Well; tonight's the movie I've been waiting on..LoL.. The Blind Side; starring TIM MCGRAW and oh, yeah.. Sandra Bullock, too... Can't wait to see it with one of my bestest friend-girls...Lisa... and her little man... which means more tears than even the movie will hold... Her co-worker, Jan's also going... We've having Mex before; of course....
Tomorrow, going to Jackson to see it w/another McGraw pal, Dawne and my cousin, Toni and her 2 kiddos....Mex beforehand, again!
Have a great w/e... and love your family and friends....Mama's b'day is Monday and her aunt passed away this wk...so; my tears have come more this week than most...and I'm sure will continue from now through the holidays and beyond...
Mapdot hugs!
Friday, November 20, 2009
Monday, November 16, 2009
Old Friends and a Special Wedding!
Saturday, my schoolmate posse' and I met at Logan's for lunch... We've been trying to get together every month or so this year..It's so fun to reminisce and get caught up with each other.... The food was great! I got a chicken fried steak, salad and mac/cheese...I know this isn't on my diet; but I splurged.... Janet Boren Caston, Lisa Carter Rich, Sherrie Branch Carter, Donna Cook Carson and Sharon Tyree Marshall...
[IMG]http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y71/mapdot1/rhs-posse.jpg[/IMG]
[IMG]http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y71/mapdot1/rhsposse.jpg[/IMG]
After lunch, some went to the Mistletoe Christmas, Sharon a b'day party and Donna home...I went home to cook supper and get ready for a wedding..
Jude Johnston was one of our youths at Woodlawn.... Our youth pastor, Casey Johnson, encouraged us to ''adopt'' one of the kids as families... We chose Jude... Mama, Daddy & I tried to go to some of his ballgames when he was still in high school...and did little happies for him along...but, mostly prayed for him daily as he went through high school... After Mama passed, I feel that I neglected him.... It was something we did together... I thought of him daily and continued to pray for him...He graduated ULM and is now working in West Monroe at Richland St Bank...His honey, Shelly, has gotten herself a great young man...But, I know she's just as special, or he wouldn't have chosen her...
The wedding was beautiful...held at the Children's Home Chapel..decorated in fall colors.... The wedding party and family were beautimous, too... Especially, Jude's nephew and niece, Ty & Lucy...:) - these are two of my angel-babies... Another special person to me, Grant, did the ceremony..He was great... of course, I cried throughout...
The food was yummy.. something I'd never seen... they put mashed taters in plastic champagne glasses and had fixin's to put on them... there was alot of other yummy items... the groom's cake was chocolatey yummy! Lindsey, Jude's sister, had made it...it was LSU themed, of course....
I wish Jude & Shelly the happiest life they can have..... and will continue to pray for them as they begin their new chapter of their lives....
[IMG]http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y71/mapdot1/rhs-posse.jpg[/IMG]
[IMG]http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y71/mapdot1/rhsposse.jpg[/IMG]
After lunch, some went to the Mistletoe Christmas, Sharon a b'day party and Donna home...I went home to cook supper and get ready for a wedding..
Jude Johnston was one of our youths at Woodlawn.... Our youth pastor, Casey Johnson, encouraged us to ''adopt'' one of the kids as families... We chose Jude... Mama, Daddy & I tried to go to some of his ballgames when he was still in high school...and did little happies for him along...but, mostly prayed for him daily as he went through high school... After Mama passed, I feel that I neglected him.... It was something we did together... I thought of him daily and continued to pray for him...He graduated ULM and is now working in West Monroe at Richland St Bank...His honey, Shelly, has gotten herself a great young man...But, I know she's just as special, or he wouldn't have chosen her...
The wedding was beautiful...held at the Children's Home Chapel..decorated in fall colors.... The wedding party and family were beautimous, too... Especially, Jude's nephew and niece, Ty & Lucy...:) - these are two of my angel-babies... Another special person to me, Grant, did the ceremony..He was great... of course, I cried throughout...
The food was yummy.. something I'd never seen... they put mashed taters in plastic champagne glasses and had fixin's to put on them... there was alot of other yummy items... the groom's cake was chocolatey yummy! Lindsey, Jude's sister, had made it...it was LSU themed, of course....
I wish Jude & Shelly the happiest life they can have..... and will continue to pray for them as they begin their new chapter of their lives....
Friday, November 13, 2009
Weekly Recipe and Verse....
CARM'S TACO SALAD
Brown 1 lb ground meat (we usually use turkey meat) and drain..
Add to:
1 pkg lettuce
1 can drained Ranch Beans
1 can drained Rotel tomatoes
1 pkg grated cheese - we use 2% 4/cheese Mexican
1 bag crushed chips...we either use Fritos or Baked Doritoes
Pour 1 bottle Fat Free or LowFat Catalina dressing and 1 jar picante sauce over...
If you're sure you'll have left over...don't pour dressing and picante; do that when you're ready to eat it each time....
And having food and raiment, let us be therewith content..1 Timothy 6:8
Brown 1 lb ground meat (we usually use turkey meat) and drain..
Add to:
1 pkg lettuce
1 can drained Ranch Beans
1 can drained Rotel tomatoes
1 pkg grated cheese - we use 2% 4/cheese Mexican
1 bag crushed chips...we either use Fritos or Baked Doritoes
Pour 1 bottle Fat Free or LowFat Catalina dressing and 1 jar picante sauce over...
If you're sure you'll have left over...don't pour dressing and picante; do that when you're ready to eat it each time....
And having food and raiment, let us be therewith content..1 Timothy 6:8
Thursday, November 12, 2009
Pics!
Sorry; you'll have to copy/paste the picture links...I'll try to figure out how to get them in the blogs...
An Affair of the Heart - Dreams DO come True! Posted Sept 24-2007~
After weeks of waiting and waiting and waiting, my Nashville trip to see my childhood crush...my teen idol; who really wasn't a teen when he started, my 1st Aussie love, had arrived.....Thanks to a few friends, who went behind my back, I might add; I was going to see Rick Springfield...Yes...Dr. Noah Drake... recently, also...Eli Love, in my favorite town ( besides The Mapdot, of course), Nashville, TN..... ANDDDDDDDDDDDD...I was supposed to have VIP section tickets and get to meet him.....I fretted; stressed; TRIED not to get my hopes up too high.... you know when something's so out of reach for you.... or so you thought...when that 'dream' seems to be coming true; you don't want to even think about it; JUST in case something falls through.....it's really happening.....or is supposed to anyway..... OK... Wait while I go puke.....Those were my thoughts leading up to this moment...... And for the record...I really appreciate all who were excited for me... who tried to calm me down... telling me I knew how they felt when their Tim moment might be happening, etc..... I will always love you for your love and support.....
I had even branched out on outfits… bought a pair black capris and new shirt (purple, of course) and a pair of black slides…My bro treated me to a mani/pedi with purple toes/nails the weekend before..The toes stayed great; had to re-touch the fingers….
I left work on Thursday afternoon; heading to Batesville, MS; to spend the night w/fellow Memphis Bag Lady, Melanie.... After a stop at Sonic, of course.......We met other fellow Bag Lady, Missy; for what else??? MEXICAN~ Did a little visiting, but then went our separate ways... For the 1st time, Missy wouldn't be with us for this jaunt... She's younger than Melanie and I and Mr. Jessie's Girl, just didn't do anything for her....:) - Melanie had to pack and we took the time to visit w/Mel's hubby and 2 daughters... It was nice just to relax and love on them....Our goal was to get up and outta there by 6 on Friday morning...Mission accomplished.....we were on the road by 6 and headed to Music City....
After several stops for Diet Cokes, breakfast, potty, etc.... we arrived in Franklin, TN, to visit w/a friend and her babies> It was so nice to visit w/Sandy... play with the babies...reminisce about old times; and hear about stuff going on now.....She had to leave to go pick up her 4 yr old from Pre-K; so we headed up town to pick up my ticket to the show.... We got downtown, picked up the ticket from a new friend, Terri; who graciously took care of my love project for Alesha, Dawn & Jill....Melanie had also sent me some love money for this trip.....She works at The Wildhorse and put up w/me bugging her in the weeks before...as I said... fretting; worrying, etc...over what would happen or would might would happen; etc.... She had told me earlier in the day that the meet/greet would be after Rick's show...UGH... At least, per Terri, if we were hot and sweaty; he would be too and would know we enjoyed him!~ LoL......I stopped by the line outside The Wildhorse - the show was General Admission...and even though the VIP section was guaranteed seats, you still had to be there first come/ first serve to get the prime spots~ I asked a few there if they were on Rick's board and if they were, what their names were; no one really offered any info, so we went to the motel to freshen up and change for the show.....
