Literator's Forum

Congratulations Natalie!!!

2011-08-15T07:14:00.000-07:00

Debbies House Blog

2011-06-06T11:22:00.001-07:00

http://marsinutah.blogspot.com/

Disturbing!!!!

2011-03-14T21:21:00.001-07:00

Ladies... I saw this and just had to share. I don't think I have found something quite this repulsive in a long time.

http://www.etsy.com/listing/28278101/childbirth-education-doll

January Book

2010-12-12T13:23:00.000-08:00

Unbroken by Laura Hillenbrand
In 2001 Hillenbrand inspired America with "Seabiscuit." Now she brings us Louis Zamperini, a brawling, delinquent youth who channeled his teenage energy into running — carrying him to the Berlin Olympics. But then World War II swept him up, and in 1943 his plane went down in the Pacific. He survived sharks and exposure for 47 days, only to be captured by the Japanese. Enduring unimaginable misery as a POW, Louie returns home a very troubled man. But this is the story of an extraordinary "survival, resilience and redemption," as stated in the subhead, told by a master writer.

Get your autographs now!

2010-09-27T08:40:00.000-07:00

2010-06-26T22:47:00.001-07:00

Fantastic!

2010-04-02T16:29:00.000-07:00

Costa Rica!

2010-03-08T22:08:00.001-08:00

We needed some action on our blog so I thought I would post some pictures from our trip to Costa Rica. Trevor and I went for 8 days without the kids (that was the best part) and we had an AMAZING time. Costa Rica is beautiful!!!

This was Trevor's favorite sign of the whole trip. It says "pee here" for those of you who don't speak spanish like me. It's always a good sign when you are in a country that encourages you to keep drinking even while you are peeing!

This was at the bottom of an hour long hike we took through the jungle to a waterfall. I have never been so sweaty in my entire life. It was literally dripping off of me but at least we got to swim in the pools at the bottom of the waterfall. Beautiful.

Here is the waterall that we hiked to. The pictures aren't even close to showing how big and amazing it was. And we didn't see another person the entire time! We had the jungle and the waterfall all to ourselves.

This is the beach where we took our surf lessons. I am such an awesome photographer, huh?

We took surf lessons from a local guy that we found. He did a great job and we were both able to get up. It was super fun but exhausting. No wonder surfers are in such good shape.

We went on a zip line tour through the trees in the jungle.

We went to Manuel Antonio Park which was about an hour drive south of where we were staying. It is one of Costa Rica's main tourist attractions. They have beautiful beaches and wildlife. We went on a hike around this cliff and I took this picture looking down on the beach that we swam in. Another awesome picture by me. =)

Another beach shot in Manuel Antonio Park.

The cute couple on the same beach.

We took a boat tour out to Tortuga Island. They took us snorkeling, served us beers and fresh fruit, and made us lunch. It was sooooo yummy. So fun. And we got super burned. Not so fun.

This was the "wild" pig on the island. He looks like he is about to attack me huh? Or not. I think he is drunk.

Another picture on Tortuga Island. Could my husband be any shorter?!

This was one of the best trips I have ever been on. All of the people in Costa Rica were so nice (it helped a ton that Trevor speaks Spanish and that he is very outgoing). The food was awesome. We literally ate fresh fish and delicious fruit with every meal. I may have had some beers in there too but I can't remember. And all the beaches were beautiful! We already want to go back! Now who can we sucker into watching our kids for us again? Any takers?!

Check this out...

2009-11-29T11:26:00.000-08:00

This post is dedicated to Kirsten and Cortney! (our blog was getting a little stale..)

http://www.utahkidsclub.com/

Looking forward to our Holiday Extravaganza!

XO

Welcome to the Club, Lucas Jay Hart!

2009-08-17T10:16:00.000-07:00

Smooth C-section, healthy baby,

glowing mama with perfect esthetician skin - no fair!

7 lbs. 5 oz. - 20.5 in.

Time for your spongebath...

2009-07-30T10:24:00.000-07:00

Guess who passed her test and is officially a Registered Nurse?

CONGRATULATIONS ANNIE!

Girls Night Out + Britney Spears = PORNO

2009-06-30T11:44:00.001-07:00

Vintage Earrings Tutorial and GIVEAWAY!!!!

2009-06-21T21:21:00.000-07:00

Vintage Earrings Tutorial and GIVEAWAY!!!!

Vintage Wedding Refashioned Frock GIVEAWAY!!!!

2009-06-21T21:18:00.000-07:00

Vintage Wedding Refashioned Frock GIVEAWAY!!!!

Time Traveler's Release Date: August 14th

2009-06-15T14:17:00.000-07:00

Who's with me?

Happy Reading!

2009-06-06T07:50:00.000-07:00

See you on Monday!

Dine O'Round

2009-05-07T12:43:00.000-07:00

Great news ladies, the SAGE CAFE is on the Spring Dine O'Round this year! I know where Sean is taking Carly for Mothers Day.

http://www.downtownslc.com/events/dine-o-round.htm

Down with "Country Girls"

2009-03-31T21:05:00.000-07:00

Ok, so here is the pick for May. I will conquer my lame book pick syndrome! Hopefully this will fulfill Carly's "out of the box" request... enjoy literators... enjoy...

