A Life Less Ordinary

By Victoria Bernadine

For the last fifteen years, Rose "Manny" Mankowski has been a very good girl. But now, at the age of 45, she's questioning her choices and feeling more and more disconnected from her own life. When she's passed over for promotion and her much younger new boss implies Manny's life will never change, something snaps. In the blink of an eye, she's quit her job, sold her house and cashed in her pension, and she's leaving town on a six month road trip.

After placing a personal ad for a travelling companion, she's joined in her mid-life crisis by Zeke Powell, the cynical, satirical, most-read – and most controversial – blogger for the e-magazine, What Women Want. Zeke's true goal is to expose Manny's journey as a pitiful and desperate attempt to reclaim her lost youth – and increase his readership at the same time.

Now, armed with a bagful of destinations, a fistful of maps, and an out-spoken imaginary friend named Harvey, Manny's on a quest to rediscover herself – and taking Zeke along for the ride.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Love of Words Publishing Inc.
• Release date: Mar 25, 2013
• ISBN: 9780991810222

Victoria Bernadine

Victoria Bernadine (a pseudonym) is, as the saying goes, a "woman of a certain age". After twenty-something years of writer's block, she began writing again in 2008. Victoria enjoys reading all genres and particularly loves writing romantic comedy and post-apocalyptic science fiction. What those two have in common is anybody's guess. She lives in Edmonton with her two cats (The Grunt and The Runt).

Book preview

A Life Less Ordinary

by

Victoria Bernadine

This book is a work of fiction. References to real people, events, establishments, organizations, websites, or locales are intended only to provide a sense of authenticity, are used fictitiously; and do not imply endorsement or relationship of any kind between this book and the referenced people, places or things. If any person or organization feels their intellectual property rights have been infringed due to such use in this book, please contact Love of Words Publishing Inc. ([e-mail]) for resolution.

All other characters and all incidents and dialogue are drawn from the author’s imagination and are not to be construed as real.

A LIFE LESS ORDINARY. Copyright © 2012 by Victoria Bernadine. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be used or reproduced in any manner whatsoever without written permission except in the case of brief quotations embodied in critical articles and reviews, or used within transformative fanworks.

Transformative fanworks (e.g., fanfiction, fanart, fanvids, podfic) are permitted and encouraged so long as the transformative fanwork is provided for free and includes appropriate disclaimers related to ownership of copyright. Permission to create transformative fanworks in no way implies an assignment of copyright or a waiver of moral rights in this work.

Cover Design by Patrycja Pawlik.

For information, contact Love of Words Publishing Inc., [e-mail] .

ISBN 978-0-9918102-2-2

m/d/y/#

Smashwords Edition

04-15-13-0002

Smashwords Edition, License Notes

This ebook is licensed for your personal enjoyment only. This ebook may not be re-sold or given away to other people. If you would like to share this book with another person, please purchase an additional copy for each recipient. If you’re reading this book and did not purchase it, or it was not purchased for your use only, then please return to Smashwords.com and purchase your own copy. Thank you for respecting the hard work of this author.

Table of Contents

Episode One

Episode Two

Episode Three

Episode Four

Episode Five

Episode Six

Episode Seven

Episode Eight

Episode Nine

Episode Ten

Episode Eleven

Episode Twelve

Episode Thirteen

Author’s Note

About the Author

EPISODE ONE

Minus Thirty-one Days

"All I ever wanted was a life less ordinary."

Manny lay flat on her back, eyes wide, staring at the ceiling while she waited for her clock to hit 6:00. Another day of work, she thought. Another day older and deeper in debt.

She had the alarm timed to the millisecond. The jarring noise had barely begun when she clicked it off. She sighed then threw back the covers and got out of bed.

She padded into the bathroom, glanced without interest in the full-length mirror that doubled as her shower doors and took her morning inventory.

Plain face? Check.

Looking tired? Check.

Thirty pounds overweight? Check.

Dark circles under deer-caught-in-headlights eyes? Check and check.

She shook her head at her limp, mousy hair and wondered when she’d gotten so old.

She sighed in resignation then conjured up her Perfect Fantasy Man–or Harvey, as she liked to call him–to give her a morning lift. She cocked her head to one side as she stared into the mirror and imagined him standing behind her. She smiled at the handsome man, and he smiled back, putting his hands on her shoulders. Everything about him was warm, in stark contrast to the cold shades of grey in which she lived her life. He had warm brown eyes, warm brown skin, and a warm smooth voice that always reminded her of golden honey. Today his hair was black with greying temples, and yes, even that seemed warm to her.

He was perfect, everything she considered ideal in a man–and extra-perfect, of course, because he was a fantasy. Just the thought of trying to establish a relationship with an actual man felt too much like work.

She sighed and Harvey disappeared.

"Instead I ended up in a rut–everything planned and executed to the minute."

She finished her shower and padded out to the kitchen wrapped in a worn terrycloth robe just as the coffee pot finished perking her morning coffee. She pulled a white cup out of the cupboard, filled it and took it with her to the bedroom, where she drank her coffee while she dressed and pulled her hair into its habitual bun high on the back of her head. At 6:45 sharp, she was back in the kitchen where she rinsed out the cup and put it on the rack next to the other three cups from earlier in the week; they marked the passage of time like scratches on a prison wall.

She walked out the door at 6:55 as usual, called good morning to Mr. Abinash from next door, as usual, got into her car and drove to work. As usual. She walked in at 7:37, called good morning to those of her staff already at their desks, and settled herself in her office.

As usual.

She sighed silently as she logged on to her computer and realized she couldn’t remember the last time she’d had a sick day or had come in late. Even her car and traffic and the sometimes-harsh Edmonton winters had given up trying to throw off her schedule.

She sighed again as she rifled through her stacks of paper, searching for the information she needed to review before the staff meeting at nine. The last staff meeting before their new boss arrived at ten, and Manny went back to her old position. She’d enjoyed being the boss and thought she’d had a good chance to win the promotion. If she was honest with herself, though, she hadn’t really been surprised with the decision to offer the job to Steph. If she had the energy, she’d almost wonder why she didn’t even care that much.

"I told myself it was security. But all I was doing was sleeping with my eyes open."

Manny glanced up as her assistant energetically bounced in.

Morning, Manny.

Morning, Roxie. How was your evening?

