Have you ever spoken to a celebrity you really like? One you hated? Tell us about the encounters.
I live a quiet life. Like many writers, I'm an introvert. I don't hand out where you'd meet a lot of celebrities. But I've got a few stories.
Way back when, when I was living in Florida, I participated in a community event that focused on family activities. It was a first time event, and was attended by a number of political figures, including the governor of Florida, Lawton Chiles. I got to hang out with him for a few minutes, and helped him make a beaded bracelet using the Florida Gators colors. (it was an activity aimed at kids and he also got some girls to help him out.) He spent a old War between the US and Russia was first lot more time then his schedule called for, and he ignored them while he joked with the kids and adults at the booth. I was most impressed by the fact that he seemed to be totally enjoying himself.
Even farther back, when the Cold War between the US and the Soviet Union was first beginning to thaw (long before the Berlin Wall fell) I got to attend a performance of the a Russian folk dance group. It was part of a college course (Russian was my language course) and our professor arranged for us to meet with the performers afterward. Many of them were looking to increase their English skills while we were trying out our Russian. The interpreter did a lot of work that night, but we all enjoyed ourselves.
Then there was the time I attended a reading by American poet Gary Snyder. I didn't get to do much more than shake his hand, but at least I got to meet him. I've also met Craig Johnson, author of the Longmire series. Got to shake his hand too, and get a book autographed by him. I was also privileged to get a ticket to a lecture by Nelson Mandela, although I didn't get to meet him.
I've also met Greg West, a Jason Aldean tribute artist. He actually worked for my husband before he developed his act. He's a real down-to-earth guy, who is trying to make a living doing what he loves. (like so many authors I know!) He's good enough that sometimes he gets mistaken for the real thing. In fact, I don't mind giving him a plug. Go check out his webpage, and if you like Jasen Aldean, check out Greg if you have a chance! https://www.ultimatealdean.us/
The biggest celebrity I almost hung out with? John Travolta during Daytona Bike Week. (I'm not sure what year.) Me and my husband were at the old Pub 44, hanging out and having a beer, when John showed up, along with his contingent of bodyguards. (he lived in the area at the time.) Unlike some other people, we didn't try to force our way over to him to get an autograph.
In a way, I felt bad for him. He didn't appear to be having any fun. How could you, when every time you turned around you had someone trying to force their way close to you? When every move had to be cleared by your "people?" I can't imagine living like that.
Oh, here's a bonus one. Sister Joan Chittister, a social activist, spiritual leader and author, was one of my teachers in high school. She was our choral director and also taught other classes
And there you have it. My brushes with celebrities. Who's on your list?
August 20, 2018
Have you ever spoken to a celebrity you really like? one you hated? tell us about the encounters.
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