Fore!

Well it has been a while since we all got together on another adventure...this time it was golfing. Now I have golfed a handful of times and by no means am I good, but if I get a good connection the ball can fly. But I have no patience for the game and putting became a serious issue...lucky we stopped counting at 8! We had so much fun as always...we laughed almost the whole time...we had a couple drinks...we dodged goose s%#t from the sky...all in all another fun evening. I bought 3 balls and came home with none...the course itself was a small par 3 course and somewhat confusing as to where the next whole was. It wasn't very busy so we didn't hold anybody up which made it even better since we could laugh and try different shots...Happy Gilmore anyone!! Thanks ladies for another great time...look forward to our next one!!~~Marsha~~

Our golf get-away...

My first question ... What do you wear golfing?

Next ... Will beverages be involved?

Lastly ... Can I bring my husbands balls?

And the answer is ... yoga pants, coolers and make a note to bring more balls next time :)

As always, I enjoyed the adventure. I haven't golfed for +12 years and I believe I swung at air then too! The pink lemonade coolers definitely helped (good recommendation Tasha). Let's be honest though... isnt this why people golf?? Kinda wish I wore some rain boots though ... much easier to spray down with the hose after strolling through geese poop.

This was fun - good laughs - bit of an adventure (searching for balls, watching them bounce back off of rocks or trying to find the right flag)!

Not my favourite activity, but always fun when your with the right people.

Cheers, Jennie

A Golfing We Will Go...

So we hit the links for a little game of wack-a-ball...or at least that's what I call it. Jennie hooked us all up with a Dealfind, 9 holes for $10, you just can't beat that price. It was a beautiful fall night with barely anyone on the course. Perfect for us begginners! The course was a little confusing and the geese crap was plentiful. But set that all aside a group of great friends a few coolers, a night off from the kids, sounds pretty good to me. We laughed our way through 9 holes. Jennie and I quit hitting after 7...hahaha...we ran out of balls! I was impressed with Reen and her mad golf skills...she schooled us for sure! But I think all of us hit at least one great shot and I think that is what keeps golfers going. That one fantastic drive or an amazing putt. I had a great time and look forward to the next adventure....hmmm...what could it be?

~~Tasha~~

Golfing with the Girls

FORE!  Look out golfers, here comes the ladies with drinks in one hand and clubs swinging in the other!  The ladies and I hit the golf course for a very entertaining time out.  We got an amazing deal from dealfind for 9 holes at our local golf training facility, RCGA.  It was the perfect setting for beginners looking to get some skills and experts looking to fine tune their short game.  We met at the course, and from the first tee to the last, we were all smiles and giggles.  Tasha, Marsha and Jennie did an amazing job for not being full fledged golfers.  I was really impressed.  I enjoyed the course, but found it really confusing.  The hole placement was challenging to say the least.  When you are standing on your tee box and look out to see four or five flags looking back at you, and then have to check and then recheck the score card to analyze the map you know that maybe they need to do a better job directing you.  All in all it was a blast!  A must do for ladies looking to get out on a beautiful fall evening, free from kids, and experience something new.

Paintball...

Well it seems like it has been a while but all of us girls finally had a chance to do an activitiy and it was paintball. We went to Rampage Paintball in Millarville and this time we included our husbands. We had a lot of fun! What I learned about myself is this....I am still a wimp...haha...I knew that going in and I have reconfirmed it again. I was too scared to get hit by the paint bullets and luckily I only got hit twice...my strategy was to not get hit...haha..obviously...so I pretty much stayed in one spot on each field and became an overzealous sniper, I know I went through more paintballs then everyone and I can't even say for sure if I hit anyone. But I still loved it. My husband Kevin also enjoyed this and we will definately be doing it again...
At first we played wives against husbands...and we quickly learned that us girls didn't have a chance against them...at one point I was stuck behind a barricade and Kevin and Rick were both shooting at me and I got wimpy and jumped out and said I was hit..but I wasn't...so I walked over to the dead zone to find Jennie and Reen also in there and we had left Tasha to fend for herself...haha...she came back to us with her goggles splattered in paint.
The Millarville site has 7 different fields to play on and we played on 3 of them...one was called "The Town" and that was my fave as there was wood buildings to hide in..the goal was to raise your team flag in 3 different areas and then defend them for 15 minutes to see who was the winner...I would definately reccomend this to all...go check it out!
It was fun to see our husbands out as well...and I look forward to doing another group activity like this again...

Paintball - Blasts of Fun!

Jennie and I getting ready

So if I start rambling and not making too much sense in this particular posting, it's because I was nailed in the head with a paintball.  For reals.  Marsha's husband Kevin got me good.  And you know what?  I totally deserved it!  Bobbing around like a wanna be Rambo, it was just a matter of time.  Other than the head shot, the game was so fun!  I think paintball gave me a real understanding of who I am...a really nervous fighter.  I either spray bullets like nobody's business or hunker down and silently pray that the game will be ending soon.  I don't think my heart could beat any faster.  I could literally hear it pumping like mad!  The girls invited the husbands for this unique event and I am so glad we did.  The boys got along great.  But seriously how could they not really enjoy themselves when the first game was "capture the flag" and it was husbands against wives?  It feels great to shoot someone with little to no consequences.  Wait, does that not sound sinister or what?  On two occasions I nailed my own husband with a satisfactory spray.  Maybe that will teach him to pick his clothes up off the floor!  Not likely.  The setting was fantastic with a beautiful summer morning in Millerville (just outside Calgary) country.  The girls were impressive, diving into bushes and hiding around trees and bunkers.  The only thing missing was a cold one after the game.  We are already in the process of planning another go at it!  Special thanks goes to Groupon for providing an awesome deal of just $20 for two people to go nuts and a big shout out to Jesse from Rampage Paintball for showing us the ropes and dealing with the likes of us!

