Nightline piqued my interest. Dooce drew me in. I am here to stay.

What are these Flogs you speak about? Um, Bossy means "blogs". Heh.

I think KLG is one of those panda's you were talking about teaching english to (albeit not a highly intelligent one) Perhaps its time she enrols in a class or two. She came across as both uneducated and ignorant regarding the topic at hand. Did I say that? Slap my wrist!

Well done to you and your family for your every success.

I found your other segment and that was so much better! KLG probably doesn't know how to turn on a computer, but that's ok. You handled it well and your dress was FAB! I am so envious of you and your hubby! I want a job that I can do in my pjs! :) Do you need an intern, I live in TX.

Keep up the good work Heather...or was it Jim??

:)

That dress. WHAT was Kathy Lee wearing? And, what is she doing interviewing ANYONE? You gave a great interview, though, Heather -- even though the interviewers were like something from a Saturday Night Live skit. It's KLG's fault you were bumped....

Also, the last line of this post is classic! Ha!

the bit about your husband talking about his baby coming out of your body, and the prozac comment: I cackled loudly enough to startle my cat and make her leave the room.

I am an ex-mormon who lived in SLC for 5 years. I am now reading your blog from my apartment in San Francisco, and loving the humor. Keep making us laugh.

I don't understand what the "un-comfortableness" is all about. It just looked like they ran out of time before Kathy could get out her concerns - about discussing and posting photos of your children online. Isn't this an issue that you and so many other bloggers get bombarded with in your comments every day? Wouldn't this have been a good platform to really talk about why you write about all those things?

I have to tell you that I love your blog and I am a single woman, no kids and no pets. I love your writing... you bring stories to life. I love that you are proud of your accent! And yes, you pronounce crayon correctly. Ha!

You did a great job handling those two... Hoda trys to be a journalist but KLG throws her off track with wisecracks and saying weird things. I work in TV news; when I read that you had been pushed back to the horrid 4th hour I knew you were screwed. Ever since KLG come on the scene, in depth interviews have flown out the window. They burn thru so much time just chit-chatting at the beginning and they have to cut the back half segments to get out on time. The piece before you and the questions they asked you didn't even go together.

Again, I loved seeing you on national TV and you did a great job. Thanks for all your and Jon's hard work.

I agree that the interview's lack of depth is not really Kathie Lee's fault. I think the producers of the Today Show should be ashamed for assigning such a topic to such a ding-bat, moron, computer-phobe. What gives, Today Show?

Also, Heather, your hair and make-up could not have been more perfect. GORGEOUS. Had I been there with John, I WOULD have licked you. And "honey", I don't swing that way. Without bourbon. Lots and lots of bourbon.

Maybe Kathy Lee was so uncomfortable because it all hits way too close to home. She's so the pot calling the kettle black. (And the kettle looked amazing in that awesome dress.)

I very clearly remember Kathy Lee telling Reeeeeege one morning, in detail, how her precious Cody was potty training and they were in their veddy, veddy fancy mansion in Colorado for the holidays. They had guests over and as they were eating dinner, Cody bellowed from the bathroom, "Somebody come WIPE MY BUTT!!!!!"

Tsk tsk, Kathy Lee. Your professionalism isn't showing.

heather will you finally have the good grace to take back what you said about messy lawns and Turkish men's bodies? pretty please?

dweebisis.blogspot.com

btw, are you from the south grrl?? me too!

on a positive note, i have never seen you look better. never. sorry, i'm having an issue with myself. ugh.

everyone check out my site, it's a praise about heather armstrong's writing skills!

The ABC interview was SO much better. It's funny b/c while we were all waiting for the Today Show to run, people (esp Moms) on Twitter were saying they normally can't stand the show.
You handled KLG with complete grace. It's too bad they cut you off suddenly b/c I could see the point you were about to make - something you've said here about going out in public. Great job under fire.

There are 300 comments before mine so I'm sure this will never get read nor did I read the 300 comments to see if it had already been covered, but how come you didn't wear the dress you'd posted in the Style section? Or was that for another interview? Loved the Nightline spot though!

I would wonder how KLG feels also? Did she feel she was lead in like a lamb to slaughter? It did not seem she was prepared, was it on purpose? I would have to wonder if she is chewing someone out for looking stupid for makinge her interview on a subject she knew nothing about?

I agree that you handled it all very well, and KLG was awkard and looked uncomfortable, and as a "professional" she should be able to fake it, but she failed in that point.

Kudos to you for keeping your ground and making your point, however short they made it be, you came across and I aplauded you.

http://rockincharity.blogspot.com

I, like many others, certainly felt like you got the short end of the stick, especially with the extremely abrupt ending. I understand deadlines and having to go to breaks quickly, but KL just made it even more awkward than it had to be. I've never been a big fan of hers, but she made herself out to be an ass. You handled the entire interview with grace and poise. Was there ever any doubt?

First...who in this day and age doesn't know anything about computers? I mean other than Kathie Lee and my 80 year old grandma who lives in a nursing home? Seriously. She's just several shades of stupid. Get someone who actually has a clue to conduct the interview. You know, like a journalist. One who does their homework. Not some has been washed up floozy who used to pitch Carnival Cruises.

Geesh.

Anyway...Heather...you rocked it...despite being interviewed by a total moron. Had it been me, I likely would have bitch slapped KL on live TV just for being stupid, and then been banned from NBC for life. [Which might not be a bad thing...]

I think Mommy Blogs don't get the respect they deserve (gosh, sort of like mommyhood). So, yay for you and all of us other mommy bloggers.

Keep up the awesomeness.

I love that Jon acted drunk and said a bunch of crazy things. This will make the best story forever. Rock on!

Oh man, I saw the interview and thought it was, um, entertaining. But yeah- sad that this whole blogging thing didn't get what it deserved. Maybe next time.

Steph

Hoda and Kathie Lee were tools, especially when Hoda was parroting everything Kathie Lee said about using computers. Barf. But when she told you how uncomfortable this whole idea was to her, I was yelling at the television. How many people spent years starting their day listening to her fucking ramble about Cody and Cassidy?!? Ugh, argh, gag, barf. She is an imbecile and her sidekick is a moron. You definitely made the best of an awkward situation. They were beneath you, Heather. Their stupid sorority girl commentary was beneath you. I am back to Good Morning America!

