Birthday, just because you're you, special surprise GIFTS for Girlfriends!

My first job out of college was in Houston TX. Not knowing anyone and having minimal funds, I spent almost every weekend at my girlfriend's apt. on the other side of town (which in Houston means it was an hour away). Neither of us had much discretionary income but we enjoyed just hanging out together, exploring our new home town and doing anything free we could find.

Paying college bills as well as adjusting to the real world, Paula and I had no money for Christmas gifts so we made up our own version of gifts. Before the internet and virtual worlds, we had virtual gifts. We didn't go shopping or hang out at a mall. We gave each other little symbols or cut-outs of gifts that we would have bought for each other, you know, like if we had won the lottery! It was a memorable holiday because we put thought into the 'gifts' and creatively presented each one.

Last week was my friend Cath's birthday. I love Cath and would enjoy nothing more than to give her a trip to somewhere with a fabulous beach or pay for something special that would make her days even sunnier like a gardener or weekly florist delivery. However, with $4/gallon of gas and other economic 'challenges,' those gifts will have to wait.

What do you do when you're unable to spend as much as you'd like on girlfriend gift? What gifts have you received from a creative girlfriend that didn't cost a bunch but meant so much? Please share in the comments.

Thanks Paula for that friendship and for being my thrifty friend when I really needed one! Thanks Cath too for understanding about the handmade necklace and recycled gifts!

NOTE: The photo above, Circle of Friends, is a gift of our girlfriend Caroline's site: HealingBaskets.com. We interviewed Caroline for a very inspiring podcast. Listen in for ideas on gifts especially for girlfriends in trying situations like loss, health issues, etc. She gives great girlfriend advice! And, her site has wonderful girlfriend, caregiver, sister, mom, coworker gifts!

Lessons from a Girlfriend - Podcast interview with JILL MACKAY (and me!)

Often you can spot them across the room. Unaware of anyone nearby. They chatter, laugh and sometimes even cry. Their eye contact and body language convey that they are completely comfortable and are being their authentic self. They're not trying to impress anyone or really concerned with what others around them think. They're spending time together, making memories, making plans, solving problems, sharing life. They are girlfriends.

My girlfriend JILL MACKAY (fab jewelry designer, author and creative entrepreneur) decided that it was time YOU found out who I am. She decided that someone should interview me for a Girlfriendology podcast so that blog readers (or "bleaders"!) could find out why I started Girlfriendology and why I think promoting female friendship warrants leaving my job and dedicating my life! (I know she isn't the only one who wonders what is up with me and my dream of building an online women's community based on friendship!)

And, yes, I did get the turn the tables on her too. Hopefully you'll hear something that will inspire you to spend time with your girlfriends, and after hearing Jill and me, something that will amuse you and make you laugh. So here's my Lessons from a Girlfriend:

* FOLLOW YOUR PASSION - To be honest, almost every one of our Girlfriendology podcast guests is an amazing example of following your passion. From authors to podcasters, entrepreneurs to artists, each inspiring woman we've talked with had a new perspective on following their passion. Jill and I definitely follow suit. I'm passionate about making Girlfriendology an online community for women based on inspiration, appreciation and celebration of girlfriends. Jill is committed to creating amazing (and I do mean AMAZING!) jewelry designs. She fabulously talented!

* LAUGH AND CRY TOGETHER - Last year walking back from a tradeshow together, we laughed so hard that we could barely keep from peeing! (Sorry, but it was totally true!) Within the short course of a day, we were crying together over very emotional times in our lives. Both of these are wonderful things. If I have to cry, I can't think of anyone better than a dear girlfriend to be there with me (and possibly join me). And, laughing is just the best with a girlfriend - no fake laughter, just complete joy and giggles. Happy or sad, just serve mine up with a girlfriend by my side!

* BE HONEST, BE REAL, BE YOU - I asked Jill to critique something for me recently. I wanted, and most of all NEEDED, the truth. I knew I could get that from her. I also knew she would deliver the message in a kind, caring manner so my feelings wouldn't be hurt and my insecurities could handle it - but most of all, I needed her to be REAL. We all need friends like that - those we can count on to tell us if there is spinach in our teeth or gunk on our nose, to make sure we never go out in public with our size tag proudly displayed behind us or with navy tights and a black skirt on. (I needed Jill in my office the day I did that!) Be the friend that you want, need, admire. Be real. Be you. Be a girlfriend.