Stay away from Rick the Sniper!!! :)

Groupon: $20 for 2 people

Rampage Paintball: They have 3 sites (Indoor, Okotoks and Millarville)

Extra costs... Paid an extra $10 for 100 paintballs (coveralls were included in the price at this location)

Today the Try-it-Girls went out of our usual comfort zone and invited our lovely husbands to join in on our adventures. I think it's so great how easy it was to all get together. No work - no pressure - no regrets. Everyone just hangs, chats, laughs ... a great group of people!

After we geared up my heart quickly accelerated! I haven't played paintball for over 10 years. The last time (with a different company) it was a bit chilly outside. The paintballs also felt chilly ... creating quarter sized welts all over my body upon impact (yikes). Today, i'm afraid was no exception. I thought the bruises came because it was a bit cold out - I was wrong! However... I really enjoyed it!!!

Our first game was interesting...

It took a bit of time to get used to the mask and the heat, but all was good. I decided to layer my clothes today (sweats, tank, long socks, high boots, long-sleeve shirt, winter gloves to protect the knuckles, scarf to protect the neck - all under my coveralls). The first hit I received... right under the butt. Eeeeee-ouch! I was the one on the field with the potty mouth today. Us girls took on the boys for field #1. I'm afraid the game didn't last too long. But I can definitely say, the effort was there. It's not easy maintaining the confidence when your friends hubby (aka Rick) comes prepared for paintball with his own gear and a huge stash of paintballs! He had this cool attachment for his gun... his own "special pair" of gloves... a mask with a built in camera (was this for real Tasha? was he kidding?). Don't get me wrong, i've seen Rick a few times now and I really like him. Today... I was a bit scared! That sniper was on a mission!! :)

Next...

We played a few other games. 'The Town' was my favorite. 'The Bunker's my least. Seriously... who likes to pop their head out of a bunker - only to be pelted in the head??? Reen and I camped out behind a few fallen trees and just fired like mad women! No way I was getting into a bunker! I was impressed though... Tasha got herself right into that mess (you go girl!)

Lastly...

I ended up watching the last game after taking one in the knuckle. Unfortunately, the gloves didn't save me today! Overall, we had a great day. The weather was good. I really enjoyed this site (near Millarville market). I do have about 7 welts on the body (all but one near my arse). I'd take a picture, but due to the location I dont think anybody needs to see it! So... if your ok with a few bruises and dont need to wear a dress to a wedding anytime soon - i'd say go for it!!!

Cheers, Jennie

Paintball=Pain

So the girls decided to take on the world of paintball. We all bought a Groupon 2 for $20 which included everything through Rampage Paintball. They have 2 outdoor locations and an indoor course in Calgary. We chose the Millarville location. It was really secluded and very cool. We thought it would be fun to invite our husbands. We played guys against girls for the first 2 games...we got smoked and we have pictures to prove it. This was my first time paint balling, my husband Rick used to go all the time before we had kids. He used to come home with welts and bruises and the biggest smile on his face. I always thought he was crazy and how could that be fun. I will admit that it was fun but Holy Sh*t is it painful. I was really nervous and as it turns out I had reason to be. I liked it much better when we switched and had our men on our team. we played against a group of paintball pros...aka kids...hahaha...mind you most of them were younger than 17. But hey in my opinion if you have your own gun and come in your own camo gear your either a poser or a pro...in this case PRO'S. Us old folks took them down...hahahaha! Jesse was our instructor/referee. He was easy going, he took us to 3 out of the 7 courses they have there. We played different games at each one. I would definitely recommend it. I would go again and I can see how people get really into it, however I need to let my bruises heal first!

~~Tasha~~

A night out with Friends, Wine and Fashion

What a great time at Coop!  Who knew wine tasting was even available at Coop ( a grocery store for those of you who are unfamiliar) and that it would be so absolutely beautiful inside?  Tasha came across these tickets for a night out of fashion and wine tasting at a nearby grocery store and presented the idea to the girls.  Being an extremely girlie girl myself, I jumped at the chance.  I L-O-V-E wine and really L-O-V-E fashion, so needless to say, this was a good fit for me!  The venue just about took my breath away as it was so unbelievably beautiful inside, then the flight of wines waiting to be tasted made my mouth water.  Our sommelier, Erin, was amazing.  She reminded me of the famous author, Ernest Hemingway, as she describes what we are tasting in such detail, and with such enthusiasm, that I actually picture myself in her stories.  I really should confess that whenever I "wine taste", my glass is usually empty by the end of it and the "spit bucket" is bone dry.  The fashion part of it was a bit of a disappointment.  I thought we were going to see a fashion show, and get tips on Spring/Summer styles and such.  I was hoping they were going to share with me some great stores to frequent, tell me where I can get that elusive LBD that I have been dreaming about.  Tell me trends to stay away from and ones to jump all over and make my own.  I didn't get that portion of the evening.  What I did get however, was a great time with my girlfriends!  Like always they never seem to disappoint.  We laughed, we chatted, we poked fun.  It was a great night and I recommend attending such a night at Coop with your buddies.  Like Erin says, just drink, and see what happens....

Just Drink....and see what happens!!!

