Meeting and working with Zach Wahls has made the last year a true blessing. Zach is incredibly intelligent, kind, and courageous… a 20-year-old who is a sterling example of a good human being. His speech before the Iowa Legislature became YouTube’s most watched political video of 2011, and for the right reasons: yes, he bravely stood up for his family, a family that deserves equal treatment under the law, but more, because he respectfully showed that love=love=love. In our new book My Two Moms: Lessons of Love, Strength, and What Makes a Family, he expands on the speech and discusses the virtues his parents helped instill in him, like “trustworthy,” “courteous,” “reverent,” and “loyal.” Please get yourself a copy of the book (from Amazon, Barnes & Noble, or your local bookstore) and help us spread Zach’s message about good American values and help us create a constructive conversation about marriage equality and human rights for all. And if you missed his appearances on David Letterman the other night or CNN’s Piers Morgan, they are a MUST watch!
Travel – Secret Travel Tips
My Mexican adventure was filled with fun. My favorite thing was reserving a masseur on the beach for two days… Sounds expensive, right? Nah. It’s all in the negotiation. $150 a day for 4 people! I was loosey goosey until the flight back. DELAYS! Due to the tornadoes that barreled through the mid-west. But here’s a Life 101 secret to all you weary travelers: if you’re ever stuck in the airport, immediately ask where they’ll be giving out the cots and blankets. (They are in limited supply.) Spending a night in the airport is no fun, but with a cot it almost felt like camping. And all that matters is I’m back!!!
Life 101 – Easter Fun
Somehow the Easter Bunny always finds me. Last night, while dining at La Cunard in Kingston with friends, including the lovely and dear Mary Niblock (at left), the Easter Bunny hops by the window, right in the door, and comes over to our table with hugs and fun for all. I love a good crazy tradition, especially when it causes a scene. Speaking of scenes, here’s some vintage Easter fun I had teaching legendary newsman Harry Smith the joys of a glue gun. Hope your Easter was HOPPY!
Life 101 – Ann Osmond performs
If you’re in NYC and love cabaret, check out my friends Ann Osmond and Dennis Yerry’s new show “Skyscrapers and Mountaintops” at the Metropolitan Room. I went last night and, as a guy who has both a city and a country life, I loved the celebration of “city cacophony” and “country serenity.” (Ann and Dennis obviously haven’t heard about the skunk who moved in at my farm.) The songs are fun, and Ann’s voice is incredible. So, Sunday, April 15th mail your taxes, then catch the show and grab a much-needed tax day drink at the Metropolitan Room (34 W. 22nd St., bet. 5th and 6th Aves.) at 9:30 p.m. Admission is $15. Tickets: 212-206-0440
American Pets – Food ALERT!
Westminster is concerned and wants you to know… If you have pets, three brands of dog treats may be tied to kidney failure in dogs. After mysterious illnesses in at least 600 U.S. dogs, the FDA has issued a warning about chicken jerky treats made in China. The three brands are Waggin’ Train or Canyon Creek Ranch jerky treats or tenders (Nestle Purina) and Milo’s Kitchen (Del Monte). Last week, when I watched this report and read this, I marched back to PetSmart where I had bought them. Without a receipt, the lady there gave me no problem returning them. I wanted to know why they were still on the shelves! Bottom line: If you have pets, DON’T BUY TREATS FROM CHINA!
Life 101 – In 20 Years
Well, well, well… I had a computer glitch (trackpad gone bananas) and for the last five days have felt like a druggie without his fix! I’m back, but I’ll tell you being without my lifeline left me feeling anxious, agitated, and aged… like 20 years! Which brings me to today’s fun and games. If you want to see how you might look two decades from now go to In20years.com and upload a photo of yourself (or your love). It will either leave you laughing… or rushing to have a consultation with Dr. FixaFlat. From the looks of mine, I’m going to end up bloated with dental problems. Oh, and if you’re in to gossip… check out today’s Cindy Adams column in the NY Post. (Apparently, I was spotted against the wall in a “gender neutral” bathroom…)
Life 101 – Inspiration
Want to be inspired? Listen to Zach Wahls. This weekend he made an impressive (TWO standing ovations!) speech before a sold out crowd in NYC for the GLAAD Awards. His speech kicked off the night and was both funny and moving, and set a wonderful tone. I think Zach stole the show, but we sat with the stunning Dakota Fanning and Glee’s adorable Cory Monteith. And around Wendy Williams, Harvey Weinstein, Russell Simmons, John Stamos, Bernadette Peters, and more… Preorder a copy of Zach’s book today from Amazon, Barnes & Noble, or YOUR local bookstore.
Gossip! Zach Wahls book
So, last week while putting on a mask, I had a brainstorm about my new book MY TWO MOMS with Zach Wahls. I ran out to the dining room and sat down at the table with Zach and we discussed the idea for about an hour. (…Um, he never mentions that I have a mask on!) After our conversation, I went to the bathroom and “aaaaggghhh” realized it. Fortunately, Zach was a good sport and took a picture with me. (You can’t see it but I’m blushing.)
Today, it was announced Zach will be making a special presentation at the GLAAD Awards Saturday night. More on that later… In the meantime, watch this video trailer about the book and his moms… Oh, and spread the word: Love makes a family.