Bethy's Excellent Adventure
A big hello to all you Wirthlings
What a wonderful few days we had together. I'm still feeling vacation hang-over. :} It's a good thing.Billy the Magnificent
I first felt him, not saw him. Strange as that sounds. He was behind us and had just arrived for the movie showing. I turned and there he was. I then turned to Penny and said, "He's here." She was already aware of him as well. So we encouraged Max to go and introduce herself. OK, so I threatened to kick her butt if she didn't get over there. Max didn't want to intrude but I knew Billy would want to meet her and felt we should let him know that we were here. Didn't want to surprise him later on. I was so glad to see her reception. It was impressive, fans, I must tell you. I was so excited for Maxine. All she said was her name and he suddenly changed. He seemed to engulf Maxine and was so genuine that my heart soared for Max. This Fans, was one of the greatest moments of the trip for me. I'm so proud of Max and all her accomplishments. Then to have that kind of unexpected reaction from Billy was... Mind blowing. Just HAD to share that with all of you. It was like his whole body changed. His face spread in a huge and loving smile as he said her name. I think he hugged her right off the ground for a moment or two. Wow, really am impressed with this guy.
He then came over with Max and she introduced us to him. Right away he remembered our names. Fans, it was freezing outside standing and waiting. It had snowed earlier that day and the nights in Taos are that of the desert, cold and clear.
I had stayed in an earthship on Weds. night and had to tease Billy about building one on his land grant. Not sure he realized I was teasing but he seemed interested, for a moment anyway. :}
The folks from the Liz Taylor Q & A came out and offered to allow a bunch of us inside to warm up and see Liz. What an unexpected treat. Billy and Liz all on the same night. Somebody pinch me.
Liz's Q&A was interesting. She's a neat lady and was comfortable with the questions and audience. It was nice to see that Hollywood has a few genuine people left in her.
Diva Liz had made a grand entrance and her Q & A pushed Billy's film back a hour. All Billy had to say to that was, "It was great to have Liz Taylor open up for us." With that irresistible smile of his to follow. I thought that was a great line, another cool moment to keep with me.
After the film was shown we met up with Billy again. He came over to Max and Penny while I got the car. Yes, fans, I just HAD to hop out of that car and get a hug. Man, he is a great hugger. Such a cool dude.
After that we saw him briefly at the next showing but had to run and get ready for the Awards Gala. OK, so Penny and Max had to get ready. They actually put make-up on me. I'm such an all natural girl. :}
At the Awards Gala, we walked around and had some munchies. When it was finally time to announce the winners, Billy arrived with Stacy and Maricel. They came over and stood with us after Stella approached them and let them know where we were standing. More about Stella and Margaret to come- true Billy fans. Fans, they came and spent time with us at the Gala. We had hoped only to see him and watch him receive an award but instead they spent time with us. Stacy was great, he was comfortable with us and Maricel is amazing. Intelligence abounds in that group and it was fascinating to be included.
At the last showing we met up with Billy and friends
again. Stacy was great about signing our shirts as was "the Boss", as Max now calls him. Lovingly of course. :} He was gracious and giving of his time. He had other engagements but was in no hurry. We took pictures with Billy and of Stacy and Maricel. I must say they were wonderful to put up with all the flashing we sent in their direction. Unfortunately my camera was not working well and most of my pictures never turned out. Thank God for Penny and her awesome cameras and patience. We felt terrible for snapping so many shots but knew you all would want to see the man in his element.
Billy, thanks for a wonderful time and a great movie. I am most impressed by all that surrounds you.
Beth------ Taos Film Festival 2001
built mm 4/2001
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