And, if you're going to the BEAD & BUTTON show in Milwaukee soon, stop by booth #1010. We'll post some audio messages and get some input from women at the show on their girlfriends and fun times together. Jill will be there and I'll join her on Saturday and Sunday. I guarantee you'll laugh and see some spectacular jewelry that Jill has designed. She is a 'superstar' to me. I don't care what she says! (-; Thanks Jill! You ARE my superstar friend!

So, if you see those women across the room who are ignoring everyone and just enjoying each other's company and conversation, don't be jealous. Smile for them. Then grab a girlfriend and have your own discussion. Girlfriends - life's better together!

Lessons from a Girlfriend - Podcast with CAROL DUVALL, the 'queen of crafts'!

Just her voice and laughter makes me miss her. And, from reading several of the message boards on HGTV, DIY and several blogs, a lot of you miss her too.

If you're at all crafty or have kids who enjoy making things, you've heard her voice and laughter. And, you've no doubt been inspired by this amazing woman. CAROL DUVALL has been on television for 57 years (and her re-runs will hopefully continue for many years!). In our recent podcast interview Carol shared how she got started and how her career proceeded to find her as THE craft show on television, "The Carol Duvall Show."

I had the honor of being on her show a dozen times (and taping with her on the Shop At Home network) so I am especially fond of her voice and laughter - it not only reminds me of her show but also of some of the best memories of my life, taping this show with wonderful, welcoming crew and guests.

With 57 years of experiences, you would expect to learn a few things from this smart, fun, kind and creative woman. Here's a few LESSONS FROM A GIRLFRIEND, from our conversation with Carol Duvall:

* BE NICE - Carol is genuinely a nice person. She always made her guests feel welcomed and comfortable even when we were newbies and might mess up and have to retape. In the podcast, she shared how her father told her to always be nice to everyone you work with - and she did. Listen to her tell how she got her first network gig, on "The Home Show."

* SURROUND YOURSELF WITH GIRLFRIENDS - Kelly, Cherryl, Cam, Linda ... and so many other great women were on Carol's production crew. Each of them worked hard and were dedicated to their girlfriend, Carol. I love how Carol enjoyed these women as much as they loved working with her. She still gets together with her friends from the show like Donna Kato, Mary O'Neil and Karen Thomas. She also wrote her latest book, Paper Crafting with Carol Duvall, with her former producer and dear friend, Cherryl Greene. She gets the need for and blessing of girlfriends!

* HAVE FUN ALONG THE WAY - As Carol shares in the podcast, she would tape multiple shows in one day. This involved a lot of preparation and planning by her staff. At the end of often very long days, there often was time for fun. And who better to have fun with than girlfriends?! Carol and her crew and guests would sometimes go to dinner after a full day of taping. I was with her and several from the crew one night in Nashville when we were taping at Shop At Home. You know the beautiful women who host shopping network shows? They were with us (including Kim from Oprah's recent "Big Give" show!) - all of them could be covergirl models. But it wasn't the beautiful blonds that drew the attention of one man at the bar. He sent a drink over to Carol. He didn't know her from TV at all. He just thought she was beautiful and special. And she will forever be.

Carol, thank you so much for taking time to talk with me on the Girlfriendology podcast but most of all, my personal and heart-felt thanks for the treasured memories I have of being on your show and working with you and your great crew. Thanks for the creative inspiration that you've been for millions of us who find so much happiness, stress release and fulfillment from our crafty creations that we learned from you and your show. Thanks for your book, for your perseverance in the wild world of television and, most of all, thank you for your laughter. What a wonderful legacy you've lived - 57 years on television, countless craft segments and projects, and a world of creative inspiration. We're all so blessed to have you as our creative girlfriend!

COMMENTS FROM A FAN:

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Interview with CAROL DUVALL, our creative girlfriend and 'queen of crafts'!

Hey Girlfriends - I just posted the CAROL DUVALL podcast and wanted to let you know. I'll add more updates and 'Lessons from a Girlfriend' later today. (Including stories of fun times with Carol from taping the show with her!)

