Day 778

Off to Little Rock in the morning...I can't wait! There really is no place like home (and no place like that which you don't have to work for 2 weeks). Since I was sick again this past weekend, the past two days has been a race after work to get things done. I'm trying to finish the last of my packing here in a second, then off to run two more errands before I leave.

It's funny though, the past few weeks, I was so inundated with work that I have really not been much into the Christmas season. Other than the one day of decorating, I have not had that holiday cheer that I usually get right after my birthday.

Maybe it was my limited budget for presents, or the madness at work, or just the lonliness of this big, cold town when the nights come early, but something has just not been right. However, as soon as the bell hit 5:00 on Monday, I was out the door and skipping to the Christmas beat.

Next post will be from Arkansas! So, so ready to get home. I hope everyone has a very Merry Christmas with you loved ones!

Day 775

I think I've already established, and we can all agree, that I have some strange quirks about me. I guess we've all got a little crazy in us, but some days I think I should be riding the short bus straight to Toon Town.

An example? Okay, how about my tendency to cry at commercials and sporting events. Really? I don't cry at my father's funeral, but it takes 10 seconds for tears to start welling up any time an "Extreme Makeover: Home Edition" preview comes on. I hate that dumb show. Makes me boo hoo every damn time. Or the ESPN Game Day segment on the ex-Marine turn Texas Longhorn turn Tennessee Titans player? Seriously chocked up at that one. Same thing happens each time Charlie Gibson reports on "The Spirit of America"...instant tears.

But off the tears for now...we've already laid down the Crazy Train route. Here's another strange quirk that I just can't seem to shake, and since I brought up the food again last night, I thought I'd reveal Act II to the eating issues.

I get hooked on a certain food and literally have to eat it every single day. When I first moved up here, it was Lipton Noodle Soup. Not the soup from the can, but the one from the packet with the really skinny noodles, no chicken added. The trick to it's deliciousness is that you boil the water first and then add the soup mix. Yum. It was the only thing I could eat for dinner every night, for months at a time. Strange, I know.

I do it with a lot of things. Lima beans are another example. I'd eat a bowl of lima beans every night for weeks. Lately, I've been stuck on hard boiled eggs. Everyday for the past month, I've had at least two hard boiled eggs at some point in the day. Sometimes they're for breakfast. Other times, I shake it up and have oatmeal with brown sugar for breakfast, then hard boiled eggs and an apple for lunch.

Wow, I have really resorted to listing my mealtime rituals for you. Told you I've had writers block lately. Well anyway, today when I was at the grocery store buying eggs, apples, peppers (for my hummus, another staple) and tea, I came to a bit of a realization. So what?

I'm eating food that is good for me, not a bunch of sugar, bread and processed crap that makes me so sick, so if I find something I like, routine or not, why not stick with it? My dad was a man of routine...same breakfast and lunch routine almost everyday for over 30 years. Routines are not a bad thing, and as long as you don't get bored with them, and it works for you, I suppose that's all that matters. Right? Just say yes and make me feel better that my fridge contains four items at the moment. Sad, so sad.

Day 774

Should have learned my lesson, but no...I had to risk it and eat bad. Not too bad really, just not as I should. A bit of fudge today, a few tortilla chips on Wednesday, some bread with dinner last night. Geez, it's the holidays! As long as I just have a bit of this stuff, I should be okay, right? I was wrong, and it hit me today...boy did it hit.

A month of relief was fantastic, but I think today has finally told me that I really can't eat many foods anymore. I've been progressively feeling worse all week, but just brushed it off to the extreme stress I've been under at work. It's been quite ridiculous, and I've been avoiding bitching about it because really no one wants to hear about it, so that's all I'll say. I am just so ready to fly home in just 5 days for Christmas!

You all have no idea how excited I am to get back to Little Rock! It'll be a busy time with Christmas and the wedding and everyone I hope to see and spend time with...busy but fantastic! There's no place like home!

Day 767

Today is my 29th birthday. My third birthday I've had to celebrate without my dad. Funny though, even though he's gone, he's still come back to wish me a happy birthday every year.

Let me explain.

A few months before dad died, and then again a few weeks before, dad left me a voicemail which I never erased. Three years later, I still just can't seem to delete them from my answering service.

Periodically, a message will come up saying that the message is about to expire, in which I always hastily press "9" to save, most of the time unable to actually hear his voice.

Well, every birthday since he's passed, the message appears on my phone.

The first year was the worst...only a month after he died, and hearing his voice was almost unbearable. I had the day off of work, was in my car driving, and when I heard his voice, just broke down in tears. The second year was a bit easier. Friends were in town from Little Rock to celebrate with me, and since we were all getting ready to go out, I had a good excuse to ignore it. I just couldn't bear it that evening, and so was glad to be distracted.

This year was different. I was sitting at my desk at work, checking my voicemail, when I heard the message again. "You have two voice mails that are about to expire." I just laughed. I get it dad. Thank you for your birthday wishes. I miss you and love you too...more than I can ever express aloud.

Birthdays were never really a big deal in my house. Or at least, I was never a big birthday person. I guess I just don't like a big deal made out of me, and I never expect anything in return. But it's always nice to know that someone wants to make you feel special for a day. I was overwhelmed today by the amount of birthday messages I got...from people I haven't even heard from in years. Thank you so much to all of you that have made me feel special today...I don't get that very often. It's so nice to be reminded that you care. Guess that's what birthdays are for!

Sometimes hearing someone's voice is all you need. Sometimes all you need is a symbol to know they are there for you. Dad, I got your symbol...you're speaking loud and clear! Days like this are always hard without you, but know I have people that are always there. I love and miss you more than words, but I know you're still with me always.

Day 766

I've been somewhat uninspired this week, uninspired and uninterested, but I thought tonight if I started to type, maybe my fingers will spark some life back into this old gal.

However, I wrote the first sentence 30 minutes ago, and nothing.

It's official...riffling through thousands of media Inauguration credential requests, day after day, has officially turned my brain to mush.

I got nothing. I am absolutely and totally worthless the second I walk into my apartment every night.

So much for inspiration. This evening, just give me my couch, an old Christmas movie and a glass of red wine. I'm golden. Inspiration will just have to come knocking another day.

Day 762

Christmas in Washington. There really is nothing like it, and if I ever do move away, this will be one of the things I miss the most about this town.

Today was a very busy day. Busy, but lovely. My aunt went to Chicago for the day, so I took the two littles to help me decorate, bake Christmas cookies, drink hot chocolate and watch Christmas movies.





By the time Jack and Valeri got done, they had icing on their clothes, in their hair, behind their ears...everywhere, but they sure were fun to decorate (and eat)!



I have enough Christmas decorations for an entire house, but since my apartment is so tiny, I could only pull a few things out of storage. My wreath needed some serious sprucing up, so I used some old ornaments, etc. and remade this old thing. Looks much better in person. And yes, those are bars in front of my front door. That's life on Capitol Hill.



