RED TENT GIRLS

Get your retro on

2011-09-17T17:07:00.000-07:00

Fall fashion 2011

Fashion gives a modest nod to retro

ESSIE FALL 2011 collection

What was that called again? You know that thing that happens when time speeds up on itself and you wonder where exactly it went? Oh yes, time warp! I am caught in a time warp or maybe its a tractor beam towards the Deathstar...I've neglected this blog and really, I miss the red tent girls. It was such a good friend and outlet for me, I might have to let it back into my life. It won't be easy, but just think of all the time I can waste writing things that no one really needs to read but I just like to babble on about nothing so it will be good for me. On that note I will conclude with my current obsessions. In beauty, nude nails and blackberry toes. In fashion, fabulously retro and modest! Cardigans, cat eye glasses, longer pencil skirts, textured tights, platform pumps and the perfect bag. It's hotness contained and I love it! Get your retro on girls!!

Girl, you know it's true...(ooh, ooh, ooh I love you)

2010-10-01T11:45:00.000-07:00

Girls at Disneyland

On my fav ride!

The New Improved Charlie's Angels

Blowingkisses

The first trip

We love to eat together

Hat? What hat?

Kari's bday

I've got a girl crush

Missy's Bday

Ang and Christine

Not giving the finger

Hat shop days

Back in the Springs

Dinner in PS

Hot in the bathroom

friends

At Hollys

I gotta say it's been a fun trip down memory lane looking at these old pics! We've had such good times together. The only thing I keep thinking is we need to take more pictures. I love all my friends, you are such a joy in my life. Through thick and thin I can't believe how lucky I've been to have the friends I do!

what exactly are those 12 steps?

2009-10-09T12:25:00.001-07:00

This is in the bathroom at Zeldas! Apparently the bathroom is better then the dancefloor?

At a real Italian restaurant...yumm!

H and I = hi!

Mafia night at H's

It's been a long time...Another girls trip to Palm Springs, summer has past and holy cow where does the time go? I have a new addiction on the computer, I find myself slipping into the void that is facebook. The instant gratification of people responding so quickly. It makes me wonder, when did I succomb to instant gratification...and the answer is, well, it's always been a weakness of mine! I think the ability to respond to someone immediately is addicting, and probably not healthy for someone like me who likes attention. (If you didnt already know that, I am surprised!) Yes I am a facebook junkie, and it might require 12 steps for me to overcome...I think addiction runs in the family. I try not to get on and "Check" but the computers seems to call my name, seductively, alluringly....it will only take a minute and there I sit. Quizzes, comments, pictures...hours roll by and what do you know? I haven't showered and it's lunch time already!! So note to self, before you succomb to the bleak hole that is facebook, shower...run your errands, get some housework done, and then only then you can sit and chill for a minute...or two...or three...

Don't let the fear of failure keep you from playing the game

2009-03-23T17:03:00.000-07:00

You know how you think "I could have done that" when someone invents something or writes something? NO? It's just me? Well, anyway, I have been trying to talk my wonderful husband into buying a bigger house to which he replies "Then you need to stick to a budget so we can save money." (Yes I am getting to the point I promise) At this point in the conversation I think, I should have written a book and made tons of money and had it made into a movie. Bummer for me. My longstanding fascination with vampires has been turned into a multi million dollar deal, sadly the ship sailed without me...someone else used their talent to actually do something worthwhile! Of course who really knows that I actually could...that's probably why I don't even try. I have racked my brain trying to think of a way to earn money without working full time and every time someone comes up with a fabulous idea to make money and does, I think, I should have thought of that. So now here I sit thinking, what can I write? I had a dream, and with forty fast approaching, that dream seems to be slipping away. So my motto for the day is the title of this blog and I vow to try. I am going to write down every lame-brained idea that crosses my mind in hopes that one of them turns to gold.

really, im not kidding

2009-03-10T17:37:00.000-07:00

If you haven't already discovered I have two blogs, now you know. I have found it harder and harder to keep up with both so I am thinking of converting them to just one. I know I tried before and it didn't take, but since I keep neglecting one or the other I am going to try again. So please please please come by the other one. Or else I might cry myself into oblivion because of the loss of love. (I am not being facetious, I really love having people visit.) So in case I haven't shared it with you the other blog is http://www.hunsakerhome.blogspot.com Come by, stop awhile, share your thoughts and comments...please!

If you like Pina Coladas and Palm Springs...

2009-02-27T19:11:00.000-08:00

You know that thing about vegas? Well I have to say that should probably apply to Palm Springs too, but I will tell a few secrets. Girls rock, seriously. Girls can have so much fun just hanging out. The road trip down was a blast...literally. You'll have to ask M about that one. We stopped and shopped at the outlets then headed into town. We proceeded to de Casa Abuela and took a time out in the jacuzzi and sipped pina coladas-yum! Then we got ready to go out for a night on the town. Sometimes we get a little carried away goofing off as witnessed in these pics...
D and L had great time experimenting with lap dancing. (Which for sure we have to do for someone's birthday!)
This was us trying to do Spice Girls karaoke which we followed up with our own rendition of "On top of the World". (A slightly naughty version)

All the girls in their dancing queen outfits ready to shake it like a pom pom.

D, M and L showing off their sensuous side for my camera. Needless to say we had a rockin time and hated to leave. But all good things must come to and end. We can look forward to next time when A, K and H grace us with their presence. (A had a sick baby!:() Next time it will be warmer and we can lay out too! Thanks for a great weekend girls and special thanks to C for letting us stay in Casa Abuela!

Totally Awkward Tuesday (but it's Wednesday)

2009-02-25T17:19:00.000-08:00

Ok so I was pregnant with my daughter and I had a really cute doctor at the time. Every time I went in for an appointment I made sure to shower and fix myself up even though I was fat and preggo galore. My husband sometimes looked at me curiously while I was getting ready and would ask if the doctor was hot or something which I always denied. He never saw my doctor until he walked into the delivery room at which point my husband exclaims loudly, "No wonder you got so fixed up for all your appointments!" Of course the doctor just laughed and I was in labor so what could I do? I felt like a total idiot!

Palm Springs, take me away!

2009-02-17T10:48:00.000-08:00

It's that time of year again. The time when the girls go away for a few days to beautiful relaxing Palm Springs. Ahhh...I can feel the sway of the palm trees, the warm air caressing my skin. (especially since its freaking freezing right now with rain, rain, rain) It's like that old commercial where the lady is saying "Calgon, take me away!" The rush of shopping together with people who actually like it. (unlike a few weekends ago when I went to Catalina with my husband and he dreaded going in every shop)...There are always funny things that happen in Palm Springs, so I am anticipating that this time will be no different. I would post a pic of a bathtub escapade, (in bathing suits!) but M would get mad at me again.

Then there was this hat store...Suffice it to say that it's always fun and you never know whats going to happen. And last but defintely not least I get to dance for one night, which doesn't happen very often anymore. Au revoir! Adios, if you want to join us...

What's all the Twitter About?