If you don't know Carol, you should listen in and get to know her. She's a living legend having been on television for 57 years! (That has to be a record!!) And she has a new book, Paper Crafting with Carol Duvall.

Listen in for this fun visit with a dear creative girlfriend who has inspired so many of us. And thanks Mari and Rebecca for your call-in questions!!!

TIP TUESDAY #24: Hey girlfriends - what's your favorite hobby/passion?

I've heard that if you look back to your childhood, before boys had an impact or peer pressure was in it's teen madness, you'll find the things that you genuinely love to do. Maybe it was acting, drawing, talking, cooking or even dressing up. When we were eight to ten years old, we did whatever we loved - and why not?!

My mother is an artist so it is no surprise that I grew up doing crafts, drawing people in church, making sand art (a long-lost talent!) or other creative exercises. I designed the cover of my Jr. High school year book and won an award for a paper mache dragon that I made with a girlfriend. Is it any wonder that several decades later, I ended up in the craft/hobby industry?!

Last week I interviewed CAROL DUVALL for the Girlfriendology podcast. On TV for 56 years, this 'Queen of Crafts' is an amazing woman. She is a living legacy of TV history as well as the inspiration and teacher to millions of us as we learned new crafts and laughed along with her and her guests. I had the honor of being on her show a dozen times so I really enjoyed just catching up with her and having a conversation about our girlfriends on the show. And, Carol just wrote a book with the help of one of the girlfriends from her show, Cherryl Greene - Paper Crafting with Carol Duvall.

Recently I was asked what my favorite craft/hobby is so I thought I put it to you. This week's TIP TUESDAY question is:

What is your favorite hobby? AND who inspires you?

Carol Duvall inspires me. (And she will you, when you hear her podcast that will be posted on Wednesday evening.) My creative girlfriends Katie Hacker, Jill MacKay, Vicki Schreiner and Linda Peterson inspire me, along with dozen of other wonderful, super-creative women I've met in the craft industry.

How about you? Think back to your childhood and what hobbies you could spend hours doing. Remember the pure joy of playing music, baking, playing with clay - whatever made you happy! What hobby do you love with a passion and who inspired you? Share with us. You might just inspire someone else to find a new hobby/passion in their life!

p.s. And Carol's book as well as several others are in the monthly contest so send in your girlfriend story!

Are you or a girlfriend a CAROL DUVALL fan?

Carol Duvall is the official "Queen of Crafts." Her show, the aptly named "Carol Duvall Show" aired on HGTV and DIY for years - and has continued in re-runs for even more years. (We just can't get enough of Carol!) I had the thrill of taping with Carol a dozen or so times - she's a wonderful and inspiring girlfriend!

On Wednesday I once again am thrilled to work with Carol! She graciously has agreed to talk with Girlfriendology on our (new semi-weekly!) podcast. AND I NEED YOUR HELP!

Do you (or a girlfriend or daughter) have a question for Carol? Please call 206-202-9005 (by Tuesday 8pm EST 5/13) and leave a comment or question for Carol. I'll play it for Carol when we tape the podcast on Wednesday.

One of the greatest benefits of girlfriends is what we learn from each other. What would you like to learn from Carol? Thanks Girlfriends! (Remember - call 206-202-9005 for questions for Carol or comments/girlfriend stories for future podcasts! Thanks!!)

P.S. And Carol's new book, Paper Crafting with Carol Duvall, will be one of our prizes next month in the Girlfriendology monthly contest. (We have too many books to give away this month so send us a girlfriend story in May and June and possibly win two prizes!)

Win a Girlfriend Birthday Gift in May Girlfriendology Contest!

This month is a BIG month here at Girlfriendology! We have more PRIZES than ever before to give out! Enter our May Girlfriendology Contest and just by telling a girlfriend story (about a Birthday - could be an event or gift you received/gave) you can win one of these great books:

REAL YOU INCORPORATED: 8 Essentials for Women Entrepreneurs by Kaira Sturdivant Rouda. Kaira spoke with us on a recent podcast about how YOU are the secret to a successful career and life.

THE ANGEL by Carla Neggers - a romantic suspense novel. We had the opportunity to interview Carla for our latest Girlfriendology video!