Visiting Teaching Message

2009-03-26T08:34:00.000-07:00

Lilly Feet

2009-03-25T10:28:00.001-07:00

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Footbinding

skye johansen photography

2009-03-24T11:12:00.000-07:00

http://www.skyejohansen.com/

great children's photographer in lehi, ut!

becca and I have both taken our kids to her and she has a great eye and vintage style

check out claire's recent pics at:

http://www.skyejohansen.com/blog/

NEW BOOK CLUB DATE-one time only!

2009-03-13T09:52:00.001-07:00

The date for our next book club has changed and will be held on

Monday, March 30

at 6:30 pm at Lilli's house.

(no pressure Becca, but just a reminder that you choose the book for next month)

April bookclub date conflict

2009-03-12T15:36:00.000-07:00

Hello there girls,

OK here is the dealio...Bookclub is schedule for the first Wednesday in April which happens to be April 1...which happens to be the day I am leaving out of town to Chicago. Didn't realize this was book club night until like 10 minutes ago.
Here are our options:

Hold Book club on Monday March, 30 - This would be my preference but I know that there are some of you who diligently hold FHE and if this would prevent you from coming please let me know.

Hold Book club on Tuesday March, 31 - I have YW this night so it wouldn't be ideal but I am willing to ditch in order to hold book club.
The only other time would be to wait one week until Wednesday, April 8th, which I am not sure is ideal because it encroaches on reading time for the other book.

Please let me know if you are available for Monday or one of the other days. I am sorry about this, I just didn't realize that April 1st was Wednesday. (And no this is not an APril FOol's joke)

much love, lilli

Snow Flower and the Secret Fan

2009-03-07T19:26:00.001-08:00

March's Book....

Now go read!

Happy Valentines Day!

2009-02-18T14:33:00.001-08:00

What did you do on Valentines day? Do you have fun traditions with your husband/lover or pool boy? Do you make cute baskets for your kids? Please do share!

Nora or Gwen?

2009-02-15T15:01:00.000-08:00

I need my literators help! Trevor and I can't decide on a name for our little girl arriving in May. We want something different and not popular that goes with Dexter (I immediately eliminate anything that is in the top 100). We both like Nora and Gwen but we can't decide. Nora is a lot more popular than Gwen, and is gaining popularity so that is a negative (in my opinion). But I want to hear what you all think! And do you have any other ideas!? We have 14 weeks left to decide!

First the Book - Then the Movie

2009-02-05T11:11:00.000-08:00

March Book:
Revolutionary Road by Richard Yates

Annie's Big News!

2009-01-05T11:42:00.001-08:00

Another future Literator due 5.21.08

book for february

2008-12-26T12:01:00.000-08:00

the book for february is:
American Wife
by Curtis Sittenfeldsee you in february!!

-holly

dinner with bridgette the midget :)

2008-12-17T07:38:00.000-08:00

hi ladies!
i know i shouldn't be calling anyone "midget", but its a big sister--little sister thing!!

bridgette gets here tomorrow (thursday)!!! so excited--
i guess i miss her a little!!
we will be going to dinner this saturday, dec. 20th at 6 pm if anyone wants to join us.
i would like to make reservations at bucca di beppo in ft. union.
(they have room for large parties).

so.....if you can come, please let me know by friday afternoon at the latest!
(thursday would be better, but i know its kind of last minute!)
please include if anyone is coming with you :)

thanks--holly

Happy 30 Carly!

2008-12-16T12:12:00.000-08:00

While I have no time or skill to give our (self proclaimed) President the proper 30 year on earth tribute, her sweet sister Erin has gone the extra mile. Check out this great post on Erin's blog: www.kennyanderin.blogspot.com

Merry Christmas LITERATORS!

2008-12-14T19:56:00.000-08:00

"Who the hell is this fat guy?.....Get me outta here!!!"

Host List

2008-12-08T19:48:00.000-08:00

Hi Ladies,

Thank you for all attending club last week. Best turn out ever!!! So sorry for the lack of food. I promise a much bigger feast next time.

So I updated the Host list. This is what we came up with at my house. Elena will be sending out an evite for our January party.

Love you all-
Shellie

Merry Christmas!

2008-12-06T19:20:00.001-08:00

Since I didn't have enough Christmas cards to send out to everyone I wanted to say Merry Christmas! This is the picture we used on the card and the wording was something like this...

Trevor, Annie, Dexter, and Baby #2 (arriving May 21, 2009)!

Looks like May is the month to have babies next year!

Frank

2008-11-26T11:51:00.001-08:00

I found this site with a chronology in photos of Frank Lloyd Wright's architecture. Check it out, but beware, there may be some spoilers, so if you haven't finished the book, be careful. (Or if your like Carly and haven't started the book, this may be a good outline. JK love you Car.)

http://travelphotobase.com/s/WRIGHT.HTM

This is soooooooo disturbing to me....wanted to know ya'lls opinions about propostition8....Since we're getting political and all!

2008-10-24T11:42:00.001-07:00

Deep Thoughts

2008-10-21T12:51:00.000-07:00

Rock the Ballot 2008

2008-10-16T15:47:00.000-07:00

Who will get your presidential vote?

I know this is personal, but I am curious and we are pretty much family right? If you dare, please post your answer.

Love you all! Go Democracy!

claire's 1st birthday!

2008-10-13T13:37:00.000-07:00

sorry to use our club blog for personal use,
but I couldn't resist posting a few from claire's first birthday!

Elena is not a perv!