2009-02-05T10:45:00.001-08:00

Seriously I know that I am old now. No really. There are so many new ways to talk to people via texting, email, blogs, facebook, myspace and now twitter? Yikes! I don't think I can keep up and although admittedly I love texting and blogging, I just can't seem to figure out Twitter. I might have to ask my fifteen year old for help. HELP! So what happened to actually talking in person? Do I smell?
I think if I looked like this people would be falling over themselves to talk to me. Maybe that should tell me something. Or maybe I just need to get with the program and go figure out what all the twitters about!

Namaste

2009-02-02T21:15:00.000-08:00

One of the hardest things in life that I deal with is control. I want to control every aspect of life. However, it is clear to me that there are plenty of things that we cannot control, no matter how hard we try, and then we just have to trust that God will help us out. It is a good idea to take responsibility for the things in life that we can control or create. We work so we can feed, clothe, and shelter our loved ones and ourselves. But at a certain point, when we have done all that we can, we must let go and allow God to take over. This requires trust. It requires a trust that runs deeper than just expecting things to turn out the way we want them to. Sometimes they will, and sometimes they won’t. We have to trust that life will unfold exactly the way it should. So despite all my efforts to control things, I know that sometimes I need to let go and ride the wave. That's where yoga comes in, for a couple of hours a week, I am so blissfully out of control of things! I relax and mediate and feel more in touch with what's really important to me. Unfortunately when the hour and a half is over some of those issues start to creep back in, but slowly I think it's helping me. So all you type As out there, if you haven't discovered the joys of yoga yet, what are you waiting for? Namaste!

My First, My Last, My Everything

2009-01-27T10:23:00.000-08:00

With Valentine's Day right around the corner, I think I have been evaluating love and its stages. I got engaged eighteen (!) years ago on Valentine's Day. To set the stage, we had been dating for about six months, but around New Year's it had hit me...I can't and don't want to spend my life without him. It was such a shock to me at the time because I had never felt that way about anyone before or since. Love does not stay the same, it either grows if you nourish it, or dies if you don't. We've been up and down, exhausted and overwhelmed when we had newborns and frustrated and overwhelmed with teenagers and one thing has remained constant...He is still the one that I can't live without. Even when I have felt that I don't have anything left to give, when I am ragged and tired and stressed out, I know that he is the one I choose forever and he's my Valentine. XOXO!

OOOMPH

2009-01-15T11:07:00.000-08:00

I started reading a book called "The Love Dare". Sounds racy, doesn't it? Well, it's a book about putting the ooomph back into a relationship. I have to admit that I have lost the oomph. (not the love!) Between four kids, one dog, a house that needs constant maintainance, a church calling that requires a great deal of time and effort, the holidays, extracurricular activities...etc, I am stinking tired at the end of the day and have nothing left to give when my better half walks through the door. Let me amend that, what I give him is grief. Nagging, crabbiness that really has nothing to do with him. He gets the brunt of it all. Sadly, if one of my friends call and want to talk or hang out, my happy button switches back on and I am an angel. (Just not to him) Now tell me, why is that? 17 years ago, I blissfully said I wanted to be with him forever and kissed him with a passionate kiss to seal the deal. And I meant every word of it. So now I am wondering, where did that girl go? He is pretty much the same guy; sweet, funny, handsome, and nice to me. What more could a girl want? Well, truthfully I want back those feelings I had that have gotten mired in the day to day of life. Hence the book. Every day it challenges you to do something different. I am on day 2. Hopefully it will help me to focus on being nicer and letting go of the stupid things that happen during the day that stress me out. I want the oomph back. I want him to walk in the door and have my stomach do butterfly flips with delight. My heart skip a beat. Is that too much to ask for?

Girl, Interrupted

2009-01-11T22:43:00.001-08:00

This is the whole gang at M's Annual Christmas Party. Since I forgot my camera that night, I swiped these pics off her blog! She is an expert party person:) Boys are included too!

I miss this blog! Everytime I try to sit down to post something, I get interrupted. For some reason my children are under the impression that their use of the computer is much more important that mine. HMMMPH! I have been trying to spend three mornings a week posting for my work related blogs and then it seems the time is gone before I actually get to this one. I am totally MIA in the blogging world and feel out of the loop shall we say when it comes to the adventures of my blogging buddies. I have wished that I could just text you all, because for some reason that is something that I continually do. So now it's 10:49 pm on Sunday night, the house is quiet and I am finally ready to type away, and you guessed it, writer's block. Who knew it could happen even while blogging? Maybe because I am out of the habit of writing nothing is coming. Dreadful thought-perhaps my blogging has slowed down because I have nothing more to say? My husband decided to peruse my blog again (with permission, of course!) and cannot understand my obsession with Edward and Twilight. I almost took my widget off so he wouldn't think I was crazy, but then I decided he already knows I am, so what's the point? My goal this year is to start writing a book. So if anyone has any great ideas on how to get past the writer's block, that would be much appreciated. The clock is ticking...

Past the prime of 1999

2009-01-02T23:42:00.000-08:00

So so so sad. I started working and what do you know? No time for blogging for fun. Sniff, sniff. Oh well. I have been super busy this holiday season with family in town and a super massive abundance of parties. Well, the parties were a blast and the family was great. Truthfully today I am a little let down that the holidays are over and real life is back on. I can't believe it is 2009! That's ten years past the time Prince claimed the world was going to end, and perhaps it will...I heard he is releasing three albums this year. My New Year's Resolutions are too numerous to list so I will just name one, I want to be better at everything this year. That shouldn't be too hard right? I miss checking out the blogs from all my hilarious friends in the blogging world. I have been completely MIA and have missed CoraDawnTovaLydiaMarieLauraShaunaCandy...etc There blogs have gotten me through bleak days when I needed a good laugh. In real life they would have been invited to all those parties I went to...instead I will resign myself to visiting there virtual worlds in Bloggerland.
xoxo
A

My favorite Gift

2008-12-12T21:02:00.000-08:00

My favorite gift this Christmas? The words written by my friends. In life it is easy to forget the things that mean the most. Don't get me wrong, I love presents. I love giving them to my children, friends and family and I am like a kid when I receive them, but (you knew there was a but coming) the person I am as seen through my friends eyes is truly priceless and humbling. Merry Christmas to all...or Happy Holidays for those of you who celebrate a different holiday!

Word to the Wise and Bite Me...again

2008-12-09T19:29:00.000-08:00

Word to the wise. Don't ever say in front of your significant other that you wear the pants in the family. Even if this statement is true, it is not worth the insuing fight that will inevitably occur in the aftermath of said statement. So for the record, I do not wear the pants, never have, never will. And further more, the pants were ugly to begin with and I don't want them anyway. On a side note, I saw Twilight again, and if you've lost count that's three times. I know, I know. I'm not 17 anymore but for the entire two hours of the movie, I am caught up in the rapture of new love and the ride that it is. It doesn't hurt that Edward is exceptionally easy on the eyes. The first thing I thought after the movie ended was "When can I see it again?" So bite me...again.

