Meredith tackles more of your questions! Ask yours today, and check back next Friday for the answer. Maybe she'll choose yours!

JANUARY 18, 2008

Hey Meredith!!! Your chicken recipe sounds DELISH! Good for you!!!
Hey! When are you and Matt going to go on some kind of adventure together? I'm dying to see you two together outside of the studio. I LOVED the segment with you and Ann doing the tree obstacle course. Will you and Matt do anything like that together? You two have such wonderful chemistry! Also, will you and Ann being going on any more girl only adventures?
Posted by Alice S. on January 15 at 01:37pm

Ann and I are planning an adventure for the Spring and it may include our daughters which would be really cool. Matt and I have been trying to come up with the perfect road trip together – I’ll keep you posted. Al and I are hitting the road in a few weeks. And let’s just say we hope to make a big ‘splash’.

Hi Meredith,
I was wondering do you and your family go out together on a weekend just to hang out and go shopping? I also wanted to know where do you and your family like to go shopping at?
Thanks for sharing your life and thoughts with us.
Posted by Monae Doyle on January 13 at 09:29pm

I’m not a big shopper--and my closet at home certainly confirms that. But my daughter Lily is the "fashionista". She’s not into "labels" at all but she loves putting clothes together and unlike her mother, she has a great sense of style. Her favorite place is a store called "Havana Jeans" and we often end up there on a Saturday morning. Gabe favors discount stores -- he really loves a bargain, like picking up a five dollar sweater from H&M. Ben is off at college, and hopefully studying so hard that he has no time to shop (although he did mention to me recently that he has discovered "Craig’s List").


Meredith, I have a question about the food that is cooked, or displayed on the Today show set. What happens to it after the show is finished for the day? Like all those beautiful wedding cakes Martha Stewart had on your show today? At times, there are great mounds of food of all sorts. Just wondering what happens to it all. thanks. gloria
Posted by gloria on January 09 at 08:09pm

Martha Stewart's wedding cakes that were on the other day looked so great that I asked for a piece—only to find out that they were mostly cardboard; just the icing was real. But usually the food used in segments is the real deal, and always quickly devoured by staff once the segment is over. We are so lucky because some of the best chefs in the world visit Today on a regular basis. And for the crew members who are often here from midnight on, it’s a well-deserved treat.

Feel free to post a question of your own for next time!

Meredith tackles more of your questions! Ask yours today, and check back next Friday for the answer. Maybe she'll choose yours!

JANUARY 11, 2008

I have a question about Today's guest interviewers. How is that decided on a daily basis? Is it simply a match of "eeny meeny miney moe" or do you have some input on it? I'm just wondering because of the preparation & research you do (or is given to you) prior to an interview. Thanks for the blog! It's a must-read in my hidden vice of blog addictions.
Posted by Stephanie on January 09 at 12:22am

There are several ways we decide who is going to do which interview. Some are just assigned by our executive producer, Jim Bell. In other cases, the guest may be someone either Matt or I have a particular interest in. As for research, I find it’s always better to read Matt’s as well as mine every night because occasionally a segment assigned to him will be switched to me, or vice versa.


When the cameras pan back to go to commercial and you're moving papers around on the table, are you actually doing something or just looking busy until the camera's off? when there are a few of you and the mics go off, what do you chat about? just wondering :)
Posted by Kryss on January 07 at 10:02am

If I’m moving papers around, chances are I’m just trying to look busy. That last show may only go for a few seconds, but it feels like an eternity. When the mics are off, we chat about anything and everything—from family, to stories, to where we are going for lunch.

Meredith. I've been a fan of yours for years. How do you deal with the heartache (heartbreak?) of watching a loved one suffer, deteriorate, etc. I am going through this now with my husband and I don't know how one gets through it day to day.
Posted by N on January 04 at 11:42pm

I think you get through the day just by taking one step at a time, and knowing there will be some very bad days, but also plenty of good ones. Our family relies a lot on humor—it doesn’t take away from the reality, but it certainly helps you cope. And I think we’re keenly aware, no matter what our situation is, there’s always someone who is less fortunate than we are. And that is humbling.

Feel free to post a question of your own for next time!

Meredith tackles more of your questions! Ask yours today, and check back next Friday for the answer. Maybe she'll choose yours!

JANUARY 4, 2008

I have been wondering what ever happened to Manny, the gray haired man that was always seen with Lenny when you pan the spectators.
Posted by Pat on December 21 at 11:42pm

I’m so sorry to say that Manny passed away last year, shortly before the holidays. He always greeted us with a warm smile and a hearty hello. We miss him on the plaza. He was as much a part of the Today show family as any one of us.

