Finally DETROIT! Let’s START with Jana. ~M
♣♣♣
You see, I just knew they’d come back!! Ok, maybe not for everyone, but they did come back for 50 lucky persons in Detroit!
My story…
It all started with a phone call from Marie. We found out there was going to be a meet/greet at PBS in Detroit. We somehow got on the mailing list and voila, we got 2 lucky tickets. I feel like we were the lucky winners of the golden ticket like in Willy Wonka!
I did not know it, but I had been planning for this night since last June after I saw them at Freedom Hill. I was thinking of what I could give them; what would I say? What would I wear; how thin would I be? As the song goes, “que sera’, sera’ – whatever will be, will be; the future’s not ours to see…que sera’, sera’!” The future may not be ours to see, but it doesn’t mean we can’t plan for it and plan, I did!
When we realized they might be coming, I had to speed up the end of my plan…I had made each of them three special rosaries (last September), each with different beads, using their “name saints” as the centers and having the “Our Father” beads – exactly 6 of them, spell out “IL VOLO!” They were beautiful. I also had little silk brocade bags made for the rosaries and had their initials on the front. When I sped up my plan, at that point, I did not know for sure they would be here, but I was glad I planned ahead – just in case!! However, with careful planning, everything literally fell into place, like the perfect jigsaw puzzle, with at LEAST a thousand pieces, or so it seemed!
First, just Marie was going to join me in Detroit. Then the ladies from MN were going to fly in, as well! It was starting to be a big party now. Our little group of 5 – 6, plus the MN girls; it was growing.
All of the planning and anticipation was growing by leaps and bounds. It was shutdown week where I work, so for the whole week before, I was off work, but so, so busy, every day. It was good, I did not have time to get nervous, but had to keep planning…I found my outfit, bought a new purse, made an appointment to have my hair done at a special place (it looked fabulous thanks to Sharon and Sal!), made arrangements to pick up the girls at the airport, wash the car, and pack. Before I knew it, it was Sunday afternoon, and I was nervously awaiting for the arrival of our “editor-in-chief” – Marie, to arrive at my house with her sister!
They arrived, and we chatted for a little while until we had to pick up the MN girls. We flew off to the airport and then off to the hotel for their check-in. We chatted a bit until it was time to go to dinner. We dined at Antonio’s in Farmington Hills. We had figured, by then, that the guys were safely here and resting….
We had a lovely dinner at Antonio’s, complete with dessert! Then it was back to the hotel for some more chatting. We decided to break up the party around 10p or so. We went to Ginny’s house and shortly thereafter, I got a text from one of the other gals, that they had gone to the airport to meet the guys!! (ok, not my story, but we were so jealous, as they were the only 5 there to meet them, because their flight had kept getting delayed and they did not get in until around 10:30p or so!) Alas, it was not meant to be, but was not part of my plan to greet them at the airport, so all was still good.
I made it for my 10a haircut appointment in Birmingham. Sal, a friend of Sharon’s, did the most fabulous job on my hair! I think I talked more about my hair, then I did about the guys! He even came in special on a Monday, just for me.
It was the big day, I was starting to be a wreck and could not think clearly – this was not me, I did not get nervous!
We got to the hotel and we checked in. We had to run a few errands, then it was back to the hotel to change and get ready. We left about 4:30p. We were supposed to be there by 6:00p. Ok, so we were over an hour early, but we weren’t the first ones there!
At approximately 6:05p, they led us into our “dining” room for the evening. It was beautifully arranged, with 4 bottles of wine at each table. We had assigned seats for dinner and we later found out they were going to call us by table. Unfortunately, or fortunately, we were the LAST table!
Dinner was delicious with prime rib, baked chicken, salad, veggies, and bread. We were looking at the clock. We were supposed to greet our guys from 7:00p – 7:30p. We were wondering how they were going to get 50 people through in just half an hour? It was almost 10 after 7 and they hadn’t started yet! Finally, they opened the other door and there were the guys. We could not see them, but they were there. They let the first table in. Apparently, they were letting everyone have as much time as they needed. Many were giving them gifts and we were allowed to bring one item to have them sign it. Finally, about 7:35p or so, we were allowed to get in line. When we finally got in there, they said we had to hurry, as the others took too long. That did not seem fair, but then they realized we were the last table and they backed off a bit.
