We bought our home almost ten years ago.  It was a stretch for us.  A really big stretch.  We put pen to paper and figured out how to make it work and part of it hinged on not buying toiletries and only eating once a day.  OK – that’s an exaggeration, but only a slight one.

We had stalked this property for about a year.  We drove by it all the time and dreamed about owning it but we never thought it would be for sale.  Then one day a friend who lived in the neighborhood of the “dream house” called to tell us the owners were putting it on the market.  We called them that day, set up a time to take a look and fell in love. 

It’s funny – we fell in love with the house, but also its owners.  Mr. and Mrs. Farley were roughly the same age as our parents and practically treated us that way.  Before we moved in they invited us over to review all of the ways in which they cared for the place and its many quirks.  It was obvious they were a bit sad about leaving it.

We saw them off and on for a few years until they sold their business in Des Moines and moved to Minneapolis.  We found out they’d done so because Mrs. Farley was sick and being treated at the University of Minnesota.  She passed away almost a year and a half ago.

Yesterday I was doing some laundry and cooking before getting ready for work when Michael hollered “Honey!  Mr. Farley’s here!”  We had the nicest visit.  Mr. Farley was interested in seeing the bathrooms we’ve remodeled (we bought a claw foot tub and pedestal sink from him) and hearing about how the old place was functioning, but mostly he just wanted to be there.  He got a little misty talking about Mrs. Farley and told us that selling the place was quite emotional for them.  We talked and talked and talked and I was struck by how much this man obviously loved (and still loves) his wife.  It was a wonderful thing to see – and feel.  

Thank you, Mr. Farley for a wonderful surprise.  Thank for the reminder that things like a lovely home are nice, but the real joy comes from sharing them with those we love.

“Love begins at home, and it is not how much we do… but how much love we put in that action.”  – Mother Teresa

 

Thanks for the great response to my last blog.  I appreciate the thoughtful emails and lively face-to-face discussions it prompted.  It’s proof that even if people aren’t of the same opinion, they can have a respectful debate.  How refreshing!!!

For the Love of Money

It’s why we work, right?  Or at least it’s part of the reason.  I also work because I love it.  There are days I am frustrated or uninspired or even angry, but I really am lucky that I’m doing something I love.

After the blog I posted last week many people have wanted to share their own work-related stories with me.  This is a good one from my friend James.  He puts in a lot of time at his family’s restaurant, in addition to his “regular” job.  He works his rear off.  That’s why he was so astounded and annoyed when an employee was refusing to clean the restrooms.  James gave the employee multiple opportunities to do the tasks assigned to him, but the employee kept blowing off his duties.  One day when the employee was clocking out he said, “See ya tomorrow!”  James said, “Nope – we won’t.  You’re fired.”  The next day the employee’s MOTHER called – wanting to know why her son was fired.  When James told her, her response was, “Well, he shouldn’t have to clean the restrooms.”  After hearing that cleaning the restrooms was part of the job, SHE OFFERED TO GO TO THE RESTAURANT AND DO IT FOR HIM!!!!  What?!?!?  I asked James how old this kid is.  He’s in his 30s.  And still lives with his mother.  OK – that makes perfect sense.

“For The Love Of Money” by the O’Jays keeps rolling around in my head because of Dave Price’s story tonight.  I can’t wait to hear how a Central Iowa family went from $250,000 in debt to zero.

I know it seems like a silly thing – but this is one way I stretch a dollar.  I always cut open bottles of lotion, tubes of lip gloss, etc… it adds up!

I’m also big on clipping and using coupons although I’m not militant about it like some people are.

I also like consignment stores.  If you’re looking for a good one, I just dropped in to Repeat Boutique on Ingersoll Avenue the other day and the place is filled with cute clothes, shoes, handbags, jewelry, furniture … who doesn’t love a bargain?!?

I hope you’ll join us tonight to learn far more interesting tips on slashing your debt and saving money.

EEK

A guidance counselor said this to me in high school.  I remember thinking, “Huh?”   I understood the point she was trying to make but I didn’t agree with her.  I still don’t.

I’ve been thinking about this encounter a lot recently because of some frustrating incidents at work.  In my opinion, most are the result of people being willing to settle for mediocrity.

I don’t get it.  If you’re going to do something, why wouldn’t you do it to the best of your ability?

