=\"wp-caption alignleft\" style=\"width: 310px;\"><dt class=\"wp-caption-dt\"><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/P91601661.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-435\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/P91601661-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a></dt><dd class=\"wp-caption-dd\">Just another day in paradise</dd></dl>Some of you asked me on Wednesday, \"So what was your Day 1 adventure?\"  My reply is, \"Launching a big girl blog!\"\n\n</div>\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">Holy Learning Curve, Batman! </div>\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">If you snuck a peek at my <strong><a href=\"http://latebloomerdiary.blogspot.com\" target=\"_blank\">old blog,</a></strong>you probably noticed that I\'ve come a loooooong way, baby!  Wahoo!  Thanks to everyone for your support and well wishes these past two days.  Your response has been the best birthday present that a Late Bloomer could ask for. </div>\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">But today I actually left my house for a Zen adventure. </div>\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">My precious and darling friend, Corinnie (her name is Corinne, but I address most of my friends by silly nicknames), invited me to a Summer Sunset Yoga class at the Montelucia Resort which is a divine escape, let me tell you, dahlings.  I have always wanted to take a yoga class outside in nature, so I was over-the-moon about this all day.</div>\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">Class was scheduled for 6:30 which meant I had to zip out of the cubicle jungle, haul my cookies across town, and -- horror of all horrors -- skip dinner.  When you are raised in a neurotic Portuguese family whose obsession with food is second only to the Italians, skipping dinner is a very, very big deal.  To prepare for this trauma, I downed a disgusting protein shake two hours before class so I wouldn\'t pass out and embarrass myself in front of fellow classmates and poolside patrons of the resort. </div>\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">The first thing I noticed upon our arrival was all the MEN!  Not because I am more than a little boy crazy (guilty as charged), but because I am used to seeing only women at yoga classes in the suburbs.  I could get used to this. </div>\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">I suppose that I was a little distracted by the \"scenery\" because when I excused myself for a quickie pre-class trip to the loo, I unknowingly barged into the men\'s restroom, and yes, there was a guy at the urinal.  After my initial shock, I broke out into the giggles and ran to the women\'s room.  </div>\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">Returning to my mat, it dawned on me:  Even though I have always sworn that I will NEVER take a Bikram/Hot yoga class because I will probably yak and faint from the heat, here I was taking a sunset yoga class in 103°.  Essentially, I was in an outdoor Bikram/Hot yoga class. </div>\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">Oops.</div>\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">Luckily, a distraction in the way of a shirtless young thang parked his mat right next to mine. </div>\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">Heat schmeat.  What\'s a little heat when you can focus on the moon above, the mountains ahead, and a perfectly sculpted physique beside you?  Heat schmeat indeed...</div>\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">Other than sunscreen-laced sweat rolling off my face and into my eyes, and my hair frizzing into a poodle poof, and the onset of dehydration, I was fine. </div>\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">There was also a minor B.O. issue which I swear was me because I first noticed it while in downward dog where my nose was alarmingly close to my armpit.  However, Corinnie-cakes later assured me that it had to be her because she\'s on a Tom\'s of Maine deodorant kick, and we all know that \"natural\" deodorants are a joke. </div>\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">Whew!</div>\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">I have to give it to the Bikram peeps though.  The heat really does make you more limber.  I was able to get into poses that I have never been able to pretzel myself into previously.</div>\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">And since this was an urban crowd, the music was so hip that I when I closed my eyes I thought that I was in a Scottsdale nightclub.  Class ended with a Chris Isaak \"Wicked Game\" techno/trance mix.</div>\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">???</div>\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">This just further distracted me because a. it was weird (I am a purist) and b. whenever I hear \"Wicked Game\" I think of the <a href=\"http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zKHaBTjxgjc&amp;feature=related\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>video</strong> </a>which has to be the sexiest video of all time.  Sigh...  I suppose there could be worse distractions that fantasizing about tantric yoga with Chris Isaak. </div>\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">Overall, the class rocked.  If you are yogically inclined, get thee to a Sunset Yoga class near you. </div>\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">Till next time...</div>\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>','Day 2:  Sunset Yoga Beckons (Part Two)','','inherit','open','open','','427-revision-36','','','2010-09-17 16:52:25','2010-09-17 23:52:25','',427,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/09/17/427-revision-36/',0,'revision','',0),(495,1,'2010-09-18 08:45:11','2010-09-18 15:45:11','<div class=\"mceTemp\"><dl id=\"attachment_435\" class=\"wp-caption alignleft\" style=\"width: 310px;\"><dt class=\"wp-caption-dt\"><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/P91601661.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-435\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/P91601661-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a></dt><dd class=\"wp-caption-dd\">Just another day in paradise</dd></dl>\r\n\r\n<p>Some of you asked me on Wednesday, \"So what was your Day 1 adventure?\"  My reply is, \"Launching a big girl blog!\"</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p></div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">Holy Learning Curve, Batman! </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">If you snuck a peek at my <strong><a href=\"http://latebloomerdiary.blogspot.com\" target=\"_blank\">old blog,</a></strong>you probably noticed that I\'ve come a loooooong way, baby!  Wahoo!  Thanks to everyone for your support and well wishes these past few days.  Your response has been the best birthday present that a Late Bloomer could ask for. </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"><br />\r\n<br />\r\nOn Day 2 I actually left my house for a Zen adventure. </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">My precious and darling friend, Corinnie (her name is Corinne, but I address most of my friends by silly nicknames), invited me to a Summer Sunset Yoga class at the Montelucia Resort which is a divine escape, let me tell you, dahlings.  I have always wanted to take a yoga class outside in nature, so I was over-the-moon about this all day.</div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">Class was scheduled for 6:30 which meant I had to zip out of the cubicle jungle, haul my cookies across town, and -- horror of all horrors -- skip dinner.  When you are raised in a neurotic Portuguese family whose obsession with food is second only to the Italians, skipping dinner is a very, very big deal.  To prepare for this trauma, I downed a disgusting protein shake two hours before class so I wouldn\'t pass out and embarrass myself in front of fellow classmates and poolside patrons of the resort. </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">The first thing I noticed upon our arrival was all the MEN! They caught my attention not only because I am more than a little boy crazy (guilty as charged), but also because I am used to seeing only women at yoga classes in the suburbs.  I could get used to this. </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">I suppose that I was somewhat discombobulated by the \"scenery\" because when I excused myself for a quickie pre-class trip to the loo, I unknowingly barged into the men\'s restroom, and yes, there was a guy at the urinal.  After my initial shock, I broke out into the giggles and ran to the women\'s room.  I had a sneaking suspicion that the tone of the evening had been set.</div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">Returning to my mat, it dawned on me:  Even though I have always sworn that I will NEVER take a Bikram/Hot yoga class because I will probably yak and faint and die from the heat, here I was taking a sunset yoga class in 103°.  Essentially, I was in an outdoor Bikram/Hot yoga class. </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">Oops.</div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">Luckily, a distraction in the way of a shirtless young thang parked his mat right next to mine. </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">Heat schmeat.  What\'s a little heat when you can focus on the moon above, the mountains ahead, and a perfectly sculpted physique beside you?  Heat schmeat indeed...</div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">Other than sunscreen-laced sweat rolling down my face and into my eyes, my hair frizzing into a poodle poof, and the onset of dehydration, I was fine. </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">There was also a minor B.O. issue which I swear was me because I first noticed it while in downward dog where my nose was alarmingly close to my armpit.  However, Corinniecakes later assured me that it had to be her because she\'s on a Tom\'s of Maine deodorant kick, and we all know that \"natural\" deodorants are a joke. </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">Whew!</div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">I have to hand it to the Bikram peeps though.  The heat really does make you more limber.  I was able to get into poses that I have never been able to pretzel myself into previously.</div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">And since this was an urban crowd, the music was so hip that I when I closed my eyes, I thought that I was in a Scottsdale nightclub.  Class ended with a Chris Isaak \"Wicked Game\" techno/trance mix.</div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">???</div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">This just further distracted me because a. it was weird (I am a purist) and b. whenever I hear \"Wicked Game\" I think of the <a href=\"http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4QF-v29K6f4&amp;feature=related\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>video</strong> </a>which has to be the sexiest video of all time.  Sigh...  I suppose there could be worse distractions than fantasizing about tantric yoga with Chris Isaak. </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">Overall, the class rocked.  If you are yogically inclined, get thee to a Sunset Yoga class near you. </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">Till next time...</div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>','Day 2:  Sunset Yoga Beckons (Part Two)','','inherit','open','open','','427-autosave','','','2010-09-18 08:45:11','2010-09-18 15:45:11','',427,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/09/17/427-autosave/',0,'revision','',0),(496,1,'2010-09-17 17:03:32','2010-09-18 00:03:32','<div class=\"mceTemp\"><dl id=\"attachment_435\" class=\"wp-caption alignleft\" style=\"width: 310px;\"><dt class=\"wp-caption-dt\"><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/P91601661.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-435\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/P91601661-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a></dt><dd class=\"wp-caption-dd\">Just another day in paradise</dd></dl>Some of you asked me on Wednesday, \"So what was your Day 1 adventure?\"  My reply is, \"Launching a big girl blog!\"\r\n\r\n</div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">Holy Learning Curve, Batman! </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">If you snuck a peek at my <strong><a href=\"http://latebloomerdiary.blogspot.com\" target=\"_blank\">old blog,</a></strong>you probably noticed that I\'ve come a loooooong way, baby!  Wahoo!  Thanks to everyone for your support and well wishes these past few days.  Your response has been the best birthday present that a Late Bloomer could ask for. </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">On Day 2 I actually left my house for a Zen adventure. </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">My precious and darling friend, Corinnie (her name is Corinne, but I address most of my friends by silly nicknames), invited me to a Summer Sunset Yoga class at the Montelucia Resort which is a divine escape, let me tell you, dahlings.  I have always wanted to take a yoga class outside in nature, so I was over-the-moon about this all day.</div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">Class was scheduled for 6:30 which meant I had to zip out of the cubicle jungle, haul my cookies across town, and -- horror of all horrors -- skip dinner.  When you are raised in a neurotic Portuguese family whose obsession with food is second only to the Italians, skipping dinner is a very, very big deal.  To prepare for this trauma, I downed a disgusting protein shake two hours before class so I wouldn\'t pass out and embarrass myself in front of fellow classmates and poolside patrons of the resort. </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">The first thing I noticed upon our arrival was all the MEN!  Not because I am more than a little boy crazy (guilty as charged), but because I am used to seeing only women at yoga classes in the suburbs.  I could get used to this. </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">I suppose that I was a little discombobulated by the \"scenery\" because when I excused myself for a quickie pre-class trip to the loo, I unknowingly barged into the men\'s restroom, and yes, there was a guy at the urinal.  After my initial shock, I broke out into the giggles and ran to the women\'s room.  </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">Returning to my mat, it dawned on me:  Even though I have always sworn that I will NEVER take a Bikram/Hot yoga class because I will probably yak and faint and die from the heat, here I was taking a sunset yoga class in 103°.  Essentially, I was in an outdoor Bikram/Hot yoga class. </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">Oops.</div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">Luckily, a distraction in the way of a shirtless young thang parked his mat right next to mine. </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">Heat schmeat.  What\'s a little heat when you can focus on the moon above, the mountains ahead, and a perfectly sculpted physique beside you?  Heat schmeat indeed...</div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">Other than sunscreen-laced sweat rolling down my face and into my eyes, and my hair frizzing into a poodle poof, and the onset of dehydration, I was fine. </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">There was also a minor B.O. issue which I swear was me because I first noticed it while in downward dog where my nose was alarmingly close to my armpit.  However, Corinnie-cakes later assured me that it had to be her because she\'s on a Tom\'s of Maine deodorant kick, and we all know that \"natural\" deodorants are a joke. </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">Whew!</div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">I have to hand it to the Bikram peeps though.  The heat really does make you more limber.  I was able to get into poses that I have never been able to pretzel myself into previously.</div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">And since this was an urban crowd, the music was so hip that I when I closed my eyes I thought that I was in a Scottsdale nightclub.  Class ended with a Chris Isaak \"Wicked Game\" techno/trance mix.</div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">???</div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">This just further distracted me because a. it was weird (I am a purist) and b. whenever I hear \"Wicked Game\" I think of the <a href=\"http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zKHaBTjxgjc&amp;feature=related\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>video</strong> </a>which has to be the sexiest video of all time.  Sigh...  I suppose there could be worse distractions that fantasizing about tantric yoga with Chris Isaak. </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">Overall, the class rocked.  If you are yogically inclined, get thee to a Sunset Yoga class near you. </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">Till next time...</div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>','Day 2:  Sunset Yoga Beckons (Part Two)','','inherit','open','open','','427-revision-37','','','2010-09-17 17:03:32','2010-09-18 00:03:32','',427,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/09/17/427-revision-37/',0,'revision','',0),(744,1,'2010-09-29 01:11:43','2010-09-29 08:11:43','<p><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/peacebooks.jpg\" target=\"_blank\"><img class=\"alignleft size-medium wp-image-789\" title=\"Peace Love Books\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/peacebooks-225x300.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"225\" height=\"300\" /></a></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I hate to shop. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>That’s right.  You heard me.  I am a woman, and I hate to shop.  Loathe it.  Detest it, even! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>There is one exception to my madness:  bookstores. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I love to shop for books.  There are few things that entice me more than lollygagging for hours in a bookstore.  Preferably an independent one. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>About a week ago, I realized as I rushed in and out of my favorite indie bookstore that I hadn’t lollygagged around there for quite some time.  I could list for you the many reasons why, but excuses are not an excuse. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>We need to make room in our lives for lollygags.  Perhaps we even need to make it a national holiday.  I’ll look into that.  Have you ever noticed really obscure holidays on some calendars?  Someone has to dream those up and get them rolling!</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Precisely because I had not lollygagged for quite some time (I adore that word so much that I think I shall use it 100 times throughout this post.  Teasing!), I decided that disappearing for the afternoon into <strong><a href=\"http://www.changinghands.com/\" target=\"_blank\">Changing Hands Bookstore</a></strong> was no longer an option.  