At last, it was my turn! I was a bit nervous and not sure what to do. The guys were just standing up at the front with a big PBS backdrop on this bright red carpeting. There was no real direction, so I just walked up and hugged Gianluca and said he “was so sweet.” He was in the middle and Ignazio was to the right, so I hugged him next and spoke softly into his ear, that he was my favorite. He said, “Aw….” in this soft, sweet voice, with a big smile on his face. I will remember it forever!
I quickly fumbled for the rosaries in my purse. But first I gave Piero his M&Ms that I had custom made for his birthday (yes, another story yet to come). I think he really liked the M&Ms as he smiled and laughed and showed them to Gianluca! I then gave Ignazio his rosary and told him I had made it special. I gave the other two theirs…. I turned back to Ignazio, and he had taken it out of the bag and was looking at it. The next thing I knew, he was looking at me and started speaking in Italian and holding the rosary in his hand. I’m looking up at him, into his eyes and thinking “why is he speaking Italian??” I don’t know what he is saying? (Yeah, so much for my Italian lessons – lol!) All I could catch was “Ave Maria” and “gracia,” but that was about it. Unfortunately, my brain was having a hard time trying to figure out why he wasn’t speaking English and what he was saying in Italian, that I kind of got lost in the moment. I think I remember looking into his eyes and hearing his soft voice. Then, all of a sudden, he puts his hand over my head and then he starts to bless me, like he is anointing me. He touches my forehead, lightly brushes my chin, back to touching my nose with his thumb. He has a very soft thumb! He then raised his hand over my head and gently touched my head again. I just stood there, smiling, and said “grazie.” I’m still trying to figure out what he said to me, but I needed them to sign my frame.
Yes, you remember my empty picture frame that would be forever empty around my heart until I had a picture of them and me? Well, as we know, it would not be empty forever now! I brought out my frame and gave it to Ignazio to sign. I 
gave him the back of it, as I wanted them to sign the back of it and our picture would be on the front. Ignazio takes the frame in his hands and turns it back over, seeing that it says “IL VOLO” on the front. He turns to me and with his hand, he gestures that their name is on the front and shouldn’t he sign it there? I said no, on the back, because our picture will be on the front. He kind of says, ok, and signs the back….then Piero and Gian come back and they sign it, too. Gian made sure he put a little heart on the end of his signature for me! I did feel kind of bad I didn’t hug Piero, but I was a bit nervous and wanted to hurry, even though they weren’t really rushing us…it felt like I was up there a long time. Somewhere in there, they took our picture and then it was over! Over a year in the making and over in less than 5 minutes!
As I walked back to the side, I kept thinking about what he said. It finally hit me that he was reciting the “Hail Mary” or “Ave Maria” prayer in Italian!! At least I’m pretty sure that’s what it was? The next day, I looked it up on the Internet and found the words and audio on a You Tube video, and from what I could remember him saying, I think it was pretty close.
For those of you not familiar with the Catholic practice of saying the rosary, in the Roman Catholic faith, the Rosary is one of the most beautiful, powerful, and sacred prayers. The Rosary is a devotion to God through a devotion to the Virgin Mary. There are other prayers that are said with it, but you say 53 Hail Mary’s!
I’m not really sure if Piero and Gian liked their rosaries, but I hoped they did. I have to say, that I really truly believe that Ignazio liked his!
I’d also like to thank everyone that were able to get pictures and videos of me up there with the guys! It’s funny, you just don’t remember most of what happens in that five minutes. Like, I don’t really remember putting my arm around Gianluca’s shoulder? And why DIDN’T I have my arm around Ignazio?? But it was nice to know he had his hand on my shoulder!
Yes, I saw their smiles and I felt their touch –
The long wait and anticipation was over…my dream had become a reality and the frame around my heart was no longer empty! It was filled with the joy, the smiles, the memory, and the tenderness, of Ignazio’s touch – it was happiness!
For now, my heart is full, until the next time…
Jana I am so happy that you had such a great time and got to be there with the “live” models. You work so hard to keep their name in our lives.
The boys are going to have a very hectic and constantly changing lives now and your gift of the ROSARY can be comforting.
“EACH DAY is a GIFT from GOD so it is only polite to send him a “THANK YOU” prayer.
Gina – yes, I hope they appreciated them and find comfort in the beads of prayer. They were certainly made with love! Grazie!
j
Jana, it was so fun being with you in Detroit and your story helps us all re-live it again! The memories you have will never fade. That is one of the joys in knowing these three special young men. They are so unique you will ALWAYS remember them and the special way you felt when being with them. Looking forward to our next get together when ever and where ever that may be. Thank you again for the GREAT HOSPITALITY in Detroit!!! 🙂 PS…where is the pic of the jammies?
