Love, Las Vegas : December 11-17, 2007

[Love,]

 

Hello everyone,

 

After having driven twelve hours today, making it in time for an afternoon class in San Francisco, and driving another one and a half hours - I'm FINALLY... HOME!

 

What a thrill it was to reunite with many of my dear Celine friends and making new ones, as well. The six days I've spent in the "City of Lights" (and a few hours in the "City of Angels") were AMAZING. Being there to experience with Celine the last two shows of her Vegas extravaganza was truly emotional.

 

I've brought back with me hundreds of photographs and videoclips. I'm sure some of you have viewed the vlogs of the first day of my journey, as well. I have arrived home to major business deadlines and university finals, so my current time is limited. However, I will do my best to put up my journal entries and photographs of the many activities ASAP - little by little!

 

Here are some things to look forward to:

 

- Personal Videologs and Journal Entries

- Video Interview with our friend Chuck Taylor

- Brief video interview with David Foster

- Video footages of fans and Garou and Luc Plamondon

- The visit to Celine's star in Hollywood

- My sweet little moment with Katie Holmes LOL

- Show reviews

- PHOTOS, PHOTOS, PHOTOS!!!! (including me being cradled by the beautiful women of Finland! )

- and much more!

 

I'm looking forward to sharing all these wonderful things with you soon!

 

Thank you to each one of you for making this December truly one to remember, with the absolutely, BIGGEST HUGS to NIC and JANE!

 

 

P.S. Yes, Elvis lent me his jacket for this photo shoot!

 

Edited December 18, 2007 at 04:58 AM by Love,

[anghil5]

Oh, LOVE. You are so funny! This weekend was unforgettable!

[celinefanonline]

it's the most amazing week for me!! (well 4 days)

it's really nice to meet fans around the world!!!

 

and Love, u r really nice!!! and funny!!

[nano]

- PHOTOS, PHOTOS, PHOTOS!!!! (including me being cradled by the beautiful women of Finland! )

 

omg..can't wait to see the photos.

[Love,]

Awww, thanks for your comments, so far! I miss many of you, already!

 

I have SO many photographs from this trip.

 

Here is the start!

 

 

http://i134.photobucket.com/albums/q97/Sopha85/023-CelineSopha9283123.jpg

Who's That Ladayyy Strutting Behind Me?

When: Wednesday 2PM, December 12, 2007

Where: Colosseum Entrance

 

http://i134.photobucket.com/albums/q97/Sopha85/049-HardRock-Group.jpg

Dinner at Planet Hollywood Cafe

When: Wednesday Evening, December 12, 2007

 

http://i134.photobucket.com/albums/q97/Sopha85/052-Ramama-Soph9083912.jpg

Ramama et Moi Catwalking... After the Show

When: Wednesday Night, December 12, 2007

Where: Caesars Palace

 

http://i134.photobucket.com/albums/q97/Sopha85/060-Finns-Sopha81122.jpg

"I LOVE FINLAND" - What a BEAUTIFUL Country! Oh... the Women Too!

When: Wednesday Night 11PM, December 12, 2007

Where: Caesars Palace

 

http://i134.photobucket.com/albums/q97/Sopha85/066-Sopha-Jo12982.jpg

With Gorgeous Jo from Australia!

When: Wednesday Night 11PM, December 12, 2007

Where: Caesars Palace

 

http://i134.photobucket.com/albums/q97/Sopha85/062-Sopha-Elaine12038912.jpg

Meeting Beautifull Elaine from Brazil, For the First Time

When: Wednesday Night 11PM, December 12, 2007

Where: Caesars Palace

 

http://i134.photobucket.com/albums/q97/Sopha85/084-MaluSopha129812.jpg

San Fran's Very Own...Gorgeous Malu and Moi

When: Wednesday Night 11:45PM, December 12, 2007

Where: SLICE at Caesars Palace

 

http://i134.photobucket.com/albums/q97/Sopha85/091-Estevam-Soph182391231.jpg

Unforgettable Smiles with Estevam!

When: Wednesday Night 11:45PM, December 12, 2007

Where: SLICE at Caesars Palace

 

http://i134.photobucket.com/albums/q97/Sopha85/094-VicSophBell9281.jpg

With My Forum Big Brothers Vic and Bellamy

When: Wednesday Night 11:55PM, December 12, 2007

Where: SLICE at Caesars Palace

 

 

 

...and... before I get into my warm and comfy bed for the first time in a week...

 

 

http://i134.photobucket.com/albums/q97/Sopha85/006-Sopho12an-Tree.jpg

Do you want to sit with me, sit with me... like LOVErs do?

When: Wednesday Noon, December 12, 2007

Where: At the Venetian

Edited December 18, 2007 at 09:17 AM by Love,

[nano]

http://i134.photobucket.com/albums/q97/Sopha85/060-Finns-Sopha81122.jpg

"I LOVE FINLAND" - What a BEAUTIFUL Country! Oh... the Women Too!