I Spy for the FBI...hey a girl can dream!

2008-12-02T10:56:00.000-08:00

H and I at the shooting range!
I am sure that it is alot less glamorous then it seems, but ever since my days of watching the X-files I have wanted to spy for the FBI. I used to dream about it. You can laugh, but I think being a girl (without super powers) I have always felt a little...okay alot angry that I couldn't put up much of a fight if someone wanted to hurt me. The song by No Doubt "I'm Just A Girl" captures perfectly how I sometimes feel. I want to be strong, powerful and superhuman. I want to be able to kick butt. That's probably my fascination with Jiu Jitsu, it allows me to feel strong. So back to the shooting. It was my first time shooting a real gun. I think I missed my calling as an FBI agent. Mulder where are thou? Move over Scully, there's a new girl in town!!

Just Because I'm a Dork

2008-11-24T12:10:00.000-08:00

Just because I'm a dork I wanted to see what my dating personality is...was...whatever, anyway, here is what I found out...

Your dating personality profile:

Religious - Faith matters to you. It is the foundation that you build your life upon. You trust that God has a plan for you.
Romantic - You know exactly how to melt your date's heart. Romance comes naturally to you and is an important component of any relationship you have.
Adventurous - Just sitting around the house is not something that appeals to you. You love to be out trying new things and really experiencing life.

Your Top Ten Traits

1. Religious
2. Romantic
3. Adventurous
4. Liberal
5. Sensual
6. Big-Hearted
7. Athletic
8. Wealthy/Ambitious
9. Traditional
10. Outgoing

Your date match profile:

Outgoing - Shy and timid people are not who you are after. You need someone with a vibrant personality to breathe life into a relationship.
Religious - You seek someone who is grounded in faith and who possesses religious values. You believe that a religious person can enhance your life.
Romantic - You need someone with a traditional understanding of romance. A true romantic is a must-have in any potential date.

Your Top Ten Match Traits

1. Outgoing
2. Religious
3. Romantic
4. Adventurous
5. Conservative
6. Practical
7. Funny
8. Sensual
9. Big-Hearted
10. Athletic

Take the Dating Profile Quiz at Would I Date You
I am not looking! But I thought it would be fun to see what my personality profile was in the relationship forum. Turns out that it's pretty much what I already knew, and what's really funny is my dearly beloved fits my perfect match profile perfectly! And this is my second post for the day! Yikes, I need to get back to work!

BITE ME

2008-11-24T11:10:00.000-08:00

Further delving into my Twilight yearnings...I've realized that I too desire to remain eternally young. I had a blast going to see Twilight and have developed a serious crush on the main vampire. (Lest you think I am fickle, since I have professed to love Jacob in the past, let me clarify) I have a thing for vampires. Oh yes, and necks. This may become a PG 13 blog because I will admit something...I have something in common with another crush, Ed Westwick aka Chuck Bass, necks make me go all weak in the knees. Touch mine, kiss it, bite it and I am yours, eternally. That is probably TMI so I apologize. But I think that's why I love vampires. They don't scare me, at all. I could care less what happens after the bite. It's a good thing vampires aren't real, I would probably go searching for them...with my neck exposed.

Twilight awaits

2008-11-16T23:20:00.000-08:00

I feel the pull of the moon. Or it could be just the hotness of the actor cast to play Edward. Yeah, I know he's underage. I'm not exactly looking to date him. Instyle magazine featured a photo spread in it's December issue (that came yesterday) and I was practically salivating over the pics and wondering if my allegiance was changing. Strange how the casting of a movie can alter the whole perception of a book. Sorry Jacob. I'm just not feeling you right now. A little bite is looking pretty good. Funny before I read the books I was a vampire girl all the way. But Jacob's underdog approach captivated my heart. Still, the dark side seems to be winning. I am falling for Edward. Remember Buffy and Angel? That doomed Romeo and Juliet relationship got my heart pumping on more than one occasion. And Brad Pitt's Louis in Interview with a Vampire made me swoon. Back to Twilight. Got tickets for a midnight show, and just in case any vampires happen to be out that night, I'll leave my scarf at home.

more magic than I know what to do with and Perspective

2008-11-10T10:08:00.000-08:00

Me, C and M on the Grizzly River Rapids Ride, this is the first time I have ever worn a poncho. Of course I didn't get wet on this ride, but Splash Mountain was a different story!
Girls and the bad guy from Hunch back-talk about creepy!
E, K and D on the Grizzly Rapids. What are they afraid of?
Part 2 of the Charlie's Angels shots
I was all set to write a cranky blog yesterday and rant and then I came down with the flu. It's amazing how a little bug can change your perspective overnight. Life is too short to worry about things that are fleeting. Focus on the positive, delete the negative. Don't obsess over things I can't change. Ah...I feel better already, sort of.

It's time to discover the Magic

2008-11-02T15:01:00.000-08:00

We are showing off our Day of the Dead Tattoos and pretending to be Charlie's Angels.
Riding on Tower of Terror, we were having fun, fun, fun! (Well some of us were!)
Disneyland was better than ever with all the girls! I am happy I got to spend such a fun day with all my friends. We went on every fast ride in both parks and ran and screamed like teenagers. Seriously if you haven't tried this lately, it is a great way to relieve stress...not the Disneyland part, the running and screaming. Something about Disneyland is so magical it makes me feel like a kid again. The sights, the sounds, the smells, all of it combines, I'm sure from very careful planning, (but that's not the point) to create an experience. Thanks Disneyland for letting us share a piece of the magic.

I'm Gonna Party like it's my Birthday!

2008-10-20T10:09:00.000-07:00

Every year my friends and I make a trek to the happiest place on earth, sans children, and have a girls day out at Disneyland. It has traditionally been in the month of October because a few of us share birthdays in this month. (Myself included) Next week is the date of the annual trek and I for one can hardly contain my excitement!! I didn't think I would be able to go this year because we don't have Disney passes but my dearly beloved recently said we could get new ones!! Yay! I realize most people think I am a little looney about the whole thing, but I love Disneyland. The smells, the rides, the sour candy balls...I think it reminds me of my childhood. Anyway, one of my favorite things about it is spending time with my friends for a whole day. Every one of them is fun in a different way. I think together we revert back to being kids again, screaming and running and enjoying the day. It reminds me that life is too short to stress about everything, sometimes you need to remember to laugh and have fun. Grizzly Rapids, here I come!

Meme

2008-10-10T10:58:00.000-07:00

I've been tagged by Tova
Here are the Rules:

1.Link to the person that tagged you
2.Post the rules on your blog
3.Share six non-important things/habits/quirks about yourself
4.Tag six random people at the end of your post by linking to their blogs
5.Let each random person know they have been tagged by leaving a comment on their website.
6.Let your tagger know when your entry is UP.

