Springsteen Stories

One of my favorite parts of having the store Greetings from Geralyn in Convention Hall, Asbury Park, was the stories. Well, and also the celebrities I met. But, I really enjoy hearing the perspective of other Bruce Sprinsteen fans. And, how his music not only influenced them, but changed them. Many fans I met from all over the world. Australia, Italy, France, England, Netherlands and Germany come to mind. They would travel here to Asbury Park mostly when there was a show at the Meadowlands and for Light of Day in Asbury Park. Many would come to Light of Day (fundraiser in January for Parkinsons) and not be guaranteed that Springsteen would show up. That is when I realized I should buy tickets, too. These fans were also buying plane tickets. the expense of hotels and taking time off from work. So, I am happy to say my tickets are bought for this year's week long celebration and I have it as a vacation week off from work. I know I won't be disappointed. I also have bought a ticket for the Holiday Hurrah with Labamba on December 19th at the Stone Pony. When we used to get tickets for the Southside Johnny Shows at the Monmouth Art Center (now Count Basie) we always tried to sit on the side with the horns. But, we never sat for long at those shows. We danced most of the time. Those were the best shows. I have talked about when Ronnie Spector would come out. The curtain would be closed and lights would flash, thunder would be heard and then the sound of pouring rain. And, then she would come out and sing : "Walking in the Rain". I just totally got side tracked! I went to You Tube to find a video to share of La Bamba and came across a Christmas Show I was at in Convention Hall in 2003. Both Christmas shows I went with a dear friend and neighbor who passed away this year. I can't believe there is a video of these shows. I can't tell you how many times we would hug and say we couldn't believe we were there to witness this music. These were the best shows, gospel singers, HORNS and Christmas music!!!! I just have to share it. It in nice to think of my friend as I am listening to this. One year I couldn't get a ticket, because they put a limit on them. Her husband was a fireman in Asbury Park. I came home from working a twelve hour Saturday in the toy department of Boscov's the first Saturday of December. My feet were on fire. I was on the couch with my feet up, there was a blizzard outside. The door burst open and it was my neighbor. He said get your shoes back on, and come on. No one can make it to the show tonight, because of the snow. I thought about it for a few seconds ( I went last year and knew it was cold and standing only). Oh no, I thought my feet already are killing me. And, then I remembered that feeling you get from a Springsteen show. So, I put on my ugg boots and off I went. I was worried about parking and that was silly. Because, we rode to the firehouse and we were driven there by firetruck and dropped off at the door. I am listening to this show as I write, and we really enjoyed this show SO much. I can see us swaying and hugging in total awe and full of Christmas spirit. I miss my friend who I experienced this show with, but I can't help but think heaven is looking down and having the best seat or view of all of your loved ones. And, not having to worry about driving in the snow or your feet hurting. She can see her kids and grandchildren living and loving life like she did. ENJOY this concert if you have the time to watch: Convention Hall Christmas Show 2003 Springsteen and friends Quote of the day: Bruce Springsteen: “I think that is what film and art and music do; they can work as a map of sorts for your feelings.”