When: Wednesday Night 11PM, December 12, 2007

Where: Caesars Palace

omg.

[Salla]

http://i134.photobucket.com/albums/q97/Sopha85/060-Finns-Sopha81122.jpg

"I LOVE FINLAND" - What a BEAUTIFUL Country! Oh... the Women Too!

When: Wednesday Night 11PM, December 12, 2007

Where: Caesars Palace

 

WTF is up with my face!? annd why do I look like I'm drunk?

[Love,]

It's a very candid photograph, captured during the time when I was cracking my jokes! :lol:

 

Look at me: I'm smiling like a little boy that's being tickled...

 

or maybe I was!? :mdr:

 

Jenni, that tickles!!! :mdr:

 

 

http://i134.photobucket.com/albums/q97/Sopha85/060-Finns-Sopha81122.jpg

"I LOVE FINLAND" - What a BEAUTIFUL Country! Oh... the Women Too!

When: Wednesday Night 11PM, December 12, 2007

Where: Caesars Palace

 

WTF is up with my face!? annd why do I look like I'm drunk?

[Shesings2me]

Love, thank you. I know this is just the beginning but I will be here every day in anticipation of more because through you we get a picture of everyone we've heard from on this forum. For those of us who weren't able to make the final week, we can live it through all you have prepared for us. You must be a very caring and unselfish guy...to do all this work for the rest of us to enjoy too. But the hard work will pay off for you too because you caught all the memories in picture, on film, in words, and in your heart. You have these lasting memories to take with you on your journey and that is so very cool.

 

Keep in comin', T.

[Lina]

http://i134.photobucket.com/albums/q97/Sopha85/060-Finns-Sopha81122.jpg

"I LOVE FINLAND" - What a BEAUTIFUL Country! Oh... the Women Too!

When: Wednesday Night 11PM, December 12, 2007

Where: Caesars Palace

 

WTF is up with my face!? annd why do I look like I'm drunk?

 

OMG!! What's up with MY face?? I look like a drunken squirrel!

[kathyc25]

Aw Sophoan what beautiful pictures! Thanks so much for sharing!

[Salla]

http://i134.photobucket.com/albums/q97/Sopha85/060-Finns-Sopha81122.jpg

"I LOVE FINLAND" - What a BEAUTIFUL Country! Oh... the Women Too!

When: Wednesday Night 11PM, December 12, 2007

Where: Caesars Palace

 

WTF is up with my face!? annd why do I look like I'm drunk?

 

OMG!! What's up with MY face?? I look like a drunken squirrel!

 

AGAIN it's the two of us who look like we're drunk and the others look normal, what's up with that, huh?

[Jenni]

http://i134.photobucket.com/albums/q97/Sopha85/060-Finns-Sopha81122.jpg

"I LOVE FINLAND" - What a BEAUTIFUL Country! Oh... the Women Too!

When: Wednesday Night 11PM, December 12, 2007

Where: Caesars Palace

 

WTF is up with my face!? annd why do I look like I'm drunk?

 

OMG!! What's up with MY face?? I look like a drunken squirrel!

 

AGAIN it's the two of us who look like we're drunk and the others look normal, what's up with that, huh?

 

OH - MY! Hah, I think that beats the one with Elise!! That is just horrible!! Sorry girls and Sophoan, I'm only talking about myself when saying that! I look forward to seeing some more decent photos (if there are any, that is! )

Gosh it's so sad to be back home... and knowing there will never be another A New Day... show. I'm quite surprised, though, that I managed to get through my 12-hour day at work today without even feeling that tired... I guess during the last week I have finally learned to get by with much less sleep!

[Love,]

Thanks all!

 

T., thanks for your kind words! You really do understand me and I really appreciate you for that. I can't wait to share the other things with you and the other fans here.

 

 

http://i134.photobucket.com/albums/q97/Sopha85/060-Finns-Sopha81122.jpg

"I LOVE FINLAND" - What a BEAUTIFUL Country! Oh... the Women Too!

When: Wednesday Night 11PM, December 12, 2007

Where: Caesars Palace

 

WTF is up with my face!? annd why do I look like I'm drunk?

 

OMG!! What's up with MY face?? I look like a drunken squirrel!

 

AGAIN it's the two of us who look like we're drunk and the others look normal, what's up with that, huh?

 

OH - MY! Hah, I think that beats the one with Elise!! That is just horrible!! Sorry girls and Sophoan, I'm only talking about myself when saying that! I look forward to seeing some more decent photos (if there are any, that is! )

Gosh it's so sad to be back home... and knowing there will never be another A New Day... show. I'm quite surprised, though, that I managed to get through my 12-hour day at work today without even feeling that tired... I guess during the last week I have finally learned to get by with much less sleep!

 

Awwww, I love you gals! We took so many photos together - there MUST be one that we will all agree on!

[lyn]

thanks for sharing Soph. ^^ MORE!

[Love,]

The Vlogs!