"Great–went to that new Robert Downey Jr. movie–rrrooowwwrrrr! Phil wasn’t too impressed with my drooling though."

Manny laughed. I’d expect not. I guess I need to go see it then.

Yeah, sure. When was the last time you actually went to a movie in the theatre?

Manny paused, considering the question then shrugged carelessly. Can’t remember, actually.

Roxie shook her head in exasperated fondness and sat down in front of Manny’s desk. She leaned forward and lowered her voice. So, the new boss starts today?

Yep, Manny replied absently, reviewing the e-mails in her inbox.

Are you going to be okay with this? I mean, you–

Of course I’m okay with it. Steph’s a nice person, bright, energetic, competent, levelheaded, full of new ideas. She may have a bit of a learning curve ahead of her, but she’ll do just fine. She may be just what we need around here. Perk us up a bit.

Yeah, but you–

Manny took her hands off the keyboard and turned to face Roxie directly. She gave her a reassuring smile and calmly held her gaze.

I’m okay with it, she said. Really. I didn’t want to be the boss anyway. She paused then continued. Everything’s going to be fine. You’ll see. A new boss will be fun!

Roxie grimaced cynically and Manny shook her head in mock disapproval.

We should get to work, she urged gently.

Roxie nodded and stood. Yeah, that at least never changes. But Manny...

Manny raised a quizzical eyebrow.

It should’ve been you.

~~~~~

Manny couldn’t stop her mind from wandering during the staff meeting, finding Craig’s voice even more monotone than usual. Or maybe the information was more monotonous than usual.

Or maybe you just don’t feel the need to pay close attention since you didn’t get the promotion.

Manny raised an eyebrow as she glanced towards Harvey sitting across the table from her. He looked very handsome in a well-cut expensive suit and gold silk tie.

I should still pay more attention, she replied primly and turned her attention back to Craig’s dry voice.

The quarterly forecast clearly shows– he droned, and she mentally rolled her eyes and glanced back across the table where Harvey grinned wickedly at her. For a moment, she allowed herself to get lost in his dark, mysterious eyes.

Manny?

She blinked and looked up at Craig. Yes?

What’s your opinion? he repeated.

I’m sorry–I was thinking of something else. My opinion on what?

Craig frowned at her, obviously displeased. The budget allocations, he snapped, and Manny flushed and shifted uncomfortably.

Wonder what he’d say if you told him your real opinion?

Shut up.

~~~~~

Craig preceded Manny into his office then stood behind his desk and watched as she closed the door and sat down at the table. He frowned at her.

It’s not like you to not pay attention in a meeting, he said.

Manny sighed and shrugged. Sorry, Craig.

This isn’t about losing out on that promotion, is it?

Not intentionally, but now that you mention it–

I’ve already explained it to you. We had no concerns that you could have done the job.

"That’s a relief, especially since I’ve been doing it."

Craig gave her a warning look at her slightly sarcastic tone and continued, We want to go in a new direction. We decided we needed somebody fresh, not burdened by the years of history and ‘how things used to be’. We needed somebody–

Young?

Craig’s lips tightened. New ideas, Manny. Somebody with new ideas, to take your area from the status quo to high achievement.

"Our status quo is high achievement."

Higher, then. Craig paused and stared hard at her. Are you going to be able to work with Steph?

Of course. I’m nothing if not professional and dedicated to my job.

Craig nodded, his eyes boring into hers. And I appreciate that. I’d hate to think you’re not a team player.

Manny flushed but held his gaze for several beats. Craig seemed satisfied by what he saw and nodded to indicate the conversation was over. Manny walked to the door, then paused and turned back to him.

Craig? Do I have any chance at all of moving up in this company? I mean, I’ve been here for fifteen years–

There’s always a chance, Manny. You’ll just have to wait and see what comes up. He gave her a thin smile, then sat and turned his attention to his computer.

Manny left thoughtfully; she knew a brush-off when she heard it.

~~~~~

Manny walked in her door, looking tired and feeling worn out. She wondered ruefully why the only thing not on a schedule was the time she could leave the office. She dropped her purse on the table and hung up her coat and keys. With a tired sigh, she walked into the living room and plopped into the armchair. She closed her eyes as Harvey walked out of the kitchen with a glass of white wine and began to rub her shoulders. He again looked impossibly handsome, this time wearing a sweater and jeans. She sighed in imagined bliss, and looked at him with sad eyes.

You have no idea how much I wish you were real.

In a blink, he was gone–and the phone was ringing. For a split second, Manny considered not answering it.

There’s your chance to talk to a real person, Harvey murmured.

Probably a telemarketer.

Probably Rebecca. Or Daisy. They’ll worry if you don’t answer.

All right, all right.

Manny heaved herself to her feet and walked to the phone.

Maybe I’m glad you’re imaginary after all.

She caught a glimpse of his grin as she answered the phone.

It was Rebecca, asking her to go out the next night.

I don’t know... Manny sighed.

Oh, come on–you’ll have fun! And seriously–you haven’t gone out with us in months!

I’ve been tired...

You’ve been tired your whole life I think. You need to break out of this rut you’re in! Come out for a few drinks and dancing with me and Daisy. Who knows, maybe you’ll meet a good-looking guy and be swept off your feet into a red-hot love affair.

Sounds like a plan to me.

Yeah, ’cause that’ll happen.

I’d love to go dancing, Manny said to Rebecca, but the guy is just a figment of your imagination.

Only because you don’t put any effort into it. Seriously, it’s not healthy to do nothing but work and go home. That’s how people go crazy you know.

Huh. You mean next thing you know I’ll be talking to my imaginary friend?

Harvey grinned wickedly and Manny abruptly turned her back to him.

Exactly! Rebecca said. Come on–what do you say?

Okay, okay, Manny sighed. Tomorrow night–the usual place?

Yep–and sound like you’re actually looking forward to it, okay?

"I’m sorry. I am looking forward to it–it’ll be fun."

~~~~~

Manny laid in bed, staring up at the ceiling and waiting for sleep. She plucked restlessly at the blanket and wished she could relax. Tomorrow was Steph’s first staff meeting. Today she’d reacquainted herself with everyone in the office then spent the rest of the day with Manny being briefed on the details of the work of the branch and any current issues she’d need to resolve within the next few days. That meant Manny’s own work had been delayed, and tomorrow it would be delayed again–and Manny would have to leave early in order to meet Rebecca and Daisy at the lounge for drinks before heading to the club.