2008-10-04T23:03:00.000-07:00

In honor of Elena, here is a new post! I can't tell you all how fun last club was for me. Even after the day from hell... chocolate cake turned mush, screaming kidlets, and everything falling apart I ended the day on the best note. I can't tell you all how much I respect, admire, love, and appreciate you all. As the night of club comes to a close I am always extremely tired, but amazingly refreshed from our conversations. I just want you all to know that you are the GREATEST!!! Kirsten- cute place! Go Fashion Week!

The Mustache is back!

2008-08-05T21:53:00.000-07:00

So I forgot to tell everyone at book club about my lovely husband. He came home for two days last week to visit his long lost family. We hadn't seen him for a month and when we picked him up at the airport this is what had arrived...

Then to make it worse he said he wanted to go buy a speedo to top off his "white trash" look. He said all he needed was his wife beater, a case of beer, and his speedo to head back to Dallas and he would fit right in. When in Rome...

I am pretty sure you are all jealous but lay off ladies...he's all mine! But I sure do love him anyway. He always makes me laugh and I love that he doesn't give a sh$t what anyone thinks about him.

The wait is OVER!

2008-08-01T23:56:00.001-07:00

At last the wait is over....rush out and buy your books girls....Edward calls!

missing bridgette already

2008-07-02T09:22:00.000-07:00

i thought it might be fun to put up some pics of bridgette from our younger years......

this one has our brothers too--is that bridgette with a binky?? maybe that's where kate gets her undying devotion for them :)

here we are enjoying some cake--bridgette is a little more into it than me!
"taste it, taste it...." right, bridge ;)

i'm both extremely excited for bridgette and sad for me. i have had the most amazing and supportive sister for so many years close by & now its quickly coming to an end. life will be strange without seeing her almost daily!! kate is going to miss her cousins--it has been so fun watching them grow this first year together (& auntie bridgette is the only one kate wants that is as good as me when she needs some loving!) she is also the one that listens to me whine (or cry) when i've had a rough day.....the many hats she fills!

i love you & will miss you--your big sis :)

sorry the pics aren't the greatest--the scanner is still somewhere in a box & i didn't have time to find it.....

Book Club Tomorrow!!!

2008-07-01T17:53:00.000-07:00

I'm sure its on all of your calendars, and you are so ready for our monthly gab session! I know I am. We are having book club at Holly's club house(so we don't all have to squish into my tiny living room!) The address is
13615 S. Pyrenees Ave.
Riverton 84065
We will be starting at 6:30
Love ya'll (I have to start saying ya'll since I'm moving to Georgia!)

A Sweet Little Junebug:)

2008-06-30T14:06:00.000-07:00

If you haven't yet...visit Lori's blog @ www.lorileesw.blogspot.com for some precious pics of little June and some really annoying pics of already skinny and beautiful new mommy Lori:)

Have you preordered your copy of Breaking Dawn? Visit www.amazon.com for your opportunity.

One more month... it better not suck.

Love ya all.

twilight teaser!!!!!!

2008-06-20T21:43:00.000-07:00

This Saturday...

2008-06-11T09:57:00.001-07:00

Book Club Picnic this Saturday at the Park!

We decided on 11:30.

Bring your families and your lunch!

Address:

Cottonwood Complex

13th East and about 4300 South

(call Arrion at 554-3967 if you need better directions)

The playground is on the North side of the park. It is kind of hard to see from the parking lot but just park to the North of the Baseball diamonds and follow the sidewalk to the playground.

See you there!

lookie what we got...

2008-05-31T20:33:00.000-07:00

her first book club book... I'm sure she will find it truly an amazing read, mostly because it's from all her mommy's favorite friends who have really great taste in literature.

What a sweet surprise! You guys are so nice and thoughtful to send me (and the little one) something so special in the mail. I was so excited to open the package, and once I saw all the little messages inside-- it brought tears to my eyes. I miss you all so much and wish I could still be more apart of your lives. I'm so excited for my new little friend and can't wait to meet her--only two more weeks to go. I really appreciate your care and excitement for us and wish I could be at our monthly meetings for all the motherly advice I could pick up on.

Thank you so much everybody, this book will be in our family for years to come.

2008-05-14T12:34:00.001-07:00

Thanks to everyone for coming out to club last week. It was a blast and I love you all.
PS Is anyone else still traumatized by the Hash smuggling story???

Just for something fun and new...

2008-05-13T21:15:00.000-07:00

This is a picture of Carly taking my Grandma for a ride on her Vespa about 7 years ago. Scary right?! But hilarious! Go Norma! (She passed away in February of 2007.) She was awesome and she loved Carly for some strange reason. =)

The Muscle

2008-04-26T09:44:00.000-07:00

So, recently, a few of us (namely Elena, Shellie, Ashley, and Natalie) embarked on a binge cruise aptly named "Moms Gone Wild '08". We sat by the pool and stuffed our faces and didn't have to be responsible for anyone but ourselves for 3 whole days. Also, for 3 whole days we were reminded of Elena's quest to attain Carrie Underwood's inner thigh muscle. Every stair we climbed, every mile we ran, every hour we sat next to the smelly garbage, Elena talked about the ellusive "muscle". So I had to track down a picture and show Elena my undying, never-ending, support of her muscle mission. Here's to you LEGS!!