Six things about me...let's see

1. I love Miley Cyrus's song "The 7 things I hate about you" I sing it at the top of my lungs, even when there are people around

2. I sleep with one foot outside of the covers, and barefoot- no matter what.

3. I make a wish on a street by my mom's house every time I pass it, since 4th grade. (The street is Barbados)

4. I am addicted to teen tv shows that are absolutely pointless and I would never let my teenager watch, because they are trashy and I wouldn't want her to emulate the behavior, so why do I watch it? I don't know

5. I have always wanted to be a spy, or a vampire slayer

6. And the sixth thing hmm...I would rather do anything else than fold laundy, which is why there is a huge pile on my bed this very minute!!

Now I tag:
1. Susie
2. Candy
3. Missy
4. Shauna
5. Dawn

xoxo,
A

**Note to self...

2008-10-07T11:35:00.001-07:00

You know that old thing called body image that just seems to sneak up on you and bite hard when you are least prepared? I feel like la la la life has been going pretty good lately. Although I had to quit jiu-jitsu (brazilian-and not the bikini wax!) due to severe conflicts with the kids soccer schedule, I have kept up a steady exercise routine. **Note to self, when going from extremely hard training and running to merely walking every day, skip the snickers, Sees candy, sour candy, lunches with friends and dinners out with hubby. Turns out the joke is on me, I thought that if i just kept walking I would not start putting the weight back on that I took off for my sister's wedding last year. Sigh, and since I have been uber busy with my chaffeuring schedule, and no it is not a paid position, I have taken to skipping the self tanner. Ugh, don't even get me started on the casper white color that my legs have become. This all started when I saw a pic of myself this weekend. So, needless to say, I am breaking the self tanner back out and getting back to running even if it kills me and takes way too much time. Yes I am overly sensitive and probably, no certainly, vain. But, I have a birthday coming up this month and I want to turn 38 with my head held high atop a body of glistening bronze.

step away from the blog slowly ma'am or welcome to oz

2008-09-29T11:45:00.001-07:00

I admit it. I have an addiction. I am in full fleged blogging obsession mode. I couldn't sleep last night so I started hopping around reading blogs. I found out there are alot of people out there with something to say. Hilarious, covert, silly or just plain true life. You name it it's out there...and I love to read about it! I could spend (and have) hours reading blogs and commenting. I am fascinated by this world of writing! I think someone needs to write a book based on characters from blogs! There are so many interesting people out there that I would never have come into contact with had I not started blogging. I feel like Dorothy in Oz, I am not in Kansas anymore. My eyes have been opened, and I love it! Now I have to step away from the blogs and get back to work. Sigh, my family says I have been on the computer too much...

fall is here...

2008-09-22T12:11:00.000-07:00

Fall is here and Halloween is just around the corner. Halloween is a delicious holiday. What other day can you dress up like a hoochie and eat as much candy as you want without any repercussions? Just kidding, I would never dress like a hoochie, unless you count the time I was Pamela Anderson and my faithful husband tatted and pierced himself up to be Tommy Lee. Of course it was all in fun and it washed off the next day, sort of. I love Halloween so much that I have even fanagled my way into an invitation only party just so I could dress up...more than once. I am not proud, but hey, I got to go to the parties, didn't I? I think what I am trying to say is, my name is April and I have an addiction to Halloween. Party, anyone?

hello beautiful

2008-09-16T23:25:00.000-07:00

It's clear this blog has become much more about me and my daily strife, I mean life than about my friends! Lest the Red Tent Girls think I have forgotten them, let me just say for the record that you are all near and dear to my heart. I often wondered what my Mom was talking about when she said it was a rare occasion when she had time for both her family and friends. I am starting to see what she meant, and I only have four kids, she had seven! My sister-in-law had a baby today, and just hearing the relief and fatigue in her husband's voice reminded me how important love is in our lives. Without love, life would suck. I don't go a day without needing someone to reach out to me in love. Sometimes it's one of my fabulous friends, sometimes one of my blogging buddies, sometimes it's my children (of the corn!) my definitely better half or a complete stranger. But I wouldn't want to live without it. Even when it tears your heart out or makes you cry, the alternative is numbing. As book club for the month rolls around again, I remember why I started this blog in the first place, to let my friends know how much I love them and to give them some affirmation in life. You rock, every one of you. Life is too short to focus on the negative. Dream, live and love.

Let yourself go

2008-09-14T17:36:00.001-07:00

I just had an "a-ha" moment and I am not talking about the band. You know when you hear someone say, "Wow, she has really let herself go!" you immediately cringe and think I hope that they aren't talking about me. Well, I was just thinking, what if there is a different spin on those words? What if letting yourself go means you aren't so worried about how you look and you're a little more concerned with what kind of person you are? Sometimes I am so wrapped up in my own little world, I don't stop to look outside of it to see if someone else might need my help. Service does not require me to be wearing make up or to have the coolest jeans on. When I look at magazines I sometimes feel overwhelmed with my unstylishness because you can't ever keep up. But really I shouldn't have too. It's not that important. Now, I am the first to admit I check the mirror more than once before I leave the house, but sometimes when I am in a hurry I don't get the chance. I have noticed recently that seems to be happening too often. So let yourself go...in a good way and if you just happen to look fantastic while you are doing it, just say "cause I'm a WOMAN, naturally."

We're all in this together

2008-09-10T10:45:00.000-07:00

I admit it, sometimes I am overwhelmed, stressed, crazy and slightly off kilter. Almost everything I do in life is for my family, and boy have I been BUSY running around driving kids places and trying to keep my life in order. Never in a million years did I dream of growing up to be a control freak, and yet, here I am, you guessed it, full-fledged control freak. My life right now pretty much revolves around getting kids where they need to be and making sure they are prepared when they get there. Sometimes I might come across as inconsiderate, and I don't want my friends to think I don't love them, it's probably in response to my busy schedule. With my husband working as much as he does, I am doing most of the kids things by myself. I don't want anyone to feel sorry for me, I am doing what I want to do. There is no place I would rather be then in the center of my life. My family is the center of my universe, and of course my friends are the shining stars in that universe! So the next time someone comes across as inconsiderate, cut them some slack. We are all in this together.

it's all in the genes...

2008-09-04T11:43:00.000-07:00

M should appreciate the fact that she looks smokin hot on her 40th birthday. We had a great day at the Springs soaking in the mud and sun. The funniest part was visiting the steam room where we sat for about five minutes talking and cracking jokes with the grouchiest lady on the planet glaring at us before bursting out laughing and running out. It was a fun day with the girlies. We need to plan another Palm Springs weekend, maybe we can invite our blogging buddies too. Any takers?

Halloweenie

2008-08-25T22:14:00.000-07:00

I know Halloween is still two months away, but I was looking at some old pics and I couldn't resist! I love Halloween. The dressing up, the candy, the whole magic of it all is so fun. Ever since I was a little girl when I would either be a ballerina or a gypsy depending on what we had around the house I have loved the idea of being someone else for a night. My Mom was into it too...one year she went to the theater supply store to buy green body paint so my brothers could be the Incredible Hulk. (This was back in the 70's before there was a costume store on every corner) This created quite a mess in our house but my brothers loved it and took their parts very seriously, they roared every time someone opened the door. My Mom understood the magic of Halloween. Now I get to pass that along to my kids and no matter what they choose to be, we embrace it and enjoy the magic!