I go absolutely bonkers when people are apathetic and lazy.  Everyone makes mistakes, but when people put forth no effort and the end result looks bad on the air I could just scream.  Actually, sometimes I do scream!

All I want is for people to try hard and to care about their work.

I probably spend too much time obsessing over such things.  I stew about tripping over my tongue, question the quality of my writing, cringe when I think about doing a terrible job during a speaking engagement … it would definitely be easier to not give a rip.

Here is an interesting take on failure.  I couldn’t agree more – failing is not trying.

As far a I’m concerned, doing your absolute best is the only way to live.  It doesn’t mean things turn out perfectly every time but it’s better than the alternative.

EEK

Erin.Kiernan@whotv.com

Wow – I have been rotten about blogging lately.  My apologies.

It’s partly because I’ve been busy working on some fun stories, partly because I keep forgetting and partly because I haven’t really had anything to write about!

I’m involved in two cool stories that we’re airing today.  The first was our “Workout of the Week” at 5 o’clock.  Sonya and I got to work out with Shawn Johnson and Gabby Douglas!  For some reason the story isn’t posted to our site, but I will share the link once it is.  Our thanks to Coach Chow and both of these lovely, amazing ladies – we had  wonderful time.

I hope you’ll be able to tune in at 10 to see my “13 Cares” on Caleb Pike.  He and his wife were one of our workout success stories a few years ago and you’ll be amazed at what he’s doing now.  It involves riding a bike LONG before the sun comes up.  Coincidentally, you’ll also get an update on Kelsey Michelsen and you’ll be amazed by her, too!  If you missed our original story you can watch it here:  http://whotv.com/2011/09/22/kelseys-comeback-homecoming-is-right-of-passage-and-at-southeast-polk-one-student-overcame-long-odds-to-take-part/

Here’s a story that had me scratching my head today:  http://usnews.msnbc.msn.com/_news/2012/05/01/11488273-drunken-grandparents-use-suv-to-tow-girl-in-toy-car-deputies-say?lite

And finally, JB isn’t wearing any pants today!!! 

WEATHER

I did not post last week, mostly because I was swamped with storm cleanup and stuff here at work.  Did you have a lot of damage/mess at your home or business after the weather that blew through Iowa the weekend before last?  We had trees down, water in the basement, water coming through the ceiling… what a nightmare!

It could have been much worse – I saw trees this size (and larger) on top of cars in our neighborhood.

STAR-STRUCK

I was busy with story shoots last week and one left me totally star-struck.  Sonya and I got to work out with Shawn Johnson and Gabby Douglas at Chow’s Gymnastics!  We both kept saying, “I can’t believe Shawn Johnson is helping me walk on the balance beam!” and “Oh my gosh, Gabby Douglas is leading the warm up routine!”  These ladies and their peers are amazing.  The strength, flexibility and mental toughness they possess is incredible.  We looked like goofballs trying to follow along, but it sure was fun.  You’ll see our efforts – and their ability – in an upcoming “Workout of the Week”.

EVERYBODY WINS!

Saturday night Michael and I attended a celebration marking the ten year anniversary of the Everybody Wins! Iowa program.  We had a great time.  The event was held at the Salisbury House and Brooke was the MC.  If you’re looking for a way to volunteer that doesn’t require a lot of time or money or influence, check out this website.  http://www.everybodywinsiowa.org/

EEK

It’s back to the grind for me after only working two days last week.  I went to Arizona to visit my folks.  The weather there was gorgeous and we had a great time.

It’s a bit of a tradition for me and my mom to get pedicures whenever we see each other.  Here we are at a salon down the road from my parents’ house.

Another Moody family tradition is eating!!!  Here we are at a new Japanese eatery my folks wanted to try.  My dad likes trying new foods but he hates fish.  I thought he was going to throw up watching me eat sushi.

What traditions does your family have?  We used to attend sunrise service on Easter Sunday when I was a kid.  This year we attended my parents’ church on Good Friday instead.

I’ll tell you a tradition many people in Arizona have – tanning!!!  There were some people at the pool who looked like raisins!  I know it would be hard to resist the rays in a climate like that and I get my fair share of sun in Iowa when the weather is nice, but nothing like I did back in the day.  When I was a lifeguard in high school we used to have contests about who on the staff could get the darkest the fastest, and I was often in the lead.  Here is an article on the pursuit of the tan that surprised (and scared) me.  Are you a sun worshiper or do you slather on sunscreen to prevent skin cancer and wrinkles?