Manny took a deep breath and slowly let it out. It wouldn’t be too bad, she staunchly told herself. Steph was young, energetic, and had a shrewd intelligence almost obscured by the cleavage-revealing shirts, short skirts and a figure that could stop traffic–and probably did. Manny wondered if Craig truly understood what he’d gotten himself in for by promoting Steph rather than Manny.

Cleavage and legs.

She mentally rolled her eyes at Harvey’s dry, cynical tones.

Maybe–but that’s not really fair to him, is it? He’s not a bad guy.

But he is just a guy.

She does bring a new perspective–a new way of thinking about things. She’s not a bad choice–and I can’t argue with Craig’s idea that shaking things up could make things better.

And where does that leave you?

No worse off than I was before.

And no better.

If you’re not going to be helpful...

Harvey glanced down at his suddenly ruffled shirt opened to the middle of his muscled chest and skin-tight breeches. He glanced back at her with a ruefully amused smile.

Watched the Ice Pirates again, did you?

Oh, shut up–it’s a classic no matter what anybody else thinks!

I’m just sayin’–if I was real and regularly wore pants this tight, I’m not sure I’d be of any use to you. If you know what I mean.

Manny groaned and shook her head, and Harvey blinked out of existence. She wondered when she’d managed to lose control of a figment of her imagination–one she’d eventually felt compelled to name after an invisible rabbit.

She groaned again, rolled over and pulled the covers over her head. It was going to be another long day tomorrow.

Complete with dancing.

Minus Thirty Days

Manny calmly considered Steph as she spoke to the staff in the boardroom. Steph had a short haircut that emphasized her high cheekbones and flawless skin. She was dressed to the hilt in a well-tailored suit that flattered her stunning figure. She was young, late twenties at most, Manny figured, and she was going to go far. Manny estimated she’d last two years in the new job and no more than three. There was no doubt in Manny’s mind that Steph would be running the company by the time she was forty-five.

Manny’s age.

Not for the first time, Manny vaguely wondered where her own life was going. With a silent sigh, she refocused on Steph’s introductory pep talk.

...and I’m looking forward to working with all of you.

Steph beamed at everyone, and her smile didn’t waver even in the face of the awkward silence that filled the room. With a determined glint in her eyes, Steph turned to Manny.

And I’m particularly looking forward to working with you, Manny, she continued. I know I’m going to learn so much from you. Why, you’re practically an institution around here! You’ve been here forever; you know everything there is to know about how this branch and the entire organization operates. I mean, you’ve been working here, in the same role, for fifteen years! That’s amazing–and shows us how dedicated you are, and how much you’re needed in your position. From what Craig told me, I don’t think we could function without you! And I know I speak for everyone in this organization, from the President on down, when I say we look forward to having you with us, doing what you do, for the next fifteen years!