Hey Meredith! Love you on Today! My sister and I took a trip to New York a couple of years ago, best time ever! Not that we don't love our families, but there's something to be said about leaving the kids and husbands at home! I've tried to get into blogging, but get stuck. Do you enjoy it, and do you have any tips to get started?
Posted by Debbi Seifert on January 01 at 09:42pm

Let me tell you the history of this blog: when I started it, I didn’t even know what the word meant. The folks at NBC asked me to blog because they thought it was a great way for the audience to get to know the "real" me. But it’s not always easy to share personal stories, especially when they involve family members who may not want the attention. So I have to be very careful. Having said that, what I love about the blog is that it forces me to stop in my day and reflect. I guess I’m the sort of person that would never do so otherwise. Sometimes I’ll sit for an hour or more, racking my brains for something to say. But I’ve learned that it’s often the simplest stories that are the most relatable. At its best, blogging provides a real sense of community.

Hey Meredith
Did you know that you have been referenced on Sesame Street? I saw the episode this morning with Anderson Cooper. He was interviewing grouch correspondents "Dan Rathernot" and "Walter Cranky". At the end of the segment, Oscar said to tune in tomorrow to see "Meredith Beware-a" and "Diane Spoilah". It was cute. Just wondered if you had seen it.
Posted by Hillary on December 20 at 03:15pm

I haven’t seen that episode of Sesame Street, but I will tell you that I love the show.

question...why a mouthguard after waking and especially while drinking coffee??
Happy New Year from RI!
Posted by Geoff on January 02 at 02:25pm

Although I was given a mouthguard, I was joking when I said I kept it in place while drinking my coffee on Christmas morning…you must think I’m kookier than I really am, Geoff. Happy New Year to you and all the folks in RI. I still miss Del's lemonade.

Feel free to post a question of your own for next time!

Meredith tackles more of your questions! Asks yours today, and check back next Friday for the answer. Maybe she'll choose yours!

DECEMBER 21, 2007

I’m heading off on vacation, so I just wanted to wish everyone the happiest of holidays. I greatly appreciate all the feedback on this blog. Looking forward to 2008 – stay safe and I’ll see you soon. Love, Meredith

Hi Meredith, I'm from a small town in Minnesota and watch your show every day! I get up extra early before school so I have enough time to get ready and then watch the show. I have a question, I noticed that you wear a charm bracelet everyday, (the gold one with the dangley) I was wondering what that symbolized? Anything special? Your such a great person!
Posted by Paige on December 14 at 04:40pm

Thank you for your sweet note. I do wear that charm bracelet every day because it was given to me by my husband Richard and my three kids on September 12, 2006--the night before I started on the Today Show. I was very nervous, as you can imagine. When we sat down for dinner, Richard handed me a box and inside was the bracelet. Inscribed on the charm are the words: “we are with you” on one side. And on the other side is reads “love, Richard, Ben, Gabe, Lily.” It’s pretty scratched up because I never take it off.

Hi Meredith,
Count me among your many Today Show and Blog fans. Here's my question for a possible future Friday:
What would be your idea of a perfect day?
Thanks for all you do!
Posted by Diane on December 15 at 06:20pm

My perfect day is probably going to sound pretty boring. But there’s nothing I like better than puttering around my home. I love to start the day with a run outside and after that it’s all about spending time with family.

Hi Meredith,
I have a question. I'm reading Jody Picoult's novel, Nineteen Minutes. I don't know if you've heard of it, or read it, but it is a fantastic book. At some point in the novel, they reference you as a newscaster - do they have to ask for your permission to use your name?
Posted by Brendan on December 17 at 04:23pm

I hadn’t heard of this book, Brendan. But I looked it up online and I’m going to buy it because I love thrillers. I had no idea my name was in it, so I guess they don’t have to ask for my permission—by the way, what page is it on?

Feel free to post a question of your own for next time!

Meredith tackles more of your questions! Asks yours today, and check back next Friday for the answer. Maybe she'll choose yours!

