Seasick Yet Still Docked



Bonnie posing for MozStickerProject assignment (she IS alive)

I've been struggling for the past few days trying to think what the hell to write about. Here is the situation:

1. Morrissey was too sick to continue his tour-all US dates were cancelled as well as his performance in Mexico City.

2. Morrissey appeared in an interview on a Mexican radio show in which he explained how very disappointed he was and how he was "cautioned" not to perform anymore.

3. He was photographed at an Irish football game with his cousin Robbie Keane.

4. It was announced on True-To-You that Morrissey will be performing in seven Mexican cities in June and in Argentina, Brazil, Peru, and Chile in July.
5. The Hollywood High show is going to be released on DVD.

So, that's Morrissey news for the past few weeks or so. Of course, it was heart-breaking when he had to cancel the rest of the tour. We were so set for Las Vegas, but I think most fans were understanding of the health problem. We would not want Morrissey to do something that would make him feel worse down the road or cause a more serious issue. 

And to tell you the truth, I think he felt horribly about it. On his website, he left the following message:

"It takes a lifetime to find the right words, and at the moment I haven't got them. I've been a colossal pain where this continuously unpredictable illness is concerned, and now the physical limits have been reached.The tour had, in fact, been fantastic for all of us-a new slice of life full of concentrated power. The audiences everywhere have given so much, although I know that neither of us will ever receive our due. I hope this isn't the end and I hope there will be other chances minus the heavy burden of illness.Knots of grief today, but full of resolve for tomorrow." Morrissey, March 16, Mexico

Something to look forward to

At this moment, I am happy he is planning to tour again yet sad that its not as likely that I will be able to see him unless one of the cities he plays is Tijuana.

I have lots of things going on in my home life at the moment. Raising two teenagers and a nine year old is a challenge, teaching is a challenge, and I don't have time for any more challenges. Part of my fascination with Morrissey probably is a means of mental escape. But not all of it. And now that I am not planning to see him currently, it forces me to look at these things more closely. And I don't want to, to be truthful.

I suppose a positive to come out of this is that, to me at least, it seems like the Twitterdilly friendships are strengthening through Twitter (duh) and MorrisseysWorldChat. Its a wierd time trying to transition from the news over the month and adjust our minds.

Like many other fans, I find myself keeping occupied by attending Smiths/Morrissey-related events. This I shall do, and write about as it seems fit. (Truely my life IS without Morrissey at the moment!)


On a side note, probably the best thing that I heard at school all week was a student who said, "Ms. Willoughby, I bought my first Smiths album. Its the one with 'There is a Light That Never Goes Out'."


Ah, to fall in love again!

Memories:

 

 

 

 

 

Always True Part 2: Hollywood High School

Morrissey in the shadows of Hollywood High

Something unusual happened to me Saturday morning. I can only compare the feeling to that which you might feel after you've gone out on a date and you had such a good time you KNOW you are going out again. And you can't wait. You wake up smiling, eager for what the day will bring. In my case I KNEW I was going to see Morrissey again.

The sun was shining quite literally, and figuratively.

I just felt like crap. 

Perhaps it was excitement from the night before, perhaps it was dehydration, perhaps there was something extra in the beer I had at The Staples Center. Perhaps it was because I'm approaching fifty. I don't know but it was tough to get out of bed. 

My mom babysat for us since Roland was coming to this gig. He is not as big a fan but he knew this was going to be a great show and he was excited as well. Besides, we got to go out together which isn't so common. Before we left he said, "You are in charge since you seem to know how to have more fun than I've ever had at a concert." I have said in the past that Roland is much nicer than I am. He is a perpetual rule follower. In pop music terms he is the Paul McCartney and I am the John Lennon in the relationship. So that was a big step for him.

Luckily, Jasmine (@Morrizzy) and Johnny (@johnnyinacoma) arrived at Hollywood High early since the seating was either orchestra (pit) or balcony (upstairs). Other than that, there was no assigned seating so it was important to get a good spot in line, therefore a good seat in the venue. They held us a place in line with Angie (@vulgermkala) and @jimi_james and his nine year old son, Devan. 

The drive to Hollywood was far less crazy than I thought it would be, so we arrived around 5:45. We thought that the earliest we would be able to get our tickets from Will Call would be 6. But such was not the case. We were in line for a few hours. It was in line we discovered that the event was being shot for a DVD release possibly. 