I totally agree. You said what I would have liked to say in one of my previous comments, but as always, much more eloquently. It would be great if you got a chance to have an interview again someday on the today show, with someone more computer savvy. Kudos to you for acting with professionalism and grace during your interview, and on this post. Cheers kiddo, your FAMOUS.... :) ... again...

You did great. Kathy Lee came across as rude and uniformed. You've to lots of support and I'm proud to be fan of your mommy and not-so-mommy blogging.

DID Jon lick you when you were alone? *wink*

After following you for quite some time, it was strange to hear you actually speak! Not strange in a bad way, it's just that when you read the words of someone, you always have the voice of what you THINK they sound like going on in your head. It's kind of like when you hear yourself on the answering machine and go, "who the heck is that?!"

I must say that KLG is a very odd person. Her interview questions seemed very disjointed and then with the other lady,(Hoda?) chiming in every five seconds, I was amazed that you were able to get a word in edgewise. Jeez!

I think that you handled yourself, and them, extremely well!!! Kudos to you and congratulations!

Wow. That interview was CRAZY. If Janice from the Muppets ever did a television interview, she might come across like Kathy Lee Gifford did in that clip. Except that Janice would be too mellow. Maybe Floyd or Scooter would spike J's morning juice and then... I don't know. This analogy may have lost it already. But still. That woman came across like a complete loon.

Ummkay- you were great. Kathy-lee- that was veird ja?

Ms, Dooce...it wasn't .you. with Kathy Lee. I saw her saw the knees off of Amy Grant over "mommy issues" on the show she had with Regis back in the day. Poor Amy didn't know what hit her either. Kathy was paranoid about her kids and expects that you should be as well. She has long, sharp, jealous cat-claws too, so be careful...not paranoid, just careful.

I saw your segment live and I thought you did a great job of handling her obscure questions. I think people like Kathie Lee feel the need to Label anything and everything. Your blog is art and I love it. Hey at least your husband thinks your hot, free trip to NYC, great makeup and hair. And you came home to a beautiful Leta who adores you both completely. All in all that rocks.

Maybe the wink was the signal that she was switching into her t.v. persona. What a strange, strange lady!

It wasn't almost as if she regurgitated all the criticism she ever received onto you. The strangest part is how she ended it: "This makes me uncomfortable. I can't put my finger on it... but I don't like it" (or something like that).

My favorite part of the interview was the 'gotcha!' when you mentioned that she lived in New York. For a second there, I thought she was going to jump up and start playing tag.

My blood pressure started to rise when Kathie Lee said she "had mixed feelings" about blogging. The woman talked about every aspect of her own personal life and those of her children for years on her Live show. She was like the walking talking version of a mommy blog. I suppose it's only okay to do it if you're already a celebrity and under contract with a national television network.

Anyway, you didn't seem the least bit phased by her -- you seemed funny and relaxed and great. Good for you!

I was wondering how you were going to address the interview. I think KLF is a huge hypocrite and had a bitchfest to my husband after the segment was over. I thought you handled yourself great in the interview (and looked lovely) and I really respect how you thoughtfully addressed it in this post.

I have several thoughts about this post.
1. If I had the energy to record myself reading this, it might warm your heart. (At least, I hope it would.) It's been a difficult day, and here I am, sitting at my computer with a stupid grin on my face, laughing out loud at intervals. I'm a longtime reader, and thought this was one of your more amusing posts.
2. I find your thoughts on the whole interview thing interesting, and can understand to some extent why the blogging community is upset at the interview (though I haven't bothered to read much about it). Coming from a non-blogger's viewpoint, however, I wonder if perhaps NBC intended to have you interviewed by someone unfamiliar with computers and the blogging atmosphere. There are a lot of people in the world who are suspicious of computer/internet stuff, and have a similar take to KLG's. Maybe, as you said, this can be a springboard for further discussion, when people are less frightened of the topic.
3. Kudos to you. You're a great writer, and quite poised on camera. Nice job with that somewhat awkward interview!

Most importantly, you looked fab.

But on a less important note, Kathie Lee looked like a washed up Botox addicted robot, tangled in one heck of a Hawiaiian skirt.

Heather, you are a rock star goddess indeed. Not only are you Kathie Lee's type but you are gracious about the whole thing as well. Wow.

What I took away from reading this post is this: TV, old media: shabby green room, poor ability to respond to changes in schedule and, well, in media. Internet, new media: no green room necessary (unless that back room at Freddy's counts...), and quickly able to roll with the punches.

I still think you deserved a better interview, but it's NBC's loss. You looked great and spoke well. They just didn't have the forum to show you best -- because you've sooo passed them by. Yeah!!

I thought you did a fabulous job handling Kathy Lee. I'm sure that I could have done it as gracefully. I also find it hilarious that one of your anonymous commenters above tried to differentiate their anonymity by putting a J after Anonymous. I'm serious, one of them says 'Anonymous J'. Back to the interview, loved the dress you wore. It was lovely, and I think you did a fabulous job representing the community.

I think Kathy Lee Gifford is afraid of blogging because she knows that nobody gives a flying fart in space about what she has to say.

They need to rethink Kathie Lee Gifford's employment with them. She was god awful!!!

P.S. Thank you for posting the video. I had DVR'd the 7-9 Today show and had fast forwarded through to find you and was confused as to where you were until I went on your blog an hour too late!

I think this shines a spotlight directly on the disconnect between the Internet and old-fashion broadcast television. In a way, I say, SO WHAT.

You rock, Mommy-blogger! PLEASE keep up the good work. You provide a touch of brevity, humanity and laughter into so many of our lives. In a word: THANKS.

Oh you just so rock. You have integrity, a wicked sense of humour, such a balanced perspective on life in general and are, like, really grown up. I would have bitched my arse off on my blog if that had happened to me. (They were really very rude) What meds are you on again?

YOU ARE ADORABLE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

If it makes you feel better, your Nightline segment was hilarious. I loved when you sang 'Utah!' at the beginning.
Gulp in some of that mountain air and continue enjoying your success.