Last night we went to Summer Fashions & Wine Styles at the Oakridge Co-op Wines and Spirits Tasting Centre. First of all I want to say is that I didn't know that the Co-op had Wine and Spirits Tasting centres, and for those of you who also didn't know that they existed....please go and check them out. They have a website http://www.calgarycoopliquor.com/ so you can see where all their locations are and also see when they have other events like the one we atteneded. The room we were in was really nice the set up was fantastic and Erin the sommelier was very informative, fun and friendly...when she was talking to us about how to smell and swirl the wine, she said "let's get the snobby part over with." I thought that was funny because I have always associated wine tasting and "snobby" together. But it wasn't. We had fun, we drank (no we didn't use the spit bucket) and of course we laughed. Now wine has never been one of my favorite things...I do like white wines and rosee wines but red I am not a fan...and I did try a few different red wines last night, I have to say still not a big fan. But I think I will have to keep trying...haha. I tend to favour the sweeter wines and I have a new fave after last night called Moscato D'Asti it is a sparkling white wine, sweet and fruity and soooo good.
The fashion part of the night was also fun and another business I was unaware existed. They had 2 personal stylists from Studio Gorgeous and also a lady showcasing her jewelery. Studio Gorgeous sounds like something I would totally love to do some day. What they do is help you find clothing and accessories that are suited to you and your body type. They cater to any budget which is totally awesome. They will come to your home or you can go to their studio, they will go through your closet or you can bring a suitcase full of your clothes to them...they will help you find outfits using your own clothes or help you shop for new clothes and then also help you accessorize. It's like our own "What Not to Wear" here in Calgary...and speaking of that they are having a gala event June 18th featuring Clinton from "What Not to Wear" they have tickets available on their website for $99.00 www.studiogorgeous.com. I think the Try It Girls might have to check that event out. As always hanging out with the girls was a fabulous time...we are already talking about doing another tasting in the near future...and until then we will just have to host our own tastings at home...~Marsha

Wine and Fashion...With Great Friends!!!

So I found a great flyer in the mail box one day. It was from the Coop and it was for different classes on wine tasting. Instantly I thought of the Try-it Girls! So out went the emails and by the end of the day we had signed up for Wine Tasting and Fashion! This course was offered at the Oakridge Liquor Store, if you have never been to this NEW liquor store. You must go it is totally worth it. They offer some amazing courses that you can preregister for. The one we took was $20...it was a great buy! I am by no means a wine connoisseur but I found this class so fun, light, interesting and the wines were great too!!! Check out this website www.calgarycoopliquor.com it is a great site that I plan on visiting often. The fashion part was 2 stylist and a jewelry designer. They were there to give you tips, explain what they do. The stylist were from www.studiogorgeous.com and they were so great, very personable approachable and in no way snobby. They have great event coming up called Styling Your Life the special guest is Clinton Kelly from TLC's What Not To Wear. All proceeds go to Canadian Women's Foundation. It is on June 18 from 1:30-4:30. How fun will that be to get dressed up head downtown with your girlfriends for an afternoon of fun and fashion!!!

Overall this was a great experience and I bought my 2 new favorite wines with my 10% off for taking the course coupon. Who doesn't love COUPONS!!! So my new faves are Secco a bubbly wine even the bottle is fun and Moscato D'Asti Bosc Dla Rei....I think I will have a glass tonight!!!

~Tasha~

Will the girl beside me notice if I swipe her ice wine?????

Event: Summer Fashions and Wine Styles

Location: Oakridge Co-op - Wine and

Spirits Tasting Center

Price: $21.42 (includes gst)

I am a HUGE fan of white wine... 'Bend in the River' and 'Evolution' are my favorites. Whenever I consume red, I end up with an instant headache - so unless it's used for cooking, I avoid it. For this activity, I had to branch out of my usual "happy place" & explore the tastes of blush, red and ice wines. Was this hard??? No way!!! Obviously, I had my favorites. Initally, the smell of a few glasses turned me off, but once I committed to taking a sip or two, I was surprised by the flavours I picked up on and the after taste.

The sommelier (Erin from Co-op) had a great personality and made the evening a fun event for all us ladies. She spoke about foods you could pair with each glass we sampled - and it all sounded delicious! In between sips (or gulps) we nibbled on a selection of cheese and bread sticks. In addition, there were 3 other women speaking at this event. 2 were personal stylists (discussing fashion and accessories) and another who makes jewelry using vintage pieces. Visit www.studiogorgeous.com

The 2 hours flew by and most of my glasses were empty (why waste!?). Thanks again for driving Marsha :)

Would I recommend? Absolutely! Get your girlfriends together and buy your tickets!

Cheers - Jennie

Open Sesame....is a restaurant and the magic word...

We went to Open Sesame to celebrate Reen's birthday. I had never been there before but I had always wanted to try it and it was a hit!! I liked it a lot. I am a fussy eater so this was the perfect place for me because you get to pick out your whole stir fry and then they cook it for you. I had chicken with vermicelli and then added honey garlic sauce to all my veggies...and I added a small spoonful of chili peppers and mine was spicy...but still super good. I then shared the Peanut Butter Blondie with Jennie...mmm that was good too. I would totally reccomend this restaurant...so grab your girlfriend's or your guy...even the whole family but I would call ahead and make a reservation, the place fills up fast. And the prices were very reasonable, I had the stirfry, a beer and shared dessert and my bill was under $25.00!~Marsha

Mmmmmm ... dessert at Open Sesame

After a 3 day Quickbook course (18hours of fun) ... I was thrilled to meet up for Reen's birthday dinner (here's to another year of 29!)

My first priority ... a tall glass of Sleeman's Honey Brown.

I've been to this restaurant before and am happy to report that it still meets my expectations. The stir fry was good... but the beer and fantastic dessert were my top choices today.

I totally recommend the Peanut Butter Blondie.

From the menu... "A blondie square baked with white chocolate and peanut butter, served warm with Callebaut white chocolate hot fudge sauce, ice cream and real whipped cream".

Recommendation: Share it (its huge!)