We entertained ourselves in line with our enthusiasm. Of course, this was the first time I had met Angie or @jim_james. I felt a little shy as I always do when I first meet people but both Angie and @jimi_james were fun and easy to talk to, as you may recall, Angie was the one who gave Moz the ring from The Blue Rose Society. She also has a lot of Morrissey tattoos and whenever a photographer came by she said, "Morrissey tattoos right here." So, as you could imagine, Angie was not hard to talk to. She is what they call the life of the party. Devan (nine year old) was extremely excited since he had been at the Staples Center on Friday and was eager to see Morrissey yet again-this time he knew he'd be closer.

After a quick pizza at a nearby pizza place, the line began to move. The line outside Hollywood High now stretched at least three blocks. Here is a picture of us with a balloon we wrote on as members of the Blue Rose Society. 

While in line, we saw a young girl who was about sixteen but she was as tall as my nine-year old son, Oliver. She was carrying a portrait of Morrissey she had drawn herself and wanted desperately to give it to him. She had been waiting in line since noon but security would not let her in because her grandfather had purchased her ticket and you could not get in if you did not have the ID and credit card that was used to purchase tickets. This poor girl was crying so sadly trying to get her grandfather to come and help her out. I felt so badly and could not think of any way I could have helped her. Perhaps I could have given her my ticket, but she ended up getting in after her grandfather came to clear the ticket with will call.

Me, Jasmine, Angie, James and Devan

I had decided to try and bring my digital SLR camera into the show. I had wrapped it into my sweater and put it in my bag along with two lenses. The one on the camera was a telephoto lens. I figured the worse that could happen would be that I would have to walk the camera back into the car which was parked nearby. 

When we got to the bag check I ended up having to come clean with security after she asked me to shake my sweater out. I just said, "I can't do that because it will break my camera. I was just trying to keep it safe here."

She said, "It isn't exactly a point and shoot camera."

They ended up letting me take the camera in after all though since I think they just couldn't be bothered trying to figure out how to get me back in with a huge line and some anxious people. "Just don't take it out," they said. Sorry but asking me not to take pictures of Morrissey is like asking a fat kid with a jar of cookies not to have any.

Jasmine and Angie were working on getting into the orchestra section even though they had balcony like me. I know they would have taken me with them in but Roland was in the balcony and the last time he went with me in San Diego I basically left him on his own while I got into the pit. I just thought it might be bad form to just invite him along and leave him, plus I had my camera and I wanted to take pictures since I had such a great view from my balcony seat.

I oddly did not envy Jasmine and Angie once they got in and waved from the pit up to me. I waved and just was grateful for the ability to sit in a seat and still see well. 

Kristeen

Kristeen Young is the opening act. I think she has an amazing voice, fashion sense and artistic integrity. I enjoyed her performance as I usually do and I think playing in a smaller venue was good for her. It felt like it was pretty supportive. You have to bear in mind the enormity of her task. She has to entertain people who are basically not there to see her. I've said before that she is kind of a cross between Kate Bush and Bjork. Very different and esoteric.

Then it was time for Morrissey-almost. Russell Brand was in charge of the introduction and eloquently said he was there for the same reason that we all were-because he is a big fan. Also he basically said that there are no stars like him. He's like a Garbo or a Bette Davis. He also referred to him as Lord Mudslide before Moz came out. 

I can't probably effectively convey the contrast between the show at The Staples Center and compare it to the intimacy of the gig at Hollywood High. It felt like we were a closer family. I felt like people were just so happy to see Morrissey and see him feeling well and happy that that happiness infected the entire audience. We knew this was a special night. 

Here is the set list: 
Alma Matters
Ouija Board, Ouija Board
Irish Blood, English Heart
You Have Killed Me
November Spawned a Monster
Malajusted
You're the One For Me, Fatty
Still Ill
People Are the Same Everywhere
Speedway
Asleep (a capella during Speedway)
That Joke Isn't Funny Anymore
Meat is Murder
Please, Please Let Me Get What I Want
To Give (The Reason I Live)
Everyday is Like Sunday
I'm Throwing My Arms Around Paris
Action Is My Middle Name
Let Me Kiss You
Encore:
The Boy With the Thorn in His Side

Mic Whipping

There was not a bad seat in the house. We could all see Morrissey's expressions and the musical skills of the band. I guess you could say it was like we were at Russell's house in the living room-just a bit bigger than that and with some great lighting. You could not get such a great view in a larger venue like the Staples Center unless you were hung from the ceiling to almost eye level with the band. I would not recommend that! 

