INSERT INTO `wp_posts` VALUES (1344,1,'2010-10-24 20:54:13','2010-10-25 03:54:13','<p><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/salcalvinfo.gif\"><img class=\"alignleft size-full wp-image-1326\" title=\"salcalvinfo\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/salcalvinfo.gif\" alt=\"\" width=\"1\" height=\"1\" /></a><a href=\"http://www.hairpeace.com/Home.html\" target=\"_blank\"><img class=\"alignleft size-full wp-image-1319\" title=\"salvadorsign\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/salvadorsign2.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Most women tend to be fiercely loyal to their hairstylists.  Suggest to a woman that she try a new stylist and a look of horror (tinged with guilt) crosses her face.  A woman would sooner call it quits with her significant other than abandon or cheat on her mane guy/girl. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>And, yes, this applies to women who are downright unhappy with their stylist!  They would rather stay in a dysfunctional hair relationship than break away to healthier pastures.  They walk around with a bad haircut and/or color because they don’t want to hurt their hairstylist’s <em>feelings</em>. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I know.  I used to feel that way as well.  Until the day I was forced to break up with “G”.  He left me with no choice.   </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong><span style=\"color: #ff00ff; font-size: large;\">Like all new relationships, it was A Match Made in Heaven.  At first.  </span></strong></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong><span style=\"color: #ff00ff; font-size: large;\"> </span></strong> </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>G was my hairstylist from five years ago.  I met him at a party.  At the time, I was displeased with my hair.  My metrosexual poster boy friend recommended a top stylist in Snobbsdale who dyed my tresses a lighter shade of black and razor cut my hair.  The color made me look like I was in dire need of a makeover, and the razor made my hair frizz to a frazzle. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>At the party (hosted by metrosexual poster boy, ironically), G sat down next to me and told me that he loved my dress.  (+10 points)  He then commented that my shoes were to die for.  (+20 points)  We talked incessantly for a while, and it came up in conversation that he was a hairstylist.  I immediately blurted out my hair woes. Don’t we often treat our hairstylists like therapists?  God bless them for listening. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>G calmly assessed the damage.  He explained to me that my hair was too dark and washed me out.  (+50 points)  G was HORRIFIED that someone had taken a razor to the hair of someone of “Mediterranean descent”.  (+100 points)  My hair should be blunt cut to eliminate the frizzle-frazzle!  (+500 points) </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>This was destined to be a hair relationship made in Heaven! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I called G that Tuesday to schedule an appointment.  When our big day rolled around, it was everything a girl could want.  I will never forget – he dyed my hair with a color called “Swedish blonde” which sounded ridiculous at first.  Me?  A blonde?  Uh…no.  BUT!!!!  G transformed my hair into shade of golden brunette perfect for my skin tone.  And his blunt cut layers made my hair bouncing and behaving!  (+ points ad infinitum)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I was hooked. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>G and I also started to see each other outside of the salon.  (Platonically.  G wasn’t attracted to women.)  He shared my taste for indie restaurants and coffeehouses.  We had so much fun together.  </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong><span style=\"color: #800080; font-size: large;\">Drama Queens belong on the Stage and not in the Salon.</span></strong></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Then one day, G was in a mood.  (He had a flair for the dramatic.)  He was stressed out about a guy who dissed him and ticked off at his landlord.  In the midst of relaying his hassles in vivid detail during my haircut, he cut my layers unevenly.  i.e. He screwed up my hair.  Big time.  Every woman’s worst hair nightmare. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Now, I am a forgiving sort.  I am prone to granting second chances.  We are all human.  We all make mistakes.  We should all give one another a little more grace. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>So I went back to G for a quick fix. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Which turned out to be not a fix, but another disaster. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong><span style=\"color: #ff0000; font-size: large;\">Breaking Up is Hard to Do </span></strong></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong><span style=\"color: #ff0000; font-size: large;\"> </span></strong></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>In some aspects, breaking up with G was worse than breaking up with a boyfriend.  With a boyfriend, you take time off to heal and ready yourself for another relationship someday.  With your hairstylist, you need to find another one right away.  This is far from ideal when you’re gun-shy and suffering from hair trauma. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Argh. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I went through a few hairstylists after G.  Everyone was good at first, and then they slacked off after a year or so.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I was then introduced to a husband/wife cut/color duo who are great.  I absolutely adore them – talented, super smart, and warm.  But our schedules haven’t been meshing lately.  Availability is limited to one Saturday a month, and if I happen to have other plans that Saturday, then I’m SOL.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>And this is how I came to cheat on my hairstylist.  I needed an appointment for this past Saturday, and my stylists were unavailable. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><span style=\"color: #ff6600; font-size: large;\"><strong>If you are going to cheat, then reach for the hairstylist to the stars.  </strong></span></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /> For months, my friend Britt waxed on about <em>“Salvador”.</em>  The way she talked about him, I envisioned some sort of mythical Hair God. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>“<em>Salvador</em> is the best stylist that I’ve ever been to.  He specializes in natural color.”  (+50 points)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>“<em>Salvador</em> is the only one in this town who knows how to cut hair.  He cuts the layers blunt so your hair is thick and voluptuous and doesn’t get scraggly as with point cutting.”  (+100 points)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>“<em>Salvador</em> has a really cool artsy studio downtown with art and photographs and instruments.”  (I’m a sucker for artsy fartsy.  +50 points.)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>“<em>Salvador</em> understands how to cut wavy hair.” (+100 points)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>“<em>Salvador</em>!  <em>Salvador</em>!  <em>Salvador</em>!”  (+50 points for reputation of mythical proportion) </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>So this past Saturday morning I hauled my cookies downtown for an appointment with <em>Salvador</em>. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Upon entering aforementioned artsy fartsy studio, I was greeted by an overly enthusiastic Golden Retriever named Tahoe.  (+ points ad infinitum)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/tahoe2.jpg\"><img title=\"tahoe\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/tahoe2.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"97\" height=\"118\" /></a></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Salvador (with locks of mythical proportion) welcomed me to the salon and chit-chatted away about the morning.  I was up late the night before, slept in, and had just started drinking my coffee, so I slurped it down in a hurry with hopes that I could be a tenth as chipper as Tahoe and ready to talk to another human being.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Classical music played in the background (+10 points) while Salvador sat me in the chair and inquired about what I wanted to do with my hair.  I asked him what he would do given carte blanche. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>All I can remember is “natural color” and I agreed to the rest.  When a mythical Hair God shares his opinion, you really should just take it and get on with your day.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Once I was properly caffeinated, we were able to ramble on about all sorts of common interests from music to guitar to writing to entrepreneurship to topics ad infinitum.  (+1000 points)  I am sure that you will agree with me that NOTHING is more awkward than sitting in a hairstylist’s chair whom you are unable to talk to.  How can they <em>possibly </em>serve as your surrogate therapist/dating coach/sounding board if you can’t carry on a decent conversation??? </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Salvador worked his magic throughout conversational turns and many musical shifts (as you ease into the morning the classical needs to be replaced with rock) and then…Voila!  Hair Extraordinaire! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I have already received numerous compliments from “the outside”. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>In this illicit affair, the cheating paid off and no one got hurt.**</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>The most surprising thing about Salvador is that for a mythical Hair God, he is extraordinarily down-to-earth and <em>a really good guy</em>. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Often with myths, we develop high expectations that can’t be adhered to in Real Life.  Salvador will exceed your expectations.  And you’ll have fun in the process.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Go see him and Tahoe.  </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong><a href=\"http://www.hairpeace.com/\" target=\"_blank\">http://www.hairpeace.com/</a></strong></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong> </strong></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>                           </strong> ****************************************</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>** Please note that I do not condone cheating in other relationships.  But if your hairstylist isn’t cutting it (pun intended), then by all means get out there and sow your wild oats with someone new! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>','Day 28:  Have YOU Ever Cheated on Your Hairdresser?','','inherit','open','open','','1307-revision-24','','','2010-10-24 20:54:13','2010-10-25 03:54:13','',1307,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/10/24/1307-revision-24/',0,'revision','',0),(1352,1,'2010-10-24 21:00:18','2010-10-25 04:00:18','<p><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/salcalvinfo.gif\"><img class=\"alignleft size-full wp-image-1326\" title=\"salcalvinfo\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/salcalvinfo.gif\" alt=\"\" width=\"1\" height=\"1\" /></a><a href=\"http://www.hairpeace.com/Home.html\" target=\"_blank\"><img class=\"alignleft size-full wp-image-1319\" title=\"salvadorsign\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/salvadorsign2.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Most women tend to be fiercely loyal to their hairstylists.  Suggest to a woman that she try a new stylist and a look of horror (tinged with guilt) crosses her face.  A woman would sooner call it quits with her significant other than abandon or cheat on her mane guy/girl. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>And, yes, this applies to women who are downright unhappy with their stylist!  They would rather stay in a dysfunctional hair relationship than break away to healthier pastures.  They walk around with a bad haircut and/or color because they don’t want to hurt their hairstylist’s <em>feelings</em>. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I know.  I used to feel that way as well.  Until the day I was forced to break up with “G”.  He left me with no choice.   </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong><span style=\"color: #ff00ff; font-size: large;\">Like all new relationships, it was A Match Made in Heaven.  At first.  </span></strong></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong><span style=\"color: #ff00ff; font-size: large;\"> </span></strong> </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>G was my hairstylist from five years ago.  I met him at a party.  At the time, I was displeased with my hair.  My metrosexual poster boy friend recommended a top stylist in Snobbsdale who dyed my tresses a lighter shade of black and razor cut my hair.  The color made me look like I was in dire need of a makeover, and the razor made my hair frizz to a frazzle. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>At the party (hosted by metrosexual poster boy, ironically), G sat down next to me and told me that he loved my dress.  (+10 points)  He then commented that my shoes were to die for.  (+20 points)  We talked incessantly for a while, and it came up in conversation that he was a hairstylist.  I immediately blurted out my hair woes. Don’t we often treat our hairstylists like therapists?  God bless them for listening. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>G calmly assessed the damage.  He explained to me that my hair was too dark and washed me out.  (+50 points)  G was HORRIFIED that someone had taken a razor to the hair of someone of “Mediterranean descent”.  (+100 points)  My hair should be blunt cut to eliminate the frizzle-frazzle!  (+500 points) </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>This was destined to be a hair relationship made in Heaven! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I called G that Tuesday to schedule an appointment.  When our big day rolled around, it was everything a girl could want.  I will never forget – he dyed my hair with a color called “Swedish blonde” which sounded ridiculous at first.  Me?  A blonde?  Uh…no.  BUT!!!!  G transformed my hair into shade of golden brunette perfect for my skin tone.  And his blunt cut layers made my hair bouncing and behaving!  (+ points ad infinitum)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I was hooked. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>G and I also started to see each other outside of the salon.  (Platonically.  G wasn’t attracted to women.)  He shared my taste for indie restaurants and coffeehouses.  We had so much fun together.  </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong><span style=\"color: #800080; font-size: large;\">Drama Queens belong on the stage and not in the salon.</span></strong></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Then one day, G was in a mood.  (He had a flair for the dramatic.)  He was stressed out about a guy who dissed him and ticked off at his landlord.  In the midst of relaying his hassles in vivid detail during my haircut, he cut my layers unevenly.  i.e. He screwed up my hair.  Big time.  Every woman’s worst hair nightmare. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Now, I am a forgiving sort.  I am prone to granting second chances.  We are all human.  We all make mistakes.  We should all give one another a little more grace. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>So I went back to G for a quick fix. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Which turned out to be not a fix, but another disaster. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong><span style=\"color: #ff0000; font-size: large;\">Breaking Up is Hard to Do </span></strong></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong><span style=\"color: #ff0000; font-size: large;\"> </span></strong></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>In some aspects, breaking up with G was worse than breaking up with a boyfriend.  With a boyfriend, you take time off to heal and ready yourself for another relationship someday.  With your hairstylist, you need to find another one right away.  This is far from ideal when you’re gun-shy and suffering from hair trauma. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Argh. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I went through a few hairstylists after G.  Everyone was good at first, and then they slacked off after a year or so.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I was then introduced to a husband/wife cut/color duo who are great.  I absolutely adore them – talented, super smart, and warm.  But our schedules haven’t been meshing lately.  Availability is limited to one Saturday a month, and if I happen to have other plans that Saturday, then I’m SOL.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>And this is how I came to cheat on my hairstylist.  I needed an appointment for this past Saturday, and my stylists were unavailable. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><span style=\"color: #ff6600; font-size: large;\"><strong>If you are going to cheat, then reach for the hairstylist to the stars.  </strong></span></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /> For months, my friend Britt waxed on about <em>“Salvador”.</em>  The way she talked about him, I envisioned some sort of mythical Hair God. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>“<em>Salvador</em> is the best stylist that I’ve ever been to.  He specializes in natural color.”  (+50 points)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>“<em>Salvador</em> is the only one in this town who knows how to cut hair.  He cuts the layers blunt so your hair is thick and voluptuous and doesn’t get scraggly as with point cutting.”  (+100 points)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>“<em>Salvador</em> has a really cool artsy studio downtown with art and photographs and instruments.”  (I’m a sucker for artsy fartsy.  +50 points.)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>“<em>Salvador</em> understands how to cut wavy hair.” (+100 points)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>“<em>Salvador</em>!  <em>Salvador</em>!  <em>Salvador</em>!”  (+50 points for reputation of mythical proportion) </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>So this past Saturday morning I hauled my cookies downtown for an appointment with <em>Salvador</em>. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Upon entering aforementioned artsy fartsy studio, I was greeted by an overly enthusiastic Golden Retriever named Tahoe.  (+ points ad infinitum)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><a href=\"http://www.hairpeace.com\" target=\"_blank\"><img title=\"tahoe\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/tahoe2.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"97\" height=\"118\" /></a></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Salvador (with locks of mythical proportion) welcomed me to the salon and chit-chatted away about the morning.  I was up late the night before, slept in, and had just started drinking my coffee, so I slurped it down in a hurry with hopes that I could be a tenth as chipper as Tahoe and ready to talk to another human being.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Classical music played in the background (+10 points) while Salvador sat me in the chair and inquired about what I wanted to do with my hair.  I asked him what he would do given carte blanche. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>All I can remember is “natural color” and I agreed to the rest.  When a mythical Hair God shares his opinion, you really should just take it and get on with your day.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Once I was properly caffeinated, we were able to ramble on about all sorts of common interests from music to guitar to writing to entrepreneurship to topics ad infinitum.  (+1000 points)  I am sure that you will agree with me that NOTHING is more awkward than sitting in a hairstylist’s chair whom you are unable to talk to.  How can they <em>possibly </em>serve as your surrogate therapist/dating coach/sounding board if you can’t carry on a decent conversation??? </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Salvador worked his magic throughout conversational turns and many musical shifts (as you ease into the morning the classical needs to be replaced with rock) and then…Voila!  Hair Extraordinaire! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I have already received numerous compliments from “the outside”. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>In this illicit affair, the cheating paid off and no one got hurt.**</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>The most surprising thing about Salvador is that for a mythical Hair God, he is extraordinarily down-to-earth and <em>a really good guy</em>. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Often with myths, we develop high expectations that can’t be adhered to in Real Life.  Salvador will exceed your expectations.  And you’ll have fun in the process.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Go see him and Tahoe.  </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><a href=\"http://www.hairpeace.com/\" target=\"_blank\"><span style=\"color: #ff6600;\"><strong>http://www.hairpeace.com/</strong></span></a></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong> </strong></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>                           </strong> ****************************************</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>** Please note that I do not condone cheating in other relationships.  But if your hairstylist isn’t cutting it (pun intended), then by all means get out there and sow your wild oats with someone new! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>','Day 28:  Have YOU Ever Cheated on Your Hairdresser?','','inherit','open','open','','1307-revision-32','','','2010-10-24 21:00:18','2010-10-25 04:00:18','',1307,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/10/24/1307-revision-32/',0,'revision','',0),(1353,1,'2010-10-24 21:00:41','2010-10-25 04:00:41','<p><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/salcalvinfo.gif\"><img class=\"alignleft size-full wp-image-1326\" title=\"salcalvinfo\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/salcalvinfo.gif\" alt=\"\" width=\"1\" height=\"1\" /></a><a href=\"http://www.hairpeace.com/Home.html\" target=\"_blank\"><img class=\"alignleft size-full wp-image-1319\" title=\"salvadorsign\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/salvadorsign2.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Most women tend to be fiercely loyal to their hairstylists.  Suggest to a woman that she try a new stylist and a look of horror (tinged with guilt) crosses her face.  A woman would sooner call it quits with her significant other than abandon or cheat on her mane guy/girl. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>And, yes, this applies to women who are downright unhappy with their stylist!  They would rather stay in a dysfunctional hair relationship than break away to healthier pastures.  They walk around with a bad haircut and/or color because they don’t want to hurt their hairstylist’s <em>feelings</em>. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I know.  I used to feel that way as well.  Until the day I was forced to break up with “G”.  He left me with no choice.   </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong><span style=\"color: #ff00ff; font-size: large;\">Like all new relationships, it was A Match Made in Heaven.  At first.  </span></strong></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong><span style=\"color: #ff00ff; font-size: large;\"> </span></strong> </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>G was my hairstylist from five years ago.  I met him at a party.  At the time, I was displeased with my hair.  My metrosexual poster boy friend recommended a top stylist in Snobbsdale who dyed my tresses a lighter shade of black and razor cut my hair.  The color made me look like I was in dire need of a makeover, and the razor made my hair frizz to a frazzle. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>At the party (hosted by metrosexual poster boy, ironically), G sat down next to me and told me that he loved my dress.  (+10 points)  He then commented that my shoes were to die for.  (+20 points)  We talked incessantly for a while, and it came up in conversation that he was a hairstylist.  I immediately blurted out my hair woes. Don’t we often treat our hairstylists like therapists?  God bless them for listening. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>G calmly assessed the damage.  He explained to me that my hair was too dark and washed me out.  (+50 points)  G was HORRIFIED that someone had taken a razor to the hair of someone of “Mediterranean descent”.  (+100 points)  My hair should be blunt cut to eliminate the frizzle-frazzle!  (+500 points) </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>This was destined to be a hair relationship made in Heaven! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I called G that Tuesday to schedule an appointment.  When our big day rolled around, it was everything a girl could want.  I will never forget – he dyed my hair with a color called “Swedish blonde” which sounded ridiculous at first.  Me?  A blonde?  Uh…no.  BUT!!!!  G transformed my hair into shade of golden brunette perfect for my skin tone.  And his blunt cut layers made my hair bouncing and behaving!  (+ points ad infinitum)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I was hooked. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>G and I also started to see each other outside of the salon.  (Platonically.  G wasn’t attracted to women.)  He shared my taste for indie restaurants and coffeehouses.  We had so much fun together.  </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong><span style=\"color: #800080; font-size: large;\">Drama Queens belong on the stage and not in the salon.</span></strong></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Then one day, G was in a mood.  (He had a flair for the dramatic.)  He was stressed out about a guy who dissed him and ticked off at his landlord.  In the midst of relaying his hassles in vivid detail during my haircut, he cut my layers unevenly.  i.e. He screwed up my hair.  Big time.  Every woman’s worst hair nightmare. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Now, I am a forgiving sort.  I am prone to granting second chances.  We are all human.  We all make mistakes.  We should all give one another a little more grace. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>So I went back to G for a quick fix. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Which turned out to be not a fix, but another disaster. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong><span style=\"color: #ff0000; font-size: large;\">Breaking Up is Hard to Do </span></strong></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong><span style=\"color: #ff0000; font-size: large;\"> </span></strong></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>In some aspects, breaking up with G was worse than breaking up with a boyfriend.  With a boyfriend, you take time off to heal and ready yourself for another relationship someday.  With your hairstylist, you need to find another one right away.  This is far from ideal when you’re gun-shy and suffering from hair trauma. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Argh. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I went through a few hairstylists after G.  Everyone was good at first, and then they slacked off after a year or so.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I was then introduced to a husband/wife cut/color duo who are great.  I absolutely adore them – talented, super smart, and warm.  But our schedules haven’t been meshing lately.  Availability is limited to one Saturday a month, and if I happen to have other plans that Saturday, then I’m SOL.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>And this is how I came to cheat on my hairstylist.  I needed an appointment for this past Saturday, and my stylists were unavailable. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><span style=\"color: #ff6600; font-size: large;\"><strong>If you are going to cheat, then reach for the hairstylist to the stars.  </strong></span></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /> For months, my friend Britt waxed on about <em>“Salvador”.</em>  The way she talked about him, I envisioned some sort of mythical Hair God. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>“<em>Salvador</em> is the best stylist that I’ve ever been to.  He specializes in natural color.”  (+50 points)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>“<em>Salvador</em> is the only one in this town who knows how to cut hair.  He cuts the layers blunt so your hair is thick and voluptuous and doesn’t get scraggly as with point cutting.”  (+100 points)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>“<em>Salvador</em> has a really cool artsy studio downtown with art and photographs and instruments.”  (I’m a sucker for artsy fartsy.  +50 points.)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>“<em>Salvador</em> understands how to cut wavy hair.” (+100 points)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>“<em>Salvador</em>!  <em>Salvador</em>!  <em>Salvador</em>!”  (+50 points for reputation of mythical proportion) </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>So this past Saturday morning I hauled my cookies downtown for an appointment with <em>Salvador</em>. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Upon entering aforementioned artsy fartsy studio, I was greeted by an overly enthusiastic Golden Retriever named Tahoe.  (+ points ad infinitum)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><a href=\"http://www.hairpeace.com\" target=\"_blank\"><img title=\"tahoe\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/tahoe2.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"97\" height=\"118\" /></a></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Salvador (with locks of mythical proportion) welcomed me to the salon and chit-chatted away about the morning.  I was up late the night before, slept in, and had just started drinking my coffee, so I slurped it down in a hurry with hopes that I could be a tenth as chipper as Tahoe and ready to talk to another human being.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Classical music played in the background (+10 points) while Salvador sat me in the chair and inquired about what I wanted to do with my hair.  I asked him what he would do given carte blanche. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>All I can remember is “natural color” and I agreed to the rest.  When a mythical Hair God shares his opinion, you really should just take it and get on with your day.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Once I was properly caffeinated, we were able to ramble on about all sorts of common interests from music to guitar to writing to entrepreneurship to topics ad infinitum.  (+1000 points)  I am sure that you will agree with me that NOTHING is more awkward than sitting in a hairstylist’s chair whom you are unable to talk to.  How can they <em>possibly </em>serve as your surrogate therapist/dating coach/sounding board if you can’t carry on a decent conversation??? </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Salvador worked his magic throughout conversational turns and many musical shifts (as you ease into the morning the classical needs to be replaced with rock) and then…Voila!  Hair Extraordinaire! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I have already received numerous compliments from “the outside”. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>In this illicit affair, the cheating paid off and no one got hurt.**</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>The most surprising thing about Salvador is that for a mythical Hair God, he is extraordinarily down-to-earth and <em>a really good guy</em>. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Often with myths, we develop high expectations that can’t be adhered to in Real Life.  Salvador will exceed your expectations.  And you’ll have fun in the process.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Go see him and Tahoe.  </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><a href=\"http://www.hairpeace.com/\" target=\"_blank\"><span style=\"color: #ff6600;\"><strong>http://www.hairpeace.com/</strong></span></a></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong> </strong></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>                           </strong> ****************************************</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>** Please note that I do not condone cheating in other relationships.  But if your hairstylist isn’t cutting it (pun intended), then by all means get out there and sow your wild oats with someone new! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>','Day 28:  Have YOU Ever Cheated on Your Hairdresser?','','inherit','open','open','','1307-revision-33','','','2010-10-24 21:00:41','2010-10-25 04:00:41','',1307,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/10/24/1307-revision-33/',0,'revision','',0),(1351,1,'2010-10-24 20:59:38','2010-10-25 03:59:38','<p><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/salcalvinfo.gif\"><img class=\"alignleft size-full wp-image-1326\" title=\"salcalvinfo\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/salcalvinfo.gif\" alt=\"\" width=\"1\" height=\"1\" /></a><a href=\"http://www.hairpeace.com/Home.html\" target=\"_blank\"><img class=\"alignleft size-full wp-image-1319\" title=\"salvadorsign\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/salvadorsign2.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Most women tend to be fiercely loyal to their hairstylists.  Suggest to a woman that she try a new stylist and a look of horror (tinged with guilt) crosses her face.  A woman would sooner call it quits with her significant other than abandon or cheat on her mane guy/girl. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>And, yes, this applies to women who are downright unhappy with their stylist!  They would rather stay in a dysfunctional hair relationship than break away to healthier pastures.  They walk around with a bad haircut and/or color because they don’t want to hurt their hairstylist’s <em>feelings</em>. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I know.  I used to feel that way as well.  Until the day I was forced to break up with “G”.  He left me with no choice.   </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong><span style=\"color: #ff00ff; font-size: large;\">Like all new relationships, it was A Match Made in Heaven.  At first.  </span></strong></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong><span style=\"color: #ff00ff; font-size: large;\"> </span></strong> </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>G was my hairstylist from five years ago.  I met him at a party.  At the time, I was displeased with my hair.  My metrosexual poster boy friend recommended a top stylist in Snobbsdale who dyed my tresses a lighter shade of black and razor cut my hair.  The color made me look like I was in dire need of a makeover, and the razor made my hair frizz to a frazzle. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>At the party (hosted by metrosexual poster boy, ironically), G sat down next to me and told me that he loved my dress.  (+10 points)  He then commented that my shoes were to die for.  (+20 points)  We talked incessantly for a while, and it came up in conversation that he was a hairstylist.  I immediately blurted out my hair woes. Don’t we often treat our hairstylists like therapists?  God bless them for listening. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>G calmly assessed the damage.  He explained to me that my hair was too dark and washed me out.  (+50 points)  G was HORRIFIED that someone had taken a razor to the hair of someone of “Mediterranean descent”.  (+100 points)  My hair should be blunt cut to eliminate the frizzle-frazzle!  (+500 points) </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>This was destined to be a hair relationship made in Heaven! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I called G that Tuesday to schedule an appointment.  When our big day rolled around, it was everything a girl could want.  I will never forget – he dyed my hair with a color called “Swedish blonde” which sounded ridiculous at first.  Me?  A blonde?  Uh…no.  BUT!!!!  G transformed my hair into shade of golden brunette perfect for my skin tone.  And his blunt cut layers made my hair bouncing and behaving!  (+ points ad infinitum)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I was hooked. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>G and I also started to see each other outside of the salon.  (Platonically.  G wasn’t attracted to women.)  He shared my taste for indie restaurants and coffeehouses.  We had so much fun together.  </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong><span style=\"color: #800080; font-size: large;\">Drama Queens belong on the stage and not in the salon.</span></strong></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Then one day, G was in a mood.  (He had a flair for the dramatic.)  He was stressed out about a guy who dissed him and ticked off at his landlord.  In the midst of relaying his hassles in vivid detail during my haircut, he cut my layers unevenly.  i.e. He screwed up my hair.  Big time.  Every woman’s worst hair nightmare. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Now, I am a forgiving sort.  I am prone to granting second chances.  We are all human.  We all make mistakes.  We should all give one another a little more grace. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>So I went back to G for a quick fix. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Which turned out to be not a fix, but another disaster. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong><span style=\"color: #ff0000; font-size: large;\">Breaking Up is Hard to Do </span></strong></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong><span style=\"color: #ff0000; font-size: large;\"> </span></strong></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>In some aspects, breaking up with G was worse than breaking up with a boyfriend.  With a boyfriend, you take time off to heal and ready yourself for another relationship someday.  With your hairstylist, you need to find another one right away.  This is far from ideal when you’re gun-shy and suffering from hair trauma. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Argh. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I went through a few hairstylists after G.  Everyone was good at first, and then they slacked off after a year or so.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I was then introduced to a husband/wife cut/color duo who are great.  I absolutely adore them – talented, super smart, and warm.  But our schedules haven’t been meshing lately.  Availability is limited to one Saturday a month, and if I happen to have other plans that Saturday, then I’m SOL.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>And this is how I came to cheat on my hairstylist.  I needed an appointment for this past Saturday, and my stylists were unavailable. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><span style=\"color: #ff6600; font-size: large;\"><strong>If you are going to cheat, then reach for the hairstylist to the stars.  </strong></span></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /> For months, my friend Britt waxed on about <em>“Salvador”.</em>  The way she talked about him, I envisioned some sort of mythical Hair God. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>“<em>Salvador</em> is the best stylist that I’ve ever been to.  He specializes in natural color.”  (+50 points)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>“<em>Salvador</em> is the only one in this town who knows how to cut hair.  He cuts the layers blunt so your hair is thick and voluptuous and doesn’t get scraggly as with point cutting.”  (+100 points)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>“<em>Salvador</em> has a really cool artsy studio downtown with art and photographs and instruments.”  (I’m a sucker for artsy fartsy.  +50 points.)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>“<em>Salvador</em> understands how to cut wavy hair.” (+100 points)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>“<em>Salvador</em>!  <em>Salvador</em>!  <em>Salvador</em>!”  (+50 points for reputation of mythical proportion) </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>So this past Saturday morning I hauled my cookies downtown for an appointment with <em>Salvador</em>. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Upon entering aforementioned artsy fartsy studio, I was greeted by an overly enthusiastic Golden Retriever named Tahoe.  (+ points ad infinitum)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><a href=\"http://www.hairpeace.com\" target=\"_blank\"><img title=\"tahoe\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/tahoe2.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"97\" height=\"118\" /></a></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Salvador (with locks of mythical proportion) welcomed me to the salon and chit-chatted away about the morning.  I was up late the night before, slept in, and had just started drinking my coffee, so I slurped it down in a hurry with hopes that I could be a tenth as chipper as Tahoe and ready to talk to another human being.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Classical music played in the background (+10 points) while Salvador sat me in the chair and inquired about what I wanted to do with my hair.  I asked him what he would do given carte blanche. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>All I can remember is “natural color” and I agreed to the rest.  When a mythical Hair God shares his opinion, you really should just take it and get on with your day.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Once I was properly caffeinated, we were able to ramble on about all sorts of common interests from music to guitar to writing to entrepreneurship to topics ad infinitum.  (+1000 points)  I am sure that you will agree with me that NOTHING is more awkward than sitting in a hairstylist’s chair whom you are unable to talk to.  How can they <em>possibly </em>serve as your surrogate therapist/dating coach/sounding board if you can’t carry on a decent conversation??? </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Salvador worked his magic throughout conversational turns and many musical shifts (as you ease into the morning the classical needs to be replaced with rock) and then…Voila!  Hair Extraordinaire! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I have already received numerous compliments from “the outside”. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>In this illicit affair, the cheating paid off and no one got hurt.**</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>The most surprising thing about Salvador is that for a mythical Hair God, he is extraordinarily down-to-earth and <em>a really good guy</em>. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Often with myths, we develop high expectations that can’t be adhered to in Real Life.  Salvador will exceed your expectations.  And you’ll have fun in the process.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Go see him and Tahoe.  </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><a href=\"http://www.hairpeace.com/\" target=\"_blank\"><span style=\"color: #ff6600;\"><strong>http://www.hairpeace.com/</strong></span></a></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong> </strong></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>                           </strong> ****************************************</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>** Please note that I do not condone cheating in other relationships.  But if your hairstylist isn’t cutting it (pun intended), then by all means get out there and sow your wild oats with someone new! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>','Day 28:  Have YOU Ever Cheated on Your Hairdresser?','','inherit','open','open','','1307-revision-31','','','2010-10-24 20:59:38','2010-10-25 03:59:38','',1307,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/10/24/1307-revision-31/',0,'revision','',0),(1350,1,'2010-10-24 20:59:08','2010-10-25 03:59:08','<p><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/salcalvinfo.gif\"><img class=\"alignleft size-full wp-image-1326\" title=\"salcalvinfo\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/salcalvinfo.gif\" alt=\"\" width=\"1\" height=\"1\" /></a><a href=\"http://www.hairpeace.com/Home.html\" target=\"_blank\"><img class=\"alignleft size-full wp-image-1319\" title=\"salvadorsign\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/salvadorsign2.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Most women tend to be fiercely loyal to their hairstylists.  Suggest to a woman that she try a new stylist and a look of horror (tinged with guilt) crosses her face.  A woman would sooner call it quits with her significant other than abandon or cheat on her mane guy/girl. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>And, yes, this applies to women who are downright unhappy with their stylist!  They would rather stay in a dysfunctional hair relationship than break away to healthier pastures.  They walk around with a bad haircut and/or color because they don’t want to hurt their hairstylist’s <em>feelings</em>. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I know.  I used to feel that way as well.  Until the day I was forced to break up with “G”.  He left me with no choice.   </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong><span style=\"color: #ff00ff; font-size: large;\">Like all new relationships, it was A Match Made in Heaven.  At first.  </span></strong></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong><span style=\"color: #ff00ff; font-size: large;\"> </span></strong> </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>G was my hairstylist from five years ago.  I met him at a party.  At the time, I was displeased with my hair.  My metrosexual poster boy friend recommended a top stylist in Snobbsdale who dyed my tresses a lighter shade of black and razor cut my hair.  The color made me look like I was in dire need of a makeover, and the razor made my hair frizz to a frazzle. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>At the party (hosted by metrosexual poster boy, ironically), G sat down next to me and told me that he loved my dress.  (+10 points)  He then commented that my shoes were to die for.  (+20 points)  We talked incessantly for a while, and it came up in conversation that he was a hairstylist.  I immediately blurted out my hair woes. Don’t we often treat our hairstylists like therapists?  God bless them for listening. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>G calmly assessed the damage.  He explained to me that my hair was too dark and washed me out.  (+50 points)  G was HORRIFIED that someone had taken a razor to the hair of someone of “Mediterranean descent”.  (+100 points)  My hair should be blunt cut to eliminate the frizzle-frazzle!  (+500 points) </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>This was destined to be a hair relationship made in Heaven! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I called G that Tuesday to schedule an appointment.  When our big day rolled around, it was everything a girl could want.  I will never forget – he dyed my hair with a color called “Swedish blonde” which sounded ridiculous at first.  Me?  A blonde?  Uh…no.  BUT!!!!  G transformed my hair into shade of golden brunette perfect for my skin tone.  And his blunt cut layers made my hair bouncing and behaving!  (+ points ad infinitum)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I was hooked. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>G and I also started to see each other outside of the salon.  (Platonically.  G wasn’t attracted to women.)  He shared my taste for indie restaurants and coffeehouses.  We had so much fun together.  </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong><span style=\"color: #800080; font-size: large;\">Drama Queens belong on the stage and not in the salon.</span></strong></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Then one day, G was in a mood.  (He had a flair for the dramatic.)  He was stressed out about a guy who dissed him and ticked off at his landlord.  In the midst of relaying his hassles in vivid detail during my haircut, he cut my layers unevenly.  i.e. He screwed up my hair.  Big time.  Every woman’s worst hair nightmare. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Now, I am a forgiving sort.  I am prone to granting second chances.  We are all human.  We all make mistakes.  We should all give one another a little more grace. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>So I went back to G for a quick fix. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Which turned out to be not a fix, but another disaster. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong><span style=\"color: #ff0000; font-size: large;\">Breaking Up is Hard to Do </span></strong></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong><span style=\"color: #ff0000; font-size: large;\"> </span></strong></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>In some aspects, breaking up with G was worse than breaking up with a boyfriend.  With a boyfriend, you take time off to heal and ready yourself for another relationship someday.  With your hairstylist, you need to find another one right away.  This is far from ideal when you’re gun-shy and suffering from hair trauma. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Argh. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I went through a few hairstylists after G.  Everyone was good at first, and then they slacked off after a year or so.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I was then introduced to a husband/wife cut/color duo who are great.  I absolutely adore them – talented, super smart, and warm.  But our schedules haven’t been meshing lately.  Availability is limited to one Saturday a month, and if I happen to have other plans that Saturday, then I’m SOL.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>And this is how I came to cheat on my hairstylist.  I needed an appointment for this past Saturday, and my stylists were unavailable. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><span style=\"color: #ff6600; font-size: large;\"><strong>If you are going to cheat, then reach for the hairstylist to the stars.  </strong></span></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /> For months, my friend Britt waxed on about <em>“Salvador”.</em>  The way she talked about him, I envisioned some sort of mythical Hair God. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>“<em>Salvador</em> is the best stylist that I’ve ever been to.  He specializes in natural color.”  (+50 points)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>“<em>Salvador</em> is the only one in this town who knows how to cut hair.  He cuts the layers blunt so your hair is thick and voluptuous and doesn’t get scraggly as with point cutting.”  (+100 points)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>“<em>Salvador</em> has a really cool artsy studio downtown with art and photographs and instruments.”  (I’m a sucker for artsy fartsy.  +50 points.)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>“<em>Salvador</em> understands how to cut wavy hair.” (+100 points)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>“<em>Salvador</em>!  <em>Salvador</em>!  <em>Salvador</em>!”  (+50 points for reputation of mythical proportion) </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>So this past Saturday morning I hauled my cookies downtown for an appointment with <em>Salvador</em>. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Upon entering aforementioned artsy fartsy studio, I was greeted by an overly enthusiastic Golden Retriever named Tahoe.  (+ points ad infinitum)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><a href=\"http://www.hairpeace.com\" target=\"_blank\"><img title=\"tahoe\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/tahoe2.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"97\" height=\"118\" /></a></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Salvador (with locks of mythical proportion) welcomed me to the salon and chit-chatted away about the morning.  I was up late the night before, slept in, and had just started drinking my coffee, so I slurped it down in a hurry with hopes that I could be a tenth as chipper as Tahoe and ready to talk to another human being.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Classical music played in the background (+10 points) while Salvador sat me in the chair and inquired about what I wanted to do with my hair.  I asked him what he would do given carte blanche. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>All I can remember is “natural color” and I agreed to the rest.  When a mythical Hair God shares his opinion, you really should just take it and get on with your day.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Once I was properly caffeinated, we were able to ramble on about all sorts of common interests from music to guitar to writing to entrepreneurship to topics ad infinitum.  (+1000 points)  I am sure that you will agree with me that NOTHING is more awkward than sitting in a hairstylist’s chair whom you are unable to talk to.  How can they <em>possibly </em>serve as your surrogate therapist/dating coach/sounding board if you can’t carry on a decent conversation??? </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Salvador worked his magic throughout conversational turns and many musical shifts (as you ease into the morning the classical needs to be replaced with rock) and then…Voila!  Hair Extraordinaire! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I have already received numerous compliments from “the outside”. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>In this illicit affair, the cheating paid off and no one got hurt.**</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>The most surprising thing about Salvador is that for a mythical Hair God, he is extraordinarily down-to-earth and <em>a really good guy</em>. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Often with myths, we develop high expectations that can’t be adhered to in Real Life.  Salvador will exceed your expectations.  And you’ll have fun in the process.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Go see him and Tahoe.  </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><a href=\"http://www.hairpeace.com/\" target=\"_blank\"><span style=\"color: #ff6600;\"><strong>http://www.hairpeace.com/</strong></span></a></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong> </strong></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>                           </strong> ****************************************</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>** Please note that I do not condone cheating in other relationships.  But if your hairstylist isn’t cutting it (pun intended), then by all means get out there and sow your wild oats with someone new! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>','Day 28:  Have YOU Ever Cheated on Your Hairdresser?','','inherit','open','open','','1307-revision-30','','','2010-10-24 20:59:08','2010-10-25 03:59:08','',1307,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/10/24/1307-revision-30/',0,'revision','',0),(1348,1,'2010-10-24 20:57:48','2010-10-25 03:57:48','<p><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/salcalvinfo.gif\"><img class=\"alignleft size-full wp-image-1326\" title=\"salcalvinfo\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/salcalvinfo.gif\" alt=\"\" width=\"1\" height=\"1\" /></a><a href=\"http://www.hairpeace.com/Home.html\" target=\"_blank\"><img class=\"alignleft size-full wp-image-1319\" title=\"salvadorsign\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/salvadorsign2.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Most women tend to be fiercely loyal to their hairstylists.  Suggest to a woman that she try a new stylist and a look of horror (tinged with guilt) crosses her face.  A woman would sooner call it quits with her significant other than abandon or cheat on her mane guy/girl. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>And, yes, this applies to women who are downright unhappy with their stylist!  They would rather stay in a dysfunctional hair relationship than break away to healthier pastures.  They walk around with a bad haircut and/or color because they don’t want to hurt their hairstylist’s <em>feelings</em>. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I know.  I used to feel that way as well.  Until the day I was forced to break up with “G”.  He left me with no choice.   </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong><span style=\"color: #ff00ff; font-size: large;\">Like all new relationships, it was A Match Made in Heaven.  At first.  </span></strong></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong><span style=\"color: #ff00ff; font-size: large;\"> </span></strong> </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>G was my hairstylist from five years ago.  I met him at a party.  At the time, I was displeased with my hair.  My metrosexual poster boy friend recommended a top stylist in Snobbsdale who dyed my tresses a lighter shade of black and razor cut my hair.  The color made me look like I was in dire need of a makeover, and the razor made my hair frizz to a frazzle. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>At the party (hosted by metrosexual poster boy, ironically), G sat down next to me and told me that he loved my dress.  (+10 points)  He then commented that my shoes were to die for.  (+20 points)  We talked incessantly for a while, and it came up in conversation that he was a hairstylist.  I immediately blurted out my hair woes. Don’t we often treat our hairstylists like therapists?  God bless them for listening. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>G calmly assessed the damage.  He explained to me that my hair was too dark and washed me out.  (+50 points)  G was HORRIFIED that someone had taken a razor to the hair of someone of “Mediterranean descent”.  (+100 points)  My hair should be blunt cut to eliminate the frizzle-frazzle!  (+500 points) </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>This was destined to be a hair relationship made in Heaven! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I called G that Tuesday to schedule an appointment.  When our big day rolled around, it was everything a girl could want.  I will never forget – he dyed my hair with a color called “Swedish blonde” which sounded ridiculous at first.  Me?  A blonde?  Uh…no.  BUT!!!!  G transformed my hair into shade of golden brunette perfect for my skin tone.  And his blunt cut layers made my hair bouncing and behaving!  (+ points ad infinitum)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I was hooked. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>G and I also started to see each other outside of the salon.  (Platonically.  G wasn’t attracted to women.)  He shared my taste for indie restaurants and coffeehouses.  We had so much fun together.  </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong><span style=\"color: #800080; font-size: large;\">Drama Queens belong on the stage and not in the salon.</span></strong></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Then one day, G was in a mood.  (He had a flair for the dramatic.)  He was stressed out about a guy who dissed him and ticked off at his landlord.  In the midst of relaying his hassles in vivid detail during my haircut, he cut my layers unevenly.  i.e. He screwed up my hair.  Big time.  Every woman’s worst hair nightmare. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Now, I am a forgiving sort.  I am prone to granting second chances.  We are all human.  We all make mistakes.  We should all give one another a little more grace. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>So I went back to G for a quick fix. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Which turned out to be not a fix, but another disaster. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong><span style=\"color: #ff0000; font-size: large;\">Breaking Up is Hard to Do </span></strong></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong><span style=\"color: #ff0000; font-size: large;\"> </span></strong></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>In some aspects, breaking up with G was worse than breaking up with a boyfriend.  With a boyfriend, you take time off to heal and ready yourself for another relationship someday.  With your hairstylist, you need to find another one right away.  This is far from ideal when you’re gun-shy and suffering from hair trauma. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Argh. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I went through a few hairstylists after G.  Everyone was good at first, and then they slacked off after a year or so.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I was then introduced to a husband/wife cut/color duo who are great.  I absolutely adore them – talented, super smart, and warm.  But our schedules haven’t been meshing lately.  Availability is limited to one Saturday a month, and if I happen to have other plans that Saturday, then I’m SOL.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>And this is how I came to cheat on my hairstylist.  I needed an appointment for this past Saturday, and my stylists were unavailable. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><span style=\"color: #ff6600; font-size: large;\"><strong>If you are going to cheat, then reach for the hairstylist to the stars.  </strong></span></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /> For months, my friend Britt waxed on about <em>“Salvador”.</em>  The way she talked about him, I envisioned some sort of mythical Hair God. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>“<em>Salvador</em> is the best stylist that I’ve ever been to.  He specializes in natural color.”  (+50 points)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>“<em>Salvador</em> is the only one in this town who knows how to cut hair.  He cuts the layers blunt so your hair is thick and voluptuous and doesn’t get scraggly as with point cutting.”  (+100 points)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>“<em>Salvador</em> has a really cool artsy studio downtown with art and photographs and instruments.”  (I’m a sucker for artsy fartsy.  +50 points.)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>“<em>Salvador</em> understands how to cut wavy hair.” (+100 points)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>“<em>Salvador</em>!  <em>Salvador</em>!  <em>Salvador</em>!”  (+50 points for reputation of mythical proportion) </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>So this past Saturday morning I hauled my cookies downtown for an appointment with <em>Salvador</em>. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Upon entering aforementioned artsy fartsy studio, I was greeted by an overly enthusiastic Golden Retriever named Tahoe.  (+ points ad infinitum)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><a href=\"http://www.hairpeace.com\" target=\"_blank\"><img title=\"tahoe\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/tahoe2.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"97\" height=\"118\" /></a></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Salvador (with locks of mythical proportion) welcomed me to the salon and chit-chatted away about the morning.  I was up late the night before, slept in, and had just started drinking my coffee, so I slurped it down in a hurry with hopes that I could be a tenth as chipper as Tahoe and ready to talk to another human being.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Classical music played in the background (+10 points) while Salvador sat me in the chair and inquired about what I wanted to do with my hair.  I asked him what he would do given carte blanche. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>All I can remember is “natural color” and I agreed to the rest.  When a mythical Hair God shares his opinion, you really should just take it and get on with your day.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Once I was properly caffeinated, we were able to ramble on about all sorts of common interests from music to guitar to writing to entrepreneurship to topics ad infinitum.  (+1000 points)  I am sure that you will agree with me that NOTHING is more awkward than sitting in a hairstylist’s chair whom you are unable to talk to.  How can they <em>possibly </em>serve as your surrogate therapist/dating coach/sounding board if you can’t carry on a decent conversation??? </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Salvador worked his magic throughout conversational turns and many musical shifts (as you ease into the morning the classical needs to be replaced with rock) and then…Voila!  Hair Extraordinaire! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I have already received numerous compliments from “the outside”. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>In this illicit affair, the cheating paid off and no one got hurt.**</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>The most surprising thing about Salvador is that for a mythical Hair God, he is extraordinarily down-to-earth and <em>a really good guy</em>. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Often with myths, we develop high expectations that can’t be adhered to in Real Life.  Salvador will exceed your expectations.  And you’ll have fun in the process.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Go see him and Tahoe.  </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><a href=\"http://www.hairpeace.com/\" target=\"_blank\"><span style=\"color: #ff6600;\"><strong>http://www.hairpeace.com/</strong></span></a></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong> </strong></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>                           </strong> ****************************************</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>** Please note that I do not condone cheating in other relationships.  But if your hairstylist isn’t cutting it (pun intended), then by all means get out there and sow your wild oats with someone new! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>','Day 28:  Have YOU Ever Cheated on Your Hairdresser?','','inherit','open','open','','1307-revision-28','','','2010-10-24 20:57:48','2010-10-25 03:57:48','',1307,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/10/24/1307-revision-28/',0,'revision','',0),(668,1,'2010-09-23 19:09:26','2010-09-24 02:09:26','','OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA','It\'s only 6 ft high, but crap!  It seems much higher once you\'re up there!','inherit','open','open','','olympus-digital-camera-9','','','2010-09-23 19:09:26','2010-09-24 02:09:26','',0,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/LeapofFaith.jpg',0,'attachment','image/jpeg',0),(1343,1,'2010-10-24 20:53:30','2010-10-25 03:53:30','<p><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/salcalvinfo.gif\"><img class=\"alignleft size-full wp-image-1326\" title=\"salcalvinfo\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/salcalvinfo.gif\" alt=\"\" width=\"1\" height=\"1\" /></a><a href=\"http://www.hairpeace.com/Home.html\" target=\"_blank\"><img class=\"alignleft size-full wp-image-1319\" title=\"salvadorsign\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/salvadorsign2.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Most women tend to be fiercely loyal to their hairstylists.  Suggest to a woman that she try a new stylist and a look of horror (tinged with guilt) crosses her face.  A woman would sooner call it quits with her significant other than abandon or cheat on her mane guy/girl. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>And, yes, this applies to women who are downright unhappy with their stylist!  They would rather stay in a dysfunctional hair relationship than break away to healthier pastures.  They walk around with a bad haircut and/or color because they don’t want to hurt their hairstylist’s <em>feelings</em>. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I know.  I used to feel that way as well.  Until the day I was forced to break up with “G”.  He left me with no choice.   </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong><span style=\"color: #ff00ff; font-size: large;\">Like all new relationships, it was A Match Made in Heaven.  At first.  </span></strong></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong><span style=\"color: #ff00ff; font-size: large;\"> </span></strong> </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>G was my hairstylist from five years ago.  I met him at a party.  At the time, I was displeased with my hair.  My metrosexual poster boy friend recommended a top stylist in Snobbsdale who dyed my tresses a lighter shade of black and razor cut my hair.  The color made me look like I was in dire need of a makeover, and the razor made my hair frizz to a frazzle. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>At the party (hosted by metrosexual poster boy, ironically), G sat down next to me and told me that he loved my dress.  (+10 points)  He then commented that my shoes were to die for.  (+20 points)  We talked incessantly for a while, and it came up in conversation that he was a hairstylist.  I immediately blurted out my hair woes. Don’t we often treat our hairstylists like therapists?  God bless them for listening. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>G calmly assessed the damage.  He explained to me that my hair was too dark and washed me out.  (+50 points)  G was HORRIFIED that someone had taken a razor to the hair of someone of “Mediterranean descent”.  (+100 points)  My hair should be blunt cut to eliminate the frizzle-frazzle!  (+500 points) </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>This was destined to be a hair relationship made in Heaven! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I called G that Tuesday to schedule an appointment.  When our big day rolled around, it was everything a girl could want.  I will never forget – he dyed my hair with a color called “Swedish blonde” which sounded ridiculous at first.  Me?  A blonde?  Uh…no.  BUT!!!!  G transformed my hair into shade of golden brunette perfect for my skin tone.  And his blunt cut layers made my hair bouncing and behaving!  (+ points ad infinitum)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I was hooked. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>G and I also started to see each other outside of the salon.  (Platonically.  G wasn’t attracted to women.)  He shared my taste for indie restaurants and coffeehouses.  We had so much fun together.  </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong><span style=\"color: #800080; font-size: large;\">Drama Queens belong on the Stage and not in the Salon.</span></strong></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Then one day, G was in a mood.  (He had a flair for the dramatic.)  He was stressed out about a guy who dissed him and ticked off at his landlord.  In the midst of relaying his hassles in vivid detail during my haircut, he cut my layers unevenly.  i.e. He screwed up my hair.  Big time.  Every woman’s worst hair nightmare. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Now, I am a forgiving sort.  I am prone to granting second chances.  We are all human.  We all make mistakes.  We should all give one another a little more grace. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>So I went back to G for a quick fix. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Which turned out to be not a fix, but another disaster. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong><span style=\"color: #ff0000; font-size: large;\">Breaking Up is Hard to Do </span></strong></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong><span style=\"color: #ff0000; font-size: large;\"> </span></strong></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>In some aspects, breaking up with G was worse than breaking up with a boyfriend.  With a boyfriend, you take time off to heal and ready yourself for another relationship someday.  With your hairstylist, you need to find another one right away.  This is far from ideal when you’re gun-shy and suffering from hair trauma. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Argh. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I went through a few hairstylists after G.  Everyone was good at first, and then they slacked off after a year or so.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I was then introduced to a husband/wife cut/color duo who are great.  I absolutely adore them – talented, super smart, and warm.  But our schedules haven’t been meshing lately.  Availability is limited to one Saturday a month, and if I happen to have other plans that Saturday, then I’m SOL.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>And this is how I came to cheat on my hairstylist.  I needed an appointment for this past Saturday, and my stylists were unavailable. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><span style=\"color: #ff6600; font-size: large;\"><strong>If you are going to cheat, then reach for the hairstylist to the stars.  </strong></span></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /> For months, my friend Britt waxed on about <em>“Salvador”.</em>  The way she talked about him, I envisioned some sort of mythical Hair God. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>“<em>Salvador</em> is the best stylist that I’ve ever been to.  He specializes in natural color.”  (+50 points)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>“<em>Salvador</em> is the only one in this town who knows how to cut hair.  He cuts the layers blunt so your hair is thick and voluptuous and doesn’t get scraggly as with point cutting.”  (+100 points)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>“<em>Salvador</em> has a really cool artsy studio downtown with art and photographs and instruments.”  (I’m a sucker for artsy fartsy.  +50 points.)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>“<em>Salvador</em> understands how to cut wavy hair.” (+100 points)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>“<em>Salvador</em>!  <em>Salvador</em>!  <em>Salvador</em>!”  (+50 points for reputation of mythical proportion) </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>So this past Saturday morning I hauled my cookies downtown for an appointment with <em>Salvador</em>. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Upon entering aforementioned artsy fartsy studio, I was greeted by an overly enthusiastic Golden Retriever named Tahoe.  (+ points ad infinitum)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/tahoe2.jpg\"><img title=\"tahoe\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/tahoe2.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"97\" height=\"118\" /></a></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Salvador (with locks of mythical proportion) welcomed me to the salon and chit-chatted away about the morning.  I was up late the night before, slept in, and had just started drinking my coffee, so I slurped it down in a hurry with hopes that I could be a tenth as chipper as Tahoe and ready to talk to another human being.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Classical music played in the background (+10 points) while Salvador sat me in the chair and inquired about what I wanted to do with my hair.  I asked him what he would do given carte blanche. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>All I can remember is “natural color” and I agreed to the rest.  When a mythical Hair God shares his opinion, you really should just take it and get on with your day.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Once I was properly caffeinated, we were able to ramble on about all sorts of common interests from music to guitar to writing to entrepreneurship to topics ad infinitum.  (+1000 points)  I am sure that you will agree with me that NOTHING is more awkward than sitting in a hairstylist’s chair whom you are unable to talk to.  How can they <em>possibly </em>serve as your surrogate therapist/dating coach/sounding board if you can’t carry on a decent conversation??? </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Salvador worked his magic throughout conversational turns and many musical shifts (as you ease into the morning the classical needs to be replaced with rock) and then…Voila!  Hair Extraordinaire! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I have already received numerous compliments from “the outside”. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>In this illicit affair, the cheating paid off and no one got hurt.**</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>The most surprising thing about Salvador is that for a mythical Hair God, he is extraordinarily down-to-earth and <em>a really good guy</em>. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Often with myths, we develop high expectations that can’t be adhered to in Real Life.  Salvador will exceed your expectations.  And you’ll have fun in the process.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Go see him and Tahoe.  </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong><a href=\"http://www.hairpeace.com/\" target=\"_blank\">http://www.hairpeace.com/</a></strong></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong> </strong></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>                           </strong> ****************************************</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>** Please note that I do not condone cheating in other relationships.  But if your hairstylist isn’t cutting it (pun intended), then by all means get out there and sow your wild oats with someone new! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>','Day 28:  Have YOU Ever Cheated on Your Hairdresser?','','inherit','open','open','','1307-revision-23','','','2010-10-24 20:53:30','2010-10-25 03:53:30','',1307,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/10/24/1307-revision-23/',0,'revision','',0),(1325,1,'2010-10-24 20:24:00','2010-10-25 03:24:00','<p><a href=\"http://www.hairpeace.com/Home.html\" target=\"_blank\"><img class=\"alignleft size-full wp-image-1319\" title=\"salvadorsign\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/salvadorsign2.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a></p>\n\n<p> Most women tend to be fiercely loyal to their hairstylists.  Suggest to a woman that she try a new stylist and a look of horror (tinged with guilt) crosses her face.  A woman would sooner call it quits with her significant other than abandon or cheat on her mane guy/girl. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>And, yes, this applies to women who are downright unhappy with their stylist!  They would rather stay in a dysfunctional hair relationship than break away to healthier pastures.  They walk around with a bad haircut and/or color because they don’t want to hurt their hairstylist’s <em>feelings</em>. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>I know.  I used to feel that way as well.  Until the day I was forced to break up with “G”.  He left me with no choice.   </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>G was my hairstylist from five years ago.  I met him at a party.  At the time, I was displeased with my hair.  My metrosexual poster boy friend recommended a top stylist in Snobbsdale who dyed my tresses a lighter shade of black and razor cut my hair.  The color made me look like I was in dire need of a makeover, and the razor made my hair frizz to a frazzle. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>At the party (hosted by metrosexual poster boy, ironically), G sat down next to me and told me that he loved my dress.  (+10 points)  He then commented that my shoes were to die for.  (+20 points)  We talked incessantly for a while, and it came up in conversation that he was a hairstylist.  I immediately blurted out my hair woes. Don’t we often treat our hairstylists like therapists?  God bless them for listening. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>G calmly assessed the damage.  He explained to me that my hair was too dark and washed me out.  (+50 points)  G was HORRIFIED that someone had taken a razor to the hair of someone of “Mediterranean descent”.  (+100 points)  My hair should be blunt cut to eliminate the frizzle-frazzle!  (+500 points) </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>This was destined to be a hair relationship made in Heaven! </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>I called G that Tuesday to schedule an appointment.  When our big day rolled around, it was everything a girl could want.  I will never forget – he dyed my hair with a color called “Swedish blonde” which sounded ridiculous at first.  Me?  A blonde?  Uh…no.  BUT!!!!  G transformed my hair into shade of golden brunette perfect for my skin tone.  And his blunt cut layers made my hair bouncing and behaving!  (+ points ad infinitum)</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>I was hooked. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>G and I also started to see each other outside of the salon.  (Platonically.  G wasn’t attracted to women.)  He shared my taste for indie restaurants and coffeehouses.  We had so much fun together.  </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Then one day, G was in a mood.  (He had a flair for the dramatic.)  He was stressed out about a guy who dissed him and ticked off at his landlord.  In the midst of relaying his hassles in vivid detail during my haircut, he cut my layers unevenly.  i.e. He screwed up my hair.  Big time.  Every woman’s worst hair nightmare. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Now, I am a forgiving sort.  I am prone to granting second chances.  We are all human.  We all make mistakes.  We should all give one another a little more grace. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>So I went back to G for a quick fix. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Which turned out to be not a fix, but another disaster. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>In some aspects, breaking up with G was worse than breaking up with a boyfriend.  With a boyfriend, you take time off to heal and ready yourself for another relationship someday.  With your hairstylist, you need to find another one right away.  This is far from ideal when you’re gun-shy and suffering from hair trauma. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Argh. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>I went through a few hairstylists after G.  Everyone was good at first, and then they slacked off after a year or so.</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>I was then introduced to a husband/wife cut/color duo who are great.  I absolutely adore them – talented, super smart, and warm.  But our schedules haven’t been meshing lately.  Availability is limited to one Saturday a month, and if I happen to have other plans that Saturday, then I’m SOL.</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>And this is how I came to cheat on my hairstylist.  I needed an appointment for this past Saturday, and my stylists were unavailable. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>For months, my friend Britt waxed on about <em>“Salvador”.</em>  The way she talked about him, I envisioned some sort of mythical Hair God. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>“<em>Salvador</em> is the best stylist that I’ve ever been to.  He specializes in natural color.”  (+50 points)</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>“<em>Salvador</em> is the only one in this town who knows how to cut hair.  He cuts the layers blunt so your hair is thick and voluptuous and doesn’t get scraggly as with point cutting.”  (+100 points)</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>“<em>Salvador</em> has a really cool artsy studio downtown with art and photographs and instruments.”  (I’m a sucker for artsy fartsy.  +50 points.)</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>“<em>Salvador</em> understands how to cut wavy hair.” (+100 points)</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>“<em>Salvador</em>!  <em>Salvador</em>!  <em>Salvador</em>!”  (+50 points for reputation of mythical proportion) </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>So this past Saturday morning I hauled my cookies downtown for an appointment with <em>Salvador</em>. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Upon entering aforementioned artsy fartsy studio, I was greeted by an overly enthusiastic Golden Retriever named Tahoe.  (+ points ad infinitum)</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Salvador (with locks of mythical proportion) welcomed me to the salon and chit-chatted away about the morning.  I was up late the night before, slept in, and had just started drinking my coffee, so I slurped it down in a hurry with hopes that I could be a tenth as chipper as Tahoe and ready to talk to another human being.</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Classical music played in the background (+10 points) while Salvador sat me in the chair and inquired about what I wanted to do with my hair.  I asked him what he would do given carte blanche. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>All I can remember is “natural color” and I agreed to the rest.  When a mythical Hair God shares his opinion, you really should just take it and get on with your day.</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Once I was properly caffeinated, we were able to ramble on about all sorts of common interests from music to guitar to writing to entrepreneurship to topics ad infinitum.  (+1000 points)  I am sure that you will agree with me that NOTHING is more awkward than sitting in a hairstylist’s chair whom you are unable to talk to.  How can they <em>possibly </em>serve as your surrogate therapist/dating coach/sounding board if you can’t carry on a decent conversation??? </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Salvador worked his magic throughout conversational turns and many musical shifts (as you ease into the morning the classical needs to be replaced with rock) and then…Voila!  Hair Extraordinaire! </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>I have already received numerous compliments from “the outside”. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>In this illicit affair, the cheating paid off and no one got hurt.**</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>The most surprising thing about Salvador is that for a mythical Hair God, he is extraordinarily down-to-earth and <em>a really good guy</em>. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Often with myths, we develop high expectations that can’t be adhered to in Real Life.  Salvador will exceed your expectations.  And you’ll have fun in the process.</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Go see him and Tahoe.  </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><strong><a href=\"http://www.hairpeace.com/\" target=\"_blank\">http://www.hairpeace.com/</a></strong></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>                                *************************************</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Please note that I do not condone cheating in other relationships.  But if your hairstylist isn’t cutting it (pun intended), then by all means get out there and sow your wild oats with someone new! </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>','Day 28:  Have YOU Ever Cheated on Your Hairdresser?','','inherit','open','open','','1307-revision-8','','','2010-10-24 20:24:00','2010-10-25 03:24:00','',1307,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/10/24/1307-revision-8/',0,'revision','',0),(1323,1,'2010-10-24 20:21:56','2010-10-25 03:21:56','<p><a href=\"www.hairpeace.com\" target=\"_blank\"><img class=\"alignleft size-full wp-image-1319\" title=\"salvadorsign\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/salvadorsign2.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a></p>\r\n\r\n<p> Most women tend to be fiercely loyal to their hairstylists.  Suggest to a woman that she try a new stylist and a look of horror (tinged with guilt) crosses her face.  A woman would sooner call it quits with her significant other than abandon or cheat on her mane guy/girl. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>And, yes, this applies to women who are downright unhappy with their stylist!  They would rather stay in a dysfunctional hair relationship than break away to healthier pastures.  They walk around with a bad haircut and/or color because they don’t want to hurt their hairstylist’s <em>feelings</em>. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I know.  I used to feel that way as well.  Until the day I was forced to break up with “G”.  He left me with no choice.   </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>G was my hairstylist from five years ago.  I met him at a party.  At the time, I was displeased with my hair.  My metrosexual poster boy friend recommended a top stylist in Snobbsdale who dyed my tresses a lighter shade of black and razor cut my hair.  The color made me look like I was in dire need of a makeover, and the razor made my hair frizz to a frazzle. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>At the party (hosted by metrosexual poster boy, ironically), G sat down next to me and told me that he loved my dress.  (+10 points)  He then commented that my shoes were to die for.  (+20 points)  We talked incessantly for a while, and it came up in conversation that he was a hairstylist.  I immediately blurted out my hair woes. Don’t we often treat our hairstylists like therapists?  God bless them for listening. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>G calmly assessed the damage.  He explained to me that my hair was too dark and washed me out.  (+50 points)  G was HORRIFIED that someone had taken a razor to the hair of someone of “Mediterranean descent”.  (+100 points)  My hair should be blunt cut to eliminate the frizzle-frazzle!  (+500 points) </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>This was destined to be a hair relationship made in Heaven! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I called G that Tuesday to schedule an appointment.  When our big day rolled around, it was everything a girl could want.  I will never forget – he dyed my hair with a color called “Swedish blonde” which sounded ridiculous at first.  Me?  A blonde?  Uh…no.  BUT!!!!  G transformed my hair into shade of golden brunette perfect for my skin tone.  And his blunt cut layers made my hair bouncing and behaving!  (+ points ad infinitum)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I was hooked. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>G and I also started to see each other outside of the salon.  (Platonically.  G wasn’t attracted to women.)  He shared my taste for indie restaurants and coffeehouses.  We had so much fun together.  </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Then one day, G was in a mood.  (He had a flair for the dramatic.)  He was stressed out about a guy who dissed him and ticked off at his landlord.  In the midst of relaying his hassles in vivid detail during my haircut, he cut my layers unevenly.  i.e. He screwed up my hair.  Big time.  Every woman’s worst hair nightmare. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Now, I am a forgiving sort.  I am prone to granting second chances.  We are all human.  We all make mistakes.  We should all give one another a little more grace. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>So I went back to G for a quick fix. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Which turned out to be not a fix, but another disaster. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>In some aspects, breaking up with G was worse than breaking up with a boyfriend.  With a boyfriend, you take time off to heal and ready yourself for another relationship someday.  With your hairstylist, you need to find another one right away.  This is far from ideal when you’re gun-shy and suffering from hair trauma. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Argh. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I went through a few hairstylists after G.  Everyone was good at first, and then they slacked off after a year or so.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I was then introduced to a husband/wife cut/color duo who are great.  I absolutely adore them – talented, super smart, and warm.  But our schedules haven’t been meshing lately.  Availability is limited to one Saturday a month, and if I happen to have other plans that Saturday, then I’m SOL.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>And this is how I came to cheat on my hairstylist.  I needed an appointment for this past Saturday, and my stylists were unavailable. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>For months, my friend Britt waxed on about <em>“Salvador”.</em>  The way she talked about him, I envisioned some sort of mythical Hair God. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>“<em>Salvador</em> is the best stylist that I’ve ever been to.  He specializes in natural color.”  (+50 points)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>“<em>Salvador</em> is the only one in this town who knows how to cut hair.  He cuts the layers blunt so your hair is thick and voluptuous and doesn’t get scraggly as with point cutting.”  (+100 points)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>“<em>Salvador</em> has a really cool artsy studio downtown with art and photographs and instruments.”  (I’m a sucker for artsy fartsy.  +50 points.)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>“<em>Salvador</em> understands how to cut wavy hair.” (+100 points)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>“<em>Salvador</em>!  <em>Salvador</em>!  <em>Salvador</em>!”  (+50 points for reputation of mythical proportion) </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>So this past Saturday morning I hauled my cookies downtown for an appointment with <em>Salvador</em>. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Upon entering aforementioned artsy fartsy studio, I was greeted by an overly enthusiastic Golden Retriever named Tahoe.  (+ points ad infinitum)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Salvador (with locks of mythical proportion) welcomed me to the salon and chit-chatted away about the morning.  I was up late the night before, slept in, and had just started drinking my coffee, so I slurped it down in a hurry with hopes that I could be a tenth as chipper as Tahoe and ready to talk to another human being.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Classical music played in the background (+10 points) while Salvador sat me in the chair and inquired about what I wanted to do with my hair.  I asked him what he would do given carte blanche. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>All I can remember is “natural color” and I agreed to the rest.  When a mythical Hair God shares his opinion, you really should just take it and get on with your day.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Once I was properly caffeinated, we were able to ramble on about all sorts of common interests from music to guitar to writing to entrepreneurship to topics ad infinitum.  (+1000 points)  I am sure that you will agree with me that NOTHING is more awkward than sitting in a hairstylist’s chair whom you are unable to talk to.  How can they <em>possibly </em>serve as your surrogate therapist/dating coach/sounding board if you can’t carry on a decent conversation??? </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Salvador worked his magic throughout conversational turns and many musical shifts (as you ease into the morning the classical needs to be replaced with rock) and then…Voila!  Hair Extraordinaire! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I have already received numerous compliments from “the outside”. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>In this illicit affair, the cheating paid off and no one got hurt.**</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>The most surprising thing about Salvador is that for a mythical Hair God, he is extraordinarily down-to-earth and <em>a really good guy</em>. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Often with myths, we develop high expectations that can’t be adhered to in Real Life.  Salvador will exceed your expectations.  And you’ll have fun in the process.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Go see him and Tahoe.  </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong><a href=\"http://www.hairpeace.com/\" target=\"_blank\">http://www.hairpeace.com/</a></strong></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>Please note that I do not condone cheating in other relationships.  But if your hairstylist isn’t cutting it (pun intended), then by all means get out there and sow your wild oats with someone new! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>','Day 28:  Have YOU Ever Cheated on Your Hairdresser?','','inherit','open','open','','1307-revision-6','','','2010-10-24 20:21:56','2010-10-25 03:21:56','',1307,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/10/24/1307-revision-6/',0,'revision','',0),(1324,1,'2010-10-24 20:22:06','2010-10-25 03:22:06','<p><a href=\"www.hairpeace.com\" target=\"_blank\"><img class=\"alignleft size-full wp-image-1319\" title=\"salvadorsign\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/salvadorsign2.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a></p>\r\n\r\n<p> Most women tend to be fiercely loyal to their hairstylists.  Suggest to a woman that she try a new stylist and a look of horror (tinged with guilt) crosses her face.  A woman would sooner call it quits with her significant other than abandon or cheat on her mane guy/girl. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>And, yes, this applies to women who are downright unhappy with their stylist!  They would rather stay in a dysfunctional hair relationship than break away to healthier pastures.  They walk around with a bad haircut and/or color because they don’t want to hurt their hairstylist’s <em>feelings</em>. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I know.  I used to feel that way as well.  Until the day I was forced to break up with “G”.  He left me with no choice.   </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>G was my hairstylist from five years ago.  I met him at a party.  At the time, I was displeased with my hair.  My metrosexual poster boy friend recommended a top stylist in Snobbsdale who dyed my tresses a lighter shade of black and razor cut my hair.  The color made me look like I was in dire need of a makeover, and the razor made my hair frizz to a frazzle. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>At the party (hosted by metrosexual poster boy, ironically), G sat down next to me and told me that he loved my dress.  (+10 points)  He then commented that my shoes were to die for.  (+20 points)  We talked incessantly for a while, and it came up in conversation that he was a hairstylist.  I immediately blurted out my hair woes. Don’t we often treat our hairstylists like therapists?  God bless them for listening. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>G calmly assessed the damage.  He explained to me that my hair was too dark and washed me out.  (+50 points)  G was HORRIFIED that someone had taken a razor to the hair of someone of “Mediterranean descent”.  (+100 points)  My hair should be blunt cut to eliminate the frizzle-frazzle!  (+500 points) </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>This was destined to be a hair relationship made in Heaven! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I called G that Tuesday to schedule an appointment.  When our big day rolled around, it was everything a girl could want.  I will never forget – he dyed my hair with a color called “Swedish blonde” which sounded ridiculous at first.  Me?  A blonde?  Uh…no.  BUT!!!!  G transformed my hair into shade of golden brunette perfect for my skin tone.  And his blunt cut layers made my hair bouncing and behaving!  (+ points ad infinitum)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I was hooked. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>G and I also started to see each other outside of the salon.  (Platonically.  G wasn’t attracted to women.)  He shared my taste for indie restaurants and coffeehouses.  We had so much fun together.  </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Then one day, G was in a mood.  (He had a flair for the dramatic.)  He was stressed out about a guy who dissed him and ticked off at his landlord.  In the midst of relaying his hassles in vivid detail during my haircut, he cut my layers unevenly.  i.e. He screwed up my hair.  Big time.  Every woman’s worst hair nightmare. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Now, I am a forgiving sort.  I am prone to granting second chances.  We are all human.  We all make mistakes.  We should all give one another a little more grace. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>So I went back to G for a quick fix. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Which turned out to be not a fix, but another disaster. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>In some aspects, breaking up with G was worse than breaking up with a boyfriend.  With a boyfriend, you take time off to heal and ready yourself for another relationship someday.  With your hairstylist, you need to find another one right away.  This is far from ideal when you’re gun-shy and suffering from hair trauma. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Argh. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I went through a few hairstylists after G.  Everyone was good at first, and then they slacked off after a year or so.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I was then introduced to a husband/wife cut/color duo who are great.  I absolutely adore them – talented, super smart, and warm.  But our schedules haven’t been meshing lately.  Availability is limited to one Saturday a month, and if I happen to have other plans that Saturday, then I’m SOL.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>And this is how I came to cheat on my hairstylist.  I needed an appointment for this past Saturday, and my stylists were unavailable. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>For months, my friend Britt waxed on about <em>“Salvador”.</em>  The way she talked about him, I envisioned some sort of mythical Hair God. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>“<em>Salvador</em> is the best stylist that I’ve ever been to.  He specializes in natural color.”  (+50 points)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>“<em>Salvador</em> is the only one in this town who knows how to cut hair.  He cuts the layers blunt so your hair is thick and voluptuous and doesn’t get scraggly as with point cutting.”  (+100 points)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>“<em>Salvador</em> has a really cool artsy studio downtown with art and photographs and instruments.”  (I’m a sucker for artsy fartsy.  +50 points.)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>“<em>Salvador</em> understands how to cut wavy hair.” (+100 points)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>“<em>Salvador</em>!  <em>Salvador</em>!  <em>Salvador</em>!”  (+50 points for reputation of mythical proportion) </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>So this past Saturday morning I hauled my cookies downtown for an appointment with <em>Salvador</em>. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Upon entering aforementioned artsy fartsy studio, I was greeted by an overly enthusiastic Golden Retriever named Tahoe.  (+ points ad infinitum)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Salvador (with locks of mythical proportion) welcomed me to the salon and chit-chatted away about the morning.  I was up late the night before, slept in, and had just started drinking my coffee, so I slurped it down in a hurry with hopes that I could be a tenth as chipper as Tahoe and ready to talk to another human being.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Classical music played in the background (+10 points) while Salvador sat me in the chair and inquired about what I wanted to do with my hair.  I asked him what he would do given carte blanche. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>All I can remember is “natural color” and I agreed to the rest.  When a mythical Hair God shares his opinion, you really should just take it and get on with your day.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Once I was properly caffeinated, we were able to ramble on about all sorts of common interests from music to guitar to writing to entrepreneurship to topics ad infinitum.  (+1000 points)  I am sure that you will agree with me that NOTHING is more awkward than sitting in a hairstylist’s chair whom you are unable to talk to.  How can they <em>possibly </em>serve as your surrogate therapist/dating coach/sounding board if you can’t carry on a decent conversation??? </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Salvador worked his magic throughout conversational turns and many musical shifts (as you ease into the morning the classical needs to be replaced with rock) and then…Voila!  Hair Extraordinaire! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I have already received numerous compliments from “the outside”. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>In this illicit affair, the cheating paid off and no one got hurt.**</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>The most surprising thing about Salvador is that for a mythical Hair God, he is extraordinarily down-to-earth and <em>a really good guy</em>. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Often with myths, we develop high expectations that can’t be adhered to in Real Life.  Salvador will exceed your expectations.  And you’ll have fun in the process.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Go see him and Tahoe.  </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong><a href=\"http://www.hairpeace.com/\" target=\"_blank\">http://www.hairpeace.com/</a></strong></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>Please note that I do not condone cheating in other relationships.  But if your hairstylist isn’t cutting it (pun intended), then by all means get out there and sow your wild oats with someone new! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>','Day 28:  Have YOU Ever Cheated on Your Hairdresser?','','inherit','open','open','','1307-revision-7','','','2010-10-24 20:22:06','2010-10-25 03:22:06','',1307,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/10/24/1307-revision-7/',0,'revision','',0),(1326,1,'2010-10-24 20:26:34','2010-10-25 03:26:34','','salcalvinfo','','inherit','open','open','','salcalvinfo','','','2010-10-24 20:26:34','2010-10-25 03:26:34','',1307,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/salcalvinfo.gif',0,'attachment','image/gif',0),(1327,1,'2010-10-24 20:25:28','2010-10-25 03:25:28','<p><a href=\"http://www.hairpeace.com/Home.html\" target=\"_blank\"><img class=\"alignleft size-full wp-image-1319\" title=\"salvadorsign\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/salvadorsign2.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a></p>\r\n\r\n<p> Most women tend to be fiercely loyal to their hairstylists.  Suggest to a woman that she try a new stylist and a look of horror (tinged with guilt) crosses her face.  A woman would sooner call it quits with her significant other than abandon or cheat on her mane guy/girl. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>And, yes, this applies to women who are downright unhappy with their stylist!  They would rather stay in a dysfunctional hair relationship than break away to healthier pastures.  They walk around with a bad haircut and/or color because they don’t want to hurt their hairstylist’s <em>feelings</em>. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I know.  I used to feel that way as well.  Until the day I was forced to break up with “G”.  He left me with no choice.   </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>G was my hairstylist from five years ago.  I met him at a party.  At the time, I was displeased with my hair.  My metrosexual poster boy friend recommended a top stylist in Snobbsdale who dyed my tresses a lighter shade of black and razor cut my hair.  The color made me look like I was in dire need of a makeover, and the razor made my hair frizz to a frazzle. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>At the party (hosted by metrosexual poster boy, ironically), G sat down next to me and told me that he loved my dress.  (+10 points)  He then commented that my shoes were to die for.  (+20 points)  We talked incessantly for a while, and it came up in conversation that he was a hairstylist.  I immediately blurted out my hair woes. Don’t we often treat our hairstylists like therapists?  God bless them for listening. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>G calmly assessed the damage.  He explained to me that my hair was too dark and washed me out.  (+50 points)  G was HORRIFIED that someone had taken a razor to the hair of someone of “Mediterranean descent”.  (+100 points)  My hair should be blunt cut to eliminate the frizzle-frazzle!  (+500 points) </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>This was destined to be a hair relationship made in Heaven! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I called G that Tuesday to schedule an appointment.  When our big day rolled around, it was everything a girl could want.  I will never forget – he dyed my hair with a color called “Swedish blonde” which sounded ridiculous at first.  Me?  A blonde?  Uh…no.  BUT!!!!  G transformed my hair into shade of golden brunette perfect for my skin tone.  And his blunt cut layers made my hair bouncing and behaving!  (+ points ad infinitum)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I was hooked. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>G and I also started to see each other outside of the salon.  (Platonically.  G wasn’t attracted to women.)  He shared my taste for indie restaurants and coffeehouses.  We had so much fun together.  </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Then one day, G was in a mood.  (He had a flair for the dramatic.)  He was stressed out about a guy who dissed him and ticked off at his landlord.  In the midst of relaying his hassles in vivid detail during my haircut, he cut my layers unevenly.  i.e. He screwed up my hair.  Big time.  Every woman’s worst hair nightmare. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Now, I am a forgiving sort.  I am prone to granting second chances.  We are all human.  We all make mistakes.  We should all give one another a little more grace. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>So I went back to G for a quick fix. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Which turned out to be not a fix, but another disaster. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>In some aspects, breaking up with G was worse than breaking up with a boyfriend.  With a boyfriend, you take time off to heal and ready yourself for another relationship someday.  With your hairstylist, you need to find another one right away.  This is far from ideal when you’re gun-shy and suffering from hair trauma. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Argh. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I went through a few hairstylists after G.  Everyone was good at first, and then they slacked off after a year or so.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I was then introduced to a husband/wife cut/color duo who are great.  I absolutely adore them – talented, super smart, and warm.  But our schedules haven’t been meshing lately.  Availability is limited to one Saturday a month, and if I happen to have other plans that Saturday, then I’m SOL.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>And this is how I came to cheat on my hairstylist.  I needed an appointment for this past Saturday, and my stylists were unavailable. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>For months, my friend Britt waxed on about <em>“Salvador”.</em>  The way she talked about him, I envisioned some sort of mythical Hair God. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>“<em>Salvador</em> is the best stylist that I’ve ever been to.  He specializes in natural color.”  (+50 points)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>“<em>Salvador</em> is the only one in this town who knows how to cut hair.  He cuts the layers blunt so your hair is thick and voluptuous and doesn’t get scraggly as with point cutting.”  (+100 points)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>“<em>Salvador</em> has a really cool artsy studio downtown with art and photographs and instruments.”  (I’m a sucker for artsy fartsy.  +50 points.)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>“<em>Salvador</em> understands how to cut wavy hair.” (+100 points)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>“<em>Salvador</em>!  <em>Salvador</em>!  <em>Salvador</em>!”  (+50 points for reputation of mythical proportion) </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>So this past Saturday morning I hauled my cookies downtown for an appointment with <em>Salvador</em>. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Upon entering aforementioned artsy fartsy studio, I was greeted by an overly enthusiastic Golden Retriever named Tahoe.  (+ points ad infinitum)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Salvador (with locks of mythical proportion) welcomed me to the salon and chit-chatted away about the morning.  I was up late the night before, slept in, and had just started drinking my coffee, so I slurped it down in a hurry with hopes that I could be a tenth as chipper as Tahoe and ready to talk to another human being.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Classical music played in the background (+10 points) while Salvador sat me in the chair and inquired about what I wanted to do with my hair.  I asked him what he would do given carte blanche. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>All I can remember is “natural color” and I agreed to the rest.  When a mythical Hair God shares his opinion, you really should just take it and get on with your day.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Once I was properly caffeinated, we were able to ramble on about all sorts of common interests from music to guitar to writing to entrepreneurship to topics ad infinitum.  (+1000 points)  I am sure that you will agree with me that NOTHING is more awkward than sitting in a hairstylist’s chair whom you are unable to talk to.  How can they <em>possibly </em>serve as your surrogate therapist/dating coach/sounding board if you can’t carry on a decent conversation??? </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Salvador worked his magic throughout conversational turns and many musical shifts (as you ease into the morning the classical needs to be replaced with rock) and then…Voila!  Hair Extraordinaire! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I have already received numerous compliments from “the outside”. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>In this illicit affair, the cheating paid off and no one got hurt.**</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>The most surprising thing about Salvador is that for a mythical Hair God, he is extraordinarily down-to-earth and <em>a really good guy</em>. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Often with myths, we develop high expectations that can’t be adhered to in Real Life.  Salvador will exceed your expectations.  And you’ll have fun in the process.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Go see him and Tahoe.  </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong><a href=\"http://www.hairpeace.com/\" target=\"_blank\">http://www.hairpeace.com/</a></strong></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>Please note that I do not condone cheating in other relationships.  But if your hairstylist isn’t cutting it (pun intended), then by all means get out there and sow your wild oats with someone new! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>','Day 28:  Have YOU Ever Cheated on Your Hairdresser?','','inherit','open','open','','1307-revision-9','','','2010-10-24 20:25:28','2010-10-25 03:25:28','',1307,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/10/24/1307-revision-9/',0,'revision','',0),(1330,1,'2010-10-24 20:28:13','2010-10-25 03:28:13','<p><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/salcalvinfo.gif\"><img class=\"alignleft size-full wp-image-1326\" title=\"salcalvinfo\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/salcalvinfo.gif\" alt=\"\" width=\"1\" height=\"1\" /></a><a href=\"http://www.hairpeace.com/Home.html\" target=\"_blank\"><img class=\"alignleft size-full wp-image-1319\" title=\"salvadorsign\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/salvadorsign2.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a></p>\r\n\r\n<p> Most women tend to be fiercely loyal to their hairstylists.  Suggest to a woman that she try a new stylist and a look of horror (tinged with guilt) crosses her face.  A woman would sooner call it quits with her significant other than abandon or cheat on her mane guy/girl. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>And, yes, this applies to women who are downright unhappy with their stylist!  They would rather stay in a dysfunctional hair relationship than break away to healthier pastures.  They walk around with a bad haircut and/or color because they don’t want to hurt their hairstylist’s <em>feelings</em>. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I know.  I used to feel that way as well.  Until the day I was forced to break up with “G”.  He left me with no choice.   </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>G was my hairstylist from five years ago.  I met him at a party.  At the time, I was displeased with my hair.  My metrosexual poster boy friend recommended a top stylist in Snobbsdale who dyed my tresses a lighter shade of black and razor cut my hair.  The color made me look like I was in dire need of a makeover, and the razor made my hair frizz to a frazzle. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>At the party (hosted by metrosexual poster boy, ironically), G sat down next to me and told me that he loved my dress.  (+10 points)  He then commented that my shoes were to die for.  (+20 points)  We talked incessantly for a while, and it came up in conversation that he was a hairstylist.  I immediately blurted out my hair woes. Don’t we often treat our hairstylists like therapists?  God bless them for listening. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>G calmly assessed the damage.  He explained to me that my hair was too dark and washed me out.  (+50 points)  G was HORRIFIED that someone had taken a razor to the hair of someone of “Mediterranean descent”.  (+100 points)  My hair should be blunt cut to eliminate the frizzle-frazzle!  (+500 points) </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>This was destined to be a hair relationship made in Heaven! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I called G that Tuesday to schedule an appointment.  When our big day rolled around, it was everything a girl could want.  I will never forget – he dyed my hair with a color called “Swedish blonde” which sounded ridiculous at first.  Me?  A blonde?  Uh…no.  BUT!!!!  G transformed my hair into shade of golden brunette perfect for my skin tone.  And his blunt cut layers made my hair bouncing and behaving!  (+ points ad infinitum)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I was hooked. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>G and I also started to see each other outside of the salon.  (Platonically.  G wasn’t attracted to women.)  He shared my taste for indie restaurants and coffeehouses.  We had so much fun together.  </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Then one day, G was in a mood.  (He had a flair for the dramatic.)  He was stressed out about a guy who dissed him and ticked off at his landlord.  In the midst of relaying his hassles in vivid detail during my haircut, he cut my layers unevenly.  i.e. He screwed up my hair.  Big time.  Every woman’s worst hair nightmare. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Now, I am a forgiving sort.  I am prone to granting second chances.  We are all human.  We all make mistakes.  We should all give one another a little more grace. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>So I went back to G for a quick fix. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Which turned out to be not a fix, but another disaster. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>In some aspects, breaking up with G was worse than breaking up with a boyfriend.  With a boyfriend, you take time off to heal and ready yourself for another relationship someday.  With your hairstylist, you need to find another one right away.  This is far from ideal when you’re gun-shy and suffering from hair trauma. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Argh. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I went through a few hairstylists after G.  Everyone was good at first, and then they slacked off after a year or so.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I was then introduced to a husband/wife cut/color duo who are great.  I absolutely adore them – talented, super smart, and warm.  But our schedules haven’t been meshing lately.  Availability is limited to one Saturday a month, and if I happen to have other plans that Saturday, then I’m SOL.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>And this is how I came to cheat on my hairstylist.  I needed an appointment for this past Saturday, and my stylists were unavailable. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>For months, my friend Britt waxed on about <em>“Salvador”.</em>  The way she talked about him, I envisioned some sort of mythical Hair God. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>“<em>Salvador</em> is the best stylist that I’ve ever been to.  He specializes in natural color.”  (+50 points)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>“<em>Salvador</em> is the only one in this town who knows how to cut hair.  He cuts the layers blunt so your hair is thick and voluptuous and doesn’t get scraggly as with point cutting.”  (+100 points)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>“<em>Salvador</em> has a really cool artsy studio downtown with art and photographs and instruments.”  (I’m a sucker for artsy fartsy.  +50 points.)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>“<em>Salvador</em> understands how to cut wavy hair.” (+100 points)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>“<em>Salvador</em>!  <em>Salvador</em>!  <em>Salvador</em>!”  (+50 points for reputation of mythical proportion) </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>So this past Saturday morning I hauled my cookies downtown for an appointment with <em>Salvador</em>. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Upon entering aforementioned artsy fartsy studio, I was greeted by an overly enthusiastic Golden Retriever named Tahoe.  (+ points ad infinitum)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Salvador (with locks of mythical proportion) welcomed me to the salon and chit-chatted away about the morning.  I was up late the night before, slept in, and had just started drinking my coffee, so I slurped it down in a hurry with hopes that I could be a tenth as chipper as Tahoe and ready to talk to another human being.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Classical music played in the background (+10 points) while Salvador sat me in the chair and inquired about what I wanted to do with my hair.  I asked him what he would do given carte blanche. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>All I can remember is “natural color” and I agreed to the rest.  When a mythical Hair God shares his opinion, you really should just take it and get on with your day.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Once I was properly caffeinated, we were able to ramble on about all sorts of common interests from music to guitar to writing to entrepreneurship to topics ad infinitum.  (+1000 points)  I am sure that you will agree with me that NOTHING is more awkward than sitting in a hairstylist’s chair whom you are unable to talk to.  How can they <em>possibly </em>serve as your surrogate therapist/dating coach/sounding board if you can’t carry on a decent conversation??? </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Salvador worked his magic throughout conversational turns and many musical shifts (as you ease into the morning the classical needs to be replaced with rock) and then…Voila!  Hair Extraordinaire! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I have already received numerous compliments from “the outside”. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>In this illicit affair, the cheating paid off and no one got hurt.**</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>The most surprising thing about Salvador is that for a mythical Hair God, he is extraordinarily down-to-earth and <em>a really good guy</em>. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Often with myths, we develop high expectations that can’t be adhered to in Real Life.  Salvador will exceed your expectations.  And you’ll have fun in the process.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Go see him and Tahoe.  </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong><a href=\"http://www.hairpeace.com/\" target=\"_blank\">http://www.hairpeace.com/</a></strong></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>                                               *******************************************************<br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Please note that I do not condone cheating in other relationships.  But if your hairstylist isn’t cutting it (pun intended), then by all means get out there and sow your wild oats with someone new! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>','Day 28:  Have YOU Ever Cheated on Your Hairdresser?','','inherit','open','open','','1307-revision-12','','','2010-10-24 20:28:13','2010-10-25 03:28:13','',1307,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/10/24/1307-revision-12/',0,'revision','',0),(1328,1,'2010-10-24 20:27:12','2010-10-25 03:27:12','<p><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/salcalvinfo.gif\"><img class=\"alignleft size-full wp-image-1326\" title=\"salcalvinfo\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/salcalvinfo.gif\" alt=\"\" width=\"1\" height=\"1\" /></a><a href=\"http://www.hairpeace.com/Home.html\" target=\"_blank\"><img class=\"alignleft size-full wp-image-1319\" title=\"salvadorsign\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/salvadorsign2.