Let's face it, these guys have made us absolutely insane. You've got soccer moms dressing up in full goth and dancing around their living rooms. Why? Because Donnie asked us to. Twitter has absolutely exploded with an influx of thousands of new users? Why? Because NKOTB & each individual guy now have Twitter accounts. We've crashed site after site on the web when concerts go on sale, when new details are released for something the guys are doing or when they pretty much breathe. Seriously. What is the MATTER with us???
I should start at the beginning of where the conductor punched my ticket for the crazy train.
I surprised myself last May when tickets went on sale for the fall tour. Due to a misunderstanding (as we weren't yet on the forums), we thought REGULAR tickets were $375 and balcony seats were $175 and we were totally willing to pay it to see the guys again. Obviously we realized our mistake when all the tickets went on sale and we were VERY relieved that regular tickets were well under $100. Whew! Still...we'd have paid it.
The summer went along fairly quietly. Not much insanity, other than the countdowns and the numerous daily emails between myself and mah girls talking about the guys, sharing YouTube links and discussing concert plans.
We bought tickets to the Kansas City show. They were balcony seats and while we did plan to go early, in the hopes of seeing the guys, we didn't get to. Here's where "questionable" enters the picture. We'd NEVER considered waiting outside the arena after a show, but something told us (okay..I blame the Waffle House video) to hang out and see where they go. So, while Kimmi sat toastily in the car, Jen and I sat outside in 40° weather, spitting rain and a brisk breeze, on the curb with my camera (and a killer zoom lens) across the street from the venue, shouting "I LOVE YOU's" at Joe and Jon. (I apologize, guys. I told you: CRAZY!) We froze our butts off in that rain, but we were SO excited at the great pictures and the waves and blown kisses we got from Jon, Donnie & Jordan. Thus began talk of "Stalkfest '09" before we even knew if they were still going to be performing in '09!! Hubby was NOT pleased with our promises of a three city tour in the summer. Crazy faded in and out for a couple weeks.
Then, we discovered the forums. Ho. Ly. Hell. Life hasn't been the same. I've found myself on the forums sometimes up to 18, 24, even 36 hour stretches reading all I can, right-click-saving, soaking as much of this in as I possibly can. Thankfully the holidays were in there and I smartened up and realized I don't need to be here all the time, reading every thread to keep up. Word spreads quickly as to what's going on, so I've lightened up quite a bit.
Holidays over, the cruise announcement was made. It was at this point I realized there were some people who were off-the-charts-NUTSO slightly crazier than I and being on that boat with them was NOT a smart place for me to be. I'm far too snarky and outspoken for that situation to turn out well. I'd be likely to start throwing people overboard or chucking fruit at people. LOL! I did, for one BRIEF moment consider it, but logic overruled obsession.
Enter: spring concerts. DES MOINES??!! MOLINE?!?!?!?! OH EM GEE! SO there. Hubby wasn't thrilled with the travel plans, especially considering he knew there was still a summer tour to look forward to. When I reminded him this thing wouldn't last forever, he just rolled his eyes and said "I'm not paying for it." HA! No problem! Fast-forward to April - Moline's show. Again with the rain and the 40° temps. Take that 2 hr wait from Kansas City last fall and multiply it times FOUR. That's how long we stood out in that miserable weather hoping for a glimpse of our guys. Wet to the core, freezing cold, we finally gave up about 5:00 and went to get dinner. What we hadn't really counted on was our abrupt decision to drive to Columbus the next day. Being from Iowa..that's QUITE the haul. We'd gotten some inside info from a friend that they were staying in Chicago the night of the Moline show, so we decided, last minute, to drive to Chicago (three hours away, I might add). First dose of really out-of-character for us. So...at 3 in the morning, my girl Jen and I rolled into the Windy City. (We got the big fat "IDONTFRIGGINTHINKSO" from Jen's hubby on Columbus, so we turned around and came home.)
It was a bust. No face time. But..we had a GREAT time anyway, slept in the most comfortable bed on the planet AND we didn't have to deal with our "real lives" for a day. Woo!!
Des Moines was a few days later and we'd learned our lesson about cold weather and the likelihood of the guys coming out in miserable conditions, so we didn't venture down to the arena til later in the day. We DID get Face Time this time around. Yay us! But really...crazy wasn't too much of an issue for that show.
Unfortunately, within 48 hrs, I started experiencing that ever-common "Post Concert Depression." I couldn't listen to their songs, I couldn't get on the site. I couldn't even edit my pictures without feeling blue. I had to go to another show. It wasn't a matter of WANT...I NEEDED another concert. I swear, if I'd been left alone much longer, I'd have started to twitch. But there were no shows left for me. I didn't have a passport, so Canada wasn't an option and California airfare & hotel was too expensive to even consider. It was a couple weeks before I finally came out of the haze of depression and was able to do anything New Kid-related again. I believe Twitter was to thank for that recovery. The guys started Tweeting and giving us glimpses into their lives (and their beds, thankyouOHsoVERYmuchJOEandJON!) and I was able to get through it.
Somewhere during the haze, the Today show appearance was announced. Obviously, Iowa is NO where close to NYC, so I hadn't even considered it. I was super excited for my friends who were going, but I knew it wasn't an option for me. First of all, I'm highly uncomfortable in new places, much less somewhere as big as New York City! Also..I know NOBODY in NY and knew I'd never find my way around by myself (my girl Jen is busy that weekend) and I wasn't about to go alone. That's just *NOT* me.
Along comes my little twitter friend, Susie. (Stop batting your eyelashes, girl...you're not so innocent!! LOL) "Mel, you should come to NYC! You could stay with us, here's an email address to request passes. C'mon!! We'll take care of ya!" Gah...are you kidding? Okay, fine. I'll check airfare, but I know it'll be astronomical. So off I go to travelocity.com. Less than $300?? Out of DES MOINES??? NO freakin' WAY! They're NEVER this cheap. Still, I wasn't holding my breath. A LOT of things had to work out perfectly in order for this to come together. I knew hubby wouldn't go for it. Too expensive. Too unsafe. Too over-the-top. Too...too...too.... I decide to bring it up in one of those off-handed ways that I'm famous for -
"So...May 7th-10th. What do we have going on?"
"Umm...nothing. Why?"
"Just curious."
Fast-forward a couple hours. "Hey...you know that weekend in May? The Jersey girls invited me to go to the Today show with them." (At this point, I still have not mentioned THEY are going to be on it.)
"Uhhh okay. Why would you want to g........oh!!! Of course. New Kids. (insert the "I'm so OVER this" sigh) How much is THIS gonna cost me?"
"Well, I actually checked airfare and it's less than $300 to fly out of DES MOINES (this, btw, is UNHEARD of. DSM is the most expensive airport on the planet)."
"Hmm..where you staying? How much will you be spending on ...."
I rattle off some figures.
"Well, if the tax return comes, I don't care what you do with your half."
Holy crap! Did he just say yes??
I'm fairly certain for a brief moment in time, the earth stopped spinning. First off, he's SUPER protective of me and the fact that I'm considering running...err...jetting off to NYC with people I've NEVER met is just insane to him. Secondly, this would be the second out of FOUR trips I'll be making solo this year to various cities across the country (Chicago and Denver are still to come for concerts this summer). Thirdly, did I mention, he's super protective?
So I talk to my girls...and this morning, I bought my plane ticket. I'm actually going to New York City without a plan, without a clue, without even a map of the city. I'm *so* screwed. LOL (Okay, I'm really not...my east coast girls have promised to take VERY good care of me and I trust them implicitly)
I think I crossed from "enthusiastic" to "crazy" when I clicked on the "book flight" button this morning. What in the hell am I thinking?!?!?!
I. Have. Lost. It.
Wednesday, April 29, 2009
Thursday, April 23, 2009
5 Brothers & a Million Sisters
5 brothers and a million sisters
Friday afternoon in Bostontown-
still know my way around.
Tryin’ ‘a find the rehearsal spot for
the reunion of the ‘kids on the block.
Gonna rip it like we used to do.
Good to be back chillin’ with the crew.
Don’t know how its gonna be, but
last time we made history.
So tell ya mother and ya sistah too,
the New Kids are coming back for you.
And in my heart I knew you’d never forget,
but to see you again like this
makes me feel like I’ll never be alone.
Wherever it is I’m goin’ to, whatever I am
is because of you and I thank you. And I thank you.
5 BROTHERS AND A MILLION SISTERS-
didn’t know how much I missed you.
Thank you. And I thank you.
All the way back and all the way up tonight.
Call it what you want, but I’ll call it love tonight.
Some people said we couldn’t do it again,
but the New Kids had the last word in the end.
See what happens when you follow your dreams?
See what happens when you just believe?
The whole world opens up her arms.
Everything is easy that used to be hard.
So tell ya mother that I lover her too
and don’t you know we did it all for you, cuz
in my heart I knew you’d never forget,
but to see you again like this
makes me feel like I’ll never be alone.
Wherever it is I’m goin’ to, whatever I am
is because of you and I thank you. And I thank you.
5 BROTHERS AND A MILLION SISTERS-
didn’t know how much I missed you.
Thank you. And I thank you.
Cuz you build me up. You make me high.
When I feel your love, I wanna fly.
No matter what we’re goin’ through
there ain’t nothin’ we can’t do.
And I thank you.
Saturday, April 11, 2009
My Face Time story from Des Moines
Des Moines, Iowa
April 6, 2009
Let me start by saying that I'm still in a dream state. I'm sure I will forget some things and I may repeat others. I'm also probably going to get things in the wrong order. Chalk it up to that "GAAAH!!!!" feeling I'm still experiencing. I normally consider myself a fairly competant writer, but I take absolutely NO responsibility for the drivel this blog could (and probably will) turn into. Forgive me now.
Shannon & Sarah arrived at my house Sunday night before the show. We stayed up all night laughing and giggling over captioned pictures, watching old NK videos and having a total slumber party.We made signs, tshirts and Sarah even made a special "Let's Get This" item (Shhh...ancient NK secret). It was great!
Monday morning came and we lazed around, deciding that the previous day's snow storm probably nixed any early-morning Face Time with the guys. Even Jon had tweeted the night before in Champaign that the crazy bus stalkers were freezing their butts off and he just didn't understand it. Jen & Missy arrived mid-morning and we spent the rest of the morning watching more old skool videos (making total fun of "Stay with Me, Baby") and getting ready for Stalkfest - Spring Edition. We finally got out of the house about noon-ish, grabbed a quick bite and headed to the arena.
Sarah drove with me, Shannon and my 12-yr old daughter, Shelby in her car. Jen & Missy took Jen's car. We decided to do a quick lap around the arena before committing ourselves to a parking space. As we came down the hill next to where the buses were parked, we looked over, scanning the area. I noticed him immediately but couldn't speak (Kinda like those dreams where you wanna run, but your feet don't work?). Shannon says "Umm guys?? That's Donnie."
I freak the hell out. TOTALLY. FREAK. OUT.
I'm pushing buttons on the door, yanking on the handle, shrieking in decibels that only dogs can hear, I'm certain (and I'm sure, the other girls can back me up)....."LEMME OUT!!!!!!!" Of course, in my crazed state, I COMPLETELY block out the fact that poor Sarah has never BEEN to Des Moines before and has NO idea where to go or what to do. (I'm SOOOOOOOO very very very sorry, Sarah! I still freakin' hart you to death!!) Shannon, Shelby and I finally release ourselves from the Chevy prison we're driving and Sarah says "What do I do???" So, as I'm running across the street, I holler back "Do a lap around the block & find parking!!" (Again....Sarah? I lurvey you. You know that, right??)