DECEMBER 14, 2007

hello Meredith my name is Kyle Clark I am a very big fan of yours from Swansea, IL and I was wondering if you wear Hats? and if so if you could do a today show with a Hat on?
Posted by Kyle Clark on December 07 at 10:26pm

I like hats, actually. The problem with wearing a hat on the show is that every time you go back inside, you have to have your hair fixed all over again. And there’s never enough time. I like berets, and I also like those Irish caps, and the British bollers--those rounded ‘top hats. But I look particularly fetching in a dunce cap…

Hi Meredith,
Thanks for answering my question about "Millionaire".
Here's another question:
What are your favorite Christmas songs and who sings some of your favorites (Bing, Frank, Tony B., Johnny M., Eartha Kitt, etc.)?
Joe :)
Posted by Joe on December 07 at 07:13pm

I’m not big on "favorites"—I love almost every Christmas song there is. But I am partial to Johnny Mathis, particularly "Winter Wonderland", "The Most Wonderful Time of the Year".


I was wondering how close you are to your Portuguese/Azorean roots. Do you speak Portuguese? Have you ever been to Portugal or the islands? We're planning a trip to Portugal and maybe the Azores this summer and was wondering if you had any advice for a first-timer at a topless beach?
Posted by Dee on December 13 at 09:07am

I never learned Portuguese growing up, even though my parents spoke it fluently. My father was a family doctor and a huge percentage of his patients were immigrants from the Azores. One of the many reasons I admired my Dad is because he treated people without any concern as to their ability to pay. Often I’d go home and there’d be some stranger mowing our lawn, or a loaf of sweet bread on the porch, or a bottle of home-made port on the kitchen table. These are proud people who paid my Dad in the only way they could. I was so busy growing up and just wanting to "fit in" that I was part of that generation that saw myself as solely American. Now I wish I had learned the language. I did go to Portugal in 1972, the summer after my freshman year in college, and I was blown away by how beautiful it is. I’ve never been to the Azores but I can tell you that Lisbon, Estoril, and the Algarve are all worth visiting. Some of the old hunting lodges are also really cool. And make sure at some time during your visit you get grilled sardines. As far as topless beaches, I didn’t see any when I was there.

Feel free to post a question of your own for next time!

Meredith tackles more of your questions! Asks yours today, and check back next Friday for the answer. Maybe she'll choose yours!

DECEMBER 7, 2007

Hi Meredith,
Love you on the TODAY show. My Friday question for you is: Do you ever wear the same outfit over again on the show? If not, what happens to your clothes? Do you donate them? Thanks!
Posted by Elizabeth on December 03 at 12:21pm

Actually, today I’m wearing something I’ve worn before—a grey jumper with a white shirt. I have a wonderful stylist, Fran Taylor (who is also the stylist for the ladies at The View—which is how we met) who picks out everything, since I wouldn’t know fashion if it hit me over the head with a stiletto. Because we’re a television show and don’t wear the same clothes season after season, we donate our wardrobe to various charities, including Dress for Success and Good Will.

Hi Meredith,
Do you know if Disney/ABC Television Distribution has renewed Millionaire for a 2008-2009 season yet?
Posted by Joe on December 03 at 01:48pm

Millionaire is produced by Buena Vista. Unless they’re not telling me something, I believe we’re renewed through at least the 2008-2009 season.

Hi Meredith, I am really excited that I found this blog, I love the Today Show! I think that it is fantastic that you want to run in a marathon, I hope to as well. Do you think that you will try to run in one in the next year or two?
~Emily
Posted by Emily Norton on November 10 at 12:06pm

In my head I see myself running a marathon, I just haven’t gotten that message down to my feet yet. But hope springs eternal.

Meredith will be answering questions today and tomorrow. Check back and see if she answered yours!

DECEMBER 6, 2007

Did you go all the way to the UK for the Zorb piece? or were you already there for something else? Just curious...
Posted by jd on December 02 at 01:42am

Believe it or not, we did go all the way to the UK just to roll down a hill in a big ball. We took off after the show on Friday, arrived in England early on Saturday morning, then drove three hours to the Zorb site, hyperventilated for about 15 minutes, got in the crazy thing, rolled down the hill several times, then got back in the car, and drove to the airport, jumped on a plane, and rolled back into my own bed Saturday night.

...I am a freshman in college and I was wondering if you got the chance to do anything over again or change something you did in college, what would it be?
Posted by Sarah on December 04 at 12:29am

The only thing I probably would have done over is given my school more of a chance. I got into Tufts University but really wanted to go to Harvard (I didn’t get in). So, for much of my freshman year I would hitch a ride from Medford (where Tufts University is located) to Harvard Square (only a few miles away) every chance I got. Then I’d walk around with my backpack, pretending I was a "Cliffie." (As in Radcliffe student.) In the end, not only did I get a great education at Tufts, but it led me to my career—thanks to a guest professor there.