NOVEL DESTINATIONS: Literary Landmarks From Jane Austen's Bath to Ernest Hemingway's Key West by Joni Rendon and Shannon McKenna Schmidt who were our first two girlfriends AND guests from the U.S. and 'across the pond' to join us for a podcast interview this past week.

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AND ... watch next month for free copies of:

COMFORT FOOD by Kate Jacobs (author of The Friday Night Knitting Club) - what a nice, sweet, caring girlfriend Kate is! She talked with us for an upcoming podcast about how much her girlfriends mean to her and how her girlfriends have supported and inspired her. (Plus "Comfort Food" bags!)

PAPER CRAFTING WITH CAROL DUVALL - We'll interview Carol for our podcast and hear the wit and wisdom from 'the queen of crafting!'

So, leave a comment with a girlfriend story (preferably this month on a 'birthday' theme), email us at ideas@girlfriendology.com or leave us a message at 206-202-9005 (make sure to leave your email address in your message). Thanks Girlfriends! We'd love to send you one of these PRIZES!

Happy Earth Day Girlfriends!

Nothing makes the earth seem so spacious as to have friends at a distance; they make the latitudes and longitudes.
Henry David Thoreau

How wonderful it is to have friends - both nearby and distant. What a wonderful earth to be home to us all!

Spend EARTH DAY celebrating life, inhaling sweet flowers and paying note to the budding trees and blooming spring flowers. Take a walk with a girlfriend. Share a potted plant with a neighbor. Leave a card for a friend. Then listen in to a special edition of the Girlfriendology Podcast for an inspiring interview with 'green girlfriend' DEBRA QUARTERMAIN. A creative designer and author with a fetish for jackets (primarily of reclaimed materials), Debra has taken a vow of reclaiming her life in 2008 by not purchasing any non-necessities as well as living a green livestyle through her travels, new old home, gift-giving, etc. Listen in for some great green tips and wonderful ways to take care of 'Mother Earth.'

Check out Debra's blogs - My reclaimed life and Confessions of a Stitch Chick, as well as a cool, creative conference for girlfriends - The Heart Sister's Creativity Spa. Thanks Debra!

Want some creative girlfriend gift ideas? Listen in!

I've said it before, I'll say it again. One of the best benefits to girlfriends is how much we all learn from each other. From little things like celebrity trivia (like ... who got kicked off Dancing With The Stars!?), to big things like how to take care of our health and our loved ones.

Each month we ask YOU for YOUR thoughts and stories on girlfriends in our monthly Girlfriendology Contest. In March, since it was National Craft Month, we asked for your comments on thoughtful, creative girlfriend gifts you've given or received. We received a bunch of entries and some fabulous female friend stories. Thanks for sharing!

Check out the newest podcast for the stories and the winners. You're sure to get some great ideas for being the girlfriend with the PERFECT gift. After all, if you can't get inspired by your girlfriends, you can't get inspired!

Alas, it is the ides of April (ooh - tax day!), and we're half way through the month and another contest is happening. This month, in honor of Earth Day and our awareness of all things green, we're asking YOU to 'recycle' your girlfriend stories! Share a story of a girlfriend who meant a lot to you as a child or teenager. Tell us about an amazing woman whose friendship has followed you through different periods of your life - and been there for you no matter what! Just enter the contest - there are prizes! And, if you're selected, we may call you to interview you for our podcast next month. (Tell us a great story and we'll HAVE to talk with you!) Thanks Girlfriends!

Spreading the Girlfriendology word at BlogHer in NYC

I am on a mission to spread the word about the importance of female friendship - that's what Girlfriendology is all about! I attended BlogHer this week to promote Girlfriendology and learn from a lot of fabulous, smart, savvy, fun women how to use social media to inspire 'girlfriendship' around the globe. Here's my first ever Utterz message (audio recording) from a loud hotel lobby in NYC:

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For info on making a similar pendant, visit GirlfriendologyToo - the blog for the creative side of girlfriends.

Lessons from a Girlfriend ... LISA SHEPARD STEWART

Previously I belonged to an organization that was almost 100% women. SCD (the Society of Creative Designers) was a group of professional designers who worked in the craft and hobby industry (as well as other industries). Being a group of almost all women (but we loved you Ed!), and, specifically, a group of CREATIVE women, it was a fabulous collection of women with talents in all areas - from painting to plastic canvas, sewing to stamping, beading to beadazzling! It was an organization of creative girlfriends who offered assistance, support, ideas and a willingness to help others.