Yes, you ladies were such fun also! I love the music box, too! Even if I get alzheimer’s one day, I hope to never forget those moments. Yes, looking forward to seeing you again, in Feb or March? Sorry, won’t be flying to Miami…. I think YOU guys had that picture of me and mom?? Can’t remember who took the picture? Lol! 🙂 You are most welcome!
j
Wonderful experience Jana–a memory for a lifetime!
Isn’t it amazing how we go brain dead in their presence?
Yes! I did remember a few things I wanted to do, like I did actually say to Piero and Gian “per te” when I gave them their rosaries – lol! Although I forgot to look at Ignazio’s ring!! That made me upset… I really wanted a closer look. Oh well, maybe next time?
j
Jana,it is beautiful that your dream comes true,your memories and experience no one takes away , forever will have a place in your heart ! 🙂 I believe that Piero, Gianluca, Ignazio had the pleasure of rosaries which will protect them and bring them blessings on their busy way of life. Each gift given from the heart is a precious gift and remembrance of the person who gave us a piece of himself. Ignazio’s blessing was cute and very nice gesture from him to you. 🙂 Thank you for your story that you shared with us. 🙂 Anyway I think that every fan at a meeting with his favorite idol is nervous and only after some time realizes what happened, what he/she was saying and doing. One mine, now a former friend, told me about his meeting with the popular tennis player. She met him before an exhibition match and although there weren’t other fans, she was ” petrified” and so she was not able to go to him with a request for a photo. She simply stood there and he left away. After the match she gained his autograph when he stopped at fans, like tennis players usually do it on tournaments,but around her were so many people, so there was no time to ask him for photo. She managed to get an autograph also for me, I could not go there, but nevertheless I have the autograph of Novak Djokovic, I’m a big tennis fan. 🙂 I was at the Fed Cup and ice show with Plushenko, but unfortunately I was not able to gain autographs and photos with stars,I did not get close to them…. 🙁 Hope that someday I will meet with some of my favorite tennis players or singers from Il Volo… Jana, you are lucky lady, I congratulate you ! 🙂
Yes, I hope they feel the same about the rosaries. I forgot to tell them to have the Pope bless them the next time they see him – lol! Then they will be extra special, but I think he blessed them before, so maybe it extends now to the rosaries? 🙂 Funny, you mention the “gift” being a part of oneself. I’ve often thought why the fans always seem to want to give them presents? I think I have an answer – the guys give so much of themselves at every concert, their smiles, their jokes, their laughter, their songs, their voices, and their touch – if you are lucky enough! It only makes sense that their fans want to somehow return the favor and give them a gift in return. After I left my first concert, it was probably less than a few weeks when I decided that that was what I wanted to give them – if I ever saw them again! I tossed the idea back and forth from yes, to no, and back to yes, again. Then I felt silly after making them. I showed them around to different friends. Everyone said they were beautiful. It took me many, many months and lots of planning to execute my plan. Took me many, many, hours to make all of them, as well. But yes, I am glad I did!
Wow, Plushenko! I love figure skating and he was certainly very good!
Yes, I have often felt very blessed in my life, even before Ignazio blessed me!
Grazie!
j
Jana, your rosaries are very beautiful, made all the more beautiful by your love you invested into each bead. I would guess you most likely prayed as you made them too, blessing them even more. Ignazio showed you great honor and affection when he blessed you as he did. I was very very touched by your retelling his reaction. You are so lucky and blessed. When I get to meet Piero again I will have to kiss him twice, once for me 100% and the second for the kiss you forgot! which also adds up to 200% for me but lets not quibble about my math!…Pirate!
