Two things I'm very fond of.

So last Friday I went up to Whole Foods in Chicago to attend a wine signing promoting the vineyard/wine co-owned by Maynard James Keenan. As you know (if you know me at all), Tool has been my favorite band for what seems like forever. I've never had any piece of music or form of art impact and shape me as spiritually and deeply as Mr. Keenan's music.

I've never seen them in concert (in fact, I've been saving my 'concert virginity' for Tool or A Perfect Circle), and once I heard Tool is going to be playing at Lollapalooza this year, I resolved to save up for that. But that's the most I thought I'd ever get (if that). I guess it's always been one of my dreams to see the man who's inspired me, and shaped such a significant portion of my outlook on life, in the flesh... but I'd never imagined I would actually get to speak to him. To be feet away from him. No, I'm not idolizing; I'm merely attempting to explain just how much this really meant. To exchange words, even if it was as brief as, "Hello," and "Thank you," I've met the man who's art has touched my soul above any others.