7 Reasons I Know Brian Married the Right Woman

I'll Never Break your Heart, circa 1998

I was in the 6^th grade on my 45-minute bus ride across town to school when I heard that my favorite Backstreet Boy was off the market. Brian was engaged to that blonde chick from the “I’ll Never Break Your Heart” video who was holding the Chihuahua. I cried and vowed to hate her forever; NO ONE was good enough for my Brian.


My 11-year old heart eventually recovered, but Leighanne was everywhere. She was in music videos, on T.V. specials, at every show on tour. It became clear that she was here to stay, and I am so glad she is. As it turns out, Leighanne is more than good enough for Brian—she is perfect for him. I don’t believe there is another woman on this Earth who could handle herself the way that Leighanne does in this role, and here is why:


1.) She sacrifices. Sure, it seems glamorous to jet-set around the world while the Boys are on tour. But could you imagine spending the majority of your time away from your family and friends, living out of a bus and/or hotel room? And what kind of 9-5 accommodates months of travel at a time? Thank goodness her career aspirations are mobile.

2.) She supports. All of those sacrifices are the ultimate display of support for Brian. She demonstrates her loyalty and dedication by showing up and putting her family above herself. Her ability to be selfless in her marriage should be a lesson to anyone who aspires to have a life-long partnership.

3.) She lives unapologetically. When your every move is under a microscope, it can be difficult to just be yourself. Leighanne has no problems showing the world what a fun-loving, witty, intelligent, caring, humble woman she is. She never apologizes for being real, and her critics hate that they can’t phase her.

BSBBBQ in Hershey, PA. Photobombing at its best.

4.) She is patient. As a Backstreet fan of 18 years, I can confidently say that fans are not always calm or polite. Despite the rude comments she sometimes endures, Leighanne recognizes that a few bad apples don't spoil the whole bunch. She always poses for pictures, answers questions, signs cards, and records video messages to fans who can't be where ever she is. She treats fans like friends, and she welcomes them into her life. I can only aspire to have patience like she does.

5.) She shares. She shares her life. She shares her talents. She shares her passion. She shares her husband. And she shares all of these things with anyone who takes the time to appreciate that they’re there. What would my Instagram be like without Littrell family photos? What would my wardrobe be like without my Wylee faux wrap dresses? And what would my life be like without Brian? I am so glad I will never know the answers to any of those questions.

Christmas in Alpharetta

My Wylee Wild Thang faux wrap 

Littrell family photo (credit: Leighanne)

A woman who loves and adores her husband (photo credit: Ben Vigil)

Proof that happily ever after does exist (photo credit: Leighanne)

6.) She gives. It is hard to quantify the time and attention that Leighanne dedicates to making people feel appreciated. If you have never been to a Wylee party, you’re missing out. In addition to offering personalized fashion tips (and pulling "secret" items from the back room because they would look fabulous on you), Leighanne goes out of her way to make fans feel special. She treats them like friends, sharing more of herself than she has to. And that is one of the reasons I love her.

7.) She loves. Have you ever seen the way Brian and Leighanne look at each other? I am not talking about just in posed photos or staged interviews. When the two of them are interacting, pay attention to the way Leighanne looks at Brian. You can see the adoration and genuine love all over her face. And what more, as a true fan, could you want for our Boys than for them to find their lobster?

Leighanne has been a part of the Backstreet family for more than 15 years. I hope that she knows that we love her and appreciate all that she does for us. But more importantly, we are grateful for the unconditional love she gives and the life-long partnership she has built with our blue-eyed, angelic-voiced Brian. We are happy she is part of our Backstreet family, and we know that no one else could do what she does.

WE LOVE YOU, LEIGHANNE! <3

Your Words are a Symphony, Music that Sings to Me....

After 20 years, nine albums (yes, I count the two blue-covered CDs as separate albums), and a roller coaster ride full of ups and downs, we are still here. WE being the 5 men who put emotions to beautiful melodies and the fans who work second jobs and drain their bank accounts to share the same air as those men.

This past Saturday night, I experienced all 5 Backstreet Boys in (full) concert for the first time since the Black & Blue era. (Sadly, I missed the Never Gone and Unbreakable tours. Bad fan, I know.) I have to say... it was like being a middle school teenie bopper all over again.

Steph and Mrs. Boyer pre-VIP (and pre rain).

Virginia Beach was the first stop for us on the tour. (We will also be hitting Raleigh, Charlotte and Las Vegas.) My mom, sister (Stephanie) and I brought along Steph's 2nd grade teacher (Mrs. Boyer). Mrs. Boyer took Steph to one of her first Backstreet Boys concerts, so it only seemed fitting that we took her to her first Backstreet Boys VIP. I don't think she could have been more excited. :)

The thing about outdoor venues is that sometimes, you are forced to "weather the storm," and Saturday afternoon was no exception. Right as we checked in for our VIP, the sky opened up and we were caught in what can only be described as a monsoon. After getting dolled up (dresses, heels, hair and make up), I was a little less than excited to enter the venue looking like a drowned rat. The good news is, Steph and I were able to take a photo before the matted hair, for proof that we had every intention of looking cute for the boys.

