A couple of weeks ago, we were in Redlands for our photoshoot. Last week, I got to meet one of Redlands’ finest– United States National Team midfielder/forward Landon Donovan at the Home Depot Center in Carson, CA. It meant taking a day off from Pink Princess and, while I missed being at work, it was well worth the time away.  Landon is one of the best soccer players ever to don a USA jersey.  And I’ve been a huge fan of his for years.  This was an opportunity I couldn’t miss. It also meant some planning … which may or may not have involved a decoy.

You see, the event was a Q&A for 10-16 year olds.  I was out of luck.  But The Girl fits that description.  I brought her along as a decoy because this could be my one opportunity to meet LD10. The Q&A featured typical questions from kids, questions such as “what your favorite color?” (Blue).  Landon also talked about his influences growing up, his diet, and that goal against Algeria – the last minute one which enabled our country to advance in the 2010 World Cup. Then, a child in front of us asked him if he has a girlfriend.  His reply?  “I’m single.” The Girl immediately raised her hand. “Do you want my aunt’s phone number?” The audience burst out laughing.  Landon laughed and nodded.  “Who’s your aunt?” he asked. “Her!”  The Girl pointed to me. “Me.”  I told him. He laughed some more and said “Sure.” I then asked him a legitimate soccer question. After the Q&A, the kids got to take pictures with and get autographs from Landon.    When it was The Girl'’s turn to get snapped and signed, she asked Landon, “Can my aunt get a picture with you too?” “Sure.”  Landon laughed. “Christine, get up here!” She demanded. So I went on stage and his handlers scolded me because only kids were allowed to take photos with Landon.  I pointed to LD and told them, “He said it was okay!” Landon waved me over. This Pink Princess then got to meet soccer royalty. Many thanks go to Grace's friend, H, for the wonderful opportunity!