I need to get busy on some other housekeeping items after being gone for a few days… have a great week!

EEK

Erin.Kiernan@whotv.com

I hope you had a great weekend.  Ours was hilarious, and proof that helping good causes can be a whole lot of fun.

Bubble Ball

Michael and I were lucky enough to be invited to emcee ChildServe’s Bubble Ball on Saturday night.  This was the second year for the event and it was amazing.  Our outfits pale in comparison to the elaborate designs created by talented people in the metro.  We were supposed to be Roy Rogers and Dale Evans but Michael kept saying he thought he looked like he should be waiting tables at Chi-Chi’s.  You don’t have to wear Bubble Wrap to this event, but if you want to attend a really fun, unique fundraiser for a great cause I would recommend putting this on your calendar for 2013.

Gross!

I took this picture the other day after a bunch of us had a random conversation about what grosses us out.  I used to work with a photojournalist who had a visceral reaction to lipstick stains… didn’t matter if the goo was on a cup, a straw, a napkin … he would physically shudder.  Ed said his “EWWWWWWWW!” thing is hair.  I would have to agree – hair in a sink or a drain is icky.  My husband would probably pick vomit.  Whenever our cat pukes Michael starts gagging.  What grosses you out?

Words Matter

Lately, you might be grossed out at the grocery store!  The uproar over “Lean Finely Textured Beef”, or “Pink Slime” or “Beef Filler” continues this week, with Governor Terry Branstad asking fellow governors to stand up for the product.  Here is his letter.  What do you think?

I think words matter.  “Pink Slime” may not be an accurate way to describe what we’re talking about, but frankly I don’t think “Lean Finely Textured Ground Beef” is either.

I also think as consumers we should be able to read a label and know (really know) what’s in our food.  Want to know what the FDA allows?  Check out its website to see what defects could be in your grocery cart.  I remember my best friend having a fit about me eating hot dogs and saying, “The FDA allows nine rat hairs per hot dog!”  I thought, “Yeah, right.”  Hmmmmmmm… Beth might be right after all.  It probably won’t stop me from grabbing a hot dog at QT every once in a while, but this debate raises a lot of interesting issues.

On that note – I’m going to eat dinner.  Yum!

EEK

Erin.Kiernan@whotv.com

There have been several strange and sad stories in our newscasts over the last several days.  Some make you scratch your head and wonder, “What in the world?!?” while others leave you with a sense of dismay, disgust, grief or anger.

People often ask me how I manage to get through some of these stories without revealing those emotions on the air.  The answer is – sometimes I don’t.  I’ve fought back tears many times on TV and on occasion had to stifle all of those other feelings, too.  I’ve gone home after work and ranted and raved about horrible events and circumstances.  It’s easy to become very cynical and callous in this business but I’m finding out something about myself.  I think I’m becoming more sensitive and less judgmental.  Not about everything, mind you – but I do find myself thinking, “You just never know.”  It seems to me that it wouldn’t take too many changes in circumstances for any of us to fall right off the deep end.  Or at least that’s my reasoning these days.

Your thoughts?  As you get older are you becoming more or less judgmental?

EEK

Erin.Kiernan@whotv.com

I think the Channel 13 News Team should hire Mr. Newton to sketch our portrait.

Quote of the day:  “Oh my gosh, what in the world is happening around here?!?!?”  – John Bachman

Even better – JB said it when Andy Fales came out to the set during the six o’clock show to anchor sports.  It wasn’t meant to be offensive, it’s just that Andy never anchors sports during the week and we had no idea he was doing so tonight.

Quote of the weekend:  “This was the best Thanksgiving ever.”  – Heather Burnside

Except that it was St. Patrick’s Day!  Sonya, Michael and I got a lot of laughs out of this one – even through TODAY.  I understand why Heather was confused.  We had just eaten a ton of food and spent time with good friends so there was kind of a Thanksgiving sort of vibe.  Hilarious.

I am going to try to post adorable footage of my nieces serenading us … I’ve never done this before … fingers crossed …

OK, I am failing miserably at this.  BUT I did manage to post the clips to facebook.  They will make you smile.

