INSERT INTO `wp_posts` VALUES (1764,1,'2010-11-07 17:39:27','2010-11-08 00:39:27','<p>\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_1760\" align=\"alignleft\" width=\"300\" caption=\"I Heart Casual Fridays\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/PB050179.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-1760\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/PB050179-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Did you notice that cowgirl boots were \"in\" last winter?  I decided that I needed a pair.  Reminded me of circa early 90s in Houston when I owned a great pair of red and black cowgirl boots.  I loved those boots. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Giddyup! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>The only snag from last winter was that I couldn\'t find a pair that I liked that FIT.  Argh. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Fast forward to last weekend when Dina <em>dah</em>ling and I ventured to Macy\'s after breakfast at our favorite little haunt.  (<a href=\"http://www.lagrandeorangegrocery.com/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>LGO</strong></a> for all of my locals peeps.) </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I saw the boots from across the crowded room.  I slowly approached, wanting to make a move but afraid that I would be left stranded like last season.  The salesman tempted me with a breathy, \"What size are you?\" </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>\"6\", I answered, as if under a spell. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>The salesman returned with size 6 in hand and promises of Happy Ever After.  \"One of our associates purchased these and started wearing them immediately here at work.  She insists that they are the most comfortable boots she\'s ever worn!\" </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Sigh...</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I tried them on and...</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>They fit like a glove.  Which is infinitely more comfortable than a glass slipper. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>And when the cowgirl boot fits, then you <em>must</em> wear it sister! <br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Dina <em>dah</em>ling didn\'t quite understand my lust for the boots.  \"Why do you want a pair of cowgirl boots?\" </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>???</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>Me:</strong>  Because they\'re sassy.  And they look great with jeans.  Which I <em>live</em> in all winter.  And they\'re comfy.  <em>Especially</em> these. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>And I will need them for when I go out to a country bar to try two-stepping for this blog! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>Dina <em>dah</em>ling:</strong>  Oh. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I wore my cowgirl boots for the first time on day 41 which also happened to be casual Friday at work.  I walked into the building with a little bit of sass in my step, which apparently did not go unnoticed. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>My friend Elaine aka Laney popped her head around the corner and blurted, \"I wondered who that hippie chick was with the great boots and the big wavy hair and the sunglasses.\" </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I instantly felt very Sheryl Crow-ish.  I could get used to this. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>A few minutes later, Kassy and Tiana (aka Hollywood) chimed in unison that they loved the boots.  Were they new?  Hollywood wanted to know more about them. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>\"They\'re that Born brand,\" I sheepishly confessed.  (I pronounced it Bjorn, and Hollywood corrected me.  It\'s just plain Born.  I\'m thinking that I was adding the Scandinavian touch to make them seem more exotic and cool.  Furthermore, I think I might stick with my delusional pronunciation because I like it.)   \"I\'ve never looked at the Born (mispronounced Bjorn by me) shoes before because aren\'t they one of those comfy-dorky brands?\"</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>\"<em>I </em>have Born shoes!  They are super comfy and cute!  They are my favorite shoes <em>ever!</em>\"  declared Hollywood.  And if Hollywood thinks they\'re fabulous, well... then they are! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Laney echoed Hollywood.  In fact, she was wearing a pair of Borns (mispronounced Bjorn by me) as we spoke!  And she looks like a Cover Girl model, so it\'s official.  Borns (Bjorns) are <em>not </em>dorky.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>The boot mojo continued throughout the day.  After work, I headed to a swanky Girls\' Night in Snobbsdale hosted by a friend of Kimmeee\'s.  I realized that the freeway exit was the same exit of a former beau who is still a dear friend of mine.  I called to leave a voicemail saying, \"Hi!  I\'m passing through your hood. Thinking of you and hope you are well!\" </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I wasn\'t expecting Former Beau (he asked me not to use his name due to an upcoming comment) to answer his phone at 6:30 p.m. on Friday and then beg for a drive-by hug. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Yep.  I am not making this up.   He practically begged me to stop by for a hug.  He promised to keep me for only 60 seconds. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>At first, I thought he was joking.  But, no, he was serious.  And apparently in dire need of a little tenderness.  My life is so quirky, isn\'t it?  :-) </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>So since a man has never pleaded for a drive-by hug before, I thought, \"Why not?\"  Isn\'t this a year of curious adventures?\" </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I arrived at his house and told him I needed more than 60 seconds because nature called.  He took one look at my boots and said (and here is why he wanted to remain anonymous), \"Those are great boots!  I would do you in those boots.\" </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Okaaayyyyy...I\'m not going to have ex-sex anytime soon, but I\'ll take the compliment!  I look like Sheryl Crow and good-looking men want to do me on the spot. <em> I could get used to this!  </em></p>\r\n\r\n<p><em> </em> </p>\r\n\r\n<p>Former Beau complimented me yet again with, \"You\'re totally rockin\' the mid-30s.\"  I remind you that I\'m 41, so I was a tad disappointed that he only went down to mid-30s. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>Me:</strong>  Mid-30s meaning 36, or mid-30s meaning 33???</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>Former Beau:</strong>  <em>(confused)  </em>Mid-30s meaning 34!  The boots, the wavy hair, the white teeth -- yeah, a sexy 34!</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Hmph. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>Me:</strong>  O.k.  Whatever.  I\'ll take it.  I need to get to the party. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>We hugged. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>And <em>THIS </em>is where the real magic happened, ladies and 3 token gents. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Kimmeee introduced me to her friends, and they naturally inquired as to how we knew each other. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Kimmeee explained that I was her daughers\' first preschool teacher, and we have remained friends ever since.  Her eldest daughter is now 18, so it\'s been a loooonng time. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Cami looked shocked.  \"But Michelle!  You don\'t look all that much older than 18!\" </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Yes, it\'s true.  That\'s exactly what she said.  This.  Made.  My.  Year. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Now the woman was drinking wine, and this was a house party so think \"soft lighting\", but she wasn\'t drunk.  She\'s a lawyer in Real Life.  She\'s a responsible and highly intelligent woman!  And bless her heart, she thinks I\'m barely out of college.  I love her.  She is my new best friend. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>It gets better.  The other women (all brainiac lawyers -- Kimmeee probably invited me as the evening\'s comic relief) furiously nodded their heads \"yes\" -- that I must be in my 20s.  I told them about Former Beau\'s \"sexy 34\" comment.  They shook their heads \"NO!\" </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>The swankiest and most stylish of the lawyers proclaimed, \"He\'s just jealous!  He doesn\'t want anyone else to have you!\" </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>And this is how I became an honorary 20-something on Day 41. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I suspect that the boot mojo played a large part in all of this age hocus pocus.  I really don\'t look like a 20-something.  I\'m telling you -- the boots brought on a different persona! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>GIDDYUP!  Who<em> couldn\'t </em>get used to this???</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>In conclusion, ladies, I am sharing my fountain of youth secret with you today.  No need to spend money on Botox, expensive skin treatments, or plastic surgery when all you need is a fantastic pair of cowgirl boots. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Now repeat after me:  \"Are you ready boots?  Start walkin\'!\"</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_1761\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"300\" caption=\"Work it, Girlfriends! \"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/PB050180.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-1761\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/PB050180-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n</p>','Day 41:  You need cowgirl boots, not plastic surgery.  Let me explain...','','inherit','open','open','','1754-revision-8','','','2010-11-07 17:39:27','2010-11-08 00:39:27','',1754,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/11/07/1754-revision-8/',0,'revision','',0),(1765,1,'2010-11-07 17:44:17','2010-11-08 00:44:17','<p>\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_1760\" align=\"alignleft\" width=\"300\" caption=\"I Heart Casual Fridays\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/PB050179.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-1760\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/PB050179-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Did you notice that cowgirl boots were \"in\" last winter?  I decided that I needed a pair.  Reminded me of circa early 90s in Houston when I owned a great pair of red and black cowgirl boots.  I loved those boots. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Giddyup! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>The only snag from last winter was that I couldn\'t find a pair that I liked that FIT.  Argh. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Fast forward to last weekend when Dina <em>dah</em>ling and I ventured to Macy\'s after breakfast at our favorite little haunt.  (<a href=\"http://www.lagrandeorangegrocery.com/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>LGO</strong></a> for all of my locals peeps.) </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I saw the boots from across the crowded room.  I slowly approached, wanting to make a move but afraid that I would be left stranded like last season.  The salesman tempted me with a breathy, \"What size are you?\" </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>\"6\", I answered, as if under a spell. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>The salesman returned with size 6 in hand and promises of Happy Ever After.  \"One of our associates purchased these and started wearing them immediately here at work.  She insists that they are the most comfortable boots she\'s ever worn!\" </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Sigh...</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I tried them on and...</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>They fit like a glove.  Which is infinitely more comfortable than a glass slipper. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>And when the cowgirl boot fits, then you <em>must</em> wear it sister! <br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Dina <em>dah</em>ling didn\'t quite understand my lust for the boots.  \"Why do you want a pair of cowgirl boots?\" </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>???</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>Me:</strong>  Because they\'re sassy.  And they look great with jeans.  Which I <em>live</em> in all winter.  And they\'re comfy.  <em>Especially</em> these. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>And I will need them for when I go out to a country bar to try two-stepping for this blog! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>Dina <em>dah</em>ling:</strong>  Oh. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I wore my cowgirl boots for the first time on day 41 which also happened to be casual Friday at work.  I walked into the building with a little bit of sass in my step, which apparently did not go unnoticed. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>My friend Elaine aka Laney popped her head around the corner and blurted, \"I wondered who that hippie chick was with the great boots and the big wavy hair and the sunglasses.\" </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I instantly felt very Sheryl Crow-ish.  I could get used to this. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>A few minutes later, Kassy and Tiana (aka Hollywood) chimed in unison that they loved the boots.  Were they new?  Hollywood wanted to know more about them. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>\"They\'re that Born brand,\" I sheepishly confessed.  (I pronounced it Bjorn, and Hollywood corrected me.  It\'s just plain Born.  I\'m thinking that I was adding the Scandinavian touch to make them seem more exotic and cool.  Furthermore, I think I might stick with my delusional pronunciation because I like it.)   \"I\'ve never looked at the Born (mispronounced Bjorn by me) shoes before because aren\'t they one of those comfy-dorky brands?\"</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>\"<em>I </em>have Born shoes!  They are super comfy and cute!  They are my favorite shoes <em>ever!</em>\"  declared Hollywood.  And if Hollywood thinks they\'re fabulous, well... then they are! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Laney echoed Hollywood.  In fact, she was wearing a pair of Borns as we spoke!  And she looks like a Cover Girl model, so it\'s official.  Borns (Bjorns) are <em>not </em>dorky.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>The boot mojo continued throughout the day.  After work, I headed to a swanky Girls\' Night in Snobbsdale hosted by a friend of Kimmeee\'s.  I realized that the freeway exit was the same exit of a former beau who is still a dear friend of mine.  I called to leave a voicemail saying, \"Hi!  I\'m passing through your hood. Thinking of you and hope you are well!\" </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I wasn\'t expecting Former Beau (he asked me not to use his name due to an upcoming comment) to answer his phone at 6:30 p.m. on Friday and then beg for a drive-by hug. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Yep.  I am not making this up.   He practically begged me to stop by for a hug.  He promised to keep me for only 60 seconds. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>At first, I thought he was joking.  But, no, he was serious.  And apparently in dire need of a little tenderness.  My life is so quirky, isn\'t it?  :-) </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>So since a man has never pleaded for a drive-by hug before, I thought, \"Why not?\"  Isn\'t this a year of curious adventures?\" </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I arrived at his house and told him I needed more than 60 seconds because nature called.  He took one look at my boots and said (and here is why he wanted to remain anonymous), \"Those are great boots!  I would do you in those boots.\" </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Okaaayyyyy...I\'m not going to have ex-sex anytime soon, but I\'ll take the compliment!  I look like Sheryl Crow and good-looking men want to do me on the spot. <em> I could get used to this!  </em></p>\r\n\r\n<p><em> </em> </p>\r\n\r\n<p>Former Beau complimented me yet again with, \"You\'re totally rockin\' the mid-30s.\"  I remind you that I\'m 41, so I was a tad disappointed that he only went down to mid-30s. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>Me:</strong>  Mid-30s meaning 36, or mid-30s meaning 33???</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>Former Beau:</strong>  <em>(confused)  </em>Mid-30s meaning 34!  The boots, the wavy hair, the white teeth -- yeah, a sexy 34!</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Hmph. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>Me:</strong>  O.k.  Whatever.  I\'ll take it.  I need to get to the party. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>We hugged. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>And <em>THIS </em>is where the real magic happened, ladies and 3 token gents. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Kimmeee introduced me to her friends, and they naturally inquired as to how we knew each other. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Kimmeee explained that I was her daughers\' first preschool teacher, and we have remained friends ever since.  Her eldest daughter is now 18, so it\'s been a loooonng time. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Cami looked shocked.  \"But Michelle!  You don\'t look all that much older than 18!\" </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Yes, it\'s true.  That\'s exactly what she said.  This.  Made.  My.  Year. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Now the woman was drinking wine, and this was a house party so think \"soft lighting\", but she wasn\'t drunk.  She\'s a lawyer in Real Life.  She\'s a responsible and highly intelligent woman!  And bless her heart, she thinks I\'m barely out of college.  I love her.  She is my new best friend. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>It gets better.  The other women (all brainiac lawyers -- Kimmeee probably invited me as the evening\'s comic relief) furiously nodded their heads \"yes\" -- that I must be in my 20s.  I told them about Former Beau\'s \"sexy 34\" comment.  They shook their heads \"NO!\" </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>The swankiest and most stylish of the lawyers proclaimed, \"He\'s just jealous!  He doesn\'t want anyone else to have you!\" </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>And this is how I became an honorary 20-something on Day 41. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I suspect that the boot mojo played a large part in all of this age hocus pocus.  I really don\'t look like a 20-something.  I\'m telling you -- the boots brought on a different persona! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>GIDDYUP!  Who<em> couldn\'t </em>get used to this???</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>In conclusion, ladies, I am sharing my fountain of youth secret with you today.  No need to spend money on Botox, expensive skin treatments, or plastic surgery when all you need is a fantastic pair of cowgirl boots. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Now repeat after me:  \"Are you ready boots?  Start walkin\'!\"</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_1761\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"300\" caption=\"Work it, Girlfriends! \"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/PB050180.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-1761\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/PB050180-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n</p>','Day 41:  You need cowgirl boots, not plastic surgery.  Let me explain...','','inherit','open','open','','1754-revision-9','','','2010-11-07 17:44:17','2010-11-08 00:44:17','',1754,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/11/07/1754-revision-9/',0,'revision','',0),(1768,1,'2010-11-07 17:48:27','2010-11-08 00:48:27','','Day 41:  You need cowgirl boots, not plastic surgery.  Let me explain...','','inherit','open','open','','1754-revision-12','','','2010-11-07 17:48:27','2010-11-08 00:48:27','',1754,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/11/07/1754-revision-12/',0,'revision','',0),(1767,1,'2010-11-07 17:48:24','2010-11-08 00:48:24','<p>\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_1760\" align=\"alignleft\" width=\"300\" caption=\"I Heart Casual Fridays\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/PB050179.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-1760\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/PB050179-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Did you notice that cowgirl boots were \"in\" last winter?  I decided that I needed a pair.  Reminded me of circa early 90s in Houston when I owned a great pair of red and black cowgirl boots.  I loved those boots. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Giddyup! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>The only snag from last winter was that I couldn\'t find a pair that I liked that FIT.  Argh. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Fast forward to last weekend when Dina <em>dah</em>ling and I ventured to Macy\'s after breakfast at our favorite little haunt.  (<a href=\"http://www.lagrandeorangegrocery.com/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>LGO</strong></a> for all of my locals peeps.) </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I saw the boots from across the crowded room.  I slowly approached, wanting to make a move but afraid that I would be left stranded like last season.  The salesman tempted me with a breathy, \"What size are you?\" </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>\"6\", I answered, as if under a spell. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>The salesman returned with size 6 in hand and promises of Happy Ever After.  \"One of our associates purchased these and started wearing them immediately here at work.  She insists that they are the most comfortable boots she\'s ever worn!\" </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Sigh...</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I tried them on and...</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>They fit like a glove.  Which is infinitely more comfortable than a glass slipper. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>And when the cowgirl boot fits, then you <em>must</em> wear it sister! <br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Dina <em>dah</em>ling didn\'t quite understand my lust for the boots.  \"Why do you want a pair of cowgirl boots?\" </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>???</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>Me:</strong>  Because they\'re sassy.  And they look great with jeans.  Which I <em>live</em> in all winter.  And they\'re comfy.  <em>Especially</em> these. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>And I will need them for when I go out to a country bar to try two-stepping for this blog! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>Dina <em>dah</em>ling:</strong>  Oh. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I wore my cowgirl boots for the first time on day 41 which also happened to be casual Friday at work.  I walked into the building with a little bit of sass in my step, which apparently did not go unnoticed. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>My friend Elaine aka Laney popped her head around the corner and blurted, \"I wondered who that hippie chick was with the great boots and the big wavy hair and the sunglasses.\" </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I instantly felt very Sheryl Crow-ish.  I could get used to this. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>A few minutes later, Kassy and Tiana (aka Hollywood) chimed in unison that they loved the boots.  Were they new?  Hollywood wanted to know more about them. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>\"They\'re that Born brand,\" I sheepishly confessed.  (I pronounced it Bjorn, and Hollywood corrected me.  It\'s just plain Born.  I\'m thinking that I was adding the Scandinavian touch to make them seem more exotic and cool.  Furthermore, I think I might stick with my delusional pronunciation because I like it.)   \"I\'ve never looked at the Born (mispronounced Bjorn by me) shoes before because aren\'t they one of those comfy-dorky brands?\"</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>\"<em>I </em>have Born shoes!  They are super comfy and cute!  They are my favorite shoes <em>ever!</em>\"  declared Hollywood.  And if Hollywood thinks they\'re fabulous, well... then they are! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Laney echoed Hollywood.  In fact, she was wearing a pair of Borns as we spoke!  And she looks like a Cover Girl model, so it\'s official.  Borns (Bjorns) are <em>not </em>dorky.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>The boot mojo continued throughout the day.  After work, I headed to a swanky Girls\' Night in Snobbsdale hosted by a friend of Kimmeee\'s.  I realized that the freeway exit was the same exit of a former beau who is still a dear friend of mine.  I called to leave a voicemail saying, \"Hi!  I\'m passing through your hood. Thinking of you and hope you are well!\" </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I wasn\'t expecting Former Beau (he asked me not to use his name due to an upcoming comment) to answer his phone at 6:30 p.m. on Friday.  And then beg for a drive-by hug. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Yep.  I am not making this up.   He practically begged me to stop by for a hug.  He promised to keep me for only 60 seconds. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>At first, I thought he was joking.  But, no, he was serious.  And apparently in dire need of a little tenderness.  My life is so quirky, isn\'t it?  :-) </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>So since a man has never pleaded for a drive-by hug before, I thought, \"Why not?\"  Isn\'t this a year of curious adventures?\" </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I arrived at his house and told him I needed more than 60 seconds because nature called.  He took one look at my boots and said (and here is why he wanted to remain anonymous), \"Those are great boots!  I would do you in those boots.\" </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Okaaayyyyy...I\'m not going to have ex-sex anytime soon, but I\'ll take the compliment!  I look like Sheryl Crow and good-looking men want to do me on the spot. <em> I could get used to this!  </em></p>\r\n\r\n<p><em> </em> </p>\r\n\r\n<p>Former Beau complimented me yet again with, \"You\'re totally rockin\' the mid-30s.\"  I remind you that I\'m 41, so I was a tad disappointed that he only went down to mid-30s. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>Me:</strong>  Mid-30s meaning 36, or mid-30s meaning 33???</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>Former Beau:</strong>  <em>(confused)  </em>Mid-30s meaning 34!  The boots, the wavy hair, the white teeth -- yeah, a sexy 34!</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Hmph. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>Me:</strong>  O.k.  Whatever.  I\'ll take it.  I need to get to the party. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>We hugged. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>And <em>THIS </em>is where the real magic happened, ladies and 3 token gents. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Kimmeee introduced me to her friends, and they naturally inquired as to how we knew each other. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Kimmeee explained that I was her daughers\' first preschool teacher, and we have remained friends ever since.  Her eldest daughter is now 18, so it\'s been a loooonng time. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Cami looked shocked.  \"But Michelle!  You don\'t look all that much older than 18!\" </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Yes, it\'s true.  That\'s exactly what she said.  This.  Made.  My.  Year. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Now the woman was drinking wine, and this was a house party so think \"soft lighting\", but she wasn\'t drunk.  She\'s a lawyer in Real Life.  She\'s a responsible and highly intelligent woman!  And bless her heart, she thinks I\'m barely out of college.  I love her.  She is my new best friend. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>It gets better.  The other women (all brainiac lawyers -- Kimmeee probably invited me as the evening\'s comic relief) furiously nodded their heads \"yes\" -- that I must be in my 20s.  I told them about Former Beau\'s \"sexy 34\" comment.  They shook their heads \"NO!\" </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>The swankiest and most stylish of the lawyers proclaimed, \"He\'s just jealous!  He doesn\'t want anyone else to have you!\" </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>And this is how I became an honorary 20-something on Day 41. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I suspect that the boot mojo played a large part in all of this age hocus pocus.  I really don\'t look like a 20-something.  I\'m telling you -- the boots brought on a different persona! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>GIDDYUP!  Who<em> couldn\'t </em>get used to this???</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>In conclusion, ladies, I am sharing my fountain of youth secret with you today.  No need to spend money on Botox, expensive skin treatments, or plastic surgery when all you need is a fantastic pair of cowgirl boots. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Now repeat after me:  \"Are you ready boots?  Start walkin\'!\"</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_1761\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"300\" caption=\"Work it, Girlfriends! \"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/PB050180.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-1761\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/PB050180-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n</p>','Day 41:  You need cowgirl boots, not plastic surgery.  Let me explain...','','inherit','open','open','','1754-revision-11','','','2010-11-07 17:48:24','2010-11-08 00:48:24','',1754,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/11/07/1754-revision-11/',0,'revision','',0),(1771,1,'2010-11-07 17:50:39','2010-11-08 00:50:39','<p>\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_1760\" align=\"alignleft\" width=\"300\" caption=\"I Heart Casual Fridays\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/PB050179.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-1760\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/PB050179-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Did you notice that cowgirl boots were \"in\" last winter?  I decided that I needed a pair.  Reminded me of circa early 90s in Houston when I owned a great pair of red and black cowgirl boots.  I loved those boots. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Giddyup! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>The only snag from last winter was that I couldn\'t find a pair that I liked that FIT.  Argh. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Fast forward to last weekend when Dina <em>dah</em>ling and I ventured to Macy\'s after breakfast at our favorite little haunt.  (<a href=\"http://www.lagrandeorangegrocery.com/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>LGO</strong></a> for all of my locals peeps.) </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I saw the boots from across the crowded room.  I slowly approached, wanting to make a move but afraid that I would be left stranded like last season.  The salesman tempted me with a breathy, \"What size are you?\" </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>\"6\", I answered, as if under a spell. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>The salesman returned with size 6 in hand and promises of Happy Ever After.  \"One of our associates purchased these and started wearing them immediately here at work.  She insists that they are the most comfortable boots she\'s ever worn!\" </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Sigh...</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I tried them on and...</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>They fit like a glove.  Which is infinitely more comfortable than a glass slipper. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>And when the cowgirl boot fits, then you <em>must</em> wear it sister! <br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Dina <em>dah</em>ling didn\'t quite understand my lust for the boots.  \"Why do you want a pair of cowgirl boots?\" </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>???</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>Me:</strong>  Because they\'re sassy.  And they look great with jeans.  Which I <em>live</em> in all winter.  And they\'re comfy.  <em>Especially</em> these. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>And I will need them for when I go out to a country bar to try two-stepping for this blog! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>Dina <em>dah</em>ling:</strong>  Oh. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I wore my cowgirl boots for the first time on day 41 which also happened to be casual Friday at work.  I walked into the building with a little bit of sass in my step, which apparently did not go unnoticed. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>My friend Elaine aka Laney popped her head around the corner and blurted, \"I wondered who that hippie chick was with the great boots and the big wavy hair and the sunglasses.\" </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I instantly felt very Sheryl Crow-ish.  I could get used to this. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>A few minutes later, Kassy and Tiana (aka Hollywood) chimed in unison that they loved the boots.  Were they new?  Hollywood wanted to know more about them. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>\"They\'re that Born brand,\" I sheepishly confessed.  (I pronounced it Bjorn, and Hollywood corrected me.  It\'s just plain Born.  I\'m thinking that I was adding the Scandinavian touch to make them seem more exotic and cool.  Furthermore, I think I might stick with my delusional pronunciation because I like it.)   \"I\'ve never looked at the Born (mispronounced Bjorn by me) shoes before because aren\'t they one of those comfy-dorky brands?\"</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>\"<em>I </em>have Born shoes!  They are super comfy and cute!  They are my favorite shoes <em>ever!</em>\"  declared Hollywood.  And if Hollywood thinks they\'re fabulous, well... then they are! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Laney echoed Hollywood.  In fact, she was wearing a pair of Borns as we spoke!  And she looks like a Cover Girl model, so it\'s official.  Borns (Bjorns) are <em>not </em>dorky.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>The boot mojo continued throughout the day.  After work, I headed to a swanky Girls\' Night in Snobbsdale hosted by a friend of Kimmeee\'s.  I realized that the freeway exit was the same exit of a former beau who is still a dear friend of mine.  I called to leave a voicemail saying, \"Hi!  I\'m passing through your hood. Thinking of you and hope you are well!\" </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I wasn\'t expecting Former Beau (he asked me not to use his name due to an upcoming comment) to answer his phone at 6:30 p.m. on Friday.  And then beg for a drive-by hug. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Yep.  I am not making this up.   He practically begged me to stop by for a hug.  He promised to keep me for only 60 seconds. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>At first, I thought he was joking.  But, no, he was serious.  And apparently in dire need of a little tenderness.  My life is so quirky, isn\'t it?  :-) </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>So since a man has never pleaded for a drive-by hug before, I thought, \"Why not?\"  Isn\'t this a year of curious adventures?\" </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I arrived at his house and told him I needed more than 60 seconds because nature called.  He took one look at my boots and said (and here is why he wanted to remain anonymous), \"Those are great boots!  I would do you in those boots.\" </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Okaaayyyyy...I\'m not going to have ex-sex anytime soon, but I\'ll take the compliment!  I look like Sheryl Crow and good-looking men want to do me on the spot. <em> I could get used to this!  </em></p>\r\n\r\n<p><em> </em> </p>\r\n\r\n<p>Former Beau complimented me yet again with, \"You\'re totally rockin\' the mid-30s.\"  I remind you that I\'m 41, so I was a tad disappointed that he only went down to mid-30s. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>Me:</strong>  Mid-30s meaning 36, or mid-30s meaning 33???</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>Former Beau:</strong>  <em>(confused)  </em>Mid-30s meaning 34!  The boots, the wavy hair, the white teeth -- yeah, a sexy 34!</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Hmph. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>Me:</strong>  O.k.  Whatever.  I\'ll take it.  I need to get to the party. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>We hugged. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>And <em>THIS </em>is where the real magic happened, ladies and 3 token gents. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Kimmeee introduced me to her friends, and they naturally inquired as to how we knew each other. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Kimmeee explained that I was her daughers\' first preschool teacher, and we have remained friends ever since.  Her eldest daughter is now 18, so it\'s been a loooonng time. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Cami looked shocked.  \"But Michelle!  You don\'t look all that much older than 18!\" </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Yes, it\'s true.  That\'s exactly what she said.  This.  Made.  My.  Year. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Now the woman was drinking wine, and this was a house party so think \"soft lighting\", but she wasn\'t drunk.  She\'s a lawyer in Real Life.  She\'s a responsible and highly intelligent woman!  And bless her heart, she thinks I\'m barely out of college.  I love her.  She is my new best friend. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>It gets better.  The other women (all brainiac lawyers -- Kimmeee probably invited me as the evening\'s comic relief) furiously nodded their heads \"yes\" -- that I must be in my 20s.  I told them about Former Beau\'s \"sexy 34\" comment.  They shook their heads \"NO!\" </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>The swankiest and most stylish of the lawyers proclaimed, \"He\'s just jealous!  He doesn\'t want anyone else to have you!\" </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>And this is how I became an honorary 20-something on Day 41. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I suspect that the boot mojo played a large part in all of this age hocus pocus.  I really don\'t look like a 20-something.  I\'m telling you -- the boots brought on a different persona! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>GIDDYUP!  Who<em> couldn\'t </em>get used to this???</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>In conclusion, ladies, I am sharing my fountain of youth secret with you today.  No need to spend money on Botox, expensive skin treatments, or plastic surgery when all you need is a fantastic pair of cowgirl boots. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Now repeat after me:  \"Are you ready boots?  Start walkin\'!\"</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_1761\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"300\" caption=\"Work it, Girlfriends! \"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/PB050180.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-1761\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/PB050180-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n</p>','Day 41:  You need cowgirl boots, not plastic surgery.  Let me explain...','','inherit','open','open','','1754-revision-15','','','2010-11-07 17:50:39','2010-11-08 00:50:39','',1754,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/11/07/1754-revision-15/',0,'revision','',0),(1772,1,'2010-11-07 17:50:55','2010-11-08 00:50:55','<p>\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_1760\" align=\"alignleft\" width=\"300\" caption=\"I Heart Casual Fridays\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/PB050179.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-1760\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/PB050179-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Did you notice that cowgirl boots were \"in\" last winter?  I decided that I needed a pair.  Reminded me of circa early 90s in Houston when I owned a great pair of red and black cowgirl boots.  I loved those boots. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Giddyup! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>The only snag from last winter was that I couldn\'t find a pair that I liked that FIT.  Argh. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Fast forward to last weekend when Dina <em>dah</em>ling and I ventured to Macy\'s after breakfast at our favorite little haunt.  (<a href=\"http://www.lagrandeorangegrocery.com/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>LGO</strong></a> for all of my locals peeps.) </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I saw the boots from across the crowded room.  I slowly approached, wanting to make a move but afraid that I would be left stranded like last season.  The salesman tempted me with a breathy, \"What size are you?\" </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>\"6\", I answered, as if under a spell. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>The salesman returned with size 6 in hand and promises of Happy Ever After.  \"One of our associates purchased these and started wearing them immediately here at work.  She insists that they are the most comfortable boots she\'s ever worn!\" </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Sigh...</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I tried them on and...</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>They fit like a glove.  Which is infinitely more comfortable than a glass slipper. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>And when the cowgirl boot fits, then you <em>must</em> wear it sister! <br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Dina <em>dah</em>ling didn\'t quite understand my lust for the boots.  \"Why do you want a pair of cowgirl boots?\" </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>???</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>Me:</strong>  Because they\'re sassy.  And they look great with jeans.  Which I <em>live</em> in all winter.  And they\'re comfy.  <em>Especially</em> these. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>And I will need them for when I go out to a country bar to try two-stepping for this blog! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>Dina <em>dah</em>ling:</strong>  Oh. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I wore my cowgirl boots for the first time on day 41 which also happened to be casual Friday at work.  I walked into the building with a little bit of sass in my step, which apparently did not go unnoticed. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>My friend Elaine aka Laney popped her head around the corner and blurted, \"I wondered who that hippie chick was with the great boots and the big wavy hair and the sunglasses.\" </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I instantly felt very Sheryl Crow-ish.  I could get used to this. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>A few minutes later, Kassy and Tiana (aka Hollywood) chimed in unison that they loved the boots.  Were they new?  Hollywood wanted to know more about them. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>\"They\'re that Born brand,\" I sheepishly confessed.  (I pronounced it Bjorn, and Hollywood corrected me.  It\'s just plain Born.  I\'m thinking that I was adding the Scandinavian touch to make them seem more exotic and cool.  Furthermore, I think I might stick with my delusional pronunciation because I like it.)   \"I\'ve never looked at the Born (mispronounced Bjorn by me) shoes before because aren\'t they one of those comfy-dorky brands?\"</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>\"<em>I </em>have Born shoes!  They are super comfy and cute!  They are my favorite shoes <em>ever!</em>\"  declared Hollywood.  And if Hollywood thinks they\'re fabulous, well... then they are! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Laney echoed Hollywood.  In fact, she was wearing a pair of Borns as we spoke!  And she looks like a Cover Girl model, so it\'s official.  Borns (Bjorns) are <em>not </em>dorky.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>The boot mojo continued throughout the day.  After work, I headed to a swanky Girls\' Night in Snobbsdale hosted by a friend of Kimmeee\'s.  I realized that the freeway exit was the same exit of a former beau who is still a dear friend of mine.  I called to leave a voicemail saying, \"Hi!  I\'m passing through your hood. Thinking of you and hope you are well!\" </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I wasn\'t expecting Former Beau (he asked me not to use his name due to an upcoming comment) to answer his phone at 6:30 p.m. on Friday.  And then beg for a drive-by hug. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Yep.  I am not making this up.   He practically begged me to stop by for a hug.  He promised to keep me for only 60 seconds. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>At first, I thought he was joking.  But, no, he was serious.  And apparently in dire need of a little tenderness.  My life is so quirky, isn\'t it?  :-) </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>So since a man has never pleaded for a drive-by hug before, I thought, \"Why not?\"  Isn\'t this a year of curious adventures?\" </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I arrived at his house and told him I needed more than 60 seconds because nature called.  He took one look at my boots and said (and here is why he wanted to remain anonymous), \"Those are great boots!  I would do you in those boots.\" </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Okaaayyyyy...I\'m not going to have ex-sex anytime soon, but I\'ll take the compliment!  I look like Sheryl Crow and good-looking men want to do me on the spot. <em> I could get used to this!  </em></p>\r\n\r\n<p><em> </em> </p>\r\n\r\n<p>Former Beau complimented me yet again with, \"You\'re totally rockin\' the mid-30s.\"  I remind you that I\'m 41, so I was a tad disappointed that he only went down to mid-30s. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>Me:</strong>  Mid-30s meaning 36, or mid-30s meaning 33???</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>Former Beau:</strong>  <em>(confused)  </em>Mid-30s meaning 34!  The boots, the wavy hair, the white teeth -- yeah, a sexy 34!</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Hmph. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>Me:</strong>  O.k.  Whatever.  I\'ll take it.  I need to get to the party. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>We hugged. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>And <em>THIS </em>is where the real magic happened, ladies and 3 token gents. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Kimmeee introduced me to her friends, and they naturally inquired as to how we knew each other. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Kimmeee explained that I was her daughers\' first preschool teacher, and we have remained friends ever since.  Her eldest daughter is now 18, so it\'s been a loooonng time. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Cami looked shocked.  \"But Michelle!  You don\'t look all that much older than 18!\" </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Yes, it\'s true.  That\'s exactly what she said.  This.  Made.  My.  Year. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Now the woman was drinking wine, and this was a house party so think \"soft lighting\", but she wasn\'t drunk.  She\'s a lawyer in Real Life.  She\'s a responsible and highly intelligent woman!  And bless her heart, she thinks I\'m barely out of college.  I love her.  She is my new best friend. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>It gets better.  The other women (all brainiac lawyers -- Kimmeee probably invited me as the evening\'s comic relief) furiously nodded their heads \"yes\" -- that I must be in my 20s.  I told them about Former Beau\'s \"sexy 34\" comment.  They shook their heads \"NO!\" </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>The swankiest and most stylish of the lawyers proclaimed, \"He\'s just jealous!  He doesn\'t want anyone else to have you!\" </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>And this is how I became an honorary 20-something on Day 41. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I suspect that the boot mojo played a large part in all of this age hocus pocus.  I really don\'t look like a 20-something.  I\'m telling you -- the boots brought on a different persona! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>GIDDYUP!  Who<em> couldn\'t </em>get used to this???</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>In conclusion, ladies, I am sharing my fountain of youth secret with you today.  No need to spend money on Botox, expensive skin treatments, or plastic surgery when all you need is a fantastic pair of cowgirl boots. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Now repeat after me:  \"Are you ready boots?  Start walkin\'!\"</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_1761\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"300\" caption=\"Work it, Girlfriends! \"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/PB050180.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-1761\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/PB050180-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n</p>','Day 41:  You need cowgirl boots, not plastic surgery.  Let me explain...','','inherit','open','open','','1754-revision-16','','','2010-11-07 17:50:55','2010-11-08 00:50:55','',1754,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/11/07/1754-revision-16/',0,'revision','',0),(1773,1,'2010-12-10 11:24:16','2010-12-10 18:24:16','<p>\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_1760\" align=\"alignleft\" width=\"300\" caption=\"I Heart Casual Fridays\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/PB050179.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-1760\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/PB050179-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Did you notice that cowgirl boots were \"in\" last winter?  I decided that I needed a pair.  Reminded me of circa early 90s in Houston when I owned a great pair of red and black cowgirl boots.  I loved those boots. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Giddyup! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>The only snag from last winter was that I couldn\'t find a pair that I liked that FIT.  Argh. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Fast forward to last weekend when Dina <em>dah</em>ling and I ventured to Macy\'s after breakfast at our favorite little haunt.  (<a href=\"http://www.lagrandeorangegrocery.com/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>LGO</strong></a> for all of my locals peeps.) </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I saw the boots from across the crowded room.  I slowly approached, wanting to make a move but afraid that I would be left stranded like last season.  The salesman tempted me with a breathy, \"What size are you?\" </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>\"6\", I answered, as if under a spell. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>The salesman returned with size 6 in hand and promises of Happy Ever After.  \"One of our associates purchased these and started wearing them immediately here at work.  She insists that they are the most comfortable boots she\'s ever worn!\" </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Sigh...</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I tried them on and...</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>They fit like a glove.  Which is infinitely more comfortable than a glass slipper. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><span style=\"font-size: medium;\"><strong><span style=\"color: #800080;\">And when the cowgirl boot fits, then you <em>must</em> wear it sister! <br class=\"spacer_\" /></span></strong></span></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Dina <em>dah</em>ling didn\'t quite understand my lust for the boots.  \"Why do you want a pair of cowgirl boots?\" </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>???</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>Me:</strong>  Because they\'re sassy.  And they look great with jeans.  Which I <em>live</em> in all winter.  And they\'re comfy.  <em>Especially</em> these. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>And I will need them for when I go out to a country bar to try two-stepping for this blog! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>Dina <em>dah</em>ling:</strong>  Oh. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I wore my cowgirl boots for the first time on day 41 which also happened to be casual Friday at work.  I walked into the building with a little bit of sass in my step, which apparently did not go unnoticed. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>My friend Elaine aka Laney popped her head around the corner and blurted, \"I wondered who that hippie chick was with the great boots and the big wavy hair and the sunglasses.\" </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><span style=\"color: #800080;\"><span style=\"font-size: medium;\"><strong>I instantly felt very Sheryl Crow-ish.  I could get used to this. </strong></span></span></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>A few minutes later, Kassy and Tiana (aka \"Hollywood\" because she\'s Halle Berry\'s twin) chimed in unison that they loved the boots.  Were they new?  Hollywood wanted to know more about them. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>\"They\'re that Born brand,\" I sheepishly confessed.  (I pronounced it Bjorn, and Hollywood corrected me.  It\'s just plain Born.  I\'m thinking that I was adding the Scandinavian touch to make them seem more exotic and cool.  Furthermore, I think I might stick with my delusional pronunciation because I like it.)   \"I\'ve never looked at the Born (mispronounced Bjorn by me) shoes before because aren\'t they one of those comfy-dorky brands?\"</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>\"<em>I </em>have Born shoes!  They are super comfy and cute!  They are my favorite shoes <em>ever!</em>\"  declared Hollywood.  And if Hollywood thinks they\'re fabulous, well... then they are! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Laney echoed Hollywood.  In fact, she was wearing a pair of Borns as we spoke!  And she looks like a Cover Girl model, so it\'s official.  Borns (Bjorns) are <em>not </em>dorky.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>The boot mojo continued throughout the day.  After work, I headed to a swanky Girls Night in Snobbsdale hosted by a friend of Kimmeee\'s.  I realized that the freeway exit was the same exit of a former beau who is still a dear friend of mine.  I called to leave a voicemail saying, \"Hi!  I\'m passing through your hood. Thinking of you and hope you are well!\" </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I wasn\'t expecting Former Beau (he asked me not to use his name due to an upcoming comment) to answer his phone at 6:30 p.m. on Friday.  And then beg for a drive-by hug. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Yep.  I am not making this up.   He practically begged me to stop by for a hug.  He promised to keep me for only 60 seconds. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><span style=\"font-size: medium;\"><strong><span style=\"color: #800080;\">At first, I thought he was joking.  But no, he was serious.  And apparently in dire need of a little tenderness.  My life is so quirky, isn\'t it?  :-) </span></strong></span></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>So since a man has never pleaded for a drive-by hug before, I thought, \"Why not?\"  Isn\'t this a year of curious adventures?\" </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I arrived at his house and told him I needed more than 60 seconds because nature called.  He took one look at my boots and said (and here is why he wanted to remain anonymous), \"Those are great boots!  I would do you in those boots.\" </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Okaaayyyyy...I\'m not going to have ex-sex anytime soon, but I\'ll take the compliment!  I look like Sheryl Crow and good-looking men want to do me on the spot. <em> I could get used to this!  </em></p>\r\n\r\n<p><em> </em> </p>\r\n\r\n<p>Former Beau complimented me yet again with, \"You\'re totally rockin\' the mid-30s.\"  I remind you that I\'m 41, so I was a tad disappointed that he only went down to mid-30s. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>Me:</strong>  Mid-30s meaning 36, or mid-30s meaning 33???</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>Former Beau:</strong>  <em>(confused)  </em>Mid-30s meaning 34!  The boots, the wavy hair, the white teeth -- yeah, a sexy 34!</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Hmph. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>Me:</strong>  O.k.  Whatever.  I\'ll take it.  I need to get to the party. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>We hugged. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><span style=\"color: #800080;\"><span style=\"font-size: medium;\"><strong>And <em>THIS </em>is where the real magic happened, ladies and 3 token gents. </strong></span></span></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>At the Girls Night, Kimmeee introduced me to her friends, and they naturally inquired as to how we knew each other. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Kimmeee explained that I was her daughers\' first preschool teacher, and we have remained friends ever since.  Her eldest daughter is now 18, so it\'s been a loooonng time. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Cami looked shocked.  \"But Michelle!  You don\'t look all that much older than 18!\" </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Yes, it\'s true.  That\'s exactly what she said.  This.  Made.  My.  Year. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Now the woman was drinking wine, and this was a house party so think \"soft lighting\", but she wasn\'t drunk.  She\'s a lawyer in Real Life.  She\'s a responsible and highly intelligent woman!  And bless her heart, she thinks I\'m barely out of college.  I love her.  She is my new best friend. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>It gets better.  The other women (all brainiac lawyers -- Kimmeee probably invited me as the evening\'s comic relief) furiously nodded their heads \"yes\" -- that I must be in my 20s.  I told them about Former Beau\'s \"sexy 34\" comment.  They shook their heads \"NO!\" </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>The swankiest and most stylish of the lawyers proclaimed, \"He\'s just jealous!  He doesn\'t want anyone else to have you!\" </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>And this is how I became an honorary 20-something on Day 41. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I suspect that the boot mojo played a large part in all of this age hocus pocus.  I really don\'t look like a 20-something.  I\'m telling you -- the boots brought on a different persona! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>GIDDYUP!  Who<em> couldn\'t </em>get used to this???</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><span style=\"color: #800080;\"><span style=\"font-size: medium;\"><strong>In conclusion, ladies, I am sharing my fountain of youth secret with you today.  No need to spend money on Botox, expensive skin treatments, or plastic surgery when all you need is a fantastic pair of cowgirl boots. </strong></span></span></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Now repeat after me:  \"Are you ready boots?  Start walkin\'!\"</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_1761\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"300\" caption=\"Work it, Girlfriends! \"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/PB050180.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-1761\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/PB050180-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n</p>','Day 41:  You need cowgirl boots, not plastic surgery.  Let me explain...','','inherit','open','open','','1754-autosave','','','2010-12-10 11:24:16','2010-12-10 18:24:16','',1754,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/11/07/1754-autosave/',0,'revision','',0),(1776,1,'2010-11-07 22:03:06','2010-11-08 05:03:06','<p>\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_1760\" align=\"alignleft\" width=\"300\" caption=\"I Heart Casual Fridays\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/PB050179.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-1760\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/PB050179-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Did you notice that cowgirl boots were \"in\" last winter?  I decided that I needed a pair.  Reminded me of circa early 90s in Houston when I owned a great pair of red and black cowgirl boots.  I loved those boots. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Giddyup! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>The only snag from last winter was that I couldn\'t find a pair that I liked that FIT.  Argh. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Fast forward to last weekend when Dina <em>dah</em>ling and I ventured to Macy\'s after breakfast at our favorite little haunt.  (<a href=\"http://www.lagrandeorangegrocery.com/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>LGO</strong></a> for all of my locals peeps.) </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I saw the boots from across the crowded room.  I slowly approached, wanting to make a move but afraid that I would be left stranded like last season.  The salesman tempted me with a breathy, \"What size are you?\" </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>\"6\", I answered, as if under a spell. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>The salesman returned with size 6 in hand and promises of Happy Ever After.  \"One of our associates purchased these and started wearing them immediately here at work.  She insists that they are the most comfortable boots she\'s ever worn!\" </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Sigh...</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I tried them on and...</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>They fit like a glove.  Which is infinitely more comfortable than a glass slipper. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>And when the cowgirl boot fits, then you <em>must</em> wear it sister! <br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Dina <em>dah</em>ling didn\'t quite understand my lust for the boots.  \"Why do you want a pair of cowgirl boots?\" </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>???