That's a Wrap

Sorry for the late post. I have heard from followers that were concerned there was no post yesterday. That makes me so happy because my goal was to be your credible and fun connection to the DNC. Sadly, I am fighting a 101 degree fever. So, this is going to be short and sweet, unlike my day yesterday.

My body has never been this sore and I have never been this tired in my whole life. I headed to Invesco Field @ Mile High at about 11:00 am to get acclimated with the new venue and set-up. I found my way to PIC 4 located on the suite level. Radio and Periodical Row was located there.

I was the first one to the PIC, so I started to set-up the room. There were media coming in asking me what access their Pepsi Center credential got them at Invesco and others had assigned spots at Pepsi and thought that meant they had a spot at Invesco, which was certainly not the case. I really had to learn quickly what was going on and who was supposed to, and allowed to go, where. I called the media logistics line a few times to get all of my questions answered and then worked with another team member to type a FAQ document for the team. I saw it as an opportunity and by the end of the night managers were turning to me for answers. It was a very rewarding feeling.

I did anything from answer questions about how to obtain a floating credential and filing a story to getting the air turned down in CNN radio’s press box. I also helped Vanity Fair find their spot along with getting settled in. I made some connections with Reuters, PBS, and Hearst publications during the week in my tent. It was great to continue to work for them Thursday in a different setting. We chatted and exchanged cards.

When Obama spoke, the suite level was silent. His line about McCain not following Bin Laden into the caves was a hit. Jennifer Hudson was also the talk on level 4.

I think the 38 million eyes on Denver last night, and the millions over the whole week, feel Denver and the Democratic Party could not have ended such a historical and monumental week any stronger. The Green Team did a wonderful job of keeping Denver clean, residents were welcoming, and the weather was perfect. Obama’s speech drew more than 80,000 attendees. Unfortunately, Springsteen and Bon Jovi was a big rumor. There was also talk that Dave Matthew’s Band was going to make a surprise appearance.

The only negative about Invesco, from what I heard, was the transportation. But, we must remember everyone was just starting to get Pepsi down and then had to pick-up shop and settle in a new environment.

I will never forget last night and surly never forget the week. I am glad I documented each day for myself and for you! Who knows, maybe I will just have to continue blogging.

Have a fun and safe holiday. Your 2008 convention girl always, Stephanie

The Power of a Moment: Hillary, Hillary and More Hillary

Hillary is still my hero. And, after last night, she is now more than ever before. Last night, she looked like a president; she spoke like a president; and she made an impact like a president. I had the privilege to be on the floor during her moment. I am young and Hillary got me excited about our political system.

As I stood in line for my morning chai at Perk's in the Grand Hyatt, I heard some weeping. The woman in front of me was crying. I tried cheering her up by pointing out some adorable $4 donkey cookies sitting in the pastry case. But, I quickly came to learn her tears were for Hillary. Then I started to cry.

Reporters are critiquing every line of her speech. Could she have been more blunt? Were her words sincere? Is Chelsey planning on getting into politics? Yes, she could have been more blunt but for the first time in a long time, she was 100% herself. No one can take that away from Hill. She has worked too long and hard for that moment. I think her words couldn't have been more than sincere. And, I do think Chelsey will jump into the political ring someday.

On my way to Harry's book party, I stumbled across a small group of women and men protesting for Hillary. This group is mad at the party because they took Hillary's votes away. I am supporting Obama because I support the party. But, it was a out-of-mind experience. I found myself on the grass with this group. I wasn't chanting with them. It was out of curiosity. I wanted to know why they couldn't move forward. I wondered if they thought their actions separate, and not bring together, the party. There was too much anger and disappointment on their end to even get a straight answer. This is when I was interviewed for a documentary. See below.

I think I could go either way on this issue, but at this point, I think what all Hillary supports must keep in mind is: IT IS WHAT IT IS, and anything is better than 4 more years of the 8 we have just had. If Obama is her candidate, then Obama is my candidate.

