So,

I think I finally figured out how to work this LJ thing. You'd think I'd have figured it out by now, but just haven't had the motivation. I mostly just pop by every once-in-a-while to 'read' things here, because the Battlestar Galactica forum is awesome to catch things about the show that I didn't catch myself. But, I HAD to gush about the Brad Paisley concert. I brought my sister, and it was the best concert we've ever seen (BY FAR) and more importantly, I was treated like a princess by everybody I met. I get there, texted Aaron, who comes out and escorts us to the bus, and we get to meet all the guys. Wow, I have NEVER met such a nice and accepting group of individuals, but if there's one thing for sure, anybody that Aaron knows and likes, I'm going to know and like too. Then we get shown inside to watch Dierks. OMG that was such a great performance. I wasn't lucky enough to meet him, but it was SO amazing. Then, Aaron comes by and brings us a couple of refills, and the second he walks away, I noticed a row of friendly looking geeks a few rows back were staring at me, and then the awe washed over them. I could practically read their minds. "Um - was that Chief Tyrol who just served that girl a beer???" I just about ended up with beer foam up my nose. I telepathically told them it's in his programming. For all of you who are wondering, no, I didn't program him, nor am I the one true cylon god. I'm just an old friend of Aarons. And in case anybody wants me to 'leak' anything to them - Aaron tells me squat about BSG and I'm glad, so don't ask.

But it gets better. Next thing I know, my sister and I are being whisked to stage-front for the main event. The show was phenomenal!!! Up close you really get that sense of respect for the musicians, you can actually see their hands and realize they are an indescribable group of talent. Justin, the fiddle, especially wowed me. I've tried doing that on my violin, and shredded my bow in .3 seconds. And I caught Gary chuckling at me from time to time up there - I think he was mocking my wild-eyed lunatic permagrin. And when the show was over (and once I managed to pull myself out of the depressive post-adrenaline slump that happens when every good thing comes to an end) Aaron came and got us to bring us back out to the bus for a couple of drinks before they had to pull out at 1:30 to head back to Vancouver. 

In conclusion, I have 3 things to say:

1) Brad Paisley is an outstanding songwriter, his guitar skills are amazing, and his band is where it's at. If any of you EVER have the chance to meet any one of them, treat them like the Kings they are. From my (albeit limited) exposure, I believe them to be good people, level headed, kind, generous and far more talented than I can say.
2) Aaron Douglas was my hero. I cannot say enough good things about him, nor would words ever be sufficient to describe my gratitude. He's been super cool, ever since we first met, and notoriety hasn't changed him a bit. THANK YOU AARON!
3) I may have to somehow lift my sister out of a star-induced catatonic state. Will keep you advised. *L*