At one point he asked, "Where are we all going after this?" Someone yelled, "The Cat and Fiddle!" I know full well everyone there and their dog probably showed up there. Except Morrissey. 

He saw Devan in the audience sitting on his dad's shoulders and asked him his name. "Devan."
"Kevin?"
"Devan."
"David?"
Security: "Devan."

I doubt I can adequately give the night justice but I can say that I was in heaven. Taking "illegal" pictures and singing along WITH Morrissey to his songs. I felt like he put his heart and soul into every line.Many people will find this hard to accept, but Morrissey exuded happiness and positivism. I know the media like to refer to him as "the pope of mope" blah blah blah, but if you are a true fan you most likely see the other side- his humor and wit.

When "Meat is Murder" came up and the video of "Meet Your Meat" I looked around to see what people were doing. A lot of people were still standing and some of course looked down. I do! I don't eat meat so I feel okay with that.
 However, I think just by looking around that some people in the audience were moved by it and were really paying attention to the suffering we put animals through. If you can't look you MUST know that there is something wrong with it. It is an incredibly powerful song that has changed many lives-mostly the lives of animals!

Meat is Murder

The encore was "The Boy With the Thorn in His Side." During this song, Morrissey picked up Devan from the crowd, took him by the hand to one end of the stage and carried him back to his dad. I think this had to be amazingly special to him and his dad, a Blue Rose Society member and big time fan. I got the impression that attending Morrissey concerts with dad was kind of a rite of passage. He looked a bit shocked and shy but happy. Of course this was amid Oohs and Aaahs from the audience. It just solidified the love between Morrissey and his fans. Again, it was this feeling that nobody understand us but we get it. We get what Morrissey is about.( Well, at least we think we do).

Moz and Devan

Just as the previous night had ended, we parted ways with our friends without too much of a good-bye and made our way to our car. No, we did not end up at the Cat and Fiddle. We hit the freeway and went back to the OC and quite eagerly tucked ourselves in bed. 

Next show: Las Vegas, April 20.

On a side note: Morrissey had to postpone a show in San Francisco due to his illness. Hoping he gets well soon! 

More Pictures from Hollywood High

Paint a Vivid Picture

Rasmus and Oliver at Hume Lake in King's Canyon National Park

 You probably think I have forgotten about Morrissey. Look, I know I have been away for a few weeks, but forget him? Never!


Morrissey has been on my mind. But when I say Morrissey, what I mean is my interest in him and his concerts. Please realize that I am not under the misapprehension that I have a personal relationship with him.


My personal relationship is my connection to people I have met on Twitter and others who read this blog. Our mutual interest in all things Morrissey is simply what keeps us connected. I like to think that Morrissey has read this blog on the one hand, on the other, I think I might die with embarrassment at how very boring this blog can be. But I won't let myself think about that. I shall just take a deep breath and feign some pride and confidence. Let no one ever know how insecure I actually am.

Oliver and his 3rd Place Medal (swimming)

USS MIdway in San Diego Harbor

You may ask, So what the hell have I been up to? Well, here is my short list: I have been working on writing a book, we went camping at King's Canyon National Park, entertaining our prior exchange student from Denmark, swimming (all the boys and me), going to swim meets, dealing with family issues, and reading a book entitled The Art of the Personal Essay.

Friends Emmanuel and Jack jamming with Roland 

 To be totally honest, I am a little upset that I have not been able to spend as much time with Morrissey-again, I don't mean him personally, I don't want someone reading this thinking I am best buddies with him-well, I wouldn't mind anyone thinking that, but its not really the truth. What I actually mean is listening to his music, catching some videos of his recent concerts in Belgium and Italy, communicating with other fans via Twitter, etc., and daydreaming about attending the concerts in Chicago and in Los Angeles.

 Through all of this I now realize that my biggest undertaking at the moment, besides my family, concerns the book I am going to write. Its simply not going to be easy to keep up this blog on a weekly basis and write this book. I return to work in September and that will decrease my ability to keep up this blog as well.


I won't be giving it up completely. I love writing this too much despite the fact that I don't really have a huge following or anything. Its the act of writing it that I love and then of course, relating to other people-most particularly, other Morrissey fans.