Glamour Girl

2008-08-18T23:51:00.001-07:00

Got an email today for pole dancing classes from H. That's right you read that correctly, pole dancing. I know what you're thinking, what's a nice girl like you doing...I didn't fool you with that one, did I? I can't think of a better way to get back in touch with my inner Glamour Girl. The one that doesn't wear flip flops and jeans every day and has even left the house a couple times in sweats. Ugh. I know that Glamour Girl is in there somewhere hiding. Maybe she's just too stinking busy to come out and dance. I think I am going to run to sign up for those classes before it's too late!

2008-08-18T23:33:00.000-07:00

Hot and Heavy

2008-08-16T18:11:00.000-07:00

I have been reading Breaking Dawn...talk about heart racing! I am not sure it should be classified in the young adult section anymore. If it gets my blood pumping (no pun intended) I can only imagine what it does for hormonal teenagers. I won't give away any plot secrets though, I know what a pain it is when people do that, but for all you Twilight Fans, I am going to see the movie at midnight when it comes out. So if you are interested, give me a ring a ding ding and I'll save you a spot in the batmobile.

Want to see my ninja skills?

2008-08-14T20:50:00.000-07:00

Want to see my ninja skills? I've been recognized by Dawn-sweet, who knew blogging could be so cool? Mammadawg is the brain behind this award and here are a few of the rules for participating:
Choose 5 other bloggers that you feel are “Kick Ass Bloggers”
Let them know that they have received an award
Link back to both the person who awarded you and also http://www.mammadawg.com/
Visit the Kick Ass Blogger Club HQ , to get codes click here and it will take you to KABC HQ, sign Mr. Linky then pass it on!

Now I get to nominate...
http://bounce-marie.blogspot.com/
http://emilyandhongkong.blogspot.com/
http://lifeisgood-holly.blogspot.com/
http://deaston76.blogspot.com/

http://stephenlaurenhenricks.blogspot.com/

If you are offended by this award, please forget where it came from and go along with your day!!
xoxo,
A

Sweet!

2008-08-11T10:15:00.000-07:00

I know, I know I am not Carrie Bradshaw. I will never be wisked away in my designer duds to Paris...I probably will never even own designer duds. What exactly am I getting at, you ask? Well, like Carrie I adore my friends. (I also adore my Big and he will appreciate me saying that) This summer has been full of ups and downs with weddings and scout camp and girls camp and my baby starting first grade. Life is rushing past me, and I have yet to learn how to stop it, but instead of lamenting the fact that I am getting old, (well sometimes I do lament) I have chosen to embrace it with my gorgeous, amazing, exciting friends. Both in my real life and my virtual one. I am so excited that one of my virtual friends won an award for her imaginative blog. This is so cool, we get therapy and awards! When does that happen in real life? I think blogging is the coolest thing, I get to spill my guts and read about other women's misadventures (so I don't feel like such a dingo) all from the comfort of my own home! Sweet! I am perfectly happy being cast in the role of mother, wife, doctor, tutor, driver, financial advisor, child and family therapist, did I mention driver, pta board member, *** slave, oops I should probably delete that one. My life will probably never be made into a movie, but a little escapism never hurt anyone, right? That's what book club and girl's night out is for-a chance to get away and remember why we do everything we do. Really, I feel so lucky to have girl friends like you who make life fun and never boring!! My husband is probably happy he doesn't have to listen to every single detail that my friends get subjected to on a daily basis. Really, how could he complain about free therapy? When I see a small glimpse of forever in my kids faces I know it will all be worth it, and that makes it even better than City life.

Nevermind

2008-08-07T22:38:00.000-07:00

Nevermind. I love blogging too much to give it up, even if it means I write sweet happy stuff in one and rant in the other. Isn't life always like that? Up, down and all around. Too bad I can't ever predict when I will be up...or down, that would save my husband getting yelled at when he hasn't done anything wrong. Though I do think that sometimes I blog before I think it through and that means, yes you guessed it, you get to read exactly what is on my mind. Don't freak out, I am warning you at least. If you need a milder version of me, myself and I, visit the other blog. Oh, and K if you ever want to hop on the band wagon and rant a little, feel free...

Fusion

2008-08-04T10:42:00.000-07:00

No I am not talking about nuclear physics, I am talking about fusing my two blogs into one. Much like my own personality, there are two blogs that represent different aspects of my life. While I have enjoyed maintaining two different blogs, I think my fan base is wearing thin and it's possibly time to fuse the two into one. My main family blog will probably be the one that I continue to post my deep dark secrets on...hopefully there will not be t.m.i. Of course, if there is a friend of mine who would like to take over the girls only blog for a while I would be happy to turn over the reins.

Reunion, together again...

2008-07-28T18:48:00.000-07:00

My twenty year high school reunion is this week. I know that I can't possibly be that old, until my fifteen year old daughter pipes up. Yes, I am that old. I thought that at this point in life I would have aquired a certain degree of maturity and I am happy to say that uh...no it hasn't happened yet. I still care what I look like when I leave the house, unless I am in a heck of hurry. Sometimes I even imagine that What Not To Wear could be around any corner so I venture out carefully. Silly, I know, but what's a girl to do? Anyway, I had to fill out a survey about what I have accomplished since high school. Well lets see, I didn't graduate from college...yet (I am still working on that), I don't jet set around the world (unless you count all those books I read) What's that you ask? Oh what is my contribution to going green? Well I do my part, in fact I painted my daughter's entire face green last Halloween. That's not what you meant? My career, well I excel in that area, I am a doctor, nurse, pyschiatrist, counselor, chauffeur, mediator, stay at home mom...I almost missed the most important one! I get to raise my children to be wonderful, thankful adults with great personalities and absolutely no hang-ups. Well I can dream can't I? The only thing I have yet to accomplish that remains on my list is to write a book. Hopefully before my thirtieth. Now if I could just locate that old prom dress...

Summertime, and the living is...reality

2008-07-27T16:23:00.001-07:00

If my life was a reality tv show I often wonder what it would be about. I could be like Denise Richards and walk around complaining about the paparazzi invading my space, all the while a camera crew is trailing behind me...or maybe live in a mansion with an old geezer and two other girls...or performing weekly with either my amazing voice or fantastic dance skills...(note-that's sarcastic)or perhaps running around completing tasks and agonizing over my next meal and stripping down to the bare necessities...or maybe I would be a mom with four kids in three different schools, attending numerous sporting, dancing, church related functions, trying to keep herself looking and feeling young as a supermodel in clothes she dreams up and sews by hand while serving her family delicious organic meals made from scratch...oh wait, I think I just scripted my own "reality" tv show. Sounds about as pausible as what I see on tv. Maybe instead I should focus on what really matters...there are no good tv shows on during the summer, (except So You Think You Can Dance) so maybe I should just get out and live it up, after all summer is supposed to be the relaxing fun time of the year. Get out there are live, what are you waiting for?

it won't last forever...