Growing up, my mom went just as crazy with Christmas as I love to do. We always had a large Christmas tree in our house, decorated with family ornaments collected throughout the years. In addition, she liked to have a small tree in each room. My favorite was her Santa tree, and when I moved up here I made sure I had a small Santa tree too. Now that I don't have room for a real tree, this is all I have right now, but I love all my Santas.



I also like this small fir on my kitchen table. My grandmother's tree is GORGEOUS, gold, silver and white, and although this holds zero comparison, the colors remind me a bit of Christmas in Wheeling.





After we were done with the cookies and decorating, I took the kids to the Capitol to see the Christmas tree on the West Lawn. It was FREEZING outside tonight, and we were not at all bundled up enough for the bitter cold.



After this, the kids wanted to see the White House Christmas tree too. We made it about half way to it when the wind picked up...hence the shaky picture. The kids decided they had enough, so we raced back to the car and headed home.



On the way back, I took this too. I just kind of like the look of the photo...cold and dark but romantic in a way only this town can bring out. Hope this days was full of Christmas cheer for all!

Day 753

Dad loved Thanksgiving. He was larger than life always, so pretty much any holiday was means for celebration, but for some reason, he really loved Thanksgiving. I don't know if it was sitting at the head seat, knife in hand to carve the turkey, or the fact that he savored every bite of my mother's cooking, but the closer it was for us to all sit down, the more excited he got.

Funny thing is, Thanksgiving was not a big holiday for us. We had our traditional family dishes on the menu every year, but it wasn't a holiday that we ever spent with extended family and friends. Mom tried to make it somewhat formal when we were little, but in the later years, Marissa, Lindann and I usually showed up to the dinner table in our pajamas. Mom usually ended up doing the whole feast entirely on her own; we would try to help, but usually ended up in her way around the kitchen she long ago mastered.

I guess we're a strange family in that emotions and sharing our feelings are not our best skill. We didn't sit around the table, talking about how much we love each other. The love was always there, it just never got expressed aloud much. May explain a few things, I guess, but we never really knew any different.

This Thanksgiving, I spent the day at my grandparents' house in West Virginia with four of my mom's ten brothers and sisters and their spouses and kids. There were 17 of us at dinner, a small gathering for the Peluchette family. The food was great, the conversations warm, but for some reason, I was really missing Thanksgiving in Little Rock this year. I guess things just won't ever be the same again. But that's okay...things eventually always come to an end. It's just that the memories usually make me want to come back home for more.

Day 750

The CT scan came back normal today and I FINALLY have a diagnosis! A test I took last week called a lactulose hydrogen breath test came back abnormal, meaning I have a disorder called Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth (SIBO). Basically, bacteria is normal in your digestive track, helping you breakdown food. This said, the bacteria in the small intestine is supposed to be a very small amount, but in my case (the SIBO), an abnormally large number of bacteria is present there.

Your digestive track has a muscular function that flushes food and bacteria out of your system. SIBO occurs due to any condition that interferes with muscular activity in the small intestine, allowing the bacteria to stay longer and multiply in the small intestine. Many of the conditions that cause SIBO, such as Crone's and Diabetes, I have tested negative for. So, I don't know yet where this condition comes from, but at least I have a diagnosis and get to start my treatment! Such a relief!

I guess I should start by saying that this is one of the things that I have been a bit secretive about lately. I always considered myself having a "nervous stomach" but lately it has gone well beyond that, to the point of stabbing pains in my lower abdomen, which is why I finally sought to see a GI. It's an embarrassing thing to admit that you have digestion issues, but since this blog has become a bit of an open book, I decided to disclose this to all. Hopefully, my talking about this will help someone else who suffers from the same things I do. I figure if anything else, you all will now forgive me anytime I skipped out of your evening event due to being sick. See, it wasn't just an excuse, it was totally real!! Just too embarrassed to fully disclose the details of it all!

Tonight I start a rigorous dose of special antibiotics, called Xifaxan, 3 times a day for 10 days. This antibiotic is specific to my condition because it passes through the stomach and is not absorbed through the bloodstream, but directly through the intestine. After this, I'll start on prescription-strength Probiotics (probably for life) and a dietary change restricting sugars, carbs and milk products. Not the fun part, but if it makes me feel better, than I'll do my best.

I go in to see my GI in a few weeks so we can discuss how my treatment is working and look into any further causes if it is not working. Until then, cross your fingers that this starts to work. I cannot tell you how thankful I am to finally have a diagnosis, and one that is not life-threatening or have further complications down the line. The hard part for me will be the diet change. I don't eat terribly bad, but do have my lazy tendencies to eat just a cheese tortilla for dinner. No more of that I guess unless I want to pay the consequences once again! Thanks to everyone for thinking of me during all of these tests and doctor appointments...it means so much to me!

Day 749

So in my ongoing quest to find out what the hell is wrong with me, this morning I went in and had an abdominal/pelvic CT scan. Fun, huh? Actually it wasn't as bad as I had feared, and the barium tasted surprisingly like a banana milkshake. I haven't had an episode for about two months now, but still want to keep getting these tests done until I can figure out what the issue is. So far they have ruled out Crone's disease, IBDs, food allergies, appendicitis and ovarian cysts. So they're still looking, but at least I have been feeling somewhat better lately.

On another note, since it's been so long since I've posted a picture, I thought I'd share one from the other weekend...just watching football at some friends' apartment.

Day 746

I couldn't sleep last night. I've been this way for a couple weeks now, but after lying awake in bed for way too long last night, I had to get back up, drink some hot tea and calm my head the best way I knew how. I read. And not one of my 3 books I'm in the middle of. No, I read my blog posts from when I first started writing this journal.

Reading back, I was compelled by how eloquent and poetic my words were. I may have been in pain, I may have been just venting my frustrations and hopes and fears to the world, but I was creating something worthwhile. Reading these posts of late, I am a bit disappointed with my words, with my work.

Funny thing is, this is exactly the way I have been feeling the past few months about what I'm doing with my life. It's just all been a bit lackluster; more superficial and less worthwhile. A repeated theme for me...just going through the motions, but lately, I feel like my effort has been worse than ever. Funny that this has reflected down to even my blog posts. Not so funny that I've been stuck in a rut once again.

Things are in the works though, I promise you that. A change is a comin', slowly but surely. Like I said before, I'm keeping a lot of things to myself right now, but do know that I'm working on making myself a better person. Better for those I love, better for those who need loved, better for whom I tend to ignore at times--myself. I have high hopes for the coming year.

Maybe it was the sight of the snow spitting down on me this afternoon or the cold wind hitting my cheeks or the smell of firewood burning throughout the old buildings of this city. A new season is at my door. Change is a comin', and I'm getting ready to start moving once again.