Excited to get some Backstreet love!

Nick and Howie, sharing a mic during Trust Me.

Sound check was wonderful, as always. The Boys sang Trust Me and then ran through their acoustic set. Oh what I wouldn't give to see an entire acoustic concert. Like that "A Night Out with the Backstreet Boys" VHS that I played over and over as a teen. It is no secret that I love Try and the way AJ sounds all R&B-ish and beautiful. I would give just about anything to hear him sing even a portion of that live. Maybe in Vegas...

It is very rare that people are able to come up with interesting, original questions during the Q&A portion of sound check. By the time you have read every article, watched every interview, and attended a few VIPs, it seems like we (diehards) already know the answers to the questions we would ask. I was pleasantly surprised when someone asked the Boys what their stripper name would be (asked on Cruise 1.0) AND to demonstrate their signature move (GREAT add on). I got quick snippets of all the moves except for Howie's. He said that he would be Speedy Gonzales, and that he was. Sorry, Howie girls.

AJ aka Bone Daddy; Kevin aka Long John Silver; Brian aka The Rock; Nick aka Blonde Don

 

Post-sound check, there was a big mess with the VIP Nation ticket holders. Despite all of the disorganization, the four of us RAN (in dresses, heels and rain) to the Pit and were fortunate enough to end up along the front row of the barricade, just a little to the left. As it turns out, there is no where in that venue I would have rather been for the show.

Our AMAZING view of the stage. Does it GET any better?

That's us, loving little Baylee! Photo Credit: David Polston Freelance

I'm not going to lie- I was a little weary of the opening acts. In all honesty, I wouldn't know who Jesse McCartney was if he walked into my living room right now. But I was pleasantly surprised. Brian's son, Baylee, is a mini-version of him. He does the trademark leg lift, closes his eyes and clutches his chest to hit those high notes. And that little guy has got some range. He was absolutely precious! And, truth be told, I didn't stop singing and dancing the whole time Pauly D was spinning. I thought he was great! (Even had mom and Mrs. Boyer fist pumping!)

I have seen a LOT of Backstreet shows. I have much basis for comparison, and this was by far one of my favorite shows. I think I loved it so much because of the throw backs with the original choreography. My favorites had to be As Long As You Love Me and the hat dance from All I Have to Give. Those will NEVER get old. Ever.

I was impressed with all of the Boys. I wanted to tell Brian that one of my favorite things about the new album is all of the runs and ad libs he does at the end of the the tracks. I wanted to tell Howie that I almost died the first time I heard him hit that high note in Love Somebody. I wanted to tell Nick that the boundless passion and energy he brought to the stage made my concert experience 10 times better than it would have been otherwise. I wanted to tell AJ that I have NO IDEA what he has been doing, but his vocals sound the best I have heard them since... well, maybe ever. And I wanted to tell Kevin that it is great to have him back and I didn't realize how much I missed him until he was on that stage in front of me.

My favorite song off of the new album is Breathe, so my evening was made when THIS happened:

I can't believe I get to do this three more times (and twice this week!). Every stressful pre-sale, every wait (even in the rain), and every penny I have spent on these 5 men has been beyond worth it. I am so thankful for each and every one of these opportunities. So, thank you, Boys, for creating these memories with me. Here's to many more years of hat dances, matching wardrobes and stripper moves. :)

Nothin's Forever In This Crazy World...

Over the past three weeks, I have had several reasons to blog, but after reading a post in "Pop Culture and Caffeine" by a fellow Backstreet fan, I was compelled to write one in response. This blogger passionately lists the fees for Backstreet events, including cruises, Nick Carter solo shows, MixTape VIP and BSBBQ to name a few and adamantly states that the Boys have lost sight of the state of the economy or the fact that fans cannot dish out this type of money on a regular basis to "get close and have a 2.2 second interaction with guys who claim that they love their fans when, in reality, they see us all as dollar signs."

As I was reading this blog, I began to think about the amount of money I have spent on BSB adventures, starting from the BSB Cruise in 2011. (I honestly cannot come up with an accurate quote, but I know that I dropped over $3000 on Cruise 2.0 alone. Mind you, I spent 3 extra tourist days in Miami and did plenty of shopping for my MANY wardrobe changes while on board.) I attended 4 NKOTBSB shows in 4 different states, all with VIPs. I went to Nick's show in Philly. I went to MixTape (GA was enough for me) and the BSBBQ... and the softball game. And I just got back from my last minute trip to Good Morning America, which also included the Sneak Peak and Meet and Greet the night before. I think about all of this and I am incredibly blessed to have the ability and opportunity to travel and attend these events. BUT I do realize that they have not been inexpensive.

A shirtless AJ and me at the BSBBQ-- Every AJ girl's dream.