December 11, 2007 9AM

"Live in Tulare Rest Stop"

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lkullyYSe4k

 

December 11, 2007 11AM

"Tehachapi, Snow, and Tumbleweed"

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7iuBZVd-eHg

 

December 11, 2007 3PM

"Touching Base in Vegas"

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3usJyKp__nw

 

December 15, 2007 5:16PM

"Holler!"

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SaRW7cidNyY

SPECIAL SEGMENTS

December 16, 2007 1PM - Segment A

"Memories from the Last Six Days!"

with Priceless Jane, Half a Cow, Katie Holmes, and Chubacca

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZkisjjERoqY

 

December 16, 2007 1PM - Segment B

"Memories from the Last Six Days!"

with Pre-Finale Night Memories and my Christmas Song

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-KOcWlIZUxs

BONUS!

December 16, 2007

"Elaine's Message to Family"

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H6wrn6Dk6vY

Edited December 19, 2007 at 05:47 AM by Love,

[Love,]

It's been a long day! I'm off to bed. But before I go:

 

http://i134.photobucket.com/albums/q97/Sopha85/loveLASVEGAStop.gif

 

Opening Night!

Live! At Mariah Scarey's Cafe! and Walmart!

 

The Opening Story:

 

I left home at 7:00AM, a new day had come. I had said my prayers and goodbyes with my family. I loaded the trunk of my car. I programed the GPS. And I was ready for my roadtrip and adventures.

 

As I looked out over the horizon during the drive, I was greeted by the warm sun. I drove for 520 miles across the agricultural heart of California, through the thick fogs of Fresno, through the dry mountains, and barren deserts. I even stopped for a little while in Tulare at 9:00AM at a rest stop with wireless internet to record a vlog. At Tehachapi, I could not help but notice the beautiful skirts of the surrounding mountains dressed with patches of snow. I pulled into the mountain-top city and recorded an on-location vlog, with the computer over my hood, and self-portraits with the camera over the roof. Next, I made a couple of stops for gasoline and refreshments. I was excited to be in Vegas, to meet, to unite, and to reunite with my friends. After having driven over 500 miles from California, at the last pit stop, I received a phone call from my buddy Nic, from France - who had just arrived. I rushed to the airport. Upon my arrival, he was excited to see me, yet there was a nervous look on his face because something had happened with one of his belongings. I assured him that it would be fine. We got in the car and drove towards the City of Lights.

 

We checked into Treasure Island. The two beds and mattresses were comfortable, loaded with brown and tan mattresses and accent pillows. Nic and I made several trips to the garage to gather our belongings. As soon as we had finished, I made myself at home, immediately. Off came the shoes, socks, and outer clothings. Out came the breaths of relief.

 

"I'm here!"

 

Suddenly, my phone beeped. It was a txt message from our British friend, Jane! "Have you arrived yet?" I smiled and looked at Nic as I answered in voice and txt: "Yes, darling! I'm here!" Txt was not enough for me, so I decided to give Jane a call. I invited her and her roommate, Hungary's own Zsusza, to come to dinner with Nic and me, later that evening. Ramona, whom I call "Ramama," had prepared a rendezvous for several folks at Montelago's buffet at Lake Las Vegas, a 20-minute drive from Las Vegas.

 

An hour later, Jane arrived alone. Zsusza was resting. Immediately, we gave each other a huge hug!

We rushed to my car, and sped out of the garage. Unfortunately, the evening's dinner with Ramona and friends had started earlier and we were running late. So, therefore, it was cancelled. So, Jane, Nic, and I decided to go cruising around Las Vegas. Our mission: a decent restaurant. We stumbled upon Mimi's Cafe. Jane had Oriential Shrimp Salad, Nic had Spaghetti Pasta, and I had the House Meatloaf. I had enough meatloaf to feed a family for a week. I was unable to finish my plate, yet I still found the space to sip in some more Strawberry Lemonade. During dinner, we made many funny jokes and talked about nostalgic experiences. I had not seen Jane ever since early February, after the DVD taping of Celine's Vegas extravaganza. Jane was and is truly one of the kindest, sincere people in the universe. Nic, whom I finally met in person, joked that he is "fully booked," pointing to his stomach - after the waitress asked if we had wanted dessert.

 

The three of us took photographs together in the living-room-like settings of Mimi's Cafe, in which we had nicknamed Mariah Carey ("Scarey" is also accepted) Cafe. Talk about the meatloaf, eh?

 

During our shoots together, I noticed Jane's hair. So, during our shoot, I pretended I was Kathy Griffin during her encounter with Celine. I petted her hair, and awaited her bark. We bursted out in laughter. Nic could not wait to handle Jane's hair either, and as he got a handful, he gave Jane the bangs that she had always wanted. Again, I bursted out in laughter, nearly dropping my Nikon SLR camera.