Day 745

The snow is coming...supposedly. But fingers are crossed! I'm not quite sure what has gotten into me, but ever since last week, I have been totally itching to get out all of my Christmas decorations and completely go to town on my apartment. Problem is, about 1/10th of what I have in storage (aka my aunt's basement) will actually fit. So the problem is, what to choose?

The homemade glass ornament wreath? Hmm, too breakable. The garland with lights and berries? Too big and long, plus no fireplace mantle or staircase to wrap it around. Enough ornaments to fit a 9' tree? Yeah, won't work with my 7' ceilings. So basically, there's not much to work with. Just another reason I need a real home...Christmas just isn't the same without my explosion of holiday gear and cheer.

Guess I'll go digging in boxes on Sunday to see what I can work with. Until then, I guess I'm just going to have to settle for my evening mugs of hot cocoa. The perfect treat for the Christmas spirit within.

Day 743, Part II

I just got home from work and discovered a fantastico treat...my internet is working!!! Hooray!!! You have no idea how excited I am about this; I was literally going crazy without it. I got it back yesterday from being repaired, and when I tried it last night, it still wasn't working. No idea what was wrong, but when I happened to try again today, it's back!

So now let me tell you about DC--it's f-ing FREEZING up here. Literally. It's 31 degrees right now and dropping. On a whim, I got a new pair of mittens the last time I was at Target, and it was a good thing for sure, because my fingers, nose and ears were frozen by the time I made it to my car from the Capitol. Brrrrr...

Sadly, I have no fireplace, but I did immediately turn on my tea kettle when I made it home for a cup of hot cocoa. Yummy! Supposedly it was snowing flurries today, but I think people were teasing me, because every time I made it to a window, there was nothing in the air. Boy oh boy do I love a snowfall! Ice, sludge and cold, not so much, but there's something about watching the snow fall outside that appeals to my romantic side. Must be the girl in me.

Day 743

Once again, I apologize for the length I've stayed away. My computer is still broken, and work has been entirely too crazy to sneak a post. Although that's what I'm doing during this rare moment of silence. All I can say is this...Inauguration is completely overwhelming my life right at this moment. Hopefully my computer problem will be fixed by next week so I can get up and running again. Being without wireless at my house really is truely driving me insane. At least I can check email on my Blackberry!

Day 737

Wow, my head is really spinning today. I feel that there are a million directions in which I can go in my life, and though I see a glimpse of where I want to be, I don't know which road to take to get there. All day, I keep telling myself to slow down, breathe and just take one step at a time. But each step is so huge, so different, yet each a part of who I always thought I wanted to be. How can you do it all, have it all? Is it even possible? And do I even want/need "it all"? I told you, deep thoughts today. I don't even know where to begin.

Day 733

733 days since dad died. Two years ago today. Marissa, Lindann and I were all sleeping in mom and dad's big ole bed, since so much of our family had already made it into town. It was about 5 AM, and my uncle Tim came in to tell us. I just said okay, sent an email to all my family and friends who were thinking and praying for dad, and cried myself back to sleep.

It seems surreal now, thinking back. Hearing those words, they literally drain every ounce of life out of you, and you just go through the motions, dumb to everything. I'm not sure how I got through the funeral planning, writing his obituary, writing and speaking his eulogy. I just knew that it was my job to do and no one else could speak of dad as I could; I knew the job was always mine to bear.

I wasn't supposed to be in Little Rock that weekend before. I was supposed to go to the Arkansas vs. South Carolina game that weekend in Columbia, but the weekend before that, I talked to dad and knew something wasn't right. I took the week off work and flew back home just in time. Sometimes, I wonder if dad was waiting for me to come home and say goodbye.

I got to spend three good last days with him, and on the third, I spent his last hellish conscious night alone in his hospital room, watching him scream out in utter agony and seeing the fear in his eyes as he struggled through the pain for a breathe. I have never felt so helpless in my entire life. The pain of that sight was almost unbearable, but I am still so grateful that it was my burden to bear, not my mom's or my sisters'. No one should ever have to see something so horrible, and I am glad that I was able to save them from that sight. If they had, the scars, I'm afraid, would have been irreversible.

Early that morning, he slipped into a drug-induced coma, and a few mornings later, took his final breathe. My mom and aunt Joyce were there by his bedside, holding his hands and saying goodbye first. That's how it should have been, mom by his side and her best friend there to hold her up through it.

I'm not so sure what I should be feeling today, besides mournfully nostalgic, but there's just not much there. A year ago today, I was still a total wreck. Looking back now at that first year, I see how much I scared you all and how much of a zombie I was. Even then, I was still going through the motions. Today, my head is now clear, although my heart will never loose that ache for him.

It is what it is, just another day in my new life without my father. Knowing that today was the day just brings back these painful memories that I like to keep stored deep down, away from my everyday life and my special, happy moments. Today's been a good week, this weekend especially nice so far, and so I'm just going to take this moment to get it out, and then push it back into storage.

No one should have to live with memories like these always in the forefront. I won't let them ruin my good week. Today's just another day, one of many, many more without him. A sad reality, but now that I have developed much more emotionally, I will not let it rule me. I will just let it be that special part of me that makes me who I am today. A different reflection of me just a few years ago.

Day 731

Funny how things can change so quickly. Last Thursday, the last day I posted, was a horrible day. All I wanted to do was crawl up in my bed and stay there until Springtime. But then a few things happened that brightened up my life again and totally reconfirmed my true belief that everything happens for a reason. I won't disclose much, but just know things are much better now. And thank you to all of you who were thinking of me. I really appreciate all the love and support I get from so many of you.

A few great things that happened this week I will share: My good college friend Maggie had her first baby boy, Ty. Congratulations Maggie and Ted on your sweet angel! Also, my good DC friends Lindsay and Sean got engaged. Hooray! The best part about it is that I was their Matchmaker, so I feel like an extra pat-on-the-back is in order for me this week. And another friend is expecting! So many blessings for those all around me this week...I couldn't help but be happy!

And as you all know, I'm very happy about the election results! I know that many of you don't agree with my politics, but at least agree that this was a historical moment that we will all share with our children and grandchildren and hopefully even great grandchildren. I think it's what I love most about my job--being able to take part in history. And I am just thrilled that I will be standing in the press stands on the West Front of the United States Capitol as Barack Obama becomes the 44th President of the United States. What an amazing experience it will be!

Day 724

So my computer is still down, I didn't get the job, and this morning, I pulled my back out. It's been one hell of a week. There is a reason for every season and I know that things will get better, but this has been a pretty rotten week. Fingers crossed that next week won't continue in this pattern. I need a pick-me-up for sure.

