BON JOVI

As many of you are aware, I attended the greatest concert on earth on Saturday, December 15th……BON JOVI!!!!! Anyone that knows me knows that I’m Jonny’s biggest fan. Ever since going to Bon Jovi’s “Lay your Hands on me” tour on May 11th, 1989, I’ve been hooked. Since then, I’ve been sure to request “Livin’ on a Prayer” at any dance or house party I’ve ever attended. Rob just “loves” this about me.

I know what you’re thinking: “sweet jebus, that Jenny is one cool cat for loving Bon Jovi so much.” I couldn’t’ agree more with those sentiments and I thank you for your positive thoughts. For others, such as my dear husband who thinks my admiration for all-that-is-Jon is not only “pathetic” but also “embarrassing,” I say to you: frankly I feel sorry for you that you don’t ‘get it.’

But alas, onto brighter subjects: the concert on Saturday night. To begin this colossal event, me and 3 of my gals partook in some pre-JBJ-partying. I’ve know these gals for most of my life and they’ve been integral and supportive of my lifelong obsession.

Joanne and I met at the tender age of 5 in Kindergarten. JoBo and I experienced numerous sleep-over parties, copious Fudge Cookies tummy-aches, and of course zillions of Bon Jovi air bands in our basements. Lisa and I met in our early teens – I was unaware of her JBJ obsession until more recently. Needless to say, I was delighted to discover this ‘little’ know fact about her and have grown deeper in my respect for this gorgeous woman. And Azure-Dee and I met way back in the days of working at The Bay in our hometown of Kamloops. Az and I went on to become fast friends and we quickly formed “The Fab 4” with 2 other Bon Jovi-loving-gals. Az and I went on many ‘o road trips with Bon Jovi blaring (usually “New Jersey” being our fav album).

So the 4 of us met at JoBo’s for some serious pre-partying. Jo and I arranged a hearty meal for all of us (after all, we were sure to be on our feet all night long and we’d certainly need some sustenance for such a huge evening out). Lisa brought the booze and Az brought the mix. After a couple hours of eating, drinking, dancing to Jonny and reminiscing on our favourite Bon Jovi memories (Jo, what were those make-shift “Livin’ on a Prayer” lyrics again?), we headed to GM Place where we could openly and without shame celebrate in our love for the geniousity that is Jon Bon Jovi.

Unfortunately, none of us were willing to risk our cameras, thus, we don’t have any good pictures inside the garage. All the same, photos could not fully describe the thrill of our night. Once inside, we quickly rushed to the t-shirts / Jonny paraphernalia table. I was disappointed not to find any vintage t’s (I was hoping for a “Slippery When Wet” ¾ sleeve number). Once we made our was to our excellent seats, my disappointment quickly faded. Thanks to Lisa for scoring us such sweet seats! Our hearts immediately went out to those around us as they clearly had no idea what they were in for with us screaming-crazies sitting beside them.

Headly opened. Bleh! Not that he was bad, but he was no Jon Bon Jovi if you know what I mean! We purchased our over-priced alcoholic beverages and settled into our seats before Jon & the boys took the stage. Tico first appeared. At that point, me and the gals just about lost our minds. I believe you’ve all seen footage of screaming girls at Elivs Presley, The Beatles, New Kids on the Block concerts and whatnot. Well, that was basically us. I’m sure our close by neighbours were thrilled. That other dude came on, then Ritchie and the crowd went wild. THEN JONNY my friends. Good God, then Jonny! Sweet Jesus, that man is still so incredibly hot. Ok, what did he open with…..“Lost Highway” me thinks. Then, “Shot Through the Heart” and us gals were well on our way to insanity. We stood and danced the entire show, screamed out every word to every song and kept smiling and hugging each other. It was THE ultimate girls night out, lemme tell ya.

Jon sang all the classics from “Livin’ on a Prayer” to “Born to be my Baby” to “Raise your Hands” to “Runaway.” Need I go on and make you all insanely jealous?! What an amazing night out. Thanks Jonny for all the memories.....we can’t wait for you to return to Vancouver!!! I’m sure all of you are burning to buy tickets with us 4 lunatics for the next show.