 

We got out of the restaurant to experience the cool night of Vegas. So, I ran to the warmth of my car. Next, I needed to purchase some undershirts, so we rushed to Walmart. I have never ever purchased clothing from Walmart, ever. So, this was truly an emergency. In Walmart, Jane was in search of the perfect shampoo for her beauty queen hair. So, she allowed clever me to guide her hair to the right bottle. So, through mutual consent, she allowed me to yank her hair, as I dragged her from one end of the aisle to the other. Of course, she was still on her two feet. The both of us were laughing so hard, our aisle was cleared for performance. "Revitalize!" "Curly" "Smooth" Finally, we landed at "Classic." I told Jane that she was certainly a classic. I finally let go of her hair. As she grabbed the bottle, she looked at me with a huge smile. "That's it!" She was pleasantly surprised that I found the right bottle for her, since it was also a 2-in-1 Shampoo and Conditioner.

 

 

 

http://i134.photobucket.com/albums/q97/Sopha85/083-ThreeStooooges981023.jpg

My dearest Jane and Nic

When: Tuesday, December 11, 2007

Where: Mimi's Cafe, Las Vegas

 

http://i134.photobucket.com/albums/q97/Sopha85/065-Jane-Nick.jpg

The Best Hair in the World Award Goes to...

When: Tuesday, December 11, 2007

Where: Mimi's Cafe, Las Vegas

 

http://i134.photobucket.com/albums/q97/Sopha85/072-NiSS0192831.jpg

Nic and Moi

When: Tuesday, December 11, 2007

Where: Mimi's Cafe, Las Vegas

 

 

Edited December 19, 2007 at 09:52 AM by Love,

[Filine]

Sopha I love the Vlogs I'll try to post our pictures soon!

[Shesings2me]

Thanks for more stuff Love, T.

[Love,]

Thanks all! Here is more.

 

http://i134.photobucket.com/albums/q97/Sopha85/loveLASVEGAStop.gif

 

Welcome to Wednesday

December 12, 2007

 

The Second Day

 

Wednesday morning, the second day. It was so relaxing, so peaceful and wonderful.

I slept well during the night, thanks to the comfortable mattress and one of my sleeping habits (I cannot reveal.).

 

The day officially began at 1:00PM, when Nic and I had lunch together at Planet Hollywood. We had pizza and a delicious plate of unique lasagna, wrapped in soft pastries. It was absolutely scrumptious.

 

After lunch, we headed to the Celine Dion Boutique, and roamed around the entry to the Colosseum, where we were joined by Jane. Nic and I had photographs taken with "Caesar," "Cleopatra," and the "Centurion" ; and with, of course, Celine. As Jane pushed down the shutter releases on the camera, we would slid and slide, pose and smile. The afternoon went by very quickly. Nic and I parted with Jane, as we headed off to our hotel, so that I could work on one of my homework. I was well aware that the week I was in Vegas was the week before finals at my university. In addition, I had an approaching deadline for a very important project for a client, due the following Tuesday and, to be screened the followed Wednesday. By the way, on a side note: as I am typing this entry, I am quite relieved that I did well on my finals and I made the deadline (the screening was successful today with attendance and feedbacks). Now, back to Vegas - my time spent on working was very limited. I wanted to relax and refresh myself during this vacation.

 

That evening, we headed over to Caesar's Palace. I was decked out in my deep, ocean blue v-neck cotton sweater, covered with a slick bomber leather jacket. As I walked passed the boutique, the first person I noticed was Ramama. I rushed over, and she was sporting this hot little number, and I could not help but grab her hand and do a little dance with her. We took photographs together, as always! I rushed to give so many people hugs and kisses. It was so nice to see once again, wonderful faces, such as Kim and Angela. Then, I turned around, and there was Elaine, whom I rushed to give the biggest hug to. Almost each person I had spoken to, I said "Welcome to America!" Next, there was Tati, Malu, and Estevam. It was so nice to see Estevam, since we missed each other back in January - and we had anticipated meeting in person. Now was the moment. Earlier, Nic had rushed like a kid following a balloon when he spotted his French pal, Matthieu, whom he brought to introduce to me.

 

As I was talking to Matthieu, I turned around and saw Anu, my dear, dear friend from Finland. She spotted me, opened her mouth, spread her arms right open and we dashed into each other's arms like Bambi had found his mother! I could honestly say it was my most exciting moment of the night. Next came Salla, and I jumped into her arms like there was no tomorrow. Soon, I was surrounded by two other Finnish women, Jenni and Elina, whom I met for the very first time. We joked around for a bit, and I just had to say "I love Finland."

 

Throughout the day and this evening, I had been txting Del, my dear friend of four years, from Nova Scotia. I was looking forward most to meeting him for the first time. I received a txt message from him, stating that he was at the doors of the Colosseum. What I did not realize was that the message had been sent in the evening, but much earlier. At the time of reception, Del was already asleep. So, I was walking around seeing if I could see Del in the distance. Jane noticed my anticipation and smiles. "Are you lost, Sopha?" She asked me. I answered immediately with a smile, "I'm lost in you, baby." We all laughed together, and of course, ended up with me in someone's arm, in a hug. I just had to give my dear friend Jane the biggest hug possible.