Oh. My. Fucking. God.

~~~~~

And that’s when I did it.

Rebecca and Daisy sat at the bar on either side of Manny as she sipped a beer. They were listening intently to her story of the staff meeting.

Did...what? Rebecca asked cautiously.

I quit.

"WHAT!"

Manny winced at both the volume of the screech and the fact that it was in stereo, directly in her ears.

She shook her head. My God–another fifteen years? I can’t even–not another day!

You didn’t just walk off the job, did you? Daisy asked incredulously.

I offered two weeks’ notice. Steph told me I could leave today. Manny shrugged. So I did.

I take it she wasn’t impressed, Rebecca said drily.

"Hah! That’s putting it mildly! On the other hand, I’m not sure she actually cares all that much. It just looks really, really bad for somebody to quit on her first full day on the job. I think she just wanted to have the problem...well, not solved, but out of sight as quickly as possible. Manny shrugged again. In two weeks, it’ll be like I was never even there."

Daisy frowned at the trace of bitterness in Manny’s voice even as she asked, So what are you going to do now?

I’ve already done it, Manny replied calmly.

What have you done? Daisy asked.

I’m cashing out my pension. Rebecca, you can sell my house. I’ve decided I’m going to have a mid-life crisis, and by God, I’m going to have it like a man!

What the hell–? Rebecca asked, at a loss.

I’m going on a road trip. Hopefully with a young man in a hot red convertible–but I’ll take whoever shows up.

Daisy stared at her, stunned. All she could think to say was, "Huh?"

I put the personal ad online today, Manny continued.

Manny handed Daisy a slip of paper covered with her familiar scrawl.

Daisy read it out loud for Rebecca’s benefit. "SWF, 45, having mid-life crisis, seeks travelling companion with own money for six-month road trip to destinations unknown. Don’t worry–no sex wanted or offered. Young men preferred but really don’t give a damn. You have a month to respond then I’m leaving with or without you. Hot red convertible will be considered an asset. ROSE!"

Now I know you’re pissed if you’re calling me Rose, Manny said ruefully.

I’m your sister–I’ll call you whatever the hell I want! Daisy snarled.

Rebecca finally found her voice again. Have you lost your ever-loving mind?

No, Manny said seriously. I think I’ve finally found it.

Minus Twenty-one Days

Zeke shuffled into his living room wearing a t-shirt and boxers, a cup of coffee lovingly cradled in his hands as if it was more precious than diamonds. He settled himself at his desk, took a sip and closed his eyes in bliss. With a yawn, he scratched at the stubble on his cheek then turned on his computer and logged into his writer’s account at What Women Want.

Time to check in on the reaction to his latest blog, he thought. He was actually rather proud of it; In Praise of Older Women had been a tour de force, even if he did say so himself. He settled in and had just begun to read the comments when his cell phone rang.

Yeah? Zeke answered, his New Zealand accent, as usual, more pronounced in the morning.

Have you seen the comments on your latest blog?

Zeke leaned back in his chair with a fond smile. Good morning to you too, Leah. Yes, I slept well, and not alone–my date with Dixie went really great last night, thanks for asking.

On the other end of the phone, Leah rolled her eyes in exasperation at her husband TJ as she replied, Whatever. Take a look at the comments.

Yeah, I’m starting to go through them now.

TJ leaned closer to the speakerphone and said, Remember you live with Dixie–your dates always end well.

That’s what you think, Zeke muttered to their amusement as he focused on the comments. He read avidly, occasionally snorting in exasperation or laughing or scribbling a note about something he wanted to respond to later.

Hey–how’d it go yesterday? Zeke asked as he worked.

Embarrassing, TJ groaned.

The nurses were all impressed with you, though, Leah said, a thread of humour in her voice. They said that was the fastest they’d ever seen anyone fill up that little cup.

Doesn’t sound impressive to me! Zeke laughed.

Me either, TJ agreed wryly. They probably felt sorry for you, Leah–perhaps I’m always that quick on the draw.

Zeke sputtered a laugh. So what were the results?

Nothing so far, Leah replied. We meet with the doctor in a couple of weeks, once my tests come back.

Well, I’m sure everything will be fine. Sometimes it just takes a while to get pregnant.

TJ and Leah exchanged a glance. Yeah, sometimes, TJ agreed slowly.

Some pretty good battles going on this time on my blog, huh? Zeke said, changing the subject as he continued reading and making notes. His voice was deadpan, belying the huge grin on his face.

Come on, Zeke! Leah said. "We both know this is the most reaction you’ve ever received! I knew that blog was gonna be controversial, but this–"

Surpasses even your wildest hopes?

Yes!

Zeke continued scanning the comments as he said, Which part do you think did it? My witty jabs at cougars? My even wittier comments about the drones and drudges?

Probably both–and probably the fact that your ‘praise’ is anything but. Especially when you get into women’s mid-life crises.

Zeke shrugged even though Leah couldn’t see him. I call ’em like I see ’em.

I know–it’s why I hired you and why I publish you even though you really haven’t got a clue what women want.

That’s not what Dixie told me last night. Or this morning. Zeke’s voice was unbearably smug and Leah rolled her eyes again.

Yeah? she said. Give some pointers to TJ then.

Hey now! TJ protested.

Leah grinned at him, then leaned over and gave him a quick kiss.

Sorry, honey–couldn’t resist, she said. Especially after your performance at the clinic yesterday!

TJ pouted until she kissed him again, this time a bit more thoroughly.

Okay, lovebirds–I’m still on the line, Zeke groaned. So, Leah, does this mean you want me to do a follow-up to this piece?

Better than that. Wait ’til you see–

"Whoa!"

Got to that part, huh? Leah chortled.

Zeke stared in disbelief at his computer screen. Is this ad for real?

Oh, yeah, Leah said gleefully. I’ve checked it out.

Huh?

I called the number and spoke to... Leah shuffled through the paper on the table in front of her then picked up a small piece with some notes scribbled on it. I spoke to ‘Manny’. She’s really having a mid-life crisis, she’s really heading out on a road trip and she’s really looking for a travelling companion.

Zeke flopped back in his chair with a huff. Is she suicidal or nuts?

She just sounded kind of frazzled.

Let me guess. You want me to interview this woman and–what? Make her the face of the pathetic older woman I just wrote about?

I want you to go with her.

Minus Fifteen Days

Even though I still think you’ve lost your mind, I can’t say I’m sorry you’re throwing everything out, Rebecca said, making a small moue of distaste as she lifted yet another grey skirt out of the closet.

Me neither, Manny sighed. When did I stop buying colours? She frowned as she checked over a grey blazer before tossing it on the donation pile.

You never bought bright colours, Daisy objected mildly as she rifled through the shirts Manny stored in her chest of drawers, but you used to buy strong ones.

She glanced at the other two who were giving her puzzled looks. You know–black, red, white.

Oh–and you had that jewel tone period, remember? Rebecca said brightly. Those strong blues and greens.

Manny smiled fondly. I remember.

But no patterns.

Not by my face anyway, Manny agreed, tossing another grey blazer on the donation pile.

Do we get to go shopping with you? Rebecca asked.

If you can meet me–sure, Manny grinned. But I’m not waiting for you.

They worked in silence for a few moments before Rebecca said, I have to leave around five. Jaime’s bringing Tris over tonight and said she wanted to talk to me–alone.

That doesn’t sound good, Manny said.

Rebecca shrugged as she tossed another non-descript skirt onto the rag pile. It’s probably another rant about The-Currently-Evil-One.

Both Daisy and Manny snorted.

The divorce is still on then? Manny asked.

So far today, Rebecca agreed and made a show of checking her watch, but it is only noon.

This has to be tough on Tris, Daisy said sympathetically and Manny nodded in agreement.

Rebecca sighed. She hasn’t said anything, but then she doesn’t usually say anything to me. She lowered her voice conspiratorially. She doesn’t like me much. She laughed lightly, but her eyes showed the bewildered pain that lay beneath her words.

