Let Me Tell You About My Friend, Gloria...

It was a Sunday night, not much different from any other Sunday for me.  I had just finished a long day of playing music (two Masses and a prayer service) and I was pretty tired by 10:00.  That’s when it happened - I felt my phone vibrate telling me I had a new email.  It was a link to a Craig’s List posting of a bright yellow Chevy Astro van.  Michelle, my wife, had emailed it to me thinking “it’s just crazy enough, he may just go for it!”  She was right.  It was love at first sight.

The funny thing is that we weren’t even looking for a new vehicle!  Our blue van (which was also gray and bondo colored), although an eyesore, was running just fine; but there was something...  something compelling about Gloria (as we would later name her).  After a day of driving and negotiating with a shady used car dealer (always a fun time), we bought her and began to christen her with various youth group trips.  It almost seemed too perfect, you could fit a ton of people or a lot of music gear in her.  She is Vatican Yellow and bound to gain attention.  She is a low-rider with a kickin’ stereo system.  This ain’t no soccer mom van.

In 5 short months, Gloria has become like a member of our family.  She’s dutifully taken us to gigs and trips in Ohio, Florida, and Virgina and she’s still running strong!  I’ve even written a new song expressing my love for Gloria.  Next time you see me live, request it!  She’ll also be driving me to the Sprint Center for NCYC in Kansas City in November.  So, if you see a bright yellow van parked outside, say “hi” to Gloria and come visit me at the Albie entertainment booth inside!