Buck Rock, King's Canyon

 I also realize that I need to invest in a decent camera. My iphone takes okay pictures and its convenient, but this blog might be even remotely more interesting if I had some better pictures here. Until that time, I must paint a vivid picture with words.

Jonathan Richman at The Detroit Bar, Costa Mesa

I leave you now with Morrissey in Rome. It looks like he is wearing a shirt with blue roses on it . . . I can't quite make out. *Goes off singing*, "Action is my middle name, I can't waste time anymore."

A Rush and a Push and a Shove

The Blue Roses (Disclaimer: Only Morrissey has permission to use this photo!)

I have to confess to you that I am a total hypocrite. By day, I am a mellow-mannered rule enforcing agent of education. By night, I am a sneaky arena infiltrator. 

I don't know how I did it but I managed to accomplish my mission to bring blue roses to the stage at Morrissey's birthday concert in San Diego. I'd be lying if I said ONLY I made it into the pit, because Jazmine aka @JJMorrizzy also made it into the same area and to be honest, without her involvement, I doubt I would have had the courage or the pluck to do it myself.

Arrival

My husband, Roland, and I arrived in San Diego after work around 5ish. While Roland napped, I took a shower and got ready. Getting ready was not difficult but putting on my false eyelashes was a bit complicated since I had never worn them before. I took consolation in the fact that now that I am sporting bangs (or a fringe, if you like), the fact that my eyelashes were a bit crooked would not be noticed. Also, its pretty dark at a concert. 

We ended up having dinner at the restaurant closest to our motel called Dupar's. They also have a full bar so I ordered a Bloody Mary. I like spicy BM's and their's was perfect for me. Just sitting at a coffee shop and sipping a Bloody Mary on a week night was a thrill for me. Well, for us. 

I texted Jasmine and she and Johnny were staying in the vicinity so it was lovely to see them walking through the motel parking lot. Johnny has a Man United shirt with Morrissey on the back-pretty cool even for a non Man United fan.

 Luckily on the ride down to San Diego I had explained to  Roland what MorrisseysWorld is because he would not have understood Jasmine when she introduced herself as a" Morrisseyworlder".

It was also good because he was able to understand why I wanted so desperately to deliver the roses to Morrissey. He was okay with being on his own for part of the night and he's a good man because he "gets" me. 

I thought it was a good sign that security let me in carrying my four roses. 

The Gig

I didn't even grab a drink when we arrived. We pretty much went to our seats but we ran into Jasmine again and we had decided to meet outside the arena once "Meat is Murder" began. We both can't look at the images of suffering and its a good way usually through his set so it would allow us the time to get where we needed to be.

Krysteen was playing when we found our seats which included a large speaker blocking our view of part of the video screen which wasn't a problem yet but became a problem when the pre-concert videos were shown. We were REALLY far away. As we sat enjoying Krysteen, I questioned how in the hell I was going to get down there. I told Roland I was going to the restroom and he said, "Look, if you get down there just let me know."

I circled the arena carrying these beautiful roses and was stopped by several people who thought it really sweet that I wanted to get the roses to Morrissey for his birthday. It must have looked to them like I still believed in Santa or something. Like I still have faith in something almost supernatural.

One guy stopped me and asked me if I was going to give the roses to Morrissey and he was gushing so much about it that I gave him a rose for himself. Then a lobster came along and we got our picture with the lobster. A bit surreal.

When I saw where people entered the pit, I noticed there were three security people: one distributing wrist bands, one at the bottom of the stairs and then one once you entered the pit-the last two checked wrist bands. I just didn't see any way. So I asked the person distributing the wrist bands how you get down there hoping he might have an interest or pity for older women. He said," You have to have  a ticket (duh) and he thought there may be tickets left. 

The tickets were $50. I thought, for the peace of mind and getting there, I could do that. 

I found the ticket booth and no. It was sold out. I felt so hopeless.

I defeatedly went back to our seats and watched the opening videos of Nico, Sparks and the New York Dolls. My only hope was to hop the wall from the loge section with Jasmine.

At the end of the day, I knew I was lucky firstly to be there and also to get in with the roses. I know he was far away, but Morrissey was at least in the same part of the planet, the same country, city and building. 