Another couple friend of mine, Stephanie & Phil were coming to the show, too; so I told them we'd be at The Wildhorse about 6 or so… I decided not to wear the black slides that I'd bought…they had a little heel and I was afraid I'd fall..LoL…I did wear some khaki ones; which were much more comfy and still showed my purple stuff……Got there and the line was wayyyyyyyyyyyy long….I asked someone who worked there about my ticket and he told me I needed an armband and to go to the door, that we would be let in first…I hated to leave Melanie; but there were a couple of ladies that she visited w/and ended up sitting with on the 3rd floor…. I called Terri to see where she was…She had been able to go in before everyone else; since she worked there, so she had saved me a spot RIGHT IN FRONT OF THE STAGE….. The floor was set up w/tables; probably 6 to each one…and was pretty cramped…..But, it wasn't too bad…I knew we wouldn't be sitting anyway, once Rick took the stage…. I couldn't believe it… after seeing him 5 times before and not being close, I couldn't imagine being in 'touching' distance~
A little background on my Rick journey…..I fell in love w/him, as a 14/15 yr old kid…. Back then, I listened to more pop/rock than country…. I was able to go see him in Ruston, LA; at LA Tech..my seats were right on the tip, top of the Coliseum…Then in about 82/83, he was going to be in Jackson, MS….so, my parents drove Tim, another girlfriend of mine, my cousin and I to the show…On a school night and everything…. We were on the floor; so I was able to get close; but never dared to get too close and even try to touch him; etc..Remember, I was a pretty sheltered kid back then~ (wink)….We had a great time…. Yall's man even fell asleep on me on the way home, etc….J - Then, in about 85, Rick came to Monroe…Tim, Tracey, Sandy and I went to this…. But, our seats weren't the best…. Fast forward about 12 years… I had kept up w/his career and of course, watched GH at the height of his career…but, then he took some time off; I got more into country….did think of him often…Looked at my posters and t-shirts I had accumulated and wondered if I'd ever get another chance to see him…. My cousin, Brenda, told me that he would be in Bossier City at a casino…so, I planned on going…. It was like I was a teenager again..He came out and rocked the place… He asked where all the braces were? LoL… It was a fantastic show and it was fun being a kid again…. As yall know; I didn't have a computer until around 2001, so really had no way to keep up with him and where he'd be, etc…. Fast forward to about 2005….I had heard that he was coming back on GH….J - So, I started taping and watching only his scenes….MAN~ He sure did age well…. I found out he would be back in Bossier this past spring; so Brenda and I went…Was VERY disappointed in our seats…we were probably 40 rows away from the stage; but when he came out….it was, again; ;like I was a teenager….The show was awesome and I was craving more…but knew he didn't come down south too often; so figured it might be another 10 years until I could see him again…In the meantime, his storyline was awesome this summer…LOTS of Dr. Drake and Eli Love..he played dual roles and even sang on the show…. He had never done that before…. I began going to his website; reading up on what had gone on and what was going on now…. Saw lots of pics of him with people and read stories of their 'moments' with him…He was really a genuine guy….and everything that you think he would be as a young kiddo…..
Now; back to now..............SOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO……I had lots of thoughts about how I would react when I did get to be face to face w/him…Would I throw up; would I cry hysterically…would I be able to talk; but sound like a dork? LoL…..The time before Rick took the stage did go by pretty quickly….There were 2 opening bands..One was made up w/people who worked for Gaylord; a few of the girls even worked at The Wildhorse…the 2nd act was a Billy Joel cover band….They were really good; but………….I was ready for Rick… Before he took the stage, Terri & I attempted a potty break…I saw Steph & Phil; hugged on them a few…and also saw a girl from Rick's board…who was attending her 1st ever Rick show…I knew she'd be by herself; so I asked S & P to take care of her..They graciously asked her to sit at their table…J - Made our way to and fro the b.r. and got settled in for the night…. Terri had found out that Rick wouldn't start until 9:45; and the m/g would be about 11:30….UGH~ I figured I'd waited this long; a couple more hours wouldn't hurt…. After the BJ band left, the energy started building… I knew from the show this spring that he just walks out on stage..No big fanfare, introduction, etc…. We stood up and got ready….for "HIM"………..
There he was~ Tall and lean; looking so much younger than 58… I thought my heart would beat outta my chest….hands got sweaty, tears started welling up………He began with "Who Killed Rock and Roll"…a new one that he had performed on GH, then went on to a few more….I was just in awe.. looking up at him like a little puppy dog…couldn't take my eyes off of him… LoL…. After about 3 songs, he came and stood RIGHT IN FRONT OF ME~ Actually, I had to move my hands so he wouldn't step on them….Talk about tall and lean anddddddddddddd….I just couldn't look up…if I had well….yall got the text; so you know what I woulda been gazing at….(blush)….The show was fantastic…I tell you; he puts great energy in his performance…. We made eye contact a few times…got smiles…and melted with those dimples and those eyes….After a few more songs, he came over to the monitor right in front of Terri & I… sat down; swung his lonnnnnnnnnngggggggggggg legs around…(actually, kicked me a little) and there he was again~~~~~~~~~~~ RIGHT IN FRONT OF ME~ I did reach out and touch his boot; just a smidge; just so I could say I did…. I was able to look up at him this time; since he was sitting….I know Melanie and Steph & Phil were cracking up at me… they said later, they enjoyed watching me more than the show…LOL….. There were a few songs that I didn't know ;but; mostly, he did all the hits from the 80's…. making eye contact with lots… really giving the kids some attention; which to me is so endearing….. He didn't talk too much, but I tell ya… his voice sounds just like it did or better than 'back when'….you know most of older rock guys haven't aged well at all…but I can report that Mr. Springfield definitely has….. From seeing him in Bossier, I knew he would come out in the crowd….. So, when he did that, he was walking across tables and chairs; getting help from the crowd… They all who were lucky enough to get a 'human touch' from him, were just swooning…he lets the crowd sing some of "Don't Talk to Strangers"…and got a kick out of most's non talent..He did comment that he knew he'd find someone who could sing there; when a couple were able to stay on key~ He went further back in the crowd that he had in April…. So, we couldn't really see too much of him then… Melanie could and he actually went near S, P and Teddi (the girl from his site)…. There was lots of groping, etc….I just CANNOT do that…. He usually makes the comment before heading out there that he's coming out there…don't touch his butt; unless he's falling, then help him…he didn't this night…so, I guess people figured they had the right…NOOOOOOOOOOOO-NOOOOOOOOOOOOOO~
He did comment that he was being sexually harassed; but he thought he liked it….but…I'm sure he wasn't happy w/it at all; but did make the best of it…giving people their 'human touches'….hugging…. shaking hands, etc…. He had gotten so far back that he just stayed out in the crowd to finish the show… All through the night, he'd tease us a little bit w/intro of "Jessie's Girl"…. Someone gave him a stethoscope; and he made the comment that 'you didn't watch that stupid tv show, huh?"..He tried to keep it on awhile, but it kept coming off… He did have a few equipment problems… His microphone pack came loose a time or two; he broke a guitar string, they forgot to put the set list up, etc…but, he laughed it off and you could tell he was thrilled to be back on stage at 'home' and doing a full set…He had been in Austraila for 3 wks and only performed 3 or 4 songs for those 3 wks.. It was the first time he'd performed in AussieLand since he'd left there to move out to California…..It was an out of body experience for me, really…To be there, that close and I was just soaking it all in… When he began to come back to the stage, we cleared off our table; hoping he'd come our way~ AND HE DID~~~~~~~ Stepped right beside us….I did reach out and touch his leg on the way over….J - He left the stage, signing a little girl's guitar; just loving on us, while we were loving on him w/applause, etc….