Every Friday, Meredith answers your questions!

NOVEMBER 30, 2007

I enjoyed your Zorb piece. How did you decide to do that?
Posted by Vanessa on November 27 at 01:10pm

The show came up with the idea that each co-host would do an extreme sport. I’m not the biggest daredevil in the world, so I figured I’d find something that looked relatively "safe". I went to a website for extreme sports, and found the Zorb. I’d never heard of it before and it seemed like it might be fun. Also, from the web video, it didn’t look like the hill was that steep. Of course when I got to the actual site in England and watched balls rolling down at 30 miles an hour with people screaming inside, I did have second thoughts. But having travelled that far, I figured I’d better take the fall for Today. FYI: there is now a Zorb site in Tennessee. You may want to check that out.


Hi Meredith,
I'm a dedicated fan of the Today program and Millionaire. What perfume do you wear? Is it true you have worn Jean Naté for years?
Thanking you in advance from the mountains of Oregon...Anni
Posted by anniigirl50 on November 11 at 01:23am

I don’t wear perfume, but if I’m going to put something on, it’s Jean Naté —which I say, of course, with a pretentious French accent. It’s the first cologne my mom ever let me buy, and it just brings back fond memories.


What's your love story, Meredith? Was it love at first sight with your husband?
Posted by Asmaa on November 16 at 02:40pm

It was actually contempt at first sight. I was a reporter in the Midwest bureau for CBS news, located in Chicago. I was hanging out in the office one day, wrapped in a blanket, watching Bugs Bunny, while waiting for news to break. Richard, a producer from CBS headquarters in New York, showed up with Leslie Stahl to "big foot" a story about the Illinois governor’s race. ("Big footing" is when the network sends one of its stars out to cover a local story that they consider important). Richard walked into my office and made some flip comment about my TV viewing habits. In that moment, I thought "What a jerk. I’m going to marry that guy.” And three years later, we did.

Feel free to post a question of your own for next time!

Tonight I’m performing at the Big Apple Circus as "Doctor Ditsy" (my clown care persona - see bigapplecircus.org) along with Chris Meloni from Law & Order: SVU.

I’ll try and take pictures and post them on Monday. Have a great weekend.

NOVEMBER 9, 2007

hi meredith! just wondering, did you ever have a fear of public speaking?
Posted by anonymous on November 01 at 07:37pm

I still have a fear of public speaking – I think it comes down to the fact that as a reporter, I’ve told other people’s stories for so long that I can’t imagine anyone would want to hear mine, or much less care about my opinion.

For as much as you're on tv, what shows do you never miss? favorite show of all time?
Posted by kryss on November 01 at 04:54pm

The only show I try to watch every night is Seinfeld, which airs at 7:30pm. I’ve seen them all many times, but they always make me laugh.

I'm just wondering - what do you wear in your off hours - you know, hanging out with the family, teachers' conferences, going out for a casual dinner? Do you take those lovely Today Show clothes home with you?
Posted by Murphy on October 25 at 02:33pm

I wear the same thing pretty much every day: Jeans, a t-shirt (usually white), and my brown clogs and I carry an orange and black backpack. Glamorous, huh?

Meredith will be answering questions today and tomorrow!

NOVEMBER 8, 2007

How did you decide who got to go to the cold of Antarctica or the North Pole? It would be a great experience, except for the time to get there and the frigid cold. I think you got the best part of the scenario.
Posted by Deb Winter on November 05 at 09:44am

When planning "The Ends of the Earth", at first it was decided that Ann would go to Antarctica, Matt to the Arctic, and Al and I would go to the Equator. But as we got closer to the air date, the producers were concerned that the satellite feeds might not all come through—since something like this had never been attempted before—so it was agreed that we needed someone at home base. Plus there was always the chance that a major news story would break, and one of us would have to hit the ground running—that’s how I ended up in New York City.

Hi Mer, I wanted to know what did you for Halloween this year? Thanks
Posted by Royce Kennedy on November 04 at 11:24pm

This year my Halloween was a little bit of a bust. I bought tons of candy, but only had about ten trick-or-treaters. I still have three huge bowls of candy sitting on the foyer table.

What is your favorite song?, and why is it your favorite?
Posted by Paul Avyerinos on November 02 at 12:35am

My favorite song is "When You Wish Upon A Star" as sung by Jiminy Cricket in Pinocchio because it made me think that anything is possible. I remember it was the first song as a little kid that I really loved.

