We kicked off the Stampede last night as the mystery band at the big Nashville North Tent. I am always nervous about these mystery band gigs because they are often so over-hyped that the crowd invariably expects to see the Stones or Springsteen. I always fear that when the announcer screams, "Get ready for your exclusive night with...Great Big Sea!," that there will be more moans of disappointment than cheers of approval.
We fared pretty well last night. The crowd was great fun and the beer tent was well lubed by the time we hit the stage.
It was a very Mardi Gras-like vibe in the room as revelers raised glasses and offered beads for boobs. We even got flashed a few times; a rare event at GBS concerts. I think Tommy Lee and the Motley Crue dudes are more accustomed to such displays of appreciation. I confess that on the few occasions that lasses have ‘put it all out there' during GBS shows, that I've been struck with a serious ‘deer in the headlights' feeling. I am never sure what to do. It seems a bit lecherous to stare and scream "Oh Yeah, Shake ‘em". So I don't. Yet it seems rude to ignore such an offering. So I don't. I usually try to hide the fact that I'm surprised and I act all Rock Star cool and casually wink one eye and say ‘lovely'. Does this sound about right?
We dashed from the gig back to the hotel and snuck out a fire escape door onto a roof patio and drank a beer or two as the fireworks danced around the silhouetted high rise buildings of Downtown Calgary. It was just the five of us. We chatted and caught up on the happening of the real lives of the guys we share the stage with every night. Highlight of our stolen few moments was a toast for the newest member of the clan.
Born on the 4th of July. Henry Thomas Doyle
I guess soon to be born wee ones' don't read tour schedules. I thought I had a great plan. Do a few gigs in early July and get home with plenty of time to spare for the arrival of the Prince. Henry had other ideas. He could not wait to get started. At around 2am he decided he was ready and at 2pm on the dot he kicked off what I hope is an amazing life.
I only got to see him for a few hours on Tuesday and Wednesday as I had to get on the plane yesterday morning to fly to Calgary. It was the hardest trip to the airport ever.
Henry and his star of a Mom are doing well and are at home with a team of helpers. Thanks for all he well wishes and donations to the Janeway Childrens Hospital in St John's. It means a lot.
I'm sure I'll have a lot more to offer about this blessed event and my newest and biggest hat as Dad, but for now I'll just say this. No matter how happy you are, having a child instantly makes you 100 times happier. As soon as the child arrives, you instantly have 100 times more Love to give than you ever imagined possible.
Lucky Me.
Cheers,
Alan