Cheers - Jennie

Restaurant Review - Open Seseme

Yummy yum yum!  The girls and I met up at Open Sesame to celebrate my birthday and to enjoy a lazy Sunday dinner together.  It was fantastic!  We arranged to meet at 4:30 (no, we really are NOT that old that we require the Early Bird Special) for dinner.  And to my surprise there was a small "line-up" outside!  In fact, the hostess looked a bit stressed that we did not have a dinner reservation.  The place filled up fast and so did my tummy!  I went for the Go Stir Crazy off the extensive menu.  I was given a bowl and then directed to the bar where I filled up on veggies, sauces, and spices.  A bit daunting for me as I like just about everything and could potentially end up with a bowl full of yuck if combined all together.  Lucky for me, I showed some resolve and stuck to one sauce choice.  I dropped my heaping bowl off with the kitchen and they got right down to work, stir frying my concoction with added BBQ pork and vermicelli noodles.  It arrived steaming hot and super duper yummy.  The waitress was tipped off that it was my birthday and she brought me out a super yummy treat of Banana Wontons!  The girls might have noticed that I inhaled them (sorry!).  The verdict on Open Sesame?  I will be gracing their doors again!  But what really made the night was just being with friends who love me and spoil me silly!  Thanks girls for a great time (as always) and I look forward to our next adventure!

Open Sesame~Great Friends=Good Times!!!

So one of the Try-it Girls had a birthday and we decided to go for an early dinner and drink at Open Sesame on Macleod Trail to celebrate her. It really was a great time. We sat, drank, chatted, laughed and relaxed. It was exactly what I needed after a busy weekend. The restaurant opened at 4:30 and by 5 it was packed. I never would of thought it would be so busy on a Sunday afternoon. I had the bbq pork with vermicelli noodles and rice. I chose a Thai peanut sauce and a ton of veggies....so YUMMY!!! I will definitely go back to this spot. I ordered a creme brulee for dessert...I don't recommend it, it was like curdled milk...YUCK! But no biggy, worked out good for me as I didn't need all those calories anyway. Thanks girls for a great time and Happy Birthday!!! ~Tasha~

Indoor Rock Climbing - Climb on, and on, and on!

This adventure was so super fun!  Tasha, Jennie and I booked an intro class at the Calgary Climbing Center for a cool $40.  I wasn't too sure what to expect, but was amazed at the actual facility.  It has climbing everything!  I'm just a beginner (obviously) but I'm sure if I was a climbing savant, this is the place I would like to be.  The clientele looked like they were VERY serious about their climbing.  Our instructor, Dan, was really great and most of all patient (it can't be easy teaching girls that giggle at each others bums in the harness).  Dan taught us how to tie a terrific figure eight knot and then we learned how to attach the ropes to ourselves.  Our partner figured out the belay system (can't remember what any of the devices are called) and then before you knew it one girl was scaling the wall and the other was managing the other end!  It was awesome!  I'd like to tackle this outside as the indoor thing got old pretty quick, but because of our crumby climate, this was the best we were going to do in April.  Because there were three of us, I broke off for a little bit and helped a fellow climber.  Unfortunately for him, I dropped him.  Sorry guy.  He really wasn't hurt, just a little fazed...poor kid.  That is just another reminder that I should always try to PAY ATTENTION!  Will I climb again, hells yeah!  Will the guy I dropped?  Who knows?

Indoor What?....Okay I'll Try-it!!

Indoor climbing was a whole new world. We challenged ourselves for sure with this pick. Jennie and Reen climbed that wall like nothing....me well let's say I prefer to have both feet on the ground. I went, I climbed (sort of), I watched. This event was not my style but I really admire the people that do it. It really takes a lot of strength to scurry up a wall...it looks so easy when you see some do it...but don't be fooled it is TOUGH!!!! We had a great instructor named Dan, Dan the climbing man. Has a nice ring to it right! He really was a great teacher and in his words he says he climbs a lot! We attended our class at the Calgary Climbing Center. It really has a lot to offer if you are into climbing and my experience with the staff, was great. They seem very knowledgeable and eager to help. They have a great beginner class for $40 (must book in advance) it is chalk full of info and you are welcome to stay there and practice as long as you like after class. The question is will I climb again. My answer is not unless I have to. I did learn some cool knots that will come in handy at the lake though! One thing that I will warn you about is that the harness's are tight and show everything...I mean everything...and I couldn't help but notice that all males look huge...really huge! Hahaha...trust me I was not the only one that noticed this!!!!~Tasha~

Belay on!!!

I LOVED THIS!!!!

We (sans Marsha) signed up for a 2 hour introductory adult class at the Calgary Climbing Centre (Fraser Road - SE location). From the parking lot, it doesn't look like much... but when I stepped inside, I felt an instant adrenaline rush! Trust me... I'm not climbing crazy boulders yet, but i'm definitely into this.

'Dan the climbing man' was our instructor this evening. He walked us through putting on the harness (you want it tight, but not too tight that body parts are shouting 'look at me!' Yikes!) We tied ropes (the good ol figure 8), figured out how to work the carabiner and called out instructions to each other (Belay on! Climbing!)

Honestly, I can see why people get addicted ... I wanted to try it again and again. Not only that, it was super cool watching other people hang on and maneuver their way up and around. We had some great laughs & cheered each other on. Sign me up!!!