 

Is this why I self-proclaimed myself with the nickname, Love?

I will leave you to answer this question. HAHA

 

Next, we headed over to Slice. I did not sit down much, nor eat. I was pleased to see some people once again, including Bellamy (whom I had dinner with last week, along with Ramama and Tati), Vic; and Sophie and Cel from England. I spent about a minute with Mego, as I told him that I am a fellow pianist and that I truly adore him. We smiled together for a winsome photograph.

 

Nic and I took off immediately before midnight.

Thursday was next, and we were excited about SoCal!

 

http://i134.photobucket.com/albums/q97/Sopha85/032-Sopha-Nic-CEL12340-1INE.jpg

Nic et Moi et Celine - Striking a Pose

When: Wednesday Night 2PM, December 12, 2007

Where: Caesars Palace Colosseum

 

http://i134.photobucket.com/albums/q97/Sopha85/058-Sopha-Jenni-Lina-ANu123894.jpg

"Salla, we're waiting for ya!" - A pic with Jenni, Elina and Anu

When: Wednesday Night 11PM, December 12, 2007

Where: Caesars Palace

 

http://i134.photobucket.com/albums/q97/Sopha85/074MegoSph9810239.jpg

Meeting Mego, Celine's Music Director

When: Wednesday Night 11:50PM, December 12, 2007

Where: Slice at Caesars Palace

 

http://i134.photobucket.com/albums/q97/Sopha85/076-Fnh13904-Nic-Sh-Mego.jpg

A group photograph with the one and only, Mego!

When: Wednesday Night 11:50PM, December 12, 2007

Where: Slice at Caesars Palace

 

http://i134.photobucket.com/albums/q97/Sopha85/078-Estevam-Mego2342.jpg

I love hearing Estevam speak French!

When: Wednesday Night 11:50PM, December 12, 2007

Where: Slice at Caesars Palace

 

 

 

 

 

Awww, thanks for your comments, so far! I miss many of you, already!

 

I have SO many photographs from this trip.

 

Here is the start!

 

 

http://i134.photobucket.com/albums/q97/Sopha85/023-CelineSopha9283123.jpg

Who's That Ladayyy Strutting Behind Me?

When: Wednesday 2PM, December 12, 2007

Where: Colosseum Entrance

 

http://i134.photobucket.com/albums/q97/Sopha85/049-HardRock-Group.jpg

Dinner at Planet Hollywood Cafe

When: Wednesday Evening, December 12, 2007

 

http://i134.photobucket.com/albums/q97/Sopha85/052-Ramama-Soph9083912.jpg

Ramama et Moi Catwalking... After the Show

When: Wednesday Night, December 12, 2007

Where: Caesars Palace

 

http://i134.photobucket.com/albums/q97/Sopha85/060-Finns-Sopha81122.jpg

"I LOVE FINLAND" - What a BEAUTIFUL Country! Oh... the Women Too!

When: Wednesday Night 11PM, December 12, 2007

Where: Caesars Palace

 

http://i134.photobucket.com/albums/q97/Sopha85/066-Sopha-Jo12982.jpg

With Gorgeous Jo from Australia!

When: Wednesday Night 11PM, December 12, 2007

Where: Caesars Palace

 

http://i134.photobucket.com/albums/q97/Sopha85/062-Sopha-Elaine12038912.jpg

Meeting Beautifull Elaine from Brazil, For the First Time

When: Wednesday Night 11PM, December 12, 2007

Where: Caesars Palace

 

http://i134.photobucket.com/albums/q97/Sopha85/084-MaluSopha129812.jpg

San Fran's Very Own...Gorgeous Malu and Moi

When: Wednesday Night 11:45PM, December 12, 2007

Where: SLICE at Caesars Palace

 

http://i134.photobucket.com/albums/q97/Sopha85/091-Estevam-Soph182391231.jpg

Unforgettable Smiles with Estevam!

When: Wednesday Night 11:45PM, December 12, 2007

Where: SLICE at Caesars Palace

 

http://i134.photobucket.com/albums/q97/Sopha85/094-VicSophBell9281.jpg

With My Forum Big Brothers Vic and Bellamy

When: Wednesday Night 11:55PM, December 12, 2007

Where: SLICE at Caesars Palace

 

 

 

...and... before I get into my warm and comfy bed for the first time in a week...

 

 

http://i134.photobucket.com/albums/q97/Sopha85/006-Sopho12an-Tree.jpg

Do you want to sit with me, sit with me... like LOVErs do?

When: Wednesday Noon, December 12, 2007

Where: At the Venetian

[Clari]

Wooot!

[nano]

As I was talking to Matthieu, I turned around and saw Anu, my dear, dear friend from Finland. She spotted me, opened her mouth, spread her arms right open and we dashed into each other's arms like Bambi had found his mother! I could honestly say it was my most exciting moment of the night.

lol..I was so happy to see you.

