When I was in the fourth grade I wanted to win Mariah Carey tickets so badly. And every time they'd ask for caller number nine I would dial and dial and dial....always to no avail. But! Last night, close to midnight, when most normal people were sleeping, I HAD MY CHANCE. The smooth sounds of jazz were filling the cabin of my car and I was listening to the sultry voice of KUER's Steve Williams, "Monica Mancini is performing with the Utah Symphony this weekend and in a few minutes we'll be giving away two tickets to one of our late night listeners." Then he rattled off the number and I went to Never Never Land.
"I'll never never win any such thing, but if I did that would make my husband so happy" Says I.
I turned a corner and tuned back into the words coming out of my car speakers. Thinking that I had already missed my opportunity, I put my cell phone down. Then I heard it:
"Caller number three will win, dial this number...bla bla bla."
I grabbed my weapon and comanded it to dial fast, but not too fast (I didn't want number one or two) then...busy signal. Another minute passes with this anticipation. Busy signal, busy signal, busy signal. Finally, I tried one last time--the phone was ringing and I was sure I was caller number four.
"Hello," said Steve (we're on first name terms now).
Collectedly with a tinge of hope I asked, "Am I caller number three?"
"You are CALLER NUMBER THREE."
I didn't know what to do, scream? Cry? Cuss? I've never had this experience before and the Jazz music in the background created an oxymoronic experience. I felt better than everyone else who was calling in, I was supreme and my phone, my trusty little companion was there for me the entire time.
I know it's not Mariah Carey, and I know I am not going to hear "Butterfly" or "Sweet Fantasy" but it is Monica Mancini, daugther of the composer of "MOON RIVER." If she has uncontrollable vibrato and the ability to whistle when she forgets the words--Mrs. Williams style, then, then I will be completly satisfied hearing the deep and meaningful words "Wider than the Nile, I'll cross you in style someday."