Cheers - Jennie

The Sahaja Meditation Experience

In the zone

Well that was...interesting. I am still experiencing some lukewarm feelings towards Sahaja Meditation Yoga. The girls and I agreed to meet at the location, which was a community center. Great! I was totally looking forward to it. As a mom of two and just going through a week of illnesses with the youngsters, I viewed this time as a glorified napping session for myself. Was I ever wrong. First red flag, the girls and I were the only ones in yoga clothes, everyone else showed up in jeans. Second red flag, a framed picture of a stranger sitting on a table with a candle burning in front of her. Third red flag, the host. Fourth red flag, the room! It was tiny, there was NO way we were napping in this environment! Fifth red flag, minimal instruction and then WHAM! We were to close our eyes and not to open them again, until we were told it was OK to do so. Suspicious? Oh Yeah! I am thanking my stars that I had left my handbag in my car. My senses were certainly heightened as I scanned the room for any out of the ordinary behavior.
I know I have a LOT of red flags, but I really think the activity of meditation is valuable. When I was able to calm my mind, after I was self assured I was not going to be jacked in the room. It was enjoyable. The question I ask myself is, why does meditation have to be so strange? What's wrong with just hanging out in your room without a strange framed lady staring at you in flickering candlelight, and finding some time to reflect? My answer, NOTHING! Do what makes you happy. Is Sahaja Mediation for me? No. But I do see the validity in some kind of meditation, just do what feels right to you.

Sahaja Yoga Meditation - "I felt emptiness in my head"

I found an ad on Kijiji about FREE 'Sahaja Meditation Yoga' offered in various locations throughout the city. Why not? ... It's free!

When I arrived at the location, I admit I was taken back. In my head, I had this vision - a white gymnasium, big windows, people sitting cross-legged on mats, complete peace and serenity. I wasn't expecting the wee little cement wall room & uncomfortable metal framed chairs. I had to remind myself ... 'this is free & this person is volunteering his time'. Luckily I remembered I brought a mat, so after my legs got numb I moved from the chair to the floor.

The 'yogi' told us about chakras, the flow of energy and blockages. At one point I saw Tasha and Reen's expression and almost busted out laughing. I know I owe you both a beverage for agreeing to try this out with me :) After some time, we did experience a guided meditation. I truly enjoyed this part and actually felt absolute silence in my head - hallelujah! (...that is, after I made sure my purse was still in close proximity!)

Would I go to this group again? no

However, I would try it on my own at home ... maybe before heading to bed

Cheers - Jennie

Sahaja Meditation Yoga.....what?

I will start off by saying that I am no Yogi or Yogini or whatever they call it. I wasn't going in to this and I certainly am not now. Since I believe in telling the true experience I will say going into tonight's yoga I really thought I was going to be robbed. I kept an eye on my bag the whole time. My eyes were supposed to be shut but I just had a bad vibe I guess. So what is meditation yoga...hmmm....well apparently I have a mosquito looking coil in my vajay-jay that needs to be fired up, it activates my Kundalini and in a circle like flow shoots some wind out the top of my head. Makes sense right...right!!! OMG What The??? So I think everyone should have quiet time to relax your mind from time to time. But the thought of doing this twice a day for 15 minutes boggles my mind. To me it seemed more like a religious ritual or something along those lines. They gave us a picture of some lady to put in a frame, told us to light a candle, sit cross legged in front of this framed lady and meditate to her....so not for me! In spite of this I will say I still had a ton of fun with the girls. There were so many times that I had to control myself from laughing hysterically. Do I recommend Meditation Yoga...NO! But I do recommend trying new things with your girlfriends and laughing at yourself and each other! So much fun!!!! For some reason I feel like I have to end this with this quote "May the force be with you" ~Tasha~

Hunger Games - The Series

WOW!  These books are amazing.  Truly a must read.  There are three books in the series, book one is Hunger Games, book two is Catching Fire and finally the third book is Mockingjay.

The author is Suzanne Collins.  I'm pretty sure the books are classified as a youth read, but as an adult I thought the books were amazing.  I never felt like I was missing out on any "adult content".  I suggest that if you are interested in reading the books, get all three right away.  You will blow through book one like nobody's business and then you will hunger (pardon the pun) for the next two right away.  I actually didn't want these books to end, they were that good.  But on the bright side, now I can get back to my life and much needed housework!  Happy Reading!

Hungers Games, Catching Fire and Mockingjay....A must read!!!!

Don't you love when you start a book and you are totally into it just on the first few pages...well if you do then these are the books for you!!! I was so enthralled in this story of a young girl named Katniss right away that I read the whole book in one day and the following 2 books in the next 3 days. It is one of those stories that you want to go on and on, like the Twilight series or Harry Potter. I don't want to give any details away as I think that everyone should read it. Let's just say that Suzanne Collins knows how to write a good story...and I am really excited to watch the movie and to see who will play who. And also to see the hair, make-up and costumes that they wear as in the book they sound pretty fabulous!! Basically what the Hunger Games are is 24 kids ages 12-18 (12 girls and 12 boys) thrown into a setting where they have to fight to the death...and there can only be one winner. You can find this book in the teen fiction area of a book store...but really I think it is for us older kids too...happy reading!! ~~Marsha~~

Hunger Games...Loved it!

You must read the Hunger Games trilogy. It was a great read from start to finish. I couldn't put the books down and believe me my house was neglected because of it. It was a fast paced no boring or dull spots. I fell in love with the characters. The author Suzanne Collins tells a gripping tale that revolves around Katniss a 16 year old girl who is forced to enter a futuristic televised competition where contestants battle to the death. It truly is a must read! Before I read this series I had found out that they will be making it into a movie. All the buzz is that this is the next huge blockbuster money making series. All through the book I kept wondering which movie star would be playing what part. Well they announced recently that Jennifer Lawrence (Winter's Bone) will be playing Katniss...I love her! I can't wait to see this world transformed on the big screen. I will be the first in line to watch this movie. I just hope the movies are as good as the books! ~Tasha~

Hunger Games ... books 1-3

What can I say? .... Read these books NOW!