Feel free to post a question of your own for next time!

Every Friday, Meredith answers your questions!

OCTOBER 19, 2007

I’m down to the last three weeks of shooting Millionaire, and it’s been so intense that I’ve had to run out of here every day—so I’ve missed blogging. Hopefully I’ll be back up to speed real soon. But keep those questions coming. Have a great weekend. Love, Mer

Mer... Halloween is coming up! What are you going to be this year? Hopefully you won’t get stuck in the clamshell as Bette Midler again! Do you like Halloween?
Posted by Betsy on October 17 at 03:31pm


First of all, I love Halloween. I have two bins in my basement full of old costumes, wigs, makeup, you name it. Every year I take out the stuff and put it on the dining room table in the days leading up to Halloween and encourage everybody to play dress up. No one ever does anymore—just me (and occasionally Jasper, our dog). As for the show, I can’t tell you what we’re going to be this year, but it’s going to be great. And it won’t involve a clamshell…

Who's that guy who comes to the set and talks to you during the breaks on Millionaire?
Love you, Gary
(Don't worry...I'm not a stalker...just a HUGE gay fan!)
Posted by Gary on October 15 at 06:19pm

You must have been in the audience at Millionaire. "That guy" you are referring to is Rich Sirop, the show’s supervising producer. He and I meet before the tapings and he briefs me on all the contestants. During the breaks, we chat about where I might want to take the conversation once the commercial is over. He’s a great guy, and a wonderful producer.


When you were in high school - what "crowd" did you fit into? Were you a nerd? A cheerleader? A band geek? I loved the movie The Breakfast Club - and I was like Ally Sheedy in that movie, the outsider and weirdo. How about you, Meredith???
Posted by carolyn on October 17 at 03:40pm


I was a "floater" in high school, meaning I was never part of one particular group. I actually never liked the whole group mentality because it tended to be exclusive. But if I had to describe myself back then, I was sort of shy, an athlete but not a "superstar", a serious student, very involved in theater, and I also headed up the chapel committee. I went to a Quaker school and I would help find guests to talk to the students.

Feel free to post a question of your own for next time!

Every Friday, Meredith answers your questions. Feel free to post a question of your own for next time.

OCTOBER 12, 2007

I told kids for 40 years to say Rabbit-Rabbit on the first day of the month for good luck. I also told them that they had to say it before their feet hit the floor that morning. I retired from teaching fifth and sixth grade last year. Where did you hear about rabbit-rabbit?
Posted by Tom Szumski on October 11 at 08:04am

I first heard it from friends in elementary school. I never knew you were supposed to say it before your feet hit the floor that morning. One of my problems with this monthly "Rabbit Rabbit" routine is that I talk out loud to myself. So by the time I remember it’s the first day of the month, I’ve already been mouthing-off. (But come to think of it, maybe that shouldn’t count—it’s like a tree falling in the woods: If nobody hears it, does it make a sound?)

My daughter volunteers on a local television Channel. She is a Sophomore in high school and loves doing this, however she talks through her nose, any encouraging advise?? She is a great reader, and uses expression, but there’s a definite ‘nasal’. It's a delicate situation as I do not want to cause doubt in her ability.
Posted by SHEILA on October 11 at 10:49am

There are so many accents and voices on television these days that are distinctive and different—I’m not sure that it will be a problem for her. If you are concerned, you might seek out a vocal coach but one word of caution: When I first started in local news, all the reporters were sent for vocal training. I refused, because they all sounded the same to me with that "anchor voice."

With tapings of 07-08 Millionaire season from late-July to early Nov. (compared to the tapings of the 06-07 season having been done from late July to early Dec.), does this mean there will be more repeats of "Millionaire" this season (07-08) than last season (06-07)?
Posted by Joe on October 09 at 09:00pm

We still tape the same number of shows, we just tape more in a week.

On Fridays, Meredith answers your questions—feel free to post a question of your own! She'll return to the blog in early January, after a brief break for the holidays.

Do you and the kids do anything at Hanukkah for your husband, Richard, or do you all just celebrate Christmas. Just wondering!
Posted by Beth on December 18 at 06:49pm

We celebrate Hanukkah, as well. We light the candles on the menorah and the kids are never too old for Hanukkah gelt (the chocolate coins).