EEK

Hi Erin.  Here’s the latest report.  We saw Dr. Chang, the neurologist at St. Joe’s yesterday.  He had gone over all the information again, including the most recent EEG and the last MRI (which was actually way back in May) and he declared that all images looked normal.  Dr. Chang just kept telling your dad how good he looked, ran him through several checks and marveled at his response speed and strength.  He said again, how badly “irritated” his brain had been, and how much blood there was from the rupture, and how lucky he was to have no evidence of permanent damage.   We also stopped in for a quick visit at Barrow’s.  We saw several of the nurses, the recreation coordinator, and Faith, the speech therapist.  They all congratulated Larry on how great he looked and how well he was doing.  He enjoyed the “fussing” over him!

Experiences like this put life in perspective.  Sometimes, after time passes, it’s easy to lose that perspective and revert to our old ways of getting worked up about things that in the long run, won’t really matter.  I know I sound like a “thought for the day” or a self-help book but it’s how I’m feeling right now.

Happy Wednesday,

Erin

I had a great (and long) weekend.  Sonya and I had a spa afternoon at Estilo on Friday, followed by dinner and wine at Cafe di Scala.  I highly recommend both.  Michael and I spent most of Saturday and Sunday being lazy and trying new recipes.  It was a perfect weekend as far as I’m concerned.

John Bachman has interviewed five presidents during his forty-year career in broadcasting.  Tonight you’ll see his one-on-one with President Obama.

If you could sit down with President Obama, what would you ask him?  Along those lines, what would you ask Newt Gingrich, Ron Paul, Mitt Romney and/or Rick Santorum.  No topic is off-limits here, but please try to be polite.

I’m going to eat dinner – all the talk from the men vying for the GOP nomination about grits and biscuits has made my mouth water!

EEK

Erin.Kiernan@whotv.com

I am still learning how to use our new format, so I apologize in advance if this goes horribly wrong.

Laughing so hard you cry (or pee)
I’ve been thinking a lot about the power of laughter after last Friday. Sonya and I were positively goofy by the time the five o’clock news rolled around and we had various bouts of laughing so hard we were literally crying (not good when you have to wear as much makeup as we do for work) and almost peeing. It was fantastic. Here’s what an article on WebMD has to say about the benefits of laughing:

We change physiologically when we laugh. We stretch muscles throughout our face and body, our pulse and blood pressure go up, and we breathe faster, sending more oxygen to our tissues.
People who believe in the benefits of laughter say it can be like a mild workout — and may offer some of the same advantages as a workout.
“The effects of laughter and exercise are very similar,” says Wilson. “Combining laughter and movement, like waving your arms, is a great way to boost your heart rate.”
One pioneer in laughter research, William Fry, claimed it took ten minutes on a rowing machine for his heart rate to reach the level it would after just one minute of hearty laughter.

Here’s the article in it’s entirety, in case you’re interested:

Ouch!!!!
It makes sense to me that the effects of laughter and exercise are similar. Before our bouts of hilarity, we’d spent about two hours working out with personal trainer Angie Gallagher. She always comes up with unique ways to push us to our limits (wait until you see the Dixie cup workout!) and we leave feeling absolutely spent. We also leave feeling energized. Friday we left with our quads and biceps burning, which continued through the weekend! If you’re interested in trying a workout with Angie, check out her website:

Never was a baller
We’re in the thick of tournament time. As I watched the high school girls last week I was remembering how terrible I was at basketball. Frankly, I wasn’t really great at any sports. The only reason I ever saw playing time is because I grew up in a small town. If I’d attended schools the size of Ankeny or Southeast Polk I would have been the water girl or statistician. Anyway – back to basketball. I tried playing and I tried to make myself like it. A lot of my friends played, loved it and were good at it. The breaking point for me came my freshman year. My mom tells this story better than I do, but the short version is that there was a very tall, very athletic, very stinky girl on one of the opposing teams. We were playing zone and I swear I spent the bulk of the game with my face in this girl’s armpit. I didn’t really care for all the contact of this sport anyway (which is why volleyball and softball were more my speed) and I finally decided I just wasn’t cut out for it. I think the coach was relieved when I quit. I mean really – who wants someone on the team who says, “Sorry!” every time she boxes out?

That’s all for now…have a great night!
EEK
Erin.Kiernan@whotv.com

Tonight Dave Price brings us another report on education in Iowa – we hope you’ll tune in at 10.

In the meantime, let us know what you think makes a teacher great.