It was a necessity. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>With a to-do list a mile-long and thousands of thoughts roaming around my overactive brain, I told life to take a hike and vanished into thin, bookishly-blissful air. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Changing Hands is one of my favorite places on earth not only because of their fantastic and eclectic selection of gifties and books, but also because of their <em>story</em>.  They are The Little Bookstore That Could. </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: #993366;\"><span style=\"font-size: small;\"><strong><span style=\"font-size: medium;\">A Tale of Two Bookstores</span></strong></span></span></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Once upon a time, Changing Hands Books lived on Mill Avenue in Tempe, AZ.  Think local and well-loved bookstore in the heart of a college town.  Think people of all ages and stages frequenting this bookstore at all hours of the night and day for more than 20 years. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>As in all picturesque, fairytale scenarios, The Big Bad Giant had to show up and spoil all the fun.  In this case, it was a bookstore giant that rhymes with “hoarders”.  </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Despite outrage and discontent from the little people, The Giant That Rhymes with Hoarders tried to stomp on The Little Bookstore That Could.  But The Little Bookstore was too smart and too fast and too savvy for The Giant.  The Little Bookstore That Could did not waste time and stay for a duel.  Instead, it quietly packed up its belongings and chugga-chugged-chugged to a not-so-far-away-but-far-enough location safe from the Giant’s big and stinky feet. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>The citizens were <em>pissed</em>, and since this was a college town where people were usually more idealistic and opinionated and fiery than most, people like Late Bloomer refused to buy as much as a cup of coffee from The Giant.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>And so The Giant That Rhymes with Hoarders starved to death.  The End. </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: #993366;\"><span style=\"font-size: medium;\"><strong>The Little Bookstore That Could:  The Sequel  </strong></span></span></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong> </strong></p>\r\n\r\n<p>The idealistic citizens drove from far and wide to The Little Bookstore’s new digs.  This new location provided more room for all of The Little Bookstore’s fantastical things.  There was even space for a Prince Charming Bakery &amp; Coffeehouse next door!   </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>And so The Little Bookstore That Could flourished and lived happily ever after.  To this day, it remains one of the most beloved indie bookstores in our great nation.  The End.</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: #993366;\"><span style=\"font-size: medium;\"><strong>Abracadabra!  </strong></span></span></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong> </strong></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Back to the disappearing act of Day 12.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Can you see why I am ga-ga over this place??? You, too, will fall head over heels when you visit.  Or, search for your own local bookstore Utopia at <a href=\"http://www.indiebound.org/indie-store-finder\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>http://www.indiebound.org/indie-store-finder</strong></a>.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Initially, I visualized myself lounging for hours in Changing Hands with book in one hand and coffee in the other.  However, I remembered that nothing says “Happy Birthday to You” like the 25% off everything that Changing Hands bestows on its customers during a birthday month visit.  With September nearly finished, I decided that shopping was no longer an option.  It was a necessity.  I mean, 25% off books and fantastical gifties?!  Be still, my heart! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Look at the treasures that I gathered for $128.78! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/chhandsloot.jpg\" target=\"_blank\"><img title=\"changinghandsloot\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/chhandsloot-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>4 birthday gifts for girlfriends and 4 accompanying cards, niece’s birthday present, niece’s Christmas present, 2 Halloween cards for niece and nephew, Breakup Survival Kit for girlfriend, 3 books for me, a mood calendar for me, and an inspirational giftie book for someone as the need arises. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>To set me over the edge of giddiness, I also used my $25 gift certificate from my sissie (thanks, sis!) AND I received 12 stamps on my “blue card” which means I save $10 on my next purchase. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Peace, Love, Books.  You’re the best, Little Bookstore That Can! </p>','Day 12: Disappearing Act','','publish','open','open','','day-12-disappearing-act','','','2010-12-12 21:37:40','2010-12-13 04:37:40','',0,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?p=744',0,'post','',6),(498,1,'2010-09-15 20:56:14','2010-09-16 03:56:14',' \r\n\r\nAttention all Late Bloomers and Late Bloomer Wannabees in my fair city:\r\n\r\n</span>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"color: #993300;\"><strong>Tonight, September 16th</strong></span>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"color: #993300;\"><strong>6:30 p.m.</strong></span>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"color: #993300;\"><strong>Free (Yes, FREE!) Sunset Yoga</strong></span>\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.icmontelucia.com/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Montelucia Resort and Spa</strong></a>\r\n\r\n</span>\r\n\r\n\r\nWho\'s in?\r\n\r\nNamaste, peeps!\r\n\r\n</span>\r\n\r\n</span>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nFor those of you who cannot attend or live outside of my fair city, find a sunset yoga near you if you are so inclined.\r\n\r\n</span>\r\n\r\n<strong> Day 2:  To Be Continued...</strong>\r\n\r\n</span>\r\n\r\nP.S.  Today is also my bro-in-law\'s bday, and I would like to give a shout out to the best bro-in-law in the Twitterverse.','Day 2:  Sunset Yoga Beckons (Part One)','','inherit','open','open','','408-revision-17','','','2010-09-15 20:56:14','2010-09-16 03:56:14','',408,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/09/15/408-revision-17/',0,'revision','',0),(501,1,'2010-09-17 17:06:03','2010-09-18 00:06:03','<div class=\"mceTemp\"><dl id=\"attachment_435\" class=\"wp-caption alignleft\" style=\"width: 310px;\"><dt class=\"wp-caption-dt\"><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/P91601661.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-435\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/P91601661-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a></dt><dd class=\"wp-caption-dd\">Just another day in paradise</dd></dl>Some of you asked me on Wednesday, \"So what was your Day 1 adventure?\"  My reply is, \"Launching a big girl blog!\"\r\n\r\n</div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">Holy Learning Curve, Batman! </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">If you snuck a peek at my <strong><a href=\"http://latebloomerdiary.blogspot.com\" target=\"_blank\">old blog,</a></strong>you probably noticed that I\'ve come a loooooong way, baby!  Wahoo!  Thanks to everyone for your support and well wishes these past few days.  Your response has been the best birthday present that a Late Bloomer could ask for. </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">On Day 2 I actually left my house for a Zen adventure. </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">My precious and darling friend, Corinnie (her name is Corinne, but I address most of my friends by silly nicknames), invited me to a Summer Sunset Yoga class at the Montelucia Resort which is a divine escape, let me tell you, dahlings.  I have always wanted to take a yoga class outside in nature, so I was over-the-moon about this all day.</div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">Class was scheduled for 6:30 which meant I had to zip out of the cubicle jungle, haul my cookies across town, and -- horror of all horrors -- skip dinner.  When you are raised in a neurotic Portuguese family whose obsession with food is second only to the Italians, skipping dinner is a very, very big deal.  To prepare for this trauma, I downed a disgusting protein shake two hours before class so I wouldn\'t pass out and embarrass myself in front of fellow classmates and poolside patrons of the resort. </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">The first thing I noticed upon our arrival was all the MEN!  Not because I am more than a little boy crazy (guilty as charged), but because I am used to seeing only women at yoga classes in the suburbs.  I could get used to this. </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">I suppose that I was a little discombobulated by the \"scenery\" because when I excused myself for a quickie pre-class trip to the loo, I unknowingly barged into the men\'s restroom, and yes, there was a guy at the urinal.  After my initial shock, I broke out into the giggles and ran to the women\'s room.  </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">Returning to my mat, it dawned on me:  Even though I have always sworn that I will NEVER take a Bikram/Hot yoga class because I will probably yak and faint and die from the heat, here I was taking a sunset yoga class in 103°.  Essentially, I was in an outdoor Bikram/Hot yoga class. </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">Oops.</div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">Luckily, a distraction in the way of a shirtless young thang parked his mat right next to mine. </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">Heat schmeat.  What\'s a little heat when you can focus on the moon above, the mountains ahead, and a perfectly sculpted physique beside you?  Heat schmeat indeed...</div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">Other than sunscreen-laced sweat rolling down my face and into my eyes, and my hair frizzing into a poodle poof, and the onset of dehydration, I was fine. </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">There was also a minor B.O. issue which I swear was me because I first noticed it while in downward dog where my nose was alarmingly close to my armpit.  However, Corinnie-cakes later assured me that it had to be her because she\'s on a Tom\'s of Maine deodorant kick, and we all know that \"natural\" deodorants are a joke. </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">Whew!</div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">I have to hand it to the Bikram peeps though.  The heat really does make you more limber.  I was able to get into poses that I have never been able to pretzel myself into previously.</div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">And since this was an urban crowd, the music was so hip that I when I closed my eyes I thought that I was in a Scottsdale nightclub.  Class ended with a Chris Isaak \"Wicked Game\" techno/trance mix.</div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">???</div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">This just further distracted me because a. it was weird (I am a purist) and b. whenever I hear \"Wicked Game\" I think of the <a href=\"http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4QF-v29K6f4&amp;feature=related\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>video</strong> </a>which has to be the sexiest video of all time.  Sigh...  I suppose there could be worse distractions that fantasizing about tantric yoga with Chris Isaak. </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">Overall, the class rocked.  If you are yogically inclined, get thee to a Sunset Yoga class near you. </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">Till next time...</div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>','Day 2:  Sunset Yoga Beckons (Part Two)','','inherit','open','open','','427-revision-38','','','2010-09-17 17:06:03','2010-09-18 00:06:03','',427,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/09/17/427-revision-38/',0,'revision','',0),(502,1,'2010-09-17 21:59:43','2010-09-18 04:59:43','<div class=\"mceTemp\"><dl id=\"attachment_435\" class=\"wp-caption alignleft\" style=\"width: 310px;\"><dt class=\"wp-caption-dt\"><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/P91601661.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-435\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/P91601661-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a></dt><dd class=\"wp-caption-dd\">Just another day in paradise</dd></dl>Some of you asked me on Wednesday, \"So what was your Day 1 adventure?\"  My reply is, \"Launching a big girl blog!\"\r\n<br/>\r\n\r\n\r\n</div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">Holy Learning Curve, Batman! </div>\r\n\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">If you snuck a peek at my <strong><a href=\"http://latebloomerdiary.blogspot.com\" target=\"_blank\">old blog,</a></strong>you probably noticed that I\'ve come a loooooong way, baby!  Wahoo!  Thanks to everyone for your support and well wishes these past few days.  Your response has been the best birthday present that a Late Bloomer could ask for. </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">On Day 2 I actually left my house for a Zen adventure. </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">My precious and darling friend, Corinnie (her name is Corinne, but I address most of my friends by silly nicknames), invited me to a Summer Sunset Yoga class at the Montelucia Resort which is a divine escape, let me tell you, dahlings.  I have always wanted to take a yoga class outside in nature, so I was over-the-moon about this all day.</div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">Class was scheduled for 6:30 which meant I had to zip out of the cubicle jungle, haul my cookies across town, and -- horror of all horrors -- skip dinner.  When you are raised in a neurotic Portuguese family whose obsession with food is second only to the Italians, skipping dinner is a very, very big deal.  To prepare for this trauma, I downed a disgusting protein shake two hours before class so I wouldn\'t pass out and embarrass myself in front of fellow classmates and poolside patrons of the resort. </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">The first thing I noticed upon our arrival was all the MEN!  Not because I am more than a little boy crazy (guilty as charged), but because I am used to seeing only women at yoga classes in the suburbs.  I could get used to this. </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">I suppose that I was a little discombobulated by the \"scenery\" because when I excused myself for a quickie pre-class trip to the loo, I unknowingly barged into the men\'s restroom, and yes, there was a guy at the urinal.  After my initial shock, I broke out into the giggles and ran to the women\'s room.  </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">Returning to my mat, it dawned on me:  Even though I have always sworn that I will NEVER take a Bikram/Hot yoga class because I will probably yak and faint and die from the heat, here I was taking a sunset yoga class in 103°.  Essentially, I was in an outdoor Bikram/Hot yoga class. </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">Oops.</div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">Luckily, a distraction in the way of a shirtless young thang parked his mat right next to mine. </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">Heat schmeat.  What\'s a little heat when you can focus on the moon above, the mountains ahead, and a perfectly sculpted physique beside you?  Heat schmeat indeed...</div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">Other than sunscreen-laced sweat rolling down my face and into my eyes, and my hair frizzing into a poodle poof, and the onset of dehydration, I was fine. </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">There was also a minor B.O. issue which I swear was me because I first noticed it while in downward dog where my nose was alarmingly close to my armpit.  However, Corinnie-cakes later assured me that it had to be her because she\'s on a Tom\'s of Maine deodorant kick, and we all know that \"natural\" deodorants are a joke. </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">Whew!</div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">I have to hand it to the Bikram peeps though.  The heat really does make you more limber.  I was able to get into poses that I have never been able to pretzel myself into previously.</div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">And since this was an urban crowd, the music was so hip that I when I closed my eyes I thought that I was in a Scottsdale nightclub.  Class ended with a Chris Isaak \"Wicked Game\" techno/trance mix.</div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">???</div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">This just further distracted me because a. it was weird (I am a purist) and b. whenever I hear \"Wicked Game\" I think of the <a href=\"http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4QF-v29K6f4&amp;feature=related\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>video</strong> </a>which has to be the sexiest video of all time.  Sigh...  I suppose there could be worse distractions that fantasizing about tantric yoga with Chris Isaak. </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">Overall, the class rocked.  If you are yogically inclined, get thee to a Sunset Yoga class near you. </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">Till next time...</div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>','Day 2:  Sunset Yoga Beckons (Part Two)','','inherit','open','open','','427-revision-39','','','2010-09-17 21:59:43','2010-09-18 04:59:43','',427,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/09/17/427-revision-39/',0,'revision','',0),(503,1,'2010-09-17 22:02:04','2010-09-18 05:02:04','<div class=\"mceTemp\"><dl id=\"attachment_435\" class=\"wp-caption alignleft\" style=\"width: 310px;\"><dt class=\"wp-caption-dt\"><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/P91601661.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-435\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/P91601661-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a></dt><dd class=\"wp-caption-dd\">Just another day in paradise</dd></dl>Some of you asked me on Wednesday, \"So what was your Day 1 adventure?\"  My reply is, \"Launching a big girl blog!\"\r\n<br/>\r\n\r\n\r\n</div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">Holy Learning Curve, Batman! </div>\r\n\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">If you snuck a peek at my <strong><a href=\"http://latebloomerdiary.blogspot.com\" target=\"_blank\">old blog,</a></strong>you probably noticed that I\'ve come a loooooong way, baby!  Wahoo!  Thanks to everyone for your support and well wishes these past few days.  