 

http://i134.photobucket.com/albums/q97/Sopha85/058-Sopha-Jenni-Lina-ANu123894.jpg

"Salla, we're waiting for ya!" - A pic with Jenni, Elina and Anu

When: Wednesday Night 11PM, December 12, 2007

Where: Caesars Palace

 

http://i134.photobucket.com/albums/q97/Sopha85/076-Fnh13904-Nic-Sh-Mego.jpg

A group photograph with the one and only, Mego!

When: Wednesday Night 11:50PM, December 12, 2007

Where: Slice at Caesars Palace

Thank you for the pictures!!

[Cheerfuljane]

In Walmart :

 

 

http://download.yousendit.com/699A7FB07A28751B

[tativale]

Love, where is our picture TOGETHER????? LMAO Hahauahauhauah

[Jennifer]

Well Sophoan, I'm pretty upset that I never ran into you in Vegas. Are you going to be at the Tacoma show?

[**Josh**]

It's been a long day! I'm off to bed. But before I go:

 

 

http://i134.photobucket.com/albums/q97/Sopha85/083-ThreeStooooges981023.jpg

My dearest Jane and Nic

When: Tuesday, December 11, 2007

Where: Mimi's Cafe, Las Vegas

 

http://i134.photobucket.com/albums/q97/Sopha85/065-Jane-Nick.jpg

The Best Hair in the World Award Goes to...

When: Tuesday, December 11, 2007

Where: Mimi's Cafe, Las Vegas

 

http://i134.photobucket.com/albums/q97/Sopha85/072-NiSS0192831.jpg

Nic and Moi

When: Tuesday, December 11, 2007

Where: Mimi's Cafe, Las Vegas

 

 

 

 

haaaa our first night together, it was a great one lol

[ErwinG]

what a great week it was indeed ... great pictures

 

I got back to Aruba with the flu and had to spend to nights in bed sleeping and sweating it off ... horrible ... but good thing it happened after the final show ...

[Love,]

Thanks all again for your kind words!

 

Nic - I'm so glad you got home safely! Phewwwww! What an adventure!

 

Erwin- Get well soon, bud!

 

Well Sophoan, I'm pretty upset that I never ran into you in Vegas. Are you going to be at the Tacoma show?

 

Awww, Jennifer. I was truly looking forward to seeing you this December. If only we had each other's cell phone numbers, we could have contacted each other - and scheduled a rendezvous.

 

Now we have to wait another whole year, when I land in Tacoma and Seattle. *sighs

It will be a LONG TIME, but will be worth it!

 

Congratulations on getting the book to the One and Only... CELINE!

 

I shall place an order soon on the book as well, and hopefully get as many fans (published in the book) to sign it!

 

 

In Walmart :

 

 

http://download.yousendit.com/699A7FB07A28751B

Well, Nic had practiced his English, well, before coming here to the States. I'm sure he did not want to be taken advantage of! LOL

 

 

Love, where is our picture TOGETHER????? LMAO Hahauahauhauah

They will come soon, my dear!

I think in two days.

Edited December 21, 2007 at 05:17 AM by Love,

[Love,]

Thanks all, again!

 

http://i134.photobucket.com/albums/q97/Sopha85/loveLASVEGAStop.gif

 

Traveling Through Thursday

December 13, 2007

 

Destination: Hollywood

 

Thursday morning began, fabulously.

My roommate and I woke up to a beautiful sunny morning, and we took off for Southern California.

 

We had to do a few important errands prior to leaving Vegas. At a quarter to 10AM, we were rolling through the desert roads away from the City of Possibilities.

 

Nic wanted to see Los Angeles, and since we were on a time crunch - even if we were there to catch a glimpse, it was enough. We would have decided to stay overnight in SoCal, however, we were scheduled to go with a group of Celine tourists on Friday (you will read about this next). In total, today we traveled nearly 800 (YES) miles, about eight hours on the road, and just four hours of sightseeing.

 

The roads to Hollywood were circuitous and fun. One thing for sure is that people drive as fast as 110MPH on these roads - quite dangerous and illegal. I'm sure most drivers have their excuse of "If I'm not hurting anyone, then it's okay": which is quite ridiculous. And of course, there are those annoying tailgaters who would creep right up to your bumper if you're driving slower on them, so that you would change to the right lane for them to pass. Officer, please give these folks a ticket. The funny thing is, I did not notice these drivers too much because on the journeys each way Nic and I were at the top of our lungs singing, ad-libing, back-up singing, and harmonizing to Celine Dion, Anthony Callea, Faith Hill, Ronan Keating and the Pussycat Dolls! It was karaoke at top-speed! LOL

 

We arrived in Hollywood around 2:00PM, thanks to my trustworthy GPS system. Prior, as we entered the city of Los Angeles (Hollywood is a part of Los Angeles city), I turned on Celine Dion's "Skies of LA," which was quite appropriate. Nic brought out his video camera, and used the songs in the car's stereo as soundtrack. It was fabulous to park in the Hollywood and Highlands parking garage and come up to the entry to the Kodak Theatre. Unfortunately, we did not have much time to roam. So, we rushed out to find Celine's star at 6801 Hollywood Boulevard. The area was appropriate, since Celine's star glowed right in front of the Kodak Theatre. Remember, Celine was the VERY FIRST person to EVER perform at the Kodak Theatre, when she had the "A New Day Has Come" Comeback TV Special back in 2002. The Kodak Theatre is home to the Oscars.

