I told a number of people last week that I’d be taking a kettlebell class, and most of them had never heard of it. I explained how kettlebells differ from dumbbells, and how the movements in a typical workout incorporate a lot more swinging and momentum-type moves than you would do with a regular dumbbell. I’d done a bit of research, and I’d seen kettlebell workouts in action on YouTube, but I’d never physically picked up one until yesterday.

It’s been hard to miss the large increase of political-themed posts here on BlogHer the past few weeks. Notable events like choosing the vice presidential candidates and the happenings at the Democratic National Convention have inspired a lot of writing, videos, and comment-thread discussions. But it’s also possible you’ve been skipping over these posts, just as I have.

I admit it. It’s one of the things I make sure to look at when I’m scrolling through someone’s online dating profile. It’s not the first thing I look for -- photos, height, and the way they describe themselves come first -- but yes, I do take note of a person’s astrological sign. I don’t live by my daily horoscope and I wouldn’t entirely discount someone with an incompatible sign if I liked everything else about them. But I do take a look.

Although I can put on a brave front, I must admit I was a little apprehensive about taking Strip Aerobics. I was picturing this big, brightly lit room with ultra-fit women parading around in skimpy clothing. I was afraid the students would laugh at me and critique my moves. I feared the class might involve removing my clothes.

When I think about men I might want to date, I don’t look for someone who necessarily shares the same kinds of interests I do. Don’t get me wrong; I have preferences when it comes to physical build, looks, and personality. But individual interests like political preference, or how much (or little) they read? Not so much.