Your response has been the best birthday present that a Late Bloomer could ask for. </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">On Day 2 I actually left my house for a Zen adventure. </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">My precious and darling friend, Corinnie (her name is Corinne, but I address most of my friends by silly nicknames), invited me to a Summer Sunset Yoga class at the Montelucia Resort which is a divine escape, let me tell you, dahlings.  I have always wanted to take a yoga class outside in nature, so I was over-the-moon about this all day.</div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">Class was scheduled for 6:30 which meant I had to zip out of the cubicle jungle, haul my cookies across town, and -- horror of all horrors -- skip dinner.  When you are raised in a neurotic Portuguese family whose obsession with food is second only to the Italians, skipping dinner is a very, very big deal.  To prepare for this trauma, I downed a disgusting protein shake two hours before class so I wouldn\'t pass out and embarrass myself in front of fellow classmates and poolside patrons of the resort. </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">The first thing I noticed upon our arrival was all the MEN!  They caught my attention not only because I am more than a little boy crazy (guilty as charged), but also because I am used to seeing only women at yoga classes in the suburbs.  I could get used to this. </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">I suppose that I was a little discombobulated by the \"scenery\" because when I excused myself for a quickie pre-class trip to the loo, I unknowingly barged into the men\'s restroom, and yes, there was a guy at the urinal.  After my initial shock, I broke out into the giggles and ran to the women\'s room.  </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">Returning to my mat, it dawned on me:  Even though I have always sworn that I will NEVER take a Bikram/Hot yoga class because I will probably yak and faint and die from the heat, here I was taking a sunset yoga class in 103°.  Essentially, I was in an outdoor Bikram/Hot yoga class. </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">Oops.</div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">Luckily, a distraction in the way of a shirtless young thang parked his mat right next to mine. </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">Heat schmeat.  What\'s a little heat when you can focus on the moon above, the mountains ahead, and a perfectly sculpted physique beside you?  Heat schmeat indeed...</div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">Other than sunscreen-laced sweat rolling down my face and into my eyes, and my hair frizzing into a poodle poof, and the onset of dehydration, I was fine. </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">There was also a minor B.O. issue which I swear was me because I first noticed it while in downward dog where my nose was alarmingly close to my armpit.  However, Corinnie-cakes later assured me that it had to be her because she\'s on a Tom\'s of Maine deodorant kick, and we all know that \"natural\" deodorants are a joke. </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">Whew!</div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">I have to hand it to the Bikram peeps though.  The heat really does make you more limber.  I was able to get into poses that I have never been able to pretzel myself into previously.</div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">And since this was an urban crowd, the music was so hip that I when I closed my eyes I thought that I was in a Scottsdale nightclub.  Class ended with a Chris Isaak \"Wicked Game\" techno/trance mix.</div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">???</div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">This just further distracted me because a. it was weird (I am a purist) and b. whenever I hear \"Wicked Game\" I think of the <a href=\"http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4QF-v29K6f4&amp;feature=related\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>video</strong> </a>which has to be the sexiest video of all time.  Sigh...  I suppose there could be worse distractions that fantasizing about tantric yoga with Chris Isaak. </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">Overall, the class rocked.  If you are yogically inclined, get thee to a Sunset Yoga class near you. </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">Till next time...</div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>','Day 2:  Sunset Yoga Beckons (Part Two)','','inherit','open','open','','427-revision-40','','','2010-09-17 22:02:04','2010-09-18 05:02:04','',427,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/09/17/427-revision-40/',0,'revision','',0),(528,1,'2010-09-18 08:46:13','2010-09-18 15:46:13','<div class=\"mceTemp\"><dl id=\"attachment_435\" class=\"wp-caption alignleft\" style=\"width: 310px;\"><dt class=\"wp-caption-dt\"><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/P91601661.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-435\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/P91601661-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a></dt><dd class=\"wp-caption-dd\">Just another day in paradise</dd></dl>\r\n\r\n<p>Some of you asked me on Wednesday, \"So what was your Day 1 adventure?\"  My reply is, \"Launching a big girl blog!\"</p></div>\r\n<br/>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">Holy Learning Curve, Batman! </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">If you snuck a peek at my <strong><a href=\"http://latebloomerdiary.blogspot.com\" target=\"_blank\">old blog,</a></strong>you probably noticed that I\'ve come a loooooong way, baby!  Wahoo!  Thanks to everyone for your support and well wishes these past few days.  Your response has been the best birthday present that a Late Bloomer could ask for. </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"><p>On Day 2 I actually left my house for a Zen adventure. </p></div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">My precious and darling friend, Corinnie (her name is Corinne, but I address most of my friends by silly nicknames), invited me to a Summer Sunset Yoga class at the Montelucia Resort which is a divine escape, let me tell you, dahlings.  I have always wanted to take a yoga class outside in nature, so I was over-the-moon about this all day.</div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">Class was scheduled for 6:30 which meant I had to zip out of the cubicle jungle, haul my cookies across town, and -- horror of all horrors -- skip dinner.  When you are raised in a neurotic Portuguese family whose obsession with food is second only to the Italians, skipping dinner is a very, very big deal.  To prepare for this trauma, I downed a disgusting protein shake two hours before class so I wouldn\'t pass out and embarrass myself in front of fellow classmates and poolside patrons of the resort. </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">The first thing I noticed upon our arrival was all the MEN! They caught my attention not only because I am more than a little boy crazy (guilty as charged), but also because I am used to seeing only women at yoga classes in the suburbs.  I could get used to this. </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">I suppose that I was somewhat discombobulated by the \"scenery\" because when I excused myself for a quickie pre-class trip to the loo, I unknowingly barged into the men\'s restroom, and yes, there was a guy at the urinal.  After my initial shock, I broke out into the giggles and ran to the women\'s room.  I had a sneaking suspicion that the tone of the evening had been set.</div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">Returning to my mat, it dawned on me:  Even though I have always sworn that I will NEVER take a Bikram/Hot yoga class because I will probably yak and faint and die from the heat, here I was taking a sunset yoga class in 103°.  Essentially, I was in an outdoor Bikram/Hot yoga class. </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">Oops.</div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">Luckily, a distraction in the way of a shirtless young thang parked his mat right next to mine. </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">Heat schmeat.  What\'s a little heat when you can focus on the moon above, the mountains ahead, and a perfectly sculpted physique beside you?  Heat schmeat indeed...</div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">Other than sunscreen-laced sweat rolling down my face and into my eyes, my hair frizzing into a poodle poof, and the onset of dehydration, I was fine. </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">There was also a minor B.O. issue which I swear was me because I first noticed it while in downward dog where my nose was alarmingly close to my armpit.  However, Corinniecakes later assured me that it had to be her because she\'s on a Tom\'s of Maine deodorant kick, and we all know that \"natural\" deodorants are a joke. </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">Whew!</div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">I have to hand it to the Bikram peeps though.  The heat really does make you more limber.  I was able to get into poses that I have never been able to pretzel myself into previously.</div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">And since this was an urban crowd, the music was so hip that I when I closed my eyes, I thought that I was in a Scottsdale nightclub.  Class ended with a Chris Isaak \"Wicked Game\" techno/trance mix.</div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">???</div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">This just further distracted me because a. it was weird (I am a purist) and b. whenever I hear \"Wicked Game\" I think of the <a href=\"http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4QF-v29K6f4&amp;feature=related\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>video</strong> </a>which has to be the sexiest video of all time.  Sigh...  I suppose there could be worse distractions than fantasizing about tantric yoga with Chris Isaak. </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">Overall, the class rocked.  If you are yogically inclined, get thee to a Sunset Yoga class near you. </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">Till next time...</div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>','Day 2:  Sunset Yoga Beckons (Part Two)','','inherit','open','open','','427-revision-49','','','2010-09-18 08:46:13','2010-09-18 15:46:13','',427,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/09/18/427-revision-49/',0,'revision','',0),(504,1,'2010-09-17 22:05:16','2010-09-18 05:05:16','<div class=\"mceTemp\"><dl id=\"attachment_435\" class=\"wp-caption alignleft\" style=\"width: 310px;\"><dt class=\"wp-caption-dt\"><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/P91601661.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-435\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/P91601661-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a></dt><dd class=\"wp-caption-dd\">Just another day in paradise</dd></dl>Some of you asked me on Wednesday, \"So what was your Day 1 adventure?\"  My reply is, \"Launching a big girl blog!\"\r\n<br/>\r\n\r\n\r\n</div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">Holy Learning Curve, Batman! </div>\r\n\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">If you snuck a peek at my <strong><a href=\"http://latebloomerdiary.blogspot.com\" target=\"_blank\">old blog,</a></strong>you probably noticed that I\'ve come a loooooong way, baby!  Wahoo!  Thanks to everyone for your support and well wishes these past few days.  Your response has been the best birthday present that a Late Bloomer could ask for. </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">On Day 2 I actually left my house for a Zen adventure. </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">My precious and darling friend, Corinnie (her name is Corinne, but I address most of my friends by silly nicknames), invited me to a Summer Sunset Yoga class at the Montelucia Resort which is a divine escape, let me tell you, dahlings.  I have always wanted to take a yoga class outside in nature, so I was over-the-moon about this all day.</div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">Class was scheduled for 6:30 which meant I had to zip out of the cubicle jungle, haul my cookies across town, and -- horror of all horrors -- skip dinner.  When you are raised in a neurotic Portuguese family whose obsession with food is second only to the Italians, skipping dinner is a very, very big deal.  To prepare for this trauma, I downed a disgusting protein shake two hours before class so I wouldn\'t pass out and embarrass myself in front of fellow classmates and poolside patrons of the resort. </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">The first thing I noticed upon our arrival was all the MEN!  They caught my attention not only because I am more than a little boy crazy (guilty as charged), but also because I am used to seeing only women at yoga classes in the suburbs.  I could get used to this. </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">I suppose that I was somewhat discombobulated by the \"scenery\" because when I excused myself for a quickie pre-class trip to the loo, I unknowingly barged into the men\'s restroom, and yes, there was a guy at the urinal.  After my initial shock, I broke out into the giggles and ran to the women\'s room.  I had a sneaking suspicion that the tone of the evening had been set.  </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">Returning to my mat, it dawned on me:  Even though I have always sworn that I will NEVER take a Bikram/Hot yoga class because I will probably yak and faint and die from the heat, here I was taking a sunset yoga class in 103°.  Essentially, I was in an outdoor Bikram/Hot yoga class. </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">Oops.</div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">Luckily, a distraction in the way of a shirtless young thang parked his mat right next to mine. </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">Heat schmeat.  What\'s a little heat when you can focus on the moon above, the mountains ahead, and a perfectly sculpted physique beside you?  Heat schmeat indeed...</div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">Other than sunscreen-laced sweat rolling down my face and into my eyes, my hair frizzing into a poodle poof, and the onset of dehydration, I was fine. </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">There was also a minor B.O. issue which I swear was me because I first noticed it while in downward dog where my nose was alarmingly close to my armpit.  However, Corinnie-cakes later assured me that it had to be her because she\'s on a Tom\'s of Maine deodorant kick, and we all know that \"natural\" deodorants are a joke. </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">Whew!</div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">I have to hand it to the Bikram peeps though.  The heat really does make you more limber.  I was able to get into poses that I have never been able to pretzel myself into previously.</div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">And since this was an urban crowd, the music was so hip that I when I closed my eyes I thought that I was in a Scottsdale nightclub.  Class ended with a Chris Isaak \"Wicked Game\" techno/trance mix.</div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">???</div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">This just further distracted me because a. it was weird (I am a purist) and b. whenever I hear \"Wicked Game\" I think of the <a href=\"http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4QF-v29K6f4&amp;feature=related\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>video</strong> </a>which has to be the sexiest video of all time.  Sigh...  I suppose there could be worse distractions that fantasizing about tantric yoga with Chris Isaak. </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">Overall, the class rocked.  If you are yogically inclined, get thee to a Sunset Yoga class near you. </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">Till next time...</div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>','Day 2:  Sunset Yoga Beckons (Part Two)','','inherit','open','open','','427-revision-41','','','2010-09-17 22:05:16','2010-09-18 05:05:16','',427,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/09/17/427-revision-41/',0,'revision','',0),(505,1,'2010-09-17 22:06:10','2010-09-18 05:06:10','<div class=\"mceTemp\"><dl id=\"attachment_435\" class=\"wp-caption alignleft\" style=\"width: 310px;\"><dt class=\"wp-caption-dt\"><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/P91601661.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-435\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/P91601661-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a></dt><dd class=\"wp-caption-dd\">Just another day in paradise</dd></dl>Some of you asked me on Wednesday, \"So what was your Day 1 adventure?\"  My reply is, \"Launching a big girl blog!\"\r\n<br/>\r\n\r\n\r\n</div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">Holy Learning Curve, Batman! </div>\r\n\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">If you snuck a peek at my <strong><a href=\"http://latebloomerdiary.blogspot.com\" target=\"_blank\">old blog,</a></strong>you probably noticed that I\'ve come a loooooong way, baby!  Wahoo!  Thanks to everyone for your support and well wishes these past few days.  Your response has been the best birthday present that a Late Bloomer could ask for. </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">On Day 2 I actually left my house for a Zen adventure. </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">My precious and darling friend, Corinnie (her name is Corinne, but I address most of my friends by silly nicknames), invited me to a Summer Sunset Yoga class at the Montelucia Resort which is a divine escape, let me tell you, dahlings.  I have always wanted to take a yoga class outside in nature, so I was over-the-moon about this all day.</div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">Class was scheduled for 6:30 which meant I had to zip out of the cubicle jungle, haul my cookies across town, and -- horror of all horrors -- skip dinner.  When you are raised in a neurotic Portuguese family whose obsession with food is second only to the Italians, skipping dinner is a very, very big deal.  To prepare for this trauma, I downed a disgusting protein shake two hours before class so I wouldn\'t pass out and embarrass myself in front of fellow classmates and poolside patrons of the resort. </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">The first thing I noticed upon our arrival was all the MEN!  They caught my attention not only because I am more than a little boy crazy (guilty as charged), but also because I am used to seeing only women at yoga classes in the suburbs.  I could get used to this. </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">I suppose that I was somewhat discombobulated by the \"scenery\" because when I excused myself for a quickie pre-class trip to the loo, I unknowingly barged into the men\'s restroom, and yes, there was a guy at the urinal.  