I first met Kalisa I think about 9 years ago. We were the second and third place winners in some contest for bloggers that I've long forgotten. I was, admittedly, upset to come in second, but the best thing in my life happened (well, except for my husband and my kids, natch) when I got to meet Kalisa.
We've held each others hand online through the best and worst of times. She's been there for me in times of good and times of bad, and any time I need advice or a friendly ear - she's one that I know I can count on.
When I planned out this road trip, I knew I would want to stop and see her if there was any way possible. The best parts of last year's Blogher and this year's Blissdom conferences were being able to hang out with her, and I just knew that spending time with her would help complete the trip. The only catch was that I'd be traveling with FIVE kids. Would she be insane enough to want to host all six of us?
When I first broached the subject, there was no hesitation, no "let me think about it" - although I DID ask by email, so she could have screamed and vented to her husband before she graciously said, "Yes, of course!"
Not only did we invade her house and fill it with much noise and crying - much of it done by ME - but she planned out activities! We watched The Princess Bride with her, and we went out for Pizza - I can virtually guarantee that it was the most insane dinner that they've ever experienced. We went to the Peabody Hotel to see the march of the ducks:
We took a trolley ride around Memphis. While I held an INCREDIBLY IRRITABLE Riley, Kalisa shared the sights and sounds of the city with my kids.
Mebee not the most flattering picture of me, but Riley has been ridiculous this trip. (When we went to Mass in Memphis, I asked the priest to give her a special travel blessing.While he had his hands on her head, I asked if I could change the blessing to an exorcism. And no, I'm so not kidding.
When we got back from Mass, her wonderful husband had cooked a BBQ and Kalisa (!) made a pie (!!!) with my girls.
We had the best time ever, and my kids are super duper sad to leave.
Everyone in the world deserves an amazing friend like Kalisa, and I am blessed beyond belief to have her in my life.
Friends like that make the bad things in life worth living through.
Posted by: becky dunnell | July 10, 2011 at 10:27 AM
Awww...luckily, laughter through tears is my favorite emotion! *sniff*
Posted by: Kalisa | July 10, 2011 at 11:05 AM
Awe-Some!
Posted by: Headless Mom | July 10, 2011 at 11:55 AM
Friends like that are hard to come by! {and so awesome}
Posted by: lissa | July 10, 2011 at 01:29 PM
What a wonderful friend!
I hope Riley is starting to feel better.
Posted by: Mary @ A Simple Twist of Faith | July 10, 2011 at 04:48 PM
NOW that is a friend...and no, not because she "put up" w/ you ALL. ;)
But she opened her heart and home to a dear friend w/no second thoughts. Treasured memories for you all.
We just recently were hosted by an "old" dear friend of mine...friends like these are rare jewels!
:) ek
Posted by: elizabethk | July 10, 2011 at 07:46 PM
I have a copy of the exorcism prayer (from my priest!) and yes, I have said it MANY MANY times! It's not a sin to pray! Have fun and look for the humor, it will get you through it.
Posted by: Beth | July 10, 2011 at 08:07 PM
LOL... Here am I again... but I just had to comment on your "exorcism" remark. I've often wondered the same regarding my previously mentioned daughter! These kids keep us humble, eh? I have a lot of respect for you, Carmen. I know that none of this is easy, but "he who endures to the end shall be saved." (Matt 10:22)
Take care, and thanks for your e-mail!
Posted by: xenia katie | July 10, 2011 at 08:20 PM
You know your daughters are going to remember that pie-making session for years to come!
Posted by: Pat | July 11, 2011 at 10:34 AM
What an excellent friend. :) The priest doing AJ's Baptism wouldn't "guarantee" Andrew's Exorcism because he kept pushing the priests hands away. oops!
Posted by: kyooty | July 15, 2011 at 09:30 AM
Sounds sooo fun!
I wanna go to Kalisa's House!! :)
Posted by: Carly | July 15, 2011 at 12:46 PM
Love yourself and know that you are deserving and worthy of an abundance of money.
Posted by: Coach Bags Outlet | July 16, 2011 at 05:10 AM