I knew he'd be back out for "Love is Alrite Tonight"… wondering if he'd be shirtless or not…he sometimes does that for the encore….He came back on clothed; but made the comment that instead of him getting naked, that we had to…NOT~~~~~~During the intro, he leaned over, right in Terri's face… gave her some smiles and eyebrow love….I know she was dying………..J - ~
It was over way too quickly… but I knew the best was yet to come….. I found S, P & Teddi and told them adios….I told Teddi I'd keep in touch and see her next time I was in the area….Her first time had been awesome, she said…. We'd see S & P on Sat….SOOOOOOOO; Terri & I made our way to the door where they'd come get us for the m/g…. I really started to get nervous…was popping peppermints like pills…. If I couldn't freshen up; at least my breath was going to be fresh~ There were LOTS of peops in line and I felt bad for him that he would have to deal w/all of us, after putting on such a high energy show…. We were taken to the 3rd floor of the WH and into a room…. About 30 of us were let in first…I, strangely, began to calm down…I know it was due to positive thoughts from my 'posse'…. He just sauntered into the room…no fanfare, again….Wearing his glasses and really to me; looking exhausted…. I guess we were about 15th in line….As I got closer to him, I just couldn't believe that this was actually happening…. When you're a kid and you have this 'thing' for someone; a star…I really didn't think about the possibility of meeting them….especially, 25 years later….. They had told us to have our cameras ready and one thing to sign…. So, Terri had 'borrowed' the set list off of the monitor for me; so I was going to get him to sign that…I also, 'borrowed' one of the sweat towels that he'd used…sweat would fall onto the floor during the show and I pointed to some and actually rubbed my finger in it~ LoL… Another thing that he does onstage is to take roses and slam them against his guitar; splashing petals all over the stage…..maybe next time, I can find some purple ones to take~ OK; I regress…..It was my turn…He looked right at me…said…"Hello, there~"..I said, "Hi.." I handed him the set list..he began to sign it…I said… "Tim McGraw's sisters said tell you hello… that they were big fans…" I asked him, "Do you know who that is?"..He smiled and said.."Of course~"…I told him…"Actually, my parents drove he and I to see you in Jackson, MS; when we were about 15 years old~"…He laughed and said, "Really?"…LOL… He then moved over closer to me… grabbed me around the shoulder; hunkered down (he's very tall) and I just melted…I was able to put my arm around him, though…. Didn't really get a scent from him…he probably had jumped in a shower before coming in there; but no scent jumped out at me..I was hoping mine wouldn't be jumping out at him, either…. After we took the pic, he said, "Let's make sure it came out ok"…I showed him that I didn't have a digital..he said.."OH, you have a film one~"…I said…"I'm a little old-fashioned>" He said…looking me right in the eye and smiling…"That's ok"… I didn't get too far from him when Terri had her turn… wanted to make the most of my opportunity…He signed her jeans….and they took their pic… When he was done, he turned around to me again and asked us both…"Did we get everything, Ladies?"..We both said, yes and thanks so much….and it was done…………I'll be honest, I was shaking inside…and began to feel the emotion start to come….I had done so well and now I figured I'd lose it…When I saw Melanie; I did…LoL…. I just couldn't believe what I'd just experienced….. When you have someone on a pedestal; even though you know they're only human and as Tim's sis told me.."Just a guy~"…it would break your heart if they weren't all you hoped they'd be….that maybe they were having a bad day…and weren't on their game….well…I was not disappointed or broken-hearted….
This childhood crush; was the most genuine, charming, sweet man…knowing that we become like kids again in his presence…not doing anything to hurt our feelings, etc.. I know he sees much more attractive women; but didn't treat me any different than I saw him treat the beautiful, skinny peops…. We said our goodbyes to Terri and floated to our motel….. I literally talked Mel to sleep…she had been such a support for me….
Saturday morning, we had plans to meet up another friend to spend the day~ It was nice to visit w/Sue..We had met her at SS last yr and we hit if off…. Melanie had wanted to find a Steve & Berry's store and Crystal told us there was one out in Antioch…So, we went out there…. And also dropped off my film… I fretted that my pic wouldn't be good….. They both found some bargains and we went back to Wally World… My pic was great~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ The quality wasn't the best…it was dark and grainy, but………………Rick has the biggest grin on his face….and I don't look too dorky, either… He's really leaning into me…and his hand down my shoulder…but, as the gentleman he is, his fist was cupped; so as not to touch…Melanie said I should've told him it was ok to touch… that Tim signs 'em~ lmbo….I NEVER would've been able to do that….. but; it was funny… I was on cloud 99 after getting my pic…. Kept looking at it…drooling, etc… crying….. We then went back to town…and stopped at a popsicle stand that Tim had mentioned in an article…they were good….
We took Sue back to Mark's office and planned to meet them later on… We went back to our motel and met P & S and their little girl and a friend.. We had also chatted w/a nice young man in the elevator on the way to tour… he also was stationed at FC and would be shipping out soon…I cried; of course..telling them both to be safe and Mel added.."Thank you~"..I warned Olivia that she was 'in' now…Once you meet me; you're in my circle…Phil agreed that was the truth…They seemed to enjoy my m/g story and my pic….. It was good to visit w/them…… They headed back home; they live about 2.5 hrs away and Mel and I headed to freshen up before supper..
We decided to go downtown and look around and get a bite to eat…. Went into Tootsie's to find my autograph on the wall; but there were LOTS of Colts fans there…The Titans were playing them on Sunday… so, didn't get to show off my autograph~ We ate at The Hard Rock….yummy mac/cheese/ onion rings/salad…Mel got a Cobb Salad… We told Sue & Mark we'd meet them back at the motel after we all ate; so they arrived about 8 or so… Mark works in production, etc…and was very interesting to listen to…. I had not met him and had been looking forward to it…. He relayed a story about interviewing a young Jon Bon Jovi in OH several years ago…. That he and Richie were answering ?'s, etc..and these two hoochies just wouldn't leave them alone… Finally, Richie yelled out… "Get naked~" They immediately did…and exposed themselves to them…. Then they shut up; guess they just wanted them to see their packages…YUCK~ We visited for a couple of hours and then they went back to their motel…
We had decided to try to leave pretty early on Sunday; so we could get on home..It was 4 hrs to Mel's; then 4 more to The Mapdot…. SO, again, I went to sleep w/Rick in my head….We did get up and at 'em early and stopped at Cracker Barrel right outside Nash for b'fast…. As we left out of town, my friend started singing to us on the radio…and I thought that was perfect timing…It was "Mapdot"…
Melanie decided she'd try a Red Bull and had a couple on the way; to keep her awake…. I know I bored her with all my swooning, etc… I still felt so surreal about all that had happened…like I was dreaming… and shore didn't want no pinchin' in case I was….. We got back to Batesville around 12:30 and we said our goodbyes and I headed home…. Got home around 5 or so…and did laundry; watched some football and worked on getting my pics on the computer….. This weekend had been one that I will NEVER forget…. I say that nothing could top it; but I've had a lot of special times over the years… Tim related, meeting Dierks & Keith (another Aussie love )…Dang it~ Shoulda asked Rick to say "G'day, Cahman~"..Next time….(wink)……but…I guess in life, you never know what'll happen at least that's been true for me….
I, again, love you all for being so excited for me… in this once in a lifetime chance to meet my childhood love…or so I thought, anyway..Like I said, it was MORE than I could've ever imagined…and I'll cherish that time forever…and will have my pic to prove that I wasn't dreaming………….
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I had even branched out on outfits… bought a pair black capris and new shirt (purple, of course) and a pair of black slides…My bro treated me to a mani/pedi with purple toes/nails the weekend before..The toes stayed great; had to re-touch the fingers….
I left work on Thursday afternoon; heading to Batesville, MS; to spend the night w/fellow Memphis Bag Lady, Melanie.... After a stop at Sonic, of course.......We met other fellow Bag Lady, Missy; for what else??? MEXICAN~ Did a little visiting, but then went our separate ways... For the 1st time, Missy wouldn't be with us for this jaunt... She's younger than Melanie and I and Mr. Jessie's Girl, just didn't do anything for her....:) - Melanie had to pack and we took the time to visit w/Mel's hubby and 2 daughters... It was nice just to relax and love on them....Our goal was to get up and outta there by 6 on Friday morning...Mission accomplished.....we were on the road by 6 and headed to Music City....
After several stops for Diet Cokes, breakfast, potty, etc.... we arrived in Franklin, TN, to visit w/a friend and her babies> It was so nice to visit w/Sandy... play with the babies...reminisce about old times; and hear about stuff going on now.....She had to leave to go pick up her 4 yr old from Pre-K; so we headed up town to pick up my ticket to the show.... We got downtown, picked up the ticket from a new friend, Terri; who graciously took care of my love project for Alesha, Dawn & Jill....Melanie had also sent me some love money for this trip.....She works at The Wildhorse and put up w/me bugging her in the weeks before...as I said... fretting; worrying, etc...over what would happen or would might would happen; etc.... She had told me earlier in the day that the meet/greet would be after Rick's show...UGH... At least, per Terri, if we were hot and sweaty; he would be too and would know we enjoyed him!~ LoL......I stopped by the line outside The Wildhorse - the show was General Admission...and even though the VIP section was guaranteed seats, you still had to be there first come/ first serve to get the prime spots~ I asked a few there if they were on Rick's board and if they were, what their names were; no one really offered any info, so we went to the motel to freshen up and change for the show.....