I've been a fan of yours for years. Way back in the 80s (I think) you did an interview with Harrison Ford. He seemed difficult to interview at that time. Have you interviewed HF since then? Could you comment on that interview (if it was upsetting to you in any way). Thanks. Posted by kgw on December 19 at 03:01am

I can't remember why, but I was interviewing him for "West 57th Street" and he gave me a hard time, but I actually enjoyed sparring with him. I think he was promoting a movie and I was probably the 100th reporter he had sat down with and maybe he was sick of answering questions...and here I was trying to do a profile on him. I did love his back story about having been a carpenter before he became a superstar. And he was easy on the eyes, too.

Every Friday, Meredith answers your questions—feel free to post a question of your own for next week!

Did you once work in the Providence, R.I. area?
Posted by Dottie on December 03 at 07:34pm

Yes, after I graduated from college I worked at WJAR-TV as a reporter for a few years before moving on to New York.

What would you say is the one tradition you and your family have to get ready for Christmas?
Posted by Southernmush on December 03 at 12:19am

Every year I buy the kids an ornament that they open on Christmas Eve—so that when they’re ready to move on to their own homes, that first Christmas they won’t have a bare tree. Hopefully they’ll continue that tradition when they have their own kids.

We always have a Christmas on Christmas Eve with our friends—we all jokingly refer to the dinner as "the night of the misfit toys"—people who might not be able to be with their families this Christmas or those who don’t normally celebrate the holidays because they’re Jewish.

I was diagnosed with MS when I was 17. I’m 22 now and I keep thinking about my future... Did you know Richard had MS from the beginning? Since you are married to a man with a chronic illness, how did the beginning of the relationship survive that? Is there anything he did that enabled you to see past it?
Posted by knp on December 04 at 09:34am

A couple of dates into our relationship, Richard and I were having dinner at a restaurant in NYC. I always sensed there was sadness to him—even though Richard is a very funny guy—so I asked him about it. He hesitated and said “I have something to tell you, I have multiple sclerosis.”

I knew something about MS because my dad was a doctor and we sat for quite a while talking about the illness. Prior to me Richard had been involved with somebody who found out he had the disease and left him. After that he made a decision to bring it up earlier rather than later, almost as a defense, and I gave him the perfect opening.

I don’t know why, but it didn’t matter to me. I really liked him and I figured none of us can predict the future. I can understand why people would be afraid of it. I wasn’t trying to put blinders on, but I cared more about him than what might be. I thought, "I can’t worry about what might be—then I will never live my life." You just don’t know on any given day what could happen to any one of us and I wasn’t going to short change a chance at happiness because of a lot of "what ifs."

But I do think it’s better to be honest with the so-called "healthy" partner or anybody you’re getting into a relationship with. Richard was upfront—I actually went with him to one of his doctor’s appointments. There were several people in the room who were very debilitated by their MS and instead of making me feel like running I thought "Gee we’re lucky. It can always be worse."

And then I fell in the love with the person.

Every Friday, Meredith answers your questions -- feel free to post a question of your own for next week!

You had mentioned that you used to take up dancing, do you sing as well?
Posted by Christine C. on November 12 at 10:44pm

I sing just as well as I tap dance. Poorly.

How do you like your new job compared to The View?
Posted by jkruger95@msn.com on November 18 at 07:41pm

It’s kind of like apples and oranges. I loved doing The View but it was time for a change and this a perfect fit for me right now because it combines much of the free spirited nature of The View with serious journalism—something I did for 20 years. The biggest change is working with a man, after being surrounded by four vaginas for nine years.

What is your favorite holiday recipe?
Posted by Ann on November 14 at 12:38

Have you not watched my segments with Martha Stewart? I’m not faking it—I really don’t know anything about cooking. And the few times I’ve attempted to make a meal, my family has asked me to stop. My middle child Gabe has developed a knack for cooking (probably out of self defense). He makes a mean pumpkin pie, and is a whiz with a wok. So I’m now officially the ‘sous chef’ and that suits me just fine.

Actually, there is one recipe that I’m kind of "known for." But it’s not mine, it’s my mom Elsie’s Apple Pie.

Mom’s Apple Pie

First make the crust (I make it from a box. I think it’s called Jiffy—just follow the directions).

Once you’ve rolled out the bottom crust, put it in the pie plate and brush it with beaten egg whites.

Then cut up 4-6 apples (my mom always liked to mix Granny Smith and Macintosh).

Sprinkle the top of the apples with a half a cup of sugar mixed with either a teaspoon or a tablespoon (water spilled on the recipe and I can’t read it!) of Apple Pie Spice (or a combination of All Spice and Cinnamon but more Cinnamon)

Then take a pat of butter and cut it into four pieces and put the four pieces spread apart on the apples.