</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>Me:</strong>  Because they\'re sassy.  And they look great with jeans.  Which I <em>live</em> in all winter.  And they\'re comfy.  <em>Especially</em> these. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>And I will need them for when I go out to a country bar to try two-stepping for this blog! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>Dina <em>dah</em>ling:</strong>  Oh. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I wore my cowgirl boots for the first time on day 41 which also happened to be casual Friday at work.  I walked into the building with a little bit of sass in my step, which apparently did not go unnoticed. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>My friend Elaine aka Laney popped her head around the corner and blurted, \"I wondered who that hippie chick was with the great boots and the big wavy hair and the sunglasses.\" </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I instantly felt very Sheryl Crow-ish.  I could get used to this. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>A few minutes later, Kassy and Tiana (aka Hollywood) chimed in unison that they loved the boots.  Were they new?  Hollywood wanted to know more about them. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>\"They\'re that Born brand,\" I sheepishly confessed.  (I pronounced it Bjorn, and Hollywood corrected me.  It\'s just plain Born.  I\'m thinking that I was adding the Scandinavian touch to make them seem more exotic and cool.  Furthermore, I think I might stick with my delusional pronunciation because I like it.)   \"I\'ve never looked at the Born (mispronounced Bjorn by me) shoes before because aren\'t they one of those comfy-dorky brands?\"</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>\"<em>I </em>have Born shoes!  They are super comfy and cute!  They are my favorite shoes <em>ever!</em>\"  declared Hollywood.  And if Hollywood thinks they\'re fabulous, well... then they are! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Laney echoed Hollywood.  In fact, she was wearing a pair of Borns as we spoke!  And she looks like a Cover Girl model, so it\'s official.  Borns (Bjorns) are <em>not </em>dorky.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>The boot mojo continued throughout the day.  After work, I headed to a swanky Girls\' Night in Snobbsdale hosted by a friend of Kimmeee\'s.  I realized that the freeway exit was the same exit of a former beau who is still a dear friend of mine.  I called to leave a voicemail saying, \"Hi!  I\'m passing through your hood. Thinking of you and hope you are well!\" </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I wasn\'t expecting Former Beau (he asked me not to use his name due to an upcoming comment) to answer his phone at 6:30 p.m. on Friday.  And then beg for a drive-by hug. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Yep.  I am not making this up.   He practically begged me to stop by for a hug.  He promised to keep me for only 60 seconds. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>At first, I thought he was joking.  But, no, he was serious.  And apparently in dire need of a little tenderness.  My life is so quirky, isn\'t it?  :-) </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>So since a man has never pleaded for a drive-by hug before, I thought, \"Why not?\"  Isn\'t this a year of curious adventures?\" </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I arrived at his house and told him I needed more than 60 seconds because nature called.  He took one look at my boots and said (and here is why he wanted to remain anonymous), \"Those are great boots!  I would do you in those boots.\" </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Okaaayyyyy...I\'m not going to have ex-sex anytime soon, but I\'ll take the compliment!  I look like Sheryl Crow and good-looking men want to do me on the spot. <em> I could get used to this!  </em></p>\r\n\r\n<p><em> </em> </p>\r\n\r\n<p>Former Beau complimented me yet again with, \"You\'re totally rockin\' the mid-30s.\"  I remind you that I\'m 41, so I was a tad disappointed that he only went down to mid-30s. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>Me:</strong>  Mid-30s meaning 36, or mid-30s meaning 33???</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>Former Beau:</strong>  <em>(confused)  </em>Mid-30s meaning 34!  The boots, the wavy hair, the white teeth -- yeah, a sexy 34!</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Hmph. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>Me:</strong>  O.k.  Whatever.  I\'ll take it.  I need to get to the party. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>We hugged. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>And <em>THIS </em>is where the real magic happened, ladies and 3 token gents. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Kimmeee introduced me to her friends, and they naturally inquired as to how we knew each other. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Kimmeee explained that I was her daughers\' first preschool teacher, and we have remained friends ever since.  Her eldest daughter is now 18, so it\'s been a loooonng time. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Cami looked shocked.  \"But Michelle!  You don\'t look all that much older than 18!\" </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Yes, it\'s true.  That\'s exactly what she said.  This.  Made.  My.  Year. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Now the woman was drinking wine, and this was a house party so think \"soft lighting\", but she wasn\'t drunk.  She\'s a lawyer in Real Life.  She\'s a responsible and highly intelligent woman!  And bless her heart, she thinks I\'m barely out of college.  I love her.  She is my new best friend. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>It gets better.  The other women (all brainiac lawyers -- Kimmeee probably invited me as the evening\'s comic relief) furiously nodded their heads \"yes\" -- that I must be in my 20s.  I told them about Former Beau\'s \"sexy 34\" comment.  They shook their heads \"NO!\" </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>The swankiest and most stylish of the lawyers proclaimed, \"He\'s just jealous!  He doesn\'t want anyone else to have you!\" </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>And this is how I became an honorary 20-something on Day 41. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I suspect that the boot mojo played a large part in all of this age hocus pocus.  I really don\'t look like a 20-something.  I\'m telling you -- the boots brought on a different persona! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>GIDDYUP!  Who<em> couldn\'t </em>get used to this???</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>In conclusion, ladies, I am sharing my fountain of youth secret with you today.  No need to spend money on Botox, expensive skin treatments, or plastic surgery when all you need is a fantastic pair of cowgirl boots. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Now repeat after me:  \"Are you ready boots?  Start walkin\'!\"</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_1761\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"300\" caption=\"Work it, Girlfriends! \"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/PB050180.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-1761\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/PB050180-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n</p>','Day 41:  You need cowgirl boots, not plastic surgery.  Let me explain...','','inherit','open','open','','1754-revision-19','','','2010-11-07 22:03:06','2010-11-08 05:03:06','',1754,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/11/07/1754-revision-19/',0,'revision','',0),(1774,1,'2010-11-07 21:58:20','2010-11-08 04:58:20','<p>\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_1760\" align=\"alignleft\" width=\"300\" caption=\"I Heart Casual Fridays\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/PB050179.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-1760\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/PB050179-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Did you notice that cowgirl boots were \"in\" last winter?  I decided that I needed a pair.  Reminded me of circa early 90s in Houston when I owned a great pair of red and black cowgirl boots.  I loved those boots. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Giddyup! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>The only snag from last winter was that I couldn\'t find a pair that I liked that FIT.  Argh. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Fast forward to last weekend when Dina <em>dah</em>ling and I ventured to Macy\'s after breakfast at our favorite little haunt.  (<a href=\"http://www.lagrandeorangegrocery.com/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>LGO</strong></a> for all of my locals peeps.) </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I saw the boots from across the crowded room.  I slowly approached, wanting to make a move but afraid that I would be left stranded like last season.  The salesman tempted me with a breathy, \"What size are you?\" </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>\"6\", I answered, as if under a spell. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>The salesman returned with size 6 in hand and promises of Happy Ever After.  \"One of our associates purchased these and started wearing them immediately here at work.  She insists that they are the most comfortable boots she\'s ever worn!\" </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Sigh...</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I tried them on and...</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>They fit like a glove.  Which is infinitely more comfortable than a glass slipper. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>And when the cowgirl boot fits, then you <em>must</em> wear it sister! <br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Dina <em>dah</em>ling didn\'t quite understand my lust for the boots.  \"Why do you want a pair of cowgirl boots?\" </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>???</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>Me:</strong>  Because they\'re sassy.  And they look great with jeans.  Which I <em>live</em> in all winter.  And they\'re comfy.  <em>Especially</em> these. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>And I will need them for when I go out to a country bar to try two-stepping for this blog! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>Dina <em>dah</em>ling:</strong>  Oh. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I wore my cowgirl boots for the first time on day 41 which also happened to be casual Friday at work.  I walked into the building with a little bit of sass in my step, which apparently did not go unnoticed. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>My friend Elaine aka Laney popped her head around the corner and blurted, \"I wondered who that hippie chick was with the great boots and the big wavy hair and the sunglasses.\" </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I instantly felt very Sheryl Crow-ish.  I could get used to this. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>A few minutes later, Kassy and Tiana (aka Hollywood) chimed in unison that they loved the boots.  Were they new?  Hollywood wanted to know more about them. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>\"They\'re that Born brand,\" I sheepishly confessed.  (I pronounced it Bjorn, and Hollywood corrected me.  It\'s just plain Born.  I\'m thinking that I was adding the Scandinavian touch to make them seem more exotic and cool.  Furthermore, I think I might stick with my delusional pronunciation because I like it.)   \"I\'ve never looked at the Born (mispronounced Bjorn by me) shoes before because aren\'t they one of those comfy-dorky brands?\"</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>\"<em>I </em>have Born shoes!  They are super comfy and cute!  They are my favorite shoes <em>ever!</em>\"  declared Hollywood.  And if Hollywood thinks they\'re fabulous, well... then they are! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Laney echoed Hollywood.  In fact, she was wearing a pair of Borns as we spoke!  And she looks like a Cover Girl model, so it\'s official.  Borns (Bjorns) are <em>not </em>dorky.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>The boot mojo continued throughout the day.  After work, I headed to a swanky Girls\' Night in Snobbsdale hosted by a friend of Kimmeee\'s.  I realized that the freeway exit was the same exit of a former beau who is still a dear friend of mine.  I called to leave a voicemail saying, \"Hi!  I\'m passing through your hood. Thinking of you and hope you are well!\" </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I wasn\'t expecting Former Beau (he asked me not to use his name due to an upcoming comment) to answer his phone at 6:30 p.m. on Friday.  And then beg for a drive-by hug. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Yep.  I am not making this up.   He practically begged me to stop by for a hug.  He promised to keep me for only 60 seconds. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>At first, I thought he was joking.  But, no, he was serious.  And apparently in dire need of a little tenderness.  My life is so quirky, isn\'t it?  :-) </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>So since a man has never pleaded for a drive-by hug before, I thought, \"Why not?\"  Isn\'t this a year of curious adventures?\" </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I arrived at his house and told him I needed more than 60 seconds because nature called.  He took one look at my boots and said (and here is why he wanted to remain anonymous), \"Those are great boots!  I would do you in those boots.\" </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Okaaayyyyy...I\'m not going to have ex-sex anytime soon, but I\'ll take the compliment!  I look like Sheryl Crow and good-looking men want to do me on the spot. <em> I could get used to this!  </em></p>\r\n\r\n<p><em> </em> </p>\r\n\r\n<p>Former Beau complimented me yet again with, \"You\'re totally rockin\' the mid-30s.\"  I remind you that I\'m 41, so I was a tad disappointed that he only went down to mid-30s. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>Me:</strong>  Mid-30s meaning 36, or mid-30s meaning 33???</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>Former Beau:</strong>  <em>(confused)  </em>Mid-30s meaning 34!  The boots, the wavy hair, the white teeth -- yeah, a sexy 34!</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Hmph. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>Me:</strong>  O.k.  Whatever.  I\'ll take it.  I need to get to the party. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>We hugged. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>And <em>THIS </em>is where the real magic happened, ladies and 3 token gents. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Kimmeee introduced me to her friends, and they naturally inquired as to how we knew each other. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Kimmeee explained that I was her daughers\' first preschool teacher, and we have remained friends ever since.  Her eldest daughter is now 18, so it\'s been a loooonng time. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Cami looked shocked.  \"But Michelle!  You don\'t look all that much older than 18!\" </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Yes, it\'s true.  That\'s exactly what she said.  This.  Made.  My.  Year. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Now the woman was drinking wine, and this was a house party so think \"soft lighting\", but she wasn\'t drunk.  She\'s a lawyer in Real Life.  She\'s a responsible and highly intelligent woman!  And bless her heart, she thinks I\'m barely out of college.  I love her.  She is my new best friend. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>It gets better.  The other women (all brainiac lawyers -- Kimmeee probably invited me as the evening\'s comic relief) furiously nodded their heads \"yes\" -- that I must be in my 20s.  I told them about Former Beau\'s \"sexy 34\" comment.  They shook their heads \"NO!\" </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>The swankiest and most stylish of the lawyers proclaimed, \"He\'s just jealous!  He doesn\'t want anyone else to have you!\" </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>And this is how I became an honorary 20-something on Day 41. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I suspect that the boot mojo played a large part in all of this age hocus pocus.  I really don\'t look like a 20-something.  I\'m telling you -- the boots brought on a different persona! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>GIDDYUP!  Who<em> couldn\'t </em>get used to this???</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>In conclusion, ladies, I am sharing my fountain of youth secret with you today.  No need to spend money on Botox, expensive skin treatments, or plastic surgery when all you need is a fantastic pair of cowgirl boots. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Now repeat after me:  \"Are you ready boots?  Start walkin\'!\"</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_1761\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"300\" caption=\"Work it, Girlfriends! \"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/PB050180.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-1761\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/PB050180-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n</p>','Day 41:  You need cowgirl boots, not plastic surgery.  Let me explain...','','inherit','open','open','','1754-revision-17','','','2010-11-07 21:58:20','2010-11-08 04:58:20','',1754,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/11/07/1754-revision-17/',0,'revision','',0),(1775,1,'2010-11-07 22:02:36','2010-11-08 05:02:36','<p>\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_1760\" align=\"alignleft\" width=\"300\" caption=\"I Heart Casual Fridays\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/PB050179.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-1760\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/PB050179-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Did you notice that cowgirl boots were \"in\" last winter?  I decided that I needed a pair.  Reminded me of circa early 90s in Houston when I owned a great pair of red and black cowgirl boots.  I loved those boots. \r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" />\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Giddyup! \r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" />\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>The only snag from last winter was that I couldn\'t find a pair that I liked that FIT.  Argh. \r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" />\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Fast forward to last weekend when Dina <em>dah</em>ling and I ventured to Macy\'s after breakfast at our favorite little haunt.  (<a href=\"http://www.lagrandeorangegrocery.com/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>LGO</strong></a> for all of my locals peeps.) \r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" />\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I saw the boots from across the crowded room.  I slowly approached, wanting to make a move but afraid that I would be left stranded like last season.  The salesman tempted me with a breathy, \"What size are you?\" \r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" />\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>\"6\", I answered, as if under a spell. \r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" />\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>The salesman returned with size 6 in hand and promises of Happy Ever After.  \"One of our associates purchased these and started wearing them immediately here at work.  She insists that they are the most comfortable boots she\'s ever worn!\" \r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" />\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Sigh...\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" />\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I tried them on and...\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" />\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>They fit like a glove.  Which is infinitely more comfortable than a glass slipper. \r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" />\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><span style=\"font-size: large;\"><span style=\"color: #800080;\"><strong>And when the cowgirl boot fits, then you <em>must</em> wear it sister! <br class=\"spacer_\" /></strong></span></span>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" />\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Dina <em>dah</em>ling didn\'t quite understand my lust for the boots.  \"Why do you want a pair of cowgirl boots?\" \r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" />\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>???\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" />\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>Me:</strong>  Because they\'re sassy.  And they look great with jeans.  Which I <em>live</em> in all winter.  And they\'re comfy.  <em>Especially</em> these. \r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" />\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>And I will need them for when I go out to a country bar to try two-stepping for this blog! \r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" />\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>Dina <em>dah</em>ling:</strong>  Oh. \r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" />\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I wore my cowgirl boots for the first time on day 41 which also happened to be casual Friday at work.  I walked into the building with a little bit of sass in my step, which apparently did not go unnoticed. \r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" />\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>My friend Elaine aka Laney popped her head around the corner and blurted, \"I wondered who that hippie chick was with the great boots and the big wavy hair and the sunglasses.\" \r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" />\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I instantly felt very Sheryl Crow-ish.  I could get used to this. \r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" />\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>A few minutes later, Kassy and Tiana (aka Hollywood) chimed in unison that they loved the boots.  Were they new?  Hollywood wanted to know more about them. \r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" />\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>\"They\'re that Born brand,\" I sheepishly confessed.  (I pronounced it Bjorn, and Hollywood corrected me.  It\'s just plain Born.  I\'m thinking that I was adding the Scandinavian touch to make them seem more exotic and cool.  Furthermore, I think I might stick with my delusional pronunciation because I like it.)   \"I\'ve never looked at the Born (mispronounced Bjorn by me) shoes before because aren\'t they one of those comfy-dorky brands?\"\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" />\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>\"<em>I </em>have Born shoes!  They are super comfy and cute!  They are my favorite shoes <em>ever!</em>\"  declared Hollywood.  And if Hollywood thinks they\'re fabulous, well... then they are! \r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" />\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Laney echoed Hollywood.  In fact, she was wearing a pair of Borns as we spoke!  And she looks like a Cover Girl model, so it\'s official.  Borns (Bjorns) are <em>not </em>dorky.\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" />\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>The boot mojo continued throughout the day.  After work, I headed to a swanky Girls\' Night in Snobbsdale hosted by a friend of Kimmeee\'s.  I realized that the freeway exit was the same exit of a former beau who is still a dear friend of mine.  I called to leave a voicemail saying, \"Hi!  I\'m passing through your hood. Thinking of you and hope you are well!\" \r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" />\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I wasn\'t expecting Former Beau (he asked me not to use his name due to an upcoming comment) to answer his phone at 6:30 p.m. on Friday.  And then beg for a drive-by hug. \r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" />\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Yep.  I am not making this up.   He practically begged me to stop by for a hug.  He promised to keep me for only 60 seconds. \r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" />\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>At first, I thought he was joking.  But, no, he was serious.  And apparently in dire need of a little tenderness.  My life is quirky, isn\'t it?  :-) \r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" />\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><span style=\"color: #800080;\"><span style=\"font-size: large;\"><strong><span style=\"font-size: medium;\"><span style=\"font-size: large;\">So since a man has never pleaded for a drive-by hug before, I thought, \"Why not?\"  Isn\'t this a year of curious adventures?\"</span> </span></strong></span></span>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" />\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I arrived at his house and told him I needed more than 60 seconds because nature called.  He took one look at my boots and said (and here is why he wanted to remain anonymous), \"Those are great boots!  I would do you in those boots.\" \r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" />\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Okaaayyyyy...I\'m not going to have ex-sex anytime soon, but I\'ll take the compliment!  I look like Sheryl Crow and good-looking men want to do me on the spot. <em> I could get used to this!  </em>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><em> </em> \r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Former Beau complimented me yet again with, \"You\'re totally rockin\' the mid-30s.\"  I remind you that I\'m 41, so I was a tad disappointed that he only went down to mid-30s. \r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" />\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>Me:</strong>  Mid-30s meaning 36, or mid-30s meaning 33???\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" />\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>Former Beau:</strong>  <em>(confused)  </em>Mid-30s meaning 34!  The boots, the wavy hair, the white teeth -- yeah, a sexy 34!\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" />\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Hmph. \r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" />\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>Me:</strong>  O.k.  Whatever.  I\'ll take it.  I need to get to the party. \r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" />\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>We hugged. \r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" />\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><span style=\"color: #800080;\"><span style=\"font-size: large;\"><strong>And <em>THIS </em>is where the real magic happened, ladies and 3 token gents. </strong></span></span>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" />\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Kimmeee introduced me to her friends, and they naturally inquired as to how we knew each other. \r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" />\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Kimmeee explained that I was her daughers\' first preschool teacher, and we have remained friends ever since.  Her eldest daughter is now 18, so it\'s been a loooonng time. \r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" />\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Cami looked shocked.  \"But Michelle!  You don\'t look all that much older than 18!\" \r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" />\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Yes, it\'s true.  That\'s exactly what she said.  This.  Made.  My.  Year. \r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" />\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Now the woman was drinking wine, and this was a house party so think \"soft lighting\", but she wasn\'t drunk.  She\'s a lawyer in Real Life.  She\'s a responsible and highly intelligent woman!  And bless her heart, she thinks I\'m barely out of college.  I love her.  She is my new best friend. \r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" />\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>It gets better.  The other women (all brainiac lawyers -- Kimmeee probably invited me as the evening\'s comic relief) furiously nodded their heads \"yes\" -- that I must be in my 20s.  I told them about Former Beau\'s \"sexy 34\" comment.  They shook their heads \"NO!\" \r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" />\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>The swankiest and most stylish of the lawyers proclaimed, \"He\'s just jealous!  He doesn\'t want anyone else to have you!\" \r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" />\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>And this is how I became an honorary 20-something on Day 41. \r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" />\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I suspect that the boot mojo played a large part in all of this age hocus pocus.  I really don\'t look like a 20-something.  I\'m telling you -- the boots brought on a different persona! \r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" />\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>GIDDYUP!  Who<em> couldn\'t </em>get used to this???\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" />\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><span style=\"color: #800080;\"><span style=\"font-size: large;\"><strong>In conclusion, ladies, I am sharing my fountain of youth secret with you today.  No need to spend money on Botox, expensive skin treatments, or plastic surgery when all you need is a fantastic pair of cowgirl boots. </strong></span></span>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" />\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Now repeat after me:  \"Are you ready boots?  Start walkin\'!\"\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" />\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_1761\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"300\" caption=\"Work it, Girlfriends! \"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/PB050180.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-1761\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/PB050180-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n</p>','Day 41:  You need cowgirl boots, not plastic surgery.  Let me explain...','','inherit','open','open','','1754-revision-18','','','2010-11-07 22:02:36','2010-11-08 05:02:36','',1754,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/11/07/1754-revision-18/',0,'revision','',0),(1777,1,'2010-11-07 22:05:09','2010-11-08 05:05:09','<p>\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_1760\" align=\"alignleft\" width=\"300\" caption=\"I Heart Casual Fridays\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/PB050179.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-1760\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/PB050179-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Did you notice that cowgirl boots were \"in\" last winter?  I decided that I needed a pair.  Reminded me of circa early 90s in Houston when I owned a great pair of red and black cowgirl boots.  I loved those boots. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Giddyup! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>The only snag from last winter was that I couldn\'t find a pair that I liked that FIT.  Argh. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Fast forward to last weekend when Dina <em>dah</em>ling and I ventured to Macy\'s after breakfast at our favorite little haunt.  (<a href=\"http://www.lagrandeorangegrocery.com/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>LGO</strong></a> for all of my locals peeps.) </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I saw the boots from across the crowded room.  I slowly approached, wanting to make a move but afraid that I would be left stranded like last season.  The salesman tempted me with a breathy, \"What size are you?\" </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>\"6\", I answered, as if under a spell. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>The salesman returned with size 6 in hand and promises of Happy Ever After.  \"One of our associates purchased these and started wearing them immediately here at work.  She insists that they are the most comfortable boots she\'s ever worn!\" </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Sigh...</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I tried them on and...</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>They fit like a glove.  Which is infinitely more comfortable than a glass slipper. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><span style=\"font-size: medium;\"><strong><span style=\"color: #800080;\">And when the cowgirl boot fits, then you <em>must</em> wear it sister! <br class=\"spacer_\" /></span></strong></span></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Dina <em>dah</em>ling didn\'t quite understand my lust for the boots.  \"Why do you want a pair of cowgirl boots?\" </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>???</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>Me:</strong>  Because they\'re sassy.  And they look great with jeans.  Which I <em>live</em> in all winter.  And they\'re comfy.  <em>Especially</em> these. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>And I will need them for when I go out to a country bar to try two-stepping for this blog! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>Dina <em>dah</em>ling:</strong>  Oh. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I wore my cowgirl boots for the first time on day 41 which also happened to be casual Friday at work.  I walked into the building with a little bit of sass in my step, which apparently did not go unnoticed. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>My friend Elaine aka Laney popped her head around the corner and blurted, \"I wondered who that hippie chick was with the great boots and the big wavy hair and the sunglasses.\" </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I instantly felt very Sheryl Crow-ish.  I could get used to this. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>A few minutes later, Kassy and Tiana (aka Hollywood) chimed in unison that they loved the boots.  Were they new?  Hollywood wanted to know more about them. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>\"They\'re that Born brand,\" I sheepishly confessed.  (I pronounced it Bjorn, and Hollywood corrected me.  It\'s just plain Born.  I\'m thinking that I was adding the Scandinavian touch to make them seem more exotic and cool.  Furthermore, I think I might stick with my delusional pronunciation because I like it.)   \"I\'ve never looked at the Born (mispronounced Bjorn by me) shoes before because aren\'t they one of those comfy-dorky brands?\"</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>\"<em>I </em>have Born shoes!  They are super comfy and cute!  They are my favorite shoes <em>ever!</em>\"  declared Hollywood.  And if Hollywood thinks they\'re fabulous, well... then they are! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Laney echoed Hollywood.  In fact, she was wearing a pair of Borns as we spoke!  And she looks like a Cover Girl model, so it\'s official.  Borns (Bjorns) are <em>not </em>dorky.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>The boot mojo continued throughout the day.  After work, I headed to a swanky Girls\' Night in Snobbsdale hosted by a friend of Kimmeee\'s.  I realized that the freeway exit was the same exit of a former beau who is still a dear friend of mine.  I called to leave a voicemail saying, \"Hi!  I\'m passing through your hood. Thinking of you and hope you are well!\" </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I wasn\'t expecting Former Beau (he asked me not to use his name due to an upcoming comment) to answer his phone at 6:30 p.m. on Friday.  And then beg for a drive-by hug. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Yep.  I am not making this up.   He practically begged me to stop by for a hug.  He promised to keep me for only 60 seconds. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><span style=\"font-size: medium;\"><strong><span style=\"color: #800080;\">At first, I thought he was joking.  But, no, he was serious.  And apparently in dire need of a little tenderness.  My life is so quirky, isn\'t it?  :-) </span></strong></span></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>So since a man has never pleaded for a drive-by hug before, I thought, \"Why not?\"  Isn\'t this a year of curious adventures?\" </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I arrived at his house and told him I needed more than 60 seconds because nature called.  He took one look at my boots and said (and here is why he wanted to remain anonymous), \"Those are great boots!  I would do you in those boots.\" </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Okaaayyyyy...I\'m not going to have ex-sex anytime soon, but I\'ll take the compliment!  I look like Sheryl Crow and good-looking men want to do me on the spot. <em> I could get used to this!  </em></p>\r\n\r\n<p><em> </em> </p>\r\n\r\n<p>Former Beau complimented me yet again with, \"You\'re totally rockin\' the mid-30s.\"  I remind you that I\'m 41, so I was a tad disappointed that he only went down to mid-30s. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>Me:</strong>  Mid-30s meaning 36, or mid-30s meaning 33???</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>Former Beau:</strong>  <em>(confused)  </em>Mid-30s meaning 34!  The boots, the wavy hair, the white teeth -- yeah, a sexy 34!</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Hmph. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>Me:</strong>  O.k.  Whatever.  I\'ll take it.  I need to get to the party. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>We hugged. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><span style=\"color: #800080;\"><span style=\"font-size: medium;\"><strong>And <em>THIS </em>is where the real magic happened, ladies and 3 token gents. </strong></span></span></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Kimmeee introduced me to her friends, and they naturally inquired as to how we knew each other. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Kimmeee explained that I was her daughers\' first preschool teacher, and we have remained friends ever since.  Her eldest daughter is now 18, so it\'s been a loooonng time. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Cami looked shocked.  \"But Michelle!  You don\'t look all that much older than 18!\" </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Yes, it\'s true.  That\'s exactly what she said.  This.  Made.  My.  Year. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Now the woman was drinking wine, and this was a house party so think \"soft lighting\", but she wasn\'t drunk.  She\'s a lawyer in Real Life.  She\'s a responsible and highly intelligent woman!  And bless her heart, she thinks I\'m barely out of college.  I love her.  She is my new best friend. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>It gets better.  The other women (all brainiac lawyers -- Kimmeee probably invited me as the evening\'s comic relief) furiously nodded their heads \"yes\" -- that I must be in my 20s.  I told them about Former Beau\'s \"sexy 34\" comment.  They shook their heads \"NO!\" </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>The swankiest and most stylish of the lawyers proclaimed, \"He\'s just jealous!  He doesn\'t want anyone else to have you!\" </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>And this is how I became an honorary 20-something on Day 41. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I suspect that the boot mojo played a large part in all of this age hocus pocus.  I really don\'t look like a 20-something.  I\'m telling you -- the boots brought on a different persona! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>GIDDYUP!  Who<em> couldn\'t </em>get used to this???</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><span style=\"color: #800080;\"><span style=\"font-size: medium;\"><strong>In conclusion, ladies, I am sharing my fountain of youth secret with you today.  No need to spend money on Botox, expensive skin treatments, or plastic surgery when all you need is a fantastic pair of cowgirl boots. </strong></span></span></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Now repeat after me:  \"Are you ready boots?  Start walkin\'!\"</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_1761\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"300\" caption=\"Work it, Girlfriends! \"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/PB050180.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-1761\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/PB050180-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n</p>','Day 41:  You need cowgirl boots, not plastic surgery.  Let me explain...','','inherit','open','open','','1754-revision-20','','','2010-11-07 22:05:09','2010-11-08 05:05:09','',1754,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/11/07/1754-revision-20/',0,'revision','',0),(1779,1,'2010-11-07 22:06:23','2010-11-08 05:06:23','<p>\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_1760\" align=\"alignleft\" width=\"300\" caption=\"I Heart Casual Fridays\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/PB050179.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-1760\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/PB050179-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Did you notice that cowgirl boots were \"in\" last winter?  I decided that I needed a pair.  Reminded me of circa early 90s in Houston when I owned a great pair of red and black cowgirl boots.  I loved those boots. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Giddyup! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>The only snag from last winter was that I couldn\'t find a pair that I liked that FIT.  Argh. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Fast forward to last weekend when Dina <em>dah</em>ling and I ventured to Macy\'s after breakfast at our favorite little haunt.  (<a href=\"http://www.lagrandeorangegrocery.com/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>LGO</strong></a> for all of my locals peeps.) </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I saw the boots from across the crowded room.  I slowly approached, wanting to make a move but afraid that I would be left stranded like last season.  The salesman tempted me with a breathy, \"What size are you?\" </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>\"6\", I answered, as if under a spell. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>The salesman returned with size 6 in hand and promises of Happy Ever After.  \"One of our associates purchased these and started wearing them immediately here at work.  She insists that they are the most comfortable boots she\'s ever worn!\" </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Sigh...</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I tried them on and...</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>They fit like a glove.  Which is infinitely more comfortable than a glass slipper. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><span style=\"font-size: medium;\"><strong><span style=\"color: #800080;\">And when the cowgirl boot fits, then you <em>must</em> wear it sister! <br class=\"spacer_\" /></span></strong></span></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Dina <em>dah</em>ling didn\'t quite understand my lust for the boots.  \"Why do you want a pair of cowgirl boots?\" </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>???</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>Me:</strong>  Because they\'re sassy.  And they look great with jeans.  Which I <em>live</em> in all winter.  And they\'re comfy.  <em>Especially</em> these. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>And I will need them for when I go out to a country bar to try two-stepping for this blog! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>Dina <em>dah</em>ling:</strong>  Oh. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I wore my cowgirl boots for the first time on day 41 which also happened to be casual Friday at work.  I walked into the building with a little bit of sass in my step, which apparently did not go unnoticed. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>My friend Elaine aka Laney popped her head around the corner and blurted, \"I wondered who that hippie chick was with the great boots and the big wavy hair and the sunglasses.\" </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I instantly felt very Sheryl Crow-ish.  I could get used to this. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>A few minutes later, Kassy and Tiana (aka Hollywood) chimed in unison that they loved the boots.  Were they new?  Hollywood wanted to know more about them. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>\"They\'re that Born brand,\" I sheepishly confessed.  (I pronounced it Bjorn, and Hollywood corrected me.  It\'s just plain Born.  I\'m thinking that I was adding the Scandinavian touch to make them seem more exotic and cool.  Furthermore, I think I might stick with my delusional pronunciation because I like it.)   \"I\'ve never looked at the Born (mispronounced Bjorn by me) shoes before because aren\'t they one of those comfy-dorky brands?\"</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>\"<em>I </em>have Born shoes!  They are super comfy and cute!  They are my favorite shoes <em>ever!</em>\"  declared Hollywood.  And if Hollywood thinks they\'re fabulous, well... then they are! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Laney echoed Hollywood.  In fact, she was wearing a pair of Borns as we spoke!  And she looks like a Cover Girl model, so it\'s official.  Borns (Bjorns) are <em>not </em>dorky.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>The boot mojo continued throughout the day.  After work, I headed to a swanky Girls\' Night in Snobbsdale hosted by a friend of Kimmeee\'s.  I realized that the freeway exit was the same exit of a former beau who is still a dear friend of mine.  I called to leave a voicemail saying, \"Hi!  I\'m passing through your hood. Thinking of you and hope you are well!\" </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I wasn\'t expecting Former Beau (he asked me not to use his name due to an upcoming comment) to answer his phone at 6:30 p.m. on Friday.  And then beg for a drive-by hug. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Yep.  I am not making this up.   He practically begged me to stop by for a hug.  He promised to keep me for only 60 seconds. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><span style=\"font-size: medium;\"><strong><span style=\"color: #800080;\">At first, I thought he was joking.  But no, he was serious.  And apparently in dire need of a little tenderness.  My life is so quirky, isn\'t it?  :-) </span></strong></span></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>So since a man has never pleaded for a drive-by hug before, I thought, \"Why not?\"  Isn\'t this a year of curious adventures?\" </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I arrived at his house and told him I needed more than 60 seconds because nature called.  He took one look at my boots and said (and here is why he wanted to remain anonymous), \"Those are great boots!  I would do you in those boots.\" </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Okaaayyyyy...I\'m not going to have ex-sex anytime soon, but I\'ll take the compliment!  I look like Sheryl Crow and good-looking men want to do me on the spot. <em> I could get used to this!  </em></p>\r\n\r\n<p><em> </em> </p>\r\n\r\n<p>Former Beau complimented me yet again with, \"You\'re totally rockin\' the mid-30s.\"  I remind you that I\'m 41, so I was a tad disappointed that he only went down to mid-30s. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>Me:</strong>  Mid-30s meaning 36, or mid-30s meaning 33???</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>Former Beau:</strong>  <em>(confused)  </em>Mid-30s meaning 34!  The boots, the wavy hair, the white teeth -- yeah, a sexy 34!</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Hmph. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>Me:</strong>  O.k.  Whatever.  I\'ll take it.  I need to get to the party. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>We hugged. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><span style=\"color: #800080;\"><span style=\"font-size: medium;\"><strong>And <em>THIS </em>is where the real magic happened, ladies and 3 token gents. </strong></span></span></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Kimmeee introduced me to her friends, and they naturally inquired as to how we knew each other. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Kimmeee explained that I was her daughers\' first preschool teacher, and we have remained friends ever since.  Her eldest daughter is now 18, so it\'s been a loooonng time. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Cami looked shocked.  \"But Michelle!  You don\'t look all that much older than 18!\" </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Yes, it\'s true.  That\'s exactly what she said.  This.  Made.  My.  Year. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Now the woman was drinking wine, and this was a house party so think \"soft lighting\", but she wasn\'t drunk.  She\'s a lawyer in Real Life.  She\'s a responsible and highly intelligent woman!  And bless her heart, she thinks I\'m barely out of college.  I love her.  She is my new best friend. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>It gets better.  The other women (all brainiac lawyers -- Kimmeee probably invited me as the evening\'s comic relief) furiously nodded their heads \"yes\" -- that I must be in my 20s.  I told them about Former Beau\'s \"sexy 34\" comment.  They shook their heads \"NO!\" </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>The swankiest and most stylish of the lawyers proclaimed, \"He\'s just jealous!  He doesn\'t want anyone else to have you!\" </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>And this is how I became an honorary 20-something on Day 41. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I suspect that the boot mojo played a large part in all of this age hocus pocus.  I really don\'t look like a 20-something.  I\'m telling you -- the boots brought on a different persona! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>GIDDYUP!  Who<em> couldn\'t </em>get used to this???</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><span style=\"color: #800080;\"><span style=\"font-size: medium;\"><strong>In conclusion, ladies, I am sharing my fountain of youth secret with you today.  No need to spend money on Botox, expensive skin treatments, or plastic surgery when all you need is a fantastic pair of cowgirl boots. </strong></span></span></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Now repeat after me:  \"Are you ready boots?  Start walkin\'!\"</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_1761\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"300\" caption=\"Work it, Girlfriends! \"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/PB050180.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-1761\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/PB050180-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n</p>','Day 41:  You need cowgirl boots, not plastic surgery.  Let me explain...','','inherit','open','open','','1754-revision-22','','','2010-11-07 22:06:23','2010-11-08 05:06:23','',1754,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/11/07/1754-revision-22/',0,'revision','',0),(1778,1,'2010-11-07 22:05:26','2010-11-08 05:05:26','<p>\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_1760\" align=\"alignleft\" width=\"300\" caption=\"I Heart Casual Fridays\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/PB050179.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-1760\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/PB050179-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Did you notice that cowgirl boots were \"in\" last winter?  I decided that I needed a pair.  Reminded me of circa early 90s in Houston when I owned a great pair of red and black cowgirl boots.  I loved those boots. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Giddyup! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>The only snag from last winter was that I couldn\'t find a pair that I liked that FIT.  Argh. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Fast forward to last weekend when Dina <em>dah</em>ling and I ventured to Macy\'s after breakfast at our favorite little haunt.  (<a href=\"http://www.lagrandeorangegrocery.com/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>LGO</strong></a> for all of my locals peeps.) </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I saw the boots from across the crowded room.  I slowly approached, wanting to make a move but afraid that I would be left stranded like last season.  The salesman tempted me with a breathy, \"What size are you?\" </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>\"6\", I answered, as if under a spell. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>The salesman returned with size 6 in hand and promises of Happy Ever After.  \"One of our associates purchased these and started wearing them immediately here at work.  She insists that they are the most comfortable boots she\'s ever worn!\" </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Sigh...</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I tried them on and...</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>They fit like a glove.  Which is infinitely more comfortable than a glass slipper. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><span style=\"font-size: medium;\"><strong><span style=\"color: #800080;\">And when the cowgirl boot fits, then you <em>must</em> wear it sister! <br class=\"spacer_\" /></span></strong></span></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Dina <em>dah</em>ling didn\'t quite understand my lust for the boots.  \"Why do you want a pair of cowgirl boots?\" </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>???</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>Me:</strong>  Because they\'re sassy.  And they look great with jeans.  Which I <em>live</em> in all winter.  And they\'re comfy.  <em>Especially</em> these. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>And I will need them for when I go out to a country bar to try two-stepping for this blog! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>Dina <em>dah</em>ling:</strong>  Oh. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I wore my cowgirl boots for the first time on day 41 which also happened to be casual Friday at work.  I walked into the building with a little bit of sass in my step, which apparently did not go unnoticed. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>My friend Elaine aka Laney popped her head around the corner and blurted, \"I wondered who that hippie chick was with the great boots and the big wavy hair and the sunglasses.\" </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I instantly felt very Sheryl Crow-ish.  I could get used to this. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>A few minutes later, Kassy and Tiana (aka Hollywood) chimed in unison that they loved the boots.  Were they new?  Hollywood wanted to know more about them. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>\"They\'re that Born brand,\" I sheepishly confessed.  (I pronounced it Bjorn, and Hollywood corrected me.  It\'s just plain Born.  I\'m thinking that I was adding the Scandinavian touch to make them seem more exotic and cool.  Furthermore, I think I might stick with my delusional pronunciation because I like it.)   \"I\'ve never looked at the Born (mispronounced Bjorn by me) shoes before because aren\'t they one of those comfy-dorky brands?\"</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>\"<em>I </em>have Born shoes!  They are super comfy and cute!  They are my favorite shoes <em>ever!</em>\"  declared Hollywood.  And if Hollywood thinks they\'re fabulous, well... then they are! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Laney echoed Hollywood.  In fact, she was wearing a pair of Borns as we spoke!  And she looks like a Cover Girl model, so it\'s official.  Borns (Bjorns) are <em>not </em>dorky.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>The boot mojo continued throughout the day.  After work, I headed to a swanky Girls\' Night in Snobbsdale hosted by a friend of Kimmeee\'s.  I realized that the freeway exit was the same exit of a former beau who is still a dear friend of mine.  I called to leave a voicemail saying, \"Hi!  I\'m passing through your hood. Thinking of you and hope you are well!\" </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I wasn\'t expecting Former Beau (he asked me not to use his name due to an upcoming comment) to answer his phone at 6:30 p.m. on Friday.  And then beg for a drive-by hug. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Yep.  I am not making this up.   He practically begged me to stop by for a hug.  He promised to keep me for only 60 seconds. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><span style=\"font-size: medium;\"><strong><span style=\"color: #800080;\">At first, I thought he was joking.  But, no, he was serious.  And apparently in dire need of a little tenderness.  My life is so quirky, isn\'t it?  :-) </span></strong></span></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>So since a man has never pleaded for a drive-by hug before, I thought, \"Why not?\"  Isn\'t this a year of curious adventures?\" </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I arrived at his house and told him I needed more than 60 seconds because nature called.  He took one look at my boots and said (and here is why he wanted to remain anonymous), \"Those are great boots!  I would do you in those boots.\" </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Okaaayyyyy...I\'m not going to have ex-sex anytime soon, but I\'ll take the compliment!  I look like Sheryl Crow and good-looking men want to do me on the spot. <em> I could get used to this!  </em></p>\r\n\r\n<p><em> </em> </p>\r\n\r\n<p>Former Beau complimented me yet again with, \"You\'re totally rockin\' the mid-30s.\"  I remind you that I\'m 41, so I was a tad disappointed that he only went down to mid-30s. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>Me:</strong>  Mid-30s meaning 36, or mid-30s meaning 33???</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>Former Beau:</strong>  <em>(confused)  </em>Mid-30s meaning 34!  The boots, the wavy hair, the white teeth -- yeah, a sexy 34!</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Hmph. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>Me:</strong>  O.k.  Whatever.  I\'ll take it.  I need to get to the party. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>We hugged. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><span style=\"color: #800080;\"><span style=\"font-size: medium;\"><strong>And <em>THIS </em>is where the real magic happened, ladies and 3 token gents. </strong></span></span></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Kimmeee introduced me to her friends, and they naturally inquired as to how we knew each other. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Kimmeee explained that I was her daughers\' first preschool teacher, and we have remained friends ever since.  Her eldest daughter is now 18, so it\'s been a loooonng time. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Cami looked shocked.  \"But Michelle!  You don\'t look all that much older than 18!\" </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Yes, it\'s true.  That\'s exactly what she said.  This.  Made.  My.  Year. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Now the woman was drinking wine, and this was a house party so think \"soft lighting\", but she wasn\'t drunk.  She\'s a lawyer in Real Life.  She\'s a responsible and highly intelligent woman!  And bless her heart, she thinks I\'m barely out of college.  I love her.  She is my new best friend. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>It gets better.  The other women (all brainiac lawyers -- Kimmeee probably invited me as the evening\'s comic relief) furiously nodded their heads \"yes\" -- that I must be in my 20s.  I told them about Former Beau\'s \"sexy 34\" comment.  They shook their heads \"NO!\" </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>The swankiest and most stylish of the lawyers proclaimed, \"He\'s just jealous!  He doesn\'t want anyone else to have you!\" </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>And this is how I became an honorary 20-something on Day 41. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I suspect that the boot mojo played a large part in all of this age hocus pocus.  I really don\'t look like a 20-something.  I\'m telling you -- the boots brought on a different persona! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>GIDDYUP!  Who<em> couldn\'t </em>get used to this???</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><span style=\"color: #800080;\"><span style=\"font-size: medium;\"><strong>In conclusion, ladies, I am sharing my fountain of youth secret with you today.  No need to spend money on Botox, expensive skin treatments, or plastic surgery when all you need is a fantastic pair of cowgirl boots. </strong></span></span></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Now repeat after me:  \"Are you ready boots?  Start walkin\'!\"</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_1761\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"300\" caption=\"Work it, Girlfriends! \"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/PB050180.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-1761\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/PB050180-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n</p>','Day 41:  You need cowgirl boots, not plastic surgery.  Let me explain...','','inherit','open','open','','1754-revision-21','','','2010-11-07 22:05:26','2010-11-08 05:05:26','',1754,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/11/07/1754-revision-21/',0,'revision','',0),(1780,1,'2010-11-07 22:07:32','2010-11-08 05:07:32','<p>\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_1760\" align=\"alignleft\" width=\"300\" caption=\"I Heart Casual Fridays\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/PB050179.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-1760\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/PB050179-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Did you notice that cowgirl boots were \"in\" last winter?  I decided that I needed a pair.  Reminded me of circa early 90s in Houston when I owned a great pair of red and black cowgirl boots.  I loved those boots. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Giddyup! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>The only snag from last winter was that I couldn\'t find a pair that I liked that FIT.  Argh. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Fast forward to last weekend when Dina <em>dah</em>ling and I ventured to Macy\'s after breakfast at our favorite little haunt.  (<a href=\"http://www.lagrandeorangegrocery.com/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>LGO</strong></a> for all of my locals peeps.) </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I saw the boots from across the crowded room.  