Books: Hunger Games, Catching Fire and Mockingjay

Once you start, you wont be able to put them down.

I knew this series would keep my attention - after reading just a few pages. You know an author is good when one moment you're in tears and the next you're speed reading because the suspense is so much that you have to know how its all going to end. I think I may have actually missed a few meals because I was so drawn in! The author (Susanne Collins) is a remarkable writer ... you get wrapped up in the characters emotions, visualize the scenes in such amazing detail and understand the impact the games have on the children/families (including both the game participants and the spectators). This is going to make an amazing movie! I'm secretly hoping that there will be such a huge following that people will want to come dressed up (kind of like the star trek followers). If that's the case... I call dibs on the gown made completely of precious jewels in flame colors! Cheers - Jennie

Painting - 101

I have to admit, I was a bit nervous about this one.  The inspiration artwork looked a bit unattainable.  But I have to say I really impressed myself.  Our instructors name was Piroska Pipo.  She is everything you want in a teacher, kind, patient, encouraging and talented in her craft.  Pirosko teaches a new painting class every 3rd Tuesday.  The cost is super affordable at only $15 and that includes all your materials for the class.  The atmosphere is wonderful, as it is located in Caffe Crema, a cute little coffee shop in Bridlewood.  I encourage the faint of heart to give it a try as I am not the artist type and I am super proud of my artwork!

An artist is born!

The finished product!

Tasha's Masterpiece!



Jennie's Masterpiece!



Reen's Masterpiece!

Marsha's Masterpiece!

Painting with friends

So tonight we went to Caffe Crema in Bridlewood, it's a fun little coffee shop that offers so much more. They have this awesome painting class once a month, family game night, coffee tasting night plus so much more. If you check it out they have a calendar of all their events.

Back to painting...we had such a good night, lots of laughs and stories of our younger days all this while we learned how to paint a masterpiece....plus special coffees and tea....mmm good. Piroska Pipo, the instructor, was so nice and we all found that you really don't need to be an artist for your painting to turn out. And even though we were all doing the same painting...everyone's painting looks so different.

I think this is something we will do again, it's also something that I think I would bring my 10 year old daughter to...something fun we could do together and not overly complicated. So if you are at all interested...make sure you sign up early as the class fills up quickly...and it only cost $15.00!!

I am not sure what is next on our agenda...but I can tell you this blog and our outings are so much fun and something that I always look forward to!!! Til next time....Marsha

Painted, chatted with friends and drank a green tea/lemonade slushie

I consider myself a pro at 'finger painting' and 'paint by number', but this is something much more grown up. What a great way to spend the evening with friends and/or meet new people! Up to 15 people can sign up (in advance) for the evening. For $15, an artist walks you through the painting she has prepared for the evening - paint and your canvas are all included!

Caffe Crema is located in Bridlewood. To be perfectly honest, I didn't know it existed until Tasha told us about it a few weeks back. It's got a homey atmosphere - couches and lots of space. Check out the events calendar on their website. They've got live music (which I like!), free coffee tasting (I think we'll swing by again for this as well), family game night, craft hour and more. The bevies looked delicious - each of us tried something different.
Overall, I had a good time! Am I an aspiring artist??? I think I need to attend a few more Tuesday nights :)
Cheers - Jennie

Painting with the girls...Oh what fun!

So tonight we took in a painting course at Caffe Crema in Bridlewood. Every 3rd Tuesday of the month they offer a painting class for $15. What only $15 you say...that's right! It includes everything paint, canvas and step by step instructions from a fantastic art teacher named Piroska and you leave with your very own painting! I loved it!!!

Now I am not an artist at all and I actually think that there is an elephant out there that paints better than I do, but I truly enjoyed it. The conversation reached an all time high with the girls and I have learned so much about my fellow Try-it's...let's just say if I ever need to blackmail one of them I got the goods and vice-versa...hahaha! I knew there was a reason why I liked these girls so much. The coffee shop Caffe Crema is a top notch place with great coffee and a plethora of tasty beverages. It is a great hang out spot and they offer so many events including live music. I have learned tonight that it is a little gem in Bridlewood that I will frequent often. If you are in the neighbourhood definitely check them out you will not regret it. I plan on attending a few more painting classes to practice my skills!!! ~Tasha~

Scuba - my new best friend

I L-O-V-E Scuba diving! The girls and I grabbed an awesome deal from Dealfind, a 90 minute intro class at Aqua Sport Scuba Center. We had a blast...at least I did! I was a little nervous before we got there but meeting the girls for a snack helped calm my nerves. We filled out some paperwork and then jumped into the water! Our instructor Don, was a 5 foot nothing scuba guru. He was patient, funny and put us all at ease. It was so awesome moving through the lesson, I learned more from this class then any other Scuba intro class I have attended while on vacation (scary, I know), and was really confident by the end of it. I am so ready for the open water! I feel as though a whole new world has been unlocked for me to enjoy. I can't pass it by. I will need to get back in the water and dive again...but maybe not in our climate. Bring on the tropics!

Scuba...

Still not sure if I like Scuba or not. I would have to try it again to be sure. The price was right. $20 for 90 minutes. If it wasn't for Aqua Sport Scuba Center offering such a great deal through Dealfind I probably wouldn't of tried it. Don Warner the instructor was great and you can tell he has a real passion for diving which is almost infectious. He is the perfect teacher, he really wants to see you succeed. I am glad I tried it, my husband wants to dive so I may go again with him and decide if it is for me or not.

Take the plunge! Scuba Diving in Marda Loop

I was super curious when I saw this come up on Dealfind. $20 for 90 minutes at Aqua Sport Scuba Center (located in Marda Loop). Sign me up!
Don't get me wrong ... I was really nervous. I've always been somewhat curious about scuba diving. I could have tried it while vacationing in Mexico or Cuba, but always found something else to check out. I enjoy looking at the ocean, playing in it with my kids, and hanging on the beach.