Another couple friend of mine, Stephanie & Phil were coming to the show, too; so I told them we'd be at The Wildhorse about 6 or so… I decided not to wear the black slides that I'd bought…they had a little heel and I was afraid I'd fall..LoL…I did wear some khaki ones; which were much more comfy and still showed my purple stuff……Got there and the line was wayyyyyyyyyyyy long….I asked someone who worked there about my ticket and he told me I needed an armband and to go to the door, that we would be let in first…I hated to leave Melanie; but there were a couple of ladies that she visited w/and ended up sitting with on the 3rd floor…. I called Terri to see where she was…She had been able to go in before everyone else; since she worked there, so she had saved me a spot RIGHT IN FRONT OF THE STAGE….. The floor was set up w/tables; probably 6 to each one…and was pretty cramped…..But, it wasn't too bad…I knew we wouldn't be sitting anyway, once Rick took the stage…. I couldn't believe it… after seeing him 5 times before and not being close, I couldn't imagine being in 'touching' distance~
A little background on my Rick journey…..I fell in love w/him, as a 14/15 yr old kid…. Back then, I listened to more pop/rock than country…. I was able to go see him in Ruston, LA; at LA Tech..my seats were right on the tip, top of the Coliseum…Then in about 82/83, he was going to be in Jackson, MS….so, my parents drove Tim, another girlfriend of mine, my cousin and I to the show…On a school night and everything…. We were on the floor; so I was able to get close; but never dared to get too close and even try to touch him; etc..Remember, I was a pretty sheltered kid back then~ (wink)….We had a great time…. Yall's man even fell asleep on me on the way home, etc….J - Then, in about 85, Rick came to Monroe…Tim, Tracey, Sandy and I went to this…. But, our seats weren't the best…. Fast forward about 12 years… I had kept up w/his career and of course, watched GH at the height of his career…but, then he took some time off; I got more into country….did think of him often…Looked at my posters and t-shirts I had accumulated and wondered if I'd ever get another chance to see him…. My cousin, Brenda, told me that he would be in Bossier City at a casino…so, I planned on going…. It was like I was a teenager again..He came out and rocked the place… He asked where all the braces were? LoL… It was a fantastic show and it was fun being a kid again…. As yall know; I didn't have a computer until around 2001, so really had no way to keep up with him and where he'd be, etc…. Fast forward to about 2005….I had heard that he was coming back on GH….J - So, I started taping and watching only his scenes….MAN~ He sure did age well…. I found out he would be back in Bossier this past spring; so Brenda and I went…Was VERY disappointed in our seats…we were probably 40 rows away from the stage; but when he came out….it was, again; ;like I was a teenager….The show was awesome and I was craving more…but knew he didn't come down south too often; so figured it might be another 10 years until I could see him again…In the meantime, his storyline was awesome this summer…LOTS of Dr. Drake and Eli Love..he played dual roles and even sang on the show…. He had never done that before…. I began going to his website; reading up on what had gone on and what was going on now…. Saw lots of pics of him with people and read stories of their 'moments' with him…He was really a genuine guy….and everything that you think he would be as a young kiddo…..
Now; back to now..............SOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO……I had lots of thoughts about how I would react when I did get to be face to face w/him…Would I throw up; would I cry hysterically…would I be able to talk; but sound like a dork? LoL…..The time before Rick took the stage did go by pretty quickly….There were 2 opening bands..One was made up w/people who worked for Gaylord; a few of the girls even worked at The Wildhorse…the 2nd act was a Billy Joel cover band….They were really good; but………….I was ready for Rick… Before he took the stage, Terri & I attempted a potty break…I saw Steph & Phil; hugged on them a few…and also saw a girl from Rick's board…who was attending her 1st ever Rick show…I knew she'd be by herself; so I asked S & P to take care of her..They graciously asked her to sit at their table…J - Made our way to and fro the b.r. and got settled in for the night…. Terri had found out that Rick wouldn't start until 9:45; and the m/g would be about 11:30….UGH~ I figured I'd waited this long; a couple more hours wouldn't hurt…. After the BJ band left, the energy started building… I knew from the show this spring that he just walks out on stage..No big fanfare, introduction, etc…. We stood up and got ready….for "HIM"………..
There he was~ Tall and lean; looking so much younger than 58… I thought my heart would beat outta my chest….hands got sweaty, tears started welling up………He began with "Who Killed Rock and Roll"…a new one that he had performed on GH, then went on to a few more….I was just in awe.. looking up at him like a little puppy dog…couldn't take my eyes off of him… LoL…. After about 3 songs, he came and stood RIGHT IN FRONT OF ME~ Actually, I had to move my hands so he wouldn't step on them….Talk about tall and lean anddddddddddddd….I just couldn't look up…if I had well….yall got the text; so you know what I woulda been gazing at….(blush)….The show was fantastic…I tell you; he puts great energy in his performance…. We made eye contact a few times…got smiles…and melted with those dimples and those eyes….After a few more songs, he came over to the monitor right in front of Terri & I… sat down; swung his lonnnnnnnnnngggggggggggg legs around…(actually, kicked me a little) and there he was again~~~~~~~~~~~ RIGHT IN FRONT OF ME~ I did reach out and touch his boot; just a smidge; just so I could say I did…. I was able to look up at him this time; since he was sitting….I know Melanie and Steph & Phil were cracking up at me… they said later, they enjoyed watching me more than the show…LOL….. There were a few songs that I didn't know ;but; mostly, he did all the hits from the 80's…. making eye contact with lots… really giving the kids some attention; which to me is so endearing….. He didn't talk too much, but I tell ya… his voice sounds just like it did or better than 'back when'….you know most of older rock guys haven't aged well at all…but I can report that Mr. Springfield definitely has….. From seeing him in Bossier, I knew he would come out in the crowd….. So, when he did that, he was walking across tables and chairs; getting help from the crowd… They all who were lucky enough to get a 'human touch' from him, were just swooning…he lets the crowd sing some of "Don't Talk to Strangers"…and got a kick out of most's non talent..He did comment that he knew he'd find someone who could sing there; when a couple were able to stay on key~ He went further back in the crowd that he had in April…. So, we couldn't really see too much of him then… Melanie could and he actually went near S, P and Teddi (the girl from his site)…. There was lots of groping, etc….I just CANNOT do that…. He usually makes the comment before heading out there that he's coming out there…don't touch his butt; unless he's falling, then help him…he didn't this night…so, I guess people figured they had the right…NOOOOOOOOOOOO-NOOOOOOOOOOOOOO~
He did comment that he was being sexually harassed; but he thought he liked it….but…I'm sure he wasn't happy w/it at all; but did make the best of it…giving people their 'human touches'….hugging…. shaking hands, etc…. He had gotten so far back that he just stayed out in the crowd to finish the show… All through the night, he'd tease us a little bit w/intro of "Jessie's Girl"…. Someone gave him a stethoscope; and he made the comment that 'you didn't watch that stupid tv show, huh?"..He tried to keep it on awhile, but it kept coming off… He did have a few equipment problems… His microphone pack came loose a time or two; he broke a guitar string, they forgot to put the set list up, etc…but, he laughed it off and you could tell he was thrilled to be back on stage at 'home' and doing a full set…He had been in Austraila for 3 wks and only performed 3 or 4 songs for those 3 wks.. It was the first time he'd performed in AussieLand since he'd left there to move out to California…..It was an out of body experience for me, really…To be there, that close and I was just soaking it all in… When he began to come back to the stage, we cleared off our table; hoping he'd come our way~ AND HE DID~~~~~~~ Stepped right beside us….I did reach out and touch his leg on the way over….J - He left the stage, signing a little girl's guitar; just loving on us, while we were loving on him w/applause, etc….