Then take the top crust (it should be slightly longer than the bottom crust) and put it on top—make sure it hangs over the bottom crust, and then fold it under the bottom crust and crimp all the way around (not sure exactly what crimp means, just make sure it’s closed).

Then paint the top of your crust with egg yolks mixed with a little milk or cream.

Cut holes in the top of the pie to let out the steam.

Bake it at 400 degrees for 50 minutes. Voila.

Every Friday, Meredith answers your questions -- feel free to post a question of your own for next week!

Just wondering if you and Ann will be taking any more adventures together. I LOVED seeing you and her bond over the tree climbing expedition last month. Also, will you and Matt be doing any segments like that together?
Posted by Alice S. on November 10

Ann and I are definitely planning to do more adventures – under the category "Conquering Our Fears." So stay tuned.

You’re absolutely right--Matt and I have yet to do a getting-to-know-you piece. Because of weather conditions we had to cancel twice. I won’t tell you what it is we’re going to do, but we do have a plan.

When you're reporting heartwrenching stories as you often do, how do you avoid letting them affect you too much both personally and emotionally?
Posted by Josey on November 10

It’s extremely hard for me to separate myself from some of the stories that I cover. I I take things very much to heart and I feel people’s pain. The way that I am able to absorb it without becoming a basket case is to keep in mind my role, which is to help people tell their stories.

Meredith, I'm just wondering if you read our comments on your blogs? I have a bet with my husband--he says no way; I say yes she does! Who buys dinner?
Posted by Vickie on November 11

Well, you win/he loses! I do read them, and occasionally answer them...

Every Friday, Meredith answers your questions -- feel free to post a question of your own for next week!

How's your relationship with Al Roker?
Posted by George on November 8

I adore Al. He’s incredibly kind and funny and after he, Matt and Ann played Millionaire for one of our get-to-know you pieces I discovered he’s really smart. He knows a lot about a lot of things (now if he could only get the weather right--just joking!)

Do you still see your ex-cohorts from The View?
Posted by Audrey on November 6

Yes, in fact I just saw Joy the other day. We try to get together as often as possible, although if it’s much past five o’clock my head’s likely to land in the bowl of pasta.

If I could have anyone's hair in the world it would be yours. Have you ever thought about growing it longer and then donating it to “Locks of Love”?
Posted by Allie on November 3

It’s funny, my whole life I’ve had straight hair and all I wanted was curly hair. In fact, in an effort to get some curl I had a permanent right before I joined CBS news and my hair started falling out in clumps. Needless to say I never did that again. I would love to donate to “Locks of Love” but I don’t believe you can if you treat your hair and mine is highlighted.

Every Friday, Meredith answers your questions -- feel free to post a question of your own for next week!

Who are your major influences in your life and career?
Posted by Rose_218 on October 28

I’m sure my greatest influences were my parents.

I always put my father on a pedestal because he was an old fashioned family doctor. I admired his dedication and selflessness. He taught me to always believe in myself, to work hard, and to never take life too seriously.

I don’t think I appreciated my mom fully until I became a mother myself. I was one of those girls who said "I don’t want to be a stay-at-home mom like her--I want more in my life" and then when I had my children I realized that I wanted to be exactly like her. She was the rock in our family: strong, protective of her kids, and generous of spirit.

Do you still have family in Rhode Island and do you visit annually?
Posted by Steven Temelleo on October 31

Although my parents have passed away, I still have relatives in southern Rhode Island. Unfortunately I don’t get back as often as I’d like to. My fantasy is to one day own a home on the shore there.

I would like to know what your daily schedule is and how that has impacted your family life.
Posted by Wayne on October 13

My schedule varies from day to day. I wake up at 3am, feed the pets, make some breakfast and bask in the silence of a home that’s normally chaos. I get to work by 5am, and from that point on it’s a blur. From 7-9am I’m on the air (because of my contractual obligations with Millionaire, I can’t be on NBC daytime from 9-5). Some days I have meetings with producers, shoots, rehearsals, publicity, and Thursday and Fridays I tape four-five shows of Millionaire per day. If I look ahead at my schedule, it’s easy to freak out, but taking one day at a time, I realize how lucky I am to do work that I truly enjoy. And almost every day I’m home before the kids, because they’re teenagers now and have lots of after-school activities.