Shannon, Shelby and I tear across the street and I push Shelby into an empty spot by the gate just as Donnie gets there. He puts his arm around her, hugs her tight, cups her head against his chest and kisses the top of her head.
I. Freaking. MELT.
I work my way down the line to another empty spot just as Jen, Missy & Sarah get there (they managed to find parking a block up the street and Flo-Jo'd their butts down to the gates. Olympic trials organization? We'll be in touch!)
I manage to get in there for a quick hug too. He smelled *SO* damn good. Don't ask me what cologne he had on. I don't know and didn't recognize it right away. I just know it smelled clean, almost like he was fresh from the shower? (Gaaah...I know, right?!) His face was smooth, except his goatee and he gives GREAT hugs, even with just one arm.
He makes his way down the line and gets everybody hugs except Shannon (So sorry, girl!!). He disappears inside one of the buses. So...we're collectively gathering our thoughts. My daughter bursts into happy tears, and being the sap I am, I cry for her.
We are STOKED!!!!
So, the area clears a little bit, people come and go...a little while later, Joe comes out of the arena. Up until now, there really haven't been any screams or shrieks because rumor has it, Barrett & the baby are on the bus and we're assuming G's asleep. Well, Mr. McIntyre changes all that when he comes out and we let out a small scale of screams. Joe, being the jokester he is, does the shushing motion and we all quiet down. He then laughs and says "Nawww..just kiddin'. He's awake." and we all laugh and holler again. He laughs and gets on the bus.
In the meantime, Danny's dad and oldest daughter (?) come out and get on the bus.
Shortly thereafter, Danny came out with Vega and got on the bus. He gave waves and smiles to the crowd. Shelby again had tears in her eyes, as Danny's her favorite. She calmed down and after a while was having a good time waving & "talking" to Vega on the bus. We were all getting quite the giggle from her, actually. She kept peering out the driver's side window making the cutest faces. She was a trip. Loved that little girl half to death. LOL
Some more time went by and Earl, their bodyguard, comes out and gets on the Mac bus. He comes out a few minutes later and informs the crowd that they're coming out soon and that there are to be NO pictures taken of the baby when he comes out. Joe came out first with Duncan, the dog. Everybody "oooh'd and ahhhh'd" and Joe hollers out "Awwww, shaaaadupppp!" and then laughed. Rotten turd. LOL
Earlier, we'd noticed there was a stuffed animal on the dash of the Mac bus, and since nobody else knew what it was, I decided to ask Joe. Keep in mind, two weeks ago, I had some sinus/allergy issues that caused me to cough a lot. I ended up losing my voice before the Moline show. What little I could speak was lost the minute they came on stage that night. Four days later and I was *still* struggling. So when I holler out Joe's name, I know I must've sounded like a really raspy Tara Reid, at best, but at the very least, a very bad drag queen...LOL Anyway....
I get Joe's attention and ask him what stuffed animal is in the window. He turned and looked RIGHT AT ME (GAH!!! That Mac Stare!!) and said that it was "Road Dawg" and belonged to the bus driver. I know I said something else, but at this point in time, I don't remember what it was. Shannon hollered out that he was killing us in those jeans (yes, girls...it was THE Jeans). He just grinned and I swear the man shimmmied his butt at us.
Barrett & the baby came out shortly thereafter and the cameras went away (except for some girls down the row that Earl yelled at later...seriously? Shame on you!). Griffin had on an adorable little Boston Red Sox cap and Barrett was gorgeous as always. I told her what a wonderful woman she was and thanked her for being so tolerant of the psychosis we bring to their lives. I'm forever in awe at what a beautiful family they are. They all went inside and excitement died down for a little while again.
This is where things get fuzzy...so bear with me. LOL
At some point, somebody got off one of the buses and walked to the back. We didn't realize it until he came back and got back on the bus, but it was Jon. Sneaky little brat! Shortly thereafter, Donnie came back out with Jordan & Jon (again). Neither of them came over to the fence, though. Jordan did a little "paparazzi dance" and went inside and Donnie got on the BDB.
A little while later, Danny came out with the girls and they went inside. He gave waves again. :)
A few minutes after that, Donnie's bodyguard (Sorry, I can't remember his name) came out and said that he was gonna go down the line again and if you were out there before and got hugs, to please step back and let those come forward who hadn't met him before. We all stepped back, except for Shannon, but at our end of the line, it had thinned down considerably. We waited a few minutes and when nobody stepped forward, we went back against the gate. (and no, I don't feel the least bit guilty! LOL)
Donnie headed toward the front of the line and slowly worked his way down toward us. He looked at Shelby and she must've been shivering or something because he said "Little one, are you okay??" She muttered or nodded yes and he pulled her in close again, stroked her hair, kissed the top of her head and she said he even made a little "aww" sound as he hugged her. (Couldn't you just DIE?!)
He got to Sarah and apparently recognized her from before (even though she'd ditched her hat and zipped up her hoodie) and asked her "Didn't we meet before?" She just kinda nodded and grinned...he moved on (so sorry, Sarah! But hey?? DONNIEFRIGGINWAHLBERG recognized you!!!). He moved onto Manda...and apologized for kicking a pop can over and spilling on her shoes.
I have to stop for a moment and brag about the "Mamarazzi Skillz" my daughter has developed. For this having been her maiden voyage into full blown StalkFest, she delivered BIG. She managed to get this shot of Jon when he came off the Dark Knight bus.
At this point, I'm realizing that I have ONE shot at this...and I've heard that sometimes, if you ask for what you want, you get it. So Donnie gets to me and I can't even look him in the eye. I just look at his mouth (Sapmonster warning: that gorgeous, amazing, beautiful mouth) and ask him "Donnie, can I have a kiss??" He says, as he hugs me, "I can't lipkiss you, baby, you could get sick from me, but..." and he kissed me on the corner of my mouth and hugged me tight. *insert fangirl shrieks here* Before he pulls away entirely, I find myself petting his coat and saying "My God, it IS like buttah!!" He just laughs and squeezes my arm. He made his way through the rest of the line and disappeared inside. Shortly thereafter, Jon came back from behind the buses CrackBerrying & talking to a woman I didn't recognize and they, too, went inside.
Three hours had passed since we first whipped out of the car and tore across the street, but it all flew by SO quickly. A few quick words and a couple of hugs and our Face Time had ended. But those few moments, while mixed up and fuzzy, will remain in my mind forever.
I've been a fan for 20+ years and each concert I've been to, I've gotten closer and closer to being able to touch & talk to them. This experience was truly a dream come true. Such an overused phrase, but honestly? There's no other way to describe it. I always wondered what I would say if I ever met them. For two decades I've rehearsed clever commentary, witty banter and when they're right there in front of you, it all disappears. You find yourself clamoring for words at all, much less words that work together to form a cohesive thought. If I had to give advice to anyone wondering how to get Face Time, relax. It WILL happen, but you have to be committed to it. You can't stand at the curb and wait for them to come to you. You can't remain a wallflower and expect a conversation to happen. The guys are on a tight schedule (Donnie had several interviews he had to do before M&G time and it was only about an hour before that would've begun), so what you do get will be quick. Don't waste an opportunity or it will pass you by. Be aggressive, but not pushy. It's a delicate balance. Above all, remember that these guys owe us NOTHING. Even a wave from the buses is more than many of us will ever get. Take what you can get.
As far as the concert went, it too was amazing. In August 1989, I went to my first concert: NKOTB. Last Monday, I took my daughter to her first concert: NKOTB. Being able to share this experience with her was so much more awesome than even the hugs and kisses I got from Donnie. I watched that little girl's face light up again and again in wonderment of what was happening around her and I remember back to my first show. And I know my first concert experience wasn't nearly as cool as hers was. I didn't get "Face Time" or a backstage pass. And here my baby girl is getting hugs and cuddles from one of the men I've loved and adored for my entire life. It can only be described as surreal. She has memories that I worked my whole life to get. I'm still brought to tears by the fact that she got to experience this.
To the guys - I've rambled on and on here. I don't know that you've even read it, but if you have, I just want to tell you THANK YOU. I know you've said it to us again and again for our support through the years, but honestly, you deserve so much more than just "thanks" for what you've done. We were left in such a dark place in 1994 when you left the stage. Because of your reunion, your desire to return to music...to us...you've helped us reunite with friends we haven't talked to since high school. You've helped us become friends with new people all across the world (thanks to these boards). You've helped us share with our own children what you gave to us so many years ago. With all my heart and everything that's in me, I thank you so deeply for all of this and more. Thank you for your constant communication with us, the blogs, the vlogs, the Tweets, the shoutouts, the "eyesex" from the stage, all of it. YOU are amazing and I love you all so much.
--Melly--
April 6, 2009
Let me start by saying that I'm still in a dream state. I'm sure I will forget some things and I may repeat others. I'm also probably going to get things in the wrong order. Chalk it up to that "GAAAH!!!!" feeling I'm still experiencing. I normally consider myself a fairly competant writer, but I take absolutely NO responsibility for the drivel this blog could (and probably will) turn into. Forgive me now.
Shannon & Sarah arrived at my house Sunday night before the show. We stayed up all night laughing and giggling over captioned pictures, watching old NK videos and having a total slumber party.We made signs, tshirts and Sarah even made a special "Let's Get This" item (Shhh...ancient NK secret). It was great!
Monday morning came and we lazed around, deciding that the previous day's snow storm probably nixed any early-morning Face Time with the guys. Even Jon had tweeted the night before in Champaign that the crazy bus stalkers were freezing their butts off and he just didn't understand it. Jen & Missy arrived mid-morning and we spent the rest of the morning watching more old skool videos (making total fun of "Stay with Me, Baby") and getting ready for Stalkfest - Spring Edition. We finally got out of the house about noon-ish, grabbed a quick bite and headed to the arena.
Sarah drove with me, Shannon and my 12-yr old daughter, Shelby in her car. Jen & Missy took Jen's car. We decided to do a quick lap around the arena before committing ourselves to a parking space. As we came down the hill next to where the buses were parked, we looked over, scanning the area. I noticed him immediately but couldn't speak (Kinda like those dreams where you wanna run, but your feet don't work?). Shannon says "Umm guys?? That's Donnie."
I freak the hell out. TOTALLY. FREAK. OUT.
I'm pushing buttons on the door, yanking on the handle, shrieking in decibels that only dogs can hear, I'm certain (and I'm sure, the other girls can back me up)....."LEMME OUT!!!!!!!" Of course, in my crazed state, I COMPLETELY block out the fact that poor Sarah has never BEEN to Des Moines before and has NO idea where to go or what to do. (I'm SOOOOOOOO very very very sorry, Sarah! I still freakin' hart you to death!!) Shannon, Shelby and I finally release ourselves from the Chevy prison we're driving and Sarah says "What do I do???" So, as I'm running across the street, I holler back "Do a lap around the block & find parking!!" (Again....Sarah? I lurvey you. You know that, right??)
Shannon, Shelby and I tear across the street and I push Shelby into an empty spot by the gate just as Donnie gets there. He puts his arm around her, hugs her tight, cups her head against his chest and kisses the top of her head.
I work my way down the line to another empty spot just as Jen, Missy & Sarah get there (they managed to find parking a block up the street and Flo-Jo'd their butts down to the gates. Olympic trials organization? We'll be in touch!)
I manage to get in there for a quick hug too. He smelled *SO* damn good. Don't ask me what cologne he had on. I don't know and didn't recognize it right away. I just know it smelled clean, almost like he was fresh from the shower? (Gaaah...I know, right?!) His face was smooth, except his goatee and he gives GREAT hugs, even with just one arm.