I slowly approached, wanting to make a move but afraid that I would be left stranded like last season.  The salesman tempted me with a breathy, \"What size are you?\" </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>\"6\", I answered, as if under a spell. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>The salesman returned with size 6 in hand and promises of Happy Ever After.  \"One of our associates purchased these and started wearing them immediately here at work.  She insists that they are the most comfortable boots she\'s ever worn!\" </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Sigh...</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I tried them on and...</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>They fit like a glove.  Which is infinitely more comfortable than a glass slipper. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><span style=\"font-size: medium;\"><strong><span style=\"color: #800080;\">And when the cowgirl boot fits, then you <em>must</em> wear it sister! <br class=\"spacer_\" /></span></strong></span></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Dina <em>dah</em>ling didn\'t quite understand my lust for the boots.  \"Why do you want a pair of cowgirl boots?\" </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>???</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>Me:</strong>  Because they\'re sassy.  And they look great with jeans.  Which I <em>live</em> in all winter.  And they\'re comfy.  <em>Especially</em> these. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>And I will need them for when I go out to a country bar to try two-stepping for this blog! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>Dina <em>dah</em>ling:</strong>  Oh. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I wore my cowgirl boots for the first time on day 41 which also happened to be casual Friday at work.  I walked into the building with a little bit of sass in my step, which apparently did not go unnoticed. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>My friend Elaine aka Laney popped her head around the corner and blurted, \"I wondered who that hippie chick was with the great boots and the big wavy hair and the sunglasses.\" </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><span style=\"color: #800080;\"><span style=\"font-size: medium;\"><strong>I instantly felt very Sheryl Crow-ish.  I could get used to this. </strong></span></span></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>A few minutes later, Kassy and Tiana (aka Hollywood) chimed in unison that they loved the boots.  Were they new?  Hollywood wanted to know more about them. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>\"They\'re that Born brand,\" I sheepishly confessed.  (I pronounced it Bjorn, and Hollywood corrected me.  It\'s just plain Born.  I\'m thinking that I was adding the Scandinavian touch to make them seem more exotic and cool.  Furthermore, I think I might stick with my delusional pronunciation because I like it.)   \"I\'ve never looked at the Born (mispronounced Bjorn by me) shoes before because aren\'t they one of those comfy-dorky brands?\"</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>\"<em>I </em>have Born shoes!  They are super comfy and cute!  They are my favorite shoes <em>ever!</em>\"  declared Hollywood.  And if Hollywood thinks they\'re fabulous, well... then they are! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Laney echoed Hollywood.  In fact, she was wearing a pair of Borns as we spoke!  And she looks like a Cover Girl model, so it\'s official.  Borns (Bjorns) are <em>not </em>dorky.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>The boot mojo continued throughout the day.  After work, I headed to a swanky Girls\' Night in Snobbsdale hosted by a friend of Kimmeee\'s.  I realized that the freeway exit was the same exit of a former beau who is still a dear friend of mine.  I called to leave a voicemail saying, \"Hi!  I\'m passing through your hood. Thinking of you and hope you are well!\" </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I wasn\'t expecting Former Beau (he asked me not to use his name due to an upcoming comment) to answer his phone at 6:30 p.m. on Friday.  And then beg for a drive-by hug. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Yep.  I am not making this up.   He practically begged me to stop by for a hug.  He promised to keep me for only 60 seconds. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><span style=\"font-size: medium;\"><strong><span style=\"color: #800080;\">At first, I thought he was joking.  But no, he was serious.  And apparently in dire need of a little tenderness.  My life is so quirky, isn\'t it?  :-) </span></strong></span></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>So since a man has never pleaded for a drive-by hug before, I thought, \"Why not?\"  Isn\'t this a year of curious adventures?\" </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I arrived at his house and told him I needed more than 60 seconds because nature called.  He took one look at my boots and said (and here is why he wanted to remain anonymous), \"Those are great boots!  I would do you in those boots.\" </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Okaaayyyyy...I\'m not going to have ex-sex anytime soon, but I\'ll take the compliment!  I look like Sheryl Crow and good-looking men want to do me on the spot. <em> I could get used to this!  </em></p>\r\n\r\n<p><em> </em> </p>\r\n\r\n<p>Former Beau complimented me yet again with, \"You\'re totally rockin\' the mid-30s.\"  I remind you that I\'m 41, so I was a tad disappointed that he only went down to mid-30s. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>Me:</strong>  Mid-30s meaning 36, or mid-30s meaning 33???</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>Former Beau:</strong>  <em>(confused)  </em>Mid-30s meaning 34!  The boots, the wavy hair, the white teeth -- yeah, a sexy 34!</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Hmph. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>Me:</strong>  O.k.  Whatever.  I\'ll take it.  I need to get to the party. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>We hugged. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><span style=\"color: #800080;\"><span style=\"font-size: medium;\"><strong>And <em>THIS </em>is where the real magic happened, ladies and 3 token gents. </strong></span></span></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Kimmeee introduced me to her friends, and they naturally inquired as to how we knew each other. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Kimmeee explained that I was her daughers\' first preschool teacher, and we have remained friends ever since.  Her eldest daughter is now 18, so it\'s been a loooonng time. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Cami looked shocked.  \"But Michelle!  You don\'t look all that much older than 18!\" </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Yes, it\'s true.  That\'s exactly what she said.  This.  Made.  My.  Year. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Now the woman was drinking wine, and this was a house party so think \"soft lighting\", but she wasn\'t drunk.  She\'s a lawyer in Real Life.  She\'s a responsible and highly intelligent woman!  And bless her heart, she thinks I\'m barely out of college.  I love her.  She is my new best friend. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>It gets better.  The other women (all brainiac lawyers -- Kimmeee probably invited me as the evening\'s comic relief) furiously nodded their heads \"yes\" -- that I must be in my 20s.  I told them about Former Beau\'s \"sexy 34\" comment.  They shook their heads \"NO!\" </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>The swankiest and most stylish of the lawyers proclaimed, \"He\'s just jealous!  He doesn\'t want anyone else to have you!\" </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>And this is how I became an honorary 20-something on Day 41. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I suspect that the boot mojo played a large part in all of this age hocus pocus.  I really don\'t look like a 20-something.  I\'m telling you -- the boots brought on a different persona! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>GIDDYUP!  Who<em> couldn\'t </em>get used to this???</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><span style=\"color: #800080;\"><span style=\"font-size: medium;\"><strong>In conclusion, ladies, I am sharing my fountain of youth secret with you today.  No need to spend money on Botox, expensive skin treatments, or plastic surgery when all you need is a fantastic pair of cowgirl boots. </strong></span></span></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Now repeat after me:  \"Are you ready boots?  Start walkin\'!\"</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_1761\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"300\" caption=\"Work it, Girlfriends! \"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/PB050180.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-1761\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/PB050180-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n</p>','Day 41:  You need cowgirl boots, not plastic surgery.  Let me explain...','','inherit','open','open','','1754-revision-23','','','2010-11-07 22:07:32','2010-11-08 05:07:32','',1754,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/11/07/1754-revision-23/',0,'revision','',0),(1781,1,'2010-11-07 22:08:21','2010-11-08 05:08:21','<p>\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_1760\" align=\"alignleft\" width=\"300\" caption=\"I Heart Casual Fridays\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/PB050179.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-1760\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/PB050179-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Did you notice that cowgirl boots were \"in\" last winter?  I decided that I needed a pair.  Reminded me of circa early 90s in Houston when I owned a great pair of red and black cowgirl boots.  I loved those boots. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Giddyup! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>The only snag from last winter was that I couldn\'t find a pair that I liked that FIT.  Argh. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Fast forward to last weekend when Dina <em>dah</em>ling and I ventured to Macy\'s after breakfast at our favorite little haunt.  (<a href=\"http://www.lagrandeorangegrocery.com/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>LGO</strong></a> for all of my locals peeps.) </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I saw the boots from across the crowded room.  I slowly approached, wanting to make a move but afraid that I would be left stranded like last season.  The salesman tempted me with a breathy, \"What size are you?\" </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>\"6\", I answered, as if under a spell. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>The salesman returned with size 6 in hand and promises of Happy Ever After.  \"One of our associates purchased these and started wearing them immediately here at work.  She insists that they are the most comfortable boots she\'s ever worn!\" </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Sigh...</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I tried them on and...</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>They fit like a glove.  Which is infinitely more comfortable than a glass slipper. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><span style=\"font-size: medium;\"><strong><span style=\"color: #800080;\">And when the cowgirl boot fits, then you <em>must</em> wear it sister! <br class=\"spacer_\" /></span></strong></span></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Dina <em>dah</em>ling didn\'t quite understand my lust for the boots.  \"Why do you want a pair of cowgirl boots?\" </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>???</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>Me:</strong>  Because they\'re sassy.  And they look great with jeans.  Which I <em>live</em> in all winter.  And they\'re comfy.  <em>Especially</em> these. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>And I will need them for when I go out to a country bar to try two-stepping for this blog! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>Dina <em>dah</em>ling:</strong>  Oh. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I wore my cowgirl boots for the first time on day 41 which also happened to be casual Friday at work.  I walked into the building with a little bit of sass in my step, which apparently did not go unnoticed. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>My friend Elaine aka Laney popped her head around the corner and blurted, \"I wondered who that hippie chick was with the great boots and the big wavy hair and the sunglasses.\" </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><span style=\"color: #800080;\"><span style=\"font-size: medium;\"><strong>I instantly felt very Sheryl Crow-ish.  I could get used to this. </strong></span></span></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>A few minutes later, Kassy and Tiana (aka Hollywood) chimed in unison that they loved the boots.  Were they new?  Hollywood wanted to know more about them. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>\"They\'re that Born brand,\" I sheepishly confessed.  (I pronounced it Bjorn, and Hollywood corrected me.  It\'s just plain Born.  I\'m thinking that I was adding the Scandinavian touch to make them seem more exotic and cool.  Furthermore, I think I might stick with my delusional pronunciation because I like it.)   \"I\'ve never looked at the Born (mispronounced Bjorn by me) shoes before because aren\'t they one of those comfy-dorky brands?\"</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>\"<em>I </em>have Born shoes!  They are super comfy and cute!  They are my favorite shoes <em>ever!</em>\"  declared Hollywood.  And if Hollywood thinks they\'re fabulous, well... then they are! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Laney echoed Hollywood.  In fact, she was wearing a pair of Borns as we spoke!  And she looks like a Cover Girl model, so it\'s official.  Borns (Bjorns) are <em>not </em>dorky.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>The boot mojo continued throughout the day.  After work, I headed to a swanky Girls\' Night in Snobbsdale hosted by a friend of Kimmeee\'s.  I realized that the freeway exit was the same exit of a former beau who is still a dear friend of mine.  I called to leave a voicemail saying, \"Hi!  I\'m passing through your hood. Thinking of you and hope you are well!\" </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I wasn\'t expecting Former Beau (he asked me not to use his name due to an upcoming comment) to answer his phone at 6:30 p.m. on Friday.  And then beg for a drive-by hug. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Yep.  I am not making this up.   He practically begged me to stop by for a hug.  He promised to keep me for only 60 seconds. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><span style=\"font-size: medium;\"><strong><span style=\"color: #800080;\">At first, I thought he was joking.  But no, he was serious.  And apparently in dire need of a little tenderness.  My life is so quirky, isn\'t it?  :-) </span></strong></span></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>So since a man has never pleaded for a drive-by hug before, I thought, \"Why not?\"  Isn\'t this a year of curious adventures?\" </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I arrived at his house and told him I needed more than 60 seconds because nature called.  He took one look at my boots and said (and here is why he wanted to remain anonymous), \"Those are great boots!  I would do you in those boots.\" </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Okaaayyyyy...I\'m not going to have ex-sex anytime soon, but I\'ll take the compliment!  I look like Sheryl Crow and good-looking men want to do me on the spot. <em> I could get used to this!  </em></p>\r\n\r\n<p><em> </em> </p>\r\n\r\n<p>Former Beau complimented me yet again with, \"You\'re totally rockin\' the mid-30s.\"  I remind you that I\'m 41, so I was a tad disappointed that he only went down to mid-30s. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>Me:</strong>  Mid-30s meaning 36, or mid-30s meaning 33???</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>Former Beau:</strong>  <em>(confused)  </em>Mid-30s meaning 34!  The boots, the wavy hair, the white teeth -- yeah, a sexy 34!</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Hmph. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>Me:</strong>  O.k.  Whatever.  I\'ll take it.  I need to get to the party. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>We hugged. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><span style=\"color: #800080;\"><span style=\"font-size: medium;\"><strong>And <em>THIS </em>is where the real magic happened, ladies and 3 token gents. </strong></span></span></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Kimmeee introduced me to her friends, and they naturally inquired as to how we knew each other. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Kimmeee explained that I was her daughers\' first preschool teacher, and we have remained friends ever since.  Her eldest daughter is now 18, so it\'s been a loooonng time. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Cami looked shocked.  \"But Michelle!  You don\'t look all that much older than 18!\" </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Yes, it\'s true.  That\'s exactly what she said.  This.  Made.  My.  Year. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Now the woman was drinking wine, and this was a house party so think \"soft lighting\", but she wasn\'t drunk.  She\'s a lawyer in Real Life.  She\'s a responsible and highly intelligent woman!  And bless her heart, she thinks I\'m barely out of college.  I love her.  She is my new best friend. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>It gets better.  The other women (all brainiac lawyers -- Kimmeee probably invited me as the evening\'s comic relief) furiously nodded their heads \"yes\" -- that I must be in my 20s.  I told them about Former Beau\'s \"sexy 34\" comment.  They shook their heads \"NO!\" </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>The swankiest and most stylish of the lawyers proclaimed, \"He\'s just jealous!  He doesn\'t want anyone else to have you!\" </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>And this is how I became an honorary 20-something on Day 41. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I suspect that the boot mojo played a large part in all of this age hocus pocus.  I really don\'t look like a 20-something.  I\'m telling you -- the boots brought on a different persona! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>GIDDYUP!  Who<em> couldn\'t </em>get used to this???</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><span style=\"color: #800080;\"><span style=\"font-size: medium;\"><strong>In conclusion, ladies, I am sharing my fountain of youth secret with you today.  No need to spend money on Botox, expensive skin treatments, or plastic surgery when all you need is a fantastic pair of cowgirl boots. </strong></span></span></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Now repeat after me:  \"Are you ready boots?  Start walkin\'!\"</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_1761\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"300\" caption=\"Work it, Girlfriends! \"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/PB050180.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-1761\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/PB050180-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n</p>','Day 41:  You need cowgirl boots, not plastic surgery.  Let me explain...','','inherit','open','open','','1754-revision-24','','','2010-11-07 22:08:21','2010-11-08 05:08:21','',1754,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/11/07/1754-revision-24/',0,'revision','',0),(1782,1,'2010-11-08 07:02:44','2010-11-08 14:02:44','<p>\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_1760\" align=\"alignleft\" width=\"300\" caption=\"I Heart Casual Fridays\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/PB050179.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-1760\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/PB050179-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Did you notice that cowgirl boots were \"in\" last winter?  I decided that I needed a pair.  Reminded me of circa early 90s in Houston when I owned a great pair of red and black cowgirl boots.  I loved those boots. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Giddyup! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>The only snag from last winter was that I couldn\'t find a pair that I liked that FIT.  Argh. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Fast forward to last weekend when Dina <em>dah</em>ling and I ventured to Macy\'s after breakfast at our favorite little haunt.  (<a href=\"http://www.lagrandeorangegrocery.com/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>LGO</strong></a> for all of my locals peeps.) </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I saw the boots from across the crowded room.  I slowly approached, wanting to make a move but afraid that I would be left stranded like last season.  The salesman tempted me with a breathy, \"What size are you?\" </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>\"6\", I answered, as if under a spell. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>The salesman returned with size 6 in hand and promises of Happy Ever After.  \"One of our associates purchased these and started wearing them immediately here at work.  She insists that they are the most comfortable boots she\'s ever worn!\" </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Sigh...</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I tried them on and...</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>They fit like a glove.  Which is infinitely more comfortable than a glass slipper. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><span style=\"font-size: medium;\"><strong><span style=\"color: #800080;\">And when the cowgirl boot fits, then you <em>must</em> wear it sister! <br class=\"spacer_\" /></span></strong></span></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Dina <em>dah</em>ling didn\'t quite understand my lust for the boots.  \"Why do you want a pair of cowgirl boots?\" </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>???</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>Me:</strong>  Because they\'re sassy.  And they look great with jeans.  Which I <em>live</em> in all winter.  And they\'re comfy.  <em>Especially</em> these. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>And I will need them for when I go out to a country bar to try two-stepping for this blog! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>Dina <em>dah</em>ling:</strong>  Oh. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I wore my cowgirl boots for the first time on day 41 which also happened to be casual Friday at work.  I walked into the building with a little bit of sass in my step, which apparently did not go unnoticed. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>My friend Elaine aka Laney popped her head around the corner and blurted, \"I wondered who that hippie chick was with the great boots and the big wavy hair and the sunglasses.\" </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><span style=\"color: #800080;\"><span style=\"font-size: medium;\"><strong>I instantly felt very Sheryl Crow-ish.  I could get used to this. </strong></span></span></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>A few minutes later, Kassy and Tiana (aka Hollywood) chimed in unison that they loved the boots.  Were they new?  Hollywood wanted to know more about them. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>\"They\'re that Born brand,\" I sheepishly confessed.  (I pronounced it Bjorn, and Hollywood corrected me.  It\'s just plain Born.  I\'m thinking that I was adding the Scandinavian touch to make them seem more exotic and cool.  Furthermore, I think I might stick with my delusional pronunciation because I like it.)   \"I\'ve never looked at the Born (mispronounced Bjorn by me) shoes before because aren\'t they one of those comfy-dorky brands?\"</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>\"<em>I </em>have Born shoes!  They are super comfy and cute!  They are my favorite shoes <em>ever!</em>\"  declared Hollywood.  And if Hollywood thinks they\'re fabulous, well... then they are! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Laney echoed Hollywood.  In fact, she was wearing a pair of Borns as we spoke!  And she looks like a Cover Girl model, so it\'s official.  Borns (Bjorns) are <em>not </em>dorky.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>The boot mojo continued throughout the day.  After work, I headed to a swanky Girls\' Night in Snobbsdale hosted by a friend of Kimmeee\'s.  I realized that the freeway exit was the same exit of a former beau who is still a dear friend of mine.  I called to leave a voicemail saying, \"Hi!  I\'m passing through your hood. Thinking of you and hope you are well!\" </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I wasn\'t expecting Former Beau (he asked me not to use his name due to an upcoming comment) to answer his phone at 6:30 p.m. on Friday.  And then beg for a drive-by hug. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Yep.  I am not making this up.   He practically begged me to stop by for a hug.  He promised to keep me for only 60 seconds. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><span style=\"font-size: medium;\"><strong><span style=\"color: #800080;\">At first, I thought he was joking.  But no, he was serious.  And apparently in dire need of a little tenderness.  My life is so quirky, isn\'t it?  :-) </span></strong></span></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>So since a man has never pleaded for a drive-by hug before, I thought, \"Why not?\"  Isn\'t this a year of curious adventures?\" </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I arrived at his house and told him I needed more than 60 seconds because nature called.  He took one look at my boots and said (and here is why he wanted to remain anonymous), \"Those are great boots!  I would do you in those boots.\" </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Okaaayyyyy...I\'m not going to have ex-sex anytime soon, but I\'ll take the compliment!  I look like Sheryl Crow and good-looking men want to do me on the spot. <em> I could get used to this!  </em></p>\r\n\r\n<p><em> </em> </p>\r\n\r\n<p>Former Beau complimented me yet again with, \"You\'re totally rockin\' the mid-30s.\"  I remind you that I\'m 41, so I was a tad disappointed that he only went down to mid-30s. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>Me:</strong>  Mid-30s meaning 36, or mid-30s meaning 33???</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>Former Beau:</strong>  <em>(confused)  </em>Mid-30s meaning 34!  The boots, the wavy hair, the white teeth -- yeah, a sexy 34!</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Hmph. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>Me:</strong>  O.k.  Whatever.  I\'ll take it.  I need to get to the party. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>We hugged. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><span style=\"color: #800080;\"><span style=\"font-size: medium;\"><strong>And <em>THIS </em>is where the real magic happened, ladies and 3 token gents. </strong></span></span></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Kimmeee introduced me to her friends, and they naturally inquired as to how we knew each other. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Kimmeee explained that I was her daughers\' first preschool teacher, and we have remained friends ever since.  Her eldest daughter is now 18, so it\'s been a loooonng time. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Cami looked shocked.  \"But Michelle!  You don\'t look all that much older than 18!\" </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Yes, it\'s true.  That\'s exactly what she said.  This.  Made.  My.  Year. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Now the woman was drinking wine, and this was a house party so think \"soft lighting\", but she wasn\'t drunk.  She\'s a lawyer in Real Life.  She\'s a responsible and highly intelligent woman!  And bless her heart, she thinks I\'m barely out of college.  I love her.  She is my new best friend. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>It gets better.  The other women (all brainiac lawyers -- Kimmeee probably invited me as the evening\'s comic relief) furiously nodded their heads \"yes\" -- that I must be in my 20s.  I told them about Former Beau\'s \"sexy 34\" comment.  They shook their heads \"NO!\" </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>The swankiest and most stylish of the lawyers proclaimed, \"He\'s just jealous!  He doesn\'t want anyone else to have you!\" </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>And this is how I became an honorary 20-something on Day 41. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I suspect that the boot mojo played a large part in all of this age hocus pocus.  I really don\'t look like a 20-something.  I\'m telling you -- the boots brought on a different persona! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>GIDDYUP!  Who<em> couldn\'t </em>get used to this???</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><span style=\"color: #800080;\"><span style=\"font-size: medium;\"><strong>In conclusion, ladies, I am sharing my fountain of youth secret with you today.  No need to spend money on Botox, expensive skin treatments, or plastic surgery when all you need is a fantastic pair of cowgirl boots. </strong></span></span></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Now repeat after me:  \"Are you ready boots?  Start walkin\'!\"</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_1761\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"300\" caption=\"Work it, Girlfriends! \"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/PB050180.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-1761\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/PB050180-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n</p>','Day 41:  You need cowgirl boots, not plastic surgery.  Let me explain...','','inherit','open','open','','1754-revision-25','','','2010-11-08 07:02:44','2010-11-08 14:02:44','',1754,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/11/08/1754-revision-25/',0,'revision','',0),(1783,1,'2010-11-08 09:22:41','2010-11-08 16:22:41','<p>\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_1760\" align=\"alignleft\" width=\"300\" caption=\"I Heart Casual Fridays\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/PB050179.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-1760\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/PB050179-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Did you notice that cowgirl boots were \"in\" last winter?  I decided that I needed a pair.  Reminded me of circa early 90s in Houston when I owned a great pair of red and black cowgirl boots.  I loved those boots. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Giddyup! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>The only snag from last winter was that I couldn\'t find a pair that I liked that FIT.  Argh. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Fast forward to last weekend when Dina <em>dah</em>ling and I ventured to Macy\'s after breakfast at our favorite little haunt.  (<a href=\"http://www.lagrandeorangegrocery.com/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>LGO</strong></a> for all of my locals peeps.) </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I saw the boots from across the crowded room.  I slowly approached, wanting to make a move but afraid that I would be left stranded like last season.  The salesman tempted me with a breathy, \"What size are you?\" </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>\"6\", I answered, as if under a spell. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>The salesman returned with size 6 in hand and promises of Happy Ever After.  \"One of our associates purchased these and started wearing them immediately here at work.  She insists that they are the most comfortable boots she\'s ever worn!\" </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Sigh...</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I tried them on and...</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>They fit like a glove.  Which is infinitely more comfortable than a glass slipper. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><span style=\"font-size: medium;\"><strong><span style=\"color: #800080;\">And when the cowgirl boot fits, then you <em>must</em> wear it sister! <br class=\"spacer_\" /></span></strong></span></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Dina <em>dah</em>ling didn\'t quite understand my lust for the boots.  \"Why do you want a pair of cowgirl boots?\" </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>???</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>Me:</strong>  Because they\'re sassy.  And they look great with jeans.  Which I <em>live</em> in all winter.  And they\'re comfy.  <em>Especially</em> these. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>And I will need them for when I go out to a country bar to try two-stepping for this blog! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>Dina <em>dah</em>ling:</strong>  Oh. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I wore my cowgirl boots for the first time on day 41 which also happened to be casual Friday at work.  I walked into the building with a little bit of sass in my step, which apparently did not go unnoticed. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>My friend Elaine aka Laney popped her head around the corner and blurted, \"I wondered who that hippie chick was with the great boots and the big wavy hair and the sunglasses.\" </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><span style=\"color: #800080;\"><span style=\"font-size: medium;\"><strong>I instantly felt very Sheryl Crow-ish.  I could get used to this. </strong></span></span></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>A few minutes later, Kassy and Tiana (aka \"Hollywood\" because she\'s Halle Berry\'s twin) chimed in unison that they loved the boots.  Were they new?  Hollywood wanted to know more about them. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>\"They\'re that Born brand,\" I sheepishly confessed.  (I pronounced it Bjorn, and Hollywood corrected me.  It\'s just plain Born.  I\'m thinking that I was adding the Scandinavian touch to make them seem more exotic and cool.  Furthermore, I think I might stick with my delusional pronunciation because I like it.)   \"I\'ve never looked at the Born (mispronounced Bjorn by me) shoes before because aren\'t they one of those comfy-dorky brands?\"</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>\"<em>I </em>have Born shoes!  They are super comfy and cute!  They are my favorite shoes <em>ever!</em>\"  declared Hollywood.  And if Hollywood thinks they\'re fabulous, well... then they are! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Laney echoed Hollywood.  In fact, she was wearing a pair of Borns as we spoke!  And she looks like a Cover Girl model, so it\'s official.  Borns (Bjorns) are <em>not </em>dorky.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>The boot mojo continued throughout the day.  After work, I headed to a swanky Girls\' Night in Snobbsdale hosted by a friend of Kimmeee\'s.  I realized that the freeway exit was the same exit of a former beau who is still a dear friend of mine.  I called to leave a voicemail saying, \"Hi!  I\'m passing through your hood. Thinking of you and hope you are well!\" </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I wasn\'t expecting Former Beau (he asked me not to use his name due to an upcoming comment) to answer his phone at 6:30 p.m. on Friday.  And then beg for a drive-by hug. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Yep.  I am not making this up.   He practically begged me to stop by for a hug.  He promised to keep me for only 60 seconds. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><span style=\"font-size: medium;\"><strong><span style=\"color: #800080;\">At first, I thought he was joking.  But no, he was serious.  And apparently in dire need of a little tenderness.  My life is so quirky, isn\'t it?  :-) </span></strong></span></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>So since a man has never pleaded for a drive-by hug before, I thought, \"Why not?\"  Isn\'t this a year of curious adventures?\" </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I arrived at his house and told him I needed more than 60 seconds because nature called.  He took one look at my boots and said (and here is why he wanted to remain anonymous), \"Those are great boots!  I would do you in those boots.\" </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Okaaayyyyy...I\'m not going to have ex-sex anytime soon, but I\'ll take the compliment!  I look like Sheryl Crow and good-looking men want to do me on the spot. <em> I could get used to this!  </em></p>\r\n\r\n<p><em> </em> </p>\r\n\r\n<p>Former Beau complimented me yet again with, \"You\'re totally rockin\' the mid-30s.\"  I remind you that I\'m 41, so I was a tad disappointed that he only went down to mid-30s. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>Me:</strong>  Mid-30s meaning 36, or mid-30s meaning 33???</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>Former Beau:</strong>  <em>(confused)  </em>Mid-30s meaning 34!  The boots, the wavy hair, the white teeth -- yeah, a sexy 34!</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Hmph. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>Me:</strong>  O.k.  Whatever.  I\'ll take it.  I need to get to the party. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>We hugged. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><span style=\"color: #800080;\"><span style=\"font-size: medium;\"><strong>And <em>THIS </em>is where the real magic happened, ladies and 3 token gents. </strong></span></span></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Kimmeee introduced me to her friends, and they naturally inquired as to how we knew each other. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Kimmeee explained that I was her daughers\' first preschool teacher, and we have remained friends ever since.  Her eldest daughter is now 18, so it\'s been a loooonng time. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Cami looked shocked.  \"But Michelle!  You don\'t look all that much older than 18!\" </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Yes, it\'s true.  That\'s exactly what she said.  This.  Made.  My.  Year. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Now the woman was drinking wine, and this was a house party so think \"soft lighting\", but she wasn\'t drunk.  She\'s a lawyer in Real Life.  She\'s a responsible and highly intelligent woman!  And bless her heart, she thinks I\'m barely out of college.  I love her.  She is my new best friend. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>It gets better.  The other women (all brainiac lawyers -- Kimmeee probably invited me as the evening\'s comic relief) furiously nodded their heads \"yes\" -- that I must be in my 20s.  I told them about Former Beau\'s \"sexy 34\" comment.  They shook their heads \"NO!\" </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>The swankiest and most stylish of the lawyers proclaimed, \"He\'s just jealous!  He doesn\'t want anyone else to have you!\" </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>And this is how I became an honorary 20-something on Day 41. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I suspect that the boot mojo played a large part in all of this age hocus pocus.  I really don\'t look like a 20-something.  I\'m telling you -- the boots brought on a different persona! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>GIDDYUP!  Who<em> couldn\'t </em>get used to this???</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><span style=\"color: #800080;\"><span style=\"font-size: medium;\"><strong>In conclusion, ladies, I am sharing my fountain of youth secret with you today.  No need to spend money on Botox, expensive skin treatments, or plastic surgery when all you need is a fantastic pair of cowgirl boots. </strong></span></span></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Now repeat after me:  \"Are you ready boots?  Start walkin\'!\"</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_1761\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"300\" caption=\"Work it, Girlfriends! \"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/PB050180.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-1761\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/PB050180-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n</p>','Day 41:  You need cowgirl boots, not plastic surgery.  Let me explain...','','inherit','open','open','','1754-revision-26','','','2010-11-08 09:22:41','2010-11-08 16:22:41','',1754,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/11/08/1754-revision-26/',0,'revision','',0),(1784,1,'2010-11-08 10:53:29','2010-11-08 17:53:29','<p>\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_1760\" align=\"alignleft\" width=\"300\" caption=\"I Heart Casual Fridays\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/PB050179.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-1760\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/PB050179-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Did you notice that cowgirl boots were \"in\" last winter?  I decided that I needed a pair.  Reminded me of circa early 90s in Houston when I owned a great pair of red and black cowgirl boots.  I loved those boots. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Giddyup! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>The only snag from last winter was that I couldn\'t find a pair that I liked that FIT.  Argh. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Fast forward to last weekend when Dina <em>dah</em>ling and I ventured to Macy\'s after breakfast at our favorite little haunt.  (<a href=\"http://www.lagrandeorangegrocery.com/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>LGO</strong></a> for all of my locals peeps.) </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I saw the boots from across the crowded room.  I slowly approached, wanting to make a move but afraid that I would be left stranded like last season.  The salesman tempted me with a breathy, \"What size are you?\" </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>\"6\", I answered, as if under a spell. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>The salesman returned with size 6 in hand and promises of Happy Ever After.  \"One of our associates purchased these and started wearing them immediately here at work.  She insists that they are the most comfortable boots she\'s ever worn!\" </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Sigh...</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I tried them on and...</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>They fit like a glove.  Which is infinitely more comfortable than a glass slipper. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><span style=\"font-size: medium;\"><strong><span style=\"color: #800080;\">And when the cowgirl boot fits, then you <em>must</em> wear it sister! <br class=\"spacer_\" /></span></strong></span></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Dina <em>dah</em>ling didn\'t quite understand my lust for the boots.  \"Why do you want a pair of cowgirl boots?\" </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>???</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>Me:</strong>  Because they\'re sassy.  And they look great with jeans.  Which I <em>live</em> in all winter.  And they\'re comfy.  <em>Especially</em> these. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>And I will need them for when I go out to a country bar to try two-stepping for this blog! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>Dina <em>dah</em>ling:</strong>  Oh. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I wore my cowgirl boots for the first time on day 41 which also happened to be casual Friday at work.  I walked into the building with a little bit of sass in my step, which apparently did not go unnoticed. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>My friend Elaine aka Laney popped her head around the corner and blurted, \"I wondered who that hippie chick was with the great boots and the big wavy hair and the sunglasses.\" </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><span style=\"color: #800080;\"><span style=\"font-size: medium;\"><strong>I instantly felt very Sheryl Crow-ish.  I could get used to this. </strong></span></span></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>A few minutes later, Kassy and Tiana (aka \"Hollywood\" because she\'s Halle Berry\'s twin) chimed in unison that they loved the boots.  Were they new?  Hollywood wanted to know more about them. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>\"They\'re that Born brand,\" I sheepishly confessed.  (I pronounced it Bjorn, and Hollywood corrected me.  It\'s just plain Born.  I\'m thinking that I was adding the Scandinavian touch to make them seem more exotic and cool.  Furthermore, I think I might stick with my delusional pronunciation because I like it.)   \"I\'ve never looked at the Born (mispronounced Bjorn by me) shoes before because aren\'t they one of those comfy-dorky brands?\"</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>\"<em>I </em>have Born shoes!  They are super comfy and cute!  They are my favorite shoes <em>ever!</em>\"  declared Hollywood.  And if Hollywood thinks they\'re fabulous, well... then they are! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Laney echoed Hollywood.  In fact, she was wearing a pair of Borns as we spoke!  And she looks like a Cover Girl model, so it\'s official.  Borns (Bjorns) are <em>not </em>dorky.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>The boot mojo continued throughout the day.  After work, I headed to a swanky Girls\' Night in Snobbsdale hosted by a friend of Kimmeee\'s.  I realized that the freeway exit was the same exit of a former beau who is still a dear friend of mine.  I called to leave a voicemail saying, \"Hi!  I\'m passing through your hood. Thinking of you and hope you are well!\" </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I wasn\'t expecting Former Beau (he asked me not to use his name due to an upcoming comment) to answer his phone at 6:30 p.m. on Friday.  And then beg for a drive-by hug. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Yep.  I am not making this up.   He practically begged me to stop by for a hug.  He promised to keep me for only 60 seconds. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><span style=\"font-size: medium;\"><strong><span style=\"color: #800080;\">At first, I thought he was joking.  But no, he was serious.  And apparently in dire need of a little tenderness.  My life is so quirky, isn\'t it?  :-) </span></strong></span></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>So since a man has never pleaded for a drive-by hug before, I thought, \"Why not?\"  Isn\'t this a year of curious adventures?\" </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I arrived at his house and told him I needed more than 60 seconds because nature called.  He took one look at my boots and said (and here is why he wanted to remain anonymous), \"Those are great boots!  I would do you in those boots.\" </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Okaaayyyyy...I\'m not going to have ex-sex anytime soon, but I\'ll take the compliment!  I look like Sheryl Crow and good-looking men want to do me on the spot. <em> I could get used to this!  </em></p>\r\n\r\n<p><em> </em> </p>\r\n\r\n<p>Former Beau complimented me yet again with, \"You\'re totally rockin\' the mid-30s.\"  I remind you that I\'m 41, so I was a tad disappointed that he only went down to mid-30s. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>Me:</strong>  Mid-30s meaning 36, or mid-30s meaning 33???</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>Former Beau:</strong>  <em>(confused)  </em>Mid-30s meaning 34!  The boots, the wavy hair, the white teeth -- yeah, a sexy 34!</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Hmph. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>Me:</strong>  O.k.  Whatever.  I\'ll take it.  I need to get to the party. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>We hugged. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><span style=\"color: #800080;\"><span style=\"font-size: medium;\"><strong>And <em>THIS </em>is where the real magic happened, ladies and 3 token gents. </strong></span></span></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>At the Girl\'s Night, Kimmeee introduced me to her friends, and they naturally inquired as to how we knew each other. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Kimmeee explained that I was her daughers\' first preschool teacher, and we have remained friends ever since.  Her eldest daughter is now 18, so it\'s been a loooonng time. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Cami looked shocked.  \"But Michelle!  You don\'t look all that much older than 18!\" </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Yes, it\'s true.  That\'s exactly what she said.  This.  Made.  My.  Year. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Now the woman was drinking wine, and this was a house party so think \"soft lighting\", but she wasn\'t drunk.  She\'s a lawyer in Real Life.  She\'s a responsible and highly intelligent woman!  And bless her heart, she thinks I\'m barely out of college.  I love her.  She is my new best friend. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>It gets better.  The other women (all brainiac lawyers -- Kimmeee probably invited me as the evening\'s comic relief) furiously nodded their heads \"yes\" -- that I must be in my 20s.  I told them about Former Beau\'s \"sexy 34\" comment.  They shook their heads \"NO!\" </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>The swankiest and most stylish of the lawyers proclaimed, \"He\'s just jealous!  He doesn\'t want anyone else to have you!\" </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>And this is how I became an honorary 20-something on Day 41. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I suspect that the boot mojo played a large part in all of this age hocus pocus.  I really don\'t look like a 20-something.  I\'m telling you -- the boots brought on a different persona! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>GIDDYUP!  Who<em> couldn\'t </em>get used to this???</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><span style=\"color: #800080;\"><span style=\"font-size: medium;\"><strong>In conclusion, ladies, I am sharing my fountain of youth secret with you today.  No need to spend money on Botox, expensive skin treatments, or plastic surgery when all you need is a fantastic pair of cowgirl boots. </strong></span></span></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Now repeat after me:  \"Are you ready boots?  Start walkin\'!\"</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_1761\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"300\" caption=\"Work it, Girlfriends! \"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/PB050180.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-1761\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/PB050180-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n</p>','Day 41:  You need cowgirl boots, not plastic surgery.  Let me explain...','','inherit','open','open','','1754-revision-27','','','2010-11-08 10:53:29','2010-11-08 17:53:29','',1754,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/11/08/1754-revision-27/',0,'revision','',0),(1785,1,'2010-11-09 01:11:16','2010-11-09 08:11:16','<p>\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_1786\" align=\"alignleft\" width=\"300\" caption=\"Will HK deliver? There&#39;s nothing worse than speakers that fizzle prematurely.\"]<a href=\"http://www.harmankardon.com/EN-US/Products/Pages/ProductDetails.aspx?PID=SOUNDSTICKSII&amp;accT=1&amp;tsT=0&amp;ovT=1\" target=\"_blank\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-1786 \" title=\"SoundSticksII_IMG1_800x600\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/SoundSticksII_IMG1_800x600-300x225.gif\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Bose, after all of the build-up, I thought you might stick around forever.  But you abandoned me after only 3 years. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I realize that <span style=\"text-decoration: line-through;\">you have</span> are a small SoundDock, but with your reputation and price tag, I assumed that your quality would last for at least half a decade.  But nooooooo...</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>You are all talk and no action, Bose. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>And I don\'t want to be asked by the umpteenth guy, \"Do you listen to music loud?\" </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Hell, YES, I listen LOUD!  Is there any other way? </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Bose, hell hath no fury like a music lover scorned.  I am leaving you for another. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Pleasure to meet you, Harman Kardon. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>The Mac geniuses speak highly of you.  When the Coolest Store on Earth shuts down at night, the geniuses blare their music LOUDLY through your translucent sticks and space-agey subwoofer. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I am intrigued, Harman Kardon.  I am very, very intrigued. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Will you promise to rock my world forever?  Or for half a decade at least? </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>If so, I am yours. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><span style=\"font-size: medium;\"><span style=\"color: #ff0000;\"><strong>xoxo</strong></span></span></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>','Day 42:  To Rock My World, You Need Stamina, Baby.','','publish','open','open','','day-42-to-rock-my-world-you-need-stamina-baby','','','2011-02-16 21:06:02','2011-02-17 04:06:02','',0,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?p=1785',0,'post','',4),(1786,1,'2010-11-08 18:58:29','2010-11-09 01:58:29','','SoundSticksII_IMG1_800x600','','inherit','open','open','','soundsticksii_img1_800x600','','','2010-11-08 18:58:29','2010-11-09 01:58:29','',1785,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/SoundSticksII_IMG1_800x600.gif',0,'attachment','image/gif',0),(1787,1,'2010-11-08 19:02:22','2010-11-09 02:02:22','[caption id=\"attachment_1786\" align=\"alignleft\" width=\"300\" caption=\"Will HK deliver? There&#39;s nothing worse than speakers that fizzle prematurely.\"]<a href=\"http://www.harmankardon.com/EN-US/Products/Pages/ProductDetails.aspx?PID=SOUNDSTICKSII&amp;accT=1&amp;tsT=0&amp;ovT=1\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-1786\" title=\"SoundSticksII_IMG1_800x600\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/SoundSticksII_IMG1_800x600-300x225.gif\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>[/caption]\n\n<p>Bose, after all of the build-up, I thought you might stick around forever.  But you abandoned me after only 3 years. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>I realize that you were only a SoundDock, but with your reputation, I assumed that your quality would last for at least half a decade.  But nooooooo...</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>You\'re all talk and no action, Bose. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>And I don\'t want to be asked by the umpteenth guy, \"Do you listen to music loud?\" </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Hell, YES, I listen LOUD!  Is there any other way? </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Bose, hell hath no fury like a music-lover scorned.  I am leaving you for another. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Pleasure to meet you, Harman Kardon. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>The Mac geniuses speak highly of you.  When the Coolest Store on Earth shuts down at night, the geniuses blare their music LOUDLY through your translucent sticks and space-agey subwoofer. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>I am intrigued, Harman Kardon.  I am very, very intrigued. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Will you promise to rock my world forever?  Or for half a decade at least? </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>If so, I am yours. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><span style=\"font-size: medium;\"><span style=\"color: #ff0000;\"><strong>xoxo</strong></span></span></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>','Day 42:  To Rock My World, You Need Stamina, Baby.  ','','inherit','open','open','','1785-revision','','','2010-11-08 19:02:22','2010-11-09 02:02:22','',1785,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/11/08/1785-revision/',0,'revision','',0),(1788,1,'2010-11-08 19:03:22','2010-11-09 02:03:22','[caption id=\"attachment_1786\" align=\"alignleft\" width=\"300\" caption=\"Will HK deliver? There&#39;s nothing worse than speakers that fizzle prematurely.\"]<a href=\"http://www.harmankardon.com/EN-US/Products/Pages/ProductDetails.aspx?PID=SOUNDSTICKSII&amp;accT=1&amp;tsT=0&amp;ovT=1\" target=\"_blank\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-1786 \" title=\"SoundSticksII_IMG1_800x600\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/SoundSticksII_IMG1_800x600-300x225.gif\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>[/caption]\n\n<p>Bose, after all of the build-up, I thought you might stick around forever.  But you abandoned me after only 3 years. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>I realize that you were only a SoundDock, but with your reputation, I assumed that your quality would last for at least half a decade.  But nooooooo...</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>You\'re all talk and no action, Bose. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>And I don\'t want to be asked by the umpteenth guy, \"Do you listen to music loud?\" </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Hell, YES, I listen LOUD!  Is there any other way? </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Bose, hell hath no fury like a music-lover scorned.  I am leaving you for another. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Pleasure to meet you, Harman Kardon. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>The Mac geniuses speak highly of you.  When the Coolest Store on Earth shuts down at night, the geniuses blare their music LOUDLY through your translucent sticks and space-agey subwoofer. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>I am intrigued, Harman Kardon.  I am very, very intrigued. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Will you promise to rock my world forever?  Or for half a decade at least? </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>If so, I am yours. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><span style=\"font-size: medium;\"><span style=\"color: #ff0000;\"><strong>xoxo</strong></span></span></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>','Day 42:  To Rock My World, You Need Stamina, Baby.  ','','inherit','open','open','','1785-revision-2','','','2010-11-08 19:03:22','2010-11-09 02:03:22','',1785,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/11/08/1785-revision-2/',0,'revision','',0),(1789,1,'2010-11-08 19:06:46','2010-11-09 02:06:46','<p>\n\n[caption id=\"attachment_1786\" align=\"alignleft\" width=\"300\" caption=\"Will HK deliver? There&#39;s nothing worse than speakers that fizzle prematurely.\"]<a href=\"http://www.harmankardon.com/EN-US/Products/Pages/ProductDetails.aspx?PID=SOUNDSTICKSII&amp;accT=1&amp;tsT=0&amp;ovT=1\" target=\"_blank\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-1786 \" title=\"SoundSticksII_IMG1_800x600\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/SoundSticksII_IMG1_800x600-300x225.gif\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>[/caption]\n\n</p>\n\n<p>Bose, after all of the build-up, I thought you might stick around forever.  But you abandoned me after only 3 years. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>I realize that are a small SoundDock, but with your reputation and price tag, I assumed that your quality would last for at least half a decade.  But nooooooo...</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>You\'re all talk and no action, Bose. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>And I don\'t want to be asked by the umpteenth guy, \"Do you listen to music loud?\" </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Hell, YES, I listen LOUD!  Is there any other way? </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Bose, hell hath no fury like a music-lover scorned.  I am leaving you for another. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Pleasure to meet you, Harman Kardon. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>The Mac geniuses speak highly of you.  When the Coolest Store on Earth shuts down at night, the geniuses blare their music LOUDLY through your translucent sticks and space-agey subwoofer. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>I am intrigued, Harman Kardon.  I am very, very intrigued. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Will you promise to rock my world forever?  Or for half a decade at least? </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>If so, I am yours. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><span style=\"font-size: medium;\"><span style=\"color: #ff0000;\"><strong>xoxo</strong></span></span></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>','Day 42:  To Rock My World, You Need Stamina, Baby.  ','','inherit','open','open','','1785-autosave','','','2010-11-08 19:06:46','2010-11-09 02:06:46','',1785,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/11/08/1785-autosave/',0,'revision','',0),(1790,1,'2010-11-08 19:05:39','2010-11-09 02:05:39','[caption id=\"attachment_1786\" align=\"alignleft\" width=\"300\" caption=\"Will HK deliver? There&#39;s nothing worse than speakers that fizzle prematurely.\"]<a href=\"http://www.harmankardon.com/EN-US/Products/Pages/ProductDetails.aspx?PID=SOUNDSTICKSII&amp;accT=1&amp;tsT=0&amp;ovT=1\" target=\"_blank\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-1786 \" title=\"SoundSticksII_IMG1_800x600\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/SoundSticksII_IMG1_800x600-300x225.gif\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n<p>Bose, after all of the build-up, I thought you might stick around forever.  But you abandoned me after only 3 years. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I realize that you were only a SoundDock, but with your reputation, I assumed that your quality would last for at least half a decade.  But nooooooo...</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>You\'re all talk and no action, Bose. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>And I don\'t want to be asked by the umpteenth guy, \"Do you listen to music loud?\" </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Hell, YES, I listen LOUD!  Is there any other way? </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Bose, hell hath no fury like a music-lover scorned.  I am leaving you for another. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Pleasure to meet you, Harman Kardon. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>The Mac geniuses speak highly of you.  When the Coolest Store on Earth shuts down at night, the geniuses blare their music LOUDLY through your translucent sticks and space-agey subwoofer. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I am intrigued, Harman Kardon.  