She likes you just fine, Manny protested, then bit her lip. I’m sorry–that was stupid.

Rebecca shrugged, determinedly focused on the skirts. She’s her mother’s daughter, she said, and pressed her lips into a thin, tight line.

Daisy and Manny exchanged significant glances then turned back to their friend, who after a moment sighed and met their eyes.

"I know–I know–it’s not all on them. It’s never only one person’s fault. I’m a responsible adult and I have to take my share of the blame for failing to bridge the gap between me and my daughter, and me and my granddaughter. Blah, blah, blah. I get it."

Nobody’s judging you, Manny said gently.

"Why not? She does." Rebecca angrily threw another skirt on the donation pile and glared at the clothes, her hands on her hips.

They stood in tense silence until Manny said tentatively, "Are–are you pouting?"

Rebecca’s startled gaze met hers. She blinked, nonplussed, before she frowned and put a hand to her mouth.

Oh, my God–I am! she exclaimed and started to laugh. The other two joined in. After a moment, they sobered and grinned at each other.

Rebecca sighed. Seriously, it’s really not their fault. Especially Tris. I mean, she’s only ten for God’s sake! And I’m her grandmother–it’s just...unfortunate that her personality is so much like her mother’s.

"At least they get along," Manny said with forced optimism.

Rebecca rolled her eyes at her. "Always a silver lining, huh? You get that from your mother."

They lapsed into silence and worked steadily until Rebecca said quietly, I sometimes wonder if I would have been more successful with Jaime if your parents hadn’t died when she was so young.

Okay, come on, Manny said, "you weren’t un-successful! I mean, she’s not in jail–she’s smart–okay, she hasn’t really held a job, but you’ve supported her–I mean, you’re rich, and The-Currently-Evil-One is also rich. But she’s not...you know, living on the street!"

Rebecca and Daisy blinked at her.

No... Rebecca said slowly.

Anyway, you did just fine, Manny continued. "You were just a child yourself–and after our parents died, you were really all alone, well, except for us, of course. But I mean, his parents–and your parents–"

Don’t, Rebecca said sharply.

Manny frowned at her. All I’m trying to say is–you’ve gone from a disowned, homeless pregnant teenager–with the deadbeat dad heading for the hills–and look at you now! Successful, wealthy, with a daughter who may not like you much, but she’s at least a functioning human being. And Tris–regardless of your personality clashes–she’s your granddaughter! And that can only be a good thing!

Rebecca nodded glumly. You’re right, she sighed. And I love them, of course–just like they love me. Really–like we have a choice!

Rebecca, Manny chided.

"You know what I mean. I just...I just wish we liked each other more, you know?"

The three friends worked in silence for a few moments.

You never liked your mother either, Manny said thoughtfully.

Rebecca glared. I liked her just fine until she threw me out of the house!

"You know–"

Don’t! My God–don’t you talk to me about my parents!

You know what your dad was like! Manny protested. I just don’t think you should always blame your mother for your father’s actions.

Rebecca glared at her. Manny stared calmly back, the air crackling with tension.

What are you trying to say? Rebecca snarled.

That it’s genetic. Or something. This–this–tendency to blame the mother for the sins of the father.

Rebecca looked stunned. Do you think that’s what this is all about?

She was asking you about her dad the other day, wasn’t she?

Yeah.

And you told her...?

The truth. His name and what happened. You know, everything she already knew.

Well, maybe she’s just...resentful about what her dad did, and–well–she only has you to take it out on.

Rebecca stared at Manny in wide-eyed silence.

Or maybe I’m full of shit, Manny continued, I don’t have any kids; what the hell do I know?

Rebecca stared for another moment before she reluctantly grinned and laughed. Hey, it’s as good a theory as any I’ve managed to come up with. She shook her head. Enough about me. Have you had any responses to your ad?

Tons. Tons! I’ve set up meetings with the four that seem the most promising and we’ll see how it goes.

"Well, if you choose one, give me their name and I’ll have

Reviews for A Life Less Ordinary

[tbretc · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

A Life Less Ordinary is the story of Manny Mankowski, a women in her 40s who undergoes a self diagnosed midlife crisis after being passed up for a promotion at the job she's held for the past 15 years. She cashes in her pension and goes on a 6 month road trip, and has placed a wanted ad to find a traveling companion. In doing so, she meets Zeke, an author of the blog What Women Want, who is tasked with joining her on this roadtrip to increase readership. What results is a very entertaining journey across the US and Canada, and the friendships that are made along the way.I really enjoyed this book! It was a great beach read that I couldn't put down. The characters are well developed, and I really enjoyed the storylines of the "supporting" characters- TJ and Leah, Daisy, and Rebecca. I would have liked a longer ending, but maybe that's because I didnt wan't the story to end. I hope the author considers writing a "Part 2", possibly going deeper into the other characters' stories, because I felt drawn to the characters and want to know more! I won this book as a part of LibraryThing Early Reviewers in exchange for an honest review.

[shernor · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

A tale of travel, personal rediscovery, and friendship - with a sprinkling of romance and plenty of good humour, Victoria Bernardine's A Life Less Ordinary is a delight to read. Snag this one for your next trip to the beach and enjoy!

[pluto6490 · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

This was a great book. I liked the risked that Manny took and the adventure she went on. The book kept on moving, I felt like I couldn't wait to get to Manny and Zeke's next destination. I would recommend this book for those who just want to read to have a good time.

[ginamac1 · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

I won this book from Librarything and it was really a charming read. I am over 45 and I can truly relate to Manny and her feelings of being under appreciated at her job and just life in general. Manny's many family issues add to her wanting to get away. After getting fed up she decides to travel and puts an ad in the paper for a travel companion. Zeke her travel companion seems to be annoying at first but then they develop a funny friendship along their travels together. An enjoyable easy going read that brings you in to the characters.

[booklover3258 · Rating: 3 out of 5 stars]

I enjoyed the book. It's about a woman who gets tired of her life, quits her job and goes on a traveling adventure with a handsome stranger. I liked Manny and how she broke out of her shell. The other stories with her sisters were good as well. My only gripe is I was very disappointed that Manny and Zeke didn't hook up or get romantically involved. So much sexual tension between the two of them and not even a kiss?? I know its basically them building a friendship but come on! She found him attractive and he was finally finding her attractive as well. Sigh... Ending was okay but could've been better with what I mentioned above.

[kyrana-1 · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

A life Less Ordinary by Victoria Bernadine is a delightful book about a life in transition. The characters are believable and it was easy to make a connection to the lead character. There was quite a bit of time spent on supporting characters, which would probably make for great television. The story line followed the twists and turns of a discovery journey and left the reader hopeful without actually tying up all the loose ends. Very true- to life and a fun summer read.

[bookwormteri · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