2008-07-21T09:37:00.001-07:00

I am on the upswing again. Alright J-I get it! Enjoy every moment that you have with your kids. Sometimes I forget to stop and smell the roses, even when the roses are running around screaming and trying to smack eachother. Some days are better than others. The beginning of the summer when we were beach camping and visiting friends at the beach was much more relaxing. I haven't been able to sleep in because my oldest has cross country practice at 7:30 am. Of course that forces me to exercise every day. That might be part of my problem actually, I took off a month of my jiu-jitsu because all of the stuff going on this month and I think it's made me a little cranky. Well, we are rocking this week with wild rivers, the beach and dance festival this weekend! I will enjoy every day...I will enjoy every day...that is my mantra. I need to write down all the reasons why I love the summer because it won't be here much longer, and yes I will probably cry the first day of school because my baby is going to be there all day. I will miss his little tasmanian devil whirl through the house! The best part about summer is remembering that it won't last forever and you need to enjoy every moment of it, kinda like childhood. And today I promise to stop and smell the roses.

girls just wanna...

2008-07-16T15:29:00.000-07:00

Just for the record remind me who was complaining about not having the kids home for the entire summer. I have not seen my friends in forever and it is not because of the weddings and other activities I have had going on. I am not experiencing nirvana with my children home for an extended time this summer. The days are blending together and not in a good way. Ahh, I feel better just blogging about it. It's kind of like swimming, I'm trying really hard to keep my head above water, but the waves keep on crashing on me for some reason. They are not big catastrophic waves, just enough to keep me struggling. I know once some of kids go back to school I will be sad that they are not here, but for now...geez! It's like when they go to bed at night and then in the morning I am so happy to see them, but I am always ready for them to go to bed. Lucky for me there is book club this week...even though for once I have not read the book. I better get on that.

XOXO,
A

five things...

2008-07-03T14:57:00.000-07:00

Five things I want my kids to know now
1. turn the music up loud and dance and sing, who cares who is watching, they'll only think you are having more fun!
2. take the opportunity to make a friend, life's much sweeter that way
3. be kind to your family, they are yours for life
4. Life isn't fair, learn to deal with it graciously
5. no matter what you do, your parents will always love you

Five things i want my kids to know when they grow up
1. life will throw curve balls, just be ready
2. listen instead of talking, you'll be amazed at what you learn
3. the relationships you cultivate will be the most successful
4. things don't matter, people do
5. no matter what you do, your parents will always love you

Wow, that was tough...girls let me know what your five things are and I will post them!

xoxo,
A

bigger not necessarily better

2008-06-30T15:21:00.000-07:00

Uh, do boys count in the bigger but not better hair category? This is the love of my life in the days when Duran Duran ruled the world.

This pic is retro I know. My current friends are probably wondering what in the world since they are not represented in these pics...but I just wanted to show that girls from California fell victim to big hair too.
J should appreciate this one, her and I in Hawaii. Okay. okay enough about me, what do you think about me? Just kidding, Girls! I probably don't really want the skinny on your feelings about all these pics that are only featuring me, so send me some. I know there are bigger hair pics out there! I want to see how far it can go...

Something old, something new...

2008-06-29T16:50:00.000-07:00

Who knew blogging would lead to new friends? I should not be surprised to discover that no matter where you live, how many kids you have, what you do for work or what religion you are, we are sisters. I love visiting other blogs and reading about things that happen to other women and thinking, yeah that happens to me! It's amazing how reading someone else's story that I don't know can be so similar to my own. Shout out to girls with past "big hair"-I've gotta post some pics from that infamous era. So, red tent girls send me yours and I'll post for the world to see and remember...

life is like a box of chocolates...

2008-06-25T18:46:00.001-07:00

I want to let C know that I support her 100% too. Book club is a part of all of us. We each take the time to pick a book that we hope all will like but that is not always possible. I know that I have started but have not finished a few books. The choice is yours. When we started this club we decided that we were going to open our minds to other books besides those from the church. Those books are great and we do read them but not here. I love when we are discussing a book and we do discuss them, not just chat and find that one of us has a totally different thought on something that happened in the book. Sometimes I think you are off your rocker on some point but then I realize that at one time that thought must have crossed your minds about me. Oh well, life goes on. We are an awesome group of women who can disagree very strongly about an issue and yet not let it ruin our friendships. You don’t find that often and I hope that we can all remember that we are loved for who we are.

xoxo,

K

G's Birthday

2008-06-21T09:24:00.000-07:00

There's nothing like a chance to dance and hang out with friends, though I am sad that a few of my dance buddies were m.i.a. (M&C) Oh, and D was out of commission. On a positive note those that were there danced and shook their little pom poms. Ooh was that too suggestive?
This was a shot of all the girls there, except a few showed up right after this pic was taken! It was a combo of old and new friends and I think G was happy so many friends showed up to celebrate her 30th birthday.
K looked stunning with her new bod and hair and make up to match. I know she doesn't like a fuss about it, but dang girl when you look good you need to be proud and show it off! We all have our moments to shine, the great thing is we can all be happy for eachother when we look and feel good about ourselves and it is not a catty competition.
Someone said I have a crush on D because I always say how beautiful she is, so hey I guess it's true, D you are beautiful, but then I think all my friends are goddesses. Truly, you all shine inside and out.

I think I have a day after love hangover because I am gushing way too much about everyone. Unlike last time I wrote. I was a little harsh. But I am not going back and taking my words back because it was how I felt at the time. I think the ups and downs are what makes life joyful and the best friends are the ones that you can voice your opinion too and they love you anyway. Ta ta for now!

xoxo,

While the cat's away...

2008-06-18T13:18:00.000-07:00

My, my, my. I go out of town for less than a week and you all are partying without me. Well, despite that I am posting pics from this night on the town. FYI party this weekend at G's on Friday Night.

Cause if you can't laugh about it

2008-06-12T21:44:00.000-07:00

I just read a blog that had me laughing, it is amazing how the experiences of motherhood are so universal. The blog said bringing you a peek into my comical, hair pulling and dramatic daily life of motherhood. May I remind you that they didn't come with directions, so I am just winging it. It's almost like a glimpse into a secret world or dare I say a red tent? For any of you that have yet to experience the side splitting comedy talent of Chelsea Handler and Jenny Mc Carthy, you have to visit the website www.inthemotherhood.com. It has women send in their stories and they are acted out by these two comedic geniuses. Really, if you haven't ventured to this site, try it, you might even recognize a story or two...

