Girlfriends, book club and conversation - always a great combination!

Last night was our neighborhood book club at my house. As Kris Radish said in her podcast recently, "most book clubs discuss the book for about ten minutes then they just drink wine, talk and laugh." Yep, that's our book club. And we're proud of it!

It is funny to sit back and watch this group of female friends. Some are closer friends than others, some only see each other at the monthly gathering of girlfriends. The age range varies, as does the book preference and appetizer/desert (homemade gourmet or local deli) contributions. We each have different opinions on books, city politics, grocery stores or favorite TV shows. It is the variety and differences that make us interesting and connects us.

I can tell when I've needed to talk or laugh, or when others need to. It seems to be predestined and perfect timing. We laugh, sometimes we cry, we share life. There is something so medicinal about spending time with female friends. Whatever stress is on your mind from the day, the realities of life disappear in the first glass of wine or diet pop. Shoulders release, guards drop and friendships grow just from a little 'girlfriend therapy.'

Do you have a girlfriend group? (Like the wonderful Kathy Cano-Murillo encouraged in her recent podcast?) Start a book club or a crafting group. Maybe just a lunch bunch that meets every last Friday of the month. Invite girlfriends over for brunch or watch a movie together. It isn't 'rocket surgery,'* just make a few calls and be the great girlfriend gathering instigator! Just do it!

* That was used in a movie once. Yep, a combo of 'rocket science' and 'brain surgery.' Not sure which movie but I love it!

Talking Girlfriends with the Crafty Chica (aka: how to start a girlfriend group. Join in!)

Take seven crafty, creative, fun chicas and what do you get?! The Phoenix Fridas! That is the girlfriend group that "the Crafty Chica" KATHY CANO-MURILLO started with six other creative, Latina friends (who all just happen to admire Frida Kahlo and dig being creative!). They were even awarded the Best Latina Art Collective by the Phoenix New Times earlier this year - they're award-winning, crafty, cool, creative chicas!

Kathy talked with Girlfriendology today about her fun, creative girlfriend group on our weekly podcast. You have to listen! I was smiling during the whole conversation! Her creativity is contagious. Her enthusiasm for her girlfriends is gregarious. Her sweet, kind, encouraging spirit is just what a girlfriend longs to hear. She rocks!

Just to share a bit about Kathy, she really doesn't have time to talk with Girlfriendology - but of course she did! She was in CA working on her upcoming line of craft products (which I'm sure will be fabulous!). She recently wrote her first novel and has several creative/crafty books which inspire people all over the globe. She has designed home goods for Lowe's and has fun, funky jewelry on Target.com.

But she did. And, she is fabulous. Listen. Enjoy. Then get inspired and start your own girlfriend group. And, share your stories with Girlfriendology. Muchas Gracias Kathy! You're a real girlfriend!