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a></p>\r\n\r\n<p> Most women tend to be fiercely loyal to their hairstylists.  Suggest to a woman that she try a new stylist and a look of horror (tinged with guilt) crosses her face.  A woman would sooner call it quits with her significant other than abandon or cheat on her mane guy/girl. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>And, yes, this applies to women who are downright unhappy with their stylist!  They would rather stay in a dysfunctional hair relationship than break away to healthier pastures.  They walk around with a bad haircut and/or color because they don’t want to hurt their hairstylist’s <em>feelings</em>. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I know.  I used to feel that way as well.  Until the day I was forced to break up with “G”.  He left me with no choice.   </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>G was my hairstylist from five years ago.  I met him at a party.  At the time, I was displeased with my hair.  My metrosexual poster boy friend recommended a top stylist in Snobbsdale who dyed my tresses a lighter shade of black and razor cut my hair.  The color made me look like I was in dire need of a makeover, and the razor made my hair frizz to a frazzle. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>At the party (hosted by metrosexual poster boy, ironically), G sat down next to me and told me that he loved my dress.  (+10 points)  He then commented that my shoes were to die for.  (+20 points)  We talked incessantly for a while, and it came up in conversation that he was a hairstylist.  I immediately blurted out my hair woes. Don’t we often treat our hairstylists like therapists?  God bless them for listening. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>G calmly assessed the damage.  He explained to me that my hair was too dark and washed me out.  (+50 points)  G was HORRIFIED that someone had taken a razor to the hair of someone of “Mediterranean descent”.  (+100 points)  My hair should be blunt cut to eliminate the frizzle-frazzle!  (+500 points) </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>This was destined to be a hair relationship made in Heaven! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I called G that Tuesday to schedule an appointment.  When our big day rolled around, it was everything a girl could want.  I will never forget – he dyed my hair with a color called “Swedish blonde” which sounded ridiculous at first.  Me?  A blonde?  Uh…no.  BUT!!!!  G transformed my hair into shade of golden brunette perfect for my skin tone.  And his blunt cut layers made my hair bouncing and behaving!  (+ points ad infinitum)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I was hooked. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>G and I also started to see each other outside of the salon.  (Platonically.  G wasn’t attracted to women.)  He shared my taste for indie restaurants and coffeehouses.  We had so much fun together.  </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Then one day, G was in a mood.  (He had a flair for the dramatic.)  He was stressed out about a guy who dissed him and ticked off at his landlord.  In the midst of relaying his hassles in vivid detail during my haircut, he cut my layers unevenly.  i.e. He screwed up my hair.  Big time.  Every woman’s worst hair nightmare. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Now, I am a forgiving sort.  I am prone to granting second chances.  We are all human.  We all make mistakes.  We should all give one another a little more grace. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>So I went back to G for a quick fix. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Which turned out to be not a fix, but another disaster. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>In some aspects, breaking up with G was worse than breaking up with a boyfriend.  With a boyfriend, you take time off to heal and ready yourself for another relationship someday.  With your hairstylist, you need to find another one right away.  This is far from ideal when you’re gun-shy and suffering from hair trauma. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Argh. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I went through a few hairstylists after G.  Everyone was good at first, and then they slacked off after a year or so.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I was then introduced to a husband/wife cut/color duo who are great.  I absolutely adore them – talented, super smart, and warm.  But our schedules haven’t been meshing lately.  Availability is limited to one Saturday a month, and if I happen to have other plans that Saturday, then I’m SOL.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>And this is how I came to cheat on my hairstylist.  I needed an appointment for this past Saturday, and my stylists were unavailable. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>For months, my friend Britt waxed on about <em>“Salvador”.</em>  The way she talked about him, I envisioned some sort of mythical Hair God. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>“<em>Salvador</em> is the best stylist that I’ve ever been to.  He specializes in natural color.”  (+50 points)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>“<em>Salvador</em> is the only one in this town who knows how to cut hair.  He cuts the layers blunt so your hair is thick and voluptuous and doesn’t get scraggly as with point cutting.”  (+100 points)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>“<em>Salvador</em> has a really cool artsy studio downtown with art and photographs and instruments.”  (I’m a sucker for artsy fartsy.  +50 points.)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>“<em>Salvador</em> understands how to cut wavy hair.” (+100 points)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>“<em>Salvador</em>!  <em>Salvador</em>!  <em>Salvador</em>!”  (+50 points for reputation of mythical proportion) </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>So this past Saturday morning I hauled my cookies downtown for an appointment with <em>Salvador</em>. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Upon entering aforementioned artsy fartsy studio, I was greeted by an overly enthusiastic Golden Retriever named Tahoe.  (+ points ad infinitum)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Salvador (with locks of mythical proportion) welcomed me to the salon and chit-chatted away about the morning.  I was up late the night before, slept in, and had just started drinking my coffee, so I slurped it down in a hurry with hopes that I could be a tenth as chipper as Tahoe and ready to talk to another human being.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Classical music played in the background (+10 points) while Salvador sat me in the chair and inquired about what I wanted to do with my hair.  I asked him what he would do given carte blanche. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>All I can remember is “natural color” and I agreed to the rest.  When a mythical Hair God shares his opinion, you really should just take it and get on with your day.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Once I was properly caffeinated, we were able to ramble on about all sorts of common interests from music to guitar to writing to entrepreneurship to topics ad infinitum.  (+1000 points)  I am sure that you will agree with me that NOTHING is more awkward than sitting in a hairstylist’s chair whom you are unable to talk to.  How can they <em>possibly </em>serve as your surrogate therapist/dating coach/sounding board if you can’t carry on a decent conversation??? </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Salvador worked his magic throughout conversational turns and many musical shifts (as you ease into the morning the classical needs to be replaced with rock) and then…Voila!  Hair Extraordinaire! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I have already received numerous compliments from “the outside”. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>In this illicit affair, the cheating paid off and no one got hurt.**</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>The most surprising thing about Salvador is that for a mythical Hair God, he is extraordinarily down-to-earth and <em>a really good guy</em>. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Often with myths, we develop high expectations that can’t be adhered to in Real Life.  Salvador will exceed your expectations.  And you’ll have fun in the process.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Go see him and Tahoe.  <br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong><a href=\"http://www.hairpeace.com/\" target=\"_blank\">http://www.hairpeace.com/</a></strong></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>Please note that I do not condone cheating in other relationships.  But if your hairstylist isn’t cutting it (pun intended), then by all means get out there and sow your wild oats with someone new! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>','Day 28:  Have YOU Ever Cheated on Your Hairdresser?','','inherit','open','open','','1307-revision-10','','','2010-10-24 20:27:12','2010-10-25 03:27:12','',1307,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/10/24/1307-revision-10/',0,'revision','',0),(1329,1,'2010-10-24 20:27:31','2010-10-25 03:27:31','<p><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/salcalvinfo.gif\"><img class=\"alignleft size-full wp-image-1326\" title=\"salcalvinfo\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/salcalvinfo.gif\" alt=\"\" width=\"1\" height=\"1\" /></a><a href=\"http://www.hairpeace.com/Home.html\" target=\"_blank\"><img class=\"alignleft size-full wp-image-1319\" title=\"salvadorsign\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/salvadorsign2.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a></p>\r\n\r\n<p> Most women tend to be fiercely loyal to their hairstylists.  Suggest to a woman that she try a new stylist and a look of horror (tinged with guilt) crosses her face.  A woman would sooner call it quits with her significant other than abandon or cheat on her mane guy/girl. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>And, yes, this applies to women who are downright unhappy with their stylist!  They would rather stay in a dysfunctional hair relationship than break away to healthier pastures.  They walk around with a bad haircut and/or color because they don’t want to hurt their hairstylist’s <em>feelings</em>. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I know.  I used to feel that way as well.  Until the day I was forced to break up with “G”.  He left me with no choice.   </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>G was my hairstylist from five years ago.  I met him at a party.  At the time, I was displeased with my hair.  My metrosexual poster boy friend recommended a top stylist in Snobbsdale who dyed my tresses a lighter shade of black and razor cut my hair.  The color made me look like I was in dire need of a makeover, and the razor made my hair frizz to a frazzle. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>At the party (hosted by metrosexual poster boy, ironically), G sat down next to me and told me that he loved my dress.  (+10 points)  He then commented that my shoes were to die for.  (+20 points)  We talked incessantly for a while, and it came up in conversation that he was a hairstylist.  I immediately blurted out my hair woes. Don’t we often treat our hairstylists like therapists?  God bless them for listening. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>G calmly assessed the damage.  He explained to me that my hair was too dark and washed me out.  (+50 points)  G was HORRIFIED that someone had taken a razor to the hair of someone of “Mediterranean descent”.  (+100 points)  My hair should be blunt cut to eliminate the frizzle-frazzle!  (+500 points) </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>This was destined to be a hair relationship made in Heaven! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I called G that Tuesday to schedule an appointment.  When our big day rolled around, it was everything a girl could want.  I will never forget – he dyed my hair with a color called “Swedish blonde” which sounded ridiculous at first.  Me?  A blonde?  Uh…no.  BUT!!!!  G transformed my hair into shade of golden brunette perfect for my skin tone.  And his blunt cut layers made my hair bouncing and behaving!  (+ points ad infinitum)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I was hooked. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>G and I also started to see each other outside of the salon.  (Platonically.  G wasn’t attracted to women.)  He shared my taste for indie restaurants and coffeehouses.  We had so much fun together.  </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Then one day, G was in a mood.  (He had a flair for the dramatic.)  He was stressed out about a guy who dissed him and ticked off at his landlord.  In the midst of relaying his hassles in vivid detail during my haircut, he cut my layers unevenly.  i.e. He screwed up my hair.  Big time.  Every woman’s worst hair nightmare. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Now, I am a forgiving sort.  I am prone to granting second chances.  We are all human.  We all make mistakes.  We should all give one another a little more grace. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>So I went back to G for a quick fix. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Which turned out to be not a fix, but another disaster. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>In some aspects, breaking up with G was worse than breaking up with a boyfriend.  With a boyfriend, you take time off to heal and ready yourself for another relationship someday.  With your hairstylist, you need to find another one right away.  This is far from ideal when you’re gun-shy and suffering from hair trauma. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Argh. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I went through a few hairstylists after G.  Everyone was good at first, and then they slacked off after a year or so.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I was then introduced to a husband/wife cut/color duo who are great.  I absolutely adore them – talented, super smart, and warm.  But our schedules haven’t been meshing lately.  Availability is limited to one Saturday a month, and if I happen to have other plans that Saturday, then I’m SOL.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>And this is how I came to cheat on my hairstylist.  I needed an appointment for this past Saturday, and my stylists were unavailable. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>For months, my friend Britt waxed on about <em>“Salvador”.</em>  The way she talked about him, I envisioned some sort of mythical Hair God. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>“<em>Salvador</em> is the best stylist that I’ve ever been to.  He specializes in natural color.”  (+50 points)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>“<em>Salvador</em> is the only one in this town who knows how to cut hair.  He cuts the layers blunt so your hair is thick and voluptuous and doesn’t get scraggly as with point cutting.”  (+100 points)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>“<em>Salvador</em> has a really cool artsy studio downtown with art and photographs and instruments.”  (I’m a sucker for artsy fartsy.  +50 points.)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>“<em>Salvador</em> understands how to cut wavy hair.” (+100 points)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>“<em>Salvador</em>!  <em>Salvador</em>!  <em>Salvador</em>!”  (+50 points for reputation of mythical proportion) </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>So this past Saturday morning I hauled my cookies downtown for an appointment with <em>Salvador</em>. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Upon entering aforementioned artsy fartsy studio, I was greeted by an overly enthusiastic Golden Retriever named Tahoe.  (+ points ad infinitum)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Salvador (with locks of mythical proportion) welcomed me to the salon and chit-chatted away about the morning.  I was up late the night before, slept in, and had just started drinking my coffee, so I slurped it down in a hurry with hopes that I could be a tenth as chipper as Tahoe and ready to talk to another human being.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Classical music played in the background (+10 points) while Salvador sat me in the chair and inquired about what I wanted to do with my hair.  I asked him what he would do given carte blanche. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>All I can remember is “natural color” and I agreed to the rest.  When a mythical Hair God shares his opinion, you really should just take it and get on with your day.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Once I was properly caffeinated, we were able to ramble on about all sorts of common interests from music to guitar to writing to entrepreneurship to topics ad infinitum.  (+1000 points)  I am sure that you will agree with me that NOTHING is more awkward than sitting in a hairstylist’s chair whom you are unable to talk to.  How can they <em>possibly </em>serve as your surrogate therapist/dating coach/sounding board if you can’t carry on a decent conversation??? </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Salvador worked his magic throughout conversational turns and many musical shifts (as you ease into the morning the classical needs to be replaced with rock) and then…Voila!  Hair Extraordinaire! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I have already received numerous compliments from “the outside”. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>In this illicit affair, the cheating paid off and no one got hurt.**</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>The most surprising thing about Salvador is that for a mythical Hair God, he is extraordinarily down-to-earth and <em>a really good guy</em>. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Often with myths, we develop high expectations that can’t be adhered to in Real Life.  Salvador will exceed your expectations.  And you’ll have fun in the process.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Go see him and Tahoe.  </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong><a href=\"http://www.hairpeace.com/\" target=\"_blank\">http://www.hairpeace.com/</a></strong></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>Please note that I do not condone cheating in other relationships.  But if your hairstylist isn’t cutting it (pun intended), then by all means get out there and sow your wild oats with someone new! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>','Day 28:  Have YOU Ever Cheated on Your Hairdresser?','','inherit','open','open','','1307-revision-11','','','2010-10-24 20:27:31','2010-10-25 03:27:31','',1307,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/10/24/1307-revision-11/',0,'revision','',0),(1331,1,'2010-10-24 20:37:13','2010-10-25 03:37:13','<p><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/salcalvinfo.gif\"><img class=\"alignleft size-full wp-image-1326\" title=\"salcalvinfo\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/salcalvinfo.gif\" alt=\"\" width=\"1\" height=\"1\" /></a><a href=\"http://www.hairpeace.com/Home.html\" target=\"_blank\"><img class=\"alignleft size-full wp-image-1319\" title=\"salvadorsign\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/salvadorsign2.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a></p>\n\n<p>Most women tend to be fiercely loyal to their hairstylists.  Suggest to a woman that she try a new stylist and a look of horror (tinged with guilt) crosses her face.  A woman would sooner call it quits with her significant other than abandon or cheat on her mane guy/girl. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>And, yes, this applies to women who are downright unhappy with their stylist!  They would rather stay in a dysfunctional hair relationship than break away to healthier pastures.  They walk around with a bad haircut and/or color because they don’t want to hurt their hairstylist’s <em>feelings</em>. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>I know.  I used to feel that way as well.  Until the day I was forced to break up with “G”.  He left me with no choice.   </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><strong><span style=\"color: #ff00ff; font-size: large;\">Like all new relationships, it was A Match Made in Heaven.  At first.  </span></strong></p>\n\n<p><strong><span style=\"color: #ff00ff; font-size: large;\"> </span></strong> </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>G was my hairstylist from five years ago.  I met him at a party.  At the time, I was displeased with my hair.  My metrosexual poster boy friend recommended a top stylist in Snobbsdale who dyed my tresses a lighter shade of black and razor cut my hair.  The color made me look like I was in dire need of a makeover, and the razor made my hair frizz to a frazzle. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>At the party (hosted by metrosexual poster boy, ironically), G sat down next to me and told me that he loved my dress.  (+10 points)  He then commented that my shoes were to die for.  (+20 points)  We talked incessantly for a while, and it came up in conversation that he was a hairstylist.  I immediately blurted out my hair woes. Don’t we often treat our hairstylists like therapists?  God bless them for listening. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>G calmly assessed the damage.  He explained to me that my hair was too dark and washed me out.  (+50 points)  G was HORRIFIED that someone had taken a razor to the hair of someone of “Mediterranean descent”.  (+100 points)  My hair should be blunt cut to eliminate the frizzle-frazzle!  (+500 points) </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>This was destined to be a hair relationship made in Heaven! </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>I called G that Tuesday to schedule an appointment.  When our big day rolled around, it was everything a girl could want.  I will never forget – he dyed my hair with a color called “Swedish blonde” which sounded ridiculous at first.  Me?  A blonde?  Uh…no.  BUT!!!!  G transformed my hair into shade of golden brunette perfect for my skin tone.  And his blunt cut layers made my hair bouncing and behaving!  (+ points ad infinitum)</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>I was hooked. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>G and I also started to see each other outside of the salon.  (Platonically.  G wasn’t attracted to women.)  He shared my taste for indie restaurants and coffeehouses.  We had so much fun together.  </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Then one day, G was in a mood.  (He had a flair for the dramatic.)  He was stressed out about a guy who dissed him and ticked off at his landlord.  In the midst of relaying his hassles in vivid detail during my haircut, he cut my layers unevenly.  i.e. He screwed up my hair.  Big time.  Every woman’s worst hair nightmare. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Now, I am a forgiving sort.  I am prone to granting second chances.  We are all human.  We all make mistakes.  We should all give one another a little more grace. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>So I went back to G for a quick fix. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Which turned out to be not a fix, but another disaster. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><strong><span style=\"color: #ff0000; font-size: large;\">Breaking Up is Hard to Do </span></strong></p>\n\n<p><strong><span style=\"color: #ff0000; font-size: large;\"> </span></strong><br class=\"spacer_\" /> </p>\n\n<p>In some aspects, breaking up with G was worse than breaking up with a boyfriend.  With a boyfriend, you take time off to heal and ready yourself for another relationship someday.  With your hairstylist, you need to find another one right away.  This is far from ideal when you’re gun-shy and suffering from hair trauma. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Argh. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>I went through a few hairstylists after G.  Everyone was good at first, and then they slacked off after a year or so.</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>I was then introduced to a husband/wife cut/color duo who are great.  I absolutely adore them – talented, super smart, and warm.  But our schedules haven’t been meshing lately.  Availability is limited to one Saturday a month, and if I happen to have other plans that Saturday, then I’m SOL.</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>And this is how I came to cheat on my hairstylist.  I needed an appointment for this past Saturday, and my stylists were unavailable. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><span style=\"color: #ff6600; font-size: large;\"><strong>If you are going to cheat, then reach for the hairstylist to the stars.  </strong></span></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /> </p>\n\n<p>For months, my friend Britt waxed on about <em>“Salvador”.</em>  The way she talked about him, I envisioned some sort of mythical Hair God. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>“<em>Salvador</em> is the best stylist that I’ve ever been to.  He specializes in natural color.”  (+50 points)</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>“<em>Salvador</em> is the only one in this town who knows how to cut hair.  He cuts the layers blunt so your hair is thick and voluptuous and doesn’t get scraggly as with point cutting.”  (+100 points)</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>“<em>Salvador</em> has a really cool artsy studio downtown with art and photographs and instruments.”  (I’m a sucker for artsy fartsy.  +50 points.)</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>“<em>Salvador</em> understands how to cut wavy hair.” (+100 points)</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>“<em>Salvador</em>!  <em>Salvador</em>!  <em>Salvador</em>!”  (+50 points for reputation of mythical proportion) </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>So this past Saturday morning I hauled my cookies downtown for an appointment with <em>Salvador</em>. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Upon entering aforementioned artsy fartsy studio, I was greeted by an overly enthusiastic Golden Retriever named Tahoe.  (+ points ad infinitum)</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Salvador (with locks of mythical proportion) welcomed me to the salon and chit-chatted away about the morning.  I was up late the night before, slept in, and had just started drinking my coffee, so I slurped it down in a hurry with hopes that I could be a tenth as chipper as Tahoe and ready to talk to another human being.</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Classical music played in the background (+10 points) while Salvador sat me in the chair and inquired about what I wanted to do with my hair.  I asked him what he would do given carte blanche. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>All I can remember is “natural color” and I agreed to the rest.  When a mythical Hair God shares his opinion, you really should just take it and get on with your day.</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Once I was properly caffeinated, we were able to ramble on about all sorts of common interests from music to guitar to writing to entrepreneurship to topics ad infinitum.  (+1000 points)  I am sure that you will agree with me that NOTHING is more awkward than sitting in a hairstylist’s chair whom you are unable to talk to.  How can they <em>possibly </em>serve as your surrogate therapist/dating coach/sounding board if you can’t carry on a decent conversation??? </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Salvador worked his magic throughout conversational turns and many musical shifts (as you ease into the morning the classical needs to be replaced with rock) and then…Voila!  Hair Extraordinaire! </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>I have already received numerous compliments from “the outside”. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>In this illicit affair, the cheating paid off and no one got hurt.**</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>The most surprising thing about Salvador is that for a mythical Hair God, he is extraordinarily down-to-earth and <em>a really good guy</em>. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Often with myths, we develop high expectations that can’t be adhered to in Real Life.  Salvador will exceed your expectations.  And you’ll have fun in the process.</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Go see him and Tahoe.  </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><strong><a href=\"http://www.hairpeace.com/\" target=\"_blank\">http://www.hairpeace.com/</a></strong></p>\n\n<p><strong> </strong></p>\n\n<p><strong>                           </strong> ****************************************</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>** Please note that I do not condone cheating in other relationships.  But if your hairstylist isn’t cutting it (pun intended), then by all means get out there and sow your wild oats with someone new! </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>','Day 28:  Have YOU Ever Cheated on Your Hairdresser?','','inherit','open','open','','1307-revision-13','','','2010-10-24 20:37:13','2010-10-25 03:37:13','',1307,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/10/24/1307-revision-13/',0,'revision','',0),(1332,1,'2010-10-24 20:37:21','2010-10-25 03:37:21','<p><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/salcalvinfo.gif\"><img class=\"alignleft size-full wp-image-1326\" title=\"salcalvinfo\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/salcalvinfo.gif\" alt=\"\" width=\"1\" height=\"1\" /></a><a href=\"http://www.hairpeace.com/Home.html\" target=\"_blank\"><img class=\"alignleft size-full wp-image-1319\" title=\"salvadorsign\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/salvadorsign2.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Most women tend to be fiercely loyal to their hairstylists.  Suggest to a woman that she try a new stylist and a look of horror (tinged with guilt) crosses her face.  A woman would sooner call it quits with her significant other than abandon or cheat on her mane guy/girl. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>And, yes, this applies to women who are downright unhappy with their stylist!  They would rather stay in a dysfunctional hair relationship than break away to healthier pastures.  They walk around with a bad haircut and/or color because they don’t want to hurt their hairstylist’s <em>feelings</em>. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I know.  I used to feel that way as well.  Until the day I was forced to break up with “G”.  He left me with no choice.   </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong><span style=\"color: #ff00ff; font-size: large;\">Like all new relationships, it was A Match Made in Heaven.  At first.  </span></strong></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong><span style=\"color: #ff00ff; font-size: large;\"> </span></strong> </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>G was my hairstylist from five years ago.  I met him at a party.  At the time, I was displeased with my hair.  My metrosexual poster boy friend recommended a top stylist in Snobbsdale who dyed my tresses a lighter shade of black and razor cut my hair.  The color made me look like I was in dire need of a makeover, and the razor made my hair frizz to a frazzle. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>At the party (hosted by metrosexual poster boy, ironically), G sat down next to me and told me that he loved my dress.  (+10 points)  He then commented that my shoes were to die for.  (+20 points)  We talked incessantly for a while, and it came up in conversation that he was a hairstylist.  I immediately blurted out my hair woes. Don’t we often treat our hairstylists like therapists?  God bless them for listening. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>G calmly assessed the damage.  He explained to me that my hair was too dark and washed me out.  (+50 points)  G was HORRIFIED that someone had taken a razor to the hair of someone of “Mediterranean descent”.  (+100 points)  My hair should be blunt cut to eliminate the frizzle-frazzle!  (+500 points) </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>This was destined to be a hair relationship made in Heaven! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I called G that Tuesday to schedule an appointment.  When our big day rolled around, it was everything a girl could want.  I will never forget – he dyed my hair with a color called “Swedish blonde” which sounded ridiculous at first.  Me?  A blonde?  Uh…no.  BUT!!!!  G transformed my hair into shade of golden brunette perfect for my skin tone.  And his blunt cut layers made my hair bouncing and behaving!  (+ points ad infinitum)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I was hooked. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>G and I also started to see each other outside of the salon.  (Platonically.  G wasn’t attracted to women.)  He shared my taste for indie restaurants and coffeehouses.  We had so much fun together.  </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Then one day, G was in a mood.  (He had a flair for the dramatic.)  He was stressed out about a guy who dissed him and ticked off at his landlord.  In the midst of relaying his hassles in vivid detail during my haircut, he cut my layers unevenly.  i.e. He screwed up my hair.  Big time.  Every woman’s worst hair nightmare. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Now, I am a forgiving sort.  I am prone to granting second chances.  We are all human.  We all make mistakes.  We should all give one another a little more grace. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>So I went back to G for a quick fix. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Which turned out to be not a fix, but another disaster. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong><span style=\"color: #ff0000; font-size: large;\">Breaking Up is Hard to Do </span></strong></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong><span style=\"color: #ff0000; font-size: large;\"> </span></strong><br class=\"spacer_\" /> </p>\r\n\r\n<p>In some aspects, breaking up with G was worse than breaking up with a boyfriend.  With a boyfriend, you take time off to heal and ready yourself for another relationship someday.  With your hairstylist, you need to find another one right away.  This is far from ideal when you’re gun-shy and suffering from hair trauma. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Argh. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I went through a few hairstylists after G.  Everyone was good at first, and then they slacked off after a year or so.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I was then introduced to a husband/wife cut/color duo who are great.  I absolutely adore them – talented, super smart, and warm.  But our schedules haven’t been meshing lately.  Availability is limited to one Saturday a month, and if I happen to have other plans that Saturday, then I’m SOL.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>And this is how I came to cheat on my hairstylist.  I needed an appointment for this past Saturday, and my stylists were unavailable. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><span style=\"color: #ff6600; font-size: large;\"><strong>If you are going to cheat, then reach for the hairstylist to the stars.  </strong></span></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /> </p>\r\n\r\n<p>For months, my friend Britt waxed on about <em>“Salvador”.</em>  The way she talked about him, I envisioned some sort of mythical Hair God. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>“<em>Salvador</em> is the best stylist that I’ve ever been to.  He specializes in natural color.”  (+50 points)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>“<em>Salvador</em> is the only one in this town who knows how to cut hair.  He cuts the layers blunt so your hair is thick and voluptuous and doesn’t get scraggly as with point cutting.”  (+100 points)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>“<em>Salvador</em> has a really cool artsy studio downtown with art and photographs and instruments.”  (I’m a sucker for artsy fartsy.  +50 points.)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>“<em>Salvador</em> understands how to cut wavy hair.” (+100 points)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>“<em>Salvador</em>!  <em>Salvador</em>!  <em>Salvador</em>!”  (+50 points for reputation of mythical proportion) </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>So this past Saturday morning I hauled my cookies downtown for an appointment with <em>Salvador</em>. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Upon entering aforementioned artsy fartsy studio, I was greeted by an overly enthusiastic Golden Retriever named Tahoe.  (+ points ad infinitum)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Salvador (with locks of mythical proportion) welcomed me to the salon and chit-chatted away about the morning.  I was up late the night before, slept in, and had just started drinking my coffee, so I slurped it down in a hurry with hopes that I could be a tenth as chipper as Tahoe and ready to talk to another human being.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Classical music played in the background (+10 points) while Salvador sat me in the chair and inquired about what I wanted to do with my hair.  I asked him what he would do given carte blanche. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>All I can remember is “natural color” and I agreed to the rest.  When a mythical Hair God shares his opinion, you really should just take it and get on with your day.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Once I was properly caffeinated, we were able to ramble on about all sorts of common interests from music to guitar to writing to entrepreneurship to topics ad infinitum.  (+1000 points)  I am sure that you will agree with me that NOTHING is more awkward than sitting in a hairstylist’s chair whom you are unable to talk to.  How can they <em>possibly </em>serve as your surrogate therapist/dating coach/sounding board if you can’t carry on a decent conversation??? </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Salvador worked his magic throughout conversational turns and many musical shifts (as you ease into the morning the classical needs to be replaced with rock) and then…Voila!  Hair Extraordinaire! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I have already received numerous compliments from “the outside”. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>In this illicit affair, the cheating paid off and no one got hurt.**</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>The most surprising thing about Salvador is that for a mythical Hair God, he is extraordinarily down-to-earth and <em>a really good guy</em>. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Often with myths, we develop high expectations that can’t be adhered to in Real Life.  Salvador will exceed your expectations.  And you’ll have fun in the process.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Go see him and Tahoe.  </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong><a href=\"http://www.hairpeace.com/\" target=\"_blank\">http://www.hairpeace.com/</a></strong></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong> </strong></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>                           </strong> ****************************************</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>** Please note that I do not condone cheating in other relationships.  But if your hairstylist isn’t cutting it (pun intended), then by all means get out there and sow your wild oats with someone new! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>','Day 28:  Have YOU Ever Cheated on Your Hairdresser?','','inherit','open','open','','1307-revision-14','','','2010-10-24 20:37:21','2010-10-25 03:37:21','',1307,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/10/24/1307-revision-14/',0,'revision','',0),(1333,1,'2010-10-24 20:38:22','2010-10-25 03:38:22','<p><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/salcalvinfo.gif\"><img class=\"alignleft size-full wp-image-1326\" title=\"salcalvinfo\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/salcalvinfo.gif\" alt=\"\" width=\"1\" height=\"1\" /></a><a href=\"http://www.hairpeace.com/Home.html\" target=\"_blank\"><img class=\"alignleft size-full wp-image-1319\" title=\"salvadorsign\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/salvadorsign2.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Most women tend to be fiercely loyal to their hairstylists.  Suggest to a woman that she try a new stylist and a look of horror (tinged with guilt) crosses her face.  A woman would sooner call it quits with her significant other than abandon or cheat on her mane guy/girl. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>And, yes, this applies to women who are downright unhappy with their stylist!  They would rather stay in a dysfunctional hair relationship than break away to healthier pastures.  They walk around with a bad haircut and/or color because they don’t want to hurt their hairstylist’s <em>feelings</em>. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I know.  I used to feel that way as well.  Until the day I was forced to break up with “G”.  He left me with no choice.   </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong><span style=\"color: #ff00ff; font-size: large;\">Like all new relationships, it was A Match Made in Heaven.  At first.  </span></strong></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong><span style=\"color: #ff00ff; font-size: large;\"> </span></strong> </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>G was my hairstylist from five years ago.  I met him at a party.  At the time, I was displeased with my hair.  My metrosexual poster boy friend recommended a top stylist in Snobbsdale who dyed my tresses a lighter shade of black and razor cut my hair.  The color made me look like I was in dire need of a makeover, and the razor made my hair frizz to a frazzle. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>At the party (hosted by metrosexual poster boy, ironically), G sat down next to me and told me that he loved my dress.  (+10 points)  He then commented that my shoes were to die for.  (+20 points)  We talked incessantly for a while, and it came up in conversation that he was a hairstylist.  I immediately blurted out my hair woes. Don’t we often treat our hairstylists like therapists?  God bless them for listening. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>G calmly assessed the damage.  He explained to me that my hair was too dark and washed me out.  (+50 points)  G was HORRIFIED that someone had taken a razor to the hair of someone of “Mediterranean descent”.  (+100 points)  My hair should be blunt cut to eliminate the frizzle-frazzle!  (+500 points) </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>This was destined to be a hair relationship made in Heaven! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I called G that Tuesday to schedule an appointment.  When our big day rolled around, it was everything a girl could want.  I will never forget – he dyed my hair with a color called “Swedish blonde” which sounded ridiculous at first.  Me?  A blonde?  Uh…no.  BUT!!!!  G transformed my hair into shade of golden brunette perfect for my skin tone.  And his blunt cut layers made my hair bouncing and behaving!  (+ points ad infinitum)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I was hooked. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>G and I also started to see each other outside of the salon.  (Platonically.  G wasn’t attracted to women.)  He shared my taste for indie restaurants and coffeehouses.  We had so much fun together.  </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Then one day, G was in a mood.  (He had a flair for the dramatic.)  He was stressed out about a guy who dissed him and ticked off at his landlord.  In the midst of relaying his hassles in vivid detail during my haircut, he cut my layers unevenly.  i.e. He screwed up my hair.  Big time.  Every woman’s worst hair nightmare. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Now, I am a forgiving sort.  I am prone to granting second chances.  We are all human.  We all make mistakes.  We should all give one another a little more grace. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>So I went back to G for a quick fix. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Which turned out to be not a fix, but another disaster. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong><span style=\"color: #ff0000; font-size: large;\">Breaking Up is Hard to Do </span></strong></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong><span style=\"color: #ff0000; font-size: large;\"> </span></strong><br class=\"spacer_\" /> In some aspects, breaking up with G was worse than breaking up with a boyfriend.  With a boyfriend, you take time off to heal and ready yourself for another relationship someday.  With your hairstylist, you need to find another one right away.  This is far from ideal when you’re gun-shy and suffering from hair trauma. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Argh. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I went through a few hairstylists after G.  Everyone was good at first, and then they slacked off after a year or so.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I was then introduced to a husband/wife cut/color duo who are great.  I absolutely adore them – talented, super smart, and warm.  But our schedules haven’t been meshing lately.  Availability is limited to one Saturday a month, and if I happen to have other plans that Saturday, then I’m SOL.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>And this is how I came to cheat on my hairstylist.  I needed an appointment for this past Saturday, and my stylists were unavailable. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><span style=\"color: #ff6600; font-size: large;\"><strong>If you are going to cheat, then reach for the hairstylist to the stars.  </strong></span></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /> For months, my friend Britt waxed on about <em>“Salvador”.</em>  The way she talked about him, I envisioned some sort of mythical Hair God. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>“<em>Salvador</em> is the best stylist that I’ve ever been to.  He specializes in natural color.”  (+50 points)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>“<em>Salvador</em> is the only one in this town who knows how to cut hair.  He cuts the layers blunt so your hair is thick and voluptuous and doesn’t get scraggly as with point cutting.”  (+100 points)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>“<em>Salvador</em> has a really cool artsy studio downtown with art and photographs and instruments.”  (I’m a sucker for artsy fartsy.  +50 points.)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>“<em>Salvador</em> understands how to cut wavy hair.” (+100 points)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>“<em>Salvador</em>!  <em>Salvador</em>!  <em>Salvador</em>!”  (+50 points for reputation of mythical proportion) </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>So this past Saturday morning I hauled my cookies downtown for an appointment with <em>Salvador</em>. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Upon entering aforementioned artsy fartsy studio, I was greeted by an overly enthusiastic Golden Retriever named Tahoe.  (+ points ad infinitum)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Salvador (with locks of mythical proportion) welcomed me to the salon and chit-chatted away about the morning.  I was up late the night before, slept in, and had just started drinking my coffee, so I slurped it down in a hurry with hopes that I could be a tenth as chipper as Tahoe and ready to talk to another human being.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Classical music played in the background (+10 points) while Salvador sat me in the chair and inquired about what I wanted to do with my hair.  I asked him what he would do given carte blanche. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>All I can remember is “natural color” and I agreed to the rest.  When a mythical Hair God shares his opinion, you really should just take it and get on with your day.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Once I was properly caffeinated, we were able to ramble on about all sorts of common interests from music to guitar to writing to entrepreneurship to topics ad infinitum.  (+1000 points)  I am sure that you will agree with me that NOTHING is more awkward than sitting in a hairstylist’s chair whom you are unable to talk to.  How can they <em>possibly </em>serve as your surrogate therapist/dating coach/sounding board if you can’t carry on a decent conversation??? </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Salvador worked his magic throughout conversational turns and many musical shifts (as you ease into the morning the classical needs to be replaced with rock) and then…Voila!  Hair Extraordinaire! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I have already received numerous compliments from “the outside”. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>In this illicit affair, the cheating paid off and no one got hurt.**</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>The most surprising thing about Salvador is that for a mythical Hair God, he is extraordinarily down-to-earth and <em>a really good guy</em>. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Often with myths, we develop high expectations that can’t be adhered to in Real Life.  Salvador will exceed your expectations.  And you’ll have fun in the process.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Go see him and Tahoe.  </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong><a href=\"http://www.hairpeace.com/\" target=\"_blank\">http://www.hairpeace.com/</a></strong></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong> </strong></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>                           </strong> ****************************************</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>** Please note that I do not condone cheating in other relationships.  But if your hairstylist isn’t cutting it (pun intended), then by all means get out there and sow your wild oats with someone new! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>','Day 28:  Have YOU Ever Cheated on Your Hairdresser?','','inherit','open','open','','1307-revision-15','','','2010-10-24 20:38:22','2010-10-25 03:38:22','',1307,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/10/24/1307-revision-15/',0,'revision','',0),(1334,1,'2010-10-24 20:38:38','2010-10-25 03:38:38','<p><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/salcalvinfo.gif\"><img class=\"alignleft size-full wp-image-1326\" title=\"salcalvinfo\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/salcalvinfo.gif\" alt=\"\" width=\"1\" height=\"1\" /></a><a href=\"http://www.hairpeace.com/Home.html\" target=\"_blank\"><img class=\"alignleft size-full wp-image-1319\" title=\"salvadorsign\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/salvadorsign2.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Most women tend to be fiercely loyal to their hairstylists.  Suggest to a woman that she try a new stylist and a look of horror (tinged with guilt) crosses her face.  A woman would sooner call it quits with her significant other than abandon or cheat on her mane guy/girl. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>And, yes, this applies to women who are downright unhappy with their stylist!  They would rather stay in a dysfunctional hair relationship than break away to healthier pastures.  They walk around with a bad haircut and/or color because they don’t want to hurt their hairstylist’s <em>feelings</em>. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I know.  I used to feel that way as well.  Until the day I was forced to break up with “G”.  He left me with no choice.   </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong><span style=\"color: #ff00ff; font-size: large;\">Like all new relationships, it was A Match Made in Heaven.  At first.  </span></strong></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong><span style=\"color: #ff00ff; font-size: large;\"> </span></strong> </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>G was my hairstylist from five years ago.  I met him at a party.  At the time, I was displeased with my hair.  My metrosexual poster boy friend recommended a top stylist in Snobbsdale who dyed my tresses a lighter shade of black and razor cut my hair.  The color made me look like I was in dire need of a makeover, and the razor made my hair frizz to a frazzle. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>At the party (hosted by metrosexual poster boy, ironically), G sat down next to me and told me that he loved my dress.  (+10 points)  He then commented that my shoes were to die for.  (+20 points)  We talked incessantly for a while, and it came up in conversation that he was a hairstylist.  I immediately blurted out my hair woes. Don’t we often treat our hairstylists like therapists?  God bless them for listening. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>G calmly assessed the damage.  He explained to me that my hair was too dark and washed me out.  (+50 points)  G was HORRIFIED that someone had taken a razor to the hair of someone of “Mediterranean descent”.  (+100 points)  My hair should be blunt cut to eliminate the frizzle-frazzle!  (+500 points) </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>This was destined to be a hair relationship made in Heaven! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I called G that Tuesday to schedule an appointment.  When our big day rolled around, it was everything a girl could want.  I will never forget – he dyed my hair with a color called “Swedish blonde” which sounded ridiculous at first.  Me?  A blonde?  Uh…no.  BUT!!!!  G transformed my hair into shade of golden brunette perfect for my skin tone.  And his blunt cut layers made my hair bouncing and behaving!  (+ points ad infinitum)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I was hooked. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>G and I also started to see each other outside of the salon.  (Platonically.  G wasn’t attracted to women.)  He shared my taste for indie restaurants and coffeehouses.  We had so much fun together.  </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Then one day, G was in a mood.  (He had a flair for the dramatic.)  He was stressed out about a guy who dissed him and ticked off at his landlord.  In the midst of relaying his hassles in vivid detail during my haircut, he cut my layers unevenly.  i.e. He screwed up my hair.  Big time.  Every woman’s worst hair nightmare. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Now, I am a forgiving sort.  I am prone to granting second chances.  We are all human.  We all make mistakes.  We should all give one another a little more grace. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>So I went back to G for a quick fix. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Which turned out to be not a fix, but another disaster. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong><span style=\"color: #ff0000; font-size: large;\">Breaking Up is Hard to Do </span></strong></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong><span style=\"color: #ff0000; font-size: large;\"> </span></strong><br class=\"spacer_\" /> In some aspects, breaking up with G was worse than breaking up with a boyfriend.  With a boyfriend, you take time off to heal and ready yourself for another relationship someday.  With your hairstylist, you need to find another one right away.  This is far from ideal when you’re gun-shy and suffering from hair trauma. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Argh. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I went through a few hairstylists after G.  Everyone was good at first, and then they slacked off after a year or so.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I was then introduced to a husband/wife cut/color duo who are great.  I absolutely adore them – talented, super smart, and warm.  But our schedules haven’t been meshing lately.  Availability is limited to one Saturday a month, and if I happen to have other plans that Saturday, then I’m SOL.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>And this is how I came to cheat on my hairstylist.  I needed an appointment for this past Saturday, and my stylists were unavailable. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><span style=\"color: #ff6600; font-size: large;\"><strong>If you are going to cheat, then reach for the hairstylist to the stars.  </strong></span></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /> For months, my friend Britt waxed on about <em>“Salvador”.</em>  The way she talked about him, I envisioned some sort of mythical Hair God. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>“<em>Salvador</em> is the best stylist that I’ve ever been to.  He specializes in natural color.”  (+50 points)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>“<em>Salvador</em> is the only one in this town who knows how to cut hair.  He cuts the layers blunt so your hair is thick and voluptuous and doesn’t get scraggly as with point cutting.”  (+100 points)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>“<em>Salvador</em> has a really cool artsy studio downtown with art and photographs and instruments.”  (I’m a sucker for artsy fartsy.  +50 points.)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>“<em>Salvador</em> understands how to cut wavy hair.” (+100 points)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>“<em>Salvador</em>!  <em>Salvador</em>!  <em>Salvador</em>!”  (+50 points for reputation of mythical proportion) </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>So this past Saturday morning I hauled my cookies downtown for an appointment with <em>Salvador</em>. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Upon entering aforementioned artsy fartsy studio, I was greeted by an overly enthusiastic Golden Retriever named Tahoe.  (+ points ad infinitum)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Salvador (with locks of mythical proportion) welcomed me to the salon and chit-chatted away about the morning.  I was up late the night before, slept in, and had just started drinking my coffee, so I slurped it down in a hurry with hopes that I could be a tenth as chipper as Tahoe and ready to talk to another human being.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Classical music played in the background (+10 points) while Salvador sat me in the chair and inquired about what I wanted to do with my hair.  I asked him what he would do given carte blanche. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>All I can remember is “natural color” and I agreed to the rest.  When a mythical Hair God shares his opinion, you really should just take it and get on with your day.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Once I was properly caffeinated, we were able to ramble on about all sorts of common interests from music to guitar to writing to entrepreneurship to topics ad infinitum.  (+1000 points)  I am sure that you will agree with me that NOTHING is more awkward than sitting in a hairstylist’s chair whom you are unable to talk to.  How can they <em>possibly </em>serve as your surrogate therapist/dating coach/sounding board if you can’t carry on a decent conversation??? </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Salvador worked his magic throughout conversational turns and many musical shifts (as you ease into the morning the classical needs to be replaced with rock) and then…Voila!  Hair Extraordinaire! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I have already received numerous compliments from “the outside”. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>In this illicit affair, the cheating paid off and no one got hurt.**</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>The most surprising thing about Salvador is that for a mythical Hair God, he is extraordinarily down-to-earth and <em>a really good guy</em>. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Often with myths, we develop high expectations that can’t be adhered to in Real Life.  Salvador will exceed your expectations.  And you’ll have fun in the process.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Go see him and Tahoe.  </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong><a href=\"http://www.hairpeace.com/\" target=\"_blank\">http://www.hairpeace.com/</a></strong></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong> </strong></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>                           </strong> ****************************************</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>** Please note that I do not condone cheating in other relationships.  But if your hairstylist isn’t cutting it (pun intended), then by all means get out there and sow your wild oats with someone new! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>','Day 28:  Have YOU Ever Cheated on Your Hairdresser?','','inherit','open','open','','1307-revision-16','','','2010-10-24 20:38:38','2010-10-25 03:38:38','',1307,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/10/24/1307-revision-16/',0,'revision','',0),(1335,1,'2010-10-24 20:38:50','2010-10-25 03:38:50','<p><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/salcalvinfo.gif\"><img class=\"alignleft size-full wp-image-1326\" title=\"salcalvinfo\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/salcalvinfo.gif\" alt=\"\" width=\"1\" height=\"1\" /></a><a href=\"http://www.hairpeace.com/Home.html\" target=\"_blank\"><img class=\"alignleft size-full wp-image-1319\" title=\"salvadorsign\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/salvadorsign2.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Most women tend to be fiercely loyal to their hairstylists.  Suggest to a woman that she try a new stylist and a look of horror (tinged with guilt) crosses her face.  A woman would sooner call it quits with her significant other than abandon or cheat on her mane guy/girl. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>And, yes, this applies to women who are downright unhappy with their stylist!  They would rather stay in a dysfunctional hair relationship than break away to healthier pastures.  They walk around with a bad haircut and/or color because they don’t want to hurt their hairstylist’s <em>feelings</em>. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I know.  I used to feel that way as well.  Until the day I was forced to break up with “G”.  He left me with no choice.   </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong><span style=\"color: #ff00ff; font-size: large;\">Like all new relationships, it was A Match Made in Heaven.  