It’s not everyday you get to meet the governor of your home state, less a chance to shake hands and share a few words. I was a nervous reck when I introduced myself, but she was very personable from the start and really made it feel like she was just ‘one of us’- a feeling that many of us in the room shared. I was able to make a connection with her right away because she was the governor of Michigan during my college years, and I remember very clearly many of the events she shares in her book. It’s pretty hard to imagine being governor of Michigan during one of its worst decades… and I only have the highest admiration for her and her family (especially after reading the book). Many of her key points to improving the U.S. economy seems to be right on as well.  It’s easy for many economists and journalists, as observers, to make bold suggestions and predictions sine their words have no consequences.  Having been through the trench and experiencing “the toughest job” according to President Obama, I can’t help but respect what she has to say.

Luckily, I was a less nervous talking to the Gov and Dan after the event, even cracking a joke while they signed several books for the Alumni Club that we had to start with the most important book, mine. We then took several pictures with the board, then some by myself. It felt like I was standing there for an hour, and I got really nervous again just standing between them for so long.  I guess it showed in my face because one of my board members asked me to smile, so I replied, “I can’t because I’m super nervous right now.” They got a good kick out of that too. Best wishes to Gov Granholm and Dan, Go Blue!

12/11/2011: With the amazing Governor Granholm and her wonderful husband Dan Mulhern. Can you sense my uneasiness?

12/11/2011: Gov. Granholm kept on referring to me as Mr. President, and I would giggle every time.