Scuba....totally fun!!!

Today the 4 of us went to an intro course to Scuba at the Aqua Sport Scuba Center. We only had to pay $20.00 as we bought it on Calgary's Deal of the Day a while back. I have to say that I wasn't planning on liking this and I also was dreading this day...I was dreading it because I had to get in a bathing suit and then a wetsuit, and on me it's totally unattractive. But once I got in the pool I didn't really care.

A Little Taste of Zumba....

Check out what we had to endure!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qsSrq3HBa7A

Zumba for Beginners

The girls and I, sans Marsha, embarked on a Zumba adventure.  It was great!  I could see myself attending a few more classes to see if I can really get down and shake my money maker.  As it was I mostly just jiggled.  I am not the most fluid in my actions so I really thought I was going to have some serious trouble, but was surprised to see I wasn't the worst in the class!  Definitely, not the best, but not the worst.  In fact, as I looked around the room I was rather happy to see other women gyrating worse than I was!  The most humiliating part of was when you thought, "Wow, I think I got this, it feels good the way my hips are shaking!" and then you would look in the mirror and get the harsh truth...you look borderline crazy.  I woke up this morning and felt the effects of my Latin-inspired dance workout in my knees and thighs.  Nice, it works!  I challenge all of you to give it a try and see for yourself!

Get your ZUMBA on!

For years, I've been a spa lady member and have been curious about this class. Spa Lady's good about offering guest passes, so between Marsha and I, we had Reen and Tasha covered. I have to say... I really enjoyed it! Honestly - I'm aware that I probably didn't look so graceful, but that will change once I get to know the routines. There was alot of hip shaking - I had some good laughs - and worked up a sweat! I will be including this class as one of my weekly visits now! Cheers ... Jennie

I Hate Zumba!

So Zumba was the next activity on the docket and it was awful. I have no rhythm! I am the girl in the class that you look at and say well at least I'm not as bad as her! I dance like Elaine from Seinfeld. It is awkward, awful to do, and even more painful to watch. Good for some laughs though and that we did. Reen and Jennie really put me to shame, those girls got the moves!

Honestly I really got nothing out of it because I just couldn't find the beat. Remember the "Amazing Race" when the two guys couldn't march and you were screaming at the TV and thinking what idiots, who doesn't know how to march. Well that is what it felt like for me. Hahaha!!!

The instructor Jo Anne was great she could really move. But the best part other than laughing with the girls of course, was Nikki the manager at Spa Lady Canyon Meadows. She was really great and very easy to chat with. I never once felt pressured to buy a membership. Once my life settles down a bit I will definitely buy one. They have so many great classes that I want to try and I think there rates are very reasonable. So if your looking for a membership go in and ask for Nikki, they work on a bonus system a I always like to help out a fellow mom. ~Tasha~

Click on my heading "I Hate Zumba" for a video link! Enjoy!!!

Zumba

Well...for our next adventure we are trying Zumba...haha..well the other 3 are doing Zumba...right now actually. We all met at Canyon Meadows Spa Lady...which is a great gym by the way...Tasha, Reen and Jennie went to the class and I went on the ellyptical. I unfortunately could not take part in this activity...as I broke my knee over a year ago and still am not quite healed. I have never been thankful about this happening...but maybe just a little today. As I have absolutley no rythym and I would be terrible at this...I am the person you see at dances moving one foot from side to side...I cannot dance. Zumba looks like a lot of fun...but today I am glad I was just a watcher. I had a great view of the Zumba class and of the 3 girls...I think they are going to be getting a good workout while learning a few new moves that their husbands will enjoy...I saw a lot of hip movements!! Hope you all had some fun!!!...Marsha

Country Strong - definitely a rental

Its been years since I've appreciated country music. I spent plenty of weekends at Cowboys while in college, but that was looooong ago! I didn't know what to expect with this movie. I'd heard mixed reviews and wasn't sure if it would keep my interest ... but, it did! I thought Gwyneth Paltrow put on a great performance. For those who complained about her singing ability, perhaps they are wannabe American Idol fans who feel they themselves are the cats meow??? Leighton Meester had an amazing voice and great chemistry with Beau. Beau... we'll he was my favorite (minus the greasy looking hair in some scenes!). I'd recommend this one for the cheap theatre or a home rental. Cheers - Jennie

Country Strong Trailer

Country Strong - from the person who dislikes country

Went to a movie with the Try It Girls last night.  The movie up for discussion is Country Strong.  Personally, I dislike country.  There is just something about it that turns me off.  Maybe it brings me back to a time in the car with my dad and "Diggin' Up Bones" by Randi Travis was cranked on the radio.  I shutter even now when I think about it.  But strangely enough I really liked the movie. It could have been the cast, that included Gwyneth Paltrow and my fave Gossip Girl, Leighton Meester.  Or the really cute Garrett Hedland who had an amazing voice.  I'm not sure what made it appeal to me, but all the pieces just fit and I even shed a couple of tears.  Even though the whole cast talks with a twang, the story is really great.  So, if you dislike country as much as I do, I think you'll still enjoy this movie.  Go on and try it!

Huge Country Music Fan!!!

I love country music...must be my Alberta roots! I went into the movie Country Strong hoping that I was going to love it...and I did! I loved every part of this movie, the only thing I didn't like was the guy next to me who text the whole way through it. However I didn't let that ruin the movie. The first time in the movie when Beau ( Garret Hedlund) sang with Chiles (Leighton Meester) I got goosebumps. "Blame it all on my roots I showed up in boots" I couldn't help but tap my toe and I know I was grinning from ear to ear. Beau=yummy! He stole the show for sure and wow can he sing! I would buy tickets to hear him sing!