 

In the surrounding, I could see different people making a living on the sidewalks, including jewelry vendors, aspiring singers, and, of course, middle-aged men in superhero costumes. As Nic got down next to the star and waited for me to hit the shutter button, I could spot Chewbacca coming in from the East. I felt an itch in my side looking at its hairiness creeping up towards us. I did not know what to do. Then, we began hearing some weird noises coming in, which totally crept me out. It sounded like a combination of a woodpecker, a person gargling, and farts. It was totally gross the sounds Chewbacca was making. Then, he pulled Nic to take a picture with him and Darth Vader. I snapped a photograph. All of a sudden, Chewbacca approached me and gave me a massive hug. I saw my life flash before my very eyes. LOL Where was the pepper spray when you needed one? In this case, I thought a deodorant would have probably been more necessary. So, being nice, I took a photograph with them. Suddenly, I heard one of the characters say, "Hey bud, we work on tips, you know?" I reached into my pocket and I had a one dollar bill and a twenty dollar bill. I gave one of them a dollar, and told the other characters that I'll be back after dinner with some smaller bills to give to each of them. They said okay. As we walked off, I heard them laughing.

 

Nic and I proceeded into Hollywood and Highlands center to have a late lunch. I was so hungry. So, we came across a French-themed restaurant that made crepes. Nic was from France, so this was certainly his forte. We sat over the edge of the fourth story, overlooking the beautiful center, with mega sculpture and bursting fountains. I ordered crepes with beef, and Nic ordered an Italian-inspired crepe. We definitely had to sample each other's meals. Next came a bottle of sparkling lemonade, my personal favorite. If I was in Scandinavia, it would be sparkling pear cider. Our family love Martinelli's. Right around this time of the year, our family would normally order frozen apple cider from a special company affiliated with my alma mater. So, yes, fruits are our friends. Truly it was nice to sit down and have a conversation with my friend Nic. What a journey it was for him, to come all the way from France to celebrate these moments of the Holiday Season with me.

 

After our meals, Nic had me videotape him as he did a video log in French about his experience at Celine's star. Chewbecca, Darth Vader, Batman were all gone. I guess this part of time was not so lucrative. Nic and I managed to get a few more photographs with the star before we headed off on a mission to have a photograph with the Hollywood sign on the hill.

 

So, we drove around, and around. Finally, I stopped in a private neighborhood and asked one of the people who was out watering her flowers. She kinda smiled and gave me directions. As I proceeded east and then north, and then northeast and then northwest, I made a right turn, which took me through some beautiful neighborhoods of dream homes of Hollywood Hill. I drove quickly and cautiously. Finally, when the sign was in sight, we stopped to take a few photographs with each other. I had Nic videotape me briefly as I made a small video log, talking about our little journey. Then, I placed the camera on my jacket, on top of the car's trunk - and it took a picture of the both of us.

 

Next, our goal was to get to Santa Monica for the sunset. Unfortunately, we were welcomed by the Friday evening gridlocks of LA. We did manage to get to the Santa Monica Pier, but it was already dark. However, we still could see the dark amber and pink sky in the distance. We rushed through the sandy beach to the waves and under the pier to take some photographs. Then, proceeded under the pier for more photographs. Each time I turned my back to the ocean, I kept telling Nic to alert me if the waves were about to hit me. They say "Never turn your back on the ocean." I just had to risk it for the sake of the art of photography. Next, we walked the boardwalk across the pier. We were really looking forward to riding on the rollercoaster, however it was closed. So, the amusement park became, pretty much, Christmas ornaments. We headed to the edge of the Pier and I taught Nic long-exposure, natural-light photography - a process where we used no flash, but only the light of the moon to take photographs. The camera had to be completely still, as I hit the shutter-release button and the shutter in the camera is left open for 10, 20, or 30 seconds to allow light to be collected by the camera, to create the picture. I did not have a tripod with me, but I had his shoulder - which I nicknamed the shoulder-pod. So, here is something to remember: If you are with me and I do not have a tripod, have your shoulder ready! We did a 30-second experiment with the moon in the distance, over the ocean. It came out so beautifully. Next, we each did a few modeling poses. After that, we dashed off into the car, and rushed home to Vegas.