He makes his way down the line and gets everybody hugs except Shannon (So sorry, girl!!). He disappears inside one of the buses. So...we're collectively gathering our thoughts. My daughter bursts into happy tears, and being the sap I am, I cry for her.
We are STOKED!!!!
So, the area clears a little bit, people come and go...a little while later, Joe comes out of the arena. Up until now, there really haven't been any screams or shrieks because rumor has it, Barrett & the baby are on the bus and we're assuming G's asleep. Well, Mr. McIntyre changes all that when he comes out and we let out a small scale of screams. Joe, being the jokester he is, does the shushing motion and we all quiet down. He then laughs and says "Nawww..just kiddin'. He's awake." and we all laugh and holler again. He laughs and gets on the bus.
In the meantime, Danny's dad and oldest daughter (?) come out and get on the bus.
Shortly thereafter, Danny came out with Vega and got on the bus. He gave waves and smiles to the crowd. Shelby again had tears in her eyes, as Danny's her favorite. She calmed down and after a while was having a good time waving & "talking" to Vega on the bus. We were all getting quite the giggle from her, actually. She kept peering out the driver's side window making the cutest faces. She was a trip. Loved that little girl half to death. LOL
Some more time went by and Earl, their bodyguard, comes out and gets on the Mac bus. He comes out a few minutes later and informs the crowd that they're coming out soon and that there are to be NO pictures taken of the baby when he comes out. Joe came out first with Duncan, the dog. Everybody "oooh'd and ahhhh'd" and Joe hollers out "Awwww, shaaaadupppp!" and then laughed. Rotten turd. LOL
Earlier, we'd noticed there was a stuffed animal on the dash of the Mac bus, and since nobody else knew what it was, I decided to ask Joe. Keep in mind, two weeks ago, I had some sinus/allergy issues that caused me to cough a lot. I ended up losing my voice before the Moline show. What little I could speak was lost the minute they came on stage that night. Four days later and I was *still* struggling. So when I holler out Joe's name, I know I must've sounded like a really raspy Tara Reid, at best, but at the very least, a very bad drag queen...LOL Anyway....
I get Joe's attention and ask him what stuffed animal is in the window. He turned and looked RIGHT AT ME (GAH!!! That Mac Stare!!) and said that it was "Road Dawg" and belonged to the bus driver. I know I said something else, but at this point in time, I don't remember what it was. Shannon hollered out that he was killing us in those jeans (yes, girls...it was THE Jeans). He just grinned and I swear the man shimmmied his butt at us.
Barrett & the baby came out shortly thereafter and the cameras went away (except for some girls down the row that Earl yelled at later...seriously? Shame on you!). Griffin had on an adorable little Boston Red Sox cap and Barrett was gorgeous as always. I told her what a wonderful woman she was and thanked her for being so tolerant of the psychosis we bring to their lives. I'm forever in awe at what a beautiful family they are. They all went inside and excitement died down for a little while again.
This is where things get fuzzy...so bear with me. LOL
At some point, somebody got off one of the buses and walked to the back. We didn't realize it until he came back and got back on the bus, but it was Jon. Sneaky little brat! Shortly thereafter, Donnie came back out with Jordan & Jon (again). Neither of them came over to the fence, though. Jordan did a little "paparazzi dance" and went inside and Donnie got on the BDB.
A little while later, Danny came out with the girls and they went inside. He gave waves again. :)
A few minutes after that, Donnie's bodyguard (Sorry, I can't remember his name) came out and said that he was gonna go down the line again and if you were out there before and got hugs, to please step back and let those come forward who hadn't met him before. We all stepped back, except for Shannon, but at our end of the line, it had thinned down considerably. We waited a few minutes and when nobody stepped forward, we went back against the gate. (and no, I don't feel the least bit guilty! LOL)
Donnie headed toward the front of the line and slowly worked his way down toward us. He looked at Shelby and she must've been shivering or something because he said "Little one, are you okay??" She muttered or nodded yes and he pulled her in close again, stroked her hair, kissed the top of her head and she said he even made a little "aww" sound as he hugged her. (Couldn't you just DIE?!)
He got to Sarah and apparently recognized her from before (even though she'd ditched her hat and zipped up her hoodie) and asked her "Didn't we meet before?" She just kinda nodded and grinned...he moved on (so sorry, Sarah! But hey?? DONNIEFRIGGINWAHLBERG recognized you!!!). He moved onto Manda...and apologized for kicking a pop can over and spilling on her shoes.
I have to stop for a moment and brag about the "Mamarazzi Skillz" my daughter has developed. For this having been her maiden voyage into full blown StalkFest, she delivered BIG. She managed to get this shot of Jon when he came off the Dark Knight bus.
At this point, I'm realizing that I have ONE shot at this...and I've heard that sometimes, if you ask for what you want, you get it. So Donnie gets to me and I can't even look him in the eye. I just look at his mouth (Sapmonster warning: that gorgeous, amazing, beautiful mouth) and ask him "Donnie, can I have a kiss??" He says, as he hugs me, "I can't lipkiss you, baby, you could get sick from me, but..." and he kissed me on the corner of my mouth and hugged me tight. *insert fangirl shrieks here* Before he pulls away entirely, I find myself petting his coat and saying "My God, it IS like buttah!!" He just laughs and squeezes my arm. He made his way through the rest of the line and disappeared inside. Shortly thereafter, Jon came back from behind the buses CrackBerrying & talking to a woman I didn't recognize and they, too, went inside.
Three hours had passed since we first whipped out of the car and tore across the street, but it all flew by SO quickly. A few quick words and a couple of hugs and our Face Time had ended. But those few moments, while mixed up and fuzzy, will remain in my mind forever.
I've been a fan for 20+ years and each concert I've been to, I've gotten closer and closer to being able to touch & talk to them. This experience was truly a dream come true. Such an overused phrase, but honestly? There's no other way to describe it. I always wondered what I would say if I ever met them. For two decades I've rehearsed clever commentary, witty banter and when they're right there in front of you, it all disappears. You find yourself clamoring for words at all, much less words that work together to form a cohesive thought. If I had to give advice to anyone wondering how to get Face Time, relax. It WILL happen, but you have to be committed to it. You can't stand at the curb and wait for them to come to you. You can't remain a wallflower and expect a conversation to happen. The guys are on a tight schedule (Donnie had several interviews he had to do before M&G time and it was only about an hour before that would've begun), so what you do get will be quick. Don't waste an opportunity or it will pass you by. Be aggressive, but not pushy. It's a delicate balance. Above all, remember that these guys owe us NOTHING. Even a wave from the buses is more than many of us will ever get. Take what you can get.
As far as the concert went, it too was amazing. In August 1989, I went to my first concert: NKOTB. Last Monday, I took my daughter to her first concert: NKOTB. Being able to share this experience with her was so much more awesome than even the hugs and kisses I got from Donnie. I watched that little girl's face light up again and again in wonderment of what was happening around her and I remember back to my first show. And I know my first concert experience wasn't nearly as cool as hers was. I didn't get "Face Time" or a backstage pass. And here my baby girl is getting hugs and cuddles from one of the men I've loved and adored for my entire life. It can only be described as surreal. She has memories that I worked my whole life to get. I'm still brought to tears by the fact that she got to experience this.
To the guys - I've rambled on and on here. I don't know that you've even read it, but if you have, I just want to tell you THANK YOU. I know you've said it to us again and again for our support through the years, but honestly, you deserve so much more than just "thanks" for what you've done. We were left in such a dark place in 1994 when you left the stage. Because of your reunion, your desire to return to music...to us...you've helped us reunite with friends we haven't talked to since high school. You've helped us become friends with new people all across the world (thanks to these boards). You've helped us share with our own children what you gave to us so many years ago. With all my heart and everything that's in me, I thank you so deeply for all of this and more. Thank you for your constant communication with us, the blogs, the vlogs, the Tweets, the shoutouts, the "eyesex" from the stage, all of it. YOU are amazing and I love you all so much.
--Melly--
Thursday, March 19, 2009
Two weeks notice
Okay girls...we're two weeks away from Moline.
Two.
Fucking.
Weeks.
I'm so ready for this. You don't even KNOW! Facetime WILL be mine. Hell or high-water, Face Time WILL be mine. I've waited 21 years for this and I have a sneaking suspicion this will be my last chance for it....this year, that is. I know there's still summer tour. Beyond that, I guess we'll play it by ear. But I WILL get to meet them. I have to.
I said this back in '94, btw. And it didn't happen.
But I'm older.
Wiser.
More networked than before.
Donnie won't even know what hit him. Poor guy. I almost feel sorry for him. LOL
Let's GET this!!!!
Two.
Fucking.
Weeks.
I'm so ready for this. You don't even KNOW! Facetime WILL be mine. Hell or high-water, Face Time WILL be mine. I've waited 21 years for this and I have a sneaking suspicion this will be my last chance for it....this year, that is. I know there's still summer tour. Beyond that, I guess we'll play it by ear. But I WILL get to meet them. I have to.
I said this back in '94, btw. And it didn't happen.
But I'm older.
Wiser.
More networked than before.
Donnie won't even know what hit him. Poor guy. I almost feel sorry for him. LOL
Let's GET this!!!!
Monday, March 2, 2009
How credible could she be, afterall.
It's like last call as the former New Kid on the Block spends an evening in the North End
By Meredith Goldstein, Globe Staff | January 12, 2006
I'm hugging Jordan Knight, a former member of New Kids on the Block, in front of Strega in the North End. It's a little after 9 p.m., and I'm pretty sure he's had way too much to drink (about eight double vodkas and beers, according to our bill).
He looks at the cab that's pulled over to take him home, and he whispers in my ear, ''Want to come?"
I don't know if he's kidding, but for a moment, it feels like it's 1989 all over again. My stomach is churning, and I'm living the dream I know I must have had when I was 11, that someday Jordan Knight would want to whisk me away in a taxi.
But let's rewind.
I get to Strega at about 6 p.m., where I'm supposed to meet Jordan Knight, his wife, and their friends for dinner. The assignment is to hang out with them on their double date, shadowing a typical night in the life of a former boy-band star from Dorchester who, at 35, is trying for a comeback with a new solo album, ''The Fix."
But when I get to the restaurant, Jordan's alone at the bar. The wives didn't come, he says. It's going to be just the three of us -- Jordan, his promoter/pal Michael Patt, and I. (And a photographer to capture the night.)
It starts off as expected. When Michael arrives, he and Jordan talk about music and their kids. Jordan's new single, ''Where Is Your Heart Tonight," is a ballad, and Mike is trying to market the song to easy-listening stations.
Mike asks what Jordan is drinking. He's already told me. ''It's something sweet, like a watered-down vanilla Bacardi thing," he says.
We talk about Jordan's son, Dante, a first-grader who likes his dad's Play Station Portable. Jordan and I talk about backup dancers and about how we think they're limiting.
Jordan has now downed a few of those vanilla Bacardi things, which I later find out are double vodkas, and he's mixing them with beer. I tell him to eat, but he's not interested.
''I ate a big meal at, like, 4," he says.
Then he begins to make serious faces, stands up, and leans against a wall. When I look confused, he tells me he's posing for the photographer I brought with me.
I tell Jordan to sit down, that the pictures from the evening are supposed to be candid.
''I'm just trying to get my man a good shot," he says, referring to the photographer and adjusting his scarf, which I assure him looks good.
Soon, Jordan runs out of the restaurant onto Hanover Street, where he poses under a tree. The photographer reluctantly follows.