Day 721

It is a cold and rainy day in Washington, and the weather is reflected in my mood. My interview, in my opinion, was less-than-stellar, so I decided I needed to get out of town on a dime for a few days, and drove to West Virginia where my grandparents live. It was a nice few days away, and I took my good buddy Jack (6-year-old cousin) to keep me company. The weekend turned into one long journey to find Jack a #32 West Virginia University Mountaineers jersey (which is worn by my redshirt Freshman cousin, Alex Peluchette). It was a bust, but he did make out like a bandit. He's too damn cute not too...he totally knows how to work me and everyone else to get exactly what he wants. I came home empty handed, but my head is a bit calmer than when I arrived, and that's all I needed. Yesterday I was curled up on the couch with my Pap and the rest of the boys watching the Steelers loose. Not a good night in the Peluchette household, but there was no place I'd have rather been.

I also discovered that the driver in my computer needs to be replaced, and who knows when I'm going to have the money to get that done, so unless I sneak over here to my aunt & uncle's, you won't be seeing a post from me this week. As one who is glued to my Blackberry at all seconds of the day and night, being without the internet at my house is soooooo incredibly frustrating. Just add it to my list, right?

Day 716

My internet's still out (something wrong with my laptop) so it could be a while before it gets repaired. Boo!

Tomorrow morning, I am interviewing for a new position within Congress. More or less a promotion, but if I get this job I won't be staying in the same office. Please say your prayers for me...I REALLY want this position and know I will be perfect for the job. Now I just have to convince my interview panel...

Day 714

My internet is out, again, at my house, so I'm going to try to post elsewhere as much as possible. I'm taking some time off work right now during recess, so I'm just trying to get some projects done and hopefully get to take a few trips on the side. Not sure if that will happen, but I may try to go to my grandparents house this weekend to visit. It's been since the 4th of July since I've been. Anyway, we'll see what I can get done, but this is a big week for me in terms of some of the indecision I was talking about last week, so please say your prayers for strength and confidence in my heart and my mind.

Day 709

Look at this dumpling! Who wouldn't love this face?



I have no baby pictures here in DC, so I had my sister scan and email some to me today. Most saved way too small, but I thought this one was pretty darn cute.

This one is a bit blurry, but I had to share it too. Can you believe that I was a little blondie at the beginning of my life? Too funny.



I wish I had more to share. Maybe when I go home next (Christmas Eve...way too far away for my next trip) I'll go through the pictures and find some good ones.

So last weekend, some friends and I got into a discussion about birth order. Someone stated that it was usually so easy to spot say the only child or the youngest, just by watching them and catching their personality. So I asked if I was an obvious eldest child. "YES!" was the unanimous answer. Was it because I was bossy or opinionated? No, said one, it was because I was so motherly.

I guess I shouldn't have been surprised considering my DC nickname is "The Matriarch," but the statement did throw me a bit. I'm used to hearing other eldest child traits--take charge, type A, strong. But motherly? Maybe I just don't notice that. I know that I am that way in relationships (to my downfall I suppose)...always wanting to take care of someone, almost to the expense of myself. But everyday life? Hmm...well maybe I see it.

Anyway, The Matriarch is out. I have 15 minutes to decide whether to watch the debate or PR. I don't know about The Matriarch, but nothing says Shawna like waiting until the last minute to make a decision.

Day 708

I'm having a bit of a moral dilemma. Do I do my patriotic (not to mention career motivated) duty and watch tomorrow night's third and final Presidential Debate? Or do I spoil my side of all-things style and watch the finale of Bravo's Project Runway? Chances are, I could script the debate, but there's no telling who's going to win PR tomorrow night.

Will Nina like the collections? Will Tim Gunn cry? Will Michael Kors stray from his uniform? Will Heidi and Kenly finally throw down? The anticipation is almost more than I can take. And who will be the winner? The vintage villain Kenley? The architect Leanne? Or my hometown girl Korto?

Ugh, if only my TiVo worked, I could record one and skip over to someone else's house to watch the other. Although, all Bravo watchers know that it will be repeated continuously for the next month. The debate? God, I hope not.

Hmm...choices, choices. Decision 2008 is on.

Day 707

Lately I've been a bit in my own world. There are a lot of things in my life right now that I'm trying to figure out, and when I get in that spot, I tend to shell up and internalize everything. As everyone out there knows, I'm pretty much an open book. But lately, things have come into my life and I don't know where they will lead. So the past month or so I've been trying something new...trying to keep these things to myself until I start to know what the outcome might be. I guess this is my safety net, but this is new to me, and new to those close to me.

I guess that's why the blog has been lacking in substance lately. There's so much I want to say, but not sure that I'm ready yet to share even my discreet ups and downs with whomever is reading the crazy spinning that I'm translating from my head.

A lot of this is just not knowing what will come of certain situations. I'm not good at this. I don't like surprises and I don't like not having control. Yet more than one part of my life right now is just this, and it is literally starting to drive me insane. Yes, I have trust issues and yes, I have control issues. I'm not good at "letting go and letting God," but it's something I try to work on every single day.

So I've been praying about it and exercising and breathing and trying to learn at least to control my mind to keep it calm. I may not be able to control what comes in and out of my life, but I think if I can keep focused on the good it will help me deal with not knowing all the answers. And until then, I guess I'll just keep writing in circles and hiding my feelings from all. Fingers crossed I figure things out soon, because I'm not sure that keeping this up is healthy for anyone involved.

Good news is, things should start moving here in a month or so. Until then...sorry for the blabber.

Day 703

Today I am posting from work, rebel that I am. Shhh, this is a secret between you and me. The reason I am is because a) I'm totally procrastinating on preparing for my interview AND working on my dissertation and b) I just found a fun game to play. This involves downloading a picture of yourself and then uploading images of different hairstyles. Unfortunatly I didn't save them to a specific file, so they're lost somewhere on my computer for the government to find and admonish me for.

So then I decided to hack up some pictures via Photoshop, but sad to say in the 6 years since I've used Photoshop in college, I've lost all knowledge of the program, so that didn't work either.

Regardless, since I did all this work for nothing, I'm going to need you all to vote on the celebrity hair you would most want to see me in. Sad to say the Sarah Palin and Cindy McCain versions got cut from the options, but I never looked good as a Republican anyway. Just a little to hippie glam for that.

So here are your choices...I'm going to need everyone to vote on style and color because I need to see my favorite hairdresser/aunt's BFF Carey soon!

Oh yeah, so this is me (a few years ago, but it's all I have on my work computer). Now close your eyes hard and imagine...



1. Cindy Crawford. I always seem to bring in pictures of her--so amazingly beautiful.



2. Alessandra Ambrosio. Not sure I want that blonde, but I love the style.



3. Eva Mendes. Isn't she gorgeous? Again, the first shot is too blonde, but I love her side swept bangs.





4. Salma Hayek. Again, gorgeous, and I really like her dark color.



5. Amy Winehouse. Just kidding, but this may in fact be my Halloween costume this year.



What do you all think? Votes and other suggestions are greatly appreciated.