 

We left Santa Monica around 7:30PM. I wanted to arrive back in Vegas in time at 10:30PM, so that I could get the opportunity to meet more with more of Celine's fans, and my dear friends. Unfortunately, it was still Friday evening and the traffic jam was tremendous. Suddenly, I realized that the single crepe that I had ordered was no enough for my hunger. When I get hungry, sometimes it is very uncomfortable for me. This was the time. I felt that I needed my concentration on driving well, to get us back to Vegas as swiftly and safely as possible. So, we pulled off the freeway into LA again, and approached Wienerschnitzel for some chili dogs and chili fries, through drive-thru. I stopped a parking lot to grab a few bites of the fries. Nic looked at me. I knew exactly what he was thinking: "Americans!" So I laughed, and he laughed. Suddenly, I had an idea. "Nic, I drive and you feed me." He gave a look that seemed to have told me that I was crazy. I said, "No seriously, here's a fork. Grab me four to five fries each time, with chili and feed back while I'm driving." It was hilarious because that was exactly what happened. I was driving swifty and safely, while my appetite was being pampered. I told Nic we were like a Grandpa being fed by Grandma. Ten minutes later, I was still being hand-fed. Then, he finally finished all the fries. Next we had a hot-dog left. I gave out the biggest laugh and said, "No, Nic, I can handle this myself!" So, he gave me the whole hot dog, and I was able to feed myself.

 

We arrived near Vegas at 11:10PM. We had to do a pit stop. Earlier today, I gave Del a call, hoping that we would finally meet at 10:30PM this evening. So, I called and txted Del again. He had just finished watching a Cirque du Soleil show and was at Fremont Street area. As I approached Vegas, I called him again and told him that I would pick him up, along with his friend Emily. 10 minutes later, I finally saw Del in the distance as I approached to pick him and Emily up. I rushed out to give him a huge hug, and Emily as well. They both got in my car, as we sped to the Strip.

 

Del and Emily both stayed at Treasure Island Hotel and Resort - the same as Nic and myself. We went up to their room, and Emily was telling us about a strange, take-out box that was deliver to their door. They were too cautious to touch it. They too, had ordered some take-outs from Panda Express, but they had no idea what that box was. So, we made a little joke by having Del act as a hungry kid with Emily as mom pulling him from his food, for a picture op.

 

Del went along with Nic and I to our rooms for a visit. While we relaxed and talked, Del told me about his experience landing in Vegas after many hours of restlessness, and having to wake up early on the morning after arrival - to go on a tour of the Grand Canyon. That was why he was unable to meet me from the day before. I cracked some jokes. I never really felt a distance from him, because our conversations whether over the phone, through online chats, or emails flowed well. Regardless, until 2AM, it was so nice to finally talk to Del, in person. It's true, we have known each other for over four years now. We're bros

 

http://i134.photobucket.com/albums/q97/Sopha85/103--SohSCELINESTAR.jpg

Superstar

When: Thursday, 3:00PM December 13, 2007

Where: In front of Kodak Theatre, Hollywood, California

 

http://i134.photobucket.com/albums/q97/Sopha85/124_HollywoodCELINE-NSoh.jpg

Superstars

When: Thursday, 3:40PM December 13, 2007

Where: In front of Kodak Theatre, Hollywood, California

 

 

http://i134.photobucket.com/albums/q97/Sopha85/117-NicSophHollywoodHIgh0291.jpg

Crepes, Sparkling Lemonade, and Rendezvous at Hollywood&Highlands

When: Thursday, 3:10PM December 13, 2007

Where: Hollywood and Highlands, Hollywood, California

 

 

http://i134.photobucket.com/albums/q97/Sopha85/141-HollywoodSIGN-SN.jpg

Journey to the Sign

When: Thursday, 4:15PM December 13, 2007

Where: Hollywood, California

 

 

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Moi on the Beach

When: Thursday, 6:30PM December 13, 2007

Where: Pier at Santa Monica, California

 

 

http://i134.photobucket.com/albums/q97/Sopha85/177-NICC.jpg

Nic Under the Pier

When: Thursday, 6:30PM December 13, 2007

Where: Pier at Santa Monica, California

 

http://i134.photobucket.com/albums/q97/Sopha85/019238moon.jpg

Moonlight over Santa Monica

When: Thursday, 7:00PM December 13, 2007

Where: Pier at Santa Monica, California

 

http://i134.photobucket.com/albums/q97/Sopha85/224DelEmily9812.jpg

Emily Violating Del's Rights to the Mysterious Take-Out Boxes

When: Thursday, 12:30AM December 14, 2007

Where: Treasure Island Hotel, Las Vegas, Nevada

 

 

 

 

P.S. Please excuse any typographical or grammatical errors. We'll call all these entries: first draft!

 

 

P.S.S. COMING SOON! Photographs from Friday, December 14, 2007 - LOTS! LOTS! LOTS!

 

Edited December 21, 2007 at 07:58 AM by Love,

[ashleylovesceline]

Awesome reviews and pictures, Sophoan! I hope we meet one day - you seem like such a fun person - we would definatley get along, haha.