CELEBRITY TALK: I spotted Reverend Sharpton in the lobby of the Grand Hyatt during my daily coffee run. I also ran into Marc, my friend from Bradley University who invited mom and I to Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid's book signing party. I met Harry too! Mom and I sat with some great ladies - Lorette from Georgia and Karen from California. Some of my association colleagues were at the party too. But, I never did see any books.

If you think this is good, I found Charlize and her boyfriend downing beers at The Market at about 5ish. One woman went up and asked her if she was in fact Charlize. The movie star apparently answered, "No. I am 15 pounds heavier than her." OK, sorry but it was so her. The word is she hates reporters like myself and lies about being her all the time.

Oh, in case you didn't get the alert, I am a celebrity now. I was interviewed for a documentary. The California-based production company plans to inform me of when the movie will be out for release.

And, again, you heard it here first. Bon Jovi and Springsteen will be performing at tomorrow's Obama acceptance speech. I will be there so look for the girl with curly hair. It should not be that hard to spot me in the crown of 70,000. The logistics that go along with switching from one venue to another venue is historic. And, considering so much is still up in the air logistically, I think it is going to be stressful on all staff.

Blue is now the new color of the night. Jill, Joe's mom, and Michelle were all sporting it tonight and I have to say it looked phenomenal.

FOOD and ENTERTAINMENT: This goes out to a special person with a unique question. No, there is NO Guitar Hero on the Pepsi Center compound. But, what were they thinking? That would have been fabulous. Politicians in bow ties and suits jamming out to oldies but goodies.

The food at Pepsi Center is delicious and even better that it is free. FirstData is distributing $10 gift cards that can be used for food and merchandise in the Pepsi Center. What a great way to promote FirstData's new gift card. When I was an intern at Schenkein, I was on the FirstData account. It wouldn't surprise me if Schenkein had their hands in this amazing promotional campaign. The one item of food that you can't purchase with the gift card is Donkey Donuts. I plan to purchase tomorrow and report on ASAP. CNN Grill has been handing out free vanilla ice cream with red and blue sprinkles everyday from 4-5 pm. Tamayo, the location for Harry's fiesta, has some tasty modern Mexican and some strong margaritas. If you are ever in Denver, this is mandatory stop. Oh, the priorities.

COLORADANS CRAVING POWER: A lady eating linner on Larimer Square stopped me and asked, "How do I get myself one of those things? I want to be a delegate and vote. I give a lot of money to the Colorado Democratic Party." This goes along with my post from yesterday. These credentials are getting out of control. In fact, I was standing near the restroom with my binder in one hand and Blackberry in the other. Folks started flashing their credentials at me thinking I was security. I never thought flashing and power would go hand-in-hand. I guess anything is possible at the DNC.

Quote of the Day: A DNCC manager: "Hey, it's a convention. What more is there to do than party?"

It is true. People are here to party. I pick-up a copy of a special DNC edition of The Washington Post every morning. And, what are the only 2 sections included in this special section? News and Style. Does that tell you anything?

I am exhausted and came home early to soak my feet. Your DNC2008 gal, Stephanie

The Word on the Street...

Here are some snippets of conversation snatched from shuttle and train rides. And, I will be honest, some are my own opinions and event re-caps.

* Orange is Hillary's color! Why didn't she start wearing it earlier?

* Hill's speech was the best speech some of us will hear in a lifetime. There were tears and joy for hours following the speech -- on my shuttle, train, and walk. People couldn't get enough of Hill. Her Twin Cities joke won the crowd over: "With an agenda like that, it makes sense that George Bush and John McCain will be together next week in the Twin Cities. Because these days they're awfully hard to tell apart."

* Why did the fire marshals kick reporters out of the Pepsi Center?

* The E line Southbound on Light Rail was running late because there was white powder found on one train. And, there was a shooting at a stop in Aurora. More to come on this tomorrow.

* Denver is hosting everyone PERFECT! All of the convention goers I have talked to can't say enough great things about the Mile High City.