Pirate – ok, you can kiss Piero twice, as long as you kiss Ignazio once for me! lol! We had but a 5 second hug…but next time, I’m going to plan better!! When it got to me, I had NO idea what I was going to do or say when I got up there. Yes, I did try to pray a little while making them, but I had to concentrate too hard to make sure I looped them right! I know I tend to overthink things (just me) but I wonder if he thought I was a lot younger than I am? Lol! Whether or not it really meant anything coming from him, I’ve already started to feel his blessing…I was “looking” for something today and they were telling me it was a pretty hopeless case and then when I told them what I really was interested in, they said, “oh, wait, I think something is coming up very soon!” So, my luck runneth over – ancora! Lol! Math is not my strong point, either! 🙂 I am so pleased everyone here liked the rosaries…Grazie lei! Jana
Jana, I think I would faint in the presence of the guys. Piero is my fav. Hope someday to at least get to a meet and greet. There may not be any more however as the concerts involve 40 or 50 thousand people in the audience. Joanie G
Gosh, I hope they still have the meet/greets! They might have to raise the price though – hope not!! Just to keep the fans at a minimum…Yes, Piero is my friend, Ginny’s favorite, also! I really thought I’d be more nervous than I was, but we had to wait so long and then watch everyone else, so by the time I got up there, I wasn’t really too nervous. You know, they are just like any normal guys…laughing and joking around. I truly love all of their voices individually, but Ignazio holds a special place in my heart…
j
Thank you for sharing your memorable evening with us Jana. You must be floating around on cloud nine and will be for a very long time !!! What a great M&G you had with the guys and your gifts were so very special. I’m sure they appreciated getting them. They are so gorgeous, so sweet and so lovable that it is almost impossible not to go into a brain fog when you are that close to them !!! Thank goodness we have the photos to remind us that we had them to ourselves for 5 beautiful minutes !!
So, I take it you’ve seen them before? lol! 🙂 Yes, I was floating for a little while and when I’m feeling sad, I just remember Ignazio saying “Aw….” and then I’m not sad anymore! Hmmm…sounds like some more poetry here – ok, mom, fair warning…. 🙂 Yes, hopefully, they took them out of their bags and they didn’t get tossed in the corner with all the other gifts? They seemed to be putting all of their presents into a few gift bags that others had given them. Hope they didn’t get lost somewhere?
Yes, it was certainly a special evening!
j
Jana, I have been very fortunate to have met them at a M&G June 14,2014 in Stamford CT. They were absolutrly adorable and a lot of fun !! But the thrill of my life was visiting with Gianluca for almost an hour in his hometown in Italy in May !! He is so very endearing and is the one that has always touched my heart the most. I live about 11/2 hours from Miami so I’m hoping to see them again in February at their concert in Miami.They have definitely cast a spell on all of us !! Sometimes I feel like I need an intervention !!! I am so happy that you finally got to meet them and I hope you get to give them more hugs and kisses in the very near future !!!
wow, that was just 5 days before our concert! I must apologize, i have been so busy with “that” among other things that I have not had a chance to read one word of your adventure!! It is definitely on my to do list though!!
I am so curious as to what happened after that ? Did they stay and eat with the group or leave ? From the sound of things I guess they left. Also, it sounds as though they finally have improved the meet & greet so that is not a cattle line.
Sounds like you could relax a bit more. We are looking ahead to future plans and this experience is PRIMO !!!! I am so happy that you all had this great time.
Myron, wait for the rest of our story. However for you.. here’s a sneak peek. THEY SPENT THE ENTIRE REST OF THE EVENING WITH US!
All I have to say is OMG !!!!!!
Okay Marie, I understand you now. You want to kill us dead. I think I am dying after I read that BOLD printed last sentence.
Yes, you are killing us.
Dead.
As a doornail!
OMG!
Marie. I just fell off the couch after I read the BOLD PRINT!!! I think I am having a huge hot flash!!
Well….we did have dinner first, then it was the meet/greet, as we were called table by table, separately. At the end, they let those that had already gone through go back into the room. Then it was off to the studio area for the live taping of the PBS special. Not sure if future m/g might not still be like cattle being rustled, as I think this was just an extra special evening for 50 lucky persons! Looking forward to the other ladies’ versions – Marie’s, too!!
I could say more, but will leave that to them, as I was actually answering the phones and taking pledges, so I missed a lot.
However, the special they taped is supposed to be shown live starting August 7 – I’ve heard it will air on different dates in various markets. If you look to the left of your widescreen TV, you will see me in several shots with my head over or under one of the guys’ shoulders or arms. Lol!
j
Jana, I so enjoyed your story. The rosaries were perfect for the guys. I doubt they have received such thoughtful and perfect gifts before. I have only been to one Il Volo concert and plan to go to one on their next tour. They are wonderful people with huge talents.
Thank you!! I’m hoping they appreciated them more than it appeared? Yes, let’s hope they come to a city near you, or at least one you can fly to!
j
Jana, I was very happy and delighted to meet you. It remains a mystery to me, why, since I have two grandsons just about the same ages of Our Guys and I have no trouble hugging them and talking to them, why do I get “brain freeze’ when I’m finally in front of our Piero, Ignazio and Gianluca?! I know I babbled something. I just hope it made sense. Hopefully, there will be a next time when I can hug them again, and say something from my heart.
