The festival night life got off to a much more mellow start this year. Must have been all that time Sid and I spent on the golf course and in the hot springs. It wasn’t a bad thing though. I am at a stage now where many of the Banff Regulars have become part of my extended family and the festival in many ways is like a bit of a homecoming or reunion. Thus Sid and I enjoyed a quiet Sunday night in Banff standards. We found a table at the Canamedia Anniversary Party at the Rose and Crown, and the party and, of course the hugs, came to us. I don’t know what it is about Banff, but despite the many sharks that this industry attracts, it also attracts some of the most fabulous, warm, protective, and hilarious souls out there. And I feel very fortunate to have been embraced by a number of those characters. I also love the fact that with each year, another two or three people are added to that list. This year I’d like to think that I have added another three to that group – an English Cherry, a British Cock and a Wild Saltwater Cowgirl.

Monday night was a bit wilder, but with a relaxed, mellow tone. Rather than following or leading the party – I simply created my own party. Dancing to the great band from the Awards Gala. Singing along to the guitar in the Rundle Lounge with the Firefly, the Wild British Rose and Andrea and Lee of Canamedia. Finishing the night off by joining Don from Finale for a pint at the St. James’s.

Photo by Shawn Duffy

Speaking of the St. James’s, I did spot one van sexy up to a bit of mischief on the Sunday night. Not mentioning any names, but this newfie actually had the balls to take a full pint of Guiness out of the Rose and Crown, walk down the street with it, bypass the line out front of the St James’s with it and waltz in through the St James’s Gate’s kitchen, pint still in hand. To make it even funnier she actually managed to get a preacher’s wife (of all people) to follow suit!!!

Good times! Good times!

Love Emme