I guess I'm the only person who was astonished that they used "Ceremony" by New Order in the first part of that segment. That's just...odd.

Heather:

You were superb, NBC was unprepared (as was Nightline) for you. You, your writing, your community and what you represent are much greater than any 3-minute segment (hosted by the uninformed and/or non-believers) can ever present.

Rock on lady - you bring the awesome every day.

You were wonderful. Truly. (And so was my fabulous friend and business partner Kristen Chase - woo!!)

Although I've griped privately about why in the world they had Kathie Lee anchor that segment when it was so obviously not up her alley, I think that Hoda was also unprepared for the topic (based on her comment about "people going into your blogosphere"). This goes back to your point about the topic not being given the service it deserves. Is blogging perceived as such fluff that it doesn't warrant research and fact-checking? Maybe that's not what was intended by NBC, but it was the impression that came across. And if NBC can't take it seriously enough to do their homework prior to a national broadcast, I suppose it's understandable that I get PR pitches address to Ms. Goose Mouse.

I am impressed that you maintained your grace. I fear I would have become a defensive, sputtering lunatic. I admire your thick skin and ability to act calm under pressure even if you get a little help from magic drugs and a fantastic makeup job. You're real, but even better.

I hope that Kathie Lee Giffords develops the technical skills to replay some of the treacle-licious drivel from when she was a second banana to Regis. The stories about Cody's potty-training and whatnot were vomit-provoking -- and she has the nerve to put you on the spot for your thoughtful (okay, mostly thoughtful) posts ?

At least people have the CHOICE whether to read your posts or not. Her stories about her spawn were pervasive to the entire fluff-gram that was Regis & Kathie Lee. ugh.

Plus, her comments about not liking computers ? Who is she kidding ? Really ? REALLY ? I dub her Luddite and hope that she does not disgrace my Intarweb tubies further.

My reCaptcha just makes me laugh -- "McFeely, the"

My thoughts when the interview started: "These women don't know what they're supposed to be doing right now."
My thoughts when you were on camera: "Wow, she looks awesome!"
My thoughts when the interview was over: "That's IT?!"

Maybe you should interview with Charlie Rose.

I would have liked to hear more about the business part.
It was interesting to hear you talk.

Given the environment, I would say you did a great job.

I have been reading your blog for a long time. I remember when I found it back in 2005. I spent hours, maybe days catching up on old posts so that I was up to speed on your life. I remember when Leta was a infant and you weren't sure who she looked like more; you or John. Heck, thinking now, one of the first posts I remember was your blogging of your wedding pictures and how you eloped. I remember thinking; this chick is SUPER COOL and perty too.

This concept "mommy blogging" (for the record, I HATE that term) is like a wonderful unedited reality show played out in words and it is so enjoyable. I, like many others, have shared your site with others hoping to enrich their lives as mine has been enriched. Honestly, not everyone I have shared your site with "gets you" and sometimes that makes me mad, but then I am left thinking; they are just not as cool as I am. So screw them.

I love your sarcasm and how you say things that you know will totally freak people out. I love when you talk about drinking...I know you are half kidding and half totally serious. It's just such a riot.

There is a part of me that is jealous that you make a living doing something that is so freakin cool. I am sure you hear that all the time. But in the end I can't stop coming back for more. I guess my love of profanity overrides my jealousy. Lucky you.

I look forward to reading your words and following your life and the life of your family for many years.

Thank you for welcoming us into your lives.

Congrats! You did a wonderful job. I think Kathy Lee was just way out of her element which probably happens a lot. She's a woman of a certain age with the whole "afraid of computers thing" and clearly should not have been doing your interview. I'm sorry you got bumped to her hour. I really don't know why they added her to the show. It would have rocked if Anne interviewed you. I love her. I'm a huge fan of your blog. Thanks for sharing this. You're in inspiration for newbies like me!

Ummm, what else could anyone expect from KATHY LEE? Sounds like a bit of projection on her part. If I remember correctly, her children were talked about ad nauseum on the Regis show, but what she doesn't understand (because she didn't or couldn't do her homework and actually visit your site) is that you bear very little similarity to her... you're funny-smart, whereas Kathy Lee is funny-dumb... and your presentation of your relationship with Leta doesn't make us want to stick our fingers down our throats, instead, we feel a kinship with you... even me, and I don't have kids! I'm no psychologist, but I think she was projecting her bad feelings about herself and maybe even some jealousy onto you. It's something we all do from time to time, so don't for one moment take it personally. As long as you stay true to your inner voice and set the intention to serve your audience authentically, you'll be planting seeds of hope and laughter, and there's nothing more valuable than that in this crazy, quirky world. If I were your friend in the "real world", I'd be incredibly proud of you.

On second thought... what was I thinking? This IS the real world, and I AM proud of you. ;)

Dooce! I mean dooce! I mean DOODE. PHEW. Okay, I'm clearly a loooooong-time reader, but I've never felt compelled to comment until now. You certainly must have done something to make Kathy Lee think you were one "computer" away from selling Leta to sex traffickers or setting up your own kiddie-porn site. "Something about this makes me nervous..." God, that woman's an idiot. I'm impressed that in the face of all of that idiocy, you managed to remain articulate and kept the wheels on. Good for you.

Who cares about the trivial morning dumb, dumb TV segment. The Mightline piece was so much better. The Today Show is probably not reaching the smartest demographic out there. Your expectations might have been too high. Your post here is 10x + better than the NBC interview. Kathy Lee might get raked for this like Sarah Lacy did. What you need is a long Anderson 360 style interview to really dive into the issues.

Thank you so much for the behind the scenes tour of NBC. Bloggers can give you that really good fly on the wall experience.

I can totally relate to the Polly Pockets issue. You need to push out a baby boy for Jon. That way, as your crossing rooms at 3AM to go strip wet pee pee sheets off your son's bed, you get the pleasure of feeling a Bionicle blade penetrate the arch of your foot.

I wanted to throw a donkey at Kathy Lee's stupid head for acting like a child. When she said, " I don't live in NYC, so there!" I though, oh, so you're 11?

