The Seattle Aqua Club: Yes, I was a synchronized swimmer.

Synchro. There is A LOT I could write about my years as a synchronized swimmer, but I think the pictures tell it well enough. From the ages of 8 to 12, I was a Junior Olympian, 10 time gold medal winner. (sounds impressive, doesn’t it) Again, check out the photos for the “real” story. It was a ton of hard work, grueling hours, getting yelled at a lot, and lots of fun. (not to mention costing my parents an arm and a leg.)

My team. Please note how I "licked" the paper, so my pen could write on it. And I labeled each and every one. I'm lookin' good as an entire foot taller and 25 pounds heavier than every other girl, I know it.

Last night I went to fun relief society “retreat.” I laughed so hard I nearly wet myself; more than once. Too bad by dear friend Tricia can’t say “nearly,’ but instead – “did” wet her pants. It was too funny. We had to anonymously tell something about us. I went for my old standard, “I can put my fist in my mouth.” Always an audience pleaser. But dang! I forget that I have never met another synchronized swimmer, (other than my team mates) We are a rare breed, apparently. That would have been a great one! People are always dumb struck by this fascinating diddy. But it’s true! Oh, so very true.

This happens to be Candie Costie. (Gold Medal Olympian) Our team sent the first two U.S. Synchronized Swimmers to the Olympics, in 1984. (for all of you who hate this "sport" - sorry! Love it.)

I thought you'd enjoy my "bubble writing." I mean, sheesh, I only practiced it everyday. (And don't try to tell me that you didn't!)

My sister Mindy and I swam for these four years, five days a week for 2 hours a day. Our hair stunk all the time, our suits were colors no one had ever seen before (chlorine does this).

We were forbidden to use more than a “dime size” of shampoo while rinsing our hair. (My mom hated to fork out so much money for shampoo, apparently. Has anyone seen my hair? There’s a reason people call me Captain Cave Man. Would you tell Cavey to use a “dime size” amount of shampoo? I mean, really?!)

We had to pour hot knox gelatin on our heads regularly, this is how their hair stays so perfect. And the buns? Their fake. If you have hair, wrap it around the bun form, if not-pin it on and slick back the rest.

Mindy and I fought ALL the time. They even had to break us up more than once. “I swam my 50 laps faster than you! No you didn’t, I did!” “My kip is higher than yours! No, it’s not! And you're fat!” Yeah, we were a pleasure to have on the team. (did I mention that she only won 4 bronze medals in her career? Oh, was I counting?)

Luckily, we were on different age teams, so we really didn’t have to interact all that much. (This kind of activity went through all aspects of our life. “You sing too loud! You’re off key”)

Whatever. It’s a wonder how we are the best of friends now.

Are you wondering why on earth would I show these pictures the light of day?

Because I love to make people laugh! Hope your laughing!! We're wearing our "finale" head pieces here.

Why did I stop you ask? Somewhere between being weighed every day and starting my period, I said “enough.” Sometimes I wish I had continued. But within the year I discovered dance. I loved that. I know, I’m no beauty queen, but I loved ballet. Sometime soon, I’ll grace you with those lovely photos. Maybe. If I get up enough guts.

(Yes, I think they may be worse than these.)

Who did NOT love button making machines? I mean really? Who didn't? I LOVED buttons. I wore them to school every day on my jacket. So when I got my hands on one for this beauty, who could resist?! Yes, I did pin it on the other day and wear it around the house for a while.