So the question is, IS IT WORTH IT? My fellow blogger says no. And I have a feeling that there is a large portion of the population that would say the same. HOWEVER, I have a dissenting opinion.

I, personally, have NEVER had a negative experience at any of the BSB events I have attended. I have never finished a soundcheck or a cruise or a concert and said, "Wow, I really wasted my money. That was not worth the time, travel or effort. I will NOT be doing that again." In fact, it has been quite the opposite. I feel that the Boys have gone out of their way, gone above and beyond, and neither the security nor Ground Control has EVER been anything but courteous and wonderful to my mom, sister and me.

Brian writing out song lyrics for me to turn into a tattoo. He didn't HAVE to do that. I adore him. And his beautiful, photobombing wife. ;)

While I do travel to events for the Boys (and that is why I pay for Meet & Greets), I get to turn these trips into mini-getaways with my girls. These are friends who I have made BECAUSE of the Backstreet Boys, and they understand the music that makes my soul dance. So Cruise 2.0 (and my extra time in Miami) was spent with girls I was meeting for the first time but had been talking to online for years. I made memories that you cannot put a price tag on. And that goes for the trips I have made recently as well. Both in Hershey and in NYC, I was able to spend a couple of days with friends from across the US who I get to see once or twice a year. Backstreet events are SO much more than that handshake and a smile you get during a Meet and Greet. (Which, by the way, NYC was the FIRST time I was with AJ and did not hug him. Josh asked nicely, so I did as he requested. But our time was far from rushed, I got to speak to each of them, and Brian and I had a full-on dialogue before and after the picture.)

Some of my absolute favorite people at Wet Willies in South Beach before BSB Cruise 2011.

We all have to make choices as to how we spend our disposable income. Some of us don't have as much of a disposable income as others-- times are tough. And then there are other factors: multiple jobs, significant others, kids. Six months ago, I was working 2 jobs and busting my butt to make everything work. But you better believe that if I wanted to attend a BSB event, I picked up extra shifts, planned ahead and made it happen. Those events, those moments, those memories-- they are irreplaceable. And the people-- the FRIENDS-- I have made along this journey are just as precious to me. Without these adventures, I would have never met them. I would not have these memories or these wonderful women in my life that I can turn to at any moment. Without knowing, they have gotten me through the toughest time in my life just by being there with a song lyric, a story or a good laugh.

Danielle and me in Times Square, during our photo shoot. <3 We met in Hershey, in ponchos, looking like drowned rats.

So, is it all worth it? All the plane tickets, the hotel rooms, the concert tickets (sometimes from stub hub at 3 times face value), the VIPs, the cruises and the new outfits that we buy because we HAVE to be cute for the photo shoots in front of the food carts. My answer is a definitive YES. And I will keep attending the events that I can until this ride comes to an end. We are going 20 years strong, but our Boys taught me that nothin's forever in this crazy world...

I thought that I was going crazy, you took me to another place...

Let me start with this preface: I am an AJ-girl, and I always have been. (I mean, what's not to love?) Growing up, my sister was the one with all of the Nick posters in her room. As a teenager, I just wasn't interested in fitting in and gushing over the blonde-haired, blue-eyed baby of the group.

As I have gotten older, and the Boys have become less "untouchable" and more in touch with their fan base, I have had the opportunity to meet them a few times. Nick has always been a mystery to me. At soundchecks, you can always expect Brian to be all over the place, unable to sit still; AJ will oblige any fan and do just about ANYTHING we ask of him (bless his heart); Howie tends to keep to himself, sipping his tea, but chimes in at just the right moment with a corny joke. Then there is Nick. I just can't pin point him. And because of this, I have never known how I really feel about him... until now.

My favorite VIP pic so far... What up, GANGSTA?

This past weekend, Nick took his "I'm Taking Off" tour to Philly. I live nowhere close to Philly, but decided it would be a great weekend get away. My sister and I hopped a plane, bought VIPs and decided to brave the cold to see what Nick was like outside of the "Backstreet Box." We met up with a group of nine other girls (also not from Philly) and camped out before the VIP, getting to know each other as we tried to keep our hands from going numb.

Nick's VIP consisted of him performing two cover songs (Lenny Kravitz's "Fly Away" and Tom Petty's "Free Fallin"), answering a couple of questions from the crowd (Mary's question about the Twitter app was the best one I have ever seen at any soundcheck. Hey Nick, what was it called??), and taking pictures with each of us. My sister and I ended up toward the back of the pack for the photo op, and I watched Nick Carter greet every female in that room with open arms, followed by a big hug. He spoke to each of us, accepted numerous belated birthday presents (sorry, Carter, I missed the memo that we were bringing gifts; I owe ya one) and smiled relentlessly. During my individual experience, he gave me a huge hug and tried to make the moment personal (something that I, for one, appreciate more than you will ever know). He was genuine, sweet, humble and gracious to everyone who came out to support him. I was completely blown away by my VIP experience; Nick Carter is a FABULOUS man. It's been confirmed first-hand.

