Separate Wives

I want to start by thanking all of you for your kind support of my step daughter Jennifer Zarin, following last weeks episode. Please "Like" The Birthmark Project on Facebook. She is really connecting to so many of you who have shared your own "Birthmark" stories.

The Riad we stayed in was absolutely fabulous. For exclusive behind-the-scenes photos, please sign up for my newsletter on jillzarin.com. Kelly was right when she said it was "warm and luminous."

I should have realized it was a sign of things to come when the blondes and the brunettes arrived separately. Did you notice the difference in the two arrivals? When Cindy, LuAnn, Kelly, and I arrived, we were happy, excited, and extremely impressed with our surroundings. But in watching the blondes arrive, all I heard was a lot of criticism and complaining, mainly by Ramona. Alex seemed humiliated by some of the things she said regarding the poverty and the people. I felt so sorry for the driver who had to listen. One wonders where the term "Ugly American" comes from.

Watching it back, I am still surprised at just how separate the blondes chose to stay on the trip. I felt bad for LuAnn. She tried so hard to make it a happy, bonding trip for all of us. What I don't understand is that with all of the complaining about what Morocco looked like, why were they so quick to get out of the house? We all waited for them to arrive so we could have lunch together. Sonja told me they were getting their hair done. We felt left out. Why did they lie? If they were going to a famous hotel, why wouldn't they share that with us and invite us too? We wanted to see the hotel also, but waited for them to arrive.They drew a line in the sand the minute they got there. This was supposed to be a friends' trip to be together. We didn't need to be attached at the hip, but it wasn't nice and not a good way to start the trip by separating from the group.

We had an incredible time shopping. The clothes, the jewelry, everything was so unique. I had told Brad that we were going to be in Morocco, and I was excited that he would be there while we were. It was very generous of him to invite us all to a party. I felt bad about what I said. I love Brad, but he does exaggerate and I admit it gets to me sometimes. We all wanted a tour and if he just told me he couldn't because it was a bed and breakfast it would have been fine. Instead he said everyone was sleeping. It was no big deal, and I adore him.

The fortune teller was incredible. She told me my mom is always with me and that I had a hard year last year and it would be a better year this year. She said I should keep doing what I am doing and that my weakness is my big heart. I cried. Everyone else (except Ramona) thought she was right on. It was eerie. When she spoke to Ramona, the mood changed immediately. Watch next week to see more on that.

Trust me, this is just the beginning of the Moroccan drama. Wait until you see the next two weeks!

Until then, have a safe and happy Memorial Day weekend.

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Love,

Jill