I enjoyed this book way more than I thought I would. I was really surprised by it. Liked the characters, the plot, everything except the ending. I am not a huge fan of open endings...I admit to liking resolution and just was a little sad. Did Rebecca attempt to gain custody of her granddaughter? What happened with Daisy? Did Manny and Zeke get together? Ugh...too many questions left open when you are invested in the characters.Manny, after 15 years of hard work, misses out on a promotion, because her company hires a younger and hotter women. So she quits. She takes off on a road trip for 6 months to rediscover herself. Her traveling partner is Zeke. A younger man, a blogger, and a cynic. Unbeknownst to Manny, Zeke is blogging about her midlife crisis and not really painting her in a flattering light, until she surprises him.

[rayneofdarkness · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

I really enjoyed this book! I loved the chemistry between Zeke and Manny and how their relationship came to be. I loved the stories of everyone else involved too. All the characters were great and well thought through. I kept reading this way longer than I should have (probably was a zombie some days at work) but it was uplifting and makes you realize you can't be defined by certain things in your life. Great read for any age woman.

[needtoreadgottowatch · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

A Life Less Ordinary is the first book published by Victoria Bernadine.Starting out at 'minus 31 days', we meet Manny Mankowski, a 45 year-old woman, who feels unmotivated and unattractive. She sticks to her routines like clockwork. Goes to work, goes home, repeat process. To get her through the boring trivialities of life, she's created an imaginary beau- Harvey. Her Mr. Perfect. Harvey acts as her inner voice. Not just a conscience, but also a true reveal of her inner thoughts, some selfish and dark, some reassuring and hopeful. He is her sounding board.He helps her get through the days, but when she's passed over for a promotion at a job she's been doing for fifteen years, it tips the scales. Now off balance, she's thinking hard about her life. The missed promotion is a wake-up call and just puts emphasis on the 'dead-end' aspect of her career. But the deciding factor comes when she is faced with the prospect of another fifteen years working the same job at the same place, and she quits.She's decided to have her mid-life crisis (her words, not mine) in the form of selling her house and most of her belongings and departing on a six month road-trip around the States and Canada. But she doesn't want to travel alone, so she puts out an ad for a travelling companion and awaits the results, much to the shock of her sister, Daisy and best-friend, Rebecca.Zeke Powell works for an e-magazine called 'What Women Want'. He's a blogger famous for rocking the boat. He can be arrogant and fancies himself a ladies man, but is a good guy when push comes to shove. His boss, Leah, is also the wife of his best-friend, TJ, and she suggests he reply to Manny's ad and go with her on the trip. All for the purposes of their blog. They want to expose her 'mid-life crisis' to the world and try to gain popularity for their e-zine by doing so. He wants a scoop and he doesn't mind being a little cruel to get it.Of course, he doesn't tell Manny that. So, off they go, choosing the next destination from a hat (or plastic bag in this case), with Zeke (unbeknownst to Manny) blogging about her actions and his reactions along the way. He sees her as vulnerable and unaware and doesn't want to hurt her, but of course it won't stop him from writing, so he has to tone down the level of harshness usually present in his work. They spend the time sight-seeing and generally exploring everything they can, all down to Manny's itinerary. The point of the trip for Manny, is to get out of her comfort zone and learn how to connect with people again. To be comfortable with strangers and start enjoying life. Zeke may just learn something along the way too.Meanwhile, Rebecca is struggling with changes of her own. Thirty years ago (when she was sixteen) her (then) boyfriend got her pregnant, changing her life forever. He abandoned her, her parents disowned her and if it wasn't for Manny and Daisy's parents, her life would've just about ended there. Now her daughter, Jaime, is a grown woman, going through a divorce of her own. Mother and daughter don't have the best relationship, but Rebecca finds herself looking after Tris, Jaime's ten year-old daughter, as Jaime sets out to find the father she never knew.At the same time, Daisy's marriage is failing. She spends her nights at the casino. Her husband, Hub, is an estranged partner and father to their two teenage kids, and is rarely around. She labels herself a 'married, single parent'. They're already unhappy marriage is put to the test when Daisy discovers something Hub has been keeping secret. Finally, Tj and Leah are trying for a baby, but are having complications. They're taking fertility tests to see if there's an actual biological reason why they're having such a hard time. As you can tell, there are quite a few storylines going on in this book. All connected through theme, they focus on the complications of life- in all meanings of the word. There are many forms a journey can take, and many endings and beginnings to them. Change can be for the better or worse, through a decision we've made or something we had no control over, but in the end, it is what we choose to make of it. So many sub-plots can be confusing, but it works here, and each one is just as interesting and meaningful as the others. The focus is on Manny's journey, but the other stories aren't any less significant.The description of travelling is beautifully done, namely the emotions experienced. The wonder of a new place, the almost child-like joy and excitement. The curiosity, a little nervous tension and the anticipation all mixed up with good old-fashioned fun. How the journey differs when you share it with another, even just a stranger met along the way. It's so addictive and infectious that I'm almost tempted to take off on my own six month adventure.The characters are complicated and unique. They're not infallible. The relationships and conversations between them are enjoyably witty and very wry, especially between Manny and Harvey and Manny and Zeke. Harvey is more of a safety blanket. He's a constant figure, but is only ever constantly present, when Manny is stressed, afraid or nervous. The relationship between Manny and Zeke is oddly endearing. Somehow, with all the confidence he shows and she lacks, Zeke comes across as the older of the two. Sometimes. Manny's friendly personality and honesty open people up to her. Zeke, however, while not necessarily dishonest (depending) is a closed-book. He won't straight out lie, but he will emit details or refuse the question. But it leads to quite hilarious interactions between the two.The characters are well-rounded and well-written. And you know what? I'm actually going to miss them. As odd as it sounds, they've grown on me. It's always sad when one journey ends, but you just have to keep looking forward to the next, and you'll always have the memories.I thoroughly enjoyed this book. To the point that I had trouble putting it down, and only managed it when (at 6 am) I was facing sheer exhaustion. What kept me reading so obsessively? In short, the characters. I've commented on why I think they're great characters, but I'm not sure I can so easily pinpoint why exactly I liked them so much. They're very real, and the way they interact with each other is as though they've been friends forever (which in many cases they have), and they pull you right into that inner circle. They make you their friend. They're not necessarily the most original characters, but when I'm with my own friends, or meeting someone new, I don't compare them to others, I don't find fault in similarities or unoriginality, I just see them for them. And that's what these characters are to me- just them.A rather subtle ending, with a call-back to the beginning. Such small things can be so big, while such big things can be so small. Life is scary. We all know it. They're will always be things we wish we could run away from, forget or change. But strength comes in not letting fear win. In standing up and fighting back. Yeah, life is scary, but it's real, and what more could we hope for? What better reason do we need to live purely for the sake of living? To come out of our shells and be who we really are, to let people see us as we really are. What better motivation do we need to do something a little less ordinary?Disclaimer: I received this book from the author. This is not a sponsored review. All opinions are 100% my own.

[eheinlen_1 · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