He looks like a Ken Doll... =)

I never thought I would say this, but that concert was one of the greatest shows I have ever seen. Nick is amazing as a part of the Backstreet Boys; however, the energy and emotion and connection he has to HIS music is astounding. He made me (as I am sure he did every other fan in that crowd) feel SPECIAL. It takes an amazing artist and performer to have that kind of power. In one evening, Nick Carter turned me into a fan-- not just of the music, or of him as a performer, but also of him as a person.

Credit: EvergreenBSB

I have to dance like a mad woman everytime I hear this song... #blameNickCarter

That Philly weekend turned me into a Nick Carter fan-- not of Nick Carter the Backstreet Boy, but of Nick Carter the solo artist, the entertainer, the vocalist... the PERSON. This weekend also brought a handful of amazing women into my life, who are now a permanent fixture. The time we spent together, including the hours after the show when we laughed until we cried and made memories for a lifetime, was just what my life needed. There is nothing better than making great friends who understand the music that makes your heart dance... it also helps that they are willing to travel outrageous distances and spend their life savings to participate in the same activites I am. The next girls' weekend cannot come soon enough!

Credit: April May
The women who now make me laugh on a daily basis-- THANK YOU. =)

So, thank you, Nick. You turned me into a believer. You are an absolute ROCKSTAR for doing what you do, despite all of the obstacles you face. I, without a doubt, have the utmost respect for you. Now, regardless of what you do, I got you (pun intended).

I fell in love and now I'm totally screwed...

Today, I would like to take a moment to say happy 34th birthday to the man who always knows the right words to say, at the right time, in the right key-- my favorite bad boy, AJ McLean.

Sixteen years ago, when I was in elementary school, I fell in love with a teenage boy with big brown eyes (often hidden behind sunglasses) and a raspy voice that was unmistakeable. I, along with thousands of girls around the world, feel that we have (in a sense) grown up together. I have watched AJ go from being a brunette, to a blonde, to a red-head, to having blue hair, to having corn rows... I have watched him slowly break out of the "boy band" image and develop his own personal style. Now, AJ is as gorgeous as ever, with a slight rocker's edge and colorful tattoos all over.



The AJ I fell in love with over a decade ago...

...And the AJ I love even more now.



AJ's decision to live a substance-free lifestyle, as well as the courage he has displayed by sharing this journey with others, continues to inspire me. I am so incredibly proud of the man he has become. Less than a month ago, AJ walked down the aisle as a sober man to marry his soulmate. (SO excited to have Ro in the BSB family; she is wonderful.)

No words could do this picture justice... He found his lobster. <3

So, here's to AJ- the man who keeps getting better with age. May this year be even better than the last, may you enjoy every moment of being a newlywed and may you find strength in times of temptation. Thank you for sharing your gifts, thank you for sharing your life, thank you for sharing your love and your passion. Happy birthday, to the man who will always be #1 in my book. You rock! #ProudSkullee


The Good, The Bad, and The OMG! Did That Just Happen?!?

This, ladies and gents, was a lot of firsts for me; this trip marked my first time in Miami, my first time on a boat and my first time meeting many of the wonderful women I have been tweeting and Facebooking with online for over a year. This trip was full of laughter, tears and lots of screaming. So here it is… the good, the bad, and the OMG did that just happen?!?

Dec. 1- CAMEO: *Hands up, don’t stop- if you’re sexy, then get outta control…*

So, originally, my sister (Steph) and I were just going to Cameo as part of the general admission crowd. However, about two hours before our dinner plans with other BSB friends (dinner was fabulous, by the way), one of our dinner dates texted me and said a couple girls dropped out of their VIP table and asked if we wanted in. Steph and I debated about it for a few minutes and decided what the heck? This is something we should go all out for, right? Right. And, just like that, we were in. BEST DECISION WE MADE ON THIS TRIP. Cameo was one of the best nights of my life. Seriously. We met some of the most fabulous people, had some great drinks, and danced until they kicked us out. 

Steph and I, all smiles at Cameo.

 After the welcoming words, the crowd didn’t see too much more of Brian, but the rest of the Boys DJed and interacted with us all night. Howie came down and danced with us in the VIP for a good 45 minutes. Nick and AJ had a little vocal battle, with “If You Want it to Be Good Girl” vs. “Get Another Boyfriend.” My personal favorite moment of the night was AJ’s bachelor striptease to what would become our cruise anthem, LMFAO’s “Sexy and I Know It.” There is nothing quite like watching a shirtless AJ McLean shake it on a stripper pole. And yes, AJ, no matter what, you will always be our bad boy.

 Credit: lafave226

The moment that I died... I was within touching distance of this man when he did this.

Despite what I felt like the next morning, partying at Cameo and making the friends that I made that night was totally worth every bit of it. I wish I could do it all over again.

