WASILLA, Alaska, November 23, 2009 (WSFB-AC) - With all the media hype surrounding former Alaskan Governor and former 2008 Republican Vice-Presidential candidate Sarah Palin, this exclusive interview was conducted just prior to the release of her new book Going Rogue. Following is an excerpt of the candid and insightful discussion I had with Ms. Palin when she chatted with me at her winter lodge last month.

WSFB – Austin Chapter: So you’re getting ready for the holiday season. With so much going on between your political aspirations and the new book, what do you do to relax?”

Sarah Palin: Well, ya’ know, Tony, sometimes I just like to “chill” (using air quotes) and take care of the little details that I miss when I’m so busy.  One thing I am really excited about is doing some work on my Beaver Lodge.  It’s been a while since I have had anyone visit and I want it to be ready for guests…so I thought I would get to work on that little sucker.  In the past, Beaver has been accessed by numerous heads of state including Senator McCain and former President Bush.  Even Joe the Plumber got his groove on there.  By the way, did you know John used to refer to me as “Sugar Tits” while on the campaign trail?   Yup yup!  That joker!

WSFB-AC: So what do you have in mind for the lodge?

SP: Right now I have some 10-year old shag at the entry, or the “foyer” as the French say (chuckling). But it’s so worn it’s downright crusty. And gosh darnit, I want an entry that is cozy and inviting. I mean, that ain’t no walk-in closet, Tony! At first I was thinking about just steam cleaning the shag, then I thought why not get a little “rogue” (again with the air quotes) and go with nice smooth tile, maybe travertine? I needed something that could take some abuse even though it can be cold and very slippery. I also considered just a simple carpet runner right up the middle but that seemed too much like a landing strip. But in the end, I went with the tile and a nice accent piece, something that catches your attention and looks stylish but can still be hand washed.

WSFB-AC: Where to you get your inspiration?

SP: Well gosh, my daughter, Bristol, I suppose.  She has a lot of experience in this area and she suggested I “get with it”.  But she is all about the tile – no carpet for her!  Ultimately, I think it is God’s will that made me do it.

WSFB-AC: With the success of the Beaver Lodge entry, do you have any other projects planned for the future?

SP: Well, heck yes I do!  Just down the breezeway from my foyer is my mudroom.  I would love to get something brewing in there soon in case Katie Couric ever visits.  She likes to “get dirty”, if ya’ know what I mean? (winking)  You betcha!