After my initial shock, I broke out into the giggles and ran to the women\'s room.  I had a sneaking suspicion that the tone of the evening had been set.  </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">Returning to my mat, it dawned on me:  Even though I have always sworn that I will NEVER take a Bikram/Hot yoga class because I will probably yak and faint and die from the heat, here I was taking a sunset yoga class in 103°.  Essentially, I was in an outdoor Bikram/Hot yoga class. </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">Oops.</div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">Luckily, a distraction in the way of a shirtless young thang parked his mat right next to mine. </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">Heat schmeat.  What\'s a little heat when you can focus on the moon above, the mountains ahead, and a perfectly sculpted physique beside you?  Heat schmeat indeed...</div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">Other than sunscreen-laced sweat rolling down my face and into my eyes, my hair frizzing into a poodle poof, and the onset of dehydration, I was fine. </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">There was also a minor B.O. issue which I swear was me because I first noticed it while in downward dog where my nose was alarmingly close to my armpit.  However, Corinniecakes later assured me that it had to be her because she\'s on a Tom\'s of Maine deodorant kick, and we all know that \"natural\" deodorants are a joke. </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">Whew!</div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">I have to hand it to the Bikram peeps though.  The heat really does make you more limber.  I was able to get into poses that I have never been able to pretzel myself into previously.</div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">And since this was an urban crowd, the music was so hip that I when I closed my eyes I thought that I was in a Scottsdale nightclub.  Class ended with a Chris Isaak \"Wicked Game\" techno/trance mix.</div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">???</div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">This just further distracted me because a. it was weird (I am a purist) and b. whenever I hear \"Wicked Game\" I think of the <a href=\"http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4QF-v29K6f4&amp;feature=related\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>video</strong> </a>which has to be the sexiest video of all time.  Sigh...  I suppose there could be worse distractions that fantasizing about tantric yoga with Chris Isaak. </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">Overall, the class rocked.  If you are yogically inclined, get thee to a Sunset Yoga class near you. </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">Till next time...</div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>','Day 2:  Sunset Yoga Beckons (Part Two)','','inherit','open','open','','427-revision-42','','','2010-09-17 22:06:10','2010-09-18 05:06:10','',427,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/09/17/427-revision-42/',0,'revision','',0),(506,1,'2010-09-17 22:07:28','2010-09-18 05:07:28','<div class=\"mceTemp\"><dl id=\"attachment_435\" class=\"wp-caption alignleft\" style=\"width: 310px;\"><dt class=\"wp-caption-dt\"><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/P91601661.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-435\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/P91601661-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a></dt><dd class=\"wp-caption-dd\">Just another day in paradise</dd></dl>Some of you asked me on Wednesday, \"So what was your Day 1 adventure?\"  My reply is, \"Launching a big girl blog!\"\r\n<br/>\r\n\r\n\r\n</div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">Holy Learning Curve, Batman! </div>\r\n\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">If you snuck a peek at my <strong><a href=\"http://latebloomerdiary.blogspot.com\" target=\"_blank\">old blog,</a></strong>you probably noticed that I\'ve come a loooooong way, baby!  Wahoo!  Thanks to everyone for your support and well wishes these past few days.  Your response has been the best birthday present that a Late Bloomer could ask for. </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">On Day 2 I actually left my house for a Zen adventure. </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">My precious and darling friend, Corinnie (her name is Corinne, but I address most of my friends by silly nicknames), invited me to a Summer Sunset Yoga class at the Montelucia Resort which is a divine escape, let me tell you, dahlings.  I have always wanted to take a yoga class outside in nature, so I was over-the-moon about this all day.</div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">Class was scheduled for 6:30 which meant I had to zip out of the cubicle jungle, haul my cookies across town, and -- horror of all horrors -- skip dinner.  When you are raised in a neurotic Portuguese family whose obsession with food is second only to the Italians, skipping dinner is a very, very big deal.  To prepare for this trauma, I downed a disgusting protein shake two hours before class so I wouldn\'t pass out and embarrass myself in front of fellow classmates and poolside patrons of the resort. </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">The first thing I noticed upon our arrival was all the MEN!  They caught my attention not only because I am more than a little boy crazy (guilty as charged), but also because I am used to seeing only women at yoga classes in the suburbs.  I could get used to this. </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">I suppose that I was somewhat discombobulated by the \"scenery\" because when I excused myself for a quickie pre-class trip to the loo, I unknowingly barged into the men\'s restroom, and yes, there was a guy at the urinal.  After my initial shock, I broke out into the giggles and ran to the women\'s room.  I had a sneaking suspicion that the tone of the evening had been set.  </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">Returning to my mat, it dawned on me:  Even though I have always sworn that I will NEVER take a Bikram/Hot yoga class because I will probably yak and faint and die from the heat, here I was taking a sunset yoga class in 103°.  Essentially, I was in an outdoor Bikram/Hot yoga class. </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">Oops.</div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">Luckily, a distraction in the way of a shirtless young thang parked his mat right next to mine. </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">Heat schmeat.  What\'s a little heat when you can focus on the moon above, the mountains ahead, and a perfectly sculpted physique beside you?  Heat schmeat indeed...</div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">Other than sunscreen-laced sweat rolling down my face and into my eyes, my hair frizzing into a poodle poof, and the onset of dehydration, I was fine. </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">There was also a minor B.O. issue which I swear was me because I first noticed it while in downward dog where my nose was alarmingly close to my armpit.  However, Corinniecakes later assured me that it had to be her because she\'s on a Tom\'s of Maine deodorant kick, and we all know that \"natural\" deodorants are a joke. </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">Whew!</div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">I have to hand it to the Bikram peeps though.  The heat really does make you more limber.  I was able to get into poses that I have never been able to pretzel myself into previously.</div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">And since this was an urban crowd, the music was so hip that I when I closed my eyes, I thought that I was in a Scottsdale nightclub.  Class ended with a Chris Isaak \"Wicked Game\" techno/trance mix.</div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">???</div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">This just further distracted me because a. it was weird (I am a purist) and b. whenever I hear \"Wicked Game\" I think of the <a href=\"http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4QF-v29K6f4&amp;feature=related\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>video</strong> </a>which has to be the sexiest video of all time.  Sigh...  I suppose there could be worse distractions that fantasizing about tantric yoga with Chris Isaak. </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">Overall, the class rocked.  If you are yogically inclined, get thee to a Sunset Yoga class near you. </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">Till next time...</div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>','Day 2:  Sunset Yoga Beckons (Part Two)','','inherit','open','open','','427-revision-43','','','2010-09-17 22:07:28','2010-09-18 05:07:28','',427,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/09/17/427-revision-43/',0,'revision','',0),(508,1,'2010-09-17 22:12:50','2010-09-18 05:12:50',' <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/dice1.jpg\"><img class=\"alignleft size-thumbnail wp-image-381\" title=\"dice\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/dice1-150x150.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"150\" height=\"150\" /></a>\r\n\r\nLast year on this very day, I launched an embarrassingly green (literally and figuratively) blog at <strong><a href=\"http://www.latebloomerdiary.blogspot.com/\" target=\"_blank\">blogspot.</a></strong>\r\n<br/>\r\nI had no idea what I was doing, but I was extremely well-intentioned and needed a 40th birthday project to keep me from slipping into a full-blown mid-life crisis.\r\n<br/>\r\nIt didn\'t work.\r\n<br/>\r\nI plunged head-first into an existential crisis.  (I prefer \"existential\" over \"mid-life\" because it sounds so Kierkegaardian and cool.)\r\n\r\nLife kinda sorta got in the way.  You can savor the thoroughly melodramatic details by reading <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/365-or-bust/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>365 or Bust. </strong></a>\r\n\r\nAnywho, life getting in the way is... well... <em>life.</em>\r\n\r\nI need to get a grip and get on with mine.\r\n\r\nSo here we are.  One year later with fabulous new virtual digs (thank you, Shawn), a techie Svengali to teach me how to keep this puppy running smoothly (thank you, Svenny), and a frenetically fun mission:\r\n<blockquote><strong><span style=\"color: #993300;\">To try one new/inspiring/interesting/uplifting/provocative/or curiosity-injected thing each day for 365 days.</span></strong></blockquote>\r\nThis is the point where everyone asks, \"How are you going to keep this up?\"\r\n\r\nFret not and leave the \"how\" to me.  I am on a mission, and missions lead people to all things possible.\r\n\r\nI am sure that my daily espresso addiction will fuel this mayhem.  Currently, my poison is two shots a day.  (Italian, of course.)  Let\'s see how much I\'m consuming when all is said and done.\r\n\r\nMore importantly, your support and encouragement will keep me revved up (and hold me accountable).  I am actively seeking cohorts to accompany me in whichever way you choose:\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li>Leave a comment on an (almost) daily post.</li>\r\n	<li><strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/talk-to-me/\" target=\"_blank\">Talk to Me.</a></strong> What\'s on your mind, cupcake?</li>\r\n	<li><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/submit-a-365-idea/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Submit a 365 idea.</strong> </a>Be creative.  Be nice.</li>\r\n	<li>Friends in my fair city:  Pick a day and let\'s go!</li>\r\n	<li>Friends in faraway places:  Bloom where you are planted.  And then please share your story!</li>\r\n</ul>\r\nIf this post is your first visit to this blog, please check out <strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/365-or-bust/\" target=\"_blank\">365 or Bust</a></strong> and <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/about/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>What Makes Me Tick</strong> </a>to gather a better understanding of the history and quirkiness behind this project.\r\n\r\nJoin the inner circle of bloominess by <strong><a href=\"http://feeds.feedburner.com/latebloomerdiary\" target=\"_blank\">subscribing via email or RSS</a></strong>.  It\'s free, it\'s fun, it\'s easy, and it\'s the best way to keep in touch.\r\n\r\n\r\nToday I turn 41, and I am no longer waiting for Happy Ever After to show up.  I\'m creating my own fairy tale.\r\n\r\nAn intriguing and captivating fairy tale isn\'t a One-Princess Show!  Who wants to audition for my cast of characters?\r\n\r\nCarpe Diem and all that jazz!','Day 1:  Look Mom!  I\'m a Big Girl Blogger Now!','','inherit','open','open','','328-revision-62','','','2010-09-17 22:12:50','2010-09-18 05:12:50','',328,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/09/17/328-revision-62/',0,'revision','',0),(509,1,'2010-09-17 22:16:10','2010-09-18 05:16:10',' <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/dice1.jpg\"><img class=\"alignleft size-thumbnail wp-image-381\" title=\"dice\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/dice1-150x150.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"150\" height=\"150\" /></a>\r\n\r\nLast year on this very day, I launched an embarrassingly green (literally and figuratively) blog at <strong><a href=\"http://www.latebloomerdiary.blogspot.com/\" target=\"_blank\">blogspot.</a></strong>\r\n<br/>\r\nI had no idea what I was doing, but I was extremely well-intentioned and needed a 40th birthday project to keep me from slipping into a full-blown mid-life crisis.\r\n<br/>\r\nIt didn\'t work.\r\n<br/>\r\nI plunged head-first into an existential crisis.  (I prefer \"existential\" over \"mid-life\" because it sounds so Kierkegaardian and cool.)\r\n<br/>\r\nLife kinda sorta got in the way.  You can savor the thoroughly melodramatic details by reading <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/365-or-bust/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>365 or Bust. </strong></a>\r\n<br/>\r\nAnywho, life getting in the way is... well... <em>life.</em>\r\n<br/>\r\nI need to get a grip and get on with mine.\r\n<br/>\r\nSo here we are.  One year later with fabulous new virtual digs (thank you, Shawn), a techie Svengali to teach me how to keep this puppy running smoothly (thank you, Svenny), and a frenetically fun mission:\r\n<br/>\r\n<blockquote><strong><span style=\"color: #993300;\">To try one new/inspiring/interesting/uplifting/provocative/or curiosity-injected thing each day for 365 days.</span></strong></blockquote>\r\n<br/>\r\nThis is the point where everyone asks, \"How are you going to keep this up?\"\r\n<br/>\r\nFret not and leave the \"how\" to me.  I am on a mission, and missions lead people to all things possible.\r\n<br/>\r\nI am sure that my daily espresso addiction will fuel this mayhem.  Currently, my poison is two shots a day.  (Italian, of course.)  Let\'s see how much I\'m consuming when all is said and done.\r\n<br/>\r\nMore importantly, your support and encouragement will keep me revved up (and hold me accountable).  I am actively seeking cohorts to accompany me in whichever way you choose:\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li>Leave a comment on an (almost) daily post.</li>\r\n	<li><strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/talk-to-me/\" target=\"_blank\">Talk to Me.</a></strong> What\'s on your mind, cupcake?</li>\r\n	<li><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/submit-a-365-idea/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Submit a 365 idea.</strong> </a>Be creative.  Be nice.</li>\r\n	<li>Friends in my fair city:  Pick a day and let\'s go!</li>\r\n	<li>Friends in faraway places:  Bloom where you are planted.  And then please share your story!</li>\r\n</ul>\r\nIf this post is your first visit to this blog, please check out <strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/365-or-bust/\" target=\"_blank\">365 or Bust</a></strong> and <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/about/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>What Makes Me Tick</strong> </a>to gather a better understanding of the history and quirkiness behind this project.\r\n<br/>\r\nJoin the inner circle of bloominess by <strong><a href=\"http://feeds.feedburner.com/latebloomerdiary\" target=\"_blank\">subscribing via email or RSS</a></strong>.  It\'s free, it\'s fun, it\'s easy, and it\'s the best way to keep in touch.\r\n\r\n\r\nToday I turn 41, and I am no longer waiting for Happy Ever After to show up.  I\'m creating my own fairy tale.\r\n\r\nAn intriguing and captivating fairy tale isn\'t a One-Princess Show!  Who wants to audition for my cast of characters?\r\n\r\nCarpe Diem and all that jazz!','Day 1:  Look Mom!  I\'m a Big Girl Blogger Now!','','inherit','open','open','','328-revision-63','','','2010-09-17 22:16:10','2010-09-18 05:16:10','',328,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/09/17/328-revision-63/',0,'revision','',0),(510,1,'2010-09-17 22:17:00','2010-09-18 05:17:00',' <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/dice1.jpg\"><img class=\"alignleft size-thumbnail wp-image-381\" title=\"dice\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/dice1-150x150.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"150\" height=\"150\" /></a>\r\n\r\nLast year on this very day, I launched an embarrassingly green (literally and figuratively) blog at <strong><a href=\"http://www.latebloomerdiary.blogspot.com/\" target=\"_blank\">blogspot.</a></strong>\r\n<br/>\r\nI had no idea what I was doing, but I was extremely well-intentioned and needed a 40th birthday project to keep me from slipping into a full-blown mid-life crisis.\r\n<br/>\r\nIt didn\'t work.\r\n<br/>\r\nI plunged head-first into an existential crisis.  (I prefer \"existential\" over \"mid-life\" because it sounds so Kierkegaardian and cool.)\r\n<br/>\r\nLife kinda sorta got in the way.  You can savor the thoroughly melodramatic details by reading <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/365-or-bust/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>365 or Bust. </strong></a>\r\n<br/>\r\nAnywho, life getting in the way is... well... <em>life.</em>\r\n<br/>\r\nI need to get a grip and get on with mine.\r\n<br/>\r\nSo here we are.  One year later with fabulous new virtual digs (thank you, Shawn), a techie Svengali to teach me how to keep this puppy running smoothly (thank you, Svenny), and a frenetically fun mission:\r\n<br/>\r\n<blockquote><strong><span style=\"color: #993300;\">To try one new/inspiring/interesting/uplifting/provocative/or curiosity-injected thing each day for 365 days.</span></strong></blockquote>\r\n<br/>\r\nThis is the point where everyone asks, \"How are you going to keep this up?\"\r\n<br/>\r\nFret not and leave the \"how\" to me.  I am on a mission, and missions lead people to all things possible.\r\n<br/>\r\nI am sure that my daily espresso addiction will fuel this mayhem.  