Change happens and SCD transitioned into the CHA (Craft and Hobby Assn.). I don't get to see these women nearly as often as I'd like, but I know I can still call on them for ideas and assistance. I called on one recently after learning that she was holding creative girlfriend events. So, I did and I learned a lot.

That experience, as well as the lessons I've learned from so many of the 'girlfriend authors and experts' that I've interviewed previously inspired me to create "Lessons from a Girlfriend" - a blog to accompany each weekly podcast with a behind-the-scenes and/or revelations before/during/after the interview. After all, we learn SO MUCH from our girlfriends, that I feel it is my duty to share what each amazing woman on our podcast has to pass on to you!

A graduate of NYC's Fashion Institute of Technology, LISA SHEPARD STEWART is a designer, award-winning author, creative director, event leader, TV 'home/lifestyle' personality and successful creative woman! In her how-to project books African Accents, Global Expressions, and On The Go!, Lisa encourages others to express their creativity through culturally relevant techniques and materials. Her company, Cultured Expressions, Inc., offers her books, kits, imported fabrics & embellishments, lectures, workshops, projects and more. She also organizes retreats and special events internationally, combining her other personal interests of travel, holistic health and entertaining. Check out her upcoming Quilter's Retreat in Jamaica and Lisa's creative ideas on a TV show she did on creating a girlfriend spa night.

Okay, so what did I learn? (Since this is the first of weekly "Lessons from a Girlfriend.") I learned ...

* FOLLOW YOUR PASSION - Lisa visited West Africa in 1986 (when she was a young teen, no doubt!). She fell in love with their fabrics - especially Mudcloth. That, along with her creative talents and following those talents to the Fashion Institute of Technology, put her on the path to 'quilting together a career' - piecing together different aspects of her passion (like kits, projects, books, events, etc.) into a lifestyle living. She is very inspiring!

* BE SMART - Lisa mentioned that it is almost ten years since her first book was published, so she's preparing for ways to promote that as a way to continue the momentum for her creative business. (What things in your past should you celebrate and continue to use to further your business, career or dreams?)

* BE OPEN TO NEW IDEAS - Lisa is participating in an upcoming Natural Hair Care Expo in Baltimore, for her first time. Always learning and being open to trying new things is a great quality and, I believe, the sign of a successful, creative entrepreneur!

* HAVE FUN WITH IT! Organizing a retreat is hard work. There are preparation and planning, financial deposits and potential travel hassles. However, if you check out Lisa's Quilting Retreat in Jamaica, you'll see that she still has fun. She makes sure that everyone (including herself) gets to experience spaaaa treatments! (I think Lisa has some fun on this event too!)

I'm grateful to SCD for the opportunity to meet amazing women like LISA SHEPARD STEWART who continue to inspire me long after the organization is gone. Thanks Lisa for your time and inspiration! Listen in to Lisa's podcast interview for lessons that you may need to learn from this creative, inspiring girlfriend. Thanks Lisa!

New Girlfriendology Podcast with inspiring, creative MARGOT POTTER

Author, designer, creativity guru, blogger, actress, singer, TV personality and BQOTU (Bead Queen of the Universe), MARGOT POTTER, took time out of her wild schedule to share her wonderful energy, wit and wisdom with Girlfriendology in this week's podcast.

Listen in to find out how this busy, creative, inspiring woman believes girlfriends have to mentor each other, be thankful for the women who have gone before us and work together to make us all stronger. Discover the 'power of we' and 'super girlie good power' along with how to live life following your bliss.

Listen in as we talk with author of the highly successful Impatient Beader books, Margot Potter on how to live a life following your bliss and as your authentic self. You'll be glad you did!

March is National Craft Month so we're celebrating creative women! One way we're celebrating March is by daily postings on the GirlfriendologyToo blog (for the creative side of girlfriends). We're also talking with creative, inspiring women about their creativity, friendships and girlfriend advice.
Every week Girlfriendology talks with a girlfriend author or expert. Leave comments below for women we should interview on future podcasts. Thanks Margot! Thanks Girlfriends!