I am very, very intrigued. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Will you promise to rock my world forever?  Or for half a decade at least? </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>If so, I am yours. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><span style=\"font-size: medium;\"><span style=\"color: #ff0000;\"><strong>xoxo</strong></span></span></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>','Day 42:  To Rock My World, You Need Stamina, Baby.  ','','inherit','open','open','','1785-revision-3','','','2010-11-08 19:05:39','2010-11-09 02:05:39','',1785,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/11/08/1785-revision-3/',0,'revision','',0),(1791,1,'2010-11-08 19:07:00','2010-11-09 02:07:00','<p>\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_1786\" align=\"alignleft\" width=\"300\" caption=\"Will HK deliver? There&#39;s nothing worse than speakers that fizzle prematurely.\"]<a href=\"http://www.harmankardon.com/EN-US/Products/Pages/ProductDetails.aspx?PID=SOUNDSTICKSII&amp;accT=1&amp;tsT=0&amp;ovT=1\" target=\"_blank\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-1786 \" title=\"SoundSticksII_IMG1_800x600\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/SoundSticksII_IMG1_800x600-300x225.gif\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Bose, after all of the build-up, I thought you might stick around forever.  But you abandoned me after only 3 years. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I realize that <span style=\"text-decoration: line-through;\">have</span> are a small SoundDock, but with your reputation and price tag, I assumed that your quality would last for at least half a decade.  But nooooooo...</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>You\'re all talk and no action, Bose. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>And I don\'t want to be asked by the umpteenth guy, \"Do you listen to music loud?\" </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Hell, YES, I listen LOUD!  Is there any other way? </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Bose, hell hath no fury like a music-lover scorned.  I am leaving you for another. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Pleasure to meet you, Harman Kardon. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>The Mac geniuses speak highly of you.  When the Coolest Store on Earth shuts down at night, the geniuses blare their music LOUDLY through your translucent sticks and space-agey subwoofer. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I am intrigued, Harman Kardon.  I am very, very intrigued. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Will you promise to rock my world forever?  Or for half a decade at least? </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>If so, I am yours. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><span style=\"font-size: medium;\"><span style=\"color: #ff0000;\"><strong>xoxo</strong></span></span></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>','Day 42:  To Rock My World, You Need Stamina, Baby.  ','','inherit','open','open','','1785-revision-4','','','2010-11-08 19:07:00','2010-11-09 02:07:00','',1785,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/11/08/1785-revision-4/',0,'revision','',0),(1792,1,'2010-11-08 19:07:48','2010-11-09 02:07:48','<p>\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_1786\" align=\"alignleft\" width=\"300\" caption=\"Will HK deliver? There&#39;s nothing worse than speakers that fizzle prematurely.\"]<a href=\"http://www.harmankardon.com/EN-US/Products/Pages/ProductDetails.aspx?PID=SOUNDSTICKSII&amp;accT=1&amp;tsT=0&amp;ovT=1\" target=\"_blank\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-1786 \" title=\"SoundSticksII_IMG1_800x600\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/SoundSticksII_IMG1_800x600-300x225.gif\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Bose, after all of the build-up, I thought you might stick around forever.  But you abandoned me after only 3 years. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I realize that <span style=\"text-decoration: line-through;\">you have</span> are a small SoundDock, but with your reputation and price tag, I assumed that your quality would last for at least half a decade.  But nooooooo...</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>You\'re all talk and no action, Bose. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>And I don\'t want to be asked by the umpteenth guy, \"Do you listen to music loud?\" </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Hell, YES, I listen LOUD!  Is there any other way? </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Bose, hell hath no fury like a music-lover scorned.  I am leaving you for another. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Pleasure to meet you, Harman Kardon. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>The Mac geniuses speak highly of you.  When the Coolest Store on Earth shuts down at night, the geniuses blare their music LOUDLY through your translucent sticks and space-agey subwoofer. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I am intrigued, Harman Kardon.  I am very, very intrigued. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Will you promise to rock my world forever?  Or for half a decade at least? </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>If so, I am yours. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><span style=\"font-size: medium;\"><span style=\"color: #ff0000;\"><strong>xoxo</strong></span></span></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>','Day 42:  To Rock My World, You Need Stamina, Baby.  ','','inherit','open','open','','1785-revision-5','','','2010-11-08 19:07:48','2010-11-09 02:07:48','',1785,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/11/08/1785-revision-5/',0,'revision','',0),(1793,1,'2010-11-08 19:08:31','2010-11-09 02:08:31','<p>\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_1786\" align=\"alignleft\" width=\"300\" caption=\"Will HK deliver? There&#39;s nothing worse than speakers that fizzle prematurely.\"]<a href=\"http://www.harmankardon.com/EN-US/Products/Pages/ProductDetails.aspx?PID=SOUNDSTICKSII&amp;accT=1&amp;tsT=0&amp;ovT=1\" target=\"_blank\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-1786 \" title=\"SoundSticksII_IMG1_800x600\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/SoundSticksII_IMG1_800x600-300x225.gif\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Bose, after all of the build-up, I thought you might stick around forever.  But you abandoned me after only 3 years. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I realize that <span style=\"text-decoration: line-through;\">you have</span> are a small SoundDock, but with your reputation and price tag, I assumed that your quality would last for at least half a decade.  But nooooooo...</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>You are all talk and no action, Bose. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>And I don\'t want to be asked by the umpteenth guy, \"Do you listen to music loud?\" </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Hell, YES, I listen LOUD!  Is there any other way? </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Bose, hell hath no fury like a music-lover scorned.  I am leaving you for another. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Pleasure to meet you, Harman Kardon. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>The Mac geniuses speak highly of you.  When the Coolest Store on Earth shuts down at night, the geniuses blare their music LOUDLY through your translucent sticks and space-agey subwoofer. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I am intrigued, Harman Kardon.  I am very, very intrigued. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Will you promise to rock my world forever?  Or for half a decade at least? </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>If so, I am yours. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><span style=\"font-size: medium;\"><span style=\"color: #ff0000;\"><strong>xoxo</strong></span></span></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>','Day 42:  To Rock My World, You Need Stamina, Baby.  ','','inherit','open','open','','1785-revision-6','','','2010-11-08 19:08:31','2010-11-09 02:08:31','',1785,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/11/08/1785-revision-6/',0,'revision','',0),(1794,1,'2010-11-08 19:10:21','2010-11-09 02:10:21','<p>\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_1786\" align=\"alignleft\" width=\"300\" caption=\"Will HK deliver? There&#39;s nothing worse than speakers that fizzle prematurely.\"]<a href=\"http://www.harmankardon.com/EN-US/Products/Pages/ProductDetails.aspx?PID=SOUNDSTICKSII&amp;accT=1&amp;tsT=0&amp;ovT=1\" target=\"_blank\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-1786 \" title=\"SoundSticksII_IMG1_800x600\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/SoundSticksII_IMG1_800x600-300x225.gif\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Bose, after all of the build-up, I thought you might stick around forever.  But you abandoned me after only 3 years. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I realize that <span style=\"text-decoration: line-through;\">you have</span> are a small SoundDock, but with your reputation and price tag, I assumed that your quality would last for at least half a decade.  But nooooooo...</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>You are all talk and no action, Bose. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>And I don\'t want to be asked by the umpteenth guy, \"Do you listen to music loud?\" </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Hell, YES, I listen LOUD!  Is there any other way? </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Bose, hell hath no fury like a music-lover scorned.  I am leaving you for another. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Pleasure to meet you, Harman Kardon. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>The Mac geniuses speak highly of you.  When the Coolest Store on Earth shuts down at night, the geniuses blare their music LOUDLY through your translucent sticks and space-agey subwoofer. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I am intrigued, Harman Kardon.  I am very, very intrigued. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Will you promise to rock my world forever?  Or for half a decade at least? </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>If so, I am yours. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><span style=\"font-size: medium;\"><span style=\"color: #ff0000;\"><strong>xoxo</strong></span></span></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>','Day 42:  To Rock My World, You Need Stamina, Baby.  ','','inherit','open','open','','1785-revision-7','','','2010-11-08 19:10:21','2010-11-09 02:10:21','',1785,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/11/08/1785-revision-7/',0,'revision','',0),(1796,1,'2010-11-09 10:30:07','2010-11-09 17:30:07','<p>\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_1800\" align=\"alignleft\" width=\"200\" caption=\"If this moves your heart, they take online donations as well! \"]<a href=\"http://mingusmanor.org\" target=\"_blank\"><img class=\"size-full wp-image-1800  \" title=\"mingusmanor.org\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/mingusmanor.org_.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"200\" height=\"128\" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Life keeps happening while I\'m making plans. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>On Day 43, I volunteered for a heartwarming cause.  </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Mingus Manor is an animal sanctuary for senior pets whose owners can no longer take care of them.  Please check out their website at <a href=\"http://mingusmanor.org/cms/index.php?option=com_frontpage&amp;Itemid=1\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>MingusManor.org.</strong></a>  Grab the Kleenex.  Although as Karen (the angel who runs MM) would say, \"Don\'t cry!\"  Because these precious animals have been given a happy second chance for their golden years.   </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I showed up for their annual Dog Wash.  People could bring their dogs to the sanctuary, pay for a deluxe doggie wash, and raise funds for the medical care of the MM seniors. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I washed a pug. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>And then wandered over to the various vendors who gave their time for the cause. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>One of these vendors happened to be an animal rescue. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Uh-oh. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>December marks the year anniversary of when I said goodbye to my beloved canine companion of nearly 14 years.  Woofie and I shared an intense bond.  A piece of my heart died with him that day. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_1801\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"225\" caption=\"My Little Angel \"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/Woofie.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-1801\" title=\"Woofie\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/Woofie-225x300.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"225\" height=\"300\" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Over the past year, well-intentioned people continually asked me, \"Do you think you will get another dog?\"  or \"When do you think you\'ll be ready for another dog?\"  or \"Maybe it\'s time you adopt another dog?\" </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>But I didn\'t want \"another dog\".  I wanted Woofie. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>But you know what they say, right?  That you don\'t pick the dog.  The dog picks you? </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Guess who nestles into my neck and cuddles just like Woofie?  A sign? </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_1802\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"300\" caption=\"Born to Snuggle\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/bella2.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-1802\" title=\"bella2\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/bella2-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n<p>\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_1804\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"300\" caption=\"A Match Made from Heaven, I Believe\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/bella11.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-1804\" title=\"bella1\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/bella11-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Within two hours, I committed to the foster mother that I would adopt \"Missy\" this Thursday.  I\'m changing her name to \"Bella\".  Or \"Lucy\". </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Or...do you have any ideas for a name?  Please share in the comments section below! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>My feet turned cold immediately after vacating the premsises.  How can I take on a 10-month old puppy now?  I just started a blog!  It\'s taking up all of my time outside of my day job!  How can I juggle everything?  How?  HOW?????</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Breathe...</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>My mother calmed me down.  She reminded me very matter-of-factly, \"Michelle, women go through unplanned pregnancies all the time.  They make it work.  You\'ll figure it out.\" </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>It\'s time.  <br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>','Day 43:  Baby Makes Two? ','','publish','open','open','','day-43babymakestwo','','','2010-11-09 09:50:35','2010-11-09 16:50:35','',0,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?p=1796',0,'post','',15),(1797,1,'2010-11-08 20:36:18','2010-11-09 03:36:18','<p>Life keeps happening while I\'m making plans. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>On Day 43, I volunteered for a heartwarming cause.  </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Mingus Manor is an animal sanctuary for senior pets whose owners can no longer take care of them.  Please check out their website at <a href=\" http://mingusmanor.org/cms/index.php?option=com_frontpage&amp;Itemid=1\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>MingusManor.org.</strong></a>  Grab the Kleenex.  Although as Karen (the angel who runs MM) would say, \"Don\'t cry!\"  Because these precious animals have been given a happy second chance for their golden years.   </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>I showed up for the annual Dog Wash.  People could bring their dogs to the sanctuary, pay for a deluxe wash, and contribute funds to the medical care of the MM seniors. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>I washed a pug. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>And then wandered over to the various vendors who gave their time for the cause. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>One of these vendors happened to be an animal rescue. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Uh-oh. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>','Day 43:  Baby Makes Two? ','','inherit','open','open','','1796-revision','','','2010-11-08 20:36:18','2010-11-09 03:36:18','',1796,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/11/08/1796-revision/',0,'revision','',0),(1798,1,'2010-11-08 20:41:02','2010-11-09 03:41:02','<p>Life keeps happening while I\'m making plans. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>On Day 43, I volunteered for a heartwarming cause.  </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Mingus Manor is an animal sanctuary for senior pets whose owners can no longer take care of them.  Please check out their website at <a href=\"http://mingusmanor.org/cms/index.php?option=com_frontpage&amp;Itemid=1\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>MingusManor.org.</strong></a>  Grab the Kleenex.  Although as Karen (the angel who runs MM) would say, \"Don\'t cry!\"  Because these precious animals have been given a happy second chance for their golden years.   </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>I showed up for the annual Dog Wash.  People could bring their dogs to the sanctuary, pay for a deluxe wash, and contribute funds to the medical care of the MM seniors. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>I washed a pug. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>And then wandered over to the various vendors who gave their time for the cause. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>One of these vendors happened to be an animal rescue. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Uh-oh. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>I am approaching the year anniversary of when I said goodbye to my beloved canine companion of nearly 14 years.  Woofie and I shared an intense bond, and piece of my heart died with him that day. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>I always</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>','Day 43:  Baby Makes Two? ','','inherit','open','open','','1796-revision-2','','','2010-11-08 20:41:02','2010-11-09 03:41:02','',1796,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/11/08/1796-revision-2/',0,'revision','',0),(1799,1,'2010-11-08 20:56:21','2010-11-09 03:56:21','<p>Life keeps happening while I\'m making plans. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>On Day 43, I volunteered for a heartwarming cause.  </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Mingus Manor is an animal sanctuary for senior pets whose owners can no longer take care of them.  Please check out their website at <a href=\"http://mingusmanor.org/cms/index.php?option=com_frontpage&amp;Itemid=1\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>MingusManor.org.</strong></a>  Grab the Kleenex.  Although as Karen (the angel who runs MM) would say, \"Don\'t cry!\"  Because these precious animals have been given a happy second chance for their golden years.   </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>I showed up for their annual Dog Wash.  People could bring their dogs to the sanctuary, pay for a deluxe wash, and contribute funds to the medical care of the MM seniors. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>I washed a pug. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>And then wandered over to the various vendors who gave their time for the cause. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>One of these vendors happened to be an animal rescue. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Uh-oh. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>December is the year anniversary of when I said goodbye to my beloved canine companion of nearly 14 years.  Woofie and I shared an intense bond, and piece of my heart died with him that day. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Over the past year, well-intentioned people continually asked me, \"Do you think you will get another dog?\"  or \"When do you think you\'ll be ready for another dog?\"  or \"Maybe it\'s time you adopt another dog?\" </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>But I didn\'t want \"another dog\".  I wanted Woofie. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>But you know what they say, right?  That you don\'t pick the dog.  The dog picks you? </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Guess who nestles into my neck and cuddles just like Woofie?  A sign? </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Within two hours, I committed to the foster mother that I would adopt \"Missy\" this Thursday.  I\'m changing her name to \"Bella\".  Or \"Lucy\". </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Or...do you have any ideas for a name?  Please share in the comments section below! </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>My feet turned cold immediately after vacating the premsises.  How can I take on a 10-month old puppy now?  I just started a blog!  It\'s taking up all of my time outside of my day job!  How can I juggle everything?  How?  HOW?????</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Breathe...</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>My mother calmed me down.  She reminded me very matter-of-factly, \"Michelle, women go through unplanned pregnancies all the time.  They make it work.  You\'ll figure it out.\" </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>It\'s time.  <br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>','Day 43:  Baby Makes Two? ','','inherit','open','open','','1796-revision-3','','','2010-11-08 20:56:21','2010-11-09 03:56:21','',1796,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/11/08/1796-revision-3/',0,'revision','',0),(1800,1,'2010-11-08 21:01:35','2010-11-09 04:01:35','','mingusmanor.org','They take online donations as well!  ','inherit','open','open','','mingusmanor-org','','','2010-11-08 21:01:35','2010-11-09 04:01:35','',1796,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/mingusmanor.org_.jpg',0,'attachment','image/jpeg',0),(1801,1,'2010-11-08 21:06:22','2010-11-09 04:06:22','','Woofie','My Little Angel ','inherit','open','open','','woofie','','','2010-11-08 21:06:22','2010-11-09 04:06:22','',1796,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/Woofie.jpg',0,'attachment','image/jpeg',0),(1802,1,'2010-11-08 21:17:02','2010-11-09 04:17:02','','Rescue Poochie','Born to Snuggle','inherit','open','open','','bella2','','','2010-11-08 21:17:02','2010-11-09 04:17:02','',1796,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/bella2.jpg',0,'attachment','image/jpeg',0),(1803,1,'2010-11-08 21:18:21','2010-11-09 04:18:21','','bella1','','inherit','open','open','','bella1','','','2010-11-08 21:18:21','2010-11-09 04:18:21','',1796,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/bella1.jpg',0,'attachment','image/jpeg',0),(1804,1,'2010-11-08 21:18:43','2010-11-09 04:18:43','','bella1','A Match Made from Heaven, I Believe','inherit','open','open','','bella1-2','','','2010-11-08 21:18:43','2010-11-09 04:18:43','',1796,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/bella11.jpg',0,'attachment','image/jpeg',0),(1805,1,'2010-11-08 21:08:00','2010-11-09 04:08:00','[caption id=\"attachment_1800\" align=\"alignleft\" width=\"200\" caption=\"If this moves your heart, they take online donations as well! \"]<a href=\"http://mingusmanor.org\" target=\"_blank\"><img class=\"size-full wp-image-1800  \" title=\"mingusmanor.org\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/mingusmanor.org_.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"200\" height=\"128\" /></a>[/caption]\n\n<p>Life keeps happening while I\'m making plans. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>On Day 43, I volunteered for a heartwarming cause.  </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Mingus Manor is an animal sanctuary for senior pets whose owners can no longer take care of them.  Please check out their website at <a href=\"http://mingusmanor.org/cms/index.php?option=com_frontpage&amp;Itemid=1\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>MingusManor.org.</strong></a>  Grab the Kleenex.  Although as Karen (the angel who runs MM) would say, \"Don\'t cry!\"  Because these precious animals have been given a happy second chance for their golden years.   </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>I showed up for their annual Dog Wash.  People could bring their dogs to the sanctuary, pay for a deluxe wash, and contribute funds to the medical care of the MM seniors. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>I washed a pug. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>And then wandered over to the various vendors who gave their time for the cause. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>One of these vendors happened to be an animal rescue. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Uh-oh. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>December is the year anniversary of when I said goodbye to my beloved canine companion of nearly 14 years.  Woofie and I shared an intense bond, and piece of my heart died with him that day. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n[caption id=\"attachment_1801\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"225\" caption=\"My Little Angel \"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/Woofie.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-1801\" title=\"Woofie\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/Woofie-225x300.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"225\" height=\"300\" /></a>[/caption]\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Over the past year, well-intentioned people continually asked me, \"Do you think you will get another dog?\"  or \"When do you think you\'ll be ready for another dog?\"  or \"Maybe it\'s time you adopt another dog?\" </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>But I didn\'t want \"another dog\".  I wanted Woofie. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>But you know what they say, right?  That you don\'t pick the dog.  The dog picks you? </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Guess who nestles into my neck and cuddles just like Woofie?  A sign? </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Within two hours, I committed to the foster mother that I would adopt \"Missy\" this Thursday.  I\'m changing her name to \"Bella\".  Or \"Lucy\". </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Or...do you have any ideas for a name?  Please share in the comments section below! </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>My feet turned cold immediately after vacating the premsises.  How can I take on a 10-month old puppy now?  I just started a blog!  It\'s taking up all of my time outside of my day job!  How can I juggle everything?  How?  HOW?????</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Breathe...</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>My mother calmed me down.  She reminded me very matter-of-factly, \"Michelle, women go through unplanned pregnancies all the time.  They make it work.  You\'ll figure it out.\" </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>It\'s time.  <br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>','Day 43:  Baby Makes Two? ','','inherit','open','open','','1796-revision-4','','','2010-11-08 21:08:00','2010-11-09 04:08:00','',1796,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/11/08/1796-revision-4/',0,'revision','',0),(1806,1,'2010-11-08 21:19:52','2010-11-09 04:19:52','[caption id=\"attachment_1800\" align=\"alignleft\" width=\"200\" caption=\"If this moves your heart, they take online donations as well! \"]<a href=\"http://mingusmanor.org\" target=\"_blank\"><img class=\"size-full wp-image-1800  \" title=\"mingusmanor.org\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/mingusmanor.org_.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"200\" height=\"128\" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n<p>Life keeps happening while I\'m making plans. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>On Day 43, I volunteered for a heartwarming cause.  </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Mingus Manor is an animal sanctuary for senior pets whose owners can no longer take care of them.  Please check out their website at <a href=\"http://mingusmanor.org/cms/index.php?option=com_frontpage&amp;Itemid=1\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>MingusManor.org.</strong></a>  Grab the Kleenex.  Although as Karen (the angel who runs MM) would say, \"Don\'t cry!\"  Because these precious animals have been given a happy second chance for their golden years.   </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I showed up for their annual Dog Wash.  People could bring their dogs to the sanctuary, pay for a deluxe wash, and contribute funds to the medical care of the MM seniors. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I washed a pug. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>And then wandered over to the various vendors who gave their time for the cause. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>One of these vendors happened to be an animal rescue. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Uh-oh. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>December is the year anniversary of when I said goodbye to my beloved canine companion of nearly 14 years.  Woofie and I shared an intense bond, and piece of my heart died with him that day. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_1801\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"225\" caption=\"My Little Angel \"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/Woofie.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-1801\" title=\"Woofie\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/Woofie-225x300.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"225\" height=\"300\" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Over the past year, well-intentioned people continually asked me, \"Do you think you will get another dog?\"  or \"When do you think you\'ll be ready for another dog?\"  or \"Maybe it\'s time you adopt another dog?\" </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>But I didn\'t want \"another dog\".  I wanted Woofie. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>But you know what they say, right?  That you don\'t pick the dog.  The dog picks you? </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Guess who nestles into my neck and cuddles just like Woofie?  A sign? </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_1802\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"300\" caption=\"Born to Snuggle\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/bella2.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-1802\" title=\"bella2\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/bella2-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_1804\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"300\" caption=\"A Match Made from Heaven, I Believe\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/bella11.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-1804\" title=\"bella1\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/bella11-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Within two hours, I committed to the foster mother that I would adopt \"Missy\" this Thursday.  I\'m changing her name to \"Bella\".  Or \"Lucy\". </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Or...do you have any ideas for a name?  Please share in the comments section below! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>My feet turned cold immediately after vacating the premsises.  How can I take on a 10-month old puppy now?  I just started a blog!  It\'s taking up all of my time outside of my day job!  How can I juggle everything?  How?  HOW?????</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Breathe...</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>My mother calmed me down.  She reminded me very matter-of-factly, \"Michelle, women go through unplanned pregnancies all the time.  They make it work.  You\'ll figure it out.\" </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>It\'s time.  <br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>','Day 43:  Baby Makes Two? ','','inherit','open','open','','1796-revision-5','','','2010-11-08 21:19:52','2010-11-09 04:19:52','',1796,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/11/08/1796-revision-5/',0,'revision','',0),(1807,1,'2010-11-08 21:20:08','2010-11-09 04:20:08','<p>\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_1800\" align=\"alignleft\" width=\"200\" caption=\"If this moves your heart, they take online donations as well! \"]<a href=\"http://mingusmanor.org\" target=\"_blank\"><img class=\"size-full wp-image-1800  \" title=\"mingusmanor.org\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/mingusmanor.org_.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"200\" height=\"128\" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Life keeps happening while I\'m making plans. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>On Day 43, I volunteered for a heartwarming cause.  </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Mingus Manor is an animal sanctuary for senior pets whose owners can no longer take care of them.  Please check out their website at <a href=\"http://mingusmanor.org/cms/index.php?option=com_frontpage&amp;Itemid=1\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>MingusManor.org.</strong></a>  Grab the Kleenex.  Although as Karen (the angel who runs MM) would say, \"Don\'t cry!\"  Because these precious animals have been given a happy second chance for their golden years.   </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I showed up for their annual Dog Wash.  People could bring their dogs to the sanctuary, pay for a deluxe wash, and contribute funds to the medical care of the MM seniors. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I washed a pug. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>And then wandered over to the various vendors who gave their time for the cause. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>One of these vendors happened to be an animal rescue. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Uh-oh. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>December is the year anniversary of when I said goodbye to my beloved canine companion of nearly 14 years.  Woofie and I shared an intense bond, and piece of my heart died with him that day. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_1801\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"225\" caption=\"My Little Angel \"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/Woofie.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-1801\" title=\"Woofie\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/Woofie-225x300.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"225\" height=\"300\" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Over the past year, well-intentioned people continually asked me, \"Do you think you will get another dog?\"  or \"When do you think you\'ll be ready for another dog?\"  or \"Maybe it\'s time you adopt another dog?\" </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>But I didn\'t want \"another dog\".  I wanted Woofie. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>But you know what they say, right?  That you don\'t pick the dog.  The dog picks you? </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Guess who nestles into my neck and cuddles just like Woofie?  A sign? </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_1802\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"300\" caption=\"Born to Snuggle\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/bella2.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-1802\" title=\"bella2\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/bella2-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n<p>\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_1804\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"300\" caption=\"A Match Made from Heaven, I Believe\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/bella11.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-1804\" title=\"bella1\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/bella11-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Within two hours, I committed to the foster mother that I would adopt \"Missy\" this Thursday.  I\'m changing her name to \"Bella\".  Or \"Lucy\". </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Or...do you have any ideas for a name?  Please share in the comments section below! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>My feet turned cold immediately after vacating the premsises.  How can I take on a 10-month old puppy now?  I just started a blog!  It\'s taking up all of my time outside of my day job!  How can I juggle everything?  How?  HOW?????</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Breathe...</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>My mother calmed me down.  She reminded me very matter-of-factly, \"Michelle, women go through unplanned pregnancies all the time.  They make it work.  You\'ll figure it out.\" </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>It\'s time.  <br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>','Day 43:  Baby Makes Two? ','','inherit','open','open','','1796-revision-6','','','2010-11-08 21:20:08','2010-11-09 04:20:08','',1796,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/11/08/1796-revision-6/',0,'revision','',0),(1809,1,'2010-11-08 21:26:10','2010-11-09 04:26:10','<p>\n\n[caption id=\"attachment_1800\" align=\"alignleft\" width=\"200\" caption=\"If this moves your heart, they take online donations as well! \"]<a href=\"http://mingusmanor.org\" target=\"_blank\"><img class=\"size-full wp-image-1800  \" title=\"mingusmanor.org\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/mingusmanor.org_.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"200\" height=\"128\" /></a>[/caption]\n\n</p>\n\n<p>Life keeps happening while I\'m making plans. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>On Day 43, I volunteered for a heartwarming cause.  </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Mingus Manor is an animal sanctuary for senior pets whose owners can no longer take care of them.  Please check out their website at <a href=\"http://mingusmanor.org/cms/index.php?option=com_frontpage&amp;Itemid=1\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>MingusManor.org.</strong></a>  Grab the Kleenex.  Although as Karen (the angel who runs MM) would say, \"Don\'t cry!\"  Because these precious animals have been given a happy second chance for their golden years.   </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>I showed up for their annual Dog Wash.  People could bring their dogs to the sanctuary, pay for a deluxe doggie wash, and contribute funds to the medical care of the MM seniors. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>I washed a pug. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>And then wandered over to the various vendors who gave their time for the cause. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>One of these vendors happened to be an animal rescue. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Uh-oh. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>December marks the year anniversary of when I said goodbye to my beloved canine companion of nearly 14 years.  Woofie and I shared an intense bond.  A piece of my heart died with him that day. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>\n\n[caption id=\"attachment_1801\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"225\" caption=\"My Little Angel \"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/Woofie.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-1801\" title=\"Woofie\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/Woofie-225x300.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"225\" height=\"300\" /></a>[/caption]\n\n</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Over the past year, well-intentioned people continually asked me, \"Do you think you will get another dog?\"  or \"When do you think you\'ll be ready for another dog?\"  or \"Maybe it\'s time you adopt another dog?\" </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>But I didn\'t want \"another dog\".  I wanted Woofie. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>But you know what they say, right?  That you don\'t pick the dog.  The dog picks you? </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Guess who nestles into my neck and cuddles just like Woofie?  A sign? </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>\n\n[caption id=\"attachment_1802\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"300\" caption=\"Born to Snuggle\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/bella2.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-1802\" title=\"bella2\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/bella2-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>[/caption]\n\n</p>\n\n<p>\n\n[caption id=\"attachment_1804\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"300\" caption=\"A Match Made from Heaven, I Believe\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/bella11.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-1804\" title=\"bella1\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/bella11-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>[/caption]\n\n</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Within two hours, I committed to the foster mother that I would adopt \"Missy\" this Thursday.  I\'m changing her name to \"Bella\".  Or \"Lucy\". </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Or...do you have any ideas for a name?  Please share in the comments section below! </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>My feet turned cold immediately after vacating the premsises.  How can I take on a 10-month old puppy now?  I just started a blog!  It\'s taking up all of my time outside of my day job!  How can I juggle everything?  How?  HOW?????</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Breathe...</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>My mother calmed me down.  She reminded me very matter-of-factly, \"Michelle, women go through unplanned pregnancies all the time.  They make it work.  You\'ll figure it out.\" </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>It\'s time.  <br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>','Day 43:  Baby Makes Two? ','','inherit','open','open','','1796-revision-8','','','2010-11-08 21:26:10','2010-11-09 04:26:10','',1796,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/11/08/1796-revision-8/',0,'revision','',0),(1808,1,'2010-11-08 21:24:13','2010-11-09 04:24:13','<p>\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_1800\" align=\"alignleft\" width=\"200\" caption=\"If this moves your heart, they take online donations as well! \"]<a href=\"http://mingusmanor.org\" target=\"_blank\"><img class=\"size-full wp-image-1800  \" title=\"mingusmanor.org\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/mingusmanor.org_.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"200\" height=\"128\" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Life keeps happening while I\'m making plans. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>On Day 43, I volunteered for a heartwarming cause.  </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Mingus Manor is an animal sanctuary for senior pets whose owners can no longer take care of them.  Please check out their website at <a href=\"http://mingusmanor.org/cms/index.php?option=com_frontpage&amp;Itemid=1\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>MingusManor.org.</strong></a>  Grab the Kleenex.  Although as Karen (the angel who runs MM) would say, \"Don\'t cry!\"  Because these precious animals have been given a happy second chance for their golden years.   </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I showed up for their annual Dog Wash.  People could bring their dogs to the sanctuary, pay for a deluxe wash, and contribute funds to the medical care of the MM seniors. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I washed a pug. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>And then wandered over to the various vendors who gave their time for the cause. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>One of these vendors happened to be an animal rescue. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Uh-oh. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>December marks the year anniversary of when I said goodbye to my beloved canine companion of nearly 14 years.  Woofie and I shared an intense bond, and piece of my heart died with him that day. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_1801\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"225\" caption=\"My Little Angel \"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/Woofie.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-1801\" title=\"Woofie\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/Woofie-225x300.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"225\" height=\"300\" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Over the past year, well-intentioned people continually asked me, \"Do you think you will get another dog?\"  or \"When do you think you\'ll be ready for another dog?\"  or \"Maybe it\'s time you adopt another dog?\" </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>But I didn\'t want \"another dog\".  I wanted Woofie. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>But you know what they say, right?  That you don\'t pick the dog.  The dog picks you? </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Guess who nestles into my neck and cuddles just like Woofie?  A sign? </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_1802\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"300\" caption=\"Born to Snuggle\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/bella2.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-1802\" title=\"bella2\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/bella2-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n<p>\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_1804\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"300\" caption=\"A Match Made from Heaven, I Believe\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/bella11.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-1804\" title=\"bella1\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/bella11-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Within two hours, I committed to the foster mother that I would adopt \"Missy\" this Thursday.  I\'m changing her name to \"Bella\".  Or \"Lucy\". </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Or...do you have any ideas for a name?  Please share in the comments section below! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>My feet turned cold immediately after vacating the premsises.  How can I take on a 10-month old puppy now?  I just started a blog!  It\'s taking up all of my time outside of my day job!  How can I juggle everything?  How?  HOW?????</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Breathe...</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>My mother calmed me down.  She reminded me very matter-of-factly, \"Michelle, women go through unplanned pregnancies all the time.  They make it work.  You\'ll figure it out.\" </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>It\'s time.  <br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>','Day 43:  Baby Makes Two? ','','inherit','open','open','','1796-revision-7','','','2010-11-08 21:24:13','2010-11-09 04:24:13','',1796,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/11/08/1796-revision-7/',0,'revision','',0),(1810,1,'2010-11-08 21:27:28','2010-11-09 04:27:28','<p>\n\n[caption id=\"attachment_1800\" align=\"alignleft\" width=\"200\" caption=\"If this moves your heart, they take online donations as well! \"]<a href=\"http://mingusmanor.org\" target=\"_blank\"><img class=\"size-full wp-image-1800  \" title=\"mingusmanor.org\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/mingusmanor.org_.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"200\" height=\"128\" /></a>[/caption]\n\n</p>\n\n<p>Life keeps happening while I\'m making plans. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>On Day 43, I volunteered for a heartwarming cause.  </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Mingus Manor is an animal sanctuary for senior pets whose owners can no longer take care of them.  Please check out their website at <a href=\"http://mingusmanor.org/cms/index.php?option=com_frontpage&amp;Itemid=1\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>MingusManor.org.</strong></a>  Grab the Kleenex.  Although as Karen (the angel who runs MM) would say, \"Don\'t cry!\"  Because these precious animals have been given a happy second chance for their golden years.   </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>I showed up for their annual Dog Wash.  People could bring their dogs to the sanctuary, pay for a deluxe doggie wash, while raising funds to the medical care of the MM seniors. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>I washed a pug. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>And then wandered over to the various vendors who gave their time for the cause. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>One of these vendors happened to be an animal rescue. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Uh-oh. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>December marks the year anniversary of when I said goodbye to my beloved canine companion of nearly 14 years.  Woofie and I shared an intense bond.  A piece of my heart died with him that day. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>\n\n[caption id=\"attachment_1801\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"225\" caption=\"My Little Angel \"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/Woofie.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-1801\" title=\"Woofie\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/Woofie-225x300.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"225\" height=\"300\" /></a>[/caption]\n\n</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Over the past year, well-intentioned people continually asked me, \"Do you think you will get another dog?\"  or \"When do you think you\'ll be ready for another dog?\"  or \"Maybe it\'s time you adopt another dog?\" </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>But I didn\'t want \"another dog\".  I wanted Woofie. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>But you know what they say, right?  That you don\'t pick the dog.  The dog picks you? </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Guess who nestles into my neck and cuddles just like Woofie?  A sign? </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>\n\n[caption id=\"attachment_1802\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"300\" caption=\"Born to Snuggle\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/bella2.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-1802\" title=\"bella2\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/bella2-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>[/caption]\n\n</p>\n\n<p>\n\n[caption id=\"attachment_1804\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"300\" caption=\"A Match Made from Heaven, I Believe\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/bella11.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-1804\" title=\"bella1\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/bella11-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>[/caption]\n\n</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Within two hours, I committed to the foster mother that I would adopt \"Missy\" this Thursday.  I\'m changing her name to \"Bella\".  Or \"Lucy\". </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Or...do you have any ideas for a name?  Please share in the comments section below! </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>My feet turned cold immediately after vacating the premsises.  How can I take on a 10-month old puppy now?  I just started a blog!  It\'s taking up all of my time outside of my day job!  How can I juggle everything?  How?  HOW?????</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Breathe...</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>My mother calmed me down.  She reminded me very matter-of-factly, \"Michelle, women go through unplanned pregnancies all the time.  They make it work.  You\'ll figure it out.\" </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>It\'s time.  <br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>','Day 43:  Baby Makes Two? ','','inherit','open','open','','1796-revision-9','','','2010-11-08 21:27:28','2010-11-09 04:27:28','',1796,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/11/08/1796-revision-9/',0,'revision','',0),(1811,1,'2010-11-08 21:29:06','2010-11-09 04:29:06','<p>\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_1800\" align=\"alignleft\" width=\"200\" caption=\"If this moves your heart, they take online donations as well! \"]<a href=\"http://mingusmanor.org\" target=\"_blank\"><img class=\"size-full wp-image-1800  \" title=\"mingusmanor.org\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/mingusmanor.org_.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"200\" height=\"128\" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Life keeps happening while I\'m making plans. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>On Day 43, I volunteered for a heartwarming cause.  </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Mingus Manor is an animal sanctuary for senior pets whose owners can no longer take care of them.  Please check out their website at <a href=\"http://mingusmanor.org/cms/index.php?option=com_frontpage&amp;Itemid=1\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>MingusManor.org.</strong></a>  Grab the Kleenex.  Although as Karen (the angel who runs MM) would say, \"Don\'t cry!\"  Because these precious animals have been given a happy second chance for their golden years.   </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I showed up for their annual Dog Wash.  People could bring their dogs to the sanctuary, pay for a deluxe doggie wash, and raise funds for the medical care of the MM seniors. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I washed a pug. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>And then wandered over to the various vendors who gave their time for the cause. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>One of these vendors happened to be an animal rescue. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Uh-oh. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>December marks the year anniversary of when I said goodbye to my beloved canine companion of nearly 14 years.  Woofie and I shared an intense bond.  A piece of my heart died with him that day. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_1801\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"225\" caption=\"My Little Angel \"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/Woofie.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-1801\" title=\"Woofie\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/Woofie-225x300.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"225\" height=\"300\" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Over the past year, well-intentioned people continually asked me, \"Do you think you will get another dog?\"  or \"When do you think you\'ll be ready for another dog?\"  or \"Maybe it\'s time you adopt another dog?\" </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>But I didn\'t want \"another dog\".  I wanted Woofie. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>But you know what they say, right?  That you don\'t pick the dog.  The dog picks you? </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Guess who nestles into my neck and cuddles just like Woofie?  A sign? </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_1802\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"300\" caption=\"Born to Snuggle\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/bella2.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-1802\" title=\"bella2\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/bella2-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n<p>\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_1804\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"300\" caption=\"A Match Made from Heaven, I Believe\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/bella11.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-1804\" title=\"bella1\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/bella11-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Within two hours, I committed to the foster mother that I would adopt \"Missy\" this Thursday.  I\'m changing her name to \"Bella\".  Or \"Lucy\". </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Or...do you have any ideas for a name?  Please share in the comments section below! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>My feet turned cold immediately after vacating the premsises.  How can I take on a 10-month old puppy now?  I just started a blog!  It\'s taking up all of my time outside of my day job!  How can I juggle everything?  How?  HOW?????</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Breathe...</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>My mother calmed me down.  She reminded me very matter-of-factly, \"Michelle, women go through unplanned pregnancies all the time.  They make it work.  You\'ll figure it out.\" </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>It\'s time.  <br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>','Day 43:  Baby Makes Two? ','','inherit','open','open','','1796-revision-10','','','2010-11-08 21:29:06','2010-11-09 04:29:06','',1796,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/11/08/1796-revision-10/',0,'revision','',0),(1812,1,'2010-11-08 21:29:46','2010-11-09 04:29:46','<p>\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_1800\" align=\"alignleft\" width=\"200\" caption=\"If this moves your heart, they take online donations as well! \"]<a href=\"http://mingusmanor.org\" target=\"_blank\"><img class=\"size-full wp-image-1800  \" title=\"mingusmanor.org\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/mingusmanor.org_.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"200\" height=\"128\" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Life keeps happening while I\'m making plans. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>On Day 43, I volunteered for a heartwarming cause.  </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Mingus Manor is an animal sanctuary for senior pets whose owners can no longer take care of them.  Please check out their website at <a href=\"http://mingusmanor.org/cms/index.php?option=com_frontpage&amp;Itemid=1\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>MingusManor.org.</strong></a>  Grab the Kleenex.  Although as Karen (the angel who runs MM) would say, \"Don\'t cry!\"  Because these precious animals have been given a happy second chance for their golden years.   </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I showed up for their annual Dog Wash.  People could bring their dogs to the sanctuary, pay for a deluxe doggie wash, and raise funds for the medical care of the MM seniors. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I washed a pug. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>And then wandered over to the various vendors who gave their time for the cause. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>One of these vendors happened to be an animal rescue. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Uh-oh. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>December marks the year anniversary of when I said goodbye to my beloved canine companion of nearly 14 years.  Woofie and I shared an intense bond.  A piece of my heart died with him that day. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_1801\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"225\" caption=\"My Little Angel \"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/Woofie.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-1801\" title=\"Woofie\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/Woofie-225x300.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"225\" height=\"300\" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Over the past year, well-intentioned people continually asked me, \"Do you think you will get another dog?\"  or \"When do you think you\'ll be ready for another dog?\"  or \"Maybe it\'s time you adopt another dog?\" </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>But I didn\'t want \"another dog\".  I wanted Woofie. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>But you know what they say, right?  That you don\'t pick the dog.  The dog picks you? </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Guess who nestles into my neck and cuddles just like Woofie?  A sign? </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_1802\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"300\" caption=\"Born to Snuggle\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/bella2.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-1802\" title=\"bella2\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/bella2-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n<p>\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_1804\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"300\" caption=\"A Match Made from Heaven, I Believe\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/bella11.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-1804\" title=\"bella1\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/bella11-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Within two hours, I committed to the foster mother that I would adopt \"Missy\" this Thursday.  I\'m changing her name to \"Bella\".  Or \"Lucy\". </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Or...do you have any ideas for a name?  Please share in the comments section below! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>My feet turned cold immediately after vacating the premsises.  How can I take on a 10-month old puppy now?  I just started a blog!  It\'s taking up all of my time outside of my day job!  How can I juggle everything?  How?  HOW?????</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Breathe...</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>My mother calmed me down.  She reminded me very matter-of-factly, \"Michelle, women go through unplanned pregnancies all the time.  They make it work.  You\'ll figure it out.\" </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>It\'s time.  <br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>','Day 43:  Baby Makes Two? ','','inherit','open','open','','1796-revision-11','','','2010-11-08 21:29:46','2010-11-09 04:29:46','',1796,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/11/08/1796-revision-11/',0,'revision','',0),(1815,1,'2010-11-09 22:51:51','2010-11-10 05:51:51','','grooveshark','','inherit','open','open','','grooveshark','','','2010-11-09 22:51:51','2010-11-10 05:51:51','',1813,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/grooveshark.png',0,'attachment','image/png',0),(1816,1,'2010-11-09 22:44:00','2010-11-10 05:44:00','<p>Every once and awhile, I know more than a techie. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>When this happens, I feel special.  And really smart.  And on Day 44, young and cool. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>On Day 42, I cornered a Mac genius at the Apple Store.  After he listened to my <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/11/09/day-42-to-rock-my-world-you-need-stamina-baby/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Bose rant</strong></a>, he walked me over and introduced me to my promising new love, Hardon Karmon. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Mac genius (aka Justin) then informed me that iTunes wasn\'t installed on the computer that the Hardon Karmon speakers were hooked up to.  He started to think about what else he could do to demonstrate the speakers. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>I suggested <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/11/09/day-42-to-rock-my-world-you-need-stamina-baby/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Grooveshark.com.</strong></a><strong>  </strong>Justin (estimated age 25) stared blankly at me. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><strong>Justin:</strong>  You mean Pandora? </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><strong>Me:</strong>  No.  Grooveshark.  You know?  The site where you can type in any song and it plays in it\'s entirety.</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><strong>Justin:  </strong>Really?  I\'ve never heard of it! </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>My part-time neighbor from Seattle (aka \"neighbor cub\" because he is only 30 and makes me feel like a cougar even though he always asks to \"hang out\" with me and I\'ve never hunted him once which means that <a href=\"http://latebloomerdiary.blogspot.com/2009/09/cougar-mania-makes-me-want-to-yak_20.html\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>I am definitely not a cougar!</strong></a>) looked clueless as well. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><strong>Neighbor cub:  </strong>You mean you listen to the whole song?  Do you have to pay for it after? </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><strong>Me:  </strong>Guys.  Did I say iLike?  Did I say Pandora?  This is Grooveshark and it\'s going to change your life. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>The teacher in me quickly threw in a Grooveshark 101 tutorial. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><strong>Me:  </strong>This is how it works.  Go to the site.  Type in a song.  Any song.  It will play in its entirety.  For as many times as you like.  I\'m not sure how this is possible.  It\'s like Napster revisited.  <em>(I then had a scary visual of the boys in diapers when Napster was big.  Yikes!  Moving right along...)</em>  I\'m not sure how it\'s legal.  I\'m not sure how it works.  But it\'s a dream come true. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Justin pulled up the site.  It was certainly his fantasy come because apparently now Grooveshark stays afloat with ads.  On this day, the ads displayed Victoria\'s Secret bra models.  Justin immediately shifted from cool genius to fumbling schoolboy.    </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><strong>Me:  </strong>Pick any song that comes to your mind and type it in the box. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>I tried to think of a joke about double Ds but I was a little flustered as well.</p>\n\n<p><strong> </strong></p>\n\n<p><strong>Justin:  </strong>I can\'t think of anything!!!</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>(Well, you are thinking about <em>something</em>, Justin.  But it has nothing to do with music.)</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>I needed Justin to focus.  I reigned him in with, \"Try \'For Those About to Rock\' by AC/DC. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Magically, the double Ds disappeared (thank the lord) and up came our song. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Angus Young\'s guitar riff drew the attention of Mac genius #2 who waltzed on over to investigate.  He saluted the speakers and then moved on shaking his head like Angus.  It was a beautiful moment.</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Justin and Neighbor cub looked at me with deep respect. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>YES!!!! </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>On Day 44, I decided to try Grooveshark out on my new speakers.  A friend at work previously introduced me to Grooveshark at lunch, and I\'ve never taken the time to play around with it at home.  My Year of Living Curiously means making time for goofing off, so now is a good time as any. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Here was my stream-of-consciousness playlist: </p>\n\n<p>1.  <strong>\"For Those About to Rock\" by AC/DC</strong>:  I will milk as much AC/DC out of Grooveshark as I possibly can.  Why?  Because they refuse to sell their music on iTunes.  And I owned AC/DC albums and cassettes <em>(moving right along!!)</em>back in the day.  I don\'t want to buy your entire recordings again, AC/DC.  I only want to purchase my favorite songs.  But noooooo...you greedy bastards won\'t let me!  So to heck with you!!!  I LOVE YOU, GROOVESHARK!!!!</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>2.  <strong>\"Back in Black\" by AC/DC:  </strong>To prove my point.  Bugger off, AC/DC!  Cranked the subwoofer all the way up on this one. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>3.  <strong>\"Same Mistake\" by James Blunt</strong>:  Because I worked myself up in a tizzy over AC/DC and needed to chill.  Just learned this one on the guitar. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>4.  <strong>\"Do It Again\" by Diana Krall</strong>:  Because James Blunt can be so bloody depressing, and I needed sultry romance.  (Speaking of sultry -- 3 token male readers, the Victoria\'s Secret ads are still running.)  Had to turn the subwoofer back down.  Wow!!!!</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>5. <strong> \"Smoke a Little Smoke\" by Eric Church:</strong>  Because I was cleaning up the house while the music was playing and put away my Cowgirl Boots which got me thinking of country music.  Giddyup!</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>6.  <strong>\"Space\" by Sarah Buxton:</strong>  Because I wanted female representation in my country music.  And I wanted the 3 token male readers to listen up and learn.  ;-)</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>7.  <strong>\"Something\" by London Symphony Orchestra:</strong>  ALERT!!!  ALERT!!!!  NO BEATLES ON GROOVESHARK!!!!  THIS VERSION IS WAAYYYYYY TOO DORKY!!!  LISTEN AT YOUR OWN RISK!!!!  ARE THOSE ABBA WANNABEES IN THE CHORUS???  NOOOOOOOO!!!!!  THE BEATLES ARE SACRED!!!!  STOP!!!!!!!</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>I couldn\'t listen all the way through.  I abruptly paused when the male chorus entered out of respect to John &amp; George. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>8.  Pavarotti singing <strong>\"Nessun Dorma\" from <em>Turandot</em> by Puccini:</strong>  Because I <em>do </em>love classical music in general and support our symphonies. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>9.  <strong>\"Don\'t Walk Away\" by Electric Light Orchestra:</strong>  Speaking of dorky, I recently discovered that my friend, Brette (aka Brettesy), shares my childhood obsession with Olivia Newton-John and <em>Xanadu.</em>  Side B was my favorite side of the soundtrack album because it featured ELO whom I love almost as much as The Beatles.  Jeff Lynne, you sound AMAZING on these speakers!!!! </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>10.  <strong>\"Lights\" by Journey:</strong>  Because I wanted to hear another AMAZING voice on my speakers.  Steve Perry, you are a Powerful Portuguese Man and don\'t you ever forget it!  Everyone after you has tried to sing just like you, but you are the original, baby. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>I had to turn the speakers down at one point.  Svennykins, if you are reading this, do you think I can blow a fuse with these puppies (like you think I did with the SoundDock), or am I good?</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>11. <strong>\"Rock of Ages\" by Def Leppard:  </strong>If I\'m going back in time, then I need to honour my boys from Sheffield, England.  My first concert ever!! </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Sound back UP!  Fuse schmuse. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>12. <strong> \"Scene 8\" from <em>The Nutcracker</em> by Tchaikovsky</strong>:  Because it\'s my bedtime and I\'m all wound up from Def Leppard.  I need to calm down and get sleepy.  Berlin Symphony Orchestra, your tempo is much too fast. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>PAUSE.</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>13.  <strong>\"Scene 8\" from <em>The Nutcracker </em>by Tchaikovsy:</strong>  Because the Boston Ballet Orchestra\'s conductor wasn\'t on speed. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Although now I\'m dancing around my kitchen thinking that I\'m the second coming of Gelsey Kirkland, which I am not.  Women if you have never seen Gelsey, <a href=\"http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3z3vvmuCuDg&amp;feature=related\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>watch this and weep</strong></a>.  Sigh...</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>It\'s 10:35.  Didn\'t I say a couple of weeks ago that I would stop blogging this late? </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Now it\'s your turn.  Create your own eclectic playlist on Grooveshark.com and then share it with us in the comments section below.</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>','Day 44:  Get Your Groove On','','inherit','open','open','','1813-revision-2','','','2010-11-09 22:44:00','2010-11-10 05:44:00','',1813,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/11/09/1813-revision-2/',0,'revision','',0),(1814,1,'2010-11-09 22:40:49','2010-11-10 05:40:49','<p>Every once and awhile, I know more than a techie. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>When this happens, I feel special.  And really smart.  And on Day 44, young and cool. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>On Day 42, I cornered a Mac genius at the Apple Store.  After he listened to my <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/11/09/day-42-to-rock-my-world-you-need-stamina-baby/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Bose rant</strong></a><span>, he walked me over and introduced me to my promising new love, <span>Hardon</span> <span>Karmon</span>. </span></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><span>Mac genius (aka Justin) then informed me that <span>iTunes</span> wasn\'t installed on the computer that the <span>Hardon</span> <span>Karmon</span> speakers were hooked up to.  He started to think about what else he could do to demonstrate the speakers. </span></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>I suggested <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/11/09/day-42-to-rock-my-world-you-need-stamina-baby/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong><span><span>Grooveshark</span>.com.</span></strong></a><strong>  </strong>Justin (estimated age 25) stared blankly at me. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><strong>Justin:</strong>  You mean Pandora? </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><strong>Me:</strong><span>  No.  <span>Grooveshark</span>.  You know?  The site where you can type in any song and it plays in it\'s entirety.</span></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><strong>Justin:  </strong>Really?  I\'ve never heard of it! </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>My part-time neighbor from Seattle (aka \"neighbor cub\" because he is only 30 and makes me feel like a cougar even though he always asks to \"hang out\" with me and I\'ve never hunted him once which means that <a href=\"http://latebloomerdiary.blogspot.com/2009/09/cougar-mania-makes-me-want-to-yak_20.html\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>I am definitely not a cougar!</strong></a>) looked clueless as well. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><strong>Neighbor cub:  </strong>You mean you listen to the whole song?  Do you have to pay for it after? </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><strong>Me:  </strong><span>Guys.  Did I say <span>iLike</span>?  Did I say Pandora?  This is <span>Grooveshark</span> and it\'s going to change your life. </span></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>The teacher in me quickly threw in a Grooveshark 101 tutorial. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><strong>Me:  </strong>This is how it works.  Go to the site.  Type in a song.  Any song.  It will play in its entirety.  For as many times as you like.  I\'m not sure how this is possible.  It\'s like Napster revisited.  <em>(I then had a scary visual of the boys in diapers when Napster was big.  Yikes!  Moving right along...)</em>  I\'m not sure how it\'s legal.  I\'m not sure how it works.  But it\'s a dream come true. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><span>Justin pulled up the site.  It was certainly his fantasy come because apparently now <span>Grooveshark</span> stays afloat with ads.  On this day, the ads displayed Victoria\'s Secret bra models.  Justin immediately shifted from cool genius to fumbling schoolboy.     </span></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><strong>Me:  </strong>Pick any song that comes to your mind and type it in the box. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><span>I tried to think of a joke about double <span>Ds</span> but I was a little flustered as well.</span></p>\n\n<p><strong> </strong></p>\n\n<p><strong>Justin:  </strong>I can\'t think of anything!!!</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>(Well, you are thinking about <em>something</em>, Justin.  But it has nothing to do with music.)</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>I needed Justin to focus.  I reigned him in with, \"Try \'For Those About to Rock\' by AC/DC. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><span>Magically, the double <span>Ds</span> disappeared (thank the lord) and up came our song.  </span></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Angus Young\'s guitar riff drew the attention of Mac genius #2 who waltzed on over to investigate.  He saluted the speakers and then moved on shaking his head like Angus.  It was a beautiful moment.</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Justin and Neighbor cub looked at me with deep respect. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>YES!!!! </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><span>On Day 44, I decided to try <span>Grooveshark</span> out on my new speakers.  A friend at work previously introduced me to <span>Grooveshark</span> at lunch, and I\'ve never taken the time to play around with it at home.  My Year of Living Curiously means making time for goofing off, so now is a good time as any.  </span></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><span>Here was my stream-of-consciousness <span>playlist:</span></span> </p>\n\n<p>1.  <strong>\"For Those About to Rock\" by AC/DC</strong><span>:  I will milk as much AC/DC out of <span>Grooveshark</span> as I possibly can.  Why?  Because they refuse to sell their music on <span>iTunes</span>.  And I owned AC/DC albums and cassettes </span><em>(moving right along!!)</em><span>back in the day.  I don\'t want to buy your entire recordings again, AC/DC.  I only want to purchase my favorite songs.  But <span>noooooo</span>...you greedy bastards won\'t let me!  So to heck with you!!!  I LOVE YOU, GROOVESHARK!!!!</span></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>2.  <strong>\"Back in Black\" by AC/DC:  </strong><span>To prove my point.  Bugger off, AC/DC!  Cranked the <span>subwoofer</span> all the way up on this one.  </span></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>3.  <strong>\"Same Mistake\" by James Blunt</strong><span>:  Because I worked myself up in a tizzy over AC/DC and needed to chill.  Just learned this one on the guitar.  </span></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>4.  <strong><span>\"Do It Again\" by Diana <span>Krall</span></span></strong><span>:  Because James Blunt can be so bloody depressing, and I needed sultry romance.  (Speaking of sultry -- 3 token male readers, the Victoria\'s Secret ads are still running.)  Had to turn the <span>subwoofer</span> back down.  Wow!!!! </span></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><span>5. <strong> \"Smoke a Little Smoke\" by Eric Church:</strong>  Because I was cleaning up the house while the music was playing and put away my Cowgirl Boots which got me thinking of country music.  Giddyup!</span></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><span>6.  <strong>\"Space\" by Sarah Buxton:</strong>  Because I wanted female representation in my country music.  And I wanted the 3 token male readers to listen up and learn.  ;-) </span></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><span>7.  <strong>\"Something\" by London Symphony Orchestra:</strong>  ALERT!!!  ALERT!!!!  NO BEATLES ON GROOVESHARK!!!!  THIS VERSION IS WAAYYYYYY TOO DORKY!!!  LISTEN AT YOUR OWN RISK!!!!  ARE THOSE ABBA WANNABEES IN THE CHORUS???  NOOOOOOOO!!!!!  THE BEATLES ARE SACRED!!!!  STOP!!!!!!!</span></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><span>I couldn\'t listen all the way through.  I abruptly paused when the male chorus entered out of respect to John &amp; George.  </span></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><span>8.  Pavarotti singing <strong>\"Nessun Dorma\" from <em>Turandot</em> by Puccini:</strong>  Because I <em>do </em>love classical music in general and support our symphonies.  </span></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><span>9.  <strong>\"Don\'t Walk Away\" by Electric Light Orchestra:</strong>  Speaking of dorky, I recently discovered that my friend, Brette (aka Brettesy), shares my childhood obsession with Olivia Newton-John and <em>Xanadu.</em>  Side B was my favorite side of the soundtrack album because it featured ELO whom I love almost as much as The Beatles.  Jeff Lynne, you sound AMAZING on these speakers!!!!  </span></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><span>10.  <strong>\"Lights\" by Journey:</strong>  Because I wanted to hear another AMAZING voice on my speakers.  Steve Perry, you are a Powerful Portuguese Man and don\'t you ever forget it!  Everyone after you has tried to sing just like you, but you are the original, baby.  </span></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><span>I had to turn the speakers down at one point.  Svennykins, if you are reading this, do you think I can blow a fuse with these puppies (like you think I did with the SoundDock), or am I good? </span></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><span>11. <strong> \"Rock of Ages\" by Def Leppard:  </strong>If I\'m going back in time, then I need to honour my boys from Sheffield, England.  My first concert ever!!  </span></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><span>Sound back UP!  Fuse schmuse.  </span></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><span>12. <strong> \"Scene 8\" from <em>The Nutcracker</em> by Tchaikovsky</strong>:  Because it\'s my bedtime and I\'m all wound up from Def Leppard.  I need to calm down and get sleepy.  Berlin Symphony Orchestra, your tempo is much too fast.  </span></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><span>PAUSE.</span></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><span>13.  <strong>\"Scene 8\" from <em>The Nutcracker </em>by Tchaikovsy:</strong>  Because the Boston Ballet Orchestra\'s conductor wasn\'t on speed.  </span></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><span>Although now I\'m dancing around my kitchen thinking that I\'m the second coming of Gelsey Kirkland, which I am not.  Women if you have never seen Gelsey, <a href=\"http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3z3vvmuCuDg&amp;feature=related\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>watch this and weep</strong></a>.  </span></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><span>Sigh...</span></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><span>It\'s 10:35.  Didn\'t I say a couple of weeks ago that I would stop blogging this late?  </span></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><span>Now it\'s your turn.  Create your own eclectic playlist on Grooveshark.com and then share it with us in the comments section below.</span></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><strong> </strong></p>','Day 44:  Get Your Groove On','','inherit','open','open','','1813-revision','','','2010-11-09 22:40:49','2010-11-10 05:40:49','',1813,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/11/09/1813-revision/',0,'revision','',0),(1817,1,'2010-11-09 22:53:19','2010-11-10 05:53:19','<p><a href=\"http://www.grooveshark.com\"><img class=\"alignleft size-full wp-image-1815\" title=\"grooveshark\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/grooveshark.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"250\" height=\"222\" /></a>Every once and awhile, I know more than a techie. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>When this happens, I feel special.  And really smart.  And on Day 44, young and cool. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>On Day 42, I cornered a Mac genius at the Apple Store.  After he listened to my <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/11/09/day-42-to-rock-my-world-you-need-stamina-baby/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Bose rant</strong></a>, he walked me over and introduced me to my promising new love, Hardon Karmon. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Mac genius (aka Justin) then informed me that iTunes wasn\'t installed on the computer that the Hardon Karmon speakers were hooked up to.  He started to think about what else he could do to demonstrate the speakers. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>I suggested <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/11/09/day-42-to-rock-my-world-you-need-stamina-baby/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Grooveshark.com.</strong></a><strong>  </strong>Justin (estimated age 25) stared blankly at me. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><strong>Justin:</strong>  You mean Pandora? </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><strong>Me:</strong>  No.  Grooveshark.  You know?  The site where you can type in any song and it plays in it\'s entirety.</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><strong>Justin:  </strong>Really?  I\'ve never heard of it! </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>My part-time neighbor from Seattle (aka \"neighbor cub\" because he is only 30 and makes me feel like a cougar even though he always asks to \"hang out\" with me and I\'ve never hunted him once which means that <a href=\"http://latebloomerdiary.blogspot.com/2009/09/cougar-mania-makes-me-want-to-yak_20.html\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>I am definitely not a cougar!</strong></a>) looked clueless as well. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><strong>Neighbor cub:  </strong>You mean you listen to the whole song?  Do you have to pay for it after? </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><strong>Me:  </strong>Guys.  Did I say iLike?  Did I say Pandora?  This is Grooveshark and it\'s going to change your life. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>The teacher in me quickly threw in a Grooveshark 101 tutorial. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><strong>Me:  </strong>This is how it works.  Go to the site.  Type in a song.  Any song.  It will play in its entirety.  For as many times as you like.  I\'m not sure how this is possible.  It\'s like Napster revisited.  <em>(I then had a scary visual of the boys in diapers when Napster was big.  Yikes!  Moving right along...)</em>  I\'m not sure how it\'s legal.  I\'m not sure how it works.  But it\'s a dream come true. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Justin pulled up the site.  It was certainly his fantasy come because apparently now Grooveshark stays afloat with ads.  On this day, the ads displayed Victoria\'s Secret bra models.  Justin immediately shifted from cool genius to fumbling schoolboy.    </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><strong>Me:  </strong>Pick any song that comes to your mind and type it in the box. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>I tried to think of a joke about double Ds but I was a little flustered as well.</p>\n\n<p><strong> </strong></p>\n\n<p><strong>Justin:  </strong>I can\'t think of anything!!!</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>(Well, you are thinking about <em>something</em>, Justin.  But it has nothing to do with music.)</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>I needed Justin to focus.  I reigned him in with, \"Try \'For Those About to Rock\' by AC/DC. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Magically, the double Ds disappeared (thank the lord) and up came our song. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Angus Young\'s guitar riff drew the attention of Mac genius #2 who waltzed on over to investigate.  He saluted the speakers and then moved on shaking his head like Angus.  It was a beautiful moment.</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Justin and Neighbor cub looked at me with deep respect. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>YES!!!! </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>On Day 44, I decided to try Grooveshark out on my new speakers.  A friend at work previously introduced me to Grooveshark at lunch, and I\'ve never taken the time to play around with it at home.  My Year of Living Curiously means making time for goofing off, so now is a good time as any. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Here was my stream-of-consciousness playlist: </p>\n\n<p>1.  <strong>\"For Those About to Rock\" by AC/DC</strong>:  I will milk as much AC/DC out of Grooveshark as I possibly can.  Why?  Because they refuse to sell their music on iTunes.  And I owned AC/DC albums and cassettes <em>(moving right along!!)</em>back in the day.  I don\'t want to buy your entire recordings again, AC/DC.  I only want to purchase my favorite songs.  But noooooo...you greedy bastards won\'t let me!  So to heck with you!!!  I LOVE YOU, GROOVESHARK!!!!</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>2.  <strong>\"Back in Black\" by AC/DC:  </strong>To prove my point.  Bugger off, AC/DC!  Cranked the subwoofer all the way up on this one. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>3.  <strong>\"Same Mistake\" by James Blunt</strong>:  Because I worked myself up in a tizzy over AC/DC and needed to chill.  Just learned this one on the guitar. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>4.  <strong>\"Do It Again\" by Diana Krall</strong>:  Because James Blunt can be so bloody depressing, and I needed sultry romance.  (Speaking of sultry -- 3 token male readers, the Victoria\'s Secret ads are still running.)  Had to turn the subwoofer back down.  Wow!!!!</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>5. <strong> \"Smoke a Little Smoke\" by Eric Church:</strong>  Because I was cleaning up the house while the music was playing and put away my Cowgirl Boots which got me thinking of country music.  Giddyup!</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>6.  <strong>\"Space\" by Sarah Buxton:</strong>  Because I wanted female representation in my country music.  And I wanted the 3 token male readers to listen up and learn.  ;-)</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>7.  <strong>\"Something\" by London Symphony Orchestra:</strong>  ALERT!!!  ALERT!!!!  NO BEATLES ON GROOVESHARK!!!!  THIS VERSION IS WAAYYYYYY TOO DORKY!!!  LISTEN AT YOUR OWN RISK!!!!  ARE THOSE ABBA WANNABEES IN THE CHORUS???  NOOOOOOOO!!!!!  THE BEATLES ARE SACRED!!!!  STOP!!!!!!!</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>I couldn\'t listen all the way through.  I abruptly paused when the male chorus entered out of respect to John &amp; George. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>8.  Pavarotti singing <strong>\"Nessun Dorma\" from <em>Turandot</em> by Puccini:</strong>  Because I <em>do </em>love classical music in general and support our symphonies. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>9.  <strong>\"Don\'t Walk Away\" by Electric Light Orchestra:</strong>  Speaking of dorky, I recently discovered that my friend, Brette (aka Brettesy), shares my childhood obsession with Olivia Newton-John and <em>Xanadu.</em>  Side B was my favorite side of the soundtrack album because it featured ELO whom I love almost as much as The Beatles.  Jeff Lynne, you sound AMAZING on these speakers!!!! </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>10.  <strong>\"Lights\" by Journey:</strong>  Because I wanted to hear another AMAZING voice on my speakers.  Steve Perry, you are a Powerful Portuguese Man and don\'t you ever forget it!  Everyone after you has tried to sing just like you, but you are the original, baby. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>I had to turn the speakers down at one point.  Svennykins, if you are reading this, do you think I can blow a fuse with these puppies (like you think I did with the SoundDock), or am I good?</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>11. <strong>\"Rock of Ages\" by Def Leppard:  </strong>If I\'m going back in time, then I need to honour my boys from Sheffield, England.  My first concert ever!! </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Sound back UP!  Fuse schmuse. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>12. <strong> \"Scene 8\" from <em>The Nutcracker</em> by Tchaikovsky</strong>:  Because it\'s my bedtime and I\'m all wound up from Def Leppard.  I need to calm down and get sleepy.  Berlin Symphony Orchestra, your tempo is much too fast. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>PAUSE.</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>13.  <strong>\"Scene 8\" from <em>The Nutcracker </em>by Tchaikovsy:</strong>  Because the Boston Ballet Orchestra\'s conductor wasn\'t on speed. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Although now I\'m dancing around my kitchen thinking that I\'m the second coming of Gelsey Kirkland, which I am not.  Women if you have never seen Gelsey, <a href=\"http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3z3vvmuCuDg&amp;feature=related\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>watch this and weep</strong></a>.  Sigh...</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>It\'s 10:35.  Didn\'t I say a couple of weeks ago that I would stop blogging this late? </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Now it\'s your turn.  Create your own eclectic playlist on Grooveshark.com and then share it with us in the comments section below.</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>','Day 44:  Get Your Groove On','','inherit','open','open','','1813-revision-3','','','2010-11-09 22:53:19','2010-11-10 05:53:19','',1813,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/11/09/1813-revision-3/',0,'revision','',0),(1820,1,'2010-11-09 22:55:42','2010-11-10 05:55:42','<p><a href=\"http://www.grooveshark.com\" target=\"_blank\"><img class=\"alignleft size-full wp-image-1815\" title=\"grooveshark\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/grooveshark.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"250\" height=\"222\" /></a>Every once and awhile, I know more than a techie. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>When this happens, I feel special.  And really smart.  And on Day 42, young and cool. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>On Day 42, I cornered a Mac genius at the Apple Store.  After he listened to my <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/11/09/day-42-to-rock-my-world-you-need-stamina-baby/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Bose rant</strong></a>, he walked me over and introduced me to my promising new love, Hardon Karmon. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Mac genius (aka Justin) then informed me that iTunes wasn\'t installed on the computer that the Hardon Karmon speakers were hooked up to.  He started to think about what else he could do to demonstrate the speakers. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>I suggested <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/11/09/day-42-to-rock-my-world-you-need-stamina-baby/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Grooveshark.com.</strong></a><strong>  </strong>Justin (estimated age 25) stared blankly at me. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><strong>Justin:</strong>  You mean Pandora? </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><strong>Me:</strong>  No.  Grooveshark.  You know?  The site where you can type in any song and it plays in it\'s entirety.</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><strong>Justin:  </strong>Really?  I\'ve never heard of it! </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>My part-time neighbor from Seattle (aka \"neighbor cub\" because he is only 30 and makes me feel like a cougar even though he always asks to \"hang out\" with me and I\'ve never hunted him once which means that <a href=\"http://latebloomerdiary.blogspot.com/2009/09/cougar-mania-makes-me-want-to-yak_20.html\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>I am definitely not a cougar!</strong></a>) looked clueless as well. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><strong>Neighbor cub:  </strong>You mean you listen to the whole song?  Do you have to pay for it after? </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><strong>Me:  </strong>Guys.  Did I say iLike?  Did I say Pandora?  This is Grooveshark and it\'s going to change your life. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>The teacher in me quickly threw in a Grooveshark 101 tutorial. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><strong>Me:  </strong>This is how it works.  Go to the site.  Type in a song.  Any song.  It will play in its entirety.  For as many times as you like.  I\'m not sure how this is possible.  It\'s like Napster revisited.  <em>(I then had a scary visual of the boys in diapers when Napster was big.  Yikes!  Moving right along...)</em>  I\'m not sure how it\'s legal.  I\'m not sure how it works.  But it\'s a dream come true. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Justin pulled up the site.  It was certainly his fantasy come because apparently now Grooveshark stays afloat with ads.  On this day, the ads displayed Victoria\'s Secret bra models.  Justin immediately shifted from cool genius to fumbling schoolboy.    </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><strong>Me:  </strong>Pick any song that comes to your mind and type it in the box. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>I tried to think of a joke about double Ds but I was a little flustered as well.</p>\n\n<p><strong> </strong></p>\n\n<p><strong>Justin:  </strong>I can\'t think of anything!!!</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>(Well, you are thinking about <em>something</em>, Justin.  But it has nothing to do with music.)</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>I needed Justin to focus.  I reigned him in with, \"Try \'For Those About to Rock\' by AC/DC. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Magically, the double Ds disappeared (thank the lord) and up came our song. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Angus Young\'s guitar riff drew the attention of Mac genius #2 who waltzed on over to investigate.  He saluted the speakers and then moved on shaking his head like Angus.  It was a beautiful moment.</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Justin and Neighbor cub looked at me with deep respect. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>YES!!!! </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>On Day 44, I decided to try Grooveshark out on my new speakers.  A friend at work previously introduced me to Grooveshark at lunch, and I\'ve never taken the time to play around with it at home.  My Year of Living Curiously means making time for goofing off, so now is a good time as any. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Here was my stream-of-consciousness playlist: </p>\n\n<p>1.  <strong>\"For Those About to Rock\" by AC/DC</strong>:  I will milk as much AC/DC out of Grooveshark as I possibly can.  Why?  Because they refuse to sell their music on iTunes.  And I owned AC/DC albums and cassettes <em>(moving right along!!)</em>back in the day.  I don\'t want to buy your entire recordings again, AC/DC.  I only want to purchase my favorite songs.  But noooooo...you greedy bastards won\'t let me!  So to heck with you!!!  I LOVE YOU, GROOVESHARK!!!!</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>2.  <strong>\"Back in Black\" by AC/DC:  </strong>To prove my point.  Bugger off, AC/DC!  Cranked the subwoofer all the way up on this one. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>3.  <strong>\"Same Mistake\" by James Blunt</strong>:  Because I worked myself up in a tizzy over AC/DC and needed to chill.  Just learned this one on the guitar. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>4.  <strong>\"Do It Again\" by Diana Krall</strong>:  Because James Blunt can be so bloody depressing, and I needed sultry romance.  (Speaking of sultry -- 3 token male readers, the Victoria\'s Secret ads are still running.)  Had to turn the subwoofer back down.  Wow!!!!</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>5. <strong> \"Smoke a Little Smoke\" by Eric Church:</strong>  Because I was cleaning up the house while the music was playing and put away my Cowgirl Boots which got me thinking of country music.  Giddyup!</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>6.  <strong>\"Space\" by Sarah Buxton:</strong>  Because I wanted female representation in my country music.  And I wanted the 3 token male readers to listen up and learn.  ;-)</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>7.  <strong>\"Something\" by London Symphony Orchestra:</strong>  ALERT!!!  ALERT!!!!  NO BEATLES ON GROOVESHARK!!!!  THIS VERSION IS WAAYYYYYY TOO DORKY!!!  LISTEN AT YOUR OWN RISK!!!!  ARE THOSE ABBA WANNABEES IN THE CHORUS???  NOOOOOOOO!!!!!  THE BEATLES ARE SACRED!!!!  STOP!!!!!!!</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>I couldn\'t listen all the way through.  I abruptly paused when the male chorus entered out of respect to John &amp; George. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>8.  Pavarotti singing <strong>\"Nessun Dorma\" from <em>Turandot</em> by Puccini:</strong>  Because I <em>do </em>love classical music in general and support our symphonies. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>9.  <strong>\"Don\'t Walk Away\" by Electric Light Orchestra:</strong>  Speaking of dorky, I recently discovered that my friend, Brette (aka Brettesy), shares my childhood obsession with Olivia Newton-John and <em>Xanadu.</em>  Side B was my favorite side of the soundtrack album because it featured ELO whom I love almost as much as The Beatles.  Jeff Lynne, you sound AMAZING on these speakers!!!! </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>10.  <strong>\"Lights\" by Journey:</strong>  Because I wanted to hear another AMAZING voice on my speakers.  Steve Perry, you are a Powerful Portuguese Man and don\'t you ever forget it!  Everyone after you has tried to sing just like you, but you are the original, baby. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>I had to turn the speakers down at one point.  Svennykins, if you are reading this, do you think I can blow a fuse with these puppies (like you think I did with the SoundDock), or am I good?</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>11. <strong>\"Rock of Ages\" by Def Leppard:  </strong>If I\'m going back in time, then I need to honour my boys from Sheffield, England.  My first concert ever!! </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Sound back UP!  Fuse schmuse. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>12. <strong> \"Scene 8\" from <em>The Nutcracker</em> by Tchaikovsky</strong>:  Because it\'s my bedtime and I\'m all wound up from Def Leppard.  I need to calm down and get sleepy.  Berlin Symphony Orchestra, your tempo is much too fast. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>PAUSE.</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>13.  <strong>\"Scene 8\" from <em>The Nutcracker </em>by Tchaikovsy:</strong>  Because the Boston Ballet Orchestra\'s conductor wasn\'t on speed. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Although now I\'m dancing around my kitchen thinking that I\'m the second coming of Gelsey Kirkland, which I am not.  Women if you have never seen Gelsey, <a href=\"http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3z3vvmuCuDg&amp;feature=related\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>watch this and weep</strong></a>.  Sigh...</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>It\'s 10:35.  Didn\'t I say a couple of weeks ago that I would stop blogging this late? </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Now it\'s your turn.  Create your own eclectic playlist on Grooveshark.com and then share it with us in the comments section below.</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>','Day 44:  Get Your Groove On','','inherit','open','open','','1813-revision-6','','','2010-11-09 22:55:42','2010-11-10 05:55:42','',1813,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/11/09/1813-revision-6/',0,'revision','',0),(1818,1,'2010-11-09 22:53:41','2010-11-10 05:53:41','<p><a href=\"http://www.grooveshark.com\" target=\"_blank\"><img class=\"alignleft size-full wp-image-1815\" title=\"grooveshark\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/grooveshark.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"250\" height=\"222\" /></a>Every once and awhile, I know more than a techie. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>When this happens, I feel special.  And really smart.  And on Day 44, young and cool. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>On Day 42, I cornered a Mac genius at the Apple Store.  After he listened to my <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/11/09/day-42-to-rock-my-world-you-need-stamina-baby/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Bose rant</strong></a>, he walked me over and introduced me to my promising new love, Hardon Karmon. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Mac genius (aka Justin) then informed me that iTunes wasn\'t installed on the computer that the Hardon Karmon speakers were hooked up to.  He started to think about what else he could do to demonstrate the speakers. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I suggested <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/11/09/day-42-to-rock-my-world-you-need-stamina-baby/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Grooveshark.com.</strong></a><strong>  </strong>Justin (estimated age 25) stared blankly at me. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>Justin:</strong>  You mean Pandora? </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>Me:</strong>  No.  Grooveshark.  You know?  The site where you can type in any song and it plays in it\'s entirety.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>Justin:  </strong>Really?  I\'ve never heard of it! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>My part-time neighbor from Seattle (aka \"neighbor cub\" because he is only 30 and makes me feel like a cougar even though he always asks to \"hang out\" with me and I\'ve never hunted him once which means that <a href=\"http://latebloomerdiary.blogspot.com/2009/09/cougar-mania-makes-me-want-to-yak_20.html\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>I am definitely not a cougar!</strong></a>) looked clueless as well. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>Neighbor cub:  </strong>You mean you listen to the whole song?  Do you have to pay for it after? </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>Me:  </strong>Guys.  Did I say iLike?  Did I say Pandora?  This is Grooveshark and it\'s going to change your life. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>The teacher in me quickly threw in a Grooveshark 101 tutorial. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>Me:  </strong>This is how it works.  Go to the site.  Type in a song.  Any song.  It will play in its entirety.  For as many times as you like.  I\'m not sure how this is possible.  It\'s like Napster revisited.  <em>(I then had a scary visual of the boys in diapers when Napster was big.  Yikes!  Moving right along...)</em>  I\'m not sure how it\'s legal.  I\'m not sure how it works.  But it\'s a dream come true. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Justin pulled up the site.  It was certainly his fantasy come because apparently now Grooveshark stays afloat with ads.  On this day, the ads displayed Victoria\'s Secret bra models.  Justin immediately shifted from cool genius to fumbling schoolboy.    </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>Me:  </strong>Pick any song that comes to your mind and type it in the box. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I tried to think of a joke about double Ds but I was a little flustered as well.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong> </strong></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>Justin:  </strong>I can\'t think of anything!!!</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>(Well, you are thinking about <em>something</em>, Justin.  But it has nothing to do with music.)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I needed Justin to focus.  I reigned him in with, \"Try \'For Those About to Rock\' by AC/DC. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Magically, the double Ds disappeared (thank the lord) and up came our song. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Angus Young\'s guitar riff drew the attention of Mac genius #2 who waltzed on over to investigate.  He saluted the speakers and then moved on shaking his head like Angus.  It was a beautiful moment.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Justin and Neighbor cub looked at me with deep respect. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>YES!!!! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>On Day 44, I decided to try Grooveshark out on my new speakers.  A friend at work previously introduced me to Grooveshark at lunch, and I\'ve never taken the time to play around with it at home.  My Year of Living Curiously means making time for goofing off, so now is a good time as any. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Here was my stream-of-consciousness playlist: </p>\r\n\r\n<p>1.  <strong>\"For Those About to Rock\" by AC/DC</strong>:  I will milk as much AC/DC out of Grooveshark as I possibly can.  Why?  Because they refuse to sell their music on iTunes.  And I owned AC/DC albums and cassettes <em>(moving right along!!)</em>back in the day.  I don\'t want to buy your entire recordings again, AC/DC.  I only want to purchase my favorite songs.  But noooooo...you greedy bastards won\'t let me!  So to heck with you!!!  I LOVE YOU, GROOVESHARK!!!!</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>2.  <strong>\"Back in Black\" by AC/DC:  </strong>To prove my point.  Bugger off, AC/DC!  Cranked the subwoofer all the way up on this one. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>3.  <strong>\"Same Mistake\" by James Blunt</strong>:  Because I worked myself up in a tizzy over AC/DC and needed to chill.  Just learned this one on the guitar. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>4.  <strong>\"Do It Again\" by Diana Krall</strong>:  Because James Blunt can be so bloody depressing, and I needed sultry romance.  (Speaking of sultry -- 3 token male readers, the Victoria\'s Secret ads are still running.)  Had to turn the subwoofer back down.  Wow!!!!</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>5. <strong> \"Smoke a Little Smoke\" by Eric Church:</strong>  Because I was cleaning up the house while the music was playing and put away my Cowgirl Boots which got me thinking of country music.  Giddyup!</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>6.  <strong>\"Space\" by Sarah Buxton:</strong>  Because I wanted female representation in my country music.  And I wanted the 3 token male readers to listen up and learn.  ;-)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>7.  <strong>\"Something\" by London Symphony Orchestra:</strong>  ALERT!!!  ALERT!!!!  NO BEATLES ON GROOVESHARK!!!!  THIS VERSION IS WAAYYYYYY TOO DORKY!!!  LISTEN AT YOUR OWN RISK!!!!  ARE THOSE ABBA WANNABEES IN THE CHORUS???  NOOOOOOOO!!!!!  THE BEATLES ARE SACRED!!!!  STOP!!!!!!!</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I couldn\'t listen all the way through.  I abruptly paused when the male chorus entered out of respect to John &amp; George. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>8.  Pavarotti singing <strong>\"Nessun Dorma\" from <em>Turandot</em> by Puccini:</strong>  Because I <em>do </em>love classical music in general and support our symphonies. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>9.  <strong>\"Don\'t Walk Away\" by Electric Light Orchestra:</strong>  Speaking of dorky, I recently discovered that my friend, Brette (aka Brettesy), shares my childhood obsession with Olivia Newton-John and <em>Xanadu.</em>  Side B was my favorite side of the soundtrack album because it featured ELO whom I love almost as much as The Beatles.  Jeff Lynne, you sound AMAZING on these speakers!!!! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>10.  <strong>\"Lights\" by Journey:</strong>  Because I wanted to hear another AMAZING voice on my speakers.  Steve Perry, you are a Powerful Portuguese Man and don\'t you ever forget it!  Everyone after you has tried to sing just like you, but you are the original, baby. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I had to turn the speakers down at one point.  Svennykins, if you are reading this, do you think I can blow a fuse with these puppies (like you think I did with the SoundDock), or am I good?</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>11. <strong>\"Rock of Ages\" by Def Leppard:  </strong>If I\'m going back in time, then I need to honour my boys from Sheffield, England.  My first concert ever!! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Sound back UP!  Fuse schmuse. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>12. <strong> \"Scene 8\" from <em>The Nutcracker</em> by Tchaikovsky</strong>:  Because it\'s my bedtime and I\'m all wound up from Def Leppard.  I need to calm down and get sleepy.  Berlin Symphony Orchestra, your tempo is much too fast. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>PAUSE.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>13.  <strong>\"Scene 8\" from <em>The Nutcracker </em>by Tchaikovsy:</strong>  Because the Boston Ballet Orchestra\'s conductor wasn\'t on speed. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Although now I\'m dancing around my kitchen thinking that I\'m the second coming of Gelsey Kirkland, which I am not.  Women if you have never seen Gelsey, <a href=\"http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3z3vvmuCuDg&amp;feature=related\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>watch this and weep</strong></a>.  Sigh...</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>It\'s 10:35.  Didn\'t I say a couple of weeks ago that I would stop blogging this late? </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Now it\'s your turn.  Create your own eclectic playlist on Grooveshark.com and then share it with us in the comments section below.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>','Day 44:  Get Your Groove On','','inherit','open','open','','1813-revision-4','','','2010-11-09 22:53:41','2010-11-10 05:53:41','',1813,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/11/09/1813-revision-4/',0,'revision','',0),(1819,1,'2010-11-09 22:53:51','2010-11-10 05:53:51','<p><a href=\"http://www.grooveshark.com\" target=\"_blank\"><img class=\"alignleft size-full wp-image-1815\" title=\"grooveshark\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/grooveshark.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"250\" height=\"222\" /></a>Every once and awhile, I know more than a techie. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>When this happens, I feel special.  And really smart.  And on Day 44, young and cool. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>On Day 42, I cornered a Mac genius at the Apple Store.  After he listened to my <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/11/09/day-42-to-rock-my-world-you-need-stamina-baby/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Bose rant</strong></a>, he walked me over and introduced me to my promising new love, Hardon Karmon. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Mac genius (aka Justin) then informed me that iTunes wasn\'t installed on the computer that the Hardon Karmon speakers were hooked up to.  He started to think about what else he could do to demonstrate the speakers. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I suggested <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/11/09/day-42-to-rock-my-world-you-need-stamina-baby/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Grooveshark.com.</strong></a><strong>  </strong>Justin (estimated age 25) stared blankly at me. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>Justin:</strong>  You mean Pandora? </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>Me:</strong>  No.  Grooveshark.  You know?  The site where you can type in any song and it plays in it\'s entirety.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>Justin:  </strong>Really?  I\'ve never heard of it! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>My part-time neighbor from Seattle (aka \"neighbor cub\" because he is only 30 and makes me feel like a cougar even though he always asks to \"hang out\" with me and I\'ve never hunted him once which means that <a href=\"http://latebloomerdiary.blogspot.com/2009/09/cougar-mania-makes-me-want-to-yak_20.html\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>I am definitely not a cougar!</strong></a>) looked clueless as well. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>Neighbor cub:  </strong>You mean you listen to the whole song?  Do you have to pay for it after? </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>Me:  </strong>Guys.  Did I say iLike?  Did I say Pandora?  This is Grooveshark and it\'s going to change your life. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>The teacher in me quickly threw in a Grooveshark 101 tutorial. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>Me:  </strong>This is how it works.  Go to the site.  Type in a song.  Any song.  It will play in its entirety.  For as many times as you like.  I\'m not sure how this is possible.  It\'s like Napster revisited.  <em>(I then had a scary visual of the boys in diapers when Napster was big.  Yikes!  Moving right along...)</em>  I\'m not sure how it\'s legal.  I\'m not sure how it works.  But it\'s a dream come true. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Justin pulled up the site.  It was certainly his fantasy come because apparently now Grooveshark stays afloat with ads.  On this day, the ads displayed Victoria\'s Secret bra models.  Justin immediately shifted from cool genius to fumbling schoolboy.    </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>Me:  </strong>Pick any song that comes to your mind and type it in the box. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I tried to think of a joke about double Ds but I was a little flustered as well.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong> </strong></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>Justin:  </strong>I can\'t think of anything!!!</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>(Well, you are thinking about <em>something</em>, Justin.  But it has nothing to do with music.)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I needed Justin to focus.  I reigned him in with, \"Try \'For Those About to Rock\' by AC/DC. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Magically, the double Ds disappeared (thank the lord) and up came our song. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Angus Young\'s guitar riff drew the attention of Mac genius #2 who waltzed on over to investigate.  He saluted the speakers and then moved on shaking his head like Angus.  It was a beautiful moment.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Justin and Neighbor cub looked at me with deep respect. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>YES!!!! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>On Day 44, I decided to try Grooveshark out on my new speakers.  A friend at work previously introduced me to Grooveshark at lunch, and I\'ve never taken the time to play around with it at home.  My Year of Living Curiously means making time for goofing off, so now is a good time as any. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Here was my stream-of-consciousness playlist: </p>\r\n\r\n<p>1.  <strong>\"For Those About to Rock\" by AC/DC</strong>:  I will milk as much AC/DC out of Grooveshark as I possibly can.  Why?  Because they refuse to sell their music on iTunes.  And I owned AC/DC albums and cassettes <em>(moving right along!!)</em>back in the day.  I don\'t want to buy your entire recordings again, AC/DC.  I only want to purchase my favorite songs.  But noooooo...you greedy bastards won\'t let me!  So to heck with you!!!  I LOVE YOU, GROOVESHARK!!!!</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>2.  <strong>\"Back in Black\" by AC/DC:  </strong>To prove my point.  Bugger off, AC/DC!  Cranked the subwoofer all the way up on this one. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>3.  <strong>\"Same Mistake\" by James Blunt</strong>:  Because I worked myself up in a tizzy over AC/DC and needed to chill.  Just learned this one on the guitar. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>4.  <strong>\"Do It Again\" by Diana Krall</strong>:  Because James Blunt can be so bloody depressing, and I needed sultry romance.  (Speaking of sultry -- 3 token male readers, the Victoria\'s Secret ads are still running.)  Had to turn the subwoofer back down.  Wow!!!!</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>5. <strong> \"Smoke a Little Smoke\" by Eric Church:</strong>  Because I was cleaning up the house while the music was playing and put away my Cowgirl Boots which got me thinking of country music.  Giddyup!</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>6.  <strong>\"Space\" by Sarah Buxton:</strong>  Because I wanted female representation in my country music.  And I wanted the 3 token male readers to listen up and learn.  ;-)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>7.  <strong>\"Something\" by London Symphony Orchestra:</strong>  ALERT!!!  ALERT!!!!  NO BEATLES ON GROOVESHARK!!!!  THIS VERSION IS WAAYYYYYY TOO DORKY!!!  LISTEN AT YOUR OWN RISK!!!!  ARE THOSE ABBA WANNABEES IN THE CHORUS???  NOOOOOOOO!!!!!  THE BEATLES ARE SACRED!!!!  STOP!!!!!!!</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I couldn\'t listen all the way through.  I abruptly paused when the male chorus entered out of respect to John &amp; George. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>8.  Pavarotti singing <strong>\"Nessun Dorma\" from <em>Turandot</em> by Puccini:</strong>  Because I <em>do </em>love classical music in general and support our symphonies. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>9.  <strong>\"Don\'t Walk Away\" by Electric Light Orchestra:</strong>  Speaking of dorky, I recently discovered that my friend, Brette (aka Brettesy), shares my childhood obsession with Olivia Newton-John and <em>Xanadu.</em>  Side B was my favorite side of the soundtrack album because it featured ELO whom I love almost as much as The Beatles.  Jeff Lynne, you sound AMAZING on these speakers!!!! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>10.  <strong>\"Lights\" by Journey:</strong>  Because I wanted to hear another AMAZING voice on my speakers.  Steve Perry, you are a Powerful Portuguese Man and don\'t you ever forget it!  Everyone after you has tried to sing just like you, but you are the original, baby. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I had to turn the speakers down at one point.  Svennykins, if you are reading this, do you think I can blow a fuse with these puppies (like you think I did with the SoundDock), or am I good?</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>11. <strong>\"Rock of Ages\" by Def Leppard:  </strong>If I\'m going back in time, then I need to honour my boys from Sheffield, England.  My first concert ever!! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Sound back UP!  Fuse schmuse. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>12. <strong> \"Scene 8\" from <em>The Nutcracker</em> by Tchaikovsky</strong>:  Because it\'s my bedtime and I\'m all wound up from Def Leppard.  I need to calm down and get sleepy.  Berlin Symphony Orchestra, your tempo is much too fast. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>PAUSE.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>13.  <strong>\"Scene 8\" from <em>The Nutcracker </em>by Tchaikovsy:</strong>  Because the Boston Ballet Orchestra\'s conductor wasn\'t on speed. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Although now I\'m dancing around my kitchen thinking that I\'m the second coming of Gelsey Kirkland, which I am not.  Women if you have never seen Gelsey, <a href=\"http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3z3vvmuCuDg&amp;feature=related\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>watch this and weep</strong></a>.  Sigh...</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>It\'s 10:35.  Didn\'t I say a couple of weeks ago that I would stop blogging this late? </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Now it\'s your turn.  Create your own eclectic playlist on Grooveshark.com and then share it with us in the comments section below.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>','Day 44:  Get Your Groove On','','inherit','open','open','','1813-revision-5','','','2010-11-09 22:53:51','2010-11-10 05:53:51','',1813,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/11/09/1813-revision-5/',0,'revision','',0),(1821,1,'2010-11-09 22:56:59','2010-11-10 05:56:59','<p><a href=\"http://www.grooveshark.com\" target=\"_blank\"><img class=\"alignleft size-full wp-image-1815\" title=\"grooveshark\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/grooveshark.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"250\" height=\"222\" /></a>Every once and awhile, I know more than a techie. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>When this happens, I feel special.  And really smart.  And on Day 42, young and cool. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>On Day 42, I cornered a Mac genius at the Apple Store.  After he listened to my <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/11/09/day-42-to-rock-my-world-you-need-stamina-baby/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Bose rant</strong></a>, he walked me over and introduced me to my promising new love, Hardon Karmon. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Mac genius (aka Justin) then informed me that iTunes wasn\'t installed on the computer that the Hardon Karmon speakers were hooked up to.  He started to think about what else he could do to demonstrate the speakers. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>I suggested <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/11/09/day-42-to-rock-my-world-you-need-stamina-baby/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Grooveshark.com.</strong></a><strong>  </strong>Justin (estimated age 25) stared blankly at me. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><strong>Justin:</strong>  You mean Pandora? </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><strong>Me:</strong>  No.  Grooveshark.  You know?  The site where you can type in any song and it plays in its entirety.</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><strong>Justin:  </strong>Really?  I\'ve never heard of it! </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>My part-time neighbor from Seattle (aka \"neighbor cub\" because he is only 30 and makes me feel like a cougar even though he always asks to \"hang out\" with me and I\'ve never hunted him once which means that <a href=\"http://latebloomerdiary.blogspot.com/2009/09/cougar-mania-makes-me-want-to-yak_20.html\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>I am definitely not a cougar!</strong></a>) looked clueless as well. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><strong>Neighbor cub:  </strong>You mean you listen to the whole song?  Do you have to pay for it after? </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><strong>Me:  </strong>Guys.  Did I say iLike?  Did I say Pandora?  This is Grooveshark and it\'s going to change your life. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>The teacher in me quickly threw in a Grooveshark 101 tutorial. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><strong>Me:  </strong>This is how it works.  Go to the site.  Type in a song.  Any song.  It will play in its entirety.  For as many times as you like.  I\'m not sure how this is possible.  It\'s like Napster revisited.  <em>(I then had a scary visual of the boys in diapers when Napster was big.  Yikes!  Moving right along...)</em>  I\'m not sure how it\'s legal.  I\'m not sure how it works.  But it\'s a dream come true. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Justin pulled up the site.  It was certainly his fantasy come because apparently now Grooveshark stays afloat with ads.  On this day, the ads displayed Victoria\'s Secret bra models.  Justin immediately shifted from cool genius to fumbling schoolboy.    </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><strong>Me:  </strong>Pick any song that comes to your mind and type it in the box. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>I tried to think of a joke about double Ds but I was a little flustered as well.</p>\n\n<p><strong> </strong></p>\n\n<p><strong>Justin:  </strong>I can\'t think of anything!!!</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>(Well, you are thinking about <em>something</em>, Justin.  But it has nothing to do with music.)</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>I needed Justin to focus.  I reigned him in with, \"Try \'For Those About to Rock\' by AC/DC. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Magically, the double Ds disappeared (thank the lord) and up came our song. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Angus Young\'s guitar riff drew the attention of Mac genius #2 who waltzed on over to investigate.  He saluted the speakers and then moved on shaking his head like Angus.  It was a beautiful moment.</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Justin and Neighbor cub looked at me with deep respect. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>YES!!!! </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>On Day 44, I decided to try Grooveshark out on my new speakers.  A friend at work previously introduced me to Grooveshark at lunch, and I\'ve never taken the time to play around with it at home.  My Year of Living Curiously means making time for goofing off, so now is a good time as any. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Here was my stream-of-consciousness playlist: </p>\n\n<p>1.  <strong>\"For Those About to Rock\" by AC/DC</strong>:  I will milk as much AC/DC out of Grooveshark as I possibly can.  Why?  Because they refuse to sell their music on iTunes.  And I owned AC/DC albums and cassettes <em>(moving right along!!)</em>back in the day.  I don\'t want to buy your entire recordings again, AC/DC.  I only want to purchase my favorite songs.  But noooooo...you greedy bastards won\'t let me!  So to heck with you!!!  I LOVE YOU, GROOVESHARK!!!!</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>2.  <strong>\"Back in Black\" by AC/DC:  </strong>To prove my point.  Bugger off, AC/DC!  Cranked the subwoofer all the way up on this one. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>3.  <strong>\"Same Mistake\" by James Blunt</strong>:  Because I worked myself up in a tizzy over AC/DC and needed to chill.  Just learned this one on the guitar. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>4.  <strong>\"Do It Again\" by Diana Krall</strong>:  Because James Blunt can be so bloody depressing, and I needed sultry romance.  (Speaking of sultry -- 3 token male readers, the Victoria\'s Secret ads are still running.)  Had to turn the subwoofer back down.  Wow!!!!</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>5. <strong> \"Smoke a Little Smoke\" by Eric Church:</strong>  Because I was cleaning up the house while the music was playing and put away my Cowgirl Boots which got me thinking of country music.  Giddyup!</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>6.  <strong>\"Space\" by Sarah Buxton:</strong>  Because I wanted female representation in my country music.  And I wanted the 3 token male readers to listen up and learn.  ;-)</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>7.  <strong>\"Something\" by London Symphony Orchestra:</strong>  ALERT!!!  ALERT!!!!  NO BEATLES ON GROOVESHARK!!!!  THIS VERSION IS WAAYYYYYY TOO DORKY!!!  LISTEN AT YOUR OWN RISK!!!!  ARE THOSE ABBA WANNABEES IN THE CHORUS???  NOOOOOOOO!!!!!  THE BEATLES ARE SACRED!!!!  STOP!!!!!!!</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>I couldn\'t listen all the way through.  I abruptly paused when the male chorus entered out of respect to John &amp; George. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>8.  Pavarotti singing <strong>\"Nessun Dorma\" from <em>Turandot</em> by Puccini:</strong>  Because I <em>do </em>love classical music in general and support our symphonies. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>9.  <strong>\"Don\'t Walk Away\" by Electric Light Orchestra:</strong>  Speaking of dorky, I recently discovered that my friend, Brette (aka Brettesy), shares my childhood obsession with Olivia Newton-John and <em>Xanadu.</em>  Side B was my favorite side of the soundtrack album because it featured ELO whom I love almost as much as The Beatles.  Jeff Lynne, you sound AMAZING on these speakers!!!! </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>10.  <strong>\"Lights\" by Journey:</strong>  Because I wanted to hear another AMAZING voice on my speakers.  Steve Perry, you are a Powerful Portuguese Man and don\'t you ever forget it!  Everyone after you has tried to sing just like you, but you are the original, baby. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>I had to turn the speakers down at one point.  Svennykins, if you are reading this, do you think I can blow a fuse with these puppies (like you think I did with the SoundDock), or am I good?</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>11. <strong>\"Rock of Ages\" by Def Leppard:  </strong>If I\'m going back in time, then I need to honour my boys from Sheffield, England.  My first concert ever!! </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Sound back UP!  Fuse schmuse. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>12. <strong> \"Scene 8\" from <em>The Nutcracker</em> by Tchaikovsky</strong>:  Because it\'s my bedtime and I\'m all wound up from Def Leppard.  I need to calm down and get sleepy.  Berlin Symphony Orchestra, your tempo is much too fast. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>PAUSE.</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>13.  <strong>\"Scene 8\" from <em>The Nutcracker </em>by Tchaikovsy:</strong>  Because the Boston Ballet Orchestra\'s conductor wasn\'t on speed. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Although now I\'m dancing around my kitchen thinking that I\'m the second coming of Gelsey Kirkland, which I am not.  Women if you have never seen Gelsey, <a href=\"http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3z3vvmuCuDg&amp;feature=related\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>watch this and weep</strong></a>.  Sigh...</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>It\'s 10:35.  Didn\'t I say a couple of weeks ago that I would stop blogging this late? </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Now it\'s your turn.  Create your own eclectic playlist on Grooveshark.com and then share it with us in the comments section below.</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>','Day 44:  Get Your Groove On','','inherit','open','open','','1813-revision-7','','','2010-11-09 22:56:59','2010-11-10 05:56:59','',1813,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/11/09/1813-revision-7/',0,'revision','',0),(1822,1,'2010-11-09 22:57:28','2010-11-10 05:57:28','<p><a href=\"http://www.grooveshark.com\" target=\"_blank\"><img class=\"alignleft size-full wp-image-1815\" title=\"grooveshark\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/grooveshark.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"250\" height=\"222\" /></a>Every once and awhile, I know more than a techie. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>When this happens, I feel special.  And really smart.  And on Day 42, young and cool. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>On Day 42, I cornered a Mac genius at the Apple Store.  After he listened to my <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/11/09/day-42-to-rock-my-world-you-need-stamina-baby/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Bose rant</strong></a>, he walked me over and introduced me to my promising new love, Hardon Karmon. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Mac genius (aka Justin) then informed me that iTunes wasn\'t installed on the computer that the Hardon Karmon speakers were hooked up to.  He started to think about what else he could do to demonstrate the speakers. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I suggested <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/11/09/day-42-to-rock-my-world-you-need-stamina-baby/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Grooveshark.com.</strong></a><strong>  </strong>Justin (estimated age 25) stared blankly at me. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>Justin:</strong>  You mean Pandora? </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>Me:</strong>  No.  Grooveshark.  You know?  The site where you can type in any song and it plays in its entirety.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>Justin:  </strong>Really?  I\'ve never heard of it! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>My part-time neighbor from Seattle (aka \"neighbor cub\" because he is only 30 and makes me feel like a cougar even though he always asks to \"hang out\" with me and I\'ve never hunted him once which means that <a href=\"http://latebloomerdiary.blogspot.com/2009/09/cougar-mania-makes-me-want-to-yak_20.html\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>I am definitely not a cougar!</strong></a>) looked clueless as well. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>Neighbor cub:  </strong>You mean you listen to the whole song?  Do you have to pay for it after? </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>Me:  </strong>Guys.  Did I say iLike?  Did I say Pandora?  This is Grooveshark and it\'s going to change your life. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>The teacher in me threw in a Grooveshark 101 tutorial. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>Me:  </strong>This is how it works.  Go to the site.  Type in a song.  Any song.  It will play in its entirety.  For as many times as you like.  I\'m not sure how this is possible.  It\'s like Napster revisited.  <em>(I then had a scary visual of the boys in diapers when Napster was big.  Yikes!  Moving right along...)</em>  I\'m not sure how it\'s legal.  I\'m not sure how it works.  But it\'s a dream come true. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Justin pulled up the site.  It was certainly his fantasy come because apparently now Grooveshark stays afloat with ads.  On this day, the ads displayed Victoria\'s Secret bra models.  Justin immediately shifted from cool genius to fumbling schoolboy.    </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>Me:  </strong>Pick any song that comes to your mind and type it in the box. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I tried to think of a joke about double Ds but I was a little flustered as well.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong> </strong></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>Justin:  </strong>I can\'t think of anything!!!</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>(Well, you are thinking about <em>something</em>, Justin.  But it has nothing to do with music.)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I needed Justin to focus.  I reigned him in with, \"Try \'For Those About to Rock\' by AC/DC. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Magically, the double Ds disappeared (thank the lord) and up came our song. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Angus Young\'s guitar riff drew the attention of Mac genius #2 who waltzed on over to investigate.  He saluted the speakers and then moved on shaking his head like Angus.  It was a beautiful moment.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Justin and Neighbor cub looked at me with deep respect. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>YES!!!! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>On Day 44, I decided to try Grooveshark out on my new speakers.  A friend at work previously introduced me to Grooveshark at lunch, and I\'ve never taken the time to play around with it at home.  My Year of Living Curiously means making time for goofing off, so now is a good time as any. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Here was my stream-of-consciousness playlist: </p>\r\n\r\n<p>1.  <strong>\"For Those About to Rock\" by AC/DC</strong>:  I will milk as much AC/DC out of Grooveshark as I possibly can.  Why?  Because they refuse to sell their music on iTunes.  And I owned AC/DC albums and cassettes <em>(moving right along!!)</em>back in the day.  I don\'t want to buy your entire recordings again, AC/DC.  I only want to purchase my favorite songs.  But noooooo...you greedy bastards won\'t let me!  So to heck with you!!!  I LOVE YOU, GROOVESHARK!!!!</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>2.  <strong>\"Back in Black\" by AC/DC:  </strong>To prove my point.  Bugger off, AC/DC!  Cranked the subwoofer all the way up on this one. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>3.  <strong>\"Same Mistake\" by James Blunt</strong>:  Because I worked myself up in a tizzy over AC/DC and needed to chill.  Just learned this one on the guitar. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>4.  <strong>\"Do It Again\" by Diana Krall</strong>:  Because James Blunt can be so bloody depressing, and I needed sultry romance.  (Speaking of sultry -- 3 token male readers, the Victoria\'s Secret ads are still running.)  Had to turn the subwoofer back down.  Wow!!!!</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>5. <strong> \"Smoke a Little Smoke\" by Eric Church:</strong>  Because I was cleaning up the house while the music was playing and put away my Cowgirl Boots which got me thinking of country music.  Giddyup!</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>6.  <strong>\"Space\" by Sarah Buxton:</strong>  Because I wanted female representation in my country music.  And I wanted the 3 token male readers to listen up and learn.  ;-)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>7.  <strong>\"Something\" by London Symphony Orchestra:</strong>  ALERT!!!  ALERT!!!!  NO BEATLES ON GROOVESHARK!!!!  THIS VERSION IS WAAYYYYYY TOO DORKY!!!  LISTEN AT YOUR OWN RISK!!!!  ARE THOSE ABBA WANNABEES IN THE CHORUS???  NOOOOOOOO!!!!!  THE BEATLES ARE SACRED!!!!  STOP!!!!!!!</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I couldn\'t listen all the way through.  I abruptly paused when the male chorus entered out of respect to John &amp; George. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>8.  Pavarotti singing <strong>\"Nessun Dorma\" from <em>Turandot</em> by Puccini:</strong>  Because I <em>do </em>love classical music in general and support our symphonies. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>9.  <strong>\"Don\'t Walk Away\" by Electric Light Orchestra:</strong>  Speaking of dorky, I recently discovered that my friend, Brette (aka Brettesy), shares my childhood obsession with Olivia Newton-John and <em>Xanadu.</em>  Side B was my favorite side of the soundtrack album because it featured ELO whom I love almost as much as The Beatles.  Jeff Lynne, you sound AMAZING on these speakers!!!! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>10.  <strong>\"Lights\" by Journey:</strong>  Because I wanted to hear another AMAZING voice on my speakers.  Steve Perry, you are a Powerful Portuguese Man and don\'t you ever forget it!  Everyone after you has tried to sing just like you, but you are the original, baby. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I had to turn the speakers down at one point.  Svennykins, if you are reading this, do you think I can blow a fuse with these puppies (like you think I did with the SoundDock), or am I good?</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>11. <strong>\"Rock of Ages\" by Def Leppard:  </strong>If I\'m going back in time, then I need to honour my boys from Sheffield, England.  My first concert ever!! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Sound back UP!  Fuse schmuse. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>12. <strong> \"Scene 8\" from <em>The Nutcracker</em> by Tchaikovsky</strong>:  Because it\'s my bedtime and I\'m all wound up from Def Leppard.  I need to calm down and get sleepy.  Berlin Symphony Orchestra, your tempo is much too fast. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>PAUSE.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>13.  <strong>\"Scene 8\" from <em>The Nutcracker </em>by Tchaikovsy:</strong>  Because the Boston Ballet Orchestra\'s conductor wasn\'t on speed. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Although now I\'m dancing around my kitchen thinking that I\'m the second coming of Gelsey Kirkland, which I am not.  Women if you have never seen Gelsey, <a href=\"http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3z3vvmuCuDg&amp;feature=related\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>watch this and weep</strong></a>.  Sigh...</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>It\'s 10:35.  Didn\'t I say a couple of weeks ago that I would stop blogging this late? </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Now it\'s your turn.  Create your own eclectic playlist on Grooveshark.com and then share it with us in the comments section below.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>','Day 44:  Get Your Groove On','','inherit','open','open','','1813-revision-8','','','2010-11-09 22:57:28','2010-11-10 05:57:28','',1813,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/11/09/1813-revision-8/',0,'revision','',0),(1823,1,'2010-11-09 22:59:21','2010-11-10 05:59:21','<p><a href=\"http://www.grooveshark.com\" target=\"_blank\"><img class=\"alignleft size-full wp-image-1815\" title=\"grooveshark\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/grooveshark.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"250\" height=\"222\" /></a>Every once and awhile, I know more than a techie. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>When this happens, I feel special.  And really smart.  And on Day 42, young and cool. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>On Day 42, I cornered a Mac genius at the Apple Store.  After he listened to my <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/11/09/day-42-to-rock-my-world-you-need-stamina-baby/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Bose rant</strong></a>, he walked me over and introduced me to my promising new love, Hardon Karmon. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Mac genius (aka Justin) then informed me that iTunes wasn\'t installed on the computer that the Hardon Karmon speakers were hooked up to.  He started to think about what else he could do to demonstrate the speakers. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>I suggested <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/11/09/day-42-to-rock-my-world-you-need-stamina-baby/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Grooveshark.com.</strong></a><strong>  </strong>Justin (estimated age 25) stared blankly at me. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><strong>Justin:</strong>  You mean Pandora? </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><strong>Me:</strong>  No.  Grooveshark.  You know?  The site where you can type in any song and it plays in its entirety.</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><strong>Justin:  </strong>Really?  I\'ve never heard of it! </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>My part-time neighbor from Seattle (aka \"neighbor cub\" because he is only 30 and makes me feel like a cougar even though he always asks to \"hang out\" with me and I\'ve never hunted him once which means that <a href=\"http://latebloomerdiary.blogspot.com/2009/09/cougar-mania-makes-me-want-to-yak_20.html\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>I am definitely not a cougar!</strong></a>) looked clueless as well. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><strong>Neighbor cub:  </strong>You mean you listen to the whole song?  Do you have to pay for it after? </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><strong>Me:  </strong>Guys.  Did I say iLike?  Did I say Pandora?  This is Grooveshark and it\'s going to change your life. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>The teacher in me threw in a Grooveshark 101 tutorial. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><strong>Me:  </strong>This is how it works.  Go to the site.  Type in a song.  Any song.  It will play in its entirety.  For as many times as you like.  I\'m not sure how this is possible.  It\'s like Napster revisited.  <em>(I then had a scary visual of the boys in diapers when Napster was big.  Yikes!  Moving right along...)</em>  I\'m not sure how it\'s legal.  I\'m not sure how it works.  But it\'s a dream come true. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Justin pulled up the site.  It was certainly his fantasy come true because apparently now Grooveshark stays afloat with ads.  On this day, the ads displayed Victoria\'s Secret bra models.  Justin immediately shifted from cool genius to fumbling schoolboy.    </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><strong>Me:  </strong>Pick any song that comes to your mind and type it in the box. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>I tried to think of a joke about double Ds, but I was a little flustered as well.</p>\n\n<p><strong> </strong></p>\n\n<p><strong>Justin:  </strong>I can\'t think of anything!!!</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>(Well, you are thinking about <em>something</em>, Justin.  But it has nothing to do with music.)</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>I needed Justin to focus.  I reigned him in with, \"Try \'For Those About to Rock\' by AC/DC. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Magically, the double Ds disappeared (thank the lord) and up came our song. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Angus Young\'s guitar riff drew the attention of Mac genius #2 who waltzed on over to investigate.  He saluted the speakers and then moved on shaking his head like Angus.  It was a beautiful moment.</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Justin and Neighbor cub looked at me with deep respect. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>YES!!!! </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>On Day 44, I decided to try Grooveshark out on my new speakers.  A friend at work previously introduced me to Grooveshark at lunch, and I\'ve never taken the time to play around with it at home.  My Year of Living Curiously means making time for goofing off, so now is a good time as any. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Here was my stream-of-consciousness playlist: </p>\n\n<p>1.  <strong>\"For Those About to Rock\" by AC/DC</strong>:  I will milk as much AC/DC out of Grooveshark as I possibly can.  Why?  Because they refuse to sell their music on iTunes.  And I owned AC/DC albums and cassettes <em>(moving right along!!)</em>back in the day.  I don\'t want to buy your entire recordings again, AC/DC.  I only want to purchase my favorite songs.  But noooooo...you greedy bastards won\'t let me!  So to heck with you!!!  I LOVE YOU, GROOVESHARK!!!!</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>2.  <strong>\"Back in Black\" by AC/DC:  </strong>To prove my point.  Bugger off, AC/DC!  Cranked the subwoofer all the way up on this one. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>3.  <strong>\"Same Mistake\" by James Blunt</strong>:  Because I worked myself up in a tizzy over AC/DC and needed to chill.  Just learned this one on the guitar. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>4.  <strong>\"Do It Again\" by Diana Krall</strong>:  Because James Blunt can be so bloody depressing, and I needed sultry romance.  (Speaking of sultry -- 3 token male readers, the Victoria\'s Secret ads are still running.)  Had to turn the subwoofer back down.  Wow!!!!</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>5. <strong> \"Smoke a Little Smoke\" by Eric Church:</strong>  Because I was cleaning up the house while the music was playing and put away my Cowgirl Boots which got me thinking of country music.  Giddyup!</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>6.  <strong>\"Space\" by Sarah Buxton:</strong>  Because I wanted female representation in my country music.  And I wanted the 3 token male readers to listen up and learn.  ;-)</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>7.  <strong>\"Something\" by London Symphony Orchestra:</strong>  ALERT!!!  ALERT!!!!  NO BEATLES ON GROOVESHARK!!!!  THIS VERSION IS WAAYYYYYY TOO DORKY!!!  LISTEN AT YOUR OWN RISK!!!!  ARE THOSE ABBA WANNABEES IN THE CHORUS???  NOOOOOOOO!!!!!  THE BEATLES ARE SACRED!!!!  STOP!!!!!!!</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>I couldn\'t listen all the way through.  I abruptly paused when the male chorus entered out of respect to John &amp; George. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>8.  Pavarotti singing <strong>\"Nessun Dorma\" from <em>Turandot</em> by Puccini:</strong>  Because I <em>do </em>love classical music in general and support our symphonies. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>9.  <strong>\"Don\'t Walk Away\" by Electric Light Orchestra:</strong>  Speaking of dorky, I recently discovered that my friend, Brette (aka Brettesy), shares my childhood obsession with Olivia Newton-John and <em>Xanadu.</em>  Side B was my favorite side of the soundtrack album because it featured ELO whom I love almost as much as The Beatles.  Jeff Lynne, you sound AMAZING on these speakers!!!! </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>10.  <strong>\"Lights\" by Journey:</strong>  Because I wanted to hear another AMAZING voice on my speakers.  Steve Perry, you are a Powerful Portuguese Man and don\'t you ever forget it!  Everyone after you has tried to sing just like you, but you are the original, baby. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>I had to turn the speakers down at one point.  Svennykins, if you are reading this, do you think I can blow a fuse with these puppies (like you think I did with the SoundDock), or am I good?</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>11. <strong>\"Rock of Ages\" by Def Leppard:  </strong>If I\'m going back in time, then I need to honour my boys from Sheffield, England.  My first concert ever!! </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Sound back UP!  Fuse schmuse. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>12. <strong> \"Scene 8\" from <em>The Nutcracker</em> by Tchaikovsky</strong>:  Because it\'s my bedtime and I\'m all wound up from Def Leppard.  I need to calm down and get sleepy.  Berlin Symphony Orchestra, your tempo is much too fast. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>PAUSE.</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>13.  <strong>\"Scene 8\" from <em>The Nutcracker </em>by Tchaikovsy:</strong>  Because the Boston Ballet Orchestra\'s conductor wasn\'t on speed. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Although now I\'m dancing around my kitchen thinking that I\'m the second coming of Gelsey Kirkland, which I am not.  Women if you have never seen Gelsey, <a href=\"http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3z3vvmuCuDg&amp;feature=related\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>watch this and weep</strong></a>.  Sigh...</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>It\'s 10:35.  Didn\'t I say a couple of weeks ago that I would stop blogging this late? </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Now it\'s your turn.  Create your own eclectic playlist on Grooveshark.com and then share it with us in the comments section below.</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>','Day 44:  Get Your Groove On','','inherit','open','open','','1813-revision-9','','','2010-11-09 22:59:21','2010-11-10 05:59:21','',1813,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/11/09/1813-revision-9/',0,'revision','',0),(1824,1,'2010-11-09 23:01:10','2010-11-10 06:01:10','<p><a href=\"http://www.grooveshark.com\" target=\"_blank\"><img class=\"alignleft size-full wp-image-1815\" title=\"grooveshark\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/grooveshark.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"250\" height=\"222\" /></a>Every once and awhile, I know more than a techie. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>When this happens, I feel special.  And really smart.  And on Day 42, young and cool. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>On Day 42, I cornered a Mac genius at the Apple Store.  After he listened to my <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/11/09/day-42-to-rock-my-world-you-need-stamina-baby/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Bose rant</strong></a>, he walked me over and introduced me to my promising new love, Hardon Karmon. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Mac genius (aka Justin) then informed me that iTunes wasn\'t installed on the computer that the Hardon Karmon speakers were hooked up to.  He started to think about what else he could do to demonstrate the speakers. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>I suggested <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/11/09/day-42-to-rock-my-world-you-need-stamina-baby/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Grooveshark.com.</strong></a><strong>  </strong>Justin (estimated age 25) stared blankly at me. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><strong>Justin:</strong>  You mean Pandora? </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><strong>Me:</strong>  No.  Grooveshark.  You know?  The site where you can type in any song and it plays in its entirety.</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><strong>Justin:  </strong>Really?  I\'ve never heard of it! </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>My part-time neighbor from Seattle (aka \"neighbor cub\" because he is only 30 and makes me feel like a cougar even though he always asks to \"hang out\" with me and I\'ve never hunted him once which means that <a href=\"http://latebloomerdiary.blogspot.com/2009/09/cougar-mania-makes-me-want-to-yak_20.html\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>I am definitely not a cougar!</strong></a>) looked clueless as well. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><strong>Neighbor cub:  </strong>You mean you listen to the whole song?  Do you have to pay for it after? </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><strong>Me:  </strong>Guys.  Did I say iLike?  Did I say Pandora?  This is Grooveshark and it\'s going to change your life. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>The teacher in me threw in a Grooveshark 101 tutorial. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><strong>Me:  </strong>This is how it works.  Go to the site.  Type in a song.  Any song.  It will play in its entirety.  For as many times as you like.  I\'m not sure how this is possible.  It\'s like Napster revisited.  <em>(I then had a scary visual of the boys in diapers when Napster was big.  Yikes!  Moving right along...)</em>  I\'m not sure how it\'s legal.  I\'m not sure how it works.  But it\'s a dream come true. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Justin pulled up the site.  It was certainly his fantasy come true because apparently now Grooveshark stays afloat with ads.  On this day, the ads displayed Victoria\'s Secret bra models.  Justin immediately shifted from cool genius to fumbling schoolboy.    </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><strong>Me:  </strong>Pick any song that comes to your mind and type it in the box. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>I tried to think of a joke about double Ds, but I was a little flustered as well.</p>\n\n<p><strong> </strong></p>\n\n<p><strong>Justin:  </strong>I can\'t think of anything!!!</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>(Well, you are thinking about <em>something</em>, Justin.  But it has nothing to do with music.)</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>I needed Justin to focus.  I reigned him in with, \"Try \'For Those About to Rock\' by AC/DC.\"</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Magically, the double Ds disappeared (thank the lord) and up came our song. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Angus Young\'s guitar riff drew the attention of Mac genius #2 who waltzed on over to investigate.  He saluted the speakers and then moved on shaking his head like Angus.  It was a beautiful moment.</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Justin and Neighbor cub looked at me with deep respect. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>YES!!!! </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>On Day 44, I decided to try Grooveshark out on my new speakers.  A friend at work previously introduced me to Grooveshark at lunch, and I\'ve never taken the time to play around with it at home.  My Year of Living Curiously means making time for goofing off, so now is a good time as any. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Here was my stream-of-consciousness playlist: </p>\n\n<p>1.  <strong>\"For Those About to Rock\" by AC/DC</strong>:  I will milk as much AC/DC out of Grooveshark as I possibly can.  Why?  Because they refuse to sell their music on iTunes.  And I owned AC/DC albums and cassettes <em>(moving right along!!)</em>back in the day.  I don\'t want to buy your entire recordings again, AC/DC.  I only want to purchase my favorite songs.  But noooooo...you greedy bastards won\'t let me!  So to heck with you!!!  I LOVE YOU, GROOVESHARK!!!!</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>2.  <strong>\"Back in Black\" by AC/DC:  </strong>To prove my point.  Bugger off, AC/DC!  Cranked the subwoofer all the way up on this one. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>3.  <strong>\"Same Mistake\" by James Blunt</strong>:  Because I worked myself up in a tizzy over AC/DC and needed to chill.  Just learned this one on the guitar. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>4.  <strong>\"Do It Again\" by Diana Krall</strong>:  Because James Blunt can be so bloody depressing, and I needed sultry romance.  (Speaking of sultry -- 3 token male readers, the Victoria\'s Secret ads are still running.)  Had to turn the subwoofer back down.  Wow!!!!</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>5. <strong> \"Smoke a Little Smoke\" by Eric Church:</strong>  Because I was cleaning up the house while the music was playing and put away my Cowgirl Boots which got me thinking of country music.  Giddyup!</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>6.  <strong>\"Space\" by Sarah Buxton:</strong>  Because I wanted female representation in my country music.  And I wanted the 3 token male readers to listen up and learn.  ;-)</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>7.  <strong>\"Something\" by London Symphony Orchestra:</strong>  ALERT!!!  ALERT!!!!  NO BEATLES ON GROOVESHARK!!!!  THIS VERSION IS WAAYYYYYY TOO DORKY!!!  LISTEN AT YOUR OWN RISK!!!!  ARE THOSE ABBA WANNABEES IN THE CHORUS???  NOOOOOOOO!!!!!  THE BEATLES ARE SACRED!!!!  STOP!!!!!!!</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>I couldn\'t listen all the way through.  I abruptly paused when the male chorus entered out of respect to John &amp; George. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>8.  Pavarotti singing <strong>\"Nessun Dorma\" from <em>Turandot</em> by Puccini:</strong>  Because I <em>do </em>love classical music in general and support our symphonies. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>9.  <strong>\"Don\'t Walk Away\" by Electric Light Orchestra:</strong>  Speaking of dorky, I recently discovered that my friend, Brette (aka Brettesy), shares my childhood obsession with Olivia Newton-John and <em>Xanadu.</em>  Side B was my favorite side of the soundtrack album because it featured ELO whom I love almost as much as The Beatles.  Jeff Lynne, you sound AMAZING on these speakers!!!! </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>10.  <strong>\"Lights\" by Journey:</strong>  Because I wanted to hear another AMAZING voice on my speakers.  Steve Perry, you are a Powerful Portuguese Man and don\'t you ever forget it!  Everyone after you has tried to sing just like you, but you are the original, baby. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>I had to turn the speakers down at one point.  Svennykins, if you are reading this, do you think I can blow a fuse with these puppies (like you think I did with the SoundDock), or am I good?</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>11. <strong>\"Rock of Ages\" by Def Leppard:  </strong>If I\'m going back in time, then I need to honour my boys from Sheffield, England.  My first concert ever!! </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Sound back UP!  Fuse schmuse. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>12. <strong> \"Scene 8\" from <em>The Nutcracker</em> by Tchaikovsky</strong>:  Because it\'s my bedtime and I\'m all wound up from Def Leppard.  I need to calm down and get sleepy.  Berlin Symphony Orchestra, your tempo is much too fast. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>PAUSE.</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>13.  <strong>\"Scene 8\" from <em>The Nutcracker </em>by Tchaikovsy:</strong>  Because the Boston Ballet Orchestra\'s conductor wasn\'t on speed. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Although now I\'m dancing around my kitchen thinking that I\'m the second coming of Gelsey Kirkland, which I am not.  Women if you have never seen Gelsey, <a href=\"http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3z3vvmuCuDg&amp;feature=related\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>watch this and weep</strong></a>.  Sigh...</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>It\'s 10:35.  Didn\'t I say a couple of weeks ago that I would stop blogging this late? </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Now it\'s your turn.  Create your own eclectic playlist on Grooveshark.com and then share it with us in the comments section below.</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>','Day 44:  Get Your Groove On','','inherit','open','open','','1813-revision-10','','','2010-11-09 23:01:10','2010-11-10 06:01:10','',1813,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/11/09/1813-revision-10/',0,'revision','',0),(1825,1,'2010-11-09 23:03:06','2010-11-10 06:03:06','<p><a href=\"http://www.grooveshark.com\" target=\"_blank\"><img class=\"alignleft size-full wp-image-1815\" title=\"grooveshark\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/grooveshark.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"250\" height=\"222\" /></a>Every once and awhile, I know more than a techie. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>When this happens, I feel special.  And really smart.  And on Day 42, young and cool. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>On Day 42, I cornered a Mac genius at the Apple Store.  After he listened to my <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/11/09/day-42-to-rock-my-world-you-need-stamina-baby/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Bose rant</strong></a>, he walked me over and introduced me to my promising new love, Hardon Karmon. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Mac genius (aka Justin) then informed me that iTunes wasn\'t installed on the computer that the Hardon Karmon speakers were hooked up to.  He started to think about what else he could do to demonstrate the speakers. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I suggested <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/11/09/day-42-to-rock-my-world-you-need-stamina-baby/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Grooveshark.com.</strong></a><strong>  </strong>Justin (estimated age 25) stared blankly at me. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>Justin:</strong>  You mean Pandora? </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>Me:</strong>  No.  Grooveshark.  You know?  The site where you can type in any song and it plays in its entirety.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>Justin:  </strong>Really?  I\'ve never heard of it! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>My part-time neighbor from Seattle (aka \"neighbor cub\" because he is only 30 and makes me feel like a cougar even though he always asks to \"hang out\" with me and I\'ve never hunted him once which means that <a href=\"http://latebloomerdiary.blogspot.com/2009/09/cougar-mania-makes-me-want-to-yak_20.html\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>I am definitely not a cougar!</strong></a>) looked clueless as well. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>Neighbor cub:  </strong>You mean you listen to the whole song?  Do you have to pay for it after? </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>Me:  </strong>Guys.  Did I say iLike?  Did I say Pandora?  This is Grooveshark and it\'s going to change your life. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>The teacher in me threw in a Grooveshark 101 tutorial. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>Me:  </strong>This is how it works.  Go to the site.  Type in a song.  Any song.  It will play in its entirety.  For as many times as you like.  I\'m not sure how this is possible.  It\'s like Napster revisited.  <em>(I then had a scary visual of the boys in diapers when Napster was big.  Yikes!  Moving right along...)</em>  I\'m not sure how it\'s legal.  I\'m not sure how it works.  But it\'s a dream come true. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Justin pulled up the site.  It was certainly his fantasy come true because apparently now Grooveshark stays afloat with ads.  On this day, the ads displayed Victoria\'s Secret bra models.  Justin immediately shifted from cool genius to fumbling schoolboy.    </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>Me:  </strong>Pick any song that comes to your mind and type it in the box. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I tried to think of a joke about double Ds, but I was a little flustered as well.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong> </strong></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>Justin:  </strong>I can\'t think of anything!!!</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>(Well, you are thinking about <em>something</em>, Justin.  But it has nothing to do with music.)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I needed Justin to focus.  I reigned him in with, \"Try \'For Those About to Rock\' by AC/DC.\"</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Magically, the double Ds disappeared (thank the lord) and up came our song. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Angus Young\'s guitar riff drew the attention of Mac genius #2 who waltzed on over to investigate.  He saluted the speakers and then moved on shaking his head like Angus.  It was a beautiful moment.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Justin and Neighbor cub looked at me with deep respect. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>YES!!!! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>On Day 44, I decided to try Grooveshark out on my new speakers.  A friend at work previously introduced me to Grooveshark at lunch, and I\'ve never taken the time to play around with it at home.  <br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Here was my stream-of-consciousness playlist: </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>1.  <strong>\"For Those About to Rock\" by AC/DC</strong>:  I will milk as much AC/DC out of Grooveshark as I possibly can.  Why?  Because they refuse to sell their music on iTunes.  And I owned AC/DC albums and cassettes <em>(moving right along!!)</em>back in the day.  I don\'t want to buy your entire recordings again, AC/DC.  I only want to purchase my favorite songs.  But noooooo...you greedy bastards won\'t let me!  So to heck with you!!!  I LOVE YOU, GROOVESHARK!!!!</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>2.  <strong>\"Back in Black\" by AC/DC:  </strong>To prove my point.  Bugger off, AC/DC!  Cranked the subwoofer all the way up on this one. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>3.  <strong>\"Same Mistake\" by James Blunt</strong>:  Because I worked myself up in a tizzy over AC/DC and needed to chill.  Just learned this one on the guitar. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>4.  <strong>\"Do It Again\" by Diana Krall</strong>:  Because James Blunt can be so bloody depressing, and I needed sultry romance.  (Speaking of sultry -- 3 token male readers, the Victoria\'s Secret ads are still running.)  Had to turn the subwoofer back down.  Wow!!!!</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>5. <strong> \"Smoke a Little Smoke\" by Eric Church:</strong>  Because I was cleaning up the house while the music was playing and put away my Cowgirl Boots which got me thinking of country music.  Giddyup!</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>6.  <strong>\"Space\" by Sarah Buxton:</strong>  Because I wanted female representation in my country music.  And I wanted the 3 token male readers to listen up and learn.  ;-)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>7.  <strong>\"Something\" by London Symphony Orchestra:</strong>  ALERT!!!  ALERT!!!!  NO BEATLES ON GROOVESHARK!!!!  THIS VERSION IS WAAYYYYYY TOO DORKY!!!  LISTEN AT YOUR OWN RISK!!!!  ARE THOSE ABBA WANNABEES IN THE CHORUS???  NOOOOOOOO!!!!!  THE BEATLES ARE SACRED!!!!  STOP!!!!!!!</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I couldn\'t listen all the way through.  I abruptly paused when the male chorus entered out of respect to John &amp; George. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>8.  Pavarotti singing <strong>\"Nessun Dorma\" from <em>Turandot</em> by Puccini:</strong>  Because I <em>do </em>love classical music in general and support our symphonies. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>9.  <strong>\"Don\'t Walk Away\" by Electric Light Orchestra:</strong>  Speaking of dorky, I recently discovered that my friend, Brette (aka Brettesy), shares my childhood obsession with Olivia Newton-John and <em>Xanadu.</em>  Side B was my favorite side of the soundtrack album because it featured ELO whom I love almost as much as The Beatles.  Jeff Lynne, you sound AMAZING on these speakers!!!! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>10.  <strong>\"Lights\" by Journey:</strong>  Because I wanted to hear another AMAZING voice on my speakers.  Steve Perry, you are a Powerful Portuguese Man and don\'t you ever forget it!  Everyone after you has tried to sing just like you, but you are the original, baby. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I had to turn the speakers down at one point.  Svennykins, if you are reading this, do you think I can blow a fuse with these puppies (like you think I did with the SoundDock), or am I good?</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>11. <strong>\"Rock of Ages\" by Def Leppard:  </strong>If I\'m going back in time, then I need to honour my boys from Sheffield, England.  My first concert ever!! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Sound back UP!  Fuse schmuse. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>12. <strong> \"Scene 8\" from <em>The Nutcracker</em> by Tchaikovsky</strong>:  Because it\'s my bedtime and I\'m all wound up from Def Leppard.  I need to calm down and get sleepy.  Berlin Symphony Orchestra, your tempo is much too fast. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>PAUSE.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>13.  <strong>\"Scene 8\" from <em>The Nutcracker </em>by Tchaikovsy:</strong>  Because the Boston Ballet Orchestra\'s conductor wasn\'t on speed. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Although now I\'m dancing around my kitchen thinking that I\'m the second coming of Gelsey Kirkland, which I am not.  Women if you have never seen Gelsey, <a href=\"http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3z3vvmuCuDg&amp;feature=related\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>watch this and weep</strong></a>.  Sigh...</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>It\'s 10:35.  Didn\'t I say a couple of weeks ago that I would stop blogging this late? </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Now it\'s your turn.  Create your own eclectic playlist on Grooveshark.com and then share it with us in the comments section below.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>','Day 44:  Get Your Groove On','','inherit','open','open','','1813-revision-11','','','2010-11-09 23:03:06','2010-11-10 06:03:06','',1813,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/11/09/1813-revision-11/',0,'revision','',0),(1826,1,'2010-11-09 23:03:39','2010-11-10 06:03:39','<p><a href=\"http://www.grooveshark.com\" target=\"_blank\"><img class=\"alignleft size-full wp-image-1815\" title=\"grooveshark\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/grooveshark.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"250\" height=\"222\" /></a>Every once and awhile, I know more than a techie. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>When this happens, I feel special.  And really smart.  And on Day 42, young and cool. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>On Day 42, I cornered a Mac genius at the Apple Store.  After he listened to my <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/11/09/day-42-to-rock-my-world-you-need-stamina-baby/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Bose rant</strong></a>, he walked me over and introduced me to my promising new love, Hardon Karmon. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Mac genius (aka Justin) then informed me that iTunes wasn\'t installed on the computer that the Hardon Karmon speakers were hooked up to.  He started to think about what else he could do to demonstrate the speakers. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I suggested <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/11/09/day-42-to-rock-my-world-you-need-stamina-baby/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Grooveshark.com.</strong></a><strong>  </strong>Justin (estimated age 25) stared blankly at me. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>Justin:</strong>  You mean Pandora? </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>Me:</strong>  No.  Grooveshark.  You know?  The site where you can type in any song and it plays in its entirety.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>Justin:  </strong>Really?  I\'ve never heard of it! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>My part-time neighbor from Seattle (aka \"neighbor cub\" because he is only 30 and makes me feel like a cougar even though he always asks to \"hang out\" with me and I\'ve never hunted him once which means that <a href=\"http://latebloomerdiary.blogspot.com/2009/09/cougar-mania-makes-me-want-to-yak_20.html\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>I am definitely not a cougar!</strong></a>) looked clueless as well. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>Neighbor cub:  </strong>You mean you listen to the whole song?  Do you have to pay for it after? </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>Me:  </strong>Guys.  Did I say iLike?  Did I say Pandora?  This is Grooveshark and it\'s going to change your life. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>The teacher in me threw in a Grooveshark 101 tutorial. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>Me:  </strong>This is how it works.  Go to the site.  Type in a song.  Any song.  It will play in its entirety.  For as many times as you like.  I\'m not sure how this is possible.  It\'s like Napster revisited.  <em>(I then had a scary visual of the boys in diapers when Napster was big.  Yikes!  Moving right along...)</em>  I\'m not sure how it\'s legal.  I\'m not sure how it works.  But it\'s a dream come true. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Justin pulled up the site.  It was certainly his fantasy come true because apparently now Grooveshark stays afloat with ads.  On this day, the ads displayed Victoria\'s Secret bra models.  Justin immediately shifted from cool genius to fumbling schoolboy.    </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>Me:  </strong>Pick any song that comes to your mind and type it in the box. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I tried to think of a joke about double Ds, but I was a little flustered as well.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong> </strong></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>Justin:  </strong>I can\'t think of anything!!!</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>(Well, you are thinking about <em>something</em>, Justin.  But it has nothing to do with music.)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I needed Justin to focus.  I reigned him in with, \"Try \'For Those About to Rock\' by AC/DC.\"</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Magically, the double Ds disappeared (thank the lord) and up came our song. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Angus Young\'s guitar riff drew the attention of Mac genius #2 who waltzed on over to investigate.  He saluted the speakers and then moved on shaking his head like Angus.  It was a beautiful moment.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Justin and Neighbor cub looked at me with deep respect. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>YES!!!! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>On Day 44, I decided to try Grooveshark out on my new speakers.  A friend at work previously introduced me to Grooveshark at lunch, and I\'ve never taken the time to play around with it at home. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Here is my stream-of-consciousness playlist: </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>1.  <strong>\"For Those About to Rock\" by AC/DC</strong>:  I will milk as much AC/DC out of Grooveshark as I possibly can.  Why?  Because they refuse to sell their music on iTunes.  And I owned AC/DC albums and cassettes <em>(moving right along!!)</em>back in the day.  I don\'t want to buy your entire recordings again, AC/DC.  I only want to purchase my favorite songs.  But noooooo...you greedy bastards won\'t let me!  So to heck with you!!!  I LOVE YOU, GROOVESHARK!!!!</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>2.  <strong>\"Back in Black\" by AC/DC:  </strong>To prove my point.  Bugger off, AC/DC!  Cranked the subwoofer all the way up on this one. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>3.  <strong>\"Same Mistake\" by James Blunt</strong>:  Because I worked myself up in a tizzy over AC/DC and needed to chill.  Just learned this one on the guitar. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>4.  <strong>\"Do It Again\" by Diana Krall</strong>:  Because James Blunt can be so bloody depressing, and I needed sultry romance.  (Speaking of sultry -- 3 token male readers, the Victoria\'s Secret ads are still running.)  Had to turn the subwoofer back down.  Wow!!!!</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>5. <strong> \"Smoke a Little Smoke\" by Eric Church:</strong>  Because I was cleaning up the house while the music was playing and put away my Cowgirl Boots which got me thinking of country music.  Giddyup!</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>6.  <strong>\"Space\" by Sarah Buxton:</strong>  Because I wanted female representation in my country music.  And I wanted the 3 token male readers to listen up and learn.  ;-)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>7.  <strong>\"Something\" by London Symphony Orchestra:</strong>  ALERT!!!  ALERT!!!!  NO BEATLES ON GROOVESHARK!!!!  THIS VERSION IS WAAYYYYYY TOO DORKY!!!  LISTEN AT YOUR OWN RISK!!!!  ARE THOSE ABBA WANNABEES IN THE CHORUS???  NOOOOOOOO!!!!!  THE BEATLES ARE SACRED!!!!  STOP!!!!!!!</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I couldn\'t listen all the way through.  I abruptly paused when the male chorus entered out of respect to John &amp; George. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>8.  Pavarotti singing <strong>\"Nessun Dorma\" from <em>Turandot</em> by Puccini:</strong>  Because I <em>do </em>love classical music in general and support our symphonies. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>9.  <strong>\"Don\'t Walk Away\" by Electric Light Orchestra:</strong>  Speaking of dorky, I recently discovered that my friend, Brette (aka Brettesy), shares my childhood obsession with Olivia Newton-John and <em>Xanadu.</em>  Side B was my favorite side of the soundtrack album because it featured ELO whom I love almost as much as The Beatles.  Jeff Lynne, you sound AMAZING on these speakers!!!! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>10.  <strong>\"Lights\" by Journey:</strong>  Because I wanted to hear another AMAZING voice on my speakers.  Steve Perry, you are a Powerful Portuguese Man and don\'t you ever forget it!  Everyone after you has tried to sing just like you, but you are the original, baby. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I had to turn the speakers down at one point.  Svennykins, if you are reading this, do you think I can blow a fuse with these puppies (like you think I did with the SoundDock), or am I good?</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>11. <strong>\"Rock of Ages\" by Def Leppard:  </strong>If I\'m going back in time, then I need to honour my boys from Sheffield, England.  My first concert ever!! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Sound back UP!  Fuse schmuse. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>12. <strong> \"Scene 8\" from <em>The Nutcracker</em> by Tchaikovsky</strong>:  Because it\'s my bedtime and I\'m all wound up from Def Leppard.  I need to calm down and get sleepy.  Berlin Symphony Orchestra, your tempo is much too fast. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>PAUSE.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>13.  <strong>\"Scene 8\" from <em>The Nutcracker </em>by Tchaikovsy:</strong>  Because the Boston Ballet Orchestra\'s conductor wasn\'t on speed. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Although now I\'m dancing around my kitchen thinking that I\'m the second coming of Gelsey Kirkland, which I am not.  Women if you have never seen Gelsey, <a href=\"http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3z3vvmuCuDg&amp;feature=related\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>watch this and weep</strong></a>.  Sigh...</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>It\'s 10:35.  Didn\'t I say a couple of weeks ago that I would stop blogging this late? </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Now it\'s your turn.  Create your own eclectic playlist on Grooveshark.com and then share it with us in the comments section below.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>','Day 44:  Get Your Groove On','','inherit','open','open','','1813-revision-12','','','2010-11-09 23:03:39','2010-11-10 06:03:39','',1813,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/11/09/1813-revision-12/',0,'revision','',0),(1827,1,'2010-11-09 23:05:39','2010-11-10 06:05:39','<p><a href=\"http://www.grooveshark.com\" target=\"_blank\"><img class=\"alignleft size-full wp-image-1815\" title=\"grooveshark\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/grooveshark.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"250\" height=\"222\" /></a>Every once and awhile, I know more than a techie. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>When this happens, I feel special.  And really smart.  And on Day 42, young and cool. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>On Day 42, I cornered a Mac genius at the Apple Store.  After he listened to my <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/11/09/day-42-to-rock-my-world-you-need-stamina-baby/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Bose rant</strong></a>, he walked me over and introduced me to my promising new love, Hardon Karmon. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Mac genius (aka Justin) then informed me that iTunes wasn\'t installed on the computer that the Hardon Karmon speakers were hooked up to.  He started to think about what else he could do to demonstrate the speakers. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>I suggested <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/11/09/day-42-to-rock-my-world-you-need-stamina-baby/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Grooveshark.com.</strong></a><strong>  </strong>Justin (estimated age 25) stared blankly at me. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><strong>Justin:</strong>  You mean Pandora? </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><strong>Me:</strong>  No.  Grooveshark.  You know?  The site where you can type in any song and it plays in its entirety.</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><strong>Justin:  </strong>Really?  I\'ve never heard of it! </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>My part-time neighbor from Seattle (aka \"neighbor cub\" because he is only 30 and makes me feel like a cougar even though he always asks to \"hang out\" with me and I\'ve never hunted him once which means that <a href=\"http://latebloomerdiary.blogspot.com/2009/09/cougar-mania-makes-me-want-to-yak_20.html\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>I am definitely not a cougar!</strong></a>) looked clueless as well. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><strong>Neighbor cub:  </strong>You mean you listen to the whole song?  Do you have to pay for it after? </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><strong>Me:  </strong>Guys.  Did I say iLike?  Did I say Pandora?  This is Grooveshark and it\'s going to change your life. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>The teacher in me threw in a Grooveshark 101 tutorial. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><strong>Me:  </strong>This is how it works.  Go to the site.  Type in a song.  Any song.  It will play in its entirety.  For as many times as you like.  I\'m not sure how this is possible.  It\'s like Napster revisited.  <em>(I then had a scary visual of the boys in diapers when Napster was big.  Yikes!  Moving right along...)</em>  I\'m not sure how it\'s legal.  I\'m not sure how it works.  