Had a good time d-k tonight with Art , it was another scorcher weather-wise, but we met some terrific neighbors and had many good conversations.  Had I FaceBooked last night, it would have been from a slightly different perspective.

While door-knocking with Art yesterday, we visited with many voters who were outside savoring a slight break in the temp.  A couple of neighbors were enjoying an afternoon chat when we approached.

It’s been fun to reminisce a bit as we begin our second round of knocking on doors.   Driving up to a house, one of us inevitably will say, “Isn’t this where we met Dan, playing soccer with his son?” and “Remember!

I’ve been fighting a summer cold all week.  My daily routine has been this:  sleep in – late- get up when my mom arrives to help with campaign note-writing (you are the BEST, Mom!), eat lunch (Campbell’s soup, Double Noodle Os), take a nap, go door-knocking with Art, eat supper and then more sleep.

Whew!  An incredibly busy, yet fruitful and productive day was had by the Staed family!  This afternoon we had a fun session of door-knocking quite close to home, meeting neighbors and getting energized by their enthusiasm for Art to win this election!

Door knocking tonight with Art was quite a workout!  If you think Cedar Rapids is flat, just do a little walking- or biking- on the northeast side of town!  We were both a bit breathless from yet another hill, when we met Josie (names changed), sitting outside reading a book on her front porch.  She was happy to take a break from reading to share her story. 

We had 10 RAGBRAI bikers from Simpson College stay with us last night and they were oh, so grateful for a night of air conditioning!  Although I attempted to move some of the campaign paraphernalia out of sight, it’s still fairly obvious Art  is running for office.  Cowboy cards, various copies of fundraising letters, a huge district map display (with the streets we’ve walked highlighted), newspaper clippings, and “Art Staed” stationery all pepper the tabletops.

We had a physician friend caution us about door-knocking today in this heat, so Art and I heeded his advice, walking slower and taking more breaks, drinking plenty of water.  I believe any candidate – regardless of party affiliation – who cares enough about Iowa families to work this hard on the campaign trail, will work just as hard once in office.  (This experience has also given me a greater appreciation for our mail carrier and she is getting a much bigger tip this Christmas.  Not …