Not One, but Two Television Shows in One Day...

...Katie Couric and The Chew

One of the things I planned to do when I retired was to be in the audience for television shows. One of the shows that I thought would be especially fun was the Katie Couric Show. I heard Katie speak at BlogHer12 in New York last year and enjoyed it. There was also the added advantage that the show is taped just a mile from my house. They have a great online system for requesting tickets that includes the name of the guest on most days. I requested tickets for several shows and was waiting listed. But I got my opportunity to attend this Tuesday, when Shirley MacLaine was one of the guests. "Terms of Endearment" is one of my favorite movies and I am a fan of "Downton Abbey," so I was delighted to be there for her appearance. 

The interview with Shirley MacLaine was fun, but only one part of a very enjoyable morning. There were several other segments which I liked a lot, including a makeover for three women looking for jobs. The staff was friendly and a lot of fun and Katie spent time at the end of the show chatting with the audience and taking questions, which may have been the best part of the morning. We also got great gifts, "the swag bag," which is given to one audience a week. What a bounty! It included a cashmere scarf, tea and fabulous body lotion. There is also a surprise that will be a giveaway here later in the year. I definitely recommend a visit to "Katie" if you are going to be in New York.    

When I was leaving "Katie" I was asked if I wanted to be in the audience for "The Chew." I had read about this show, but honestly, I had never watched it. I did know that Clinton Kelly, who I loved on "What Not to Wear," was on this show and I definitely wanted to see him. The show was a lot of fun. I enjoyed "Clinton's Craft Corner," which had an easy craft that even I could do. I liked the cooking segments a lot and am eager to make the turkey cutlet sandwich that was featured on one of them. I was disappointed though that there wasn't more interaction by the hosts with the audience. 

 I had the good fortune to be sitting in the front row.

To complete my television "career" for this fall I was in the audience for "Who Wants to Be a Millionaire?" with Cedric the Entertainer last month. The audience gets to audition for the show, but alas I wasn't picked. It was still an interesting and fun afternoon. 

 Cedric the Entertainer at "Who Wants to be a Millionaire?"

I've really enjoyed my taste of show business, but I am happy to return to my non-celebrity life. Today's activities included a visit to the bank and then to the library to get my books that were on reserve and dinner at a friend's apartment. Carol is about the best cook I know and her homemade pizza was delicious. 

Please stop by tomorrow for Random 5 Friday, one of my favorite parts of the week. As always thanks for visiting and take good care of yourself.