Day 702

No, I still haven't finished my house (so no pics for you) and no, I still haven't heard anything definite from the doctor. I had another flare up this week, but I have been logging my meals and I think the issue may be a food sensitivity...either a wheat or dairy allergy. My personal trainer for-a-day lectured me on eating more protein, so maybe that will help both my tummy and my muscles. It's not that I'm a vegetarian--"real girls eat meat", right Jessica?--it's just that I rarely cook it for myself. So maybe the dietary changes will do some good for me.

Day 699

So Friday night was supposed to be my night to FINALLY finish getting my house together. And what did I do? I laid on the couch, talked on the phone and watched "Across the Universe". I was totally worthless, and it felt fantastic. I needed that night.

So then Saturday was going to be my day. But then the music started bumping from upstairs, and I remembered my landlords were having an all-day birthday fest. I had to get out of the house, so I caved and went to watch the Razorbacks lose yet again. Another football game passed before we could finally leave for dinner at Oyamel (soooo yummy) and then I was talked into going out to meet an old friend who I found out was in town for the night. Then it got ugly...someone brought up dad and I ended the night in tears. Needless to say, I didn't get anything done Saturday either.

So now today's my day. And although I am at the moment totally worthless, lying on the couch typing this out, I have had my moments today. Grocery store. Check. Clean the bathroom. Check. Clean out closets. Check. Take out trash and recycling. Check. So I've done some stuff, but now I need some serious motivation to finish this FINALLY. Ugh, I've got to get this done. Today's my day.

Pic before dinner Saturday. It's really blurry for some reason, but I just wanted to show off my game day dress that I love. You can't see the belt or get the full effect though. "Plaid is so in" was my phrase of the night.

Day 695

I'm not sure if you know about the serious addiction I have. I am seriously and completely addicted to buying books. Ask my sister Marissa...after year and year again of buying her books for Christmas presents, she finally told me that if I was planning on getting her another book, then don't bother getting her anything. I mean, come on--how can anything be better? The history of Gucci for the uber-stylish sister. It'd be my idea of heaven.

I love all books and all there is about them. The smell of books straight out of the library. The crisp feel of opening one's cover for the first time. The comfort of curling up with an old favorite on a rainy Sunday afternoon.

I love historical novels, well read classics, beautifully designed coffee table books. I love political biographies, page turning mysteries, and all works of design and fashion and travel. I even love trashy romance novels and tween favorites (nerd, I know, but huge fan of Harry Potter and the Twilight sagas).

The perfect gift? All I need is an antique work of any of the above, as long as it reflects a bit of me. Bonus points for a first edition. Even just walking into a bookstore will calm and rejuvenate me. It's very therapeutic.

And the point of my tale? Well, my new digestive-friendly diet has me trying to practice more self-control in all aspects of my life. More gym time, more organized house, less wasting time. So today, I had an errand to run after work. Errand was completed quicker than expected, so I had time to kill before my yoga class.

So what did I do? That's right, I skipped on over to Barnes and Noble for a quick browse. Ten minutes after my yoga class had started, I was standing in the front of the store with two magazines and three books in hand: Thomas Friedman's new life-changer, "Hot, Flat, and Crowded," Candace Bushnell's new New York saga, "One Fifth Avenue," and Amanda Foreman's "The Duchess," the historical drama which the new Kiera Knightly movie was based on. This is, of course, after swapping back and forth between a few other dishy picks.

And the point to all this madness? I bought zero! Gold stars for me! I stood there with my hands full and decided this pattern has got to stop. As of today, I can only buy a book when I have finished the one I'm currently reading. And right now, I'm already in the middle of two books: Jane Austen's "Emma" and "The Automatic Millionaire Homeowner" by David Bach. So, until these two are finished, I will not be buying even one more work.

How's that for self-control? I have to admit, I'm pretty proud of myself. And although I missed my yoga class, I did eventually make it to the gym for a run and some time in the weight room. Yeah me! I guess my "Homeowner" manual is paying off--maybe discipline is my new game. After all, I've got to save to actually have a place of my own one day. Now let's see how long this will actually last...

Day 694

I'm happy to report that today was the first day that I actually started to feel like myself again. Still haven't heard anything from the doc yet, but I'll make sure to post an update when I do.

I'm sorry to report that there will be no pictures of my handywoman skills posted tonight. I had a meeting after work today for this huge charity event in DC that I'm on the board for called Taste of the South. After that I had to go to the gym, so I'm just now getting home. I still have to now put everything back in the new dresser and clean up a bit before you see those pics, so please hold...

Day 693

So a quick update is no update right now. I went to the Radiologist this morning for an ultrasound, but the results won't get to my Internist for a day or two, so it will be a few days before I hear anything. I couldn't get in to see a GI for a few weeks, so it may be a while until I get all figured out. The good news is I haven't had a flare up since last Wednesday night, so keep your fingers crossed it'll stay that way for a while.

So on a different note, I had a bit of a tough day today dad-wise. There were just so many things that came to me and reminded me of him. I wish I could get to that point where I am reminded of things and smile, but I just can't get past the lump in my throat and hole in my stomach.

One thing today was my doing. I finally, after almost two years, erased dad from my Blackberry. For sometime now I've been meaning to do this, but I just couldn't. This wasn't like deleting an ex or a long lost friend from my phone. After time, things can change, and they may come back into your life. But dad isn't coming back, and I guess that is why I've avoided this for so long.

Maybe it was all the meds rushing through my blood, but when I was scrolling through my Outlook contacts list today, I knew that I had to just go ahead and get this over with. I took it out like ripping off a band aid...quick and with my eyes closed. It stung pretty bad at first, but then my attention was distracted elsewhere and the sting went away. But true to form, a few hours later, something else came up and my mind raced back to him.

So that was my day. You'd think that the complete meltdown of Congress today would have distracted me more, but instead, I think it may have been the reason I kept thinking of dad. When I was little, I didn't want to be a doctor or a dancer. I wanted to be a stockbroker. That's right, a stockbroker. Dad taught me to follow the market, taught me how to trade. He loved playing the market, but playing it smart. Getting the inside track. Sometimes he was successful. Sometimes his gambles didn't quite pay off. But today was a day I'm glad he never saw. The blackest day ever for Wall Street. And instead of thinking about my plummeting 401k, all I could think about was dad.

Bleak post today, I know. Sorry for that. Stay tuned tomorrow to see what I did to distract myself tonight. This is what happens when there's no man around my house...it involves lots of pushing, screwing and a little bit of sweat. Get your head out of the gutter people, I moved some furniture and built a dresser. Pictures of my masterpiece tomorrow...