* Bill Clinton was mouthing, during Hill's speech, "I Love That Woman! I Love That Woman!"

* Mark Warner was wearing far too much make-up.

* I helped Newsweek's Jonathan Alter and his family get to the NBC tent.

* I ran into another gal, Jennifer, from my childhood. Apparently, Denver still is a small city.

* Caroline Kennedy's remarks seem to have wone over Hill supporters more than Hill's words. Caroline reminded democrats that we must vote for the party!

* From what I have been told, Republicans are now tracking my blog. The elephants just can't get enough of us now can they? Rudy this morning and Mitt, I just learned about. Who's next?

Quote of the Day: A woman at the Orchard Light Rail stop: "Michelle's dress from last night reminds me of curtain fabric. Oy, her designer!"

EXCLUSIVE - Giuliani Makes A Surprise Visit to DNC

Yes, blog followers, you heard it here first. OK, well second. Rudy Giuliani, for some reason or another, decided to show his face here at the DNC. The art exhibit he was visiting was not on the Pepsi Center compound. There is a TON of buzz!

Day 2 - A Caste System Forms in What Used to be a Small City

Yesterday was my first official day on the job. I was so tired and sore last night, I came home and went straight to bed. But, I did catch the Michelle speech on TV. Why did I not just watch Michelle LIVE? It all comes down to the credential, or so I learned very quickly.

I arrived at the Colorado Convention Center for check-in and credential pick-up at 8:30 am sharp. As they called my name, I said “here” and was handed a perimeter credential. This meant I could get into the grounds of Pepsi Center but could not enter the actual arena. I am stationed outside anyway so that would make sense. But, I was upgraded to an arena credential. I thought this meant I would get to see Michelle, Teddy and Hillary speak. So did the other volunteers.

After a long day of work and walking 20 blocks to the Darfur Exhibit with Ally Walter and then 20 blocks back to witness last night’s speeches, I learned the arena credential gets me inside Pepsi Center but not into the hall. The hall credential is purple and mine was orange. However, the arena pass does allow me to watch the speeches unedited and on a large, digital TV. I made a little spot for me on the marble floor, bought some popcorn and teared up when Teddy came on. A superstar usher also allowed me inside the hall briefly for some quick pics.

The credential is a real power symbol. I have noticed everyone looks down at each other’s credentials. It is quick way to make a judgment and gauge individual importance. Looks like I am right in the middle - the safest place to be.

I ran into an old co-worker Ben from PorterNovelli in the Grand Hyatt lobby. I also saw a star from my high school’s football team Matt. He works for the Obama campaign.

Celebrity Spotting: Yesterday was a big day. I asked for a photo with James Carville and got it. Also, check out my pictures of Ted Coppel and Terry McAuliffe outside the Colorado Convention Center. Governor Ritter made a quick stop at the Darfur Exhibit.

Fashion Update: It was refreshing to see so many ladies in Privos. That is my shoe of choice. And, I was concerned I would be in the minority but as it seems I am setting a fashion trend. They are so comfortable and now can be seen as “in.” I have seen lots of peace jewelry, awareness bracelets, and more flip flops. Casual does seem to be the way to be. I bailed from The Lure Lounge party. I was too tired and had too many blisters. But, I took more shoe pics last night. There were some crazy ones I saw at the Exhibit party. They looked like ankle braces. I have NO idea where you get these but I don't think I want to. YIKES.

Political Update: I made a huge mistake of leaving Pepsi Center compound, going to the exhibit and then trying to return. There was a mob of people and it took nearly an hour to get through security. I am in tonight and not leaving until I am on the floor to see Hillary. Today and tonight is a tribute to women and I have to be there. Wish me luck.

From what I have heard, the platform was set last night but is not available to the public quite yet. When I learn more, I pass along to you.

I have never been more proud to call Denver my home. I have always believed Denver will have a special place in my heart. Everyone has truly stepped up the plate to host thousands of people with nothing but smiles. I left Denver 4 years ago but Denver will NEVER leave me.

