A Belated Happy Birthday to Dave Blais

I missed it.  I completely missed giving my brother-in-law Dave Blais his moment to shine on this site.  Dave's birthday was December 18 and I had a post scheduled and somehow it never ran.  Apparently there was a time conflict with another post and Dave's lost the battle.  Then I forgot until it was too late.
In an effort to rectify the situation and give Dave his due, I decided to run this now on 1/11/11. On the bright side, with his birthday and holidays long gone, this gives him reason to celebrate one more time.  Whoop it up, big man!
Dave is a great guy and we have had a lot of good times over the years.  I will always cherish the family Vegas trip (although what happened in Vegas stays in Vegas).
Most importantly, Dave is a great sport.  One innocent comment about a juice box has lead to years of torturing by me and others, including imitations, jokes and funny pictures.  (Yes, the family is that petty).  To his credit, Dave takes it all in good humor.
Technically, it isn't your birthday today, Dave, but act like it is and tell them Johngy said it was okay (yes, Johngy's Beat does have that much power).  Most of all know that I appreciate you being a brother-in-law and a friend.

Dave Blais in Mokena, IL-December 2010.

Friendly Encounters

This is weekly feature highlighting friends who have met celebs.

Last week my sister Nancy was highlighted here. Today, I am featuring Nancy's husband Dave Blais, making his Friendly Encounters debut with Becky Johnson.
Becky started as a volunteer singer at the Willow Creek Community Church in South Barrington (IL) and joined the staff about a year ago as lead vocalist. In 2006, she formed Beckon Q with Lukas Quanstrom. Nathan Ykema and Scott Dalheim later joined Beckon Q. Ykema also recently became her husband.
Becky's YouTube channel features Picture of You, which many consider to be her breakout song. Songs with Beckon Q can be heard and purchased on the Beckon Q site.
I asked Becky about seeing her first album. Becky said, "My first album was cut in 2005 and it was so exciting the day they all arrived pressed and printed on my doorstep. Then I joined up with Luke Quanstrom in Chicago to form the band Beckon Q, and as a band, we had the same joy a couple years later. Now I am working on a sophomore solo album. The excitement in seeing your art come to life never gets old."
Becky had some more excitement when she appeared on American Idol. Commenting on that experience, she said, "It is one of those experiences definitely worth trying for."
With two albums done, an appearance on American Idol, performances at the WCCC, songs on YouTube and other such exposure, I wondered if she was ever recognized by fans. Becky told me, "I've had a few experiences like this before. It's super flattering when this happens and usually people have such kind and encouraging words to offer."
The young singer appears to be in the early stages of a successful career. She has gained a loyal, local fan base. Becky said, "I've stayed very regional in the midwest, but definitely would be open to traveling more. It's great to play in front of new crowds and meet people from all across the states."
I really appreciate Becky for taking the time to answer my questions. I certainly hope she will continue to update us on her latest news. I also thank Dave for sharing his picture and leading us to Becky.

Becky Johnson and Dave Blais in South Barrington, IL-2009.

RIP:Jean Blais

This past Saturday, Jean Blais left this world. Mrs. B. (mother of Dave Blais) was truly full of life and love.
She was my sister Nancy's mother-in-law, but I think she looked at Nancy as more of a daughter (and Nancy looked at her as a second mom). The mutual love and affection was so evident every time they were together.
After a 2 year battle, she passed away too young. I'd say there will be a little less spirit in our lives, but her spirit will live on. You could not have known her and not felt her spirit. Mrs. B. freely also welcomed me into her life. She knew no separation...everyone was just family and she loved us all.

We love you, too, Jean.

Jean Blais (seated middle row, dark sweater) and the rest of us in Fox River Grove, IL-December 2006