When Jordan comes back to the table, I ask him to list the artists he'd most like to perform with, living or dead.
''James Brown. Beatles. Michael Jackson. Luther Vandross."
We talk more about music, and then he excuses himself. He yells from the bathroom, ''Heeeeeey. Heeeey," loud enough for other patrons to hear, and I get up to help. Turns out he wants the photographer to take pictures of him by the bathroom.
I say to Mike, ''He keeps posing."
''He's a poser," Mike says, smiling.
When Jordan returns, I tell him I like a song he released in 1999 called ''Give It To You." He tells me he came up with a dance for the track before he had even recorded it.
''I said, 'Let me come up with dance steps. . .' " he says. ''If I ever sing it, I'll have some hot [expletive]."
Jordan is soon recognized by a man at the restaurant who says, ''Jordan. Hello. I know you." The man starts to explain how they know each other but gives up when he sees Jordan's blank stare.
Moving on, Mike and I decide to talk about love, about Jordan's wife, whom Jordan met when he was about 12.
''I went to her family's house for meals," Jordan says. ''They loved me."
I tell him that marriage scares me, and Jordan, sipping another beer, looks like he's just noticed me for the first time. He puts his hand to my face and tries to push the hair out of my eyes, but his aim is off and he's hitting me in the eyebrow. I ask him how he knew he wanted to marry his wife and what makes a good partner.
He says, very slowly, ''OK. What's the question?"
I remind him.
He answers, ''You . . . want a wife . . . who is not . . . cheat-ful. . ." Then he makes a face at the camera.
Mike goes outside to flag a cab for Jordan. We follow him out and say our goodbyes, and Jordan whispers the aforementioned quick invite in my ear.
I squeal ''Jordan!" in a falsetto I forgot I had, pretending like it's not 2006, like he's not 35, and like we don't know better.
Meredith Goldstein can be reached at mgoldstein@globe.com
© Copyright 2006 Globe Newspaper Company.
By Meredith Goldstein, Globe Staff | January 12, 2006
I'm hugging Jordan Knight, a former member of New Kids on the Block, in front of Strega in the North End. It's a little after 9 p.m., and I'm pretty sure he's had way too much to drink (about eight double vodkas and beers, according to our bill).
He looks at the cab that's pulled over to take him home, and he whispers in my ear, ''Want to come?"
I don't know if he's kidding, but for a moment, it feels like it's 1989 all over again. My stomach is churning, and I'm living the dream I know I must have had when I was 11, that someday Jordan Knight would want to whisk me away in a taxi.
But let's rewind.
I get to Strega at about 6 p.m., where I'm supposed to meet Jordan Knight, his wife, and their friends for dinner. The assignment is to hang out with them on their double date, shadowing a typical night in the life of a former boy-band star from Dorchester who, at 35, is trying for a comeback with a new solo album, ''The Fix."
But when I get to the restaurant, Jordan's alone at the bar. The wives didn't come, he says. It's going to be just the three of us -- Jordan, his promoter/pal Michael Patt, and I. (And a photographer to capture the night.)
It starts off as expected. When Michael arrives, he and Jordan talk about music and their kids. Jordan's new single, ''Where Is Your Heart Tonight," is a ballad, and Mike is trying to market the song to easy-listening stations.
Mike asks what Jordan is drinking. He's already told me. ''It's something sweet, like a watered-down vanilla Bacardi thing," he says.
We talk about Jordan's son, Dante, a first-grader who likes his dad's Play Station Portable. Jordan and I talk about backup dancers and about how we think they're limiting.
Jordan has now downed a few of those vanilla Bacardi things, which I later find out are double vodkas, and he's mixing them with beer. I tell him to eat, but he's not interested.
''I ate a big meal at, like, 4," he says.
Then he begins to make serious faces, stands up, and leans against a wall. When I look confused, he tells me he's posing for the photographer I brought with me.
I tell Jordan to sit down, that the pictures from the evening are supposed to be candid.
''I'm just trying to get my man a good shot," he says, referring to the photographer and adjusting his scarf, which I assure him looks good.
Soon, Jordan runs out of the restaurant onto Hanover Street, where he poses under a tree. The photographer reluctantly follows.
When Jordan comes back to the table, I ask him to list the artists he'd most like to perform with, living or dead.
''James Brown. Beatles. Michael Jackson. Luther Vandross."
We talk more about music, and then he excuses himself. He yells from the bathroom, ''Heeeeeey. Heeeey," loud enough for other patrons to hear, and I get up to help. Turns out he wants the photographer to take pictures of him by the bathroom.
I say to Mike, ''He keeps posing."
''He's a poser," Mike says, smiling.
When Jordan returns, I tell him I like a song he released in 1999 called ''Give It To You." He tells me he came up with a dance for the track before he had even recorded it.
''I said, 'Let me come up with dance steps. . .' " he says. ''If I ever sing it, I'll have some hot [expletive]."
Jordan is soon recognized by a man at the restaurant who says, ''Jordan. Hello. I know you." The man starts to explain how they know each other but gives up when he sees Jordan's blank stare.
Moving on, Mike and I decide to talk about love, about Jordan's wife, whom Jordan met when he was about 12.
''I went to her family's house for meals," Jordan says. ''They loved me."
I tell him that marriage scares me, and Jordan, sipping another beer, looks like he's just noticed me for the first time. He puts his hand to my face and tries to push the hair out of my eyes, but his aim is off and he's hitting me in the eyebrow. I ask him how he knew he wanted to marry his wife and what makes a good partner.
He says, very slowly, ''OK. What's the question?"
I remind him.
He answers, ''You . . . want a wife . . . who is not . . . cheat-ful. . ." Then he makes a face at the camera.
Mike goes outside to flag a cab for Jordan. We follow him out and say our goodbyes, and Jordan whispers the aforementioned quick invite in my ear.
I squeal ''Jordan!" in a falsetto I forgot I had, pretending like it's not 2006, like he's not 35, and like we don't know better.
Meredith Goldstein can be reached at mgoldstein@globe.com
© Copyright 2006 Globe Newspaper Company.
Tuesday, February 3, 2009
Interesting.....teaser, spoiler or major foul-up?
Danny blogged Sunday. It first went up on his MySpace page:
Today, it appeared on NKOTB.com:
Do you see what's missing between Sunday and today?
I do.
Was it a teaser?
Was it a spoiler?
Or did somebody fuck up?
Hi everyone,Just wanted to say thank you to all our UK, Irish, Scottish and German fans for making our European tour so special. You guys are making us feel right at home. We have been able to let loose and give you guys some shows I will never forget. After 17-18 years it is amazing the support you guys have shown. I love all of you.
And to everyone back home in America, we can’t wait for March 7th. We are starting a new leg to our North American tour. Also be on the look out for our new video for “2 in the morning”. Lets make this one a big hit by calling the radio stations and hitting up VH1. This song has always been one of my favorites and I have been waiting for the release. Lets make a big push into the summer. 2am, the spring tour, the cruise, and then the all new summer tour. I still catch myself in disbelief. I am so grateful to all of you and lets keep this ride going.
All my love
Danny
Today, it appeared on NKOTB.com:
Hi everyone,Just wanted to say thank you to all our UK, Irish, Scottish and German fans for making our European tour so special. You guys are making us feel right at home. We have been able to let loose and give you guys some shows I will never forget. After 17-18 years, the support you guys have shown is amazing. I love all of you.
And to everyone back home in America, we can’t wait for March 7th. We are starting a new leg to our North American tour. Also be on the look out for our new video for “2 in the morning”. Let’s make this one a big hit by calling the radio stations and hitting up VH1. This song has always been one of my favorites and I have been waiting for the release. Let’s make a big push into the summer. 2am, the spring tour, the cruise… I still catch myself in disbelief. I am so grateful to all of you and lets keep this ride going.All my love,
Danny
Do you see what's missing between Sunday and today?
I do.
and then the all new summer tour.
Was it a teaser?
Was it a spoiler?
Or did somebody fuck up?
Sunday, February 1, 2009
But, I've never done this kinda thing before!
With the development of the internet came the ability to buy tickets online. Easy peasie clicks and you're the proud owner of great tickets to the concert of your choice.
I'm not sure exactly what it was that inspired me to get in touch with my friend Syd, but when I heard NK tickets were going on sale I immediately IM'd him and asked him about his "connections" at Wells. I saw the great pictures he got from the Slipknot show and was definitely interested in getting decent seats for the NK show, too. He told me, however, that he has no "connections," he just gets in line early for tickets and usually gets whatever he wants. Next thing I know, I've decided that instead of sleeping in my own warm bed Friday night and doing that easy peasie click thing Saturday morning, I was going to sleep in front of WF arena instead. I checked with Nate and he was cool with it, so the planning began. Sean wanted to come with, so off we went Friday night.
After a hearty meal, Sean and I grabbed our sleeping bags, mp3 players and warmest clothes and headed to DSM. Syd was already in line and his girlfriend Anna was on her way. Another guy and his teenage son came up just a few minutes after we got there. Second in line. SWEET!!
There'd been a hockey game, so we were waiting inside the breezeway (between the two doors). Unfortunately though, some guy with a lanyard on a power trip told us we'd have to take the party outside. Damn! Out we trudged...the first hour went pretty non-eventfully. Anna had joined us by this point and we sat and chatted for a bit. Sean was a trooper and didn't complain too much about the cold - no worse than I had, at least.
About 11:30 or 12, a hockey player and his girlfriend came out and one of us happened to sneakily grab the door before it could shut behind them. Sean had to go to the bathroom, so he went in and walked toward the bathrooms, but a janitor stopped him. While he didn't tell him to leave, he did tell him not to follow him (in a creepy Old-Mr.-Jenkins-if-it-weren't-for-you-meddling-kids sorta voice, I might add). So...Sean came back out, but we wedged a hat in the door so we could get in later, after we knew everybody'd left for the night. Yes, yes, I know how WRONG this is...but I also know how freakin' COLD it was.
As downtown Des Moines quieted down for the night, we watched people walk back to their cars from the bars...we cracked open the little hand warmers and stuffed them in our gloves, shirts, collars and hats...we told stories of concerts past and honestly...had a GREAT time, despite the cold. Syd gave up the first ghost about 1:30 or so and he and Sean took a trip to QT and McDonald's. When they got back, Anna'd had enough so she went home for a few hours. She was absolutely exhausted. About an hour later, Sean and I finally gave up the fight and decided to make a 3am trip to McD's and QT for bathroom and food. The guy and his son had also retired to their van for a little while to warm up.
When we got back (bellies full of McNuggets & fries, I might add), we decided that it was time to migrate inside. Slowly and stealthily, we crept inside the breezeway, keeping close to the outer walls to hopefully elude the security cameras for a while. We managed to do just that. We were so grateful for heat and block from the wind. We didn't care that we were breaking the law. We just knew we were finally not shivering. As time went on, people started to join us...two by two, the breezeway began to fill up. Finally, around 6:00ish, our final "illegal immigrants" joined us...and shortly thereafter, our cover was blown.
Shit.
We all grimaced as a WF employee made his way down the stairs. We were dreading having to go back out into the cold with still almost 4 hours to go. Although me having some cool air around me so I didn't strangle the NK-fan-wannabe who claimed to have been "waiting for this moment for 21 years" probably wouldn't have been a bad idea by that point. The guy was apparently just a peon because he didn't kick us out...just checked the doors after verifying with security that we could be in there. Apparently they didn't want to tangle with kicking twelve of us out into the cold. He bid us happy ticket hunting and made his way back up the stairs.
Ahh yes....the wannabe fan. I knew you'd ask me about that.