Allene – it was great to mee you also! I guess it just means no matter how old you get, you are still young at heart and can still be in awe of such amazing talent, no matter what THEIR ages!! 🙂 I suppose you could call it a “child-like” quality that we still possess; that wonder, that excitement, the nervousness – it’s all still there! I admit, I still feel like a teenager at times when I think about them! Just remembered I still have all those bags of M&Ms! Lol! Yummy!
Yes, we all hope for a next time!
thanks – Jana
sorry – meet! lol!
Jana, what a magical, enchanted evening!!! So many precious memories!!!i I love that you made a Rosary for each ot the guys!!! So thoughtful. So glad you all had a marvelous time! I hate that I get brain fade also! I am afraid that when I see them again I will dissolve into tears all over the first of the guys that I come too!!!
Not sure if anyone burst into tears? I think most of the ladies there had seen them already, except for a few of us? Yes, it was magical and enchanting. Yeah, was truly thinking the rosaries were pretty dumb after I had made them. Especially when I had no way of knowing if I’d really ever get to give them to them? I was already thinking if I never got to see them in person, of where I needed to send them? 🙂 I actually thought I might burst into tears, but I didn’t…
You can only plan for so much though! lol! Never in a million years did I expect Ignazio to bless me!! That certainly made my plans go in a different direction!
j
Folks, you will be missing something if you don’t click on the picture of the rosaries to enlarge them. You can even see where she spelled out Il Volo. I held them. The beads are semi-precious stones (one is Lapis Lazuli) and all are truly magnificent! I also found out Jana made jewelry.
I was standing there when ignazio blessed her. It was so sweet! I guess if it isn’t the Pope Ignazio would have to be my next choice! Sorry Father Metzger, but…well…
Jana, it was great to finally meet you. One should actually meet one’s adopted daughter face to face sometime! What a fun time we had. Thank you for making all the logistical plans and dinner reservations! Your friends were great and your mom is a hoot! ~M
Oh, Marie – you are so the best!! I feel honored to be your adopted daughter! (ok, does everyone think we are crazy?) At times, I felt we really were related! Lol! Ok, the rosaries, yes – Ignazio’s was made of lapis lazuli; Piero’s made of garnet, and Gian’s made of a lesser known stone called kyanite. Glad all of you liked them! I usually make them from Swarovski crystals, or other stones, etc. by request, but thought the crystals might be a bit too flashy for the guys!? The stones seemed more “earthy” like the guys…
Thanks! and you are welcome!
jana
I enlarged the photo of rosaries and must to say, that they are beautiful, original and my heart was pleased because they are made of natural stone. Gemstones are my big passion for many years. I have friend who is also making jewelry from gemstones,a lot of things she made to order for me and my mom. Anyone who knows me and mom,knows that we are still wearing gemstones jewelry. 🙂 For me are more than jewelry, they are my energy suppliers, amulets and healers. 🙂 Lapis lazuli is one of my favourite gemstones. 🙂 It is difficult to determine kind of mineral, am not expert, but one reminds me apatite and rosary for Piero looks like garnet, also it can be agate or jasper( both have many kinds and colors) and similar look has also natural ruby. Jana is a handy jeweler. 🙂 She has a beautiful hobby ! 🙂
Lydka – per my answer to Marie, the red stones are garnet for Piero (was closest I could get to red, ruby was a bit out of my budget, although I did look into it…), yes, the lapis for Ignazio, and the kyanite for Gian. I obviously chose the red garnet for Piero and the lapis for Ignazio because I heard/read he really likes blue. I chose the kyanite for Gian because I thought it reminded me of the blue-green sea and he had mentioned in an article once that he missed his Abruzzo Sea and I thought the color of the stones might remind him of that when he is away from home – granted they take them with them, that is! lol!
Funny, you mention the properties of the stones. In addtion to giving them the rosaries, I had them wrapped around (ok, my business card) and on the back I put the properties of the stones, healing, protection, symbols, etc. Oddly, they really seemed to fit them, I thought. On Gian’s, I did tell him I thought he’d like the color and that I hoped it reminded him of the Abruzzo Sea, etc. On Ignazio’s, it said that lapis protected the throat, larynx, and vocal cords. I think his voice is the most delicate and needs the most protecting – especially with him going for those high notes! The garnet mentioned it was a noble stone for royalty and that seemed to fit Piero, too?