Country Strong...

I love country music...and I like Gwenyth Paltrow but as a singer I wasn't sure. But after seeing the movie Country Strong...I am definately a fan. I loved this movie, in fact I am going to be purchasing the album today, the songs and the singing were great for a country fan like me!

Bikram Yoga - So Totally Not My Bag!

In true Try It Girls fashion, I tried it, and without question, I will never try it again.  Don't get me wrong, loads of men and women love sticky, sweaty, impossibly hot yoga and I guess I can see the draw.  I was able to bend in ways that I would have never thought I could and the amount of sweat that was dripping off of me could justify a really intense workout, but all in all, not my bag.

Super-sized easy bake oven - got to love bikram yoga!

Ok ... what is that smell???
Oh ... it's coming from that smoking hot easy bake oven of a room.
So i'm sitting on this bench with Tasha and Reen (just outside the easy bake), waiting patiently for our turn to go in. I'm watching people stumbling out (from the class before) ... all wet and ... hold it ... pretty much naked. That looked like a bra... I think those are boxers. What am I wearing you ask??? YOGA PANTS and a tank. I learn pretty quick that this was a big mistake.

I think I'd rather SKYDIVE ... again!!!

So... I keep hearing about how amazing laser hair removal is. Seriously??? The girls keep recommending it - encouraging me to show up for the next big adventure ... in less than 2 months (and counting down!).
I admit it ... i'm not great with pain. Somehow I managed to have kids without drugs - not sure how that happened, but its not like I was given much of a choice! You wouldn't believe the words that come out of my mouth when I decide its time for a bikini wax!

I can live with hair. I think. As long as there is some kind of maintenance program :) I just cant sign up for this - sorry to disappoint you all. When I hear about the experience ... that it feels like an elastic band ... snapped over and over again ... over your woo-hoo ... i'm in no rush to get in line. For the meantime, i'm embracing my current body ... all shaved, waxed and trimmed :)
Just before the girls went in for 'the big day' I remember telling Reen about the time I went skydiving. I did a tandem-jump the first time ... almost 13,000 feet up. Honestly - i'm glad I did it - it was on my personal 'check list'. All I remember is how my face was literally stretched back to my ears from the wind ... and the huge amount of saliva that pelted it because I was so much in shock I couldn't keep my mouth closed! My free-fall lasted almost a minute before my chute opened. At this point, I finally took a breath. I remember being sooooo excited to skydive. After I did it, I looked at my husband (then - boyfriend) and told him clearly that this was the first and only time. Thankfully, I survived and I have the picture to prove it!
The point of this long winded story... When Reen tried (...ever so nicely) to encourage me to join them in their laser removal adventure, I simply responded "I'd rather skydive"! Looking forward to the next adventure though ladies! A little Zumba???? - Jennie

Hot Bikram Yoga...

Well I asked the girls if anyone wanted to try Bikram Yoga. To tell the truth I had no idea what it was all about. I did know that you could burn up to 1100 calories a session. That was all I needed to know. I was up for it. I had never done any kind of yoga prior to this, so I really had no clue. The website said that Bikram yoga was perfect for beginners. So I thought I was prepared... hahaha right!

The Laser is a good thing...

Well I did it...and I had a good time while doing it!! We went to Laser Hair Away a home based business, it was in the basement of the owner Maria's house. It was very relaxed and we sat and sipped on wine (actually I gulped, I was nervous) and giggled while we waited our turn.

Laser Hair Removal

So now I know what that feels like!!!!

So I did it, it was painful but I will do it again.

When we made the appointment to get laser hair removal. Maria the laser goddess told us to buy Emla cream (a topical numbing cream) and apply it an hour before our appointment. I got the 5g tube when I should of bought the 30g tube. So needless to say I was lacking in the cream department...OUCH!!!! But it did give me hope because in two months when I go again I plan on using the whole 30g tube.

I survived Laser Hair Removal and all I got was a bit of a sunburn on my privates..

I did it!  Sure it's not the most comfortable thing in the world but I got through it and am super excited to see some results.  In the back of my mind I am hoping I am one of the few that only needs to go in 5 times as opposed to the normal 6.

The Eagle will be landing in approx 3 hours....

So we have been talking about laser hair removal for the last week or so...and I thought sure I'd do it...no problem, but I didn't think it would be so soon. I am not so nervous about the pain...I am a little apprehensive about the lady looking....at me....down there. Tasha says she stares at vaginas all the time...no big deal...haha...maybe for her...she isn't a little bit on the plump side...The lady said to bring a bottle of wine and we can sit around and wait for each other to go, I think I may need my own bottle...a little liquid courage couldn't hurt! - Marsha

Laser Hair Removal Where???....Down there...whaaat...I'm in!

So the big day has arrived. A little over 3 hours to go and I am calm cool on the outside and freaking out on the inside. Hahaha...all my friends have told me if you can have a baby this will be a breeze. Probably true, however just the fact that child labour and laser hair removal Brazilian style are being compared is frightening enough. The benefits however, never having to wax or shave again....Is it worth it??? I think so, but I will certainly let you know one way or another. - Tasha

So...you want to laser what?

It all started with a simple statement from my good friend Tasha, "Let's get laser hair removal.".  OK, I'm game, but what exactly do you want do get done?  OH.  So, maybe you can guess...the nether region, the south of the border area.  Yup, so there you have it.  48 hours later and here we are at an in-home spa spreading our legs for a smooth, more self assured feeling.  Needless to say, I'm nervous.  But here goes hopefully....nothing.