While You Were Out Interview with Teresa Strasser Q. How has your life changed since you started hosting While You Were Out? A. I have a lot more frequent flyer miles, I know what wood conditioner is, I can use several power tools without removing any digits, and I have a healthy respect for anyone who uses the word faux as a verb. Q. What's it like being single and always on the road? A. It's kind of what I imagine itís like being a rock star, only without all the money, fame and chicks. Dating is difficult. Unless I fall madly in love with the guy who brings room service, I don't come into contact with many guys other than Andrew and the crew. When I do have a date, it's hard to keep the momentum going. As in, That was great. I have to go to Irving, Texas, tomorrow. I'll call you in two weeks when I get home. Please don't date anyone else until I get back. Q. How do you spend your free time when you're home, compared to when traveling throughout different cities? A. I watch the Lakers, try to make it all up to my cat Finster, visit friends, watch movies and do lots of laundry. On the road, I try to see what any given city has to offer. For example, the JFK Museum in Dallas was amazing, as was the beach in Miami. Downtown Portland is great for just walking around and people watching. Q. How much project work do you have to do during any given makeover? A. I do quite a bit of the work, mostly things I can't botch up too horribly: lots of staining, painting, craft projects and hauling furniture. Q. Which While You Were Out designer would you want to redesign a space for you, and why? A. That's like asking a parent to choose their favorite child. They all have their strengths. Chayse Dacoda has excellent taste, Stephen Saint-Onge does incredibly livable rooms, John Bruce is a creative genius, Peter BonSey has a true love of gardens and tons of energy, and Mayita Dinos creates culturally vibrant masterpieces. They're all amazing! Back to the "While You Were Out" homepage. Home Syndicated Column E-Mail of the Week News Archive Good Day New York Lovers Lounge Fashion Police Photo Gallery Video Gallery Mailing List Books and Music Resume