Welcome back awesome peeps of 311 nation! Let’s get right to it and meet the next fan spotlight. Here’s the story of Valerie Perreault!
The year was 1999 and Valerie was dating her husband. They compared CD collections when they moved in together and the only CD they had in common was 311’s blue album. “So it kind of naturally transformed into a much bigger love from there.”
Show count was something that Valerie never really kept track of. First show was when she was invited to see 311 with some friends at Northerly Island in Chicago in the early 2000’s. “After that show, 311 became a permanent fixture in our relationship. Not only were we influenced by the music we were also thrilled to meet so many other people out there just like us who share the same passions for a positive life style. We have found forever friends at 311 concerts/cruises and love looking forward to reunions with them, both near and far!” As for favorite event, she said it’s the cruises, hands down.
The song “I’ll Be Here Awhile” is one that holds a special place in Valerie’s heart. “After the first cruise I decided to get a 311 tattoo because I never wanted to lose who I was at that time. The lyrics in this song applied to so many things in my life at the time, and I REALLY wanted to start being a better person overall and not lose myself, because at that time I finally learned to love myself and life. So I decided “I’ll Be Here Awhile” was a perfect song for me to always bring me back to the perfect emotional and positive mental state of mind. It’s now been 10 years and I still carry those positive vibes through life, of course the tattoo reminds me to be a good girl too ;)”
Valerie grew up in DuPage County, Illinois. “Moved about 20 minutes from my parents so I can keep an eye on those trouble makers. ;)” She had a career in banking for over 20 years and just recently moved into accounting. “I liked numbers so much that I started saving money when I was 19 because I did not want to work the rest of my life. Met my wonderful husband and we are hoping to retire young and enjoy life and move closer to where the palm trees are. My husband and I both love the warmer weather so staying here in Chicago area is a struggle.”
Valerie and her husband love animals! They currently have 2 rescue dogs, both of them shepherd mixes, named Rock (who is 14) and Lucy (who is 13). They also have a rescue cat named Angel (19). “I’m sure our next fur family will have some fun 311 names in there somewhere.”
Something that makes Valerie unique is that she’s good at reading animals. “I should have been a veterinarian but I sucked at school. Most animals trust me, and I know how to gain their trust faster than most people I know. I wish people had more patience and understanding toward them.”
Volleyball was a sport that Valerie played for 30 years, only taking a year off when she had to have shoulder surgery. “I am now looking for a safer sport after breaking my hand right before the 3rd 311 cruise, but that didn’t stop me from wheeling around my 50LB luggage on that boat!”
Guilty pleasure for Valerie is that she loves to watch reruns of “Jackass.” “And I am not ashamed to admit it! I just love to laugh. I am at my absolute best and cherish many memories from when I am laughing through life.”
Other musicians that Valerie can be found listening to include Weezer, Dirty Heads, Matisyahu, Eminem, Flyleaf, Nine Inch Nails, Alice in Chains, Faith No More, and Mr. Bungle
Valerie has these words for 311: “Thank you for being such a positive driving force for me and my husband. Our marriage is a happy one because of your music and ALL YOUR CRUISES:) We are looking forward to our 7th cruise with you if fate lets it happen.”
Now her words to all of the other fans out there:
“Save your money Then please don’t be afraid to spend it on happy memories or experiences. Those special happy moments/memories in life will help carry you through those darker and lonely days this world loves to throw at us XOXOXOXOXO”
There you have the story of Valerie Perreault! Much gratitude to her for sharing it with us all. Of course, my love & thanks for the support of this blog. Have an amazing week friends! “Stay positive & love your life!”
Much Love – The Runt