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Hi everybody! Thanks for visiting my blog -- my
behind-the-scenes accounts of what you see on-air...but mostly the stories and
conversations you don't. Have fun. And leave me a note if you can!
Tear Jerker Moment
I guess I haven't a good cry in awhile, because I am worn out today. And the tear-jerking moments just keep coming!
The latest cry occurred during my brief chat with our next makeoveree in TXA21's"Drab to Fab Makeover Contest."
If you haven't caught one yet, here's a list of video and photos of the last two makeovers:
VIDEO: TXA 21 Presents Its First Drab-To-Fab Makeover
SLIDESHOW: TXA's First Drab-To-Fab Makeover!
VIDEO: TXA 21 Transforms Mothers From Drab To Fab!
In my 8 years of doing television makeovers, I've never witnessed the degree of transformation I've seen these last two Monday nights. Both of our ladies looked like soap opera stars when they left this place!
So I called Virginia Lewis. She was nominated by her youngest daughter, Brittany, via the sweetest email.
Apparently, Brittany didn't tell her mom about the contest, because Virginia was totally shocked when I called to congratulate her.
Virginia asked me, "Which daughter wrote in?" So I read Brittany's letter over the phone:
Dear TXA 21,
…I believe that my mother Virginia Lewis deserves a well-needed makeover. She works hard everyday, sometimes 10 days in a row at her Restland Funeral Home job.
I feel that she only does it to support me and my two older sisters. One of my sisters is a junior in college, and I believe that my mother works hard just to see her be successful in life.
Instead of spending her hard earned money on herself, she'll make sure that me and my sisters have everything we need. Once in a blue moon she'll go out and treat herself to a new outfit, but she'd rather make sure I had a new pair of jeans.
My mother is my hero, and my inspiration and motivation to be great in everything that I do. If I could, I would buy her everything that she needed and give her the world.
I feel that she deserves to be pampered for a day as the queen that she is. I would greatly appreciate it if you did this for me. Thank you!
I could barely get through it. Tore me up. On the other end of the phone, Virginia was crying too.
If this were the only Mother's Day gift Virginia were to receive for the rest of her life, I'm sure she wouldn't complain a bit.
The love and admiration of your children? Who could ask for anything more.
May you all feel so blessed this Mother's Day.
~ Tracy
May 6, 2008
Thanks To Our Viewers
Another awesome response I must share with you.
Last month, to help promote the Tarrant County Race for the Cure, we ran a series of cancer-related stories on TXA 21.
One of the segments featured the Bridge Breast Network, a local organization that helps women without insurance pay for their medical care.
I learned about them while emceeing their fundraiser--and was absolutely blown away by the hearts behind this group!
The executive director of Bridge Breast Network, Terry Wilson-Gray, joined us live in studio. The very next day, she sent me this response:
Tracy, thank you for the opportunity. I received 5 calls and 2 emails this morning from individuals wanting to help. We also received even more calls and emails from people needing services. So the opportunity is benefitting our program in all areas.
Thank you again for promoting our cause. I hope you will continue to be part of our program. --Terry Wilson-Gray
Thank you all for your kindness and generosity!
Keep it coming.
Tracy
To learn 21 Things about the Bridge Breast Network, click here.
May 2, 2008
Ways To Spot A Child Molester
Interesting timing on a story we reported tonight and a visit from my neighbor today.
An online undercover sex sting led to the arrest of a Johnson Country man. Investigators say Robert Chouinard thought he was soliciting sex from a 13-year-old girl. Instead, officers showed up to arrest him. Police say the man was driving around with a laptop in his truck.
Imagine that... an alleged sexual predator driving around, chatting with your child who might think she's just having "fun" in a random chat room. In reality, this guy could be right outside her door.
I recently did a "21 Things" on how to spot a child molester in your circle of friends. This morning, a neighbor knocked on my door with her brand new son who said she had seen the story. She asked if I'd be willing to chat with her and other moms in the neighborhood and share more tips. I'm a trainer for the "Keeping Kids Safe" program at my Lewisville church, so I told her I'd be happy to share the program's information with my neighbors.
I have a feeling she's not alone.
We really can't be too careful any more. Parents, we've GOT to keep our eyes open, and we must talk to our kids about how they can be more aware of the dangerous people in their lives.
Click here for a list of 21 Things you should know to get the discussion started with your family. Please spread the word!
- Tracy
May 2, 2008
Other Kathie Lee Fans
It appears there's at least one more Kathie Lee fan out there.
Here's some of what "Christopher" had to say, responding to my latest pro-Kathie blog entry:
Now, I know it sounds funny coming from me a 25 year old guy, but Kathie Lee has that take me as I am kind of personality. I mean, you can say whatever you want about her, and she doesn't care. That's why whenever she is on television, I make it a point to catch her. She is a very approachable type, one that you can sit down and just talk all day long to.
Thanks for taking the time to write, Christopher.
Keep the feedback coming. I read everything that comes my way.
Fondly,
Tracy