At first.  </span></strong></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong><span style=\"color: #ff00ff; font-size: large;\"> </span></strong> </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>G was my hairstylist from five years ago.  I met him at a party.  At the time, I was displeased with my hair.  My metrosexual poster boy friend recommended a top stylist in Snobbsdale who dyed my tresses a lighter shade of black and razor cut my hair.  The color made me look like I was in dire need of a makeover, and the razor made my hair frizz to a frazzle. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>At the party (hosted by metrosexual poster boy, ironically), G sat down next to me and told me that he loved my dress.  (+10 points)  He then commented that my shoes were to die for.  (+20 points)  We talked incessantly for a while, and it came up in conversation that he was a hairstylist.  I immediately blurted out my hair woes. Don’t we often treat our hairstylists like therapists?  God bless them for listening. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>G calmly assessed the damage.  He explained to me that my hair was too dark and washed me out.  (+50 points)  G was HORRIFIED that someone had taken a razor to the hair of someone of “Mediterranean descent”.  (+100 points)  My hair should be blunt cut to eliminate the frizzle-frazzle!  (+500 points) </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>This was destined to be a hair relationship made in Heaven! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I called G that Tuesday to schedule an appointment.  When our big day rolled around, it was everything a girl could want.  I will never forget – he dyed my hair with a color called “Swedish blonde” which sounded ridiculous at first.  Me?  A blonde?  Uh…no.  BUT!!!!  G transformed my hair into shade of golden brunette perfect for my skin tone.  And his blunt cut layers made my hair bouncing and behaving!  (+ points ad infinitum)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I was hooked. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>G and I also started to see each other outside of the salon.  (Platonically.  G wasn’t attracted to women.)  He shared my taste for indie restaurants and coffeehouses.  We had so much fun together.  </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Then one day, G was in a mood.  (He had a flair for the dramatic.)  He was stressed out about a guy who dissed him and ticked off at his landlord.  In the midst of relaying his hassles in vivid detail during my haircut, he cut my layers unevenly.  i.e. He screwed up my hair.  Big time.  Every woman’s worst hair nightmare. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Now, I am a forgiving sort.  I am prone to granting second chances.  We are all human.  We all make mistakes.  We should all give one another a little more grace. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>So I went back to G for a quick fix. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Which turned out to be not a fix, but another disaster. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong><span style=\"color: #ff0000; font-size: large;\">Breaking Up is Hard to Do </span></strong></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong><span style=\"color: #ff0000; font-size: large;\"> </span></strong><br class=\"spacer_\" /> In some aspects, breaking up with G was worse than breaking up with a boyfriend.  With a boyfriend, you take time off to heal and ready yourself for another relationship someday.  With your hairstylist, you need to find another one right away.  This is far from ideal when you’re gun-shy and suffering from hair trauma. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Argh. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I went through a few hairstylists after G.  Everyone was good at first, and then they slacked off after a year or so.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I was then introduced to a husband/wife cut/color duo who are great.  I absolutely adore them – talented, super smart, and warm.  But our schedules haven’t been meshing lately.  Availability is limited to one Saturday a month, and if I happen to have other plans that Saturday, then I’m SOL.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>And this is how I came to cheat on my hairstylist.  I needed an appointment for this past Saturday, and my stylists were unavailable. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><span style=\"color: #ff6600; font-size: large;\"><strong>If you are going to cheat, then reach for the hairstylist to the stars.  </strong></span></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /> For months, my friend Britt waxed on about <em>“Salvador”.</em>  The way she talked about him, I envisioned some sort of mythical Hair God. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>“<em>Salvador</em> is the best stylist that I’ve ever been to.  He specializes in natural color.”  (+50 points)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>“<em>Salvador</em> is the only one in this town who knows how to cut hair.  He cuts the layers blunt so your hair is thick and voluptuous and doesn’t get scraggly as with point cutting.”  (+100 points)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>“<em>Salvador</em> has a really cool artsy studio downtown with art and photographs and instruments.”  (I’m a sucker for artsy fartsy.  +50 points.)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>“<em>Salvador</em> understands how to cut wavy hair.” (+100 points)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>“<em>Salvador</em>!  <em>Salvador</em>!  <em>Salvador</em>!”  (+50 points for reputation of mythical proportion) </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>So this past Saturday morning I hauled my cookies downtown for an appointment with <em>Salvador</em>. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Upon entering aforementioned artsy fartsy studio, I was greeted by an overly enthusiastic Golden Retriever named Tahoe.  (+ points ad infinitum)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Salvador (with locks of mythical proportion) welcomed me to the salon and chit-chatted away about the morning.  I was up late the night before, slept in, and had just started drinking my coffee, so I slurped it down in a hurry with hopes that I could be a tenth as chipper as Tahoe and ready to talk to another human being.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Classical music played in the background (+10 points) while Salvador sat me in the chair and inquired about what I wanted to do with my hair.  I asked him what he would do given carte blanche. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>All I can remember is “natural color” and I agreed to the rest.  When a mythical Hair God shares his opinion, you really should just take it and get on with your day.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Once I was properly caffeinated, we were able to ramble on about all sorts of common interests from music to guitar to writing to entrepreneurship to topics ad infinitum.  (+1000 points)  I am sure that you will agree with me that NOTHING is more awkward than sitting in a hairstylist’s chair whom you are unable to talk to.  How can they <em>possibly </em>serve as your surrogate therapist/dating coach/sounding board if you can’t carry on a decent conversation??? </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Salvador worked his magic throughout conversational turns and many musical shifts (as you ease into the morning the classical needs to be replaced with rock) and then…Voila!  Hair Extraordinaire! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I have already received numerous compliments from “the outside”. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>In this illicit affair, the cheating paid off and no one got hurt.**</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>The most surprising thing about Salvador is that for a mythical Hair God, he is extraordinarily down-to-earth and <em>a really good guy</em>. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Often with myths, we develop high expectations that can’t be adhered to in Real Life.  Salvador will exceed your expectations.  And you’ll have fun in the process.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Go see him and Tahoe.  </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong><a href=\"http://www.hairpeace.com/\" target=\"_blank\">http://www.hairpeace.com/</a></strong></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong> </strong></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>                           </strong> ****************************************</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>** Please note that I do not condone cheating in other relationships.  But if your hairstylist isn’t cutting it (pun intended), then by all means get out there and sow your wild oats with someone new! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>','Day 28:  Have YOU Ever Cheated on Your Hairdresser?','','inherit','open','open','','1307-revision-17','','','2010-10-24 20:38:50','2010-10-25 03:38:50','',1307,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/10/24/1307-revision-17/',0,'revision','',0),(1339,1,'2010-10-24 20:44:23','2010-10-25 03:44:23','','tahoe','','inherit','open','open','','tahoe-2','','','2010-10-24 20:44:23','2010-10-25 03:44:23','',1307,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/tahoe1.jpg',0,'attachment','image/jpeg',0),(1336,1,'2010-10-24 20:39:36','2010-10-25 03:39:36','<p><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/salcalvinfo.gif\"><img class=\"alignleft size-full wp-image-1326\" title=\"salcalvinfo\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/salcalvinfo.gif\" alt=\"\" width=\"1\" height=\"1\" /></a><a href=\"http://www.hairpeace.com/Home.html\" target=\"_blank\"><img class=\"alignleft size-full wp-image-1319\" title=\"salvadorsign\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/salvadorsign2.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Most women tend to be fiercely loyal to their hairstylists.  Suggest to a woman that she try a new stylist and a look of horror (tinged with guilt) crosses her face.  A woman would sooner call it quits with her significant other than abandon or cheat on her mane guy/girl. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>And, yes, this applies to women who are downright unhappy with their stylist!  They would rather stay in a dysfunctional hair relationship than break away to healthier pastures.  They walk around with a bad haircut and/or color because they don’t want to hurt their hairstylist’s <em>feelings</em>. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I know.  I used to feel that way as well.  Until the day I was forced to break up with “G”.  He left me with no choice.   </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong><span style=\"color: #ff00ff; font-size: large;\">Like all new relationships, it was A Match Made in Heaven.  At first.  </span></strong></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong><span style=\"color: #ff00ff; font-size: large;\"> </span></strong> </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>G was my hairstylist from five years ago.  I met him at a party.  At the time, I was displeased with my hair.  My metrosexual poster boy friend recommended a top stylist in Snobbsdale who dyed my tresses a lighter shade of black and razor cut my hair.  The color made me look like I was in dire need of a makeover, and the razor made my hair frizz to a frazzle. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>At the party (hosted by metrosexual poster boy, ironically), G sat down next to me and told me that he loved my dress.  (+10 points)  He then commented that my shoes were to die for.  (+20 points)  We talked incessantly for a while, and it came up in conversation that he was a hairstylist.  I immediately blurted out my hair woes. Don’t we often treat our hairstylists like therapists?  God bless them for listening. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>G calmly assessed the damage.  He explained to me that my hair was too dark and washed me out.  (+50 points)  G was HORRIFIED that someone had taken a razor to the hair of someone of “Mediterranean descent”.  (+100 points)  My hair should be blunt cut to eliminate the frizzle-frazzle!  (+500 points) </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>This was destined to be a hair relationship made in Heaven! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I called G that Tuesday to schedule an appointment.  When our big day rolled around, it was everything a girl could want.  I will never forget – he dyed my hair with a color called “Swedish blonde” which sounded ridiculous at first.  Me?  A blonde?  Uh…no.  BUT!!!!  G transformed my hair into shade of golden brunette perfect for my skin tone.  And his blunt cut layers made my hair bouncing and behaving!  (+ points ad infinitum)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I was hooked. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>G and I also started to see each other outside of the salon.  (Platonically.  G wasn’t attracted to women.)  He shared my taste for indie restaurants and coffeehouses.  We had so much fun together.  </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Then one day, G was in a mood.  (He had a flair for the dramatic.)  He was stressed out about a guy who dissed him and ticked off at his landlord.  In the midst of relaying his hassles in vivid detail during my haircut, he cut my layers unevenly.  i.e. He screwed up my hair.  Big time.  Every woman’s worst hair nightmare. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Now, I am a forgiving sort.  I am prone to granting second chances.  We are all human.  We all make mistakes.  We should all give one another a little more grace. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>So I went back to G for a quick fix. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Which turned out to be not a fix, but another disaster. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong><span style=\"color: #ff0000; font-size: large;\">Breaking Up is Hard to Do </span></strong></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong><span style=\"color: #ff0000; font-size: large;\"> </span></strong><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p> In some aspects, breaking up with G was worse than breaking up with a boyfriend.  With a boyfriend, you take time off to heal and ready yourself for another relationship someday.  With your hairstylist, you need to find another one right away.  This is far from ideal when you’re gun-shy and suffering from hair trauma. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Argh. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I went through a few hairstylists after G.  Everyone was good at first, and then they slacked off after a year or so.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I was then introduced to a husband/wife cut/color duo who are great.  I absolutely adore them – talented, super smart, and warm.  But our schedules haven’t been meshing lately.  Availability is limited to one Saturday a month, and if I happen to have other plans that Saturday, then I’m SOL.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>And this is how I came to cheat on my hairstylist.  I needed an appointment for this past Saturday, and my stylists were unavailable. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><span style=\"color: #ff6600; font-size: large;\"><strong>If you are going to cheat, then reach for the hairstylist to the stars.  </strong></span></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /> For months, my friend Britt waxed on about <em>“Salvador”.</em>  The way she talked about him, I envisioned some sort of mythical Hair God. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>“<em>Salvador</em> is the best stylist that I’ve ever been to.  He specializes in natural color.”  (+50 points)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>“<em>Salvador</em> is the only one in this town who knows how to cut hair.  He cuts the layers blunt so your hair is thick and voluptuous and doesn’t get scraggly as with point cutting.”  (+100 points)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>“<em>Salvador</em> has a really cool artsy studio downtown with art and photographs and instruments.”  (I’m a sucker for artsy fartsy.  +50 points.)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>“<em>Salvador</em> understands how to cut wavy hair.” (+100 points)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>“<em>Salvador</em>!  <em>Salvador</em>!  <em>Salvador</em>!”  (+50 points for reputation of mythical proportion) </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>So this past Saturday morning I hauled my cookies downtown for an appointment with <em>Salvador</em>. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Upon entering aforementioned artsy fartsy studio, I was greeted by an overly enthusiastic Golden Retriever named Tahoe.  (+ points ad infinitum)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Salvador (with locks of mythical proportion) welcomed me to the salon and chit-chatted away about the morning.  I was up late the night before, slept in, and had just started drinking my coffee, so I slurped it down in a hurry with hopes that I could be a tenth as chipper as Tahoe and ready to talk to another human being.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Classical music played in the background (+10 points) while Salvador sat me in the chair and inquired about what I wanted to do with my hair.  I asked him what he would do given carte blanche. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>All I can remember is “natural color” and I agreed to the rest.  When a mythical Hair God shares his opinion, you really should just take it and get on with your day.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Once I was properly caffeinated, we were able to ramble on about all sorts of common interests from music to guitar to writing to entrepreneurship to topics ad infinitum.  (+1000 points)  I am sure that you will agree with me that NOTHING is more awkward than sitting in a hairstylist’s chair whom you are unable to talk to.  How can they <em>possibly </em>serve as your surrogate therapist/dating coach/sounding board if you can’t carry on a decent conversation??? </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Salvador worked his magic throughout conversational turns and many musical shifts (as you ease into the morning the classical needs to be replaced with rock) and then…Voila!  Hair Extraordinaire! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I have already received numerous compliments from “the outside”. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>In this illicit affair, the cheating paid off and no one got hurt.**</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>The most surprising thing about Salvador is that for a mythical Hair God, he is extraordinarily down-to-earth and <em>a really good guy</em>. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Often with myths, we develop high expectations that can’t be adhered to in Real Life.  Salvador will exceed your expectations.  And you’ll have fun in the process.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Go see him and Tahoe.  </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong><a href=\"http://www.hairpeace.com/\" target=\"_blank\">http://www.hairpeace.com/</a></strong></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong> </strong></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>                           </strong> ****************************************</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>** Please note that I do not condone cheating in other relationships.  But if your hairstylist isn’t cutting it (pun intended), then by all means get out there and sow your wild oats with someone new! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>','Day 28:  Have YOU Ever Cheated on Your Hairdresser?','','inherit','open','open','','1307-revision-18','','','2010-10-24 20:39:36','2010-10-25 03:39:36','',1307,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/10/24/1307-revision-18/',0,'revision','',0),(1337,1,'2010-10-24 20:40:19','2010-10-25 03:40:19','<p><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/salcalvinfo.gif\"><img class=\"alignleft size-full wp-image-1326\" title=\"salcalvinfo\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/salcalvinfo.gif\" alt=\"\" width=\"1\" height=\"1\" /></a><a href=\"http://www.hairpeace.com/Home.html\" target=\"_blank\"><img class=\"alignleft size-full wp-image-1319\" title=\"salvadorsign\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/salvadorsign2.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Most women tend to be fiercely loyal to their hairstylists.  Suggest to a woman that she try a new stylist and a look of horror (tinged with guilt) crosses her face.  A woman would sooner call it quits with her significant other than abandon or cheat on her mane guy/girl. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>And, yes, this applies to women who are downright unhappy with their stylist!  They would rather stay in a dysfunctional hair relationship than break away to healthier pastures.  They walk around with a bad haircut and/or color because they don’t want to hurt their hairstylist’s <em>feelings</em>. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I know.  I used to feel that way as well.  Until the day I was forced to break up with “G”.  He left me with no choice.   </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong><span style=\"color: #ff00ff; font-size: large;\">Like all new relationships, it was A Match Made in Heaven.  At first.  </span></strong></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong><span style=\"color: #ff00ff; font-size: large;\"> </span></strong> </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>G was my hairstylist from five years ago.  I met him at a party.  At the time, I was displeased with my hair.  My metrosexual poster boy friend recommended a top stylist in Snobbsdale who dyed my tresses a lighter shade of black and razor cut my hair.  The color made me look like I was in dire need of a makeover, and the razor made my hair frizz to a frazzle. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>At the party (hosted by metrosexual poster boy, ironically), G sat down next to me and told me that he loved my dress.  (+10 points)  He then commented that my shoes were to die for.  (+20 points)  We talked incessantly for a while, and it came up in conversation that he was a hairstylist.  I immediately blurted out my hair woes. Don’t we often treat our hairstylists like therapists?  God bless them for listening. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>G calmly assessed the damage.  He explained to me that my hair was too dark and washed me out.  (+50 points)  G was HORRIFIED that someone had taken a razor to the hair of someone of “Mediterranean descent”.  (+100 points)  My hair should be blunt cut to eliminate the frizzle-frazzle!  (+500 points) </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>This was destined to be a hair relationship made in Heaven! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I called G that Tuesday to schedule an appointment.  When our big day rolled around, it was everything a girl could want.  I will never forget – he dyed my hair with a color called “Swedish blonde” which sounded ridiculous at first.  Me?  A blonde?  Uh…no.  BUT!!!!  G transformed my hair into shade of golden brunette perfect for my skin tone.  And his blunt cut layers made my hair bouncing and behaving!  (+ points ad infinitum)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I was hooked. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>G and I also started to see each other outside of the salon.  (Platonically.  G wasn’t attracted to women.)  He shared my taste for indie restaurants and coffeehouses.  We had so much fun together.  </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Then one day, G was in a mood.  (He had a flair for the dramatic.)  He was stressed out about a guy who dissed him and ticked off at his landlord.  In the midst of relaying his hassles in vivid detail during my haircut, he cut my layers unevenly.  i.e. He screwed up my hair.  Big time.  Every woman’s worst hair nightmare. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Now, I am a forgiving sort.  I am prone to granting second chances.  We are all human.  We all make mistakes.  We should all give one another a little more grace. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>So I went back to G for a quick fix. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Which turned out to be not a fix, but another disaster. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong><span style=\"color: #ff0000; font-size: large;\">Breaking Up is Hard to Do </span></strong></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong><span style=\"color: #ff0000; font-size: large;\"> </span></strong></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong><span style=\"color: #ff0000; font-size: large;\"> </span></strong>In some aspects, breaking up with G was worse than breaking up with a boyfriend.  With a boyfriend, you take time off to heal and ready yourself for another relationship someday.  With your hairstylist, you need to find another one right away.  This is far from ideal when you’re gun-shy and suffering from hair trauma. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Argh. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I went through a few hairstylists after G.  Everyone was good at first, and then they slacked off after a year or so.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I was then introduced to a husband/wife cut/color duo who are great.  I absolutely adore them – talented, super smart, and warm.  But our schedules haven’t been meshing lately.  Availability is limited to one Saturday a month, and if I happen to have other plans that Saturday, then I’m SOL.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>And this is how I came to cheat on my hairstylist.  I needed an appointment for this past Saturday, and my stylists were unavailable. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><span style=\"color: #ff6600; font-size: large;\"><strong>If you are going to cheat, then reach for the hairstylist to the stars.  </strong></span></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /> For months, my friend Britt waxed on about <em>“Salvador”.</em>  The way she talked about him, I envisioned some sort of mythical Hair God. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>“<em>Salvador</em> is the best stylist that I’ve ever been to.  He specializes in natural color.”  (+50 points)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>“<em>Salvador</em> is the only one in this town who knows how to cut hair.  He cuts the layers blunt so your hair is thick and voluptuous and doesn’t get scraggly as with point cutting.”  (+100 points)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>“<em>Salvador</em> has a really cool artsy studio downtown with art and photographs and instruments.”  (I’m a sucker for artsy fartsy.  +50 points.)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>“<em>Salvador</em> understands how to cut wavy hair.” (+100 points)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>“<em>Salvador</em>!  <em>Salvador</em>!  <em>Salvador</em>!”  (+50 points for reputation of mythical proportion) </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>So this past Saturday morning I hauled my cookies downtown for an appointment with <em>Salvador</em>. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Upon entering aforementioned artsy fartsy studio, I was greeted by an overly enthusiastic Golden Retriever named Tahoe.  (+ points ad infinitum)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Salvador (with locks of mythical proportion) welcomed me to the salon and chit-chatted away about the morning.  I was up late the night before, slept in, and had just started drinking my coffee, so I slurped it down in a hurry with hopes that I could be a tenth as chipper as Tahoe and ready to talk to another human being.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Classical music played in the background (+10 points) while Salvador sat me in the chair and inquired about what I wanted to do with my hair.  I asked him what he would do given carte blanche. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>All I can remember is “natural color” and I agreed to the rest.  When a mythical Hair God shares his opinion, you really should just take it and get on with your day.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Once I was properly caffeinated, we were able to ramble on about all sorts of common interests from music to guitar to writing to entrepreneurship to topics ad infinitum.  (+1000 points)  I am sure that you will agree with me that NOTHING is more awkward than sitting in a hairstylist’s chair whom you are unable to talk to.  How can they <em>possibly </em>serve as your surrogate therapist/dating coach/sounding board if you can’t carry on a decent conversation??? </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Salvador worked his magic throughout conversational turns and many musical shifts (as you ease into the morning the classical needs to be replaced with rock) and then…Voila!  Hair Extraordinaire! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I have already received numerous compliments from “the outside”. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>In this illicit affair, the cheating paid off and no one got hurt.**</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>The most surprising thing about Salvador is that for a mythical Hair God, he is extraordinarily down-to-earth and <em>a really good guy</em>. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Often with myths, we develop high expectations that can’t be adhered to in Real Life.  Salvador will exceed your expectations.  And you’ll have fun in the process.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Go see him and Tahoe.  </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong><a href=\"http://www.hairpeace.com/\" target=\"_blank\">http://www.hairpeace.com/</a></strong></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong> </strong></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>                           </strong> ****************************************</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>** Please note that I do not condone cheating in other relationships.  But if your hairstylist isn’t cutting it (pun intended), then by all means get out there and sow your wild oats with someone new! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>','Day 28:  Have YOU Ever Cheated on Your Hairdresser?','','inherit','open','open','','1307-revision-19','','','2010-10-24 20:40:19','2010-10-25 03:40:19','',1307,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/10/24/1307-revision-19/',0,'revision','',0),(1338,1,'2010-10-24 20:40:38','2010-10-25 03:40:38','<p><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/salcalvinfo.gif\"><img class=\"alignleft size-full wp-image-1326\" title=\"salcalvinfo\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/salcalvinfo.gif\" alt=\"\" width=\"1\" height=\"1\" /></a><a href=\"http://www.hairpeace.com/Home.html\" target=\"_blank\"><img class=\"alignleft size-full wp-image-1319\" title=\"salvadorsign\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/salvadorsign2.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Most women tend to be fiercely loyal to their hairstylists.  Suggest to a woman that she try a new stylist and a look of horror (tinged with guilt) crosses her face.  A woman would sooner call it quits with her significant other than abandon or cheat on her mane guy/girl. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>And, yes, this applies to women who are downright unhappy with their stylist!  They would rather stay in a dysfunctional hair relationship than break away to healthier pastures.  They walk around with a bad haircut and/or color because they don’t want to hurt their hairstylist’s <em>feelings</em>. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I know.  I used to feel that way as well.  Until the day I was forced to break up with “G”.  He left me with no choice.   </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong><span style=\"color: #ff00ff; font-size: large;\">Like all new relationships, it was A Match Made in Heaven.  At first.  </span></strong></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong><span style=\"color: #ff00ff; font-size: large;\"> </span></strong> </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>G was my hairstylist from five years ago.  I met him at a party.  At the time, I was displeased with my hair.  My metrosexual poster boy friend recommended a top stylist in Snobbsdale who dyed my tresses a lighter shade of black and razor cut my hair.  The color made me look like I was in dire need of a makeover, and the razor made my hair frizz to a frazzle. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>At the party (hosted by metrosexual poster boy, ironically), G sat down next to me and told me that he loved my dress.  (+10 points)  He then commented that my shoes were to die for.  (+20 points)  We talked incessantly for a while, and it came up in conversation that he was a hairstylist.  I immediately blurted out my hair woes. Don’t we often treat our hairstylists like therapists?  God bless them for listening. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>G calmly assessed the damage.  He explained to me that my hair was too dark and washed me out.  (+50 points)  G was HORRIFIED that someone had taken a razor to the hair of someone of “Mediterranean descent”.  (+100 points)  My hair should be blunt cut to eliminate the frizzle-frazzle!  (+500 points) </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>This was destined to be a hair relationship made in Heaven! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I called G that Tuesday to schedule an appointment.  When our big day rolled around, it was everything a girl could want.  I will never forget – he dyed my hair with a color called “Swedish blonde” which sounded ridiculous at first.  Me?  A blonde?  Uh…no.  BUT!!!!  G transformed my hair into shade of golden brunette perfect for my skin tone.  And his blunt cut layers made my hair bouncing and behaving!  (+ points ad infinitum)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I was hooked. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>G and I also started to see each other outside of the salon.  (Platonically.  G wasn’t attracted to women.)  He shared my taste for indie restaurants and coffeehouses.  We had so much fun together.  </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Then one day, G was in a mood.  (He had a flair for the dramatic.)  He was stressed out about a guy who dissed him and ticked off at his landlord.  In the midst of relaying his hassles in vivid detail during my haircut, he cut my layers unevenly.  i.e. He screwed up my hair.  Big time.  Every woman’s worst hair nightmare. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Now, I am a forgiving sort.  I am prone to granting second chances.  We are all human.  We all make mistakes.  We should all give one another a little more grace. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>So I went back to G for a quick fix. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Which turned out to be not a fix, but another disaster. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong><span style=\"color: #ff0000; font-size: large;\">Breaking Up is Hard to Do </span></strong></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong><span style=\"color: #ff0000; font-size: large;\"> </span></strong></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong><span style=\"color: #ff0000; font-size: large;\"> </span></strong>In some aspects, breaking up with G was worse than breaking up with a boyfriend.  With a boyfriend, you take time off to heal and ready yourself for another relationship someday.  With your hairstylist, you need to find another one right away.  This is far from ideal when you’re gun-shy and suffering from hair trauma. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Argh. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I went through a few hairstylists after G.  Everyone was good at first, and then they slacked off after a year or so.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I was then introduced to a husband/wife cut/color duo who are great.  I absolutely adore them – talented, super smart, and warm.  But our schedules haven’t been meshing lately.  Availability is limited to one Saturday a month, and if I happen to have other plans that Saturday, then I’m SOL.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>And this is how I came to cheat on my hairstylist.  I needed an appointment for this past Saturday, and my stylists were unavailable. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><span style=\"color: #ff6600; font-size: large;\"><strong>If you are going to cheat, then reach for the hairstylist to the stars.  </strong></span></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /> For months, my friend Britt waxed on about <em>“Salvador”.</em>  The way she talked about him, I envisioned some sort of mythical Hair God. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>“<em>Salvador</em> is the best stylist that I’ve ever been to.  He specializes in natural color.”  (+50 points)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>“<em>Salvador</em> is the only one in this town who knows how to cut hair.  He cuts the layers blunt so your hair is thick and voluptuous and doesn’t get scraggly as with point cutting.”  (+100 points)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>“<em>Salvador</em> has a really cool artsy studio downtown with art and photographs and instruments.”  (I’m a sucker for artsy fartsy.  +50 points.)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>“<em>Salvador</em> understands how to cut wavy hair.” (+100 points)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>“<em>Salvador</em>!  <em>Salvador</em>!  <em>Salvador</em>!”  (+50 points for reputation of mythical proportion) </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>So this past Saturday morning I hauled my cookies downtown for an appointment with <em>Salvador</em>. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Upon entering aforementioned artsy fartsy studio, I was greeted by an overly enthusiastic Golden Retriever named Tahoe.  (+ points ad infinitum)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Salvador (with locks of mythical proportion) welcomed me to the salon and chit-chatted away about the morning.  I was up late the night before, slept in, and had just started drinking my coffee, so I slurped it down in a hurry with hopes that I could be a tenth as chipper as Tahoe and ready to talk to another human being.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Classical music played in the background (+10 points) while Salvador sat me in the chair and inquired about what I wanted to do with my hair.  I asked him what he would do given carte blanche. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>All I can remember is “natural color” and I agreed to the rest.  When a mythical Hair God shares his opinion, you really should just take it and get on with your day.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Once I was properly caffeinated, we were able to ramble on about all sorts of common interests from music to guitar to writing to entrepreneurship to topics ad infinitum.  (+1000 points)  I am sure that you will agree with me that NOTHING is more awkward than sitting in a hairstylist’s chair whom you are unable to talk to.  How can they <em>possibly </em>serve as your surrogate therapist/dating coach/sounding board if you can’t carry on a decent conversation??? </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Salvador worked his magic throughout conversational turns and many musical shifts (as you ease into the morning the classical needs to be replaced with rock) and then…Voila!  Hair Extraordinaire! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I have already received numerous compliments from “the outside”. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>In this illicit affair, the cheating paid off and no one got hurt.**</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>The most surprising thing about Salvador is that for a mythical Hair God, he is extraordinarily down-to-earth and <em>a really good guy</em>. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Often with myths, we develop high expectations that can’t be adhered to in Real Life.  Salvador will exceed your expectations.  And you’ll have fun in the process.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Go see him and Tahoe.  </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong><a href=\"http://www.hairpeace.com/\" target=\"_blank\">http://www.hairpeace.com/</a></strong></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong> </strong></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>                           </strong> ****************************************</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>** Please note that I do not condone cheating in other relationships.  But if your hairstylist isn’t cutting it (pun intended), then by all means get out there and sow your wild oats with someone new! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>','Day 28:  Have YOU Ever Cheated on Your Hairdresser?','','inherit','open','open','','1307-revision-20','','','2010-10-24 20:40:38','2010-10-25 03:40:38','',1307,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/10/24/1307-revision-20/',0,'revision','',0),(1340,1,'2010-10-24 20:45:32','2010-10-25 03:45:32','','tahoe','','inherit','open','open','','tahoe-3','','','2010-10-24 20:45:32','2010-10-25 03:45:32','',1307,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/tahoe2.jpg',0,'attachment','image/jpeg',0),(1341,1,'2010-10-24 20:42:09','2010-10-25 03:42:09','<p><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/salcalvinfo.gif\"><img class=\"alignleft size-full wp-image-1326\" title=\"salcalvinfo\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/salcalvinfo.gif\" alt=\"\" width=\"1\" height=\"1\" /></a><a href=\"http://www.hairpeace.com/Home.html\" target=\"_blank\"><img class=\"alignleft size-full wp-image-1319\" title=\"salvadorsign\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/salvadorsign2.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a></p>\n\n<p>Most women tend to be fiercely loyal to their hairstylists.  Suggest to a woman that she try a new stylist and a look of horror (tinged with guilt) crosses her face.  A woman would sooner call it quits with her significant other than abandon or cheat on her mane guy/girl. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>And, yes, this applies to women who are downright unhappy with their stylist!  They would rather stay in a dysfunctional hair relationship than break away to healthier pastures.  They walk around with a bad haircut and/or color because they don’t want to hurt their hairstylist’s <em>feelings</em>. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>I know.  I used to feel that way as well.  Until the day I was forced to break up with “G”.  He left me with no choice.   </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><strong><span style=\"color: #ff00ff; font-size: large;\">Like all new relationships, it was A Match Made in Heaven.  At first.  </span></strong></p>\n\n<p><strong><span style=\"color: #ff00ff; font-size: large;\"> </span></strong> </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>G was my hairstylist from five years ago.  I met him at a party.  At the time, I was displeased with my hair.  My metrosexual poster boy friend recommended a top stylist in Snobbsdale who dyed my tresses a lighter shade of black and razor cut my hair.  The color made me look like I was in dire need of a makeover, and the razor made my hair frizz to a frazzle. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>At the party (hosted by metrosexual poster boy, ironically), G sat down next to me and told me that he loved my dress.  (+10 points)  He then commented that my shoes were to die for.  (+20 points)  We talked incessantly for a while, and it came up in conversation that he was a hairstylist.  I immediately blurted out my hair woes. Don’t we often treat our hairstylists like therapists?  God bless them for listening. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>G calmly assessed the damage.  He explained to me that my hair was too dark and washed me out.  (+50 points)  G was HORRIFIED that someone had taken a razor to the hair of someone of “Mediterranean descent”.  (+100 points)  My hair should be blunt cut to eliminate the frizzle-frazzle!  (+500 points) </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>This was destined to be a hair relationship made in Heaven! </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>I called G that Tuesday to schedule an appointment.  When our big day rolled around, it was everything a girl could want.  I will never forget – he dyed my hair with a color called “Swedish blonde” which sounded ridiculous at first.  Me?  A blonde?  Uh…no.  BUT!!!!  G transformed my hair into shade of golden brunette perfect for my skin tone.  And his blunt cut layers made my hair bouncing and behaving!  (+ points ad infinitum)</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>I was hooked. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>G and I also started to see each other outside of the salon.  (Platonically.  G wasn’t attracted to women.)  He shared my taste for indie restaurants and coffeehouses.  We had so much fun together.  </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Then one day, G was in a mood.  (He had a flair for the dramatic.)  He was stressed out about a guy who dissed him and ticked off at his landlord.  In the midst of relaying his hassles in vivid detail during my haircut, he cut my layers unevenly.  i.e. He screwed up my hair.  Big time.  Every woman’s worst hair nightmare. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Now, I am a forgiving sort.  I am prone to granting second chances.  We are all human.  We all make mistakes.  We should all give one another a little more grace. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>So I went back to G for a quick fix. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Which turned out to be not a fix, but another disaster. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><strong><span style=\"color: #ff0000; font-size: large;\">Breaking Up is Hard to Do </span></strong></p>\n\n<p><strong><span style=\"color: #ff0000; font-size: large;\"> </span></strong></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>In some aspects, breaking up with G was worse than breaking up with a boyfriend.  With a boyfriend, you take time off to heal and ready yourself for another relationship someday.  With your hairstylist, you need to find another one right away.  This is far from ideal when you’re gun-shy and suffering from hair trauma. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Argh. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>I went through a few hairstylists after G.  Everyone was good at first, and then they slacked off after a year or so.</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>I was then introduced to a husband/wife cut/color duo who are great.  I absolutely adore them – talented, super smart, and warm.  But our schedules haven’t been meshing lately.  Availability is limited to one Saturday a month, and if I happen to have other plans that Saturday, then I’m SOL.</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>And this is how I came to cheat on my hairstylist.  I needed an appointment for this past Saturday, and my stylists were unavailable. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><span style=\"color: #ff6600; font-size: large;\"><strong>If you are going to cheat, then reach for the hairstylist to the stars.  </strong></span></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /> For months, my friend Britt waxed on about <em>“Salvador”.</em>  The way she talked about him, I envisioned some sort of mythical Hair God. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>“<em>Salvador</em> is the best stylist that I’ve ever been to.  He specializes in natural color.”  (+50 points)</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>“<em>Salvador</em> is the only one in this town who knows how to cut hair.  He cuts the layers blunt so your hair is thick and voluptuous and doesn’t get scraggly as with point cutting.”  (+100 points)</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>“<em>Salvador</em> has a really cool artsy studio downtown with art and photographs and instruments.”  (I’m a sucker for artsy fartsy.  +50 points.)</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>“<em>Salvador</em> understands how to cut wavy hair.” (+100 points)</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>“<em>Salvador</em>!  <em>Salvador</em>!  <em>Salvador</em>!”  (+50 points for reputation of mythical proportion) </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>So this past Saturday morning I hauled my cookies downtown for an appointment with <em>Salvador</em>. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Upon entering aforementioned artsy fartsy studio, I was greeted by an overly enthusiastic Golden Retriever named Tahoe.  (+ points ad infinitum)</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Salvador (with locks of mythical proportion) welcomed me to the salon and chit-chatted away about the morning.  I was up late the night before, slept in, and had just started drinking my coffee, so I slurped it down in a hurry with hopes that I could be a tenth as chipper as Tahoe and ready to talk to another human being.</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Classical music played in the background (+10 points) while Salvador sat me in the chair and inquired about what I wanted to do with my hair.  I asked him what he would do given carte blanche. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>All I can remember is “natural color” and I agreed to the rest.  When a mythical Hair God shares his opinion, you really should just take it and get on with your day.</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Once I was properly caffeinated, we were able to ramble on about all sorts of common interests from music to guitar to writing to entrepreneurship to topics ad infinitum.  (+1000 points)  I am sure that you will agree with me that NOTHING is more awkward than sitting in a hairstylist’s chair whom you are unable to talk to.  How can they <em>possibly </em>serve as your surrogate therapist/dating coach/sounding board if you can’t carry on a decent conversation??? </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Salvador worked his magic throughout conversational turns and many musical shifts (as you ease into the morning the classical needs to be replaced with rock) and then…Voila!  Hair Extraordinaire! </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>I have already received numerous compliments from “the outside”. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>In this illicit affair, the cheating paid off and no one got hurt.**</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>The most surprising thing about Salvador is that for a mythical Hair God, he is extraordinarily down-to-earth and <em>a really good guy</em>. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Often with myths, we develop high expectations that can’t be adhered to in Real Life.  Salvador will exceed your expectations.  And you’ll have fun in the process.</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Go see him and Tahoe.  </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><strong><a href=\"http://www.hairpeace.com/\" target=\"_blank\">http://www.hairpeace.com/</a></strong></p>\n\n<p><strong> </strong></p>\n\n<p><strong>                           </strong> ****************************************</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>** Please note that I do not condone cheating in other relationships.  But if your hairstylist isn’t cutting it (pun intended), then by all means get out there and sow your wild oats with someone new! </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>','Day 28:  Have YOU Ever Cheated on Your Hairdresser?','','inherit','open','open','','1307-revision-21','','','2010-10-24 20:42:09','2010-10-25 03:42:09','',1307,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/10/24/1307-revision-21/',0,'revision','',0),(1316,1,'2010-10-24 19:59:30','2010-10-25 02:59:30','','cheatingcats','','inherit','open','open','','cheatingcats','','','2010-10-24 19:59:30','2010-10-25 02:59:30','',1307,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/cheatingcats.jpg',0,'attachment','image/jpeg',0),(1317,1,'2010-10-24 20:14:28','2010-10-25 03:14:28','','salvadorsign','','inherit','open','open','','salvadorsign','','','2010-10-24 20:14:28','2010-10-25 03:14:28','',1307,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/salvadorsign.jpg',0,'attachment','image/jpeg',0),(1318,1,'2010-10-24 20:16:37','2010-10-25 03:16:37','','salvadorsign','','inherit','open','open','','salvadorsign-2','','','2010-10-24 20:16:37','2010-10-25 03:16:37','',1307,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/salvadorsign1.jpg',0,'attachment','image/jpeg',0),(1319,1,'2010-10-24 20:17:26','2010-10-25 03:17:26','','salvadorsign','','inherit','open','open','','salvadorsign-3','','','2010-10-24 20:17:26','2010-10-25 03:17:26','',1307,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/salvadorsign2.jpg',0,'attachment','image/jpeg',0),(1320,1,'2010-10-24 20:19:21','2010-10-25 03:19:21','','tahoe','','inherit','open','open','','tahoe','','','2010-10-24 20:19:21','2010-10-25 03:19:21','',1307,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/tahoe.jpg',0,'attachment','image/jpeg',0),(1321,1,'2010-10-24 19:38:48','2010-10-25 02:38:48','<p>Most women tend to be fiercely loyal to their hairstylists.  Suggest to a woman that she try a new stylist and a look of horror (tinged with guilt) crosses her face.  A woman would sooner call it quits with her significant other than abandon her mane guy/girl.  </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>And, yes, this applies to women who are downright unhappy with their stylist!  They would rather stay in a dysfunctional hair relationship than break away to healthier pastures.  They walk around with a bad haircut and/or color because they don’t want to hurt their hairstylist’s <em>feelings</em>. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I know.  I used to feel that way as well.  Until the day I was forced to break up with “G”.  He left me with no choice.   </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>G was my hairstylist from five years ago.  I met him at a party.  At the time, I was displeased with my hair.  My metrosexual poster boy friend recommended a top stylist in Snobbsdale who dyed my tresses a lighter shade of black and razor cut my hair.  The color made me look like I was in dire need of a makeover, and the razor made my hair frizz to a frazzle. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>At the party (hosted by metrosexual poster boy, ironically), G sat down next to me and told me that he loved my dress.  (+10 points)  He then commented that my shoes were to die for.  (+20 points)  We talked incessantly for a while, and it came up in conversation that he was a hairstylist.  I immediately blurted out my hair woes. Don’t we often treat our hairstylists like therapists?  God bless them for listening. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>G calmly assessed the damage.  He explained to me that my hair was too dark and washed me out.  (+50 points)  G was HORRIFIED that someone had taken a razor to the hair of someone of “Mediterranean descent”.  (+100 points)  My hair should be blunt cut to eliminate the frizzle-frazzle!  (+500 points) </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>This was destined to be a hair relationship made in Heaven! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I called G that Tuesday to schedule an appointment.  When our big day rolled around, it was everything a girl could want.  I will never forget – he dyed my hair with a color called “Swedish blonde” which sounded ridiculous at first.  Me?  A blonde?  Uh…no.  BUT!!!!  G transformed my hair into shade of golden brunette perfect for my skin tone.  And his blunt cut layers made my hair bouncing and behaving!  (+ points ad infinitum)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I was hooked. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>G and I also started to see each other outside of the salon.  (Platonically.  G wasn’t attracted to women.)  He shared my taste for indie restaurants and coffeehouses.  We had so much fun together.  </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Then one day, G was in a mood.  (He had a flair for the dramatic.)  He was stressed out about a guy who dissed him and ticked off at his landlord.  In the midst of relaying his hassles in vivid detail during my haircut, he cut my layers unevenly.  i.e. He screwed up my hair.  Big time.  Every woman’s worst hair nightmare. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Now, I am a forgiving sort.  I am prone to granting second chances.  We are all human.  We all make mistakes.  We should all give one another a little more grace. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>So I went back to G for a quick fix. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Which turned out to be not a fix, but another disaster. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>In some aspects, breaking up with G was worse than breaking up with a boyfriend.  With a boyfriend, you take time off to heal and ready yourself for another relationship someday.  With your hairstylist, you need to find another one right away.  This is far from ideal when you’re gun-shy and suffering from hair trauma. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Argh. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I went through a few hairstylists after G.  Everyone was good at first, and then they slacked off after a year or so.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I was then introduced to a husband/wife cut/color duo who are great.  I absolutely adore them – talented, super smart, and warm.  But our schedules haven’t been meshing lately.  Availability is limited to one Saturday a month, and if I happen to have other plans that Saturday, then I’m SOL.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>And this is how I came to cheat on my hairstylist.  I needed an appointment for this past Saturday, and my stylists were unavailable. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>For months, my friend Britt waxed on about <em>“Salvador”.</em>  The way she talked about him, I envisioned some sort of mythical Hair God. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>“<em>Salvador</em> is the best stylist that I’ve ever been to.  He specializes in natural color.”  (+50 points)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>“<em>Salvador</em> is the only one in this town who knows how to cut hair.  He cuts the layers blunt so your hair is thick and voluptuous and doesn’t get scraggly as with point cutting.”  (+100 points)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>“<em>Salvador</em> has a really cool artsy studio downtown with art and photographs and instruments.”  (I’m a sucker for artsy fartsy.  +50 points.)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>“<em>Salvador</em> understands how to cut wavy hair.” (+100 points)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>“<em>Salvador</em>!  <em>Salvador</em>!  <em>Salvador</em>!”  (+50 points for reputation of mythical proportion) </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>So this past Saturday morning I hauled my cookies downtown for an appointment with <em>Salvador</em>. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Upon entering aforementioned artsy fartsy studio, I was greeted by an overly enthusiastic Golden Retriever named Tahoe.  (+ points ad infinitum)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Insert Tahoe pic here</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Salvador (with locks of mythical proportion) welcomed me to the salon and chit-chatted away about the morning.  I was up late the night before, slept in, and had just started drinking my coffee, so I slurped it down in a hurry with hopes that I could be a tenth as chipper as Tahoe and ready to talk to another human being.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Classical music played in the background (+10 points) while Salvador sat me in the chair and inquired about what I wanted to do with my hair.  I asked him what he would do given carte blanche. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>All I can remember is “natural color” and I agreed to the rest.  When a mythical Hair God shares his opinion, you really should just take it and get on with your day.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Once I was properly caffeinated, we were able to ramble on about all sorts of common interests from music to guitar to writing to entrepreneurship to topics ad infinitum.  (+1000 points)  I am sure that you will agree with me that NOTHING is more awkward than sitting in a hairstylist’s chair whom you are unable to talk to.  How can they <em>possibly </em>serve as your surrogate therapist/dating coach/sounding board if you can’t carry on a decent conversation??? </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Salvador worked his magic throughout conversational turns and many musical shifts (as you ease into the morning the classical needs to be replaced with rock) and then…Voila!  Hair Extraordinaire! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I have already received numerous compliments from “the outside”. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>In this illicit affair, the cheating paid off and no one got hurt.**</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>The most surprising thing about Salvador is that for a mythical Hair God, he is extraordinarily down-to-earth and <em>a really good guy</em>. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Often with myths, we develop high expectations that can’t be adhered to in Real Life.  Salvador will exceed your expectations.  And you’ll have fun in the process.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Go see him and Tahoe.  </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong><a href=\"http://www.hairpeace.com/\">www.hairpeace.com</a></strong></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>Please note that I do not condone cheating in other relationships.  But if your hairstylist isn’t cutting it (pun intended), then by all means get out there and sow your wild oats with someone new! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>','Day 28:  Have YOU Ever Cheated on Your Hairdresser?','','inherit','open','open','','1307-revision-4','','','2010-10-24 19:38:48','2010-10-25 02:38:48','',1307,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/10/24/1307-revision-4/',0,'revision','',0),(1342,1,'2010-10-24 20:47:34','2010-10-25 03:47:34','<p><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/salcalvinfo.gif\"><img class=\"alignleft size-full wp-image-1326\" title=\"salcalvinfo\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/salcalvinfo.gif\" alt=\"\" width=\"1\" height=\"1\" /></a><a href=\"http://www.hairpeace.com/Home.html\" target=\"_blank\"><img class=\"alignleft size-full wp-image-1319\" title=\"salvadorsign\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/salvadorsign2.