This was my first “NELSON experience.”  I figure if I decided to be a bear, I was going to be a grizzly!  Spend the day helping NELSON.  YEA!  The Stuart concert was a tribute to Ricky Nelson and it was perfect!
The day started for my friend and me with a very long drive from the Jacksonville area.  After arriving one hour later than expected (I realize the word “approximately” on the mapping services means PLUS one hour), I called Tami to see where I needed to go to meet her for sound check.  To my relief and surprise their hotel was across the street from my hotel…so that meant I had the opportunity to ride to the theatre with the band!
Gunnar had flight issues and would not be arriving until later.  Matthew, however, was in the van waiting along with Brian and Cary.  As Tami and I climbed in, Tami introduced me to Matthew and everyone else.  We all chatted a bit about the wonderful little downtown area that we were in and soon we had arrived at the theatre.
Matthew was so very polite and instead of ME carrying the merchandise case he did it.  I thought, “Aren’t I supposed to be helping you?!”  But honestly, that set the tone for the rest of the evening.  Both Matthew and Gunnar were always polite, respectful and courteous.
Gunnar had still not arrived to the theatre, however, we were told he was on the way.  I met his PA while milling about the stage and watching the process.
As we went backstage to put down all of our things, the Lyric representative and Matthew were having a discussion about how the theatre had been expanded since they had been there last in 2004.  Matthew was impressed, as were we all with the beauty and quaintness of this place.  It was magical.  The memories that were contained in the walls, on the stage, in the air…  The Lyric was originally built in 1926 as an opera house.  The thought of Ozzie and Harriet Nelson having once performed there trickled across Matthew’s brain once or twice. Could it be true? 
Gunnar finally arrived and had big hugs for his PA.  He shook my hand and introduced himself and got straight to work.  Well, AFTER he stopped and admired the scenery that was the Lyric.  Meanwhile, Tami and I were backstage when she discovered an original LP of Ricky Nelson in the office of the Lyric Director.  It was a surreal moment.  After the concert, the album received signatures from both Matthew and Gunnar.
As the band was setting up, those of us who were helping – helped ourselves to some photo opportunities and chatted amongst ourselves.  We scoped the lobby area for the merchandise set up and devised a game plan.
Tami and I left sound check to return to our respective hotels in order to get ready for the show.  We had about one hour to do so.  Much to the astonishment of my best friend, I made it!!!!
The band had JUST been taken back to hotel as Tami and I were leaving.  The doors were opening in about 30 minutes, so we had to hurry.
After arriving back at the theatre, we began setting up merchandise, grabbing towels and water and placing them on stage and making sure that we had paper for Matthew to make the set list.
As Matthew created the set list with us, Gunnar asked me for a wardrobe choice for the evening.  Copies of the set list were made and distributed to each band member, the lighting technician and sound technician.  Finally, showtime!
The first show was incredible!  After the show, I was able to escort the guys to the Meet and Greet where a line was waiting!
This was actually my favorite part.  As I stood there, in front of Matthew and Gunnar ready to take photos for the fans, I heard these incredible stories.  The fans told of memories of Matthew and Gunnar’s father, their grandparents and expressed admiration for their sister.  As I watched one fan approach, I noticed a VERY old autograph book in his hand.  It was yellow and crumbly.  It read “Signatures” in perfect script.  As he approached Matthew and Gunnar he slowly opened to a paged signed by Ozzie Nelson and Harriet Hilliard.  How incredible?!  I did not get much time to observe the interaction, as a very precious senior asked me to help remove the plastic from her CD so the guys could sign it for her.  She was so excited.  Heck, who wasn’t?!
After Matthew and Gunnar shook hands with every single person in line, listened to each and every personal story,  signed and posed for all of those who requested – off we were, again backstage to prepare for the next show.
Again, we had to replace the towels and water on the stage.  We took a moment to order dinner, rest and just hang out.  I spent some time speaking with Cary and Brian.  Both very fascinating and wonderful.
After wardrobe changes, it was time for the next show.  The second show, ROCKED!  It was incredible.  The energy, the crowd, the music…WOW!
After 75 minutes, the show concluded to a standing ovation.  After heading backstage, once again – congratulations and joy filled the room.  It truly was a successful performance (but they all are, aren’t they?!?!).
Again, I escorted the guys to the Meet and Greet area, just inside the lobby.  I was once again witness to many wonderful stories and the generous and courteous nature of both Matthew and Gunnar.  I watched as they reconnected with fans and friends - remembering names, faces and places.  It was wonderful to see all of the amazing pictures and memories that flooded the table and the senses.  I KNEW there was magic at that theatre.
After the final Meet and Greet, we adjourned backstage, once again to enjoy our dinner and spend more time sharing and relaxing.  At the conclusion of the evening, I had a few things signed by Matthew and Gunnar (like “THE” poster circa 1990 – you know the one….) and packed away my stuff.
Exhausted and elated, I climbed back into the van (okay I ALMOST fell OUT of the van) and had a few final moments with everyone.  After dropping off everyone at their hotel, Tami had the driver take me across the street to mine.  Again, exhausted, I think I tumbled out of the van and made it to my room – knowing that it was a perfect evening.
I would say that I was lucky to have the opportunity – but I was blessed.  Every time I meet genuine people, I know I am blessed.  Tami, Matthew and Gunnar – you are awesome and I thank you!