This snarky, eavesdropping little snot pissed me off from the get-go. She walked in like she owned the damn place about 3:30 am. First off...don't fuck with me at 3 in the morning. Secondly, don't fuck with my boys at 3 in the morning. So, she's been there only a few minutes before she starts talking about going to the show. Blah blah. Don't care. Then she starts spoutin' off shit about seating for the arena and sound checks and the more she talked, the more I'm thinkin either she's Donnie's fuckin' sister and has insider information.....or she's a complete fucktard without a brain cell in her head. It was at this time that Syd and I had a twin-brain-power moment and texted each other at EXACTLY the same time. He says "What's up with her?" and I tell him "This chick's fullashit. She doesn't know what she's talking about.". Our phones beeped at exactly the same moment. I cracked up.
She's an eavesdropper..which just pisses me right the hell off. So, she's eavesdropping on my conversation with my buddy (and now, my personal savior) Syd about which sections we're going to request when we get to the ticket window, etc...and she pipes up....why aren't you just asking for first available on the floor?
I said "Because you're not going to get anything closer than row 21 and I'm not going to do that when I can get the first or second row next to the stage in the lower bowl." And she starts arguing with me about how it doesn't MATTER if it's some fan club or not...."state law prohibits...." blah blah fuckity blah. I said, "Umm....are you ON nkotb.com AT ALL?" She said "Well yeah, duh. I'm a fan. I've been there a lot."
It's at this point in time I realize that she's NOT Donnie's sister.
So I tell her in the MOST diplofuckingmatic way possible that she's obviously not aware that a company called "I Love All Access" has already bought the first twenty rows for VIP seating. She starts arguing with me again and by now, I'm rolling my eyes and taking a deep breath to keep from killing her. I responded with "Well, obviously you know much more than I do, so I'll request my section and just hope for the best."
Okay...so later on...the heat starts to kick up a little bit as the sun comes up (we're in a glass lobby and the heat's on....we're starting to get warm) so I take off my coat. I'd worn my turtleneck under my old skool black NK tshirt with the street sign and neon foot prints on it. And she starts fucking LAUGHING at me.
"My God, where'd you GET that thing?"
I said "MusicLand in 1990...why?"
She says "Wow, you're not a fan. You're fucking obsessed."
Even Sean giggled and said "you're so dead, man."
She said "Well, I mean you know all the songs, you have 20 year old tshirts...I mean, that's just crazy."
About that time, Nate calls me. His ringtone is "I'll Be Loving You Forever." And lil Miss Know-It-All pipes up "OMG, I forgot they even DID that song!!"
I looked at her and said "Honey...can you even legally buy a beer? Cuz you're done. Seriously. You're done."
I *hate* people who think they know everything when clearly, they couldn't fill up a paper plate with the knowledge they truly possess. This chick had my nerves on end when she walked in the door. I found GREAT pleasure in knowing her request for "best available" seats got her somewhere past row 20 on the floor.
Okay....that little snippet's done.
About 9am, they finally start setting up the barricade thingie to form rows for the ticket windows and we line up. Syd's telling us the protocol for what to do and it dawns on me. I'm FIRST in line for my window. HOLY crap. I've NEVER been first in line for ANYTHING like this!! I tell the guy which section I want...and he finds me 8 seats in the FIRST row of section 103.
GAH!! RIGHTBYTHEFUCKINGSTAGEOMG!
I hand him my CC and tell him to snap those baby's up. He swipes the card and starts processing the transaction. He gets a puzzled look and swipes it again. Hmm...He says "Let me try manually entering the card number." What the HELL?? STILL no good. OMG. What the fuck is going on???? I just transferred money to the account yesterday to make sure there was enough for the tickets!!!! I yell for Syd....I'm PANICKING.
It finally dawns on me....it's a new CC. I didn't activate it. Mother. Fuck. Syd laughs at me, but, bless his heart, put the tickets on his card for me.
So...after nearly freezing my ass off outside for almost six hours, nearly murdering a wanna-be fan and then having a freakin' CORONARY when my payment method doesn't work, I am finally the proud owner of FIVE tickets for the Des Moines NKOTB show in April.
I immediately call my girls (Jen and Sarah - who is actually flying out here the day before the concert from Washington to go with us) and tell them where we're sitting. They're THRILLED!!!! Jen also relays to me the information for our Moline concert on the 2nd. Again..section 103. A little farther up, but still VERY very good seats!! I tell Shelby the good news and she's thrilled too. She can hardly believe it's happening! I finally get home around noon and update my MySpace and Facebook statuses to reflect the killer seats we got for the shows. Kimmi comments "ummm....HOW killer?" Now, she'd already decided that she was ONLY coming to Iowa for the Moline show on Thursday because with her travel plans this year, she just couldn't stay for Monday's show, too. So I tell her where the seats are and tell her I can still get a ticket for her in our section if she wants to go, but she needs to let me know ASAP. She immediately responded, and after a little bit of deliberation, she said "YES. I'm in!!"
So....not only do I get to attend TWO shows this spring with three of my best friends, I get to share it with my daughter, too. August 1989 was my first real concert - NKOTB at the Iowa State Fair. This year...twenty years later, will be Shelby's first concert - NKOTB at Wells Fargo Arena. I'm so thrilled I can hardly stand it!!!!
I'm not sure exactly what it was that inspired me to get in touch with my friend Syd, but when I heard NK tickets were going on sale I immediately IM'd him and asked him about his "connections" at Wells. I saw the great pictures he got from the Slipknot show and was definitely interested in getting decent seats for the NK show, too. He told me, however, that he has no "connections," he just gets in line early for tickets and usually gets whatever he wants. Next thing I know, I've decided that instead of sleeping in my own warm bed Friday night and doing that easy peasie click thing Saturday morning, I was going to sleep in front of WF arena instead. I checked with Nate and he was cool with it, so the planning began. Sean wanted to come with, so off we went Friday night.
After a hearty meal, Sean and I grabbed our sleeping bags, mp3 players and warmest clothes and headed to DSM. Syd was already in line and his girlfriend Anna was on her way. Another guy and his teenage son came up just a few minutes after we got there. Second in line. SWEET!!
There'd been a hockey game, so we were waiting inside the breezeway (between the two doors). Unfortunately though, some guy with a lanyard on a power trip told us we'd have to take the party outside. Damn! Out we trudged...the first hour went pretty non-eventfully. Anna had joined us by this point and we sat and chatted for a bit. Sean was a trooper and didn't complain too much about the cold - no worse than I had, at least.
About 11:30 or 12, a hockey player and his girlfriend came out and one of us happened to sneakily grab the door before it could shut behind them. Sean had to go to the bathroom, so he went in and walked toward the bathrooms, but a janitor stopped him. While he didn't tell him to leave, he did tell him not to follow him (in a creepy Old-Mr.-Jenkins-if-it-weren't-for-you-meddling-kids sorta voice, I might add). So...Sean came back out, but we wedged a hat in the door so we could get in later, after we knew everybody'd left for the night. Yes, yes, I know how WRONG this is...but I also know how freakin' COLD it was.
As downtown Des Moines quieted down for the night, we watched people walk back to their cars from the bars...we cracked open the little hand warmers and stuffed them in our gloves, shirts, collars and hats...we told stories of concerts past and honestly...had a GREAT time, despite the cold. Syd gave up the first ghost about 1:30 or so and he and Sean took a trip to QT and McDonald's. When they got back, Anna'd had enough so she went home for a few hours. She was absolutely exhausted. About an hour later, Sean and I finally gave up the fight and decided to make a 3am trip to McD's and QT for bathroom and food. The guy and his son had also retired to their van for a little while to warm up.
When we got back (bellies full of McNuggets & fries, I might add), we decided that it was time to migrate inside. Slowly and stealthily, we crept inside the breezeway, keeping close to the outer walls to hopefully elude the security cameras for a while. We managed to do just that. We were so grateful for heat and block from the wind. We didn't care that we were breaking the law. We just knew we were finally not shivering. As time went on, people started to join us...two by two, the breezeway began to fill up. Finally, around 6:00ish, our final "illegal immigrants" joined us...and shortly thereafter, our cover was blown.
Shit.
We all grimaced as a WF employee made his way down the stairs. We were dreading having to go back out into the cold with still almost 4 hours to go. Although me having some cool air around me so I didn't strangle the NK-fan-wannabe who claimed to have been "waiting for this moment for 21 years" probably wouldn't have been a bad idea by that point. The guy was apparently just a peon because he didn't kick us out...just checked the doors after verifying with security that we could be in there. Apparently they didn't want to tangle with kicking twelve of us out into the cold. He bid us happy ticket hunting and made his way back up the stairs.
Ahh yes....the wannabe fan. I knew you'd ask me about that.
This snarky, eavesdropping little snot pissed me off from the get-go. She walked in like she owned the damn place about 3:30 am. First off...don't fuck with me at 3 in the morning. Secondly, don't fuck with my boys at 3 in the morning. So, she's been there only a few minutes before she starts talking about going to the show. Blah blah. Don't care. Then she starts spoutin' off shit about seating for the arena and sound checks and the more she talked, the more I'm thinkin either she's Donnie's fuckin' sister and has insider information.....or she's a complete fucktard without a brain cell in her head. It was at this time that Syd and I had a twin-brain-power moment and texted each other at EXACTLY the same time. He says "What's up with her?" and I tell him "This chick's fullashit. She doesn't know what she's talking about.". Our phones beeped at exactly the same moment. I cracked up.
She's an eavesdropper..which just pisses me right the hell off. So, she's eavesdropping on my conversation with my buddy (and now, my personal savior) Syd about which sections we're going to request when we get to the ticket window, etc...and she pipes up....why aren't you just asking for first available on the floor?
I said "Because you're not going to get anything closer than row 21 and I'm not going to do that when I can get the first or second row next to the stage in the lower bowl." And she starts arguing with me about how it doesn't MATTER if it's some fan club or not...."state law prohibits...." blah blah fuckity blah. I said, "Umm....are you ON nkotb.com AT ALL?" She said "Well yeah, duh. I'm a fan. I've been there a lot."
It's at this point in time I realize that she's NOT Donnie's sister.
So I tell her in the MOST diplofuckingmatic way possible that she's obviously not aware that a company called "I Love All Access" has already bought the first twenty rows for VIP seating. She starts arguing with me again and by now, I'm rolling my eyes and taking a deep breath to keep from killing her. I responded with "Well, obviously you know much more than I do, so I'll request my section and just hope for the best."
Okay...so later on...the heat starts to kick up a little bit as the sun comes up (we're in a glass lobby and the heat's on....we're starting to get warm) so I take off my coat. I'd worn my turtleneck under my old skool black NK tshirt with the street sign and neon foot prints on it. And she starts fucking LAUGHING at me.
"My God, where'd you GET that thing?"
I said "MusicLand in 1990...why?"
She says "Wow, you're not a fan. You're fucking obsessed."
Even Sean giggled and said "you're so dead, man."
She said "Well, I mean you know all the songs, you have 20 year old tshirts...I mean, that's just crazy."
About that time, Nate calls me. His ringtone is "I'll Be Loving You Forever." And lil Miss Know-It-All pipes up "OMG, I forgot they even DID that song!!"
I looked at her and said "Honey...can you even legally buy a beer? Cuz you're done. Seriously. You're done."
I *hate* people who think they know everything when clearly, they couldn't fill up a paper plate with the knowledge they truly possess. This chick had my nerves on end when she walked in the door. I found GREAT pleasure in knowing her request for "best available" seats got her somewhere past row 20 on the floor.
Okay....that little snippet's done.