He began with "How Soon is Now" and the place went crazy. Not just because it was Morrissey but also because we all felt so privileged to share his birthday with him. It simply brought a smile to my face because even from as far away as I was I could sense he was in good spirits and I thought I could see a smile on his face. 

Here is the set list:

How Soon is Now
You Have Killed Me
Alma Matters
You're the One For Me Fatty
Shoplifters of the World Unite
I'm Throwing My Arms Around Paris
When Last I Spoke to Carol
Last Night I Dreamt that Somebody Loved Me
Everyday is Like Sunday
To Give (the Reason I Live)
Ouija Board, Ouija Board
Meat is Murder 
Let Me Kiss You
People Are the Same Everywhere
I Will See You in Far Off Places
Please, Please, Please Let Me Get What I Want
Scandinavia
I Know Its Over
Speedway
Encore: Still Ill

I enjoyed and shared the first part of this with Roland. Although we had seats, we stood up-just like everyone else on the terrace. This was a different experience than at The Shrine. Just  a totally different, more positive energy.

Jasmine sent me a text to meet up at Last Night I Dreamt instead, but it was already To Give by the time I saw the message. I thought, "Holy Shit. Jasmine's gonna do it without me!" A quick see ya later to Rols and I was off.

Busted
Panicked, I ran out to find Jasmine ready and waiting with Johnny's Loge level ticket. We got in and as we descended the stairs, I saw a guy just hop over the wall into the pit. Security seemed not to be paying attention. So I just went for it. Jasmine simply said, "Be careful!" I made it over,  but a security lady nabbed me right away and asked to see my non-existent wrist band. I had a lame ass response, "I lost it." I learn from the best-high school students! Responses along the lines of, "I forgot my homework".," My printer ran out of ink", and, " Its in my dad's car."

Needless to say, I had to leave. But now I had no "legal" way to get into the loge section to attempt it again. 

I circled around and made it into the loge section without a ticket again and just kind of wandered trying to figure it all out. Meanwhile, Moz was crooning away and I was missing it. I missed his sweaty shirt being thrown on Let Me Kiss You. Time was running out and I was still clutching the life out of the poor roses.

I had to jump somewhere so the security lady that busted me would not see me. 

My only hope was now the entrance to the pit with three security people. 

All I can say is "Thank Heaven for Pretty Girls!" I approached the entrance to the pit and the security man at the top of the stairs was deeply engrossed in conversation with two pretty girls. How they could chat outside the stage area instead of starring at Morrissey is beyond me, but I did not ask questions. His back was facing me so I just descended the stairs. 

Then the second security saw me-I avoided eye contact. Walked with a sense of purpose. He said nothing.

Third security person just watched me pass by!

I was in! I could hardly believe it. I was shaking as I hurriedly joined the crowd. It felt like I had escaped from prison and found freedom and acceptance at last.

You Have Thrilled Me
I have to say that entering the pit, I felt somehow that I belonged there. I felt welcomed by everyone because, I suppose, I was clutching these beautiful blue roses for Morrissey-on his birthday. People just pushed me forward. I barely had to move anyone. It just happened. But in a good way. Not in the sense that your boyfriend cheats on you and says, "It just happened." 

I made it only as far as the people in front of me. But they were at the rail. There was quite a gap between the stage and the crowd. So when Moz was leaning over to shake hands, he had quite a stretch. I held the roses to him, but he may not have seen them and I think because I was not actually at the rail, he could not reach. His arms aren't that long and neither are mine.

Meanwhile, I was feeling the joy of the crowd as we sang along together and helped to hoist people up on the stage. 

I threw the roses finally just before the encore after I was able to fully enjoy the last six songs. I had hoped he would pick up the roses, but he must not have seen them or simply did not want to pick them up. But they were there. I was at the left hand side in the corner and the roses were next to the speaker or PA. So kind of easy to miss when you have stage lights shining in your face.

After the encore was over and the band had left the stage we sang Happy Birthday (rather badly) several times. Lights went up and I felt so happy to have been able to make it to the pit and throw roses. I held the last rose up but nobody would take it and it was kind of wilty by then anyway.

Mission Accomplished.( Take that, George W.!!)

By the way, @MorrisseysWorld tweeted to say thank you for the roses and said "WE MUST."

P.S. Also, I must mention that Jasmine made it to the stage as well and threw a rose at the encore too-yet not taken by Moz. I  saw her friends that I met at the convention. It was great to see them.