xoxo,
A

Without Friends where would we be? By K

2008-06-12T08:50:00.000-07:00

Being a parent is one of the toughest jobs we will ever have. As a parent we want to protect our children. We want so much for them and when they hurt, we hurt. We want to be able to solve their problems but we can’t because they must learn to grow and make the right decisions on their own. I don’t know who hurts the most during these times, us or our child. I believe it’s us but what do I know.
Sometimes life just doesn’t go the way that we want. I know that I wake up happy. I had an experience this last week that made me think of the differences between the friendships we have with the people in our lives. One of my kids had a problem with a “friend” (I use the word loosely) who got angry and started spreading lies about them. They came to me upset. They wanted to know if it was okay to “take them down”. My first thought was wow did they really think I would say yes, but my first comment was to just let it go. What this kid said doesn’t matter because your friends who know you will know the truth. Apparently that wasn’t the correct answer they were looking for. The more upset they got the angrier I found myself getting at them. I didn’t understand why they just couldn’t let it go. It would be over soon, all they had to do was just let it runs its course. I felt horrible. I didn’t know what to do and I felt like the worst parent. As we were sitting on the couch in angry silence I finally told them that I was sorry about what was happening and that I didn’t understand or know what to do. It was late so I asked them to give me until morning to think about what to do. I also asked that they please not strike back by telling all their friends bad things about the other kid. What good would it do, beside make them feel good at the moment. It wouldn’t change what they were saying and if your friends did believe them it wouldn’t matter what you said. I told them that they could explain their side but they couldn’t say anything bad. They agreed. It is amazing how life works.
As I was talking to my child I thought about what I would want. That’s what made me think about husbands. Sometimes they think we want them to fix our problems, when all we really want to do it vent. They think why in the world would we want to do that? We should just let it go. I am grateful for the times when I needed to be heard. I have to laugh at us sometimes. When we get together we are funny. One of will be venting and then another and soon we find ourselves actually laughing at each other and finding the good in a situation. When we have all been heard we feel better and that’s all it takes. We just wanted to be heard. What is said in the “Red Tent” stays in the “Red Tent” and that is how it should be. For our loving husbands who think we are crazy at times we thank you for understanding that we need girl friends. Not that we don’t need you because we do but sometimes we just need them too. I don’t know what I would do without you. Thank you all for listening and for giving me the chance to learn how to be a good friend. That’s what life is all about.

xoxo,
K

Life As I know It

2008-06-04T11:39:00.000-07:00

I’ve heard a song on the radio, (and I am not going to even pretend it was the KROQ or KIIS FM of my teenage years, more like Radio Disney that is the constant background and sometimes foreground of my intrepid minivan), an ode to the 80’s that talks about a woman who’s not happy with her average life. Poor Debbie, she wanted to be a video vixen or movie star and now she’s stuck in the suburbs with kids and reminiscing about yesterday. I feel for Debbie, and I also wonder if perhaps there’s more to the song then the lyrics. Maybe Debbie is happy with her life, but she also yearns for something more, she wants to leave her mark and be “known” for something…besides the song. When I listen to this song I think about my own life and it’s similarities to Debbie. My only claim to fame would be dancing on American Bandstand as a teenager, rubbing shoulders with Dick Clark and a surprise guest, gasp…Bruce Willis. Oh yes, and I also wore Michael Jackson’s famous glove, or is that infamous glove now? Well, I am happy with my life, and I’ve got the kids, husband, minivan the whole thing, and yet I still yearn for that intangible thing. I haven’t figured it out yet, but I do know this much is true, life wouldn’t be the same without friends.

Funny when you think about it, friends come and go through your life. I have come to think of some of them as surrogate sisters. I have an amazing sister, don’t get me wrong, but friends can be a great addition to your life. After all, you can’t pick your family, but if a friend is driving you crazy, you can drop her like a hot coal. Just in case my family thinks this in a slur against them, let me explain. I have a great family, parents that are still happily married, which in this day and age is virtually a miracle, brothers that are fun and have fabulous families of their own, and a sister who's a great wife and will someday be a mother. My own family is great too. I have a supportive husband and four great kids, that do sometimes tease me about my desire to be a teenager again, come to think of it my husband does too. But seriously, who wants to watch tv and movies about boring people my age? We live in a world that prizes beauty and youth, who am I to go against the flow? I admit that I am a total sucker for the teenage movies and tv shows. Teenage detectives and music that rocks. It’s the fantasy escape from life. Not that my life is bad, but everyone needs a little escapism. I’ll even admit that I like Radio Disney and I’ve even put it on when my kids are not even in the car.

Anyway, back to friends. I love them, life just would’nt be the same without them. They make it bearable when everything else seems to conspire against me. I can’t say my life is bad, in fact from the outside you might say I have a charmed life, but everyone knows the grass is always greener. Sure I have the appearance of the good life, and it usually is, but when I get down, I can count on my friends to pull me up.

I’ve had friends as long as I can remember, which I’m sure is true for most people. I derive energy from my friends. I took a test once that said that fact makes me an extrovert. I’d have to agree, I can’t stand the idea of a party going on without me. The Madonna song “Where’s the Party?” could have been written for me. I love to have fun. I always have. The trick is to balance life with that desire. Sometimes I come up short. Seriously, folding laundry and driving kids around is not exactly the party life of Paris Hilton, but dancing while folding the laundry and listening to Radio Disney and singing along in the car is my little spin on it. When I feel like screaming because I’ve picked up one too many shoes (that don’t belong to me, I might add) and doing dishes can be a whole lot more fun if you pretend you’re really the star of a soap opera while doing it and adding a little drama. My husband accuses me of doing this when we fight. Adding drama where it is not needed, or wanted. Hey I might be guilty of this accusation, but we’re still together aren’t we? So I couldn’t be that bad. Or else he figures someone else might be just as bad as me.

We all have our faults. I thought I’d grow out of mine. Unfortunately they are still around, and perhaps worse than ever. That’s really not fair. I always thought as you got older, you just naturally matured and started to enjoy things like housework and chauffeuring your kids around, shocking isn’t it? A nasty little trick life plays on you, and that’s just the beginning. But all kidding aside, thanks for being the great friends you are!! I love you all!

xoxo,
A

Therapy

2008-06-03T12:11:00.000-07:00

Oh life, just when you least expect it too, it jumps up and bites you in the tush. I guess I need to be a little more careful what I blog into this public forum. This blog is intended for girls eyes only, to vent and have fun with each other and enjoy being a girl. No disrespect intended for prying eyes!! That said, this is an official disclaimer to aforementioned eyes, BEWARE! This is a glimpse inside the minds of women who are not perfect, with thoughts and feelings that are not always rated PG. So, gentle reader, continue on at your own risk, because this blog, much like life might be a roller coaster!

Since I started this therapy session (I mean blog) I have thought alot about my life and it occurs to me that this much is true, taking into account that my perspective changes with every life experience that comes my way. What would life be without the sweet smell of a baby's head after bathtime? Night jasmine wafting in from an open window? Kids racing back and forth in the ocean surf? A gentle kiss from a six year old who wakes up in your bed way too often? A husband that understands friends are like dessert, you can live without them if you have too, but life is infinitely sweeter and richer with them. (Note the subtle reference to frosting, once again) I am a little scared that things seem to be going too well right now. Despite the huge changes we have experienced during our boundary changes, my friends have remained constant. Does that mean I am destined to experience something that will help me grow and become the person I am meant to be? Yikes! I am not saying everything is perfect, trust me the teenage meltdown I experienced firsthand last week left me drained and feeling every bit of my 37 years. And don't even talk to me about passing the sacrament, because at this point I feel like I've said every prayer and read every scripture I can. Apparently it is not enough, which leads me to think that there is much more in store for me. I am just glad I have people to share it with, that are going through the same things as me and understand when I have a meltdown and they love me anyway! What would I do without all of YOU!