I knew he'd be back out for "Love is Alrite Tonight"… wondering if he'd be shirtless or not…he sometimes does that for the encore….He came back on clothed; but made the comment that instead of him getting naked, that we had to…NOT~~~~~~During the intro, he leaned over, right in Terri's face… gave her some smiles and eyebrow love….I know she was dying………..J - ~
It was over way too quickly… but I knew the best was yet to come….. I found S, P & Teddi and told them adios….I told Teddi I'd keep in touch and see her next time I was in the area….Her first time had been awesome, she said…. We'd see S & P on Sat….SOOOOOOOO; Terri & I made our way to the door where they'd come get us for the m/g…. I really started to get nervous…was popping peppermints like pills…. If I couldn't freshen up; at least my breath was going to be fresh~ There were LOTS of peops in line and I felt bad for him that he would have to deal w/all of us, after putting on such a high energy show…. We were taken to the 3rd floor of the WH and into a room…. About 30 of us were let in first…I, strangely, began to calm down…I know it was due to positive thoughts from my 'posse'…. He just sauntered into the room…no fanfare, again….Wearing his glasses and really to me; looking exhausted…. I guess we were about 15th in line….As I got closer to him, I just couldn't believe that this was actually happening…. When you're a kid and you have this 'thing' for someone; a star…I really didn't think about the possibility of meeting them….especially, 25 years later….. They had told us to have our cameras ready and one thing to sign…. So, Terri had 'borrowed' the set list off of the monitor for me; so I was going to get him to sign that…I also, 'borrowed' one of the sweat towels that he'd used…sweat would fall onto the floor during the show and I pointed to some and actually rubbed my finger in it~ LoL… Another thing that he does onstage is to take roses and slam them against his guitar; splashing petals all over the stage…..maybe next time, I can find some purple ones to take~ OK; I regress…..It was my turn…He looked right at me…said…"Hello, there~"..I said, "Hi.." I handed him the set list..he began to sign it…I said… "Tim McGraw's sisters said tell you hello… that they were big fans…" I asked him, "Do you know who that is?"..He smiled and said.."Of course~"…I told him…"Actually, my parents drove he and I to see you in Jackson, MS; when we were about 15 years old~"…He laughed and said, "Really?"…LOL… He then moved over closer to me… grabbed me around the shoulder; hunkered down (he's very tall) and I just melted…I was able to put my arm around him, though…. Didn't really get a scent from him…he probably had jumped in a shower before coming in there; but no scent jumped out at me..I was hoping mine wouldn't be jumping out at him, either…. After we took the pic, he said, "Let's make sure it came out ok"…I showed him that I didn't have a digital..he said.."OH, you have a film one~"…I said…"I'm a little old-fashioned>" He said…looking me right in the eye and smiling…"That's ok"… I didn't get too far from him when Terri had her turn… wanted to make the most of my opportunity…He signed her jeans….and they took their pic… When he was done, he turned around to me again and asked us both…"Did we get everything, Ladies?"..We both said, yes and thanks so much….and it was done…………I'll be honest, I was shaking inside…and began to feel the emotion start to come….I had done so well and now I figured I'd lose it…When I saw Melanie; I did…LoL…. I just couldn't believe what I'd just experienced….. When you have someone on a pedestal; even though you know they're only human and as Tim's sis told me.."Just a guy~"…it would break your heart if they weren't all you hoped they'd be….that maybe they were having a bad day…and weren't on their game….well…I was not disappointed or broken-hearted….
This childhood crush; was the most genuine, charming, sweet man…knowing that we become like kids again in his presence…not doing anything to hurt our feelings, etc.. I know he sees much more attractive women; but didn't treat me any different than I saw him treat the beautiful, skinny peops…. We said our goodbyes to Terri and floated to our motel….. I literally talked Mel to sleep…she had been such a support for me….
Saturday morning, we had plans to meet up another friend to spend the day~ It was nice to visit w/Sue..We had met her at SS last yr and we hit if off…. Melanie had wanted to find a Steve & Berry's store and Crystal told us there was one out in Antioch…So, we went out there…. And also dropped off my film… I fretted that my pic wouldn't be good….. They both found some bargains and we went back to Wally World… My pic was great~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ The quality wasn't the best…it was dark and grainy, but………………Rick has the biggest grin on his face….and I don't look too dorky, either… He's really leaning into me…and his hand down my shoulder…but, as the gentleman he is, his fist was cupped; so as not to touch…Melanie said I should've told him it was ok to touch… that Tim signs 'em~ lmbo….I NEVER would've been able to do that….. but; it was funny… I was on cloud 99 after getting my pic…. Kept looking at it…drooling, etc… crying….. We then went back to town…and stopped at a popsicle stand that Tim had mentioned in an article…they were good….
We took Sue back to Mark's office and planned to meet them later on… We went back to our motel and met P & S and their little girl and a friend.. We had also chatted w/a nice young man in the elevator on the way to tour… he also was stationed at FC and would be shipping out soon…I cried; of course..telling them both to be safe and Mel added.."Thank you~"..I warned Olivia that she was 'in' now…Once you meet me; you're in my circle…Phil agreed that was the truth…They seemed to enjoy my m/g story and my pic….. It was good to visit w/them…… They headed back home; they live about 2.5 hrs away and Mel and I headed to freshen up before supper..
We decided to go downtown and look around and get a bite to eat…. Went into Tootsie's to find my autograph on the wall; but there were LOTS of Colts fans there…The Titans were playing them on Sunday… so, didn't get to show off my autograph~ We ate at The Hard Rock….yummy mac/cheese/ onion rings/salad…Mel got a Cobb Salad… We told Sue & Mark we'd meet them back at the motel after we all ate; so they arrived about 8 or so… Mark works in production, etc…and was very interesting to listen to…. I had not met him and had been looking forward to it…. He relayed a story about interviewing a young Jon Bon Jovi in OH several years ago…. That he and Richie were answering ?'s, etc..and these two hoochies just wouldn't leave them alone… Finally, Richie yelled out… "Get naked~" They immediately did…and exposed themselves to them…. Then they shut up; guess they just wanted them to see their packages…YUCK~ We visited for a couple of hours and then they went back to their motel…
We had decided to try to leave pretty early on Sunday; so we could get on home..It was 4 hrs to Mel's; then 4 more to The Mapdot…. SO, again, I went to sleep w/Rick in my head….We did get up and at 'em early and stopped at Cracker Barrel right outside Nash for b'fast…. As we left out of town, my friend started singing to us on the radio…and I thought that was perfect timing…It was "Mapdot"…
Melanie decided she'd try a Red Bull and had a couple on the way; to keep her awake…. I know I bored her with all my swooning, etc… I still felt so surreal about all that had happened…like I was dreaming… and shore didn't want no pinchin' in case I was….. We got back to Batesville around 12:30 and we said our goodbyes and I headed home…. Got home around 5 or so…and did laundry; watched some football and worked on getting my pics on the computer….. This weekend had been one that I will NEVER forget…. I say that nothing could top it; but I've had a lot of special times over the years… Tim related, meeting Dierks & Keith (another Aussie love )…Dang it~ Shoulda asked Rick to say "G'day, Cahman~"..Next time….(wink)……but…I guess in life, you never know what'll happen at least that's been true for me….
I, again, love you all for being so excited for me… in this once in a lifetime chance to meet my childhood love…or so I thought, anyway..Like I said, it was MORE than I could've ever imagined…and I'll cherish that time forever…and will have my pic to prove that I wasn't dreaming………….
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Nashville in the Fall
I had saved some days in case we had Swampstock and since Tim didn't do any dates close enough for me to go to, I had 3 days left of vacation late in the year... I decided to go to Nashville and have more time to visit ... A benefit concert for the Hall of Fame was announced with Keith Urban , Dierks Bentley, Faith and others, so I decided to stay over for that, too....
Left on Oct. 9, about 4 am... First stop, Batesville, MS; for Sonic... That was the 1st place one was open that early..... Got another hour down the road and the rain began.... Rained on me until I was about 30 minutes from Franklin, TN...Long enough for me to get in Sandy's and then the bottom dropped out again... Bad weather; watches, warning; etc.... We didn't know if Matthew would play his football game or not...I was hoping so; because I had come early to see him play.... Sandy and I visited the rest of the afternoon, played w/the babies & Timothy, etc..... The school said they would play the game, since things there had calmed down..... So, Sandy, Keith and the kiddos and I went to eat Mexican before the game, after going to Target to get ponchos; just in case... Keith decided to keep the twins and Timothy at home; so Sandy & I went to meet Lisa & Tracey at another Mex place before the game..LoL....