Day 1 is Done: Media Celebs, Fashion, and Parties Oh My!

After getting through security and making my way to the Pepsi Center entrance, I was in total disbelief. I had an official credential and was about to be part of history. I proceed into the arena and there it happened – my most inspirational, memorable moment as a public relations professional. The kind of moment that gives you chills. I realized right then and there, this is what I have worked toward for so long.

CELEBRITY MEDIA UPDATE: I took the moment in but wasted no time capturing some fabulous, close-ups of Katie, Anne, and the like. I was so close that I heard Katie asking her people about NBC on multiple occasions.

“Where are they positioned? Oh, I see Andrea Mitchell. Can you go grab her?”

Is it just me, or does it sound like Katie is missing her family? I have always thought so and today just reaffirmed it. Anne is shorter than I expected. Both are beautiful and natural – wearing little to no makeup for the camera.

I am assigned to specific media pavilion on the grounds of the Pepsi Center. Reporters can choose to rent workspace in these pavilions. However, the DNCC have nothing to do with assigning these tenants their workspace for political reasons. It is my responsibility to provide my tent tenants with daily schedules, copies of speech transcripts, and resources to help them get their job done. I have some huge press I will be working with.

FASHION UPDATE: I ran into a beautiful woman on the street from Republic of The Gambia wearing a definite snatch-worthy ethnic dress. And, as chatted about in an earlier post, flip flops were in fact the shoe of choice. Anyone from an intern and producer, to a runner and Katie could be caught wearing flip flops. I even spotted Tevas. This latest fashion trend may not be the case tomorrow – the official first day of the DNC.

Apparently, dressing up in Halloween masks is also very much a fashion statement. From afar, I thought this tall man with very white hair was my first celebrity sighting. He had a huge entourage and looked the part. As he got closer, I realized he was sporting a freaky McCain mask on behalf of the campaign http://www.worsethanbush.org/.

I took the Light Rail into the city with the most hip grandmothers around. See above. Julie and Nel (r), with Code Pink, drove from Dallas to attend peaceful protests around the city. You immediately get a sense of their passion for PEACE in the way they speak and the funky clothes they wear. My new favorite ladies told me about the numerous times their children and grandchildren have witnessed them getting arrested. There was rumor on the Light Rail home, from 2 middle school boys and their friend moms, of teargas actually being sprayed outside the Colorado Convention Center. It would not surprise me if these courageous, experienced women, with so much chutzpah, were front and center. Keep fighting the good fight my sisters. And, I totally dig the hot pink. This color will always be in!

PARTY UPDATE: Tomorrow night I will be making an appearance at 2 fiestas. For part of the night you can find me at the College Democrats of America Alumni Association Launch Party at The Lure Lounge. There is chatter that Congressmen Tim Ryan and Gary Ackerman will be there as well as XM Radio’s LeftJab host Mark Walsh. I also was invited to the Exhibit Darfur Opening Reception at Ditto Art Gallery. I can bring a guest to this one so let me know if you care to join me! Maybe this will entice you...There is buzz that George Clooney might make an exclusive appearance. Let’s show up and find out.

Quote of the Day: A young media rep: “Forget the politics. I love looking at all of the outfits.”

Buzz of the Day: The new McCain ad featuring Hillary Clinton. How low is he going to go?

And, if you haven’t already found the answer to my previous post question, the woman with Joe was his wife Jill. She is simply stunning. Until we meet again tomorrow, Stephanie

The DNC = The First Annual Fashion Week of the Rockies

Looks like I am not the only one thinking next week Denver will experience its first Fashion Week and will join the London, Milan, New York, and Paris family. New York's Amy Odell confirms Spike Lee, Ben Affleck, Ed Norton, Anne Hathaway, Annette Benning among others will be in attendance. I hope to spot and report on all the celebrities there.

My sources tell me Michelle Obama plans to wear suits in the day and dresses by night. And, with purple being her favorite color, my hunch is we will see a lot of it!