Currently, my poison is two shots a day.  (Italian, of course.)  Let\'s see how much I\'m consuming when all is said and done.\r\n<br/>\r\nMore importantly, your support and encouragement will keep me revved up (and hold me accountable).  I am actively seeking cohorts to accompany me in whichever way you choose:\r\n<br/>\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li>Leave a comment on an (almost) daily post.</li>\r\n	<li><strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/talk-to-me/\" target=\"_blank\">Talk to Me.</a></strong> What\'s on your mind, cupcake?</li>\r\n	<li><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/submit-a-365-idea/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Submit a 365 idea.</strong> </a>Be creative.  Be nice.</li>\r\n	<li>Friends in my fair city:  Pick a day and let\'s go!</li>\r\n	<li>Friends in faraway places:  Bloom where you are planted.  And then please share your story!</li>\r\n</ul>\r\nIf this post is your first visit to this blog, please check out <strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/365-or-bust/\" target=\"_blank\">365 or Bust</a></strong> and <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/about/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>What Makes Me Tick</strong> </a>to gather a better understanding of the history and quirkiness behind this project.\r\n<br/>\r\nJoin the inner circle of bloominess by <strong><a href=\"http://feeds.feedburner.com/latebloomerdiary\" target=\"_blank\">subscribing via email or RSS</a></strong>.  It\'s free, it\'s fun, it\'s easy, and it\'s the best way to keep in touch.\r\n<br/>\r\nToday I turn 41, and I am no longer waiting for Happy Ever After to show up.  I\'m creating my own fairy tale.\r\n<br/>\r\nAn intriguing and captivating fairy tale isn\'t a One-Princess Show!  Who wants to audition for my cast of characters?\r\n<br/>\r\nCarpe Diem and all that jazz!','Day 1:  Look Mom!  I\'m a Big Girl Blogger Now!','','inherit','open','open','','328-revision-64','','','2010-09-17 22:17:00','2010-09-18 05:17:00','',328,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/09/17/328-revision-64/',0,'revision','',0),(511,1,'2010-09-17 21:41:08','2010-09-18 04:41:08','Attention all Late Bloomers and Late Bloomer Wannabees in my fair city:\r\n\r\n<span style=\"color: #993300;\"><strong>Tonight, September 16th</strong></span>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"color: #993300;\"><strong>6:30 p.m.</strong></span>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"color: #993300;\"><strong>Free (Yes, FREE!) Sunset Yoga</strong></span>\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.icmontelucia.com/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Montelucia Resort and Spa</strong></a>\r\n\r\nWho\'s in?\r\n\r\nNamaste, peeps!\r\n\r\nFor those of you who cannot attend or live outside of my fair city, find a sunset yoga near you if you are so inclined.\r\n\r\n<strong> Day 2:  To Be Continued...</strong>\r\n\r\nP.S.  Today is also my bro-in-law\'s bday, and I would like to give a shout out to the best bro-in-law in the Twitterverse.','Day 2:  Sunset Yoga Beckons (Part One)','','inherit','open','open','','408-revision-20','','','2010-09-17 21:41:08','2010-09-18 04:41:08','',408,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/09/17/408-revision-20/',0,'revision','',0),(512,1,'2010-09-17 22:44:33','2010-09-18 05:44:33','Attention all Late Bloomers and Late Bloomer Wannabees in my fair city:\r\n\r\n<span style=\"color: #993300;\"><strong>Tonight, September 16th</strong></span>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"color: #993300;\"><strong>6:30 p.m.</strong></span>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"color: #993300;\"><strong>Free (Yes, FREE!) Sunset Yoga</strong></span>\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.icmontelucia.com/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Montelucia Resort and Spa</strong></a>\r\n\r\nWho\'s in?\r\n\r\nNamaste, peeps!\r\n\r\nFor those of you who cannot attend or live outside of my fair city, find a sunset yoga near you if you are so inclined.\r\n\r\n<strong> Day 2:  To Be Continued...</strong>\r\n\r\nP.S.  Today is also my bro-in-law\'s bday, and I would like to give a shout out to the best bro-in-law in the Twitterverse.','Day 2:  Sunset Yoga Beckons (Part One)','','inherit','open','open','','408-revision-21','','','2010-09-17 22:44:33','2010-09-18 05:44:33','',408,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/09/17/408-revision-21/',0,'revision','',0),(513,1,'2010-09-17 22:47:39','2010-09-18 05:47:39','<p>Attention all Late Bloomers and Late Bloomer Wannabees in my fair city:</p>\r\n\r\n<p><span style=\"color: #993300;\"><strong>Tonight, September 16th</strong></span></p>\r\n\r\n<p><span style=\"color: #993300;\"><strong>6:30 p.m.</strong></span></p>\r\n\r\n<p><span style=\"color: #993300;\"><strong>Free (Yes, FREE!) Sunset Yoga</strong></span></p>\r\n\r\n<p><a href=\"http://www.icmontelucia.com/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Montelucia Resort and Spa</strong></a></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Who\'s in?</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Namaste, peeps!</p>\r\n\r\n<p>For those of you who cannot attend or live outside of my fair city, find a sunset yoga near you if you are so inclined.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong> Day 2:  To Be Continued...</strong></p>\r\n\r\n<p>P.S.  Today is also my bro-in-law\'s bday, and I would like to give a shout out to the best bro-in-law in the Twitterverse.</p>','Day 2:  Sunset Yoga Beckons (Part One)','','inherit','open','open','','408-revision-22','','','2010-09-17 22:47:39','2010-09-18 05:47:39','',408,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/09/17/408-revision-22/',0,'revision','',0),(514,1,'2010-09-17 22:18:55','2010-09-18 05:18:55',' <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/dice1.jpg\"><img class=\"alignleft size-thumbnail wp-image-381\" title=\"dice\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/dice1-150x150.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"150\" height=\"150\" /></a>\r\n\r\nLast year on this very day, I launched an embarrassingly green (literally and figuratively) blog at <strong><a href=\"http://www.latebloomerdiary.blogspot.com/\" target=\"_blank\">blogspot.</a></strong>\r\n<br/>\r\nI had no idea what I was doing, but I was extremely well-intentioned and needed a 40th birthday project to keep me from slipping into a full-blown mid-life crisis.\r\n<br/>\r\nIt didn\'t work.\r\n<br/>\r\nI plunged head-first into an existential crisis.  (I prefer \"existential\" over \"mid-life\" because it sounds so Kierkegaardian and cool.)\r\n<br/>\r\nLife kinda sorta got in the way.  You can savor the thoroughly melodramatic details by reading <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/365-or-bust/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>365 or Bust. </strong></a>\r\n<br/>\r\nAnywho, life getting in the way is... well... <em>life.</em>\r\n<br/>\r\nI need to get a grip and get on with mine.\r\n<br/>\r\nSo here we are.  One year later with fabulous new virtual digs (thank you, Shawn), a techie Svengali to teach me how to keep this puppy running smoothly (thank you, Svenny), and a frenetically fun mission:\r\n<br/>\r\n<blockquote><strong><span style=\"color: #993300;\">To try one new/inspiring/interesting/uplifting/provocative/or curiosity-injected thing each day for 365 days.</span></strong></blockquote>\r\n<br/>\r\nThis is the point where everyone asks, \"How are you going to keep this up?\"\r\n<br/>\r\nFret not and leave the \"how\" to me.  I am on a mission, and missions lead people to all things possible.\r\n<br/>\r\nI am sure that my daily espresso addiction will fuel this mayhem.  Currently, my poison is two shots a day.  (Italian, of course.)  Let\'s see how much I\'m consuming when all is said and done.\r\n<br/>\r\nMore importantly, your support and encouragement will keep me revved up (and hold me accountable).  I am actively seeking cohorts to accompany me in whichever way you choose:\r\n<br/>\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li>Leave a comment on an (almost) daily post.</li>\r\n	<li><strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/talk-to-me/\" target=\"_blank\">Talk to Me.</a></strong> What\'s on your mind, cupcake?</li>\r\n	<li><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/submit-a-365-idea/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Submit a 365 idea.</strong> </a>Be creative.  Be nice.</li>\r\n	<li>Friends in my fair city:  Pick a day and let\'s go!</li>\r\n	<li>Friends in faraway places:  Bloom where you are planted.  And then please share your story!</li>\r\n</ul>\r\nIf this post is your first visit to this blog, please check out <strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/365-or-bust/\" target=\"_blank\">365 or Bust</a></strong> and <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/about/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>What Makes Me Tick</strong> </a>to gather a better understanding of the history and quirkiness behind this project.\r\n<br/>\r\nJoin the inner circle of bloominess by <strong><a href=\"http://feeds.feedburner.com/latebloomerdiary\" target=\"_blank\">subscribing via email or RSS</a></strong>.  It\'s free, it\'s fun, it\'s easy, and it\'s the best way to keep in touch.\r\n<br/>\r\nToday I turn 41, and I am no longer waiting for Happy Ever After to show up.  I\'m creating my own fairy tale.\r\n<br/>\r\nAn intriguing and captivating fairy tale isn\'t a One-Princess Show!  Who wants to audition for my cast of characters?\r\n<br/>\r\nCarpe Diem and all that jazz!','Day 1:  Look Mom!  I\'m a Big Girl Blogger Now!','','inherit','open','open','','328-revision-65','','','2010-09-17 22:18:55','2010-09-18 05:18:55','',328,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/09/17/328-revision-65/',0,'revision','',0),(516,1,'2010-09-17 22:52:03','2010-09-18 05:52:03','<p><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/dice1.jpg\"><img class=\"alignleft size-thumbnail wp-image-381\" title=\"dice\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/dice1-150x150.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"150\" height=\"150\" /></a>Last year on this very day, I launched an embarrassingly green (literally and figuratively) blog at <strong><a href=\"http://www.latebloomerdiary.blogspot.com/\" target=\"_blank\">blogspot.</a></strong></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong><br />\r\n</strong></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I had no idea what I was doing, but I was extremely well-intentioned and needed a 40th birthday project to keep me from slipping into a full-blown mid-life crisis.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>It didn\'t work.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I plunged head-first into an existential crisis.  (I prefer \"existential\" over \"mid-life\" because it sounds so Kierkegaardian and cool.)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Life kinda sorta got in the way.  You can savor the thoroughly melodramatic details by reading <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/365-or-bust/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>365 or Bust. </strong></a></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Anywho, life getting in the way is... well... <em>life.</em></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I need to get a grip and get on with mine.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>So here we are.  One year later with fabulous new virtual digs (thank you, Shawn), a techie Svengali to teach me how to keep this puppy running smoothly (thank you, Svenny), and a frenetically fun mission:</p>\r\n\r\n<blockquote><p><strong><span style=\"color: #993300;\">To try one new/inspiring/interesting/uplifting/provocative/or curiosity-injected thing each day for 365 days.</span></strong></p></blockquote>\r\n\r\n<p>This is the point where everyone asks, \"How are you going to keep this up?\"</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Fret not and leave the \"how\" to me.  I am on a mission, and missions lead people to all things possible.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>I am sure that my daily espresso addiction will fuel this mayhem.  Currently, my poison is two shots a day.  (Italian, of course.)  Let\'s see how much I\'m consuming when all is said and done.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>More importantly, your support and encouragement will keep me revved up (and hold me accountable).  I am actively seeking cohorts to accompany me in whichever way you choose:</p>\r\n\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li>Leave a comment on an (almost) daily post.</li>\r\n	<li><strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/talk-to-me/\" target=\"_blank\">Talk to Me.</a></strong> What\'s on your mind, cupcake?</li>\r\n	<li><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/submit-a-365-idea/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Submit a 365 idea.</strong> </a>Be creative.  Be nice.</li>\r\n	<li>Friends in my fair city:  Pick a day and let\'s go!</li>\r\n	<li>Friends in faraway places:  Bloom where you are planted.  And then please share your story!</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n\r\n<p>If this post is your first visit to this blog, please check out <strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/365-or-bust/\" target=\"_blank\">365 or Bust</a></strong> and <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/about/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>What Makes Me Tick</strong> </a>to gather a better understanding of the history and quirkiness behind this project.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Join the inner circle of bloominess by <strong><a href=\"http://feeds.feedburner.com/latebloomerdiary\" target=\"_blank\">subscribing via email or RSS</a></strong>.  It\'s free, it\'s fun, it\'s easy, and it\'s the best way to keep in touch.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Today I turn 41, and I am no longer waiting for Happy Ever After to show up.  I\'m creating my own fairy tale.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>An intriguing and captivating fairy tale isn\'t a One-Princess Show!  Who wants to audition for my cast of characters?</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Carpe Diem and all that jazz!</p>','Day 1:  Look Mom!  I\'m a Big Girl Blogger Now!','','inherit','open','open','','328-revision-67','','','2010-09-17 22:52:03','2010-09-18 05:52:03','',328,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/09/17/328-revision-67/',0,'revision','',0),(515,1,'2010-09-17 22:50:57','2010-09-18 05:50:57','<p><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/dice1.jpg\"><img class=\"alignleft size-thumbnail wp-image-381\" title=\"dice\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/dice1-150x150.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"150\" height=\"150\" /></a>Last year on this very day, I launched an embarrassingly green (literally and figuratively) blog at <strong><a href=\"http://www.latebloomerdiary.blogspot.com/\" target=\"_blank\">blogspot.</a></strong><br />\r\n<br />\r\n I had no idea what I was doing, but I was extremely well-intentioned and needed a 40th birthday project to keep me from slipping into a full-blown mid-life crisis.<br />\r\n <br />\r\n It didn\'t work.<br />\r\n <br />\r\n<br />\r\n I plunged head-first into an existential crisis.  (I prefer \"existential\" over \"mid-life\" because it sounds so Kierkegaardian and cool.)<br />\r\n <br />\r\n Life kinda sorta got in the way.  You can savor the thoroughly melodramatic details by reading <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/365-or-bust/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>365 or Bust. </strong></a><br />\r\n <br />\r\n Anywho, life getting in the way is... well... <em>life.</em><br />\r\n <br />\r\n I need to get a grip and get on with mine.<br />\r\n <br />\r\n So here we are.  One year later with fabulous new virtual digs (thank you, Shawn), a techie Svengali to teach me how to keep this puppy running smoothly (thank you, Svenny), and a frenetically fun mission:<br />\r\n <br />\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n<blockquote><p><strong><span style=\"color: #993300;\">To try one new/inspiring/interesting/uplifting/provocative/or curiosity-injected thing each day for 365 days.</span></strong></p></blockquote>\r\n\r\n<p>This is the point where everyone asks, \"How are you going to keep this up?\"<br />\r\n <br />\r\n\r\n Fret not and leave the \"how\" to me.  I am on a mission, and missions lead people to all things possible.<br />\r\n\r\n<br />\r\n I am sure that my daily espresso addiction will fuel this mayhem.  Currently, my poison is two shots a day.  (Italian, of course.)  Let\'s see how much I\'m consuming when all is said and done.<br />\r\n <br />\r\n\r\n More importantly, your support and encouragement will keep me revved up (and hold me accountable).  I am actively seeking cohorts to accompany me in whichever way you choose:<br />\r\n <br />\r\n</p></blockquote>\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li>Leave a comment on an (almost) daily post.</li>\r\n	<li><strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/talk-to-me/\" target=\"_blank\">Talk to Me.</a></strong> What\'s on your mind, cupcake?</li>\r\n	<li><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/submit-a-365-idea/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Submit a 365 idea.</strong> </a>Be creative.  Be nice.</li>\r\n	<li>Friends in my fair city:  Pick a day and let\'s go!</li>\r\n	<li>Friends in faraway places:  Bloom where you are planted.  And then please share your story!</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n\r\n<p>If this post is your first visit to this blog, please check out <strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/365-or-bust/\" target=\"_blank\">365 or Bust</a></strong> and <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/about/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>What Makes Me Tick</strong> </a>to gather a better understanding of the history and quirkiness behind this project.<br />\r\n <br />\r\n<br />\r\n Join the inner circle of bloominess by <strong><a href=\"http://feeds.feedburner.com/latebloomerdiary\" target=\"_blank\">subscribing via email or RSS</a></strong>.  It\'s free, it\'s fun, it\'s easy, and it\'s the best way to keep in touch.<br />\r\n <br />\r\n<br />\r\n Today I turn 41, and I am no longer waiting for Happy Ever After to show up.  I\'m creating my own fairy tale.<br />\r\n <br />\r\n\r\n An intriguing and captivating fairy tale isn\'t a One-Princess Show!  Who wants to audition for my cast of characters?<br />\r\n <br />\r\n<br />\r\n Carpe Diem and all that jazz!</p>','Day 1:  Look Mom!  I\'m a Big Girl Blogger Now!','','inherit','open','open','','328-revision-66','','','2010-09-17 22:50:57','2010-09-18 05:50:57','',328,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/09/17/328-revision-66/',0,'revision','',0),(517,1,'2010-09-17 22:52:51','2010-09-18 05:52:51','<p><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/dice1.jpg\"><img class=\"alignleft size-thumbnail wp-image-381\" title=\"dice\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/dice1-150x150.