Kathie Lee definitely raised hackles with your interview. And I've read some blog posts on the subject that bordered on absolute fury. I like how you handled this post though: thoughtfully, conscientiously, humorously.

Blogging seems to be pretty misunderstood. I have to admit that years ago I thought blogging was the weirdest, most voyeuristic enterprise. I couldn't understand why anyone would partake.

But now I know. The community. The support. The perspective it lends. It blows me away.

I saw the interview on your husband's blog, I couldn't see it that day because my daughter was having her graduation from pre-K, and yeah I think they made a HUGE mistake by having Kathy Lee and the other lady interview you, because it was obvious that they had no idea what blogging was. Such a shame, because it could have been a great segment, and it could have taught other people about blogging.

BTW I love your blog. I'm a new fan, but a fan either way.

I wish you'd go all Kevin Smith & start doing An Evening with Dooce college auditorium tour. Then all of us who'd love to have you pull up a chair & just start that wonderful free flowing expression of your thoughts could enjoy it live & in person & with audience interaction.

I'm not a mommy & I still read you daily because it was comfortable to finally find a voice I related to. You don't paint the world with rose colored glasses. When something's gross or bizarre or funny or wrong you say it OUT LOUD. Thank you.

Kathie Lee Gifford doing a segment on blogging is like Al Roker covering one on feminine hygiene products.

It's just not gonna work.

i applaud you for taking the higher road because i too was totally disappointed with the interview. it was so short and so late that it was clear they were trying to rush and not listening. and i thought you had really important things to say.

and i'll bet the today show and nbc's pr is fast learning about the power of blogs with all the feedback regarding the interview.

i think first - you're an amazing writer and second a great mom.

HOLY COW! That was the same make-up person who did my make-up when I did the Today Show last fall! Except I covered an equally icky topic called "Mommy Blues". Why are all women's issues boiled down to being a "Mommy". I don't even let my kid CALL me Mommy, for crying out loud.

Nice to hear the background on the Kathie Lee thing, because I thought she was a mindless hypocrite talking about how she thought the internet might be an invasion of a child's privacy, when all she did for years was blather about her kid on TV and parade them about like they were dancing rhesus monkeys who could sing despite being hopped up on Ritalin. Don't get me wrong -- I still think she's a mindless hypocrite, but now I also think she's a sell-out who was just trying to make the piece interesting, and I can kind of respect her for that in some odd way.

Go, Jon.

I'm one of those "older men" you referred to in the interview. I've enjoyed reading your blog for over three years. I can't help but think that there is no way that even an in-depth interview by someone who was clued in about you and your blog could begin to capture all that you're about. Mommy, wife, daughter, sister, friend, dog lover/torturer, photographer, ex-Mormon, one of the funniest writers I've ever read and so much more. You were funny, warm and professional in your interview. Vicky Lee Gifford was overbearing, cold and a weasel. Thanks so much for sharing the inside story!

P.S. If you have never read "Lamb: The Gospel According to Biff, Christ's Childhood Pal" by Christopher Moore, I think you would easily recognize someone with a similar sense of humor!

I have no idea who was who - another ignorant Aussie here - but who were they? I know who Heather Armstrong is because I read her blog and she has an international audience.

And as to the one on the left's last little interchange - hello, she is on TELEVISION and she wonders how you live with the fear?

lol - some stalkers are computer phobes too. They probably really dig her.

Hmm, just watched it and I have to say...not so impressed with the Kathy Lee. It kinda bugs me that she just threw in her own little opinion at the end and you weren't even able to respond. Lame.

Oh well.

I've got one word for Kathy Lee: HYPOCRIT

Heather: my husband and I both greatly enjoy reading your "mommy blog." Please keep the posts, uh, er, posting! You are, more often than not, mostly funny, and certainly, at times, inspirational.

I once saw a picture in a newspaper of a very pregnant woman in her front yard bringing a well smoked cigarette to her lips as she was looking down the street towards new construction. The caption for the picture said "[Jane Smith] expresses her fears over what potential harm to her unborn child could result from the loud jack hammering coming from the constuction site near her home."

That was Kathy Lee. Even as she expressed some inscrutable internal fear over Heather's parading of her daughter's innocent face on the web for all to see, Kathy (or the Today Show) showed, not once, but twice showed those same photos on TELEVISION for yet millions more to see. The worst of the hypocrisy is that Kathy herself has exhibited (pimped?) her own daughter's young pedophile-candy face ON TELEVISION!! For YEARS!!! How could the weight of the irony slamming into the folks who make the Today Show not break someone's nose?

BTW, we saw the segment on Nightline, and thought it was really well done. Much more informative and interesting.

It was just so horribly painful to watch Kathie Lee make a fool of herself. She really just came off as very unprofessional and tactless (notice, I refrained from the adjective "tacky" because I don't usually care to *STATE THE OBVIOUS.) You, however, were graceful.

*May I just say, that after using ALL CAPS, I totally get it. Super fun and effective.

"I think that Old Media is TERRIFIED of New Media. The fact is, your content is so much more relevant to so many more people, and so much more real and impactful."

I am an "old media" person (I'm a newspaper editor -- starting my brand-new, first job out of school job next week!) and even those of us in the newspaper industry who love the Internet admit it has ruined our lives. But we know what it is, how to use it, and how to make it relevant to us.

This isn't an old media vs. those new-fangled blogs issue.

This is an issue caused by the fact that Kathie Lee Gifford is an idiotic, talentless, vapid narcissist.

You rock.
You are an inspiration to all of us who are busting our butts to be good moms.
You make me laugh.
Often.
And that is sometimes what I need to just keep going.
(Oh and I put pictures of my kid on the web too.)

Thank you.
KLG is a freak-job.

I was sooooo sad when I saw your interview. I was completely into the topic but felt you got the shaft on the interview. I wish that someone would do bloggers justice.

lol I also for some reason imagined you with a New York accent. I have no idea why but for some reason that is what will be forever stuck in my brain. Anyway I love this blog and I hope that some of those crazy cool important people will give you the interview you deserve.

so i am only commenting again to say that I just read comment 438 and laughed cause we both talked about different accents... the end

Hey Heather -

You really were grace personified in this interview...unlike KLG and Hoda who are supposed to be the 'professionals'.