Nat

2008-04-17T16:05:00.001-07:00

Jerome "Rome" William Stewart came to us at 8:15 on April 12th. I will have to tell you all the story of standing in line for 6, yes 6!!! hours for the Deal or No Deal casting call and then heading directly to the hospital to have him! Crazy! He was 6 lbs. and 14 oz., 19 inches long. Can't wait to see you all in a few weeks...and Elena, this is a pre-apology, but I will not have the book read...I know...baby or no baby, no excuse! :)

Weird Comments

2008-04-14T21:18:00.001-07:00

I think we should make our blog private to avoid the weird comments from random strangers...

Becca had her baby...

2008-04-14T14:27:00.000-07:00

So, I don't have any pics but Becca had her baby Saturday, that's right 12 days early. It was a quick one, only in the hospital for I think 2 hours before he was born. She came home today...that is all I know, didn't even ask his name...I am so lame!

On a different note, as requested, I added the links to all of your blogs that I could find. If you have one and I missed it, sorry, you can go in and add it to our list!

Rachel had her baby!

2008-04-12T21:32:00.001-07:00

NATALIE LYNN FORD

This is Rachel's post from her blog...

So look who has arrived! Natalie came to join our family on Tuesday, April 8, 08.....4-8-80....isn't that a great birthday?! I went in that morning to the hostpital to get her turned.....she was breech. When the doctor checked- Natalie had turned head down on her own....good girl for not making me go through the 'getting a baby turned' process, I hear it's very painful. My doc decided just to induce me because if she turned breech again the chances for a C-section were much greater, I didn't want that! So we forced the little cutey out. I did get the epidural and it was FABULOUS!!! Natalie arrived at 8:47 that night (it was a long day!) she weighed in at
6 lbs. 15 oz. She was 20 inches long....10 fingers, 10 toes and perfectly perfect everywhere else! She is a great eater...and sleeper (all day she was anyway-we'll see how her first night at home goes!) So weird to now have a family of four children....bring on the chaos!!!!!!

Congratulations Rachel! I can't even imagine or comprehend having four kids.

Now we have two Natalie's in our book club. Yeah!

A "Lifetime" Movie Worth Watching?

2008-04-07T09:21:00.000-07:00

If you have ever been awake at 3:30 am and turned on the T.V., you have surely stumbled onto a Lifetime original about a teenage cheerleader who collects beanie babies and her struggle with meth or a teacher's love affair with her 13-year-old student and her struggle to figure out how she will raise their illegitimate children while she rots in jail. I know you have been brought to tears by the incredible script writing and inspired acting. Or maybe you were just crying because you realized you will never get those minutes back that you just spent watching that crap. Well I just saw something that could change that (maybe). Lifetime made a movie of the book "The Memory Keepers Daughter" which we read (and I think mostly really liked). It premieres on Saturday, April 12th at 9 pm/8c and stars Dermot Mulrooney as Dr. David Henry and Gretchen Mol as Norah Henry. I'm thinking, since it's not a Lifetime original movie that they wrote, it might not completely suck. I may not give up my Saturday night just in case, but i think I'll tivo it for later...

Nat

Literators: let's go to the movies!

2008-04-02T20:54:00.000-07:00

sex & the city: may 2008

the time traveler's wife: november 2008

twilight: december 2008

Check this out....

2008-03-18T21:09:00.001-07:00

Hey ladies....I just found this article that I thought was so so so so very interesting. I'm still forming my opinion on this...and I know it was something discussed in Jan. book club. I'd be interested to hear some of your opinionated opinions!!!!

A User-Friendly Vaccination Schedule

http://www.lewrockwell.com/miller/miller15.html

Things We Learned at Club Last Night

2008-03-06T15:40:00.000-08:00

1. First and foremost- Santa Clara Princess Carly's full bladder and the "Ring of Fire" do not mix.

2. We all (especially Elena :) ) need Ashley's Chicken Roll Up recipe stat!!

3. Although Annie wore the same outfit for a month while backpacking through Europe, at least she didn't blow her food money on shoes. (Hot dogs in French bread- yum!)

4. Lilli is trying desperately to solve her blog identity crisis.

5. I seriously dislike, OK, HATE with a passion, Angie from 'Good Things Utah.'

6. Kirsten will probably never respond to any of your e-mails. Just call her if you need to tell her something!!

7. Bridgette loves to spend her days playing 'Polly Pockets' and 'TMNT' (Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles for all of you losers out there that didn't know) and she also has a very, very brave mom.

8. Speaking of moms- let's just say, SOMEONE's needs a SERIOUS talking to. Are you writing that letter yet?

9. We are all glad Ashley survived her years in Philly- flashers and all.

10. Arrion remains our nutritional idol when it comes to feeding our kids. WOW!

11. The Other Bolelyn Girl the book-RULES

12. The Other Bolelyn Girl the movie-SUCKS A#@!

13. Though we all struggle at different times, with different things, be it potty training, finding time to get our pics scrapbooked, or more seriously with family relationships and self esteem- we are all doing our best to be the best moms, wives, friends, and selves we can be... AND WE ARE DOING IT PRETTY WELL!!!

So pat yourselves on the back, take a deep breath, look around, and be proud. Let's all keep working hard and loving ourselves, and coming to club!!!

I love you all!

Nat

P.S. If you weren't there last night and don't know what any of this means, COME TO CLUB NEXT TIME and we'll explain it all then. We all want to hear the "Ring of Fire" story again anyway!

You all were right....