Day 690

No prognosis yet. The doc is running a bunch of tests, and I also have to go get a pelvic ultrasound and go to a Gastroenterologist to get an EGD, which is basically an Upper GI endoscopy. She is thinking that either I have an ovarian cyst that has enlarged or ruptured (possibly having to do with my Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome...and what the ultrasound is for) or that I have an IBD (Inflammatory Bowel Disease) such as Crohn's Disease. I can't see how that is possible considering most people with Crohn's have serious weight loss issues, but I guess with the PCOS's side effect of serious weight gain, maybe it somewhat balances me out.

Anyway, I have the ultrasound Monday morning, and not sure yet about the GI appointment, but I'll keep you all updated. I'm feeling okay today though, but I think it's because I haven't eaten much of anything in the past few days. Oh, she also suggested that it's possible that whatever it is I may have might have been provoked by either a stomach bug that is going around or, my original thought, sensitivity to the salmon I ate Sunday night.

SO that's all I know for now...I have to go to work tomorrow morning because the Senate is in and voting, so cross your fingers I make it through the day.

Day 689

Still not my best. Last night I had another stomach attack, so I made a doctor appointment for tomorrow morning to get this checked out. My somewhat educated guess is now appendicitis, diverticulitis or ovarian cyst, but who knows. All I know is that there are times of extreme stabbing pain and the rest of the time, just a dull pain, but still there, which is different from any other stomach problems of the past. I have what I call a "nervous stomach" which basically means I get myself sick all the time when I'm stressed out, tired, excited, etc. But this is different, and so I'm going with what my gut says (Literally) and getting it checked out. Hopefully it's nothing, but cross your fingers I'll find out something tomorrow.

Day 687

Soooo incredibly sick today. Food poisoning--ugh! It started at about 1:30 AM and really hasn't stopped yet. However, since today was a super busy day at work, I tried to buck up and get there anyway.

I was late, but made it to work in time to run to the Banking Committee with Paulson, Cox, Bernake and Lockhart testifying on the Government Bailout. I had to make sure my reporters were getting in and getting everything that they needed, so a lot of running around that room getting things right. It was a zoo down there, and I was literally sweating bullets, trying my best to maintain my composure and not have to run out of the room sick.

Well, I made it through the hearing and back to my office, sat down, and was told to go home. Thank God, because I got sick again as soon as I got back home. Eck. I'm good for the moment, but afraid to move too much, so I'm just lying pitifully on my couch. Thank God for it at least.

Day 685

This was a long weekend. Friday night consisted of playing mom a bit. Laundry and cooking dinner and laying out soccer uniforms--fun stuff like that.

Saturday was the early Razorback game. Enough said. I had to go ahead and continue mourning our team for the rest of the day, and tucked myself into bed a lot earlier than I should have for a Saturday night. A long day indeed. I did manage to cab it over to my aunt & uncle's house to say Happy Birthday to my now 14-year-old cousin Matthew. Bedtime, at their house, was shortly thereafter.

Today I woke up not-so-bright and early and finally made my way to IKEA to get a new couch and dresser. Did I tell you the couch situation? Well, when I moved in, my fantastic Pottery Barn sleeper sofa couch absolutely would not fit through my smaller-than-regulation front or back doors. So it's been sitting in storage and I've been sans a couch since July 20th. That's right, two months. THANK YOU Joyce for taking me today! Anyway, back to IKEA...so I go all the way to College Park, Maryland to pick up my new furniture, and halfway home (after being unsuccessful at Nordstrom and J.Crew) realized that part of my dresser box is damaged. So, we had to take it back to exchange, and an hour later made it home with a new one. Another long day indeed.

Anyway, long story short, my somewhat new apartment that I hate is a bit more livable now thanks to my new couch. I thought I'd throw in some new pics of the apartment, but this is all you're seeing of the hiz-ouse at the moment, because the other half is where I piled all of my magazines and laundry when I was taking these. One day, I'll let you all in to see just how small this hole of an apartment is that I pay way too much for. Until then, enjoy!



The new couch...so pleased I could find something this nice and comfortable at IKEA. Behind it was supposed to be my wall o'maps and pictures of places I've been and places I hope to go. However, since I plan to get out of here asap, I just piled them all up on top of one another. Still looks pretty okay though.



My faux-Tulip table (also an IKEA purchase) paired with my fabulous bamboo dining room chairs. I hope to get the seats recovered at some point, and also need to put up curtains sometime soon. It's a work in progress people.



Please ignore the celophane in the corner...just wrapping from the couch I haven't yet thrown out. I do also love my bookcase turn bar and my built-in shelves. I know I've talked about it before, but doesn't the wrapping paper I put behind the built-in bookshelves make it look so much better? I'm very proud of that creative moment.

Day 682

I couldn't be prouder of my sisters right now. Marissa and Lindann both were filmed in a commercial for the Arkansas Prostate Cancer Foundation, which will start airing around the state soon. It took a lot of heart, strength and courage to be able to stand in front of the camera and say what they did, and I am so happy to say that I am a Blair girl today. Below is the clip:

Day 680

I saw a quote recently by the late great fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent, who said, "Over the years I have learned that what is important in a dress is the woman who is wearing it." I completely agree. If a woman if confident in her own skin, she will be confident in anything.

But I have also learned that there is that dress which, once on, brings it all out in a woman. It's one helluva dress. And I tried it on today.

Maybe it was the label--Red label Valentino. Maybe it was the price--retail for well over $1,000. But when I slipped that black satin gown over my head and down my body, goose bumps ran down my skin. I felt alive. Sexy. Confident. Glowing. I felt like I could walk out of that dressing room and own whichever room I wanted for my keeping. The dress wasn't wearing me...I was owning that dress.

I take back what I said before. It wasn't the label or the price that did it. It was the make. Deep plunging v-neck halter, smooth black satin that brushed right above my knees. Like I said, one helluva dress. I felt like a man eater in that number, and I loved it.

Sadly, I didn't have the budget for it, even at 70% off. So I danced around the dressing room, memorized the feel against my skin, and cried a bit as I slid the dress back over my head and out of my life.

Yes, it's the woman in the dress that is always the most important thing. But a woman in that dress--unstoppable. No wonder the price was so high...too many of that running around town and men would never get any work done. And woman would be ruling the world, one amazing dress at a time.

Day 678

Did anyone watch SNL last night? Okay, neither did I, but I fully intend to devote a good portion of my workday tomorrow checking out all the good skits I missed. The reason I ask is because I did see the opening monologue and it is about the funniest thing I've seen in a long time. Tina Fey as Sarah Palin and Amy Poehler as Hillary Clinton...HILARIOUS!! Tina Fey's impression is dead on (as are her words) and it totally made me lean more toward Sarah Palin...for a Halloween costume. I've narrowed it down to either her or Amy Winehouse...I'll let you all decide.

Anyway, here they are...enjoy!



