Brushes with the Almost Famous

This Saturday we headed out of our noisy neighborhood to a party in north suburban River Woods, where Julie, an old friend of John's, was the guest of honor. Technically her new baby Maya--the baby that almost wasn't--was the star of the evening. After a miscarried twin early in the pregnancy, the remaining baby was given just a 20% chance of survival. Then, a couple of weeks from term, Julie had a front-first fall that left her nicked up and briefly unconscious. But four months later, there was tiny Maya: positively, otherworldly gorgeous.

I have to admit, as taken as I was with the baby, the real heart-stopper for me may have been when this woman walked in the door. No, your eyes don't deceive you. That IS American Gladiator Phoenix, also known as Julie's cousin Jennifer. Ok, ok, I'm not really assuming you watch the show. Just stay with me for a minute. She's actually much prettier in person, and I have to say incredibly warm, smart, and genuine.

I was going on about the general awesomeness of Phoenix in the car, until John finally said "You have a crush on the gladiator, don't you?" Gobstopped as charged. But I submit, it isn't every day you meet someone whose action figure is due out in April.