Radio personalities Rick and Bubba made the final stop of their 2008 book tour in Music City last night and, just like last year, I was there. Headed out for the store early, figuring I might be one of the first people in line. Little did I know that there are Rick and Bubba fans even more detoved that I am. One gentleman was there from 11:30 yesterday morning until the book signing began at 5:30 p.m.
Barnes and Nobel had a pretty good system for the signing and containing the line. Everyone was given a ticket with a number when you walked in. I think part of this was crowd control but I think a large part of it was hoping you'd browse the store and purchase more books. As you know, book stores are Kryptonite to my self control because I think every book is announcing how great it'd be and how desperately it'd like to come home with me.
I went to the book signing with the new girlfriend. I'm not sure she was enthused about it as I was. Walking out of the store, I told her that since she'd gone with me, this meant she'd officially become part of the blog. I then asked if she'd like to use her real name, her first initial or a nickname when I referred to her. She voted for a nickname and then came up with the name Sweet Cheeks for herself. I liked it because it reminds me of the dimples when she smiles. So, from here on out, she'll be that or I'll shorten to SC.
After what seemed like forever, it was finally my chance to go up and see the guys.
The long wait was worth it. I've met a few celebrities in my life and, for the most part, they've all been very friendly. But Rick and Bubba took it to the next level, spending a few minutes talking to me, chatting, asking what I did and seeming to be impressed when I told them. (Bubba was since I work with technology). Rick joked about the long line and I then said, "Yes, but it was worth it and I even went so far as to drag my girlfriend with me."
At this point, Rick looked up and said, "So where is she?"
"Waiting in line," I said.
"Uh-huh," he said. "I see."
See, now a couple of months ago when they were giving one of the male interns on the show, Gump, a hard time about taking out various members of the intern staff, it was hilarious to hear him called out for it. When it was happening to me (jokingly, of course) not so much.
Of course, the hilarity didn't end there. SC came up and Rick talked to her and then it was time for pictures. And, of course, my camera batteries picked that moment to shuffle off this mortal coil to a better place.
Luckily, I brought back-up batteries, which seemed to impress Bubba, though he did make a disparaging remark about my probably using Windows. (He's a Mac guy...hey, we're not all perfect). I then thanked them for their patience.
Some people who know me wonder why I am such a fan of Rick and Bubba. My meeting them last night encapsulated it all. They're just two guys who have a radio show, who are completely transparent in their faith and walk. They're funny and they're authentic. They gave me a few minutes of time. And it wasn't just me--they were that way with all the people in line.
A great book signing, a lot of fun and a great memory.
Labels: rick and bubba
posted by Michael Hickerson at 6/27/2008 04:15:00 PM |
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