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"150\" height=\"150\" /></a>Last year on this very day, I launched an embarrassingly green (literally and figuratively) blog at <strong><a href=\"http://www.latebloomerdiary.blogspot.com/\" target=\"_blank\">blogspot.</a></strong></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong><br />\r\n </strong></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I had no idea what I was doing, but I was extremely well-intentioned and needed a 40th birthday project to keep me from slipping into a full-blown mid-life crisis.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>It didn\'t work.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I plunged head-first into an existential crisis.  (I prefer \"existential\" over \"mid-life\" because it sounds so Kierkegaardian and cool.)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Life kinda sorta got in the way.  You can savor the thoroughly melodramatic details by reading <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/365-or-bust/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>365 or Bust. </strong></a></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Anywho, life getting in the way is... well... <em>life.</em></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I need to get a grip and get on with mine.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>So here we are.  One year later with fabulous new virtual digs (thank you, Shawn), a techie Svengali to teach me how to keep this puppy running smoothly (thank you, Svenny), and a frenetically fun mission:</p>\r\n\r\n<blockquote><p><strong><span style=\"color: #993300;\">To try one new/inspiring/interesting/uplifting/provocative/or curiosity-injected thing each day for 365 days.</span></strong></p></blockquote>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>This is the point where everyone asks, \"How are you going to keep this up?\"</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Fret not and leave the \"how\" to me.  I am on a mission, and missions lead people to all things possible.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I am sure that my daily espresso addiction will fuel this mayhem.  Currently, my poison is two shots a day.  (Italian, of course.)  Let\'s see how much I\'m consuming when all is said and done.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>More importantly, your support and encouragement will keep me revved up (and hold me accountable).  I am actively seeking cohorts to accompany me in whichever way you choose:</p>\r\n\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li>Leave a comment on an (almost) daily post.</li>\r\n	<li><strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/talk-to-me/\" target=\"_blank\">Talk to Me.</a></strong> What\'s on your mind, cupcake?</li>\r\n	<li><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/submit-a-365-idea/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Submit a 365 idea.</strong> </a>Be creative.  Be nice.</li>\r\n	<li>Friends in my fair city:  Pick a day and let\'s go!</li>\r\n	<li>Friends in faraway places:  Bloom where you are planted.  And then please share your story!</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n\r\n<p>If this post is your first visit to this blog, please check out <strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/365-or-bust/\" target=\"_blank\">365 or Bust</a></strong> and <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/about/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>What Makes Me Tick</strong> </a>to gather a better understanding of the history and quirkiness behind this project.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Join the inner circle of bloominess by <strong><a href=\"http://feeds.feedburner.com/latebloomerdiary\" target=\"_blank\">subscribing via email or RSS</a></strong>.  It\'s free, it\'s fun, it\'s easy, and it\'s the best way to keep in touch.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Today I turn 41, and I am no longer waiting for Happy Ever After to show up.  I\'m creating my own fairy tale.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>An intriguing and captivating fairy tale isn\'t a One-Princess Show!  Who wants to audition for my cast of characters?</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Carpe Diem and all that jazz!</p>','Day 1:  Look Mom!  I\'m a Big Girl Blogger Now!','','inherit','open','open','','328-revision-68','','','2010-09-17 22:52:51','2010-09-18 05:52:51','',328,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/09/17/328-revision-68/',0,'revision','',0),(518,1,'2010-09-17 22:53:57','2010-09-18 05:53:57','<p><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/dice1.jpg\"><img class=\"alignleft size-thumbnail wp-image-381\" title=\"dice\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/dice1-150x150.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"150\" height=\"150\" /></a>Last year on this very day, I launched an embarrassingly green (literally and figuratively) blog at <strong><a href=\"http://www.latebloomerdiary.blogspot.com/\" target=\"_blank\">blogspot.</a></strong></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong><br />\r\n </strong></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I had no idea what I was doing, but I was extremely well-intentioned and needed a 40th birthday project to keep me from slipping into a full-blown mid-life crisis.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>It didn\'t work.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I plunged head-first into an existential crisis.  (I prefer \"existential\" over \"mid-life\" because it sounds so Kierkegaardian and cool.)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Life kinda sorta got in the way.  You can savor the thoroughly melodramatic details by reading <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/365-or-bust/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>365 or Bust. </strong></a></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Anywho, life getting in the way is... well... <em>life.</em></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I need to get a grip and get on with mine.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>So here we are.  One year later with fabulous new virtual digs (thank you, Shawn), a techie Svengali to teach me how to keep this puppy running smoothly (thank you, Svenny), and a frenetically fun mission:</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<blockquote><p><strong><span style=\"color: #993300;\">To try one new/inspiring/interesting/uplifting/provocative/or curiosity-injected thing each day for 365 days.</span></strong></p></blockquote>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>This is the point where everyone asks, \"How are you going to keep this up?\"</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Fret not and leave the \"how\" to me.  I am on a mission, and missions lead people to all things possible.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I am sure that my daily espresso addiction will fuel this mayhem.  Currently, my poison is two shots a day.  (Italian, of course.)  Let\'s see how much I\'m consuming when all is said and done.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>More importantly, your support and encouragement will keep me revved up (and hold me accountable).  I am actively seeking cohorts to accompany me in whichever way you choose:</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li>Leave a comment on an (almost) daily post.</li>\r\n	<li><strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/talk-to-me/\" target=\"_blank\">Talk to Me.</a></strong> What\'s on your mind, cupcake?</li>\r\n	<li><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/submit-a-365-idea/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Submit a 365 idea.</strong> </a>Be creative.  Be nice.</li>\r\n	<li>Friends in my fair city:  Pick a day and let\'s go!</li>\r\n	<li>Friends in faraway places:  Bloom where you are planted.  And then please share your story!</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>If this post is your first visit to this blog, please check out <strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/365-or-bust/\" target=\"_blank\">365 or Bust</a></strong> and <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/about/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>What Makes Me Tick</strong> </a>to gather a better understanding of the history and quirkiness behind this project.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Join the inner circle of bloominess by <strong><a href=\"http://feeds.feedburner.com/latebloomerdiary\" target=\"_blank\">subscribing via email or RSS</a></strong>.  It\'s free, it\'s fun, it\'s easy, and it\'s the best way to keep in touch.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Today I turn 41, and I am no longer waiting for Happy Ever After to show up.  I\'m creating my own fairy tale.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>An intriguing and captivating fairy tale isn\'t a One-Princess Show!  Who wants to audition for my cast of characters?</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Carpe Diem and all that jazz!</p>','Day 1:  Look Mom!  I\'m a Big Girl Blogger Now!','','inherit','open','open','','328-revision-69','','','2010-09-17 22:53:57','2010-09-18 05:53:57','',328,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/09/17/328-revision-69/',0,'revision','',0),(519,1,'2010-09-13 20:04:30','2010-09-14 03:04:30','Welcome to my new digs. \r\n\r\nMy brand new concept launches this Wednesday.  To find out more about the project, take a look at <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/365-or-bust/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>\"365 or Bust\".</strong></a>  To learn more about me, check out <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/about/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>\"What Makes Me Tick\".</strong></a> \r\n\r\nSee you soon!','Coming Soon to a Blogosphere Near You.  9/15/2010.  ','','inherit','open','open','','186-revision-10','','','2010-09-13 20:04:30','2010-09-14 03:04:30','',186,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/09/13/186-revision-10/',0,'revision','',0),(520,1,'2010-09-05 13:47:17','2010-09-05 13:47:17','<a href=\"http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_PeZGOvaDG6E/StjU9bskuGI/AAAAAAAAACY/AmH25oihgns/s1600-h/happinesspic.jpg\"><img style=\"MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 320px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand\" id=\"BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5393294705647990882\" border=\"0\" alt=\"\" src=\"http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_PeZGOvaDG6E/StjU9bskuGI/AAAAAAAAACY/AmH25oihgns/s320/happinesspic.jpg\" /></a> Recently, one of my favorite best-selling authors, Karen <span id=\"SPELLING_ERROR_0\" class=\"blsp-spelling-error\">Salmansohn</span>, sent out an invitation to start a <span id=\"SPELLING_ERROR_1\" class=\"blsp-spelling-error\">Bloggerang</span>. Karen\'s regular blogs on various sites (including Oprah.com) reach many millions of readers. She asked for aspiring <span id=\"SPELLING_ERROR_2\" class=\"blsp-spelling-error\">Bloggerangers</span> to pitch her a terrific concept. If Karen felt that it made empowering content for one of her blogs, she would then blog about you. In return, the <span id=\"SPELLING_ERROR_3\" class=\"blsp-spelling-error\">Bloggeranger</span> would then hail Karen\'s latest book, <em>Prince Harming Syndrome</em>, on their blog, thus creating a <span id=\"SPELLING_ERROR_4\" class=\"blsp-spelling-error\">Bloggerang</span> Effect.<br /><br />Well . . . . SHE PICKED ME!!!! I have been a fan of Karen\'s for a long time, so this made my year. Karen has asked that I send her 3-5 tips on how people can boost happiness in their lives. I will list them here today. Coming this weekend to a blog near you....my review of <em>Prince Harming Syndrome</em>.<br /><br /><br /><p><strong>Late Bloomer’s 5 Tips for Bliss<br /></strong><br />In order for these tips to take root, you must practice them daily. Happiness is not bestowed upon us. It is a daily choice. As the song goes, “Don’t worry, be happy!” :-) </p><p><br /></p><ul><li>Live authentically. Be true to yourself and follow your passions. (Kindly ignore all critiques from the Peanut Gallery.)<br /><br /></li><li>Love really does make the world go ‘round. Cherish your family, friends and loved ones. Most importantly, love thyself.<br /><br /></li><li>Laugh. It does a body good.<br /><br /></li><li>There are an estimated 6912 spoken languages in the world, but only one is universal: Music. Shakespeare was on to something -- Music truly is the food of love (and life, I might add, Will!) Play on, everyone!<br /><br /></li><li>Nurture your body, mind and soul through yoga, exercise, a spiritual practice, meditation, music, art and/or whatever else floats your boat and feels authentic to you.<br /></li></ul><p><br /><strong>Bonus tip:<br /></strong><br /></p><ul><li>Read. I once heard in a yoga class that “you are only as young as your spine is flexible.” I would like to add that “you are only as young as your mind is flexible.” Pick up a good book and exercise your mind. </li></ul>','Late Bloomer’s Top 5 Tips for Bliss','','inherit','open','open','','116-revision-2','','','2010-09-05 13:47:17','2010-09-05 13:47:17','',116,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/09/05/116-revision-2/',0,'revision','',0),(521,1,'2010-09-17 23:07:35','2010-09-18 06:07:35','<p><a href=\"http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_PeZGOvaDG6E/StjU9bskuGI/AAAAAAAAACY/AmH25oihgns/s1600-h/happinesspic.jpg\"><img id=\"BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5393294705647990882\" style=\"margin: 0px 10px 10px 0px; width: 320px; float: left; height: 240px;\" src=\"http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_PeZGOvaDG6E/StjU9bskuGI/AAAAAAAAACY/AmH25oihgns/s320/happinesspic.jpg\" border=\"0\" alt=\"\" /></a> Recently, one of my favorite best-selling authors, Karen <span id=\"SPELLING_ERROR_0\" class=\"blsp-spelling-error\">Salmansohn</span>, sent out an invitation to start a <span id=\"SPELLING_ERROR_1\" class=\"blsp-spelling-error\">Bloggerang</span>. Karen\'s regular blogs on various sites (including Oprah.com) reach many millions of readers. She asked for aspiring <span id=\"SPELLING_ERROR_2\" class=\"blsp-spelling-error\">Bloggerangers</span> to pitch her a terrific concept. If Karen felt that it made empowering content for one of her blogs, she would then blog about you. In return, the <span id=\"SPELLING_ERROR_3\" class=\"blsp-spelling-error\">Bloggeranger</span> would then hail Karen\'s latest book, <em>Prince Harming Syndrome</em>, on their blog, thus creating a <span id=\"SPELLING_ERROR_4\" class=\"blsp-spelling-error\">Bloggerang</span> Effect.</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Well . . . . SHE PICKED ME!!!! I have been a fan of Karen\'s for a long time, so this made my year. Karen has asked that I send her 3-5 tips on how people can boost happiness in their lives. I will list them here today. Coming this weekend to a blog near you....my review of <em>Prince Harming Syndrome</em>.</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><strong>Late Bloomer’s 5 Tips for Bliss</strong></p>\n\n<p><strong><br />\n </strong><br />\n In order for these tips to take root, you must practice them daily. Happiness is not bestowed upon us. It is a daily choice. As the song goes, “Don’t worry, be happy!” :-)</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<ul>\n	<li>Live authentically. Be true to yourself and follow your passions. (Kindly ignore all critiques from the Peanut Gallery.)</li>\n	<li>Love really does make the world go ‘round. Cherish your family, friends and loved ones. Most importantly, love thyself. </li>\n	<li>Laugh. It does a body good. </li>\n	<li>There are an estimated 6912 spoken languages in the world, but only one is universal: Music. Shakespeare was on to something -- Music truly is the food of love (and life, I might add, Will!) Play on, everyone! </li>\n	<li>Nurture your body, mind and soul through yoga, exercise, a spiritual practice, meditation, music, art and/or whatever else floats your boat and feels authentic to you.</li>\n</ul>\n\n<p><strong>Bonus tip:<br />\n </strong></p>\n\n<ul>\n	<li>Read. I once heard in a yoga class that “you are only as young as your spine is flexible.” I would like to add that “you are only as young as your mind is flexible.” Pick up a good book and exercise your mind. </li>\n</ul>','Late Bloomer’s Top 5 Tips for Bliss','','inherit','open','open','','116-autosave','','','2010-09-17 23:07:35','2010-09-18 06:07:35','',116,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/09/17/116-autosave/',0,'revision','',0),(522,1,'2010-09-17 23:05:20','2010-09-18 06:05:20','<p><a href=\"http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_PeZGOvaDG6E/StjU9bskuGI/AAAAAAAAACY/AmH25oihgns/s1600-h/happinesspic.jpg\"><img id=\"BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5393294705647990882\" style=\"margin: 0px 10px 10px 0px; width: 320px; float: left; height: 240px;\" src=\"http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_PeZGOvaDG6E/StjU9bskuGI/AAAAAAAAACY/AmH25oihgns/s320/happinesspic.jpg\" border=\"0\" alt=\"\" /></a> Recently, one of my favorite best-selling authors, Karen <span id=\"SPELLING_ERROR_0\" class=\"blsp-spelling-error\">Salmansohn</span>, sent out an invitation to start a <span id=\"SPELLING_ERROR_1\" class=\"blsp-spelling-error\">Bloggerang</span>. Karen\'s regular blogs on various sites (including Oprah.com) reach many millions of readers. She asked for aspiring <span id=\"SPELLING_ERROR_2\" class=\"blsp-spelling-error\">Bloggerangers</span> to pitch her a terrific concept. If Karen felt that it made empowering content for one of her blogs, she would then blog about you. In return, the <span id=\"SPELLING_ERROR_3\" class=\"blsp-spelling-error\">Bloggeranger</span> would then hail Karen\'s latest book, <em>Prince Harming Syndrome</em>, on their blog, thus creating a <span id=\"SPELLING_ERROR_4\" class=\"blsp-spelling-error\">Bloggerang</span> Effect.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Well . . . . SHE PICKED ME!!!! I have been a fan of Karen\'s for a long time, so this made my year. Karen has asked that I send her 3-5 tips on how people can boost happiness in their lives. I will list them here today. Coming this weekend to a blog near you....my review of <em>Prince Harming Syndrome</em>.</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>Late Bloomer’s 5 Tips for Bliss</strong></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong><br />\r\n</strong><br />\r\nIn order for these tips to take root, you must practice them daily. Happiness is not bestowed upon us. It is a daily choice. As the song goes, “Don’t worry, be happy!” :-)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li>Live authentically. Be true to yourself and follow your passions. (Kindly ignore all critiques from the Peanut Gallery.)