I started watching One Life to Live when I was just 17. Thirty-six years later, I couldn’t believe that I was saying “farewell” to my favorite soap and the good citizens of Llanview. They helped me through the hard times and were there during my good times, but every weekday afternoon, I could count on them being there.

I was so excited when I was asked to attend “Celebrate Llanview in Chicago.” I have never been to a soap fan event and was thrilled to be part of the energy at the Side Track Video Bar on Friday, January 13th.

As I walked in the bars, I could feel the warmth and excitement of the fans friendly faces. The actors were all fantastic and charming; I dreamed I was on the set of the show. Who could resist the young cuties, David Gregory (Robert Ford) in his Superman shirt and playful Josh Kelly,(Cutter Wentworth) with his full beard. Lenny Platt (Nate Salinger) and Don Jeffcoat (ex- Joey Buchanan) were adorable and charming. I loved talking to adorable Ilene Kristen (Roxy Balsom).

I had a great conversation with Ilene. We reminisced about Roxy possibly having a love affair with Max Holden (James DePavia), which I was still a little mad at the show’s writers who did not pursue what would have been an award winning performance by Ilene. Though the atmosphere was like a glamorous party, I couldn’t help but feel the actors’ sadness as they were saying goodbye to their wonderful colorful characters.

Tonia Walker was stunning in her striking winter white pantsuit. We laughed and talked about our daughter’s respective births the same year.

I was happy that she has a website on Facebook and a radio show. She was also sad and ticked that the new network did not pick up the show. Handsome Mark Dobies (ex-Daniel Colson) was warm and friendly as we talked about the dark Daniel Colson who had real potential to reinvent himself on the canvas. I just loved Mark Dobies; a real gentleman.

After the meet and greet party and the live broadcast on WLS- Channel 7 news, the party enjoyed a raffle and auction. I was amazed that the lady right behind me bought Asa Buchanan’s (the late Phil Carey) original cowboy hat.

It was pure bliss to meet star-gazed fans as my daughter and I sat with three lovely ladies from St. Mary’s, Ohio who spent the weekend in Chicago hoping to meet up with the stars for the evening party. Nancy Jacobowski came with her daughter Amanda, both devoted fans for many years, as well as, their friend Rachel, who were staying at the Dana Hotel and Spa. How delightful! My daughter and I would have loved to party all night with the fans and actors, but as the afternoon came to an end, I tearfully said good-bye to my friends in Llanview. They have filled my life with fun, tears and adventures and I can only hope that there is “Another Life to Live” out there.

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