Against All Odds

This past weekend was truly one for the record books. I can honestly say, it was the weekend I've been waiting for, for almost six years. There were other times when it was scheduled to happen and complications kept it away. Even now, as I am back in Montana and reminiscing, I am brought to tears of joy and relief. The weekend was a whirlwind, but hands down, probably one of the best spontaneous decisions I've ever made.


David's band, FASIL, was scheduled to play their first gig in the U.S. on Saturday night in the Miami area. Fasil has worked so hard for this, and for many of the guys (including David), it was there first trip to the U.S. I decided on Monday that I had to be there for it. I booked a not-cheap last minute plane ticket, found some appropriate club clothes, and off I went! On Friday, I flew out of Helena at 5:15pm, connected in Salt Lake City, then boarded a red-eye flight from Los Angeles to Fort Lauderdale. I landed in Florida at about 6:45am, and I was picked up by David and his brother. I flew out the next day early afternoon, and I landed back in Helena at 11pm Sunday night.


As I write this, words cannot describe how wonderful the weekend was. I was so proud of David that his hard work is paying off - to see a club full of Haitian Americans cheering for the band. It was fabulous to spend time and get to know David's brother's family better. It was great to see a bit of the Miami area instead of just being in the airport. It was bizarre to still be the only white girl in the room at two different events even though I was in my own country. But, most importantly, it was absolutely amazing to spend the weekend with David. Since we met almost six years ago, we've dreamed of him coming to the U.S. It was interesting for the tables to be turned and him relying on me for translations and explanations instead of him having to do it all for me. The things that are 'normal' to me, I have to explain to him - totally opposite of our relationship history. And, totally entertaining.

Now, if I can just get the guy to Montana - we'll really have a great time! I'm optimistic it will be happening soon :) For the first time, I will get to show a Haitian my country!

P.S. The gig was a success! There are event pictures online of the band arriving at the airport, hanging out in Miami, and at the gig. I'm sure someone must be asking - who's the random white girl in the pictures?!? Hahahahaha! Next stop for Fasil, New York City this weekend.