Dec. 2- 80’s NIGHT: *Who are you now? Are you still the same, or did you change somehow?*

Going to bed at 4am and getting up before 9am with the room still spinning is no bueno. But when you have a ship to catch, there is really no option. It’s one of those times where you have to suck it up and keep it movin’. So we headed to the Port of Miami and I stopped being sick just in time to have our picture taken in front of the lovely Carnival backdrop before we boarded the ship. I was truly taken aback by the size of the ship and the lights and the people. 

The Atrium of the Carnival Imagination

 There were people wanting to take our picture every time we turned around (and we had so many different wardrobe changes that we certainly let them). We had no other cruise ship to compare this to, so to us, this was Heaven. It was a giant boat filled with Backstreet Boys memorabilia, playing Backstreet Boys music and we were surrounded by other women who shared our undying love for these four (five) men. (I later learned that the latter was not always a good thing.) After some exploring, and some much needed food, we wandered onto the Lido Deck for the Sail Away party. Steph and I met back up with the girls we shared the VIP table with the night before, and together we all stood next to the stage. 

New friends from our VIP table at Cameo. Lisa, Crystal, Katie, Nikki, Me, & Steph.

 Once the Boys took the stage, the chaos began and I realized who I was sharing a boat with for the next three days. You see, there are two types of fans: there are the fans who have grown up with the Boys and who understand that as grown women, we should act as such, and there are 12 year-old girls stuck in grown women’s bodies. Grown women do not jump on top of each other, claw at each other or trample each other to simply graze the hand of a Backstreet Boy. That is ridiculous. We are not (and I loathe this phrase, but these women were the epitome of it) “teenyboppers” anymore. These children trapped in adult bodies seemed to be what I was surrounded by at this Sail Away party. The Boys would come down and touch a few hands in the audience (mind you, if you are any farther back than about three deep, you’re out of luck. None of them have Go-Go-Gadget arms. WHY in Heaven’s name anyone would feel the need to try to jump on someone’s back 10 rows back, I’ll never understand). All of the sudden, I felt like we were, in the words of Ellen DeGeneres, packed like pickles. (Because pickles are packed tighter than sardines… that phrase really should change.) But, despite not being able move without spooning the person next to me, the Boys were super entertaining and I loved every minute of that deck party. What is better than watching the four Boys you love most in the world dance (seductively) and sing with those voices we all fell in love with a decade and a half ago? I left it pumped for the rest of the cruise. And then we left the port and the boat started rocking…

 

Credit: AnneMarie712

Our cruise theme song... "Sexy and I Know It."

We went straight to In It To Win It. I thought that most of the games were fun; extra thumbs up for the Coconut Smoochie. (Never thought I would say this, but Mr. Littrell can dip me to the floor and shimmy a coconut up to my mouth any time he would like. Ironic that he was the best at that game, wasn’t it?)

Credit: AnneMarie712

My favorite game-- the Coconut Smoochie. Please watch Brian...

I think that I thoroughly enjoyed watching this game show because of the competitive nature of the challenges. Brian is so competitive. I am very much the same way, so I get into stuff like that. I thought that the girls who were up there did a great job. (I have NO IDEA what I would do if I were chosen to get up there with them and do stuff like that… I would probably freak out. Not only are you up there with the Boys you have spent your life savings to follow around, but people are so critical… because you know, it should have been them instead.) Unfortunately, I was unable to truly enjoy the evening due to sea sickness. Dear Lord, I just wanted the boat to HOLD STILL. I skipped dinner for some saltines, a Dramamine and a nap before 80s night. 

A few hours later, I felt like a new woman. We were up and decked out in our 80s gear. This was the outfit I had the hardest time shopping for, yet I think it was the one I ended up loving the most. 

Steph and I, looking like Madonna's closet threw up on us a couple decades ago.

 To try to avoid the lynch mob, we decided to hang out to the side of the small stage on the Lido Deck, which is a fabulous decision if you enjoy being able to move about freely while still having a killer view of everything that’s going on. Just to let you know how close (and visible) the area was in which we were standing, the Boys were singing along to some song… and I had my hands up dancing (just because I could!) and Nick came over to sing in our direction. Now, I have never been a Nick girl (please, don’t throw things… I think I just prefer to go for those who are more… eccentric, like our resident Bad Boy). But for 15 seconds, Nick Carter won my heart on this cruise. In the middle of singing (I wish I could remember that song), he pointed at me, winked and flashed that poster child smile. I actually found myself checking to see if it was for another screaming Nick fiend next to me. Nope; Nick and I had made the most unlikely (unintentional) connection. And that, my friends, is the kind of moment I want to have with a Backstreet Boy. I don’t want to chase anyone to get it; I don’t want to promise anyone any favors to get closer to them; I don’t want to leave my friends behind to stand in VIP by myself. So, as I stood, smiling like an idiot for the rest of the evening, the Boys pulled some girls on stage for Beer Pong. The game itself wasn’t a horrible idea, but the idea of bringing up an additional 20 plus girls to create a “wall” around the tables on the stage was the worst idea ever. I found myself unable to see anything other than a bunch of girls’ rear ends in tutus and tight 80s pants. Needless to say, I was not entertained. That was about it for the evening. We grabbed some pizza at around 3:30am and called it a night.