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a></p>\n\n<p>Most women tend to be fiercely loyal to their hairstylists.  Suggest to a woman that she try a new stylist and a look of horror (tinged with guilt) crosses her face.  A woman would sooner call it quits with her significant other than abandon or cheat on her mane guy/girl. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>And, yes, this applies to women who are downright unhappy with their stylist!  They would rather stay in a dysfunctional hair relationship than break away to healthier pastures.  They walk around with a bad haircut and/or color because they don’t want to hurt their hairstylist’s <em>feelings</em>. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>I know.  I used to feel that way as well.  Until the day I was forced to break up with “G”.  He left me with no choice.   </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><strong><span style=\"color: #ff00ff; font-size: large;\">Like all new relationships, it was A Match Made in Heaven.  At first.  </span></strong></p>\n\n<p><strong><span style=\"color: #ff00ff; font-size: large;\"> </span></strong> </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>G was my hairstylist from five years ago.  I met him at a party.  At the time, I was displeased with my hair.  My metrosexual poster boy friend recommended a top stylist in Snobbsdale who dyed my tresses a lighter shade of black and razor cut my hair.  The color made me look like I was in dire need of a makeover, and the razor made my hair frizz to a frazzle. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>At the party (hosted by metrosexual poster boy, ironically), G sat down next to me and told me that he loved my dress.  (+10 points)  He then commented that my shoes were to die for.  (+20 points)  We talked incessantly for a while, and it came up in conversation that he was a hairstylist.  I immediately blurted out my hair woes. Don’t we often treat our hairstylists like therapists?  God bless them for listening. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>G calmly assessed the damage.  He explained to me that my hair was too dark and washed me out.  (+50 points)  G was HORRIFIED that someone had taken a razor to the hair of someone of “Mediterranean descent”.  (+100 points)  My hair should be blunt cut to eliminate the frizzle-frazzle!  (+500 points) </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>This was destined to be a hair relationship made in Heaven! </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>I called G that Tuesday to schedule an appointment.  When our big day rolled around, it was everything a girl could want.  I will never forget – he dyed my hair with a color called “Swedish blonde” which sounded ridiculous at first.  Me?  A blonde?  Uh…no.  BUT!!!!  G transformed my hair into shade of golden brunette perfect for my skin tone.  And his blunt cut layers made my hair bouncing and behaving!  (+ points ad infinitum)</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>I was hooked. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>G and I also started to see each other outside of the salon.  (Platonically.  G wasn’t attracted to women.)  He shared my taste for indie restaurants and coffeehouses.  We had so much fun together.  </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Then one day, G was in a mood.  (He had a flair for the dramatic.)  He was stressed out about a guy who dissed him and ticked off at his landlord.  In the midst of relaying his hassles in vivid detail during my haircut, he cut my layers unevenly.  i.e. He screwed up my hair.  Big time.  Every woman’s worst hair nightmare. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Now, I am a forgiving sort.  I am prone to granting second chances.  We are all human.  We all make mistakes.  We should all give one another a little more grace. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>So I went back to G for a quick fix. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Which turned out to be not a fix, but another disaster. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><strong><span style=\"color: #ff0000; font-size: large;\">Breaking Up is Hard to Do </span></strong></p>\n\n<p><strong><span style=\"color: #ff0000; font-size: large;\"> </span></strong></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>In some aspects, breaking up with G was worse than breaking up with a boyfriend.  With a boyfriend, you take time off to heal and ready yourself for another relationship someday.  With your hairstylist, you need to find another one right away.  This is far from ideal when you’re gun-shy and suffering from hair trauma. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Argh. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>I went through a few hairstylists after G.  Everyone was good at first, and then they slacked off after a year or so.</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>I was then introduced to a husband/wife cut/color duo who are great.  I absolutely adore them – talented, super smart, and warm.  But our schedules haven’t been meshing lately.  Availability is limited to one Saturday a month, and if I happen to have other plans that Saturday, then I’m SOL.</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>And this is how I came to cheat on my hairstylist.  I needed an appointment for this past Saturday, and my stylists were unavailable. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><span style=\"color: #ff6600; font-size: large;\"><strong>If you are going to cheat, then reach for the hairstylist to the stars.  </strong></span></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /> For months, my friend Britt waxed on about <em>“Salvador”.</em>  The way she talked about him, I envisioned some sort of mythical Hair God. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>“<em>Salvador</em> is the best stylist that I’ve ever been to.  He specializes in natural color.”  (+50 points)</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>“<em>Salvador</em> is the only one in this town who knows how to cut hair.  He cuts the layers blunt so your hair is thick and voluptuous and doesn’t get scraggly as with point cutting.”  (+100 points)</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>“<em>Salvador</em> has a really cool artsy studio downtown with art and photographs and instruments.”  (I’m a sucker for artsy fartsy.  +50 points.)</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>“<em>Salvador</em> understands how to cut wavy hair.” (+100 points)</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>“<em>Salvador</em>!  <em>Salvador</em>!  <em>Salvador</em>!”  (+50 points for reputation of mythical proportion) </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>So this past Saturday morning I hauled my cookies downtown for an appointment with <em>Salvador</em>. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Upon entering aforementioned artsy fartsy studio, I was greeted by an overly enthusiastic Golden Retriever named Tahoe.  (+ points ad infinitum)</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/tahoe2.jpg\"><img title=\"tahoe\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/tahoe2.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"97\" height=\"118\" /></a></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Salvador (with locks of mythical proportion) welcomed me to the salon and chit-chatted away about the morning.  I was up late the night before, slept in, and had just started drinking my coffee, so I slurped it down in a hurry with hopes that I could be a tenth as chipper as Tahoe and ready to talk to another human being.</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Classical music played in the background (+10 points) while Salvador sat me in the chair and inquired about what I wanted to do with my hair.  I asked him what he would do given carte blanche. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>All I can remember is “natural color” and I agreed to the rest.  When a mythical Hair God shares his opinion, you really should just take it and get on with your day.</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Once I was properly caffeinated, we were able to ramble on about all sorts of common interests from music to guitar to writing to entrepreneurship to topics ad infinitum.  (+1000 points)  I am sure that you will agree with me that NOTHING is more awkward than sitting in a hairstylist’s chair whom you are unable to talk to.  How can they <em>possibly </em>serve as your surrogate therapist/dating coach/sounding board if you can’t carry on a decent conversation??? </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Salvador worked his magic throughout conversational turns and many musical shifts (as you ease into the morning the classical needs to be replaced with rock) and then…Voila!  Hair Extraordinaire! </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>I have already received numerous compliments from “the outside”. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>In this illicit affair, the cheating paid off and no one got hurt.**</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>The most surprising thing about Salvador is that for a mythical Hair God, he is extraordinarily down-to-earth and <em>a really good guy</em>. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Often with myths, we develop high expectations that can’t be adhered to in Real Life.  Salvador will exceed your expectations.  And you’ll have fun in the process.</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Go see him and Tahoe.  </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><strong><a href=\"http://www.hairpeace.com/\" target=\"_blank\">http://www.hairpeace.com/</a></strong></p>\n\n<p><strong> </strong></p>\n\n<p><strong>                           </strong> ****************************************</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>** Please note that I do not condone cheating in other relationships.  But if your hairstylist isn’t cutting it (pun intended), then by all means get out there and sow your wild oats with someone new! </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>','Day 28:  Have YOU Ever Cheated on Your Hairdresser?','','inherit','open','open','','1307-revision-22','','','2010-10-24 20:47:34','2010-10-25 03:47:34','',1307,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/10/24/1307-revision-22/',0,'revision','',0),(1314,1,'2010-10-24 10:42:12','2010-10-24 17:42:12','<p>Most women tend to be fiercely loyal to their hairdressers.  Suggest to woman that she try a new stylist and a look of horror (tinged with guilt) crosses her face.  A woman would sooner break up with her significant other than abandon her mane squeeze. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>','Day 28:  Have YOU Ever Cheated on Your Hairdresser?','','inherit','open','open','','1307-revision-2','','','2010-10-24 10:42:12','2010-10-24 17:42:12','',1307,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/10/24/1307-revision-2/',0,'revision','',0),(1315,1,'2010-10-24 19:38:33','2010-10-25 02:38:33','<p>Most women tend to be fiercely loyal to their hairstylists.  Suggest to a woman that she try a new stylist and a look of horror (tinged with guilt) crosses her face.  A woman would sooner call it quits with her significant other than abandon her mane guy/girl.  </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>And, yes, this applies to women who are downright unhappy with their stylist!  They would rather stay in a dysfunctional hair relationship than break away to healthier pastures.  They walk around with a bad haircut and/or color because they don’t want to hurt their hairstylist’s <em>feelings</em>. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I know.  I used to feel that way as well.  Until the day I was forced to break up with “G”.  He left me with no choice.   </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>G was my hairstylist from five years ago.  I met him at a party.  At the time, I was displeased with my hair.  My metrosexual poster boy friend recommended a top stylist in Snobbsdale who dyed my tresses a lighter shade of black and razor cut my hair.  The color made me look like I was in dire need of a makeover, and the razor made my hair frizz to a frazzle. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>At the party (hosted by metrosexual poster boy, ironically), G sat down next to me and told me that he loved my dress.  (+10 points)  He then commented that my shoes were to die for.  (+20 points)  We talked incessantly for a while, and it came up in conversation that he was a hairstylist.  I immediately blurted out my hair woes. Don’t we often treat our hairstylists like therapists?  God bless them for listening. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>G calmly assessed the damage.  He explained to me that my hair was too dark and washed me out.  (+50 points)  G was HORRIFIED that someone had taken a razor to the hair of someone of “Mediterranean descent”.  (+100 points)  My hair should be blunt cut to eliminate the frizzle-frazzle!  (+500 points) </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>This was destined to be a hair relationship made in Heaven! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I called G that Tuesday to schedule an appointment.  When our big day rolled around, it was everything a girl could want.  I will never forget – he dyed my hair with a color called “Swedish blonde” which sounded ridiculous at first.  Me?  A blonde?  Uh…no.  BUT!!!!  G transformed my hair into shade of golden brunette perfect for my skin tone.  And his blunt cut layers made my hair bouncing and behaving!  (+ points ad infinitum)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I was hooked. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>G and I also started to see each other outside of the salon.  (Platonically.  G wasn’t attracted to women.)  He shared my taste for indie restaurants and coffeehouses.  We had so much fun together.  </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Then one day, G was in a mood.  (He had a flair for the dramatic.)  He was stressed out about a guy who dissed him and ticked off at his landlord.  In the midst of relaying his hassles in vivid detail during my haircut, he cut my layers unevenly.  i.e. He screwed up my hair.  Big time.  Every woman’s worst hair nightmare. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Now, I am a forgiving sort.  I am prone to granting second chances.  We are all human.  We all make mistakes.  We should all give one another a little more grace. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>So I went back to G for a quick fix. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Which turned out to be not a fix, but another disaster. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>In some aspects, breaking up with G was worse than breaking up with a boyfriend.  With a boyfriend, you take time off to heal and ready yourself for another relationship someday.  With your hairstylist, you need to find another one right away.  This is far from ideal when you’re gun-shy and suffering from hair trauma. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Argh. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I went through a few hairstylists after G.  Everyone was good at first, and then they slacked off after a year or so.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I was then introduced to a husband/wife cut/color duo who are great.  I absolutely adore them – talented, super smart, and warm.  But our schedules haven’t been meshing lately.  Availability is limited to one Saturday a month, and if I happen to have other plans that Saturday, then I’m SOL.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>And this is how I came to cheat on my hairstylist.  I needed an appointment for this past Saturday, and my stylists were unavailable. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>For months, my friend Britt waxed on about <em>“Salvador”.</em>  The way she talked about him, I envisioned some sort of mythical Hair God. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>“<em>Salvador</em> is the best stylist that I’ve ever been to.  He specializes in natural color.”  (+50 points)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>“<em>Salvador</em> is the only one in this town who knows how to cut hair.  He cuts the layers blunt so your hair is thick and voluptuous and doesn’t get scraggly as with point cutting.”  (+100 points)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>“<em>Salvador</em> has a really cool artsy studio downtown with art and photographs and instruments.”  (I’m a sucker for artsy fartsy.  +50 points.)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>“<em>Salvador</em> understands how to cut wavy hair.” (+100 points)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>“<em>Salvador</em>!  <em>Salvador</em>!  <em>Salvador</em>!”  (+50 points for reputation of mythical proportion) </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>So this past Saturday morning I hauled my cookies downtown for an appointment with <em>Salvador</em>. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Upon entering aforementioned artsy fartsy studio, I was greeted by an overly enthusiastic Golden Retriever named Tahoe.  (+ points ad infinitum)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Insert Tahoe pic here</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Salvador (with locks of mythical proportion) welcomed me to the salon and chit-chatted away about the morning.  I was up late the night before, slept in, and had just started drinking my coffee, so I slurped it down in a hurry with hopes that I could be a tenth as chipper as Tahoe and ready to talk to another human being.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Classical music played in the background (+10 points) while Salvador sat me in the chair and inquired about what I wanted to do with my hair.  I asked him what he would do given carte blanche. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>All I can remember is “natural color” and I agreed to the rest.  When a mythical Hair God shares his opinion, you really should just take it and get on with your day.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Once I was properly caffeinated, we were able to ramble on about all sorts of common interests from music to guitar to writing to entrepreneurship to topics ad infinitum.  (+1000 points)  I am sure that you will agree with me that NOTHING is more awkward than sitting in a hairstylist’s chair whom you are unable to talk to.  How can they <em>possibly </em>serve as your surrogate therapist/dating coach/sounding board if you can’t carry on a decent conversation??? </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Salvador worked his magic throughout conversational turns and many musical shifts (as you ease into the morning the classical needs to be replaced with rock) and then…Voila!  Hair Extraordinaire! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I have already received numerous compliments from “the outside”. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>In this illicit affair, the cheating paid off and no one got hurt.**</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>The most surprising thing about Salvador is that for a mythical Hair God, he is extraordinarily down-to-earth and <em>a really good guy</em>. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Often with myths, we develop high expectations that can’t be adhered to in Real Life.  Salvador will exceed your expectations.  And you’ll have fun in the process.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Go see him and Tahoe.  </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong><a href=\"http://www.hairpeace.com/\">www.hairpeace.com</a></strong></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>Please note that I do not condone cheating in other relationships.  But if your hairstylist isn’t cutting it (pun intended), then by all means get out there and sow your wild oats with someone new! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>','Day 28:  Have YOU Ever Cheated on Your Hairdresser?','','inherit','open','open','','1307-revision-3','','','2010-10-24 19:38:33','2010-10-25 02:38:33','',1307,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/10/24/1307-revision-3/',0,'revision','',0),(688,1,'2010-09-23 21:19:13','2010-09-24 04:19:13','','OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA','Jump!  aka feel the FEAR and do it anyway','inherit','open','open','','olympus-digital-camera-10','','','2010-09-23 21:19:13','2010-09-24 04:19:13','',687,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/P92201781.jpg',0,'attachment','image/jpeg',0),(706,1,'2010-09-23 21:43:13','2010-09-24 04:43:13','<div class=\"mceTemp\"><dt class=\"wp-caption-dt\"><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/LeapofFaith1.jpg\"></a></dt><dd class=\"wp-caption-dd\"> </dd></div>','Day 8:  Flashback Friday:  Leap of Faith','','inherit','open','open','','687-revision-15','','','2010-09-23 21:43:13','2010-09-24 04:43:13','',687,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/09/23/687-revision-15/',0,'revision','',0),(689,1,'2010-09-23 21:20:24','2010-09-24 04:20:24','<div class=\"mceTemp\"><dl id=\"attachment_688\" class=\"wp-caption alignleft\" style=\"width: 310px;\"><dt class=\"wp-caption-dt\"><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/P92201781.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-688\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/P92201781-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a></dt><dd class=\"wp-caption-dd\">Jump! aka feel the FEAR and do it anyway</dd></dl>\n\n<p>Back when I was a kid, I practically lived in the water every summer.  I learned how to swim when I was teeny tiny in the pond outside my grandparent\'s beach house.  By the age of 6, I was swimming across the inlet that led to the bay.  By the age of 8, I was jumping off the 10 ft. high dive at the community pool.  I had no FEAR. </p>\n\n<p>This past Memorial Day, I was at my blog Svengali\'s pool.  (From now on, I will refer to him as one of his 3 nicknames:  Sven, Svenny or Svennykins.)  We climbed up the large rock formation at one end of the pool to soak in the view.  After oohing and ahhing over the beauty of our desert surroundings, Svenny leapt off the rock into the pool.  I approached the edge and...Chickened out. </p>\n\n<p>It seemed too high.  It seemed too shallow.  It seemed too scary. </p>\n\n<p>Svenny assured me that if I tucked my legs I wouldn\'t hit bottom.  The deep end was 6 ft.  I was entirely safe. </p>\n\n<p>I heard my nervous Nelly mother in my head.  She warned me about mishaps that occur when people dive into water that is too shallow.  They sever their spinal cords.  They are paralyzed for life. </p>\n\n<p>I remember as a kid reading a library book about a girl who suffered this very fate.  She was an artist, and since her arms were paralyzed, she learned how to paint with her mouth.  You can read her story for yourself at <a href=\"http://www.joniearecksontadastory.com/\">http://www.joniearecksontadastory.com/</a>. </p>\n\n<p>I sheepishly climbed down off the rock and joined Svenny on the deck.  I glanced back to the mountain of rock, but now it appeared to be more of a molehill.  Was I really scared of a molehill???  It\'s amazing what a shift in perspective will do. </p>\n\n<p>I announced to Svenny that I would return to his mountain/molehill for a Leap of Faith!  But could I please do it after my refurbished blog was up and running?</p>\n\n<p>Svenny looked puzzled. </p>\n\n<p>Because I will have 365 days to fill!!!  And I just love the symbolism behind this -- changing one\'s view and putting things into proper perspective and all!!!  What great writing material!!!</p>\n\n<p>Svenny rolled his eyes.</p>\n\n<p>Fast forward to Day 8.  I head over to Svenny\'s house for my Leap of Faith.  This is going to be a snap. </p>\n\n<p>Svenny opens the door and immediately starts rambling on about FEAR acronyms.  This is one of the things I admire about Svenny -- he\'s a guy that actually thinks about cool stuff -- but honestly, we need to get \'er done so I can get home and crank out a blog post.  </p>\n\n<p>And Svenny can\'t quite remember the entire acronym -- something about expectations not realized or something like that -- and I\'m frankly starting to get nervous with all of this FEAR talk.  Somehow I manage to distract Svenny and corral him out to the pool. </p>\n\n<p>Svenny disappears to the side of the house.   I have no earthly idea what he is doing until I hear running water and notice that there is now a waterfall cascading down the mountain/molehill.  I ask Svenny if this will make the mountain/molehill surface too slippery.  He stares blankly at me.  I shut up and climb up. </p>\n\n<p>Did I say that this was going to be a snap?! </p>\n\n<p>Ugh.</p>\n\n<p>I revert back to Memorial Day.  FEAR resurfaces. </p>\n\n<p>Svenny is stage-right with a camera.  I explain to him that I am really, truly unnerved. </p>\n\n<p>He waxes on about acronyms.</p>\n\n<p>I explain to him that I don\'t think I can do this. </p>\n\n<p>He reminds me to tuck my legs, and I will be fine.</p>\n\n<p>I ask if any adults have jumped recently. </p>\n\n<p>No, but several kids did at his last pool party. </p>\n\n<p>I ask if any of these children were larger children.  (I am the size of a large pre-teen.)</p>\n\n<p>Yes.  I sense an oncoming eye roll. </p>\n\n<p>An eternity passes. </p>\n\n<p>At this point, I can care less about \"conquering a fear\".  I am freakin\' scared!  My main motivation in taking the plunge is that if I just do it, this little self-growth exercise will be over in a split second, and I won’t have to think about and implement something else for Day 8.  Pathetic, huh?</p>\n\n<p>I also feel guilty for taking up Svenny\'s time when he is smack in the middle of a project for his upcoming book. </p>\n\n<p>So...I...</p>\n\n<p>FEAR = False Evidence Appearing Real</p>\n\n<p>You know how the story ends, right?  The leap isn\'t as terrifying as I make it out to be, and I am elated for showing up and following through. </p>\n\n<p>I am also relieved that I didn\'t cave into the other FEAR = F*** Everything And Run!</p>\n\n<p>Thank you for holding me accountable, Blog Fans and Svennykins! </p></div>','Day 8:  Flashback Friday:  Leap of Faith','','inherit','open','open','','687-revision','','','2010-09-23 21:20:24','2010-09-24 04:20:24','',687,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/09/23/687-revision/',0,'revision','',0),(690,1,'2010-09-23 21:20:39','2010-09-24 04:20:39','<div class=\"mceTemp\"><dl id=\"attachment_688\" class=\"wp-caption alignleft\" style=\"width: 310px;\"><dt class=\"wp-caption-dt\"><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/P92201781.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-688\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/P92201781-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a></dt><dd class=\"wp-caption-dd\">Jump! aka feel the FEAR and do it anyway</dd></dl>\r\n\r\n<p>Back when I was a kid, I practically lived in the water every summer.  I learned how to swim when I was teeny tiny in the pond outside my grandparent\'s beach house.  By the age of 6, I was swimming across the inlet that led to the bay.  By the age of 8, I was jumping off the 10 ft. high dive at the community pool.  I had no FEAR. </p>\r\n\r\n<p>This past Memorial Day, I was at my blog Svengali\'s pool.  (From now on, I will refer to him as one of his 3 nicknames:  Sven, Svenny or Svennykins.)  We climbed up the large rock formation at one end of the pool to soak in the view.  After oohing and ahhing over the beauty of our desert surroundings, Svenny leapt off the rock into the pool.  I approached the edge and...Chickened out. </p>\r\n\r\n<p>It seemed too high.  It seemed too shallow.  It seemed too scary. </p>\r\n\r\n<p>Svenny assured me that if I tucked my legs I wouldn\'t hit bottom.  The deep end was 6 ft.  I was entirely safe. </p>\r\n\r\n<p>I heard my nervous Nelly mother in my head.  She warned me about mishaps that occur when people dive into water that is too shallow.  They sever their spinal cords.  They are paralyzed for life. </p>\r\n\r\n<p>I remember as a kid reading a library book about a girl who suffered this very fate.  She was an artist, and since her arms were paralyzed, she learned how to paint with her mouth.  You can read her story for yourself at <a href=\"http://www.joniearecksontadastory.com/\">http://www.joniearecksontadastory.com/</a>. </p>\r\n\r\n<p>I sheepishly climbed down off the rock and joined Svenny on the deck.  I glanced back to the mountain of rock, but now it appeared to be more of a molehill.  Was I really scared of a molehill???  It\'s amazing what a shift in perspective will do. </p>\r\n\r\n<p>I announced to Svenny that I would return to his mountain/molehill for a Leap of Faith!  But could I please do it after my refurbished blog was up and running?</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Svenny looked puzzled. </p>\r\n\r\n<p>Because I will have 365 days to fill!!!  And I just love the symbolism behind this -- changing one\'s view and putting things into proper perspective and all!!!  What great writing material!!!</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Svenny rolled his eyes.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Fast forward to Day 8.  I head over to Svenny\'s house for my Leap of Faith.  This is going to be a snap. </p>\r\n\r\n<p>Svenny opens the door and immediately starts rambling on about FEAR acronyms.  This is one of the things I admire about Svenny -- he\'s a guy that actually thinks about cool stuff -- but honestly, we need to get \'er done so I can get home and crank out a blog post.  </p>\r\n\r\n<p>And Svenny can\'t quite remember the entire acronym -- something about expectations not realized or something like that -- and I\'m frankly starting to get nervous with all of this FEAR talk.  Somehow I manage to distract Svenny and corral him out to the pool. </p>\r\n\r\n<p>Svenny disappears to the side of the house.   I have no earthly idea what he is doing until I hear running water and notice that there is now a waterfall cascading down the mountain/molehill.  I ask Svenny if this will make the mountain/molehill surface too slippery.  He stares blankly at me.  I shut up and climb up. </p>\r\n\r\n<p>Did I say that this was going to be a snap?! </p>\r\n\r\n<p>Ugh.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>I revert back to Memorial Day.  FEAR resurfaces. </p>\r\n\r\n<p>Svenny is stage-right with a camera.  I explain to him that I am really, truly unnerved. </p>\r\n\r\n<p>He waxes on about acronyms.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>I explain to him that I don\'t think I can do this. </p>\r\n\r\n<p>He reminds me to tuck my legs, and I will be fine.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>I ask if any adults have jumped recently. </p>\r\n\r\n<p>No, but several kids did at his last pool party. </p>\r\n\r\n<p>I ask if any of these children were larger children.  (I am the size of a large pre-teen.)</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Yes.  I sense an oncoming eye roll. </p>\r\n\r\n<p>An eternity passes. </p>\r\n\r\n<p>At this point, I can care less about \"conquering a fear\".  I am freakin\' scared!  My main motivation in taking the plunge is that if I just do it, this little self-growth exercise will be over in a split second, and I won’t have to think about and implement something else for Day 8.  Pathetic, huh?</p>\r\n\r\n<p>I also feel guilty for taking up Svenny\'s time when he is smack in the middle of a project for his upcoming book. </p>\r\n\r\n<p>So...I...</p>\r\n\r\n<p>FEAR = False Evidence Appearing Real</p>\r\n\r\n<p>You know how the story ends, right?  The leap isn\'t as terrifying as I make it out to be, and I am elated for showing up and following through. </p>\r\n\r\n<p>I am also relieved that I didn\'t cave into the other FEAR = F*** Everything And Run!</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Thank you for holding me accountable, Blog Fans and Svennykins! </p></div>','Day 8:  Flashback Friday:  Leap of Faith','','inherit','open','open','','687-revision-2','','','2010-09-23 21:20:39','2010-09-24 04:20:39','',687,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/09/23/687-revision-2/',0,'revision','',0),(691,1,'2010-09-23 21:21:24','2010-09-24 04:21:24','<div class=\"mceTemp\"><dl id=\"attachment_688\" class=\"wp-caption alignleft\" style=\"width: 310px;\"><dt class=\"wp-caption-dt\"><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/P92201781.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-688\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/P92201781-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a></dt><dd class=\"wp-caption-dd\">Jump! aka feel the FEAR and do it anyway</dd></dl>\n\n<p>Back when I was a kid, I practically lived in the water every summer.  I learned how to swim when I was teeny tiny in the pond outside my grandparent\'s beach house.  By the age of 6, I was swimming across the inlet that led to the bay.  By the age of 8, I was jumping off the 10 ft. high dive at the community pool.  I had no FEAR. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>This past Memorial Day, I was at my blog Svengali\'s pool.  (From now on, I will refer to him as one of his 3 nicknames:  Sven, Svenny or Svennykins.)  We climbed up the large rock formation at one end of the pool to soak in the view.  After oohing and ahhing over the beauty of our desert surroundings, Svenny leapt off the rock into the pool.  I approached the edge and...Chickened out. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>It seemed too high.  It seemed too shallow.  It seemed too scary. </p>\n\n<p>Svenny assured me that if I tucked my legs I wouldn\'t hit bottom.  The deep end was 6 ft.  I was entirely safe. </p>\n\n<p>I heard my nervous Nelly mother in my head.  She warned me about mishaps that occur when people dive into water that is too shallow.  They sever their spinal cords.  They are paralyzed for life. </p>\n\n<p>I remember as a kid reading a library book about a girl who suffered this very fate.  She was an artist, and since her arms were paralyzed, she learned how to paint with her mouth.  You can read her story for yourself at <a href=\"http://www.joniearecksontadastory.com/\">http://www.joniearecksontadastory.com/</a>. </p>\n\n<p>I sheepishly climbed down off the rock and joined Svenny on the deck.  I glanced back to the mountain of rock, but now it appeared to be more of a molehill.  Was I really scared of a molehill???  It\'s amazing what a shift in perspective will do. </p>\n\n<p>I announced to Svenny that I would return to his mountain/molehill for a Leap of Faith!  But could I please do it after my refurbished blog was up and running?</p>\n\n<p>Svenny looked puzzled. </p>\n\n<p>Because I will have 365 days to fill!!!  And I just love the symbolism behind this -- changing one\'s view and putting things into proper perspective and all!!!  What great writing material!!!</p>\n\n<p>Svenny rolled his eyes.</p>\n\n<p>Fast forward to Day 8.  I head over to Svenny\'s house for my Leap of Faith.  This is going to be a snap. </p>\n\n<p>Svenny opens the door and immediately starts rambling on about FEAR acronyms.  This is one of the things I admire about Svenny -- he\'s a guy that actually thinks about cool stuff -- but honestly, we need to get \'er done so I can get home and crank out a blog post.  </p>\n\n<p>And Svenny can\'t quite remember the entire acronym -- something about expectations not realized or something like that -- and I\'m frankly starting to get nervous with all of this FEAR talk.  Somehow I manage to distract Svenny and corral him out to the pool. </p>\n\n<p>Svenny disappears to the side of the house.   I have no earthly idea what he is doing until I hear running water and notice that there is now a waterfall cascading down the mountain/molehill.  I ask Svenny if this will make the mountain/molehill surface too slippery.  He stares blankly at me.  I shut up and climb up. </p>\n\n<p>Did I say that this was going to be a snap?! </p>\n\n<p>Ugh.</p>\n\n<p>I revert back to Memorial Day.  FEAR resurfaces. </p>\n\n<p>Svenny is stage-right with a camera.  I explain to him that I am really, truly unnerved. </p>\n\n<p>He waxes on about acronyms.</p>\n\n<p>I explain to him that I don\'t think I can do this. </p>\n\n<p>He reminds me to tuck my legs, and I will be fine.</p>\n\n<p>I ask if any adults have jumped recently. </p>\n\n<p>No, but several kids did at his last pool party. </p>\n\n<p>I ask if any of these children were larger children.  (I am the size of a large pre-teen.)</p>\n\n<p>Yes.  I sense an oncoming eye roll. </p>\n\n<p>An eternity passes. </p>\n\n<p>At this point, I can care less about \"conquering a fear\".  I am freakin\' scared!  My main motivation in taking the plunge is that if I just do it, this little self-growth exercise will be over in a split second, and I won’t have to think about and implement something else for Day 8.  Pathetic, huh?</p>\n\n<p>I also feel guilty for taking up Svenny\'s time when he is smack in the middle of a project for his upcoming book. </p>\n\n<p>So...I...</p>\n\n<p>FEAR = False Evidence Appearing Real</p>\n\n<p>You know how the story ends, right?  The leap isn\'t as terrifying as I make it out to be, and I am elated for showing up and following through. </p>\n\n<p>I am also relieved that I didn\'t cave into the other FEAR = F*** Everything And Run!</p>\n\n<p>Thank you for holding me accountable, Blog Fans and Svennykins! </p></div>','Day 8:  Flashback Friday:  Leap of Faith','','inherit','open','open','','687-revision-3','','','2010-09-23 21:21:24','2010-09-24 04:21:24','',687,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/09/23/687-revision-3/',0,'revision','',0),(697,1,'2010-09-23 21:29:25','2010-09-24 04:29:25','[caption id=\"attachment_688\" align=\"alignleft\" width=\"300\" caption=\"Jump! aka feel the FEAR and do it anywayBack when I was a kid, I practically lived in the water every summer.  I learned how to swim when I was teeny tiny in the pond outside my grandparent&#39;s beach house.  By the age of 6, I was swimming across the inlet that led to the bay.  By the age of 8, I was jumping off the 10 ft. high dive at the community pool.  I had no FEAR. This past Memorial Day, I was at my blog Svengali&#39;s pool.  (From now on, I will refer to him as one of his 3 nicknames:  Sven, Svenny or Svennykins.)  We climbed up the large rock formation at one end of the pool to soak in the view.  After oohing and ahhing over the beauty of our desert surroundings, Svenny leapt off the rock into the pool.  I approached the edge and...Chickened out. It seemed too high.  It seemed too shallow.  It seemed too scary. Svenny assured me that if I tucked my legs I wouldn&#39;t hit bottom.  The deep end was 6 ft.  I was entirely safe. I heard my nervous Nelly mother in my head.  She warned me about mishaps that occur when people dive into water that is too shallow.  They sever their spinal cords.  They are paralyzed for life. I remember as a kid reading a library book about a girl who suffered this very fate.  She was an artist, and since her arms were paralyzed, she learned how to paint with her mouth.  You can read her story for yourself at http://www.joniearecksontadastory.com/. I sheepishly climbed down off the rock and joined Svenny on the deck.  I glanced back to the mountain of rock, but now it appeared to be more of a molehill.  Was I really scared of a molehill???  It&#39;s amazing what a shift in perspective will do. I announced to Svenny that I would return to his mountain/molehill for a Leap of Faith!  But could I please do it after my refurbished blog was up and running?Svenny looked puzzled. Because I will have 365 days to fill!!!  And I just love the symbolism behind this -- changing one&#39;s view and putting things into proper perspective and all!!!  What great writing material!!!Svenny rolled his eyes.Fast forward to Day 8.  I head over to Svenny&#39;s house for my Leap of Faith.  This is going to be a snap. Svenny opens the door and immediately starts rambling on about FEAR acronyms.  This is one of the things I admire about Svenny -- he&#39;s a guy that actually thinks about cool stuff -- but honestly, we need to get &#39;er done so I can get home and crank out a blog post.  And Svenny can&#39;t quite remember the entire acronym -- something about expectations not realized or something like that -- and I&#39;m frankly starting to get nervous with all of this FEAR talk.  Somehow I manage to distract Svenny and corral him out to the pool. Svenny disappears to the side of the house.   I have no earthly idea what he is doing until I hear running water and notice that there is now a waterfall cascading down the mountain/molehill.  I ask Svenny if this will make the mountain/molehill surface too slippery.  He stares blankly at me.  I shut up and climb up. Did I say that this was going to be a snap?! Ugh.I revert back to Memorial Day.  FEAR resurfaces. Svenny is stage-right with a camera.  I explain to him that I am really, truly unnerved. He waxes on about acronyms.I explain to him that I don&#39;t think I can do this. He reminds me to tuck my legs, and I will be fine.I ask if any adults have jumped recently. No, but several kids did at his last pool party. I ask if any of these children were larger children.  (I am the size of a large pre-teen.)Yes.  I sense an oncoming eye roll. An eternity passes. At this point, I can care less about &quot;conquering a fear&quot;.  I am freakin&#39; scared!  My main motivation in taking the plunge is that if I just do it, this little self-growth exercise will be over in a split second, and I won’t have to think about and implement something else for Day 8.  Pathetic, huh?I also feel guilty for taking up Svenny&#39;s time when he is smack in the middle of a project for his upcoming book. So...I...It&#39;s only 6 ft, but crap! It seems higher when you&#39;re up there looking down!\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/P92201781.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-688\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/P92201781-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n<p>FEAR = False Evidence Appearing Real</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>You know how the story ends, right?  The leap isn\'t as terrifying as I make it out to be, and I am elated for showing up and following through. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I am also relieved that I didn\'t cave into the other FEAR = F*** Everything And Run!</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Thank you for holding me accountable, Blog Fans and Svennykins! </p></div>','Day 8:  Flashback Friday:  Leap of Faith','','inherit','open','open','','687-revision-7','','','2010-09-23 21:29:25','2010-09-24 04:29:25','',687,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/09/23/687-revision-7/',0,'revision','',0),(692,1,'2010-09-23 21:23:26','2010-09-24 04:23:26','<div class=\"mceTemp\"><dl id=\"attachment_688\" class=\"wp-caption alignleft\" style=\"width: 310px;\"><dt class=\"wp-caption-dt\"><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/P92201781.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-688\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/P92201781-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a></dt><dd class=\"wp-caption-dd\">Jump! aka feel the FEAR and do it anyway</dd></dl>\r\n\r\n<p>Back when I was a kid, I practically lived in the water every summer.  I learned how to swim when I was teeny tiny in the pond outside my grandparent\'s beach house.  By the age of 6, I was swimming across the inlet that led to the bay.  By the age of 8, I was jumping off the 10 ft. high dive at the community pool.  I had no FEAR. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>This past Memorial Day, I was at my blog Svengali\'s pool.  (From now on, I will refer to him as one of his 3 nicknames:  Sven, Svenny or Svennykins.)  We climbed up the large rock formation at one end of the pool to soak in the view.  After oohing and ahhing over the beauty of our desert surroundings, Svenny leapt off the rock into the pool.  I approached the edge and...Chickened out. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>It seemed too high.  It seemed too shallow.  It seemed too scary. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Svenny assured me that if I tucked my legs I wouldn\'t hit bottom.  The deep end was 6 ft.  I was entirely safe. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I heard my nervous Nelly mother in my head.  She warned me about mishaps that occur when people dive into water that is too shallow.  They sever their spinal cords.  They are paralyzed for life. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I remember as a kid reading a library book about a girl who suffered this very fate.  She was an artist, and since her arms were paralyzed, she learned how to paint with her mouth.  You can read her story for yourself at <a href=\"http://www.joniearecksontadastory.com/\">http://www.joniearecksontadastory.com/</a>. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I sheepishly climbed down off the rock and joined Svenny on the deck.  I glanced back to the mountain of rock, but now it appeared to be more of a molehill.  Was I really scared of a molehill???  It\'s amazing what a shift in perspective will do. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I announced to Svenny that I would return to his mountain/molehill for a Leap of Faith!  But could I please do it after my refurbished blog was up and running?</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Svenny looked puzzled. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Because I will have 365 days to fill!!!  And I just love the symbolism behind this -- changing one\'s view and putting things into proper perspective and all!!!  What great writing material!!!</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Svenny rolled his eyes.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Fast forward to Day 8.  I head over to Svenny\'s house for my Leap of Faith.  This is going to be a snap. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Svenny opens the door and immediately starts rambling on about FEAR acronyms.  This is one of the things I admire about Svenny -- he\'s a guy that actually thinks about cool stuff -- but honestly, we need to get \'er done so I can get home and crank out a blog post.  </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>And Svenny can\'t quite remember the entire acronym -- something about expectations not realized or something like that -- and I\'m frankly starting to get nervous with all of this FEAR talk.  Somehow I manage to distract Svenny and corral him out to the pool. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Svenny disappears to the side of the house.   I have no earthly idea what he is doing until I hear running water and notice that there is now a waterfall cascading down the mountain/molehill.  I ask Svenny if this will make the mountain/molehill surface too slippery.  He stares blankly at me.  I shut up and climb up. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Did I say that this was going to be a snap?! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Ugh.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I revert back to Memorial Day.  FEAR resurfaces. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Svenny is stage-right with a camera.  I explain to him that I am really, truly unnerved. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>He waxes on about acronyms.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I explain to him that I don\'t think I can do this. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>He reminds me to tuck my legs, and I will be fine.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I ask if any adults have jumped recently. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>No, but several kids did at his last pool party. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I ask if any of these children were larger children.  (I am the size of a large pre-teen.)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Yes.  I sense an oncoming eye roll. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>An eternity passes. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>At this point, I can care less about \"conquering a fear\".  I am freakin\' scared!  My main motivation in taking the plunge is that if I just do it, this little self-growth exercise will be over in a split second, and I won’t have to think about and implement something else for Day 8.  Pathetic, huh?</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I also feel guilty for taking up Svenny\'s time when he is smack in the middle of a project for his upcoming book. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>So...I...</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>FEAR = False Evidence Appearing Real</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>You know how the story ends, right?  The leap isn\'t as terrifying as I make it out to be, and I am elated for showing up and following through. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I am also relieved that I didn\'t cave into the other FEAR = F*** Everything And Run!</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Thank you for holding me accountable, Blog Fans and Svennykins! </p></div>','Day 8:  Flashback Friday:  Leap of Faith','','inherit','open','open','','687-revision-4','','','2010-09-23 21:23:26','2010-09-24 04:23:26','',687,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/09/23/687-revision-4/',0,'revision','',0),(693,1,'2010-09-23 21:23:59','2010-09-24 04:23:59','<div class=\"mceTemp\"><dl id=\"attachment_688\" class=\"wp-caption alignleft\" style=\"width: 310px;\"><dt class=\"wp-caption-dt\"><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/P92201781.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-688\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/P92201781-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a></dt><dd class=\"wp-caption-dd\">Jump! aka feel the FEAR and do it anyway</dd></dl>\r\n\r\n<p>Back when I was a kid, I practically lived in the water every summer.  I learned how to swim when I was teeny tiny in the pond outside my grandparent\'s beach house.  By the age of 6, I was swimming across the inlet that led to the bay.  By the age of 8, I was jumping off the 10 ft. high dive at the community pool.  I had no FEAR. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>This past Memorial Day, I was at my blog Svengali\'s pool.  (From now on, I will refer to him as one of his 3 nicknames:  Sven, Svenny or Svennykins.)  We climbed up the large rock formation at one end of the pool to soak in the view.  After oohing and ahhing over the beauty of our desert surroundings, Svenny leapt off the rock into the pool.  I approached the edge and...Chickened out. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>It seemed too high.  It seemed too shallow.  It seemed too scary. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Svenny assured me that if I tucked my legs I wouldn\'t hit bottom.  The deep end was 6 ft.  I was entirely safe. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I heard my nervous Nelly mother in my head.  She warned me about mishaps that occur when people dive into water that is too shallow.  They sever their spinal cords.  They are paralyzed for life. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I remember as a kid reading a library book about a girl who suffered this very fate.  She was an artist, and since her arms were paralyzed, she learned how to paint with her mouth.  You can read her story for yourself at <a href=\"http://www.joniearecksontadastory.com/\">http://www.joniearecksontadastory.com/</a>. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I sheepishly climbed down off the rock and joined Svenny on the deck.  I glanced back to the mountain of rock, but now it appeared to be more of a molehill.  Was I really scared of a molehill???  It\'s amazing what a shift in perspective will do. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I announced to Svenny that I would return to his mountain/molehill for a Leap of Faith!  But could I please do it after my refurbished blog was up and running?</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Svenny looked puzzled. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Because I will have 365 days to fill!!!  And I just love the symbolism behind this -- changing one\'s view and putting things into proper perspective and all!!!  What great writing material!!!</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Svenny rolled his eyes.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Fast forward to Day 8.  I head over to Svenny\'s house for my Leap of Faith.  This is going to be a snap. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Svenny opens the door and immediately starts rambling on about FEAR acronyms.  This is one of the things I admire about Svenny -- he\'s a guy that actually thinks about cool stuff -- but honestly, we need to get \'er done so I can get home and crank out a blog post.  </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>And Svenny can\'t quite remember the entire acronym -- something about expectations not realized or something like that -- and I\'m frankly starting to get nervous with all of this FEAR talk.  Somehow I manage to distract Svenny and corral him out to the pool. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Svenny disappears to the side of the house.   I have no earthly idea what he is doing until I hear running water and notice that there is now a waterfall cascading down the mountain/molehill.  I ask Svenny if this will make the mountain/molehill surface too slippery.  He stares blankly at me.  I shut up and climb up. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Did I say that this was going to be a snap?! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Ugh.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I revert back to Memorial Day.  FEAR resurfaces. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Svenny is stage-right with a camera.  I explain to him that I am really, truly unnerved. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>He waxes on about acronyms.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I explain to him that I don\'t think I can do this. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>He reminds me to tuck my legs, and I will be fine.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I ask if any adults have jumped recently. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>No, but several kids did at his last pool party. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I ask if any of these children were larger children.  (I am the size of a large pre-teen.)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Yes.  I sense an oncoming eye roll. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>An eternity passes. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>At this point, I can care less about \"conquering a fear\".  I am freakin\' scared!  My main motivation in taking the plunge is that if I just do it, this little self-growth exercise will be over in a split second, and I won’t have to think about and implement something else for Day 8.  Pathetic, huh?</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I also feel guilty for taking up Svenny\'s time when he is smack in the middle of a project for his upcoming book. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>So...I...</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>FEAR = False Evidence Appearing Real</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>You know how the story ends, right?  The leap isn\'t as terrifying as I make it out to be, and I am elated for showing up and following through. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I am also relieved that I didn\'t cave into the other FEAR = F*** Everything And Run!</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Thank you for holding me accountable, Blog Fans and Svennykins! </p></div>','Day 8:  Flashback Friday:  Leap of Faith','','inherit','open','open','','687-revision-5','','','2010-09-23 21:23:59','2010-09-24 04:23:59','',687,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/09/23/687-revision-5/',0,'revision','',0),(694,1,'2010-09-23 21:25:33','2010-09-24 04:25:33','','OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA','','inherit','open','open','','olympus-digital-camera-11','','','2010-09-23 21:25:33','2010-09-24 04:25:33','',687,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/P9220175.jpg',0,'attachment','image/jpeg',0),(695,1,'2010-09-23 21:26:18','2010-09-24 04:26:18','','OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA','It\'s only 6 ft, but crap!  It seems higher when you\'re up there looking down!','inherit','open','open','','olympus-digital-camera-12','','','2010-09-23 21:26:18','2010-09-24 04:26:18','',687,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/LeapofFaith1.jpg',0,'attachment','image/jpeg',0),(696,1,'2010-09-23 21:24:10','2010-09-24 04:24:10','<div class=\"mceTemp\"><dl id=\"attachment_688\" class=\"wp-caption alignleft\" style=\"width: 310px;\"><dt class=\"wp-caption-dt\"><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/P92201781.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-688\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/P92201781-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a></dt><dd class=\"wp-caption-dd\">Jump! aka feel the FEAR and do it anyway</dd></dl>\r\n\r\n<p>Back when I was a kid, I practically lived in the water every summer.  I learned how to swim when I was teeny tiny in the pond outside my grandparent\'s beach house.  By the age of 6, I was swimming across the inlet that led to the bay.  By the age of 8, I was jumping off the 10 ft. high dive at the community pool.  I had no FEAR. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>This past Memorial Day, I was at my blog Svengali\'s pool.  (From now on, I will refer to him as one of his 3 nicknames:  Sven, Svenny or Svennykins.)  We climbed up the large rock formation at one end of the pool to soak in the view.  After oohing and ahhing over the beauty of our desert surroundings, Svenny leapt off the rock into the pool.  I approached the edge and...Chickened out. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>It seemed too high.  It seemed too shallow.  It seemed too scary. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Svenny assured me that if I tucked my legs I wouldn\'t hit bottom.  The deep end was 6 ft.  I was entirely safe. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I heard my nervous Nelly mother in my head.  She warned me about mishaps that occur when people dive into water that is too shallow.  They sever their spinal cords.  They are paralyzed for life. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I remember as a kid reading a library book about a girl who suffered this very fate.  She was an artist, and since her arms were paralyzed, she learned how to paint with her mouth.  You can read her story for yourself at <a href=\"http://www.joniearecksontadastory.com/\">http://www.joniearecksontadastory.com/</a>. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I sheepishly climbed down off the rock and joined Svenny on the deck.  I glanced back to the mountain of rock, but now it appeared to be more of a molehill.  Was I really scared of a molehill???  It\'s amazing what a shift in perspective will do. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I announced to Svenny that I would return to his mountain/molehill for a Leap of Faith!  But could I please do it after my refurbished blog was up and running?</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Svenny looked puzzled. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Because I will have 365 days to fill!!!  And I just love the symbolism behind this -- changing one\'s view and putting things into proper perspective and all!!!  What great writing material!!!</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Svenny rolled his eyes.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Fast forward to Day 8.  I head over to Svenny\'s house for my Leap of Faith.  This is going to be a snap. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Svenny opens the door and immediately starts rambling on about FEAR acronyms.  This is one of the things I admire about Svenny -- he\'s a guy that actually thinks about cool stuff -- but honestly, we need to get \'er done so I can get home and crank out a blog post.  </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>And Svenny can\'t quite remember the entire acronym -- something about expectations not realized or something like that -- and I\'m frankly starting to get nervous with all of this FEAR talk.  Somehow I manage to distract Svenny and corral him out to the pool. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Svenny disappears to the side of the house.   I have no earthly idea what he is doing until I hear running water and notice that there is now a waterfall cascading down the mountain/molehill.  I ask Svenny if this will make the mountain/molehill surface too slippery.  He stares blankly at me.  I shut up and climb up. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Did I say that this was going to be a snap?! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Ugh.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I revert back to Memorial Day.  FEAR resurfaces. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Svenny is stage-right with a camera.  I explain to him that I am really, truly unnerved. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>He waxes on about acronyms.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I explain to him that I don\'t think I can do this. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>He reminds me to tuck my legs, and I will be fine.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I ask if any adults have jumped recently. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>No, but several kids did at his last pool party. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I ask if any of these children were larger children.  (I am the size of a large pre-teen.)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Yes.  I sense an oncoming eye roll. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>An eternity passes. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>At this point, I can care less about \"conquering a fear\".  I am freakin\' scared!  My main motivation in taking the plunge is that if I just do it, this little self-growth exercise will be over in a split second, and I won’t have to think about and implement something else for Day 8.  Pathetic, huh?</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I also feel guilty for taking up Svenny\'s time when he is smack in the middle of a project for his upcoming book. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>So...I...</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>FEAR = False Evidence Appearing Real</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>You know how the story ends, right?  The leap isn\'t as terrifying as I make it out to be, and I am elated for showing up and following through. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I am also relieved that I didn\'t cave into the other FEAR = F*** Everything And Run!