Krystal ended up meeting the band backstage after the show and just barely missed Morrissey as he stole away on a bus. She took some great pictures of her with the band including Boz and Soloman. She may end up going to the show tomorrow in Bakersfield.

Assemble the Ways

The blue roses

You'd think I actually had a real date with Morrissey the way I have been getting ready for this concert in San Diego. 

Earlier this week I had my hair done by my friend Angela. Angela is from Stockport, (U.K.) and I have known her for a very long time. She is also a great  hair dresser. When I told her I had grey roots and was going to see Morrissey, she knew that, of course, Morrissey cannot see my grey roots!

Nico

 I asked Angela to make me look like Nico.

I don't look like Nico but my hair does-a brown-haired Nico.

Oliver didn't even recognize me when I came to pick him and Miguel up from swim practice after getting it done.

Yesterday I purchased a new top, a new cardigan, a pair of Tom's, false eyelashes, and two new lipsticks.

I bought a Smiths T-shirt at the Morrissey/Smiths convention but it was way too big. I mean, it could have been a night shirt. So my plan was to cut out the picture in a square shape and sew it onto the back of the cardigan I bought at Target.

My new cardigan

That was the plan--and it worked! 

Bonnie and Jovanny

My son, Jovanny, helped me out. He wants to be a fashion designer so what better practice? 

I picked up blue roses today (now Monday). When I ordered the roses, the lady on the phone asked why I wanted blue roses. I gave her a simple answer because she didn't even know who Morrissey is. But when I picked them up today (and I nearly forgot in all my excitement) the l Iady serving me, was over the moon that I was seeing Morrissey and she even gave me a free vase and individual watering tabs to put on the rose stems so they last longer. She packed the vase in a cardboard box and tissue paper so that they would not spill on the car ride. The florist is called The Enchanted Florist and its in downtown Orange. (I told her I would mention the florist on my blog).


I had to take the roses with me to the pool for Oliver's swim practice because I was afraid they'd get ruined in the hot car. It turned a few heads. It required some explanation as well, but it just made people more excited for me--either that or they REALLY think I must be off my trolley!


All day today my phone was ringing with Tweets regarding this concert and the best possible way (or ANY possible way) to get the roses to Morrissey. I am sure everyone and their dog will be trying to get a present of some kind to him. I felt incredibly popular as my phone kept buzzing with tweets and my students were  laughing when I joked about how "popular" I am. 


The difficult thing about getting the roses to Morrissey is basically getting the roses to Morrissey. I mean, we tweeted about the possibility of pit passes-which seems kind of remote right now, the other is just to sneak past security. And there is the possibility that by doing that, we will be kicked out of the venue and thereby miss the entire concert. That's the worst thing that could happen. But we HAVE to try. When I say "we" I am talking about Krystal and Jazmine and me. I have yet to tell Roland about all this--and I have stated before that he's a rule follower so he may not want to venture forth  

Although its Morrissey's birthday and all and its exciting to go and make all these plans and hope that everything turns out okay, the fact is that Roland and I get to spend time together away from children even if I have to leave him for a little while to break some rules. I know it may sound mean, but we teach school and then have three kids at home--and we love all of them dearly. Yet there is something to be said for going out and having our own adventures. It helps that we are staying over night in San Diego.


So, while I do not have a date with Morrissey in the conventional sense of the word, I do have a date with my husband who lately has seemed to be almost as out of reach simply because of the business of our lives. 

A rose for Morrissey

To learn more about the blue rose and its significance as well as read an interview with Morrissey, visit : 
http://followingthemozziah.blogspot.co.uk/2012/05/interview-with-morrissey-conducted-on.html


There is some controversy concerning this interview but if you are interested I suggest that you go to the blog and read it since the controversy is explained better than I could explain it. 


Enjoy!!

Well-adjusted at the Smiths/Morrissey Convention

Krystal, William, Ricardo and Crystal at the Avalon, Hollywood (Smiths/Morrissey Convention)

Going Solo
Is there anything potentially more pathetic than to attend a convention dedicated to the iconic figure of pain and isolation-alone?

I don't know the answer to that question, but when I arrived at the Avalon in Hollywood on Sunday, I tried to assure myself that I must be a true fan to attend in the spirit of lonliness. Not only did "two lovers entwine pass me by", but dozons of Moz-loving troops happily attending what my friend Jazmine calls "The Prom" for Morrissey fans.