I think you should have your own tv show and show them how it's done...or how it's supposed to be done.

And when that happens, I would love to be in the audience for your first show. Front row would be nice.

And I am sure your Green Room would totally put NBC's Green Room to shame.

Kath

I thought you were marvelous.

And this post sums everything that has been circulating up very well. Niiiiiiice.

a. you looked fabulous
b. I just wish they would have let YOU talk more

much love and congratulations on yet another milestone in your career.

Quite honestly I had/have no idea of what a Mommy Blog might be. I dropped into your world a couple of weeks ago on the reccomendation of a friend. She said that you are witty and have a refreshing point of view. I enjoy your writing, your wit and your photography. You share life observations with and give voice to a number of us everyday schmoes, Mommies or not, that are looking for a literate life perspective.

Ha ha! Poor little bunnies indeed! It was terrible! But you were so well spoken. I don't think I'll ever get to meet you in person but if I ever get stuck in an elevator with you, I will probably just mumble something about how I really admired your tact in this post and in the interview. Long live Dooce. You are my hero.

this is my first week viewing your blog. but i think i'm already addicted .. only by how honest and truthful you are.. i love it.
kathie lee should not have interviewed you. it's 2008.. who doesn't use a computer?! craziness!

In a very small way, I've been there. And it's disappointing, because you had something really great to share, and they just didn't get it. And probably still don't, but WE do.

You handled it all really well, and you looked fabulous!

I still think if Hillary can't be the first one, you should try. Natural leaders are hard to come by, especially one that can look good, and handle the pressure and the spotlight as well as you have!

You did wonderfully in that interview. I wish you had had more time, but you did great within your alloted time. And Kathy was just Kathy, you know? Who really takes her seriously anyway? I didn't think it was too bad.

I just watched the Nightline segment - it was great, congratulations. What was that you were singing about "Utah"?

I've been a reader for a couple of years now and you, your family and your blog are incredibly charming and witty. I was very excited to see you on both GMA and Nightline. Seeing your mannerisms on T.V. was awesome (my personal favorite was the kitchen dancing)! It's refreshing to see someone that's the same on television as you imagine they are from their blog. I admire and appreciate your honesty more than anything!

I'm really happy for your success!

Just felt like I had to write. I've been reading - and absolutely loving - your blog for several years now. You inspire me! Watched the segment on Nightline and thought it was really great.

After hearing KL's comment about her computer knowledge, I wonder what her involvement is with her own blog.

I didn't think that was such a bad piece. She really didn't say anything hurtful.

Don't 'they' say "there's no such thing as bad publicity"? I think that's the case here.

Congrats. With all the mainstream media attention you're receiving lately there's no doubt the ad rates will be going up soon.

Can't complain about that!

Rock on, Heather. You and John are in my Mac "mail" RSS reader and I read daily, usually clicking through to the site to see if there's an ad that interests me enough to click.

Psycho above, It's THEN step, not THAN step. Eedjit.

Is a doocling likely to say *quack*?
That's the image I got.

Kathy Lee's reaction totally reminds me of one time when I wrote about my mom's former work place and she basically felt like I had taken secret naked super close up pictures of her and put them in all forms of national media for everyone to see. At that point I had about 20 regular readers...

I'm not familiar with KLG as I have never lived in the USA, but I have to say the woman is an ignoramus. Who let her on TV? She is single handedly putting the womens movement back 100 years by acting like a clueless buffoon.

I thought you managed to make some strong points, despite the ignorance and stupidity of your interviewers. Maybe you should pitch a segment to them so next time you can get your point across.

You did look HOT though. Not just a mummy blogger but at HOT one. Does this mean that the men will be coming up with a new category? Mummy bloggers they'd like to %*&£?

You go girl!

Congrats Heather! You're writing deserves it. Since you're so popular can you please plug something important for a fellow Salt Laker? Tell people to watch or listen to the news program DEMOCRACY NOW. thanks

she acted as if she was doing you a favour having you on the show, when in fact you were doing a favour to her, bringing freshness, humour and contemporary thought into a show that looks out of touch with reality and outdated.

Kathy Lee needs to get her engine checked. Here is a women that spent YEARS telling each and every little thing her kids did and said on the old national tv, but you writing monthly love letters to your little bit sends her creepy-o-meter humming? Amazing...

I wish people wiuld just called it Mother Blogger...it sounds so much dirtier.

Heather- Off topic- But I love your hair!!!! (and of course your writing!, which I guess is on-topic)

I don't even know the Kathie Lee Gifford lady (I'm Dutch), but she does seem like someone who didn't bother to stand in line when mother nature/god/the cosmic goat handed out the clue stick beatings. Can you blame her for that? IT HURT.

But oh well, who gives a shit. Just do your thing as you've been doing for a while now, and I'll continue to read. Hypocrisy stems from ignorance anyway.

Firstly, wow, you really looked amazing, I don't think I've ever seen you beaming quite as much. Which was all the more impressive considering the interview itself. You seem really comfortable in front of the cameras, despite what may have been going on in your head at the time.

Secondly, the interview kind of just drove it home how big a divide there is between regular PC/Internet users and the rest of the world. You guys totally seem like people I could hang out with and relate to, even though I'm not in America, don't have a family of my own or even a Mac user. There is just a clear subconscious connection between people who do this every day.

When she said she's scared of computers, I had to just doublecheck on my calendar that, yes, we are in fact in 2008. Computers are not new. The Internet is not new. As you said yourself, you've been blogging since 2001.

Her approach to the whole concept of using the Internet to publish events of your life came very close to someone describing a car as "them newfangled carriages without the horses" and I do sympathise with her for being put in that situation.

I think you handled it brilliantly and it was truly inspiring to watch.

You rock!

I am not going to go on a KLG bash like I want to, but I will say that she looked and sounded so outrageously ignorant...I wanted to fall off my chair FOR her. How embarrassing is that? It's like interviewing a medical doctor and then dismissing his or her comments because you are afraid of needles.