2008-02-29T23:34:00.000-08:00

Okay, so I caved and read the book....I LOVED IT! I thought 650 pages was too long to finish in a month, well I read it in three days. I liked it so much I went to the movies tonight (friday feb29) by myself! Having just finished the book the night before...I hated the movie! Hope the rest of you had a good time at the movie! Rachel

twilight quiz

2008-02-16T09:32:00.000-08:00

rachel wanted to post this--- so here it is:

what twilight character are you?

check this out....It turn out that I'm an edward! Who are you?

http://www.quizilla.com/users/twilightnexus/quizzes/Which%20Twilight%20novel%20character%20are%20you%3F/

I wanted to put this on the blog...but as I tried I realized I don't know how...someone please explain how to post something.

hope the party was a blast!

rachel

such fun......so i'm a jasper????? not sure what that means??

carly--thanks for the party--vic even said he had a good time (& that takes a lot)--although he was a little jealous that trevor got a beer & he didn't

-holly

I Heart Book Club

2008-02-15T13:51:00.000-08:00

So I am feeling a little sentimental today and I just wanted to let all of you know how much I LOVE book club. My absolutely favorite part is how different everyone is, yet I feel so accepted. I love hearing all of your different opinions, views and thoughts and hearing them makes me reflect on my own and think in a way that I am not challenged to very often, being a stay at home mum. I am so glad to be a part of something so unique and awesome! Literators rock...even if the name doesn't!

I want to be a literator when I grow up!

2008-02-10T13:45:00.000-08:00

Alex loves reading his mom's books...

A tribute to Carly's "fat" summer.

2008-02-08T17:52:00.000-08:00

I am sure Carly is going to love me for this but oh well. That's what best friends are for right? Here are a couple of pictures from Carly's (and mine) infamous fat summer. Aaah the good old days. For thoses of you who don't know, this is the summer that Carly and I met and fell in love. Notice how Lilli looks gorgeous like usual and I have a noticeably smaller chest. I wonder how that happened? Enjoy!

Changes....they are a coming!

2008-01-24T18:58:00.000-08:00

Hello my beloved book club members! I have bitter sweet news....Chad was accepted to the Physicians Assistant Program at Emory Universtiy in Atlanta. We think we are going to go (even though its a big cop out hehe...I love Kirsten!) Anyway...I can't wait to see you all on the 6th!
-Bridgette
p.s Aren't Lilli's babies adorable?

New blog look...

2008-01-14T20:14:00.000-08:00

So I was thinking our blog looked a little "blah" so I hope you like my changes. I had to dabble in code and everything to get it to look this way so if you don't like it, tough....

Anyway, here is a picture of my cute girls, LOVE THEM! Maggie looks mad, but rest assured she loves her life. Brent and I aren't pretty enough to warrent a posting yet.

Newlywed Game Anyone?

2008-01-09T11:06:00.000-08:00

Just wondering if we have a date and time officially for our Valentine's Bash? I'd like to get it on my calendar so my EXTREMELY busy social schedule can work around it.

Also, what about tentative dates for our future retreats? We jotted some down at our Little America brunch/binge...just wondering if we could get those out so we could get everyone's opinion and so I can, once again, see if my schedule will allow me to grace you with my presence.

Love, your super busy, plan-ahead gal, Nat.

Feb book night

2008-01-08T18:53:00.001-08:00

Since I am newer to the "club" I thought I might put some info about me & my little family! The hubby is Vic, he is an only child & doesn't share well--but he can fix anything! Then there is me, I like "creating" things--mostly sewing but some day I'll take an art class & really learn to draw! And finally there is Kate! What can I say--she is our princess! Right now I am staying home with her, but before she was around I taught special education (I'm sure you all remember my meltdown!) I loved it & I miss it--but I love being home with Kate!! Vic works for Morgan Stanley. He does stuff with money and investing & a bunch of other stuff that doesn't make sense to me, but he likes it & is happy there. My world revolves around the wee one & what we are going to do each day! Luckily, I have a cute sister right next door--so I'm not stuck inside all day (is winter over yet???) It is wonderful to have her close (especially when I need two minutes without the munchkin--I can handle a classroom full of kids with no problems, but still haven't figured out what to do with only one!)

This month's book is The Other Boleyn Girl by Philippa Gregory

See you Feb 6th!
-Holly

new to blogging...

2008-01-08T14:23:00.000-08:00

so, i promised anne that if she invited me back i would contribute...

thanks for such a fun, informative, and interesting club night Rachel, definitely gets the wheels turning! i can't get the book for feb at ANY library, i may just have to break down and buy one for once.:) hope everyone is having a fantastic week...try to stay warm and my hubby and i can't wait for the feb activity(ok..so he can wait, but i can't!!)

and by the way...CONGRATS!!!!! Lori....i am so excited for you!

here's a recent pic of Toria...of course in her pj's with her hair a mess...oh well...

2008-01-08T13:38:00.000-08:00

Soooooooo, I just checked out the new book club selection from the library and I almost had my baby right there when I saw how freakn' thick this book is.......are you sure we don't want to go with something thinner?! Just a thought!!!!!!

I Love You All.

2008-01-02T22:35:00.001-08:00

To each of my wonderful friends...

Becca: You take on so much in your life. I am so impressed with how humbly you manage it. You are amazing.

Ashley: Thank you for your intelligent insight and positivity. I'm always glad to see you at club.