I freely admit I was a geeky kid. I always liked school (and most of my teachers). Here are a few of my favorites from elementary school…

Mrs. Piercy (4th grade), Mrs. Zahm (1st grade) and Mrs. Schumacher (2nd grade). This picture was taken several years ago at my folks house in Chadron when we held a 40th anniversary/going away party for them before they moved to Arizona.

What I remember about each of these women is that they made learning fun and as a kid you could feel how much they cared. They encouraged me in the subjects in which I excelled (reading and writing) and were patient and helpful in the subjects in which I struggled (math and science).

My list of favorite teachers (from kindergarten all the way through college and beyond) is long. I was also blessed to have two great teachers at home. My mom and dad made it clear that learning and doing well in school were priorities and they led by example. When I hit third grade and thought my head was going to explode learning multiplication tables my mom started setting the kitchen timer and drilling me with flashcards. Not fun – but I learned the material. My dad’s mode of teaching was more practical. We counted money and I saw him balancing the checkbook. Also not fun (to me) – but effective. It’s funny, the only joy I ever got out of math was when I started waiting tables my freshman year in high school. I LOVED counting my tips and eventually had an odd affection toward the ancient cash register that required you to make change in your own brain.

Sound off here about the various proposals to reform education in Iowa, and tune in tonight!

EEK
Erin.Kiernan@whotv.com

Once again I find myself apologizing for a long absence. Even though I haven’t been “gone” – I just haven’t been blogging. I seem to have gotten my self buried in work and volunteer-related things and writing here has taken a backseat.

I’ve been in a little bit of a funk off and on lately because of a string of bad luck. My mood got a boost today – from a fourth grader. For years I’ve participated in the “Everybody Wins” reading program. Every week you spend one lunch hour visiting and reading with a student. For several years I read with a wonderful kid named Majid, and now I read with his adorable little brother Faruk. I love this program but it seems like most weeks I am running around like a chicken with my head cut off trying to get to the school on time and then rushing to get to work afterward. Some weeks the kids just don’t seem that in to it and ask to leave early so they can go outside and play. I get it. I want to go outside and play, too! I’ve wondered if this sliver of time even matters. Today Faruk showed me that it does. First of all – he was reading an encyclopedia when I showed up! Then he told me that he missed me last week (we didn’t have reading). Finally, when we got out “Goosebumps: The Haunted School” I almost fell out of my seat. Everything about Faruk’s reading is improved – especially word recognition and inflection. I stopped him after the first page and told him what a great job he was doing and he said, “I’ve been practicing like you asked me to and I actually like reading now.” I almost started crying! This is proof that making a difference doesn’t require a ton of money or time or brains or influence … just showing up can have a impact.

I often let little (negative) things have far too much impact on my outlook. An example – this email.

Message: I would encourage the news team and Erin because of tonight’s use to research the correct usage of the word further. Further only sounds sophisticated when used correctly.

It was sent yesterday and I spent way too much time obsessing over it… the rolling narrative in my head went something like this, “Did I say the word ‘further’? Did I use it incorrectly? If so, how embarrassing. People must think I’m dumb. This guy obviously thinks I’m dumb. Beyond that, he thinks I’m trying to sound “sophisticated”. Why does he think that? I’m not trying to sound like anything, I’m just telling people what happened today…oh geesh, and I tripped over my tongue during that DHS script…and that lady sent that nasty email last week about my bangs hanging in my eyes…” See what I mean?

I’m considering sharing an email, letter, and/or voice mail of the day on my facebook page. What do you think? We get some doozies.

Finally, how do you think Angelina Jolie looked at the Oscars? Sonya and I gasped and then screamed at the TV when Jolie came out to present the award for best adapted screenplay. We think she looked skeletal and sickly. One of our (male) colleagues disagrees. Disclaimer – Sonya and I were in my kitchen eating macaroni & cheese and fried chicken that Michael made for Sunday dinner – this may’ve influenced the way we felt about Angie’s bony frame.

EEK
Erin.Kiernan@whotv.com

OLD FAVORITES

I know I should probably get rid of this sweater. Every time the weather is snowy and freezing I drag it out. It is ancient. I mean really old. Like older than some of our interns. What do you think … should this be tossed? How old is the oldest piece of clothing in your closest?

