David Sedaris is a God

A couple of years ago, my dear friend Carolyn gave me a book for Christmas – Me Talk Pretty One Day by David Sedaris. I hadn’t read a book that made me laugh out loud that much ever – even on second and third readings. I (and millions of others) became a devoted fan. Cathy & I went to see him at the Chan Centre in Vancouver two years ago. We had never been there before, and there were some minor mishaps – mostly involving parking, a skill I have not managed to master yet. and brand new knee high boots that were too tight... Anyway, the Chan Centre is beautiful but it is huge – and we had the theatrical equivalent of the nose bleeds, despite the rather steep ticket price. He came out and was brilliant. Of course.

I received the CMPCA News on Friday. What is the CMPCA you ask? It is the Clifton Montpelier and Powis Hill Conservation Area. And, according to the newsletter – “all residents can call themselves members and membership is free”. Alright! Just by living here I’m a member of something and didn’t have to exert one iota (or is that erg?) of energy! So, I read all the articles like a conscientious member and then scanned the events section. There he was in black and white – David Sedaris! There would be no way tickets were still available but Jay & I went down to the book store (the fabulous City Books in Hove) and they did have tickets!! For 6 pounds!! Which included a free glass of wine and 3 pounds off his new book. What a deal. Finally, something that is cheaper in England than at home.

The event was held at the Old Market – a theatre built in 1828 and then remodeled in 1998 – no tiered seating, just fold up chairs squished together to fit the three hundred rabid fans…

Most people showed up early to get their free glass of wine. I got there extra early because Jay doesn’t drink, so I wanted to get my two free glasses. Those literary types kept the bar a hopping! I was chatting with two lovely older English ladies when I looked up and David was standing right in front of me. I had joked to Carolyn via e-mail yesterday that maybe I could stroke his sleeve or at least sneeze on him. This was better! I had brought my copy of his new book, When You Are Engulfed in Flames just in case I was lucky enough to see him. We had a lovely chat – he was charming and adorable. And of course he signed my book.