By the way, I did not attend my high school prom. In all likelihood, this is  because I was a bit of a social reject.

I went on my own last night (Sunday) because Roland, my husband, did not want to attend. I don't mind because I am a fan-he isn't. He likes Morrissey. He appreciates his music lyrically and musically but he would have no interest in the convention. It would be too much fandom for him. Also, we did not need a babysitter, so it worked out well.

Before I left the house, Miguel (13 years) asked, "Who are you going with?"

I said, "I'm going on my own."

"That sucks."

Uhhh. No it doesn't. Four hours to have the freedom to make my own decisions sounded pretty darn lucky to me!

The Venue
One thing of several things I appreciate about Los Angeles is the historic buildings. You think of Los Angeles being new but there are some real historic gems out there.

The Avalon, Hollywood

The building was originally opened as a theater in the 1920s, then was used as part of a government-sponsored program during the Depression. Then it was home to a burlesque show and later, still, a television studio.

Judy Garland performed here in the 1960s and The Ramones performed here in 1996.

My grandma would probably be interested in the fact that this was where they televised The Lawrence Welk Show. All those years of watching it and we lived so close. I wonder why she and my grandpa never went to see it.

Krystal and Crystal
When I first arrived I simply wanted to explore the building-and find food! I was starving. I imagined there would be some vegetarian food, and there probably was but when I located the restaurant, there were no seats as PETA occupied a large portion of the area. I do not know if they had meat on the menu but, I think if you were a carnivore and ordered a nice, juicy hamburger, it might be a little disconcerting to eat it in front of a PETA information table. That would take balls, I admit. Luckily, that was not something I considered doing since I am a vegetarian and now a member of PETA.

I had a quick look around the rest of the venue after visitng the restaurant. There were a few vendors selling the usual merchandise (T-shirts, bags, buttons, posters, etc.). I thought it would be a good idea to purchase anything early in case it got busier and then it might be a hassle. So, I purchased a Smiths t-shirt with Morrissey flinging the old gladiolas about.

Also available were some fake roses you could clip into your hair. I bought a blue one and a red one.

It was about this time that I decided to finally text @Its_Only_Me_K. She was there. I told her I was in the karaoke room. I was sitting in a big arm chair, most likely one of the eldest people there. So Krystal (as she is known outside the twitter world) said hi. I had no idea what she looked like until then. She was with her friend Crystal and both were probably the most mellow, sweet people there.

I went downstairs briefly to collect a free Moz poster I had neglected to get when I walked in. Its the one with him in his specs and a bandaid on his forehead-the band aid (plaster) has a teddy on it. This shall proudly be displayed on my classroom wall.

Ricardo and William (it was really nothing)
When I came back up, the Krystals were looking at merchandise. I stood there somewhat alone watching people when I was approached by two guys closer to my age than anyone else I could see.

They asked me who I liked better, The Smiths or Morrissey. My response: both. I said that I liked the Smiths because of Johnny's guitar and Andy's bass lines. But that Morrissey's lyrics and humor are the driving force behind my admiration and love. Of course, he isn't bad to look at too.

It was a great opening question to a conversation about Morrissey. The two guys are William and Ricardo. They are neighbors and found it remarkable that they were lucky enough to move in next to each other because they are Moz fans.

 It turns out that both of them had met Morrissey. Ricardo told me his story--he went to a show that featured a well-known Latino singer who is quite known for singing Morrissey's songs in Spanish. ( Ironically,I have forgotten his name). Anyway, he was getting a beer and Morrissey was drinking a Corona there watching the performance. Ricardo was too shy to come right up to him but he said, "We love you Morrissey." He was standing behind him. Ricardo said that Moz did not seem to hear him. Perhaps he just wanted to be left alone. Ricardo was too bashful to say it any louder.

William began to tell me his story but was interrupted. Not rudely but all I got from his story was that he kind of stalked Morrissey at a hotel he knew he was staying at. I wish I could have heard the rest because I got the sense that he had more of a conversation with Moz than his friend did.

I find Morrissey stories fascinating.

We were soon joined by @JJazmineMoz (otherwise known as Jasmine) and her boyfriend @MozRocks. I am so slow, it took me a while to realize they were boyfriend and girlfriend. It was kind of obvious when they kissed.