TIP TUESDAY #7 - Favorite gift you received from a girlfriend this holiday

First, forgive me. This is TIP TUESDAY - on a Thursday! That's what holidays and a new puppy will do to a girl! (The pup is great - I just want to spend all my time with him while he's still a pup!)

I just read some 'blog marketing' articles and one mentioned that your blog needs to 'provide a solution.' Well, if there is one thing girlfriends do for each other is provide solutions - we help each other through all kinds of problems and situations with creative ideas and recommendations. So, we're right on track with TIP TUESDAY (especially when we all share comments!).

Girlfriends ARE gifts, so we'd like to hear from you for this week's TIP TUESDAY question:

What is your favorite gift you received from a girlfriend this holiday?

I love hearing others' comments so that I can improve my gift giving skills - so
please add a comment - we want to hear from you!

I'll start ... My creative friend Jill gave me a meaningful book for creative women (so I know I'll love it!). Terri, my always thoughtful friend, gave me some "olives" (that are really chocolate covered almonds, since she knows I don't like olives but I do like chocolate and almonds!) as well as Eat Pray Love, another book I've heard about and need to read. My friend Tina gave me a beautiful pair of earrings to replace the ones I bought previously that I lost one of - how sweet was that! (Other girlfriends gave great gifts too - THANKS to all of you - especially for the GIFT of your friendship!)

What do all these gifts have in common? They were specifically selected for ME! Did your girlfriends do a great job of finding gifts that were perfect for YOU? Share your COMMENTS and help us all be better girlfriend gift givers!

Katie Hacker - a girlfriend who inspires me (and also you!)

Do your girlfriends inspire you? One might be a runner or walker, so you decide to do a half marathon. Another girlfriend may be a wonderful chef, which inspires you to try new recipes. Your knitting girlfriend teaches you and soon you're a knitting girlfriend too! I love that about girlfriends. Together we have more fun, learn more and become more 'ourselves' through our female friends.

My girlfriend KATIE HACKER is inspiring. She has written more than 20 craft books including Hip to Bead, Katie's Basics of Beading and 30-Minute Beading. She also presents Beading Lessons on the PBS show Beads, Baubles & Jewels, is a columnist for Simply Beads magazine and teaches workshops at national conventions like the Bead & Button Show. Although her specialty is beading, she does lots of other crafts as well and she has some great ideas for crafting with and for your girlfriends.

Listen to our NEW podcast with Katie and she'll inspire you - to craft for and with your girlfriends, to make time for your friends, to connect with your girlfriends through the internet and just to be more comfortable with your own creativity!

Check out Katie's blog for updates, creative ideas and her recent Ornament Round Robin (where creative women all made ornaments and share their ideas - the final one will happen this Thursday).

Do you have girlfriends who do inspire you? Please share with Girlfriendology in our December CONTEST - which asks for stories on girlfriends you're thankful for. Please share. Spread the girlfriend gratitude! Honor your girlfriend by telling others how much she inspires you! (and win prizes in the Great Girlfriend Gift Giveaway!)

Contest Winner Poem - Does this remind you of your girlfriends?

You know that great feeling when you find the perfect gift for your best friend? And the joy you feel when you receive a present from your girlfriend that shows how special her friendship is to you! Girlfriends ARE gifts, and it is a wonderful thing when girlfriends GIVE thoughtful, special, memorable gifts!

Each month Girlfriendology has a contest for girlfriend stories. The theme changes every month and the November contest, in preparation for the holidays, was on 'gifts.' What gifts have you given to/received from a girlfriend that was special?

Thankfully lots of women wrote in with AMAZING STORIES. From simple acts of kindness to creative gifts, from thoughtful expressions of friendship to personalized presents that recognized their special day - it was inspiring! (Just in time for holiday shopping!)

The only negative to this monthly contest is not being able to give EVERYONE a prize* because there were many, many wonderful stories!. It was really tough judging the monthly Girlfriendology Contest!

Listen to the podcast (that will be posted soon!) to hear all the stories - the winners and those who still are winners because they are/have great girlfriends!

