Barbie Perkins-Cooper, Author

If you are a reader of my blog, you know a bit about me. My love for music. My love for dancing. My love for writing while working as a professional photojournalist. My passion for singing and karaoke, and simply being on stage.

Last night was a most memorable night for me. To quote my dad, ‘a night to record in Strolling in Memories Gardens.’ So here, for all the world to read, is  my most memorable night and occasion.

Saturday, September 24, 2011 was the night for the Back Porch Opera Extravaganza, and what a night it was! Earlier in the week, I posted a comment on Facebook about the dress rehearsal before the show. A most special friend from high school sent a message to me, wanting to know more details. We conversed and she and a friend decided to come to Charleston, to see the show and reconnect with me.

Who would ever suspect a distant friend from many years ago would travel from Georgia to Charleston, just to see me and listen to me singing!

Arriving at the show, we met at the front door, embracing so tightly, I did not want to let her or Pauline go! I suppose the hugs were to replace the lost years of our friendship. Giggling like school girls, we entered the building. I do believe I completely forgot my husband was with me — for a moment. The chatter in the room was silent for me. All I listened to was Darlene and Pauline and of course, my rambling excitement!

Sitting at our table I elaborated a bit about my unhappy childhood, how difficult my life was with my mother while sharing tidbits of my determination to get away from those memories. I inhaled, exhaled, fighting back tears. I did not want my mascara or glitter to smear before the show! “Those bitter memories could either destroy me, or build me. I chose for them to build me into the person I am today.” We continued talking, occasionally eating a bite of food and before long, it was time for the show!

As for the show, I do believe it was one of the best. Not only did we have a bunch of talented singers who performed like professionals with years experience, we had an amazing roar of audience participation! There were many standing ovations, much laughter, applause — whistles and lots of screaming fans within the audience!

Truly a night to remember. Today, Darlene and Pauline are driving back to Georgia. I awoke to a bright and almost blinding sunshine. Now, the clouds have returned, although in my heart, sunshine keeps me warm and toasty.

How is it a ‘lint head’ who grew up in a textile mill society is blessed to have such great devoted and loving friends who go out of their way just to reconnect? I am so blessed!