Are we serious? That was really unprofessional and very embarrassing. You, on the other hand, handled yourself like a pro.

It's really ridiculous how she completely cut you off and didn't let you respond. I mean, could she possibly be more overbearing!?

Wow, I am like commentor 494 or something and I guess everyone else is probably feeling like I did...BUMMER. I mean, there has been plenty of times over the years that Kathy Lee did things that made me go, "Huh?" but you know, you just move on. For her to suddenly make the interview about her was well, disappointing but somehow very much in keeping with who I perceive her to be, so when I read (first) that she was doing the interview and then watched (second), well, it turned out like I thought it would. The other segment was much more thoughtful and respectful than the part that involved you.

BUMMER.

Your hair looked good though, what a great cut! Wouldn't it be cool to have someone do your hair and makeup every day? Maybe that is just me...Have a great day. The weather is finally cooperating!!

Heather,

I want to applaud you for not immediately writing your feelings on the situation here. I am happy that you finally did respond to the railroading incident that occurred on the Today show. But believe it was important for you to take the time to compose the post that you have just posted.

One of the things that I struggle with as a beginner blogger is when and what to say and whether or not it should even be said out-loud. I agree that you were the victim of another interviewer being driven to ask a series of pre-ordained questions, instead of actually having a truthful conversation about what you do as a blogger. Unfortunately, that is corporate television for the masses in America.

Keep up the great work. It sounds silly but what you do is true and real life and probably more truthful than any reality tv show out there. That is why you have so many readers who want to get another voyeuristic peak into your life.

Listen, Dont even worry about what people think...especially them big TV people ;)

Seriously...i just found this page yesterday...read 17 or 18 pages...I am hooked..

I found your writing style and (as I write myself) and see nothing wrong with you taking lifes obsticals, writing them, and adding a little comical twist to it.

the truth is funny, you say things that people only think...

how many times have I told my girlfriends I have to hang up so I can strap my 5 year old to the roof....or so that I can put a blanket on the face of my 6 month old due to crying? IM NOT REALLY DOING IT...OBVIOUSLY...but as a mother.....I relate to things you write....in a comical way...

keep doing your thing..

even if this website ends up becoming a bust (it wont) you will still keep a ton of readers, and fans....

screw that chick who disagrees with your daughters pictures...Its nice to be able to put a face (a beautiful little girls face) to the writing so we know who were hearing about...

I just had to laugh when Kathy Lee said she was afraid of computers. It looked like a Saturday Night Live episode making fun of a talk show.

You did a great job and you looked beautiful! OK, so when Chelsea comes over to play Scrabble, can I come too? I kick ass at Scrabble. I'll bring the bourbon.

Hi Heather,

I've commented before, but I just wanted to add a couple of things to the discussion

Hoda: "Is it all moms who are on your blogosphere?"
Me: *facepalm*

I'm in my twenties. I'm dating, but marriage is years away. Most of my friends are at the same point in our lives, and yet a lot of my friends read your writing and totally adore it. I don't have older sisters or cousins or whoever else is supposed to tell me about this whole parenting thing, and I can't even begin to describe how valuable your voice is in my understanding of ways I can build my future. (For example... could I really try and balance a baby and a career? Before I blithely decide to have it all, I'm keeping in mind that kids are... everything you say they are.)

So, er, thanks.

Secondly, a silly thing. At about 5:10 Kathy Lee asked about Jon, and you responded "He runs the business and he has..." and then you start saying the word "relationships" and I almost yelped loud enough to wake my roommates because I was sure you were going to say "he runs the business and he has relations with me" and I was all, Go Dooce! Totally go there!

Seriously, though - for all the frenetic energy that makes this page so awesome to read, you are (seem?) so calm on camera! My socks are duly knocked off. Congratulations, if not on a perfect stint on the Today show then at least a damn good first foray.

My gosh, you looked gorgeous. To me, it looked like Kathy Lee just kind of freaked out at the end. Maybe she is remembering the backlash she received when she used to bring up her kids on tv all the time. You seemed very poised and not at all freaked out by the fact that she turned on you. You did all mommy-bloggers (and bloggers in general) well. Best wishes!

I have never liked Kathy Lee. Ever. I groaned when you said she was going to be interviewing you. I tuned in anyway because I wanted to see what you had to say and to see the interview itself. When she mentioned that it made her uncomfortable I started laughing...I was so delighted by the fact you "made her uncomfortable." I would pay a million dollars to make her uncomfortable. I proceeded to rewind the DVR just to see her a few extra times so I could laugh at her. She seemed so intimidated by you...it was AWESOME. I was a fan of yours before, but NOW I'm a superfan!

You should find Jill Sobule's song "Kathie Lee's in Love With Me." It can totally be your song.

I was so pissed at Kathie Lee -- she was just a total dunce and I don't know who the hell prepped her but her questions were totally asinine.

You did great with a bad situation and -- really -- no one will remember the bad. Just that there was a GREAT looking chick with a blog called dooce.com .

PS: My brother wrote a book called "The I Hate Kathie Lee Gifford Book," how funny!

The segment was good! At least you looked hot on national tv, your hair was awesome, so who cares! :)

Wow, is KLG for real? I'm afraid I never get to watch daytime TV, but I'm amazed that they let someone with so much air in their head do interviews. No wonder people in other countries think we're all a bunch of simpletons over here.

And I'd be pissed if I was interviewed about some serious aspect of my life on national TV by KLG. Although she might do alright for talking about more trivial accomplishments, like fart-lighting.

Anyway, Heather- keep up the good work and happy blogging!

Yeah, the whole name calling thing and all was really sad. If I came to a blog and they were ugly, name calling and bashing KLG, I hit the little red X.

To me it looked like she was very uncomfortable and hyper nervous....and as you said, unfamiliar with the topic.

You on the other hand, looked confident and calm.

Well done, Grasshoppa.

You are just fantabulous!

It's true, what people have said here. You handled the interview so well considering it was a bit of a farce. And you've also been so graceful here with this post about it. Diplomatic, but still honest, which is hard to pull off. That you to stand your ground in defending this blog is amazing. Never let yourself be shaken from that. Heather, you're the best of the best.