Arrion: I admire your strong beliefs (ex. how you are raising Madelynn) and that you don't preach to everyone about how they should do things. You just live how you live. It's great.

Annie: You are such a peaceful, caring person. I love hearing whatever it is you have to say. (I also wish my arms were as long as yours. And my legs for that matter.)

Bridgette: I hope you know how much I look up to you for your strong morals and sensitivity. I may give you a hard time, but I think it is endearing. You are so truly sweet.

Elena: Where do I begin. You are such a unique and wonderful friend. I love that you don't take shiz and you don't put up with it. I love you.

Lilli: I always look forward to hearing what you have to say. You put so much thought into your life and try so hard to be better. You are a really special person. I'm so glad we're friends.

Shellie: I love how much you (and Lill) worry. It's is incredibly adorable to me. You are such a loving, warm, sensitive soul. I think of you and smile.

Carly: Seriously, no one makes me laugh more than you. You are passionate about everything- shoes, coffee, your family, your career, chocolate (really food in general, right?)

I adore and look up to you.

Rachel: You are so driven, and compassionate. You are so comfortable with who you are. You think outside the box. I love your spirituality. You are a dedicated mom. You are so much fun.

Holly: I couldn't NOT love Bridgette's flesh and blood. You share a name and birthday with my mom- and I think that's fate. I know I have alot to learn from you.

Kirsten: I know you don't read this blog because you don't believe in computers...but I want you to know how much I enjoy you. You are such a colorful character, and have so much to add to club. I hope even if you move 50 times, or get thrown in jail for speeding without a liscense in a slutty outfit- you will keep coming. You make me laugh.

Krissy: I look forward to getting to know you better-I already know I like you...I'm excited to discover more of who you are.

Lori: Our satellite member and my dear, dear friend. I can't even sum how I feel about you and what you mean to me in a sentence...I love you and always will no matter how far we are on this planet or in our separate lives.

I drove home thinking of each of you and wanting you to know how much I love you. You add so much to my life. I look forward to this new year, yet another in a long string of wonderful ones I hope. Thank you each for who you are to me and for all you have taught me.

Here's to more hilarious, silly, meaningful, insightful, fulfilling, and fun times.

Literators Rule!!!

Love, Nat

Some News...

2008-01-02T12:58:00.000-08:00

Visit Lori's blog for some exciting news!

http://www.lorileesw.blogspot.com/

Happy Holidays Literators!

2007-12-27T19:21:00.000-08:00

Love,

The Hazens

(Shawn, Carly, Claire, Sam, Sadie & Kira)

Book Club Date????

2007-12-27T18:20:00.000-08:00

Okay, so I am wondering what the new day for book club is going to be. I heard the last Wednesday of the month and then I think I got an email saying that it was the first Wednesday of the month, but now I can't find the email, so I might have been dreaming. I was talking to Becca and she did not get any email so I am very confused. Can someone please help me sleep better at night and tell me when book club is?

Quote of the Day

2007-12-15T19:42:00.000-08:00

First of all...I had so much fun @ the retreat. What a great night (and meal). I only gained 1.3 pounds @ WW this week from all of the crap I ate and I am still full from our brunch!! As long as we don't do that every week, I think I'll maybe be able to make it to my goal. But I do think it's imperative that we do it often-it's so good for the soul (not the waistline but we all can't be Heidi Klum, I mean, Annie.) Does the phrase "Duck Walk" mean anything to anyone?

I have been thinking about part of our conversation at breakfast all week. For those of you who weren't there, we got on the subject of home security. We shared our different perspectives on the matter, from Carly living alone for 2 years and sleeping with a knife under her mattress, to Elena who has to remind herself to lock the front door when Mark is at work (and Shellie told us a horribly disturbing home invasion story which she can recount another time if you want to hear it). Suffice it to say- I couldn't get scary thoughts out of my head and worry and concern about what I can or should be doing to protect me and my family, etc. and I thought of this quote which I love for so many reasons:

"Worrying doesn't relieve tomorrow of it's troubles, it empties today of it's strength."

I love the use of the word strength. I feel like there are so many forces at work in the world, for us and against us, and it's of utmost importance for us as women and mothers to be strong and centered as much as we can in order to overcome obstacles and feel peace. I try to think of this quote to reign myself in when I start stressing about all I have to do and don't have time to or that my kids haven't touched a green vegetable in days and are therefore going to contract rickets and die because I am a horrible mother. I want to try be the best I can be TODAY, and not sabotage that by worrying about tomorrow and all of the things I can't control. It's important to do what we can to be prepared but we can't live in the "What If?" space or we will drive ourselves insane.

Enough. I love you all!! Cute pictures! I'll have to get some up when I figure out how to get them from my camera to this website.

Love, Nat

P.S. Can we post the "Future Retreat" schedule that we came up with to get everyone's input? I don't remember who wrote it down-maybe Shellie? Thanks!

Also, somebody figure out how to make Joaquin Phoenix a part of our blog.

One more pic!

2007-12-12T20:08:00.001-08:00

I forgot me!

Pics!

2007-12-12T19:51:00.000-08:00

Ok, here we are....sleeping beauties, Christmas Barbie, and the rest of us...not pictured Xango Queen aka Rachel Ford...oh and Annie wouldn't pose for the camera. Love ya all!

A Fab Retreat!