Thanks to everyone who participated in the November Girlfriendology Contest! Winners are: Christine - for her Thanksgiving basket, Cherie - pregnancy pampering girlfriend story, Jenny - for her caffeinated and thoughtful friend, Robin - with her charming charm bracelet story and Beth - for her beautiful best friend poem. Each of these winners will receive a $10 Starbucks gift card (to take their girlfriend out for coffee on Girlfriendology!) and Beth also receives the Girlfriendology Journal for her top entry girlfriend story:

Jackie's birthday was coming up and, being a best friend, Beth decided to write a poem and frame (with this picture of the two of them). This effort won her top prize (Starbucks gift card AND the Girlfriendology Journal) for the following poem she wrote for a valued friend ...

Once in a lifetime you'll find a friend you'll know you can never replace,
You'll feel it the moment you meet her - it's written all over her face.

Soon she begins to give of herself in ways you would never have known,
No friend you have been with before she appeared saved you so much from being alone.

She stands by your side through thick and through thin - through happiness, tears or regret,
You find yourself needing her more everyday, and all of her friendship you get.

She'd give her last dime to people in need, no matter if she needs it more,
You find yourself asking the Lord up above why He didn't give you her before.

If He had she'd have been there for birthdays forgotten by others you thought never would,
She'd have been there when others betrayed all your trust, convincing you life is still good.

She's the kind of a friend you can trust with your soul - you can trust her, in fact, with your life,
She's a sister, a mother, a co-worker too, a grandma and even a wife.

Yet she still finds the time on her busiest days to stop and check in just to say,
"I haven't been hearing from you in a while - please tell me friend, are you okay"?

There is nothing you know you can do for this friend to let her know how much you care,
For her friendship, her kindness, your constant belief that you know she will always be there.

How do you say to a friend such as this that you're thankful for all she has done?How do you show her the love that you have for a friendship, no doubt's, number one?

How do you put into words what you feel for this friend that you love, oh so much?
A woman who's hand on a shoulder in need clears up sadness with one little touch?

I guess you just feel it and she'll know it's true - she can read you right down to the core,
And you hope when she does that she'll see her own face staring out from your heart evermore.

This friend I call Jackie, the one that I love, who has been there for me all this time,
Is the greatest of friends that you ever can have - I'm so thankful to God that she's mine.

Thanks Beth for the poem and to Jackie for being poem-worthy! Thanks to everyone who submitted great girlfriend stories!

* And, since we're getting so many great stories AND it is the season for giving gifts, we've designated December as the Girlfriendology "Great Girlfriend Gift Giveaway"! Each day in December, everyone who submits a girlfriend story will go into a drawing for a free book/gift. In addition, the top five stories will win a $10 Starbucks gift card (to take you and a girlfriend out for coffee) and the top over all will win the Girlfriendology Journal. See Girlfriendology for the rules/information. Then write us! I'm sure you have a girlfriend who deserves to be recognized for her friendship (and you deserve a great girlfriend gift!).

Giving Thanks for the wonderful women who have influenced my life

I've been working with Julie long distance. (She wrote the new "JULIE's Joy" line for Girlfriendology.) In getting to know each other, Julie asked, "So, do you have really good girlfriends? Did they inspire you to start Girlfriendology?"

It made me think about it. I have great girlfriends now but what made me start to really appreciate female friendship so much? My family moved around a lot when I was growing up. Perhaps it was that - we moved frequently and each time I missed my girlfriends.

College came and I met Barb, Shelley, Deana, Dana, Kleta, Rhonda, Laurie and so many other wonderful girlfriends. After college, I met girlfriends through work and life - like Cath, Amy*, another Amy (and her sister Kate), Patty, Terri, Barb, Carole, Katie, Lisa and Angie.

I joined an association of primarily women and met livelong friends like Lisa, Katie, Vicki, Julie, Jill, Tammy and Marie. Penny, Now I have neighbors, walking buddies, dinner club girlfriends and friends from entrepreneurial women's groups and church - Becky, Paula, Tina, Judy, Ruth Sara, Melody, Bridget, Joan, Anne, Karen, Ellen, Colleen, Allison, Amy, Lydia, Joyce and Cindi. And so many others! (Thanks Julie for asking me about my girlfriend inspiration!)

Each of us have similar stories and histories with girlfriends - and for that (for me and for you/all women) I am thankful. Each of these women have influenced me in so many many ways - from values I have to clothes I wear, from my creative hobbies to the books I read, to every aspect of my life. To each of you I say thanks. Thanks for the friendships you've given me and the lessons you've taught me. Thanks for the support and laughter, the shoulders and hands up, for believing in me and making me a better person.