I knew this interview was going to rub me the wrong way right when Hoda Kotb started talking. The air quotes around "mommy bloggers", the expression on her face and the almost defiant, certainly not impressed mood and tone that came through her body language said it all. Kathy Lee Gifford's approach just sealed the deal. You'd have a very very different interview from a younger journalist, like myself. These ladies see the internet as the big dark, scary frontier where child predators lurk around every corner. I sure didn't appreciate the smug tone and the fact that you can tell they very likely didn't even bother to visit your blog but rather had an assistant do so and read some notes...

Oh, and after watching it again, it looks like someone maybe whispered into her little ear mike "Wrap it up, times up and we are on a schedule.....next segment."

The video was longer than necessary and cut into the segment time with you.

You looked great Heather! I am a little disappointed with NBC for kind of dumping on the subject during your interview. I think too much of the public thrives on drama and ratings. Your blog is fun and full of heartfelt moments and that shoud have been the focus. You rock!

Thank you for not wearing a very short skirt.

Well said. And you did really well considering all of this going on along with general excitement for this type of "interview." Your objections are right on spot, and yet you respectfully looked at their position and that Dooce will make 'them' want to 'look at our hearts' all the more. Mommy-blogging it is. And that's ok. Understatement is a good thing. Thanks and best to you. You did great! Warmly, CarolinaMama http://carolinamama1.blogspot.com

I saw the segment before you and then your interview. I'm part of
DC Metro moms (Jill Asher).

I watched your interview and cringed a little- YOU did great, it was clear that KLG didn't really get it and was just going from her experience with her kids.

I thought to myself - KLG doesn't even realize she has the rock star of blogging next to her and she could ask her so many fun and informed questions-
and the segment didn't do that... BUMMER!

But you are right- if nothing else - this will hopefully open up more people to ask 'what is this blogging thing?'

I posted that video up on my blog that afternoon and got nearly 100 comments suggesting Kathie Lee should be stabbed in the eye, on camera.

You were awesome, Heather.

I was incredulous about Kathie Lee's bumbling and misinformed interview, but you handled it all with charm and grace. (Director: Quick! Cut to the lawn furniture segment.) Kudos Heather! Blog on!

The Nightline segment was really well done, so so much better than the Today show piece that the Today show people should cringe! (the Nightline segment... you guys look awesome in it! all of you!)

Hi Heather -

I think you did a fabulous job. I don't agree one bit with children's resentment over being put online. I honestly think as pre-teens and teens they may feel it, but in the end its something they will be greatful to have. A diary of their childhood from their mothers eyes (granted with a little exageration and humor mixed in). I know I struggled in my preteens with my mom having a single photo of me sitting in the potty at the age of 4 :-) but how nice it is to look back through that album now. I wish there had been more captured moments, and more with words as well.

Keep with your intuition....and don't worry about what anyone thinks - do what feels right. And if you ever are overtaken by a preteen and take things down....don't destroy them - she will be greatful later.

Hugs,
D.

I get that, "Let me rub your head, poor little bunny." Man stroke woman. Man cold. I totally get that.

I am not a mommy blogger*, but even so I was pretty offended by the interview.

Admittedly, I do not care for Kathy Lee much at all, so my initial reaction was the hurl profanities and the like at her via the television screen. When she was on Live with Regis and Kathy Lee, the entire nation knew what color Cody's shit was that particular morning. However, I am willing to give her the benefit of the doubt this one time. I just wish that the majority of mainstream media didn't treat the internet like this century's answer to the opium den.

Anyway, I was hoping for more out of the segment, but you were great. The fact that the segment didn't end with you giving the Rebel yell and taking that Yankee down a few notches proves what a serious writer and compassionate person you are.

*not being a mommy and just recently taking up blogging again.

You: smart, composed, articulate, good natured

Ms. Gifford: naive, nervous, annoying

You did a great job, Heather. I've always thought Ms. Gifford was overrated and lacking in the brains department. This interview certainly did nothing to change my already low view of her.

You looked great, by the way.

Ooh! I didn't realize my chance to comment would happen so quickly! I recently found your blog (& your husband's after that), and I'm INCREDIBLY moved by what you and so many other women are doing. The media machine knows what it's doing in this country (and countless others), and probably tried to push a last minute agenda on the interviewers. I think you handled it well and as gracefully as possible.

HUH is exactly right. The segment seemed to be going somewhere and then Kathy jumped in and it seemed to trail off into the woods and get lost. I don't know ... maybe she was distracted by her dress.

At any rate, I think you are still one of my greatest finds on the Internet and that if we met in person, we'd become fast friends and trade hippo stuff and dog stories.

I can't do much but agree with you.....I think the segment with you was not what it could have and should have been....I think Kathi Lee Gifford came off as a bit stupid, but again, I agree with you that perhaps it was that she was just not the right anchor to spearhead the interview. I was hoping to hear far moer about the business aspect of your blog and how it is now something that can pay your bills, but instead, your segment was a just a brief piece about how perhaps you shouldn't mention your kids on your blog. Bummer. I was so looking forward to your interview, but you can only answer the questions you are given....

I'm glad you commented on the fact that they didn't really address the "putting yourself and your family out there" issue. Nightline didn't do a much better job either, I don't think. In both interviews, they asked the question but didn't give you the chance to respond. And I watched the Nightline interview with my husband who is frequently berating me for the little bit of blogging that I do. I would have liked for him to hear your response and to maybe understand that this is all about forming a community, and having someone to respond to your occasional cries of despair.

Thannk you for doing what you do.

This is an excellent post!

You covered everything - with such comedy, style, intelligence. Don't stop. You're better than Prozac.

I'd love to see further discussions between "traditional" media (tv/radio) and bloggers, because it seems clear that the majority of traditional media is freaked to death about blogging. There is some shift, primarily in the tech arena (as one would expect), but wow, get onto the feminine side of things, like (gasp) women communicating about their lives, and the uproar explodes.