2007-12-12T19:35:00.000-08:00

Hello Ladies! I must say I had a great great time at the retreat....I never knew Lilli and Elena had such moves!(thanks for dancing with me ladies..and thanks Aarion for looking on!) I would also like to thank Joaquin Phoenix for being such a freak! hehehe
I am going to try to post a pic of my cute little babies.....I am not exactly computer savy, so I hope it works!
-Bridgette

Merry Christmas!

2007-12-12T08:49:00.000-08:00

Merry Christmas from the McIntosh family! I am done with finals! Yippee!!!

HO HO HO

2007-12-10T16:08:00.000-08:00

Hello Friends! I wanted to wish you all a Merry Christmas and tell you how thankful I am for your friendship. Happy Holidays!

PS.

Please post some pictures of your life and loved ones so that we can get to know each other better.

January Book Pick

2007-11-28T10:37:00.000-08:00

"Louder Than Words: A Mother's Journey in Healing Autism" by Jenny McCarthy

Maggie Sue Bird

2007-11-07T20:44:00.000-08:00

Hello fellow literators! Maggie is just a little angel and such a peaceful little spirit. We are both doing well and she is breast feeding like a champ and I am enjoying every bit of her! I know you all have heard me speak vocally about how hard things were after Grace was born, and how nervous I was for this one to come, but I have to say that my experience so far has been vastly different! I love to just hold her and stare at her and I am actually enjoying breast feeding, which wasn't the case last time. She really has a peaceful spirit about her and all I want to do is be near her. I am so grateful that I am enjoying having her here with us!

Grace is adoring her new little sister and role as "big sister" but she is going through a bit of a hard time now that she doesn't have our undivided attention. That has definitely been a struggle. Any suggestions? Love my girls and love being a mom!

Anyway, I hope that I am going to be able to make it to the retreat, we'll just have to play it by ear!

-Lilli

Baby Bird finally has name!

2007-11-07T12:34:00.000-08:00

Lilli has named her new little girl ........dudududuunnnnn(that was a drum roll)
MAGGIE!!!!!!!!!
And she is quite adorable
So our retreat date is set for December 1st......its shaping up to be the party of the century, so I hope everyone can come!

-Bridgette

Baby ?

2007-11-05T07:42:00.000-08:00

Hello Ladies! Lilli's cute new little girl finally arrived last night with apparently only 3 min of pushing! Hoorah for Lilli! As of last night she still didn't have a name.....I haven't spoken with Lilli yet, so those are the only details I have......more to come I'm sure!

So I've only heard from Shelli and Nat concerning the retreat...I need to let my little brother know soon...so let me know what day everyone wants to go...the 1st or the 8th. Lori I think you should fly back for the holidays so you can come on our little retreat with us! We definitely miss you!
-Bridgette

2007-10-22T15:21:00.000-07:00

Hey everyone!

The month in between clubs seems to be getting longer and longer to me. I miss you guys. Can we make club twice a month instead of only once? C'mon.

Elena-I'm excited to see your house!! I can't wait.

Car-I hope you are still considering bringing Claire-I really want to hold her again. Maybe I'll just have to drop in again...

I hope our other pregnant members are hanging in there-I can't wait for some more club babies! I need to live vicariously through you. I love other people's babies (I'm just not ready for another one of my own...yet.)

Lori-how's paradise? Any job prospects? Does Cody like school? Is your garment/tanktop look catching on?

Lilli- are you ever coming to club again? Please! For the love...we miss ya.

Annie-how's school? Are you surviving/enjoying it?

On a serious note- My baby girl's birthday is on Wednesday. I can't believe it has been 4 years since she was here and gone. It seems like forever yet like no time has passed. This time of year, the smells, the weather, the leaves changing all bring me back...remind me of her and of my experience. Kiss your babies for me tonight-we are so blessed to be mothers, to have healthy children to hold and kiss and nurture and teach and watch grow. They are such amazing miracles. I am thankful everyday for mine-both on earth and my angel in heaven.

I love you all. Nat.

Howdy From Texas

2007-10-14T18:07:00.000-07:00

Hi Girls. I was reading the blog, and wow! I am sooo out of the loop. It makes me so sad to be away and missing club.

First and foremost, congratulations Carly on the baby.

Bridgette, congrats too, as I haven't seen you since you were almost due.

I must see pictures of the fabulous extensions, Natalie.

Lillian, congrats on the news of the babe. I notice you have that same problem of getting a little hairier than usual. Don't worry. It will all go away once the hormones relax. :)

And Elena, I am making it a point to finish this month's book!

Things in Texas are going well. We are in the process of buying a house. Temporary housing for 4 months can make a person crazy.

Miss you all!

Becca is the chocolate bomb!

2007-10-03T17:50:00.001-07:00

P.S. I was reading the newspaper today and I noticed that Becca was 3rd place in the Utah State Fair Special Recipe contest for Ghirardelli Chocolate. She made her Chocolate Indulgence Cake. Yummy! (When do we get to try some?!) We already knew you were an awesome cook Becca but now everyone else does too! Congrats and we love you!

http://www.sltrib.com/food/ci_7064370

Baby Claire in the movies!

2007-10-03T15:05:00.000-07:00

Did you guys know that they are making The Time Traveler's Wife into a movie!? I might be a little slow and everyone already knew about it but I just found out. I'm so excited even though the movie is never as good as the book. Rachel McAdams is playing Clare and Eric Bana is playing Henry. It is supposed to come out sometime in 2008. I'm thinking we need to have a book club movie night and all go see it together!