We got to the game, met up with Pam and her daughter and wiped our benches off and sat on our ponchos to keep our bottoms dry..... It didn't rain again and it was nice and cool...I loved it!! Tim came, too and we got to reminisce and get caught up on old friends, etc..
I mentioned to him that it had been 6 yrs since we lost Mama and it was nice to get to be with he and the girls to remember her... He said.."me too"... He asked about the ''church kids''..I told him that we had grandkids now..LoL... That I had 2nd generation babies in the nursery and had enjoyed getting to spend time with them... Chatted about some other grands, too...He asked about the Allen Kids and the Smart kids...
We also talked about the CMT Invitation Only that he'd taped in Sept... Sue, my friend from Ohio/Nashville had been chosen to ask him a ?... She asked if he'd want his girls to marry someone like him...His reaction was priceless.... ( a friend snagged that segment for me from the Dish Network showing; it'll air on CMT Nov. 13)..... I told him Sue was a good friend of mine...in fact, would be staying with she and her husband, Mark, on Saturday-Sunday nights...and would watch LSU at their house..... Mark's a BIG Ohio St fan; and has a ''man'' room, complete with Buckeye stuff.... In May, my friend from Michigan, Cathy and I stayed with them...I told Tim she was sick all weekend having to deal w/rival decor..LoL.....
I also asked him about his Titans.... and what was the deal? LoL..>He said he'd have to cheer for the Saints and the Vikings... We talked about Brett's good year so far.... He said he'd gotten a text from him the day after his ''miracle'' finish and said..''not bad for an almost 40 yr old''...Tim told him he could've done just as well at 42....Not lacking in confidence there.... I told him I had a good friend, Brenda, who was a Brett fan....and a couple others who were Packer fans.... I also said I wished Brett would do his benefit again...I usually could count on seeing him then....
Lately, he'd done a couple of ''non tour'' shows in Pittsburgh and would be doing another in Chicago the next week...I told him he needed to do more closer to home; so I could go... I did tell him that a few of my friends would be in Chicago to cheer him on....and I was happy for those pals who had been able to do the ''fun, extra'' stuff.... I also told him that Rick Springfield would be taping Ellen around the same time he was the end of the month and wouldn't it be a hoot if they taped the same day.... A little background story about Rick.... In about 82 or 83, my parents drove Tim, another friend and I to Jackson, MS; to see Rick.... It was 2 hrs away and on a school night...LoL.... And when I met Rick the 1st time , I told him this story...He laughed.... Tim said he would need to ''brush up'' on his Rick....then started singing "My Father's Chair'' to me....This song Rick wrote when he lost his dad in the early 80's.... and of course, I teared up.....
Another little tidbit about this song..... In 84 or so, Tim and I were singing at a Valentine's banquet at our church...One of the guys who was in the Electones with him, played for us... We were at rehearsal and after I'd practiced "The Rose'', Craig started playing "My Father's Chair''...Tears, of course.... Tim always took pride in making me cry~ LoL.... So, for him to start singing that at the game, touched me.... He hasn't forgotten our good times and that makes my heart warm... So many times I think of things I want to say to him; or tell him ; or ask him.... I'm VERY proud of his life now but, I still miss the times when I'd see he and the girls and Betty once a day or more..... Maybe one day, we can ALL get together and reminisce about those times...
Those that remember that my meet/greet picture was in Rick's last CD cover... Well, I asked Tim..."How many cd's have you done?" I told him that I look every time.... for a "'thank you, Carm''...or ''love ya, Carm''.. NEVER see it.... I told him..." Met Rick for the 1st time...next cd, I'm in the booklet!"..LoL... Of course, he has to have the last word, so he said.."How many cd's did HE sell, tho?"..Grrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr!
He did ask if Rick was nice to me...I told him I would've been heartbroken if he wasn't...that he didn't understand that~ LoL...He talked about his first meeting with Bruce Springsteen...Faith said.."Honey, you didn't say a word!"..He said...." I was in shock!" LoL..So, he DOES understand....
I told him I hoped I could get Daddy to go see "The Blind Side'' at the theatre, Nov. 20.... I know I'll need LOTS of tissue for this movie.... I told him Daddy had seen "Friday Night Lights''...he asked , ''how he'd like it?"..I said..."he didn't like you; but liked the movie!"..LOL... He said ''that means I did a good job, then''.... He and the girls always ask about Daddy and JC; each time I see them.... I hope one day to get them to Nashville with me....
When he left, we hugged and I told him I'd see him next year...LoL.... He assured me there'd be southern dates on the new tour...and there are... Hoping to go to Birmingham in May and Dallas in June....
After the game, we went on the field to see Matthew.... The Rebels had won.... we then went to another Mex place...LoL... can't get enough of Mex for me.... Sandy was leaving the next morning for FL to be back Monday; so we went on to bed, after visiting a little more... I would be going to see more friends and then out to Hendersonville to Sue & Mark's...Was hoping to see Amy (May) Griffin and her new baby; but her little girl had the flu...so, I missed them this trip...I did get to see Donna & Tyler Beevers and their kiddos in Brentwood... It's always nice to see and visit with them...They're some of my oldest friends... Tyler & I began kindegarten together and his mom was our 3rd grade teacher... Donna's mom and mine worked together and we've been friends since 2nd grade....
After seeing them, I headed out to Hendersonville to get Taco Soup started for the games... OH State would play in the afternoon; LSU in the evening..... It's always nice to visit with them..they've been very hospitable to me over the past couple years and I enjoy staying with them... One of their puppies had disappeared, so they were concerned about him...He did finally make his way back home after I got back....Mark was also down in his back; so was resting most of the w/e....
OH State won....and after the soup, it was time for LSU...Unfortunately, they lost to Florida..Boo...LoL.....OH, well.... we had a busy day planned for Sunday and I was looking forward to meeting Lisa & Don from Vegas and Kim from Colorado and to spend time w/Laura from Colorado and Terri from Nashville, as well....
Kim & Laura had gone to Dierks Bentley's benefit on Sunday; so we'd see them later in the day.... Sue was our chauffeur that day...and we picked up Terri, Lisa & Don and headed out to see a few things and to eat..eat..eat...LOL...
Our 1st stop was Noshville's; downtown area... It's like a diner and some of us got Fried Bologna Sandwiches..LoL... WAY too much bologna; tho.... But, they were tasty....
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Terri was our photographer on Sunday... My camera was acting up....Thanks, Terri...
We found this billboard, while riding around....
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We rode out to the Opry Mills mall...Lisa & Don wanted to see the manatee tank...and who did we see but Teddy Gentry; from Alabama...They were having some up and coming people sing out there and we think maybe he was producing/managing some of them...
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After more riding, we had planned on meeting Sheila & Kristie at ANOTHER Mexican place..LoL...Had cheese dip this time....It was good to see them and Kristie's daughter, Ashley... We got caught up and thought we'd see them at the Hall of Fame Benefit on Tuesday night...
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We visited awhile and dropped Terri off at her apartment... We made plans to hook up with Laura, Kim and Amanda, friend of theirs who'd just moved to Nashville...
We ended up eating at Shoney's...I thought it'd be good Southern food... some of ours was good; others not so much.... It was great to be able to visit w/Laura more and to meet Kim & Amanda... I had met Laura at a fanclub party a few years ago; but didn't get to chat much...
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We made plans to meet up at Rene's office on Monday; then go eat lunch at Loveless Cafe... A MUST visit when in Nashville.......
Rene's always so gracious and hospitable at the fanclub office.... I love seeing and hugging on her.... While we were there, she said that Chris Young... from Nashville Star fame and whose song had just gone to #1 that day, was in the building...She introduced us to him and he was so sweet and humble...He'd be opening for Tim the next week in Chicago and I told him some of my friends were looking forward to seeing him...He said Tim was probably sick of him; and me & Rene' both said, that he liked him; or he wouldn't be opening for him...It was a great treat to see him on the day of his first #1~
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We left and headed out to Loveless to eat again~ LoL...We had a great waiter; who had a wonderful sense of humor.... The food was delicious and the company even better...Kim took these pics for us....Thanks, Kim...
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http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y71/mapdot1/mapdot3/mapdot4/mapdot4/LOVELESS2.jpg
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A co-worker of Rusty's took this one; a little blurry> LoL~
After lunch, we headed back downtown to pick up our cars... In the parking lot, we saw Eli & Young from the Eli Young Band....
http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y71/mapdot1/mapdot3/mapdot4/mapdot4/ELIYOUNG.jpg
I headed back out to Franklin to spend the rest of my week with Sandy & Tracey and families and we said our goodbyes.... Hoping to see each other ''on the road'' somewhere...