I also love apatite!! As well as all of the agates and jaspers, the varieties seem endless! Yes, don’t think I could have chosen a more expensive or addicting hobby!!
Thanks, Jana
Jana,I think you chose the right gemstones for boys ! 🙂 Later occurred to me that the rosary for Gianluca looks like kyanite,beautiful color, I love the blue stones, all are good for the vocal cords and throat. Kyanite is one of the two minerals on the planet that neither accumulates nor retains negative energy, and therefore never needs cleansing. Kyanite’s energy is unlimited in application, making it an excellent stone for metaphysical purposes, and it may be used for cleansing and clearing other crystals The high vibration and rapid transfers of energy from Kyanite create pathways where none existed before. Like a universal bridge, it is an extraordinary crystal of connection, opening the mind centers, enhancing telepathic and psychic abilities, bridging gaps in all communication efforts, and providing a link for transmitting or receiving healing energy. It immediately aligns the chakras and subtle bodies, bringing tranquility and a calming effect to the whole being. It is an exceptional stone for transitioning into deep meditative states.
I have a pendant made from kyanite,but I have never seen a necklace of it. I think that also aquamarine (my “love ” gemstone) reminds with its color Abruzzo Sea. 🙂 Lapis has been used by many cultures in a wide variety of ways. Today it is a valuable talisman for gaining respect, keeping negative energy away, and for helping us to remember to be humble in our dealings with others. It is extensively used in honoring Goddesses, and it is a potent healing crystal for dealing with blockages of the throat chakra. Really great stone for Ignazio ! 🙂 I have a necklace, bracelets and my friend made for me two pendants from it. Garnet is a stone of regeneration and energizing. Garnet can boost the energy of an entire system and revitalize it.. It is said to be stabilizing in that it can bring order to chaos whether internal or external. Garnet is a protective energy stone which is especially known for protection from evil, during travel, nightmares, and from wounds. Garnet has been used to release bad karma, which can be considered a form of protection in this life. Garnet is said to be a stone of protecting against and success with lawsuits.
As a root chakra stone, garnet said to be excellent for manifestation. It is used to ground one’s dreams in reality, bringing abundance, prosperity, and realization of those dreams. Square cut garnets are reputed to be especially good tools for business success. All garnets are used to assist on an energetic level with success in one’s career in part by building one’s self-confidence, inspiration, and creativity. It can also make clear what is one’s life purpose..Emotionally, considered a stone of increasing commitment, honesty, hope, and faith. It is a stone of positive thoughts which is said to dispel and relieve depression. Garnet is also used to overcome crisis and trauma. It is used to bring one away from a sense of helplessness or victimization and imparting courage. It is used to assist in diminishing or eliminating abandonment issues. One of the ways said to bring these about is releasing old ideas and perceptions of self and others which allows one to see them as they are, rather than through a filter of fear. Thus it can reduce or eliminate conscious or unconscious self-sabotage. It is said to enhance emotions in a positive way, and also be quite calming. Garnet is sometimes called a “stone of health” and crystal healing specialists say that garnet can assist in healing acid reflux (GERD), adrenal glancs, ADD/ADHD, anemia and other blood related illness, assimilate vitamins and minerals, bone, brain and brain tumors, cell structure, Down’s syndrome, DNA/RNA corrections, fertility, heart, immune system, lungs, physical strength, pituitary, reproductive system, skin, spine, as well as promoting rapid general healing and regeneration.Garnet is associated primarily with the root chakra, but also with the heart chakra. It is used to balance, purify, align and remove negative energy from all the chakras and aura. Garnet is a wonderful stone that fascinates me (I have a beautiful necklace) with its rainbow of colors. For me, the red garnets have a more earthy feeling than rubies and I think is appropriate for Piero. 🙂 I’m interested in the healing with gemstones. 🙂 I read a lot about them,but there are so many types of minerals that I am not able to remember all the informations about them, unfortunately. Study of minerals is my hobby, unfortunately I am not a manual handy, so I don’t know make jewelry.
I wish you much joy and creative energy for your hobby ! 🙂 All your answers were very nice and all comments from you were written honestly, from the heart, thank you for them ! 😉
I sincerely greet you and wish you all the best. 🙂
P.S. I love figure skating and I’m Plushenko big fan 🙂 To be on his ice show was the fulfillment of a dream for me 🙂 Although I regret that I haven’t seen him up close, and I haven’t an autograph and photo with him. He is a very charismatic man and an amazing figure skater.