\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p></li>\r\n	<li>Love really does make the world go ‘round. Cherish your family, friends and loved ones. Most importantly, love thyself. </li>\r\n	<li>Laugh. It does a body good. </li>\r\n	<li>There are an estimated 6912 spoken languages in the world, but only one is universal: Music. Shakespeare was on to something -- Music truly is the food of love (and life, I might add, Will!) Play on, everyone! </li>\r\n	<li>Nurture your body, mind and soul through yoga, exercise, a spiritual practice, meditation, music, art and/or whatever else floats your boat and feels authentic to you.</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>Bonus tip:<br />\r\n</strong></p>\r\n\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li>Read. I once heard in a yoga class that “you are only as young as your spine is flexible.” I would like to add that “you are only as young as your mind is flexible.” Pick up a good book and exercise your mind. </li>\r\n</ul>','Late Bloomer’s Top 5 Tips for Bliss','','inherit','open','open','','116-revision-3','','','2010-09-17 23:05:20','2010-09-18 06:05:20','',116,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/09/17/116-revision-3/',0,'revision','',0),(523,1,'2010-09-17 22:08:12','2010-09-18 05:08:12','<div class=\"mceTemp\"><dl id=\"attachment_435\" class=\"wp-caption alignleft\" style=\"width: 310px;\"><dt class=\"wp-caption-dt\"><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/P91601661.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-435\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/P91601661-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a></dt><dd class=\"wp-caption-dd\">Just another day in paradise</dd></dl>Some of you asked me on Wednesday, \"So what was your Day 1 adventure?\"  My reply is, \"Launching a big girl blog!\"\r\n<br/>\r\n\r\n\r\n</div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">Holy Learning Curve, Batman! </div>\r\n\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">If you snuck a peek at my <strong><a href=\"http://latebloomerdiary.blogspot.com\" target=\"_blank\">old blog,</a></strong>you probably noticed that I\'ve come a loooooong way, baby!  Wahoo!  Thanks to everyone for your support and well wishes these past few days.  Your response has been the best birthday present that a Late Bloomer could ask for. </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">On Day 2 I actually left my house for a Zen adventure. </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">My precious and darling friend, Corinnie (her name is Corinne, but I address most of my friends by silly nicknames), invited me to a Summer Sunset Yoga class at the Montelucia Resort which is a divine escape, let me tell you, dahlings.  I have always wanted to take a yoga class outside in nature, so I was over-the-moon about this all day.</div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">Class was scheduled for 6:30 which meant I had to zip out of the cubicle jungle, haul my cookies across town, and -- horror of all horrors -- skip dinner.  When you are raised in a neurotic Portuguese family whose obsession with food is second only to the Italians, skipping dinner is a very, very big deal.  To prepare for this trauma, I downed a disgusting protein shake two hours before class so I wouldn\'t pass out and embarrass myself in front of fellow classmates and poolside patrons of the resort. </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">The first thing I noticed upon our arrival was all the MEN!  They caught my attention not only because I am more than a little boy crazy (guilty as charged), but also because I am used to seeing only women at yoga classes in the suburbs.  I could get used to this. </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">I suppose that I was somewhat discombobulated by the \"scenery\" because when I excused myself for a quickie pre-class trip to the loo, I unknowingly barged into the men\'s restroom, and yes, there was a guy at the urinal.  After my initial shock, I broke out into the giggles and ran to the women\'s room.  I had a sneaking suspicion that the tone of the evening had been set.  </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">Returning to my mat, it dawned on me:  Even though I have always sworn that I will NEVER take a Bikram/Hot yoga class because I will probably yak and faint and die from the heat, here I was taking a sunset yoga class in 103°.  Essentially, I was in an outdoor Bikram/Hot yoga class. </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">Oops.</div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">Luckily, a distraction in the way of a shirtless young thang parked his mat right next to mine. </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">Heat schmeat.  What\'s a little heat when you can focus on the moon above, the mountains ahead, and a perfectly sculpted physique beside you?  Heat schmeat indeed...</div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">Other than sunscreen-laced sweat rolling down my face and into my eyes, my hair frizzing into a poodle poof, and the onset of dehydration, I was fine. </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">There was also a minor B.O. issue which I swear was me because I first noticed it while in downward dog where my nose was alarmingly close to my armpit.  However, Corinniecakes later assured me that it had to be her because she\'s on a Tom\'s of Maine deodorant kick, and we all know that \"natural\" deodorants are a joke. </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">Whew!</div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">I have to hand it to the Bikram peeps though.  The heat really does make you more limber.  I was able to get into poses that I have never been able to pretzel myself into previously.</div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">And since this was an urban crowd, the music was so hip that I when I closed my eyes, I thought that I was in a Scottsdale nightclub.  Class ended with a Chris Isaak \"Wicked Game\" techno/trance mix.</div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">???</div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">This just further distracted me because a. it was weird (I am a purist) and b. whenever I hear \"Wicked Game\" I think of the <a href=\"http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4QF-v29K6f4&amp;feature=related\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>video</strong> </a>which has to be the sexiest video of all time.  Sigh...  I suppose there could be worse distractions that fantasizing about tantric yoga with Chris Isaak. </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">Overall, the class rocked.  If you are yogically inclined, get thee to a Sunset Yoga class near you. </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">Till next time...</div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>','Day 2:  Sunset Yoga Beckons (Part Two)','','inherit','open','open','','427-revision-44','','','2010-09-17 22:08:12','2010-09-18 05:08:12','',427,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/09/17/427-revision-44/',0,'revision','',0),(526,1,'2010-09-18 08:28:51','2010-09-18 15:28:51','<div class=\"mceTemp\">\r\n<dl id=\"attachment_435\" class=\"wp-caption alignleft\" style=\"width: 310px;\">\r\n<dt class=\"wp-caption-dt\"><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/P91601661.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-435\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/P91601661-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a></dt>\r\n<dd class=\"wp-caption-dd\">Just another day in paradise</dd>\r\n</dl>\r\n<p>Some of you asked me on Wednesday, \"So what was your Day 1 adventure?\"  My reply is, \"Launching a big girl blog!\"<br />\r\n<br/></p>\r\n</div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">Holy Learning Curve, Batman! </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">If you snuck a peek at my <strong><a href=\"http://latebloomerdiary.blogspot.com\" target=\"_blank\">old blog,</a></strong>you probably noticed that I\'ve come a loooooong way, baby!  Wahoo!  Thanks to everyone for your support and well wishes these past few days.  Your response has been the best birthday present that a Late Bloomer could ask for. </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">\r\n<br/><br />\r\nOn Day 2 I actually left my house for a Zen adventure. </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">My precious and darling friend, Corinnie (her name is Corinne, but I address most of my friends by silly nicknames), invited me to a Summer Sunset Yoga class at the Montelucia Resort which is a divine escape, let me tell you, dahlings.  I have always wanted to take a yoga class outside in nature, so I was over-the-moon about this all day.</div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">Class was scheduled for 6:30 which meant I had to zip out of the cubicle jungle, haul my cookies across town, and -- horror of all horrors -- skip dinner.  When you are raised in a neurotic Portuguese family whose obsession with food is second only to the Italians, skipping dinner is a very, very big deal.  To prepare for this trauma, I downed a disgusting protein shake two hours before class so I wouldn\'t pass out and embarrass myself in front of fellow classmates and poolside patrons of the resort. </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">The first thing I noticed upon our arrival was all the MEN!  They caught my attention not only because I am more than a little boy crazy (guilty as charged), but also because I am used to seeing only women at yoga classes in the suburbs.  I could get used to this. </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">I suppose that I was somewhat discombobulated by the \"scenery\" because when I excused myself for a quickie pre-class trip to the loo, I unknowingly barged into the men\'s restroom, and yes, there was a guy at the urinal.  After my initial shock, I broke out into the giggles and ran to the women\'s room.  I had a sneaking suspicion that the tone of the evening had been set.  </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">Returning to my mat, it dawned on me:  Even though I have always sworn that I will NEVER take a Bikram/Hot yoga class because I will probably yak and faint and die from the heat, here I was taking a sunset yoga class in 103°.  Essentially, I was in an outdoor Bikram/Hot yoga class. </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">Oops.</div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">Luckily, a distraction in the way of a shirtless young thang parked his mat right next to mine. </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">Heat schmeat.  What\'s a little heat when you can focus on the moon above, the mountains ahead, and a perfectly sculpted physique beside you?  Heat schmeat indeed...</div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">Other than sunscreen-laced sweat rolling down my face and into my eyes, my hair frizzing into a poodle poof, and the onset of dehydration, I was fine. </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">There was also a minor B.O. issue which I swear was me because I first noticed it while in downward dog where my nose was alarmingly close to my armpit.  However, Corinniecakes later assured me that it had to be her because she\'s on a Tom\'s of Maine deodorant kick, and we all know that \"natural\" deodorants are a joke. </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">Whew!</div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">I have to hand it to the Bikram peeps though.  The heat really does make you more limber.  I was able to get into poses that I have never been able to pretzel myself into previously.</div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">And since this was an urban crowd, the music was so hip that I when I closed my eyes, I thought that I was in a Scottsdale nightclub.  Class ended with a Chris Isaak \"Wicked Game\" techno/trance mix.</div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">???</div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">This just further distracted me because a. it was weird (I am a purist) and b. whenever I hear \"Wicked Game\" I think of the <a href=\"http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4QF-v29K6f4&amp;feature=related\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>video</strong> </a>which has to be the sexiest video of all time.  Sigh...  I suppose there could be worse distractions than fantasizing about tantric yoga with Chris Isaak. </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">Overall, the class rocked.  If you are yogically inclined, get thee to a Sunset Yoga class near you. </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">Till next time...</div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n','Day 2:  Sunset Yoga Beckons (Part Two)','','inherit','open','open','','427-revision-47','','','2010-09-18 08:28:51','2010-09-18 15:28:51','',427,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/09/18/427-revision-47/',0,'revision','',0),(524,1,'2010-09-18 08:10:44','2010-09-18 15:10:44','<div class=\"mceTemp\">\r\n<dl id=\"attachment_435\" class=\"wp-caption alignleft\" style=\"width: 310px;\">\r\n<dt class=\"wp-caption-dt\"><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/P91601661.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-435\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/P91601661-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a></dt>\r\n<dd class=\"wp-caption-dd\">Just another day in paradise</dd>\r\n</dl>\r\n<p>Some of you asked me on Wednesday, \"So what was your Day 1 adventure?\"  My reply is, \"Launching a big girl blog!\"<br />\r\n<br/></p>\r\n</div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">Holy Learning Curve, Batman! </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">If you snuck a peek at my <strong><a href=\"http://latebloomerdiary.blogspot.com\" target=\"_blank\">old blog,</a></strong>you probably noticed that I\'ve come a loooooong way, baby!  Wahoo!  Thanks to everyone for your support and well wishes these past few days.  Your response has been the best birthday present that a Late Bloomer could ask for. </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">On Day 2 I actually left my house for a Zen adventure. </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">My precious and darling friend, Corinnie (her name is Corinne, but I address most of my friends by silly nicknames), invited me to a Summer Sunset Yoga class at the Montelucia Resort which is a divine escape, let me tell you, dahlings.  I have always wanted to take a yoga class outside in nature, so I was over-the-moon about this all day.</div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">Class was scheduled for 6:30 which meant I had to zip out of the cubicle jungle, haul my cookies across town, and -- horror of all horrors -- skip dinner.  When you are raised in a neurotic Portuguese family whose obsession with food is second only to the Italians, skipping dinner is a very, very big deal.  To prepare for this trauma, I downed a disgusting protein shake two hours before class so I wouldn\'t pass out and embarrass myself in front of fellow classmates and poolside patrons of the resort. </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">The first thing I noticed upon our arrival was all the MEN!  They caught my attention not only because I am more than a little boy crazy (guilty as charged), but also because I am used to seeing only women at yoga classes in the suburbs.  I could get used to this. </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">I suppose that I was somewhat discombobulated by the \"scenery\" because when I excused myself for a quickie pre-class trip to the loo, I unknowingly barged into the men\'s restroom, and yes, there was a guy at the urinal.  After my initial shock, I broke out into the giggles and ran to the women\'s room.  I had a sneaking suspicion that the tone of the evening had been set.  </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">Returning to my mat, it dawned on me:  Even though I have always sworn that I will NEVER take a Bikram/Hot yoga class because I will probably yak and faint and die from the heat, here I was taking a sunset yoga class in 103°.  Essentially, I was in an outdoor Bikram/Hot yoga class. </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">Oops.</div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">Luckily, a distraction in the way of a shirtless young thang parked his mat right next to mine. </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">Heat schmeat.  What\'s a little heat when you can focus on the moon above, the mountains ahead, and a perfectly sculpted physique beside you?  Heat schmeat indeed...</div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">Other than sunscreen-laced sweat rolling down my face and into my eyes, my hair frizzing into a poodle poof, and the onset of dehydration, I was fine. </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">There was also a minor B.O. issue which I swear was me because I first noticed it while in downward dog where my nose was alarmingly close to my armpit.  However, Corinniecakes later assured me that it had to be her because she\'s on a Tom\'s of Maine deodorant kick, and we all know that \"natural\" deodorants are a joke. </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">Whew!</div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">I have to hand it to the Bikram peeps though.  The heat really does make you more limber.  I was able to get into poses that I have never been able to pretzel myself into previously.</div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">And since this was an urban crowd, the music was so hip that I when I closed my eyes, I thought that I was in a Scottsdale nightclub.  Class ended with a Chris Isaak \"Wicked Game\" techno/trance mix.</div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">???</div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">This just further distracted me because a. it was weird (I am a purist) and b. whenever I hear \"Wicked Game\" I think of the <a href=\"http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4QF-v29K6f4&amp;feature=related\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>video</strong> </a>which has to be the sexiest video of all time.  Sigh...  I suppose there could be worse distractions than fantasizing about tantric yoga with Chris Isaak. </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">Overall, the class rocked.  If you are yogically inclined, get thee to a Sunset Yoga class near you. </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">Till next time...</div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n','Day 2:  Sunset Yoga Beckons (Part Two)','','inherit','open','open','','427-revision-45','','','2010-09-18 08:10:44','2010-09-18 15:10:44','',427,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/09/18/427-revision-45/',0,'revision','',0),(525,1,'2010-09-18 08:12:46','2010-09-18 15:12:46','<div class=\"mceTemp\">\r\n<dl id=\"attachment_435\" class=\"wp-caption alignleft\" style=\"width: 310px;\">\r\n<dt class=\"wp-caption-dt\"><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/P91601661.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-435\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/P91601661-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a></dt>\r\n<dd class=\"wp-caption-dd\">Just another day in paradise</dd>\r\n</dl>\r\n<p>Some of you asked me on Wednesday, \"So what was your Day 1 adventure?