TATER TOT CASSEROLE

Who knew this old favorite would stir up such a reaction (“stir up” … get it? hahaha….)?!?!?
When I posted a simple question about Tater Tot Casserole on my facebook page, folks went bonkers! If you missed the debate and want to chime in, my page is ekiernan.

GIRL SCOUT COOKIES

Could you say no to this face? I mean, really. Be honest. Factor in that this is the daughter of one of my best friends and you know I am buying Girl Scout Cookies. I hate that they sell these things in January. I mean – who on earth thought that was a good idea?!?! I have 10+ pounds to lose from Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Years and you want me to buy cookies?!?! Honestly. Another reason I can’t say no to Myka is that she left me voice mail messages, so it’s not as if the request came in some mass email that I can ignore. Plus, I love the fact that my friend Brenda is making Myka do the selling herself. Good Mommy.

All this writing about casseroles and cookies is making me hungry … have a great week!

EEK
Erin.Kiernan@whtov.com

It’s something of a miracle – I’m posting a blog for the second week in a row, and getting it done while it is still technically Monday!

I hope you all had a great weekend. Mine was filled with downtime with my hubby and doing much needed tasks related to cleaning up around the house. I don’t know about you, but I always feel better when my toilets are clean and the laundry is put away!

STRESS
It’s taken me several years to acknowledge the toll stress can take on various aspects of life. I’ve always thrived in high-pressure situations and thought I managed them pretty well. Here’s what the Mayo Clinic has to say about stress:

Stress symptoms may be affecting your health, even though you might not realize it. You may think illness is to blame for that nagging headache, your frequent insomnia or your decreased productivity at work. But stress may actually be the culprit.

Indeed, stress symptoms can affect your body, your thoughts and feelings, and your behavior. Being able to recognize common stress symptoms can give you a jump on managing them. Stress that’s left unchecked can contribute to health problems such as high blood pressure, heart disease, obesity and diabetes.

Of course, if you’re not sure if stress is the cause or if you’ve taken steps to control your stress but your symptoms continue, see your doctor. Your doctor may want to check for other potential causes.

Also, if you have chest pain, especially if it occurs during physical activity or is accompanied by shortness of breath, sweating, dizziness, nausea, or pain radiating into your shoulder and arm, get emergency help immediately. These may be warning of a heart attack and not simply stress symptoms.

Common effects of stress …
* On your body
Headache
Muscle tension or pain
Chest pain
Fatigue
Change in sex drive
Stomach upset
Sleep problems
* On your mood
Anxiety
Restlessness
Lack of motivation or focus
Irritability or anger
Sadness or depression
* On your behavior
Overeating or undereating
Angry outbursts
Drug or alcohol abuse
Tobacco use
Social withdrawal

FIGHTING
I wouldn’t recommend fighting as a way to reduce stress, but I would recommend exercise. In tomorrow’s “Workout of the Week” a professional fighter who runs a gym in the metro puts Sonya and me through the paces. We got to hit things, and it was fun. On the topic of MMA fighting, have you seen “The Warrior”? Michael and I watched it last night. It’s fairly predictable, but a good rental.

FOOD

In the past week Michael has prepared pot roast, ribs, ham & bean soup and chicken tortilla soup for dinner. He is a great cook, and yes – I am spoiled. He hasn’t tried this recipe yet, but my folks fixed this when we were in Arizona last month and it was delicious, and perfect for cold weather nights. My mom emailed me the recipe so I could share it with you. Enjoy!

White Bean and Kielbasa Stew

1 pound dried white beans (rinsed)
(such as great Northern or navy)
14 oz kielbasa, halved
lengthwise and sliced ½ in thick
4 C low-sodium chicken broth
1 14.5 oz can diced tomatoes (I used fire-roasted)
1 large onion, chopped
6 cloves garlic, chopped
1 tsp dried rosemary
1 C water
Serve over
5 oz baby spinach (6 cups)

Combine all ingredients except spinach in slow cooker. Cover and cook until the beans are tender – low for 7 to 8 hours or on high 5 to 6 hours.

Just before serving stir in the spinach, or put the spinach in bowls and ladle soup over. Serve with crusty country bread. Yummmmm.