Lydka – wow! I only wish my little business cards could have held all that info!! But I could only fit the highights! Sometimes i wonder where they get this stuff? But I also find it interesting and intriguing. I was a little bit selfish, in that I had to buy more beads than I needed, as you may know, only so many beads on a string, and there were less than 50 on each one, so had to buy 2! I did make some extra bracelets that I am keeping at least one of each for myself, that are made with each of the garnets, kyanite, and lapis! So, when I wear them, I can think of the guys and feel somewhat close to them. I actually wore one of them to the evening – it was the one made with kyanite. The turquoise matched my outfit – lol! How nice you have someone that can make you your jewelry, but it is really not that hard! Some things are easier than others, but stretch bracelets are very easy! Yes, the rosaries are a little more complicated and take some practice. I try to respond to everyone that took the time to respond to me. I feel that is only right. 🙂 Take care – Jana
Jana. What a great night for you! The rosaries are beautiful and obviously Ignazio was very touched by your gift. I understand the brain freeze. If I were to ever meet them, I definitely would be shaking uncontrollably, which I do now when I’m nervous, and I would have my mouth open with no words coming out! Again, I really am thrilled for you and for all of you. What a night!!
Thank you, Nazio! He is your favorite also? 🙂 Yes, it really pleased me the most that he seemed taken with the gift! I was sort of hoping for a “nice” reaction – of course never expecting a blessing! Lol! I wonder if mentioning to him that he was my favorite had anything to do with it? 🙂 No, I don’t think you would be shaking…. they are just ordinary guys – just tell yourself that! Lol! Like in Jesus Christ Super Star, the one song that goes “he’s just a man, …he’s just one more….”
j
Yes, Jana. He has always been my favorite. A friend gave me their first CD for Christmas in 2011. I said to her “Who are these guys”? I saw his face on the front of the CD and I thought what an adorable face. Curly hair, dimples, a little chubby. I then listened to the CD and that was it!! I fell in love with all their voices, but Ignazio just got into my heart! Yes, Jana, I would be shaking, even though they are “ordinary guys”. Love them so much. Take Care, Jana
Yes, I find it interesting how many fans are formed by one getting their CD as a gift! I did the same for a friend of mine in CA and I think I’ve finally converted her over! Lol! Ok, Nazio – make your plan!!
Thanks, Jana
Wonderful experience Jana glad you had good time
Thank you! Welcome!
jana
Jana all I can say is what a night for you I only hope and pray someday I get to meet and talk to Piero for just a few minutes that’s all I would need. Lucky you. I know you are still walking on air I know I would be. Great story.
Yes, it took a lot of “wishin’ and hopin’, and thinkin’ and prayin’; planning and dreaming, each night after night….” Love that one by Dusty Springfield!! Ignazio is truly special! You need to make your dreams come true!! No one can stop you, but you! Start now! 🙂
Thanks – Jana
Jana – the rosaries are beautiful and with such detail – the small stones on the sides of the beads spelling Il Volo and the individual Saint medals. I have seen a picture of Ignazio with his parents and he was wearing a large dark blue rosary around his neck, so I am sure he and the others appreciated your gifts. This was truly a labor of love!
YES!! I saw that picture, too! That was after I had made the rosaries, so I felt a little bit better about giving them the rosaries! 🙂 In this day and age, I think it takes a pretty bold person, especially a young person, to wear something like that? Of course the ones I made aren’t really intended to be worn, but would certainly be thrilled to see him wearing it! Yes, they were definitely labors of love. I can still remember looping each eye pin, bead by bead. And cutting each eye pin just to length for the letter beads and crystals because the regular ones were just a wee bit too short!
Thanks, Jana
What a wonderful experience, Jana. I’m so glad you got to meet them. Even though it is short, it certainly is sweet. I think they can sense the nervousness of people and they try and make you feel as comfortable as possible. They are very special young men.
Yes, it was wonderful. I did not really know what to expect, as they didn’t really tell us anything. We were literally behind closed doors until they let us in the room, so had no way of knowing what the setup was or anything, except that it looked like they were allowing us to give them presents and they didn’t seem to be rushing people. I chuckle now as I think of one of my first emails to Marie, before she had any idea of who I was. I asked her what a meet/greet was like? She gave me a lot of “usuallies” lol, but that was how her previous ones had gone…. 🙂 I’m very fortunate ours was so different! They are special indeed!