K's Comments-xoxo

2008-06-02T08:52:00.000-07:00

I have to tell you that I love to look at the blog. I am so thankful for all of you. It makes me so happy. I can’t help but reflect upon my life before I met all of you. I know that I have told you that I was a loner. It was easier that way. I couldn’t get hurt. I was scared to trust. I never thought I could have such great friends. I thank you for opening your hearts to me. You have all helped me change into the person that I am today and I truly like me. How awesome is that? When I think of all of us I can’t help but compare us to the Saving Graces. I so wanted to be apart of something. I think that we are all great as individuals but each of us brings something special to the group and I would like to let you know how I feel about each of you. I don’t know what I would do without you. You have helped me through some very difficult times. I know that I can count on you to listen and lift me up. You strive to do what’s right and the rest of us can’t help but follow. You are strong and focused. You are so full of energy. You have listened to me rant and rave like an idiot and laughed with me not so much at me. You are positive and persistent. You will get me where I need to be. Don’t give up. You are such a good friend. I can’t help but smile when I think of all the times you have told me that if I didn’t show up you would come and get me. I knew you would and I didn’t want to let you down. You are probably the only one who can tell me what to do and I don’t stay mad. You point me in the right direction when I start to pull away. You always have a smile and a laugh that I just can’t help but return. I have enjoyed working with you and will miss that. You have taught me a lot.
I know that I can call you at anytime and tell you what I am truly thinking and nothing I say shocks you. You have a gift of understanding me and telling me the truth. I count on that. I thank you for always being the group coordinator. I want you to know that I am thankful for the way you keep us together. Thank you for helping me to accept me for who I am.
Without you I would not have all these wonderful friends. Thank you for bringing me into the group. You have so much you can teach me. I rely on your spirit to guide me in the right direction. I am thankful for all the times that I wanted to stay home and you wouldn’t let me. You would ask me if I needed a ride and I would tell you that I was tired and already in my pj’s but thanks anyways. You would tell me to get dressed or I would be going in my pj’s because you were going to pick me up in five minutes and sure enough you showed up. Thank you.
You are so talented. I wish that you could see yourself as we see you. You are so beautiful both inside and out. You have always found the time to help me. Thank you for all the hours of shopping and showing me how to make my house into the beautiful home that I’ve always wanted. You always have a smile and put up with my better half. I don't know what I would do without you. I am just starting to know you. I have found you to be caring, thoughtful and gracious. You are so easy to talk to that I forget that I’ve known you only a short time. It feels as though I have known you all my life. You are amazing. You are so positive. I am a better person for knowing you. You are passionate about your beliefs and not shy about letting me know how you feel. I wish that I had your strong testimony. I need someone like you to remind me what I am capable of accomplishing. We are a force to be reckoned with. We listen, encourage and love. We help each other succeed and grow into better wives, parents and sisters. I want you to know how much I love each one of you. I am such a better person for knowing all of you.

xoxo,

City Life

2008-06-01T15:04:00.000-07:00

In my excitement at starting a blog I must be getting carried away because my husband says to me, are you trying to be like Sex in the City girls or what? Uh, no, fictional characters are not welcome in the red tent, (unless of course their names happen to be Jacob or Edward) We are definitely not trying to imitate single women with fantastic wardrobes living in New York City...wait where am I going with this? Really, I like my life and I am perfectly happy being cast in the role of mother, wife, doctor, tutor, driver, financial advisor, child and family therapist, did I mention driver, pta board member, *** slave, oops I should probably delete that one. My life will probably never be made into a movie, but a little escapism never hurt anyone, right? That's what book club and girl's night out is for-a chance to get away and remember why we do everything we do. Really, I feel so lucky to have girl friends like you who make life fun and never boring!! My husband is probably happy he doesn't have to listen to every single detail that my friends get subjected to on a daily basis. Really, how could he complain about free therapy? When I see a small glimpse of forever in my kids faces I know it will all be worth it, and that makes it even better than City life.

Rewind, Edit

2008-05-31T12:45:00.000-07:00

Okay, okay, I need to clear some things up. I have been asked by more than one person which attributes were their's. My descriptions, much like characters in a novel were composites of the best attributes of my dear friends, but since I have had so many questions about which person is what, I will elaborate more fully and if you don't find yourself in the descriptions, I would beg you to look harder and see what I see. I am going back to the cutting room floor and picking up the pieces of what didn't make it into the blog. You are all amazing. The amythyst-truly a divine beauty rare and breathtaking, your soul is gentle and loving and always ready to help. The pearl-brains and beauty, wisdom and grace what more can you ask for? The sapphire-flashing and quick, your words are spoken in truth and it often is so accurate I can't help but laugh. The diamond-I have known you the longest, and I admire your ability to rise above the situation you were given in life, and dancing wouldn't be the same without you. The emerald-your words are always encouraging and you always stop what you are doing to go anywhere with me, when I just need to get away! You shine in the role of motherhood. The opal-I admire your ability to share your opinion, even when it is the opposite of my own, maybe someday it will stick! The topaz-you are stronger than you know, and I have seen a glimpse of who you have yet to become, never give up. The ruby-straight and true, you light a way for others to follow. Now, girls, these are only things I see in you and there are countless others. I love my friends, but this blog is for everyone, so please send imput and I will put it in! Send me pics to my email and I will put them in, I only have a few! (and none are recent) xoxo

EPIPHANY

2008-05-30T11:50:00.000-07:00

Last night we had a jam session with book group that was enlightening and a much needed respite from the cares of the week. Sometimes it is all I can do to hold my head above the water and keep swimming. My life would not be the same without the group of friends I have. Each of you bring something different to the table or feast (if I am using the red tent analogy) One of you is introspective with ideas and a listening ear, one of you makes me laugh with your ability to tell it like it is, no matter what. One of you is so strong in the gospel that I look to you when I need direction. One of you has a beauty that you are unaware of that literally takes my breath away (with a soft soul beneath the surface). One of you I call when I have had it with my little darlings and I just need to get away. You all are my red tent girls. We should start up a tradition of getting together to share our joy (because what is life without joy) and sorrow. Book club is just the tip of the iceberg, so to speak, the smallest glimpse of the eternal nature of women's friendship. I just had an epiphany, I think the reason guys have the power is because if they didn't we wouldn't rely on them for anything. I mean seriously, we talk, we laugh, we share, we dream and sometimes the guys are just icing. I know some of you are thinking but we couldn't do without the icing, and I fully agree. But the relationships I have with my friends are precious like gems, some of you are rubies, some are emeralds, some diamonds, some pearls, some sapphires and amythysts but you are all amazing women and my life and the "red tent" wouldn't be the same without you!