Mastering the Moment

I have to be honest: writing this blog today is a pretty emotional experience for me. When I look back on where this whole journey started, I can't believe how much has happened! I remember all of the debates I had with myself and my family about doing this show and opening up our lives for the cameras. And I'm glad to say that for us this experience has been rewarding (yet exhausting!).

I know I haven't commented too much on what happened towards the end of the season in the limousine, and there is a reason for that. I was raised in a family that is both large and close-knit, and while it's wonderful and something I'm grateful for, it also means that I know what conflict with the ones you love feels like. It's one thing to argue with a stranger, but another thing entirely to argue with someone you love. I jumped in when I did because I felt that Kim needed to speak up, and I didn't think that she could in that environment.

When Kyle came towards Kim for whatever reason I think my training and instincts kicked in, and I was between the two of them before I knew it. I've spent a long time practicing martial arts, and one thing that I've learned is that it's about mastering the moment -- making the best choices in every moment to minimize conflict and aggression while working towards resolution and harmony. Martial arts helps you to step back and evaluate a conflict before entering into it, and I think because the art is such a huge part of my life that the ability to stay out of the fray came more naturally. It is definitely a skill that I want to pass onto my children.

For Kyle and Kim to have this painful time in their lives playing out in front of the cameras is something I can truly empathize with. Fear and hurt often make us say things we regret, and I honestly believe that in the end, they will find themselves in a place of both love and forgiveness.

In the beginning, I think that each one of us had an idea of what we would show to the cameras and how we would act, but as time goes on you have to let your guard down and just live your life. This season was real and honest, gritty, and painful, but for most of us I think there were some really joyous moments too. I had a BLAST bringing the ladies to The Palms and to the Kings game, and sharing those parts of my life with both my friends and everyone watching. I’ve been so grateful for the incredibly kind, generous, and effusive comments that I've received both here and via Twitter, and they have definitely made me try even more to set forth the things my family has worked so hard to stand for over the years.

Some of you have said thank you for a great season, and I'd like to return that sentiment. Thank YOU for watching us, experiencing the ups and downs with us and especially for all of the enthusiasm, love, and support you've shown me. Hope to see you next year!

XOXOX,

Adrienne

P.S. I'm still on Twitter – so hang out with me during the off-season at @AdrienneMaloof. Also, don't forget to check out my new website that will launch in the next two weeks at www.adriennemaloof.com. Love you all!