SNL Video via You Tube

Day 677

Rainy days. Usually, they're one of my very favorite things. Most of the time, there's nothing better than snuggling up in bed, wasting the day away while listening to the raindrops ting against your window. Lazy rainy fall Saturdays, curled up on the couch in your most comfortable pajamas, napping as your flip through college football. I wish today's rainy day did that for me.

Instead, I woke up not so great this rainy Saturday morning. Nothing felt right. I used to have these days a lot. Rain pouring down or the sun shining bright, it was just something I couldn't shake. Then I started to write, I started to feel again, and the frequency of those days lessened.

I don't know how to control them, when they come and when they stay away. I can't turn these days off whenever I want to. The good news is, they don't happen very often anymore. The bad news is, they've come back to me today.

I think this stems from an overwhelming feeling of having no control. Sure, I can control what I wear, what I read, what I watch. Small factors that really add up to nothing. But I can't control who stays in my life, who goes, who keeps coming back, who won't seem to go away. And that lack of control, and my feelings involved in it all...well, they build up to erupt into days like today.

I received a beautiful email this morning from someone I watched grow up. He offered words of encouragement and visions of happy days. Then he said something that shocked me...sometimes, he reads this and feels so sorry for me, other times, he's happy to think I'm doing so well. I guess it's never been stated so bluntly to me before, but thank you. I know that's how so many of you feel, and you just don't quite know what to say or do about it.

But that's okay. I know this. Trust me, I live it. I know my good days from my bad. Luckily, the balance is now skewed. More good, much more good, than bad.

This is why I write. I may not be a number one in someone else's life, but on this blank page, I am the one and only. I spill it all, not having to worry about having to stop and wait for work or kids or school or husbands or girlfriends or anything else from letting me say what I need to say. I am allowed to speak. I am allowed to feel.

People always ask me, "How do you do it? Put yourself out there so freely? It's so brave." No, it's not brave. Probably more stupid than anything else, but it's just who I've always been. Wear my heart on my sleeve. What you see is what you get. An open book. Not often do I shy away from stating my opinion. Maybe I should work on that a bit.

Mysterious should be my new gig.

Day 676

Well, I did it. I finally broke down, after months of peer pressure, and joined facebook today. And after all the things I have no shame of sharing on this blog, I have to admit that I'm a bit embarrassed about confessing this sin.

My schtick has always been that I'm too old to be on facebook, and to this day I still feel this way. But I realized that facebook is no longer just a place to post drunk function photos and keep updated on you and your friends dating status (Yes, still single, why do you ask?).

But after Denver, and then Minneapolis, and then even Vegas, I have been forced to realize that facebook has now revolutionized the world of networking and I had better jump on that train. Oh how I hate to admit that!

Day 673

I've officially been identity thefted. Today as I was looking at my bank statement, much more carefully than usual I might add (thank God), I noticed some strange charges. iTunes for $104. iTunes for $77. iTunes for $55. iTunes for $55 again. Hmmm...pretty sure I didn't charge almost $300 in iTunes charges this morning at 4 AM. The closer I looked, the more I saw that weren't of my doing. About 10 separate charges in all. Ugh, I feel so violated.

So I called Bank of America, and an hour later was assured that they would take care of this situation, it might just take a few weeks. Well, as long as I get my money back. How did this happen though? My card was never stolen, just my card number.

Later in the afternoon, I found out two other friends had similar charges to the same companies in the past week. We narrowed that down to the last time the three of us were together, and discovered that the restaurant where this breach must have taken place was one of my favorite DC spots. Too bad, because they have the best chicken tacos and margaritas in town!

Day 672

I'm home!! Vegas was a great end to my whirlwind trip, but honestly, I just couldn't do it up in Sin City as I should have. It was a good thing that I was meeting my mom and sisters there, because otherwise (after the past three weeks I've had) I would probably have ended up in the emergency room suffering some sort of liver damage or severe dehydration. A few pictures from the trip for you to enjoy...

My cheesy "Welcome to Las Vegas" pic I had to take.



The trip was actually for dad...he was inducted into the American Swimming Coaches Hall of Fame, and I went to accept the award on his behalf. Mom, Marissa and Lindann were there with me, along with our cousin Robin (who's mom's age and good friend) and her husband. A few other friends, ex-swimmers and colleagues of dad's were also there for support...it was great having them there with us, and we really appreciate it.

Me, Lindann, Marissa, Mom and Robin after the dinner. I was so incredibly tired by that point. Seriously, I went straight to bed afterward...what a loser!



Saturday we woke and ate breakfast, where we watched Michael Phelps giving a swim clinic. We later saw him inside the Giorgio Armani store at the Bellagio...he was inside while bodyguards locked the doors and kept everyone out. So cool now I guess.

Then mom and I gambled a bit; I ended up loosing about $40 (which I guess isn't too bad). Later we all went to dinner at Tao in the Venetian and then to see O at the Bellagio, both of which were fantastic.

Afterward we watched the fountain show outside the Bellagio three times (they change the song and choreography each time). My favorite was the classical music set, but I got Elton John's "Your Song" on video. It really is incredible. I really wanted to share, but the file is way too big. I'm going to have to try to cut it down and post it later on.

Lastly, I thought I would share with you the speech I gave for dad's induction. I didn't really want to touch on his accomplishments or wins--those are already obvious for this honor. Rather, I wanted to share why it was that he loved being a swim coach.

Here it is:

Thank you. On behalf of my mother, Mary Dawn, my younger sisters, Marissa and Lindann, our extended family, and of course, our family of swimmers who learned from dad throughout his over 30 years as a coach, I thank you for bestowing this great honor upon him.

I know that he is looking down right now with great pride, and probably a touch of sadness, too, that he never made it here in life to thank you himself. For those of you who knew dad well, you know that he would have happily stood here for at least an hour or two, accepting this honor, reciting his life story and every facet of how much he truly loved the sport of swimming. I'll try to sum it up a bit more briefly than that.

To dad, being a swim coach was never just a job.

He simply stated to anyone who would listen, "I am so blessed to wake every day and get to do what I love."

He LOVED being a swim coach. He loved the peace of 4 AM workouts, pacing the pool deck with a Diet Coke or hot tea in his hand, nothing but the smell of chlorine and the sight and sound of bodies moving though the water.

He loved his swimmers, and considered them part of our family. We all did. He loved seeing the progression of an athlete, watching hard work and sacrifice prove victorious in the end. He loved working with swimmers, both young and old, and teaching them not only the skills for the pool, but also skills for a successful and happy life.

But I think most of all, dad LOVED the thrill of a great race.

After the death of a loved one, you go through a lot of firsts without them. First Christmas. First Father's Day. For our family, we also went through our first Olympics. And for all of them for him to miss...well, you all obviously saw every moment as I did. But that relay. That was a race dad would have loved to see. The excitement and exhilaration that raced through all our hearts as Jason Lesak raced to the finish. It sunk into our bones.