There are 2 PIC shifts; 10:00 am to 4:00 pm and 4:00 pm to 10:00 pm. Regardless of the one I am assigned to (morning or evening), I must pick up my credential in the morning. You won't hear me complaining! This will force me into the city to buy me time to workup the most fresh and delicious daily dish just for YOU.

I will attend events, walk the streets, take pictures, and spy, spy, spy! My days will start at 6:30 am for primping and prep and end around midnight, everyday for 4 days straight. And, I couldn't be more happy and feel more blessed for this once in a lifetime opportunity.

I am working on figuring out who the woman was this morning getting into Biden's SUV at his Deleware home. If you have a lead on this, let me know. You too can become a "source."

Jetting off to Chicago and then onto the DNC, Stephanie

It's Official and You Heard It Hear First!

CNN John King is confirming Joe Biden has been offered the #2 spot. Sweet dreams.

The Internet - Obama's Successful Organizing and Fundraising Tool

I am overwhelmed. Today I made a public relations presentation to physical therapists, physical therapist assistants, and students in Birmingham. The DNC came up in conversation. Everyone I spoke to supported Hillary. I felt so happy and proud of all the work and time I put into her campaign, her image, her fight. And, now we are hearing on CNN that if Hillary were the nominee she would be up on McCain right about now. Based on their polls, Obama is starting to slide.

However, when it comes to using the most current forms of hip and edgy technologies, Obama is doing anything but sliding. His campaign has created a new standard for all future campaigns. There is so much buzz surrounding the infamous text message. Obama's team positioned the Internet as the way to get connected to the campaign. CNN won't stop talking about the text message. What will the 2012 do to top all of this?

This tech savvy campaign and convention is out of this world! Take a look at the unique techy tools featured on the 2008 Democratic National Convention Web site. And, be sure to check out the photos of the podium - it has finally been unveiled.

Speaking of unveiling, let's hope we wake up to the veep announcement. Stephanie

NEWS FLASH: Media Will Get Special Walls and Puffs of Oxygen, and Did Someone Say Ben Affleck?

I simply can't contain myself. As I sit in my Birmingham hotel room anxious for my Denver trip, I find myself getting caught up on my own DNC daily dish through one of my favorite Rocky Mountain News columnists Penny Parker. Not only does she know everything first, but to put it simply she is the On the Town diva. I will be linking to her more and more as we approach Monday.

If you have a media credential, and happen to stroll into a media tent, you will have direct access to free puffs of oxygen. Yes, you read that sentence right! Being away from Denver for only 4 years I too sometimes forget about the whole mile high thing. Throughout her career, Parker has seen visiting entertainers to Denver leave the stage spotlight for a quick oxygen hit. What will happen if reporters take too many hits? My job as a PIC team member could become even more interesting than originally anticipated. I have a feeling Oxygen Plus, the Minnesota company providing the puffs, is going to be bringing a whole new definition to the slogan: Mile HIGH City. I plan to get my free sample, or samples if I develop an addiction, at the Grand Hyatt. Yikes.

Also, in Parker's August 13 column, she alerts her readers to be on the lookout for media walls -- coming to posh Denver restaurants soon. For those that don't know, stars step behind these walls to have their picture snatched by the "Access Hollywood" type. Denver is going to be transformed into a little "Hollywood of the Rockies." I can't wait to report back to you on how my quaint, friendly hometown handles all of this.

And, another fun fact. Ben Affleck is confirmed to be attending the DNC, both as a poker player and as a Rocky Mountain Think-Tank participant. For tickets to the August 26 poker tourney, email NicholeK@pva.org. And, to learn more about the think-tank series, visit http://www.2008rmr.org/.

And, by the way, NO Suri Cruise is not Obama's choice for veep! Apparently there are folks around the world sending out fake veep alert texts. Hang tight. Earlier today Obama told USA Today his decision is made. My sources tell me we will know the veep before midnight tonight. Happy Friday.