\"  My reply is, \"Launching a big girl blog!\"<br />\r\n<br/></p>\r\n</div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">Holy Learning Curve, Batman! </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">If you snuck a peek at my <strong><a href=\"http://latebloomerdiary.blogspot.com\" target=\"_blank\">old blog,</a></strong>you probably noticed that I\'ve come a loooooong way, baby!  Wahoo!  Thanks to everyone for your support and well wishes these past few days.  Your response has been the best birthday present that a Late Bloomer could ask for. </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">\r\n<br/>\r\nOn Day 2 I actually left my house for a Zen adventure. </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">My precious and darling friend, Corinnie (her name is Corinne, but I address most of my friends by silly nicknames), invited me to a Summer Sunset Yoga class at the Montelucia Resort which is a divine escape, let me tell you, dahlings.  I have always wanted to take a yoga class outside in nature, so I was over-the-moon about this all day.</div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">Class was scheduled for 6:30 which meant I had to zip out of the cubicle jungle, haul my cookies across town, and -- horror of all horrors -- skip dinner.  When you are raised in a neurotic Portuguese family whose obsession with food is second only to the Italians, skipping dinner is a very, very big deal.  To prepare for this trauma, I downed a disgusting protein shake two hours before class so I wouldn\'t pass out and embarrass myself in front of fellow classmates and poolside patrons of the resort. </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">The first thing I noticed upon our arrival was all the MEN!  They caught my attention not only because I am more than a little boy crazy (guilty as charged), but also because I am used to seeing only women at yoga classes in the suburbs.  I could get used to this. </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">I suppose that I was somewhat discombobulated by the \"scenery\" because when I excused myself for a quickie pre-class trip to the loo, I unknowingly barged into the men\'s restroom, and yes, there was a guy at the urinal.  After my initial shock, I broke out into the giggles and ran to the women\'s room.  I had a sneaking suspicion that the tone of the evening had been set.  </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">Returning to my mat, it dawned on me:  Even though I have always sworn that I will NEVER take a Bikram/Hot yoga class because I will probably yak and faint and die from the heat, here I was taking a sunset yoga class in 103°.  Essentially, I was in an outdoor Bikram/Hot yoga class. </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">Oops.</div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">Luckily, a distraction in the way of a shirtless young thang parked his mat right next to mine. </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">Heat schmeat.  What\'s a little heat when you can focus on the moon above, the mountains ahead, and a perfectly sculpted physique beside you?  Heat schmeat indeed...</div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">Other than sunscreen-laced sweat rolling down my face and into my eyes, my hair frizzing into a poodle poof, and the onset of dehydration, I was fine. </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">There was also a minor B.O. issue which I swear was me because I first noticed it while in downward dog where my nose was alarmingly close to my armpit.  However, Corinniecakes later assured me that it had to be her because she\'s on a Tom\'s of Maine deodorant kick, and we all know that \"natural\" deodorants are a joke. </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">Whew!</div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">I have to hand it to the Bikram peeps though.  The heat really does make you more limber.  I was able to get into poses that I have never been able to pretzel myself into previously.</div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">And since this was an urban crowd, the music was so hip that I when I closed my eyes, I thought that I was in a Scottsdale nightclub.  Class ended with a Chris Isaak \"Wicked Game\" techno/trance mix.</div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">???</div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">This just further distracted me because a. it was weird (I am a purist) and b. whenever I hear \"Wicked Game\" I think of the <a href=\"http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4QF-v29K6f4&amp;feature=related\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>video</strong> </a>which has to be the sexiest video of all time.  Sigh...  I suppose there could be worse distractions than fantasizing about tantric yoga with Chris Isaak. </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">Overall, the class rocked.  If you are yogically inclined, get thee to a Sunset Yoga class near you. </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">Till next time...</div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n','Day 2:  Sunset Yoga Beckons (Part Two)','','inherit','open','open','','427-revision-46','','','2010-09-18 08:12:46','2010-09-18 15:12:46','',427,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/09/18/427-revision-46/',0,'revision','',0),(527,1,'2010-09-18 08:45:27','2010-09-18 15:45:27','<div class=\"mceTemp\"><dl id=\"attachment_435\" class=\"wp-caption alignleft\" style=\"width: 310px;\"><dt class=\"wp-caption-dt\"><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/P91601661.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-435\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/P91601661-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a></dt><dd class=\"wp-caption-dd\">Just another day in paradise</dd></dl>\r\n\r\n<p>Some of you asked me on Wednesday, \"So what was your Day 1 adventure?\"  My reply is, \"Launching a big girl blog!\"<br />\r\n<br />\r\n</p></div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">Holy Learning Curve, Batman! </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">If you snuck a peek at my <strong><a href=\"http://latebloomerdiary.blogspot.com\" target=\"_blank\">old blog,</a></strong>you probably noticed that I\'ve come a loooooong way, baby!  Wahoo!  Thanks to everyone for your support and well wishes these past few days.  Your response has been the best birthday present that a Late Bloomer could ask for. </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"><br />\r\n<br />\r\nOn Day 2 I actually left my house for a Zen adventure. </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">My precious and darling friend, Corinnie (her name is Corinne, but I address most of my friends by silly nicknames), invited me to a Summer Sunset Yoga class at the Montelucia Resort which is a divine escape, let me tell you, dahlings.  I have always wanted to take a yoga class outside in nature, so I was over-the-moon about this all day.</div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">Class was scheduled for 6:30 which meant I had to zip out of the cubicle jungle, haul my cookies across town, and -- horror of all horrors -- skip dinner.  When you are raised in a neurotic Portuguese family whose obsession with food is second only to the Italians, skipping dinner is a very, very big deal.  To prepare for this trauma, I downed a disgusting protein shake two hours before class so I wouldn\'t pass out and embarrass myself in front of fellow classmates and poolside patrons of the resort. </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">The first thing I noticed upon our arrival was all the MEN! They caught my attention not only because I am more than a little boy crazy (guilty as charged), but also because I am used to seeing only women at yoga classes in the suburbs.  I could get used to this. </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">I suppose that I was somewhat discombobulated by the \"scenery\" because when I excused myself for a quickie pre-class trip to the loo, I unknowingly barged into the men\'s restroom, and yes, there was a guy at the urinal.  After my initial shock, I broke out into the giggles and ran to the women\'s room.  I had a sneaking suspicion that the tone of the evening had been set.</div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">Returning to my mat, it dawned on me:  Even though I have always sworn that I will NEVER take a Bikram/Hot yoga class because I will probably yak and faint and die from the heat, here I was taking a sunset yoga class in 103°.  Essentially, I was in an outdoor Bikram/Hot yoga class. </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">Oops.</div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">Luckily, a distraction in the way of a shirtless young thang parked his mat right next to mine. </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">Heat schmeat.  What\'s a little heat when you can focus on the moon above, the mountains ahead, and a perfectly sculpted physique beside you?  Heat schmeat indeed...</div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">Other than sunscreen-laced sweat rolling down my face and into my eyes, my hair frizzing into a poodle poof, and the onset of dehydration, I was fine. </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">There was also a minor B.O. issue which I swear was me because I first noticed it while in downward dog where my nose was alarmingly close to my armpit.  However, Corinniecakes later assured me that it had to be her because she\'s on a Tom\'s of Maine deodorant kick, and we all know that \"natural\" deodorants are a joke. </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">Whew!</div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">I have to hand it to the Bikram peeps though.  The heat really does make you more limber.  I was able to get into poses that I have never been able to pretzel myself into previously.</div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">And since this was an urban crowd, the music was so hip that I when I closed my eyes, I thought that I was in a Scottsdale nightclub.  Class ended with a Chris Isaak \"Wicked Game\" techno/trance mix.</div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">???</div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">This just further distracted me because a. it was weird (I am a purist) and b. whenever I hear \"Wicked Game\" I think of the <a href=\"http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4QF-v29K6f4&amp;feature=related\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>video</strong> </a>which has to be the sexiest video of all time.  Sigh...  I suppose there could be worse distractions than fantasizing about tantric yoga with Chris Isaak. </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">Overall, the class rocked.  If you are yogically inclined, get thee to a Sunset Yoga class near you. </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">Till next time...</div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"> </div>','Day 2:  Sunset Yoga Beckons (Part Two)','','inherit','open','open','','427-revision-48','','','2010-09-18 08:45:27','2010-09-18 15:45:27','',427,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/09/18/427-revision-48/',0,'revision','',0),(529,1,'2010-09-19 01:11:14','2010-09-19 08:11:14','<p><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/grease.png\"><img class=\"alignleft size-full wp-image-530\" title=\"grease\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/grease.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"283\" height=\"182\" /></a></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>This past Friday night, I attended the <em>Grease Sing-Along.</em></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>As a child, I was obsessed with the movie <em>Grease</em>.  And I do mean <em>obsessed.  </em></p>\r\n\r\n<p><em> </em></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I listened to the soundtrack night and day.  I locked myself into my bedroom for countless renditions of \"Hopelessly Devoted to You\".  Hell -- I still sing it in the shower every now and then.  (I can\'t believe I just admitted that.  Yes, I am a dork.)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>When I was in 6th grade, I had the grand ambition of staging a neighborhood production of <em>Grease</em>.  Humble young thing that I was, I cast myself as Sandy.  Olivia Newton-John was my idol, and here was my chance to sing and dance in her footsteps. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Of course, none of the neighborhood boys wanted to take on the role of Danny, despite my assurances that there would be no real kissing.  Luckily, my next door neighbor, Sharon, happened to be a tomboy and wanted no part of parading around as a Pink Lady.  She volunteered to be Danny.  What a pal!</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>After much begging, pleading, and bossing around on my part, the boys finally agreed to roles as T-Birds.  My sister landed the role of Frenchy.  I had no problem securing a waiting list of Pink Ladies, as every girl has wanted to strut her stuff as a Pink Lady at one time or another.  Except for Sharon and the tomboy contingency, obviously.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Contracts were signed, and a rehearsal schedule was set.  (Yes, you read \"contracts\" correctly.  More about that in a minute.) </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I knew that I needed to write Olivia Newton-John immediately.  With the performance date lurking around six weeks away, her invitation needed to get to Australia ASAP. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I visualized Olivia sitting in the front row.  I would reserve her the best seat in the house -- or in this instance, the play would take place in the garage -- even if it meant my parents sacrificing their seats for her. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Mesmerized by my performance, Olivia would insist that my parents hire a private tutor so that I could follow her to Hollywood and star in her next musical.  As you may or may not recall (you are probably not as dorky as me), that next musical would have been <em>Xanadu </em>which makes me absolutely ga-ga when I ponder the what-could-have-beens. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>As fate would have it, my <em>Grease</em> dreams quickly crashed and burned around me.  My sister, as usual, started it. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>This time, it was a contract dispute.  The contract explicitly stated that the only excused absences from rehearsal were death of a family member or illness (with a doctor\'s note). </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Jenny (this was before her now cutesie-cool spelling of \"Jennie\") first claimed to have a sore throat, skipped out of rehearsal, and failed to produce a doctor\'s note.  Next, she refused to reschedule her conflicting piano lesson  and consequently received a second demerit.  Demerit #3 would equal a boot from the show, and an understudy was chomping at the bit to play Frenchy. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Jenny was pissed.  Always looking for an opportunity to get her big sister into trouble, she bitched incessantly to the rest of the cast and ultimately staged a mutiny. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I was devastated.  I was back to playing Sandy to a crowd of stuffed animals in my bedroom. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>To make matters worse, I received a reply from Olivia post-mutiny.  My heart raced as I tore into the letter.  Wait a minute -- There was still hope!  I could assemble a brand new cast with that Pink Lady waiting list, woo Olivia with my talent, and escape from all of this elementary school mediocrity. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I devoured each and every word of that letter -- each and every word describing Olivia\'s love and commitment to animals.  And since I was a hopelessly devoted fan of Olivia\'s, would I please consider sending a donation to one of her animal charities? </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I mailed Olivia my hopes and dreams, and she replied with a form letter.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Despite my extreme disappointment, I remained hopelessly devoted.  Being the little animal rights activist that I was, I hit up my parents for a donation. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Fast forward 30 years, and although I am no longer <em>obsessed </em>with <em>Grease </em>--<em> </em>that would go way beyond dorky and be just plain creepy -- the movie and soundtrack still hold a special place in my sentimental and nostalgic heart. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Have you heard about the <em>Grease Sing-Along</em> that was released this summer?  If it is not playing in your fair city, you can request it <a href=\"http://www.greasemovie.com/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>here.</strong></a> </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I convinced my friend, David, to go with me.  David is always up for a challenge.  My nickname for him is \"Captain Adventure\", as he jets off to remote and exotic locales to escape civilization a couple of times a year.   We\'re not talking about the sipping cocktails in a Fijian hut kind of escape.  We\'re talking about side-stepping Komodo dragons, free diving with sharks, and swimming in alligator-infested waters kind of escape. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Obviously, David\'s masculinity is never in question, and thus he doesn\'t hesitate to sing along to \"There Are Worse Things I Could Do\".  I think he may have drawn the line at \"Look at Me, I\'m Sandra Dee\" though.  Hey -- every man has his limitations. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I knew that on the 1-10 scale of fun-ness, the Sing-Along would more than likely rate a 9 or a 10.  But I\'m going to go ahead and give it a 20. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>We had a BLAST!  The theater was nearly full, it wasn\'t just the chicks singing (the guys crooned along just as much), and it took me back.  Waaaaaayyyyy back to the happiest of childhood memories. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>My advice?  GO!  You will not be disappointed.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>The cleverly crafted sing-along animation will even teach you how to hand jive.  You know you want to. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong><span style=\"color: #993300;\">Wop baba lumop a wap bam boom!</span></strong></p>','Day 3:  Flashback Friday -- Grease Sing-Along','','publish','open','open','','day-3-flashback-friday-grease-sing-along','','','2010-09-19 11:21:16','2010-09-19 18:21:16','',0,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?p=529',0,'post','',8),(530,1,'2010-09-18 17:59:49','2010-09-19 00:59:49','','grease','','inherit','open','open','','grease','','','2010-09-18 17:59:49','2010-09-19 00:59:49','',529,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/grease.png',0,'attachment','image/png',0),