'Tis the season to express your appreciation for all the good things in life - and shouldn't girlfriends be on the top of your list?! Call, write, email, just share with your girlfriends how much their friendship mean to you. And thanks to all the women who taught me about the really important things in life - like girlfriends.

*As I write this, I'm in Minnesota. So many years ago (probably 10 or 11!) my friend Amy invited us to spend Thanksgiving with her boyfriend (now husband) and his family. Well, today we were there again (as we have almost every Thanksgiving since!). Thanks Amy (and Charley - and his wonderful family - Peggy, Bill etc.!). Girlfriends who become family - that is what life is about!

TIP TUESDAY #2 - Share your Holiday Tips with Girlfriends

Wow - can you believe Thanksgiving is a week from Thursday?!?! How does it sneak up so fast? Leaves are still turning and falling here in the mid-west and we even have the windows open tonight on Nov. 12th!

But, nonetheless, the holidays are here.

What favorite holiday tip do you have?

Maybe it is a shopping hint for a week from Friday? Or advice for not overdoing it on mashed potatoes and rolls at family dinners? Perhaps you have guidelines for spending time with your girlfriends, even when the holidays get hectic?

My tip? Since I make my own holiday cards (you can see some of them on the other Girlfriendology blog - www.girlfriendologyToo.blogspot.com - for the creative side of girlfriends), I often find myself super stressed trying to get everything done on time. I usually take projects with me in the car when my husband drives. (I've taken things to read, put together or even cut out - even with a big paper cutter, in the car!) I know it is a whimpy idea, but it helps me multi-task when in transit.

Okay, another one? I usually buy a bunch of hostess gifts early in the season to share when we visit our friends. Wine, candles, coffee, cookies - whatever might be a good treat for them to have around during the holidays. It just saves me time from rushing out frequently to find a rush gift.

Okay your turn! Remember, one of the great things about girlfriends is how we learn so much from each other. Just click on "comment" below and share your advice. And, don't let the holidays stress you out. Make sure and spend time with your girlfriends. Together you'll laugh, reduce your stress levels, be healthier and even live longer - which means you'll have even more time to enjoy your girlfriends! Happy Holidays! (Now, leave a TIP!)

p.s. Coming around Thanksgiving - more shopping for your girlfriends at www.girlfriendology.com! Get your shopping done then go hang out with your girlfriends!

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!

Celebrating life with Girlfriends - it doesn't get any better!

My girlfriend Jill had a good week. Her website launched www.jillmackay.com with her amazing jewelry elements and findings. She found out that her current jewelry designs are selling out in Joann's, Michaels, Wal-mart, etc. - and they want more! And she's going international!!! (She is prolific at creating beautiful beading elements!) It was a good week!

I called her to find out how things went and together we celebrated her successes. Unfortunately we don't live in the same town or state, but that doesn't matter. We shouted joyfully and laughed loudly - it was a full-blown long distance celebration! I couldn't be more happy for her if it were myself. I love when good things happen to my girlfriends!

On Friday I had the opportunity and honor to interview author Kris Radish. My girlfriend Judy loaned me her house while she was out of town to make the call from. (Quiet and close!) My girlfriend Tina called me right before the call to tell me she was praying for me. And, my girlfriends and several Girlfriendology Newsletter subscribers sent in GREAT questions for Kris. (Great questions! I had too many but that was perfect!)

The interview went well. I loved Kris' energy and passion for her girlfriends. I loved the questions girlfriends provided and her inspiring responses. My girlfriend Joyce even wrote me that the podcast inspired her to hold on to and allow her power to make her stronger.

When I got home from my entrepreneurial girlfriends meeting yesterday (another group of inspiring, passionate women!), I had a message from Jill. She had listened to the podcast and was celebrating how well it went. Her friendship, love and joy for me are more than I deserve and I know that I am forever blessed because I know and love her. I called her back and again, for the second time this week, we celebrated together. (Our neighbors probably even heard the celebration!)

Be happy for your friends and their successes. Share their joy and make the moments memorable. Celebrate together. Celebrate the gift of your friendship. Celebrate loudly - locally or long distance. Celebrate girlfriends. It doesn't get any better than that!