</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Thank you for holding me accountable, Blog Fans and Svennykins! </p></div>','Day 8:  Flashback Friday:  Leap of Faith','','inherit','open','open','','687-revision-6','','','2010-09-23 21:24:10','2010-09-24 04:24:10','',687,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/09/23/687-revision-6/',0,'revision','',0),(698,1,'2010-09-23 21:30:45','2010-09-24 04:30:45','[caption id=\"attachment_688\" align=\"alignleft\" width=\"300\" caption=\"Jump! aka feel the FEAR and do it anywayBack when I was a kid, I practically lived in the water every summer.  I learned how to swim when I was teeny tiny in the pond outside my grandparent&#39;s beach house.  By the age of 6, I was swimming across the inlet that led to the bay.  By the age of 8, I was jumping off the 10 ft. high dive at the community pool.  I had no FEAR. This past Memorial Day, I was at my blog Svengali&#39;s pool.  (From now on, I will refer to him as one of his 3 nicknames:  Sven, Svenny or Svennykins.)  We climbed up the large rock formation at one end of the pool to soak in the view.  After oohing and ahhing over the beauty of our desert surroundings, Svenny leapt off the rock into the pool.  I approached the edge and...Chickened out. It seemed too high.  It seemed too shallow.  It seemed too scary. Svenny assured me that if I tucked my legs I wouldn&#39;t hit bottom.  The deep end was 6 ft.  I was entirely safe. I heard my nervous Nelly mother in my head.  She warned me about mishaps that occur when people dive into water that is too shallow.  They sever their spinal cords.  They are paralyzed for life. I remember as a kid reading a library book about a girl who suffered this very fate.  She was an artist, and since her arms were paralyzed, she learned how to paint with her mouth.  You can read her story for yourself at http://www.joniearecksontadastory.com/. I sheepishly climbed down off the rock and joined Svenny on the deck.  I glanced back to the mountain of rock, but now it appeared to be more of a molehill.  Was I really scared of a molehill???  It&#39;s amazing what a shift in perspective will do. I announced to Svenny that I would return to his mountain/molehill for a Leap of Faith!  But could I please do it after my refurbished blog was up and running?Svenny looked puzzled. Because I will have 365 days to fill!!!  And I just love the symbolism behind this -- changing one&#39;s view and putting things into proper perspective and all!!!  What great writing material!!!Svenny rolled his eyes.Fast forward to Day 8.  I head over to Svenny&#39;s house for my Leap of Faith.  This is going to be a snap. Svenny opens the door and immediately starts rambling on about FEAR acronyms.  This is one of the things I admire about Svenny -- he&#39;s a guy that actually thinks about cool stuff -- but honestly, we need to get &#39;er done so I can get home and crank out a blog post.  And Svenny can&#39;t quite remember the entire acronym -- something about expectations not realized or something like that -- and I&#39;m frankly starting to get nervous with all of this FEAR talk.  Somehow I manage to distract Svenny and corral him out to the pool. Svenny disappears to the side of the house.   I have no earthly idea what he is doing until I hear running water and notice that there is now a waterfall cascading down the mountain/molehill.  I ask Svenny if this will make the mountain/molehill surface too slippery.  He stares blankly at me.  I shut up and climb up. Did I say that this was going to be a snap?! Ugh.I revert back to Memorial Day.  FEAR resurfaces. Svenny is stage-right with a camera.  I explain to him that I am really, truly unnerved. He waxes on about acronyms.I explain to him that I don&#39;t think I can do this. He reminds me to tuck my legs, and I will be fine.I ask if any adults have jumped recently. No, but several kids did at his last pool party. I ask if any of these children were larger children.  (I am the size of a large pre-teen.)Yes.  I sense an oncoming eye roll. An eternity passes. At this point, I can care less about &quot;conquering a fear&quot;.  I am freakin&#39; scared!  My main motivation in taking the plunge is that if I just do it, this little self-growth exercise will be over in a split second, and I won’t have to think about and implement something else for Day 8.  Pathetic, huh?I also feel guilty for taking up Svenny&#39;s time when he is smack in the middle of a project for his upcoming book. So...I...It&#39;s only 6 ft, but crap! It seems higher when you&#39;re up there looking down!\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/P92201781.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-688\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/P92201781-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n<p>FEAR = False Evidence Appearing Real</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>You know how the story ends, right?  The leap isn\'t as terrifying as I make it out to be, and I am elated for showing up and following through. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I am also relieved that I didn\'t cave into the other FEAR = F*** Everything And Run!</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Thank you for holding me accountable, Blog Fans and Svennykins! </p></div>','Day 8:  Flashback Friday:  Leap of Faith','','inherit','open','open','','687-revision-8','','','2010-09-23 21:30:45','2010-09-24 04:30:45','',687,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/09/23/687-revision-8/',0,'revision','',0),(699,1,'2010-09-23 21:32:31','2010-09-24 04:32:31','<div class=\"mceTemp\"><dl id=\"attachment_688\" class=\"wp-caption alignleft\" style=\"width: 310px;\"><dt class=\"wp-caption-dt\"><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/P92201781.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-688\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/P92201781-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a></dt><dd class=\"wp-caption-dd\">Jump! aka feel the FEAR and do it anyway</dd></dl>\r\n\r\n<p>Back when I was a kid, I practically lived in the water every summer.  I learned how to swim when I was teeny tiny in the pond outside my grandparent\'s beach house.  By the age of 6, I was swimming across the inlet that led to the bay.  By the age of 8, I was jumping off the 10 ft. high dive at the community pool.  I had no FEAR. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>This past Memorial Day, I was at my blog Svengali\'s pool.  (From now on, I will refer to him as one of his 3 nicknames:  Sven, Svenny or Svennykins.)  We climbed up the large rock formation at one end of the pool to soak in the view.  After oohing and ahhing over the beauty of our desert surroundings, Svenny leapt off the rock into the pool.  I approached the edge and...Chickened out. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>It seemed too high.  It seemed too shallow.  It seemed too scary. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Svenny assured me that if I tucked my legs I wouldn\'t hit bottom.  The deep end was 6 ft.  I was entirely safe. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I heard my nervous Nelly mother in my head.  She warned me about mishaps that occur when people dive into water that is too shallow.  They sever their spinal cords.  They are paralyzed for life. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I remember as a kid reading a library book about a girl who suffered this very fate.  She was an artist, and since her arms were paralyzed, she learned how to paint with her mouth.  You can read her story for yourself at <a href=\"http://www.joniearecksontadastory.com/\">http://www.joniearecksontadastory.com/</a>. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I sheepishly climbed down off the rock and joined Svenny on the deck.  I glanced back to the mountain of rock, but now it appeared to be more of a molehill.  Was I really scared of a molehill???  It\'s amazing what a shift in perspective will do. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I announced to Svenny that I would return to his mountain/molehill for a Leap of Faith!  But could I please do it after my refurbished blog was up and running?</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Svenny looked puzzled. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Because I will have 365 days to fill!!!  And I just love the symbolism behind this -- changing one\'s view and putting things into proper perspective and all!!!  What great writing material!!!</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Svenny rolled his eyes.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Fast forward to Day 8.  I head over to Svenny\'s house for my Leap of Faith.  This is going to be a snap. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Svenny opens the door and immediately starts rambling on about FEAR acronyms.  This is one of the things I admire about Svenny -- he\'s a guy that actually thinks about cool stuff -- but honestly, we need to get \'er done so I can get home and crank out a blog post.  </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>And Svenny can\'t quite remember the entire acronym -- something about expectations not realized or something like that -- and I\'m frankly starting to get nervous with all of this FEAR talk.  Somehow I manage to distract Svenny and corral him out to the pool. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Svenny disappears to the side of the house.   I have no earthly idea what he is doing until I hear running water and notice that there is now a waterfall cascading down the mountain/molehill.  I ask Svenny if this will make the mountain/molehill surface too slippery.  He stares blankly at me.  I shut up and climb up. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Did I say that this was going to be a snap?! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Ugh.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I revert back to Memorial Day.  FEAR resurfaces. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Svenny is stage-right with a camera.  I explain to him that I am really, truly unnerved. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>He waxes on about acronyms.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I explain to him that I don\'t think I can do this. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>He reminds me to tuck my legs, and I will be fine.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I ask if any adults have jumped recently. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>No, but several kids did at his last pool party. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I ask if any of these children were larger children.  (I am the size of a large pre-teen.)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Yes.  I sense an oncoming eye roll. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>An eternity passes. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>At this point, I can care less about \"conquering a fear\".  I am freakin\' scared!  My main motivation in taking the plunge is that if I just do it, this little self-growth exercise will be over in a split second, and I won’t have to think about and implement something else for Day 8.  Pathetic, huh?</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I also feel guilty for taking up Svenny\'s time when he is smack in the middle of a project for his upcoming book. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>So...I...</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>FEAR = False Evidence Appearing Real</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>You know how the story ends, right?  The leap isn\'t as terrifying as I make it out to be, and I am elated for showing up and following through. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I am also relieved that I didn\'t cave into the other FEAR = F*** Everything And Run!</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Thank you for holding me accountable, Blog Fans and Svennykins! </p></div>','Day 8:  Flashback Friday:  Leap of Faith','','inherit','open','open','','687-revision-9','','','2010-09-23 21:32:31','2010-09-24 04:32:31','',687,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/09/23/687-revision-9/',0,'revision','',0),(700,1,'2010-09-23 21:36:10','2010-09-24 04:36:10','[caption id=\"attachment_695\" align=\"alignleft\" width=\"225\" caption=\"It&#39;s only 6 ft, but crap! It seems higher when you&#39;re up there looking down!\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/LeapofFaith1.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-695\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/LeapofFaith1-225x300.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"225\" height=\"300\" /></a>[/caption]\n\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"><dl id=\"attachment_688\" class=\"wp-caption alignleft\" style=\"width: 310px;\"><dt class=\"wp-caption-dt\"><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/P92201781.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-688\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/P92201781-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a></dt><dd class=\"wp-caption-dd\">Jump! aka feel the FEAR and do it anyway</dd></dl>\n\n<p>Back when I was a kid, I practically lived in the water every summer.  I learned how to swim when I was teeny tiny in the pond outside my grandparent\'s beach house.  By the age of 6, I was swimming across the inlet that led to the bay.  By the age of 8, I was jumping off the 10 ft. high dive at the community pool.  I had no FEAR. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>This past Memorial Day, I was at my blog Svengali\'s pool.  (From now on, I will refer to him as one of his 3 nicknames:  Sven, Svenny or Svennykins.)  We climbed up the large rock formation at one end of the pool to soak in the view.  After oohing and ahhing over the beauty of our desert surroundings, Svenny leapt off the rock into the pool.  I approached the edge and...Chickened out. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>It seemed too high.  It seemed too shallow.  It seemed too scary. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Svenny assured me that if I tucked my legs I wouldn\'t hit bottom.  The deep end was 6 ft.  I was entirely safe. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>I heard my nervous Nelly mother in my head.  She warned me about mishaps that occur when people dive into water that is too shallow.  They sever their spinal cords.  They are paralyzed for life. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>I remember as a kid reading a library book about a girl who suffered this very fate.  She was an artist, and since her arms were paralyzed, she learned how to paint with her mouth.  You can read her story for yourself at <a href=\"http://www.joniearecksontadastory.com/\">http://www.joniearecksontadastory.com/</a>. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>I sheepishly climbed down off the rock and joined Svenny on the deck.  I glanced back to the mountain of rock, but now it appeared to be more of a molehill.  Was I really scared of a molehill???  It\'s amazing what a shift in perspective will do. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>I announced to Svenny that I would return to his mountain/molehill for a Leap of Faith!  But could I please do it after my refurbished blog was up and running?</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Svenny looked puzzled. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Because I will have 365 days to fill!!!  And I just love the symbolism behind this -- changing one\'s view and putting things into proper perspective and all!!!  What great writing material!!!</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Svenny rolled his eyes.</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Fast forward to Day 8.  I head over to Svenny\'s house for my Leap of Faith.  This is going to be a snap. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Svenny opens the door and immediately starts rambling on about FEAR acronyms.  This is one of the things I admire about Svenny -- he\'s a guy that actually thinks about cool stuff -- but honestly, we need to get \'er done so I can get home and crank out a blog post.  </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>And Svenny can\'t quite remember the entire acronym -- something about expectations not realized or something like that -- and I\'m frankly starting to get nervous with all of this FEAR talk.  Somehow I manage to distract Svenny and corral him out to the pool. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Svenny disappears to the side of the house.   I have no earthly idea what he is doing until I hear running water and notice that there is now a waterfall cascading down the mountain/molehill.  I ask Svenny if this will make the mountain/molehill surface too slippery.  He stares blankly at me.  I shut up and climb up. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Did I say that this was going to be a snap?! </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Ugh.</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>I revert back to Memorial Day.  FEAR resurfaces. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Svenny is stage-right with a camera.  I explain to him that I am really, truly unnerved. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>He waxes on about acronyms.</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>I explain to him that I don\'t think I can do this. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>He reminds me to tuck my legs, and I will be fine.</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>I ask if any adults have jumped recently. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>No, but several kids did at his last pool party. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>I ask if any of these children were larger children.  (I am the size of a large pre-teen.)</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Yes.  I sense an oncoming eye roll. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>An eternity passes. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>At this point, I can care less about \"conquering a fear\".  I am freakin\' scared!  My main motivation in taking the plunge is that if I just do it, this little self-growth exercise will be over in a split second, and I won’t have to think about and implement something else for Day 8.  Pathetic, huh?</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>I also feel guilty for taking up Svenny\'s time when he is smack in the middle of a project for his upcoming book. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>So...I...</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>FEAR = False Evidence Appearing Real</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>You know how the story ends, right?  The leap isn\'t as terrifying as I make it out to be, and I am elated for showing up and following through. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>I am also relieved that I didn\'t cave into the other FEAR = F*** Everything And Run!</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Thank you for holding me accountable, Blog Fans and Svennykins! </p></div>','Day 8:  Flashback Friday:  Leap of Faith','','inherit','open','open','','687-revision-10','','','2010-09-23 21:36:10','2010-09-24 04:36:10','',687,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/09/23/687-revision-10/',0,'revision','',0),(701,1,'2010-09-23 21:37:10','2010-09-24 04:37:10','<div class=\"mceTemp\"><dt class=\"wp-caption-dt\"><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/LeapofFaith1.jpg\"></a></dt><dd class=\"wp-caption-dd\"> </dd></div>\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"><dl id=\"attachment_688\" class=\"wp-caption alignleft\" style=\"width: 310px;\"><dt class=\"wp-caption-dt\"><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/P92201781.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-688\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/P92201781-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a></dt><dd class=\"wp-caption-dd\">Jump! aka feel the FEAR and do it anyway</dd></dl>\n\n<p>Back when I was a kid, I practically lived in the water every summer.  I learned how to swim when I was teeny tiny in the pond outside my grandparent\'s beach house.  By the age of 6, I was swimming across the inlet that led to the bay.  By the age of 8, I was jumping off the 10 ft. high dive at the community pool.  I had no FEAR. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>This past Memorial Day, I was at my blog Svengali\'s pool.  (From now on, I will refer to him as one of his 3 nicknames:  Sven, Svenny or Svennykins.)  We climbed up the large rock formation at one end of the pool to soak in the view.  After oohing and ahhing over the beauty of our desert surroundings, Svenny leapt off the rock into the pool.  I approached the edge and...Chickened out. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>It seemed too high.  It seemed too shallow.  It seemed too scary. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Svenny assured me that if I tucked my legs I wouldn\'t hit bottom.  The deep end was 6 ft.  I was entirely safe. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>I heard my nervous Nelly mother in my head.  She warned me about mishaps that occur when people dive into water that is too shallow.  They sever their spinal cords.  They are paralyzed for life. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>I remember as a kid reading a library book about a girl who suffered this very fate.  She was an artist, and since her arms were paralyzed, she learned how to paint with her mouth.  You can read her story for yourself at <a href=\"http://www.joniearecksontadastory.com/\">http://www.joniearecksontadastory.com/</a>. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>I sheepishly climbed down off the rock and joined Svenny on the deck.  I glanced back to the mountain of rock, but now it appeared to be more of a molehill.  Was I really scared of a molehill???  It\'s amazing what a shift in perspective will do. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>I announced to Svenny that I would return to his mountain/molehill for a Leap of Faith!  But could I please do it after my refurbished blog was up and running?</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Svenny looked puzzled. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Because I will have 365 days to fill!!!  And I just love the symbolism behind this -- changing one\'s view and putting things into proper perspective and all!!!  What great writing material!!!</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Svenny rolled his eyes.</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Fast forward to Day 8.  I head over to Svenny\'s house for my Leap of Faith.  This is going to be a snap. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Svenny opens the door and immediately starts rambling on about FEAR acronyms.  This is one of the things I admire about Svenny -- he\'s a guy that actually thinks about cool stuff -- but honestly, we need to get \'er done so I can get home and crank out a blog post.  </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>And Svenny can\'t quite remember the entire acronym -- something about expectations not realized or something like that -- and I\'m frankly starting to get nervous with all of this FEAR talk.  Somehow I manage to distract Svenny and corral him out to the pool. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Svenny disappears to the side of the house.   I have no earthly idea what he is doing until I hear running water and notice that there is now a waterfall cascading down the mountain/molehill.  I ask Svenny if this will make the mountain/molehill surface too slippery.  He stares blankly at me.  I shut up and climb up. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Did I say that this was going to be a snap?! </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Ugh.</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>I revert back to Memorial Day.  FEAR resurfaces. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Svenny is stage-right with a camera.  I explain to him that I am really, truly unnerved. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>He waxes on about acronyms.</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>I explain to him that I don\'t think I can do this. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>He reminds me to tuck my legs, and I will be fine.</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>I ask if any adults have jumped recently. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>No, but several kids did at his last pool party. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>I ask if any of these children were larger children.  (I am the size of a large pre-teen.)</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Yes.  I sense an oncoming eye roll. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>An eternity passes. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>At this point, I can care less about \"conquering a fear\".  I am freakin\' scared!  My main motivation in taking the plunge is that if I just do it, this little self-growth exercise will be over in a split second, and I won’t have to think about and implement something else for Day 8.  Pathetic, huh?</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>I also feel guilty for taking up Svenny\'s time when he is smack in the middle of a project for his upcoming book. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>So...I...</p>\n\n<p><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/LeapofFaith1.jpg\"><img title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/LeapofFaith1-225x300.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"225\" height=\"300\" /></a><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>FEAR = False Evidence Appearing Real</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>You know how the story ends, right?  The leap isn\'t as terrifying as I make it out to be, and I am elated for showing up and following through. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>I am also relieved that I didn\'t cave into the other FEAR = F*** Everything And Run!</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Thank you for holding me accountable, Blog Fans and Svennykins! </p></div>','Day 8:  Flashback Friday:  Leap of Faith','','inherit','open','open','','687-revision-11','','','2010-09-23 21:37:10','2010-09-24 04:37:10','',687,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/09/23/687-revision-11/',0,'revision','',0),(1347,1,'2010-10-24 20:56:57','2010-10-25 03:56:57','<p><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/salcalvinfo.gif\"><img class=\"alignleft size-full wp-image-1326\" title=\"salcalvinfo\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/salcalvinfo.gif\" alt=\"\" width=\"1\" height=\"1\" /></a><a href=\"http://www.hairpeace.com/Home.html\" target=\"_blank\"><img class=\"alignleft size-full wp-image-1319\" title=\"salvadorsign\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/salvadorsign2.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Most women tend to be fiercely loyal to their hairstylists.  Suggest to a woman that she try a new stylist and a look of horror (tinged with guilt) crosses her face.  A woman would sooner call it quits with her significant other than abandon or cheat on her mane guy/girl. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>And, yes, this applies to women who are downright unhappy with their stylist!  They would rather stay in a dysfunctional hair relationship than break away to healthier pastures.  They walk around with a bad haircut and/or color because they don’t want to hurt their hairstylist’s <em>feelings</em>. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I know.  I used to feel that way as well.  Until the day I was forced to break up with “G”.  He left me with no choice.   </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong><span style=\"color: #ff00ff; font-size: large;\">Like all new relationships, it was A Match Made in Heaven.  At first.  </span></strong></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong><span style=\"color: #ff00ff; font-size: large;\"> </span></strong> </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>G was my hairstylist from five years ago.  I met him at a party.  At the time, I was displeased with my hair.  My metrosexual poster boy friend recommended a top stylist in Snobbsdale who dyed my tresses a lighter shade of black and razor cut my hair.  The color made me look like I was in dire need of a makeover, and the razor made my hair frizz to a frazzle. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>At the party (hosted by metrosexual poster boy, ironically), G sat down next to me and told me that he loved my dress.  (+10 points)  He then commented that my shoes were to die for.  (+20 points)  We talked incessantly for a while, and it came up in conversation that he was a hairstylist.  I immediately blurted out my hair woes. Don’t we often treat our hairstylists like therapists?  God bless them for listening. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>G calmly assessed the damage.  He explained to me that my hair was too dark and washed me out.  (+50 points)  G was HORRIFIED that someone had taken a razor to the hair of someone of “Mediterranean descent”.  (+100 points)  My hair should be blunt cut to eliminate the frizzle-frazzle!  (+500 points) </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>This was destined to be a hair relationship made in Heaven! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I called G that Tuesday to schedule an appointment.  When our big day rolled around, it was everything a girl could want.  I will never forget – he dyed my hair with a color called “Swedish blonde” which sounded ridiculous at first.  Me?  A blonde?  Uh…no.  BUT!!!!  G transformed my hair into shade of golden brunette perfect for my skin tone.  And his blunt cut layers made my hair bouncing and behaving!  (+ points ad infinitum)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I was hooked. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>G and I also started to see each other outside of the salon.  (Platonically.  G wasn’t attracted to women.)  He shared my taste for indie restaurants and coffeehouses.  We had so much fun together.  </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong><span style=\"color: #800080; font-size: large;\">Drama Queens belong on the stage and not in the salon.</span></strong></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Then one day, G was in a mood.  (He had a flair for the dramatic.)  He was stressed out about a guy who dissed him and ticked off at his landlord.  In the midst of relaying his hassles in vivid detail during my haircut, he cut my layers unevenly.  i.e. He screwed up my hair.  Big time.  Every woman’s worst hair nightmare. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Now, I am a forgiving sort.  I am prone to granting second chances.  We are all human.  We all make mistakes.  We should all give one another a little more grace. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>So I went back to G for a quick fix. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Which turned out to be not a fix, but another disaster. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong><span style=\"color: #ff0000; font-size: large;\">Breaking Up is Hard to Do </span></strong></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong><span style=\"color: #ff0000; font-size: large;\"> </span></strong></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>In some aspects, breaking up with G was worse than breaking up with a boyfriend.  With a boyfriend, you take time off to heal and ready yourself for another relationship someday.  With your hairstylist, you need to find another one right away.  This is far from ideal when you’re gun-shy and suffering from hair trauma. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Argh. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I went through a few hairstylists after G.  Everyone was good at first, and then they slacked off after a year or so.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I was then introduced to a husband/wife cut/color duo who are great.  I absolutely adore them – talented, super smart, and warm.  But our schedules haven’t been meshing lately.  Availability is limited to one Saturday a month, and if I happen to have other plans that Saturday, then I’m SOL.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>And this is how I came to cheat on my hairstylist.  I needed an appointment for this past Saturday, and my stylists were unavailable. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><span style=\"color: #ff6600; font-size: large;\"><strong>If you are going to cheat, then reach for the hairstylist to the stars.  </strong></span></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /> For months, my friend Britt waxed on about <em>“Salvador”.</em>  The way she talked about him, I envisioned some sort of mythical Hair God. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>“<em>Salvador</em> is the best stylist that I’ve ever been to.  He specializes in natural color.”  (+50 points)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>“<em>Salvador</em> is the only one in this town who knows how to cut hair.  He cuts the layers blunt so your hair is thick and voluptuous and doesn’t get scraggly as with point cutting.”  (+100 points)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>“<em>Salvador</em> has a really cool artsy studio downtown with art and photographs and instruments.”  (I’m a sucker for artsy fartsy.  +50 points.)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>“<em>Salvador</em> understands how to cut wavy hair.” (+100 points)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>“<em>Salvador</em>!  <em>Salvador</em>!  <em>Salvador</em>!”  (+50 points for reputation of mythical proportion) </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>So this past Saturday morning I hauled my cookies downtown for an appointment with <em>Salvador</em>. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Upon entering aforementioned artsy fartsy studio, I was greeted by an overly enthusiastic Golden Retriever named Tahoe.  (+ points ad infinitum)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><a href=\"http://www.hairpeace.com\"><img title=\"tahoe\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/tahoe2.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"97\" height=\"118\" /></a></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Salvador (with locks of mythical proportion) welcomed me to the salon and chit-chatted away about the morning.  I was up late the night before, slept in, and had just started drinking my coffee, so I slurped it down in a hurry with hopes that I could be a tenth as chipper as Tahoe and ready to talk to another human being.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Classical music played in the background (+10 points) while Salvador sat me in the chair and inquired about what I wanted to do with my hair.  I asked him what he would do given carte blanche. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>All I can remember is “natural color” and I agreed to the rest.  When a mythical Hair God shares his opinion, you really should just take it and get on with your day.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Once I was properly caffeinated, we were able to ramble on about all sorts of common interests from music to guitar to writing to entrepreneurship to topics ad infinitum.  (+1000 points)  I am sure that you will agree with me that NOTHING is more awkward than sitting in a hairstylist’s chair whom you are unable to talk to.  How can they <em>possibly </em>serve as your surrogate therapist/dating coach/sounding board if you can’t carry on a decent conversation??? </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Salvador worked his magic throughout conversational turns and many musical shifts (as you ease into the morning the classical needs to be replaced with rock) and then…Voila!  Hair Extraordinaire! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I have already received numerous compliments from “the outside”. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>In this illicit affair, the cheating paid off and no one got hurt.**</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>The most surprising thing about Salvador is that for a mythical Hair God, he is extraordinarily down-to-earth and <em>a really good guy</em>. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Often with myths, we develop high expectations that can’t be adhered to in Real Life.  Salvador will exceed your expectations.  And you’ll have fun in the process.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Go see him and Tahoe.  </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><a href=\"http://www.hairpeace.com/\" target=\"_blank\"><span style=\"color: #ff6600;\"><strong>http://www.hairpeace.com/</strong></span></a></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong> </strong></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>                           </strong> ****************************************</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>** Please note that I do not condone cheating in other relationships.  But if your hairstylist isn’t cutting it (pun intended), then by all means get out there and sow your wild oats with someone new! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>','Day 28:  Have YOU Ever Cheated on Your Hairdresser?','','inherit','open','open','','1307-revision-27','','','2010-10-24 20:56:57','2010-10-25 03:56:57','',1307,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/10/24/1307-revision-27/',0,'revision','',0),(1346,1,'2010-10-24 20:56:04','2010-10-25 03:56:04','<p><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/salcalvinfo.gif\"><img class=\"alignleft size-full wp-image-1326\" title=\"salcalvinfo\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/salcalvinfo.gif\" alt=\"\" width=\"1\" height=\"1\" /></a><a href=\"http://www.hairpeace.com/Home.html\" target=\"_blank\"><img class=\"alignleft size-full wp-image-1319\" title=\"salvadorsign\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/salvadorsign2.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Most women tend to be fiercely loyal to their hairstylists.  Suggest to a woman that she try a new stylist and a look of horror (tinged with guilt) crosses her face.  A woman would sooner call it quits with her significant other than abandon or cheat on her mane guy/girl. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>And, yes, this applies to women who are downright unhappy with their stylist!  They would rather stay in a dysfunctional hair relationship than break away to healthier pastures.  They walk around with a bad haircut and/or color because they don’t want to hurt their hairstylist’s <em>feelings</em>. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I know.  I used to feel that way as well.  Until the day I was forced to break up with “G”.  He left me with no choice.   </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong><span style=\"color: #ff00ff; font-size: large;\">Like all new relationships, it was A Match Made in Heaven.  At first.  </span></strong></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong><span style=\"color: #ff00ff; font-size: large;\"> </span></strong> </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>G was my hairstylist from five years ago.  I met him at a party.  At the time, I was displeased with my hair.  My metrosexual poster boy friend recommended a top stylist in Snobbsdale who dyed my tresses a lighter shade of black and razor cut my hair.  The color made me look like I was in dire need of a makeover, and the razor made my hair frizz to a frazzle. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>At the party (hosted by metrosexual poster boy, ironically), G sat down next to me and told me that he loved my dress.  (+10 points)  He then commented that my shoes were to die for.  (+20 points)  We talked incessantly for a while, and it came up in conversation that he was a hairstylist.  I immediately blurted out my hair woes. Don’t we often treat our hairstylists like therapists?  God bless them for listening. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>G calmly assessed the damage.  He explained to me that my hair was too dark and washed me out.  (+50 points)  G was HORRIFIED that someone had taken a razor to the hair of someone of “Mediterranean descent”.  (+100 points)  My hair should be blunt cut to eliminate the frizzle-frazzle!  (+500 points) </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>This was destined to be a hair relationship made in Heaven! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I called G that Tuesday to schedule an appointment.  When our big day rolled around, it was everything a girl could want.  I will never forget – he dyed my hair with a color called “Swedish blonde” which sounded ridiculous at first.  Me?  A blonde?  Uh…no.  BUT!!!!  G transformed my hair into shade of golden brunette perfect for my skin tone.  And his blunt cut layers made my hair bouncing and behaving!  (+ points ad infinitum)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I was hooked. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>G and I also started to see each other outside of the salon.  (Platonically.  G wasn’t attracted to women.)  He shared my taste for indie restaurants and coffeehouses.  We had so much fun together.  </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong><span style=\"color: #800080; font-size: large;\">Drama Queens belong on the stage and not in the salon.</span></strong></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Then one day, G was in a mood.  (He had a flair for the dramatic.)  He was stressed out about a guy who dissed him and ticked off at his landlord.  In the midst of relaying his hassles in vivid detail during my haircut, he cut my layers unevenly.  i.e. He screwed up my hair.  Big time.  Every woman’s worst hair nightmare. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Now, I am a forgiving sort.  I am prone to granting second chances.  We are all human.  We all make mistakes.  We should all give one another a little more grace. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>So I went back to G for a quick fix. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Which turned out to be not a fix, but another disaster. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong><span style=\"color: #ff0000; font-size: large;\">Breaking Up is Hard to Do </span></strong></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong><span style=\"color: #ff0000; font-size: large;\"> </span></strong></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>In some aspects, breaking up with G was worse than breaking up with a boyfriend.  With a boyfriend, you take time off to heal and ready yourself for another relationship someday.  With your hairstylist, you need to find another one right away.  This is far from ideal when you’re gun-shy and suffering from hair trauma. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Argh. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I went through a few hairstylists after G.  Everyone was good at first, and then they slacked off after a year or so.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I was then introduced to a husband/wife cut/color duo who are great.  I absolutely adore them – talented, super smart, and warm.  But our schedules haven’t been meshing lately.  Availability is limited to one Saturday a month, and if I happen to have other plans that Saturday, then I’m SOL.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>And this is how I came to cheat on my hairstylist.  I needed an appointment for this past Saturday, and my stylists were unavailable. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><span style=\"color: #ff6600; font-size: large;\"><strong>If you are going to cheat, then reach for the hairstylist to the stars.  </strong></span></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /> For months, my friend Britt waxed on about <em>“Salvador”.</em>  The way she talked about him, I envisioned some sort of mythical Hair God. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>“<em>Salvador</em> is the best stylist that I’ve ever been to.  He specializes in natural color.”  (+50 points)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>“<em>Salvador</em> is the only one in this town who knows how to cut hair.  He cuts the layers blunt so your hair is thick and voluptuous and doesn’t get scraggly as with point cutting.”  (+100 points)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>“<em>Salvador</em> has a really cool artsy studio downtown with art and photographs and instruments.”  (I’m a sucker for artsy fartsy.  +50 points.)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>“<em>Salvador</em> understands how to cut wavy hair.” (+100 points)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>“<em>Salvador</em>!  <em>Salvador</em>!  <em>Salvador</em>!”  (+50 points for reputation of mythical proportion) </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>So this past Saturday morning I hauled my cookies downtown for an appointment with <em>Salvador</em>. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Upon entering aforementioned artsy fartsy studio, I was greeted by an overly enthusiastic Golden Retriever named Tahoe.  (+ points ad infinitum)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/tahoe2.jpg\"><img title=\"tahoe\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/tahoe2.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"97\" height=\"118\" /></a></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Salvador (with locks of mythical proportion) welcomed me to the salon and chit-chatted away about the morning.  I was up late the night before, slept in, and had just started drinking my coffee, so I slurped it down in a hurry with hopes that I could be a tenth as chipper as Tahoe and ready to talk to another human being.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Classical music played in the background (+10 points) while Salvador sat me in the chair and inquired about what I wanted to do with my hair.  I asked him what he would do given carte blanche. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>All I can remember is “natural color” and I agreed to the rest.  When a mythical Hair God shares his opinion, you really should just take it and get on with your day.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Once I was properly caffeinated, we were able to ramble on about all sorts of common interests from music to guitar to writing to entrepreneurship to topics ad infinitum.  (+1000 points)  I am sure that you will agree with me that NOTHING is more awkward than sitting in a hairstylist’s chair whom you are unable to talk to.  How can they <em>possibly </em>serve as your surrogate therapist/dating coach/sounding board if you can’t carry on a decent conversation??? </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Salvador worked his magic throughout conversational turns and many musical shifts (as you ease into the morning the classical needs to be replaced with rock) and then…Voila!  Hair Extraordinaire! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I have already received numerous compliments from “the outside”. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>In this illicit affair, the cheating paid off and no one got hurt.**</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>The most surprising thing about Salvador is that for a mythical Hair God, he is extraordinarily down-to-earth and <em>a really good guy</em>. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Often with myths, we develop high expectations that can’t be adhered to in Real Life.  Salvador will exceed your expectations.  And you’ll have fun in the process.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Go see him and Tahoe.  </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><a href=\"http://www.hairpeace.com/\" target=\"_blank\"><span style=\"color: #ff6600;\"><strong>http://www.hairpeace.com/</strong></span></a></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong> </strong></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>                           </strong> ****************************************</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>** Please note that I do not condone cheating in other relationships.  But if your hairstylist isn’t cutting it (pun intended), then by all means get out there and sow your wild oats with someone new! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>','Day 28:  Have YOU Ever Cheated on Your Hairdresser?','','inherit','open','open','','1307-revision-26','','','2010-10-24 20:56:04','2010-10-25 03:56:04','',1307,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/10/24/1307-revision-26/',0,'revision','',0),(703,1,'2010-09-23 21:38:52','2010-09-24 04:38:52','<div class=\"mceTemp\"><dt class=\"wp-caption-dt\"><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/LeapofFaith1.jpg\"></a></dt><dd class=\"wp-caption-dd\"> </dd></div>\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"><dl id=\"attachment_688\" class=\"wp-caption alignleft\" style=\"width: 310px;\"><dt class=\"wp-caption-dt\"><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/P92201781.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-688\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/P92201781-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a></dt><dd class=\"wp-caption-dd\">Jump! aka feel the FEAR and do it anyway</dd></dl>\n\n<p>Back when I was a kid, I practically lived in the water every summer.  I learned how to swim when I was teeny tiny in the pond outside my grandparent\'s beach house.  By the age of 6, I was swimming across the inlet that led to the bay.  By the age of 8, I was jumping off the 10 ft. high dive at the community pool.  I had no FEAR. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>This past Memorial Day, I was at my blog Svengali\'s pool.  (From now on, I will refer to him as one of his 3 nicknames:  Sven, Svenny or Svennykins.)  We climbed up the large rock formation at one end of the pool to soak in the view.  After oohing and ahhing over the beauty of our desert surroundings, Svenny leapt off the rock into the pool.  I approached the edge and...Chickened out. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>It seemed too high.  It seemed too shallow.  It seemed too scary. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Svenny assured me that if I tucked my legs I wouldn\'t hit bottom.  The deep end was 6 ft.  I was entirely safe. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>I heard my nervous Nelly mother in my head.  She warned me about mishaps that occur when people dive into water that is too shallow.  They sever their spinal cords.  They are paralyzed for life. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>I remember as a kid reading a library book about a girl who suffered this very fate.  She was an artist, and since her arms were paralyzed, she learned how to paint with her mouth.  You can read her story for yourself at <a href=\"http://www.joniearecksontadastory.com/\">http://www.joniearecksontadastory.com/</a>. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>I sheepishly climbed down off the rock and joined Svenny on the deck.  I glanced back to the mountain of rock, but now it appeared to be more of a molehill.  Was I really scared of a molehill???  It\'s amazing what a shift in perspective will do. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>I announced to Svenny that I would return to his mountain/molehill for a Leap of Faith!  But could I please do it after my refurbished blog was up and running?</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Svenny looked puzzled. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Because I will have 365 days to fill!!!  And I just love the symbolism behind this -- changing one\'s view and putting things into proper perspective and all!!!  What great writing material!!!</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Svenny rolled his eyes.</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Fast forward to Day 8.  I head over to Svenny\'s house for my Leap of Faith.  This is going to be a snap. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Svenny opens the door and immediately starts rambling on about FEAR acronyms.  This is one of the things I admire about Svenny -- he\'s a guy that actually thinks about cool stuff -- but honestly, we need to get \'er done so I can get home and crank out a blog post.  </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>And Svenny can\'t quite remember the entire acronym -- something about expectations not realized or something like that -- and I\'m frankly starting to get nervous with all of this FEAR talk.  Somehow I manage to distract Svenny and corral him out to the pool. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Svenny disappears to the side of the house.   I have no earthly idea what he is doing until I hear running water and notice that there is now a waterfall cascading down the mountain/molehill.  I ask Svenny if this will make the mountain/molehill surface too slippery.  He stares blankly at me.  I shut up and climb up. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Did I say that this was going to be a snap?! </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Ugh.</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>I revert back to Memorial Day.  FEAR resurfaces. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Svenny is stage-right with a camera.  I explain to him that I am really, truly unnerved. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>He waxes on about acronyms.</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>I explain to him that I don\'t think I can do this. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>He reminds me to tuck my legs, and I will be fine.</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>I ask if any adults have jumped recently. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>No, but several kids did at his last pool party. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>I ask if any of these children were larger children.  (I am the size of a large pre-teen.)</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Yes.  I sense an oncoming eye roll. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>An eternity passes. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>At this point, I can care less about \"conquering a fear\".  I am freakin\' scared!  My main motivation in taking the plunge is that if I just do it, this little self-growth exercise will be over in a split second, and I won’t have to think about and implement something else for Day 8.  Pathetic, huh?</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>I also feel guilty for taking up Svenny\'s time when he is smack in the middle of a project for his upcoming book. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>So...I...</p>\n\n<p><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/LeapofFaith1.jpg\"><img title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/LeapofFaith1-225x300.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"225\" height=\"300\" /></a><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>FEAR = False Evidence Appearing Real</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>You know how the story ends, right?  The leap isn\'t as terrifying as I make it out to be, and I am elated for showing up and following through. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>I am also relieved that I didn\'t cave into the other FEAR = F*** Everything And Run!</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Thank you for holding me accountable, Blog Fans and Svennykins! </p></div>','Day 8:  Flashback Friday:  Leap of Faith','','inherit','open','open','','687-revision-12','','','2010-09-23 21:38:52','2010-09-24 04:38:52','',687,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/09/23/687-revision-12/',0,'revision','',0),(705,1,'2010-09-23 21:42:42','2010-09-24 04:42:42','<div class=\"mceTemp\"><dt class=\"wp-caption-dt\"><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/LeapofFaith1.jpg\"></a></dt><dd class=\"wp-caption-dd\">\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_688\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"1024\" caption=\"Jump! aka feel the FEAR and do it anyway\"]<a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/P92201781.jpg\"><img class=\"size-large wp-image-688\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/P92201781-1024x768.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1024\" height=\"768\" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n </dd></div>','Day 8:  Flashback Friday:  Leap of Faith','','inherit','open','open','','687-revision-14','','','2010-09-23 21:42:42','2010-09-24 04:42:42','',687,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/09/23/687-revision-14/',0,'revision','',0),(704,1,'2010-09-23 21:40:53','2010-09-24 04:40:53','<div class=\"mceTemp\"><dt class=\"wp-caption-dt\"><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/LeapofFaith1.jpg\"></a></dt><dd class=\"wp-caption-dd\"> </dd></div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"><dl id=\"attachment_688\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\" style=\"width: 310px;\"><dt class=\"wp-caption-dt\"><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/P92201781.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-688 \" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/P92201781-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a></dt><dd class=\"wp-caption-dd\">Jump! aka feel the FEAR and do it anyway</dd></dl>\r\n\r\n<p>Back when I was a kid, I practically lived in the water every summer.  I learned how to swim when I was teeny tiny in the pond outside my grandparent\'s beach house.  By the age of 6, I was swimming across the inlet that led to the bay.  By the age of 8, I was jumping off the 10 ft. high dive at the community pool.  I had no FEAR. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>This past Memorial Day, I was at my blog Svengali\'s pool.  (From now on, I will refer to him as one of his 3 nicknames:  Sven, Svenny or Svennykins.)  We climbed up the large rock formation at one end of the pool to soak in the view.  After oohing and ahhing over the beauty of our desert surroundings, Svenny leapt off the rock into the pool.  I approached the edge and...Chickened out. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>It seemed too high.  It seemed too shallow.  It seemed too scary. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Svenny assured me that if I tucked my legs I wouldn\'t hit bottom.  The deep end was 6 ft.  I was entirely safe. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I heard my nervous Nelly mother in my head.  She warned me about mishaps that occur when people dive into water that is too shallow.  They sever their spinal cords.  They are paralyzed for life. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I remember as a kid reading a library book about a girl who suffered this very fate.  She was an artist, and since her arms were paralyzed, she learned how to paint with her mouth.  You can read her story for yourself at <a href=\"http://www.joniearecksontadastory.com/\">http://www.joniearecksontadastory.com/</a>. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I sheepishly climbed down off the rock and joined Svenny on the deck.  I glanced back to the mountain of rock, but now it appeared to be more of a molehill.  Was I really scared of a molehill???  It\'s amazing what a shift in perspective will do. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I announced to Svenny that I would return to his mountain/molehill for a Leap of Faith!  But could I please do it after my refurbished blog was up and running?</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Svenny looked puzzled. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Because I will have 365 days to fill!!!  And I just love the symbolism behind this -- changing one\'s view and putting things into proper perspective and all!!!  What great writing material!!!</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Svenny rolled his eyes.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Fast forward to Day 8.  I head over to Svenny\'s house for my Leap of Faith.  This is going to be a snap. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Svenny opens the door and immediately starts rambling on about FEAR acronyms.  This is one of the things I admire about Svenny -- he\'s a guy that actually thinks about cool stuff -- but honestly, we need to get \'er done so I can get home and crank out a blog post.  </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>And Svenny can\'t quite remember the entire acronym -- something about expectations not realized or something like that -- and I\'m frankly starting to get nervous with all of this FEAR talk.  Somehow I manage to distract Svenny and corral him out to the pool. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Svenny disappears to the side of the house.   I have no earthly idea what he is doing until I hear running water and notice that there is now a waterfall cascading down the mountain/molehill.  I ask Svenny if this will make the mountain/molehill surface too slippery.  He stares blankly at me.  I shut up and climb up. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Did I say that this was going to be a snap?! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Ugh.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I revert back to Memorial Day.  FEAR resurfaces. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Svenny is stage-right with a camera.  I explain to him that I am really, truly unnerved. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>He waxes on about acronyms.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I explain to him that I don\'t think I can do this. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>He reminds me to tuck my legs, and I will be fine.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I ask if any adults have jumped recently. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>No, but several kids did at his last pool party. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I ask if any of these children were larger children.  (I am the size of a large pre-teen.)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Yes.  I sense an oncoming eye roll. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>An eternity passes. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>At this point, I can care less about \"conquering a fear\".  I am freakin\' scared!  My main motivation in taking the plunge is that if I just do it, this little self-growth exercise will be over in a split second, and I won’t have to think about and implement something else for Day 8.  Pathetic, huh?</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I also feel guilty for taking up Svenny\'s time when he is smack in the middle of a project for his upcoming book. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>So...I...</p>\r\n\r\n<p><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/LeapofFaith1.jpg\"><img title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/LeapofFaith1-225x300.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"225\" height=\"300\" /></a><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>FEAR = False Evidence Appearing Real</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>You know how the story ends, right?  The leap isn\'t as terrifying as I make it out to be, and I am elated for showing up and following through. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I am also relieved that I didn\'t cave into the other FEAR = F*** Everything And Run!