Credit: VetTechNikki

This is the Boys as Sphynkter on 80s night- we got silly strung during this madness.

 Dec. 3- PROM NIGHT *I can’t imagine life without your love, and even forever don’t seem like long enough…*

We were up semi-early to get ready for the beach party. It was unknown when our wrist band color would be called, so we went up to the Lido deck for breakfast to kill some time. As we were one of the last groups called, I think there were some stragglers from other groups that joined us in disembarking. We were loaded onto busses and taken to a gorgeous resort. Driving to the resort, it is amazing what Nassau really looks like. Not the beaches, or Atlantis, or the tourist spots, but where people live. I think Steph said it best—after driving through all of that, if each and every one of us did not feel incredibly gracious and humbled to have the opportunity to be on a cruise and to be blessed with all that we have, that would make us selfish and ungrateful (and, I believe, unworthy).

Houses in Nassau, Bahamas as we drove to the beach party.

 Once we got to the beach party, there was already a giant mob formed in front of the stage, so we decided to look for people we knew rather than worry about joining it. We found some friends who were spread out on beach towels toward the back right corner of the beach, near the water, and joined them. They were in the perfect spot- the sun was out, it was warm, and we were able to lay out without being stepped on.

Lauren, Brady, myself and Steph in our little calm corner of the beach.

 The Boys were a little more than fashionably late; we waited for them almost two hours past when the beach party was supposed to start. Now, in their defense, all the itinerary listed was a beginning time for the beach party, not an arrival time for the Boys. Therefore, they were really only two hours later than our expectations. Nonetheless, we waited around while the DJs spun many of the same songs we’d heard the night before. When the Boys finally arrived, they brought Kevin with them. And what else would he walk out to other than, you guessed it, “Sexy And I Know It?” Nick thought it appropriate to ad-lib “Girl, look at that Kevin” as he walked toward the stage (I couldn’t help but giggle at how corny Nick is… all the time). Since Kevin’s departure, I have gotten used to the Backstreet Boys as a quartet; I don’t even think about there being a missing link anymore. They sound great, they look great and (in my opinion) their choreography has only improved over the years. I was slightly envious of the crowd in L.A. who got to see Kevin on stage for NKOTBSB; there is a certain magic that he brings to the stage when he makes an appearance that I wanted to experience. Well, when Kev walked onto that beach, I finally felt that magic. I had no idea how I would feel about him being there, or about the possibility of him coming back (yes, y’all, it’s going to happen- and I always said he’d never come back for real). I was happy to see him, and I am excited about the idea of him recording on  the next album with the Boys. I guess I always looked at Kev as a father figure (afterall, he was my mom’s favorite for the longest time… it wasn’t cool to have the same favorite Boy as my mom—sorry, mom). But he is so playful and energetic. He really seemed to enjoy being there, and he seemed to appreciate all the love he received (and he gave it right back). I am happy that Kevin came to the beach party with us; it was a once-in-a-lifetime kind of feeling.

Credit: AnneMarie712

That magical moment when they sang together for the first time on this trip... ACAPELLA.

The guys played musical chairs, twister and had a three-legged race at the beach party. There was a wet t-shirt contest, wherein lies my one regret on this cruise: I wish I had tried to participate. I know what you are all thinking… But it was all in good fun, everyone was clothed (well, almost everyone)… and I would have been slightly damp and dancing with a shirtless AJ. I was wearing a white tank top… I should have done it. Ahh… coulda, woulda, shoulda. Maybe next time?

 Credit: cmduncan23

My one regret... Don't judge me!

The beach party wrapped up with Nick and AJ riding around on jet skis with girls waiting to maul them when they came out of the water, and Brian, Howie and Kevin playing volleyball with two fans and a bunch of old guys. Rousing, really. Good news? I got some sun (the real kind, not from a tanning bed or a spraying applicator) and didn’t burn.

Tonight was our concert night, and I could not wait! And the Boys did not disappoint. Much to everyone’s surprise, they were NOT running on Backstreet time, and the show started when it was supposed to. The set list was freaking phenomenal. As we had all been anticipating, they sang “If You Want It To Be Good Girl,” along with some other great classics from the Millennium and Black and Blue days. They also each threw in a solo performance, which allowed us to truly see each of the guys’ artistic differences (and their absolute beauty as performers when they stand alone). As I am sure it will not surprise anyone, I was most excited to see AJ’s performance of “London.” Not only do I adore that song, I have been dying to see him perform anything from “Have It All.” (I am crossing my fingers that his recent Nashville studio time means a USA re-release and solo dates to come…) What shocked me was that as I was jumping up and down, singing this beautiful song to the top of my lungs, it seemed that no one around me had even heard it before. It is a complete travesty that anyone on the BSB cruise has not heard his solo album. It is (in my humble, AJ-loving opinion) one of the best albums, top to bottom, that I own. 