About 9am, they finally start setting up the barricade thingie to form rows for the ticket windows and we line up. Syd's telling us the protocol for what to do and it dawns on me. I'm FIRST in line for my window. HOLY crap. I've NEVER been first in line for ANYTHING like this!! I tell the guy which section I want...and he finds me 8 seats in the FIRST row of section 103.
GAH!! RIGHTBYTHEFUCKINGSTAGEOMG!
I hand him my CC and tell him to snap those baby's up. He swipes the card and starts processing the transaction. He gets a puzzled look and swipes it again. Hmm...He says "Let me try manually entering the card number." What the HELL?? STILL no good. OMG. What the fuck is going on???? I just transferred money to the account yesterday to make sure there was enough for the tickets!!!! I yell for Syd....I'm PANICKING.
It finally dawns on me....it's a new CC. I didn't activate it. Mother. Fuck. Syd laughs at me, but, bless his heart, put the tickets on his card for me.
So...after nearly freezing my ass off outside for almost six hours, nearly murdering a wanna-be fan and then having a freakin' CORONARY when my payment method doesn't work, I am finally the proud owner of FIVE tickets for the Des Moines NKOTB show in April.
I immediately call my girls (Jen and Sarah - who is actually flying out here the day before the concert from Washington to go with us) and tell them where we're sitting. They're THRILLED!!!! Jen also relays to me the information for our Moline concert on the 2nd. Again..section 103. A little farther up, but still VERY very good seats!! I tell Shelby the good news and she's thrilled too. She can hardly believe it's happening! I finally get home around noon and update my MySpace and Facebook statuses to reflect the killer seats we got for the shows. Kimmi comments "ummm....HOW killer?" Now, she'd already decided that she was ONLY coming to Iowa for the Moline show on Thursday because with her travel plans this year, she just couldn't stay for Monday's show, too. So I tell her where the seats are and tell her I can still get a ticket for her in our section if she wants to go, but she needs to let me know ASAP. She immediately responded, and after a little bit of deliberation, she said "YES. I'm in!!"
So....not only do I get to attend TWO shows this spring with three of my best friends, I get to share it with my daughter, too. August 1989 was my first real concert - NKOTB at the Iowa State Fair. This year...twenty years later, will be Shelby's first concert - NKOTB at Wells Fargo Arena. I'm so thrilled I can hardly stand it!!!!
Tuesday, January 27, 2009
Operation Squirrel (Jon's Blog)
Greetings from one of the best cities in the world! Just enjoyed a day
off in London. Can we just stay here? I’m getting so tired of packing
and unpacking everyday. Its all your fault, but I thank you for this
one misery I have to suffer (LOL). Watson got sent home on the first
plane to America this morning. I found his behavior to be a bit erratic
lately. I hear he was the cause of our continued economic downfall
Monday morning. The majority of you were not up to full working
capabilities due to staying up half the night waiting for some video to
be posted on the web. I wasn’t at that show and haven’t seen the video.
I did hear something about his a** being all over YouTube though.
Hopefully some upcoming time off will do him good. He told me he is
feeling extremely tired and home sick. The cold and rainy weather,
constant air travel, and being in a different time zone is sure taking
its toll on the poor guy! We all now he is no spring chicken these days
and damp weather is hard on the arthritis! Good thing he loves what he
does, so he will be just fine! In the mean time, I am here by myself
and will fill in for him during his absence. He said he can’t wait to
join me again sometime soon. I’m not sure when he will be back because
he shows up at really random times. He said something about a cruise in
May, not sure if he was talking about the cruise that I will be on with
some of you……I guess we will have to wait and see!
Jonathan
ps. You can now blog about my multiple personalities PH
pss. Operation squirrel, not gonna happen!
psss. Travelin Jon needs a plastic surgeon. What’s up with that nose?
pssss. Jessica Jones needs a vacation, what a girl! If I was the
president you’d be my press secretary
psssss. Starbucks in Europe needs half and half its just not right with
plain milk
pssssss. Hi Mom
psssssss. Wow its 5:48 and I have to be on a bus in a few hours
pssssssss. Good night!
off in London. Can we just stay here? I’m getting so tired of packing
and unpacking everyday. Its all your fault, but I thank you for this
one misery I have to suffer (LOL). Watson got sent home on the first
plane to America this morning. I found his behavior to be a bit erratic
lately. I hear he was the cause of our continued economic downfall
Monday morning. The majority of you were not up to full working
capabilities due to staying up half the night waiting for some video to
be posted on the web. I wasn’t at that show and haven’t seen the video.
I did hear something about his a** being all over YouTube though.
Hopefully some upcoming time off will do him good. He told me he is
feeling extremely tired and home sick. The cold and rainy weather,
constant air travel, and being in a different time zone is sure taking
its toll on the poor guy! We all now he is no spring chicken these days
and damp weather is hard on the arthritis! Good thing he loves what he
does, so he will be just fine! In the mean time, I am here by myself
and will fill in for him during his absence. He said he can’t wait to
join me again sometime soon. I’m not sure when he will be back because
he shows up at really random times. He said something about a cruise in
May, not sure if he was talking about the cruise that I will be on with
some of you……I guess we will have to wait and see!
Jonathan
ps. You can now blog about my multiple personalities PH
pss. Operation squirrel, not gonna happen!
psss. Travelin Jon needs a plastic surgeon. What’s up with that nose?
pssss. Jessica Jones needs a vacation, what a girl! If I was the
president you’d be my press secretary
psssss. Starbucks in Europe needs half and half its just not right with
plain milk
pssssss. Hi Mom
psssssss. Wow its 5:48 and I have to be on a bus in a few hours
pssssssss. Good night!
Monday, January 12, 2009
The first step is admitting there's a problem.
Or so they tell me.
I wouldn't know, as I'm not in rehab.
I have realized, however, that I do have some serious addictions. I've developed a drug habit. Because I am *SO* addicted to New Kids, it's only fitting that they have developed nicknames related to addiction-causing materials.
Jonathan isexactly my brand of Heroin. Aptly named because of his immediate effects on me - heightened body temperature, flushed skin, breathlessness and clouded mental function. The most addictive of all New Kids drugs, Heroin is also the most dangerous...much like those quiet people you have to watch out for!
Joe is Crack. Let's face it - he's HOT and I want more and more of him with every hit. Not to mention, Crack causes my heart to race and, like Heroin, my body temperature to rise. Crack is also fairly cheap, as drugs go, and you saw Joe's blog about being too cheap to pay for delivery on his Christmas tree. Sooner or later, though...Crack can hurt my heart. *coughcoughBARRETTcoughcough* I must be careful.
Jordan is Pot. One of the most recreational drugs, Pot can be found to cause sleeplessness and, with long-term use, difficulty breathing. It's also been reported that those using Pot tend to miss more work than those who don't. (You saw my blog about work...you know where this is going!) Pot's also a drug I could live without if I absolutely had to..buthe it's one that's usually up for a good time if you don't have anything better to do.
Donnie is Ecstasy...or X as it's termed in the party world. X is used to calm my nerves, and heighten my sexual awareness (sound like anybody we know?). Like the other drugs, a rise in body temperature usually comes with X - along with teeth clenching, blurred vision, sweating and fainting. Then, of course, there's also the confusion, sleep problems and constant cravings. Ahh yes...I love me some X.
Danny is Ginseng. Being the health-nut of the group, he's inspired me to come back to a more holistic high. Increasing my mental awareness, Ginseng is a refreshing retreat from the other drugs who make my mind race from one thought to another.He It is something that restores my body, healing and relaxing the tension I feel. Although typically a very healthy addition, it can sometimes cause nervousness and excitability. Overall, he's it's well worth the risk.
Like any drug...excessive use can destroy lives. I have to be very careful to make sure my addictions don't override my everyday life. Unlike most addictions, though...I don't want to be cured of this one. No 12-step programs here, despite their talk of "Step by Step" in the 90's. I want nothing to do with quitting these Drugs...as if I stand a chance at a cure, anyway!
I love my little addictions!
**Editor's note: The author of this blog is not and has never used any type of illegal substance, much less been addicted to any. This blog was written tongue-in-cheek, so please take it in the context it was intended.**
I wouldn't know, as I'm not in rehab.
I have realized, however, that I do have some serious addictions. I've developed a drug habit. Because I am *SO* addicted to New Kids, it's only fitting that they have developed nicknames related to addiction-causing materials.
Jonathan is
Joe is Crack. Let's face it - he's HOT and I want more and more of him with every hit. Not to mention, Crack causes my heart to race and, like Heroin, my body temperature to rise. Crack is also fairly cheap, as drugs go, and you saw Joe's blog about being too cheap to pay for delivery on his Christmas tree. Sooner or later, though...Crack can hurt my heart. *coughcoughBARRETTcoughcough* I must be careful.
Jordan is Pot. One of the most recreational drugs, Pot can be found to cause sleeplessness and, with long-term use, difficulty breathing. It's also been reported that those using Pot tend to miss more work than those who don't. (You saw my blog about work...you know where this is going!) Pot's also a drug I could live without if I absolutely had to..but
Donnie is Ecstasy...or X as it's termed in the party world. X is used to calm my nerves, and heighten my sexual awareness (sound like anybody we know?). Like the other drugs, a rise in body temperature usually comes with X - along with teeth clenching, blurred vision, sweating and fainting. Then, of course, there's also the confusion, sleep problems and constant cravings. Ahh yes...I love me some X.
Danny is Ginseng. Being the health-nut of the group, he's inspired me to come back to a more holistic high. Increasing my mental awareness, Ginseng is a refreshing retreat from the other drugs who make my mind race from one thought to another.
Like any drug...excessive use can destroy lives. I have to be very careful to make sure my addictions don't override my everyday life. Unlike most addictions, though...I don't want to be cured of this one. No 12-step programs here, despite their talk of "Step by Step" in the 90's. I want nothing to do with quitting these Drugs...as if I stand a chance at a cure, anyway!
I love my little addictions!
**Editor's note: The author of this blog is not and has never used any type of illegal substance, much less been addicted to any. This blog was written tongue-in-cheek, so please take it in the context it was intended.**
Monday, January 5, 2009
Happy New Year from Jon
From NKOTB.com
Happy New Year to you! Where does the time go? I can’t believe It was one year ago that Jordan and I left home and went to stay with Donnie to begin planning for our reunion! I hope this year was as great for you as It was for me and the rest of the New Kids. It has been so much fun traveling all over North America. This Is the best country ever. I am glad I got to see It all over again.
I survived the trauma of turning forty……. of course I’ll still lie about my age. I’ve been doing It for so long I can’t stop now. I had the best birthday ever. Sitting around the Four Seasons In Punta Mita, Mexico with a small group of friends. This hotel Is one of the best if you want to get away from It all and relax. It did take me a good three days to let go and be able to enjoy myself. I’m never one to sit around and do nothing but I was so ready to do just that. Went snorkeling off the coast on a tiny island wildlife refuge. The water was a bit murky the day we all went. It makes It kind of creepy when you can’t see far into the distance. At one point I saw some large black shadows circling beneath us. Convinced it was a school of sharks. I told the people in our group that there are some cool fish in the direction of the shadows. Hey, I didn’t know these people and I’d rather watch them become dinner and not my friends. Swimming back to the boat we found out it was a school of stingrays and not some hungry sharks. These things were amazing, they were as big as I. We also had the opportunity of coming across a huge sea lion asleep on the beach.
Amazing sights… amazing times… amazing food… amazing service…amazing friends!