My goal is to bring Denver and the DNC to you. And, maybe by the end of my Denver trip, you too will feel like you were virtually there with me! I have to go work on my party schedule now.

Back again tomorrow from the cute coffee shop Lucy's in Birmingham, Stephanie

What is Important to You?

Based on my poll, Biden seems to be the front runner for veep. Hopefully today will be the day when we can put this anticipation to rest. But, Obama seems to be spending a whole lot of time in Virginia. Now I am not so sure about my guess. Even my taxi cab driver agreed with me.

So many headlines, so little time! One thing is for sure, yet again, McCain is attracting attention to Obama on issues that don't have relevance. Money is being spent on advertising that is silly and childish. Let's focus on what really matters - healthcare, foreign policy, and the economy. What about the hundreds of thousands of Americans that have experienced foreclosure? This morning, a family in Tennessee mourns the much too early death of their child. Are we safe anywhere anymore? Perhaps McCain can try and focus on what really matters.

Signing off from BWI Airport headed to Birmingham, Stephanie

Are You Getting a Text from Obama?

The Vice President guessing game is starting to get fun. Strong, positive anticipation is a key ingredient in any successful campaign. And, if you choose, you can be one of the lucky Dems that receive a text message with Obama’s pick before the rest of the world hears the big news. His strategists are amazing. This is the first campaign to ever crack this amount of anticipation via a text message. And, what a brilliant idea it is. Sending a mass text is easy, affordable and a genius way to collect more phone numbers. Another key to any decent campaign. Obama’s campaign is a movement. And, as a loyal Hillary fan, volunteer, and supporter, I give his team a lot of credit! I want to see him win now more than ever.

MarketWatch blogger Russ Britt breaks down the situation. If you want the play-by-play, click here. Here are his picks:

* VA Govenor Tim Kaine
* IN Senator Even Bayh
* NY Senator Hillary Clinton
* KA Govenor Kathleen Sebelius
* DE Senator Joe Biden
* Former SD Senator Tim Daschle
* NE Chuck Hagel – YES, a Republican

I would have to agree. Britt sums it up nicely. Most important, Obama needs someone with foreign policy experience. He needs someone seasoned; with just the right amount of experience but not someone with so much DC experience that it would take away from true CHANGE. And, if I could choose Obama’s veep, I would choose Hillary Clinton. I have been with Hillary for more than 3 years – stuffing envelops, knocking on doors, making phone calls, and sleeping on gymnasium floors in New Hampshire to canvass in below freezing temperatures.

I am rooting for her and think she is the most qualified. But, I am putting my money on Joe Biden. Reality is reality. I would love to see a woman in the White House. But, when we look at where Hillary is headed – a possible run in 2012 – and Joe’s previous attempts, foreign policy experience, and energy, it just makes the most sense.

Who do you think is Obama’s pick for veep? My sources tell me a text message will be going out Friday. Join in on the fun and be one of the first to know Barack's pick!

Remember, keep your phone close and on. T.G.I.A.F. – Thank goodness it’s almost Friday, right?

Your convention girl, Stephanie

What does business to business casual mean anyway?

Important information came my way yesterday. I will be required to wear business to business casual for the end-of-the-month festivities. I have also learned that if I don’t dress up enough, I could be denied access into important venues and hip parties. So, now I have to ask, what does business to business causal mean anyway?

The talk on the street is that working the PIC attracts fiesta invites. This means there is an actual chance I could be sipping mojitos and dancing the sprinkler with celebrities Anne Hathaway, Gloria Reuben, Hillary Clinton, James Taylor, Quentin Taraentino, and Oprah. One confirmed party invite - Senator Majority Leader Harry Reid’s booking signing shindig. A chance is enough to draw me to the mall this weekend to purchase outfits that scream “Now this girl has access!”