My very brief anecdote: I attended a women-in-media panel at a businesswomen's conference last year with two local anchorwomen/journalists, two smaller-press print journalist/editors, and Jory DeJardines of BlogHer.com. Great panel, a great group of women, but the *division* of opinion on the "integrity" of bloggers was memorable. The tension was brief -- Jory was great, very smooth, and the leading dissenter pulled back, realizing that this wasn't the venue for that debate -- but I saw it as an example of the chasm that blogging must cross before it's taken seriously.

Sadly, add women and babies to the mix, and we get people who worry that Betty Crocker cake batter is going to ooze out of their DVD drive. (/bitter)

Heather: I enjoy your blog daily, all of it, the frankness and silliness and frustration of being a human-type person dealing with husbands and kids and dogs and anonymous freaks/strangers like me. Good on yeh.

Great interview! Didn't Kathie Lee just recently come back to work on tv? She probably thought this was the best tv strategy for her return. Also, speculating here, maybe she didn't want to bring up the "Regis and Kathie Lee" show since they are doing so well without her.

What the hell was that? It didn't make a lick of sense to me at all. You handled yourself amazingly, though.

1. Kathie Lee has a "blog" which another blogger I read found and linked to. Obviously, this "blog" is fake or she is faking the "Oh my. These computaters. I just don't UNDERSTAND them" attitude.

2. Kathie Lee's brain is obviously made of pudding. For someone that is doing interviews on the TODAY show for chrissake(not "Today On Public Access") she sure comes across as a hack interviewer. You deserved Matt Lauer.

Dude. Yes, I just dude'd you. I'm sorry that the GMA interview was so freaking lame. Seriously, in comparison to the Nightline piece (so awesome), GMA looks like the local morning show ametuers.

You would have thought that at least the interns would have put some time into researching you, or "mommy blogging" in general, and thusly would have briefed Kathie Lee and Hoda, and maybe prepped them for a more insightful interview - even if they didn't get around to talking about the business of blogging. Like, seriously, you could have phoned that interview in. Meh - at least you got a free trip to NY, right?

Hey, GMA! Next time you plan on interviewing someone that gets over a million hits a week on her personal site - MAYBE you could do a little leg work. Hit the "Google Key" on your "Internet Machine" and read up on it. And let someone who actually knows what a blog is, do the interview.

I loved the segment Heather, but I did find it odd when she said she wasn't one of those people that used computers. Who doesn't use computers these days? It sort of makes you appear like an idiot when you are scared of computers or you are so technically incompetent that you don't know how to use email.

Also, I used to be a Dallas Mavericks ManiAAC and we were featured on Jay Leno and Fox 4 and I was surprised at the set on Fox 4 looked so frumpy. The green room was nice but there wasn't any food for us. Same thing with channel 8 and channel 5.

here is a pic of the sloppiness on the floor...

http://www.flickr.com/photos/eddeaux/151209901/in/set-72057594088351236/

Hi Heather...I felt that Kathy Lee was unsure how to approach this subject, and almost seemed that she was just given the assignment at the last moment. She really fumbled the interview. Your interview team patronized the blogging profession. That's too bad. You did very well.

I had that "HUH?" feeling after seeing the interview. It seemed to be going well until the last thirty seconds when she suddenly didn't like the idea. It was just a strange interview.

The Nightline interview, on the other hand, was pretty awesome.

Hi Heather,

Saw the Today show segment and I have to give you lots of kudos for keeping your composure and dignity during a terrible segment. KLG was so unprepared in the beginning, I was actually embarassed for her. They did not do the "mommy blog" any justice and didn't ask relative questions. You did excellent though, considering the situation and don't worry - your true fans know just how fabulous you are and the great work and advice you offer.

Keep up the great job. At least you had a great trip otherwise.

Wow, what a strange experience. Have you ever added up all the pages of Dooce to see how many? Wait, don't do that. I just thought how silly and disrespectful someone like KLG can be by not meaning to in viewing someone's life work. ("Well Mr. Um BeatHoven is it? I'm a little worried about all that noise...")

PS the dress was fab

You handled it so well. I mean if Kathy Lee had winked at me and wanted to get in my pants YIKES I wouldn't have remained so calm.

I figured your comments are gonna go through the roof with this one, but what the hell, I'll write one anyway. I continue to be impressed/inspired by you. This entry was practically perfect as to your thoughts on the piece and shows what a level-headed person you can be, ;) Thanks for sharing it!

You've made some profound points and maybe Katie Lee does deserve a litte more sympathy, but all I really want to say is that your hair looked sooooo cute! I love the grey dress, too!

I think Kathy Lee MAY be blind, poeple don't just choose those colors in a dress! I almost threw up all over my cute new laptop

I love reading your blog because you make me feel like I am not alone. I love being a mom but it is the hardest job I have ever had. Blogging keeps me sane and reading other womans blogs makes me realize that my life is more "normal" then I thought. KLG is a fake and I think it is time for her to hang up her hat. Keep doing what you do Dooce...we love you!

perhaps ms gifford needs a brazilian wax on her balls, too.

Wow! I can imagine your puzzlement with this whole experience! I am now even a bigger fan! I appreciate your honesty! Enjoy this continued journey!

Meggan

Heather, you came across great. You should be very pleased with how you handled the interview.

I have to admit I don't fully know what blogging is and I had never even heard of you until I woke up on the couch the other night,after falling asleep during the Bachelor's proposal to the bimbo, to your segment on Nightline. I came to check out your site and have been having fun reading. I can totally relate to people criticizing you for irrelevant reasons. I have been making my own checks for years and I put an absolutely adorable picture of my 2 girls on it. I got an anonymous letter from someone who decided it was their business to tell me I was endangering my children by doing so. The person said they saw my checks month after month and the only monthly bill I paid by check was the water bill (the idiots still don't have automatic withdrawal) and when I called to confront them they denied writing it. People with small minds should not be given pens (or in your case, keyboards)

worst.segue.ever!

i. can't. believe. her.

but you are grace personified!

Not too much I can write being comment #301 that hasn't been said already. But if anything, we as your fans are grateful for the today show segment because that brought you to our city, where some of us were lucky enough to meet you & Jon. So even though KLG is a bumbling idiot, it might have been worth it (bad interview and all). Congratulations on all the recent media attention!

PS: I've watched the Nightline segment three times and I think that puts you in the right light.