But it\'s a dream come true. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Justin pulled up the site.  It was certainly his fantasy come true because apparently now Grooveshark stays afloat with ads.  On this day, the ads displayed Victoria\'s Secret bra models.  Justin immediately shifted from cool genius to fumbling schoolboy.    </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><strong>Me:  </strong>Pick any song that comes to your mind and type it in the box. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>I tried to think of a joke about double Ds, but I was a little flustered as well.</p>\n\n<p><strong> </strong></p>\n\n<p><strong>Justin:  </strong>I can\'t think of anything!!!</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>(Well, you are thinking about <em>something</em>, Justin.  But it has nothing to do with music.)</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>I needed Justin to focus.  I reigned him in with, \"Try \'For Those About to Rock\' by AC/DC.\"</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Magically, the double Ds disappeared (thank the lord) and up came our song. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Angus Young\'s guitar riff drew the attention of Mac genius #2 who waltzed on over to investigate.  He saluted the speakers and then moved on shaking his head like Angus.  It was a beautiful moment.</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Justin and Neighbor cub looked at me with deep respect. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>YES!!!! </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>On Day 44, I decided to try Grooveshark out on my new speakers.  A friend at work previously introduced me to Grooveshark at lunch, and I\'ve never taken the time to play around with it at home. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Here is my stream-of-consciousness playlist: </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>1.  <strong>\"For Those About to Rock\" by AC/DC</strong>:  I will milk as much AC/DC out of Grooveshark as I possibly can.  Why?  Because AC/DC refuses to sell their music on iTunes.  And I owned AC/DC albums and cassettes <em>(moving right along!!)</em> back in the day.  I don\'t want to buy your entire recordings again, AC/DC.  I only want to purchase my favorite songs.  But noooooo...you greedy bastards won\'t let me!  So to heck with you!!!  I LOVE YOU, GROOVESHARK!!!!</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>2.  <strong>\"Back in Black\" by AC/DC:  </strong>To prove my point.  Bugger off, AC/DC!  Cranked the subwoofer all the way up on this one. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>3.  <strong>\"Same Mistake\" by James Blunt</strong>:  Because I worked myself up in a tizzy over AC/DC and needed to chill.  Just learned this one on the guitar. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>4.  <strong>\"Do It Again\" by Diana Krall</strong>:  Because James Blunt can be so bloody depressing, and I needed sultry romance.  (Speaking of sultry -- 3 token male readers, the Victoria\'s Secret ads are still running.)  Had to turn the subwoofer back down.  Wow!!!!</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>5. <strong> \"Smoke a Little Smoke\" by Eric Church:</strong>  Because I was cleaning up the house while the music was playing and put away my Cowgirl Boots which got me thinking of country music.  Giddyup!</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>6.  <strong>\"Space\" by Sarah Buxton:</strong>  Because I wanted female representation in my country music.  And I wanted the 3 token male readers to listen up and learn.  ;-)</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>7.  <strong>\"Something\" by London Symphony Orchestra:</strong>  ALERT!!!  ALERT!!!!  NO BEATLES ON GROOVESHARK!!!!  THIS VERSION IS WAAYYYYYY TOO DORKY!!!  LISTEN AT YOUR OWN RISK!!!!  ARE THOSE ABBA WANNABEES IN THE CHORUS???  NOOOOOOOO!!!!!  THE BEATLES ARE SACRED!!!!  STOP!!!!!!!</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>I couldn\'t listen all the way through.  I abruptly paused when the male chorus entered out of respect to John &amp; George. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>8.  Pavarotti singing <strong>\"Nessun Dorma\" from <em>Turandot</em> by Puccini:</strong>  Because I <em>do </em>love classical music in general and support our symphonies. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>9.  <strong>\"Don\'t Walk Away\" by Electric Light Orchestra:</strong>  Speaking of dorky, I recently discovered that my friend, Brette (aka Brettesy), shares my childhood obsession with Olivia Newton-John and <em>Xanadu.</em>  Side B was my favorite side of the soundtrack album because it featured ELO whom I love almost as much as The Beatles.  Jeff Lynne, you sound AMAZING on these speakers!!!! </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>10.  <strong>\"Lights\" by Journey:</strong>  Because I wanted to hear another AMAZING voice on my speakers.  Steve Perry, you are a Powerful Portuguese Man and don\'t you ever forget it!  Everyone after you has tried to sing just like you, but you are the original, baby. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>I had to turn the speakers down at one point.  Svennykins, if you are reading this, do you think I can blow a fuse with these puppies (like you think I did with the SoundDock), or am I good?</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>11. <strong>\"Rock of Ages\" by Def Leppard:  </strong>If I\'m going back in time, then I need to honour my boys from Sheffield, England.  My first concert ever!! </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Sound back UP!  Fuse schmuse. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>12. <strong> \"Scene 8\" from <em>The Nutcracker</em> by Tchaikovsky</strong>:  Because it\'s my bedtime and I\'m all wound up from Def Leppard.  I need to calm down and get sleepy.  Berlin Symphony Orchestra, your tempo is much too fast. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>PAUSE.</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>13.  <strong>\"Scene 8\" from <em>The Nutcracker </em>by Tchaikovsy:</strong>  Because the Boston Ballet Orchestra\'s conductor wasn\'t on speed. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Although now I\'m dancing around my kitchen thinking that I\'m the second coming of Gelsey Kirkland, which I am not.  Women if you have never seen Gelsey, <a href=\"http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3z3vvmuCuDg&amp;feature=related\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>watch this and weep</strong></a>.  Sigh...</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>It\'s 10:35.  Didn\'t I say a couple of weeks ago that I would stop blogging this late? </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Now it\'s your turn.  Create your own eclectic playlist on Grooveshark.com and then share it with us in the comments section below.</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>','Day 44:  Get Your Groove On','','inherit','open','open','','1813-revision-13','','','2010-11-09 23:05:39','2010-11-10 06:05:39','',1813,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/11/09/1813-revision-13/',0,'revision','',0),(1831,1,'2010-11-09 23:10:23','2010-11-10 06:10:23','<p><a href=\"http://www.grooveshark.com\" target=\"_blank\"><img class=\"alignleft size-full wp-image-1815\" title=\"grooveshark\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/grooveshark.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"250\" height=\"222\" /></a>Every once and awhile, I know more than a techie. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>When this happens, I feel special.  And really smart.  And on Day 42, young and cool. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>On Day 42, I cornered a Mac genius at the Apple Store.  After he listened to my <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/11/09/day-42-to-rock-my-world-you-need-stamina-baby/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Bose rant</strong></a>, he walked me over and introduced me to my promising new love, Hardon Karmon. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Mac genius (aka Justin) then informed me that iTunes wasn\'t installed on the computer that the Hardon Karmon speakers were hooked up to.  He started to think about what else he could do to demonstrate the speakers. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>I suggested <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/11/09/day-42-to-rock-my-world-you-need-stamina-baby/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Grooveshark.com.</strong></a><strong>  </strong>Justin (estimated age 25) stared blankly at me. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><strong>Justin:</strong>  You mean Pandora? </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><strong>Me:</strong>  No.  Grooveshark.  You know?  The site where you can type in any song and it plays in its entirety.</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><strong>Justin:  </strong>Really?  I\'ve never heard of it! </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>My part-time neighbor from Seattle (aka \"neighbor cub\" because he is only 30 and makes me feel like a cougar even though he always asks to \"hang out\" with me and I\'ve never hunted him once which means that <a href=\"http://latebloomerdiary.blogspot.com/2009/09/cougar-mania-makes-me-want-to-yak_20.html\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>I am definitely not a cougar!</strong></a>) looked clueless as well. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><strong>Neighbor cub:  </strong>You mean you listen to the whole song?  Do you have to pay for it after? </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><strong>Me:  </strong>Guys.  Did I say iLike?  Did I say Pandora?  This is Grooveshark and it\'s going to change your life. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>The teacher in me threw in a Grooveshark 101 tutorial. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><strong>Me:  </strong>This is how it works.  Go to the site.  Type in a song.  Any song.  It will play in its entirety.  For as many times as you like.  I\'m not sure how this is possible.  It\'s like Napster revisited.  <em>(I then had a scary visual of the boys in diapers when Napster was big.  Yikes!  Moving right along...)</em>  I\'m not sure how it\'s legal.  I\'m not sure how it works.  But it\'s a dream come true. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Justin pulled up the site.  It was certainly his fantasy come true because apparently now Grooveshark stays afloat with ads.  On this day, the ads displayed Victoria\'s Secret bra models.  Justin immediately shifted from cool genius to fumbling schoolboy.    </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><strong>Me:  </strong>Pick any song that comes to your mind and type it in the box. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>I tried to think of a joke about double Ds, but I was a little flustered as well.</p>\n\n<p><strong> </strong></p>\n\n<p><strong>Justin:  </strong>I can\'t think of anything!!!</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>(Well, you are thinking about <em>something</em>, Justin.  But it has nothing to do with music.)</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>I needed Justin to focus.  I reigned him in with, \"Try \'For Those About to Rock\' by AC/DC.\"</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Magically, the double Ds disappeared (thank the lord) and up came our song. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Angus Young\'s guitar riff drew the attention of Mac genius #2 who waltzed on over to investigate.  He saluted the speakers and then moved on shaking his head like Angus.  It was a beautiful moment.</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Justin and Neighbor cub looked at me with deep respect. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>YES!!!! </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>On Day 44, I decided to try Grooveshark out on my new speakers.  A friend at work previously introduced me to Grooveshark at lunch, and I\'ve never taken the time to play around with it at home. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Here is my stream-of-consciousness playlist: </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>1.  <strong>\"For Those About to Rock\" by AC/DC</strong>:  I will milk as much AC/DC out of Grooveshark as I possibly can.  Why?  Because AC/DC refuses to sell their music on iTunes.  And I owned AC/DC albums and cassettes <em>(moving right along!!)</em> back in the day.  I don\'t want to buy your entire recordings again, AC/DC.  I only want to purchase my favorite songs.  But noooooo...you greedy bastards won\'t let me!  So to heck with you!!!  I LOVE YOU, GROOVESHARK!!!!</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>2.  <strong>\"Back in Black\" by AC/DC:  </strong>To prove my point.  Bugger off, AC/DC!  Cranked the subwoofer all the way up on this one. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>3.  <strong>\"Same Mistake\" by James Blunt</strong>:  Because I worked myself up in a tizzy over AC/DC and needed to chill.  Just learned this one on the guitar. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>4.  <strong>\"Do It Again\" by Diana Krall</strong>:  Because James Blunt can be so bloody depressing, and I needed sultry romance.  (Speaking of sultry -- 3 token male readers, the Victoria\'s Secret ads are still running.)  Had to turn the subwoofer back down.  Wow!!!!</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>5. <strong> \"Smoke a Little Smoke\" by Eric Church:</strong>  Because I was cleaning up the house while the music was playing and put away my <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/11/08/day-41-you-need-cowgirl-boots-not-plastic-surgery-let-me-explain/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Cowgirl Boots</strong> </a>which got me thinking of country music.  Giddyup!</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>6.  <strong>\"Space\" by Sarah Buxton:</strong>  Because I wanted female representation in my country music.  And I wanted the 3 token male readers to listen up and learn.  ;-)</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>7.  <strong>\"Something\" by London Symphony Orchestra:</strong>  ALERT!!!  ALERT!!!!  NO BEATLES ON GROOVESHARK!!!!  THIS VERSION IS WAAYYYYYY TOO DORKY!!!  LISTEN AT YOUR OWN RISK!!!!  ARE THOSE ABBA WANNABEES IN THE CHORUS???  NOOOOOOOO!!!!!  THE BEATLES ARE SACRED!!!!  STOP!!!!!!!</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>I couldn\'t listen all the way through.  I abruptly paused when the male chorus entered out of respect for George. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>8.  Pavarotti singing <strong>\"Nessun Dorma\" from <em>Turandot</em> by Puccini:</strong>  Because I <em>do </em>love classical music in general and support our symphonies. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>9.  <strong>\"Don\'t Walk Away\" by Electric Light Orchestra:</strong>  Speaking of dorky, I recently discovered that my friend, Brette (aka Brettesy), shares my childhood obsession with Olivia Newton-John and <em>Xanadu.</em>  Side B was my favorite side of the soundtrack album because it featured ELO whom I love almost as much as The Beatles.  Jeff Lynne, you sound AMAZING on these speakers!!!! </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>10.  <strong>\"Lights\" by Journey:</strong>  Because I wanted to hear another AMAZING voice on my speakers.  Steve Perry, you are a Powerful Portuguese Man and don\'t you ever forget it!  Everyone after you has tried to sing just like you, but you are the original, baby. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>I had to turn the speakers down at one point.  Svennykins, if you are reading this, do you think I can blow a fuse with these puppies (like you think I did with the SoundDock), or am I good?</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>11. <strong>\"Rock of Ages\" by Def Leppard:  </strong>If I\'m going back in time, then I need to honour my boys from Sheffield, England.  My first concert ever!! </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Sound back UP!  Fuse schmuse. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>12. <strong> \"Scene 8\" from <em>The Nutcracker</em> by Tchaikovsky</strong>:  Because it\'s my bedtime and I\'m all wound up from Def Leppard.  I need to calm down and get sleepy.  Berlin Symphony Orchestra, your tempo is much too fast. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>PAUSE.</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>13.  <strong>\"Scene 8\" from <em>The Nutcracker </em>by Tchaikovsy:</strong>  Because the Boston Ballet Orchestra\'s conductor wasn\'t on speed. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Although now I\'m dancing around my kitchen thinking that I\'m the second coming of Gelsey Kirkland, which I am not.  Women if you have never seen Gelsey, <a href=\"http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3z3vvmuCuDg&amp;feature=related\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>watch this and weep</strong></a>.  Sigh...</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>It\'s 10:35.  Didn\'t I say a couple of weeks ago that I would stop blogging this late? </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Now it\'s your turn.  Create your own eclectic playlist on Grooveshark.com and then share it with us in the comments section below.</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>','Day 44:  Get Your Groove On','','inherit','open','open','','1813-revision-17','','','2010-11-09 23:10:23','2010-11-10 06:10:23','',1813,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/11/09/1813-revision-17/',0,'revision','',0),(1828,1,'2010-11-09 23:06:29','2010-11-10 06:06:29','<p><a href=\"http://www.grooveshark.com\" target=\"_blank\"><img class=\"alignleft size-full wp-image-1815\" title=\"grooveshark\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/grooveshark.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"250\" height=\"222\" /></a>Every once and awhile, I know more than a techie. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>When this happens, I feel special.  And really smart.  And on Day 42, young and cool. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>On Day 42, I cornered a Mac genius at the Apple Store.  After he listened to my <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/11/09/day-42-to-rock-my-world-you-need-stamina-baby/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Bose rant</strong></a>, he walked me over and introduced me to my promising new love, Hardon Karmon. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Mac genius (aka Justin) then informed me that iTunes wasn\'t installed on the computer that the Hardon Karmon speakers were hooked up to.  He started to think about what else he could do to demonstrate the speakers. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I suggested <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/11/09/day-42-to-rock-my-world-you-need-stamina-baby/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Grooveshark.com.</strong></a><strong>  </strong>Justin (estimated age 25) stared blankly at me. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>Justin:</strong>  You mean Pandora? </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>Me:</strong>  No.  Grooveshark.  You know?  The site where you can type in any song and it plays in its entirety.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>Justin:  </strong>Really?  I\'ve never heard of it! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>My part-time neighbor from Seattle (aka \"neighbor cub\" because he is only 30 and makes me feel like a cougar even though he always asks to \"hang out\" with me and I\'ve never hunted him once which means that <a href=\"http://latebloomerdiary.blogspot.com/2009/09/cougar-mania-makes-me-want-to-yak_20.html\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>I am definitely not a cougar!</strong></a>) looked clueless as well. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>Neighbor cub:  </strong>You mean you listen to the whole song?  Do you have to pay for it after? </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>Me:  </strong>Guys.  Did I say iLike?  Did I say Pandora?  This is Grooveshark and it\'s going to change your life. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>The teacher in me threw in a Grooveshark 101 tutorial. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>Me:  </strong>This is how it works.  Go to the site.  Type in a song.  Any song.  It will play in its entirety.  For as many times as you like.  I\'m not sure how this is possible.  It\'s like Napster revisited.  <em>(I then had a scary visual of the boys in diapers when Napster was big.  Yikes!  Moving right along...)</em>  I\'m not sure how it\'s legal.  I\'m not sure how it works.  But it\'s a dream come true. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Justin pulled up the site.  It was certainly his fantasy come true because apparently now Grooveshark stays afloat with ads.  On this day, the ads displayed Victoria\'s Secret bra models.  Justin immediately shifted from cool genius to fumbling schoolboy.    </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>Me:  </strong>Pick any song that comes to your mind and type it in the box. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I tried to think of a joke about double Ds, but I was a little flustered as well.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong> </strong></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>Justin:  </strong>I can\'t think of anything!!!</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>(Well, you are thinking about <em>something</em>, Justin.  But it has nothing to do with music.)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I needed Justin to focus.  I reigned him in with, \"Try \'For Those About to Rock\' by AC/DC.\"</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Magically, the double Ds disappeared (thank the lord) and up came our song. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Angus Young\'s guitar riff drew the attention of Mac genius #2 who waltzed on over to investigate.  He saluted the speakers and then moved on shaking his head like Angus.  It was a beautiful moment.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Justin and Neighbor cub looked at me with deep respect. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>YES!!!! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>On Day 44, I decided to try Grooveshark out on my new speakers.  A friend at work previously introduced me to Grooveshark at lunch, and I\'ve never taken the time to play around with it at home. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Here is my stream-of-consciousness playlist: </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>1.  <strong>\"For Those About to Rock\" by AC/DC</strong>:  I will milk as much AC/DC out of Grooveshark as I possibly can.  Why?  Because AC/DC refuses to sell their music on iTunes.  And I owned AC/DC albums and cassettes <em>(moving right along!!)</em> back in the day.  I don\'t want to buy your entire recordings again, AC/DC.  I only want to purchase my favorite songs.  But noooooo...you greedy bastards won\'t let me!  So to heck with you!!!  I LOVE YOU, GROOVESHARK!!!!</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>2.  <strong>\"Back in Black\" by AC/DC:  </strong>To prove my point.  Bugger off, AC/DC!  Cranked the subwoofer all the way up on this one. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>3.  <strong>\"Same Mistake\" by James Blunt</strong>:  Because I worked myself up in a tizzy over AC/DC and needed to chill.  Just learned this one on the guitar. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>4.  <strong>\"Do It Again\" by Diana Krall</strong>:  Because James Blunt can be so bloody depressing, and I needed sultry romance.  (Speaking of sultry -- 3 token male readers, the Victoria\'s Secret ads are still running.)  Had to turn the subwoofer back down.  Wow!!!!</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>5. <strong> \"Smoke a Little Smoke\" by Eric Church:</strong>  Because I was cleaning up the house while the music was playing and put away my <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/11/08/day-41-you-need-cowgirl-boots-not-plastic-surgery-let-me-explain/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Cowgirl Boots</strong> </a>which got me thinking of country music.  Giddyup!</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>6.  <strong>\"Space\" by Sarah Buxton:</strong>  Because I wanted female representation in my country music.  And I wanted the 3 token male readers to listen up and learn.  ;-)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>7.  <strong>\"Something\" by London Symphony Orchestra:</strong>  ALERT!!!  ALERT!!!!  NO BEATLES ON GROOVESHARK!!!!  THIS VERSION IS WAAYYYYYY TOO DORKY!!!  LISTEN AT YOUR OWN RISK!!!!  ARE THOSE ABBA WANNABEES IN THE CHORUS???  NOOOOOOOO!!!!!  THE BEATLES ARE SACRED!!!!  STOP!!!!!!!</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I couldn\'t listen all the way through.  I abruptly paused when the male chorus entered out of respect to John &amp; George. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>8.  Pavarotti singing <strong>\"Nessun Dorma\" from <em>Turandot</em> by Puccini:</strong>  Because I <em>do </em>love classical music in general and support our symphonies. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>9.  <strong>\"Don\'t Walk Away\" by Electric Light Orchestra:</strong>  Speaking of dorky, I recently discovered that my friend, Brette (aka Brettesy), shares my childhood obsession with Olivia Newton-John and <em>Xanadu.</em>  Side B was my favorite side of the soundtrack album because it featured ELO whom I love almost as much as The Beatles.  Jeff Lynne, you sound AMAZING on these speakers!!!! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>10.  <strong>\"Lights\" by Journey:</strong>  Because I wanted to hear another AMAZING voice on my speakers.  Steve Perry, you are a Powerful Portuguese Man and don\'t you ever forget it!  Everyone after you has tried to sing just like you, but you are the original, baby. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I had to turn the speakers down at one point.  Svennykins, if you are reading this, do you think I can blow a fuse with these puppies (like you think I did with the SoundDock), or am I good?</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>11. <strong>\"Rock of Ages\" by Def Leppard:  </strong>If I\'m going back in time, then I need to honour my boys from Sheffield, England.  My first concert ever!! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Sound back UP!  Fuse schmuse. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>12. <strong> \"Scene 8\" from <em>The Nutcracker</em> by Tchaikovsky</strong>:  Because it\'s my bedtime and I\'m all wound up from Def Leppard.  I need to calm down and get sleepy.  Berlin Symphony Orchestra, your tempo is much too fast. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>PAUSE.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>13.  <strong>\"Scene 8\" from <em>The Nutcracker </em>by Tchaikovsy:</strong>  Because the Boston Ballet Orchestra\'s conductor wasn\'t on speed. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Although now I\'m dancing around my kitchen thinking that I\'m the second coming of Gelsey Kirkland, which I am not.  Women if you have never seen Gelsey, <a href=\"http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3z3vvmuCuDg&amp;feature=related\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>watch this and weep</strong></a>.  Sigh...</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>It\'s 10:35.  Didn\'t I say a couple of weeks ago that I would stop blogging this late? </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Now it\'s your turn.  Create your own eclectic playlist on Grooveshark.com and then share it with us in the comments section below.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>','Day 44:  Get Your Groove On','','inherit','open','open','','1813-revision-14','','','2010-11-09 23:06:29','2010-11-10 06:06:29','',1813,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/11/09/1813-revision-14/',0,'revision','',0),(1829,1,'2010-11-09 23:06:37','2010-11-10 06:06:37','<p><a href=\"http://www.grooveshark.com\" target=\"_blank\"><img class=\"alignleft size-full wp-image-1815\" title=\"grooveshark\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/grooveshark.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"250\" height=\"222\" /></a>Every once and awhile, I know more than a techie. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>When this happens, I feel special.  And really smart.  And on Day 42, young and cool. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>On Day 42, I cornered a Mac genius at the Apple Store.  After he listened to my <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/11/09/day-42-to-rock-my-world-you-need-stamina-baby/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Bose rant</strong></a>, he walked me over and introduced me to my promising new love, Hardon Karmon. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Mac genius (aka Justin) then informed me that iTunes wasn\'t installed on the computer that the Hardon Karmon speakers were hooked up to.  He started to think about what else he could do to demonstrate the speakers. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I suggested <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/11/09/day-42-to-rock-my-world-you-need-stamina-baby/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Grooveshark.com.</strong></a><strong>  </strong>Justin (estimated age 25) stared blankly at me. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>Justin:</strong>  You mean Pandora? </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>Me:</strong>  No.  Grooveshark.  You know?  The site where you can type in any song and it plays in its entirety.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>Justin:  </strong>Really?  I\'ve never heard of it! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>My part-time neighbor from Seattle (aka \"neighbor cub\" because he is only 30 and makes me feel like a cougar even though he always asks to \"hang out\" with me and I\'ve never hunted him once which means that <a href=\"http://latebloomerdiary.blogspot.com/2009/09/cougar-mania-makes-me-want-to-yak_20.html\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>I am definitely not a cougar!</strong></a>) looked clueless as well. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>Neighbor cub:  </strong>You mean you listen to the whole song?  Do you have to pay for it after? </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>Me:  </strong>Guys.  Did I say iLike?  Did I say Pandora?  This is Grooveshark and it\'s going to change your life. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>The teacher in me threw in a Grooveshark 101 tutorial. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>Me:  </strong>This is how it works.  Go to the site.  Type in a song.  Any song.  It will play in its entirety.  For as many times as you like.  I\'m not sure how this is possible.  It\'s like Napster revisited.  <em>(I then had a scary visual of the boys in diapers when Napster was big.  Yikes!  Moving right along...)</em>  I\'m not sure how it\'s legal.  I\'m not sure how it works.  But it\'s a dream come true. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Justin pulled up the site.  It was certainly his fantasy come true because apparently now Grooveshark stays afloat with ads.  On this day, the ads displayed Victoria\'s Secret bra models.  Justin immediately shifted from cool genius to fumbling schoolboy.    </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>Me:  </strong>Pick any song that comes to your mind and type it in the box. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I tried to think of a joke about double Ds, but I was a little flustered as well.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong> </strong></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>Justin:  </strong>I can\'t think of anything!!!</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>(Well, you are thinking about <em>something</em>, Justin.  But it has nothing to do with music.)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I needed Justin to focus.  I reigned him in with, \"Try \'For Those About to Rock\' by AC/DC.\"</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Magically, the double Ds disappeared (thank the lord) and up came our song. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Angus Young\'s guitar riff drew the attention of Mac genius #2 who waltzed on over to investigate.  He saluted the speakers and then moved on shaking his head like Angus.  It was a beautiful moment.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Justin and Neighbor cub looked at me with deep respect. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>YES!!!! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>On Day 44, I decided to try Grooveshark out on my new speakers.  A friend at work previously introduced me to Grooveshark at lunch, and I\'ve never taken the time to play around with it at home. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Here is my stream-of-consciousness playlist: </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>1.  <strong>\"For Those About to Rock\" by AC/DC</strong>:  I will milk as much AC/DC out of Grooveshark as I possibly can.  Why?  Because AC/DC refuses to sell their music on iTunes.  And I owned AC/DC albums and cassettes <em>(moving right along!!)</em> back in the day.  I don\'t want to buy your entire recordings again, AC/DC.  I only want to purchase my favorite songs.  But noooooo...you greedy bastards won\'t let me!  So to heck with you!!!  I LOVE YOU, GROOVESHARK!!!!</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>2.  <strong>\"Back in Black\" by AC/DC:  </strong>To prove my point.  Bugger off, AC/DC!  Cranked the subwoofer all the way up on this one. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>3.  <strong>\"Same Mistake\" by James Blunt</strong>:  Because I worked myself up in a tizzy over AC/DC and needed to chill.  Just learned this one on the guitar. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>4.  <strong>\"Do It Again\" by Diana Krall</strong>:  Because James Blunt can be so bloody depressing, and I needed sultry romance.  (Speaking of sultry -- 3 token male readers, the Victoria\'s Secret ads are still running.)  Had to turn the subwoofer back down.  Wow!!!!</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>5. <strong> \"Smoke a Little Smoke\" by Eric Church:</strong>  Because I was cleaning up the house while the music was playing and put away my <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/11/08/day-41-you-need-cowgirl-boots-not-plastic-surgery-let-me-explain/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Cowgirl Boots</strong> </a>which got me thinking of country music.  Giddyup!</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>6.  <strong>\"Space\" by Sarah Buxton:</strong>  Because I wanted female representation in my country music.  And I wanted the 3 token male readers to listen up and learn.  ;-)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>7.  <strong>\"Something\" by London Symphony Orchestra:</strong>  ALERT!!!  ALERT!!!!  NO BEATLES ON GROOVESHARK!!!!  THIS VERSION IS WAAYYYYYY TOO DORKY!!!  LISTEN AT YOUR OWN RISK!!!!  ARE THOSE ABBA WANNABEES IN THE CHORUS???  NOOOOOOOO!!!!!  THE BEATLES ARE SACRED!!!!  STOP!!!!!!!</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I couldn\'t listen all the way through.  I abruptly paused when the male chorus entered out of respect to John &amp; George. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>8.  Pavarotti singing <strong>\"Nessun Dorma\" from <em>Turandot</em> by Puccini:</strong>  Because I <em>do </em>love classical music in general and support our symphonies. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>9.  <strong>\"Don\'t Walk Away\" by Electric Light Orchestra:</strong>  Speaking of dorky, I recently discovered that my friend, Brette (aka Brettesy), shares my childhood obsession with Olivia Newton-John and <em>Xanadu.</em>  Side B was my favorite side of the soundtrack album because it featured ELO whom I love almost as much as The Beatles.  Jeff Lynne, you sound AMAZING on these speakers!!!! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>10.  <strong>\"Lights\" by Journey:</strong>  Because I wanted to hear another AMAZING voice on my speakers.  Steve Perry, you are a Powerful Portuguese Man and don\'t you ever forget it!  Everyone after you has tried to sing just like you, but you are the original, baby. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I had to turn the speakers down at one point.  Svennykins, if you are reading this, do you think I can blow a fuse with these puppies (like you think I did with the SoundDock), or am I good?</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>11. <strong>\"Rock of Ages\" by Def Leppard:  </strong>If I\'m going back in time, then I need to honour my boys from Sheffield, England.  My first concert ever!! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Sound back UP!  Fuse schmuse. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>12. <strong> \"Scene 8\" from <em>The Nutcracker</em> by Tchaikovsky</strong>:  Because it\'s my bedtime and I\'m all wound up from Def Leppard.  I need to calm down and get sleepy.  Berlin Symphony Orchestra, your tempo is much too fast. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>PAUSE.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>13.  <strong>\"Scene 8\" from <em>The Nutcracker </em>by Tchaikovsy:</strong>  Because the Boston Ballet Orchestra\'s conductor wasn\'t on speed. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Although now I\'m dancing around my kitchen thinking that I\'m the second coming of Gelsey Kirkland, which I am not.  Women if you have never seen Gelsey, <a href=\"http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3z3vvmuCuDg&amp;feature=related\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>watch this and weep</strong></a>.  Sigh...</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>It\'s 10:35.  Didn\'t I say a couple of weeks ago that I would stop blogging this late? </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Now it\'s your turn.  Create your own eclectic playlist on Grooveshark.com and then share it with us in the comments section below.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>','Day 44:  Get Your Groove On','','inherit','open','open','','1813-revision-15','','','2010-11-09 23:06:37','2010-11-10 06:06:37','',1813,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/11/09/1813-revision-15/',0,'revision','',0),(1830,1,'2010-11-09 23:06:55','2010-11-10 06:06:55','<p><a href=\"http://www.grooveshark.com\" target=\"_blank\"><img class=\"alignleft size-full wp-image-1815\" title=\"grooveshark\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/grooveshark.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"250\" height=\"222\" /></a>Every once and awhile, I know more than a techie. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>When this happens, I feel special.  And really smart.  And on Day 42, young and cool. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>On Day 42, I cornered a Mac genius at the Apple Store.  After he listened to my <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/11/09/day-42-to-rock-my-world-you-need-stamina-baby/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Bose rant</strong></a>, he walked me over and introduced me to my promising new love, Hardon Karmon. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Mac genius (aka Justin) then informed me that iTunes wasn\'t installed on the computer that the Hardon Karmon speakers were hooked up to.  He started to think about what else he could do to demonstrate the speakers. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I suggested <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/11/09/day-42-to-rock-my-world-you-need-stamina-baby/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Grooveshark.com.</strong></a><strong>  </strong>Justin (estimated age 25) stared blankly at me. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>Justin:</strong>  You mean Pandora? </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>Me:</strong>  No.  Grooveshark.  You know?  The site where you can type in any song and it plays in its entirety.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>Justin:  </strong>Really?  I\'ve never heard of it! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>My part-time neighbor from Seattle (aka \"neighbor cub\" because he is only 30 and makes me feel like a cougar even though he always asks to \"hang out\" with me and I\'ve never hunted him once which means that <a href=\"http://latebloomerdiary.blogspot.com/2009/09/cougar-mania-makes-me-want-to-yak_20.html\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>I am definitely not a cougar!</strong></a>) looked clueless as well. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>Neighbor cub:  </strong>You mean you listen to the whole song?  Do you have to pay for it after? </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>Me:  </strong>Guys.  Did I say iLike?  Did I say Pandora?  This is Grooveshark and it\'s going to change your life. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>The teacher in me threw in a Grooveshark 101 tutorial. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>Me:  </strong>This is how it works.  Go to the site.  Type in a song.  Any song.  It will play in its entirety.  For as many times as you like.  I\'m not sure how this is possible.  It\'s like Napster revisited.  <em>(I then had a scary visual of the boys in diapers when Napster was big.  Yikes!  Moving right along...)</em>  I\'m not sure how it\'s legal.  I\'m not sure how it works.  But it\'s a dream come true. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Justin pulled up the site.  It was certainly his fantasy come true because apparently now Grooveshark stays afloat with ads.  On this day, the ads displayed Victoria\'s Secret bra models.  Justin immediately shifted from cool genius to fumbling schoolboy.    </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>Me:  </strong>Pick any song that comes to your mind and type it in the box. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I tried to think of a joke about double Ds, but I was a little flustered as well.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong> </strong></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>Justin:  </strong>I can\'t think of anything!!!</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>(Well, you are thinking about <em>something</em>, Justin.  But it has nothing to do with music.)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I needed Justin to focus.  I reigned him in with, \"Try \'For Those About to Rock\' by AC/DC.\"</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Magically, the double Ds disappeared (thank the lord) and up came our song. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Angus Young\'s guitar riff drew the attention of Mac genius #2 who waltzed on over to investigate.  He saluted the speakers and then moved on shaking his head like Angus.  It was a beautiful moment.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Justin and Neighbor cub looked at me with deep respect. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>YES!!!! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>On Day 44, I decided to try Grooveshark out on my new speakers.  A friend at work previously introduced me to Grooveshark at lunch, and I\'ve never taken the time to play around with it at home. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Here is my stream-of-consciousness playlist: </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>1.  <strong>\"For Those About to Rock\" by AC/DC</strong>:  I will milk as much AC/DC out of Grooveshark as I possibly can.  Why?  Because AC/DC refuses to sell their music on iTunes.  And I owned AC/DC albums and cassettes <em>(moving right along!!)</em> back in the day.  I don\'t want to buy your entire recordings again, AC/DC.  I only want to purchase my favorite songs.  But noooooo...you greedy bastards won\'t let me!  So to heck with you!!!  I LOVE YOU, GROOVESHARK!!!!</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>2.  <strong>\"Back in Black\" by AC/DC:  </strong>To prove my point.  Bugger off, AC/DC!  Cranked the subwoofer all the way up on this one. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>3.  <strong>\"Same Mistake\" by James Blunt</strong>:  Because I worked myself up in a tizzy over AC/DC and needed to chill.  Just learned this one on the guitar. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>4.  <strong>\"Do It Again\" by Diana Krall</strong>:  Because James Blunt can be so bloody depressing, and I needed sultry romance.  (Speaking of sultry -- 3 token male readers, the Victoria\'s Secret ads are still running.)  Had to turn the subwoofer back down.  Wow!!!!</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>5. <strong> \"Smoke a Little Smoke\" by Eric Church:</strong>  Because I was cleaning up the house while the music was playing and put away my <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/11/08/day-41-you-need-cowgirl-boots-not-plastic-surgery-let-me-explain/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Cowgirl Boots</strong> </a>which got me thinking of country music.  Giddyup!</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>6.  <strong>\"Space\" by Sarah Buxton:</strong>  Because I wanted female representation in my country music.  And I wanted the 3 token male readers to listen up and learn.  ;-)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>7.  <strong>\"Something\" by London Symphony Orchestra:</strong>  ALERT!!!  ALERT!!!!  NO BEATLES ON GROOVESHARK!!!!  THIS VERSION IS WAAYYYYYY TOO DORKY!!!  LISTEN AT YOUR OWN RISK!!!!  ARE THOSE ABBA WANNABEES IN THE CHORUS???  NOOOOOOOO!!!!!  THE BEATLES ARE SACRED!!!!  STOP!!!!!!!</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I couldn\'t listen all the way through.  I abruptly paused when the male chorus entered out of respect to John &amp; George. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>8.  Pavarotti singing <strong>\"Nessun Dorma\" from <em>Turandot</em> by Puccini:</strong>  Because I <em>do </em>love classical music in general and support our symphonies. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>9.  <strong>\"Don\'t Walk Away\" by Electric Light Orchestra:</strong>  Speaking of dorky, I recently discovered that my friend, Brette (aka Brettesy), shares my childhood obsession with Olivia Newton-John and <em>Xanadu.</em>  Side B was my favorite side of the soundtrack album because it featured ELO whom I love almost as much as The Beatles.  Jeff Lynne, you sound AMAZING on these speakers!!!! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>10.  <strong>\"Lights\" by Journey:</strong>  Because I wanted to hear another AMAZING voice on my speakers.  Steve Perry, you are a Powerful Portuguese Man and don\'t you ever forget it!  Everyone after you has tried to sing just like you, but you are the original, baby. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I had to turn the speakers down at one point.  Svennykins, if you are reading this, do you think I can blow a fuse with these puppies (like you think I did with the SoundDock), or am I good?</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>11. <strong>\"Rock of Ages\" by Def Leppard:  </strong>If I\'m going back in time, then I need to honour my boys from Sheffield, England.  My first concert ever!! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Sound back UP!  Fuse schmuse. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>12. <strong> \"Scene 8\" from <em>The Nutcracker</em> by Tchaikovsky</strong>:  Because it\'s my bedtime and I\'m all wound up from Def Leppard.  I need to calm down and get sleepy.  Berlin Symphony Orchestra, your tempo is much too fast. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>PAUSE.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>13.  <strong>\"Scene 8\" from <em>The Nutcracker </em>by Tchaikovsy:</strong>  Because the Boston Ballet Orchestra\'s conductor wasn\'t on speed. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Although now I\'m dancing around my kitchen thinking that I\'m the second coming of Gelsey Kirkland, which I am not.  Women if you have never seen Gelsey, <a href=\"http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3z3vvmuCuDg&amp;feature=related\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>watch this and weep</strong></a>.  Sigh...</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>It\'s 10:35.  Didn\'t I say a couple of weeks ago that I would stop blogging this late? </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Now it\'s your turn.  Create your own eclectic playlist on Grooveshark.com and then share it with us in the comments section below.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>','Day 44:  Get Your Groove On','','inherit','open','open','','1813-revision-16','','','2010-11-09 23:06:55','2010-11-10 06:06:55','',1813,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/11/09/1813-revision-16/',0,'revision','',0),(1832,1,'2010-11-09 23:13:17','2010-11-10 06:13:17','<p><a href=\"http://www.grooveshark.com\" target=\"_blank\"><img class=\"alignleft size-full wp-image-1815\" title=\"grooveshark\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/grooveshark.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"250\" height=\"222\" /></a>Every once and awhile, I know more than a techie. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>When this happens, I feel special.  And really smart.  And on Day 42, young and cool. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>On Day 42, I cornered a Mac genius at the Apple Store.  After he listened to my <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/11/09/day-42-to-rock-my-world-you-need-stamina-baby/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Bose rant</strong></a>, he walked me over and introduced me to my promising new love, Hardon Karmon. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Mac genius (aka Justin) then informed me that iTunes wasn\'t installed on the computer that the Hardon Karmon speakers were hooked up to.  He started to think about what else he could do to demonstrate the speakers. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>I suggested <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/11/09/day-42-to-rock-my-world-you-need-stamina-baby/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Grooveshark.com.</strong></a><strong>  </strong>Justin (estimated age 25) stared blankly at me. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><strong>Justin:</strong>  You mean Pandora? </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><strong>Me:</strong>  No.  Grooveshark.  You know?  The site where you can type in any song and it plays in its entirety.</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><strong>Justin:  </strong>Really?  I\'ve never heard of it! </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>My part-time neighbor from Seattle (aka \"neighbor cub\" because he is only 30 and makes me feel like a cougar even though he always asks to \"hang out\" with me and I\'ve never hunted him once which means that <a href=\"http://latebloomerdiary.blogspot.com/2009/09/cougar-mania-makes-me-want-to-yak_20.html\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>I am definitely not a cougar!</strong></a>) looked clueless as well. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><strong>Neighbor cub:  </strong>You mean you listen to the whole song?  Do you have to pay for it after? </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><strong>Me:  </strong>Guys.  Did I say iLike?  Did I say Pandora?  This is Grooveshark and it\'s going to change your life. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>The teacher in me threw in a Grooveshark 101 tutorial. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><strong>Me:  </strong>This is how it works.  Go to the site.  Type in a song.  Any song.  It will play in its entirety.  For as many times as you like.  I\'m not sure how this is possible.  It\'s like Napster revisited except t.  <em>(I then had a scary visual of the boys in diapers when Napster was big.  Yikes!  Moving right along...)</em>  I\'m not sure how it\'s legal.  I\'m not sure how it works.  But it\'s a dream come true. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Justin pulled up the site.  It was certainly his fantasy come true because apparently now Grooveshark stays afloat with ads.  On this day, the ads displayed Victoria\'s Secret bra models.  Justin immediately shifted from cool genius to fumbling schoolboy.    </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><strong>Me:  </strong>Pick any song that comes to your mind and type it in the box. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>I tried to think of a joke about double Ds, but I was a little flustered as well.</p>\n\n<p><strong> </strong></p>\n\n<p><strong>Justin:  </strong>I can\'t think of anything!!!</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>(Well, you are thinking about <em>something</em>, Justin.  But it has nothing to do with music.)</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>I needed Justin to focus.  I reigned him in with, \"Try \'For Those About to Rock\' by AC/DC.\"</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Magically, the double Ds disappeared (thank the lord) and up came our song. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Angus Young\'s guitar riff drew the attention of Mac genius #2 who waltzed on over to investigate.  He saluted the speakers and then moved on shaking his head like Angus.  It was a beautiful moment.</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Justin and Neighbor cub looked at me with deep respect. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>YES!!!! </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>On Day 44, I decided to try Grooveshark out on my new speakers.  A friend at work previously introduced me to Grooveshark at lunch, and I\'ve never taken the time to play around with it at home. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Here is my stream-of-consciousness playlist: </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>1.  <strong>\"For Those About to Rock\" by AC/DC</strong>:  I will milk as much AC/DC out of Grooveshark as I possibly can.  Why?  Because AC/DC refuses to sell their music on iTunes.  And I owned AC/DC albums and cassettes <em>(moving right along!!)</em> back in the day.  I don\'t want to buy your entire recordings again, AC/DC.  I only want to purchase my favorite songs.  But noooooo...you greedy bastards won\'t let me!  So to heck with you!!!  I LOVE YOU, GROOVESHARK!!!!</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>2.  <strong>\"Back in Black\" by AC/DC:  </strong>To prove my point.  Bugger off, AC/DC!  Cranked the subwoofer all the way up on this one. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>3.  <strong>\"Same Mistake\" by James Blunt</strong>:  Because I worked myself up in a tizzy over AC/DC and needed to chill.  Just learned this one on the guitar. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>4.  <strong>\"Do It Again\" by Diana Krall</strong>:  Because James Blunt can be so bloody depressing, and I needed sultry romance.  (Speaking of sultry -- 3 token male readers, the Victoria\'s Secret ads are still running.)  Had to turn the subwoofer back down.  Wow!!!!</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>5. <strong> \"Smoke a Little Smoke\" by Eric Church:</strong>  Because I was cleaning up the house while the music was playing and put away my <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/11/08/day-41-you-need-cowgirl-boots-not-plastic-surgery-let-me-explain/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Cowgirl Boots</strong> </a>which got me thinking of country music.  Giddyup!</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>6.  <strong>\"Space\" by Sarah Buxton:</strong>  Because I wanted female representation in my country music.  And I wanted the 3 token male readers to listen up and learn.  ;-)</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>7.  <strong>\"Something\" by London Symphony Orchestra:</strong>  ALERT!!!  ALERT!!!!  NO BEATLES ON GROOVESHARK!!!!  THIS VERSION IS WAAYYYYYY TOO DORKY!!!  LISTEN AT YOUR OWN RISK!!!!  ARE THOSE ABBA WANNABEES IN THE CHORUS???  NOOOOOOOO!!!!!  THE BEATLES ARE SACRED!!!!  STOP!!!!!!!</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>I couldn\'t listen all the way through.  I abruptly paused when the male chorus entered out of respect for George. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>8.  Pavarotti singing <strong>\"Nessun Dorma\" from <em>Turandot</em> by Puccini:</strong>  Because I <em>do </em>love classical music in general and support our symphonies. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>9.  <strong>\"Don\'t Walk Away\" by Electric Light Orchestra:</strong>  Speaking of dorky, I recently discovered that my friend, Brette (aka Brettesy), shares my childhood obsession with Olivia Newton-John and <em>Xanadu.</em>  Side B was my favorite side of the soundtrack album because it featured ELO whom I love almost as much as The Beatles.  Jeff Lynne, you sound AMAZING on these speakers!!!! </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>10.  <strong>\"Lights\" by Journey:</strong>  Because I wanted to hear another AMAZING voice on my speakers.  Steve Perry, you are a Powerful Portuguese Man and don\'t you ever forget it!  Everyone after you has tried to sing just like you, but you are the original, baby. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>I had to turn the speakers down at one point.  Svennykins, if you are reading this, do you think I can blow a fuse with these puppies (like you think I did with the SoundDock), or am I good?</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>11. <strong>\"Rock of Ages\" by Def Leppard:  </strong>If I\'m going back in time, then I need to honour my boys from Sheffield, England.  My first concert ever!! </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Sound back UP!  Fuse schmuse. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>12. <strong> \"Scene 8\" from <em>The Nutcracker</em> by Tchaikovsky</strong>:  Because it\'s my bedtime and I\'m all wound up from Def Leppard.  I need to calm down and get sleepy.  Berlin Symphony Orchestra, your tempo is much too fast. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>PAUSE.</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>13.  <strong>\"Scene 8\" from <em>The Nutcracker </em>by Tchaikovsy:</strong>  Because the Boston Ballet Orchestra\'s conductor wasn\'t on speed like the guy from Berlin. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Although now I\'m dancing around my kitchen thinking that I\'m the second coming of Gelsey Kirkland, which I am not.  Women if you have never seen Gelsey, <a href=\"http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3z3vvmuCuDg&amp;feature=related\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>watch this and weep</strong></a>.  Sigh...</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>It\'s 10:35.  Didn\'t I say a couple of weeks ago that I would stop blogging this late? </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Now it\'s your turn.  Create your own eclectic playlist on Grooveshark.com and then share it with us in the comments section below.</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>','Day 44:  Get Your Groove On','','inherit','open','open','','1813-revision-18','','','2010-11-09 23:13:17','2010-11-10 06:13:17','',1813,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/11/09/1813-revision-18/',0,'revision','',0),(1833,1,'2010-11-09 23:14:34','2010-11-10 06:14:34','<p><a href=\"http://www.grooveshark.com\" target=\"_blank\"><img class=\"alignleft size-full wp-image-1815\" title=\"grooveshark\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/grooveshark.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"250\" height=\"222\" /></a>Every once and awhile, I know more than a techie. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>When this happens, I feel special.  And really smart.  And on Day 42, young and cool. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>On Day 42, I cornered a Mac genius at the Apple Store.  After he listened to my <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/11/09/day-42-to-rock-my-world-you-need-stamina-baby/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Bose rant</strong></a>, he walked me over and introduced me to my promising new love, Hardon Karmon. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Mac genius (aka Justin) then informed me that iTunes wasn\'t installed on the computer that the Hardon Karmon speakers were hooked up to.  He started to think about what else he could do to demonstrate the speakers. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>I suggested <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/11/09/day-42-to-rock-my-world-you-need-stamina-baby/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Grooveshark.com.</strong></a><strong>  </strong>Justin (estimated age 25) stared blankly at me. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><strong>Justin:</strong>  You mean Pandora? </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><strong>Me:</strong>  No.  Grooveshark.  You know?  The site where you can type in any song and it plays in its entirety.</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><strong>Justin:  </strong>Really?  I\'ve never heard of it! </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>My part-time neighbor from Seattle (aka \"neighbor cub\" because he is only 30 and makes me feel like a cougar even though he always asks to \"hang out\" with me and I\'ve never hunted him once which means that <a href=\"http://latebloomerdiary.blogspot.com/2009/09/cougar-mania-makes-me-want-to-yak_20.html\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>I am definitely not a cougar!</strong></a>) looked clueless as well. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><strong>Neighbor cub:  </strong>You mean you listen to the whole song?  Do you have to pay for it after? </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><strong>Me:  </strong>Guys.  Did I say iLike?  Did I say Pandora?  This is Grooveshark and it\'s going to change your life. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>The teacher in me threw in a Grooveshark 101 tutorial. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><strong>Me:  </strong>This is how it works.  Go to the site.  Type in a song.  Any song.  It will play in its entirety.  For as many times as you like.  I\'m not sure how this is possible.  It\'s like Napster revisited except that you don\'t download.  <em>(I then had a scary visual of the boys in diapers when Napster was big.  Yikes!  Moving right along...)</em>  I\'m not sure how it\'s legal.  I\'m not sure how it works.  But it\'s a dream come true. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Justin pulled up the site.  It was certainly his fantasy come true because apparently now Grooveshark stays afloat with ads.  On this day, the ads displayed Victoria\'s Secret bra models.  Justin immediately shifted from cool genius to fumbling schoolboy.    </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><strong>Me:  </strong>Pick any song that comes to your mind and type it in the box. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>I tried to think of a joke about double Ds, but I was a little flustered as well.</p>\n\n<p><strong> </strong></p>\n\n<p><strong>Justin:  </strong>I can\'t think of anything!!!</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>(Well, you are thinking about <em>something</em>, Justin.  But it has nothing to do with music.)</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>I needed Justin to focus.  I reigned him in with, \"Try \'For Those About to Rock\' by AC/DC.\"</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Magically, the double Ds disappeared (thank the lord) and up came our song. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Angus Young\'s guitar riff drew the attention of Mac genius #2 who waltzed on over to investigate.  He saluted the speakers and then moved on shaking his head like Angus.  It was a beautiful moment.</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Justin and Neighbor cub looked at me with deep respect. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>YES!!!! </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>On Day 44, I decided to try Grooveshark out on my new speakers.  A friend at work previously introduced me to Grooveshark at lunch, and I\'ve never taken the time to play around with it at home. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Here is my stream-of-consciousness playlist: </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>1.  <strong>\"For Those About to Rock\" by AC/DC</strong>:  I will milk as much AC/DC out of Grooveshark as I possibly can.  Why?  Because AC/DC refuses to sell their music on iTunes.  And I owned AC/DC albums and cassettes <em>(moving right along!!)</em> back in the day.  I don\'t want to buy your entire recordings again, AC/DC.  I only want to purchase my favorite songs.  But noooooo...you greedy bastards won\'t let me!  So to heck with you!!!  I LOVE YOU, GROOVESHARK!!!!</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>2.  <strong>\"Back in Black\" by AC/DC:  </strong>To prove my point.  Bugger off, AC/DC!  Cranked the subwoofer all the way up on this one. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>3.  <strong>\"Same Mistake\" by James Blunt</strong>:  Because I worked myself up in a tizzy over AC/DC and needed to chill.  Just learned this one on the guitar. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>4.  <strong>\"Do It Again\" by Diana Krall</strong>:  Because James Blunt can be so bloody depressing, and I needed sultry romance.  (Speaking of sultry -- 3 token male readers, the Victoria\'s Secret ads are still running.)  Had to turn the subwoofer back down.  Wow!!!!</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>5. <strong> \"Smoke a Little Smoke\" by Eric Church:</strong>  Because I was cleaning up the house while the music was playing and put away my <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/11/08/day-41-you-need-cowgirl-boots-not-plastic-surgery-let-me-explain/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Cowgirl Boots</strong> </a>which got me thinking of country music.  Giddyup!</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>6.  <strong>\"Space\" by Sarah Buxton:</strong>  Because I wanted female representation in my country music.  And I wanted the 3 token male readers to listen up and learn.  ;-)</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>7.  <strong>\"Something\" by London Symphony Orchestra:</strong>  ALERT!!!  ALERT!!!!  NO BEATLES ON GROOVESHARK!!!!  THIS VERSION IS WAAYYYYYY TOO DORKY!!!  LISTEN AT YOUR OWN RISK!!!!  ARE THOSE ABBA WANNABEES IN THE CHORUS???  NOOOOOOOO!!!!!  THE BEATLES ARE SACRED!!!!  STOP!!!!!!!</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>I couldn\'t listen all the way through.  I abruptly paused when the male chorus entered out of respect for George. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>8.  Pavarotti singing <strong>\"Nessun Dorma\" from <em>Turandot</em> by Puccini:</strong>  Because I <em>do </em>love classical music in general and support our symphonies. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>9.  <strong>\"Don\'t Walk Away\" by Electric Light Orchestra:</strong>  Speaking of dorky, I recently discovered that my friend, Brette (aka Brettesy), shares my childhood obsession with Olivia Newton-John and <em>Xanadu.</em>  Side B was my favorite side of the soundtrack album because it featured ELO whom I love almost as much as The Beatles.  Jeff Lynne, you sound AMAZING on these speakers!!!! </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>10.  <strong>\"Lights\" by Journey:</strong>  Because I wanted to hear another AMAZING voice on my speakers.  Steve Perry, you are a Powerful Portuguese Man and don\'t you ever forget it!  Everyone after you has tried to sing just like you, but you are the original, baby. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>I had to turn the speakers down at one point.  Svennykins, if you are reading this, do you think I can blow a fuse with these puppies (like you think I did with the SoundDock), or am I good?</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>11. <strong>\"Rock of Ages\" by Def Leppard:  </strong>If I\'m going back in time, then I need to honour my boys from Sheffield, England.  My first concert ever!! </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Sound back UP!  Fuse schmuse. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>12. <strong> \"Scene 8\" from <em>The Nutcracker</em> by Tchaikovsky</strong>:  Because it\'s my bedtime and I\'m all wound up from Def Leppard.  I need to calm down and get sleepy.  Berlin Symphony Orchestra, your tempo is much too fast. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>PAUSE.</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>13.  <strong>\"Scene 8\" from <em>The Nutcracker </em>by Tchaikovsy:</strong>  Because the Boston Ballet Orchestra\'s conductor wasn\'t on speed like the guy from Berlin. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Although now I\'m dancing around my kitchen thinking that I\'m the second coming of Gelsey Kirkland, which I am not.  Women if you have never seen Gelsey, <a href=\"http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3z3vvmuCuDg&amp;feature=related\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>watch this and weep</strong></a>.  Sigh...</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>It\'s 10:35.  Didn\'t I say a couple of weeks ago that I would stop blogging this late? </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Now it\'s your turn.  Create your own eclectic playlist on Grooveshark.com and then share it with us in the comments section below.</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>','Day 44:  Get Your Groove On','','inherit','open','open','','1813-revision-19','','','2010-11-09 23:14:34','2010-11-10 06:14:34','',1813,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/11/09/1813-revision-19/',0,'revision','',0),(1834,1,'2010-11-09 23:16:11','2010-11-10 06:16:11','<p><a href=\"http://www.grooveshark.com\" target=\"_blank\"><img class=\"alignleft size-full wp-image-1815\" title=\"grooveshark\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/grooveshark.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"250\" height=\"222\" /></a>Every once and awhile, I know more than a techie. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>When this happens, I feel special.  And really smart.  And on Day 42, young and cool. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>On Day 42, I cornered a Mac genius at the Apple Store.  After he listened to my <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/11/09/day-42-to-rock-my-world-you-need-stamina-baby/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Bose rant</strong></a>, he walked me over and introduced me to my promising new love, Hardon Karmon. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Mac genius (aka Justin) then informed me that iTunes wasn\'t installed on the computer that the Hardon Karmon speakers were hooked up to.  He started to think about what else he could do to demonstrate the speakers. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>I suggested <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/11/09/day-42-to-rock-my-world-you-need-stamina-baby/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Grooveshark.com.</strong></a><strong>  </strong>Justin (estimated age 25) stared blankly at me. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><strong>Justin:</strong>  You mean Pandora? </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><strong>Me:</strong>  No.  Grooveshark.  You know?  The site where you can type in any song and it plays in its entirety.</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><strong>Justin:  </strong>Really?  I\'ve never heard of it! </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>My part-time neighbor from Seattle (aka \"Neighbor cub\" because he is only 30 and makes me feel like a cougar even though he always asks to \"hang out\" with me and I\'ve never hunted him once which means that <a href=\"http://latebloomerdiary.blogspot.com/2009/09/cougar-mania-makes-me-want-to-yak_20.html\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>I am definitely not a cougar!</strong></a>) looked clueless as well. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><strong>Neighbor cub:  </strong>You mean you listen to the whole song?  Do you have to pay for it after? </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><strong>Me:  </strong>Guys.  Did I say iLike?  Did I say Pandora?  This is Grooveshark and it\'s going to change your life. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>The teacher in me threw in a Grooveshark 101 tutorial. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><strong>Me:  </strong>This is how it works.  Go to the site.  Type in a song.  Any song.  It will play in its entirety.  For as many times as you like.  I\'m not sure how this is possible.  It\'s like Napster revisited except that you don\'t download.  <em>(I then had a scary visual of the boys in diapers when Napster was big.  Yikes!  Moving right along...)</em>  I\'m not sure how it\'s legal.  I\'m not sure how it works.  But it\'s a dream come true. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Justin pulled up the site.  It was certainly his fantasy come true because apparently now Grooveshark stays afloat with ads.  On this day, the ads displayed Victoria\'s Secret bra models.  Justin immediately shifted from cool genius to fumbling schoolboy.    </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><strong>Me:  </strong>Pick any song that comes to your mind and type it in the box. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>I tried to think of a joke about double Ds, but I was a little flustered as well.</p>\n\n<p><strong> </strong></p>\n\n<p><strong>Justin:  </strong>I can\'t think of anything!!!</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>(Well, you are thinking about <em>something</em>, Justin.  But it has nothing to do with music.)</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>I needed Justin to focus.  I reigned him in with, \"Try \'For Those About to Rock\' by AC/DC.\"</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Magically, the double Ds disappeared (thank the lord) and up came our song. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Angus Young\'s guitar riff drew the attention of Mac genius #2 who waltzed on over to investigate.  He saluted the speakers and then moved on shaking his head like Angus.  It was a beautiful moment.</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Justin and Neighbor cub looked at me with deep respect. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>YES!!!! </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>On Day 44, I decided to try Grooveshark out on my new speakers.  A friend at work previously introduced me to Grooveshark at lunch, and I\'ve never taken the time to play around with it at home. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Here is my stream-of-consciousness playlist: </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>1.  <strong>\"For Those About to Rock\" by AC/DC</strong>:  I will milk as much AC/DC out of Grooveshark as I possibly can.  Why?  Because AC/DC refuses to sell their music on iTunes.  And I owned AC/DC albums and cassettes <em>(moving right along!!)</em> back in the day.  I don\'t want to buy your entire recordings again, AC/DC.  I only want to purchase my favorite songs.  But noooooo...you greedy bastards won\'t let me!  So to heck with you!!!  I LOVE YOU, GROOVESHARK!!!!</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>2.  <strong>\"Back in Black\" by AC/DC:  </strong>To prove my point.  Bugger off, AC/DC!  Cranked the subwoofer all the way up on this one. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>3.  <strong>\"Same Mistake\" by James Blunt</strong>:  Because I worked myself up in a tizzy over AC/DC and needed to chill.  Just learned this one on the guitar. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>4.  <strong>\"Do It Again\" by Diana Krall</strong>:  Because James Blunt can be so bloody depressing, and I needed sultry romance.  (Speaking of sultry -- 3 token male readers, the Victoria\'s Secret ads are still running.)  Had to turn the subwoofer back down.  Wow!!!!</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>5. <strong> \"Smoke a Little Smoke\" by Eric Church:</strong>  Because I was cleaning up the house while the music was playing and put away my <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/11/08/day-41-you-need-cowgirl-boots-not-plastic-surgery-let-me-explain/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Cowgirl Boots</strong> </a>which got me thinking of country music.  Giddyup!</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>6.  <strong>\"Space\" by Sarah Buxton:</strong>  Because I wanted female representation in my country music.  And I wanted the 3 token male readers to listen up and learn.  ;-)</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>7.  <strong>\"Something\" by London Symphony Orchestra:</strong>  ALERT!!!  ALERT!!!!  NO BEATLES ON GROOVESHARK!!!!  THIS VERSION IS WAAYYYYYY TOO DORKY!!!  LISTEN AT YOUR OWN RISK!!!!  ARE THOSE ABBA WANNABEES IN THE CHORUS???  NOOOOOOOO!!!!!  THE BEATLES ARE SACRED!!!!  STOP!!!!!!!</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>I couldn\'t listen all the way through.  I abruptly paused when the male chorus entered out of respect for George. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>8.  Pavarotti singing <strong>\"Nessun Dorma\" from <em>Turandot</em> by Puccini:</strong>  Because I <em>do </em>love classical music in general and support our symphonies. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>9.  <strong>\"Don\'t Walk Away\" by Electric Light Orchestra:</strong>  Speaking of dorky, I recently discovered that my friend, Brette (aka Brettesy), shares my childhood obsession with Olivia Newton-John and <em>Xanadu.</em>  Side B was my favorite side of the soundtrack album because it featured ELO whom I love almost as much as The Beatles.  Jeff Lynne, you sound AMAZING on these speakers!!!! </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>10.  <strong>\"Lights\" by Journey:</strong>  Because I wanted to hear another AMAZING voice on my speakers.  Steve Perry, you are a Powerful Portuguese Man and don\'t you ever forget it!  Everyone after you has tried to sing just like you, but you are the original, baby. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>I had to turn the speakers down at one point.  Svennykins, if you are reading this, do you think I can blow a fuse with these puppies (like you think I did with the SoundDock), or am I good?</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>11. <strong>\"Rock of Ages\" by Def Leppard:  </strong>If I\'m going back in time, then I need to honour my boys from Sheffield, England.  My first concert ever!! </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Sound back UP!  Fuse schmuse. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>12. <strong> \"Scene 8\" from <em>The Nutcracker</em> by Tchaikovsky</strong>:  Because it\'s my bedtime and I\'m all wound up from Def Leppard.  I need to calm down and get sleepy.  Berlin Symphony Orchestra, your tempo is much too fast. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>PAUSE.</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>13.  <strong>\"Scene 8\" from <em>The Nutcracker </em>by Tchaikovsy:</strong>  Because the Boston Ballet Orchestra\'s conductor wasn\'t on speed like the guy from Berlin. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Although now I\'m dancing around my kitchen thinking that I\'m the second coming of Gelsey Kirkland, which I am not.  Women if you have never seen Gelsey, <a href=\"http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3z3vvmuCuDg&amp;feature=related\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>watch this and weep</strong></a>.  Sigh...</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>It\'s 10:35.  Didn\'t I say a couple of weeks ago that I would stop blogging this late? </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Now it\'s your turn.  Create your own eclectic playlist on Grooveshark.com and then share it with us in the comments section below.</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>','Day 44:  Get Your Groove On','','inherit','open','open','','1813-revision-20','','','2010-11-09 23:16:11','2010-11-10 06:16:11','',1813,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/11/09/1813-revision-20/',0,'revision','',0),(1835,1,'2010-11-09 23:19:07','2010-11-10 06:19:07','<p><a href=\"http://www.grooveshark.com\" target=\"_blank\"><img class=\"alignleft size-full wp-image-1815\" title=\"grooveshark\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/grooveshark.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"250\" height=\"222\" /></a>Every once and awhile, I know more than a techie. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>When this happens, I feel special.  And really smart.  And on Day 42, young and cool. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>On Day 42, I cornered a Mac genius at the Apple Store.  After he listened to my <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/11/09/day-42-to-rock-my-world-you-need-stamina-baby/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Bose rant</strong></a>, he walked me over and introduced me to my promising new love, Hardon Karmon. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Mac genius (aka Justin) then informed me that iTunes wasn\'t installed on the computer that the Hardon Karmon speakers were hooked up to.  He started to think about what else he could do to demonstrate the speakers. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>I suggested <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/11/09/day-42-to-rock-my-world-you-need-stamina-baby/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Grooveshark.com.</strong></a><strong>  </strong>Justin (estimated age 25) stared blankly at me. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><strong>Justin:</strong>  You mean Pandora? </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><strong>Me:</strong>  No.  Grooveshark.  You know?  The site where you can type in any song and it plays in its entirety.</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><strong>Justin:  </strong>Really?  I\'ve never heard of it! </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>My part-time neighbor from Seattle (aka \"Neighbor cub\" because he is only 30 and makes me feel like a cougar even though he always asks to \"hang out\" with me and I\'ve never hunted him once which means that <a href=\"http://latebloomerdiary.blogspot.com/2009/09/cougar-mania-makes-me-want-to-yak_20.html\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>I am definitely not a cougar!</strong></a>) looked clueless as well. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><strong>Neighbor cub:  </strong>You mean you listen to the whole song?  Do you have to pay for it after? </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><strong>Me:  </strong>Guys.  Did I say iLike?  Did I say Pandora?  This is Grooveshark and it\'s going to change your life. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>The teacher in me threw in a Grooveshark 101 tutorial. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><strong>Me:  </strong>This is how it works.  Go to the site.  Type in a song.  Any song.  It will play in its entirety.  For as many times as you like.  I\'m not sure how this is possible.  It\'s like Napster revisited except that you don\'t download.  <em>(I then had a scary visual of the boys in diapers when Napster was big.  Yikes!  Moving right along...)</em>  I\'m not sure how it\'s legal.  I\'m not sure how it works.  But it\'s a dream come true. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Justin pulled up the site.  It was certainly his fantasy come true because apparently now Grooveshark stays afloat with ads.  On this day, the ads displayed Victoria\'s Secret bra models.  Justin immediately shifted from cool genius to fumbling schoolboy.    </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><strong>Me:  </strong>Pick any song that comes to your mind and type it in the box. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>I tried to think of a joke about double Ds, but I was a little flustered as well.</p>\n\n<p><strong> </strong></p>\n\n<p><strong>Justin:  </strong>I can\'t think of anything!!!</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>(Well, you are thinking about <em>something</em>, Justin.  But it has nothing to do with music.)</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>I needed Justin to focus.  I reigned him in with, \"Try \'For Those About to Rock\' by AC/DC.\"</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Magically, the double Ds disappeared (thank the lord) and up came our song. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Angus Young\'s guitar riff drew the attention of Mac genius #2 who waltzed on over to investigate.  He saluted the speakers and then moved on shaking his head like Angus.  It was a beautiful moment.</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Justin and Neighbor cub looked at me with deep respect. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>YES!!!! </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>On Day 44, I decided to try Grooveshark out on my new speakers.  A friend at work previously introduced me to Grooveshark at lunch, and I\'ve never taken the time to play around with it at home. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Here is my stream-of-consciousness playlist: </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>1.  <strong>\"For Those About to Rock\" by AC/DC</strong>:  I will milk as much AC/DC out of Grooveshark as I possibly can.  Why?  Because AC/DC refuses to sell their music on iTunes.  And I owned AC/DC albums and cassettes <em>(moving right along!!)</em> back in the day.  I don\'t want to buy your entire recordings again, AC/DC.  I only want to purchase my favorite songs.  But noooooo...you greedy bastards won\'t let me!  So to heck with you!!!  I LOVE YOU, GROOVESHARK!!!!</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>2.  <strong>\"Back in Black\" by AC/DC:  </strong>To prove my point.  Bugger off, AC/DC!  Cranked the subwoofer all the way up on this one. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>3.  <strong>\"Same Mistake\" by James Blunt</strong>:  Because I worked myself up in a tizzy over AC/DC and needed to chill.  Just learned this one on the guitar. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>4.  <strong>\"Do It Again\" by Diana Krall</strong>:  Because James Blunt can be so bloody depressing, and I needed sultry romance.  (Speaking of sultry -- 3 token male readers, the Victoria\'s Secret ads are still running.)  Had to turn the subwoofer back down.  Wow!!!!</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>5. <strong> \"Smoke a Little Smoke\" by Eric Church:</strong>  Because I was cleaning up the house while the music was playing and put away my <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/11/08/day-41-you-need-cowgirl-boots-not-plastic-surgery-let-me-explain/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Cowgirl Boots</strong> </a>which got me thinking of country music.  Giddyup!</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>6.  <strong>\"Space\" by Sarah Buxton:</strong>  Because I wanted female representation in my country music.  And I wanted the 3 token male readers to listen up and learn.  ;-)</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>7.  <strong>\"Something\" by London Symphony Orchestra:</strong>  ALERT!!!  ALERT!!!!  NO BEATLES ON GROOVESHARK!!!!  THIS VERSION IS WAAYYYYYY TOO DORKY!!!  LISTEN AT YOUR OWN RISK!!!!  ARE THOSE ABBA WANNABEES IN THE CHORUS???  NOOOOOOOO!!!!!  THE BEATLES ARE SACRED!!!!  STOP!!!!!!!</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>I couldn\'t listen all the way through.  I abruptly paused when the male chorus entered out of respect for George. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>8.  Pavarotti singing <strong>\"Nessun Dorma\" from <em>Turandot</em> by Puccini:</strong>  Because I <em>do </em>love classical music in general and support our symphonies. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>9.  <strong>\"Don\'t Walk Away\" by Electric Light Orchestra:</strong>  Speaking of dorky, I recently discovered that my friend, Brette (aka Brettesy), shares my childhood obsession with Olivia Newton-John and <em>Xanadu.</em>  Side B was my favorite side of the soundtrack album because it featured ELO whom I love almost as much as The Beatles.  Jeff Lynne, you sound AMAZING on these speakers!!!! </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>10.  <strong>\"Lights\" by Journey:</strong>  Because I wanted to hear another AMAZING voice on my speakers.  Steve Perry, you are a Powerful Portuguese Man and don\'t you ever forget it!  Everyone after you has tried to sing just like you, but you are the original, baby. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>I had to turn the speakers down at one point.  Svennykins, if you are reading this, do you think I can blow a fuse with these puppies (like you think I did with the SoundDock), or am I good?</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>11. <strong>\"Rock of Ages\" by Def Leppard:  </strong>If I\'m going back in time, then I need to honour my boys from Sheffield, England.  My first concert ever!!  Sound back UP!  Fuse schmuse. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>12. <strong> \"Scene 8\" from <em>The Nutcracker</em> by Tchaikovsky</strong>:  Because it\'s my bedtime and I\'m all wound up from Def Leppard.  I need to calm down and get sleepy.  Berlin Symphony Orchestra, your tempo is much too fast. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>PAUSE.</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>13.  <strong>\"Scene 8\" from <em>The Nutcracker </em>by Tchaikovsy:</strong>  Because the Boston Ballet Orchestra\'s conductor wasn\'t on speed like the guy from Berlin. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Although now I\'m dancing around my kitchen thinking that I\'m the second coming of Gelsey Kirkland, which I am not.  Women if you have never seen Gelsey, <a href=\"http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3z3vvmuCuDg&amp;feature=related\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>watch this and weep</strong></a>.  Sigh...</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>It\'s 10:35.  Didn\'t I say a couple of weeks ago that I would stop blogging this late? </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Now it\'s your turn.  Create your own eclectic playlist on Grooveshark.com and then share it with us in the comments section below.</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>','Day 44:  Get Your Groove On','','inherit','open','open','','1813-revision-21','','','2010-11-09 23:19:07','2010-11-10 06:19:07','',1813,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/11/09/1813-revision-21/',0,'revision','',0),(1837,1,'2010-11-11 01:11:41','2010-11-11 08:11:41','<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/PB100181.jpg\"><img class=\"alignleft size-medium wp-image-1845\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/PB100181-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>A couple of months ago on my birthday, Elaine aka Laney surprised me with a bunch of magazines on my birthday.  And I do mean a <em>bunch. </em>\r\n\r\n<br class=\"spacer_\" />\r\n\r\nThis was truly a treat, as I never buy magazines.  Mainly because I never park it on my sofa long enough to look at them.\r\n\r\n<br class=\"spacer_\" />\r\n\r\nI set the magazines aside for a rainy day.\r\n\r\n<br class=\"spacer_\" />\r\n\r\nOr...change in plans:  a sick night!\r\n\r\n<br class=\"spacer_\" />\r\n\r\nRemember last week when this sickie-poo forced herself to observe <strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/11/05/day-39-its-shooshing-time/\" target=\"_blank\">Shooshing Time</a></strong>?\r\n\r\n<br class=\"spacer_\" />\r\n\r\nI should have listened to my own advice more than once because now I am combating a raging sinus infection.  I feel like complete and utter crap!\r\n\r\n<br class=\"spacer_\" />\r\n\r\nOn Day 45, since I was too nauseous for anything but parking it on my sofa, I hauled out the magazines.  Laney and I recently discussed our desires for a wardrobe makeover, so I hunted for fashion tips.  What\'s \"in\", what\'s \"out\", and all that stuff.\r\n\r\n<br class=\"spacer_\" />\r\n\r\nI immediately became sidetracked by the soft porn that is Cosmo.  I haven\'t looked at a Cosmo in <em>years</em>, so I forgot about its cheesiness factor.  Allow me to share:\r\n\r\n<br class=\"spacer_\" />\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li><span style=\"color: #ff00ff;\"><strong>\"Untamed Va-jay-jays!  Guess What Sexy Style is Back!\"</strong></span> For reals, Cosmo?  How very retro of you!  Hahahahahahahahaha!!!!  And are we seriously still using the term \"Va-jay-jay\"?!?!  Isn\'t that infinitely more embarrassing and ridiculous than just saying \"vagina\"?!?!</li>\r\n	<li><span style=\"color: #ff00ff;\"><strong>\"Guy Sex Confessions:  37 Things He Doesn\'t Have the Balls to Tell You!\"</strong> </span>I prefer a man with cajones, so I skipped over this one.  If you must know the 37 things, write me and I\'ll send you a copy of the article.</li>\r\n	<li><span style=\"color: #ff00ff;\"><strong>\"Seduce Him!  This Sexy Move Works From 20 Feet Away!\"</strong></span> I turned to this article because I thought it might be blog fodder if it\'s not too NC-17.  Bingo!  It IS blog fodder.  I will have to schedule this one in.  Basically, it\'s a \"strut\", ladies.  This is your new mantra:  \"Shoulders, hips, heels\".  Actually, Brettesy performs this beautifully.  I\'ll ask her if she\'ll be a sport and allow me to post a video demonstration.  <strong><span style=\"color: #800080;\">Vote \"Yes for Brettesy!\" in the comment section below if you would like to watch her strut her stuff. </span> </strong></li>\r\n	<li><strong><span style=\"color: #ff00ff;\">\"The Touch That Calms Him During a Fight\"</span> </strong>I want a lover, not a fighter.  Next!</li>\r\n	<li><span style=\"color: #ff0000;\"><strong>\"Red-Hot Read:  Forbidden Fling\"</strong></span> -- \"Erica Donelson is crushing on a smoking-hot bad boy.  The only problem?  The pantie-melting object of her desire is none other than her ex-husband\'s former best friend.\"  Bwhahahahahahaha!!!  Is it really \"forbidden\" if it\'s your ex\'s former friend?  Huh?  And pantie-melting???   Are they the edible kind from Fascinations?  Bwhahahahahahahaha!!!!  I went ahead and read the short story because I needed to for journalistic purposes.  Pretty tame/lame, if you ask me.  Do you find the term \"rock hard member\" sexy???  Bwhahahahahahahahahaha!!!!</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n<br class=\"spacer_\" />\r\n\r\nAh, well...I suppose Cosmo is not so much soft porn but comedy.  And laughter is the best medicine after all.\r\n\r\n<br class=\"spacer_\" />\r\n\r\nI think I\'m feeling better already.\r\n\r\n<br class=\"spacer_\" />\r\n\r\n<br class=\"spacer_\" />','Day 45:  Fashion Mags or Soft Porn?','','publish','open','open','','day-45-fashion-mags-or-soft-porn','','\nhttp://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/11/05/day-39-its-shooshing-time/','2011-05-08 14:46:48','2011-05-08 21:46:48','',0,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?p=1837',0,'post','',13),(5485,1,'2011-05-05 20:55:20','2011-05-06 03:55:20','[caption id=\"attachment_5461\" align=\"alignleft\" width=\"300\" caption=\"Dogs prefer Macs.\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/P5050015.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-5461\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/P5050015-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\nHi, everybody!  It\'s Bella aka World\'s Most Precious Pooch.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI think my human, Michelle, reported not too long ago that I graduated summa cum laude from my puppy preschool.  I guess this means that I\'m REALLY smart.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nEvery night I watch Michelle type away at her computer on something that she calls a \"blog\".  Last night, I decided to hop on when she was \"indisposed\" and check things out.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI\'m not old enough to be a Late Bloomer, but I was really curious to check out what all the other kids are drawn to these days:  facebook.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nHey,<strong><a href=\"http://blogs.forbes.com/kashmirhill/2011/03/07/mark-zuckerberg-gets-a-dog-gives-it-a-facebook-page/\" target=\"_blank\"> if Zuckerberg\'s dog can have a page</a></strong>, why can\'t I?\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAnd his dog is a purebred.  They can be a bit on the snooty side.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI am here to tell you that I am <span style=\"font-size: medium;\"><strong><span style=\"color: #0000ff;\">A</span><span style=\"color: #ff0000;\">m</span><span style=\"color: #0000ff;\">e</span><span style=\"color: #ff0000;\">r</span><span style=\"color: #0000ff;\">i</span><span style=\"color: #ff0000;\">c</span><span style=\"color: #0000ff;\">a</span><span style=\"color: #ff0000;\">\'</span><span style=\"color: #0000ff;\">s</span> <span style=\"color: #ff0000;\">D</span><span style=\"color: #0000ff;\">o</span><span style=\"color: #ff0000;\">g</span><span style=\"color: #0000ff;\">! </span></strong></span>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<strong><span style=\"font-size: large;\">RESCUES ROCK!!!</span></strong>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nCheck out my new page!  <strong><a href=\"http://www.facebook.com/worlds.most.precious.pooch\" target=\"_blank\">http://www.facebook.com/worlds.most.precious.pooch</a></strong>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nWill you be my friend?','Day 220:  My Dog Hijacked My Computer','','inherit','open','open','','5457-revision-7','','','2011-05-05 20:55:20','2011-05-06 03:55:20','',5457,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2011/05/05/5457-revision-7/',0,'revision','',0),(1838,1,'2010-11-10 21:13:44','2010-11-11 04:13:44','','Auto Draft','','inherit','open','open','','1837-revision','','','2010-11-10 21:13:44','2010-11-11 04:13:44','',1837,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/11/10/1837-revision/',0,'revision','',0),(1839,1,'2010-11-11 11:47:57','2010-11-11 18:47:57','<p><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/Unnamed.jpg\"><img class=\"alignleft size-medium wp-image-1859\" title=\"Unnamed\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/Unnamed-225x300.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"225\" height=\"300\" /></a></p>\r\n\r\n<p>It’s official!  I am adopting fur baby Bella tonight! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I joked the other day in<strong> <a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/11/09/day-43babymakestwo/\" target=\"_blank\">“Baby Makes Two?”</a></strong> that this is an unplanned pregnancy.  In December, it will be a year that Woofie passed, and he was truly the perfect doggy match for me.  It has been challenging to imagine another pooch filling Woofie’s paws. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I have been a dog lover all of my life, so I knew that I eventually would bring a Girl’s Best Friend into my world again when the timing was right.  And with this blog taking off (and the time vacuum created with the blog), the timing is...interesting. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong><span style=\"color: #800080;\">I specifically told friends and fam that I wouldn’t consider a dog until after the 365 project.  </span></strong></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Bella obviously had other plans when she picked me.  It looks as though this year is getting curiouser and curiouser indeed. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>On Day 46, I devoted myself to nesting.  I needed to prepare my house for the new addition.  This meant unpacking Woofie’s bed, toys, bowls (including the one that I made for him at a pottery place), crate, blankets, and leash.  I am not going to pretend that this wasn’t painful.  I cried. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>But the tears dried with laughter when I noted that the 2<sup>nd</sup> child always gets the shaft with the hand-me-downs.  :-)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Out of the mountain of toys that I saved, I did choose the ones that the WoofMonster snubbed for whatever reason.  (Italian Greyhounds can be sooooo fickle!)  Bella has quite a few almost-new toys, as well as a barely used cushy bed and heated doggie blanket! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/PB100184.jpg\"><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-1854\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/PB100184-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/PB100187.jpg\"><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-1855\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/PB100187-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Considering that she was a street urchin in Yuma, AZ, she’s going to think she’s died and gone to Beverly Hills. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>It has been 15 years since I raised a puppy.  Bella is 10-months old.  HELP!!!!!! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Please, FOR THE LOVE OF GOD, comment with any and all tips, advice, and pearls of wisdom.  :-)</p>','Day 46:  Preparing the Nest ','','publish','open','open','','day-46-preparing-the-nest','','\nhttp://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/11/09/day-43babymakestwo/','2010-11-11 16:07:25','2010-11-11 23:07:25','',0,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/?p=1839',0,'post','',13),(1840,1,'2010-11-10 21:14:27','2010-11-11 04:14:27','','Auto Draft','','inherit','open','open','','1839-revision','','','2010-11-10 21:14:27','2010-11-11 04:14:27','',1839,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/11/10/1839-revision/',0,'revision','',0),(2012,1,'2010-11-18 20:14:35','2010-11-19 03:14:35','','Day 53:  Les Miserables Celebrates 25 years!','','inherit','open','open','','2011-revision','','','2010-11-18 20:14:35','2010-11-19 03:14:35','',2011,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/11/18/2011-revision/',0,'revision','',0),(1842,1,'2010-11-10 22:00:31','2010-11-11 05:00:31','<p>A couple of months ago on my birthday, Elaine aka Laney surprised me with a bunch of magazines on my birthday.  And I do mean a <em>bunch.  </em></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>This was truly a treat, as I never buy magazines.  Mainly because I never park it on my sofa long enough to look at them. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>I set the magazines aside for a rainy day. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Or...change in plans:  a sick night! </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Remember last week when this sickie-poo forced herself to observe <strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/11/05/day-39-its-shooshing-time/\" target=\"_blank\"><span><span>Shooshing</span> Time</span></a></strong>? </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><span>I should have listened to my own advice more than once because now I am combating a raging sinus infection.  I feel like complete and utter crap! </span></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>On Day 45, since I was too nauseous for anything but parking it on my sofa, I hauled out the magazines.  Laney and I recently discussed our desires for a wardrobe makeover, so I hunted for fashion tips.  What\'s \"in\", what\'s \"out\", and all that stuff. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>I immediately became sidetracked by the soft porn that is Cosmo.  I haven\'t looked at a Cosmo in <em>years</em>, so I forgot about its cheesiness factor.  Allow me to share:</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<ul>\n	<li><span>\"Untamed Va-jay-jays!  Guess What Sexy Style is Back!\"  For <span>reals</span>, Cosmo?  <span>Hahahahahahahahaha</span>!!!!  And are we seriously still using the term \"Va-jay-jay\"?!?!  Isn\'t that infinitely more embarrassing and ridiculous than just saying \"vagina\"?!?!  </span></li>\n	<li><span>\"Guy Sex Confessions:  37 Things He Doesn\'t Have the Balls to Tell You!\"  I avoid conflict like the plague, and I prefer a man that has <span>cajones</span>, so I skipped over this one.  If you must know the 37 things, write me and I\'ll send you a copy of the article.  </span></li>\n	<li><span>\"Seduce Him!  This Sexy Move Works From 20 Feet Away!\"  I turned to this article because I thought it might be blog fodder if it\'s not too NC-17.  Bingo!  It IS blog fodder.  I will have to schedule this one in.  Basically, it\'s a \"strut\", ladies.  This is your new mantra:  \"Shoulders, hips, heels\".  Actually, <span>Brettesy</span> performs this beautifully.  I\'ll ask her if she\'ll be a sport and allow me to post a video demonstration.  Vote \"Yes for Brettesy!\" in the comment section below if you would like for her to strut her stuff.  </span></li>\n	<li>\"The Touch That Calms Him During a Fight\"  I want a lover, not a fighter.  Next!</li>\n	<li><span>\"Red-Hot Read:  Forbidden Fling\" -- \"Erica <span>Donelson</span> is crushing on a smoking-hot bad boy.  The only problem?  The pantie-melting object of her desire is none other than her ex-husband\'s former best friend.\"  <span>Bwhahahahahahaha</span>!!!  Is it really \"forbidden\" if it\'s your <span>ex\'s</span> former friend?  Huh?  And Pantie-melting???   Are they the edible kind from Fascinations?  Bwhahahahahahahaha!!!!  I went ahead and read the short story because I needed to for journalistic purposes.  Pretty tame/lame, if you ask me.  Do you find the term \"rock hard member\" sexy???  Bwhahahahahahahahahaha!!!!  </span></li>\n</ul>\n\n<p><span>Ah, well...I suppose it\'s not so much soft porn but comedy.  And laughter is the best medicine after all.  </span></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>I think I\'m feeling better already. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>','Day 45:  Fashion Mags or Soft Porn?','','inherit','open','open','','1837-revision-2','','','2010-11-10 22:00:31','2010-11-11 05:00:31','',1837,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/11/10/1837-revision-2/',0,'revision','',0),(1843,1,'2010-11-10 22:00:55','2010-11-11 05:00:55','<p>A couple of months ago on my birthday, Elaine aka Laney surprised me with a bunch of magazines on my birthday.  And I do mean a <em>bunch.  </em></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>This was truly a treat, as I never buy magazines.  Mainly because I never park it on my sofa long enough to look at them. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I set the magazines aside for a rainy day. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Or...change in plans:  a sick night! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Remember last week when this sickie-poo forced herself to observe <strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/11/05/day-39-its-shooshing-time/\" target=\"_blank\"><span><span>Shooshing</span> Time</span></a></strong>? </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><span>I should have listened to my own advice more than once because now I am combating a raging sinus infection.  I feel like complete and utter crap! </span></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>On Day 45, since I was too nauseous for anything but parking it on my sofa, I hauled out the magazines.  Laney and I recently discussed our desires for a wardrobe makeover, so I hunted for fashion tips.  What\'s \"in\", what\'s \"out\", and all that stuff. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I immediately became sidetracked by the soft porn that is Cosmo.  I haven\'t looked at a Cosmo in <em>years</em>, so I forgot about its cheesiness factor.  Allow me to share:</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li><span>\"Untamed Va-jay-jays!  Guess What Sexy Style is Back!\"  For <span>reals</span>, Cosmo?  <span>Hahahahahahahahaha</span>!!!!  And are we seriously still using the term \"Va-jay-jay\"?!?!  Isn\'t that infinitely more embarrassing and ridiculous than just saying \"vagina\"?!?!  </span></li>\r\n	<li><span>\"Guy Sex Confessions:  37 Things He Doesn\'t Have the Balls to Tell You!\"  I avoid conflict like the plague, and I prefer a man that has <span>cajones</span>, so I skipped over this one.  If you must know the 37 things, write me and I\'ll send you a copy of the article.  </span></li>\r\n	<li><span>\"Seduce Him!  This Sexy Move Works From 20 Feet Away!\"  I turned to this article because I thought it might be blog fodder if it\'s not too NC-17.  Bingo!  It IS blog fodder.  I will have to schedule this one in.  Basically, it\'s a \"strut\", ladies.  This is your new mantra:  \"Shoulders, hips, heels\".  Actually, <span>Brettesy</span> performs this beautifully.  I\'ll ask her if she\'ll be a sport and allow me to post a video demonstration.  Vote \"Yes for Brettesy!\" in the comment section below if you would like for her to strut her stuff.  </span></li>\r\n	<li>\"The Touch That Calms Him During a Fight\"  I want a lover, not a fighter.  Next!</li>\r\n	<li><span>\"Red-Hot Read:  Forbidden Fling\" -- \"Erica <span>Donelson</span> is crushing on a smoking-hot bad boy.  The only problem?  The pantie-melting object of her desire is none other than her ex-husband\'s former best friend.\"  <span>Bwhahahahahahaha</span>!!!  Is it really \"forbidden\" if it\'s your <span>ex\'s</span> former friend?  Huh?  And Pantie-melting???   Are they the edible kind from Fascinations?  Bwhahahahahahahaha!!!!  I went ahead and read the short story because I needed to for journalistic purposes.  Pretty tame/lame, if you ask me.  Do you find the term \"rock hard member\" sexy???  Bwhahahahahahahahahaha!!!!  </span></li>\r\n</ul>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><span>Ah, well...I suppose Cosmo is not so much soft porn but comedy.  And laughter is the best medicine after all.  </span></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I think I\'m feeling better already. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>','Day 45:  Fashion Mags or Soft Porn?','','inherit','open','open','','1837-revision-3','','','2010-11-10 22:00:55','2010-11-11 05:00:55','',1837,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/11/10/1837-revision-3/',0,'revision','',0),(1844,1,'2010-11-10 22:01:25','2010-11-11 05:01:25','<p>A couple of months ago on my birthday, Elaine aka Laney surprised me with a bunch of magazines on my birthday.  And I do mean a <em>bunch.  </em></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>This was truly a treat, as I never buy magazines.  Mainly because I never park it on my sofa long enough to look at them. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I set the magazines aside for a rainy day. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Or...change in plans:  a sick night! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Remember last week when this sickie-poo forced herself to observe <strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/11/05/day-39-its-shooshing-time/\" target=\"_blank\"><span><span>Shooshing</span> Time</span></a></strong>? </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><span>I should have listened to my own advice more than once because now I am combating a raging sinus infection.  I feel like complete and utter crap! </span></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>On Day 45, since I was too nauseous for anything but parking it on my sofa, I hauled out the magazines.  Laney and I recently discussed our desires for a wardrobe makeover, so I hunted for fashion tips.  What\'s \"in\", what\'s \"out\", and all that stuff. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I immediately became sidetracked by the soft porn that is Cosmo.  I haven\'t looked at a Cosmo in <em>years</em>, so I forgot about its cheesiness factor.  Allow me to share:</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li><span>\"Untamed Va-jay-jays!  Guess What Sexy Style is Back!\"  For <span>reals</span>, Cosmo?  <span>Hahahahahahahahaha</span>!!!!  And are we seriously still using the term \"Va-jay-jay\"?!?!  Isn\'t that infinitely more embarrassing and ridiculous than just saying \"vagina\"?!?!  </span></li>\r\n	<li><span>\"Guy Sex Confessions:  37 Things He Doesn\'t Have the Balls to Tell You!\"  I avoid conflict like the plague, and I prefer a man that has <span>cajones</span>, so I skipped over this one.  If you must know the 37 things, write me and I\'ll send you a copy of the article.  </span></li>\r\n	<li><span>\"Seduce Him!  This Sexy Move Works From 20 Feet Away!\"  I turned to this article because I thought it might be blog fodder if it\'s not too NC-17.  Bingo!  It IS blog fodder.  I will have to schedule this one in.  Basically, it\'s a \"strut\", ladies.  This is your new mantra:  \"Shoulders, hips, heels\".  Actually, <span>Brettesy</span> performs this beautifully.  I\'ll ask her if she\'ll be a sport and allow me to post a video demonstration.  Vote \"Yes for Brettesy!\" in the comment section below if you would like for her to strut her stuff.  </span></li>\r\n	<li>\"The Touch That Calms Him During a Fight\"  I want a lover, not a fighter.  Next!</li>\r\n	<li><span>\"Red-Hot Read:  Forbidden Fling\" -- \"Erica <span>Donelson</span> is crushing on a smoking-hot bad boy.  The only problem?  The pantie-melting object of her desire is none other than her ex-husband\'s former best friend.\"  <span>Bwhahahahahahaha</span>!!!  Is it really \"forbidden\" if it\'s your <span>ex\'s</span> former friend?  Huh?  And Pantie-melting???   Are they the edible kind from Fascinations?  Bwhahahahahahahaha!!!!  I went ahead and read the short story because I needed to for journalistic purposes.  Pretty tame/lame, if you ask me.  Do you find the term \"rock hard member\" sexy???  Bwhahahahahahahahahaha!!!!  </span></li>\r\n</ul>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><span>Ah, well...I suppose Cosmo is not so much soft porn but comedy.  And laughter is the best medicine after all.  </span></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I think I\'m feeling better already. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>','Day 45:  Fashion Mags or Soft Porn?','','inherit','open','open','','1837-revision-4','','','2010-11-10 22:01:25','2010-11-11 05:01:25','',1837,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/11/10/1837-revision-4/',0,'revision','',0),(1845,1,'2010-11-10 22:14:52','2010-11-11 05:14:52','','OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA','','inherit','open','open','','olympus-digital-camera-88','','','2010-11-10 22:14:52','2010-11-11 05:14:52','',1837,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/PB100181.jpg',0,'attachment','image/jpeg',0),(1846,1,'2010-11-10 22:03:51','2010-11-11 05:03:51','<p>A couple of months ago on my birthday, Elaine aka Laney surprised me with a bunch of magazines on my birthday.  And I do mean a <em>bunch.  </em></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>This was truly a treat, as I never buy magazines.  Mainly because I never park it on my sofa long enough to look at them. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I set the magazines aside for a rainy day. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Or...change in plans:  a sick night! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Remember last week when this sickie-poo forced herself to observe <strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/11/05/day-39-its-shooshing-time/\" target=\"_blank\">Shooshing Time</a></strong>? </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I should have listened to my own advice more than once because now I am combating a raging sinus infection.  I feel like complete and utter crap! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>On Day 45, since I was too nauseous for anything but parking it on my sofa, I hauled out the magazines.  Laney and I recently discussed our desires for a wardrobe makeover, so I hunted for fashion tips.  What\'s \"in\", what\'s \"out\", and all that stuff. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I immediately became sidetracked by the soft porn that is Cosmo.  I haven\'t looked at a Cosmo in <em>years</em>, so I forgot about its cheesiness factor.  Allow me to share:</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li><span style=\"color: #ff00ff;\"><strong>\"Untamed Va-jay-jays!  Guess What Sexy Style is Back!\"</strong></span>  For reals, Cosmo?  Hahahahahahahahaha!!!!  And are we seriously still using the term \"Va-jay-jay\"?!?!  Isn\'t that infinitely more embarrassing and ridiculous than just saying \"vagina\"?!?!  </li>\r\n	<li><span style=\"color: #ff00ff;\"><strong>\"Guy Sex Confessions:  37 Things He Doesn\'t Have the Balls to Tell You!\"</strong>  </span>I avoid conflict like the plague, and I prefer a man that has cajones, so I skipped over this one.  If you must know the 37 things, write me and I\'ll send you a copy of the article.  </li>\r\n	<li><span style=\"color: #ff00ff;\"><strong>\"Seduce Him!  This Sexy Move Works From 20 Feet Away!\"</strong></span>  I turned to this article because I thought it might be blog fodder if it\'s not too NC-17.  Bingo!  It IS blog fodder.  I will have to schedule this one in.  Basically, it\'s a \"strut\", ladies.  This is your new mantra:  \"Shoulders, hips, heels\".  Actually, Brettesy performs this beautifully.  I\'ll ask her if she\'ll be a sport and allow me to post a video demonstration.  Vote \"Yes for Brettesy!\" in the comment section below if you would like for her to strut her stuff.  </li>\r\n	<li><strong><span style=\"color: #ff00ff;\">\"The Touch That Calms Him During a Fight\"</span>  </strong>I want a lover, not a fighter.  Next!</li>\r\n	<li><span style=\"color: #ff0000;\"><strong>\"Red-Hot Read:  Forbidden Fling\"</strong></span> -- \"Erica Donelson is crushing on a smoking-hot bad boy.  The only problem?  The pantie-melting object of her desire is none other than her ex-husband\'s former best friend.\"  Bwhahahahahahaha!!!  Is it really \"forbidden\" if it\'s your ex\'s former friend?  Huh?  And Pantie-melting???   Are they the edible kind from Fascinations?  Bwhahahahahahahaha!!!!  I went ahead and read the short story because I needed to for journalistic purposes.  Pretty tame/lame, if you ask me.  Do you find the term \"rock hard member\" sexy???  Bwhahahahahahahahahaha!!!!  </li>\r\n</ul>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Ah, well...I suppose Cosmo is not so much soft porn but comedy.  And laughter is the best medicine after all. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I think I\'m feeling better already. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>','Day 45:  Fashion Mags or Soft Porn?','','inherit','open','open','','1837-revision-5','','','2010-11-10 22:03:51','2010-11-11 05:03:51','',1837,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/11/10/1837-revision-5/',0,'revision','',0),(1847,1,'2010-11-10 22:15:31','2010-11-11 05:15:31','<p><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/PB100181.jpg\"><img class=\"alignleft size-medium wp-image-1845\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/PB100181-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>A couple of months ago on my birthday, Elaine aka Laney surprised me with a bunch of magazines on my birthday.  And I do mean a <em>bunch.  </em></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>This was truly a treat, as I never buy magazines.  Mainly because I never park it on my sofa long enough to look at them. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I set the magazines aside for a rainy day. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Or...change in plans:  a sick night! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Remember last week when this sickie-poo forced herself to observe <strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/11/05/day-39-its-shooshing-time/\" target=\"_blank\">Shooshing Time</a></strong>? </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I should have listened to my own advice more than once because now I am combating a raging sinus infection.  I feel like complete and utter crap! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>On Day 45, since I was too nauseous for anything but parking it on my sofa, I hauled out the magazines.  Laney and I recently discussed our desires for a wardrobe makeover, so I hunted for fashion tips.  What\'s \"in\", what\'s \"out\", and all that stuff. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I immediately became sidetracked by the soft porn that is Cosmo.  I haven\'t looked at a Cosmo in <em>years</em>, so I forgot about its cheesiness factor.  Allow me to share:</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li><span style=\"color: #ff00ff;\"><strong>\"Untamed Va-jay-jays!  Guess What Sexy Style is Back!\"</strong></span>  For reals, Cosmo?  Hahahahahahahahaha!!!!  And are we seriously still using the term \"Va-jay-jay\"?!?!  Isn\'t that infinitely more embarrassing and ridiculous than just saying \"vagina\"?!?!  </li>\r\n	<li><span style=\"color: #ff00ff;\"><strong>\"Guy Sex Confessions:  37 Things He Doesn\'t Have the Balls to Tell You!\"</strong>  </span>I avoid conflict like the plague, and I prefer a man that has cajones, so I skipped over this one.  If you must know the 37 things, write me and I\'ll send you a copy of the article.  </li>\r\n	<li><span style=\"color: #ff00ff;\"><strong>\"Seduce Him!  This Sexy Move Works From 20 Feet Away!\"</strong></span>  I turned to this article because I thought it might be blog fodder if it\'s not too NC-17.  Bingo!  It IS blog fodder.  I will have to schedule this one in.  Basically, it\'s a \"strut\", ladies.  This is your new mantra:  \"Shoulders, hips, heels\".  Actually, Brettesy performs this beautifully.  I\'ll ask her if she\'ll be a sport and allow me to post a video demonstration.  Vote \"Yes for Brettesy!\" in the comment section below if you would like for her to strut her stuff.  </li>\r\n	<li><strong><span style=\"color: #ff00ff;\">\"The Touch That Calms Him During a Fight\"</span>  </strong>I want a lover, not a fighter.  Next!</li>\r\n	<li><span style=\"color: #ff0000;\"><strong>\"Red-Hot Read:  Forbidden Fling\"</strong></span> -- \"Erica Donelson is crushing on a smoking-hot bad boy.  The only problem?  The pantie-melting object of her desire is none other than her ex-husband\'s former best friend.\"  Bwhahahahahahaha!!!  Is it really \"forbidden\" if it\'s your ex\'s former friend?  Huh?  And Pantie-melting???   Are they the edible kind from Fascinations?  Bwhahahahahahahaha!!!!  I went ahead and read the short story because I needed to for journalistic purposes.  Pretty tame/lame, if you ask me.  Do you find the term \"rock hard member\" sexy???  Bwhahahahahahahahahaha!!!!  </li>\r\n</ul>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Ah, well...I suppose Cosmo is not so much soft porn but comedy.  And laughter is the best medicine after all. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I think I\'m feeling better already. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>','Day 45:  Fashion Mags or Soft Porn?','','inherit','open','open','','1837-revision-6','','','2010-11-10 22:15:31','2010-11-11 05:15:31','',1837,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/11/10/1837-revision-6/',0,'revision','',0),(1848,1,'2010-11-10 22:18:32','2010-11-11 05:18:32','<p><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/PB100181.jpg\"><img class=\"alignleft size-medium wp-image-1845\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/PB100181-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>A couple of months ago on my birthday, Elaine aka Laney surprised me with a bunch of magazines on my birthday.  And I do mean a <em>bunch.  </em></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>This was truly a treat, as I never buy magazines.  Mainly because I never park it on my sofa long enough to look at them. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>I set the magazines aside for a rainy day. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Or...change in plans:  a sick night! </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Remember last week when this sickie-poo forced herself to observe <strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/11/05/day-39-its-shooshing-time/\" target=\"_blank\">Shooshing Time</a></strong>? </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>I should have listened to my own advice more than once because now I am combating a raging sinus infection.  I feel like complete and utter crap! </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>On Day 45, since I was too nauseous for anything but parking it on my sofa, I hauled out the magazines.  Laney and I recently discussed our desires for a wardrobe makeover, so I hunted for fashion tips.  What\'s \"in\", what\'s \"out\", and all that stuff. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>I immediately became sidetracked by the soft porn that is Cosmo.  I haven\'t looked at a Cosmo in <em>years</em>, so I forgot about its cheesiness factor.  Allow me to share:</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<ul>\n	<li><span style=\"color: #ff00ff;\"><strong>\"Untamed Va-jay-jays!  Guess What Sexy Style is Back!\"</strong></span>  For reals, Cosmo?  How very retro of you!  Hahahahahahahahaha!!!!  And are we seriously still using the term \"Va-jay-jay\"?!?!  Isn\'t that infinitely more embarrassing and ridiculous than just saying \"vagina\"?!?!  </li>\n	<li><span style=\"color: #ff00ff;\"><strong>\"Guy Sex Confessions:  37 Things He Doesn\'t Have the Balls to Tell You!\"</strong>  </span>I avoid conflict like the plague, and I prefer a man that has cajones, so I skipped over this one.  If you must know the 37 things, write me and I\'ll send you a copy of the article.  </li>\n	<li><span style=\"color: #ff00ff;\"><strong>\"Seduce Him!  This Sexy Move Works From 20 Feet Away!\"</strong></span>  I turned to this article because I thought it might be blog fodder if it\'s not too NC-17.  Bingo!  It IS blog fodder.  I will have to schedule this one in.  Basically, it\'s a \"strut\", ladies.  This is your new mantra:  \"Shoulders, hips, heels\".  Actually, Brettesy performs this beautifully.  I\'ll ask her if she\'ll be a sport and allow me to post a video demonstration.  Vote \"Yes for Brettesy!\" in the comment section below if you would like to watch her strut her stuff.  </li>\n	<li><strong><span style=\"color: #ff00ff;\">\"The Touch That Calms Him During a Fight\"</span>  </strong>I want a lover, not a fighter.  Next!</li>\n	<li><span style=\"color: #ff0000;\"><strong>\"Red-Hot Read:  Forbidden Fling\"</strong></span> -- \"Erica Donelson is crushing on a smoking-hot bad boy.  The only problem?  The pantie-melting object of her desire is none other than her ex-husband\'s former best friend.\"  Bwhahahahahahaha!!!  Is it really \"forbidden\" if it\'s your ex\'s former friend?  Huh?  And Pantie-melting???   Are they the edible kind from Fascinations?  Bwhahahahahahahaha!!!!  I went ahead and read the short story because I needed to for journalistic purposes.  Pretty tame/lame, if you ask me.  Do you find the term \"rock hard member\" sexy???  Bwhahahahahahahahahaha!!!!  </li>\n</ul>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Ah, well...I suppose Cosmo is not so much soft porn but comedy.  And laughter is the best medicine after all. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>I think I\'m feeling better already. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>','Day 45:  Fashion Mags or Soft Porn?','','inherit','open','open','','1837-revision-7','','','2010-11-10 22:18:32','2010-11-11 05:18:32','',1837,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/11/10/1837-revision-7/',0,'revision','',0),