I turned to some online sources to help answer my buring question. Reported on USAToday.com last year, Jennifer Cohen was just as puzzled as I am about what business causal truly means. She thought she understood business casual but was quite mistaken. Companies try to lighten the pressure to dress for success by offering casual Fridays. You would think it is a great perk, right? But, June Webb, a fashion consultant in Alexandria, VA reports causal Fridays are getting out of control. Women are showing too much skin and men are equating casual Fridays to mean permission to wear wrinkly shirts and pants.

Do you want to talk out of control? A group of women visiting 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue decided flip-flops would be the most appropriate shoe to wear to visit the President of the United States. I think most people would assume when visiting with the President, dressing business casual would be a good place to start. But, these women must have been mistaken that flip-flops are considered business casual. But, were they? According to The Washington Post reporter Ruth Marcus, there should be no flipping out about flip-flops. Ruth has a point. Politics is filled with flip-flopping. Which makes me think there might be a whole lot of flip-flops on the street's of Denver. Perhaps DNCers will be wearing them in honor of politics.

Michelle Obama is redefining political style with glowing similarities to Jackie O. She is bringing the sleeveless dress back to the political arena. The Donna Ricco sleeveless dress Michelle wore on “The View” nearly sold off the shelves of White House/Black Market stores overnight. So, this is business or business casual?

What you wear to work may affect your career climb! But, until we can define business and business casual, my expert advice is simply to always dress your best! In my case, my wardrobe August 25-28 will impact the amount of juicy daily dishes I can serve you all.

I will be comfortable yet sheik; and cute but conservative.

Yes, I'm shooting to have the Michelle Obama Fashion Factor, but am prepared to settle for my own style that WILL get me access to the important venues and dazzling parties.

Over and out, Stephanie

Do You Have A Bucket List?

Thank you for coming to my blog. And, welcome to my first blog post! I encourage you to read the About Stephanie section (scroll down and look to your bottom right) in order to get a better idea for my background and my journey to the inside of the Beltway. But, in less than 2 weeks a new journey begins for me outside the Beltway back in my hometown - the Mile High City.

Ok, so the following post is a bit sappy and mushy. But, I think if I am going to be sappy and mushy, my first post is the place to do it. I did receive official word today I will be spending the week of August 25-28 in the Press Information Center (PIC) of the Democratic National Convention (DNC). I am not sure what my specific duties will entail. The only thing I am certain about, because I have NO idea what to expect with this being my first convention, is this is a dream come true! My grin, since last week when I learned I was accepted onto the team, has been one of those really silly, can’t get off my face, going to bed and waking up with it in the morning, type of grin. I guess it is a good problem to have.

Dreams. Do you have them? If you search for bucket list on Wikipedia, you will find a lovely synopsis of the movie “The Bucket List” with Jack Nicholson and Morgan Freeman. But, embedded within, under the Synposis section, I would like to bring to your attention the very powerful definition of bucket list – a list of things you want to do before you kick the bucket. Yes, before you die. You can read all about this move that received mixed reviews. But, I don’t think there is any question the message the movie communicates is a powerful one – life is short. There is no mixed review about that! Attending the DNC, in a public relations capacity, has been on my list since I moved to Washington DC in 2004. It hasn’t been easy. I have worked extremely hard to almost be able to check this one off the list. Some of the other items on my list include:

* Start a life for myself in the Washington DC metro area - DONE
* Spend time in Africa vacationing and volunteering
* Draft a bill and watch it pass
* Hike the rain forests of Costa Rica
* Reconnect with my father
* Make my way to 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue
* Leave my handprint on the world
* Have a family
* Own a puppy
* Tap dance again
* Play my violin
* Road trip through New England in the fall
* Have the ability to take care of my mom and brother financially

I encourage each and every one of you to start your own bucket list. And, if you have one, please comment and share because your dreams might just inspire someone else. My list is in a little spiral notebook I carry around with me in my purse. It is a good daily reality check and reminds me of the wonderful adventures I have to look forward to in the many years to come.

Dreams. Do you have them?

Your 2008 convention girl, Stephanie