Monday evening and Tuesday, just chillaxed and visited w/Sandy and family... Keith brough in BBQ for supper...Tim was on Letterman on Monday night; so we watched him on Tuesday... Performance and no visit; as usual on the nighttime shows....
Tuesday, it pretty much rained all day... Was looking forward to the All for The Hall show that night... Hadn't seen Keith Urban or Dierks in a few years and was excited to see Faith, too... I went to Tracey's to meet up with her roommate Lisa and some of her friends to ride with them... Sheila & Kristie ended up not going; so Terri went , too... The show was awesome..>
http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y71/mapdot1/mapdot3/mapdot4/mapdot4/KEITH-HOF.jpg
http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y71/mapdot1/mapdot3/mapdot4/mapdot4/faith-halloffame2.jpg
http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y71/mapdot1/mapdot3/mapdot4/mapdot4/faith-halloffame2.jpg
http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y71/mapdot1/mapdot3/mapdot4/mapdot4/faith-halloffame4.jpg
http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y71/mapdot1/mapdot3/mapdot4/mapdot4/faith-halloffame.jpg
http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y71/mapdot1/mapdot3/mapdot4/mapdot4/JASON-HOF.jpg
http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y71/mapdot1/mapdot3/mapdot4/mapdot4/DIERKS-HOF.jpg
http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y71/mapdot1/mapdot3/mapdot4/mapdot4/KEITH-VINCE-HOF.jpg
http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y71/mapdot1/mapdot3/mapdot4/mapdot4/KEITH-BRAD-HOF.jpg
http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y71/mapdot1/mapdot3/mapdot4/mapdot4/KEITH-BRAD-HOF.jpg
Brad Paisley, Lady Antebellum, Little Big Town, Jason Aldean, Faith, Dierks and Taylor Swift all played...I think that's all.... Those are Vegas Lisa' s pics I borrowed to use in the review....Thanks, Lisa...
Keith sang first; over an hour...Then Brad came out and they did "Start a Band" and an instrumental where they both went up in the crowd...>Then it was an hour wait for stage changes and Vince and his band came out to stay the rest of the evening; along with Keith.... Jason did "Country Girls" and "Big Green Tractor"; Dierks did "Sideways" and "Free & Easy"...Faith did "Let Me Let Go"; which I hoped she would, since Vince recorded it with her and then she did the rockin' version of "Piece of my Heart".....
After the show, said goodbye to Terri and Lisa ,her friends and I headed back out to Franklin; in the pouring rain...I didn't see Laura, Kim, Don & Lisa again; but chatted with them... hoping to see them soon!
Spent Tuesday night at Tracey's.... Her little one, Jace, didn't understand why I was already leaving, when I just got there...I told him next trip, I was all his! Went back to Sandy's to say goodbye and eat muffins... Her hubby, Keith had just learned I drank Diet Coke the day before; so I drank a couple of them..LoL.... I had a wonderful time with old friends... met new friends and got caught up with ''in between'' friends.... I LOVE Nashville and if I ever move; It'll be there....
On the way home, I stopped at Sonic in Franklin and again in Batesville to see Melanie... Loved on her; got some Diet Coke and was on my way to The Mapdot.... Got home that evening; did laundry and rested.... Another wonderful time...won't have another chance for awhile now....But, saving money, etc; for the tour next yr..... Gotta hear the man and his pals and their ''southern voices''...
Left on Oct. 9, about 4 am... First stop, Batesville, MS; for Sonic... That was the 1st place one was open that early..... Got another hour down the road and the rain began.... Rained on me until I was about 30 minutes from Franklin, TN...Long enough for me to get in Sandy's and then the bottom dropped out again... Bad weather; watches, warning; etc.... We didn't know if Matthew would play his football game or not...I was hoping so; because I had come early to see him play.... Sandy and I visited the rest of the afternoon, played w/the babies & Timothy, etc..... The school said they would play the game, since things there had calmed down..... So, Sandy, Keith and the kiddos and I went to eat Mexican before the game, after going to Target to get ponchos; just in case... Keith decided to keep the twins and Timothy at home; so Sandy & I went to meet Lisa & Tracey at another Mex place before the game..LoL....
We got to the game, met up with Pam and her daughter and wiped our benches off and sat on our ponchos to keep our bottoms dry..... It didn't rain again and it was nice and cool...I loved it!! Tim came, too and we got to reminisce and get caught up on old friends, etc..
I mentioned to him that it had been 6 yrs since we lost Mama and it was nice to get to be with he and the girls to remember her... He said.."me too"... He asked about the ''church kids''..I told him that we had grandkids now..LoL... That I had 2nd generation babies in the nursery and had enjoyed getting to spend time with them... Chatted about some other grands, too...He asked about the Allen Kids and the Smart kids...
We also talked about the CMT Invitation Only that he'd taped in Sept... Sue, my friend from Ohio/Nashville had been chosen to ask him a ?... She asked if he'd want his girls to marry someone like him...His reaction was priceless.... ( a friend snagged that segment for me from the Dish Network showing; it'll air on CMT Nov. 13)..... I told him Sue was a good friend of mine...in fact, would be staying with she and her husband, Mark, on Saturday-Sunday nights...and would watch LSU at their house..... Mark's a BIG Ohio St fan; and has a ''man'' room, complete with Buckeye stuff.... In May, my friend from Michigan, Cathy and I stayed with them...I told Tim she was sick all weekend having to deal w/rival decor..LoL.....
I also asked him about his Titans.... and what was the deal? LoL..>He said he'd have to cheer for the Saints and the Vikings... We talked about Brett's good year so far.... He said he'd gotten a text from him the day after his ''miracle'' finish and said..''not bad for an almost 40 yr old''...Tim told him he could've done just as well at 42....Not lacking in confidence there.... I told him I had a good friend, Brenda, who was a Brett fan....and a couple others who were Packer fans.... I also said I wished Brett would do his benefit again...I usually could count on seeing him then....
Lately, he'd done a couple of ''non tour'' shows in Pittsburgh and would be doing another in Chicago the next week...I told him he needed to do more closer to home; so I could go... I did tell him that a few of my friends would be in Chicago to cheer him on....and I was happy for those pals who had been able to do the ''fun, extra'' stuff.... I also told him that Rick Springfield would be taping Ellen around the same time he was the end of the month and wouldn't it be a hoot if they taped the same day.... A little background story about Rick.... In about 82 or 83, my parents drove Tim, another friend and I to Jackson, MS; to see Rick.... It was 2 hrs away and on a school night...LoL.... And when I met Rick the 1st time , I told him this story...He laughed.... Tim said he would need to ''brush up'' on his Rick....then started singing "My Father's Chair'' to me....This song Rick wrote when he lost his dad in the early 80's.... and of course, I teared up.....
Another little tidbit about this song..... In 84 or so, Tim and I were singing at a Valentine's banquet at our church...One of the guys who was in the Electones with him, played for us... We were at rehearsal and after I'd practiced "The Rose'', Craig started playing "My Father's Chair''...Tears, of course.... Tim always took pride in making me cry~ LoL.... So, for him to start singing that at the game, touched me.... He hasn't forgotten our good times and that makes my heart warm... So many times I think of things I want to say to him; or tell him ; or ask him.... I'm VERY proud of his life now but, I still miss the times when I'd see he and the girls and Betty once a day or more..... Maybe one day, we can ALL get together and reminisce about those times...
Those that remember that my meet/greet picture was in Rick's last CD cover... Well, I asked Tim..."How many cd's have you done?" I told him that I look every time.... for a "'thank you, Carm''...or ''love ya, Carm''.. NEVER see it.... I told him..." Met Rick for the 1st time...next cd, I'm in the booklet!"..LoL... Of course, he has to have the last word, so he said.."How many cd's did HE sell, tho?"..Grrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr!
He did ask if Rick was nice to me...I told him I would've been heartbroken if he wasn't...that he didn't understand that~ LoL...He talked about his first meeting with Bruce Springsteen...Faith said.."Honey, you didn't say a word!"..He said...." I was in shock!" LoL..So, he DOES understand....
I told him I hoped I could get Daddy to go see "The Blind Side'' at the theatre, Nov. 20.... I know I'll need LOTS of tissue for this movie.... I told him Daddy had seen "Friday Night Lights''...he asked , ''how he'd like it?"..I said..."he didn't like you; but liked the movie!"..LOL... He said ''that means I did a good job, then''.... He and the girls always ask about Daddy and JC; each time I see them.... I hope one day to get them to Nashville with me....