</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Thank you for holding me accountable, Blog Fans and Svennykins! </p></div>','Day 8:  Flashback Friday:  Leap of Faith','','inherit','open','open','','687-revision-13','','','2010-09-23 21:40:53','2010-09-24 04:40:53','',687,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/09/23/687-revision-13/',0,'revision','',0),(707,1,'2010-09-23 21:44:38','2010-09-24 04:44:38','<div class=\"mceTemp\"><dt class=\"wp-caption-dt\"><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/LeapofFaith1.jpg\"></a></dt><dd class=\"wp-caption-dd\"> </dd></div>\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"><dl id=\"attachment_688\" class=\"wp-caption alignleft\" style=\"width: 310px;\"><dt class=\"wp-caption-dt\"><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/P92201781.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-688\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/P92201781-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a></dt><dd class=\"wp-caption-dd\">Jump! aka feel the FEAR and do it anyway</dd></dl>\n\n<p>Back when I was a kid, I practically lived in the water every summer.  I learned how to swim when I was teeny tiny in the pond outside my grandparent\'s beach house.  By the age of 6, I was swimming across the inlet that led to the bay.  By the age of 8, I was jumping off the 10 ft. high dive at the community pool.  I had no FEAR. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>This past Memorial Day, I was at my blog Svengali\'s pool.  (From now on, I will refer to him as one of his 3 nicknames:  Sven, Svenny or Svennykins.)  We climbed up the large rock formation at one end of the pool to soak in the view.  After oohing and ahhing over the beauty of our desert surroundings, Svenny leapt off the rock into the pool.  I approached the edge and...Chickened out. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>It seemed too high.  It seemed too shallow.  It seemed too scary. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Svenny assured me that if I tucked my legs I wouldn\'t hit bottom.  The deep end was 6 ft.  I was entirely safe. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>I heard my nervous Nelly mother in my head.  She warned me about mishaps that occur when people dive into water that is too shallow.  They sever their spinal cords.  They are paralyzed for life. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>I remember as a kid reading a library book about a girl who suffered this very fate.  She was an artist, and since her arms were paralyzed, she learned how to paint with her mouth.  You can read her story for yourself at <a href=\"http://www.joniearecksontadastory.com/\">http://www.joniearecksontadastory.com/</a>. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>I sheepishly climbed down off the rock and joined Svenny on the deck.  I glanced back to the mountain of rock, but now it appeared to be more of a molehill.  Was I really scared of a molehill???  It\'s amazing what a shift in perspective will do. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>I announced to Svenny that I would return to his mountain/molehill for a Leap of Faith!  But could I please do it after my refurbished blog was up and running?</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Svenny looked puzzled. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Because I will have 365 days to fill!!!  And I just love the symbolism behind this -- changing one\'s view and putting things into proper perspective and all!!!  What great writing material!!!</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Svenny rolled his eyes.</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Fast forward to Day 8.  I head over to Svenny\'s house for my Leap of Faith.  This is going to be a snap. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Svenny opens the door and immediately starts rambling on about FEAR acronyms.  This is one of the things I admire about Svenny -- he\'s a guy that actually thinks about cool stuff -- but honestly, we need to get \'er done so I can get home and crank out a blog post.  </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>And Svenny can\'t quite remember the entire acronym -- something about expectations not realized or something like that -- and I\'m frankly starting to get nervous with all of this FEAR talk.  Somehow I manage to distract Svenny and corral him out to the pool. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Svenny disappears to the side of the house.   I have no earthly idea what he is doing until I hear running water and notice that there is now a waterfall cascading down the mountain/molehill.  I ask Svenny if this will make the mountain/molehill surface too slippery.  He stares blankly at me.  I shut up and climb up. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Did I say that this was going to be a snap?! </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Ugh.</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>I revert back to Memorial Day.  FEAR resurfaces. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Svenny is stage-right with a camera.  I explain to him that I am really, truly unnerved. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>He waxes on about acronyms.</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>I explain to him that I don\'t think I can do this. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>He reminds me to tuck my legs, and I will be fine.</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>I ask if any adults have jumped recently. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>No, but several kids did at his last pool party. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>I ask if any of these children were larger children.  (I am the size of a large pre-teen.)</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Yes.  I sense an oncoming eye roll. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>An eternity passes. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>At this point, I can care less about \"conquering a fear\".  I am freakin\' scared!  My main motivation in taking the plunge is that if I just do it, this little self-growth exercise will be over in a split second, and I won’t have to think about and implement something else for Day 8.  Pathetic, huh?</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>I also feel guilty for taking up Svenny\'s time when he is smack in the middle of a project for his upcoming book. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>So...I...</p>\n\n<p><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/LeapofFaith1.jpg\"><img title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/LeapofFaith1-225x300.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"225\" height=\"300\" /></a><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>FEAR = False Evidence Appearing Real</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>You know how the story ends, right?  The leap isn\'t as terrifying as I make it out to be, and I am elated for showing up and following through. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>I am also relieved that I didn\'t cave into the other FEAR = F*** Everything And Run!</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Thank you for holding me accountable, Blog Fans and Svennykins! </p></div>','Day 8:  Flashback Friday:  Leap of Faith','','inherit','open','open','','687-revision-16','','','2010-09-23 21:44:38','2010-09-24 04:44:38','',687,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/09/23/687-revision-16/',0,'revision','',0),(708,1,'2010-09-23 21:44:57','2010-09-24 04:44:57','<div class=\"mceTemp\"><dt class=\"wp-caption-dt\"><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/LeapofFaith1.jpg\"></a></dt><dd class=\"wp-caption-dd\"> </dd></div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"><dl id=\"attachment_688\" class=\"wp-caption alignleft\" style=\"width: 310px;\"><dt class=\"wp-caption-dt\"><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/P92201781.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-688\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/P92201781-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a></dt><dd class=\"wp-caption-dd\">Jump! aka feel the FEAR and do it anyway</dd></dl>\r\n\r\n<p>Back when I was a kid, I practically lived in the water every summer.  I learned how to swim when I was teeny tiny in the pond outside my grandparent\'s beach house.  By the age of 6, I was swimming across the inlet that led to the bay.  By the age of 8, I was jumping off the 10 ft. high dive at the community pool.  I had no FEAR. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>This past Memorial Day, I was at my blog Svengali\'s pool.  (From now on, I will refer to him as one of his 3 nicknames:  Sven, Svenny or Svennykins.)  We climbed up the large rock formation at one end of the pool to soak in the view.  After oohing and ahhing over the beauty of our desert surroundings, Svenny leapt off the rock into the pool.  I approached the edge and...Chickened out. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>It seemed too high.  It seemed too shallow.  It seemed too scary. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Svenny assured me that if I tucked my legs I wouldn\'t hit bottom.  The deep end was 6 ft.  I was entirely safe. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I heard my nervous Nelly mother in my head.  She warned me about mishaps that occur when people dive into water that is too shallow.  They sever their spinal cords.  They are paralyzed for life. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I remember as a kid reading a library book about a girl who suffered this very fate.  She was an artist, and since her arms were paralyzed, she learned how to paint with her mouth.  You can read her story for yourself at <a href=\"http://www.joniearecksontadastory.com/\">http://www.joniearecksontadastory.com/</a>. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I sheepishly climbed down off the rock and joined Svenny on the deck.  I glanced back to the mountain of rock, but now it appeared to be more of a molehill.  Was I really scared of a molehill???  It\'s amazing what a shift in perspective will do. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I announced to Svenny that I would return to his mountain/molehill for a Leap of Faith!  But could I please do it after my refurbished blog was up and running?</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Svenny looked puzzled. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Because I will have 365 days to fill!!!  And I just love the symbolism behind this -- changing one\'s view and putting things into proper perspective and all!!!  What great writing material!!!</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Svenny rolled his eyes.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Fast forward to Day 8.  I head over to Svenny\'s house for my Leap of Faith.  This is going to be a snap. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Svenny opens the door and immediately starts rambling on about FEAR acronyms.  This is one of the things I admire about Svenny -- he\'s a guy that actually thinks about cool stuff -- but honestly, we need to get \'er done so I can get home and crank out a blog post.  </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>And Svenny can\'t quite remember the entire acronym -- something about expectations not realized or something like that -- and I\'m frankly starting to get nervous with all of this FEAR talk.  Somehow I manage to distract Svenny and corral him out to the pool. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Svenny disappears to the side of the house.   I have no earthly idea what he is doing until I hear running water and notice that there is now a waterfall cascading down the mountain/molehill.  I ask Svenny if this will make the mountain/molehill surface too slippery.  He stares blankly at me.  I shut up and climb up. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Did I say that this was going to be a snap?! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Ugh.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I revert back to Memorial Day.  FEAR resurfaces. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Svenny is stage-right with a camera.  I explain to him that I am really, truly unnerved. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>He waxes on about acronyms.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I explain to him that I don\'t think I can do this. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>He reminds me to tuck my legs, and I will be fine.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I ask if any adults have jumped recently. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>No, but several kids did at his last pool party. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I ask if any of these children were larger children.  (I am the size of a large pre-teen.)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Yes.  I sense an oncoming eye roll. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>An eternity passes. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>At this point, I can care less about \"conquering a fear\".  I am freakin\' scared!  My main motivation in taking the plunge is that if I just do it, this little self-growth exercise will be over in a split second, and I won’t have to think about and implement something else for Day 8.  Pathetic, huh?</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I also feel guilty for taking up Svenny\'s time when he is smack in the middle of a project for his upcoming book. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>So...I...</p>\r\n\r\n<p><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/LeapofFaith1.jpg\"><img title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/LeapofFaith1-225x300.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"225\" height=\"300\" /></a><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>FEAR = False Evidence Appearing Real</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>You know how the story ends, right?  The leap isn\'t as terrifying as I make it out to be, and I am elated for showing up and following through. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I am also relieved that I didn\'t cave into the other FEAR = F*** Everything And Run!</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Thank you for holding me accountable, Blog Fans and Svennykins! </p></div>','Day 8:  Flashback Friday:  Leap of Faith','','inherit','open','open','','687-revision-17','','','2010-09-23 21:44:57','2010-09-24 04:44:57','',687,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/09/23/687-revision-17/',0,'revision','',0),(709,1,'2010-09-23 21:46:04','2010-09-24 04:46:04','<div class=\"mceTemp\"><dt class=\"wp-caption-dt\"><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/LeapofFaith1.jpg\"></a></dt><dd class=\"wp-caption-dd\"> </dd></div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"><dl id=\"attachment_688\" class=\"wp-caption alignleft\" style=\"width: 310px;\"><dt class=\"wp-caption-dt\"><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/P92201781.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-688\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/P92201781-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a></dt><dd class=\"wp-caption-dd\">Jump! aka feel the FEAR and do it anyway</dd></dl>\r\n\r\n<p>Back when I was a kid, I practically lived in the water every summer.  I learned how to swim when I was teeny tiny in the pond outside my grandparent\'s beach house.  By the age of 6, I was swimming across the inlet that led to the bay.  By the age of 8, I was jumping off the 10 ft. high dive at the community pool.  I had no FEAR. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>This past Memorial Day, I was at my blog Svengali\'s pool.  (From now on, I will refer to him as one of his 3 nicknames:  Sven, Svenny or Svennykins.)  We climbed up the large rock formation at one end of the pool to soak in the view. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>After oohing and ahhing over the beauty of our desert surroundings, Svenny leapt off the rock into the pool.  I approached the edge and...Chickened out. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>It seemed too high.  It seemed too shallow.  It seemed too scary. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Svenny assured me that if I tucked my legs I wouldn\'t hit bottom.  The deep end was 6 ft.  I was entirely safe. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I heard my nervous Nelly mother in my head.  She warned me about mishaps that occur when people dive into water that is too shallow.  They sever their spinal cords.  They are paralyzed for life. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I remember as a kid reading a library book about a girl who suffered this very fate.  She was an artist, and since her arms were paralyzed, she learned how to paint with her mouth.  You can read her story for yourself at <a href=\"http://www.joniearecksontadastory.com/\">http://www.joniearecksontadastory.com/</a>. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I sheepishly climbed down off the rock and joined Svenny on the deck.  I glanced back to the mountain of rock, but now it appeared to be more of a molehill.  Was I really scared of a molehill???  It\'s amazing what a shift in perspective will do. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I announced to Svenny that I would return to his mountain/molehill for a Leap of Faith!  But could I please do it after my refurbished blog was up and running?</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Svenny looked puzzled. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Because I will have 365 days to fill!!!  And I just love the symbolism behind this -- changing one\'s view and putting things into proper perspective and all!!!  What great writing material!!!</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Svenny rolled his eyes.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Fast forward to Day 8.  I head over to Svenny\'s house for my Leap of Faith.  This is going to be a snap. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Svenny opens the door and immediately starts rambling on about FEAR acronyms.  This is one of the things I admire about Svenny -- he\'s a guy that actually thinks about cool stuff -- but honestly, we need to get \'er done so I can get home and crank out a blog post.  </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>And Svenny can\'t quite remember the entire acronym -- something about expectations not realized or something like that -- and I\'m frankly starting to get nervous with all of this FEAR talk.  Somehow I manage to distract Svenny and corral him out to the pool. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Svenny disappears to the side of the house.   I have no earthly idea what he is doing until I hear running water and notice that there is now a waterfall cascading down the mountain/molehill.  I ask Svenny if this will make the mountain/molehill surface too slippery.  He stares blankly at me.  I shut up and climb up. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Did I say that this was going to be a snap?! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Ugh.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I revert back to Memorial Day.  FEAR resurfaces. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Svenny is stage-right with a camera.  I explain to him that I am really, truly unnerved. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>He waxes on about acronyms.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I explain to him that I don\'t think I can do this. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>He reminds me to tuck my legs, and I will be fine.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I ask if any adults have jumped recently. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>No, but several kids did at his last pool party. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I ask if any of these children were larger children.  (I am the size of a large pre-teen.)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Yes.  I sense an oncoming eye roll. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>An eternity passes. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>At this point, I can care less about \"conquering a fear\".  I am freakin\' scared!  My main motivation in taking the plunge is that if I just do it, this little self-growth exercise will be over in a split second, and I won’t have to think about and implement something else for Day 8.  Pathetic, huh?</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I also feel guilty for taking up Svenny\'s time when he is smack in the middle of a project for his upcoming book. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>So...I...</p>\r\n\r\n<p><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/LeapofFaith1.jpg\"><img title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/LeapofFaith1-225x300.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"225\" height=\"300\" /></a><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>FEAR = False Evidence Appearing Real</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>You know how the story ends, right?  The leap isn\'t as terrifying as I make it out to be, and I am elated for showing up and following through. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I am also relieved that I didn\'t cave into the other FEAR = F*** Everything And Run!</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Thank you for holding me accountable, Blog Fans and Svennykins! </p></div>','Day 8:  Flashback Friday:  Leap of Faith','','inherit','open','open','','687-revision-18','','','2010-09-23 21:46:04','2010-09-24 04:46:04','',687,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/09/23/687-revision-18/',0,'revision','',0),(710,1,'2010-09-23 21:46:27','2010-09-24 04:46:27','<div class=\"mceTemp\"><dt class=\"wp-caption-dt\"><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/LeapofFaith1.jpg\"></a></dt><dd class=\"wp-caption-dd\"> </dd></div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"><dl id=\"attachment_688\" class=\"wp-caption alignleft\" style=\"width: 310px;\"><dt class=\"wp-caption-dt\"><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/P92201781.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-688\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/P92201781-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a></dt><dd class=\"wp-caption-dd\">Jump! aka feel the FEAR and do it anyway</dd></dl>\r\n\r\n<p>Back when I was a kid, I practically lived in the water every summer.  I learned how to swim when I was teeny tiny in the pond outside my grandparent\'s beach house.  By the age of 6, I was swimming across the inlet that led to the bay.  By the age of 8, I was jumping off the 10 ft. high dive at the community pool.  I had no FEAR. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>This past Memorial Day, I was at my blog Svengali\'s pool.  (From now on, I will refer to him as one of his 3 nicknames:  Sven, Svenny or Svennykins.)  We climbed up the large rock formation at one end of the pool to soak in the view. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>After oohing and ahhing over the beauty of our desert surroundings, Svenny leapt off the rock into the pool.  I approached the edge and...Chickened out. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>It seemed too high.  It seemed too shallow.  It seemed too scary. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Svenny assured me that if I tucked my legs I wouldn\'t hit bottom.  The deep end was 6 ft.  I was entirely safe. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I heard my nervous Nelly mother in my head.  She warned me about mishaps that occur when people dive into water that is too shallow.  They sever their spinal cords.  They are paralyzed for life. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I remember as a kid reading a library book about a girl who suffered this very fate.  She was an artist, and since her arms were paralyzed, she learned how to paint with her mouth.  You can read her story for yourself at <a href=\"http://www.joniearecksontadastory.com/\">http://www.joniearecksontadastory.com/</a>. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I sheepishly climbed down off the rock and joined Svenny on the deck.  I glanced back to the mountain of rock, but now it appeared to be more of a molehill.  Was I really scared of a molehill???  It\'s amazing what a shift in perspective will do. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I announced to Svenny that I would return to his mountain/molehill for a Leap of Faith!  But could I please do it after my refurbished blog was up and running?</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Svenny looked puzzled. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Because I will have 365 days to fill!!!  And I just love the symbolism behind this -- changing one\'s view and putting things into proper perspective and all!!!  What great writing material!!!</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Svenny rolled his eyes.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Fast forward to Day 8.  I head over to Svenny\'s house for my Leap of Faith.  This is going to be a snap. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Svenny opens the door and immediately starts rambling on about FEAR acronyms.  This is one of the things I admire about Svenny -- he\'s a guy that actually thinks about cool stuff -- but honestly, we need to get \'er done so I can get home and crank out a blog post.  </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>And Svenny can\'t quite remember the entire acronym -- something about expectations not realized or something like that -- and I\'m frankly starting to get nervous with all of this FEAR talk.  Somehow I manage to distract Svenny and corral him out to the pool. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Svenny disappears to the side of the house.   I have no earthly idea what he is doing until I hear running water and notice that there is now a waterfall cascading down the mountain/molehill.  I ask Svenny if this will make the mountain/molehill surface too slippery.  He stares blankly at me.  I shut up and climb up. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Did I say that this was going to be a snap?! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Ugh.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I revert back to Memorial Day.  FEAR resurfaces. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Svenny is stage-right with a camera.  I explain to him that I am really, truly unnerved. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>He waxes on about acronyms.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I explain to him that I don\'t think I can do this. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>He reminds me to tuck my legs, and I will be fine.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I ask if any adults have jumped recently. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>No, but several kids did at his last pool party. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I ask if any of these children were larger children.  (I am the size of a large pre-teen.)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Yes.  I sense an oncoming eye roll. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>An eternity passes. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>At this point, I can care less about \"conquering a fear\".  I am freakin\' scared!  My main motivation in taking the plunge is that if I just do it, this little self-growth exercise will be over in a split second, and I won’t have to think about and implement something else for Day 8.  Pathetic, huh?</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I also feel guilty for taking up Svenny\'s time when he is smack in the middle of a project for his upcoming book. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>So...I...</p>\r\n\r\n<p><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/LeapofFaith1.jpg\"><img title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/LeapofFaith1-225x300.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"225\" height=\"300\" /></a><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>FEAR = False Evidence Appearing Real</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>You know how the story ends, right?  The leap isn\'t as terrifying as I make it out to be, and I am elated for showing up and following through. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I am also relieved that I didn\'t cave into the other FEAR = F*** Everything And Run!</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Thank you for holding me accountable, Blog Fans and Svennykins! </p></div>','Day 8:  Flashback Friday:  Leap of Faith','','inherit','open','open','','687-revision-19','','','2010-09-23 21:46:27','2010-09-24 04:46:27','',687,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/09/23/687-revision-19/',0,'revision','',0),(711,1,'2010-09-23 22:15:42','2010-09-24 05:15:42','<div class=\"mceTemp\"><dt class=\"wp-caption-dt\"><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/LeapofFaith1.jpg\"></a></dt><dd class=\"wp-caption-dd\"> </dd></div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"><dl id=\"attachment_688\" class=\"wp-caption alignleft\" style=\"width: 310px;\"><dt class=\"wp-caption-dt\"><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/P92201781.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-688\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/P92201781-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a></dt><dd class=\"wp-caption-dd\">Jump! aka feel the FEAR and do it anyway</dd></dl>\r\n\r\n<p>Back when I was a kid, I practically lived in the water every summer.  I learned how to swim when I was teeny tiny in the pond outside my grandparent\'s beach house.  By the age of 6, I was swimming across the inlet that led to the bay.  By the age of 8, I was jumping off the 10 ft. high dive at the community pool.  I had no FEAR. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>This past Memorial Day, I was at my blog Svengali\'s pool.  (From now on, I will refer to him as one of his 3 nicknames:  Sven, Svenny or Svennykins.)  We climbed up the large rock formation at one end of the pool to soak in the view. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>After oohing and ahhing over the beauty of our desert surroundings, Svenny leapt off the rock into the pool.  I approached the edge and...Chickened out. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>It seemed too high.  It seemed too shallow.  It seemed too scary. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Svenny assured me that if I tucked my legs I wouldn\'t hit bottom.  The deep end was 6 ft.  I was entirely safe. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I heard my nervous Nelly mother in my head.  She warned me about mishaps that occur when people dive into water that is too shallow.  They sever their spinal cords.  They are paralyzed for life. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I remember as a kid reading a library book about a girl who suffered this very fate.  She was an artist, and since her arms were paralyzed, she learned how to paint with her mouth.  You can read her story for yourself at <a href=\"http://www.joniearecksontadastory.com/\">http://www.joniearecksontadastory.com/</a>. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I sheepishly climbed down off the rock and joined Svenny on the deck.  I glanced back to the mountain of rock, but now it appeared to be more of a molehill.  Was I really scared of a molehill???  It\'s amazing what a shift in perspective will do. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I announced to Svenny that I would return to his mountain/molehill for a Leap of Faith!  But could I please do it after my refurbished blog was up and running?</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Svenny looked puzzled. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Because I will have 365 days to fill!!!  And I just love the symbolism behind this -- changing one\'s view and putting things into proper perspective and all!!!  What great writing material!!!</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Svenny rolled his eyes.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Fast forward to Day 8.  I head over to Svenny\'s house for my Leap of Faith.  This is going to be a snap. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Svenny opens the door and immediately starts rambling on about FEAR acronyms.  This is one of the things I admire about Svenny -- he\'s a guy that actually thinks about cool stuff -- but honestly, we need to get \'er done so I can get home and crank out a blog post.  </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>And Svenny can\'t quite remember the entire acronym -- something about expectations not realized or something like that -- and I\'m frankly starting to get nervous with all of this FEAR talk.  Somehow I manage to distract Svenny and corral him out to the pool. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Svenny disappears to the side of the house.   I have no earthly idea what he is doing until I hear running water and notice that there is now a waterfall cascading down the mountain/molehill.  I ask Svenny if this will make the mountain/molehill surface too slippery.  He stares blankly at me.  I shut up and climb up. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Did I say that this was going to be a snap?! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Ugh.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I revert back to Memorial Day.  FEAR resurfaces. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Svenny is stage-right with a camera.  I explain to him that I am really, truly unnerved. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>He waxes on about acronyms.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I explain to him that I don\'t think I can do this. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>He reminds me to tuck my legs, and I will be fine.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I ask if any adults have jumped recently. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>No, but several kids did at his last pool party. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I ask if any of these children were larger children.  (I am the size of a large pre-teen.)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Yes.  I sense an oncoming eye roll. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>An eternity passes. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>At this point, I care less about \"conquering a fear\".  I am freakin\' scared!  My main motivation in taking the plunge is that if I just do it, this little self-growth exercise will be over in a split second, and I won’t have to think about and implement something else for Day 8.  Pathetic, huh?</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I also feel guilty for taking up Svenny\'s time when he is smack in the middle of a project for his upcoming book. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>So...I...</p>\r\n\r\n<p><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/LeapofFaith1.jpg\"><img title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/LeapofFaith1-225x300.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"225\" height=\"300\" /></a><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>FEAR = False Evidence Appearing Real</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>You know how the story ends, right?  The leap isn\'t as terrifying as I make it out to be, and I am elated for showing up and following through. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I am also relieved that I didn\'t cave into the other FEAR = F*** Everything And Run!</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Thank you for holding me accountable, Blog Fans and Svennykins! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Is there anything from your childhood that you used to embrace and now fear?  Feel the FEAR and do it anyway! </p></div>','Day 8:  Flashback Friday:  Leap of Faith','','inherit','open','open','','687-autosave','','','2010-09-23 22:15:42','2010-09-24 05:15:42','',687,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/09/23/687-autosave/',0,'revision','',0),(712,1,'2010-09-23 21:53:40','2010-09-24 04:53:40','','OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA','Jump!  aka feel the FEAR and do it anyway','inherit','open','open','','olympus-digital-camera-13','','','2010-09-23 21:53:40','2010-09-24 04:53:40','',687,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/P92201782.jpg',0,'attachment','image/jpeg',0),(713,1,'2010-09-23 21:47:36','2010-09-24 04:47:36','<div class=\"mceTemp\"><dt class=\"wp-caption-dt\"><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/LeapofFaith1.jpg\"></a></dt><dd class=\"wp-caption-dd\"> </dd></div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"><dl id=\"attachment_688\" class=\"wp-caption alignleft\" style=\"width: 310px;\"><dt class=\"wp-caption-dt\"><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/P92201781.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-688\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/P92201781-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a></dt><dd class=\"wp-caption-dd\">Jump! aka feel the FEAR and do it anyway</dd></dl>\r\n\r\n<p>Back when I was a kid, I practically lived in the water every summer.  I learned how to swim when I was teeny tiny in the pond outside my grandparent\'s beach house.  By the age of 6, I was swimming across the inlet that led to the bay.  By the age of 8, I was jumping off the 10 ft. high dive at the community pool.  I had no FEAR. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>This past Memorial Day, I was at my blog Svengali\'s pool.  (From now on, I will refer to him as one of his 3 nicknames:  Sven, Svenny or Svennykins.)  We climbed up the large rock formation at one end of the pool to soak in the view. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>After oohing and ahhing over the beauty of our desert surroundings, Svenny leapt off the rock into the pool.  I approached the edge and...Chickened out. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>It seemed too high.  It seemed too shallow.  It seemed too scary. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Svenny assured me that if I tucked my legs I wouldn\'t hit bottom.  The deep end was 6 ft.  I was entirely safe. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I heard my nervous Nelly mother in my head.  She warned me about mishaps that occur when people dive into water that is too shallow.  They sever their spinal cords.  They are paralyzed for life. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I remember as a kid reading a library book about a girl who suffered this very fate.  She was an artist, and since her arms were paralyzed, she learned how to paint with her mouth.  You can read her story for yourself at <a href=\"http://www.joniearecksontadastory.com/\">http://www.joniearecksontadastory.com/</a>. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I sheepishly climbed down off the rock and joined Svenny on the deck.  I glanced back to the mountain of rock, but now it appeared to be more of a molehill.  Was I really scared of a molehill???  It\'s amazing what a shift in perspective will do. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I announced to Svenny that I would return to his mountain/molehill for a Leap of Faith!  But could I please do it after my refurbished blog was up and running?</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Svenny looked puzzled. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Because I will have 365 days to fill!!!  And I just love the symbolism behind this -- changing one\'s view and putting things into proper perspective and all!!!  What great writing material!!!</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Svenny rolled his eyes.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Fast forward to Day 8.  I head over to Svenny\'s house for my Leap of Faith.  This is going to be a snap. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Svenny opens the door and immediately starts rambling on about FEAR acronyms.  This is one of the things I admire about Svenny -- he\'s a guy that actually thinks about cool stuff -- but honestly, we need to get \'er done so I can get home and crank out a blog post.  </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>And Svenny can\'t quite remember the entire acronym -- something about expectations not realized or something like that -- and I\'m frankly starting to get nervous with all of this FEAR talk.  Somehow I manage to distract Svenny and corral him out to the pool. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Svenny disappears to the side of the house.   I have no earthly idea what he is doing until I hear running water and notice that there is now a waterfall cascading down the mountain/molehill.  I ask Svenny if this will make the mountain/molehill surface too slippery.  He stares blankly at me.  I shut up and climb up. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Did I say that this was going to be a snap?! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Ugh.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I revert back to Memorial Day.  FEAR resurfaces. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Svenny is stage-right with a camera.  I explain to him that I am really, truly unnerved. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>He waxes on about acronyms.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I explain to him that I don\'t think I can do this. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>He reminds me to tuck my legs, and I will be fine.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I ask if any adults have jumped recently. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>No, but several kids did at his last pool party. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I ask if any of these children were larger children.  (I am the size of a large pre-teen.)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Yes.  I sense an oncoming eye roll. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>An eternity passes. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>At this point, I can care less about \"conquering a fear\".  I am freakin\' scared!  My main motivation in taking the plunge is that if I just do it, this little self-growth exercise will be over in a split second, and I won’t have to think about and implement something else for Day 8.  Pathetic, huh?</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I also feel guilty for taking up Svenny\'s time when he is smack in the middle of a project for his upcoming book. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>So...I...</p>\r\n\r\n<p><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/LeapofFaith1.jpg\"><img title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/LeapofFaith1-225x300.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"225\" height=\"300\" /></a><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>FEAR = False Evidence Appearing Real</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>You know how the story ends, right?  The leap isn\'t as terrifying as I make it out to be, and I am elated for showing up and following through. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I am also relieved that I didn\'t cave into the other FEAR = F*** Everything And Run!</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Thank you for holding me accountable, Blog Fans and Svennykins! </p></div>','Day 8:  Flashback Friday:  Leap of Faith','','inherit','open','open','','687-revision-20','','','2010-09-23 21:47:36','2010-09-24 04:47:36','',687,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/09/23/687-revision-20/',0,'revision','',0),(714,1,'2010-09-23 22:16:10','2010-09-24 05:16:10','<div class=\"mceTemp\"><dt class=\"wp-caption-dt\"><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/LeapofFaith1.jpg\"></a></dt><dd class=\"wp-caption-dd\"> </dd></div>\r\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"><dl id=\"attachment_688\" class=\"wp-caption alignleft\" style=\"width: 310px;\"><dt class=\"wp-caption-dt\"><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/P92201781.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-688\" title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/P92201781-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a></dt><dd class=\"wp-caption-dd\">Jump! aka feel the FEAR and do it anyway</dd></dl>\r\n\r\n<p>Back when I was a kid, I practically lived in the water every summer.  I learned how to swim when I was teeny tiny in the pond outside my grandparent\'s beach house.  By the age of 6, I was swimming across the inlet that led to the bay.  By the age of 8, I was jumping off the 10 ft. high dive at the community pool.  I had no FEAR. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>This past Memorial Day, I was at my blog Svengali\'s pool.  (From now on, I will refer to him as one of his 3 nicknames:  Sven, Svenny or Svennykins.)  We climbed up the large rock formation at one end of the pool to soak in the view. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>After oohing and ahhing over the beauty of our desert surroundings, Svenny leapt off the rock into the pool.  I approached the edge and...Chickened out. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>It seemed too high.  It seemed too shallow.  It seemed too scary. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Svenny assured me that if I tucked my legs I wouldn\'t hit bottom.  The deep end was 6 ft.  I was entirely safe. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I heard my nervous Nelly mother in my head.  She warned me about mishaps that occur when people dive into water that is too shallow.  They sever their spinal cords.  They are paralyzed for life. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I remember as a kid reading a library book about a girl who suffered this very fate.  She was an artist, and since her arms were paralyzed, she learned how to paint with her mouth.  You can read her story for yourself at <a href=\"http://www.joniearecksontadastory.com/\">http://www.joniearecksontadastory.com/</a>. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I sheepishly climbed down off the rock and joined Svenny on the deck.  I glanced back to the mountain of rock, but now it appeared to be more of a molehill.  Was I really scared of a molehill???  It\'s amazing what a shift in perspective will do. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I announced to Svenny that I would return to his mountain/molehill for a Leap of Faith!  But could I please do it after my refurbished blog was up and running?</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Svenny looked puzzled. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Because I will have 365 days to fill!!!  And I just love the symbolism behind this -- changing one\'s view and putting things into proper perspective and all!!!  What great writing material!!!</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Svenny rolled his eyes.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Fast forward to Day 8.  I head over to Svenny\'s house for my Leap of Faith.  This is going to be a snap. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Svenny opens the door and immediately starts rambling on about FEAR acronyms.  This is one of the things I admire about Svenny -- he\'s a guy that actually thinks about cool stuff -- but honestly, we need to get \'er done so I can get home and crank out a blog post.  </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>And Svenny can\'t quite remember the entire acronym -- something about expectations not realized or something like that -- and I\'m frankly starting to get nervous with all of this FEAR talk.  Somehow I manage to distract Svenny and corral him out to the pool. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Svenny disappears to the side of the house.   I have no earthly idea what he is doing until I hear running water and notice that there is now a waterfall cascading down the mountain/molehill.  I ask Svenny if this will make the mountain/molehill surface too slippery.  He stares blankly at me.  I shut up and climb up. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Did I say that this was going to be a snap?! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Ugh.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I revert back to Memorial Day.  FEAR resurfaces. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Svenny is stage-right with a camera.  I explain to him that I am really, truly unnerved. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>He waxes on about acronyms.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I explain to him that I don\'t think I can do this. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>He reminds me to tuck my legs, and I will be fine.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I ask if any adults have jumped recently. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>No, but several kids did at his last pool party. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I ask if any of these children were larger children.  (I am the size of a large pre-teen.)</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Yes.  I sense an oncoming eye roll. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>An eternity passes. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>At this point, I can care less about \"conquering a fear\".  I am freakin\' scared!  My main motivation in taking the plunge is that if I just do it, this little self-growth exercise will be over in a split second, and I won’t have to think about and implement something else for Day 8.  Pathetic, huh?</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I also feel guilty for taking up Svenny\'s time when he is smack in the middle of a project for his upcoming book. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>So...I...</p>\r\n\r\n<p><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/LeapofFaith1.jpg\"><img title=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/LeapofFaith1-225x300.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"225\" height=\"300\" /></a><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>FEAR = False Evidence Appearing Real</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>You know how the story ends, right?  The leap isn\'t as terrifying as I make it out to be, and I am elated for showing up and following through. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I am also relieved that I didn\'t cave into the other FEAR = F*** Everything And Run!</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Thank you for holding me accountable, Blog Fans and Svennykins! </p></div>','Day 8:  Flashback Friday:  Leap of Faith','','inherit','open','open','','687-revision-21','','','2010-09-23 22:16:10','2010-09-24 05:16:10','',687,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/09/23/687-revision-21/',0,'revision','',0),(715,1,'2010-09-25 12:24:24','2010-09-25 19:24:24','','shroom','','inherit','open','open','','shroom','','','2010-09-25 12:24:24','2010-09-25 19:24:24','',624,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/shroom.jpg',0,'attachment','image/jpeg',0),(716,1,'2010-09-25 12:26:38','2010-09-25 19:26:38','','Life is short.  Buy quality chocolate.  ','','inherit','open','open','','shroom-2','','','2010-09-25 12:26:38','2010-09-25 19:26:38','',624,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/shroom1.jpg',0,'attachment','image/jpeg',0),(717,1,'2010-09-22 15:53:33','2010-09-22 22:53:33','','Day 9:  Trippin\' on Enchanted Shrooms','','inherit','open','open','','624-revision','','','2010-09-22 15:53:33','2010-09-22 22:53:33','',624,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/09/22/624-revision/',0,'revision','',0),(718,1,'2010-09-25 12:28:43','2010-09-25 19:28:43','<p><a href=\"http://www.vosgeschocolate.com/product/organic_enchanted_mushroom_candy_bar/organic_candy_bars\"><img class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-716\" title=\"Life is short.  Buy quality chocolate.  \" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/shroom1-300x300.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"300\" /></a></p>','Day 9:  Trippin\' on Enchanted Shrooms','','inherit','open','open','','624-revision-2','','','2010-09-25 12:28:43','2010-09-25 19:28:43','',624,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/09/25/624-revision-2/',0,'revision','',0),(719,1,'2010-09-25 12:30:14','2010-09-25 19:30:14','<p><a href=\"http://www.vosgeschocolate.com/product/organic_enchanted_mushroom_candy_bar/organic_candy_bars\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-716 alignleft\" title=\"Life is short.  Buy quality chocolate.  \" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/shroom1-300x300.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"300\" /></a></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I am not a fungus fan.  I enjoy a well-disguised shiitake or crimini mushroom in a flavorful Asian dish, but other than that, no thanks. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Button mushrooms in a salad?  Bleck.  I just don’t get it. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>When I was at Whole Paycheck for the <strong>Banana Split Caper</strong> the other day, I wandered off to the chocolate showcase.  If you’ve ever been to Whole Paycheck, you know that I’m not exaggerating when I use the word “showcase”.  Apparently, Whole Paycheck shoppers are chocoholics like the rest of the nation.  It’s just healthier chocolate, that’s all. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>While perusing the vast and exotic options, I came upon the most exotic of them all:  Enchanted Mushroom.  Organic, no less! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>“Superfoods unite!  Cacao and mushroom, two of the world’s most healthy and desired foods merge into one enchanting bite!”</p>\r\n\r\n<p>                                                                        -- Vosges Haut-Chocolat</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>It’s about time this Late Bloomer chick tripped on some shrooms!  I forked over the $7.99 to Whole Paycheck for the promise of a choco-pscyhedelic experience.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I didn’t want to fly on my magic carpet ride alone, so I forced my friends to come with me.  My teammates from work, to be exact.  We’re like one, big, dysfunctional family, so they were a prime and captive audience.  </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I hauled out the Enchanted Mushroom bar at our homecoming lunch for former teammate, Christy Jo.  Christy Jo recently moved up in the world, but misses us like nobody’s business.  (Her real name is Christy, and her middle name is Elaine, but you know me and nicknames.)  </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I began reading the flowery and trippy descriptions on the back of the packaging.  Kudos to the copywriter who works for Vosges.  If it’s a “he”, and he’s single, I think we might fall in love. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>My teammates completely ignored my staged reading except for Christy Jo, who always finds me entertaining.  Since I lost my audience, I ditched the monologue and dug into the chocolate. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Everyone looked skeptical.  Mushrooms in chocolate?  You’ve got to be kidding. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I explained that there were also walnuts and 66% cacao to mask the fungus.  They were going to eat it, and they were going to like it.  If they knew what’s good for them.  And a superfood unity is indeed good for them. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>They obeyed and partook.  A wave of delighted surprise rolled through the group.  Eyes dilated and glazed over. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Christy Jo was the only one who actually hallucinated.  Everyone else was very chill, but Christy Jo shrieked wildly and unintelligibly about a frumpy woman etched into the chocolate. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>And then Christy Jo muttered something about Etched Chocolate Woman being a Vegas bag lady in dire need of a push-up bra and Spanx.  I corrected her – the bag is labeled with “Vosges” which is the brand of this heavenly chocolate. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Christy Jo’s little “journey” was thankfully short-lived.  She might enjoy the luxury of telecommuting her days away, but we needed to hightail it back to the office. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I channeled my inner Padma from Top Chef and asked our panel what they thought of the Enchanted Shroom Bar.  Everyone nodded their heads, smiled, and uttered profound critiques such as, “It’s good!” </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>O.k.  So they’re not exactly as eloquent as Tom, Gail, or Anthony Bourdain, but the team unanimously agreed that our culinary carpet ride was groovy, man.  </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>','Day 9:  Trippin\' on Enchanted Shrooms','','inherit','open','open','','624-revision-3','','','2010-09-25 12:30:14','2010-09-25 19:30:14','',624,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/09/25/624-revision-3/',0,'revision','',0),(720,1,'2010-09-25 12:40:24','2010-09-25 19:40:24','<p><a href=\"http://www.vosgeschocolate.com/product/organic_enchanted_mushroom_candy_bar/organic_candy_bars\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-716 alignleft\" title=\"Life is short.  Buy quality chocolate.  \" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/shroom1-300x300.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"300\" /></a></p>\n\n<p>I am not a fungus fan.  I enjoy a well-disguised shiitake or crimini mushroom in a flavorful Asian dish, but other than that, no thanks. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Button mushrooms in a salad?  Bleck.  I just don’t get it. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>When I was at Whole Paycheck for the <strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/09/21/day-5-i-scream-you-scream-whole-foods-screams-for/\" target=\"_blank\">Banana Split Caper</a></strong> the other day, I wandered off to the chocolate showcase.  If you’ve ever been to Whole Paycheck, you know that I’m not exaggerating when I use the word “showcase”.  Apparently, Whole Paycheck shoppers are chocoholics like the rest of the nation.  It’s just healthier chocolate, that’s all. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>While perusing the vast and exotic options, I came upon the most exotic of them all:  Enchanted Mushroom.  Organic, no less! </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<blockquote><p>“Superfoods unite! Cacao and mushroom, two of the world’s most healthy and desired foods merge into one enchanting bite!”</p>\n\n<p>-- Vosges Haut-Chocolat</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p></blockquote>\n\n<p>It’s about time this Late Bloomer chick tripped on some shrooms!  I forked over the $7.99 to Whole Paycheck for the promise of a choco-pscyhedelic experience.</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>I didn’t want to fly on my magic carpet ride alone, so I forced my friends to come with me.  My teammates from work, to be exact.  We’re like one, big, dysfunctional family, so they were a prime and captive audience.  </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>I hauled out the Enchanted Mushroom bar at our homecoming lunch for former teammate, Christy Jo.  Christy Jo recently moved up in the world, but misses us like nobody’s business.  (Her real name is Christy, and her middle name is Elaine, but you know me and nicknames.)  </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>I began reading the flowery and trippy descriptions on the back of the packaging.  Kudos to the copywriter who works for Vosges.  If it’s a “he”, and he’s single, I think we might fall in love. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>My teammates completely ignored my staged reading except for Christy Jo, who always finds me entertaining.  Since I lost my audience, I ditched the monologue and dug into the chocolate. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Everyone looked skeptical.  Mushrooms in chocolate?  You’ve got to be kidding. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>I explained that there were also walnuts and 66% cacao to mask the fungus.  They were going to eat it, and they were going to like it.  If they knew what’s good for them.  And a superfood unity is indeed good for them. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>They obeyed and partook.  A wave of delighted surprise rolled through the group.  Eyes dilated and glazed over. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Christy Jo was the only one who actually hallucinated.  Everyone else was very chill, but Christy Jo shrieked wildly and unintelligibly about a frumpy woman etched into the chocolate. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>And then Christy Jo muttered something about Etched Chocolate Woman being a Vegas bag lady in dire need of a push-up bra and Spanx.  I corrected her – the bag is labeled with “Vosges” which is the brand of this heavenly chocolate. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Christy Jo’s little “journey” was thankfully short-lived.  She might enjoy the luxury of telecommuting her days away, but we needed to hightail it back to the office. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>I channeled my inner Padma from Top Chef and asked our panel what they thought of the Enchanted Shroom Bar.  Everyone nodded their heads, smiled, and uttered profound critiques such as, “It’s good!” </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>O.k.  So they’re not exactly as eloquent as Tom, Gail, or Anthony Bourdain, but the team unanimously agreed that our culinary carpet ride was groovy, man.  </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>','Day 9:  Trippin\' on Enchanted Shrooms','','inherit','open','open','','624-revision-4','','','2010-09-25 12:40:24','2010-09-25 19:40:24','',624,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/09/25/624-revision-4/',0,'revision','',0),(721,1,'2010-09-25 12:40:31','2010-09-25 19:40:31','<p><a href=\"http://www.vosgeschocolate.com/product/organic_enchanted_mushroom_candy_bar/organic_candy_bars\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-716 alignleft\" title=\"Life is short.  Buy quality chocolate.  \" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/shroom1-300x300.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"300\" /></a></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I am not a fungus fan.  I enjoy a well-disguised shiitake or crimini mushroom in a flavorful Asian dish, but other than that, no thanks. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Button mushrooms in a salad?  Bleck.  I just don’t get it. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>When I was at Whole Paycheck for the <strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/09/21/day-5-i-scream-you-scream-whole-foods-screams-for/\" target=\"_blank\">Banana Split Caper</a></strong> the other day, I wandered off to the chocolate showcase.  If you’ve ever been to Whole Paycheck, you know that I’m not exaggerating when I use the word “showcase”.  Apparently, Whole Paycheck shoppers are chocoholics like the rest of the nation.  It’s just healthier chocolate, that’s all. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>While perusing the vast and exotic options, I came upon the most exotic of them all:  Enchanted Mushroom.  Organic, no less! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<blockquote><p>“Superfoods unite! Cacao and mushroom, two of the world’s most healthy and desired foods merge into one enchanting bite!”</p>\r\n\r\n<p>-- Vosges Haut-Chocolat</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p></blockquote>\r\n\r\n<p>It’s about time this Late Bloomer chick tripped on some shrooms!  I forked over the $7.99 to Whole Paycheck for the promise of a choco-pscyhedelic experience.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I didn’t want to fly on my magic carpet ride alone, so I forced my friends to come with me.  My teammates from work, to be exact.  We’re like one, big, dysfunctional family, so they were a prime and captive audience.  </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I hauled out the Enchanted Mushroom bar at our homecoming lunch for former teammate, Christy Jo.  Christy Jo recently moved up in the world, but misses us like nobody’s business.  (Her real name is Christy, and her middle name is Elaine, but you know me and nicknames.)  </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I began reading the flowery and trippy descriptions on the back of the packaging.  Kudos to the copywriter who works for Vosges.  If it’s a “he”, and he’s single, I think we might fall in love. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>My teammates completely ignored my staged reading except for Christy Jo, who always finds me entertaining.  Since I lost my audience, I ditched the monologue and dug into the chocolate. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Everyone looked skeptical.  Mushrooms in chocolate?  You’ve got to be kidding. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I explained that there were also walnuts and 66% cacao to mask the fungus.  They were going to eat it, and they were going to like it.  If they knew what’s good for them.  And a superfood unity is indeed good for them. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>They obeyed and partook.  A wave of delighted surprise rolled through the group.  Eyes dilated and glazed over. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Christy Jo was the only one who actually hallucinated.  Everyone else was very chill, but Christy Jo shrieked wildly and unintelligibly about a frumpy woman etched into the chocolate. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>And then Christy Jo muttered something about Etched Chocolate Woman being a Vegas bag lady in dire need of a push-up bra and Spanx.  I corrected her – the bag is labeled with “Vosges” which is the brand of this heavenly chocolate. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Christy Jo’s little “journey” was thankfully short-lived.  She might enjoy the luxury of telecommuting her days away, but we needed to hightail it back to the office. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I channeled my inner Padma from Top Chef and asked our panel what they thought of the Enchanted Shroom Bar.  Everyone nodded their heads, smiled, and uttered profound critiques such as, “It’s good!” </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>O.k.  So they’re not exactly as eloquent as Tom, Gail, or Anthony Bourdain, but the team unanimously agreed that our culinary carpet ride was groovy, man.  </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>','Day 9:  Trippin\' on Enchanted Shrooms','','inherit','open','open','','624-revision-5','','','2010-09-25 12:40:31','2010-09-25 19:40:31','',624,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/09/25/624-revision-5/',0,'revision','',0),(722,1,'2010-09-25 12:41:25','2010-09-25 19:41:25','<p><a href=\"http://www.vosgeschocolate.com/product/organic_enchanted_mushroom_candy_bar/organic_candy_bars\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-716 alignleft\" title=\"Life is short.  Buy quality chocolate.  \" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/shroom1-300x300.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"300\" /></a></p>\n\n<p>I am not a fungus fan.  I enjoy a well-disguised shiitake or crimini mushroom in a flavorful Asian dish, but other than that, no thanks. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Button mushrooms in a salad?  Bleck.  I just don’t get it. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>When I was at Whole Paycheck for the <strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/09/21/day-5-i-scream-you-scream-whole-foods-screams-for/\" target=\"_blank\">Banana Split Caper</a></strong> the other day, I wandered off to the chocolate showcase.  If you’ve ever been to Whole Paycheck, you know that I’m not exaggerating when I use the word “showcase”.  Apparently, Whole Paycheck shoppers are chocoholics like the rest of the nation.  It’s just healthier chocolate, that’s all. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>While perusing the vast and exotic options, I came upon the most exotic of them all:  Enchanted Mushroom.  Organic, no less! </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<blockquote><p><strong><span style=\"color: #993300;\">“Superfoods unite! Cacao and mushroom, two of the world’s most healthy and desired foods merge into one enchanting bite!”</span></strong></p>\n\n<p><strong><span style=\"color: #993300;\">-- Vosges Haut-Chocolat</span></strong></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p></blockquote>\n\n<p>It’s about time this Late Bloomer chick tripped on some shrooms!  I forked over the $7.99 to Whole Paycheck for the promise of a choco-pscyhedelic experience.</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>I didn’t want to fly on my magic carpet ride alone, so I forced my friends to come with me.  My teammates from work, to be exact.  We’re like one, big, dysfunctional family, so they were a prime and captive audience.  </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>I hauled out the Enchanted Mushroom bar at our homecoming lunch for former teammate, Christy Jo.  Christy Jo recently moved up in the world, but misses us like nobody’s business.  (Her real name is Christy, and her middle name is Elaine, but you know me and nicknames.)  </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>I began reading the flowery and trippy descriptions on the back of the packaging.  Kudos to the copywriter who works for Vosges.  If it’s a “he”, and he’s single, I think we might fall in love. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>My teammates completely ignored my staged reading except for Christy Jo, who always finds me entertaining.  Since I lost my audience, I ditched the monologue and dug into the chocolate. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Everyone looked skeptical.  Mushrooms in chocolate?  You’ve got to be kidding. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>I explained that there were also walnuts and 66% cacao to mask the fungus.  They were going to eat it, and they were going to like it.  If they knew what’s good for them.  And a superfood unity is indeed good for them. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>They obeyed and partook.  A wave of delighted surprise rolled through the group.  Eyes dilated and glazed over. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Christy Jo was the only one who actually hallucinated.  Everyone else was very chill, but Christy Jo shrieked wildly and unintelligibly about a frumpy woman etched into the chocolate. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>And then Christy Jo muttered something about Etched Chocolate Woman being a Vegas bag lady in dire need of a push-up bra and Spanx.  I corrected her – the bag is labeled with “Vosges” which is the brand of this heavenly chocolate. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Christy Jo’s little “journey” was thankfully short-lived.  She might enjoy the luxury of telecommuting her days away, but we needed to hightail it back to the office. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>I channeled my inner Padma from Top Chef and asked our panel what they thought of the Enchanted Shroom Bar.  Everyone nodded their heads, smiled, and uttered profound critiques such as, “It’s good!” </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>O.k.  So they’re not exactly as eloquent as Tom, Gail, or Anthony Bourdain, but the team unanimously agreed that our culinary carpet ride was groovy, man.  </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>','Day 9:  Trippin\' on Enchanted Shrooms','','inherit','open','open','','624-revision-6','','','2010-09-25 12:41:25','2010-09-25 19:41:25','',624,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/09/25/624-revision-6/',0,'revision','',0),(724,1,'2010-09-25 12:44:29','2010-09-25 19:44:29','<p><a href=\"http://www.vosgeschocolate.com/product/organic_enchanted_mushroom_candy_bar/organic_candy_bars\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-716 alignleft\" title=\"Life is short.  Buy quality chocolate.  \" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/shroom1-300x300.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"300\" /></a></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I am not a fungus fan.  I enjoy a well-disguised shiitake or crimini mushroom in a flavorful Asian dish, but other than that, no thanks. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Button mushrooms in a salad?  Bleck.  I just don’t get it. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>When I was at Whole Paycheck for the <strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/09/21/day-5-i-scream-you-scream-whole-foods-screams-for/\" target=\"_blank\">Banana Split Caper</a></strong> the other day, I wandered off to the chocolate showcase.  If you’ve ever been to Whole Paycheck, you know that I’m not exaggerating when I use the word “showcase”.  Apparently, Whole Paycheck shoppers are chocoholics like the rest of the nation.  It’s just healthier chocolate, that’s all. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>While perusing the vast and exotic options, I came upon the most exotic of them all:  Enchanted Mushroom.  Organic, no less! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<blockquote><p><strong><span style=\"color: #993300;\">“Superfoods unite! Cacao and mushroom, two of the world’s most healthy and desired foods merge into one enchanting bite!”</span></strong></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong><span style=\"color: #993300;\">                                                                                   -- Vosges Haut-Chocolat</span></strong></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p></blockquote>\r\n\r\n<p>It’s about time this Late Bloomer chick tripped on some shrooms!  I forked over the $7.99 to Whole Paycheck for the promise of a choco-pscyhedelic experience.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I didn’t want to fly on my magic carpet ride alone, so I forced my friends to come with me.  My teammates from work, to be exact.  We’re like one, big, dysfunctional family, so they were a prime and captive audience.  </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I hauled out the Enchanted Mushroom bar at our homecoming lunch for former teammate, Christy Jo.  Christy Jo recently moved up in the world, but misses us like nobody’s business.  (Her real name is Christy, and her middle name is Elaine, but you know me and nicknames.)  </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I began reading the flowery and trippy descriptions on the back of the packaging.  Kudos to the copywriter who works for Vosges.  If it’s a “he”, and he’s single, I think we might fall in love. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>My teammates completely ignored my staged reading except for Christy Jo, who always finds me entertaining.  Since I lost my audience, I ditched the monologue and dug into the chocolate. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Everyone looked skeptical.  Mushrooms in chocolate?  You’ve got to be kidding. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I explained that there were also walnuts and 66% cacao to mask the fungus.  They were going to eat it, and they were going to like it.  If they knew what’s good for them.  And a superfood unity is indeed good for them. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>They obeyed and partook.  A wave of delighted surprise rolled through the group.  Eyes dilated and glazed over. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Christy Jo was the only one who actually hallucinated.  Everyone else was very chill, but Christy Jo shrieked wildly and unintelligibly about a frumpy woman etched into the chocolate. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>And then Christy Jo muttered something about Etched Chocolate Woman being a Vegas bag lady in dire need of a push-up bra and Spanx.  I corrected her – the bag is labeled with “Vosges” which is the brand of this heavenly chocolate. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Christy Jo’s little “journey” was thankfully short-lived.  She might enjoy the luxury of telecommuting her days away, but we needed to hightail it back to the office. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I channeled my inner Padma from Top Chef and asked our panel what they thought of the Enchanted Shroom Bar.  Everyone nodded their heads, smiled, and uttered profound critiques such as, “It’s good!” </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>O.k.  So they’re not exactly as eloquent as Tom, Gail, or Anthony Bourdain, but the team unanimously agreed that our culinary carpet ride was groovy, man.  </p>\r\n\r\n<p>Life is short.  Buy quality chocolate.  <a href=\"http://www.vosgeschocolate.com\">www.vosgeschocolate.com</a>. <br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>','Day 9:  Trippin\' on Enchanted Shrooms','','inherit','open','open','','624-revision-8','','','2010-09-25 12:44:29','2010-09-25 19:44:29','',624,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/09/25/624-revision-8/',0,'revision','',0),(723,1,'2010-09-25 12:41:33','2010-09-25 19:41:34','<p><a href=\"http://www.vosgeschocolate.com/product/organic_enchanted_mushroom_candy_bar/organic_candy_bars\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-716 alignleft\" title=\"Life is short.  Buy quality chocolate.  \" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/shroom1-300x300.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"300\" /></a></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I am not a fungus fan.  I enjoy a well-disguised shiitake or crimini mushroom in a flavorful Asian dish, but other than that, no thanks. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Button mushrooms in a salad?  Bleck.  I just don’t get it. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>When I was at Whole Paycheck for the <strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/09/21/day-5-i-scream-you-scream-whole-foods-screams-for/\" target=\"_blank\">Banana Split Caper</a></strong> the other day, I wandered off to the chocolate showcase.  If you’ve ever been to Whole Paycheck, you know that I’m not exaggerating when I use the word “showcase”.  Apparently, Whole Paycheck shoppers are chocoholics like the rest of the nation.  It’s just healthier chocolate, that’s all. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>While perusing the vast and exotic options, I came upon the most exotic of them all:  Enchanted Mushroom.  Organic, no less! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<blockquote><p><strong><span style=\"color: #993300;\">“Superfoods unite! Cacao and mushroom, two of the world’s most healthy and desired foods merge into one enchanting bite!”</span></strong></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong><span style=\"color: #993300;\">                                                                                   -- Vosges Haut-Chocolat</span></strong></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p></blockquote>\r\n\r\n<p>It’s about time this Late Bloomer chick tripped on some shrooms!  I forked over the $7.99 to Whole Paycheck for the promise of a choco-pscyhedelic experience.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I didn’t want to fly on my magic carpet ride alone, so I forced my friends to come with me.  My teammates from work, to be exact.  We’re like one, big, dysfunctional family, so they were a prime and captive audience.  </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I hauled out the Enchanted Mushroom bar at our homecoming lunch for former teammate, Christy Jo.  Christy Jo recently moved up in the world, but misses us like nobody’s business.  (Her real name is Christy, and her middle name is Elaine, but you know me and nicknames.)  </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I began reading the flowery and trippy descriptions on the back of the packaging.  Kudos to the copywriter who works for Vosges.  If it’s a “he”, and he’s single, I think we might fall in love. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>My teammates completely ignored my staged reading except for Christy Jo, who always finds me entertaining.  Since I lost my audience, I ditched the monologue and dug into the chocolate. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Everyone looked skeptical.  Mushrooms in chocolate?  You’ve got to be kidding. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I explained that there were also walnuts and 66% cacao to mask the fungus.  They were going to eat it, and they were going to like it.  If they knew what’s good for them.  And a superfood unity is indeed good for them. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>They obeyed and partook.  A wave of delighted surprise rolled through the group.  Eyes dilated and glazed over. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Christy Jo was the only one who actually hallucinated.  Everyone else was very chill, but Christy Jo shrieked wildly and unintelligibly about a frumpy woman etched into the chocolate. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>And then Christy Jo muttered something about Etched Chocolate Woman being a Vegas bag lady in dire need of a push-up bra and Spanx.  I corrected her – the bag is labeled with “Vosges” which is the brand of this heavenly chocolate. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Christy Jo’s little “journey” was thankfully short-lived.  She might enjoy the luxury of telecommuting her days away, but we needed to hightail it back to the office. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I channeled my inner Padma from Top Chef and asked our panel what they thought of the Enchanted Shroom Bar.  Everyone nodded their heads, smiled, and uttered profound critiques such as, “It’s good!” </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>O.k.  So they’re not exactly as eloquent as Tom, Gail, or Anthony Bourdain, but the team unanimously agreed that our culinary carpet ride was groovy, man.  </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>','Day 9:  Trippin\' on Enchanted Shrooms','','inherit','open','open','','624-revision-7','','','2010-09-25 12:41:33','2010-09-25 19:41:34','',624,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/09/25/624-revision-7/',0,'revision','',0),(725,1,'2010-09-25 12:45:23','2010-09-25 19:45:23','<p><a href=\"http://www.vosgeschocolate.com/product/organic_enchanted_mushroom_candy_bar/organic_candy_bars\" target=\"_blank\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-716 alignleft\" title=\"Life is short.  Buy quality chocolate.  \" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/shroom1-300x300.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"300\" /></a></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I am not a fungus fan.  I enjoy a well-disguised shiitake or crimini mushroom in a flavorful Asian dish, but other than that, no thanks. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Button mushrooms in a salad?  Bleck.  I just don’t get it. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>When I was at Whole Paycheck for the <strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/09/21/day-5-i-scream-you-scream-whole-foods-screams-for/\" target=\"_blank\">Banana Split Caper</a></strong> the other day, I wandered off to the chocolate showcase.  If you’ve ever been to Whole Paycheck, you know that I’m not exaggerating when I use the word “showcase”.  Apparently, Whole Paycheck shoppers are chocoholics like the rest of the nation.  It’s just healthier chocolate, that’s all. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>While perusing the vast and exotic options, I came upon the most exotic of them all:  Enchanted Mushroom.  Organic, no less! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<blockquote><p><strong><span style=\"color: #993300;\">“Superfoods unite! Cacao and mushroom, two of the world’s most healthy and desired foods merge into one enchanting bite!”</span></strong></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong><span style=\"color: #993300;\">                                                                                   -- Vosges Haut-Chocolat</span></strong></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p></blockquote>\r\n\r\n<p>It’s about time this Late Bloomer chick tripped on some shrooms!  I forked over the $7.99 to Whole Paycheck for the promise of a choco-pscyhedelic experience.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I didn’t want to fly on my magic carpet ride alone, so I forced my friends to come with me.  My teammates from work, to be exact.  We’re like one, big, dysfunctional family, so they were a prime and captive audience.  </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I hauled out the Enchanted Mushroom bar at our homecoming lunch for former teammate, Christy Jo.  Christy Jo recently moved up in the world, but misses us like nobody’s business.  (Her real name is Christy, and her middle name is Elaine, but you know me and nicknames.)  </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I began reading the flowery and trippy descriptions on the back of the packaging.  Kudos to the copywriter who works for Vosges.  If it’s a “he”, and he’s single, I think we might fall in love. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>My teammates completely ignored my staged reading except for Christy Jo, who always finds me entertaining.  Since I lost my audience, I ditched the monologue and dug into the chocolate. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Everyone looked skeptical.  Mushrooms in chocolate?  You’ve got to be kidding. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I explained that there were also walnuts and 66% cacao to mask the fungus.  They were going to eat it, and they were going to like it.  If they knew what’s good for them.  And a superfood unity is indeed good for them. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>They obeyed and partook.  A wave of delighted surprise rolled through the group.  Eyes dilated and glazed over. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Christy Jo was the only one who actually hallucinated.  Everyone else was very chill, but Christy Jo shrieked wildly and unintelligibly about a frumpy woman etched into the chocolate. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>And then Christy Jo muttered something about Etched Chocolate Woman being a Vegas bag lady in dire need of a push-up bra and Spanx.  I corrected her – the bag is labeled with “Vosges” which is the brand of this heavenly chocolate. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Christy Jo’s little “journey” was thankfully short-lived.  She might enjoy the luxury of telecommuting her days away, but we needed to hightail it back to the office. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I channeled my inner Padma from Top Chef and asked our panel what they thought of the Enchanted Shroom Bar.  Everyone nodded their heads, smiled, and uttered profound critiques such as, “It’s good!” </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>O.k.  So they’re not exactly as eloquent as Tom, Gail, or Anthony Bourdain, but the team unanimously agreed that our culinary carpet ride was groovy, man.  </p>\r\n\r\n<p>Life is short.  Buy quality chocolate.  <a href=\"http://www.vosgeschocolate.com\">www.vosgeschocolate.com</a>. <br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>','Day 9:  Trippin\' on Enchanted Shrooms','','inherit','open','open','','624-revision-9','','','2010-09-25 12:45:23','2010-09-25 19:45:23','',624,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/09/25/624-revision-9/',0,'revision','',0),(726,1,'2010-09-25 12:47:02','2010-09-25 19:47:02','<p><a href=\"http://www.vosgeschocolate.com/product/organic_enchanted_mushroom_candy_bar/organic_candy_bars\" target=\"_blank\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-716 alignleft\" title=\"Life is short.  Buy quality chocolate.  \" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/shroom1-300x300.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"300\" /></a></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I am not a fungus fan.  I enjoy a well-disguised shiitake or crimini mushroom in a flavorful Asian dish, but other than that, no thanks. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Button mushrooms in a salad?  Bleck.  I just don’t get it. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>When I was at Whole Paycheck for the <strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/09/21/day-5-i-scream-you-scream-whole-foods-screams-for/\" target=\"_blank\">Banana Split Caper</a></strong> the other day, I wandered off to the chocolate showcase.  If you’ve ever been to Whole Paycheck, you know that I’m not exaggerating when I use the word “showcase”.  Apparently, Whole Paycheck shoppers are chocoholics like the rest of the nation.  It’s just healthier chocolate, that’s all. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>While perusing the vast and exotic options, I came upon the most exotic of them all:  Enchanted Mushroom.  Organic, no less! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<blockquote><p><strong><span style=\"color: #993300;\">“Superfoods unite! Cacao and mushroom, two of the world’s most healthy and desired foods merge into one enchanting bite!”</span></strong></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong><span style=\"color: #993300;\">                                                                                   -- Vosges Haut-Chocolat</span></strong></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p></blockquote>\r\n\r\n<p>It’s about time this Late Bloomer chick tripped on some shrooms!  I forked over the $7.99 to Whole Paycheck for the promise of a choco-pscyhedelic experience.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I didn’t want to fly on my magic carpet ride alone, so I forced my friends to come with me.  My teammates from work, to be exact.  We’re like one, big, dysfunctional family, so they were a prime and captive audience.  </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I hauled out the Enchanted Mushroom bar at our homecoming lunch for former teammate, Christy Jo.  Christy Jo recently moved up in the world, but misses us like nobody’s business.  (Her real name is Christy, and her middle name is Elaine, but you know me and nicknames.)  </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I began reading the flowery and trippy descriptions on the back of the packaging.  Kudos to the copywriter who works for Vosges.  If it’s a “he”, and he’s single, I think we might fall in love. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>My teammates completely ignored my staged reading except for Christy Jo, who always finds me entertaining.  Since I lost my audience, I ditched the monologue and dug into the chocolate. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Everyone looked skeptical.  Mushrooms in chocolate?  You’ve got to be kidding. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I explained that there were also walnuts and 66% cacao to mask the fungus.  They were going to eat it, and they were going to like it.  If they knew what’s good for them.  And a superfood unity is indeed good for them. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>They obeyed and partook.  A wave of delighted surprise rolled through the group.  Pupils dilated and eyes glazed over. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Christy Jo was the only one who actually hallucinated.  Everyone else was very chill, but Christy Jo shrieked wildly and unintelligibly about a frumpy woman etched into the chocolate. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>And then Christy Jo muttered something about Etched Chocolate Woman being a Vegas bag lady in dire need of a push-up bra and Spanx.  I corrected her – the bag is labeled with “Vosges” which is the brand of this heavenly chocolate. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Christy Jo’s little “journey” was thankfully short-lived.  She might enjoy the luxury of telecommuting her days away, but we needed to hightail it back to the office. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I channeled my inner Padma from Top Chef and asked our panel what they thought of the Enchanted Shroom Bar.  Everyone nodded their heads, smiled, and uttered profound critiques such as, “It’s good!” </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>O.k.  So they’re not exactly as eloquent as Tom, Gail, or Anthony Bourdain, but the team unanimously agreed that our culinary carpet ride was groovy, man.  </p>\r\n\r\n<p>Life is short.  Buy quality chocolate.  <a href=\"http://www.vosgeschocolate.com\">www.vosgeschocolate.com</a>. <br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>','Day 9:  Trippin\' on Enchanted Shrooms','','inherit','open','open','','624-revision-10','','','2010-09-25 12:47:02','2010-09-25 19:47:02','',624,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/09/25/624-revision-10/',0,'revision','',0),(727,1,'2010-09-25 12:47:29','2010-09-25 19:47:29','<p><a href=\"http://www.vosgeschocolate.com/product/organic_enchanted_mushroom_candy_bar/organic_candy_bars\" target=\"_blank\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-716 alignleft\" title=\"Life is short.  Buy quality chocolate.  \" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/shroom1-300x300.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"300\" /></a></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I am not a fungus fan.  I enjoy a well-disguised shiitake or crimini mushroom in a flavorful Asian dish, but other than that, no thanks. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Button mushrooms in a salad?  Bleck.  I just don’t get it. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>When I was at Whole Paycheck for the <strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/09/21/day-5-i-scream-you-scream-whole-foods-screams-for/\" target=\"_blank\">Banana Split Caper</a></strong> the other day, I wandered off to the chocolate showcase.  If you’ve ever been to Whole Paycheck, you know that I’m not exaggerating when I use the word “showcase”.  Apparently, Whole Paycheck shoppers are chocoholics like the rest of the nation.  It’s just healthier chocolate, that’s all. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>While perusing the vast and exotic options, I came upon the most exotic of them all:  Enchanted Mushroom.  Organic, no less! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<blockquote><p><strong><span style=\"color: #993300;\">“Superfoods unite! Cacao and mushroom, two of the world’s most healthy and desired foods merge into one enchanting bite!”</span></strong></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong><span style=\"color: #993300;\">                                                                                   -- Vosges Haut-Chocolat</span></strong></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p></blockquote>\r\n\r\n<p>It’s about time this Late Bloomer chick tripped on some shrooms!  I forked over the $7.99 to Whole Paycheck for the promise of a choco-pscyhedelic experience.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I didn’t want to fly on my magic carpet ride alone, so I forced my friends to come with me.  My teammates from work, to be exact.  We’re like one, big, dysfunctional family, so they were a prime and captive audience.  </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I hauled out the Enchanted Mushroom bar at our homecoming lunch for former teammate, Christy Jo.  Christy Jo recently moved up in the world, but misses us like nobody’s business.  (Her real name is Christy, and her middle name is Elaine, but you know me and nicknames.)  </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I began reading the flowery and trippy descriptions on the back of the packaging.  Kudos to the copywriter who works for Vosges.  If it’s a “he”, and he’s single, I think we might fall in love. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>My teammates completely ignored my staged reading except for Christy Jo, who always finds me entertaining.  Since I lost my audience, I ditched the monologue and dug into the chocolate. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Everyone looked skeptical.  Mushrooms in chocolate?  You’ve got to be kidding. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I explained that there were also walnuts and 66% cacao to mask the fungus.  They were going to eat it, and they were going to like it.  If they knew what’s good for them.  And a superfood unity is indeed good for them. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>They obeyed and partook.  A wave of delighted surprise rolled through the group.  Pupils dilated and eyes glazed over. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Christy Jo was the only one who actually hallucinated.  Everyone else was very chill, but Christy Jo shrieked wildly and unintelligibly about a frumpy woman etched into the chocolate. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>And then Christy Jo muttered something about Etched Chocolate Woman being a Vegas bag lady in dire need of a push-up bra and Spanx.  I corrected her – the bag is labeled with “Vosges” which is the brand of this heavenly chocolate. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Christy Jo’s little “journey” was thankfully short-lived.  She might enjoy the luxury of telecommuting her days away, but we needed to hightail it back to the office. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I channeled my inner Padma from Top Chef and asked our panel what they thought of the Enchanted Shroom Bar.  Everyone nodded their heads, smiled, and uttered profound critiques such as, “It’s good!” </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>O.k.  So they’re not exactly as eloquent as Tom, Gail, or Anthony Bourdain, but the team unanimously agreed that our culinary carpet ride was groovy, man.  </p>\r\n\r\n<p>Life is short.  Buy quality chocolate.  <a href=\"http://www.vosgeschocolate.com\"><strong>www.vosgeschocolate.com</strong></a><strong>.</strong> <br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>','Day 9:  Trippin\' on Enchanted Shrooms','','inherit','open','open','','624-revision-11','','','2010-09-25 12:47:29','2010-09-25 19:47:29','',624,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/09/25/624-revision-11/',0,'revision','',0),(728,1,'2010-09-25 12:48:36','2010-09-25 19:48:36','<p><a href=\"http://www.vosgeschocolate.com/product/organic_enchanted_mushroom_candy_bar/organic_candy_bars\" target=\"_blank\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-716 alignleft\" title=\"Life is short.  Buy quality chocolate.  \" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/shroom1-300x300.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"300\" /></a></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I am not a fungus fan.  I enjoy a well-disguised shiitake or crimini mushroom in a flavorful Asian dish, but other than that, no thanks. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Button mushrooms in a salad?  Bleck.  I just don’t get it. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>When I was at Whole Paycheck for the <strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/09/21/day-5-i-scream-you-scream-whole-foods-screams-for/\" target=\"_blank\">Banana Split Caper</a></strong> the other day, I wandered off to the chocolate showcase.  If you’ve ever been to Whole Paycheck, you know that I’m not exaggerating when I use the word “showcase”.  Apparently, Whole Paycheck shoppers are chocoholics like the rest of the nation.  It’s just healthier chocolate, that’s all. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>While perusing the vast and exotic options, I came upon the most exotic of them all:  Enchanted Mushroom.  Organic, no less! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<blockquote><p><strong><span style=\"color: #993300;\">“Superfoods unite! Cacao and mushroom, two of the world’s most healthy and desired foods merge into one enchanting bite!”</span></strong></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong><span style=\"color: #993300;\">                                                                                   -- Vosges Haut-Chocolat</span></strong></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p></blockquote>\r\n\r\n<p>It’s about time this Late Bloomer chick tripped on some shrooms!  I forked over the $7.99 to Whole Paycheck for the promise of a choco-pscyhedelic experience.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I didn’t want to fly on my magic carpet ride alone, so I forced my friends to come with me.  My teammates from work, to be exact.  We’re like one, big, dysfunctional family, so they were a prime and captive audience.  </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I hauled out the Enchanted Mushroom bar at our homecoming lunch for former teammate, Christy Jo.  Christy Jo recently moved up in the world, but misses us like nobody’s business.  (Her real name is Christy, and her middle name is Elaine, but you know me and nicknames.)  </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I began reading the flowery and trippy descriptions on the back of the packaging.  Kudos to the copywriter who works for Vosges.  If it’s a “he”, and he’s single, I think we might fall in love. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>My teammates completely ignored my staged reading except for Christy Jo, who always finds me entertaining.  Since I lost my audience, I ditched the monologue and dug into the chocolate. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Everyone looked skeptical.  Mushrooms in chocolate?  You’ve got to be kidding. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I explained that there were also walnuts and 66% cacao to mask the fungus.  They were going to eat it, and they were going to like it.  If they knew what’s good for them.  And a superfood unity is indeed good for them. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>They obeyed and partook.  A wave of delighted surprise rolled through the group.  Pupils dilated and eyes glazed over. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Christy Jo was the only one who actually hallucinated.  Everyone else was very chill, but Christy Jo shrieked wildly and unintelligibly about a frumpy woman etched into the chocolate. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>And then Christy Jo muttered something about Etched Chocolate Woman being a Vegas bag lady in dire need of a push-up bra and Spanx.  I corrected her – the bag is labeled with “Vosges” which is the brand of this heavenly chocolate. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Christy Jo’s little “journey” was thankfully short-lived.  She might enjoy the luxury of telecommuting her days away, but we needed to hightail it back to the office. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I channeled my inner Padma from Top Chef and asked our panel what they thought of the Enchanted Shroom Bar.  Everyone nodded their heads, smiled, and uttered profound critiques such as, “It’s good!” </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>O.k.  So they’re not exactly as eloquent as Tom, Gail, or Anthony Bourdain, but the team unanimously agreed that our culinary carpet ride was groovy, man.  </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Life is short.  Buy quality chocolate.  <a href=\"http://www.vosgeschocolate.com\"><strong>www.vosgeschocolate.com</strong></a><strong>.</strong> <br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>','Day 9:  Trippin\' on Enchanted Shrooms','','inherit','open','open','','624-revision-12','','','2010-09-25 12:48:36','2010-09-25 19:48:36','',624,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/09/25/624-revision-12/',0,'revision','',0),(729,1,'2010-09-25 12:50:57','2010-09-25 19:50:57','','choco bag lady','','inherit','open','open','','choco-pic','','','2010-09-25 12:50:57','2010-09-25 19:50:57','',624,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/choco-pic.jpg',0,'attachment','image/jpeg',0),(730,1,'2010-09-25 12:50:15','2010-09-25 19:50:15','<p><a href=\"http://www.vosgeschocolate.com/product/organic_enchanted_mushroom_candy_bar/organic_candy_bars\" target=\"_blank\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-716 alignleft\" title=\"Life is short.  Buy quality chocolate.  \" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/shroom1-300x300.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"300\" /></a></p>\n\n<p>I am not a fungus fan.  I enjoy a well-disguised shiitake or crimini mushroom in a flavorful Asian dish, but other than that, no thanks. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Button mushrooms in a salad?  Bleck.  I just don’t get it. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>When I was at Whole Paycheck for the <strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/09/21/day-5-i-scream-you-scream-whole-foods-screams-for/\" target=\"_blank\">Banana Split Caper</a></strong> the other day, I wandered off to the chocolate showcase.  If you’ve ever been to Whole Paycheck, you know that I’m not exaggerating when I use the word “showcase”.  Apparently, Whole Paycheck shoppers are chocoholics like the rest of the nation.  It’s just healthier chocolate, that’s all. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>While perusing the vast and exotic options, I came upon the most exotic of them all:  Enchanted Mushroom.  Organic, no less! </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<blockquote><p><strong><span style=\"color: #993300;\">“Superfoods unite! Cacao and mushroom, two of the world’s most healthy and desired foods merge into one enchanting bite!”</span></strong></p>\n\n<p><strong><span style=\"color: #993300;\">                                                                                   -- Vosges Haut-Chocolat</span></strong></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p></blockquote>\n\n<p>It’s about time this Late Bloomer chick tripped on some shrooms!  I forked over the $7.99 to Whole Paycheck for the promise of a choco-pscyhedelic experience.</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>I didn’t want to fly on my magic carpet ride alone, so I forced my friends to come with me.  My teammates from work, to be exact.  We’re like one, big, dysfunctional family, so they were a prime and captive audience.  </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>I hauled out the Enchanted Mushroom bar at our homecoming lunch for former teammate, Christy Jo.  Christy Jo recently moved up in the world, but misses us like nobody’s business.  (Her real name is Christy, and her middle name is Elaine, but you know me and nicknames.)  </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>I began reading the flowery and trippy descriptions on the back of the packaging.  Kudos to the copywriter who works for Vosges.  If it’s a “he”, and he’s single, I think we might fall in love. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>My teammates completely ignored my staged reading except for Christy Jo, who always finds me entertaining.  Since I lost my audience, I ditched the monologue and dug into the chocolate. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Everyone looked skeptical.  Mushrooms in chocolate?  You’ve got to be kidding. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>I explained that there were also walnuts and 66% cacao to mask the fungus.  They were going to eat it, and they were going to like it.  If they knew what’s good for them.  And a superfood unity is indeed good for them. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>They obeyed and partook.  A wave of delighted surprise rolled through the group.  Pupils dilated and eyes glazed over. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Christy Jo was the only one who actually hallucinated.  Everyone else was very chill, but Christy Jo shrieked wildly and unintelligibly about a frumpy woman etched into the chocolate. </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>And then Christy Jo muttered something about Etched Chocolate Woman being a Vegas bag lady in dire need of a push-up bra and Spanx.  I corrected her – the bag is labeled with “Vosges” which is the brand of this heavenly chocolate. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Christy Jo’s little “journey” was thankfully short-lived.  She might enjoy the luxury of telecommuting her days away, but we needed to hightail it back to the office. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>I channeled my inner Padma from Top Chef and asked our panel what they thought of the Enchanted Shroom Bar.  Everyone nodded their heads, smiled, and uttered profound critiques such as, “It’s good!” </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>O.k.  So they’re not exactly as eloquent as Tom, Gail, or Anthony Bourdain, but the team unanimously agreed that our culinary carpet ride was groovy, man.  </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Life is short.  Buy quality chocolate.  <a href=\"http://www.vosgeschocolate.com\"><strong>www.vosgeschocolate.com</strong></a><strong>.</strong> <br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>','Day 9:  Trippin\' on Enchanted Shrooms','','inherit','open','open','','624-revision-13','','','2010-09-25 12:50:15','2010-09-25 19:50:15','',624,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/09/25/624-revision-13/',0,'revision','',0),(732,1,'2010-09-25 12:52:44','2010-09-25 19:52:44','<p><a href=\"http://www.vosgeschocolate.com/product/organic_enchanted_mushroom_candy_bar/organic_candy_bars\" target=\"_blank\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-716 alignleft\" title=\"Life is short.  Buy quality chocolate.  \" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/shroom1-300x300.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"300\" /></a></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I am not a fungus fan.  I enjoy a well-disguised shiitake or crimini mushroom in a flavorful Asian dish, but other than that, no thanks. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Button mushrooms in a salad?  Bleck.  I just don’t get it. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>When I was at Whole Paycheck for the <strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/09/21/day-5-i-scream-you-scream-whole-foods-screams-for/\" target=\"_blank\">Banana Split Caper</a></strong> the other day, I wandered off to the chocolate showcase.  If you’ve ever been to Whole Paycheck, you know that I’m not exaggerating when I use the word “showcase”.  Apparently, Whole Paycheck shoppers are chocoholics like the rest of the nation.  It’s just healthier chocolate, that’s all. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>While perusing the vast and exotic options, I came upon the most exotic of them all:  Enchanted Mushroom.  Organic, no less! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<blockquote><p><strong><span style=\"color: #993300;\">“Superfoods unite! Cacao and mushroom, two of the world’s most healthy and desired foods merge into one enchanting bite!”</span></strong></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong><span style=\"color: #993300;\">                                                                                   -- Vosges Haut-Chocolat</span></strong></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p></blockquote>\r\n\r\n<p>It’s about time this Late Bloomer chick tripped on some shrooms!  I forked over the $7.99 to Whole Paycheck for the promise of a choco-pscyhedelic experience.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I didn’t want to fly on my magic carpet ride alone, so I forced my friends to come with me.  My teammates from work, to be exact.  We’re like one, big, dysfunctional family, so they were a prime and captive audience.  </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I hauled out the Enchanted Mushroom bar at our homecoming lunch for former teammate, Christy Jo.  Christy Jo recently moved up in the world, but misses us like nobody’s business.  (Her real name is Christy, and her middle name is Elaine, but you know me and nicknames.)  </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I began reading the flowery and trippy descriptions on the back of the packaging.  Kudos to the copywriter who works for Vosges.  If it’s a “he”, and he’s single, I think we might fall in love. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>My teammates completely ignored my staged reading except for Christy Jo, who always finds me entertaining.  Since I lost my audience, I ditched the monologue and dug into the chocolate. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Everyone looked skeptical.  Mushrooms in chocolate?  You’ve got to be kidding. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I explained that there were also walnuts and 66% cacao to mask the fungus.  They were going to eat it, and they were going to like it.  If they knew what’s good for them.  And a superfood unity is indeed good for them. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>They obeyed and partook.  A wave of delighted surprise rolled through the group.  Pupils dilated and eyes glazed over. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Christy Jo was the only one who actually hallucinated.  Everyone else was very chill, but Christy Jo shrieked wildly and unintelligibly about a frumpy woman etched into the chocolate. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/choco-pic.jpg\"><img title=\"choco bag lady\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/choco-pic-260x300.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"260\" height=\"300\" /></a></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>And then Christy Jo muttered something about Etched Chocolate Woman being a Vegas bag lady in dire need of a push-up bra and Spanx.  I corrected her – the bag is labeled with “Vosges” which is the brand of this heavenly chocolate. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Christy Jo’s little “journey” was thankfully short-lived.  She might enjoy the luxury of telecommuting her days away, but we needed to hightail it back to the office. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I channeled my inner Padma from Top Chef and asked our panel what they thought of the Enchanted Shroom Bar.  Everyone nodded their heads, smiled, and uttered profound critiques such as, “It’s good!” </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>O.k.  So they’re not exactly as eloquent as Tom, Gail, or Anthony Bourdain, but the team unanimously agreed that our culinary carpet ride was groovy, man.  </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Life is short.  Buy quality chocolate.  <a href=\"http://www.vosgeschocolate.com\"><strong>www.vosgeschocolate.com</strong></a><strong>.</strong> <br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>','Day 9:  Trippin\' on Enchanted Shrooms','','inherit','open','open','','624-revision-15','','','2010-09-25 12:52:44','2010-09-25 19:52:44','',624,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/09/25/624-revision-15/',0,'revision','',0),(731,1,'2010-09-25 12:52:15','2010-09-25 19:52:15','<p><a href=\"http://www.vosgeschocolate.com/product/organic_enchanted_mushroom_candy_bar/organic_candy_bars\" target=\"_blank\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-716 alignleft\" title=\"Life is short.  Buy quality chocolate.  \" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/shroom1-300x300.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"300\" /></a></p>\n\n<p>I am not a fungus fan.  I enjoy a well-disguised shiitake or crimini mushroom in a flavorful Asian dish, but other than that, no thanks. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Button mushrooms in a salad?  Bleck.  I just don’t get it. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>When I was at Whole Paycheck for the <strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/09/21/day-5-i-scream-you-scream-whole-foods-screams-for/\" target=\"_blank\">Banana Split Caper</a></strong> the other day, I wandered off to the chocolate showcase.  If you’ve ever been to Whole Paycheck, you know that I’m not exaggerating when I use the word “showcase”.  Apparently, Whole Paycheck shoppers are chocoholics like the rest of the nation.  It’s just healthier chocolate, that’s all. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>While perusing the vast and exotic options, I came upon the most exotic of them all:  Enchanted Mushroom.  Organic, no less! </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<blockquote><p><strong><span style=\"color: #993300;\">“Superfoods unite! Cacao and mushroom, two of the world’s most healthy and desired foods merge into one enchanting bite!”</span></strong></p>\n\n<p><strong><span style=\"color: #993300;\">                                                                                   -- Vosges Haut-Chocolat</span></strong></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p></blockquote>\n\n<p>It’s about time this Late Bloomer chick tripped on some shrooms!  I forked over the $7.99 to Whole Paycheck for the promise of a choco-pscyhedelic experience.</p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>I didn’t want to fly on my magic carpet ride alone, so I forced my friends to come with me.  My teammates from work, to be exact.  We’re like one, big, dysfunctional family, so they were a prime and captive audience.  </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>I hauled out the Enchanted Mushroom bar at our homecoming lunch for former teammate, Christy Jo.  Christy Jo recently moved up in the world, but misses us like nobody’s business.  (Her real name is Christy, and her middle name is Elaine, but you know me and nicknames.)  </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>I began reading the flowery and trippy descriptions on the back of the packaging.  Kudos to the copywriter who works for Vosges.  If it’s a “he”, and he’s single, I think we might fall in love. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>My teammates completely ignored my staged reading except for Christy Jo, who always finds me entertaining.  Since I lost my audience, I ditched the monologue and dug into the chocolate. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Everyone looked skeptical.  Mushrooms in chocolate?  You’ve got to be kidding. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>I explained that there were also walnuts and 66% cacao to mask the fungus.  They were going to eat it, and they were going to like it.  If they knew what’s good for them.  And a superfood unity is indeed good for them. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>They obeyed and partook.  A wave of delighted surprise rolled through the group.  Pupils dilated and eyes glazed over. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Christy Jo was the only one who actually hallucinated.  Everyone else was very chill, but Christy Jo shrieked wildly and unintelligibly about a frumpy woman etched into the chocolate. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/choco-pic.jpg\"><img title=\"choco bag lady\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/choco-pic-260x300.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"260\" height=\"300\" /></a></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>And then Christy Jo muttered something about Etched Chocolate Woman being a Vegas bag lady in dire need of a push-up bra and Spanx.  I corrected her – the bag is labeled with “Vosges” which is the brand of this heavenly chocolate. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Christy Jo’s little “journey” was thankfully short-lived.  She might enjoy the luxury of telecommuting her days away, but we needed to hightail it back to the office. </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>I channeled my inner Padma from Top Chef and asked our panel what they thought of the Enchanted Shroom Bar.  Everyone nodded their heads, smiled, and uttered profound critiques such as, “It’s good!” </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>O.k.  So they’re not exactly as eloquent as Tom, Gail, or Anthony Bourdain, but the team unanimously agreed that our culinary carpet ride was groovy, man.  </p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p>Life is short.  Buy quality chocolate.  <a href=\"http://www.vosgeschocolate.com\"><strong>www.vosgeschocolate.com</strong></a><strong>.</strong> <br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\n\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>','Day 9:  Trippin\' on Enchanted Shrooms','','inherit','open','open','','624-revision-14','','','2010-09-25 12:52:15','2010-09-25 19:52:15','',624,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/09/25/624-revision-14/',0,'revision','',0),(733,1,'2010-09-25 12:53:33','2010-09-25 19:53:33','<p><a href=\"http://www.vosgeschocolate.com/product/organic_enchanted_mushroom_candy_bar/organic_candy_bars\" target=\"_blank\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-716 alignleft\" title=\"Life is short.  Buy quality chocolate.  \" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/shroom1-300x300.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"300\" /></a></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I am not a fungus fan.  I enjoy a well-disguised shiitake or crimini mushroom in a flavorful Asian dish, but other than that, no thanks. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Button mushrooms in a salad?  Bleck.  I just don’t get it. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>When I was at Whole Paycheck for the <strong><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/09/21/day-5-i-scream-you-scream-whole-foods-screams-for/\" target=\"_blank\">Banana Split Caper</a></strong> the other day, I wandered off to the chocolate showcase.  If you’ve ever been to Whole Paycheck, you know that I’m not exaggerating when I use the word “showcase”.  Apparently, Whole Paycheck shoppers are chocoholics like the rest of the nation.  It’s just healthier chocolate, that’s all. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>While perusing the vast and exotic options, I came upon the most exotic of them all:  Enchanted Mushroom.  Organic, no less! </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<blockquote><p><strong><span style=\"color: #993300;\">“Superfoods unite! Cacao and mushroom, two of the world’s most healthy and desired foods merge into one enchanting bite!”</span></strong></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong><span style=\"color: #993300;\">                                                                                   -- Vosges Haut-Chocolat</span></strong></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p></blockquote>\r\n\r\n<p>It’s about time this Late Bloomer chick tripped on some shrooms!  I forked over the $7.99 to Whole Paycheck for the promise of a choco-pscyhedelic experience.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I didn’t want to fly on my magic carpet ride alone, so I forced my friends to come with me.  My teammates from work, to be exact.  We’re like one, big, dysfunctional family, so they were a prime and captive audience.  </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I hauled out the Enchanted Mushroom bar at our homecoming lunch for former teammate, Christy Jo.  Christy Jo recently moved up in the world, but misses us like nobody’s business.  (Her real name is Christy, and her middle name is Elaine, but you know me and nicknames.)  </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I began reading the flowery and trippy descriptions on the back of the packaging.  Kudos to the copywriter who works for Vosges.  If it’s a “he”, and he’s single, I think we might fall in love. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>My teammates completely ignored my staged reading except for Christy Jo, who always finds me entertaining.  Since I lost my audience, I ditched the monologue and dug into the chocolate. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Everyone looked skeptical.  Mushrooms in chocolate?  You’ve got to be kidding. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I explained that there were also walnuts and 66% cacao to mask the fungus.  They were going to eat it, and they were going to like it.  If they knew what’s good for them.  And a superfood unity is indeed good for them. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>They obeyed and partook.  A wave of delighted surprise rolled through the group.  Pupils dilated and eyes glazed over. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Christy Jo was the only one who actually hallucinated.  Everyone else was very chill, but Christy Jo shrieked wildly and unintelligibly about a frumpy woman etched into the chocolate. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><a href=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/choco-pic.jpg\"><img title=\"choco bag lady\" src=\"http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/choco-pic-260x300.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"260\" height=\"300\" /></a></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>And then Christy Jo muttered something about Etched Chocolate Woman being a Vegas bag lady in dire need of a push-up bra and Spanx.  I corrected her – the bag is labeled with “Vosges” which is the brand of this heavenly chocolate. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Christy Jo’s little “journey” was thankfully short-lived.  She might enjoy the luxury of telecommuting her days away, but we needed to hightail it back to the office. </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>I channeled my inner Padma from Top Chef and asked our panel what they thought of the Enchanted Shroom Bar.  Everyone nodded their heads, smiled, and uttered profound critiques such as, “It’s good!” </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>O.k.  So they’re not exactly as eloquent as Tom, Gail, or Anthony Bourdain, but the team unanimously agreed that our culinary carpet ride was groovy, man.  </p>\r\n\r\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Life is short.  Buy quality chocolate.  <a href=\"http://www.vosgeschocolate.com\"><strong>www.vosgeschocolate.com</strong></a><strong>.</strong> <br class=\"spacer_\" /></p>','Day 9:  Trippin\' on Enchanted Shrooms','','inherit','open','open','','624-revision-16','','','2010-09-25 12:53:33','2010-09-25 19:53:33','',624,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/2010/09/25/624-revision-16/',0,'revision','',0),(734,1,'2010-09-25 15:10:32','2010-09-25 22:10:32','','Mozart-Twelve Variations on Ah, vous dirai-je Maman K265','','inherit','open','open','','mozart-twelve-variations-on-ah-vous-dirai-je-maman-k265','','','2010-09-25 15:10:32','2010-09-25 22:10:32','',625,'http://www.diaryofalatebloomer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/Please-support-your-local-ballet.jpg',0,'attachment','image/jpeg',0),