So here I am, back out in Los Angeles. Although it’s not snowing like back home, it’s freezing cold! I guess the warm weather in Mexico spoiled me. We are getting ready to film our third video next week, than off to Europe for another go round. It has been so great to have this time off. I got to go back to work for a few days and experience what I’ve been missing. As much as I love doing the New Kids thing I am itching to get back to my company. If only I could work during the day and commute to our concerts every night I would have the best of both worlds. That is impossible as we all know, so for now my main focus will remain with you!
Looking forward to seeing you all again this spring and summer.
Jon
Thursday, December 18, 2008
NKOTB - Trip to KC - Part 4 - The SHOW!
(FYI, there are links, photos and embedded videos throughout this blog. Please make sure to interact as much as possible for the FULL NKOTB experience!)
Are you ready? Are you kidding me?!
HELL YES! We've been ready for 14 years - what kind of crazy ass question is THAT?!
Within seconds, the stage lifted and our five boys (yes, we counted..RiceChex and I have ridden THAT sad little rodeo before!) appeared. Tears!! Screams! Tears! Shrieks! Tears! Gasps for breath! Tears! Pounding on Silly's shoulder! Tears! Tears! Tears!
There they were!!!!! Flesh and blood and sounding like angels!
Within seconds, the stage lifted and our five boys (yes, we counted..RiceChex and I have ridden THAT sad little rodeo before!) appeared. Tears!! Screams! Tears! Shrieks! Tears! Gasps for breath! Tears! Pounding on Silly's shoulder! Tears! Tears! Tears!
There they were!!!!! Flesh and blood and sounding like angels!
I get it now. I totally get it.
Didn't I Blow Your Mind and Valentine Girl sent us all into hysterics as we realized that our BOYS had indeed become men with their grabbing and thrusty. Sweet Jesus, Joseph and Mary, they were like orgasms on a stick!
Age has been kind to our boys, that's for sure. Deeper voices, sexier moves and the fact that *THEY are in control of the show now is apparent in every single step. Every single note. Every single breath they take. They OWN the stage. There's no question about it.
Kimmi made the comment later about how amazed she was at the audience participation. She'd never been to a concert where EVERY single person was involved in the show to the extent the NK's fans were. This gives a quick glimpse into what she meant:
The guys then surprised us with a second stage at the back of the venue. Dirty Dancing started out the show on Stage B, followed by 2 in the Morning and Tonight, which finished on the main stage after they drove the crowd wild by skimming up the side aisle.
Twisted came next, which happens to be my favorite and what I consider to be my theme song. What can I say...there were X-rated thoughts flying through my head as I watched Joe perform that little sucker!!
Joe sweetened the pot with Stay the Same and even brought in a choir. Silly said she closed her eyes throughout the whole song and just listened. It really was an amazing performance. I always did love the song, but the choir just added that much more to it. *swoon*
Not to be left out, Donnie wooed the ladies with Cover Girl, sending women over the edge with a striptease-esque booty shake to end all booty shakes. I admit, I was writhing in ecstasy agony.
The one song that absolutely brought me to a sobbing mess, though, was I'll Be Loving You (Forever). Twenty years and it still gets to me. It was the song that got my attention in 1988 and it still brings me to my knees today.
Click, Click, Click definitely brought some excitement. The song itself didn't really impress me the first few times I heard it, but as a photographer and as I got over the whole "sex" thing they were going for on "the Block", I quickly swung the other way and as it turns out, I LOVE THIS SONG! The guys end the song with a "Pose Off" and it brought laughter and confusion from the crowd. It wasn't until we got back to the hotel and went through the pictures that we truly realized where Jordan had gone during the Pose Off. Sneaky little shit.
Silly, RiceChex and myself were TOTALLY enthralled!!
The first encore was Step by Step - I'd almost forgotten that they hadn't done it yet. I knew Hangin' Tough was still to come, but Step by Step had slipped my mind. How the hell did THAT happen?!!
And, no NKOTB concert would be complete without a little HANGIN' TOUGH!!! They topped off the show with some old Queen. Gotta love Jordan's little "Mud on yo face, a big disgrace, blah da mah dah bah...place."
I know this blog sounds more like a recap than an experience, but it is only because I truly lack words to accurately describe the emotions I was feeling without coming off like a crazed lunatic. What words come to mind?
Euphoric.
Nostalgic.
Reminiscing.
Amazing.
Unbelievable.
Astounding.
Paralyzing.
Heart-wrenching.
Overwhelming.
Orgasmic.
The-single-most-awesome-experience-of-my-whole-fucking-life.
Nostalgic.
Reminiscing.
Amazing.
Unbelievable.
Astounding.
Paralyzing.
Heart-wrenching.
Overwhelming.
Orgasmic.
The-single-most-awesome-experience-of-my-whole-fucking-life.
Yeah. That's it. That sums it up right there.
(All the photos and video clips embedded on this blog were ones I shot. The linked video clips were found on YouTube and took place at our show in KC with the exceptions of Single, Favorite Girl & You Got It (the Right Stuff) which came from their VH-1 Boxed set, Twisted, which was from the Montreal show and the second clip of "If You Go Away" which came from their Boston show.)
(All the photos and video clips embedded on this blog were ones I shot. The linked video clips were found on YouTube and took place at our show in KC with the exceptions of Single, Favorite Girl & You Got It (the Right Stuff) which came from their VH-1 Boxed set, Twisted, which was from the Montreal show and the second clip of "If You Go Away" which came from their Boston show.)
Wednesday, December 17, 2008
In regards to the newsflash that destroyed my life yesterday:
Donnie squelched the rumors this afternoon and Robo is consequentially at the very TOP of my shit list now. You better sleep with one eye open, buddy!! ;)
Here's Donnie's blog putting the rumor to rest:
Happy Holidays from DONNIE
Here's Donnie's blog putting the rumor to rest:
Happy Holidays from DONNIE
Tuesday, December 16, 2008
We interrupt your program to bring you the following news bulletin:
I'm sitting here tonight evaluating the psychosis that has become my life. In that self-evaluation, I've learned that I'm beyond fucked up. My priorities are so screwed up and the worst part?? I don't care. I don't want to fix them.
For those who know me, you know I'm a huge New Kids on the Block fan. I have been for 20 years and I will be forever. I'm part of numerous websites and follow the guys lives pretty closely. I haven't met any of them, but recently came close at a reunion concert in Kansas City in November.
On one of the fan sites today, a woman posted about how she got some "face time" (got to meet them) with Donnie Wahlberg for the second week in a row on the set of Bunker Hill in Boston. This was what she wrote:
"Ok Divas, you're all gonna think I'm crazy but I just got back from getting more facetime with Donnie (and Robo too)!!!
I met my girl Phyllis in East Boston and we got to meet Donnie and get pics with him. We talked with Robo for a good 20 minutes too. He gave me a cup of tea he had bought for Donnie. Walked over and handed it to me. I said "what's this?" and Robo said e had gotten it for Donnie but someone else got him one first. Donnie asked Robo if there were any fans outside and said to give it to one of us because we were probably freezing. So Robo gave it to me!
I'm pretty sure I'm just completely insane! I was literally in and out, it was real quick this time, not too much waiting around. Robo confirmed a summer tour but then said that would be the end of the New Kids :( He was soooo sweet, gave us lots of info and kept coming back over to us. Donnie looked exhausted but was nice enough to pose for pics again. As he was walking across the street to us he wouldn't take his eyes off me. I think the wheels were spinning and he was thinking, "didn't I just see this girl", lol! I smiled at him though and he just smiled back. As I was getting my pic (which Robo took) I said to Donnie, "Look Robo is so sweet he gave me your tea." To which Donnie replied, "Well what are you gonna do with it?" I just laughed and sarcastically said "I'm drinking it Donnie Wahlberg, what do you think I'm gonna do with it?" He just laughed back and said alright!"
THE END OF THE NEW KIDS?!?!?!?!?!?!
I've dealt with a lot of losses in my life: both my parents, a child, my best friend, numerous relatives and acquaintances....but I haven't felt this heartbroken in a VERY long time.
Speaking rationally*, how much sense does it make to take the time, energy and resources to reunite a group THIS big with this huge of a following only to have them stick around a year?? 500,000 people paid for tickets to their shows on their three month tour. I can't speak for everyone, but my tickets alone cost $80 each. That's not counting the $375 5* seats that covered the first ten rows for each show.
And think about what this will do to ALL the fans, not just me. We have waited over sixteen years for this to happen...we've been swept back out to sea with their music, their talent, their charm, their devotion and love for us. Are they going to walk away again?
If this does turn out to be true, I will have lost some major respect for these guys. Nobody who loves their fans would do this to them. Not now. Not ever.
If you'll excuse me now, I'm going to go back into my little box and not going to pay attention to these HORRIBLE vicious rumors!!
And God bless my friends on the forums who WEREN'T part of that horrific thread that tore my life apart....they posted these for me:
- yes, I know how dangerous of a word "rational" can be for someone in my state of mind, but I promise you, this is NOT the psychosis talking
For those who know me, you know I'm a huge New Kids on the Block fan. I have been for 20 years and I will be forever. I'm part of numerous websites and follow the guys lives pretty closely. I haven't met any of them, but recently came close at a reunion concert in Kansas City in November.
On one of the fan sites today, a woman posted about how she got some "face time" (got to meet them) with Donnie Wahlberg for the second week in a row on the set of Bunker Hill in Boston. This was what she wrote:
"Ok Divas, you're all gonna think I'm crazy but I just got back from getting more facetime with Donnie (and Robo too)!!!
I met my girl Phyllis in East Boston and we got to meet Donnie and get pics with him. We talked with Robo for a good 20 minutes too. He gave me a cup of tea he had bought for Donnie. Walked over and handed it to me. I said "what's this?" and Robo said e had gotten it for Donnie but someone else got him one first. Donnie asked Robo if there were any fans outside and said to give it to one of us because we were probably freezing. So Robo gave it to me!
I'm pretty sure I'm just completely insane! I was literally in and out, it was real quick this time, not too much waiting around. Robo confirmed a summer tour but then said that would be the end of the New Kids :( He was soooo sweet, gave us lots of info and kept coming back over to us. Donnie looked exhausted but was nice enough to pose for pics again. As he was walking across the street to us he wouldn't take his eyes off me. I think the wheels were spinning and he was thinking, "didn't I just see this girl", lol! I smiled at him though and he just smiled back. As I was getting my pic (which Robo took) I said to Donnie, "Look Robo is so sweet he gave me your tea." To which Donnie replied, "Well what are you gonna do with it?" I just laughed and sarcastically said "I'm drinking it Donnie Wahlberg, what do you think I'm gonna do with it?" He just laughed back and said alright!"
THE END OF THE NEW KIDS?!?!?!?!?!?!
I've dealt with a lot of losses in my life: both my parents, a child, my best friend, numerous relatives and acquaintances....but I haven't felt this heartbroken in a VERY long time.
Speaking rationally*, how much sense does it make to take the time, energy and resources to reunite a group THIS big with this huge of a following only to have them stick around a year?? 500,000 people paid for tickets to their shows on their three month tour. I can't speak for everyone, but my tickets alone cost $80 each. That's not counting the $375 5* seats that covered the first ten rows for each show.
And think about what this will do to ALL the fans, not just me. We have waited over sixteen years for this to happen...we've been swept back out to sea with their music, their talent, their charm, their devotion and love for us. Are they going to walk away again?
If this does turn out to be true, I will have lost some major respect for these guys. Nobody who loves their fans would do this to them. Not now. Not ever.
If you'll excuse me now, I'm going to go back into my little box and not going to pay attention to these HORRIBLE vicious rumors!!