Not knowing @MozRocks beforehand, Ricardo asked, "Who is Stephen Patrick?" And @MozRocks quickly responded, "Morrissey, of course."

Jazmine introduced us to her boyfriend (Johnny), her friends Mauricio, Jackie and Hilda as well as her Aunt Lucy.

The conversation was animated and lively. I think that that was one of the best moments for me. Just being able to talk to other people face-to-face who see what I see in Morrissey was refreshing and affirming. Its the feeling that I had when I first was introduced to Twitterdilly Arms. I am not alone. I am not a complete nut case.

I told Ricardo and William about my blog. Jazmine mentioned MorrisseysWorld to them, but I had the distinct feeling that they don't spend a lot of time on the internet and it would be too difficult to explain MW without that point of reference. I hope that they find my blog, at least. Then perhaps I can get the rest of William's story and lead them to MW.

You Can Dance if You Want To
I went with the Krystals to the dance floor. I didn't dance but I watched videos of The Smiths and Morrissey and watched others dance. 

I thought about dancing but my legs were sore from the two mega walks I had taken Sunday-first with Moz (the dog) and then for the fundraiser event. My gig legs were not up to it.

I wanted to talk to the Krystals but it was too loud and I needed a seat. So I headed back up to the karaoke room to hang out with Jazmine and find a chair. 

One of Jazmine's friends, Mauricio, was occupying a chair so I assertively asked, "Do you mind if I share this seat with you?" I know it was rather forward of me but my legs were desperate. I was a little concerned if he had wanted to chat up a girl, sharing a seat with me was not going to help him out much. But it all worked out. We endured some good and bad Morrissey karaoke but no one really cares how you sing. Everyone is mostly singing along with you anyway.

Jazmine sang and so did Jackie. Jazmine felt bad at first that she was off key but I had to remind her that she was at least brave enough to do it. I was not drunk enough to do such a thing. I had a beer and then Jazmine offered me a drink of her beverage. I asked her, "What kind of drink is it?"

She said, "I don't know."

"Okay. Are you sure you don't mind if I drink from your cup?"

"You're a Morrissey fan. Of course its okay."

It was an awesome thing to say. My favorite line of the night.

Meanwhile Jazmine's friend, Mauricio and I were singing away to the karaoke having a great conversation. He showed me pictures of Morrissey's shirt he had grabbed at the Pomona gig-well, it wasn't really a shirt anymore. It was bits of material.

It was interesting to meet people who did not sit in the nosebleed section. He has great seats for the San Diego show too. In fact, he may not even have a seat. He probably has the area at the front of the stage. (I try not to turn green with envy!)

Maladjusted
We found some seats on the balcony and then watched a tribute band called Maladjusted. Jazmine and her friends know them as they have attended shows and band practices from what I understand.

They had a tough act to follow for me, since I have seen The Sweet and Tender Hooligans twice and both times were fantastic.

The most interesting feature for me was their set list. They did not play only the typical songs like "Everyday is Like Sunday," but also some more obscure songs. There was one that I actually did not know the title of-Jazmine did though! And of course, I have forgotten again!

They definately have great stage presence and simply enjoyable to watch and of course, sing a long with.

I highly recommend seeing them if you live in the Los Angeles area. Their next gig is in Bellflower but I don't know the date. You can try searching for them on Facebook for information.

Missed The Charming Men
I had to go after Maladjusted performed. It was 10 and I had to be up at 5 Monday morning. My good-bye was quick but I truly enjoyed meeting everyone-especially Krystal and Jazmine and we will be meeting up in San Diego as well.

There was another tribute band up after I left called Those Charming Men. They come all the way from Ireland every year to perform at the convention. I was sorry to have missed them.

Maybe I will get to see them next year!

Mark Nevin, Simon Goddard and Jose Maldonado
Before I sign off, I would like to make any Morrissey fan aware of some interviews by Julie Hamill, an avid Moz fan and leader of Mozarmy. She has interviewed Mark Nevin (former musical collaborator and accomplished musician), Simon Goddard (author of THE Morrissey book, Mozipedia), and Jose Maldonado (the Mexican Morrissey, singer for Sweet and Tender Hooligans and DJ on Indie 103.com's Breakfast with The Smiths).

I found the interviews delightful. I am only jealous because I could not meet any of these guys, but even if I could, I would not be able to have the repore she has. They are simply fun to read. These interviews are available at: http://juliehamill.tumblr.com/.