Happy birthday to me, a few days early! My mail arrived this afternoon with a surprise from my sister Lois - an official Chelsea “My Scene” doll (one of Barbie’s best friends) riding her plum Vespa ET scooter. Chelsea came complete with helmet, and the scooter seat and matching top case both open up for plenty of doll-sized storage. Apparently Chelsea is quite the flirt and likes to hang out in retro clothing stores. She’s a fashion designer by trade and loves to boy-watch from her Vespa.

Barbie likes to “tool around town” with her baby blue Vespa, and my-scene-friend Madison has a sleek black ET. These chicks are cool. I wonder how they handle that pesky centerstand with those high heels?

Speaking of the pesky centerstand, many thanks to those who have sent me tips on how to get my scoot up on its stand without excessive stress. The best tip by far was the note that told me that the Vespa ET stands are notorious for being difficult, so that made me feel like less of a misfit.

Still, I’m glad to have the side-stand installed. At the very least, I can put it down and rest in between attempts to get the bike up on the centerstand.