That was the thrill that hooked him from the very beginning. Chasing down the win. The fierce competitiveness that lives in each of us still in this room. Dad would have LOVED that amazing race.

I think that dad's great love and great success as a coach began at a young age. The thrill of the race hooked him, but the discipline, respect and responsibility he quickly learned from the sport is what really kept him committed. It gave him direction and put him on the straight path he always wanted to lead, and in return, committed himself to instilling these gifts of character in others.

Throughout his career, and more so after his life had ended, his swimmers had reflected that back to our family. It wasn't just that he made them better swimmers--that was just an added plus. What he gave them further was the unique ability to inspire and instill in them all to be better men and better women. Dad knew better than anyone, trophies and gold medals will eventually gather dust, but strong character will last forever and beyond.

To me, that is the measure of a great coach. And in the eyes of all who knew and swam for him, myself and my sisters included, his talents as a coach were immeasurable.

Day 668

Not my best this morning. The bars in this town decided to stay open until 4 AM for the Convention parties, but until last night I've been able to somehow behave myself. Yeah, not my best. I did, however, see two great concerts...Daughtry and Julianna Hough (the adorable blonde from Dancing with the Stars...apparently she's now a country singer).

Sorry kids, I couldn't take any pictures last night at the Convention because I was super busy, but I do have some pics of the show below.

Bald men are sexy!







Isn't she just the cutest thing ever?





Celebrity sightings at the RNC: Jon Voight walking in front of me, Jon Voight eating dinner next to me, Jon Voight at a late night party, these two late night artists above, Big and Rich and that black Cowboy that hangs out with them and raps...that's pretty much it.

Maybe I'll see more tonight at the Vanity Fair party!!! Yes, super excited, and we scored an invite thanks to my new BFF Todd Purdum, which I must brag a little and say that it was a bit surreal discussing President Clinton's speech with him in Denver. Very cool. For those of you that don't know, Todd is a political writer for Vanity Fair.

Anyway, need to eat a bit and sober up and pack and get ready for the night and for my flight to Las Vegas tomorrow morning!! Ugh, just tuck me in my bed instead!

Day 667

A little more about Minneapolis/St. Paul today...I really like these cities! Minneapolis has a great downtown area that is easily walkable. There is an inside walkway, called the SkyWalk, that gets you from building to building above the ground...probably to shelter you from those cold Minnesota winters.

Also, this really should be called the Windy City, because the wind won't stop blowing up here. My hair has been one big knot all week.

St. Paul is really pretty also. Rolling hills and big Victorian homes everywhere. The state capitol building is really pretty and right downtown near the Xcel Center, and St. Paul Cathedral is gorgeous. It's funny too, because St. Paul and Minneapolis are separated by the Mississippi River, just like Little Rock and North Little Rock, except that up here, the Mississippi River isn't so much the Might Mississip. Still a baby river.

There have been some pretty crazy protests here, much worse than what I saw at the RNC in New York City four years ago. I got a warning from U.S. Captiol Police this morning warning of some protest activities planned for tonight...demonstrators are expected to set fires all over St. Paul after some concert tonight. On Monday, over 40 people were arrested for smashing out windows, slashing tires and pepper spraying people's faces. Scary stuff.

Anyway, here are some pictures from last night...enjoy!

First Lady Laura Bush







President Bush via satellite



President George H.W. Bush, Barbara Bush and Cindy McCain

Day 666

The past two days have been crazy. Thanks to Hurricane Gustav, the schedule was rearranged and then rearranged again. The good news is that the platform is being used to encourage service and donations for the people of Louisiana. Last night I went to a Friends of New Orleans party (the same one I went to in Denver) and the Spirits of the Gulf Coast party (originally supposed to be named the Spirits of Minnesota, but when the storm came, the name changed). Donations were encouraged and abundant, which is always a good thing.

Sunday was credentialing distribution day, which went very smoothly. That night, I joined a friend to go to the Sammy Hagar party. He was entertaining as always and sang all of his best songs. Very fun...thanks Lindsay! She also gave me tickets to the Beach Boys party last night, but I couldn't attend because of the other two parties I had to go to...plus I'm just too tired at this point to do that much party hopping.

I also forgot my camera last night, so no new pictures for you (sorry), but there wasn't too much to shoot anyway. The First Lady and Cindy McCain did speak, so unfortunately I didn't get any shots of them, but they were the only ones I missed. I'll make sure to take it tonight.

Day 663

So far, Minneapolis is great. We are staying downtown, and there's just such a great vibe here. There is an outdoor pedestrian mall, somewhat like 16th Street in Denver, that is lined with bars and restaurants having deep sidewalks for outdoor seating. Last night we had a staff dinner, then met up with lots of photographers and radio/tv people at a rooftop bar. Very fun. A little too much maybe, because tonight I am officially skipping the RNC Media Party and taking the night off. I need to recharge!

Today we did some credentialing and also went to the Xcel Center, where the GOP Convention is being held, to check the writing press stands and other workspace. Below are some pictures from our writing press stands inside the Xcel.







I'm off to bed soon...have to get up early tomorrow for work. Funny, but I'm totally loosing track of what day it is since I work every day. All day today I kept thinking it was Friday. Whatever.

Day 662

Hello from Minneapolis!

I woke up at 3:30 AM to get to the airport on time and still just barely made my flight because of the mass exodus out of Denver. Pretty much was on an all Media flight. I made it in around 9:30 AM and went straight back to bed until 2 PM today. Since then, I've done lots of laundry and just rested up a bit. I have to go to a dinner tonight and then bright and early tomorrow morning, it's off to work all over again.

Hard to believe I have to do this all over again! Also note that I reposted yesterday's post with better pictures and comments, so reread below for a better post.

Day 661

**I'm reposting these pictures with comments...I think they look so much better larger.

What a historic day! I am so proud and honored to be a part of it. I leave for the airport at 4:00 AM to head off to Minneapolis, so all I'm sharing is pictures tonight. I need a bit anyway to take it all in and reflect. If you missed the speech last night, read the text here. Excellent night.

Shawn Johnson recited the pledge of allegience and Jennifer Hudson sang the national anthem (truly amazing voice).







Stevie Wonder was fantastic!







Vice President Al Gore.







Vice Presidential Nominee Sen. Joe Biden.



Hard at work, exhausted and exhilarated, in the Mile High press box.



Senator Durbin's introduction of Senator Obama.



The press corps busy as always.



Senator Barak Obama accepts the Democratic Presidential nomination and addresses 76,000 delegates, supporters, staff and members of the media in Denver, Colorado. Thursday, August 28, 2008.





















Celebration after Senator Obama's acceptance speech.











The Obama girls are about the cutest things I've ever seen. Sasha, the baby, was dancing around the stage catching the confetti as it floated to the ground. Absolutely adorable!







What an amazing week! Denver is a great city, and although I worked my tail off, I'm looking forward to having just as great an experience in Minneapolis!