And God bless my friends on the forums who WEREN'T part of that horrific thread that tore my life apart....they posted these for me:
- yes, I know how dangerous of a word "rational" can be for someone in my state of mind, but I promise you, this is NOT the psychosis talking
NKOTB - Trip to KC - Part 3
Those of you without obsessive/addictive personalities may find difficulty understanding this next part of the trip. Humor me anyway.
With having had nearly 20 years go by since our last NKOTB concert, things have changed. Instead of just flooding the stadium, we now have to be individually searched & monitored as we enter the venue. Metal detectors & bag searches add an edge to the concert that we didn't experience as teenagers. Fortunately the security personnel have the job down to an art and it didn't take more than a few seconds to pass through without problems. Rice Chex & Silly headed to the merchandise counter and since I was anxious to see our seats and really didn't have the cash to spend on tshirts, I headed to our seats. I swear to you, I heard trumpets and harps as I passed through the black curtain into the main arena. Even the air seemed lighter.
There it was. The stage.
In an instant, I retreated to 16 again. Husbands and kids were suddenly a thing of the past and I was a carefree bachelorette! I found my heart rate rising and excitement began to pulse through my body...I could not WAIT for showtime! It wasn't long before the girls joined me - section 107, row 23. Just to our left was the jumbotron. They were playing constant ads for texting into the guys at a chance to win backstage passes, front row, etc. We texted in a few good ones: "Joey, honey, you left your keys on my nightstand, xoxo." "I got a bikini wax for tonight, I DESERVE front row!" and of course, shoutouts to mah girl "Happy birthday, RiceChex!". Conversations were struck with those sitting around us. We discovered how much the girls in front of us enjoyed it when other people fell. The girls behind us were amused by the trashy girls in the restroom using the urinals to pee in. (Yes...I'm serious. I witnessed the classlessness myself)
The lights dimmed and the crowd went nuts as Lady Gaga (Lady Blah Blah, if you ask me) took the stage. Personally, I think she went shoplifting at Ikea and wore one of their lamps as a dress.
I was *not* impressed. Natasha Bedingfield wasn't too bad, but let's face it. We weren't there to see the girls.
Once Natasha left the stage...we knew it was just a matter of minutes before our 20 yr old dreams would come true.
(Part 4 coming soon!)
With having had nearly 20 years go by since our last NKOTB concert, things have changed. Instead of just flooding the stadium, we now have to be individually searched & monitored as we enter the venue. Metal detectors & bag searches add an edge to the concert that we didn't experience as teenagers. Fortunately the security personnel have the job down to an art and it didn't take more than a few seconds to pass through without problems. Rice Chex & Silly headed to the merchandise counter and since I was anxious to see our seats and really didn't have the cash to spend on tshirts, I headed to our seats. I swear to you, I heard trumpets and harps as I passed through the black curtain into the main arena. Even the air seemed lighter.
There it was. The stage.
In an instant, I retreated to 16 again. Husbands and kids were suddenly a thing of the past and I was a carefree bachelorette! I found my heart rate rising and excitement began to pulse through my body...I could not WAIT for showtime! It wasn't long before the girls joined me - section 107, row 23. Just to our left was the jumbotron. They were playing constant ads for texting into the guys at a chance to win backstage passes, front row, etc. We texted in a few good ones: "Joey, honey, you left your keys on my nightstand, xoxo." "I got a bikini wax for tonight, I DESERVE front row!" and of course, shoutouts to mah girl "Happy birthday, RiceChex!". Conversations were struck with those sitting around us. We discovered how much the girls in front of us enjoyed it when other people fell. The girls behind us were amused by the trashy girls in the restroom using the urinals to pee in. (Yes...I'm serious. I witnessed the classlessness myself)
The lights dimmed and the crowd went nuts as Lady Gaga (Lady Blah Blah, if you ask me) took the stage. Personally, I think she went shoplifting at Ikea and wore one of their lamps as a dress.
I was *not* impressed. Natasha Bedingfield wasn't too bad, but let's face it. We weren't there to see the girls.
Once Natasha left the stage...we knew it was just a matter of minutes before our 20 yr old dreams would come true.
(Part 4 coming soon!)
NKOTB - Trip to KC - Part 2
When we came back out of Californo's after dinner, there was a dusting of snow on the ground. Usually I'm not much for snow, but it really was pretty and since we didn't have to drive more than a couple blocks, we weren't too affected by it. We decided to partake in some stalking intel about the Plaza just in case the Guys decided to stay in KC Saturday night. We staked out Stahbucks (that's right...there's no "R" in Stahbucks) and the Intercontinental hotel, but it was much to our disappointment as we didn't have a single celebrity sighting. Motivated for Saturday, we drove back to the hotel and turned in for the night. RiceChex, bless her heart, was deafened by Silly's and my symphony of snore, so she ended up getting her own room about halfway through the night. I can't blame her.
Saturday came and so did breakfast. Omelet bar from hell in the basement. YUMMO!! I'm not much for omelets, but these were really good. Throw on some salsa and I was good to go. Breakfast, however, led to the disappearance of Silly's cell phone. She was certain she'd brought it down to breakfast with her, but I found it back in the room. Whew. Caper solved. I should'a been a Hardy Boy.
After breakfast, we got ready and headed to the Plaaaaahhhhhza - pronounced with a long ahhhhhh sound, of course, because that's the way we roll. We made a quick perusal through the shops and I danced with the Pen-wins (because we cool people don't pronounce the "G") in front of J Crew.
Next came Figlio's. Ahhhh, Figlio's. Rice Chex and I have fond memories of Figlio's from trips gone by. The pasta...the tiramisu...the atmosphere. Oh man, the atmosphere! There were these awesome black & white old Italy photographs that covered every wall of the restaurant. Rice Chex even found one that looked like her several years ago. Upon entering the restaurant, though, we noticed they'd updated the decor. We hoped this was the ONLY change, but unfortunately, it wasn't. The calimari that used to be to die-for had been diminished to a sad fraction of what it used to be. The breaded squid now sits in a bath of balsamic vinegar - GAG. The pasta wasn't bad, but it did leave a bit to be desired. All-in-all, I was NOT impressed with the changes and we let the waitress know. They say all things must change, but dammit, why'd it have to be Figlio's??!
Fortunately our distress about Figlio's was quickly squashed by an hour of luxury at Massage Envy. We'd talked about having massages at our hotel, but at $80 a pop, we decided to find a cheaper alternative. In checking out the Plaza website, I found the link for this little gem. We weren't sure what to expect, since it is part of a chain, but we went in with high hopes and low expectations. How wonderfully we were surprised!!! Heated tables, low lighting and skilled massage therapists, we came out an hour later refreshed, rejuvenated and newly motivated to meet our Men!
We went back to the hotel and got ready for the show. Granted..it was only about 3, but we were determined to meet the guys. We headed to the Sprint center as soon as we were ready and after not seeing any sign of the guys and realizing we still had 90 minutes to kill before the doors opened, we decided to find some place to catch some dinner. Across from the Sprint Center is Kansas City's trendy new "Power & Light District"...there we found a great little Irish pub called Raglan's. After contemplating the mostly authentic Irish menu, we settled on an array of appetizers and Rice Chex ordered the Not-So-Clam Chowder. (Little tip: avoid the Daukey Sausages - picture vienna sausages with a bland batter and the chicken skewers were pretty nondescript, too. Ribs, however - HEAVENLY!!) A couple of drinks and the food and we were ready to party!!
After dinner, we headed back across the street and got in line. Keep in mind the doors were set to open within about 15 mins...yet there were no crowded mobs of people - just cool, calm and collected small groups of women in their 20's and 30's (with a few of their moms and daughters thrown in to mix it up a bit). Where were the loud choruses of "Hangin' Tough" and "The Right Stuff?" Where were the shrieks of hysterics at the mention of our five fab from Boston? We were in the right place, right?? Guess things DO change. Getting old sucks. Anyway....we quickly made friends with the people around us in line and shared anecdotes of concerts past. We found ourselves quickly feeling not-so-old again. It was if time had indeed stood still. And if you listened carefully, you'd hear subdued little snippets of "Ohh oh oh oh oh" from the pockets of people strewn throughout the city block.
Ahh, we were home!
(stay tuned for part 3)
Saturday came and so did breakfast. Omelet bar from hell in the basement. YUMMO!! I'm not much for omelets, but these were really good. Throw on some salsa and I was good to go. Breakfast, however, led to the disappearance of Silly's cell phone. She was certain she'd brought it down to breakfast with her, but I found it back in the room. Whew. Caper solved. I should'a been a Hardy Boy.
After breakfast, we got ready and headed to the Plaaaaahhhhhza - pronounced with a long ahhhhhh sound, of course, because that's the way we roll. We made a quick perusal through the shops and I danced with the Pen-wins (because we cool people don't pronounce the "G") in front of J Crew.
Next came Figlio's. Ahhhh, Figlio's. Rice Chex and I have fond memories of Figlio's from trips gone by. The pasta...the tiramisu...the atmosphere. Oh man, the atmosphere! There were these awesome black & white old Italy photographs that covered every wall of the restaurant. Rice Chex even found one that looked like her several years ago. Upon entering the restaurant, though, we noticed they'd updated the decor. We hoped this was the ONLY change, but unfortunately, it wasn't. The calimari that used to be to die-for had been diminished to a sad fraction of what it used to be. The breaded squid now sits in a bath of balsamic vinegar - GAG. The pasta wasn't bad, but it did leave a bit to be desired. All-in-all, I was NOT impressed with the changes and we let the waitress know. They say all things must change, but dammit, why'd it have to be Figlio's??!
Fortunately our distress about Figlio's was quickly squashed by an hour of luxury at Massage Envy. We'd talked about having massages at our hotel, but at $80 a pop, we decided to find a cheaper alternative. In checking out the Plaza website, I found the link for this little gem. We weren't sure what to expect, since it is part of a chain, but we went in with high hopes and low expectations. How wonderfully we were surprised!!! Heated tables, low lighting and skilled massage therapists, we came out an hour later refreshed, rejuvenated and newly motivated to meet our Men!
We went back to the hotel and got ready for the show. Granted..it was only about 3, but we were determined to meet the guys. We headed to the Sprint center as soon as we were ready and after not seeing any sign of the guys and realizing we still had 90 minutes to kill before the doors opened, we decided to find some place to catch some dinner. Across from the Sprint Center is Kansas City's trendy new "Power & Light District"...there we found a great little Irish pub called Raglan's. After contemplating the mostly authentic Irish menu, we settled on an array of appetizers and Rice Chex ordered the Not-So-Clam Chowder. (Little tip: avoid the Daukey Sausages - picture vienna sausages with a bland batter and the chicken skewers were pretty nondescript, too. Ribs, however - HEAVENLY!!) A couple of drinks and the food and we were ready to party!!
After dinner, we headed back across the street and got in line. Keep in mind the doors were set to open within about 15 mins...yet there were no crowded mobs of people - just cool, calm and collected small groups of women in their 20's and 30's (with a few of their moms and daughters thrown in to mix it up a bit). Where were the loud choruses of "Hangin' Tough" and "The Right Stuff?" Where were the shrieks of hysterics at the mention of our five fab from Boston? We were in the right place, right?? Guess things DO change. Getting old sucks. Anyway....we quickly made friends with the people around us in line and shared anecdotes of concerts past. We found ourselves quickly feeling not-so-old again. It was if time had indeed stood still. And if you listened carefully, you'd hear subdued little snippets of "Ohh oh oh oh oh" from the pockets of people strewn throughout the city block.Ahh, we were home!
(stay tuned for part 3)
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