Credit: AnneMarie712

If I had to pick a favorite part of the concert, this would be it... <3 That voice makes me melt. Always.

I also can’t hear “Burning Up” without wanting to jump around and sing every word; that has to be the catchiest song I have heard in a long time. Although I am sure our local radio station won’t play it because it’s a “Backstreet Boy” (yes, I have been given this response), I think that people would love the song if they didn’t know who the artist was. Our concert was capped off with a rendition of “Drowning” that involved all five Boys, and the emotion in that lounge was incredible. It’s amazing to me the power that those men have over us. Throughout the two-hour show, I saw laughter, tears, dancing, singing and a room full of people who, despite differences and language barriers, all came together for one purpose: to show love and respect for the band who will forever have our hearts. That concert made the cruise (activity wise) worthwhile for me.

Credit:  9153773  

 The moment that gave the whole room chills... listen to the screams, they say it all.

Steph and I opted not to wear our prom dresses to the concert (just another reason for a wardrobe change, of course), so we went to change after the concert before joining the already-formed mob on the Lido Deck. We stationed ourselves on the back side of the small stage this time, which was the least favorable place we had stood so far. The guys escorted their prom dates right past us, but because of where we were standing, there had to be a pathway cleared for them, which created lots of pushing and shoving and stepping on dresses. The Boys gave their prom dates *interesting* dances, for the most part. I thought that Kevin’s was perfect (the dance), and I thought that all of the ladies looked stunning. In fact, I thought that everyone I came across that night looked beautiful. Backstreet girls clean up really nicely. I do wish there had been a little more to prom night… games or interaction with the guys. I felt like it was really quick. But it was great seeing everyone dressed up. We went to bed with glitter everywhere (I swear I am still finding glitter) and ordered room service. Now that was something I could get used to. Sandwich at 4am? Yes, please.

Coyright: Justin Segura

 

 

Kev was the perfect gentleman, and the perfect prom date.

Dec.4- PJ NIGHT *Intimate scenes fresh from my dreams of a XXX movie screen…*

We woke up (without an alarm) just in time to get ready for our group picture. We joined our group members in an outrageously long line (that only seemed to keep getting longer). Good news? The line was moving quickly. Bad news? That meant the groups were being herded through quickly, so I better be ready to talk, fast. After some issues with our picture group (I will not go into detail, just know that Steph has been able to photo shop our group picture to what it should have looked like… and to the randoms who kicked out my two friends, I am not happy with you), it was time for us to take the infamous group picture. This was the one time we were guaranteed to meet the Boys on this boat. We were given the usual “no hugs, no kisses, just handshakes” line, and off we went. Given that we were the second group taking pictures, and I was convinced that Howie hadn’t gone to sleep since we boarded the ship, I was pleasantly surprised at how chipper the guys all were. I went first, so I got my handshakes and smiles, and stood in my designated spot next to my bad boy.  As it was time for the picture, he put his arm around me, and said “Don’t be shy, I don’t bite.” At this time, I put my other hand on his abs, and looked like an awkward prom date. I was wearing heels, which made me taller than him, so I felt the need to hunch over to get on his level. Regardless, I love the picture… I will be AJ’s awkward prom date anytime. In the 15 seconds I had after the picture, I was able to tell AJ congratulations on his upcoming wedding and that I was so very proud of him. Even though I was unable to talk to any of the others, I did get to say what I wanted to say to AJ. Mission accomplished.

What our group picture should have looked like... (Steph did some nice photoshopping).

 Next up, karaoke. We decided to check it out from the balcony across from where they were set up. Great view, no mob. Today, by the way, was the first and only time I had a drink on the ship (I had been boycotting alcohol after my Cameo escapade). Someone told me about these coconuts shaped as monkeys that they served drinks in… well, today was the day that those were on special. So I had half a pina colada so I could take home a coconut monkey. (Delicious, by the way.) So we hung out with our cocktails on the balcony as we watched a throng of girls gather in the VIP area to line up for karaoke. I decided that if all of them were going to perform, I was probably not going to make it through the lot. When the Boys came out, they switched it up on us a bit. Before the activity began, they brought out a beautiful, courageous young lady who was going through (or about to begin) chemotherapy. Her wish for the cruise was that, since she was going to lose all of her hair anyway, she wanted the Boys to shave her head. As they started cutting her hair, I don’t think there was a dry eye on that boat. Add this to the list of reasons why these men are the greatest thing since sliced bread. And, Michelle, you look fabulous! I am so happy that your dream came true; those Boys sure know how to make a woman feel like a princess, don’t they? (“Girl look at that head…She’s sexy and she knows it.” Because what else would Nick sing?)

Copyright: Justin Segura

 One of the most touching, amazing things I have ever witnessed. I love these Boys.

Karaoke was… interesting. To everyone who had the guts to get up there and sing in front of everyone, well done. My sister and I debated for weeks whether or not to sign up (our song of choice would have been Eminem’s “Lose Yourself”), and opted to just be spectators. I thought the best performance, by far, was “Raise Your Glass.” Girl could blow. The rain cut karaoke short, and I went to peel my dress off and change before dinner.