Thanks, jana
I am so glad you got to go and meet with them and give them your presents. I would be so enamered with them and wouldn’t be able to speak. I wish I could go to one of their concerts and actually meet them in person. I can only dream. <3
Can't wait for the next edition of your trip
Barb – I really thought I’d be more nervous – but I really wasn’t! They just acted like normal guys in their t-shirts and tennis shoes – ok, probably pretty expensive ones… lol! with holes and rips! You know, I think about it now and think – wow, yeah – just literally a week ago – it was all ending! I’ve been writing my replies just about during the whole time we spent with them! Was it only a week ago? Seems like a lifetime ago now….
Yes, don’t know which of the ladies are up next?! 🙂
Dreams are wishes your heart makes – I think that is from some Disney movie! Pinnochio? or Cinderella?
Thanks, Jana
I thank you for your ability to describe your encounter
with our young men……It’s so good to read about
what they are actually like, that they are who they
seem to be…….They sound so down to earth like
loving, kind, caring guys just like we think they are.
Just to receive a smile from any one of them would
be most welcome by any of the Flightcrew.
I have to satisfy myself with cd’s, DVD’s and my
laptop, but that’s alright. They come to life for
my eyes and ears in this manner. I would like
to know if any of them or their families read
our blog. There is lots of love that goes out
in our computers. Thanks again Jana.
Hi Gale! You are welcome! Yes, they are wonderful. I really had such a short time with them, but was able to watch others with them, as well. I hope you have the opportunity to see them in person one day. All the videos and CDs out there just don’t do them justice! It is so true, there is a lot of love out there. “They say” they read this blog, but frankly, I’m not sure how they find the time, they are so busy. But it does seem their cell phones are surgically attached to their hands. They even had them right in their pockets while they were doing the taping! I believe they also have several family members that keep “tabs” on most of the Facebook fan sites…
j
Jana– Absolutely no apology needed !!! I take advantage of every opportunity given me to share and relive my Il Volo experiences over and over again !!
Hello all – I really must get to bed, but wanted to say a few “general” things to everyone….
Thanks so much for all of your comments, I get a thrill reading them throughout the day at the office – it brings a smile to my face! Gale mentioned all the “love” that’s out there on this flight crew site. She is so right! I can’t tell you how much love and warmth I feel from all of you in your commments. I feel like I have many “adopted” mothers and sisters I never knew I had. It’s so comforting to come here and read the words of encouragement and share in the laughter of a little healthy back and forth banter – on occasion!
One thing I forgot to mention in my post, that I will also always remember, is how long and beautiful Ignazios’ fingers are…when he swept them over my picture frame, pen in hand. No wonder he plays the piano so beautifully?! People always tell me I have long fingers, but his are way longer! lol!
So, thanks again, my dear friends – to those I haven’t met yet, and to the new ones, that I have. Il Volo and this site came into my life when I needed them most. For that I do feel truly blessed and honored to be a part of this site.
jana
Jana, what a wonderful experience for you and all the others who were able to attend that special dinner! Your gift of hand-made rosaries was so thoughtful and unique! I’m sure the guys just loved them. Love the way you explained how you prepped for such a long time and then the day finally came. What a night!
Thanks – yes, I wanted to give them something practical….and hope they might even use them one day? 🙂
j
Truly a night unforgettable! Your rosaries and bags do look beautiful, Jana! I enjoyed very much your story! Thanks for it!
Danke und Bitte schoen!!
jana
Loved reading everyone’s stories about meeting Piero, Ignazio and Gianluca at the Wine and Dine PBS event in Detroit. So happy for all of you to have that opportunity. I can’t begin to imagine how wonderful it felt to be able to spend some time with them and see them being interviewed and interacting with the guests. I think the rosaries were a lovely gift and one from the heart. You took so much time and effort to make them and they are absolutely beautiful. I am glad that Ignazio opened them and annointed you in his own way. I am sure Gianluca and Piero when they had time, would have noticed how much work and love was put into making them and would appreciate this very special gift.
Thank you, Margaret, that is so kind of you to say. I do hope they look back on them one day and think fondly of the lady in Detroit that made them!! Each time I see a picture of Ignazio now, I wonder if he has on my rosary! Really not intended to be worn, of course, but if he put it on one day and someone took a picture…that would be special for me! 🙂 he does wear chains/beads around his neck all the time and I keep thinking that one time I will see my rosary! Lol!
Thanks, jana