Pregnant and Beautiful!

2007-10-03T11:18:00.000-07:00

Ok, no one pay attention to a word Lilli says! She is one of the lucky people in this world who actually get more beautiful then they already are when they are pregnant! For real, I'm not blowin' smoke Lill.........you are so cute! By the way everyone can wish Lilli a Happy Birthday, a couple of days late(it was on Monday)
-Bridgette

AWOL bookclub member shares some thoughts!

2007-10-02T17:23:00.001-07:00

Hello one and all....I am so glad to see people starting to post! I love reading what you all have to say! I may as well be living in Hawaii with Lori because I NEVER get to come to bookclub anymore and I really miss seeing and talking to all of you. I agree with Lori that pictures always make the posts more fun to read and since this is about what I look like in my extreme state of pregnancy I thought I would include it! Anyway, keep writing, because I love it!

Love ya all

2007-10-01T21:50:00.000-07:00

Thanks Nat and Lori....I agree with Lori, I have never seen Natalie with one hair out of place!(Love your extensions by the way)

I think what keeps us going is knowing that everyone is having those days! Thank goodness our kids our so stinkin' cute and our husbands so very hot!

Um Carly, I'm sure I'm not the first person to say cute, cute, and more cute! Good work....can't wait to see her in person! Hope all is going well!
Love ya all, Bridgette

no comment?

2007-10-01T11:29:00.000-07:00

I'm so happy everyone is slowly but surely getting more comfortable with blogging, it helps me still fill apart of book club.....I miss you guys! I love seeing what is going on in your lives, and what everyone is up to......so keep the posts coming.
The reason for this post is to remind everyone to comment. For those of you who don't know.. there is a little comment button you can click under each post, and it will open a small window that allows you to type in what you want to say, and then it publishes under the comments window. (You can see in previous posts....where I have commented on what people are saying). Maybe you all know about this already, and if that's the case.....you better start commenting! That's the fun part about posting and looking at the blog....to see what others are saying in response......and we all know, with this group, everyone always has something to say :)
I mean, come on.....am I the only one who can give Bridgette advice on motherhood?? I am practically the only one without kids, and pretty much no responsibilities right now...so, I'm not sure if I should be offering her the only advice.
Here is a dumb picture of me I just took...posting is always more fun with photos...even if they include no make-up, morning breath, greasy hair, and yes, those are my garments under my tank top. It's the new style.
I miss everyone dearly!

Virgin blogger on the scene

2007-10-01T09:36:00.000-07:00

First and foremost- Claire's here!! Raise your hand if you hate Carly for only ENDURING 4 hours of labor and looking like a post-giving-birth supermodel!! Now if you want to see some great post-giving-birth pictures close your eyes and imagine this-me, add 75 lbs and a 6 gallons of IV fluids to my body (mostly my face) and a lovely hospital gown, remove makeup and cute hairstyle, and voile! GLAMOUR magazine. Seriously Car! You are a beautiful mother. And Claire is gorgeous!

Um, Hello, Jen? You need to get your butt to club and deliver us the juice!! We need romance in our lives-you know we do. Congrats!!! I'm so happy for you!

Did I miss Lori's tips on how to be Supermom/wife? I need those tips DESPERATELY.

Bridgette-I want to be that person too. I don't think it's possible. I am burdened with guilt every minute of every day. What a struggle-and yet what a joy it is to have a family. I know it's been a bit since you posted that but I just read it and feel your pain. And if you are anything like me-you've had another one of those days since you posted. I love ya! Keep doing your best and coming to club. That alone will give you strength to face another inadequate day RIGHT?

Thanks Krissy for the other night! I had so much fun. P.S. I bought Knocked Up so I can watch it and laugh my A@# off at any moment.

Enough from me-Love to all.

Congrats Sean and Carly!!!

2007-09-29T20:51:00.000-07:00

Welcome to our newest member... Claire Ellen Hazen!

2007-09-28T20:09:00.000-07:00

Thanks for the tips Lori! Sorry about my emotional post...I was having one of those days...the next day I just decided to enjoy my kids and get a good workout! I felt so much better... Anyway, we love you and miss you! -Bridgette ps are you going to give us your reviews of the books?

Drowning!

2007-09-26T21:50:00.000-07:00

Wow...this is so easy! I thought it would be way to complicated for me...I'm slightly computer illiterate. Ok, heres my thoughts.....does anyone have any advice on how to have enough time to be a good mother(and all that entails) , keep your house clean, make good healthy meals for your family, go to work every once in awhile, support your husband while he is at school and smile when he gets home at 10:00 every night.....so on and so on! I never get everything done that I need too! What are some great time saving tips? Can you tell its been one of those feel like I'm drowning days?! Give me some feedback! Love ya all -Bridgette

new blogger!

2007-09-26T21:48:00.001-07:00

Hello Ladies! Just trying out the blog thing....this is a test run, so if if works I'll try to post something more interesting later. -Bridgette

October Book: The Idiot Girls' Action-Adventure Club

2007-09-26T08:42:00.000-07:00

Whose getting married....

2007-09-20T11:10:00.001-07:00

Hello all,

I thought I would share some exciting news! I'm getting married. Can't wait to see you all at club.

Jen

Is Carly really pregnant or is that a basketball?

2007-09-13T13:38:00.000-07:00

I think I speak for all women who gained more than three pounds during pregnancy when I say-NOT FAIR!