Lickin' AJ...

After dinner, we had some time to kill before the deck party, so Steph and I walked around to look at the door decorations that were still up. This is something I wish we had done sooner (although I am not sure when that would have been…). Some of the doors were so incredibly creative. Seeing some of the old pictures took me back to middle school days, when my room was plastered with BOP! pin-ups and posters. I applaud the creativity of a lot of those doors. We only saw two and a half floors. To the girls with the life-sized cuts outs from Fenway- I apologize for the inappropriate pictures we took with your door decorations. And I promise, Howie’s pants were on the ground when we got there!

Steph with a pantless (and, therefore, legless) Howie.

PJ night ended up being moved inside to the atrium due to the weather. (I never went outside to know if the weather was actually inclement, but I liked not freezing my booty off in my PJs or having to cover them up with a jacket.) The attire for PJ night ranged from over-sized t-shirts, to onesies, to lingerie. But my attitude was, if you got it, rock it; I ain’t mad at you. The Boys started the evening dancing on the bar in front of us (we were really close, in the middle of an aggressive mob). Out of nowhere, Brian did an impromptu crowd surf (well, he tried, and the right side of the crowd dropped him, so the rest of the “surf” was two body guards carrying him and us touching him as he passed over our heads). In case anyone was wondering, those Elmo pants were super soft. Then, the most amazing game of truth or dare I have ever seen began. This game had Brian doing the worm across the bar (he, by the way, did not take that shot; he threw it behind him), AJ being tickled (tortured) by fans, Nick being massaged (severely violated) and Howie having sex with a pillow (OMG can you believe he did that?!?). Then, as if my night could get any better, Nick had pulled one of my new favorite people up on the stage to participate in Truth or Dare, and Brian decided that she had to drop it like it was hot on the bar. She convinced AJ to go with her, and he brought Nick, too (her favorite). I don’t think I have ever been so excited about something in my life. You would have thought it was me up there on that bar! She had the time of her life, and I was so excited to see her letting loose and living it up. After all, how many people can say they were the middle of an AJ and Nick sandwich while dancing on the bar? Exactly.

Credit: CrazyKaosBabe

Lauren, having the time of her life, and keepin' it classy. Love this girl.

We left this deck party once it became like an awkward drunken staff Christmas party; BSB management, Rose tours staff and ground(ctrl) staff were having a blast, most likely celebrating that they had made it through the madness that was the BSB cruise. I heard afterward that Nick took some girls on the Lido deck for some drunken rambling, where AJ joined him to talk about his wedding. Now that I wish I had been around for. I’d love to hear Nick talk about sharks following the boat and AJ talk about mini AJ and Rochelle look-alikes at their wedding.

The next morning, we were supposed to have a “relaxed disembarkation,” but we were kicked out of our room before our designated time. (Sorry guys, we weren’t leaving without our clothes.) We left the ship without eating, and caught a cab to the airport, hoping to get an earlier flight back home. That was a no-go, and we spent the most pointless day ever in the Miami airport until our flight at 8:55pm. (Yes, we were in an airport for over 10 hours, doing NOTHING.)

I went into this cruise with one expectation: to meet some amazing people who understand the music that makes my heart dance. Anything else was an added bonus. Not only was I able to meet all of the ladies that I have been chatting with online for over a year (you are all amazing, amazing people and I am glad that there are real people behind these computer screens), but I also met new friends, who I will keep in touch with for a very, very long time. 

Credit: Brady Holt

 

 

 

 Lauren, Steph, myself and Brady outside of Cameo.

With Lianne and Nessa at Wet Willy's. Meeting for the first time was like a reunion with best friends.

Credit: Lianne Hickey

 

 Myself, Steph, Helen, Li and Nessa at Wet Willies before our Backstreet party of 12 turned into 32.

Were there some things (structurally) I would have done differently? Sure. But I think that the Boys did a hell of a job keeping up with us. There were a lot of us on that ship, and we all wanted a piece of them (and some take that literally). I applaud them for going out into the crowds as much as they did, because some of the behavior I saw on that boat was quite frightening. As much as it pains me to say this, I fear that we will never be rid of the barriers in pictures, nor the need for aggressive security guards because there are some women (girls) who just don’t know how to chill out. They are people; they deserve respect, space and time to eat without cameras in their faces. I will venture out and say that I can’t believe some of the things that the Boys said/did on this cruise. The level of sexual innuendo was incredible (and, side note, parent or no parent, there should be an age minimum on this cruise, no exceptions. There are some things that were going on that were completely inappropriate for people who aren’t legal yet…). I now see these Boys in a new (and improved) light. Thank you, Boys, for a fabulous experience, for giving me memories to last a lifetime and for introducing me to amazing people who will be in my life always. Let’s do it again… Summer of 2013? Why go through this madness again willingly, you ask? It's a Backstreet thang... you wouldn't understand.

With the cardboard cutout...