When he left, we hugged and I told him I'd see him next year...LoL.... He assured me there'd be southern dates on the new tour...and there are... Hoping to go to Birmingham in May and Dallas in June....
After the game, we went on the field to see Matthew.... The Rebels had won.... we then went to another Mex place...LoL... can't get enough of Mex for me.... Sandy was leaving the next morning for FL to be back Monday; so we went on to bed, after visiting a little more... I would be going to see more friends and then out to Hendersonville to Sue & Mark's...Was hoping to see Amy (May) Griffin and her new baby; but her little girl had the flu...so, I missed them this trip...I did get to see Donna & Tyler Beevers and their kiddos in Brentwood... It's always nice to see and visit with them...They're some of my oldest friends... Tyler & I began kindegarten together and his mom was our 3rd grade teacher... Donna's mom and mine worked together and we've been friends since 2nd grade....
After seeing them, I headed out to Hendersonville to get Taco Soup started for the games... OH State would play in the afternoon; LSU in the evening..... It's always nice to visit with them..they've been very hospitable to me over the past couple years and I enjoy staying with them... One of their puppies had disappeared, so they were concerned about him...He did finally make his way back home after I got back....Mark was also down in his back; so was resting most of the w/e....
OH State won....and after the soup, it was time for LSU...Unfortunately, they lost to Florida..Boo...LoL.....OH, well.... we had a busy day planned for Sunday and I was looking forward to meeting Lisa & Don from Vegas and Kim from Colorado and to spend time w/Laura from Colorado and Terri from Nashville, as well....
Kim & Laura had gone to Dierks Bentley's benefit on Sunday; so we'd see them later in the day.... Sue was our chauffeur that day...and we picked up Terri, Lisa & Don and headed out to see a few things and to eat..eat..eat...LOL...
Our 1st stop was Noshville's; downtown area... It's like a diner and some of us got Fried Bologna Sandwiches..LoL... WAY too much bologna; tho.... But, they were tasty....
http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y71/mapdot1/IMG_6521.jpg
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Terri was our photographer on Sunday... My camera was acting up....Thanks, Terri...
We found this billboard, while riding around....
http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y71/mapdot1/IMG_6522.jpg
We rode out to the Opry Mills mall...Lisa & Don wanted to see the manatee tank...and who did we see but Teddy Gentry; from Alabama...They were having some up and coming people sing out there and we think maybe he was producing/managing some of them...
http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y71/mapdot1/IMG_6524.jpg
After more riding, we had planned on meeting Sheila & Kristie at ANOTHER Mexican place..LoL...Had cheese dip this time....It was good to see them and Kristie's daughter, Ashley... We got caught up and thought we'd see them at the Hall of Fame Benefit on Tuesday night...
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We visited awhile and dropped Terri off at her apartment... We made plans to hook up with Laura, Kim and Amanda, friend of theirs who'd just moved to Nashville...
We ended up eating at Shoney's...I thought it'd be good Southern food... some of ours was good; others not so much.... It was great to be able to visit w/Laura more and to meet Kim & Amanda... I had met Laura at a fanclub party a few years ago; but didn't get to chat much...
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http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y71/mapdot1/mapdot3/mapdot4/mapdot4/SHONEYS2.jpg
We made plans to meet up at Rene's office on Monday; then go eat lunch at Loveless Cafe... A MUST visit when in Nashville.......
Rene's always so gracious and hospitable at the fanclub office.... I love seeing and hugging on her.... While we were there, she said that Chris Young... from Nashville Star fame and whose song had just gone to #1 that day, was in the building...She introduced us to him and he was so sweet and humble...He'd be opening for Tim the next week in Chicago and I told him some of my friends were looking forward to seeing him...He said Tim was probably sick of him; and me & Rene' both said, that he liked him; or he wouldn't be opening for him...It was a great treat to see him on the day of his first #1~
http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y71/mapdot1/mapdot3/mapdot4/mapdot4/CHRISYOUNG.jpg
http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y71/mapdot1/mapdot3/mapdot4/mapdot4/RENES.jpg
We left and headed out to Loveless to eat again~ LoL...We had a great waiter; who had a wonderful sense of humor.... The food was delicious and the company even better...Kim took these pics for us....Thanks, Kim...
http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y71/mapdot1/mapdot3/mapdot4/mapdot4/LOVELESS.jpg
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http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y71/mapdot1/mapdot3/mapdot4/mapdot4/LOVELESS7.jpg
A co-worker of Rusty's took this one; a little blurry> LoL~
After lunch, we headed back downtown to pick up our cars... In the parking lot, we saw Eli & Young from the Eli Young Band....
http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y71/mapdot1/mapdot3/mapdot4/mapdot4/ELIYOUNG.jpg
I headed back out to Franklin to spend the rest of my week with Sandy & Tracey and families and we said our goodbyes.... Hoping to see each other ''on the road'' somewhere...
Monday evening and Tuesday, just chillaxed and visited w/Sandy and family... Keith brough in BBQ for supper...Tim was on Letterman on Monday night; so we watched him on Tuesday... Performance and no visit; as usual on the nighttime shows....
Tuesday, it pretty much rained all day... Was looking forward to the All for The Hall show that night... Hadn't seen Keith Urban or Dierks in a few years and was excited to see Faith, too... I went to Tracey's to meet up with her roommate Lisa and some of her friends to ride with them... Sheila & Kristie ended up not going; so Terri went , too... The show was awesome..>
http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y71/mapdot1/mapdot3/mapdot4/mapdot4/KEITH-HOF.jpg
http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y71/mapdot1/mapdot3/mapdot4/mapdot4/faith-halloffame2.jpg
http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y71/mapdot1/mapdot3/mapdot4/mapdot4/faith-halloffame2.jpg
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http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y71/mapdot1/mapdot3/mapdot4/mapdot4/faith-halloffame.jpg
http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y71/mapdot1/mapdot3/mapdot4/mapdot4/JASON-HOF.jpg
http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y71/mapdot1/mapdot3/mapdot4/mapdot4/DIERKS-HOF.jpg
http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y71/mapdot1/mapdot3/mapdot4/mapdot4/KEITH-VINCE-HOF.jpg
http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y71/mapdot1/mapdot3/mapdot4/mapdot4/KEITH-BRAD-HOF.jpg
http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y71/mapdot1/mapdot3/mapdot4/mapdot4/KEITH-BRAD-HOF.jpg
Brad Paisley, Lady Antebellum, Little Big Town, Jason Aldean, Faith, Dierks and Taylor Swift all played...I think that's all.... Those are Vegas Lisa' s pics I borrowed to use in the review....Thanks, Lisa...
Keith sang first; over an hour...Then Brad came out and they did "Start a Band" and an instrumental where they both went up in the crowd...>Then it was an hour wait for stage changes and Vince and his band came out to stay the rest of the evening; along with Keith.... Jason did "Country Girls" and "Big Green Tractor"; Dierks did "Sideways" and "Free & Easy"...Faith did "Let Me Let Go"; which I hoped she would, since Vince recorded it with her and then she did the rockin' version of "Piece of my Heart".....
After the show, said goodbye to Terri and Lisa ,her friends and I headed back out to Franklin; in the pouring rain...I didn't see Laura, Kim, Don & Lisa again; but chatted with them... hoping to see them soon!
Spent Tuesday night at Tracey's.... Her little one, Jace, didn't understand why I was already leaving, when I just got there...I told him next trip, I was all his! Went back to Sandy's to say goodbye and eat muffins... Her hubby, Keith had just learned I drank Diet Coke the day before; so I drank a couple of them..LoL.... I had a wonderful time with old friends... met new friends and got caught up with ''in between'' friends.... I LOVE Nashville and if I ever move; It'll be there....
On the way home, I stopped at Sonic in Franklin and again in Batesville to see Melanie... Loved on her; got some Diet Coke and was on my way to The Mapdot.... Got home that evening; did laundry and rested.... Another wonderful time...won't have another chance for awhile now....But, saving money, etc; for the tour next yr..... Gotta hear the man and his pals and their ''southern voices''...
Aiiiiiiiiiiieeeeeeeeeeeeeeee~
Ok...I'm trying something new....LoL... Will post my happenin's here; instead of on MySpace...I'm going to try to delete my MS acct.... Hope you enjoy my Creole Chatter...
Carm
Carm
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