P.S. I thought I had the "schedule" down but I may be a little more stressed than even I realize…the other night I walked through a screen door leading out to our backyard. Gabe and Lily were making cookies at the time, and when they looked up at their mother, they both just rolled their eyes and pointed me in the direction of the bedroom. Note to me: get more sleep.

Every Friday, Meredith answers your questions -- feel free to post a question of your own for next week!

I was just wondering if you found any reason for your 5 miscarriages that enabled you to go on to have three beautiful children. I appreciate any additional insight you can share.
Posted by Kate on October 15

My problem had nothing to do with conceiving. I could get pregnant, I just couldn’t hold the pregnancy. It turned out I had a problem with the lining of my uterus and my OBGYN put me on progesterone suppositories.

A few days later, I went back to my doctor, very confused. I couldn’t figure out how putting suppositories up your bum could help you keep a pregnancy. And then the most embarrassing moment of my life occurred: The doctor said “Meredith, the suppositories, are meant to go into your vagina.”

Now that I figured out the difference between a vagina and a you-know-what…I have three beautiful children.

If you had to interview yourself, what questions would you ask?
Posted by Katherine Powell on October 15

The #1 question I’d ask myself would have to be:

Meredith, do you know the difference between a vagina and a you-know-what?

Seriously, I’m stumped by your question. There are things I ask myself every day…Am I doing the best job I can as a mom? Am I doing the best job I can in my professional life? And what the heck was I thinking when I agreed to do this blog? It’s hard!

Every Friday, Meredith answers your questions -- feel free to post a question of your own for next week!

You and Matt seem to get along really well. Are you still great friends once you're off the air? What's the best part about working with Matt?
Posted by Nikki on October 16

When it comes to Matt Lauer, what's not to get along with? He's smart, funny, and incredibly generous both on and off the air. From Day 1 he made me feel like part of the family. Plus, we have the same birthday (even though I'm older). He also loves to play practical jokes, so he keeps me on my toes.

Do you ever plan on doing anything else in your career?
Posted by Kasandra on October 16
I don't tend to look ahead, but I know I like working on projects that involve kids. I can easily see myself on the other side of the camera and loving it. I've also wanted to be a therapeutic clown who works in the pediatric ward. I think that would be incredibly rewarding.

Just curious as to how you've been adjusting to your new early morning hours? I cannot imagine waking up at that hour every weekday morning!
Posted by Luz on October 15

I'm actually liking the new schedule (maybe I've just drunk the Kool-Aid...) I am a late-night person but I decided to immerse myself in the early morning madness instead of fighting it. And do you know what I've found? It's neat to be the only one up in my house at 3AM...no kids fighting, no dog barking, no cats chasing squirrels in the bathroom. Just me with a cup of coffee, easing into my morning.

Many of you have written in with questions, so I've decided that every Friday, I'll try to answer some of them.

I’ve followed your career for the past 10 years and was wondering: When did you know you wanted to be a journalist? Did you ever struggle with your confidence to be able to do it?
Posted by Kayla, October 6

I never intended to be a journalist. In fact, I didn’t know what I was going to do with my life once I got out of college (I was an English major). But the January before graduation I took a non-credit class in Broadcast Journalism, just for the fun of it. (The course was taught by a reporter from CBS radio in Boston.)

For our final project we were divided into groups and told to go find a story, write it, and narrate it. My group chose a story on discrimination in the housing market. Once we put together the piece, I was asked to narrate it. CBS sent in one of its big guns to critique our work and when he heard my voice, he asked "Whose voice is that?” I raised my hand and after class he said to me, "What do you want to do with your future? Because I think you’d have a future in journalism." No one had ever said I had a future in anything, so I figured "why not." He asked me to intern at the radio station, and that’s how it all began back in the winter of 1975.

I can’t say it’s always been smooth sailing. There was one time in particular when I really struggled with my confidence.

My first TV job was at the NBC affiliate in Providence, Rhode Island, where I grew up. About six months into the job my boss said he didn’t think I had what it takes to make it in the business. So he fired me.

I remember going home to my parents’ house and sitting in my bedroom crying, feeling pretty well defeated. My Dad walked in and when I told him what had happened he said, “Do you believe in yourself?” "Yes, I do," I told him, between sobs. “Then what do care what anyone else says?” he replied. "There will always be people who’ll tell you ‘you can’t do it.' It’s up to you to tell yourself you can."

That Monday I walked into work and told the boss off: “I don’t care what you say, I’m not going to give up.” I think he was so taken aback that he rehired me. We eventually became friends despite his poor initial judgement…