CP,
You can't justify over $900? The Stumpjumper would be over $900. The Hardrock is a decent bike, like the Honda Accord is a decent car. I wouldn't want to take the Hardrock on hard core trails.
If you really want some fun, go for a Yeti ASR-SL or 575. You can even custom order one in pink!
I just got one of those, but they're a weeeee bit over $900.