I enjoyed this book a great deal. The storyline was easy to follow and the plot was strong. The characters were identifiable and well-rounded. I highly recommend it.

[samantha100_1 · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

If Manny had not been passed over for a promotion, she and Zeke would not have met. A Life Less Ordinary, by Victoria Bernadine, is the story of why and how their paths cross and what happens afterwards. Forty-five year old Manny does something radical, for her anyway. She quits her job and plans to embark on a six month road trip, but she doesn't want to go alone. After Zeke, a blogger, answers Manny's ad for a traveling companion she chooses him to accompany her. What he doesn't tell her is that he will be posting his observations about Manny and the trip on his blog. Early on it becomes obvious that the two of them don't know what to make of each other. Manny wants to experience life- she wants to feel alive. Zeke's original mission is to paint this trip as a middle aged woman's pathetic attempt to be young and free. The more time they spend together, Zeke begins to struggle with how his attitude towards Manny is changing and he doesn't understand why. Something is taking shape. Is it love or friendship? There are well developed secondary characters who are interesting in their own right. Perhaps the most unusual is Harvey who is Manny's imaginary friend. Their conversations are priceless. The trip takes some unexpected turns as do the lives of the characters. A lot can happen in six months and in this story it does. It's possible that Manny's trip yielded a lot more than anyone expected. I found this to be a well written and an appealing story.I received this book for free and I give this review of my own free will.

[neverwithoutabook · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

I loved this book! I loved the story, the adventure, the characters and the way it all worked out! I could easily identify with "Manny's" need to chuck it all and find herself and loved the unique approach she took. The story hooked me from the beginning and I ended up reading until 2am the night I finished it. Just couldn't put it down without knowing the ending. Speaking of which, it couldn't have ended any other way. Perfect! I found myself wishing all of the characters the very best in their future endeavours. Read it. You won't be sorry.

[lupoman_1 · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

Usually, I'm not a fan of "chick-lit", but after a few pages I was hooked. Manny is 45, hates her job, got passed by for promotion (again), so she quits her job, sells her house and gets all the money out of the bank and goes on a roadtrip for six months. Before she left, she posted an ad in the newspaper for a male companion, preferably one with a fast sports car. Once they go on the road, the story gets exciting and I couldn't put the book down. The author's name, Victoria Bernadine, is a pseudonym, and I don't know who the real name is, but the writing is focused and polished, so it has to be someone established I would think.Anyhow, read this book; I liked it and so will you.

[lovelybooks-1 · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

A Life Less Ordinary by Victoria BernadineThis story got me in straight away. It was easy to read and there were enough unexpected twists and turns to keep me guessing and turning the pages. Manny is a mature single woman who has dedicated her life to her career. Just when she thinks she is going be promoted she is passed over for a much younger and less capable woman. She is expected to carry on and train the new girl but she spits the dummy and quits her job. Manny decides to take off on a 6 month holiday to rebuild her life. She cashes in her home and puts out an ad for a travelling companion. Zeke, a much younger man, is coerced by his boss into applying for the side kick gig so that he can write in his blog about the sorry trials of a pathetic middle aged woman trying to find herself. Despite this hidden agenda he is the most appealing candidate and they are off on their journey.I enjoyed the way the two main characters got to know each other and the development of their relationship. Zeke intended to show Manny up to entertain readers of his blog, but in the process he revealed much more about himself and his own shortcomings. We hear about the blog indirectly through the other characters.It's worth a read to see how the journey turned out. This book was funny and entertaining.I received a free copy of this book from Love of Words Publishing

[teritree001971 · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

A LIFE LESS ORDINARY tells the story of Many, who at the ripe old age of 45 decides to leave her job and see the country in an attempt to find herself once more. Along the way, Many discovers new friends in unusual places and finds things about herself she'd long forgotten possible. In the beginning the story is a little slow, but once Many and Zeke hit the road, things pick up. Wherever they go, Many seems to meet the "misfit toys" and make good friends of them, although she doesn't really see this. She has been so busy at work for the past fifteen years, that she is unable to see the good about herself. In addition, she is speaking to Daisy and Rebecca daily and dealing with issues in their lives. All the while, Zeke is taking notes and slowly beginning to see the real problems in his own life, as Many shocks him on every turn of the trip. Although the three main characters are in their mid to late forties, I found myself thinking of them as being much older as the story to me, is not just about mid life crisis and finding "yourself." It also tells us how we, without realising it, keep people at arms length so that we don't get hurt when they leave for whatever reason.

[graffitimom · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

This was a very enjoyable read. The characters were well developed and their actions and reactions were believable. There was humor and angst as Manny dealt with her midlife crisis with a road trip which brought her out of her shell while others in her life struggled with failing marriages and increasing family responsibilities. Zeke changed slowly and became more sensitive and caring as he grew to respect and develop a friendship with Manny and as his friends suffered through a major health issue. I appreciated the fact that Zeke and Manny were friends and their relationship was just that: friendship. I applaud the author for having a heroine who is a little over weight and flawed. I did not like the use of Harvey, Manny's alter ego, though, and would have liked his comments to have been her musings instead, though he did give voice to her internal struggles. I received this book as an Early Reviewer. I have not been compensated in any way (other than being given a copy of this book) and my opinion on the book is entirely my own.

[helenjbeal · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

This is a great read with a cast of sympathetic characters. Manny (a forty-something workaholic) is looked over for promotion and decides to take a roadtrip and advertises for a companion. Her sisters. Daisy and Rebecca, are close and coping with their own challenges of a stuttering marriage and a wilful child and grandchild. I enjoyed the short chapters, phone call based dialogue, although perhaps I found the story a little formulaic - but, then again, that's exactly what a romance like this is supposed to be. And the ending actually isn't quite what you'd imagine.

[australwind · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

I laughed out loud. Several times. Does this make it a "good" story? I don't know that it makes for great literary scholarship, but it was certainly very entertaining and would make a very funny TV series (as the author had originally proposed) if deftly handled. Our leading lady found herself sidelined at "a certain age" so tossed it all in the go road tripping around the States. Her companion was a plant - unknown to her, he was chronicling their journey via a blog and his observations were, for the most part, at her expense. Over the story's 13 "episodes", we are drawn into the lives of Manny and Zeke as their pasts are revealed and their interactions become more layered and complex.I found myself able to feel for the various supporting characters as their lives unwound around them despite their best efforts to make everything the best they could.A modern relationship tale built around disaffection with the pressure cooker business world and putting your life on hold; and the Internet, social media and the perils of putting your life online.This was a LibraryThing Members Giveaway and is apparently the result of a series of challenges according to the Author's notes at the end of the story.