I used Andouille sausage instead of the kielbasa

Have a wonderful week!
EEK
Erin.Kiernan@whotv.com

IN THE NEWS…

If you’re a regular reader, you know I don’t focus too much on the stories we’re covering. However, right now I cannot get this woman out of my mind…

Moreover, I cannot stop thinking about 22-year-old Jackie Burkle’s babies. Last Saturday Huxley police were called to Burkle’s apartment. When officers got there they learned she’d given birth to twin girls. Twin girls officers say were dead and in the trunk of Burkle’s car. We learned tonight that Burkle has been arrested and charged with two counts of first degree murder. According to the Division of Criminal Investigation Burkle confessed to killing her newborn babies, but the cause of death is not being released.

This is the sort of thing that makes me sick to my stomach. It makes my heart hurt and when I’m at home and I see a story like this on TV I usually cry. It also makes me angry. I can’t wrap my head around it.

FACEBOOK NEWS….

I’ll make this brief…
For quite a while I’ve been thinking about changing my facebook page. I hit the maximum number of friends several months ago and found out you can’t have the limit lifted (I’m not sure why). Channel 13 web producer Alisa Link helped me switch my page from “personal” to “public figure” last night. There are some things I don’t like about the different format, but I’m hoping you’ll all go to www.facebook.com/ekiernan and click “like” so I can keep you in the loop!

HOLIDAY HIGHLIGHTS

I hope all of you had a wonderful Christmas, or whatever holiday you observe. Michael and went to Arizona for a pre-Christmas celebration.

We had a full-blown holiday dinner with turkey, mashed potatoes, stuffing, corn casserole, rolls, cranberries … it was delicious. I also indulged in way to many treats. My mom does a lot of baking every year and I couldn’t resist. The snug fit of my pants is the result.

Ever since Dad “woke up” after his brain surgery he’s been cold, so I bought him and Mom these Nebraska Cornhusker themed Snuggies.

Michael hates having his picture taken so I’m sharing this little moment with you. Trust me, he doesn’t always resist my affection.

I hope the rest of your week is wonderful!
EEK
Erin.Kiernan@whotv.com

I had a great weekend visiting one of my childhood friends in Nebraska and I’m kicking myself for not taking any pictures. Oh well – next time. We haven’t seen each other for a year and it was great to catch up. It’s also great to have the type of friends that you just fall into an easy rhythm with, even when you haven’t seen each other (or even talked to each other) for a long time.

The only disappointing thing about this weekend was missing out on my Dad’s “alive” party. Friday was the one year anniversary of his collapse so Mom decided to throw a “Thank God Larry is still here” bash/early birthday party.

I love this picture because I can tell Dad is in the middle of telling some sort of joke or funny story, which is just so “him”. Although I’m sad that Michael and I couldn’t be there for this celebration, we are counting down the days until we head to Arizona for Christmas. Just being surrounded by the people I love most is the best present I could ever receive.

Speaking of great gifts – I hope you’ll tune in tomorrow night for a holiday-themed “13 Cares”. Photojournalists Jeff Felton and Roger Riley are helping me tell you about a wonderful program in Boone that helps people there all year long. It epitomizes the meaning of the season.

Have a wonderful week!
EEK
Erin.Kiernan@whotv.com

Last Friday I was really irritated to learn that I needed new tires. I’m over it now but this is not the sort of thing you want to purchase (ever) but especially not in DECEMBER!!!

I’m thinking it’s OK though… Michael and I have been saying “no gifts” this year. We have plenty of junk and we don’t need more junk. I use the word “junk” because that’s really what most of it is. In fact, we’re serious about giving gifts to people in need instead of each other this year. That’s part of the reason I like this image…

Sonya had it posted on her facebook page right after Thanksgiving (around Black Friday) and I think it’s perfect. When you think about what you NEED in this context it changes your perspective a bit, doesn’t it?

By contrast – there are these people…

I was sick all weekend and I watched countless “Real Housewives” episodes. It made me feel more sick. In one episode this crazy woman was throwing a birthday party for her five year old that I’m sure cost more than most weddings. It was obscene. Plus, the little girl seemed like a brat. I can’t get over the excess. It’s all too much. Too much plastic surgery, too much house, too much food, too much booze, too much of EVERYTHING! All I could think of was how many people these people could house, feed, clothe, etc with a fraction of what they’re spending on JUNK!

Anyway … I also saw an ad for some product (I can’t remember what) that ended with the line, “It’s not what’s under the tree that matters, it’s who’s around it.” Right on.

Have a wonderful week and DON’T stress about the holidays!!!

EEK
Erin.Kiernan@whotv.com