[scoshie · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

Wonderful story of middle aged woman who got fed up with the routine that her life took on for the last 15 years. Rose `Manny' Mankowski has had enough. So she decides to quit her job, cash in her retirement, sell her house and hit the road. Not wanting to go alone she puts an ad out asking for someone to go with her that can pay their own way. Enter Zeke Powell. Unbeknownst to Manny, Zeke has a very popular blog called 'What Women Want' and he is writing about their trip. Join Manny and Zeke as they wend their way thru Americas attractions and budding friendship and see what happens.

[d · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

A smooth read and really feels it could be a good movie. maybe it already is or parts of it is. I kept imagining actors for all the characters in the book while reading , the suggested cast at the end makes me want to read the book over again

[redx16 · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

A life less ordinary-we all want to live a life less ordinary, not in the future, not always in retrospect-with no regrets, being the people we always wanted to be. Somewhere in between, perhaps not to an extreme extent like Manny, sometimes we lose track of ourselves and use things, jobs, other people to define who we are. This book explores the journey of one woman's life as she tried to rediscover herself by getting away from the familiar stuff she's known. The book's style is intriguing with Manny's inner "monologue" although she's having conversations with "Harvey". Her relationships with her sisters/best friends, the almost nuanced relationship between Zeke and her, familial turmoils in Rebecca and Daisy's life and a healthy marital relationship between TJ and Leah make the book engrossing. Would have been fun to include some of Zeke's blog entries too.

[gentech_1 · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

I really liked this book! Quitting a job and changing your entire world for 6 months is something that many of us would love to do!It was a bit predictable at times including the ending. I loved all the characters in this book and find myself thinking what will happen to Manny now? Has she really changed?

[pj77_1 · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

I received a free copy of this book from Love of Words Publishing however the opinion expressed in this review is entirely my own.A Life Less Ordinary by Victoria Bernadine is a great read! I was really surprised by how much I enjoyed this book as I was worried that it was a story that has been told many times before, but I was quickly hooked. The characters are really well developed and I came to love each and every one of them. The writing is well paced and each time I put the book down, I would look forward to picking it up again as soon as I had time to keep reading. I found it interesting to read the author’s notes at the end of the book describing how it came to be. I would recommend this book to anyone looking for a fun, easy read for the holidays.

[jurai2 · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

With all these April showers, it is clear that summer is right around the corner. Have you started your pool-side reading list yet? Is ‘A Life Less Ordinary’ on it? No? What are you waiting for?I was hooked on this book pretty much from page one. Manny is the type of character readers can relate to, whether they have anything in common with her or not. Forty-five year old Manny quits her job and recruits a virtual stranger to accompany her on a six-month road trip across Canada and the US. Whether you’ve ever wanted to chuck it all away or not, it will be hard not to find yourself cheering for Manny. Victoria Bernadine does a brilliant job at tying together the lives and trials of each of the characters, and she does it without rushing, keeping a steady pace and not dragging on (unlike this last sentence!). Although Bernadine had her work cut out for her having to tie in the obstacles for 5 separate characters/families (always such a challenge), she did so with ease. Fans of Jennifer Weiner and Sarah Mlynowski will enjoy this novel and eagerly wait for Bernadine's next one.

[sherry_rummler · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

Have you ever had one of those moments where you would like to chuck it all and experience life? Somewhere life becomes monotonous and dull and you’re not even sure how you got there? You realize you are just going through the motions, pushing through yet not really feeling anything? If you are shouting Yes! Yes! Than A life less ordinary… is for you. This novel takes the reader along the ride with Manny, a forty something woman, on a journey of self discovery. My favorite lines in the novel, pg. 81 and I quote: “She wanted to stand on a rooftop-or hell, here in the middle of the street –and scream at the sky at the top of her lungs about how this isn’t how her life was supposed to be. She wanted to sob and rage and stamp her feet and demand that somebody somewhere give her something more! Whatever that something might be. At the same time, she wanted to fall to her knees and sob with fear. Fear of what, exactly she didn’t really know, or couldn’t accurately describe. Fear of everything really, she thought ruefully, but mostly she was afraid of the very thing she so desperately wanted: life.”So, if you are looking for something fun, light, and an escape read… journey along with Manny and her co-traveler (Zeke the secret blogger of What Women Want) as they re-discover themselves and learn to live again. The writer also nicely weaves in characters and their lives along in the story. Overall a fun escape, and a book about how complicated or not relationships can be.

[gayleschlaefli · Rating: 3 out of 5 stars]

All I ever wanted was, a life less ordinary by Victoria BernadineDescription of the book from back cover;For the least fifteen years, Rose “Manny” Mankowski has been a very good girl. Now at the age of 45, she’s questioning her choices and feeling more and more disconnected from her own life. When she’s passed over for promotion and her much younger new boss implies Manny’s life will never change, something snaps. In the blink of an eye, she’s quit her job, sold her house, cashed in her pension, and she’s leaving town on a six month road trip. After placing a personal ad for a traveling companion, she’s joined in her mid-life crisis by Zeke Powell, the cynical, satirical, most-read-and most controversial-blogger for the e-magazine, What Women Want. Zeke’s true goal is to expose Manny’s journey as a pitiful and desperate attempt to reclaim her lost youth- and increase his readership at the same time. Armed with a bagful of destinations, a fistful of maps and an out- spoken imaginary friend named Harvey, Manny’s on a quest to rediscover herself- and taking Zeke along for the ride.I liked the layout of the book, it’s set up like journal entries. Manny has a imaginary friend named Harvey. I think Harvey is uniteresting addition to the story.This was a fun read, perfect for a day of reading in the sun and sand. Our heroine takes an extended break from her career. The story is a fantasy of how one woman spends six months on the road. This is not a deep thought provoking book. It is frivolous and fun. Zeke and Manny meet interesting people on their journey which keeps the story line interesting. It’s just the kind of book for a relaxing day at the beach.I enjoyed reading this book.This book was a free copy from Love of Words Publishing.

[catscritch · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

A Life Less Ordinary by Victoria BernadineI enjoyed reading this. I liked these people. I understood their lives and what drives them. This coming of ‘a certain age’ story held my attention from page 1 and never let me down. I want to meet these women and joke around with the men. And I know they’re out there. Waiting perhaps for a stranger to say “hi” and then let the pheromones kick in. How do you find yourself when you don’t even recognize yourself any more? Well, Manny started by looking outside her safe but shaken boundaries and by letting go, she is accepted for who she really is. Suddenly living A Life Less Ordinary.